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Vol. 6 No. 01 LOS ANGELES
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Duterte ally Pimentel allays martial law fears MANILA, Jan 16 (Mabuhay) – Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on Monday allayed fears of a possible declaration of martial law following President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent remarks. In a text message, Pimentel said there was nothing to worry about martial rule. “Don’t worry about martial law
declaration. I’m sure the President would make a lot of consultations before doing that,” Pimentel said. He said he expects Duterte to “be reminded about the constitutional provisions” on martial law, which provides that there must be an “invasion or rebellion” and “if public safety requires it.” See PIMENTEL, page 12
Palace: Gov’t on the right track in fight vs crime MANILA, Jan 14 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday said the government was “on the right track in fighting criminality” after the Duterte administration scored high in suppressing crime in the recent Pulse Asia survey. “The survey result shows once and for all that we are on the right track in fighting criminality,”
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement. “It remains one of the five most urgent national concerns of Filipinos while avoiding being a victim of any serious crime is one of their five most urgent personal concerns,” he added. In the Pulse Asia survey reSee PALACE, page 12 President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his keynote speech during the launching of Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for 2017 on Sunday (Jan. 15, 2017) at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City. (MNS photo)
IS MARTIAL LAW ALL TALK? Duterte martial law talk ‘a menacing pendulum’ – solons
President Rodrigo Duterte’s stance on declaring martial law in the country is a “menacing pendulum,” two lawmakers said Monday. Albay Representative Edcel Lagman pointed out that the maverick leader had spoken in different fora different opinions on the institution of martial rule in the country.
Archbishop of Manila Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle christens a toddler from a poor neighborhood in Metro Manila on Saturday (Jan. 14, 2017) at the Manila Cathedral. The archbishop led 11 other priests in baptizing some 400 children, who were gathered by the Tulay ng Kabataan Foundation from slum areas in Tondo and the port of Navotas. (MNS photo)
“I think that the President’s stress to declare martial law is a menacing pendulum. On one hand, he would say that he’s not going to declare martial law and it is stupid to declare martial law,” said Lagman. “Then, he would announce that
he wants the restrictive provisions of the Constitution on the declaration of martial law to be removed, more particularly, the oversight function of Congress and of the Supreme Court,” he added. Senator Bam Aquino, for his part, agreed with Lagman’s de-
scription of Duterte’s stance on the declaration of martial law, that it’s changing, adding that the President is “vacillating on the topic.” He added these statements, when taken with the administration’s image of being strong-willed, See MARTIAL LAW, page 12
Palace urges Catholic faithful for cooperation Pia Wurtzbach to appear to ensure peaceful Sinulog Festival as judge on new ‘Asia’s MANILA, Jan 15 (PNA) – kapulisan para sa maayos na selMalacañan called on the Catholic ebrasyon,” Presidential Communi- Next Top Model’ faithful to cooperate with the authorities in ensuring a peaceful celebration of the Sinulog Festival in Cebu. “Ang mensahe po ng Malacañang sa mga pupunta po sa Sinulog, sa Pit Señor, ay makipag-cooperate po tayo sa ating
cations Secretary Martin Andanar said in an interview over Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday, January 15. “Alam po natin na ito po ay pinupuntahan ng libu-libo kundi milyong tao at ang ating gusto pong mangyari ay at the end of the See SINULOG, page 12
Abe welcomes closer PHL-China ties, affirms importance of peaceful resolution to South China Sea dispute MANILA, Jan. 12 (PNA) – Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Thursday welcomed President Rodrigo Duterte’s efforts to improve ties with China and affirmed the importance of the rule of law and the peaceful resolution of disputes in the West Philippine Sea. “I welcome the fact that President Duterte is making efforts to improve China-Philippine relations in light of the arbitral award,” he said during a joint press briefing with Duterte in Malacañang. “The significance of the rule of law, peaceful resolution of disputes and non-militarization has been confirmed at ASEAN-Related Meetings last year. Keeping in mind this year’s ASEAN-Related Meetings, we affirmed the importance of these,” Abe said. In July 2016, the Hague-based United Nations (UN) Arbitral Tribunal invalidated China’s so-called “nine-dash line” claim to the See PEACEFUL RESOLUTION, page 12
MANILA, Jan 13 (Mabuhay) – Pia Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2015, will appear on an episode of the upcoming fifth season of “Asia’s Next Top Model” as a guest judge. The Filipina beauty queen will join celebrity photographer-director Yu Tsai and supermodel Cara G. McIlroy on the panel, which will be headed by Thai-American model Cindy Bishop, the show’s host. Rumors about Wurtzbach’s first appearance on the popular competition first surfaced back in SepSee PIA WURTZBACH, page 12
Miss Universe Governor’s Ball: Reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach is escorted by former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson upon their arrival Monday (Jan. 16, 2017) evening at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City for the Miss Universe Governor’s Ball. (PNA photo by Oliver Marquez)
Rains fail to stop Sto. Niño fluvial procession CEBU CITY, Jan. 14 (PNA) – Rains failed to stop the fluvial procession of the Holy Image of the Señor Sto. Niño Saturday morning. The procession left the Ouano Wharf in Mandaue City at 6:40 a.m. and arrived at Pier 1 in Cebu City at 7:20 a.m. Saturday. The Philippine Coast Guard
Cebu Station said a total of 55 vessels participated in the fluvial procession. A replica of the galleon of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan carried the Sto. Niño. No untoward incident was reported during the procession, which was followed by a foot procession to the Basilica Minore del
Sto. Niño, where a commemoration of the first mass, first baptism and first wedding was held. Organizers said the morning activity went on smoothly. Church officials said they expect tens of thousands of devotees to join the solemn procession Saturday afternoon.
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Japanese Premier adopts Philippine Eagle ‘Sakura’ By Lilian C. Mellejor
Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his wife Akie Abe pose with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and his partner Honeylet Avanceña after they received an eagle stuffed toy -- symbolic of the Philippine eagle adopted by the Prime Minister which was named ‘Sakura’ during a ceremony at Waterfront Hotel in Davao City on Jan. 13, 2017. The name was Japanese-inspired after the Prime Minister of Japan provided support to the Philippine Eagle Foundation, the organization that takes care of the endangered species.(MNS photo)
PHL wants ASEAN to be more people-oriented, says social welfare chief MANILA, Jan. 14 (PNA) – As the Philippines chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this 2017, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is also leading the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), one of the ASEAN’s three pillars. As head of the ASCC, the DSWD, through Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, aims to help the ASEAN realize a more people-oriented and socially responsible orientation to foster greater solidarity and unity among peoples and member states of the ASEAN. On Sunday, the ASEAN 2017 leadership of the Philippines will be launched in a ceremony in SM Lanang, SMX Convention Center in Davao City. President Rodrigo Duterte will lead the event, and as chair of the ASCC, Taguiwalo will also attend the event, along with other cabinet officials. The ASEAN 2017 theme is “Partnering for change, engaging the world”, and six priorities will be carried out: 1. A people-oriented, people-centered ASEAN; 2. Peace and stability in the region; 3. Maritime security in the region; 4. Inclusive, innovation-led growth; 5. Resilience; and 6. Making ASEAN a global player and a model of regionalism.
President Duterte will deliver the keynote address which will be the main part of the launch. Also to be launched are the ASEAN website and social media accounts; the P1 commemorative circulation coin for the Philippine ASEAN 2017 chairmanship; the Philippines’ chairmanship of the ASEAN special stamps; and the Visit Asean@50 video. “Our main goal as chair of the ASCC is to contribute to efforts to make the ASEAN more people-oriented and people-centered. Concretely, what we want is to bring the ASEAN closer to the people, and make it an institution that is responsive to the welfare and social needs of citizens in the member states, able to provide assistance and guidance when it can in furtherance of advocacies and actions that directly benefit the poor and vulnerable sectors,” said Taguiwalo. As host of the 2017 ASEAN, the Philippines wants to bring to the table issues and concerns that revolve around the necessity to promote and protect the rights of migrant issues, she said. The rights of the vulnerable sectors of women, children, persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons, farmers, workers and fisher folk, among others, should also be addressed, she added. “We want to make the ASEAN more relevant to
the lives of poor and ordinary citizens by highlighting issues that concern them, with the end goal of forging agreements to uphold their welfare and improve their quality of life. There is no debate that poverty continues to be a serious problem for many of the member states of the ASEAN,” Taguiwalo said. She noted that the challenge to bring down poverty levels cuts across the entire ASEAN region. In the Philippines, she said, there is an urgent need to create more stable, productive jobs and means of employment for millions of underemployed and unemployed Filipinos. “We hope that we can learn from the successful experiences of other ASEAN member states when it comes to generating steady livelihood opportunities for their people with the support of the government,” the social welfare chief said. “As the Philippines is largely agrarian with underdeveloped strategic industries, we need to come up with livelihood programs that link with other industries found in the country to make development organic and sustainable. We hope to refer to livelihood programs that link with other manufacturing industries, businesses and trade that are locally available and are substantially important for the ASEAN region.”
Korean youth offers flowers to brave Filipino soldiers who fought during Korean War MANILA, Jan. 13 (PNA) – It has been 66 years since the disheartening Korean War from 1950-1953 which killed 2.5 million people and caused a permanent dispute in a divided country. In commemoration of the war veterans and combatant nations that participated, the Korean government constructed memorials and monuments to give honor to their sacrifices and heroism. One of the monuments had been set up to honor the Filipino soldiers who fought to protect freedom and peace and lost their lives during the Korean War. Namo Kim, a youth from the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) whose grandfather had served in army during the Korean War and owed his life to a Filipino soldier, offered his floral tribute to the Monument for the Philippine Soldiers. He said this act is to reciprocate the comradery of the Filipinos to his grandfather back in the time of war. “The story described very horrible and awful moment which we could hardly believe today. No water to drink, no clothes to change, it was such a miserable situation. He even got a gunshot and was waiting for death. But he could survive
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miraculously because of the help of the Filipino comrade, he was always grateful for that,” he said. He regarded the sacrifices of the Filipino soldiers as the reason they were able to protect their family, to which he is forever grateful. “Now it’s our turn to make a return for your family and the Philippines by achieving peace,” he said. His grandfather’s war experience was his eye-opener to pursue the required military training with the aim in mind of advocating peace among the youth. “A Korean youth who must serve in the military for 2 years experiences the tragedy in which he has to be trained to point a gun and fight the same Korean race every day,” he said. To advocate peace for him is saving lives of the youth who are trained at the frontlines in case of a war breakout. “They are sacrificed in the war without having had a chance to bloom. No price could compensate for the loss of a life. That’s why I think that the youths themselves must work for the peace,” he said. According to him, in order to achieve peace, the youth should go beyond in exhibiting the spirit of peace.
“I think it’s important that we constantly strive to pass down the peace to the next generation, not the war,” he said. He believes that the act of youth promoting peace is like a butterfly effect that is starting from little acts to important results. Youth acting together, according to him, is making world peace possible. “I think we can make a world of peace if the youths take a lead and work together to create the atmosphere of peace,” he said. The IPYG, an affiliated body of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light, is an organization that works to achieve world peace and the cessation of war by joining with 797 organizations in 110 countries in the world.
DAVAO CITY, Jan. 13 (PNA) – Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Friday adopted a two-year-old juvenile female Philippine Eagle rescued last December 12 from Pantaron Range in Talaingod town, Compostela Valley Province. The eagle named Sakura or Cherry Blossoms is in honor of the country of Japan, a long-time partner of the Philippines, especially of Davao. The Japanese government has also been helping the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) and funded the establishment of an education center located in Malagos, Baguio District here. The naming of the Eagle was held at the garden of the Waterfront Hotel where President Rodrigo Duterte also presented an eagle stuff toy symbolic of the adopted Philippine eagle to Mr. Abe. Part of the backdrop of the naming ceremony was also a stuffed Philippine eagle named “Diola” – mother of Pagasa, which is the first hatched and bred Philippine Eagle. In an interview on the sidelines of the naming ceremony, PEF Director Dennis
Salvador said the ceremonial naming involved goodwill. The Philippine eagle is iconic to the Philippines and a symbol of Filipino resilience. The adopted eagle was seen by an Ata Manobo (a tribe in Talaingod) standing at a river bank with a wound at the lower left of her abdomen sustained from a gunshot. The eagle could not fly and was limping when turned over to the center. The bullet remains embedded in the eagle’s tissue. “The bullet is still embedded in the tissue, so we’re still assessing. Baka delikado (It might be risky),” he told reporters. According to him, the eagle has already undergone x-rays and other needed medication. Sakura is still undergoing rehabilitation at the PEF center. Salvador said the adoption and naming of the Philippine Eagle is symbolic of the country’s growing partnership with Japan. He is hoping for improved partnership between the Foundation with its Japanese counterparts for further research efforts particularly on endangered raptors. For over 30 years, Salvador said the Foundation continues to serve its mis-
sion in saving and protecting the Philippine eagle from extinction through conservation, breeding, research and conservation initiatives, and conservation education. At present, the Foundation’s conservation efforts are mostly voluntary with the academe and the private sector taking the lead. The Davao City government and President Duterte when he was still mayor have been helping the foundation in terms financial assistance. Salvador emphasized on the importance of continued partnership particularly where the enforcement of the country’s wildlife law is concerned. The latest eagle adoption is an addition to 36 Philippine eagles at the Malagos center already adopted by their respective benefactors. Each eagle costs a minimum of PHP125,000 or about JP¥290,000 for five years in maintenance. The center has also 27 eagles hatched in captivity since the birth of Pagasa in 1992. Salvador said there are only 400 eagle pairs left in the wild and the PEF team continues to rescue and rehabilitate these Philippine eagles.
Only Davao’s best for Japanese PM Abe MANILA, Jan. 14 (PNA) – A Davao-themed morning was planned for the private meeting between President Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the President’s residence in Davao City on Friday morning. They got off to a good start with a breakfast of heart of banana salad, monggo soup, fresh fruits like mango, pomelo, and rambutan, and native rice cakes, such as biko, suman, kutsinta and puto. To go with these were Earl Grey black tea, coffee and coconut juice. After breakfast, President Duterte and Prime Minister Abe proceeded to the Waterfront Insular Hotel to meet
with Japanese and Filipino businessmen. This was followed by an eagle-naming ceremony, during which a Philippine eagle was named “Sakura”, or cherry blossom, as a symbol of the growing friendship and partnership between the Philippines and Japan. Davao is home to the Philippine eagle. After the ceremony, Prime Minister Abe was treated to a luncheon that featured Japanese-inspired Filipino dishes, prepared with ingredients native to Davao. Chefs Nobuyki Imamura, Giovanni Sias and Victor Barangan cooked up an impressive fare – imbao soup with coco cream, wakame, pomelo and fern salad with avocado
aioli, squid ink biscuit and cream cheese in almonds for starters; mangosteen glazed tuna belly with corn grits for the main course; and durian panna cota, biko turon, and civet coffee jello for dessert. On top of these, there were a fruit buffet offered at the gazebo and the 61-kg. class-A tuna for sashimi, showcasing their abundance in Davao and Mindanao. The Japanese premier ate durian, pineapple, watermelon, marang, and mangosteen, while his wife Akie had pineapple. On the other hand, President Duterte had durian and marang, while his partner Honeylet Avanceña had durian.
Duterte treats Japan PM Abe to traditional Filipino food, durian fruit By Lilian C. Mellejor’
DAVAO CITY, Jan. 13 (PNA) – Breaking protocol formalities, President Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe were more cordial as the two shared the traditional Filipino food and delicacies, including the host’s favorite mongo bean soup. At past 9 a.m., the Japanese Premier arrived at President Duterte’s simple abode in Dona Luisa Subdivision clad in white polo shirt with short sleeves. President Duterte wore his signature plaid polo shirt. They had a photo souvenir in front of the President’s house and were greeted by neighbors.
Mr. Abe toured the house of the President who showed the Japanese leader his bedroom and the famous mosquito net, said Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go. At breakfast, the two shared biko (sticky sweet rice), suman and kutsinta (rice cakes), puso ng saging (heart of banana) salad, buko juice and Earl Grey iced tea for drink. The Prime Minister even had a taste of the President’s favorite mongo bean soup or “mongos” to the Bisaya (Visayans). It was also a rare occasion when Mr. Duterte woke up early to welcome his important guest. Go said that the three of them went to
the second floor of the President’s house where they exchanged gifts as souvenirs. Prime Minister Abe said President Duterte’s house was one of the places he wanted to visit in Davao City. He and First Lady Akie arrived in Davao City around 9:40 on Thursday night. From Mr. Duterte’s house, the two leaders motored to the Waterfront Hotel for the meet and greet event and the naming of the Philippine Eagle. At lunch time, the Japanese premier and Mrs. Abe were treated to Davao’s pride and considered the king of fruits – the durian. There was also the Davao pomelo.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s wife Honeylet Avanceña gives Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and her wife Akie Abe a taste of the native fruits that are grown aplenty in Davao City after attending various events at the Waterfront Hotel in Davao City on Jan. 13, 2017.(MNS photo)
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Duterte urges local chief executives to support admin thrusts By Perla G. Lena
ILOILO CITY, Jan. 12 (PNA) – President Rodrigo Roa-Duterte has urged local chief executives to support his administration’s priorities during his meeting Wednesday with mayors from various municipalities and cities in the country, Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said on Thursday. Mabilog joined the batch of other mayors from Western, Central and Eastern Visayas and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) when they met with the President in Malacanang. He said that President Duterte talked about the fight against corruption, criminality and illegal drugs and his advocacy on feder-
alism. The mayor who was elated for the chance to meet and listen to the President said that it’s good news that Western Visayas is not included in the top 10 drug-affected region in the country as announced by Duterte. Mabilog said that the President showed them the thick list of local officials from governor down to barangay officials who are believed to be involved in illegal drugs. To recall, in August last year, Western Visayas was criticized for being lax in its campaign against illegal drugs. To align with the drive of the Duterte administration, Mabilog said that he has
coordinated with the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) on appropriate interventions to work on demand and supply reduction in coordination with other concerned agencies. In today’s graduation of 207 former drug dependents, Mabilog announced that the city government will make use of its intelligence fund to be used as bounty for high-value targets or those with arrest warrants. “Those who have no work, all you have to do is provide information of their whereabouts. Once they get arrested, the cash reward will be yours,” he said amid the applause of the graduates. The guidelines are yet to be drafted by the Iloilo City
Customs delists 71 importers engaged in illegal trade MANILA, Jan. 13 (PNA) – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has delisted some 71 importers and brokers found to be engaged in illegal dealings. In a press briefing, Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon noted that the initial number delisted have been found to be practicing illicit trade. “Sabi namin previously we would be delisting importers, brokers who practice illicit trade in the past 6 years,” he said. The BOC chief added that the records were reviewed manually since the bureau has no record electronically of the importers and brokers. But, Faeldon said they are giving the delisted stakeholders three days to appeal their decision after they have informed of the decision. “We would give them due process but they have 3 days to prove that they have not actually com-
mitted illicit trade,” he said, noting that “they have been informed already that they would be delisted.” Faeldon added, “We would remove them from our accredited importers. We need honest importers. So matagal na hanap. We have to inform the public we will not hide them.” The BOC chief explained that the reason why they
released the names of those that will be delisted, is to inform the public and not part of a “shame campaign.” “It’s not shame campaign because the public needs to know. They are smugglers. When you misdeclared your commodities and were seized because of violation of customs laws you try to smuggle commodities,” he said.
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard seize 58 pangolins, 14 boxes of seahorses and 1 carton of sea dragons at the anchorage area of Pier 4 at North Harbor in Manila. The animals, which cost millions of pesos in the contraband trade, will allegedly be exported to other Asian countries and sold there as aphrodisiacs. (MNS photo)
Ati-Atihan in Barangay Tatalon, QC: Participants, young and old alike, dressed in very colorful costumes, wearing masks and headdresses -- some of them had their faces and bodies painted with black ash to look like a native Ati -- vie for the best in Ati-Atihan costume during the celebration of the feast of Sto. Niño in Barangay Tatalon, Quezon City on Sunday (Jan. 15, 2017). (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
Bulacan mayors support Duterte’s all out war vs illegal drugs By Emil G. Gamos
GUIGUINTO, Bulacan, Jan. 12 (PNA) – Claiming that the effective all-outwar of President Rodrigo Duterte against illegal drugs has positively resulted in a significant drop in the crime rate in this province, the League of Municipalities-Bulacan Chapter on Thursday announced its full support to the Chief Executive in his ardent desire to rid the country of the dope menace. Guiguinto Mayor Am-
brosio “Boy” Cruz, LMP Bulacan president, said that mayors in the province have expressed their full backing to President Duterte’s war against illegal drugs during their visit at the Malacanang Palace Wednesday. The Chief Executive called for a meeting with the municipal and city mayors in the country wherein one of the discussed issues was how to suppress the illegal drug operation in their respective areas.
Cruz said that the no-nonsense crusade of the President against the proliferation of illegal drugs is also spilling over in the commitment of other crimes such as robbery, car theft and snatching among others. “Many towns and cities in Bulacan have became peaceful. The intensified operations of the police have also put the heat on drug dealers while thousands of users are surrendering or getting rehabilitated,” Cruz said.
PNP seizes P3.7-B worth of illegal drugs in six months MANILA, Jan 13 (Mabuhay) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said they have seized over P3.7 billion-worth of illegal drugs from 18 regions in the country during the first six months of their anti-illegal drug campaign. Data from the PNP National Anti-Illegal Drug Monitoring Center show that from July 1, 2016 to January 12 this year, more or less 95,000 sachets of shabu were recovered by all 18 police regional offices. A total of 8,581 sachets
of shabu came from the National Capital Region Police Office. Aside from this, more or less 113,000 sachets of marijuana were also recovered nationwide. The Police Regional Office 3 recovered the most number of marijuana sachets, with 111,350 sachets. The PNP noted that these figures do not include the illegal drugs seized by the PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Group and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.
Both have separate reports on these figures. The PNP attributes this number to the support of their members to the anti-drug campaign plan Project Double Barrel Alpha. From July 1, 2016 to 6 a.m. of January 10, 2017, a total of 2,217 drug suspects have been killed in 41,155 anti-drug operations under Project Double Barrel Alpha, the PNP said. Meanwhile, a total of 44,334 drug suspects have also been arrested during the same period.
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Duterte asks Filipinos to show nationalism by fighting graft DAVAO CITY, Jan. 15 (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte said Filipinos can stop graft and corruption in government by being patriotic and that it is time to fight abuses in government. In a speech during the 49th Annual Installation of the Board of Trustees and Officer of the the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. on Saturday, the President reiterated his pledge of zero corruption in government under his watch. “Dito sa graft and corruption, alam mo kayo lang ang makahinto niyan, hindi ako. Kayo lang talaga. The Filipino guy must be assertive,” the President told Davao City businessmen during the event in Marco Polo Hotel. “Do not be afraid of government employees even the military and the pulis if you are right. That is what I guarantee you now,” he added noting that if Filipinos want to help the government they have six years to do it. The public, he said, must be assertive in dealing with government agencies whether in applying for land certificates or clearing packages at the Bureau of Customs. Only the people can effectively combat graft and corruption because as president, he said, he cannot micromanage everything. “Anyway I think that we should have a respite from corruption. Ngayon, if you want your country really to grow, ayaw ko ng away,” he said. The President also mentioned his war on drugs, adding that after meeting the country’s mayors last week, he is arranging to meet the governors next week to warn them about getting involved in the drug trade. He vowed to eliminate illegal drugs in the country under his term. Telling criminals and drug dealers how the ongoing deadly crackdown will stop, the President said: “Drop your guns if you are a terrorist; drop the shabu tonight and tomorrow it will be heaven.” The President also reported about recent Mindanao bombings involving the Maute group, saying all suspects have been accounted for. One of the suspects, he announced is the son of a Cotabato mayor, who is now detained in Malaysia. There is good working relations with Malaysia and Indonesia in tackling cross border security and terrorism, he said. He also said he gave the approval to other countries’ navies to enter Philippine waters during pursuit operations. President Duterte also discussed the ongoing peace process particularly with the communist rebels and Muslim separatists. At the same time, he told Davao City businessmen that he has brilliant people in his cabinet helping him move the country forward. While he ensures peace and security, the cabinet members work on improving the economy and uplifting the lives of the people, he said.
Duterte’s martial law remarks only an expression of anger over drug menace – Aguirre By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan
MANILA, Jan. 16 (PNA) – Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday said that President Rodrigo Duterte’s statement on the declaration of martial law only seeks to show his anger over the illegal drugs trade in the country. “It is an angry expression of the President and the public and the media should not be surprised but rather be already accustomed to the mindset of the President,” Aguirre said. Aguirre said the President has clearly stated his position on the issue, saying he is against such move since it did not improve the lives of Filipinos when then president Ferdinand Marcos placed the country under martial law from 1972 to 1981. He said recent anti-drug operations, including the seizure of more than PHP3.6 billion worth of illegal drugs late last month in separate operations in San Juan City, has also intensified the President’s concern about the menace of the illegal drugs trade, adding this could be the reason why the he expressed such sentiment on the matter.
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OPINION
Majority of Pinoys approve of Duterte admin’s fight vs. criminality MANILA, Jan 13 (Mabuhay) – Most Filipinos are “appreciative” of how the Duterte administration has handled the fight against criminality, according to the results of a recent Pulse Asia survey. The survey showed 84 percent of the 1,200 adult respondents approved of the Duterte administration’s fight against criminality while 12 percent were undecided and four percent had disapproved. Duterte’s anti-crime drive has been centered on his war against illegal drugs, which is being linked to the deaths of over 6,000 suspects, either in police operations or summarily killed by suspected vigilantes and drug gang members. The administration’s anti-drug campaign has caught the attention of the international community and is widely condemned by human rights groups due to the increasing death toll. The results were based on the Nationwide Survey on National Administration Performance Ratings conducted from December 6 to 11, 2016. The results were released Friday. The same survey also showed that the Duterte government scored majority approval ratings in 11 out of 12 issues. It is only on the issue of controlling inflation where the administration failed to get a majority approval, scoring only 44 percent. The administration’s approval ratings in national
issues are as follows: Fighting criminality - 84 percent Responding to the needs of areas affected by calamities - 80 percent Fighting graft and corruption in government - 76 percent Protecting the welfare of overseas Filipino workers - 75 percent Increasing peace in the country - 72 percent Stopping the destruction and abuse of our environment - 69 percent Enforcing the law on all, whether influential or ordinary people - 69 percent Defending the integrity of Philippine territory against foreigners - 65 percent Creating more jobs - 58 percent Improving/Increasing the pay of workers - 57 percent Reducing the poverty of many Filipinos - 51 percent Controlling inflation - 44 percent Pulse Asia said the significant movements compared to the same survey conducted in September last year were only on the issues of pay hike, with a decrease by seven percentage points; controlling inflation, also a decrease by seven points; and poverty reduction, with a decrease by 8 percentage points. The survey has a ± three percent error margin at the 95 percent confidence level. (MNS)
Palace asks pro-life groups to keep an open mind on family planning
MANILA, Jan. 14 (PNA) – Malacañang has called on the various sectors of society opposing the Executive Order on family planning to keep a broader and a more open mind on government efforts to push for responsible parenthood. In a radio interview over Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella called on those who oppose Executive Order No. 12 to be more open-minded about the government’s efforts to ensure that parents can provide for their children through family planning methods. President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No. 12 last Jan. 9 “to intensify and accelerate the implementation of critical actions necessary to attain ‘zero unmet need for modern family planning’ for all poor households by 2018, and all Filipinos thereafter, within the context of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RPRH) law and its implementing rules”. However, the EO is being opposed by pro-life groups. “Ang panawagan po natin sa kanila is to have a broader and a more open mind, hindi lang po basta coming from ideology. Kailangan po siguro na magevolve rin ang pag-iisip ng certain sectors in society… na maging mas bukas sila at maintindihan nila ang kalagayan ng tao,” Abella said. (“Our appeal is for them to have a broader and a more open mind. Certain sectors of society should be more open and try to understand other people’s situation,” Abella said.) “We need to be able to be more responsible even with our faith. Kailangang mapakain din natin ‘yung pamilya natin, di ba? (We also need to feed our families, right?)” he said.
Abella meanwhile welcomed the United Nations Population Fund’s recognition of the signing of EO No. 12 as a major push for the country’s family planning program. He said that though President Duterte’s decision is unpopular among some groups, he has the future of the Filipinos in mind. “We have to appreciate the President dahil sa kahit na hindi po popular with certain sectors ‘yung galaw tungkol sa reproductive health ay itinutulak po niya dahil po ang pananaw ng Presidente is not just to serve the interest of a small group but to serve the interest of the whole nation,” Abella said. (“We have to appreciate the President because even if his decision is not popular among certain sectors, he is pushing for the reproductive health law because he is not just serving the interest of a small group, he is serving the interest of the whole nation,” Abella said.) “Unang-una, alam po natin, nilalabanan ng Presidente ang poverty. Hindi lang basta anti-poverty, but he also wants to have inclusive prosperity, na ang lahat po umunlad and kasama na po diyan na if women are empowered physically meron silang health, they can also contribute to the financial health of their families,” he said. (“First of all, we know that the President is fighting poverty. He is not just anti-poverty but he also wants to have inclusive prosperity. He wants everyone to prosper, including women. If women are empowered physically, they can contribute to the financial health of their families,” he said.) “We continue to encourage and we thank the Filipino people for supporting that and also the United Nations for recognizing the efforts of the President,” he added.
PHL enjoys strong confidence of China, Japan on PHL through large investment, aid pledges By Joann Santiago
MANILA, Jan. 16 (PNA) – Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III on Monday said the Philippines’ growth path got further boost following huge investments and aid pledges by economic leaders China and Japan. In a statement, Dominguez said the record-high US$ 9 billion aid and investment commitment by Japan over the next five years and China’s US$ 24 billion aid and investment pledge “make up the initial investment dividend from the President’s (Rodrigo R. Duterte) foreign policy rebalancing towards accelerated integration with our ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) peers and major Asian trading partners China, Japan, and South Korea.” “Also, such financial assistance from Beijing and Tokyo at the onset of this Administration best illustrate the international community’s deepening con-
fidence in the Duterte presidency that drown out the political chatter emanating from certain quarters,” he pointed out. The DOF chief said the President’s goal for greater integration with neighboring countries “will continue and will serve as a strong foundation for cooperation with our fellow members in the ASEAN as well as with Japan, China and our other Asian neighbors.” Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, during his State visit to the Philippines last week, said official development assistance (ODA) and private sector investments will be created for business opportunities in the next five years. In October 2016, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, who was among those who accompanied the President on his four-day state visit to China, announced that the latter will provide US$ 9 billion in soft loans, including a US$ 3 billion credit line with the Bank of China.
PHL launching of ASEAN 2017 chairmanship successful – Palace MANILA, Jan. 16 (PNA) – The launching of the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) last Sunday at the home city of President Rodrigo Duterte was successful, a Palace official said. “I would love to say that it was successful. It’s difficult to praise own deeds but it went smoothly and peaceful,” Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar said in radio DWFM on Monday. Andanar said all other ASEAN member countries -- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam have sent their respective representatives in the ASEAN 2017 launching at the jampacked SMX in Davao City. He said ambassadors from China, Russia and other countries were also present during the launching spearheaded by no less than President Duterte. “Foreign dignitaries appreciated the preparations of the ASEAN National Organizing Committee, including our PCOO office,” Andanar said. He said the objective of the Philippines as host is to further strengthen and unite the ASEAN organization to create big impact in the world in terms of economic growth.
“This year, we will focus on people-oriented projects, improve our health services, peace and stability, counter-terrorism, maritime security cooperation, climate change, inclusive and innovative-led growth and to help people to be productive through micro enterprises,” Andanar said. The ASEAN and its 630 million people are celebrating the region’s 50th anniversary with the Philippines as its chairman this year. “We will continue to promote the ASEAN resiliency, as model of regionalism and as big bloc when it comes to population and economy. And the ASEAN itself stands on three legs or three posts. First post, would be the political; second, would be the economics; and number three, it would be the socio-cultural,” he said. After the successful launching, Andanar said the ASEAN Organizing Committee will be headed to Iloilo City for another event. “There will be 112 ministerial mini-summits all over the Philippines that will be held in 12 different places including Cebu, Boracay, Manila, Davao and others. It will be spread across, between now and November,” Andanar said.
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PHL to host more than 100 meetings for 2017 ASEAN Summit By Kris M. Crismundo
DAVAO CITY, Jan. 14 (PNA) – The country will be hosting more than 100 meetings for this year’s ASEAN Summit, an official from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said during the 2017 Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Roadshow at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Saturday. DFA Office of ASEAN Affairs Assistant Secretary Ma. Helen De La Vega said that the meetings would be composed of two leaders-level summits to be attended by the heads of states of the 10 ASEAN member-nations and dialogue partners; 15 ministerial meetings; 31 senior officials meetings; and more than 60 working group meetings. Twelve areas nationwide were also identified as locations for these regional meetings including Metro Manila, Laoag, Pampanga, Legazpi, and Palawan in
Luzon; Boracay, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Bohol in Visayas; and Cagayan De Oro and Davao in Mindanao. On Sunday, Jan. 15, President Rodrigo Duterte will lead the launching of the Philippines’ chairmanship of ASEAN here in Davao City with the theme of “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World�. The country’s chairmanship for the summit also coincides with the 50th year anniversary of ASEAN. Moreover, the government will launch commemorative coins and stamps for Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN which will be made available nationwide. The “ASEAN Spirit�, the theme song for the country’s ASEAN chairmanship, will likewise be launched in the same event. Other commemorative activities for this year are nationwide celebration of ASEAN Day, ASEAN Youth Entrepreneurship Award,
ASEAN Biodiversity Heroes, book publication on “The Philippines in ASEAN: 50 Years of Engaging the Region�, ASEAN Women Entrepreneurship Forum, and tribute to ASEAN Founding Fathers. A coffeetable book on Philippine chairmanship of 2017 ASEAN Summit will be launched by February 2018. The government aims to further increase the knowledge of Filipinos about ASEAN integration through dissemination of information throughout the country. The ASEAN Community was formally established on Dec. 31, 2015 with three pillars such as ASEAN Political-Security Community, to enhance rules and good governance for the region; ASEAN Economic Community, to enhance integration and competitiveness of the region’s economy; and Socio-Cultural Community, to enhance well-being and livelihood of ASEAN people.
Over 100 cruise calls in PHL scheduled this year – DOT MANILA, Jan. 13 (PNA) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday revealed that total of 117 cruise calls with an estimated 86,000 passengers are scheduled to dock in the Philippines this year. DOT Asst. Secretary Maria Lourdes Japson did not mention the schedule for the calls but named the ports of Manila, Puerto Princesa, and Boracay as the most visited for midsized and large ships. The islands most visited for expedition cruises, meanwhile, include Coron, El Nido, Romblon, Kalanggaman, Limaswa, Cebu, Bohol, Hundred Islands, Siargao, and Camiguin.
“The growth of the cruise industry in the Philippines is remarkable,� Japson said in a press conference in Pasay City noting that cruise calls in the country recorded an average of 52.5 percent in the last five years from 2012 to 2016. Japson, meanwhile, welcomed the recent announcement of Hong Kong-based cruise line Star Cruises to have a three-month homeport deployment of one of its lines, SuperStar Virgo, to Manila for the first time. The 900-cabin SuperStar Virgo will be having a six-day, five-night cruise from Manila, to Laoag in Ilocos Norte to Kaohsiung in Taiwan to Hong Kong, and back to Manila from March
19 to May 23. Passengers can avail of an early bird discount of USD490 per person for cruise departures on March 19, 24, and 29, 2017; third and fourth persons can avail of an additional 50 percent off, USD245 per person excluding port and gratuity charges. Star Cruises President Ang Moo Lim said that Filipino passengers can enjoy the cruise visa free with “almost unlimited baggage allowance� At present, the Cabotage Law or Republic Act No. 10668 allows foreign vessels to transport and co-load foreign cargoes for domestic transshipment and for other purposes.
DavaoeĂąas perform during ASEAN 2017 Summit launch in Davao City: Young DavaoeĂąa beauties perform to welcome delegates of the ASEAN 2017 Summit launch at the SMX in Davao City. (PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan)
ASEAN 2017 hosting seen to put PHL in ASEAN, global economic maps By Leslie D. Venzon
DAVAO CITY, Jan. 14 (PNA) – As the government officially launches the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 2017 here on Sunday, its chairmanship can put the country on the ASEAN and global economic maps, said the country’s chief economist. President Rodrigo Duterte will lead the launching of the Philippines’ chairmanship of ASEAN here in Davao City with the theme of “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World�. “ASEAN is looked up as an important regional economic grouping,� said National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director-General Ernesto Pernia in an earlier interview. Pernia said the Philippines would push for more openness across countries
and national borders within the ASEAN; as well as freer movement of labor and capital, investments and academic exchange opportunities for students and professors. Ma. Hellen De La Vega, Asst. Secretary of the Office of ASEAN Affairs-Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), said the country’s hosting of the ASEAN summit should be looked “in a very positive note.� “We are the highest performing economy now in ASEAN. Other international economic bodies are very positive about the economy of the Philippines,� she said in an interview here. The country’s gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated to have grown 6.9 percent to 7 percent in 2016. It accelerated 7 percent in the first three quarters. De La Vega noted that the economy posted higher growth despite uncertainties
happening in other parts of the world. “I think we should not be distracted, we should keep on focusing on what is important and that is opening up our economies,� she added. De La Vega also believes that the ASEAN chairmanship can support more inclusive and higher economic growth. She cited Philippine thematic priorities for ASEAN which include a people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN; peace and stability in the region; maritime security and cooperation; inclusive, innovation-led growth; ASEAN’s resiliency; and ASEAN: a model of regionalism, a global player. “That is the ultimately goal really: the reduction of poverty. (This can be achieved through) support for the SMEs (small and medium enterprises) , ending all forms of malnutrition. “
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Trump nominee for state secretary grilled on EJKs in Philippines By Nimfa U. Rueda
LOS ANGELES — US Secretary of State nominee Rex Tillerson endured tough questioning about human rights – including extrajudicial killings (EJKs) in the Philippines – during his confirmation hearing in Washington earlier this week. Sen. Marco Rubio grilled Tillerson, the outgoing ExxonMobil CEO nominated by Donald Trump to be the US Secretary of State, about his views on reported human rights violations in Russia, China, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines. Rubio asked Tillerson: “Since President Rodrigo Duterte took oath last June, The Los Angeles Times reports that roughly over 6,200 people have been killed in the Philippines by police and vigilantes in alleged drug raids. In your view, is it the right way to conduct an antidrug campaign?” In response, Tillerson said the United States and the Philippines had a longstanding friendship and that it was important to keep that in perspective when engaging with the Philippines. “They have been an ally. We have to ensure that they stay an ally,” he said. Rubio replied: “That’s correct Mr. Tillerson, but my question is about the
6,200 that have been killed in these alleged drug raids. Do you believe that it is an appropriate way to conduct that operation, or do you believe that it is something that’s conducive to human rights violations (and) that we should be concerned about?” Shortly after the hearing, Amnesty International USA criticized Tillerson for not calling out governments, including the Duterte administration, for human rights violations. “After a day of questioning, Tillerson’s commitment to human rights in the US and abroad is in serious question,” Amnesty International USA executive director Margaret Huang said in a statement. “While he confirmed that US foreign policy should include the prioritization of human rights, he refused to acknowledge human rights abuses by known and long-recognized violators. “It is extremely (disconcerting) that a nominee for Secretary of State would claim that governments in countries like Syria and the Philippines with clear patterns of documented violations are not considered human rights abusers,” Huang added. She said Tillerson’s statements suggested that under
his leadership the State Department would not pressure human rights violators “even in the face of overwhelming evidence.” Troubling At the end of the hearing, Rubio indicated that Tillerson’s responses were troubling. Rubio told Tillerson: “I asked you about whether Vladimir Putin was a war criminal, something that you declined to label him as. I asked about China, whether they were one of the worst human rights violators in the world, which again, you didn’t want to compare them to other countries. I asked about the killings in the Philippines. I asked about Saudi Arabia being a human rights violator, which you also declined to label them.” Rubio said not taking a stand against human rights abuses had lead other countries to believe that “America cares about democracy and freedom as long as it’s not being violated by someone that they need for something else.” “We need a secretary of state [who] will fight for these principles. That’s why I’m asking these questions,” said Rubio, one of those who ran against Donald Trump in the primaries to be the Republican presidential candidate.
Wife of fugitive Chinese official pleads guilty to immigration fraud Case related to ‘popular’ EB-5 investor visa
LOS ANGELES – The exwife of a former Chinese government official has pleaded guilty to charges that she conspired to fraudulently obtain visas to enter the United States through the immigrant investor program. Shilan Zhao, 53, of Newcastle, Washington, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of conspiring with her ex-husband to commit immigration fraud by submitting false documents to federal authorities. As part of a plea agreement with prosecutors, Zhao agreed to cooperate with the government’s investigation into this matter. Zhao and her ex-husband – Jianjun Qiao, also known as Feng Li, 53 – were charged in a federal grand jury indictment unsealed in March 2015. Qiao remains a fugitive who is being sought by federal authorities. According to the indictment, Zhao and Qiao were divorced, but, in documents filed with U.S. immigration authorities, they falsely claimed to be married. The indictment also accused them of lying about the source of Zhao’s investment in the U.S., an investment which was required under the EB-5 immigrant investor program to obtain U.S. immigrant visas. Zhao pleaded guilty today pursuant to a plea agreement in which she admitted that she submitted false documents, prepared or obtained by her ex-husband, to U.S. immigration authorities
under penalty of perjury to support her immigration application. Those documents included a false marriage certificate and documents that purported to show the source of the money used for her investment. “We will continue to fight fraud and abuse in our immigration system,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “There is a lawful process that can be followed to obtain legal status in this nation. Those who attempt to undermine the system by fraud threaten our national security and compromise the attempts of other immigrants who follow the rules to lawfully gain entry to the United States.” In her plea agreement, Zhao agrees that $25,000 used to pay her bond can be applied to any restitution or other monetary penalties ordered in this case. Additionally, she agreed to forfeit her interest in several parcels in Monterey Park; a house in Newcastle, Washington; and a condominium in Flushing, New York. “Immigration benefit fraud is a serious crime,” said Joseph Macias, special agent in charge for HSI Los Angeles. “Not only do schemes like this potentially rob deserving immigrants of benefits they rightfully deserve, they also create a security vulnerability that could be exploited by criminals and others who pose a danger to our community. HSI will aggressively target those who conspire to corrupt the integrity of America’s le-
gal immigration system and put our nation’s security at risk in the process.” “The EB-5 investor visa program requires all immigrant investors to accurately document the source of their funds in their application,” stated IRS Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony J. Orlando. “IRS Criminal Investigation will take whatever steps are necessary to ensure that ill-gotten gains received in foreign countries are not fraudulently laundered through the United States financial system.” Zhao pleaded guilty yesterday before United States District Judge Stephen V. Wilson, who scheduled a sentencing hearing for November 6. At sentencing, Zhao will face a statutory maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. This case is the product of a joint investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and IRS - Criminal Investigation, which received assistance from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The Supreme People’s Procuratorate and Ministry of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China also provided assistance. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vicki Chou of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section and Assistant United States Attorney John J. Kucera of the Asset Forfeiture Section.
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ODETTE YNOQUIO’S RETIREMENT PARTY: Circa 1920’s Flapper Costume was the theme of the retirement party of Odette Leano-Ynoquio held at the Coco Palm Restaurant, Conga Room, last Saturday, January 15, 2017. Odette retired after working for 35 years as a nurse at Kaiser Permanente. Odette expresses her deep gratitude to all her supervisors and co-workers for their support. “I hope this is not the last time I’ll hear from you”, Odette says. “You can always connect with me via social media, text message, IM or even visit my house...If I’m there,” she adds in jest. The event was attended by Tiffany Ynoquio-Jara, daughter of the celebrant, Wilder Ynoquio, hubby, family members, friends and co-workers. The highlight of the event was the Tango dance number by Odette and Wilder. Photo by Jun Camacho
Obama bids farewell to nation in emotional address
CHICAGO, Jan. 11 (PNA/Xinhua) – US President Barack Obama bid farewell to the nation on Tuesday in an emotional speech that expressed hope as well as warning for the years to come. “Tonight it’s my turn to say thanks ... Everyday I learned from you. You made me a better president, and you made me a better man,” Obama told a crowd of some 20,000 in an hour-long farewell speech. He listed major feats his
administration had accomplished during his eightyear tenure, including reversing a recession, opening up a new chapter with Cuba, inking the Iranian nuclear deal, taking out Osama Bin Laden, promoting gay marriage and increasing medical insurance coverage. He named income inequality, racial division and political division as three main threats facing US democracy, and urged US citizens to accept their responsibility of citizenship.
Supporters chanted “four more years” and screamed “I love you Obama” at the convention hall where Obama delivered his parting speech. The event concluded Obama’s month-long farewell tour, which included speeches, interviews and featured video clips released by the White House. Donald Trump, who will take over from Obama on Jan. 20, is expected to hold his first interview Wednesday in New York City.
MHC urges Trump to support immigrant rights By Ben Cal
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (PNA) – Citing the unique contributions by immigrants that enabled America to become a great country, the Migrant Heritage Commission (MHC), a US-based nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization run by Filipino immigrants, has urged US President-elect Donald Trump to take three actions supporting immigration issues and racial diversity. “America is great because it is powered by immigrants,” MHC Executive Director Arnedo S. Valera said in an e-mail to this writer referring to Trump’s campaign theme to “Make America Great Again.” Trump will formally take his oath as the 45th President of the United States on Jan. 20, 2017, replacing outgoing President Barrack Obama. Valera and MHC Co-Executive Directors Jesse Gatchalian and Grace Valera extended their congratulations to Trump. The MHC officials appealed to the incoming US President to support three current immigration issues, as follows: 1) Comprehensive immigration reform. In 2013, a bipartisan bill addressing both legal and illegal immigration passed in the Senate, but fell short in the House of Representatives.
“We need to fix our broken immigration system through legislation, to make immigration rights a part of the nation’s laws,” Valera stressed. “Executive actions on immigration reform are a temporary solution because they can be discontinued by the next President.” 2) Re-authorization of the executive actions made during President Barack Obama’s administration, if comprehensive immigration reform is not doable in the 115th US Congress. Under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), over 700,000 undocumented minors, brought to the US before age 16 and raised and educated in America, were granted lawful stay and work permits. They now face the possibility of deportation. “Filipinos and Hispanics who availed themselves of this program have sought me and other lawyers,” said Attorney Valera, adding that “they are understandably scared, having risked getting out of the shadows and entering the nation’s data system. Because of DACA, they have a job and hope for a brighter tomorrow, but all of it could vanish in an instant.” 3) Extension of the executive action on parole visa of surviving Filipino and Filipino American World War II
veterans. Under this Obama executive action, Philippine-based single adults and married sons and daughters of surviving veterans with approved petitions are no longer under the quota system. Once their parole visas are approved, they can immediately enter the US with their families, as well as obtain work permits once here. “We are hopeful in this regard, because family reunification is very much in line with American values,” Valera added. Although as a candidate Trump had vowed to “build a wall” to prevent immigrants from illegally entering the country, as president-elect he toned down some of his statements regarding some 11 million undocumented, including minors who, brought into the country without official documentation, were raised as Americans and educated here. Many American families have immigrant roots. Valera noted Trump’s grandparents came to the US from Germany in search of a better life. As immigrant lawyer, Valera remarks: “We are encouraged by the statements Trump made after his election. Campaigning is over, it is time to govern. It is time to move forward and embrace the future with optimism and confidence.”
Brother of San Bernardino terrorist Pleads guilty in immigration fraud case RIVERSIDE, California – Syed Raheel Farook, the brother of deceased San Bernardino attacker Syed Rizwan Farook, pleaded guilty today in federal court in an immigration fraud case stemming from the investigation of the December 2, 2015 attack in San Bernardino in which 14 people died and 22 were wounded. Syed Raheel Farook, 31, of Corona, California, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit immigration fraud before United States District Judge Jesus Bernal. As a result of today’s guilty plea, Syed Raheel Farook faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years of supervised
release. Judge Bernal is scheduled to sentence the defendant on November 13. Syed Raheel Farook; his wife, Tatiana Farook; and his sister-in-law, Mariyah Chernykh, were charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in April 2016. All three were charged with conspiracy to knowingly make under oath a false statement with respect to a material fact in an application, affidavit, and other document required by the immigration laws and regulations of the United States, and to commit perjury. The indictment alleges that, beginning in late 2014 and continuing through February 2016, the three defendants
conspired with Enrique Marquez Jr. to obtain immigration benefits for Chernykh by arranging and carrying out a fraudulent marriage between Chernykh, a Russian citizen, and Marquez, a United States citizen. The conspirators allegedly made false statements in immigration documents submitted on Chernykh’s behalf. In addition to the conspiracy count, Chernykh is charged in the indictment with two counts of making false statements under oath in immigration documents and one count of making false statements to federal agents about the scheme. A trial for Tatiana Farook and Chernykh is currently scheduled for March 28.
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Lagman: SC TRO on contraceptive implants pierced ‘heart and soul’ of RH Law MANILA, Jan 13 (Mabuhay) – A lawmaker on Friday rued the continued implementation of the stay order issued by the Supreme Court (SC) on the use of contraceptive implants in the government’s family planning program. “While there is no direct injunction against the implementation of the RH Law, the Supreme Court has pierced the heart and soul of the RH Law by making the certification, procurement and access to contraceptives more difficult and cumbersome,” Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, the main author of the Reproductive Health Law, said in a statement. Lagman was reacting to a newspaper report quoting SC spokesman Theodore Te as saying that there is no temporary restraining order (TRO) stopping the implementation of the RH Law or any of its provisions. Te reiterated this in his Twitter post, where he posted a link to the decision of the SC Second Division in August last year keeping the June 2015 TRO it issued in favor of pro-life group Alliance for the Family Foundation Philippines (ALFI). In its decision, the SC said it could not lift the TRO because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to conduct a hearing on ALFI’s concerns that contraceptive implants, particularly the brands Implanon and Implanon NXT, have abortifacient features.
Lagman, however, said the high court “practically derailed” the enforcement of the law “so much so that by 2018 contraceptive supplies are expected to dry up.” “Supreme Court spokesman Theodore Te was splitting hairs when he reiterated that the high court did not derail the implementation of the Reproductive Health Law (RA 10354),” he said. Lagman added that Te failed to explain that the decision even expanded the coverage of the TRO to include the certification and re-certification of all contraceptives to be used under RA 10354, including those which have been “traditionally certified for decades as safe and non-abortifacient.” “All that is required pursuant to Section 9 (of the RH Law) is a ‘certification from the FDA that said product and supply is made available on the condition that it is not to be used as an abortifacient’,” he said. “The findings of administrative agencies like the FDA are accorded highest respect and adherence by superior courts because of the former’s acknowledged expertise.” The Office of Solicitor General earlier urged the high court to lift the TRO, arguing the registration and re-certification of contraceptive implants is under the FDA regulatory and administrative power and that the decision would have
Viva Señor Santo Niño in Barangay Tatalon, QC: Santo Niño is one of the most recognizable religious images in the Philippines. In fact, dozens of festivals for the Holy Child Jesus have been going on in many parts the country for ages -- the more popular ones in Cebu, Aklan and Tondo, Manila. Unknown to many of us, many barangays (villages) in the Philippines also celebrate their own feast of Sto. Niño. One is Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City which celebrated it on Sunday (Jan. 15, 2017) attracted thousands of visitors residents -- hundreds of them carrying the image of the Infant Jesus. (PNA photos by Joey O. Razon)
“dire consequences” for the public. “The TRO is a major stumbling block for the
government to reduce maternal and newborn deaths in the country, decrease poverty, and uplift the lives
of Filipinos by providing information and access on the full range of modern family planning methods,”
DOH: Region 9 registers high cases of dengue ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 16 (PNA) – The Department of Health (DOH) Region 9 has recorded 7,298 dengue cases in 2016, which was 3.09 percent or 219 cases higher compared to the 7,079 cases it has in 2015 across the region. Maxell Bermas, DOH Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) chief, said that last year’s mortalities have reached 39, which was higher by 56 percent or 14 from 25 deaths in 2015. Bermas said the main
contributory factor to the increase of dengue cases was the improper storage of water during the El Niño phenomenon in 2016. He said that clean water improperly stored in containers served as breeding grounds of dengue carrier mosquitoes. He said the cases of dengue was monitored through the assistance of government and private-owned hospitals in the region. Dengue fever is a viral disease usually affecting infant and young children. Aedes aegypti mosqui-
toes, which lay eggs on clear and stagnant water, are the carriers of dengue. The signs and symptoms of dengue fever includes: sudden high fever; joints and muscle pains; skin rashes; nose bleeding; vomiting of coffee colored mattered; and, dark colored stool. Bermas urged the residents to always maintain cleanliness in their respective communities to minimize, if not eradicate cases of dengue. He said cleanliness is one of the ways to eliminate dengue cases.
it added. The OSG also asked the SC to elevate the case to the 15-member en banc.(MNS)
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ENTERT Arci Muñoz not ready to move on after split with boyfriend Sorry, boys. Sexy actress Arci Muñoz revealed she’s not yet ready to date again following her breakup with longtime boyfriend Badi del Rosario, the son of Brunei’s Prince Jefri Bolkiah. In an interview, Muñoz was asked whether she is open to dating again after her falling out with Del Rosario. No, was her answer. She added that she is not closing the doors on the possibility of getting back together with Del Rosario. “I respect him. I do want to protect him. I want to take good care of him . . . And alam mo iyon, we’ve been together for almost four years, siyempre iyong pagka-kumportable ko sa kanya — siya iyong pinaka-best friend ko eh,” she explained. “So ang masasabi ko lang, kahit hindi man magkabalikan agad, or hindi man mangyari iyon, rest assured ako na alam kong magiging mabuti kaming magkaibigan.” According to Muñoz, her lack of time for Del Rosario, due to her numerous television and movie projects last
Arci Muñoz
year, was the main factor that caused their split. “Nung 2016 naging OK iyong career ko tapos medyo naapektuhan iyong love life. Ang sabi ko sa sarili ko, ‘Kaya ko iyang pagsabayin. I’m not like the rest,’ she said. “Sabi kasi nila kapag maganda iyong career mo, hindi maganda iyong magiging love life mo. Ayaw kong maging ganoon eh.
“Pero ang hirap pala talaga. Nung naging sobrang busy ko, nawalan ako ng time. Wala na nga akong time para sa sarili ko at parents ko, pati sa kanya. So naging mahirap.” Muñoz is one of the stars of the sexy spy comedy “Extra Service” with Coleen Garcia and Jessy Mendiola. The movie is currently showing in theaters nationwide. (MNS)
Kris Bernal stays with GMA-7 to remake Impostora Kris Bernal announced that she will remain a Kapuso and will star in the remake of “Impostora”, where she will be paired with Rafael Rosell. In her Instagram account, Kris affirmed her decision to remain a Kapuso by being with the TV network where her heart “truly belongs.” It will be recalled that there were rumors about her transferring to ABS-CBN. The 27-year-old actress wrote as caption: “My 2016 was a tumultuous one with plenty of unexpected results. I am starting off stronger! I know I am starting off on the
Kris Bernal
right foot! Starting my year right to where my heart truly belongs! Looking forward to 2017 with more opportunities and endless possibilities! Let’s dooo this! I’m more than ready! Happy New Year my sweethearts!
Ai Ai returns to Star Cinema Ai Ai delas Alas is looking forward to the new year after it was announced that she will be reuniting with Star Cinema for an upcoming movie. It will be her first collaboration with the ABS-CBN production outfit since she left the Kapamilya network, saying that she wants to start fresh. “Meeting with the bosses of Star Cinema with my manager Boy Abunda . . . It’s really the season of love . . . I am very happy and excited para sa 2017. New year, new movie. Wohoo!” she wrote on Instagram.
Ai Ai delas Alas
Prior to her departure, delas Alas and Star Cinema made several box-office hits together, including 2003’s “Ang Tanging Ina.” She was also part of 2012’s “Sisterak-
Sending you all goodvibes!!! #LipadKapuso2017” Impostora, a primetime series that aired in 2007, revolved around conjoined twins played by Sunshine Dizon and Iza Calzado. The two actresses played dual characters in this soap opera that also starred Luis Alandy and Mark Anthony Fernandez. Iza played the role of twins—the beautiful but vindictive Lara Carreon as well as the ugly and weakwilled Sara Carreon. Sunshine was cast as the twins’ wicked cousin Nessa Cayetano and also the character of Sara Carreon. (MNS)
as,” the third-highest grossing Filipino film of all time. But her ties with Star Cinema grew sour after she had a reported rift with the late director Wenn Deramas and questioned the box office earnings of “Beauty and the Bestie,” an entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2015. She has since appeared to have fixed her relationship with the production house after she was seen visiting the wake of Deramas and after she delivered a speech during the posthumous launch of a book about the director’s life. (MNS)
Gil Cuerva believes becoming Pinoy ‘Matteo Do’ is his destiny When Gil Cuerva auditioned for the role of Matteo Do for GMA’s 2017 adaptation of the hit Koreanovela “My Love From the Star”, he earnestly believed he would not get the part. “When I auditioned, I didn’t even think that I’d get it. I just really wanted to use it as a bit of exposure, so I can get my feet wet ‘cause I was a model,” Cuerva said. He was so confident of this fact that he expected to be in Thailand by this time to model- the profession by which he is known for in the Philippines and abroad. Today, he feels thankful for the chance to play the beloved role — and even believes that it may be his destiny to do so. “All of it came as a sur-
prise to me, but it’s something that I’m very honored and thankful for,” Cuerva said. “The show revolves around destiny and I guess in that same manner, it could be said that this, somehow, is my destiny.” Cuerva on Friday formally signed with the Kapuso Network to bring Do back to the silver screen. Veteran actress Jennylyn Mercado will play his bratty-but-sweet earthly lover Steffi Cheon, and the experience gap between him and his leading lady is not lost on him. Instead of being nervous, Cuerva said he is “embracing the pressure because I know that this is how great actors are made, when
they’re put under a lot of pressure to portray a role especially when it’s a lead role and it’s a hit TV show.” Playing the role popularized by Kim Soo-hyun also plays a unique challenge, but Cuerva believes he can step up to the expectations of fans as well as bring his own twist to the role. “I hope to live up to them but at the same time, I try not to focus too much on it because what’s important is my own expectations and my own feelings or how I portray the role of Matteo,” he said. The young actor expressed his thanks to the GMA Artist Center and Cornerstone Management, whom he believes will help him “flourish as an actor”.
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INMENT When losing someone becomes a blessing Every cloud has a silver lining. This is what singer Edward Benosa realized recently, finding inspiration to write songs following a break-up. “I wrote two: ‘Yung ‘Paglisan’ and ‘Why Didn’t You Stay.’ Nagulat na rin lang ako after I came up with them,” he shared in an interview. Now he believes he owes his ex-girlfriend. “In fairness, kung hindi dahil sa kanya ay hindi ako makakapagsulat ng ganitong mga kanta,” he said. Both songs are included in his debut album released by Star Music. Already out is the music video for the carrier single, “Puso Kong Ito,” produced by Dannon Clothing. The music video, directed by indie filmmaker Carlo Obispo, was among nominees for Best Video in this year’s Star Awards for Music. “I thank my director for that. Ibang-iba kasi ang atake niya, napakaganda ng kinalabasan. Napakaganda ng concept niya. Para siyang short film, may puso,” Edward related. Edward hopes he could record more of his original compositions in subsequent releases. “Mas marami akong song
Edward Benosa
na gustong gawin sa next album. Siyempre, para medyo iba na. Dito kasi sa album ko ngayon, ang daming magagandang songs na naisama so gusto ko magamit naman ‘yung iba sa next album,” he said. He believes he is yet to write his masterpiece.
“Hindi pa talaga kasi nasa early stage pa lang naman ako ng career ko. Ang hirap kaya gumawa ng song. Na-realize ko na kahit tapos mo na siyang gawin parang parating may kulang. Pero, I believe, someday I could write something na tatatak talaga.” (MNS)
Jessy admits talking to Luis about marriage It may have been the first time actress Jessy Mendiola referred to television host Luis Manzano as her boyfriend and partner, but that’s just one of the things she did that are headline-worthy as she also admitted that they are already talking about settling down. For months, people have been waiting for the pair to confirm their relationship— as if their cozy photos on Instagram weren’t already enough. On Friday, Mendiola did just that and even called Manzano the partner she would want to be stuck with for the rest of her life— if she had to choose. Asked if she goes to Manzano for advice regarding her life choices, Mendiola said: “Ako kasi, I always ask him. Palaging akong nagtatanong kung, ‘Ano sa
tingin mo? Ano kayang mas okay? Tama ba ito? Mali ba ito’?’ Ganoon ako lagi sa kanya and ganoon din siya sa akin.” Referring to him as her partner, she continued: “Kasi I think ganun talaga kapag partners. Hindi puwedeng walang say iyong partner mo kasi you are in this together. So whether it be his life or your life, dapat mayroon kang part doon.” Mendiola also admitted that she has talked to Manzano about marriage after downplaying suggestions that she is already engaged to the “Minute To Win It” host. “Of course naman. Aminin naman natin lahat kapag may partner tayo, palagi nating pinaguusapan iyan. You always hope for the best,” she said. (MNS)
Jessy Mendiola
James Reid, Nadine Lustre grateful for ‘perfect’ 2016
It seems things are going from strength to strength between reel and real life sweethearts James Reid and Nadine Lustre. Reid described his 10-month relationship with Lustre as “perfect” while the latter said everything went smoothly. They also agreed that 2016 had been a good year for them. “It has been the highlight of our career because it was the finale of OTWOL (“On The Wings of Love”), which I think is our greatest achievement. It was also the year that we became international because of the tour, the concert. It’s been a long year,” Reid said. Lustre also counts their travels as things she’s most
James Reid and Nadine Lustre
thankful for. “Ito yung sunod sunod ang travels namin and lahat ng pinuntahan namin super nag-enjoy talaga kami. Favorite talaga namin mag travel pareho.” This holiday season, both have work but are keen to spend quality time with their loved
ones. “Just time with family. That’s all we want—one night to sit down with the family,” she said. Reid added that there’s a lot to look forward to in the coming year and they are both excited, especially in the music department. (MNS)
Billy-Coleen wedding set in 2018 Actress Coleen Garcia and host-singer Billy Crawford are planning to tie the knot next year. Garcia shared details about her wedding set in the first quarter of 2018 during a blog conference for her movie, “Extra Service”.
Garcia and Crawford got engaged in December 2016 after dating for two years. The two got close when Garcia became one of the hosts of the ABS-CBN noontime program “It’s Showtime,” where Crawford serves as one of the mainstays. (MNS)
Coleen Garcia
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KITCHENOMICS
Turkey and Onion Meatball Kebabs with Yogurt Dipping Sauce
FAMILY FEATURES
W
hen al fresco entertaining calls for some flavorful inspiration, look to the fresh and abundant offerings of Mediterranean cuisine. Inspired by its coastal origins, traditional Greek dishes feature a colorful collection of fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes and grilled fare. Whether you’re serving friends with a themed event or simply enjoying a homemade meal with the family, delicious Greek cuisine is perfect for sharing with those you love. From raw to roasted, pickled to caramelized, the onion is one of the most versatile vegetables, and is commonly found among the many fresh flavors of this fare. Plus, when you cook with the mighty onion, you’re serving up a good source of vitamin C. The growers and shippers of the Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onion Committee and the National Onion Association offer the following tips about onions: One large onion, diced equals about 1 cup fresh and 1/4 cup cooked. Grill and saute onions over low to medium heat. This will bring out a savory, sweet, mellow flavor. High heat can cause the onion to taste bitter. Store onions in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place with minimal exposure to light. Keep peeled and cut onions in a sealed container in the refrigerator for seven to 10 days. For more tips and ideas to add flavor to your outdoor celebrations, visit www.onions-usa.org and www.usaonions.com.
Lentil Salad with Marinated Onions, Roasted Tomatoes and Olives Servings: 6–8 2–3 medium tomatoes cut into eight wedges 1 (9.5-ounce) jar whole, pitted Greek olives, drained 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 8 thyme sprigs, leaves removed Sea salt 1 1/3 cups lentils 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 garlic cloves, pressed 1 medium cucumber, chopped 1 (12-ounce) jar artichoke hearts, sliced 1/4 cup parsley, chopped 3 tablespoons chives, chopped 2/3 cup crumbled feta 1 tablespoon lemon juice Fresh ground black pepper Preheat oven to 400°F. On medium-sized baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange tomatoes skin side down. Add drained olives to pan; drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle with thyme leaves and sea salt. Roast for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely. Cook lentils according to package directions, approximately 20 minutes. While lentils are cooking, place red onion in small bowl. Pour red wine vinegar over onions and sprinkle with sea salt. Stir and let stand at room temperature while lentils are cooking. When lentils finish cooking, drain if needed. In large bowl combine lentils, marinated red onion, garlic and remaining olive oil. Mix well and cool completely. When cool, combine rest of ingredients with lentils. Serve cold.
Servings: 6 large or 9 small kebabs 1 tablespoon cumin seed 1 cup plain yogurt 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro 1 tablespoon chopped chives 3/4 teaspoon honey 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 pound ground turkey 3 cloves garlic, chopped 2 teaspoons lemon zest 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 large yellow onion, peeled and cut in thin wedges 1 green pepper, cut into 1-inch dices 12 cherry tomatoes Heat small pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds to toast. Stir frequently, for about 3 minutes or until seeds are fragrant and slightly browned. Remove seeds to spice grinder or mortar and pestle; grind to moderately fine powder. In medium bowl, combine yogurt, cilantro, chives, honey, salt and 1 teaspoon ground toasted cumin. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour. In second medium bowl, combine turkey, garlic, lemon zest, salt, cayenne and 1 teaspoon ground toasted cumin; mix gently but thoroughly. Shape into eighteen 1 1/2-inch meatballs. Preheat grill. On metal skewers (or bamboo skewers soaked in water 30 minutes), thread meatball, onion wedge, pepper square and cherry tomato. Repeat. Finish skewer with another meatball and onion wedge. Grill until meatballs reach internal temperature of 160°F, turning as needed. Serve immediately with dipping sauce. For mini-skewers, use 2 meatballs, 2 onion wedges, 1 cherry tomato and 1 pepper square on each skewer.
Orange, Mint and Onion Salad Servings: 6 3 navel oranges 1/2 sweet yellow onion, peeled and thinly sliced 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn 1/4 cup black olives, oil cured, pitted Vinaigrette: 1/3 cup cider vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup canola oil For salad, cut top and bottom off each orange so it sits flat on cutting surface. Remove peel and pith (white part) by taking sharp knife and running it down sides of orange from top to bottom, following shape of each orange. Slice oranges into rounds. Arrange slices, overlapping each other slightly, on large platter. Scatter onion, mint and olives over oranges. For vinaigrette, whisk vinegar with honey, mustard, cinnamon and salt. Slowly add oil while whisking constantly, until well combined. Drizzle vinaigrette over salad and serve immediately. Note: Any leftover dressing can be stored, tightly covered, in refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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MOTORING 2017 Toyota Prius c: Sportier styling with added safety technology January 11, 2017 – One of the most affordable hybrid vehicles on the market just added another compelling reason to buy for 2017. The Toyota Prius c, the smallest of the brand’s eight hybrid models, now comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense C (TSS-C) driver-assist technologies on all model grades. The TSS-C system, which had been an option on two Prius c grades for 2016, includes Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Assist, and Automatic High Beams. That’s big news, of course. But then, the compact Prius c has been a newsmaker since it joined the Toyota line. A redesigned front fascia, rear bumper, side rocker panels and blacked-out rear spoiler give the 2017 Prius c a big infusion of sporty attitude. All grades now also roll on standard alloy wheels. A Big Safety Announcement from Toyota Toyota Safety Sense-C is designed to help address three key areas of driver assistance: preventing or mitigating frontal collisions, helping maintain driving within their lane, and enhancing road safety during nighttime driving. Toyota plans to make automatic emergency braking standard on nearly all models by the end of 2017. That will put Toyota (and Lexus) four years ahead of the model-year 2022 in-
dustry target announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Urban? Suburban? Yes. One doesn’t need to live in a congested urban area to get why the “c” in Prius c stands for “city.” Yet, even out in the ‘burbs, one can appreciate the vehicle’s 158.7-inch length, which makes it a shoe-in for those “compact only” parking spaces located so conveniently near mall entrances. Thanks to clever design, the Prius c makes great use of the space at hand. The 35inch rear legroom and 17.1 cu. ft. cargo volume (with rear seatbacks up) let you take friends to the mall in comfort, and carry home everyone’s packages with ease. The bottom line is that the Prius c provides a lot of cabin space while taking up little road space. Smart packaging also makes the Prius c highly maneuverable, thanks to optimal location of the compact gasoline engine, transaxle and power-control unit. Locating the hybrid battery and fuel tank beneath the rear seat puts their mass within the car’s wheelbase, a boon to weight distribution and handling agility. The body structure’s high torsional rigidity allows the suspension to be more optimally
tuned for a smoother ride and more agile handling. The Prius c rides on standard 15-inch alloy wheels on all grades. A 16-inch aluminum alloy wheel option with P195/50R16 tires is available for the Prius c Four. In the city, suburbs or wide-open spaces, the standard single LED projector low- and high-beam headlights and LED tail and brake lights give you a bright road ahead. Exterior color choices like Absolutely Red, Blue Streak Metallic and Tangerine Splash Pearl may not be ideal for those in the Witness Protection Program. Prius c Hybrid Technology Toyota optimized the size and weight of its hybrid technology for the Prius c platform, but that doesn’t mean it left anything out. The system integrates a gasoline engine, an electric motor within a Continuously Variable Transaxle, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a power control unit (inverter), a DC-DC converter and a step-up converter. A hybrid control computer governs the seamless application of gasoline engine and electric power depending on driving demands and selected drive mode. The Prius c’s SULEV (Tier 2 Bin 3)-rated 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine utilizes an Atkinson cycle to help increase efficiency. By itself, the engine produces 73 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft.
Lexus LS 500 Flagship Sedan Receives 2017 EyesOn Design Award: General Manager Lexus Design Division Yo Hiruta (left to right), Chief Designer Koichi Suga, Assistant Chief Designer Kei Yamamoto, Chief Engineer Toshio Asahi and Assistant Chief Engineer Kenji Ootsuka celebrate winning the EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Interior Design for the Lexus LS 500 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Jan. 10, 2017. Photo: Joe Wilssens
Lexus LS 500 flagship sedan receives 2017 EyesOn Design Award DETROIT, Jan. 10, 2017 – With its radical new design, coupe-like silhouette and interior inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, the all-new 2018 Lexus LS 500 was named 2017 EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Interior Design at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit today. The EyesOn Design Awards are the officially sanctioned design awards for NAIAS. They honor the best production and concept vehicles making their worldwide auto show debut at NAIAS.
A panel of design leaders representing worldwide automotive manufacturers and transportation design chiefs from top design schools around the globe select vehicles to receive EyesOn Design Awards. Designed by Lexus Design Division in Toyota City, Japan, the fifth-generation LS 500 represents not only the Lexus brand but will become the new-generation luxury car embodying Japanese tradition and culture. The designers took the approach of starting from new, reimagining what a flagship should
be, as if launching the brand all over again. The goal was to exceed expectations of our luxury customers. “With this LS, our goal was to make the same sort of impact that the original LS made when it debuted in 1989,” said Koichi Suga, LS chief designer. “We’re very proud that the EyesOn Design judges recognized our efforts and awarded the best interior honor to the LS 500.”
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Palace on record low self-rated poverty: ‘Change has indeed come’
MANILA, Jan. 16 (PNA) – Malacanang welcomed on Monday a record low self-rated poverty rate, saying Filipinos have started to feel the change promised by President Rodrigo Duterte in the last May 2016. “Change has indeed come, and it is being felt by our people,” Presidential Communications Office (POC) Secretary Martin Andanar said in a press statement. For two consecutive quarters, Filipino families who considered themselves ‘mahirap’ or poor reached new record low, according to the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey last December 3-6. In the third month of the Duterte administration
last September 2016, the average self-rated poverty rate was 42 percent while in December 2016, it was 44 percent, both surpassed the previous record of 47 percent registered in 1987. “On the two-point increase in self-rated poverty nationwide, we take note the survey finding that self-rated poverty rose in Balance Luzon,” Andanar said. “We thus factor in stronger-than usual typhoons that hit Luzon towards the later part of the year which may have affected the perception of our respondents,” he added. Last year, typhoon Karen damaged thousands of hectares of agricultural lands
in Ilocos, Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON and Bicol while typhoon Lawin destroyed houses and crops and displaced thousands in the northern part of Luzon. “The Department of Agriculture has been providing assistance to those affected farmers in the wake of two destructive storms last year,” Andanar said. According to the SWS survey conducted on 1,500 respondents nationwide, the self-rated poverty reading “has been either steady or declining for nine consecutive quarters from 52 percent in December 2014 to 44 percent in December last year.
he would only declare martial law if “the country has deteriorated into an utter state of rebellion and lawlessness.” “Such headlines sow panic and confusion to many. We consider this kind of reportage as the height of journalistic irresponsibility,” said Andanar. Lagman, however, asserted that the media’s reporting of Duterte’s recent statement was “accurate” and that what was reported and quoted was “exactly what he said.” Aquino, on the other hand, said it is now “very hard to react” to Duterte’s actual stance on the declaration of martial law because anyone can now just cite any of his speeches, where in one he may have expressed support of it and disdain for it in another. He said he would instead
highlight that a survey by Pulse Asia released last week showed that majority of Filipinos disagree that martial law is needed to solve the country’s problems. He said, these figures are indicative of the Filipino public’s desire for new solutions to a broader scope of problems other than drugs and peace and order, to which the Duterte administration has given focus on. “There are problems there that are matindi rin o mas matindi pa. And ang mga Pinoy, when they said ‘ayaw na naming ng martial law, what that means to me is that people are looking for new solutions. They’re saying, ‘hindi ito ang sagot sa lahat ng mga problema natin—na kapag nagkaka-gulo, magma-martial law tayo.’ It’s not the solution that the Filipinos are looking for,” he said.
tayo sa simbahan pupunta, magdadasal and this really is another religious event na talagang hindi pwede nating palampasin na ganun-ganon lang,” Andanar said. “We’re all praying for everyone’s safety,” he added. Andanar meanwhile said President Duterte will not be attending the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump. He said that instead, the Philippines will be represented by its Ambassador.
“Ang representative po ng Pilipinas sa Trump inaugural ay ang head of mission or ‘yung Ambassador po ng Pilipinas to the United States of America. Customarily, ang head of mission po talaga or ‘yung Ambassador ang representative ng ating bansa,” Andanar explained. “Because this is totally a domestic event, mga Amerikano po talaga ang nandiyan para i-celebrate ‘yung inauguration,” he added.
“We shall not rest until the day would come that our people feel safe and secure in their homes and in the streets,” he said. Fighting criminality was one of the campaign promises of President Rodrigo Duterte, which he vowed
to stamp out in his first six months in office. The President, however, later asked for a six-month extension on his self-imposed deadline of three to six months to solve the country’s crime problem. (MNS)
can’t stop him from declaring martial law if he deems it necessary because of any threat to the “integrity of the country.” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar had blamed the media for “misreporting” Duterte’s martial law remarks. “Such headlines sow panic and confusion to many. We consider this kind of reportage as the height of journalistic irresponsibility,” Andanar said. But Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a critic of the President, sees the need to take Duterte’s comments seriously, saying “all freedom-loving Filipinos should start preparing to fight another dictator.” “Soldiers should also start reviewing their constitutional mandate,” he added. Senator Risa Hontiveros, meanwhile, said Duterte seems “so obsessed” with dictatorial rule. “I thought the government said it’s winning the war on drugs? So why is
President Duterte contemplating now imposing Martial Law as a response to the drug problem?” Hontiveros said in a text message to reporters. “Why does the President seem so obsessed with dictatorial rule when the majority of the people want democratic governance?” she added. Hontiveros said the President must be reminded of the latest Pulse Asia survey, which showed that 74 percent of Filipinos disagree with the imposition of martial law to address the various problems faced by the country. Hontiveros warned Duterte was only “courting the people’s ire with his threats of dictatorship.” “President Duterte must learn to trust democracy. Proper law enforcement, including standing behind the protection of human rights and observance of the rule of law are the best methods to protect the people from crime and illegal drugs,” she said. (MNS)
MARTIAL LAW
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can indeed point to thoughts of authoritarianism. “The image of this administration, with the strong, iron hand, very fierce, very harsh, it does lead to those thoughts of martial law and authoritarianism,” he said. Aquino is the nephew of late Senator Ninoy Aquino Jr., a staunch critic of former President Ferdinand Marcos, who placed the country under martial rule from 1972 to 1981. Duterte on Saturday warned he would disregard the Supreme Court and place the country under martial rule if the drug problem worsened into something “virulent.” The media reportage of Duterte’s statement bristled Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, who called it “misreporting,” underlining that Duterte had been clear in his statement that
SINULOG
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day, maayos po at peaceful ‘yung celebration,” he added. The Palace official noted the religiosity of the Filipinos who call for help upon Sto. Niño, especially when faced with major challenges. “We are a very faithful country at number one po ang Diyos sa puso ng karamihan. For majority of the Filipinos, we draw our strength from the Sto. Niño. Minsan pag wala na po tayong makakapitan, do’n po
PALACE
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leased on Friday, 84 percent or eight out of 10 Filipinos approved the government’s fight against criminality. Andanar ‘assured the public the government would continue to work to achieve peace and order in the country.
PIMENTEL
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Pimentel is the president of Duterte’s political party, the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng bayan (PDP-Laban). Asked whether he sees martial law being declared under Duterte’s term, Pimentel said: “Who knows? We have five and a half years to go in the Duterte administration.” “If all the criteria in the Constitution are present and it’s up to the President to do what is right for the country. A lot of things can happen in five and a half years,” he added. Over the weekend, Duterte said no one can stop him from declaring martial law if that is the only way to preserve the Filipino people and the integrity of the country. “I have to declare martial law, if have to, to preserve my country ... and the Filipino people.... Walang makapipigil sa akin ... wala nang invasion, invasion.” Duterte also said that the Supreme Court or Congress
Friday - Thursday, January 20 - 26, 2017
LOS ANGELES
THE US ASIAN POST
ASEAN poised for accelerated economic growth despite challenges By Leslie D. Venzon
DAVAO CITY, Jan. 15 (PNA) – The Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is poised to become one of the world’s largest economies in three decades despite challenges. “ASEAN success has been unprecedented… The once fragmented economies now form part of a thriving robust community projected to become the world’s fourth largest by 2050,” said Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
Secretary Perfecto Yasay at the launching of the ASEAN Summit 2017 here. Yasay is optimistic that ASEAN members will overcome various challenges facing the region, such as new concerns of security threats. “(These challenges) make our job not less complex, not less easy or not less difficult. And yet, we are now better prepared to embrace disruptive events that threaten the peace and security of the region with our solid
and unbreakable alliance because we as a region, as ASEAN, are committed to ride and surmount the quest of that wave called change, the ASEAN way,” he said. Yasay said ASEAN is an economic powerhouse with gross domestic product (GDP) now the third largest in Asia and the seventh largest in the world. The region has attracted around $ 120 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI).
PIA WURTZBACK
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tember. It gained headwind after she was photographed filming for the show with the other judges. It remains unclear how many episodes Wurtzbach will appear in. After the announcement, hundreds of fans flooded the show’s Facebook page, some
expressing their support and others skepticism. Some were excited for the new season to start, while others harked back to previous editions when they felt Filipina contestants were robbed of a win. So far, representatives from the Philippines came close to winning twice, back
in 2014 with Jodilly Pendre and 2015 with Monika Santa Maria. Both finished runners-up. Last season, Julian Flores finished in the top four. No premiere date for the fifth season of “Asia’s Next Top Model” has been announced. (MNS)
PEACEFUL RESOLUTION
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resource-rich West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). But despite the ruling, President Duterte has made efforts to forge closer ties with China stressing that a peaceful resolution to the dispute is the more logical solution. Abe acknowledged that “the issue of the South China Sea is linked directly to regional peace and stability and is a concern to the entire international community.” An estimated USD5 trillion worth of goods are transported through South China Sea shipping lanes each year, including more than half the world’s annual merchant fleet tonnage and a third of all maritime traffic worldwide. Japan, while not a claimant to West Philippine Sea, relies on the unimpeded passage through the disputed
waters that China is entirely claiming as its own. It also has a territorial dispute with China in the East China Sea. However, the Japanese leader said that he agreed to support a rule of lawbased peaceful resolution to regional disputes after a firm exchange of views with Duterte. “We agreed to elevate cooperative relations to a higher level to address not only bilateral issues but also to work toward a resolution of regional challenges,” Abe said. In the meantime, Duterte said the Philippines will continue with its efforts to advance the rule of law in order to secure the waters in the region even as it seeks to build its maritime capacity and assets through its collaboration with Japan. “As maritime nations, the
Philippines and Japan have a shared interest in keeping our waters safe and secure from threats of any kind. Capacity-building and assets acquisition and upgrading will be a centerpiece of this collaboration,” he said. The President said that they will fast-track the delivery to the Philippine of key assets already in the pipeline and the acquisition of new ones. “As we seek these new innovations to the Philippines’ capabilities, we will continue to forge ahead with our efforts to advance the rule of law in order to secure the waters in our regions,” he said. “I am humbled by this demonstration of friendship and look forward to working closely with Prime Minister Abe on all matters of mutual interest,” Duterte said.
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