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JULY 27, 2018

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VOL. 7 NO. 330

SONA 2018

President Rodrigo R. Duterte greets some guests after delivering his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Session Hall of the House of Representatives Complex in Constitution Hills, Quezon City on July 23, 2018.

KING RODRIGUEZ / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

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PRRD delivers shortest SONA; cites notable laws passed

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency MANILA — True to his promise, President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Monday delivered his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) in less than an hour, making it his shortest SONA yet.

Duterte’s third SONA lasted for about

48 minutes and was free from the usual expletives present in his first two SONAs. He started speaking at 5:21 p.m. and finished at 6:09 p.m.

The President’s first SONA lasted for 90 minutes while his second SONA lasted for 120 minutes.

His SONA was delayed for over an

P909.7-B allotted for ‘Build, Build, Build’ program in 2019

16 More Pinoys experience hunger in Metro Manila, Mindanao in Q2 of 2018

❱❱ PAGE 10 PRRD delivers

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❱❱ PAGE 9

Premiers announce agreement in principle on flow of alcohol across borders

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Philippine News

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Senate ratifies Bangsamoro Organic Law

BY JOSE CIELITO REGANIT Philippine News Agency MANILA — The Senate on Monday unanimously ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the Organic law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), or the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri presented the report on the floor and thanked his fellow senators, who helped him during the lengthy, and sometimes feisty joint panel meetings.

He said the passage of the BOL heralds the dawn of a new beginning for Mindanao, “a dawn of peace followed by unhampered prosperity in the region.”

“The peace and prosperity we hope to achieve there would be felt from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi. Gone will be the days of the battlefield shown in local and international media outlets, to be replaced hopefully with more tourism, more investments not only in the country but especially in Mindanao,” he said.

“Finally we can achieve a just and dignified peace for our brothers and sisters in Mindanao,” Zubiri said.

Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros lauded the ratification of the BOL, say-

ing the enactment of this bill “carries with it the Filipino people’s collective hope to see and realize Bangsamoro as a region that is living in harmony and peace”.

“The BBL is our recognition of the justness and legitimacy of the cause of the Bangsamoro people. It is the legislative expression of our commitment to the peace process. The enactment of the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is a good place to continue this long and overdue journey to a lasting and dignified peace,” Hontiveros said.

The House of Representatives is also expected to ratify the BOL paving the way for President Rodrigo R. Duterte to sign the landmark measure into law before he delivers his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) later in the afternoon.

Once the proposed law is approved in a plebiscite eyed later this year, the President can begin appointing members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA).

The BTA will be composed of 80 members, who will also include representatives of indigenous communities, youth, women, settler communities, and traditional sectors, among others.

Bangsamoro Transition Committee.

Incumbent officials of the regional government will automatically be part of the BTA until June 30, 2019.

The BOL provides that the BTA shall secure around 33,000 employees in health, education and social welfare to ensure continuity of services.

The BOL also provides for a 75-25 wealth sharing terms in favor of the Bangsamoro region.

Currently, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) gets 70 percent of the collections of a province or city from national internal revenue, fees, and charges as well as taxes imposed on natural resources. The remaining 30 percent goes to the national government.

Under the BOL, the taxing powers of the ARMM have been preserved and actually increased as the bill now allows the Bangsamoro government to collect Capital Gains Tax, Donor’s Tax, Estate

AVITO DALAN / PNA

Tax and Documentary Stamp Tax. The proposed measure also provides fiscal autonomy to the Bangsamoro government through the automatic allocation of the annual block grant, equivalent to 5 percent of net revenue collections of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Bureau of Customs.

The Bangsamoro government will also jointly explore and utilize with the national government, through the Department of Energy, natural resources within the region.

The regional government will also be granted full control over their inland waters, except for bodies of water that contribute power to areas outside the region.

The BOL also provides that six municipalities in Lanao del Norte and 39 barangays in North Cotabato could vote for their inclusion in the region in a referendum. ■

Former CA justice Ricardo Puno Sr. passes away at 95

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer FORMER COURT of Appeals (CA) Associate Justice Ricardo Puno, Sr. passed away at the age of 95, his son confirmed on Wednesday, July 25.

“Today, my dad, Justice Ricardo C. Puno Sr., joined his Creator,” former House Deputy Speaker Roberto “Robbie” Puno said in a Facebook post.

The younger Puno, however, did not disclose further details about his father’s passing.

Puno started his Judiciary career when he served as a district judge in 1962.

In 1973, he became the CA’s associate justice until 1978, under the regime of www.canadianinquirer.net

late strongman Ferdinand Marcos.

He, later on, served as an assemblyman of the Batasang Pambansa from 1978 to 1979, and then as Justice Minister from 1979 to 1984.

After his 22 fruitful years in public service, Puno, together with his son Ricardo Puno, Jr., founded the Puno & Puno Law Offices, which is currently composed of sixty legal counsels, along with support staff and paralegals.

In his statement, Roberto said his dad, in his early life, wanted to become a priest but his plan did not happen when he met his wife, Priscilla Villanueva Puno.

Puno then fathered 13 children and went on with his career until he reached the age of 95, where he became a daily fixture at his own law firm. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

3

House formally installs Arroyo as new Speaker

BY FILANE MIKEE CERVANTES Philippine News Agency MANILA — The House of Representatives on Monday night reached a majority vote to formally install former president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as the new Speaker, replacing Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez.

Arroyo was elected as the new House Speaker after getting a total of 184 votes. Only 12 lawmakers abstained from voting.

The lower chamber held a special session immediately after President Rodrigo Duterte’s third State of the Nation Address. Deputy Speaker Rolando Andaya Jr. presided over the session.

Arroyo took her oath as Speaker before Ang Kabuhayan Partylist Rep. Dennis Laogan, the youngest congressman in

the 17th Congress.

Nueva Ecija Rep. Magnolia Antonino raised the motion to declare the speakership vacant.

The lawmakers then swiftly moved to elect a new leader with Deputy Speaker Raneo Abu nominating Arroyo to become the next Speaker. No other nominations were made.

The session was initially held without the presence of the mace, but it was restored during the nominal voting.

Some lawmakers earlier noted that holding a “maceless” session is irregular and could affect the validity of the election.

Section 16 of the House rules provides that: “The Mace shall be the symbol of authority of the House and shall be displayed at the Speaker’s rostrum when the House is in session.

The Mace shall serve as the warrant for the Sergeant-atArms in enforcing order in the

House.”

Deputy Speaker Fredenil Castro, however, argued that the “presence of the mace cannot take precedence over the authority of the majority.” Andaya echoed Castro’s remark, saying that the mace is “merely symbolic.”

Before Duterte’s scheduled SONA at 4 p.m., Arroyo already took her oath as Speaker.

Alvarez, however, took the seat of the Speaker at the rostrum when Congress convened in a joint session for Duterte’s SONA. President Duterte also acknowledged Alvarez as the Speaker at the start of his SONA speech.

The ouster move against Alvarez came after a manifesto of support to endorse Arroyo’s speakership bid circulated Monday morning.

Duterte’s allies said the ouster move against Alvarez has the support of the President’s

Oath-taking of House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, who earlier had a spat with Alvarez.

The Alvarez and Duterte-Carpio conflict started last Febru-

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JULY 27, 2018

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Philippine News

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Lower interconnection rates to benefit new telco player: PRRD

BY AEROL JOHN PATENA Philippine News Agency MANILA — Lowering interconnection rates of telecommunication firms will help create a competitive environment for a new player to enter the industry and provide services to the public, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said.

“We shall, therefore, lower interconnection rates between all industry players. Not only to lessen the cost to the consumers as it will also lower the costs for the incoming player to access existing networks, thereby creating a market environment that is more conducive to competition. This is a policy which is crucial to ensure that our solution to our telecommunication problems will be both meaningful and lasting,” Duterte said in his State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City Monday.

The President vowed that his administration will ensure that telco services in the country are “reliable, inexpensive and secure” and that the guidelines for the entry of a new major telco player will be “fair, reasonable and comprehensive”.

“It will be inclusive so it will be open to all interested private parties, both foreign and local. The only condition is that the chosen entity must provide the best possible services at reasonably accessible prices,” he said.

The DICT has ordered the NTC to craft policies that would result in the

Pres. Rodrigo Duterte on his 3rd SONA.

reduction of interconnection rates for both short messaging services (SMS) and voice calls of telcos through its Department Order No. 002-2018.

The NTC released an order last July 19 wherein telcos will be charging PHP0.50 per minute from PHP2.50 per minute for voice calls while text messaging will be at PHP0.05 per text message from PHP0.15.

Mobile subscribers are expected to experience lower charges on voice calls and text messages by August.

An oversight committee has likewise approved the draft guidelines that will use the mode of highest committed level of service (HCLoS) to select the third telco player on July 20.

Under Administrative Order 11, Duterte has created an oversight committee to assist the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) in the formulation of the guidelines for the selection and assignment of radio frequencies for the entry of new telco player.

The HCLoS mode will award a bidder through corresponding points based on network coverage, broadband speeds, and annual capital and operating expenditures over a five-year commitment period.

Telco industry stakeholders have expressed preference for this mode of selection.

The DICT hopes to select the new telco player by December and start its operations next year. It projects that this firm would be able to become established and deliver telecommunication services by 2020. ■

ROBINSON NIÑAL / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

DOJ junks Atio kin’s plea to include UST law dean in hazing raps

BY CHRISTOPHER LLOYD CALIWAN Philippine News Agency MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) dismissed the petition for review filed by the parents of hazing victim Horacio “Atio” Castillo III seeking to reinstate the charges against University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Civil Law dean Nilo Divina over the death of their son from hazing last September.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra confirmed on Wednesday that the DOJ has issued a resolution denying the petition for review filed last April 19 by Atio’s parents, Horacio Jr. and Carminia.

“It was dismissed for late filing,” Guevarra said in a text message sent to reporters.

The parents filed the petition for review in response to the DOJ’s March 6 ruling which ordered the filing of criminal charges against 11 members of the Aegis Juris fraternity but cleared 24 others including Divina and other members of the Aegis Juris fraternity due to lack of probable cause and insufficiency of evidence.

Guevarra also confirmed that due to non-compliance, the DOJ denied the petitions for review filed by Ralph Trangia, one of the 10 Aegis Juris fraternity members facing hazing charges at the Manila Regional Trial Court.

“The petitions for review are dismissed for procedural lapses,” Guevarra noted.

In a resolution dated July 5, the DOJ explained it is “constrained to dismiss Appelants’ Petition by reason that their

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appeal was clearly out of time.”

“Settled is the rule that the right to appeal may be exercised only in the manner and in accordance with the provisions of the law or pertinent rules of procedure. The party who seeks to avail of the same must comply with the requirements of the law or rules. Failing to do so, his appeal will be dismissed,” read the resolution signed by then Justice Undersecretary Antonio Kho. “Accordingly, the instant Petition should be denied due course for failure to comply with the requirements on appeal,” Kho said.

The DOJ has already filed charges before the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) against 10 members of the fraternity for violating Republic Act 8049 (the Anti-Hazing Law).

Aside from Trangia, the accused include Aegis Juris president Arvin Balag, Oliver John Audrey Onofre, Mhin Wei Chan, Danielle Hans Matthew Rodrigo, Joshua Joriel Macabali, Axel Munro Hipe, Marelino Bagtang, Jose Miguel Salamat, and Robin Ramos.

All of them are currently detained at the Manila City Jail.

The Manila RTC set the arraignment of the fraternity members on July 24.

The DOJ also charged Aegis Juris member John Paul Solano with perjury under Article 183 of the Revised Penal Code and obstruction of justice under Section1(f ) and (i) of Presidential Decree 1829.

Castillo died after undergoing initiation rites in the hands of Aegis Juris fraternity members in September 2017. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

7

Drug war to be ‘relentless’: Duterte

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency MANILA — “The war against illegal drugs is far from over.”

President Rodrigo R. Duterte began his third and shortest State of the Nation Address (SONA), vowing that his administration’s drug war will be “as relentless and chilling” as it was the day it began.

“Let me begin by putting it bluntly: the war against illegal drugs is far from over. Where before, the war resulted in the seizure of illegal drugs worth millions of pesos, today, they run [into] billions in peso value,” Duterte said at the Batasan Pambansa Complex in the House of Representatives.

Duterte said he could only “shudder” at the harm that illegal drugs have caused Filipinos throughout the country, noting that this was the very reason why the drug war will not be set

aside.

“Instead, it will be as relentless and chilling, if you will, as on the day it began,” he said.

He said drug dealers know the consequences of their criminal acts but still resisted arrest. At the same time, he also hit human rights advocates and church leaders for criticizing his drug war.

Despite protests against the drug war, Duterte said it could not dissuade him from continuing his fight against shabu, cocaine, cannabis, heroine, and other illegal drugs.

“If you think that I can be dissuaded from continuing this fight because of [your] demonstrations, your protests, which I find, by the way, misdirected, then you got it all wrong.

“Your concern is human rights, mine is human lives.

You worry about the present; I am concerned [about] both the present and the future. I worry about the future because

VALERIE ESCALERA / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

I know what crimes can do to the youth of this country. If not stopped, crimes can make human cesspools of succeeding generations. I will not allow it to happen. Not during my term,” Duterte said.

Duterte renewed his vow to end corruption within government describing it as “a leech that it bleeds the government of funds programmed for its infrastructure and other social development projects.”

The President acknowledged that he dismissed several government officials including friends and political supporters, adding that although he valued friendships, “it has its limits.”

Meanwhile, he urged officials to cut red-tape within their agencies and make government services “truly customer friendly.”

“Our people deserve efficient, effective, and responsive government services. They deserve nothing less,” he added.

Duterte’s third SONA was delivered in 48 minutes. The President’s first SONA lasted for 90 minutes while his second SONA lasted for 120 minutes.

His third SONA was delayed for over an hour due to a change in speakership in the House of Representatives where former president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo replaced Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez. ■

SC affirms Sandiganbayan resolutions on PDAF raps vs. Revilla

BY CHRISTOPHER LLOYD CALIWAN Philippine News Agency MANILA — The Supreme Court (SC) has dismissed the petitions filed by detained former senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., his chief of staff Richard Cambe, and Janet Lim Napoles seeking to reverse the Sandiganbayan resolutions regarding the PHP224.5-million plunder cases filed against them over the pork barrel scam.

In a media briefer released Tuesday, the High Court dismissed all the petitions for lack of merit and affirmed the antigraft court’s resolutions.

The SC said there was no grave abuse of discretion on the part of the Sandiganbayan in issuing a writ of preliminary attachment over PHP224,512,500 in monies and properties owned

by Revilla and his wife since the requisites for the issuance have been complied with.

“In so denying the petitions, the Court expressly stated that this Decision does not touch

upon the guilt or innocence of the accused,” the High Court said.

The amount is the same amount subject of the plunder case.

The High Court also upheld the Sandiganbayan’s denial of Cambe and Napoles’ respective bail pleas.

Revilla filed a similar petition challenging his bail plea denial but later withdrew the pleading.

“The Sandiganbayan held that the prosecution duly established with strong evidence that Revilla, Cambe, and Napoles in conspiracy with one another, committed the offense of plunder and, thus, are not entitled to the constitutional right to bail,” the SC said.

As for Napoles, the SC said it considered a report by the Anti-Money Laundering Council stating that she controlled the non-governmental organizations involved in the scam.

“The Court found that the Sandiganbayan considered the entire record of evidence in finding strong evidence of guilt, indicative of lack of grave abuse

of discretion,” the SC said.

It also said it was “unwilling to overturn the factual findings of the Sandiganbayan, absent any showing of grave abuse of discretion which, in this case, the Court did not find.”

“The Court also upheld the trial court’s assessment of the credibility of witnesses as it is the trial court that had the opportunity to listen to and observe the witnesses and, as its findings and assessments are entitled to great weight, sometimes even finality.”

The SC also denied the Ombudsman’s plea for the transfer of Revilla and Cambe’s physical custody to a facility operated by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), a motion that was earlier denied by the Sandiganbayan.

The Sandiganbayan junked the transfer plea as it found no justifiable ground for the transfer.

“On this point, the Court noted that the Sandiganbayan did not gravely abuse its discretion as the PNP Custodial Center is considered a jail and there is nothing in the law or rules that www.canadianinquirer.net

PNA PHOTO

provide that the accused must be confined in a BJMP facility,” the court said.

Revilla is detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center for his alleged involvement in the multi-billion-peso anomaly involving legislators’ Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF), or pork barrel funds, which were supposedly misappropriated under the direction of businesswoman Napoles.

Of the three former lawmakers charged in the pork barrel fund scam, Revilla is the only one left in detention at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Revilla, together with former Senate president Juan Ponce Enrile and former senator Jinggoy Estrada have been charged with plunder, a non-bailable offense, along with alleged brains of the pork barrel scam Napoles. All three were detained in 2014.

However, both Enrile and Estrada were able to post bail for their temporary liberty. In 2015, the High Court allowed Enrile to post bail for humanitarian reasons due to his “advanced age and poor health,” while Estrada was allowed by the Sandiganbayan special fifth division to post bail in September 2017. ■

Philippine News

8

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

P909.7-B allotted for ‘Build, Build, Build’ program in 2019

BY JELLY MUSICO Philippine News Agency

Publisher Philippine Canadian Inquirer, Inc. Correspondents Katherine Padilla Joanna Belle Z. Deala RO-Angelica T. Equio Bea Kirstein T. Manalaysay Socorro Newland Bolet Arevalo Administration Head Victoria Yong Graphic Designer Shanice Garcia Photographers Vic Vargas For photo submissions, please email editor@canadianinquirer.net For General Inquiries, please email info@canadianinquirer.net For Sales Inquiries, please email sales@canadianinquirer.net Philippine Canadian Inquirer is located at 11951 Hammersmith Way, Suite 108 Richmond, B.C. V7A 5H9 Canada

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Member

MANILA — A total of PHP909.7 billion out of the proposed PHP3.757 trillion national budget for 2019 will be allotted for the construction of the flagship projects under the “Build, Build, Build” program.

According to President Rodrigo Duterte’s budget message recently submitted to Congress, the PHP909.7 billion for infrastructure projects represents 24.2 percent of the cash budget for 2019 or 4.6 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP).

“Investments in sufficient and quality infrastructure will increase economic activity through improved mobility, Building of National Government Administrative Center.

BUILD BUILD BUILD / FACEBOOK connectivity and sustainability across the country,” Duterte emphasized.

Duterte also emphasized the need to lan River Irrigation Project in MaguinHe said the public infrastructure build more infrastructure projects out- danao; and, PHP92 million for the Censpending in 2019 is estimated to gener- side Metro Manila to spur economic ac- tral Mindanao (M’lang) airport. ate 1.1 million jobs “something we des- tivities in the rural areas.

On the other hand, the bulk of the alperately need.”

For Luzon area, the projects include location for the DOTr, PHP24.6 billion, The Department of Public Works and the 56-km PHP4.6-billion Philippine will fund its various railway projects.

Highway (DPWH) will get the bulk of National Railways (PNR) South ComDOTr has also allotted PHP2.2 bilthe 2019 infrastructure budget amount- muter project from Solis, Tondo to Los lion for improvement of airports and ing to PHP555.7 billion while the De- Banos in Laguna; the 38-km PHP14.04- PHP627 million for sea transport pripartment of Transportation (DOTr) will billion PNR North 1 Project that will marily for implementation of Phase 2 take PHP76.1 billion. have 10 stations from Tutuban in Manila of the PHP330-million Maritime Safety Duterte said the two departments will to Malolos, Bulacan; the PHP17-billion Capability Improvement Project. use the amount to provide connectivity Chico River Pump Irrigation System; In a bid to make 145 cities throughfor all Filipinos and to implement major PHP875-million Lower Agno River Ir- out the country livable, sustainable and infrastructure projects. rigation System Extension Project in inclusive, Duterte said his administraOf the DPWH budget, PHP113.29 Pangasinan; and PHP311-million Bong- tion will continue investing in the infrabillion will be used for the network abong River Irrigation Project in Orien- structure development outside Metro development including widening of tal Mindoro.

Manila.

778.822-kilometer roads with PHP35.93 The listed projects for Visayas, on the He said some PHP11.7 billion will be billion budget and construction of by- other hand, are the PHP754 million will provided for the Assistance to Municipass and diversion roads/missing links/ go to New Bohol (Panglao) International palities, basically to fund local access new roads with roads, local bridges, PHP63.77 billion. sanitation and health The DPWH has facilities, and potable also PHP29.66 bilwater system projInvestments in sufficient and quality lion for the widenects, among others. infrastructure will increase economic activity ing, replacement, Likewise, some through improved mobility, connectivity and retrofitting, repair/ PHP8.2 billion will sustainability across the country. rehabilitation and be set aside for Conconstruction of new ditional Matching bridges next year.

Grant to Provinces “Bridges remain an (CMGP) to pave, reimportant backbone of our infrastruc- Airport; PHP450 million for Catbalogan pair, and improve around 500km of proture investments,” Duterte said. airport in Samar; PHP50 million for Ta- vincial roads.

A total of PHP56.65 billion is allo- cloban airport in Leyte; PHP282 million With number of Filipino internet uscated for asset preservation program to for New Cebu International Container ers to hit 70 million in 2018, the Duterte keep the roads in good condition while Port Project; PHP75 million for reha- administration also continued to investPHP101.91 billion will be spent for flood bilitation and improvement of various ment in information technology (IT) inmanagement program including the ports and wharves. frastructure projects.

PHP72.74-billion drainage systems.

Mindanao also stands to receive A total of PHP1.2 billion and PHP280 Since Metro Manila contributes at PHP2.9 billion for construction of Min- million has been allotted for free interleast 35 percent to the Philippine econo- danao Railway Project; PHP500 million net wife access in public places and state my, DPWH has allotted PHP25.2 billion for the Siargao Airport; PHP315 million universities and colleagues, respectivefor the construction of 35-km Metro Ma- for the Davao International Airport; ly, while PHP177 million for National nila subway project while PHP2 billion PHP400 million for Malitubog-Mari- Government Data Center and PHP43 will be used to build 17 more stations of dagao Irrigation Project Phase II in million for National Broadband Plan in Pasig River Ferry Convergence Program. North Cotabato; PHP300 million Sapa- 2019. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

9

More Pinoys experience hunger in Metro Manila, Mindanao in Q2 of 2018

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer MORE FILIPINO families experienced involuntary hunger in Metro Manila and Mindanao in the second quarter of 2018, according to the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey done in June 2018.

The latest survey, which was conducted from June 27 to 30 this year, revealed that hunger in Metro Manila went up by seven points, from six percent (190,000 families) in March 2018 to 13 percent in June 2018.

Hunger in Mindanao also rose by four points, from 7.3 percent (390,000 families) in December to 11.3 percent in June this year.

While hunger in Metro Manila and Mindanao increased, hunger in Balance Luzon and Visayas decreased.

In Balance Luzon, the number of Filipinos who experienced hunger went down from 11 percent (1.1 million families) in March to 7.3 percent in June, while in the Visayas, hunger fell from 13 percent (583,000 families) in March to 9.3 percent in June. This is a 3.7 point decrease for both areas.

The pollster found out that 9.4 percent or an estimated of 2.2 million families

nationwide experienced involuntary hunger at least once in the past three months.

“This is 0.5 points below the 9.9% (est.

2.3 million families) quarterly Hunger in March 2018. This is only the third time Hunger has been in the single-digit range since March 2004,” the SWS said.

Among the 2.2 million Filipinos, 1.9 million said they experienced “moderate hunger,” while the remaining 294,000 said they experienced “severe hunger.”

The SWS indicated hunger as an “involuntary suffering” with the respondents answering the survey question which specifies hunger due to lack of food to eat.

“Moderate hunger,” it said, refers to those who experienced hunger “only once” or “a few times” in the past three months, while “severe hunger” was defined as those who experienced it “often” or “always” in the same period.

Those who did not state their frequency of hunger were classified under “moderate hunger,” according to the pollster.

Hunger falls among poor, rises among non-poor

MANILA — The head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the PhilippinesEpiscopal Commission on Migrant and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI) on Tuesday expressed gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte for acknowledging the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

CBCP-ECMI chairman Bishop Ruperto Santos made the remarks in response to the Chief Executive’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, where he recognized the efforts of Filipino workers abroad for their loved ones to live comfortably.

“As CBCP ECMI chair, and on behalf of our OFWs, I am thankful to the President for mentioning our beloved OFWs as he appreciates their sacrifices and services for their loved ones, contribu-

face interviews of 1,200 adults (18 years old and above) nationwide with sampling error margins of plus or minus three percent for national percentages and plus o minus six percent each for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The quarterly SWS survey on the family’s experience of hunger aredirectedd to the household head and are not commissioned, the SWS explained.

“They are done on SWS’s own initiative and released as a public service,” it added. ■

From March to June, the SWS also dis-

CBCP lauds Duterte recognition of OFWs’ sacrifices in SONA

BY FERDINAND PATINIO Philippine News Agency

closed that hunger dropped by 4.1 points, from 16.7 percent in March to 12.6 percent in June, among the “self-rated poor” — the lowest since September 2015.

In contrast, hunger among the “nonpoor” went up from 4.9 percent in March to 6.5 percent in June.

“Hunger also fell among the Self-Rated Food Poor, falling by 6 points from 20.8% in March to 14.8% in June. However, it increased by 1.3 points among the Not Food-Poor/Food-Borderline, from 5.4% to 6.7%,” the pollster noted.

The June 2018 survey used face-to-

tion for betterment of our economy,” he said in a statement.

Likewise, the Bataan prelate lauded Duterte for highlighting the resiliency of OFWs who excel in their fields while enduring separation from their families.

“He also mentioned the resiliency of OFWs which is very admirable, which amidst separation and hardship they still persevere with their works, working with honesty and with caring dedication,” Santos said.

“And it is commendable that he promised to fight and work against their abusive employers,” he added.

On Monday, Duterte acknowledged the millions of OFWs for their sacrifices and great contributions to the economy.

“We admire our Filipino migrant workers for their selflessness and courage in enduring the hardships of living away from home to provide for their families,” the President said during in his third SONA which lasted for less than an hour. ■

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Philippine News

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

PRRD delivers... ❰❰ 1

hour due to a change in the leadership of the House of Representatives, where former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo replaced Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez.

However, Alvarez joined Senate President Vicente Sotto III at the rostrum with Duterte as he started his SONA. Duterte earlier spoke with both Arroyo and Alvarez, separately.

Arroyo sat in the audience along with former Presidents Fidel Ramos and Joseph Ejercito Estrada.

War vs. drugs, crime

Duterte began his SONA by saying that his controversial war on drugs “is far from over,” stressing that he would be more “relentless and chilling” as the day it began.

“I can only shudder at the harm that those drugs could have caused had they reached the streets of every province, city, municipality, barangay and community throughout the country,” Duterte said.

“This is why the illegal drugs war will not be sidelined. Instead, it will be as relentless and chilling, if you will, as on the day it began,” he added.

He also hit human rights advocates and church leaders for criticizing his war on drugs, noting that their protests would never dissuade him from continuing the campaign.

“If you think that I can be dissuaded from continuing this fight because of [your] demonstrations, your protests, which I find, by the way, misdirected, then you got it all wrong. Your concern is human rights, mine is human lives,” Duterte said.

He also mentioned his campaign against corruption, and warned other government officials from being involved in corrupt practices.

TRAIN law, rice shortage

The President also thanked Congress for the passage of important legislations, including the Ease of Doing Business Act and the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN), and urged them to pass other measures including the Coconut Farmers’ Trust Fund, National Land Use Act and the Universal Health Care, among others.

Duterte defended the passage of the TRAIN law amid inflation and the rise in prices of basic commodities, noting that it was necessary to make funds available “to build bridges and strengthen safety and security.”

“We cannot and should not (stop the implementation of TRAIN). We need this for sustainable growth that leaves no Filipino left behind,” Duterte said.

He said that TRAIN is already helping poor families and senior citizens cope up with rising prices by distributing unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) to 4 million people and 6 million more this year.

Meanwhile, Duterte also urged businesses to cooperate with the government in charging basic commodities and services with fair prices, particularly rice.

He spelled out what the government is doing to lower the price of rice and address its shortage by switching the current quota system in importing rice to a tariff system, where rice can be imported more freely.

He asked rice hoarders, cartels and their protectors to “stop messing with the people” and vowed to use his power against them.

“Consider yourselves warned; mend your ways now or the full force of the State shall be brought to bear upon you. I am directing all intelligence agencies to unmask the perpetrators of this economic

KING RODRIGUEZ / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

sabotage and our law enforcement agencies to bring them to justice,” Duterte said.

Bangsamoro Organic Law

After the House of Representatives failed to ratify the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) following an attempt to unseat Alvarez, Duterte failed to sign it into a law. The Senate, meanwhile, unanimously ratified the BOL. Duterte, however, expressed hope that he would be able to sign the BOL within 48 hours once the House has ratified it and the final version has been submitted to his office.

“When the approved version is transmitted and received by my office… The law has been passed actually and I intend to…

Give me 48 hours to sign it and ratify the law,” Duterte said.

Duterte expressed hope that he will “see the promise of Mindanao fulfilled or at the very least, approaching fulfillment” by the end of his term including a peaceful, productive life free from terrorism.

He also thanked soldiers and police officers for protecting the residents of Marawi City from the Maute-ISIS group.

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Foreign policy, China

Duterte, meanwhile, reiterated his vow for the government to pursue an independent foreign policy but at the same time reach out to all nations, especially the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN).

Despite the improved relationship between the Philippines and China, Duterte said this did not mean that the government will abandon its commitment to defend the country’s interests in the West Philippine Sea. “Our improved relationship with China, however, does not mean that we will waver in our commitment to defend our interests in the West Philippine Sea. This is why we engage China through bilateral and multilateral platforms such as the ASEAN-China and the Philippines-China Bilateral Consultation Mechanism,” Duterte said.

He also renewed his commitment to protect the welfare of all overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Endo, environment

Duterte acknowledged that the signing of Executive Order

No. 51 meant to end contractualization, “does not satisfy all sectors” but pointed out that it was for Congress to do.

The President also emphasized the importance of protecting the environment such as efforts to rehabilitate the country’s top tourist destination, Boracay Island.

In closing, he stressed anew that he had no plans of staying in power beyond his term and thanked the Consultative Committee (ConCom) tasked to draft a federal constitution for barring him from reelection and leading the Federal Transition Commission (FTC) should a shift to a federal form of government takes place.

He also expressed gratitude to the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) for setting up government satellite networks (GSN) in remote barangays to allow them to watch his SONA. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

11

DOJ reverses order, indicts Kerwin Espinosa, Peter Co

BY BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY Philippine Canadian Inquirer AFTER THE Department of Justice (DOJ) previously cleared Rolan “Kerwin” Espinosa, Peter Co, and others from their criminal cases related to illegal drug trade, the department through the Office of the Prosecutor General reversed this order on July 19, Thursday.

The Justice Department found a probable cause to formally file charges against Espinosa, Co, Marcelo Adorco, Lovely Impal, and Ruel Malindagan.

“In its resolution, the pros-

ecution panel composed of Senior Assistant State Prosecutors Juan Pedro C. Navera, Anna Noreen T. Devanadera, and Prosecution Attorney Herbert Calvin P. Abugan found sufficient the positive allegations of Marcelo Adorco identifying Espinosa, Co, Impal, and Malindagan as his cohorts to charge the with conspiracy to commit illegal drug trade,” DOJ’s press statement read.

It added, “The panel explained that under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, conspiracy to commit illegal drug trading is an offense distinct from drug trading. It clarified that the agreement to trade in drugs is the gravamen

of such an offense. The drugs themselves as corpus delicti of the drug trading is not necessary under Section 26 (B) of the law.”

However, Peter Go Lim, a Cebu-based businessman who was one of the previously charged persons in the drug case is not included in the said resolution by the DOJ because he filed a motion to be investigated separately. The Justice panel earlier granted this which makes his case pending.

Earlier, on March 12 this year, the Justice Department cleared the criminal raps against Espinosa and others for lack of evidence.

This March decision added

PH will still assert interests over WPS: Duterte

BY JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA Philippine News Agency

we will waver in our commitment to defend our interest in the West Philippine Sea,” Duterte said, adding this reflects in Manila’s continued engagement with the Asian giant through multilateral and bilateral channels.

In 2017, the government launched the first bilateral consultative mechanism in South China Sea (BCM) with Beijing,

Asian Nations in 2017.

These efforts paved the way for an opportunity to manage the dispute without further escalating tensions in the strateMANILA — The Philippine govgic waters, Duterte said. ernment will not waver in de“Opening lines of communifending the country’s interests cation and amicably managing over the disputed West Philipdifferences have led to positive pine Sea (WPS) amid renewed developments that include repartnership with claimant newed access of Filipino fisherstate China, President Rodrigo men in the areas of dispute in Duterte said on the Philippines’ Monday.

West Philippine During his Sea.” third State of In an assessthe Nation Adment, think dress (SONA), Our improved relationship with tank Integrated China does not mean that we Duterte initially Development will waver in our commitment to cited Manila’s Studies Institute defend our interest in the West “re-energized (IDSI) praised Philippine Sea. relations” with the administraChina that led to tion’s way of hanan unprecedentdling the maried level of cooptime row, which eration against it said “contribtransnational crimes. where all issues concerning the uted to regional stability.”

Through this partnership, contested area were discussed “Ongoing disagreements Duterte noted the discovery in a “frank, in-depth, and with China are now discussed and dismantling of shabu labo- friendly manner.” in the highest-levels and more ratories in the country and The Philippines, together channels for functional coopthe arrest of Chinese chemists with several Southeast Asian eration have been opened and linked to a drug syndicate. countries, also engaged China are already delivering benefits Despite this, he said the towards the drafting of the for the Filipinos including our country remains firm in its po- framework of the Code of Con- fishermen and farmers,” it sition over the South China Sea. duct in the South China Sea said. ■ “Our improved relationship (COC) during its chairmanship with China does not mean that to the Association of Southeast www.canadianinquirer.net

Espinosa and Dela Rosa.

that other law enforcement agencies can file cases against the mentioned individuals if are “indeed involved in illegal drug activities.”

The dismissal of the drug charges caused an uproar among lawmakers, groups, the

AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

public, and even President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

These developments in the Justice Department soon led to the former Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II’s resignation — replaced by incumbent Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra. ■

PRRD warns of tougher crackdown on irresponsible mining

BY CATHERINE TEVES Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte assured Filipinos the government would intensify its campaign against irresponsible mining nationwide to further protect the environment, so future generations can benefit from the country’s natural wealth.

In his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, the President warned about implementing stricter environmental protection policies, including prohibiting open-pit mining.

Miners, he stressed, must radically improve the way they manage their operations and rehabilitate the areas where they mine.

“To the mining industry, I say this again and maybe for the last time: Do not destroy the environment or compromise our resources,” he warned.

The President said the revenue that mining brings the government doesn’t justify the environmental destruction from irresponsible mineral extraction.

“Don’t just give me taxes. I can get these from other sources,” he said, referring to the miners.

“But give me what needs to be given to my countrymen.”

All Filipinos must benefit from the country’s minerals, he noted.

Duterte said irresponsible mining is destroying even the country’s aquatic resources, compromising the availability of water and food.

“You can no longer fish in rivers, as these are contaminated,” he noted, citing one impact of mine waste’s flow into the water bodies.

Latest available preliminary data released by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau showed gross production value in largescale metallic mining, smallscale gold mining, and nonmetallic mining collectively reached PHP108.6 billion in 2017.

Taxes, fees, and royalties from mining that year totaled PHP16.18 billion, the data further showed.

The Department of Finance already cited inclusion of mining taxation in the government’s tax reform program. ■

Philippine News

12

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

PH a partner to all nations: President Duterte

BY JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte is consistent with his foreign policy direction to be friends to all and enemy to none, with his fresh vow to continue engaging with nations regardless of their “political persuasions.”

“We shall continue to reach out to all nations regardless of their prevailing political persuasions or proximity to or distance from our shores so long as these nations wish us well,” he said during his 3rd State of the Nation Address on Monday.

At the same time, he underscored the continuing pursuit of an independent foreign policy.

“On international relations, we shall continue to assert and pursue an independent foreign policy. Our long-term national development and national security goals come first,” he said.

Present at the SONA venue, Batasang Pambansa Complex, were members of the diplomat-

Pres. Rodrigo Duterte before his SONA.

ic corps in the country, including United States Ambassador Sung Kim, French Ambassador Nicolas Galey, Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua, European Union Ambassador Franz Jessen and Russian Ambassador Igor Khovaev.

Duterte also hailed the Philippine chairmanship to the As-

KING RODRIGUEZ / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

sociation of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2017, which he described fortified Manila’s ties with its “friends” from the bloc, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia in their collective bid against piracy and terrorism.

“Our stronger bonds with our ASEAN friends have made

possible our trilateral border patrols with Indonesia and Malaysia, which has since then put out of business sea pirates, piracy and other terrorists who used to infest our shared seas,” he said.

“This is a testament to the readiness of our country and our good neighbors to make

regional peace and security our shared responsibility,” he added.

He also lauded the “successful” hosting of the bloc’s 50th anniversary and the 31st ASEAN Summit in the Philippines which caught international attention on the capabilities of Filipinos.

It showcased not only the renowned hospitality in the Philippines but also Filipinos’ organizational capabilities and artistic talents, Duterte said.

In a pre-SONA commentary, Integrated Development Studies Institute (IDSI) said with a “fairly peaceful and stable region,” along with the country “finally making bold, political, economic, and environmental steps,” Manila actually has a shot to catch up with its Asian neighbors.

“Duterte’s efforts have gained the respect and even admiration of Asian leaders, most recently from Indonesia, Vietnam, South Korean, Japan etc., even the leaders of the two major powers US and China,” it said. ■

Celebrating 10 years of inspirational newcomer achievements The 2018 RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award winners include NHL hockey dad, comedic actor, doctor, senator, and an app entrepreneur TORONTO – What does a hockey dad of three NHL stars, a mental health advocate, and auto-dealer/Raptors “Superfan” have in common?

They all were once newcomers to Canada and have contributed to their communities through leadership and philanthropy, and now have been selected as winners in this year’s 10th annual RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards. The winners are being presented by Canadian Immigrant magazine and proudly sponsored by RBC Royal Bank.

From coast to coast, the 2018 RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrants are a reflection of Canadian culture, diversity, and nation-building spirit.

From Karl Subban, an educator who has guided his three sons to NHL stardom, to Senator Ratna Omidvar, who has been a lifelong diversity advocate, to Dr. Saroj Niraula, an oncologist, and researcher to just name a few.

For the last 10 years, the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards have highlighted stories of Canadian immigrants who have demonstrated incredible contributions and achievements in Canada. In addition to this year’s top 25 winners, 250 winners have been honoured over the last decade with this incredible achievement.

“Celebrating 10 years is a true milestone for our awards, and we couldn’t be prouder of the amazing immigrants who form this year’s RBC Top 25,” says Margaret Jetelina, editor, Canadian Immigrant magazine.

The RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award winners will be honoured at ceremonies in Toronto on June 19th 2018 and in Vancouver on June 27th 2018. In addition to the top 25 winners, two winners will also be selected for special recognition, the RBC Entrepreneur Award, and the Youth Award.

Philippines-born Loizza Aquino, 18, is the second annual Youth Award winner. From Winnipeg, she is the founder of the youth-led non-profit organization called Peace of Mind, which focuses on mental health advocacy.

“The RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments and leadership of newcomers across Canada. Now in its tenth year and with over 250 newcomers recognized, the Awards highlight our country’s diversity, and the contributions and positive impact newcomers have been making in our communities.

Congratulations to all winners and nominees,” says Ivy Chiu, Senior Director, Newcomer Strategy at RBC. Hundreds of nominations were received, from which 75 finalists were shortlisted by a diverse judging panel of past winners. Nearly 60,000 online votes were cast. The 25 winners were chosen based on a combination of votes and the second round of judging.

The RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award winners will receive a commemorative plaque and a $500 donation will be made toward a registered Canadian charity of their choice. Winners will also be featured online at canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25 and in the July print edition of Canadian Immigrant Magazine.

NEW: Settlement Agency Award Concurrent with the RBC Top 25 campaign this year, the Settlement Agency Award was introduced this year to recognize the amazing work immigrant settlement agencies are doing to help newcomers integrate and succeed in Canada. The winner of the first Settlement Agency Award is ISS of BC.

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Philippine News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

13

PRRD submits Senate okays bill on free Wi-Fi, proposed P3.757-T clean toilets in transport stations 2019 nat’l budget

BY JOSE CIELITO REGANIT Philippine News Agency

BY JELLY MUSICO Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte has submitted to Congress the proposed PHP3.757trillion 2019 National Budget that seeks to boost the government’s efforts to “effectively and efficiently” build a bright future for the Filipino people.

“For Fiscal Year 2019, we submit for your perusal and approval, a National Budget that will amplify the forces and resources to effectively and efficiently build our nation, in order to draw more of our people from the clutches of poverty and maintain law and order, so everybody lives in peaceful co-existence,” Duterte said in his message entitled “Building A Bright Future for the Philippines and Its People.”

The House of Representatives received the proposed national budget on Monday, the same day Duterte delivered his third State of the Nation Address (SONA).

In a Palace press briefing on Tuesday, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the national budget documents include the President’s budget message, where Duterte identified key budget priorities for next year.

These, according to Roque, include intensifying infrastructure development, expanding programs on human development, building a more secure and peaceful nation, and other select major social programs.

“We commended the DBM (Department of Budget and Management) for the early submission of the 2019 national budget, which is after the State of the Nation Address,” Roque said.

“We will now gear up to ensure full and speedy rollout,” he added.

He said the proposed national budget is cash-based, which means the country “will not borrow it and we will only spend whatever we have.”

Roque said the immediate passage of the national budget would serve as a test for new

House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

“Nonetheless, we are confident that because this budget is intended to build, build, build, which means more projects for all congressmen and legislators as well, that it will be passed on time,” he said.

Duterte assured that the 2019 National Budget is designed to be modern and an open budget for accountability and service delivery.

“It is imperative that we modernize our budgeting system to meet international standards and adopt good practices,” Duterte said in his message.

The President said the PHP3.757 trillion case-based appropriations of the national government for 2019 represents a 13-percent increase from the current year’s case-based appropriations of PHP3.324 trillion.

“This means that more programs and projects in the 2019 budget will be completed, delivered, inspected and accepted by the end of the fiscal year,” he said.

From the proposed 2019 budget, the social services sector will get the biggest share of PHP1.377 trillion or 36 percent, followed by the economic services with PHP1.068 trillion (28.4 percent), general public services with PHP709.4 billion (18.9 percent), debt burden with PHP414.1 billion (11 percent), and defense with PHP188.2 billion (5 percent).

The education sector remains the top recipient with a total budget of PHP659.3 billion, followed by the departments of public works and highways with PHP555.7 billion; interior and local government (PHP225.6 billion); defense (PHP183.4 billion); social welfare (PHP173.3 billion); health (PHP141.4 billion); transportation (PHP76.1 billion); agriculture (PHP49.8 billion); judiciary (PHP37.3 billion); and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PHP32.3 billion). ■

MANILA — The Senate on Tuesday approved on third and final reading a bill seeking to improve the restroom facilities in land transportation and rollon/roll-off (RoRo) terminals nationwide.

Senate Bill 1749, otherwise known as the “Act to Improve Land Transportation Terminals, Stations, Stops, Resto Areas and Roll-on/Roll-off Terminals,” was approved with 18 affirmative votes, no negative vote and zero abstention.

Senator Grace Poe, the primary author and sponsor of the bill, thanked her colleagues for the speedy approval of the proposed measure, saying the days of unsanitary and unkempt restrooms in transport terminals would soon be over.

“Una sa lahat, hindi na parang premyo sa game show ang malinis na palikuran sa mga terminal. Dapat lahat malinis at walang kinokolekta para gamitin ang mga C.R. (Clean restrooms would not seem like game show prizes anymore. Everything would be clean and no fees should be collected for the use of comfort rooms). Land and RoRo terminals will become oases for our travelers,” Poe said.

Sen. Grace Poe.

Once enacted into law, operators or administrators of land transport terminals, stations, stops, rest areas and RoRo terminals would be required to provide clean and sanitary facilities for passengers.

Collection of fees from passengers for the use of sanitary facilities in transport terminals will also be prohibited.

This, however, does not cover deluxe comfort rooms.

The measure also sought to mandate the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and other concerned agencies, to provide free internet access in transport terminals and to

GRACE POE / FACEBOOK

establish at least one lactation station that is separate from sanitary facilities.

“To borrow a phrase from our Senate President, kung saan ka man pumunta ‘mula Batanes hanggang Jolo’ — para magpalamig sa Baguio, mag-surfing sa Baler, kumain ng Buyos sa Pangasinan, o magkape sa Batangas — you can expect a brief yet pleasant respite in our terminals (To borrow a phrase from our Senate President, wherever you go from Batanes to Jolo — whether you want to chill in Baguio, surf in Baler, eat in Buyos, Pangasinan, or drink coffee in Batangas — you can expect a brief yet pleasant respite in our terminals),” Poe said. ■

Deportation order vs. Aussie nun ‘final, executory’: BI

BY FERDINAND PATINIO Philippine News Agency MANILA — An official of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Friday maintained that the deportation order against Australian nun Patricia Anne Fox is final and executory within 30 days.

BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval noted that the order of the Board of Commissioners on Thursday will be implemented within one month, based on the omnibus rules, unless the Missionary nun files an appeal.

“According to the omnibus www.canadianinquirer.net

rules, (the) order is final and executory within 30 days unless Motion for Reconsideration (MR) is filed,” she said in an interview.

The BI official added that once a deportation has been issued, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will submit a clearance to show that the person being deported “has no accountability in the country and “has no pending case in court.”

The MR should be filed before BI, Sandoval said, noting that it would be the decision of the camp of Fox if they want to seek the help of higher office, if

they feel that the BI will deny their appeal.

“It will depend on the MR and if they decide to elevate it to the higher office, we just follow what the Department of Justice (DOJ) orders us,” she added.

On Thursday, the BI issued an order to deport Fox for violating the conditions of her missionary visa for participating in political rallies, fact-finding missions and conferences in various areas of the country.

The 10-page order also puts the 71-year-old nun in the BI’s blacklist, barring her from reentering the country. ■

14

Philippine News

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Bersamin accepts Boracay rehab new beginning nomination for CJ post of ‘radical reforms’: Duterte

BY CHRISTOPHER LLOYD CALIWAN Philippine News Agency

ed against the granting of the quo warranto petition, declined his nomination as ousted Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno’s replacement out of delicadeza.

MANILA — Supreme Court AsCarpio dissented from the sociate Justice Lucas Bersamin May 11 ruling that ousted Serehas accepted the nomination no, stressing that a justice of for the country’s top judiciary the High Court should only be post. removed from office through an This was confirmed by Jus- impeachment proceeding. tice Secretary Menardo GueBersamin and Peralta were varra, an ex-officio member of among the six justices who the JBC, in a text message sent were sought by Sereno to into Philippine News Agency hibit from participating in the (PNA) on Tuesdeliberation of day afternoon. the quo warran“SC Associate to petition filed Justice Lucas

by Solicitor GenCarpio Bersamin has eral Jose Calida, dissented accepted his auwhich was evenfrom the May tomatic nominatually granted 11 ruling tion for the CJ by the Court in a that ousted post today,” Guedecision issued Sereno, varra said. last May 11, 2018. stressing that Under the The decision a justice of the rules, while the became final on High Court five most seJune 19, 2018. should only nior justices are The quo warbe removed automatically ranto petition from office nominated for sought the nullithrough an the chief justice fication of Sereimpeachment post, they still no’s appointproceeding. have to formally ment as Chief accept the nomiJustice for her nation to be offifailure to comply cially considered with the requireas nominee or ments to qualify applicant. for the position.

Aside from Bersamin, the Bersamin and Peralta were four other Senior Justices are both appointed by then Presiacting Chief Justice Antonio dent Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Carpio, Associate Justice PresBersamin was appointed bitero Velasco Jr., Teresita to the High Court on April 2, Leonardo de Castro and Dios- 2009 and Peralta on January dado Peralta.

13, 2009.

Velasco and de Castro, howThe JBC has set its first deever, are mandated to retire in liberation for the Chief Justice August and October, respec- post on August 3, a week after tively. the deadline for the submission Guevarra also said that Per- of applications and nominaalta is also expected to formal- tions for the post on July 26. ly accept his nomination on The SC formally opened last Wednesday, July 25.

June 26 the search for the post On Tuesday, Carpio, who vot- of Chief Justice. ■

BY JELLY MUSICO Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday said the Boracay rehabilitation was just the beginning of the radical reforms he intends to impose, as part of his administration’s campaign to protect and preserve the environment and natural resources.

“Environmental protection and ensuring the health of our people cannot be overemphasized; thus, our actions in Boracay mark the beginning of a new national effort,” Duterte said in his third State of the Nation Address (SONA).

Duterte has reiterated his commitment not to allow the deterioration not only of the famous beach destination, but other tourist spots in the country as well.

“I could not allow this decay to continue; decisive action has long been overdue. Recognizing that we are mere stewards of our natural resources, and I said enough is enough,” Duterte said.

“We intend to restore its environmental integrity, alongside measures to alleviate those whose livelihood was momentarily affected,” he added.

He said Boracay Island, which he once described as ‘cesspool,’ has sadly become the representation of the government’s negligence “including mine”.

Thus, the popular Filipino leader encouraged local government units to proactively enforce all environmental laws “and not wait for us to swoop down on your areas just to do your duty and work”.

“For the other tourist destinations needing urgent rehabilitation and enforcement of environmental and other laws

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shall soon follow,” Duterte said.

Duterte said what is being done to Boracay is also an indication of the long-overdue need for holistic and sustainable utilization, management and developing of the country’s lands.

With this, the President urged the Senate to urgently pass the National Land Use Act “to put in place a national land use policy that will address our competing land requirements for food, housing, businesses, and environmental conservation.”

Duterte warned “irresponsible miners” to stop destroying the country’s rich natural resources particularly watersheds, forests and aquatic resources “To the mining industry, I say this once again and maybe for the last time, do not destroy the environment or compromise our resources; repair what you have mismanaged,” he said.

“Extracted resources must be used for the benefit of the

Filipino people, not just a select few. Do not just give me taxes.

I can get it from other sources.

Give me what needs to be given to my countrymen,” he added.

Banning open pit mining

Duterte reiterated his plans to impose “restrictive policies” including the prohibition of open pit mining.

“It is destroying my country.

It is destroying the environment. It will destroy the world of tomorrow for our children,” he said.

“Expect reforms, radical ones. I cannot intend to quarrel with anybody, with the moneyed, but for as long as I am here I said: you will just have to contend with me,” he added.

He exhorted all concerned agencies and local government units to uphold the concept of inter-generational responsibility in the exploration and utilization of the country’s natural resources and wealth. ■

15

Canada News Family of Toronto shooter says he suffered from severe mental illness

BY MICHELLE MCQUIGGE AND NICOLE THOMPSON The Canadian Press TORONTO — A 29-year-old man who went on a deadly shooting spree in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant Greektown, killing an aspiring nurse and a 10-year-old girl, had a life-long struggle with severe mental illness, his family said Monday.

Faisal Hussain’s parents said they were devastated by their son’s “senseless violence” and the loss of life that resulted from it. Hussain was found dead, with a gunshot wound, after exchanging fire with officers during the incident on Danforth Avenue on Sunday night.

“Our son had severe mental health challenges, struggling with psychosis and depression his entire life,” the family said in a statement issued moments after their son was identified as the shooter by Ontario’s police watchdog.

“The interventions of professionals were unsuccessful.

Medications and therapy were unable to treat him,” they said.

“While we did our best to seek help for him throughout his life of struggle and pain, we could never imagine that this would be his devastating and destructive end.”

Police have revealed next to no information about Hussain or his motives, but said they are investigating the case from all angles.

Police identified an 18-yearold Toronto woman who died in the shooting as Reese Fallon.

Facebook posts from a man who appeared to be Fallon’s father indicated she had just graduated from high school and was about to begin studying nursing at Hamilton’s McMaster University in September.

The university issued a statement confirming a new enrolled student died in the attack and extending condolences on her death.

One friend described Fallon

as a “very happy” person. site of the carnage, authorities “Reese gave the warmest of said. hugs. She was always so kind, “ Laurie Gutmann was with said Frank Hong. “Everyone … family at a restaurant waiting wanted to be around her.” for his partner’s birthday cake One of Fallon’s friends was to be served when the shots also injured in Sunday’s attack, rang out.

Hong said.

“It was very quick — boom The family of the 10-year-old boom boom boom — and then victim did not want her name we realized it was gunshots. released at this time, police said There was a pause, and then in a statement Monday evening. there were more gunshots,” he Investigators said six women said. and seven men ranging in age Gutmann said he heard from 17 to 59 suffered injuries screaming from the restauranging from minor to serious rant’s patio and saw a womin the shooting. an who had been shot in the The attack took place along a thigh and was bleeding on the street packed with independent ground. Servers and fellow businesses and surrounded by patrons provided first aid and Andreas Silaidis said he heard family homes and parks. On held her hand until paramed- about six gunshots, looked out Monday, the area was largely ics arrived, he said. his window and saw people deserted as police combed Lenny Graf, who was din- running and a few bodies on the through the neighbourhood, ing at another restaurant, was ground. though some locals came to the watching his nine-year-old “There were cops everyscene in a bid to come to terms son and a friend play around a where,” he said. with the tragedy. nearby fountain when gunfire Other witnesses posted pho“It’s like a small village for us,” erupted. tos and videos online, includsaid Valia Dsaliou, who works at “My first instinct was to try ing a clip that appears to show a a Greek-language radio station and find Jason and I saw him man, clad in black and carrying in the area. “This is something crouched behind the fountain a satchel, walk a few steps bethat we couldn’t even imag- and I noticed that the gunman fore lifting his arms in front of ine would haphim as gunshots pen, but it hapring out. That pened. But we video was posted don’t know why late Sunday by While we did our best to seek or what all this Instagram user help for him throughout his life of is supposed to ?arilanise, who struggle and pain, we could never mean to us.” appears to have imagine that this would be his Those answers since deleted her devastating and destructive end. did not immediaccount. ately come from Tina PapaToronto Pochristos, who lice Chief Mark has called the Saunders, who neighbourhood declined to comment on what had finished shooting there and home since childhood, said prompted the attack. was walking away,” he said. “I she’s struggling to process what “We do not know why this grabbed Jason and I took him happened. Her children visit happened yet,” he said. “The into the alleyway. We ran to the the area nearly every night, she investigation itself is very fluid, back of restaurant to see that said, adding she’s grieving for it is very new, it’s going to take Jason’s friend was in there safe the families of those killed. some time.” and so was my wife.”

“I can imagine the devastaPolice said they were searchNick Balkos said he saw the tion of any mother … that had ing an east-end Toronto apart- shooter about 15 minutes after to lose a loved one,” she said. “I ment as part of the investiga- he had closed his restaurant. was up until about five in the tion.

“He was running across the morning just devastated.”

The shooting began around street yelling something and Toronto Mayor John Tory 10 p.m. on Sunday and only then he fired six to 10 shots into called the shooting an “unended after two police officers the Second Cup,” said Balkos. speakable” act and said the time exchanged gunfire with the “He was shooting while he was had come to confront the rising shooter on a sidestreet near the running.” prevalence of guns in the city, www.canadianinquirer.net

which has experienced a spike in shootings in recent weeks.

“Why does anyone in this city need to have a gun at all?” he said. “I know answering questions like this won’t fully eliminate tragedies like this, but even if we can prevent one of these incidents, then in my view it is a discussion worth having and having very soon.”

At Ontario’s legislature, politicians held a moment of silence and paid tribute to the shooting victims.

Premier Doug Ford called Sunday night’s incident the most “brazen” in the city to date.

“As a lifelong Toronto resident I have always been proud to speak up for and to defend this city,” he said. “Unlike so many other places, we’ve always been confident that this is a safe city. Today for too many, this confidence is shaken.”

The Greektown shooting spree comes nearly three months to the day after 10 people died in a van attack in a north Toronto neighbourhood.

Alek Minassian, 25, of Richmond Hill, Ont., faces 10 counts of first-degree murder and 16 counts of attempted murder in connection with the April 23 incident. ■ with files from Alanna Rizza, Olivia Bowden, Alison Auld and Kelly Geraldine Malone.

16

Canada News

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Premiers announce agreement in principle on flow of alcohol across borders

BY KEITH DOUCETTE The Canadian Press

move on alcohol would also involve changing existing legislation.

“We have all committed to take action over the next weeks and months,” GalANDREWS, N.B. — Canada’s premiers lant said at the closing news conference. have agreed in principle to reduce bar- “That’s where we landed on the consenriers limiting the amount of alcohol that sus.”

A statement released by the premiers can move across provincial and territorial borders, but failed to produce clear said that some jurisdictions may elimitimelines or details around personal nate limits entirely, as is now the case in Manitoba and Alberta. limits.

For its part, Gallant said New BrunsNew Brunswick Premier Brian Gallant said provinces are willing to in- wick remained committed to doubling crease import limits, although some its limit on the amount of beer and alcowant to consult with the public to deter- hol that can be taken across its borders.

He also said the premiers agreed to mine how it will be done.

“Make no mistake about it, there is an take “immediate and meaningful acacknowledgment that we have to look tion” to bring down barriers regarding at this issue,” he said at the close of two First Aid course content and restricdays of meetings in the seaside com- tions on the use of wide base single tires munity of St. Andrews, N.B. “There’s an and size and weight restrictions in the acknowledgment that there should be trucking industry.

They will also work on the licensing of pushes to have significant increases to abattoirs and on business registration import limits.”

Gallant hinted that a full deal was requirements.

Manitoba’s Brian Pallister said the close,Joel_CanadianInquirer_print.pdf but that some provinces were1re- 2017-10-05 3:45 PM luctant. He wouldn’t name those prov- agreement as it stands is important in the face of measures by U.S. President inces.

In many cases, he said any potential Donald Trump when it comes to cross-

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Premier Brian Gallant.

border trade.

“These premiers took positive steps in the last couple of days,” Pallister said.

“We are a trading nation and we have to demonstrate that we understand the benefits to the Canadian family of trading more effectively within our own boundaries if we wish to make the case to others that they should pull the wall down between us and them.”

The premiers confirmed that they will meet this fall with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to discuss interprovincial trade.

Meanwhile, eight premiers met for breakfast Friday to discuss universal pharmacare with former Ontario health minister Eric Hoskins, who chairs the Advisory Council on the Implementation of National Pharmacare.

Linda Silas, president of the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions, was also in the meeting and said she is encouraged there is support from the provinces after they came out last year in favour of a national plan.

“They are all in support of reforming our system, they see it in their budgets,” said Silas. “They want to know who is going to pay for the transformation because there will be initial costs, and also how will the pie be divided after that.”

Hoskins, who quit his cabinet post in February to take on the federal appointment, said it’s still early days as the advisory council carries out consultations across the country.

He said consensus will have to be built, but he expressed optimism that something can be done, pointing out that estimates suggest 10 per cent of Canadians are unable to afford their drugs.

“We are not yet at the stage where we’ve established what the best costsharing mechanism might be, let alone the model itself,” he cautioned.

Hoskins said there are more than 100 different public plans across the country and in excess of 500,000 private plans.

www.canadianinquirer.net

NEW BRUNSWICK NOUVEAU-BRUNSWICK / FLICKR

“We pay between 30 and 40 per cent higher than the other similar industrialized countries pay for their medications,” he said. “Part of the reason is that we have such a diverse number of purchasers.”

The parliamentary budget office pegs the total cost of pharmacare at about $20 billion and says about $4 billion in cost savings can be realized with a national plan.

“The parliamentary budget office has indicated that we could spend considerably less if we were to make certain changes and find efficiencies for example in bulk purchasing and other areas,” said Hoskins.

In their final communique, the premiers emphasized that a successful pharmacare program would require “adequate and sustained federal funding” and that the participation of the provinces “must be voluntary.”

“Any jurisdiction that wishes to maintain full control over drug insurance should have the right to opt out unconditionally, with full compensation should the federal government participate financially in the establishment of a pharmacare plan,” said the communique. “Quebec has already indicated its intention to follow that path and all provinces and territories reserve the right to do the same.”

The meetings focused mainly on trade issues, although the talks were publicly upstaged by Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe who announced that Ontario will intervene in Saskatchewan’s court challenge of Ottawa’s carbon tax plan.

On Friday, Ford was asked whether he found any other allies and he downplayed the issue.

“It’s their choice, right?” said Ford.

“Premier Moe and myself, we’re deciding to take a different avenue when it comes to the carbon tax.” ❱❱ PAGE 28 Premiers announce

Canada News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

17

Canada to resettle dozens of White Helmets and their families from Syria

BY LEE BERTHIAUME The Canadian Press OTTAWA — Canada has offered to accept dozens of White Helmets and their families from Syria following a dramatic rescue over the weekend that was orchestrated by the Israeli military and personally encouraged by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Named for their easily recognizable head gear, the all-volunteer White Helmets have been lauded and supported by Canada and other Western nations for their role as first responders and humanitarian workers who have saved hundreds of lives during Syria’s brutal civil war.

But with the Syrian government having regained control of much of the country, and moving to wrest back the last of several rebel-held areas in recent weeks, there had been concerns that dozens of White

Helmets stranded on the border with Jordan would become targets for Syrian troops.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed Sunday that Trudeau and U.S. President Donald Trump were among those who asked Israel to rescue the White Helmets in recent days, after leaders first talked about helping the White Helmets during the recent NATO summit in Brussels.

“Several days ago, U.S. President Trump contacted me, as did Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau and others, and requested that we assist in evacuating hundreds of White Helmets from Syria,” Netanyahu said in Hebrew during an online address.

“These are people who have saved lives and whose lives were in danger. Therefore I approved their passage through Israel to additional countries as an important humanitarian gesture.”

The military operation saw the Israeli military slip hundreds of people from Syria to Jordan, though the exact numbers were still being determined; Jordanian officials initially said that 800 Syrians were rescued, though that number was later revised down to around 425.

Writing on Twitter in Arabic, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said the Syrians were allowed into the country following written commitments that Germany, Britain and Canada would resettle them following the operation.

Canada has offered to host up to 50 White Helmets and their families, a senior official confirmed to The Canadian Press on condition of anonymity. With the addition of family members, that could bring the total to around 250 Syrians, although the official said the actual number could be lower.

Exactly when the White Hel-

JUSTIN TRUDEAU / FACEBOOK

mets will arrive is unclear; the rescued Syrians are expected to remain in a UN refugee camp for at least three months to al-

low for processing.

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18

World News

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

GOP leaders: Putin not welcome on Capitol Hill

BY LISA MASCARO AND ALAN FRAM The Associated Press WASHINGTON — The Republican leaders in Congress are distancing themselves from President Donald Trump’s invitation for Vladimir Putin to visit Washington in the fall, saying the Russian president is not welcome on Capitol Hill.

House Speaker Paul Ryan said Tuesday that Putin will not be invited to address Congress because “that is something we reserve for allies.”

Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell have shown no interest in holding meetings with Putin if he accepts Trump’s invitation to the White House to follow up on last week’s summit in Helsinki.

“The speaker and I have made it clear that Putin will not be welcome up here at the Capitol,” McConnell told reporters Tuesday.

But it may not matter anyway. Putin’s foreign affairs ad-

viser Yuri Ushakov threw cold water on the prospect of Putin accepting Trump’s invitation to visit the White House.

Ushakov told journalists in Moscow on Tuesday that no preparations were underway for a meeting in Washington and there were “other options that our leaders could consider,” such as the late November meeting of the Group of 20 in Argentina or another international event that both would attend.

Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about Trump’s approach to the Russian leader. They strongly rebuked Trump’s comments during a joint press conference in Helsinki when he stood beside Putin and denied U.S. intelligence findings that Russia interfered in the 2016 election.

Trump has since clarified his remarks to side with the intelligence community.

McConnell declined to back up a tweet Trump sent Tuesday suggesting any potential Russian interference in the fall midterm elections would be

Russian President Vladimir Putin.

designed to favour Democrats.

Instead, the Kentucky Republican issued a direct warning to Russia to back off.

“The Russians better quit

www.canadianinquirer.net

ID1974 / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

messing around in our elections,” McConnell said. “I want to make that perfectly clear: The Russians better quit messing around in our elections.”

Ushakov declined to discuss the Helsinki summit, pointing to the heated reaction it caused in the U.S. “Now we need to wait for the dust to settle, but later it may be possible to discuss these issues in a businesslike manner, but not now,” Ushakov said in remarks that were carried on state news agencies and other Russian news organizations.

Congress has struggled with a response to the Russian interference. Republicans blocked another attempt in the Senate late Tuesday to pass a symbolic resolution reaffirming the findings of the intelligence community.

Instead, GOP leaders are considering new sanctions on Russia.

Speaking before Congress is an honour often given to highprofile world leaders who come to Washington. French President Emmanuel Macron addressed Congress this spring. ■ Associated Press writer Lynn Berry in Washington contributed to this report.

World News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

19

Just tough Trump tweeting? Gala opens US ratchets up Iran pressure countdown to 50th anniversary of 1st moon landing

BY MATTHEW LEE AND ZEKE MILLER The Associated Press

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s explosive Twitter threat to Iran’s leader comes as his administration is ratcheting up a pressure campaign on the Islamic republic that many suspect is aimed at regime change.

No one is predicting imminent war. But Trump’s bellicose, all-caps challenge addressed to President Hassan Rouhani followed a speech by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in which he accused Iran’s leadership of massive corruption and widespread rights abuses and urged Iranians to rise up in protest.

Both the tweet and the speech landed less than two weeks before the administration will begin re-imposing sanctions on Iran that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal. In the meantime, the U.S. is stepping up Farsi-language outreach that is intended to support Iranians demonstrating against the policies of their government.

Trump’s tweet doesn’t appear to have been prompted by any notable shift in rhetoric from Iran.

It could have been an impulsive reaction to reports from Tehran quoting Rouhani as giving the U.S. an oft-repeated reminder that conflict with Iran would be “the mother of all wars.” Yet animosity directed at the Iranian leadership is an established part of the administration’s broader foreign policy.

Iran publicly shrugged off Trump’s late Sunday message — “NEVER EVER THREATEN THE UNITED STATES AGAIN OR YOU WILL SUFFER CONSEQUENCES THE LIKES OF WHICH FEW THROUGHOUT HISTORY HAVE EVER SUFFERED BEFORE.” Tweeted Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Monday: Colour US UNIMPRESSED: The world heard even harsher bluster a few months ago. And Iranians have heard them — albeit more civilized ones — for 40 yrs. We’ve been around for millennia &

seen fall of empires, incl our own, which lasted more than the life of some countries. BE CAUTIOUS!” Asked at the White House if he had concerns about provoking Iran, Trump said simply, “None at all.”

Tehran is already aware of what is coming from the administration as consequences of Trump’s May withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord take shape.

As Pompeo noted in his speech to Iranian-Americans and others in California on Sunday, the centerpiece will be the re-imposition of U.S. economic sanctions; the first batch will go back into force Aug. 4, targeting the Iranian automotive sector and trade in gold and other metals. A more significant set of sanctions that will hit Iran’s oil industry and central bank by punishing countries and companies that do business with them will resume Nov. 4.

“Right now, the United States is undertaking a diplomatic and financial pressure campaign to cut off the funds that the regime uses to enrich itself and support death and destruction,” Pompeo said in his speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley.

Pompeo also slammed Iran’s political, judicial and military officials, accusing several by name of participating in rampant corruption, and called its religious leaders “hypocritical holy men” who amassed wealth while allowing their people to suffer. He said the government has “heartlessly repressed its own people’s human rights, dignity and fundamental freedoms,” and he hailed the “proud Iranian people (for) not staying silent about their government’s many abuses.”

“The United States under President Trump will not stay silent either,” he said.

He was right. True to form, Trump did not stay silent. But the White House blamed Rouhani for inciting the war of words with his comment that “America must understand well that peace with Iran is the mother of all peace and war with Iran is the mother of all wars.”

“WE ARE NO LONGER A COUNTRY THAT WILL STAND FOR YOUR DEMENTED WORDS OF VIOLENCE & DEATH. BE CAUTIOUS!,” Trump wrote.

Reaction from Congress, particularly Democrats, was swift and critical.

Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, acknowledged that Iran’s terrorist activities in the Middle East pose a threat but suggested it wouldn’t be solved through a tweet from Trump.

“Sadly, after pulling us out of the nuclear deal with Europe and Iran, there doesn’t seem to be strategy for how to move forward to fight Iran’s activities,” she said.

And Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine, the 2016 Democratic vice-presidential candidate, called the Twitter blast from the White House “another warning sign that Trump is blundering toward war with Iran.”

Trump’s National Security Council pushed back with a statement saying: “Our differences are with the Iranian regime’s actions and, in particular, with the actions of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, not the Iranian people.

The Trump administration’s Iran policy seeks to address the totality of these threats and malign activities and to bring about a change in the Iranian regime’s behaviour.”

“If anybody’s inciting anything, look no further than to Iran,” said White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said.

She added that Trump has been “very clear about what he’s not going to allow to take place.”

Trump has a history of firing off heated tweets that seem to quickly escalate long-standing disputes with leaders of nations at odds with the U.S. In the case of North Korea, the verbal war cooled quickly and gradually led to the highprofile summit and denuclearization talks. Still, there has been little tangible progress in a global push to rid North Korea of its nuclear weapons program since the historic Trump-Kim Jong Un summit on June 12. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

BY ALEX SANZ AND MIKE SCHNEIDER The Associated Press CAPE CANAVERAL, FLA. — Former NASA astronaut Buzz Aldrin was noticeably absent from a gala kicking off a yearlong celebration of the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing, even though his nonprofit space education foundation is a sponsor and he typically is the star attraction.

Aldrin said he didn’t attend because of objections over the foundation’s current aims and ongoing legal matters associated with the foundation. The former astronaut is locked in a legal battle with family members who say he is suffering from mental decline.

The black-tie Apollo Celebration Gala was held Saturday under a Saturn V rocket at the Kennedy Space Center, featured a panel discussion by astronauts, an awards ceremony, and an auction of space memorabilia.

Hundreds of people attended the sold-out event, including British physicist Brian Cox,

Buzz Aldrin.

who presented Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson with the ShareSpace Foundation’s Innovation award.

Branson, whose company is developing a new generation of commercial spacecraft, said in a recorded video that the Apollo missions influenced his generation.

“Space is still hard, really hard. It still really matters,” Branson said. “There would be no Virgin Galactic, no Virgin Orbit and no spaceship company had it not been for Apollo astronauts and the thousands of talented people who made their mission possible.”

Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins took part in the historic Apollo 11 mission, landing the first two humans on the moon on July 20, 1969.

Armstrong was first to walk on the moon, joined soon after by Aldrin while Collins remained in orbit aboard the command module.

Dr. Carolyn Williams of the non-profit From One Hand To AnOTHER received the foundation’s Education award, ❱❱ PAGE 22 Gala opens

BUZZ ALDRIN'S SHARESPACE FOUNDATION / FACEBOOK

20

World News

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

UK top diplomat warns no Hundreds missing Brexit deal ‘now a very real risk’ after hydroelectric dam collapses in Laos

BY FRANK JORDANS The Associated Press

BERLIN — Britain’s top diplomat warned Monday that the country could crash out of the European Union next year without an agreement on future relations with Brussels because of the hard line taken by EU negotiators.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told reporters in Berlin after meeting German counterpart Heiko Maas that “there is now a very real risk of a Brexit no deal by accident.”

“This is because I think that many people in the EU are thinking they just have to wait long enough and Britain will blink,” he said. “And that’s not going to happen.”

Big differences remain between Brussels and London over the terms of a new trade setup and the issue of how to regulate the U.K.’s only land

border with the EU, between the U.K.’s Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic.

A substantial number of lawmakers in British Prime Minister Theresa May’s Conservative Party party favour a complete break with the EU — a so-called “hard” Brexit — rather than the “soft” option proposed by May, which calls for a “common rule book” with European nations that would govern trade in goods.

Hunt, on his first bilateral visit since coming to office, said “Germany is not just one of Britain’s best friends in Europe but one of our best friends in the world.”

He insisted that the trip to Berlin “is not about a charm offensive.” Still, London appears to want to win over the leaders of Europe’s biggest economy to put pressure on EU negotiators to avoid a messy split.

“Without a real change of approach from the EU negotiators we do now face a real risk of no

deal by accident. And that will be incredibly challenging economically,” said Hunt.

“Britain will find that challenging but in the end we will find a way not just to survive but to thrive economically,” he said.

“But my real concern is that it will change British public attitudes to Europe for a generation.”

Maas said his country “doesn’t want a disorderly Brexit. We want a deal.” But he acknowledged that on the Irish border issue, at least, “further talks will be necessary to reach practical solutions.”

Maas declined to comment on the threat from Britain’s lead negotiator on Brexit that London might not pay its 39 billion pound ($51 billion) divorce bill if no trade agreement with the EU is reached.

The EU parliament as well as national parliaments of EU nations and Britain need to ratify a deal before the U.K. leaves in March. ■

www.canadianinquirer.net

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS BANGKOK — A hydroelectric dam collapsed in southeastern Laos, leaving an unknown number of people dead and hundreds missing, state media said Tuesday.

The official Lao news agency KPL said the Xepian-Xe Nam Noy hydropower dam in Attapeu province collapsed Monday evening, releasing large amounts of water that swept away houses and made more than more than 6,600 people homeless.

The dam was constructed by a joint venture led by South Korean companies, with Thai and Lao partners. The project, scheduled to begin operating this year, was still under construction, KPL reported. It described the portion that col-

lapsed as a “saddle dam,” which is an auxiliary dam used to hold water beyond what is held by the main dam.

Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith “suspended the planned monthly meeting of the government for August and led his Cabinet members and other senior officials to Sanamxay (district) to monitor rescue and relief efforts being made for flood victims,” KPL said. Many areas of Laos have recently been hit by flooding from seasonal rains.

Electricity from several hydroelectric dams provides a large share of Laos’ export earnings, with Thailand being a major buyer.

KPL said the Xepian-Xe Nam Noy project cost an estimated $1.02 billion. ■

World News

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

21

For trapped Syrian rescuers, an elaborately planned escape

BY SARAH EL DEEB The Associated Press BEIRUT — The call came on Saturday night. In the raging war zone that is southwestern Syria, with enemy forces on the march, the 98 White Helmets volunteers brought their spouses, children and a personal bag each. A total of 421 people massed at two collection points where they were to make their crossing to safety.

By the time they crossed, they were 422. One woman went into labour, requiring an emergency C-section. Her son, Nairouz, came into the world in an open field under the darkness of night just short of the frontier with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

It was just one moment of drama in a complicated international rescue operation to extract the Syrian volunteer rescuers who work in opposition areas through their country’s bitter enemy Israel by bus to a temporary haven in Jordan.

It was a nail-biting trip to a crossing over one of the most tightly sealed frontiers in the world. Up until the last minute, those on the ground were uncertain the operation would go through.

Another nearly 400 people were meant to be pulled out as well. Most didn’t make it in time to the assembly points, unable to go through roads that were closing fast by the advancing Syrian forces on one side and the expanding Islamic State militants on the other.

In all, it took about six hours to complete the evacuation, according to a person close to the operation who agreed to discuss the details on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue.

“It was a ‘Hail Mary’ operation,” said the person familiar with the evacuation. “The only place of safety was through their evacuation” to Jordan.

The operation was conceived

by Britain, Germany and Canada and supported by Israel, Jordan, the United States and the U.N. It took an unprecedented level of agreement and co-ordination — something international players have rarely dem-

onstrated during eight years of war in Syria that have pitted world powers against one another.

The rescue of the besieged White Helmets was not without controversy.

It raised questions about the fate of 3,000 other White Helmets still operating in opposition-held northern Syria, living with other 1 million other displaced civilians in areas where the government is expected to target next.

The Syrian government denounced the evacuation as a “criminal process” that “smuggled terrorists” whom it blamed for undermining the country’s security for years. A Syrian Foreign Ministry official repeated his government’s accusations that the White Helmets staged and executed chemical attacks to blame Damascus.

The White Helmets is an organization of volunteers that since 2013 took on the task of rescuing the survivors and salvaging the dead in war-ravaged held areas, whether digging them from under the rubble of bombed buildings or pulling victims of chemical attacks from site. It has had Western backing and funding, and its work brought it a Nobel Prize nomination. The government waged a virulent campaign depicting them as agents and terrorists because its volunteers helped document atrocities by government forces and their allies.

In five years of operations, over 3,000 volunteers saved more than 115,000 lives, according to the White Helmets.

The cost for the group has been high, with one in four of its volunteers wounded or killed.

The plan was conceived in Europe and Canada about two weeks ago.

The Syrian government offensive in the southwest, backed by Russia, unfolded in mid-June. Though it condemned the assault, Washington, which along with Jordan had backed armed groups in the area and sponsored the White Helmets, signalled it wouldn’t help stop the advances.

By early July, government forces began negotiating surrender deals with armed groups

and civilians in villages and towns that were fast crumbling under the assault. The negotiations allowed those who refused to live under government control — whether armed fighters, civilians or activists — to evacuate to the north.

Except for the White Helmets, said the person close to the planning.

Government officials and Russian representatives said the White Helmets were “a red line” who should be “eradicated,” the source said.

This threat was particularly acute, he said, because during previous evacuations from fallen opposition areas elsewhere, nearly a dozen White Helmets volunteers were specifically targeted, pulled from buses, tortured and filmed making false confessions about being paid agents. They were even filmed with weapons to support the government’s narrative they work closely with the armed groups.

“It was a pattern of behaviour,” he said.

The discussions about the White Helmets’ safety started between Britain, Germany and Canada before the NATO summit on July 9. At the summit, there were leader-to-leader meetings over the issue.

Evacuating them through Jordan quickly became impossible as government forces advanced, seizing a vital border crossing from the rebels and then deploying along the border. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he agreed to let them cross through Israel, after an appeal from U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Finding where the volunteers were in the fast-changing battlefield was a challenge. Conscious not to raise expectations, the planners only asked the volunteers whether they would accept an opportunity to evacuate through Israel.

Some declined, the source said, fearing they had no guarantees where they would end up. The leadership of the White Helmets was unanimous in accepting, despite the likelihood the government would point to the Israel route in propaganda www.canadianinquirer.net

White Helmets during training.

against them.

“The political ramification had to be secondary to saving what is to be saved,” the source said.

There was an unexpected twist: Advances by an affiliate of the Islamic State group.

As rebel forces retreated and surrendered in many villages between Daraa and Quneitra provinces, it was the IS affiliate — not government forces_ that moved in.

This changed the landscape again, blocking some escape routes to the evacuation points.

One civil defence volunteer said before Saturday night that many of his colleagues were locked in areas seized by the government and the militants.

“In our minds, there were no guarantees this evacuation was going to happen until it happened,” the source said.

The small window was quickly closing. On the night of July 21, the call came.

The evacuees congregated at two points in the northern end of the frontier.

Again, there was a problem.

A wife of one volunteer went into labour as the call was issued. “We were worried she won’t make it,” the source said.

An emergency C-section was performed on the Syrian side in a field near the frontier. “In a couple of hours, she was evacuated to the other side with a healthy baby boy” — Nairouz.

The evacuees crossed on foot and were received on the other side by Israeli soldiers, who verified their identities and took them in buses to one of the

SYRIA CIVIL DEFENSE

two crossings into Jordan.

“The rescuers were rescued,” the source said.

Germany, Canada and Britain said they will resettle the White Helmets and their families within three months. The U.S. and Jordan will not take any in.

The planners are still in touch with the volunteers who didn’t make it out, advising them on what to do and where to be safe.

It is unclear if a similar operation can be reproduced. As for the hundred other volunteers in northern Syria, the source said the geography and landscape are different, with Turkish forces present in the area and far more options than the southwest, with firmly sealed frontiers from all sides.

In a statement Monday night, the White Helmets thanked “all governments who contributed” to the evacuation and asked the international community — if it won’t act to end Syrian offensives — to “do more to help the hundreds of thousands remaining in southern Syria.”

But the international players appear unlikely to pull together that will again.

“A great many factors and partners had to interact in the right way,” German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christofer Burger said.

Pressed whether the action set a precedent for further world help in evacuations, he said: “The factors that made it possible in this case to help in this way people who faced an acute threat, a very specific group, cannot be reproduced at will.” ■

22

JULY 27, 2018

Canada to... ❰❰ 17

eral countries that have provided moral and financial support to the White Helmets, which are officially known as Syria Civil Defence, including $7.5 million over the past two years to help recruit and train women.

“The White Helmets are courageous volunteers and first responders who risk their lives to help their fellow Syrians who have been targeted by senseless violence,” Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement on Saturday.

“When children, women, and men in Syria flee for their lives, the White Helmets run towards danger, towards the rubble, to save the innocent and the wounded. The White Helmets have witnessed vicious atrocities committed by the Assad regime and its backers.”

But the Syrian government and its Russian backers have denounced the group as little more than a tool for Western propaganda, and accused its members of being in league with Islamist insurgents.

The group, which counts

FRIDAY

Gala opens... about 3,000 members, insists that it is neutral. Its ranks are made up of people from all walks of life include bakers, pharmacists, and teachers.

Dozens have been killed in the line of duty, including seven that were gunned down at the group’s office in the Idlib province in 2017.

The group was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016 for its humanitarian efforts. In 2017, a Netflix documentary about the group, “The White Helmets,” won the Oscar for best documentary short. Another documentary, “Last Men in Aleppo,” was nominated the following year for best documentary feature.

The Syrian civil war has raged since 2011, leaving 350,000 people dead and millions more displaced.

Canada previously resettled 25,000 Syrian refugees between September 2015 and February 2016. ■

❰❰ 19

and former Johnson Space Center director Gerry Griffin, a flight director for all of the crewed Apollo missions, was honoured with the Pioneer award.

“It’s very humbling, it kind of came out of the blue,” Griffin said. “It is so neat to know that we’ve passed the torch that will let this next generation take us to this next step.”

That next step, Griffin said, is a return of Americans to the Moon and, eventually, Mars — something former Apollo astronauts Walt Cunningham, Harrison Schmitt, Rusty Schweickart and Tom Stafford discussed during a conversation with Cox. “We’re sort of going through a second door here. The door isn’t all the way open — we haven’t gone all the way through it — but it’s cracked open,” Schweickart, who flew as the lunar module pilot on Apollo 9, told The Associated Press. “Space is going to be much less expensive to go to, and that’s going to open up not just opportunities for people to fly, but because of the de-

creased cost, real opportunities for innovators to generate new ideas and to do things that have never been done before.”

Aldrin’s ShareSpace Foundation is one of the sponsors of the annual gala, which raises money for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics — or STEAM education — and Astronaut Scholarship Foundation scholarships.

Renowned Brazilian pop artist Romero Britto donated artwork from his “Buzz Aldrin Space Series” for the auction, which also included a behindthe-scenes tour of Virgin Galactic in California and autographed space memorabilia.

Tickets for the event ranged from $750 to $2,500 per person.

Aldrin sued two of his adult children and a former business manager last month, accusing them of misusing his credit cards, transferring money from an account and slandering him by saying he has dementia. Weeks before that, Andrew and Jan Aldrin filed a petition claiming their 88-year-old fa-

ther was suffering from memory loss, delusions, paranoia and confusion.

Andrew and Jan Aldrin and business manager Christina Korp are on the foundation’s board and attended the gala.

Aldrin’s oldest son, James, isn’t involved in the legal fight.

Buzz Aldrin said in a statement that he didn’t attend “due to the present course of events related to my space initiatives, also current legal matters linked to the ShareSpace Foundation.”

“I formed ShareSpace Foundation in 1998 for the promotion of individual space voyagers,” Aldrin added. “The Foundation is, in my view, now being used to promote quite different objectives.”

Andrew Aldrin acknowledged his father’s absence during the gala.

“We’re sorry dad can’t be here, I know some of you are disappointed,” Aldrin said. “Ultimately, what we’re about is creating the first generation of Martians.” ■

New guidelines recommend hepatitis C testing for those born between 1945 and 1975 HEPATITIS C is a serious and significant liver disease which can lead to life-threatening consequences. It is estimated that 250,000 people in Canada have hepatitis C, and it is the number one cause of illness and death among infectious diseases in the country.

Fifty-nine-year-old Carol was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 2008 after attempting to donate blood.

“I can’t think of when I could have contracted the hepatitis C virus, so it never occurred to me that I should ask for this test,” says Carol. “When I found out I had hepatitis C, I was shocked.”

Hepatitis C is caused by a virus that attacks the liver and puts individuals at risk of complications including cirrhosis, liver cancer and potentially death from liver failure. As common as hepatitis C is, it’s also known as a silent killer because it’s a liver disease that rarely comes with a warning and symptoms often don’t appear until the liver is severely damaged. It is estimated that up to 70 per cent of people with chronic hepatitis C in Canada don’t even know they have it.

The greatest number of Canadians with hepatitis C are those born between 1945 and 1975, which makes it critically important for those in

this age group to understand their increased risk, and for all adults born in this age bracket to be tested. Additionally, people born in regions where hepatitis C is more common, such as in the Philippines where approximately one million people have hepatitis C, should also talk to their doctor about getting tested.

The Canadian Association for the Study of the Liver recently published new guidelines on managing hepatitis C urging that Canadians be tested based on their age – not only their possible risk factors.

The hepatitis C antibody test is a simple blood test, and if you have hepatitis C, new treatments are available that can cure the liver disease in as little as eight to twelve weeks. People born between 1945 and 1975 should ask their doctor about being tested, so if needed, they can get treated and be cured.

For more information about hepatitis C, and to find out if you may be at risk, access the Canadian Liver Foundation’s hepatitis risk questionnaire and visit www.liver.ca/ ThisIsYourWarning.

www.canadianinquirer.net

23

Entertainment Erik Matti does not want to join MMFF anymore

BY BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY Philippine Canadian Inquirer EXPLOSIONS ENTERING the ears, lingering with fears, and blood spilling with tears – all of these play in the big screen as the crowd cheers.

Award-winning director Erik Matti’s action-packed “BuyBust” starring Anne Curtis that is set to hit the local theaters on August, was originally an entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). However, after the rejection and controversy on the selection of films and the supposed blurring line between art and commercialism in the industry, Erik said that he would not want to be part of the annual film festival anymore.

“Sinubmit namin ito noon sa MMFF. ‘Yung script ha, script lang (We submitted this before to the MMFF. The script, only the script). Two years ago,” the 48-year-old director said in an interview with Philippines’ Ultimate Showbiz Hub (PUSH).

Erik confessed that given the script being simply a bulk of paper, he knew that no one – not even him – can guarantee its success at such an early stage.

However, he said in the same interview that despite thinking that it okay to not be accepted,

Extraordinarily ordinary: KC, Sharon reunite

BY BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY Philippine Canadian Inquirer

BuyBust Director Erik Matti.

it would still be a bit hurtful.

“Masakit pa rin na hindi ka tinanggap. Parang ang sinasabi, hindi maganda ang pelikula mo over all the others na pinili (it still hurts to not be accepted.

It is as if, your film is not good over all others that were chosen),” he said.

Erik said that he has heard requests and recommendations to enter his films to the festival but rejected these.

“Hindi na kami nag-submit, hindi na ako nag-submit. I mean, magsa-submit as a company for negosyo, magsa-submit kami na hindi ako ‘yung director, okay lang ‘yon. Pero ako,

@ERIKMATTI / INSTAGRAM

personally, ayoko nang sumali (We did not submit, I did not submit. I mean, I will submit as a company for business, we will submit if I am not the director, that is okay. But personally, I do not want to join),” he further said.

It can be remembered that when Erik submitted “BuyBust,” it did not make the cut.

On the day of the announcement of the accepted entries, three MMFF Executive Committee members resigned – to which the renowned director critiqued the selection process of the festival for prioritizing “commercial” over “art.” ■

JULY IS nowhere near Mother’s day when it has already been past a month ever since the once a year celebration, but, for someone like KC Concepcion, translating one’s love into words and message to one of the most important figures in her life can be done in an ordinary day.

While this in itself could be something too ordinary for bright stars such as the two or maybe for most relatives and family, what makes this extraordinary and more meaningful is that it has been a while since this mother and daughter have been reunited or had the time to be this close to each other.

“Mama and I may have a 19year gap, I may have come to her life too early, or even unexpectedly, and we may have all our differences, but @reallysharoncuneta you will always be my first best friend, and my first hero,” KC wrote in an Instagram post – sharing to the world a photo of her and her mother Sharon Cuneta hugging

and kissing.

“All I want is to see you laugh and smile. At the end of the day, I will always want you to feel that having me was worth it. And above all I know I will always choose love,” some sweet thoughts she further captioned.

Sharon, on her Instagram account, posted the same photo, her own words expressing how much she missed KC. “When you have missed the scent of your eldest child’s skin… hair… haaaay sarap (it is nice) to see and feel and smell my daughter again!” the Mega star added.

It can be remembered that Sharon, who has given social media glimpses of her personal struggles, also shared that she somehow ‘lost’ KC who was “too independent.”

But this recent reunion washed away all issues of distance between this celebrity mother and daughter who were both delighted to not only reunite but also rekindle their relationship.

KC is Sharon’s daughter with her ex-husband and ex-onscreen partner, Gabby Concepcion. ■

Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard facing three sex offence charges in Toronto THE CANADIAN PRESS TORONTO POLICE have charged the frontman of the rock band Hedley with three sexual offences involving two women.

Police say 34-year-old Jacob Hoggard was arrested Monday and is scheduled to appear in a Toronto courtroom on Thursday.

He is charged with one count

of sexual interference and two counts of sexual assault causing bodily harm.

The Criminal Code says sexual interference involves the touching for a sexual purpose, directly or indirectly, of a person under the age of 16 with a part of the body or with an object.

Police allege the offences happened on three dates in 2016 after a man met with two

women on separate occasions.

Hoggard’s lawyer could not immediately be reached for comment.

Hoggard, who is from Vancouver, has denied ever engaging in non-consensual sexual behaviour, but has said he behaved in a way that objectifies women.

In a news release, police said they are concerned there may be other complainants. www.canadianinquirer.net

The Vancouver-based band played its last show before an “indefinite hiatus” in Kelowna, B.C., on March 24.

The two-time Juno winning band had been dropped by its management team, blacklisted by scores of radio stations and abandoned by musicians booked as tour openers.

Ahead of the Kelowna show, fans were handing out flyers in

support of the band.

Online accusations began surfacing earlier this year suggesting inappropriate encounters with young fans.

A 24-year-old Ottawa fan of the band alleged to the CBC in February that she was sexually assaulted after chatting with Hoggard on the dating app Tin❱❱ PAGE 28 Hedley frontman

24

Entertainment

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Barangay 143: Nani? A Filipino anime?

BY BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY Philippine Canadian Inquirer IT CANNOT be denied that one of the things that ruled the Philippine television screens in the 90s are the Japanese animations or anime – which gave the ears of its viewers an auditory brush of what it was like to hear their favorite characters speaking Filipino – well before subtitles and the internet were cool anyway!

But apart from the nostalgia for the older generations and for the build-up of the childhood of today’s youngsters, what more excitement and anticipation can one feel from watching the electronic black box once there is a Filipino anime?

This is the best time to unleash the inner otakus in you (if it is not out in the open yet) anime viewers, for the country is going to present its very own anime series – “Barangay 143.”

Before you mutter and question “Nani? Hontou ni? (What?

Really?) “ yes, this is not a drill!

The Philippines is going to have its very own anime series, all set in the very land itself.

Enter “Barangay 143” – pre-

BARANGAY 143 / FACEBOOK

senting a Korean guy named Bren T. Park – who wishes to find his father and ends up in the Philippines. What makes the story touch Filipinos is not only its setting in Tondo, Manila but also the fact that it will center on Bren’s journey with basketball – a certified Pinoyfavorite. Also to mention the theme of family, friends, and of course what it is like to be in a barangay with your kapitbahay.

While this is not the first time for Filipinos to venture into the world of animation – as films in the likes of “Urduja” and “Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia” aired in theaters years ago,

“Barangay 143” brands itself as the very first Filipino anime on television. But why?

One of the things that otakus often argue about is the difference of anime from any other form of animation or cartoons.

Merriam-Webster defines anime as “a style of animation originating in Japan.” With this, any other animations that are not associated with Japan just simply cannot be called an anime especially those of Western styles. So what makes “Barangay 143” an anime if it is technically ‘Filipino?’

Well, the upcoming anime series is actually a collaboration of Filipino animators through

Philippine-based game developer Synergy88 with Singapore-based media producer August Media Holdings – both of which already known for various partnerships in contents for kids and the youth.

August Media Holdings is behind “George of the Jungle,” while Synergy88 developed games like “Hero Hoopshots” and “Unblock Jeepney.”

Synergy88 also developed “Barangay 143: Street League” – a game that serves as the prequel of the upcoming anime series to be aired by GMA Network this October.

But wait, again, with the collaboration between the Philip-

pines and Singapore, where is the Japanese anime factor?

To answer that lingering question, according to a report

by Japan’s financial newspaper, Nikkei earlier, “Barangay 143” is being produced under the direction and character design by TV Asahi – the Japanese company behind several anime that local Philippine television giants aired including Crayon Shin Chan, Cyborg Kurochan, Doraemon, Mermaid Melody Pichi Pichi Pitch, Pretty Cure, and Yugi-Oh. Interestingly, one of the basketball classics in the anime world – Slam Dunk – was also under TV Asahi.

Synergy88 will be the one handling the scripts.

The trailer of “Barangay 143” was released on July 18 evening and as of writing – not even reaching 24 hours – the video has garnered about 542,000 views, 9,300 reactions, 1, 300 comments, and 17,000 shares on Facebook.

It also gave a glimpse of celebrities who will give life to the characters with their voices, namely, Migo Adecer, Julie Anne San Jose, Ruru Madrid, Kelley Day, John Arcilla, Edu Manzano, and Cherie Gil. ■

Kris Aquino opens up about rift between her and brother Noynoy

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer KRIS AQUINO dropped another revelation to her social media followers as she opens up about the rift between her and her brother, former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. In an Instagram post on Wednesday, July 18, the country’s “Queen of All Media” shared a photo of her brother along with her eldest son, Josh, who has been confined at the hospital for a series of medical tests. Also seen in the picture is Kris’s youngest, Bimb.

Kris, in her caption, wrote that she and Noynoy had not been getting along for three months, admitting that she is the one to blame for it.

“My brother & I have had a complicated relationship, siguro po kasi only son and middle child siya, bunso ako (maybe because he is the only son and middle child, while I’m the youngest). Siguro rin kasi aminadong opposites talaga kamitahimik sya, pribado, iniisip mabuti ang bawat galaw. Alam niyo na kung ano ako (Maybe because we are really opposites with each other – he is quiet, private, and a type of person who thinks of his actions carefully. And you all know what I’m like),”the television host wrote.

Kris did not elaborate what exactly happened between her and Noynoy, but she said the person who has suffered the most from the rift was Josh.

“Naipit ‘yung 2 boys ko – alam nilang ‘di okay kaya pinili na

‘wag dumalaw at ‘wag iwan si mama (My two sons were affected – they know that the situation was not okay that is why they chose not to visit and leave their mom),”she said.

The I Love You, Hater actress went on saying that she gathered up all her courage and reached out to Noynoy for reconciliation.

“Umamin [ako] na alam kong na-hurt ko siya pero nakiusap [ako] – KAILANGAN sya ni kuya Josh (I admitted that I know I have hurt him, but I asked for a favor – Josh needed him). My son needed him- the ONLY constant male figure in his life,” she said.

Taking the photo of the three from afar, Kris shared that even the Aquinos, one of the most notable families in the Philipwww.canadianinquirer.net

Noynoy's visit to Josh.

pines, can set aside misunderstandings in times of need just like what any other families do.

Kris, daughter of slain Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino and former President Corazon Aquino, then expressed her gratitude to her brother for loving her sons enough to always be there for them when they

@KRISAQUINO / INSTAGRAM

needed him.

“This is for all of you to get to know the real man, the true NOY AQUINO who is so deserving of RESPECT & ADMIRATION, galing po sa hindi perpekto pero totoong bunsong kapatid, na si (from the imperfect but genuine, youngest sibling) Kris Aquino,” she ended. ■

Entertainment

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

25

Sharon Cuneta is the ‘History Maker’ for 2018

A year after ‘Despacito,’ has Latin music found a permanent home on Canadian radio?

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer

BY DAVID FRIEND The Canadian Press

SHARON CUNETA has proved many times how great she is as a well-respected actress in the show business, so it is no longer new for her if there is an award to be added to her lengthy list of received accolades.

The Philippines’ “Megastar” recently shared to the world that she is hailed as the History Maker for 2018 by the leading international factual entertainment brand of A+E Networks Asia, HISTORY, for her significant contribution to national culture.

“What an honor. Thank You, Jesus, for another wonderful surprise! I am overwhelmed.

My heart!” Sharon wrote as a caption along with a photo of the A+E Networks’ letter to her.

The History Makers award is given to those “special few whose talents, efforts, dedication, and sacrifices illuminate and inspire the lives of many others.”

Addressing the 52-year-old actress, the A+E Networks said, “We are deeply compelled by your distinguish credentials and wish to recognize your outstanding achievements with the History Maker Award along-

side other Filipino luminaries from across different fields of expertise.”

Aside from Sharon, past recipients of the award include Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, actress Anne Curtis, Olympic silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz, veteran composer and musical director Ryan Cayabyab, social entrepreneur Illac Diaz, film director Brillante Mendoza, cosmic scientist Reinabelle Reyes, Mount Everest conqueror Romi Garduce, and Himalayan Adventure Team.

It was in 2017 when the inaugural History Maker Award was launched.

The awarding ceremony, which will be featured as one of the key highlights of HISTORY Con 2018, will be held on August 11, at the World Trade Center Manila.

Sharon, as one of the notable actresses in the country, has done more than 60 movies in her entire show business career — most recently was her Star Cinema film “Unexpectedly Yours,” where starred alongside with actor Robin Padilla and the loveteam of Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia, popularly known as JoshLia. The Megastar is currently one of the judges of “Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids 2018.” ■

(SHARON CUNETA / FACEBOOK

“Como Ama una Mujer” and Nelly Furtado’s 2009 “Mi Plan,” which sold well but still faced an uphill marketing battle in her homeland.

Veliz thinks those days are numbered as more Canadian clubs dedicate entire rooms to Latin music.

“This is a movement that’s been happening for over a decade,” Veliz argues.

“We’re slowly starting to see the rise of the Latin artist.”

Figures compiled by Nielsen Music Canada suggest listeners on streaming music platforms are choosing to play Latin songs more often. Streaming plays of the genre are up 71 per cent for the week that ended July 12 compared to the same week a year ago when “Despacito” sat atop the Canadian Billboard Hot 100 chart.

TORONTO — Singer Alx Veliz is certain that a recent swell in the popularity of Latin music is signalling a change of tastes with many Canadian listeners.

He points to the numerous Latin songs that broke into mainstream consciousness across the country last year, led by the colossal hit, “Despacito,” performed by Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee, and Justin Bieber.

Veliz’s 2016 hit single “Dancing Kizomba” left its own mark when it was released in an alternate Spanish version.

The Mississauga, Ont.-based singer with Guatemalan roots says it seemed like the perfect time to record his newest album entirely in Spanish. He believes the project will appeal to his Englishspeaking Canadian fans who inWe always ask ourselves if can can do the same thing here. creasingly blast Latin songs on streaming music platforms.

“Streaming has levelled the playing field,” Overall, Latin music repreVeliz says. “A couple years ago sents two per cent of Canadian we would only listen to what ra- streaming so far this year, a dio considered a hit.” small uptick from the same peLolaa, a Toronto-based sib- riod last year, even though there ling pop duo with Mexican hasn’t been a new breakout hit roots, made a similar move by comparable to “Despacito.” releasing a Spanish version of That track is still going strong their English self-titled EP ear- on streaming platforms though, lier this year. ranking as the ninth most popuBoth acts hope to challenge lar song of 2018, despite being what they consider to be long- released well over a year ago. held perceptions at Canadian The sisters in Lolaa have a radio stations that Latin music complicated relationship with is only an occasional trend.

“Despacito,” which they recogFor years, the genre existed nize is an indisputable success, on the sidelines across most of though they don’t necessarthe country, getting little main- ily like that many people only stream attention, with the ex- seem to listen to the remix with ception of the occasional cross- Bieber singing additional Engover track like Los Del Mar’s lish vocals.

“Macarena” in 1995.

“I’m happy that Justin helped Even international super- facilitate that exposure, but I stars like Ricky Martin saw don’t think it’s fair that he got most of their Spanish-language a lot of the credit,” says Lolaa albums slip under the radar singer Lex Valentine. in Canada. The same went for “I want to see Latin artists besongs from Christina Aguilera’s ing celebrated for their things, 2000 album “Me Reflejo,” without having a big name like a Jennifer Lopez’s 2007 effort Justin Bieber — someone who’s www.canadianinquirer.net

not Latin American — to be the one pushing it forward.”

It’s one of the conversations Valentine and her sister Nadia King revisit often as they pursue Spanish music in a Canadian market where most listeners don’t speak the language.

They made the decision to sing in Spanish not as a commercial move, they say, but for artistic and cultural reasons, since the nuances of the language offer more creative space.

But they consider it a risky move to expect the Canadian marketplace to support Spanish songs.

Few musicians have been able to hack it, says Valentine, with the exception of Colombianborn Canadian Lido Pimienta who has carved a loyal fanbase outside the mainstream, helped by attention from her Polaris Music Prize win.

“We always ask ourselves if can we can do the same thing here. we You see people like Lido who have started, but even for her it’s just like, who else is there outside of Lido?” Valentine says.

“It’s like finding unicorns.”

But Veliz is confident that even if popular culture hasn’t permanently thrown open its doors to Latin music, there isn’t anywhere to go but up.

“I think within the next few years you’re going to see a surge of brand new artists.”

At Corus Radio, which operates radio stations in Alberta, B.C., Manitoba and Ontario, programmers at Top 40 radio are tasked with finding the right mix of songs.

Lars Wunsche, regional director for Corus in southwestern Ontario, says more than in the past his stations are often considering Latin music. “‘Despacito’ definitely made it more open,” he says, pointing out that Spanish tracks by Jennifer Lopez, J Balvin and others are currently in rotation.

“We tend to play in Canada more crossover stuff — the English-Spanish scenarios… but a catchy song is a catchy song.” ■

26

Lifestyle Pay down debt or save money?

How to allocate your cash

BY SARAH SKIDMORE SELL The Associated Press IT’S ONE of the most common questions financial advisers hear: should I prioritize paying down debt or building up savings?

Americans have a cozy relationship with debt — student loans, credit cards and car loans are commonplace. The Federal Reserve said that consumer borrowing rose $24.5 billion in May alone to hit almost $3.9 trillion. And that doesn’t include mortgage or real estatesecured debt, like home equity lines. Add rising interest rates to that mix and you’ve got quite the budget burden.

Debt can help advance your life, for example by paying for an education to get a job or buying a car to get to work. But paying it back also uses up money that could be set aside for emergencies, retirement or other expenses. Research shows most Americans are ill-prepared to face a minor financial hiccup, let alone the cost of retirement.

So how do you meet these competing demands? We talked to a few financial experts for their tips.

Assess

First, take a good look at what you’re up against. How much debt do you have and at what interest rates? How much savings do you have? Other questions to consider, according to SoFi certified financial planner Alison Norris, include: are you only making minimum

payments? Are your finances a source of stress in your life?

Then look at your budget – knowing how much money you have to work with will help you figure out what is feasible moving forward, said Charlie Bolognino, a certified financial planner in Bentonville, Arkansas. The budget is the key to unlocking solutions.

“We hear we are supposed to do all these things with money — save it, spend it, invest it and get out of debt — but there’s only so much money to go around,” said Bolognino.

Plan

provide peace of mind.

This allows you to handle life’s unexpected emergencies, like a car repair or lost cellphone, without further running up debt.

Tackling your highest interest rate debt needs to be near the top too. The average interest rate on credit cards is around 17 per cent and more interest rate hikes are anticipated in the near future, according to McClary.

Compare that to the single-digit interest rate you might get from a standard savings account and it’s an easy decision.

“It’s the best time ever to not carry a balance,” he said.

Come up with a strategy you can stick with.

A successful plan will address both debt and savings in concert, to make the most of the money you do have. It’s not about focusing on one issue then moving don’t – that is on to the next, just trading tobut rather a matday’s financial ter of determinruin for another ing where your Then look at your budget – knowing how much money you down the road. spending priorhave to work with will help you Don’t overlook ity is, said Bruce figure out what is feasible moving opportunities McClary of the forward. for workplace National Founretirement savdation for Credit ings accounts, Counseling. particularly if A rule of Calculate how long it will your employer matches your thumb is to allocate 20 per cent of your take-home pay to sav- take to pay off your debt — contribution. Failing to give ings and debt payments. How knowing that date will remind at least the amount up to that you divvy that up will depend you there’s light at the end of level is like leaving money on the table, said Paul Golden of on your priorities. the tunnel.

One thing the experts agree Then think about your low- the National Endowment for on: make emergency savings a er-interest rate debt like fed- Financial Education.

Some employers may have top priority. Don’t worry about eral student loans. While it getting several months of sav- may be tempting to turn your additional benefits to help with ings set aside. Even $500 can back on longer-term savings, saving or paying down student

www.canadianinquirer.net

loans. Medical device company Abbott Laboratories recently rolled out a unique program that makes a 5 per cent company contribution to the 401(k) of employees who contribute 2 per cent of their pay toward their student loans. That helps them reach both financial goals of retirement savings and student loan repayment.

If you find you simply cannot make minimum payments on your debts or have exhausted your financial options, reach out for help through a nonprofit credit counselling organization.

“There’s a point when you can’t go it alone anymore,” McClary said. ■

Lifestyle

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

27

Big move for Big Bird: Sesame Street is entering classrooms

BY SALLY HO The Associated Press SEATTLE — Sesame Street is taking its beloved, critically acclaimed brand of educational television into the highly profitable world of classroom curriculum — a move that experts say could open the door for other companies to move into the sensitive learning space with possible influence on children.

Sesame Workshop, the company behind Big Bird and Elmo, and McGraw-Hill Education, a billion-dollar for-profit company known for school textbooks, announced their partnership Thursday. Both declined to disclose the financial terms for their new line of classroom instructional materials.

“Sesame Workshop probably can be trusted to do this in an ethical way, but the door opens for other companies to do it in a less ethical way,” said Heather Kirkorian, a University of Wisconsin professor who studies the effects of media in young children.

The TV program and Sesame Workshop’s other educational

pursuits have long been lauded for their record of helping kids learn, portraying diverse characters and offering sensitivity in addressing childhood experiences.

The new classroom materials include videos featuring socialemotional and literacy lessons delivered by its famous characters and meant to be used at “circle time,” when young children typically gather to sing songs or hear stories. They also are offering resources for teachers and parents to help reinforce the lessons.

The instructional materials are on the market for children in preschool through fifth grade, and they are expected to be used in classrooms as early as fall 2019. Educators now have access to review the materials but they haven’t been piloted in a classroom yet. They must be approved by school principals and administrators.

Dr. David Hill of the American Academy of Pediatrics, which urges parents to be cautious and selective about screen time for children, said that by age 3, kids can learn from a limited viewing of high-quality TV

programs like Sesame Street but that little research exists on such regular media use in the classroom.

Hill, a pediatrician, said a young child’s brain cannot distinguish between programming and advertising, which could raise questions about the precedent that Sesame Street is setting.

“When you introduce a commercial influence on a nonprofit endeavour, I think everyone naturally has some concern sabout the tension that ensues,” Hill said.

Sesame Workshop is a nonprofit and would have to invest its revenue back into its educational mission.

“With a proven whole-child curriculum that serves as a framework for everything we do, Sesame Workshop has put children first for nearly fifty years,” said Akimi Gibson, company vice-president.

A much-discussed study in 2015 indicated that preschoolers exposed to the show gained immense benefits, which were compared to that of the Head Start program for low-income children, though the authors

SESAME STREET / FACEBOOK

of that study later rebuked the idea that the show alone could or should replace any actual school program.

The researchers declined to comment on Sesame Street’s latest classroom endeavour.

Sesame Street has been a household brand since debuting in 1969 on public television.

In recent years, it lost federal

funding to produce the show and has partnered with HBO. Its name recognition is so high that it is equally known for its broad array of licensed merchandise, from bibs and backpacks to toys and games. It’s also achieved cult status for its celebrity appearances and satirizing humour that serves as a hook for parents. ■

Study links air pollution to drop in national park visitors

BY MATTHEW BROWN The Associated Press DENVER — Visitors appear to be steering clear of some U.S. national parks or cutting visits short because of pollution levels that are comparable to what’s found in major cities, according to a study released Wednesday.

Researchers at Iowa State and Cornell universities looked at more than two decades of data on ozone pollution at 33 parks — from Shenandoah to Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. They say visitor numbers dropped almost 2 per cent when ozone levels went up even slightly and by at least 8 per cent in months with three or more days of high ozone levels compared with months with fewer days of high ozone.

Study co-author Ivan Rudik

said air quality warnings issued by parks and other government agencies may be causing the visitation drop. That’s consistent with previous research on so-called avoidance behaviour in response to pollution alerts in other settings.

The study sought to control for seasonal variations and daily changes in the weather.

“Even though the national parks are supposed to be icons of a pristine landscape, quite a lot of people are being exposed to ozone levels that could be detrimental to their health,” said Rudik, an assistant professor of economics at Cornell.

The study, published in the journal Science Advances, comes as national parks have seen record numbers of visitors in recent years despite concerns over pollution.

Ozone, the main ingredient in smog, is formed when small

particles of pollution from cars, power plants and industrial facilities react with sunlight. It limits visibility and can cause respiratory problems.

In parks, ozone is carried in on the wind and also caused by traffic and other activities.

The National Park Service was reviewing the study but hasn’t evaluated whether ozone and visitation are linked, spokesman Jeffrey Olson said.

He said nine parks issue ozone alerts when warranted — Acadia, Great Smoky Mountains, Mammoth Cave, Pinnacles, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Shenandoah and Yosemite.

Virginia Tech economist Kevin Boyle, who has researched ozone in parks and was a peer reviewer for the study, said it provides “strong, suggestive evidence” that air pollution is changing people’s www.canadianinquirer.net

behaviour when planning a park visit. Boyle said follow-up research is needed to confirm the findings.

Tourists also cut visits short for other air quality problems, such as thick smoke from wildfires that was blanketing Yosemite National Park this week and led to health warnings.

Ozone concentrations nationwide have generally fallen since the Clean Air Act was amended in 1990 to address the problem, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Yet amounts still regularly exceed national guidelines, and the researchers determined that many national parks have pollution levels similar to New York or Los Angeles.

A comparison of ozone in parks to levels in the 20 most populous U.S. cities showed they were “statistically indis-

tinguishable,” according to the study.

At Sequoia National Park, about 200 miles (322 kilometres) north of Los Angeles, there have been more bad ozone days than in the city in all but two years since 1996, the study said.

Park visitors who live nearby are more likely to change their plans than out-of-town visitors who have sunk money into airplane tickets, lodging and rental cars, said John Loomis, an economics professor at Colorado State University who was not involved in the study.

Studies of air quality alerts and the reactions they trigger among schoolchildren in England and children and the elderly in Los Angeles have reached similar conclusions.

“You basically shift what you do” to avoid pollution, Loomis said. ■

28

Lifestyle

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Seniors and students living together to save on rent, find ‘family’

BY ADINA BRESGE The Canadian Press TORONTO — After her husband died, Elizabeth Hill says she would lay awake listening for bumps in the night in her eerily empty home — so to get some shut-eye, she decided let a stranger live with her.

Since then, the 75-year-old has compiled seven “guest books” filled with photos and thank-you notes from the dozens of young international students who have stayed with her over the past two decades.

Hill is one of a number seniors who have been moving in with students in exchange for subsidized rent and occasional help around the house — often with the added benefit of lasting friendships.

A Toronto elder-care initiative is working to replicate these mutually beneficial living arrangements this fall, in a provincially funded pilot project that aims to set the Canadian standard in intergenerational home sharing.

Researchers say these shared-living programs could help address two of Canada’s most pressing social issues: housing affordability and caring for an aging population.

But Hill and 32-year-old Julio Hernandez, who have lived together for seven years, say the benefits can go far beyond reduced living costs, because the care goes both ways.

“At this point, I see her more like a friend than my landlady,” Hernandez said. “She’s like my Toronto family.”

As baby boomers and mil-

lennials alike get priced out of red-hot housing markets, schools and community groups across the country have embraced various kinds of shared-living programs — from a housing co-op in Winnipeg where women can grow old together, to a retirement home in London, Ont., that hosts Western University students.

In Ontario, more than half of residents — and three-quarters of those over the age of 65 — live in houses that are bigger than they need, leaving five-million spare bedrooms across the province, according to a 2017 report by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis.

That means many seniors have more space than they can afford, while students struggle to pay rent for cramped living quarters, said Raza Mirza, a University of Toronto researcher with the National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly.

The financial stress is exacerbated by growing costs and wait lists for long-term elder care or assisted living, Mirza said, while students face mounting tuitions.

With the Toronto Homeshare Pilot Project, Mirza and a group of researchers, social workers and government officials hope to find symbiotic solutions to these pressures so that seniors can stay in theirs homes, while students find new ones.

By Sept. 1, the four-month program is expected to match up as many as 20 pairs of senior-student roommates through a rigorous screening process. Participants will be

Premiers announce... ❰❰ 16

Ford also joined Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard and Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister on Thursday in calling for more help from the federal government in dealing with asylum seekers who cross their borders.

All three premiers want Ottawa to review its current policy, and they also called for full compensation for the “impacts

asked to sign agreements that can require young boarders to commit up to seven hours per week to running errands or spending quality time with their hosts.

Researchers hope the insights they glean from the pilot project and subsequent studies will eventually be used to develop a home-sharing model that can be tailored to cities across the country.

But as they work out the kinks at this early stage, they’re counting on Hill and other seniors who shared their success stories at a recent information session to guide them.

Joyce Rainville, 69, has been on both sides of the homesharing equation. In her 20s, Rainville said she moved in with a family in Guatemala, and despite not speaking Spanish, forged a relationship that would stick with her long after she returned to Canada.

In the past 14 years, Rainville professes to have taken in “hundreds” of students, sometimes as many as four at a time.

She helps them practice their

English, and in return, they often introduce her to customs and cuisines from their home countries.

“I always said when I can do it, I’ll give back,” Rainville said in an interview. “They were away from home, and my home was their home.”

When Hernandez arrived on Hill’s doorstep from Cuba in 2011, they agreed he could stay in her west-end Toronto home for a six-month trial period as he set out to earn his master’s degree.

Last Friday, the two of them decided to get out of the house and go to a restaurant to celebrate his successful defence of his doctoral thesis, which lists Hill in the acknowledgments.

Hernandez said he wanted to pick up the cheque to thank Hill for any number of things — reducing his rent so he could make ends meet during his studies, comforting him through a breakup, or having supported his brother the same way when he lived with her years earlier.

“She was always there for

me,” Hernandez said. “She was essential for me to get to this point in my life.”

Hill wouldn’t have it. Lunch was on her.

When Hill is feeling down, she flips through her guest books and looks back on all of the memories she’s shared with her unlikely roommates over the years.

There was the look on her first guest’s face when she showed him his room with a double bed and he asked, “Is this all mine?”

And the student who massaged her back as they watched the sunset on Toronto Island.

Of course, she sometimes had to deal with wet towels on the bathroom floor, or wait up until 11 p.m. to make sure a young woman got home safe from her night on the town.

But 95 per cent of her experiences have been positive, Hill said. So she can put up with the little things, because she gets so much in return.

And besides, she noted, “I’m not their mother.”

But that doesn’t mean she isn’t family. ■

seven years ago.

In announcing he would be putting his career on hold in February, Hoggard said he would make real changes in his life, seek guidance from his family and learn from the “amazing women in my life.”

“The way I’ve treated women was reckless and dismissive of their feelings. I understand the significant harm that is caused not only to the women I inter-

acted with, but to all women who are degraded by this type of behaviour,” he wrote in a statement posted to his Twitter account Feb. 28.

“I have been careless and indifferent and I have no excuse.

For this I am truly sorry.”

Hedley withdrew itself from consideration for the Juno Awards earlier this year in Vancouver and backed out of performing on the telecast. ■

Hedley frontman... to services resulting from the increase in non-point of entry border crossings.”

All premiers also called on Ottawa to do more to help with the roll out of legalized cannabis, which is slated for October, and they urged the federal government to work with Greyhound to extend its notice period to communities affected by its elimination of passenger bus routes in Western Canada. ■

❰❰ 23

der and agreeing to meet him at a hotel in Toronto.

The CBC published another report weeks later of a Toronto woman who alleged Hoggard tried to force her to do things without her consent during a sexual encounter in 2016.

Hoggard also faced allegations including groping and making inappropriate sexual remarks to a Calgary radio host www.canadianinquirer.net

29

Sports Refs to blame in Gilas-Aussies Carl Cruz on FIBA brawl: GAB chairman ban: ‘Regretful ako’

BY IVAN STEWART SALDAJENO Philippine News Agency

BY IVAN STEWART SALDAJENO Philippine News Agency

MANILA — Games and Amusement Board (GAB) chairman Baham Mitra has asked FIBA to also look at the referees who officiated the brawl-marred Gilas Pilipinas-Australia game at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan early this month.

“Before they sanction our Filipino players, they should first discipline the referees,” the former Palawan governor told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a chance interview.

On why he thought the officials should be blamed too, he replied, “The game got out of hand because the referees did not control it... Kung 'yung referees maayos, it's not gonna happen that way.”

“Why blame the Filipino players, the Filipino crowd, and the Filipino people?” he added.

Meanwhile, in a statement he sent to PNA, he clarified that the coaching staff should have

MANILA — Carl Cruz expressed his sadness after finding out that FIBA suspended him for five games following his role in the infamous brawl between Gilas Pilipinas and Australia last July 2.

“Regretful pa rin ako sa nangyari na ayun, na-suspend ako for five games, di ako makakatulong sa team (I regret what happened that got me suspended for five games. I would not be able to help my team),” the Alaska forward said on Friday night, a day after the verdict was released.

He said he learned his biggest lesson from the incident.

“Control your emotions para isipin mo kung anong mas importante sa career mo (so you would see what is more important in your career),” Cruz said.

The normally mild-mannered Cruz was his usual self on Friday night, helping the Aces trounce the San Miguel

GAB Chairman Baham Mitra.

GAMES AND AMUSEMENT BOARD / FACEBOOK

controlled the situation as well.

“We also want to remind our coaches and assistant coaches to restrain our players,” he said.

GAB regulates and supervises the professional sports leagues in the Philippines, especially the Philippine Basketball Association, where the Gilas players are playing club-wise.

FIBA is set to hand its verdict on the brawl at 3 p.m. Thursday, and the SBP will make a reaction on the said verdict through a press conference at 4 p.m.

On July 2, a bench-clearing brawl ensued between the two teams in the third quarter of their showdown in which Australia won. ■

Beermen in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals at the Ynares Center.

The FIBA Disciplinary Panel on Thursday suspended 13 players and two coaches and imposed fines and other sanctions on the national federations of the Philippines and Australia. FIBA also suspended the officiating crew of the game.

The suspension stems from the July 2 brawl of the two teams during the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

Of the 13 players, 10 were from the Philippines — Japeth Aguilar, Matthew Wright, Terrence Romeo, Jayson Castro William, Andray Blatche, Jeth Rosario, Roger Pogoy, Carl Cruz, Jio Jalalon, and Calvin Abueva.

Assistant Coach Joseph Uichico and Head Coach Vincent ‘Chot’ Reyes were also suspended and the latter was asked to pay a disciplinary fine of about PHP535,000 for inciting unsportsmanlike behavior.

FIBA is the International Basketball Federation. ■

Vancouver Whitecaps seeking season changing win at Canadian Championship

BY GEMMA KARSTENSSMITH The Canadian Press VANCOUVER WHITECAPS defender Marcel de Jong says his team simply hasn’t been good enough to win lately.

After losing five of their last six matches, the Whitecaps are looking for redemption when the Montreal Impact visit Vancouver for the second leg of their Canadian Championship semifinal on Wednesday.

Montreal won the first match 1-0 last week.

Winning at home is a huge opportunity, but the ‘Caps

needs to will need to focus to secure the victory, de Jong said.

“We’ve been not fully there every game. We have to be better, we need to step it up,” he said after training this week.

“Concentration, mentality, focus, everything has to be a little bit sharper, a little bit better.

And that’s what you have to do to win games.”

Mistakes and penalties have been killing the team in recent games, said head coach Carl Robinson.

“We’re shooting ourselves in the foot at the moment,” he said.

A hand ball during Saturday’s game in Seattle lead to the Sounders scoring on a pen-

alty kick. Later in the match, Vancouver midfielder Efrain Juarez was handed a red card after a scuffle with a referee.

The Sounders beat the ‘Caps 2-0.

Robinson said he let his players know after the game that he wasn’t impressed.

Keeping 11 men on the field is key to winning, he said, noting that last year the club was able to scratch out victories even when they were down players.

That’s not the case anymore.

“The league is getting better and better, players are getting bigger and bigger, stronger and stronger. So if we go down to 10 men, nine men, were not www.canadianinquirer.net

going to win games of football,” Robinson said. “It’s as simple as that.”

It’s been a tough month for the Whitecaps, who have faced a schedule of five games in 15 days and the distraction of star midfielder Alphonso Davies reportedly signing with storied German club Bayern Munich.

The 17-year-old has three goals and eight assists in 20 games this year, but hasn’t played in the last two matches as talks about his future continue.

The club has missed Davies’ “attacking talent,” Robinson said.

“We’ve probably let us affect us a bit too much. Not intentionally but if we can get him back in

the groove as early as possible once it’s all said and done and over the line, then I think everyone’s happy,” he said.

Winning in Vancouver, where the ‘Caps have been 4-2-4 this season, could help give the club a much-needed confidence boost, said midfielder Russell Teibert.

“This could really turn our season around,” he said. “We’re not sitting exactly where we want to be in this season and getting a result, going out and winning this game and then propelling ourselves on to win the Canadian Championship could really turn our season around.” ■

30

Business Duterte hopes for tax reform package 2 approval by yearend

BY JOANN VILLANUEVA Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday urged lawmakers to approve tax reform measures as he called on all sectors not to prevent their implementation since they would ensure that jobs would be made available to Filipinos.

In his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), the President said he is hopeful for the passage of the second tax reform package by end-2018, pointing out that “this matter is urgent.”

The second package of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) aims to cut corporate income tax (CIT) and make this in line with counterparts in the region.

The President said the second tax reform package will benefit micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which account for about 99 percent of entities in the country and employ about 65 percent of workers.

Lowering of taxes for businesses will allow MSMEs to

have higher capital and employ more people, he said.

“Enactment of the Package 2 is what stands between today and millions of jobs in the near future,” he said. A bill for the second tax reform package was filed in the House of Representatives last March and the President hopes that a similar measure would be filed in the Senate.

“This matter is urgent. Do not be part of the problem by ignoring it. I hope to sign Package 2 before the year ends. I urge Congress to pass it in a form that satisfies our goals and the interest of the many, not just the wealthy few,” he said.

The President said that by end-July this year, he is optimistic that there will be five tax package measures filed in Congress. “There is no chance we can deliver our promises without an equitable tax system,” he said.

The first package of tax reform, the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Act, was signed into law in December 2017. It cut workers’ income taxes and gave their first PHP250,000 annual income a

GAGE SKIDMORE / FLICKR

tax-free rate.

The other tax reform packages target to update taxes on investment products, mining, and alcohol, among others. Duterte said “we cannot and should not” stop TRAIN because this is needed “for sustainable growth that leaves no Filipino left behind.”

“TRAIN is already helping poor families and senior citizens cope with the rising prices.

Give me what needs to be given to my countrymen,” he said.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the President “has always been the

principal advocate of inclusive growth and of the means to achieve it,” thus, officials of the Department of Finance (DOF) are committed to the deadline mentioned by Duterte in his SONA. “Tax reform is a key tool to reach that objective. We will extend all the technical support that Congress needs in heeding the President’s call for the passage of Package 2 this year, especially for the benefit of our small and medium enterprises,” he said.

“We believe that the Presi-

dent’s strong statements in the SONA will help allay whatever uncertainty is left about the imperative for reform. The administration is serious about tax reform, and it is definitely serious about having Package 2 signed by the end of the year,” Dominguez said.

“Tax reform will bring about growth with equity and heightened productivity that will help us attain our aspiration to be a high-middle-income country by 2022, lifting one million Filipinos from poverty every year,” he added. ■

Moody’s affirms ‘Stable’ rating on PH

BY JOANN VILLANUEVA Philippine News Agency MANILA — Debt rater Moody’s Investors Service on Friday affirmed the Philippines’ longterm local and foreign currency issuer rating at ‘Baa2’ with Stable outlook after noting the economy’s robust expansion, improving fiscal situation and debt affordability.

In a statement issued Friday night, Moody’s said domestic growth continues to get a boost “from a large and fast-growing economy” and “moderate government debt levels.”

These factors balance the

low per capita income and “still low revenue-raising capacity as compared to similarly rated peer countries,” it said.

Moody’s decision came two days after Fitch Ratings made the same decision on account of favourable growth outlook.

The credit rater said economic shocks are seen to be cushioned by the “relatively large economy and high growth potential”.

Proven ability to sustain macroeconomic and financial stability is also a plus for the Philippines, it said, noting that the government has implemented policies that ensured stable and low debt levels.

Thus, it projects general government debt to remain low vis-a-vis the similarly-rated countries at 38 percent of domestic output. “The country’s favorable demographics support steadily rising labor inputs and potential growth, while reducing the burden of ageingrelated costs on government finances,” the statement said.

Improvement of the residual maturity of the government’s debt, at about 12 years of foreign debt and 7.6 years for domestic debt, enables the government to finance its obligations, Moody’s said. “Moreover, large foreign exchange reserves and low economy-wide external www.canadianinquirer.net

debt contribute to macroeconomic stability,” it said.

“More generally, relatively low reliance on either foreign sources of income or financing insulates the Philippines from the direct impact of abrupt changes in the global macroeconomic and financial environment,” it noted. The debt rater also expects the government’s infrastructure program to be well-financed given the reforms in the tax system.

The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law, implemented since the start of 2018, is seen to increase state revenues from 15.6 percent of domestic output in

2017 to 16.2 percent this year and 16.7 percent next year. “A permanently higher revenue intake will provide some additional fiscal room for higher spending, in particular on infrastructure,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, Moody’s expects the increase in domestic inflation to be transitory but pointed out that sustained pressure on the peso and capital inflows as well as the deficit of the current account “pose material challenges to policymakers in ensuring that inflation expectations and inflation pressure are contained.” ■

Business

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

31

Tesla investors Espenilla hints possible again worry about hike in BSP rates carmaker’s finances

BY LESLIE GATPOLINTAN Philippine News Agency

BY MARLEY JAY The Associated Press

a full year.

Efraim Levy, a senior equity analyst for CFRA, said he found Tesla’s request unusual.

NEW YORK — Tesla’s finances “I haven’t heard of this berather than its cars were once ing done before and I’ve been again in focus Monday follow- following the industry for 20 ing a report that the company years,” he said. “It sounds like asked suppliers for refunds to something that happens when help it turn a profit. you’re struggling.”

A memo provided to The Wall Itay Michaeli, an analyst for Street Journal showed the elec- Citi Investment Research, said tric car maker asked one sup- automakers sometimes ask for plier to return what it calls a discounts from suppliers, but meaningful amount of money those are relatively minor maton its payments since 2016. ters. He said it’s more serious if The memo came from a global the company needs more cash supply manager and said the to continue operating, noting request was essential to Tes- that investors are likely to be la’s continued operations, the concerned if Tesla has to take Journal said. unusual steps to shore up its fiThe report also said it’s not nances. clear how many suppliers reTesla had $2.7 billion in cash ceived the request. on hand at the end of the first When asked quarter and whether the many experts company has rethink it will need quested refunds to raise money from suppliers, soon. One way to a Tesla spokesdo that is by sellman referred to It sounds like ing stock, which something a company statecould send its that happens ment, which said share price lower when you’re Tesla had asked still. struggling. fewer than 10 CEO and top suppliers for a shareholder reduction in toElon Musk has tal spending on said that Tesla projects that intends to bestarted in 2016 come profitable and are not comin the second plete. half of 2018, and analysts said The company said it is also Monday that the memo is an talking to suppliers about attempt to meet that goal. But changes to future prices and they said if Tesla has to try this design that will help it reduce hard to meet its target, it might costs. be a self-defeating effort.

Tesla stock fell 3.3 percent “If there are any one-time to $303.20 Monday in heavier windfalls that aid in Tesla than normal trading. The stock achieving its profit goals, we is down from a peak of $385 in expect the market would view September, with many inves- that as unsustainable,” said tors growing concerned about Jamie Albertine, senior autoTesla’s spending and its ability motive analyst for Consumer to meet its production goals.

Edge.

Tesla is spending about $1 In June the company said it billion a quarter as it ramps up was eliminating 3,600 jobs, or manufacturing of the Model 3 9 percent of its staff, as part of sedan, a lower-priced car that a restructuring effort. At the is key to Tesla’s plans of be- beginning of July the company coming a major mass-market said it met a long-time target automaker. The 15-year-old of building 5,000 Model 3s in company has reported only two a week, but industry analysts quarterly profits in its history have questioned whether Tesla and has never made a profit for can sustain that pace. ■

MANILA — Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Nestor A. Espenilla Jr. on Friday hinted the possibility of another increase in the central bank’s key rates in August to address potential price pressures generated by excessive foreign exchange volatility and its impact on inflation expectations.

The Monetary Board (MB) already twice raised key rates for a total of 50 basis points this year, bringing the overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) rate to 3.5 percent.

In his opening remarks at a briefing on the 2018 secondquarter inflation report, the central bank chief said the growth of the domestic economy remains robust due to the strong rise of capital formation and household consumption, as well as the performance of the services and industry sectors.

The banking sector is also

BSP Gov. Nestor A. Espenilla, Jr.

BANGKO SENTRAL NG PILIPINAS / FACEBOOK

supportive of the domestic growth since its assets and deposits continue to grow.

However, risks are up because of external developments, such as the rising interest rates and inflation in advanced economies and geopolitical tensions.

In the domestic market, risks come from supply-side pressures resulting in a sustained uptick of inflation.

In the first half of the year, inflation averaged at 4.3 percent, higher than the government’s 2 percent to 4 percent target. Last June alone, it surged to 5.2 percent from the previous month’s 4.6 percent because of the faster rate of heavily-weighted food and non-alcoholic beverages index and the alcoholic bever-

times a multi-week harvest celebration linked to pagan, preChristian moon cults.

For outdoor pursuits, the Caucasus Mountains rise to more than 15,000 feet (4,600 metres), with glacial lakes and semi-tropical valleys hidden throughout. It is untamed land, but also a botanical and human crossroads for Central Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East that is home to Anatolian leopards, bears, wolves, lynx and golden eagles.

Researchers from the Chicago Botanic Garden found that the Caucasus contains 6,400 distinct groups of plants in a region about the size of Minnesota. In layman’s terms, the isolated mountain valleys may have helped nurture and protect different species, like natural time capsules.

Back in Tbilisi, the capital, you’ll find a mix of quaint old world neighbourhoods and trendy new riverfront areas.

The Georgian State Museum has a fine range of cultural and historical exhibits.

Small bakeries make chewy, crisp, khachapuri bread.

Shaped like a small alien spacecraft, try it with the traditional melted cheese and egg in the centre. There are also Georgian flatbreads — like pitas — stuffed with savory mixes of chopped meat and spices, and a wide variety of dumplings.

There are upscale restaurants, too. PurPur combines local dishes with classic Frenchstyle cooking in a 19th century atmosphere. Try the pkhali appetizer, which is a sort of pate made from ground walnuts and different vegetables, such as beets or spinach. The various types (and colours) taste like eating fresh vegetable shoots straight out of a garden — subtle yet vibrant and alive.

For a darker experience you can also visit the Joseph Stalin Museum in Gori, his birthplace.

Tour groups offer it as a day trip from Tbilisi.

Finally, you can go for a swim or spa visit at numerous Black Sea resorts. ■

❱❱ PAGE 38 Espenilla hints

Ancient churches... ❰❰ 35

golden (or orange) wine style for a sense of how wine was first made thousands of years ago.

A “Game of Thrones” episode could be filmed in the eastern Kakheti region, which has numerous vineyards. The Alaverdi monastery and winery, which dates to the year 1011, features a 170-foot (50-meter) tower and high stone walls, with beautiful icons inside the church.

Father Gerasim, bearded and dressed in a traditional long black cassock, said the Alaverdi monks are carrying on a tradition passed down through generations. “I remember when I was about 3 or 4 years old, my grandfather or father took me to the wine cellar every time they went. Wine ties, and tied, the human being to his community, to his land,” Gerasim said.

Ancient rituals linger. Every September, Georgians from several ethnic and religious backgrounds make a pilgrimage to Alaverdi called Alaverdoba.

The festival, which now lasts for about a week, was in ancient www.canadianinquirer.net

32

Technology No, Twitter will not ban Trump, here’s why

BY BARBARA ORTUTAY The Associated Press NEW YORK — Calls to ban Donald Trump from Twitter are at least as old as his presidency.

But it’s not going to happen, at least not while he’s in office.

The latest strive involves an all-caps tweet sent late Sunday warning Iran of “CONSEQUENCES THE LIKE OF WHICH FEW THROUGHOUT HISTORY HAVE EVER SUFFERED BEFORE.” So, does threatening nuclear annihilation upon an entire country get you the boot from the social network? Twitter’s policy states that threats of violence can get you kicked off. For instance, if somebody were to tweet a threat to kill his neighbor with a sawed-off shotgun, they could easily be kicked off for violating Twitter’s policies.

But not if you are Trump — or another world leader. Here’s why: Twitter treats Trump differ-

ently than a “regular” user.

In January, Twitter published a blog post publicly codifying what had already been company policy, saying that “Blocking a world leader from Twitter or removing their controversial Tweets would hide important information people should be able to see and debate.”

Twitter’s view is that keeping up political figures’ controversial tweets encourages discussion and helps hold leaders accountable. The comments, the company argues, can either happen in the open, on Twitter, or behind closed doors.

The blog post, written a year after Trump became president, does not reference him. But it’s a clear response to calls to remove him, by liberal activists, writers and Twitter users even before he became president. And it nods to criticism that Twitter is only keeping on Trump because as arguably the world’s bestknown tweeter he’s made the service more visible.

GAGE SKIDMORE / FLICKR

“No one person’s account drives Twitter’s growth, or influences these decisions. We work hard to remain unbiased with the public interest in mind,” the policy says.

So what about regular users?

Twitter bans “specific threats of violence or wishing for se-

rious physical harm, death, or disease to an individual or group of people.” It also prohibits users from affiliating with organizations that “use or promote violence against civilians to further their causes.”

This policy is in part to keep what Twitter calls “extremist

groups” off its service. It defines them as groups that subscribe to violence to advance their cause.

But there’s a big exception: “This policy does not apply to military or government entities.”

Since the president is obviously a government entity, and, as commander in chief, a military entity as well, a nuclear threat won’t get him kicked off Twitter.

That leads some to wonder if there is anything Trump could say on the platform to get himself banned.

It’s unclear, but unlikely.

Twitter would not say whether it has ever deleted a tweet by the president, and it appears that it has not. While the company says it reviews tweets by world leaders within their political context and “enforce our rules accordingly,” this leaves a lot of room for interpretation, likely just as the company intends. ■

Facebook suspends Boston analytics firm over data usage THE ASSOCIATED PRESS NEW YORK — Facebook said Friday that it has suspended Boston-based analytics firm Crimson Hexagon while it investigates how it collects and shares Facebook and Instagram’s user data.

Facebook has been facing increased scrutiny over how third-party firms use its data since news broke in March that data firm Cambridge Analytica

improperly accessed user data.

The Wall Street Journal first reported that Facebook had suspended Crimson Hexagon.

The newspaper says among the firm’s clients is a Russian nonprofit with ties to the Kremlin.

“We don’t allow developers to build surveillance tools using information from Facebook or Instagram,” said Ime Archibong, Facebook’s vice president of product partnerships.

“We take these allegations seri-

ously, and we have suspended these apps while we investigate.”

Facebook said Friday that Crimson Hexagon is cooperating and that so far its investigation hasn’t found evidence that the firm obtained Facebook or Instagram information inappropriately.

Crimson Hexagon says on its website it has access to over one trillion consumer conversations from social media, forums, blogs and reviews.

www.canadianinquirer.net

In a blog posting , Crimson Hexagon Chief Technology Officer Chris Bingham said the company “abides completely” by the rules social media sites including Twitter and Facebook put in place to limit the ways third-party companies can use their data.

He said the firm only collects publicly available social media data. He contrasted that with Cambridge Analytica’s use of private user data.

Users of Crimson Hexagon’s

platform, which include government customers, analyze the data to understand largescale consumer trends and preferences, Bingham wrote.

“Government entities that leverage the Crimson Hexagon platform do so for the same reasons as many of our other non-government customers: a broad-based and aggregate understanding of the public’s perception, preferences and sentiment about matters of concern to them,” he wrote. ■

Technology

FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

33

Schools eye facial recognition Satellite imagery technology to boost security company launches wildfire twitter feed

BY CAROLYN THOMPSON The Associated Press

LOCKPORT, N.Y. — The surveillance system that has kept watch on students entering Lockport schools for over a decade is getting a novel upgrade.

Facial recognition technology soon will check each face against a database of expelled students, sex offenders and other possible troublemakers.

It could be the start of a trend as more schools fearful of shootings consider adopting the technology, which has been gaining ground on city streets and in some businesses and government agencies. Just last week, Seattle-based digital software company RealNetworks began offering a free version of its facial recognition system to schools nationwide.

Already, the Lockport City School District’s plan has opened a debate in this western New York community and far beyond about the system’s potential effectiveness, student privacy and civil rights.

“We shake our heads that we’re having to deal with and talk about these kinds of security issues,” said Robert LiPuma, technology director for the Lockport district, east of Niagara Falls, “but here we are.”

The idea behind the Lockport system is to enable security officers to quickly respond to the appearance of expelled students, disgruntled employees, sex offenders or certain weapons the system is programmed to detect. Only students seen as threats will be loaded into the database. Officials say it is the first school district in the country to adopt the Canadianmade system it is installing.

Administrators say it could thwart shootings like February’s attack in which expelled student Nikolas Cruz is charged with killing 17 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

“This would have identified (Cruz) as not being able to be in that building,” said Tony Olivo, a security consultant who recommended the system for Lockport. Cameras mounted throughout the building would have followed the banned stu-

dent’s every move until he left.

Critics say the technology has been absent from schools for good reason.

In light of Lockport’s plans, the New York Civil Liberties Union asked the state Education Department to block the technology from any New York school, saying it would “have a chilling effect on school climate.” Education officials say they are reviewing the request.

“Lockport is sending the message that it views students as potential criminals who must have their faces scanned wherever they go,” NYCLU Executive Director Donna Lieberman said.

Jennifer Lynch, senior staff attorney with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a digital rights group, said any school considering facial recognition must consider who will have access to data, how such a system would be managed and whether students can opt out.

Others question the technology’s cost and effectiveness, given reports like one released in February by MIT and Stanford University that found some facial recognition programs don’t work as well on racial minorities and women.

Lockport parent Belinda Cooper would have preferred metal detectors in her 15-yearold daughter’s school.

“It would have been cheaper for the school district, and you can guarantee no guns or knives will be brought in,” she said.

District officials say the Aegis system they are installing, made by SN Technologies of Ontario, will not build or store a database of student and faculty face prints that could be shared with the government or marketers. Nor will the $1.4 million cost, funded through a state technology bond, siphon funding from staffing or supplies.

District officials acknowledge it won’t stop a determined attacker from coming through the door, nor will it warn against someone who is not a known threat.

But “there’s no system that’s going to solve every problem,” LiPuma said. “It’s another tool that we feel will give us an advantage to help make our buildings and our communities a

little safer.”

Individual schools and districts, as well as the governors of Wyoming and one other state, have already expressed interest in RealNetworks’ customizable SAFR System, senior product director Michael Vance said.

At the University Child Development School in Seattle where it was piloted, rather than rely on office staff buzzing in late arrivals or visitors, the system gives parents who have registered their faces automatic access through a locked gate and tells the office who is coming. Schools can opt to register students’ faces and customize how to respond to people who have been flagged for alert.

“All of that resides with the school,” Vance said. “We don’t see it. We don’t have access to the pictures, the images, the video, anything like that. It’s stored in the same way that school attendance databases, grades, records, everything is kept.”

Nevertheless, citing a patchwork of regulations, Vance said the company would welcome the kind of government guidelines for facial recognition technology that Microsoft President Brad Smith called for in a blog post July 13.

In Lockport, as crews worked on wiring the system inside, 16-year-old student Teliyah Sumler expressed some reservations.

“I feel like it’s too personal,” she said. “Cameras all in my face. It’s too much.”

Khari Demos, 22, who has two siblings in Lockport High School, said he worries for their safety and views facial recognition as another piece of a security puzzle that includes locked doors and active shooter drills.

“It’ll actually identify who should and shouldn’t be in the school,” said Demos, who graduated from the school in 2013.

“The system will never be 100 percent perfect but it’s a step in the right direction.” ■

BY MORGAN LEE The Associated Press SANTA FE, N.M. — A new tool for visualizing and tracking wildfires from the sky was launched on twitter Wednesday by a New Mexico-based startup company, in an effort that combines super-computing capabilities with satellite imagery.

Santa Fe-based Descartes Labs began distributing timelapse video segments taken from satellite imagery of individual wildfires across the country. Hashtags that correspond to the name or location of fires are attached, allowing people to quickly find relevant imagery.

The technology taps into satellite images derived from both visible and infrared light to trace the heat signatures of fires through the night and on overcast days when smoke may go undetected.

“The long waves of infrared data can penetrate clouds and smoke plumes so that you can see the heat signature on the ground, so you can see the bright red patch start and grow through time,” said Caitlin Kontgis, lead applied scientist at Descartes. “The real power of this tool comes in the fact that that satellite collects data at night.”

Descartes’ experts in highperformance computing have collected and refined images taken from a satellite launched

Descartes Lab booth.

www.canadianinquirer.net

in 2016 by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The GOES-6 satellite orbits in unison with the rotation of the earth above the Western Hemisphere, collecting a huge data trove of imagery of North America by day and night.

“We’re able to pull (the data) down, clean it up, and get it analysis-ready within four minutes from capture,” Descartes explained in a blog post.

The project aims to provide a public service with possible safety benefits, free of charge, Kontgis said.

“If it’s somebody in the community interested in knowing about a specific fire and they’re searching by hashtag, our video can come up and help them understand which way smoke is moving, which way the fire has been moving, how quickly it developed,” she said.

Descartes said it has offered a related wildfire watch system to overseers of the Santa Fe National Forest and is exploring novel ways to detect new fires quickly. The 2,500-square-mile forest in northern New Mexico reopened on July 9 after a fiveweek closure because of dry conditions and the threat of fire.

Santa Fe National Forest spokesman Bruce Hill said the technology demonstration was not seen as immediately useful.

“There could be opportunities down the road, but not at this time,” he said. ■

@DESCARTESLABS / TWITTER

JULY 27, 2018

34

CANADA

HIRING LUCKY SUPERMARKET 10628 King George Blvd, Surrey B.C is hiring all positions such as: store manager, grocery manager, produce manager, office administration, file maintenance clerk, head cashier, cook, BBQ chef, meat cutter, baker, bakery clerk, grocery clerk, frozen clerk, meat clerk, produce clerk, cashier, truck driver and kitchen helper.

Please email resume to: hrsurrey@luckysupermarket.ca

Electronic Technicians Needed Experience in Low Voltage Electrical System installation and Servicing Computers with Networking Email resume to suda@alarmboss.com Call 416-432-1902

NANNY/BABYSITTER

LOCATION: BRAMPTON Employer: Romelo Perez for 2 children (15 & 11 y.o.), Mon-Fri, $14/hr for 40 hrs/wk. 3 year-contract Requirements: LanguageEnglish. Education- Completion of secondary school (min.)

Experience- 1-2 yrs. child care/babysitting exp; criminal record check, in good health. Duties: Supervise and care for children, prepare and serve meals, assist with feeding, grooming, hygiene, homework and school projects. Perform light housekeeping & cleaning duties including wash/iron clothes and household linens.

Take children to and from school and appointments, travel with family if needed.

APPLY BY EMAIL: melo.perez@outlook.com

www.canadianinquirer.net

35

Travel How to get better vacation photos, no selfie stick required

BY GREGORY KARP The Associated Press IF YOU find yourself vacationing in Budapest, Hungary, you could preserve travel memories by taking a few arm-length, lowquality cellphone selfies that will fail to capture the magic of your visit.

Or you could hire someone like Dana J. Ardell, a Budapestbased professional photographer who knows photo spots you’ll never find in a guidebook and who can deliver stunning pictures — with your whole travel party in the shots.

Ardell is a photographer with Flytographer, one of a growing number of online services that help travellers find and hire a photographer to take pictures of them during a vacation.

“People who believe memories are the best souvenir” are among those who will find value in photo services, said Flytographer founder and CEO Nicole Smith.

Still, the cost could run a few hundred dollars, so be smart about whom you hire. Here’s what to know about hiring a pro to take pictures on your next vacation or bucket-list trip.

Why hire a vacation

photographer?

Quality. Vacations usually involve a lot of planning, money and great moments. “The problem is, the photos don’t always match that marvelous time they’re having,” Smith said.

Smartphone cameras are decent, but they don’t provide the same calibre of pictures as a professional camera and lens.

Plus, phone cameras aren’t usually operated by a skilled photographer who knows how to incorporate the best light and properly compose a shot and later edit the images.

If you plan to turn a vacation photo into a wall-worthy print, you’ll want something better than a cellphone snapshot.

“Nobody’s going to blow up a blurry selfie with seven chins,” Smith said.

Everyone is in the photo.

Travel photos often involve two undesirable choices: a selfie stick or handing your camera to a stranger in hopes they take a decent shot of everybody.

It’s the reason Ardell hired vacation photographers for trips to Amsterdam and Glasgow, Scotland. “I know, personally, even as a photographer, if my husband and I are on vacation, we end up getting solo shots of each other or arm’s-length selfies that aren’t very flattering,”

she said.

Local knowledge. Photographers who live in your destination know where and when to shoot — when the light is most favourable and where you won’t be jostling with other tourists during busy times at landmarks.

Local contact. Part of the benefit of hiring a trip photographer has nothing to do with photos — it’s interacting with a resident, gaining insight into how locals live. It’s part of what Ardell offers in her sessions in Budapest. “We chat the whole time,” she said. “I love giving recommendations on my favourite places to eat and things to do around the city.”

How much it costs

Hiring a vacation photographer typically isn’t cheap, but it might seem surprisingly reasonable for a vacation costing thousands of dollars.

Sessions are typically priced by time. With Flytographer, for example, shoots start at 30 minutes for $250, although an hourlong session with 30 photos for $350 is more common, Smith said. It’s customary to pay the full price when you book. With Local Lens , another booking service, pricing varies by city but generally is about $200 for

a half-hour to around $500 for two hours. Another service, Localgrapher, says its most popular package is one hour, which includes 35 photos for $350.

How to book a pro

Go online. You could do your own research to find someone in the place you’re visiting. But online booking services could make hiring a photographer easier, especially if you’re going abroad and don’t speak the language. With many, you choose the city, then read biographies of local photographers, look at their portfolios and pick one.

Examples of online services include Flytographer, Local Lens, Shoot My Travel and Localgrapher.

Gather information. Research a photographer’s style

and note the professionalism of their website and social media channels. Seek information on timing of photo delivery and what format they will be in.

Find out about refund policies and quality guarantees.

Choose a package. An hourlong session offers enough time for photos at a couple of locations and gives vacationers time to warm up in front of the camera. But a half-hour shoot can work for those tight on time or budget, Smith said.

Book early. Earlier booking — several weeks out — means a wider selection of photographers, days and times.

If you’ve taken fabulous journeys but your photos just don’t match, hiring a vacation photographer might be the ticket to preserving memories. ■

Ancient churches and origins of wine in Republic of Georgia

BY KEVIN BEGOS The Associated Press TBILISI, GEORGIA — Want to learn about the origins of winemaking? You’ll have to go about 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometres) east of Bordeaux, France, to the Republic of Georgia, in the Caucasus Mountains.

This beautiful and affordable country has many other attractions for both budget and sophisticated travellers.

There are 1,000-year-old

churches, wild mountains offering winter and summer splendor, and coastal resorts on the Black Sea. After being part of the Soviet Union for decades, Georgia declared independence in 1991, and the country has embraced tourism and development.

While visiting Georgia to research a book about the origins of wine, I kept having to choose between wine experiences and other tempting options. Georgian architecture, food, wine and music is a multi-ethnic

mix of East and West. Romans, Persians, Mongols, Arabs, and Russians all fought to control the country over the last 2,000plus years. Now the people are overwhelmingly Christian, yet street food and Georgian chants have a Middle Eastern or even Asian tinge.

For wine lovers, a trip to Georgia is like going back to a vineyard Garden of Eden. Archaeological sites show that Georgians began making wine at least 5,000 years before the French. www.canadianinquirer.net

Patrick McGovern, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, has examined 8,000-year-old Georgian pottery that is decorated with “grape clusters and jubilant stick-figures, with arms raised high, under grape arbors,” and burial mounds contain ornate gold and silver goblets with depictions of ancient drinking ceremonies. The classic Georgian chant “Shen Khar Venakhi” (“Thou Art a Vineyard”) was reputedly written by King Demetrius I in the 12th century.

It is still popular at weddings.

You can experience and taste some of the wine history throughout the Georgian countryside. Small wineries and many, many families still ferment grapes in oval clay containers called qvevri, which may have inspired the later amphora of Greece and Rome. Georgia has hundreds of native wine grape varieties, including kisi, mtsvane, rkatsiteli and saperavi.

Try the unfiltered and natural ❱❱ PAGE 31 Ancient churches

36

Travel

JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Restaurant Canadians who paid out serving classic of this world ticket prices New England food could soon be space bound marks centennial

BY LISA RATHKE The Associated Press BERLIN, VT. — A roadside eatery that started the year World War I ended is still in business and thriving, this year celebrating 100 years of Yankee cooking in central Vermont.

The Wayside Restaurant has expanded since then, serving about 1,000 meals a day. But it’s still a place where you can get New England classics like salt pork and milk gravy, boiled dinner (corned beef and cabbage) and warm Parker House rolls, named for the Boston hotel where they originated.

And that’s not all. There’s also standard diner fare like burgers and fries, breakfast served all day, salads, a hot turkey sandwich with gravy and pie — you name it, from cherry and apple to maple cream — all at reasonable prices. There’s even a gluten-free menu, proof that the Wayside has kept up with the times.

“What we like about it is the food and the servers are friendly,” said Caroline Howe of Barre who with her husband stops in weekly. “The food’s always good. We’ve never had a bad meal here. It’s wonderful.”

The Wayside was started as a small lunchtime spot by Effie Ballou in 1918, below the house where she lived with her husband and children. She made pies and doughnuts at home and brought them to the restaurant. The place has been sold several times over the years to other families, including the current owners, Brian and Karen Galfetti Zechinelli, who have been running it for 20 years.

Sonny Frost said he and his wife have been eating there weekly for years. “I love it. It’s always been great,” he said.

“Come on Sunday for breakfast.

It’s great for lunch, it’s great for dinners. It’s very reasonable and the prices are great.”

You might just have to wait in line, though, depending on the time of day, to get a seat in

a cushioned wooden booth, at a table or on circular stools at the U-shaped counter.

Not only are customers regulars for years, so are staff.

Judy May has been waitressing there for 31 years. She says she’s now waiting on people she once served in high chairs.

“I get a lot of pleasure out of serving them,” she said, adding that some patrons have become friends.

She enjoys the chance to brighten up someone’s day. For some folks, particularly the frequent older patrons, the Wayside may be their only outing for the day.

The restaurant has evolved into something so much more than just an eatery, said Brian Zechinelli. “People use the Wayside as a central location to get together with family and see all their friends,” he said.

The Zechinellis make sure to use local produce and meats and fish when they can, including fiddlehead ferns in the spring, fresh corn in the summer, squash in the fall, perch in the winter, Vermont-made liquors and maple sap that’s added to dishes, like maple sap poached eggs and maple sap boiled hot dogs. They make their own ice cream with peach, vanilla and lemonade flavours on a recent menu.

On Sunday (July 29), the restaurant plans to host a free ice cream social and fireworks to celebrate its centennial. Descendants of the restaurant’s founder are expected to travel from New York, California and Tennessee to attend.

The birthday will be marked throughout the year with servings of Champagne and a custom anniversary ale from Long Trail, a local brewer, and will end with a New Year’s Eve prime rib dinner special. ■

BY PETER RAKOBOWCHUKL The Canadian Press

MONTREAL — About two dozen affluent Canadians mainly from Ontario and Alberta are among hundreds of people who are in line to become space tourists in the coming months.

They have already reserved a suborbital flight on a Virgin Galactic space plane by putting a deposit on a $US250,000 ticket.

But the head of the Canadian branch of the Space Tourist Society predicts it could be at least a decade before costs come down enough to allow the average Canadian to boldly go where they haven’t gone before.

“It’s going to happen sooner or later,” Azam Shaghaghi said in an interview. “Hopefully, in the next 10 to 15 years it would be really affordable to fly back and forth.”

She added the goal of her L.A.-based international organization is “to educate people that space travel is not just for millionaires and the elite, but for ordinary people.”

The unofficial race to get tourists into space appears to be in the home stretch as two companies, including billionaire Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic, hope to launch sometime this year or in 2019.

Branson said recently he will be one of Virgin Galactic’s first space tourists “within months.”

The company suffered a setback in 2014 when a test flight of its first six-person space plane, “VSS Enterprise,” broke up in mid-air, killing a co-pilot.

Its successor, “VSS Unity,” carried out its second successful rocket-powered test flight in May after being launched from its carrier SpaceShipTwo mothership.

Branson is facing competition from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, whose company Blue Origin apparently plans to start selling tickets next year for passengers.

Space thrill-seekers would travel 100 kilometres above Earth — the edge of space — in a six-person capsule atop a www.canadianinquirer.net

rocket. The capsule would then float back down at the end of a parachute. Blue Origin has not said what the price of the tickets would be but one report says they could cost at least $US200,000.

Shaghaghi says both companies are being cautious and don’t want to take any risks.

“It’s not about capital,” she said. “The capital is there, they just want to make sure that they’re launching successfully.”

Space tourists considering buying extra flight insurance in Canada, meanwhile, may be out of luck.

“I’m not aware of any Insurance Bureau of Canada companies currently offering a product for ‘space tourism,”‘ bureau spokesman Steven Kee said in an email.

“I’m sure the companies providing these services are building insurance into the price of the trip.”

Kee said any coverage would likely be similar to the life insurance policies for skydivers — “very expensive.”

Canada can already boast of one extravagent space tourist.

Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte paid about $US35 million for a 12-day visit to the International Space Station in 2009.

Houston-based Orion Span plans to launch what it calls the world’s first luxury space hotel in 2021. On its website, it boasts the luxurious accommodation

called “Aurora Station” will host six people at a time. If all goes according to plan, its first guests will arrive in 2022. It will cost $US 9.5 million per person for a 12-day journey.

One of the least expensive space tourism flights would be inside a capsule suspended below a helium-filled balloon.

World View Enterprises Inc. of Tucson, Ariz., is advertising low-cost “Voyager” flights about 30 kilometres up into the stratosphere in an eightpassenger gondola. The ticket price is reportedly $US75,000.

If space enthusiasts simply want to experience weightlessness, they can always pay about $US5,000 for a flight with Zero Gravity Corporation, a company in Arlington, Va. It uses a specially modified airplane for the atmospheric adventure. The price does not include travel or lodging.

“We have a lot of Canadians fly with us on our zero gravity flights,” Terese Brewster, CEO of Zero Gravity Corporation, told The Canadian Press in an email.

The late Stephen Hawking, who went up in August 2007, was among about 15 celebrities who have already floated on board one of the company’s flights.

The company says children as young as eight are allowed and that flyers as old as 93 have participated. ■

37

Food This corn spoonbread has a delicious pudding-like richness

BY SARA MOULTON The Associated Press THE SOUTHERN staple known as spoonbread — a particular specialty of Kentucky and Virginia — is a Native American dish adopted early on by America’s earliest European settlers.

George Washington happened to be a big fan and often served it up at Mount Vernon, Virginia. I love it because of its puddinglike richness, a creamy, airy cross between cornbread and a souffle. Creating that airiness is a matter of separating the eggs and beating the whites, then folding them into the batter.

The recipe’s key ingredient is corn, and since this is the height of the fresh corn season, I decided to amp up the traditional recipe with corn kernels.

Half of them are pureed — adding to the bread’s creaminess — while the remainder is folded in for crunch.

What should you look for when buying fresh corn? Start by confirming that each ear is full and thick, with kernels

growing all the way to the tip.

The easiest way to do so would be to strip away the husk and take a squint at the tip, but that manoeuvr makes the ear unsellable. Instead, use your fingers to feel if the ear is full at the top by pressing the tip through the husk. And if you discover a tiny bug on the ear after shucking it at home, just wash it away, secure in the knowledge that no pesticides were used in the corn’s cultivation.

Some varieties of corn sold at the market will stay sweet for four or five days. I prefer regular corn because it tastes more like corn to me, but its sugar starts to turn to starch as soon as it’s picked, which means it’s best to cook the corn as soon as you can (keep it chilled until you do).

I call for fine cornmeal in this recipe for Fresh Corn Spoonbread with Sharp Cheddar and Chiles, but you’re welcome to use the medium-ground variety if you want a bit of gritty crunch.

The buttermilk provides some tangy contrast to the corn’s sweetness, but if you’re no fan

of tang (or don’t want to buy buttermilk), substitute regular whole milk.

Fresh Corn Spoonbread with Sharp Cheddar and Chiles

Servings: 6 Start to finish: 1 hour, 10 minutes (45 active) • 2 cups fresh corn kernels • 2 cups buttermilk • 2/3 cup fine yellow cornmeal • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, optional • 4 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely grated • One 4.5 ounce can chopped green chilies, drained • 4 large eggs, separated, at room temperature • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar In a blender, puree 1 cup of the corn with 1 cup of the buttermilk until smooth.

Preheat oven to 425 F. In a medium saucepan stir together the pureed corn with the remaining buttermilk, cornmeal, butter, salt and cayenne, if us-

ing, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat and simmer, whisking constantly, 3 minutes. Remove from the heat, stir in the cheese, chilies and the remaining 1 cup corn kernels; let cool while you beat the egg whites.

In a bowl with electric beaters beat the whites with a pinch of salt until they are frothy, add the cream of tartar and beat until they form soft peaks. Add the yolks to the cornmeal mixture, whisking constantly. Stir onefourth of the whites into the

cornmeal mixture and then fold in the remaining whites gently until they are just incorporated. Spread the mixture evenly in a buttered shallow 8-inch square baking dish and bake on a rack in the lower third of the oven until set, 20 to 25 minutes.

Serve immediately. ■ Nutrition information per serving: 288 calories; 130 calories from fat; 14 g fat (8 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 175 mg cholesterol; 709 mg sodium; 26 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 8 g sugar; 14 g protein.

A streamlined way for making a colorful vegetable casserole AMERICA'S TEST KITCHEN THIS COLORFUL vegetable casserole has a striking look but a simple approach. A tian is an assortment of roasted vegetables cooking in a shallow dish, sometimes with cheese or au gratin.

Arranging slices of moisture-rich zucchini, summer squash, and tomatoes over the uncooked orzo and baking the dish all together lets us skip precooking the pasta and streamlines the recipe.

Garlic, shallots, oregano, and

pepper flakes add punch to the fresh vegetables, while a topping of broiled Parmesan adds just the right finishing note.

Crisp garlic toasts are a perfect accompaniment to the creamy orzo.

Look for squash, zucchini and tomatoes with similar-size circumferences so that they are easy to shingle into the dish.

Vegetable and orzo tian with garlic toasts

Servings: 4 Start to finish: 1 hour

• 3 ounces Parmesan cheese • 2 shallots

• 4 garlic cloves • 1 cup orzo • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes • Salt and pepper • 1 zucchini • 1 yellow summer squash • 12 ounces plum tomatoes • 1 3/4 cups vegetable broth • 1 loaf rustic bread • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • Fresh basil Adjust one oven rack to middle position and a second rack ❱❱ PAGE 38 A streamlined

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JULY 27, 2018

FRIDAY

Marinate your tuna ahead to ensure moist grilled fish AMERICA'S TEST KITCHEN TUNA STEAKS are a treat, and the intense heat of the grill is perfect for getting a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender, moist, and pleasantly pink. We wanted a foolproof method for grilling tuna to perfection, and we decided to make vinaigrette that would complement the fish but not overshadow it.

We found that marinating the fish before grilling worked to season it throughout and ensure remarkably moist grilled fish; a bit of ginger and fivespice powder proved a simple way to boost the flavour of our oil-based marinade. We found we could let the steaks marinate for up to 24 hours, making our recipe more flexible.

As for the grilling method, we built a hot, concentrated fire by pouring the coals over only half the grill, which encouraged the exteriors of the steaks to cook quickly before the interiors could overcook. To accompany

the steaks, we made a lime-ginger vinaigrette and gave it more aromatic depth with coriander seeds, fresh cilantro, and fresh basil. A bit of fish sauce offered some umami notes.

Grilled tuna steaks with limeginger vinaigrette

Servings: 4 Start to finish: 1 hour 25 minutes (25 minutes active) Vinaigrette: • 2 tablespoons lime juice • 1 1/2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, crushed • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes • 1 tablespoon fish sauce • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves • 1/3 cup canola oil • Salt and pepper Fish: • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh gin-

ger • 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder • Salt and pepper • 4 (6- to 8-ounce) tuna steaks Whisk lime juice, ginger, coriander, pepper flakes, fish sauce, basil and cilantro in bowl until well combined. Whisking constantly, drizzle in oil.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside.

Combine oil, ginger, five spice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in 1-gallon zipper-lock plastic bag; add tuna, seal bag, toss to coat, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

— For a charcoal grill: Open bottom vent completely. Light large chimney starter filled with charcoal briquettes (6 quarts).

When top coals are partially covered with ash, pour evenly over half of grill. Set cooking grate in place, cover, and open lid vent completely. Heat grill until hot, about 5 minutes.

— For a gas grill: Turn all burners to high, cover, and heat grill until hot, about 15 minutes.

Leave all burners on high.

Clean cooking grate, then repeatedly brush grate with welloiled paper towels until grate is black and glossy, 5 to 10 times.

Remove tuna from oil, place on grill (on hotter side if using charcoal), and cook (covered if using gas) until grill marks form and bottom surface is opaque, 1 to 3 minutes.

Flip tuna and cook until opaque at perimeter and translucent red at centre when checked with tip of paring knife and registers 110 F (for

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Espenilla hints...

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6 inches from broiler element and heat oven to 425 F. Grate Parmesan (1 1/2 cups). Mince shallots. Mince 3 garlic cloves.

Combine orzo, oregano, pepper flakes, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, shallots, minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in bowl.

Spread mixture evenly into broiler-safe 13-by-9-inch baking dish.

Slice zucchini and squash 1/4 inch thick. Core tomatoes and slice 1/4 inch thick. Alternately shingle zucchini, squash, and tomatoes in tidy rows on top of orzo.

Carefully pour broth over top of vegetables. Bake on lower rack until orzo is just tender and most of broth is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, slice four 3/4-inch-thick slices of bread and spread out evenly over rimmed baking sheet; set aside.

Remove dish from oven and heat broiler. Drizzle vegetables with 1 tablespoon oil, and sprin-

kle with remaining 1 cup Parmesan. Broil on lower rack until nicely browned and bubbling around edges, about 5 minutes.

Remove dish from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.

While tian rests, broil bread on upper rack, flipping as needed, until well toasted on both sides, about 4 minutes. Peel remaining 1 garlic clove and rub one side of each toast with garlic, then drizzle toasts with

remaining 1 tablespoon oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chop 2 tablespoons basil and sprinkle over tian. Serve with toasts. ■ Nutrition information per serving: 506 calories; 134 calories from fat; 15 g fat (5 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 20 mg cholesterol; 875 mg sodium; 75 g carbohydrate; 7 g fiber; 11 g sugar; 19 g protein. www.canadianinquirer.net

ages and tobacco.

Espenilla said inflation expectations of private sector economists also rose due to volatile global oil prices, weaker peso, and the transitory effects of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law.

He said these developments are valid reasons for the hike in the BSP key rates to address possible second-round effects.

“Although inflation expectations remain within the target range for 2019, elevated expectations for 2018 highlighted the risk posed by sustained price pressures on future wage and price outcomes,” he said.

He stressed that the MB’s recent policy decisions “signal its strong commitment to safeguard macroeconomic stability in an environment of rising commodity prices and ongoing normalization of monetary policy in advanced economy.”

However, since pressures continue to mount, he said an-

rare), about 1 1/2 minutes, or until opaque at perimeter and reddish pink at centre when checked with tip of paring knife and registers 125 F (for medium-rare), about 3 minutes.

Serve with vinaigrette. ■ Nutrition information per serving: 442 calories; 254 calories from fat; 28 g fat (4 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 70 mg cholesterol; 628 mg sodium; 1 g carbohydrate; 0 g fiber; 0 g sugar; 43 g protein.

other action may be needed when the Board meets on August 9. “The pace and magnitude of policy tightening will necessarily be dependent on our comprehensive and rigorous assessment of all relevant data and forecasts,” he said, citing the central bank’s inflationtargeting framework.

The BSP chief said monetary officials continue to see inflation this year peaking in the third quarter and to decelerate to within-target levels next year. “This remains our view.

Nonetheless, we recognize that there are risks to this outlook and that’s why the BSP has been taking timely actions since the last two policy meetings,” he said.

“And we would continue to stay vigilant and monitor those in the data in terms of the necessary follow through actions from these two initial actions that we have made so far,” he added. ■

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