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Vol. 6 No. 02 LOS ANGELES
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PNP chief Dela Rosa told to shape up
MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – Lawmakers at the House of Representatives on Monday urged Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa” to shape up and reassess his leadership amid calls for the beleaguered police official to resign. In a press conference, AKO Bicol Partylist Rep. Alfredo Garbin said the reported murder of Korean businessman Jee Ick-Joo inside the Camp Crame was the “height of ineptitude and height of disrespect” toward law enforcement, considering that it happened a few steps away from Dela Rosa’s office. Garbin advised the embattled PNP chief to change his demeanor and style of leadership. “General Bato has to reassess whether his leadership in PNP still calls for respect, (if) he still commands respect over his subor-
dinates,” Garbin said. “Second, the least that he can do right now is to conduct summary proceedings… then dismiss all those involved in the killings of the Korean national,” he added. Calls for Dela Rosa’s resignation came after Jee was reportedly abducted by policemen last year and eventually killed in Camp Crame earlier this week. Dela Rosa also came under fire for attending the concert of Canadian singer Bryan Adams the same day the Korean businessman was killed. For his part, CIBAC Partylist Rep. Sherwin Tugna said Dela Rosa should be given a second chance provided that he “shapes up” and prove that he “deserves the trust” of President Rodrigo Duterte. “He should cooperate with the See DE LA ROSA, page 12
Philippine National Police Chief Director General Ronald Dela Rosa, along with Cavite Governor Jesus Crispin Remulla, pins the Medalya Ng Sugatang Magiting to PO1 Ralph Marvin John S. Solpico, who was injured during an anti-illegal drugs operation in General Trias, Cavite, on Monday (Jan. 23, 2017), during the turnover of donation of patrol vehicles and motorcycles to the Provincial Police Office in Camp Pantaleon Garcia, Imus, Cavite from the City Government of Cavite on Monday (Jan 23,2017) (MNS photo)
PALACE VOWS:
NO WHITEWASH IN KOREAN KIDNAP-SLAY
MANILA, Jan. 22 (PNA) – Malacañang on Sunday expressed resentment over the abduction and slay of Hanjin executive Jee Ick Joo inside the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters in Camp Crame. “We are outraged by the abduction and slay of a South Korean executive inside Camp Crame,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said in a text message to Palace reporters. The Palace official assured that there will be no whitewash in the investigation of Jee’s killing reportedly involving rogue cops. “We will not tolerate corrupt,
abusive, errant policemen who betray the organization and the men and women in uniform who continue their faithful, dedicated and loyal service to the country,”
Hate crimes are still under-reported, says experts By Abner Galino
The lack of police training on how to identify hate crimes have resulted in the under reporting of such crimes nationwide. Brian Levin, criminal justice professor at California State University, San Bernardino, and director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, made the assessment during the New America Media (NAM) telebriefing on hate crime reporting on Wednesday (January 18). Levin said current national hate crime statistics are published through an annual report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). However, the professor added that “data is widely seen as flawed because it relies on voluntary participation from local law-enforcement groups nationwide.” “Some states like Tennessee fine local law enforcement agencies that don’t participate, while other states like Mississippi opt out completely,” Levin explained. According to the professor, while anecdotal evidence seem to suggest an increase in hate crimes in 2016, it may take some time for researchers to prove it. “We know Tennessee reported hundreds of cases of hate crimes last year, but neighboring Mississippi, which has the highest population of African Americans, reported zero,” Levin noted. “There’s obviously something missing.” African Americans have historically been the most targeted racial group for hate crimes, accounting for 53 percent of the 5,850 hate incidents reported in 2015, according to FBI data. While hate crimes overall are on the rise – increasing by more than See HATE CRIMES, page 12
Abella said. The Korean executive was reportedly strangled to death with his head covered with a packaging See NO WHITEWASH, page 12
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo are flanked by candidates of the 65th Miss Universe during a photo session at the Rizal Hall in Malacañan Palace on January 23, 2017. (MNS photo)
NBI continues to probe Duterte meets Miss Universe contestants Rizal Hall of the Malacanang kidnap-slay of S. Korean MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – Pres- the Palace. ident Rodrigo Duterte on Monday “I usually do not read my speechbusinessman met 84 of the 86 candidates of the es. I am not up to really but this By Jelly F. Musico
MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Monday said that they continue to conduct investigation on the kidnap-slay of S. Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo. This was bared by head of NBI task force against illegal drugs Roel Bolivar. Bolivar said the result of their probe on the case will be submitted to NBI Director Dante Gierran and Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II. ”We are preparing progress report for the information (and) submission to the NBI director and to Secretary of Justice,” he told reporters. Bolivar however refused to comment if they have the copy of the recording of the conversation between Senior Police Officer 3 Ricky Sta. Isabel’s wife Jinky and PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Group - Pampanga (AIDG) head SuperSee KIDNAP-SLAY, page 12
Miss Universe 2016 Pageant set to be held on January 30 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Shifting from his usual delivery of spontaneous speeches, President Duterte opted to follow the organizer’s advice to read his prepared speech during the courtesy call at
time because they told me that I must behave in my language, in the adjectives that I would be using to characterize or define your beauty, all of you,” the President said. President Duterte, however, still gave brief impromptu remark See MISS UNIVERSE, page 12
Vacationing Fil-Am impressed of Duterte’s war on drugs By Ben Cal
MANILA, Jan. 19 (PNA) – A vacationing Filipino-American “balikbayan” is impressed of President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s all-out war on illegal drugs to save the Filipinos, especially the young from drug addiction. Claudio Pedery Jr., a Vietnam war veteran and retired logistics officer of Lockheed Martin, one of the world’s biggest American companies specializing in defense, security and advanced technology based in Washington, DC, gave his impression and perspective during
an interview with this writer on Thursday. Pedery resides in the State of Maryland and at one time, ran for congressman at its 4th Minority District years ago but placed only third. He said President Duterte’s election last May “truly received the people’s mandate to rid the Philippines of its never ending criminality, corruption and drugs problems.” He added the election of President-elect Donald Trump as the See IMPRESSED, page 12
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‘Oust Koko’ plot figment of Trillanes’ imagination – Sen. Cayetano
Cayetano denies hand in alleged ‘oust Koko’ plot: Senator Alan Peter Cayetano holds a press conference on Friday (Jan. 20, 2017) at the Modern Sichuan restaurant in BGC, Taguig City to clear his name after Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV accused him of plotting to oust Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III as Senate president. (PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan)
Ex-Misamis Oriental mayor in Duterte’s narco list reports to PNP MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – Former Lugait, Misamis Oriental Mayor Willy Lim, who figured in the narco list of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, showed up at the office of Chief Supt. Agripino Javier, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10) in an effort to clear his name Monday afternoon. Lim arrived at the PRO-
10 headquarters with Misamis Oriental Gov. Yevgeny Emano and Misamis Oriental police provincial director Senior Supt. Sukarno Alvarez after a brief procedure at the provincial police headquarters. “The standard operating procedure relative to the clearing or delisting of his name will still be undertaken. In other words, we
Senate OKs bill regulating PHL food industry profession MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – The Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading a measure that would formally recognize and regulate the food technology profession in the country. With 23 affirmatives votes, zero negative vote and zero abstention, the Senate approved Senate Bill No. 1269, or the “Philippine Food Technology Act of 2017” sponsored by Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV. Trillanes, chair of the Senate Committee on Civil Service and Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation said that the bill would “provide for the registration, licensure, and regulation of the practice of food technology as a profession in the country.” He said that the measure is also relevant in honing and producing highly capable and globally competitive Filipino food technologists. His measure seeks the establishment of a new government body, the Board of Food Technology, which would “discharge powers and functions as the Board may deem necessary for the practice of the profession and the upgrading, enhancement, development, and growth of food technology in the Philippines.” He said the proposed board would fall under the administrative supervision of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). The bill eyes the creation of a single national professional organization through the Accredited Integrated Professional Organization (AIPO) to be recognized by the PRC through the Board of Food Technology. It also seeks a policy of reciprocity that would pave the way for Filipino food technologists to practice abroad, provided that we also afford the same privilege to the citizens of the receiving county. A person who wishes to practice food technology must now obtain a valid certificate of registration and professional licensure issued by the Board of Food Technology and the PRC. Trillanes stressed that food technology has yet to be formally recognized by the government as a profession despite its significant role to the country’s food security. Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said that the approval of the measure was part of the Senate’s efforts to empower professions and industries which directly help improve the daily lives of Filipinos. “By introducing reforms to the food technology profession, we help food technologists improve their indispensable service to the public,” Pimentel said.
will still be validating the claims of former mayor Willy Lim and will continue conducting our own investigation,” Javier said. “However, we are glad he (Lim) reported to us and manifested his willingness to cooperate,” he added. For his part, Emano expressed his all-out support to the PNP’s anti-illegal drugs campaign.
MANILA, Jan. 20 (PNA) – Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano on Friday denied allegations of Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV that he is behind a plot to oust Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and replace him as head of the Senate. “It’s a figment of the imagination of Sen. Trillanes. I don’t have any plans to get the leadership,” Cayetano said in a press conference in BGC, Taguig. Cayetano said that aside from the fact that Pimentel is trusted by senators and Pres. Rodrigo Duterte himself, he explained that he has “too much work”. “If Sen. Koko doing a good job? Yes. If perfect? No,” Cayetano said stressing that it was too early to judge his colleague. “Even if I do get to be Senate President, I have too much work that pulls me out of the Senate,” he added. Cayetano earlier said that he would gladly accept any assignment offered to him by Pres. Duterte and serve him “in any capacity”. Last December, Pres. Duterte said in an interview that he will be appointing his former running mate
and vice presidential bet as Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Meanwhile, the senator said the public should “expect weekly intrigues” from Trillanes. He also slammed his colleague for claiming that he was hungry for power and challenged him to resign if he himself was not. “(Trillanes) is making it look like I’m hungry for power. I can prove I’m not hungry for power by leaving the Senate now. Can he do the same?” To recall, Trillanes claimed Cayetano was leading some senators in the majority bloc in a plot to oust Pimentel which stemmed after debates of which senate committee should lead investigation into the reported bribery scandal involving some officials of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) which happen to be fraternity brother of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte. The Senate on Wednesday agreed to allow two Senate committees hold separate inquiries into the possible overhaul of the BI and the reported scandal. Senate Majority Leader
Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, who is also chair of the Senate Committee on Rules, moved to refer the resolution of Senate Pres. Pro-Tempore Franklin Drilon, SRN 256, to the Senate Committee on Civil Service Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation and the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights. The Civil Service Committee is chaired by Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV while the Justice Committee is chaired by Sen. Richard “Dick” Gordon. hhh On Tuesday (January 17), Trillanes and Sen. Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri had a heated exchange in the Senate after the former claimed that the latter was “whitewashing” the proposed Senate probe into the bribery scandal. Zubiri insisted that the probe should be conducted by Gordon’s committee. Chinese businessman Jack Lam allegedly attempted to bribe some BI officials with PHP50 million in exchange for the release of some of the 1316 Chinese workers arrested in illegal online casinos at the Clark Freeport in Pampanga.
Gordon on Php50-M BI bribery scandal: Senate ethics ‘There is intent to take’ panel to push MANILA, Jan 23 (PNA) home. It seems like there is man, retired police senior – Sen. Richard “Dick” Gor- an intent to take asporta- supt. Wally Sombero Jr. through with don on Monday said that tion,” Gordon told reporters could clear things up during probe vs De Lima he believed that the two in an interview referring the next hearing scheduled
MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – A senate panel on Monday said it will push through with the probe against Sen. Leila de Lima based on the complaints that she barred her former security aide and alleged drug money bagman Ronnie Dayan from appearing before the congressional probe into illegal drugs at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP). Senate Majority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, chair of the Senate Committee on Ethics, said the committee will be consolidating the complaints filed by lawyer Abelardo De Jesus and House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas, and Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali. These complaints stated that De Lima violated Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code by disobeying a summon issued by a coequal chamber, the House of Representative, to attend the said congressional probe. Sotto said that these complaints had “form and substance” because they happened when De Lima was already senator. He said that De Lima will have 15 days to reply to the complaints upon her receipt. Meanwhile, two other complaints filed against De Lima accusing her of culpability in the illegal drug trade when she was then Justice Secretary were dismissed.
Senator Richard Gordon questions former Bureau of Immigration officials during a Senate inquiry on Monday, January 23, 2017, on the arrests of illegal Chinese casino workers and the alleged bribery of Immigration officials by gambling operator Jack Lam. (MNS photo)
ex-officials of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) had an “intent” to accept the Php 50-million bribe offered to them by Macau-based gambling tycoon Jack Lam in exchange for the release of over 1,000 illegal Chinese workers. Gordon, chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, made this statement after the five-hour inquiry into the alleged BI bribery scandal involving its officials, ex-BI associate commissioner-lawyers Al Argosino, and Michael Robles. “Obviously they are hiding the money. They took it
to the unlawful removal of goods from where they are stored. Argosino admitted that he and Robles brought home paper bags which contained millions of cash but insisted that they actually “refused” the bribe and only kept them “as evidence.” Several senators including Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao among others however, found it hard to believe that their claims were true. “They have lots of explaining to do,” Gordon said noting that Lam’s middle-
on Feb. 7. During the senate inquiry, Argosino said that from the PHP 50 million cash, he kept only Php 28 million while Robles took Php 20 million. He said that the remaining Php 2 million was taken by Sombero for the release of the illegal Chinese workers. After reports from the media on an alleged bribery scandal arose, Argosino and Robles, and Sombero returned the money to Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Ombudsman, respectively on December.
Former BI execs’ story on alleged PHP50-M bribe ‘hard to believe’ MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – Senators on Monday expressed disbelief over claims of two ex-officials of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) that they refused the PHP50 million bribe from Macau-based gaming tycoon Jack Lam through his middleman, retired police senior supt. Wally Sombero Jr. but kept it anyway “as evidence”. During the Senate inquiry into the alleged BI bribery scandal, ex-BI associate commissioners lawyers Al Argosino and Michael Robles admitted that they brought home paper bags which contained millions of cash but insisted that they actually “refused” the bribe. Asked by Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chair Sen. Richard “Dick” Gordon if Argosino kept the paper bags, the latter said that he only kept them as evidence. Before the alleged bribe took place, Argosino recalled how he and Robles met Sombero in the City of Dreams Manila last Nov. 26, 2016 after the retired cop requested to discuss Lam’s case. Lam owns an online casino called Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino in Clark, Pampanga which employs Chinese nationals illegally working in the country. The workers were later arrested on Nov. 24, 2016. Argosino said he noticed Sombero had two paper bags with him and asked what they were for with an inkling it was a bribe. He and Robles
later decided to keep the paper bags as part of their efforts to investigate Lam. Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II, who was also present in the hearing, said that he was also approached by Sombero who tried to “impress him” and show him that Lam could give him “whatever he wanted”. Lam through Sombero requested Aguirre to allow the release of the 1,316 Chinese workers and vowed to pay back accountabilities with government and secure license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Aguirre, however, rejected their intentions. Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said that it was “hard to believe” that they just waited for Sombero to arrive instead of just leaving the paper bags in the restaurant if they truly refused the bribe. Meanwhile, Sen. Risa Hontiveros, questioned why Argosino and Robles decided to bring the paper bags to their homes instead of in the BI headquarters. Sen. Leila de Lima asked former Immigration intelligence chief retired Police Director Charles T. Calima why he did not immediately inform Aguirre about their counter intelligence operations to expose the two ex-BI officials to which he replied that their report was not yet complete. Calima was reportedly tipped by Sombero that
there were CCTV recordings and photographs of the two ex-BI officials receiving the bribe. Sen. Joel Villanueva said that he was “disgusted” by how Argosino withheld information from him during an earlier Senate panel hearing on the arrest of illegal Chinese workers in Pampanga he chaired last Dec. 7, 2016. Villaneuva stressed that Argosino established that the Chinese workers were illegal yet did not disclose about the bribery that happened. The neophyte senator said that because of this, he considered filing contempt charges against Argosino and believed he was liable for perjury for withholding information in the Senate. Lam was not present during the hearing. Meanwhile, Sombero was in Singapore to seek medical treatment and will return to the country this week, his legal counsel said. Also present in the hearing were BI Commissioner Jaime Morente, PAGCOR Associate Vice President Arnell Ignacio, officials from the Philippine National Police, among others.
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Andanar and Esperon attend Trump inauguration
WASHINGTON, DC, USA, Jan. 21 (PNA) – Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. attended the inauguration of United States President Donald Trump in Washington D.C. on Friday, January 20 (Philippine Time). The two Cabinet officials were at the US capital to witness the 58th Presidential Inauguration, with the theme “Uniquely American.” “The invitation was given by the long-time friend of my grandfather, US-Philippines Society founding Director Henry B. Howard,” Andanar said as he reiterated President Duterte’s wish for the 45th US President, “I wish the success of Mr. Donald Trump in the next four years as America’s new Chief Executive. He looks forward to working with the incoming administration for enhanced Philippines-U.S. relations anchored on mutual respect, mutual benefit, and shared commitment to democratic ideals and the rule of law.” Earlier, Andanar and Esperon had a series of meetings with American officials
and spoke before members of the Filipino-American media on the sidelines of the President Trump’s inauguration. Andanar faced the Filipino-American media during the Cabinet officials’ first stop in Los Angeles last January 17. He was asked issues about President Rodrigo Duterte. Other topics covered were the hosting of the Philippines of the ASEAN Summit 2017 which coincided with its 50th Anniversary, and a day-in-thelife of the President Communications Chief, among others. Andanar and Esperon Jr. headed on to Washington D.C. the following day, January 18, where they met Philippine Embassy Charge d’ Affaires in Washington D.C. Patrick Chuasoto and Migrante Heritage Commission Executive Directors Jesse Gatchalian, Grace Divina Valera and Atty. Arnedo Valera. On their second day at the US capital, January 19, the two Cabinet officials had a breakfast meeting with the US Philippines Society (USPH) headed by former Ambassador and Vice
Chairman John Negroponte, President and Retired Ambassador John F. Maisto, Executive Director Hank Hendrickson, Director Henry B. Howard, and Director and former Ambassador Thomas C. Hubbard. Andanar and Esperon told the group the plans of President Duterte in the next five years of his administration. Andanar and Esperon Jr. then attended the Center for Strategic and International Studies Roundtable Discussion on the South East Asia Program of the Philippines. The two secretaries likewise had a meeting with US Department State officials where they discussed the plans of the Duterte administration on the new leadership of Trump. Present were Assistant Secretary Daniel R. Russel, Deputy Assistant Secretary for South East Asia Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs W. Patrick Murphy and Philippine Embassy Charge d’ Affaires Patrick Chuasoto. Andanar and Esperon later proceeded to the Philippine Embassy for the US Reception Party to mark the Inauguration of President Trump.
DOT chief sees boom in PHL cruise tourism SINGAPORE, Jan. 20 (PNA) – With archipelagos in ASEAN to rival the Aegean, the Caribbean, or the South Pacific, not to mention, the year-round tropical weather and diverse and attractive destinations within short sailing distances, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo sees the development of cruise as a viable tourism product that could draw in visitors to the Philippines by the
bulk. During the Asian Cruise Dialogue held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), the DOT chief met with representatives of global cruise giants to explore this highly lucrative industry, which many consider a novelty. Teo first met with Paul Chong, Vice president for Business Development of the largest cruise company, Carnival Corporation, who noted that the Philippines
has a great potential in becoming one of Asia’s important cruise hubs primarily because of its strategic location. Realizing the huge economic impact of cruise tourism and to take advantage of the immense potentials of the Philippine islands, Teo presented the idea of a call to port of some of Carnival’s 101 ships in prime islands including Cebu, Boracay, Palawan, Manila and Davao and Subic.
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Miss Universe candidates while aboard the luxury yacht M/Y Happy Life on the way to island resort in Batangas on Thursday (Jan. 19, 2017) at the Philippine Navy headquarters in Roxas Boulevard in Manila. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
PHL foreign tourist arrivals at 5.39-M from Jan-Nov 2016 By Azer N. Parrocha
MANILA, Jan. 19 (PNA) – The continued efforts of the Department of Tourism (DOT) to improve tourism promotions has pushed foreign tourist arrivals to 5.39 million from January to November 2016. DOT Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. said this figure is a 12.12 percent growth compared to the number of visitors it acquired in the same period in 2015. “We now have 5.39-million foreign visitors for the first 11 months (of 2016)
representing a growth rate of 12.12 percent,” Bengzon said in a text message. He said the top three markets Korea, USA and Japan posted double digit growth rates and contributed heavily to achieving the highest ever 11-month production for the country. The Philippines also registered double digit growth for Taiwan, United Kingdom, Canada, and India. He further said that more tourists have entered the country through secondary gateways. “We have maintained the
momentum and continue to drive tourist traffic particularly to the secondary gateways,” Bengzon said. Asked whether reports that the Philippines has missed its target of 6 million tourist arrivals by end of 2016 were true, Bengzon said the agency has yet to get final figures. In 2017, DOT targets 6.5 million tourist arrivals by year-end through the staging of international events such as the Miss Universe pageant, ASEAN@50, Madrid Fusion Manila, among others.
US envoy launches English Access Microscholarship Program in Taguig Nat’l HS MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – US Ambassador Sung Kim launched on Monday the English Access Microscholarship Program at Taguig National High School in Barangay New Lower Bicutan, Taguig City. About 50 students of Taguig National High School
were given scholarships for this program. According to the US Embassy, the Microscholarship Program provides a foundation of English language skills to 13-20-year olds through two-year programs of afterschool classes and intensive summer learning
activities. “The 50 Access Scholars are now officially among the 416 current Access Scholars in the Philippines,” the embassy said. Over 110,000 students in more than 80 countries have participated in the Access Program since 2004, the embassy added.
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It’s not too late for PNP chief Dela Rosa to redeem himself MANILA, Jan. 22 (PNA) – It’s not too late for Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa” to redeem himself amid calls for him to resign, Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said on Sunday. Calls for Dela Rosa’s resignation came after a Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo was reportedly abducted by policemen last year and eventually killed in Camp Crame earlier this week. Dela Rosa also came under fire for attending the concert of Canadian singer Bryan Adams the same day the Korean businessman was killed. Lacson, a former PNP chief, said that he knew Dela Rosa personally and noticed that he had “changed” probably because of “fame or popularity” but was hopeful that if he returned to his old ways, he would be able to recover. “I think he would be able to recover,” Lacson said in a radio interview reiterating that the murder of Jee could serve as Dela Rosa’s “wake-up call”. “I don’t think it’s too late for him to recover and refocus his priority and avoid what is not related to police work,” he added, describing Dela Rosa as “smart, unassuming, and humble.” Lacson also stressed that Dela Rosa’s resignation would need an immediate replacement and that Pres. Rodrigo Duterte himself trusted Dela Rosa. “I’d rather give him that second chance because if he decides to resign or is relieved from his position, will the institution be ready? Who would replace him?” Lacson said. “His advantage is that aside from knowing his job, the trust the President has for him is very high. If he resigns, will the President be able to find a replacement he trusts to as much degree or magnitude? He said that the issue was not that Dela Rosa attended a concert but that the problems of his institution should be addressed first. “I said before that the number 1 problem of the PNP is the PNP (itself) so the solution should come from the PNP as well. PNP should prioritize internal discipline and everything will follow,” Lacson said. The senator, however, said that courtesy resignation was still Dela Rosa’s call. Aside from Lacson, other senators who thought it would not be necessary for Dela Rosa to resign include Senators Alan Peter Cayetano, Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian and Ralph Recto. Cayetano earlier said that he wanted to wait for results of investigation and believed Dela Rosa was doing a good job. Meanwhile, Gatchalian said Dela Rosa should work on redeeming the public’s trust. Recto also urged Dela Rosa to clean up the police ranks dedicate more time to “disprove his critics and to show that he deserves his continued stay in his post.” “But if you are not ordered to resign from PNP, then reform the PNP. Start with acknowledging that problems do exist. Then follow it up with an action plan on how to solved them,” Recto said. He urged Dela Rosa to also consider a major reshuffle and ignore the political patrons of officers. “Your motto should be: “Bato bato sa langit, ang matanggal huwag magalit,” Recto said. “The bad press you’re getting is due to bad cops. Thus, it can’t be solved by diversionary tactics but by taking out deeply-rooted reasons,” he added. He said the PNP should exert the same efforts in cleaning police ranks as it does in going after drug users and pushers.
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OPINION
Palace defends Duterte decision not to accept Dela Rosa’s resignation
MANILA, Jan. 9 (PNA) – Malacañang on Monday denied speculations that President Rodrigo Duterte is tolerating police scalawags when he rejected the verbal resignation of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa over the killing of a Korean executive inside Camp Crame. “I think they misunderstand the situation,” Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said in an interview with Palace reporters after Miss Universe 2016 contestants paid courtesy call to President Duterte at Rizal Hall. During his 55th birthday celebration last Sunday night, Dela Rosa reportedly told President Duterte that he will quit his post after House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez called for his resignation over the abduction and slay of Hanjin executive Jee Ick Joo. Abella explained that the President did not ask Dela Rosa to resign “simply because he understands that whatever has happened exactly speaks about the concerns that he had regarding crime and corruption in government institutions.” Abella also explained that the PNP chief cannot be faulted for the killing of Korean businessman inside the PNP headquarters at Camp Crame in Quezon City. “The individuals involved were not part of the PNP Chief’s team and these matters are exactly what the President has said that there is corruption in the institutions,” Abella explained. He said the people should continue to support the
efforts of President Duterte and PNP chief to address crime and corruption. Last Sunday, Abella assured that there will be no whitewash in the investigation of Jee’s killing reportedly involving rogue cops. “We will not tolerate corrupt, abusive, errant policemen who betray the organization and the men and women in uniform who continue their faithful, dedicated and loyal service to the country,” Abella said in a statement. Abella said the Palace is “outraged by the abduction and slay” of Jee who was reportedly strangled to death with his head covered with a packaging tape. According to news reports, Jee and house helper Marisa D. Morquicho were abducted by two unidentified men from his house in Pampanga on October 18 last year. Morquicho testified that the abductors told her that her boss was involved in illegal drug trade. Kyungjin Choi, wife of the slain Korean businessman, said the perpetrators demanded an PHP8-million ransom. She reportedly paid PHP5 million on Oct. 30, 2016 but did not give the remaining PHP3 million when the kidnappers failed to present proof of life. The Department of Justice as well as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) are now investigating the policemen including SPO4 Roy Villegas, SPO3 Rickey Sta. Isabel and PO2 Christopher Baldovino for their possible involvement in the kidnap-slay case of Jee.
Cayetano sees better PHL-US relations with Trump’s call for independent foreign policy By Azer N. Parrocha
MANILA, Jan. 21 (PNA) – Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano on Saturday said that he sees stronger relations between the Philippines and the US following the pronouncement of newly sworn-in Pres. Donald Trump to seek friendship with other nations while pursuing its national interests first. “We welcome the pronouncement of newly inaugurated United States President Donald Trump to seek friendship with other nations while respecting each country’s own national interests,” Cayetano said in a statement. Cayetano likened Trump to Philippine Pres. Rodrigo Duterte who continues to push for having an independent foreign policy that benefits their country. “We can see how, much like President Rodrigo Duterte, President Trump is driven by a strong fer-
vor of patriotism and nationalism. They both focus on having an independent foreign policy that benefits their respective people and nations,” the senator said. “We look forward to a stronger relationship with the US, a kind that will be based on mutual trust and respect,” he added. He explained that a truly independent foreign policy allows the Philippines to “craft its own destiny” with its national interest which will in turn improve the lives of its citizens. The senator meanwhile expressed hope that all US agencies will back efforts to pursue a policy of “mutual respect, cooperation, and non-interference.” He also offered prayers for the success of the US under the Trump presidency. Trump was sworn in as the 45th US President on Friday (Jan 20) in Washington, DC. In his inauguration speech, he vowed to put “America first.”
Increased funding college, vocational schools to benefit more Filipino students MANILA, Jan. 20 (PNA) – The Philippine government recognizes that tertiary education is an important component of human development. It shapes and equips individuals with high-level skills and knowledge that are crucial to national welfare. This is where many professional individuals are trained – professional individuals who possess the capacity to lead and support societies. However, not every Filipino individual has access to free, quality university education. Many Filipinos are still unable to pay for a college education and many provinces still lack facilities and manpower for establishing their own universities. Thus, to respond to these pressing needs, the government will subsidize the college education of around 1.8 million deserving Filipino students using an allotted budget of P61.4 billion for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). This represents a 24 percent increase from 2016. In addition, PHP8.0 billion from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is allocated for the Higher Education Support Fund. This supplementary amount will provide assistance to financially disadvantaged but academically able students enrolled in our SUCs (President’s Veto Message, GAA 2017 Volume I-B, p. 659). Many scholarship funds and students assistance programs will also be launched or continued in 2017 through the increased budget allocation of the government. One program is the Expanded Students’ Grantsin-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (ESGP-PA) which is granted PHP2.4 billion. This will benefit 38,719 students. The ESGP-PA aims to reduce the country’s poverty incidence by placing students from poor households into universities and colleges, afterwards, the graduates are employed in high val-
ue-added occupations, allowing them to earn and help their families rise from poverty. The ESGP-PA is initiated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). In total CHED will receive PHP19.6 billion for 2017, which is double of its 2016 allocation. Another one of its initiatives is the Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAP), which is given PHP6.0 billion this year. The StuFAP covers scholarship programs, grants-in-aid programs and student loan programs to finance the education of 463,000 beneficiaries. Meanwhile, P3.6 billion will go to the K-12 Transition Program. This will fund the graduate studies of 8,726 scholars, the development grants of 1,883 faculty members and the institutional grants of 125 beneficiaries. With increased resources provided for Tertiary Education, more Filipinos will enjoy quality college education. This will secure more knowledgeable and productive members of society, equipped with the skills to spur growth and innovation. Technical-Vocational Education: Employment Training Under technical-vocational education, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has been given a budget of PHP6.8 billion. The Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) is granted PHP2.4 billion to benefit 322,000 enrolees and 289,800 graduates. Meanwhile, the Special Training for Employment Program is appropriated P908 million for community-based specialty training.
‘Killing of Korean businessman is wake-up call for PNP’ MANILA, Jan. 20 (PNA) – Senators on Friday decried the abduction and killing of a Korean businessman involving some policemen and urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) anew to prioritize cleaning up its ranks. “This is probably the most unwelcome wakeup call for (PNP) Director General Ronald Dela Rosa,” Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said in a statement. “Director General dela Rosa knows that, and I’m certain he knows how to do it because he was one of those at the forefront of our no-nonsense internal cleansing of the police,” he added. Lacson, former PNP chief, said Dela Rosa should lose no time by “going hammer and tongs against all rogue cops who only care about their personal gains to the detriment of the entire police organization.” He said Dela Rosa should prioritize punishing these cops who took advantage of the intensified
campaign against illegal drugs under the administration of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte. “Priority must be against those who take advantage of the president’s all-out, mostly bloody war against illegal drugs,” Lacson said. The senator recalled when he was PNP chief and “really hit hard” on inept, corrupt and undisciplined policemen, regardless of rank. He said that it was also his way of acknowledging the sacrifices of the honest and hardworking police officers. Sen. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian, for his part, echoed Lacson, and urged Dela Rosa to identify and remove corrupt police officers through mounting a so-called “police purification campaign.” Gatchalian, an ally of Pres. Duterte, stressed that the success or failure of this administration’s anti-crime campaign will depend on Dela Rosa’s ability to redeem the public’s trust in the police force.
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Landslides, floods further threaten eastern PHL By Catherine J. Teves
MANILA, Jan. 21 (PNA) – More rough sailing is possible in Eastern Visayas, Caraga region and other eastern areas of Visayas and Mindanao that are already reeling from this month’s rain-induced landslides and floods. Expected near- to above-normal rainfall this February and March can trigger new landslides and flash floods in those areas and other parts in the country’s eastern seaboard despite waning prospects for the rain-driving La NiĂąa phenomenon’s full-blown development, said the state weather bureau, PAGASA. “Those areas can experience La NiĂąa-like conditions so communities concerned must prepare
for such possibility,â€? said weather specialist Rusy Abastillas. According to PAGASA, most of the country’s eastern seaboard has Type II climate that has no dry season but is marked by a very pronounced maximum rain period from December to February. “Very wet weather is normal in the eastern seaboard during this time of the year,â€? Abastillas said. Even if La NiĂąa isn’t fullblown, she said rain there in the next two months can be more intense than normal. The La NiĂąa and El NiĂąo phenomena are the cold and warm phases of the El NiĂąo-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, respectively, said experts.
They said ENSO is characterized by temperature fluctuations between the ocean and atmosphere in east-central Equatorial Pacific. Among La NiĂąa’s impacts is above-normal rain. A study said several days’ downpour possibly helped trigger the largescale February 2006 landslide in Guinsaugon village in Eastern Visayas’ Southern Leyte province, resulting in about 1,221 fatalities. The bureau declared a weak La NiĂąa that year, Abastillas recalled. “People must be aware of La NiĂąa’s possible impacts,â€? she said. Earlier, PAGASA said oceanic and atmospheric indicators reached weak or borderline La NiĂąa levels in
Floods displace 22,000 families in Lanao Sur, Maguindanao low-lying towns
October 2016. Prospects for a weak La NiĂąa’s full development remain dim. Among the latest international forecasts is La NiĂąa’s transition to ENSO-neutral condition around next month, PAGASA reported this week. Even if such transition occurs, experts said La NiĂąa’s impacts can still linger for some time. The bureau expects above-normal rainfall to last until around March this year. The northeast monsoon or ‘amihan’ thunderstorms, low-pressure areas, tail-end of a cold front and tropical cyclones are rain-driving weather systems that can affect the country from February to July this year, PAGASA added.
DATU MONTAWAL, Maguindanao, Jan. 20 (PNA) – At least 22,000 families have been affected by floods in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur following torrential rains brought about by inclement weather in Mindanao, disaster officials said Friday. Myrna Jocelyn Henry, speaking for Humanitarian Emergency Action and Response Team (HEART) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), said the floods have affected 16,145 families in eight municipalities of Lanao del Sur and more than 8,000 families in two Maguindanao flood-prone towns. Henry said water level started to rise in 11 of 12 villages of Datu Montawal since Wednesday affecting 2,658 families while 4,290 families were displaced by floods in Pagalungan town’s four villages. Henry said the about 2,000 families in Datu Montawal were moved to the sides of national highway in Barangay Bulit and Pagagawan after water level rose neck-high Thursday evening. Some families refused to leave homes, saying the water level may recede anyway when rain stopped. “We prefer to stay home, we have been in this situation in the past,� said Sulambai Salman, a resident of Barangay Kudal, Pagalungan, Maguindanao. “It would be a hassle for us to bring out our valuables then we return the next day, we just wait for the water to recede may be tomorrow or the next day,� Salman, whose house is beside the elevated national highway, said. Henry said initial relief operation was conducted by ARMM social welfare department. More relief aids are coming Saturday and Sunday.
Farm output declines 1.11% in Q4 2016 due to typhoons By Leslie D. Venzon
MANILA, Jan. 20 (PNA) – The agriculture sector contracted by 1.11 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016 due to devastation brought about by typhoons, bringing the 2016 growth at negative 1.25 percent. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Friday said the destructive effects
of typhoons “Karen� and “Lawin� pulled down production in the crops and fisheries subsectors. The crops subsector, contributing 50.98 percent to the total agricultural production, posted a 2.62-percent decline in output in October to December quarter. Palay and corn production contracted by 3.62 per-
cent and 0.15 percent, respectively. Output in the fisheries subsector also declined by 2.95 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016. It shared 16.14 percent to the total agricultural output. The PSA said the livestock and poultry subsectors, however, posted output increments during the peri-
od. The livestock subsector, accounting for 17.85 percent of the total agricultural output, expanded by 3.41 percent. All components of the subsector posted output increments. The poultry subsector produced 1 percent more output. It shared 15.03 percent in the total agricultural output during the period.
Pinol says 600,000 hectares for coconut needed to meet increasing demand By Digna D. Banzon
DARONG, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Jan. 20 (PNA) – Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Pinol on Friday said farmers need to develop 600,000 hectares for coconut to meet ever increasing demand for the product. Gracing on Friday the opening of the Diamond Processing Plant of Franklin Baker Company, Inc. in Darong, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Pinol assured coconut industry leaders on government’s support to priority crops like coconut.
Pinol said current statistics show that four million coconut trees in the country are already unproductive while some infested with diseases like the cocolisap. “Our number two rank in the world as coconut producer may slide down further if we do not start replanting now,� he said. There is a need to replace the old slow bearing trees with new ones and the only way to encourage our farmers to plant coconuts is to give them good price,� he said.
He acknowledged the support of Franklin Baker to the farmers as it continuously buys their coconut produce. While coconut concerns fall under the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), he said the DA will provide support in areas that they can collaborate. He said there could be changes on the set-up “and we are awaiting the direction of the President.� Pinol invited Franklin Baker to be part of the government initiated trade mission to Russia by the
middle of this year, and also in May in the Middle East, saying the company should participate in major trade and investment missions abroad. Meanwhile, Pinol said that they will focus their programs on the basics of sustainable agriculture, adding that they already completed the First National Color Coded Agriculture Guide Map. He said this will guide the farmers on what crops to grow in their farms and what fertilizer to apply.
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Farm output declines 1.11% in Q4 2016 due to typhoons By Leslie D. Venzon
MANILA, Jan. 20 (PNA) – The agriculture sector contracted by 1.11 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016 due to devastation brought about by typhoons, bringing the 2016 growth at negative 1.25 percent. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Friday said the destructive effects of typhoons “Karen� and “Lawin� pulled down production in the crops and fisheries subsectors. The crops subsector, contributing 50.98 percent to the total agricultural production, posted a 2.62-percent decline in output in October to December quarter. Palay and corn production contracted by 3.62
percent and 0.15 percent, respectively. Output in the fisheries subsector also declined by 2.95 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016. It shared 16.14 percent to the total agricultural output. The PSA said the livestock and poultry subsectors, however, posted output increments during the period. The livestock subsector, accounting for 17.85 percent of the total agricultural output, expanded by 3.41 percent. All components of the subsector posted output increments. The poultry subsector produced 1 percent more output. It shared 15.03 percent in the total agricultural output during the period.
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UTREACH Floods and 34-foot waves hit California, tornadoes in South
MOSCOW, Jan. 24 (PNA/Sputnik) – Both the east and west coasts of the United States saw extreme weather events over the weekend, as widespread storms and floods occurred in California, and tornadoes in the South with at least 23 deaths reported. Thunderstorms, hail, strong winds, and flooding all resulted from a winter storm that struck Southern California with at least four people killed. The National Weather Service warned California residents to be ready for the biggest storm in years. Rain and strong waves have claimed the lives of three people in San Diego and Los Angeles Counties, while firefighters launched rescues for those trapped by surging waters. A falling oak killed a woman in Mendocino County. Winds in excess of 60 mph were reported just above Los Angeles in nearby Santa Barbara County while in Orange County, roads were flooded and trees were toppled by heavy rain. Sunday rainfall in Long Beach and Los Angeles broke single-day records. The Northern California coast recorded monstrous waves, the tallest of which was an astonishing 34.12 feet. The previous record for Monterey Bay, the location of the giant waves, was 32.8 feet. “This was easily the biggest day [for surfing] I’ve ever seen,” said local man Don Dianda to SFGate. “The beach was completely gone & the ocean surge generated by large sets forced me to retreat 100 yards up the trail.” Suzanne Sims of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said the powerful waves were created from a large Pacific storm pushing strong winds toward the coast. The waves were so strong that the SS Palo Alto, a hundred-year-old concrete ship converted into a marine life habitat and tourist attraction, had its stern torn off. Across the country, similar dangers played out as storms and tornadoes tore through Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina. There are reports of 19 deaths, with 15 in Georgia alone. A pair of tornadoes were the culprits, shattering windows and battering homes. Jenny Bullard, a woman from Cook County, Georgia, told AP that the tornadoes collapsed her house into itself. Willard was not injured, nor were her parents, but her father was briefly buried under debris. Their home, as well as a shed filled with farming equipment and two grain silos, were destroyed. “It’s a horrible tragedy. But all this stuff can be replaced,” she said. “We can’t replace each other. We’re extremely lucky. My dad is lucky to be alive.”
Trump signs executive order to withdraw U.S. from TPP WASHINGTON, Jan. 24 (PNA/Xinhua) – U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order to officially withdraw U.S. from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal. Trump called the move “a great thing for the American workers,” local media reported. “We’ve been talking about this for a long time,” Trump said as he signed the order. The TPP, a free trade pact between 12 Asia-Pacific countries, was formally signed by ministers from these 12 countries last February after more than five years of negotiation. Trump’s action on Monday was considered as a symbolic move, as the U.S. Congress has not approved the deal yet. However, the move indicated that the new administration is actually shifting trade policies from previous U.S. norms.
According to the trade strategy put forward by the Trump administration, the strategy starts by withdrawing from the TPP and renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The White House also said it will pursue trade deals which are in the interests of American workers and crack down on nations that violate trade agreements and harm American workers. During his election campaign, Trump promised to never sign massive trade agreements like the TPP, which he said would “destroy” U.S. manufacturing. He also vowed to renegotiate NAFTA and threatened to levy hefty tariffs on Mexico. Trump said on Sunday that he would soon meet leaders of Mexico and Canada to discuss the renegotiation of NAFTA.
PHL Embassy, Filipino community reaffirm enduring PHL-US ties on eve of Trump’s inauguration MANILA, Jan. 21 (PNA) – The ties between the United States and the Philippines is expected to bolster during US President Donald Trump administration. “We view transitions as opportunities to further relations. The US and the Philippines are treaty allies and we are ready to work on bolstering this alliance on the basis of sovereign equality and mutual respect. We believe friends help each other and utilize constructive engagement to achieve common goals of greater peace, progress and prosperity. We hope that the close ties between the Philippines and the US will continue to be strengthened in pursuit of common objectives, mutual interest and shared commitment to world peace,” said Minister Patrick A. Ch-
uasoto, Chargé d’Affaires and interim of the Philippine Embassy, in his welcome remarks at a reception marking the inauguration of US President-elect Donald J. Trump. The reception was held at the Embassy’s Chancery Annex Building on Jan. 19, 2017, a day before Mr. Trump would be sworn in as the 45th President of the United States of America. Most of the more than 120 attendees are Filipino-Americans from different parts of the US who traveled to Washington, D.C. to witness the historic event. “The Filipino diaspora has a lot to account for the strong people-to-people ties that bind the Philippines and the US…. It is in this context that Filipino-Americans continue to be an important bridge between our two countries.
Powerful storm lashes U.S. California
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 24 (PNA/Xinhua) – A powerful winter storm system hit the U.S. state of California, breaking rainfall record, forcing evacuations, creating dangerous conditions on roads and raising concerns about damaging mudslides. At least four people died, and three were missing after the storm system triggered raging floodwaters over three days, according to local media reports. Flash flood watches were issued for southern California through late Monday, with hail and thunderstorms forecast, the National Weather Service (NWS)
reported. Heavy rain could generate flash flooding and mud and debris flows, especially in and around recent burn areas, according to the NWS. Evacuation orders were lifted Monday morning, affecting hundreds of homes below hillsides scarred by wildfires in this area. About 9,000 Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) customers were without electricity Monday morning as a result of storm-related damages, California City News reported. “The most frequent causes of power outages during heavy rain storms
are downed trees, dried palm fronds, tree branches from trees on both private and public property falling and making contact with power lines,” according to an LADWP statement. Flood watches and warnings remained in place for much of Southern California. The strong storm system in the region has prompted several freeway and streets closures due to flooding. Commuters in the region faced a messy drive to work. Images, videos on social media platforms showed residents in Long Beach were kayaking through flooded streets and car being washed
away by floodwaters. NWS had warned that the storm system on Sunday could be the strongest since 2010. According to Los Angeles International Airport, a record of 2.94 inches was established, beating the record set in 1983 by a full inch. An all-time rainfall record of of 3.97 inches was set at Long Beach Airport on Sunday, beating the record of 3.75 inches set Jan. 4, 1995. Along the coast, high surf was rolling ashore and generated by storms over recent days will continue to batter beaches through Tuesday, NWS forecasters said.
White House says SCE files plan for expanding electric transportation fication must play if Califor- tivize EV adoption. This U.S. will defend Plan aims to reduce nia is to succeed in reducing attractive rate option for emissions from goods air pollution and greenhouse EV owners would eliminate int’l territories gases. Electric vehicles cur- demand charges during an movement industry, in S. China Sea rently reduce greenhouse introductory period and passenger vehicles
WASHINGTON, Jan. 24 (PNA/Kyodo) – The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday said it would “defend international waters” in the South China Sea to counter Beijing’s island construction and military buildup in contested parts of the waterway. “I think areas in the South China Sea that are part of international waters and international activities, I think the U.S. is going to make sure that we protect our interests there,” White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer said at a news briefing. “It’s a question of if those islands are in fact in international waters and not part of China proper, then yes, we’re going to make sure that we defend international territories from being taken over by one country,” Spicer said.
PHL, China confirm cooperation programs worth $3.7-B BEIJING, Jan. 24 (PNA/ Xinhua) – China and the Philippines have confirmed cooperation programs worth USD3.7 billion, during a meeting held in Beijing, a senior Chinese official said Monday. “The cooperation projects, which are the first batch, on improving people’s living standards now only need a series of bank-related procedures,” said Gao Hucheng, China’s commerce minister, after a meeting between the Philippine cabinet delegation and Chinese officials. The meeting was held to implement the results and consensus agreed by the two countries’ leaders in October 2016. The Philippine delegation are on a two-day visit to China, which started Monday. Gao said earlier Monday that the two sides had basically reached agreement about the implementing process and rules, and that he expected the two sides to sign the agreement before the delegation left Beijing. Gao said the document would help ensure smooth, efficient, fair and transparent cooperation between the two countries in the fields of infrastructure, transport, highways, telecommunications, railways, irrigation and living standards. He said that the six-year development plan for the two countries was nearly finalized, adding that he expected it to be signed next month in Manila.
ROSEMEAD, Calif., Jan. 23, 2017 — Southern California Edison, a leader in the transformation of the energy sector, has filed with the California Public Utilities Commission a wide-ranging plan for expanding electric transportation in its service area. Consistent with SCE’s longstanding role in supporting electric transportation, the plan aims to increase electrification of cars, buses, medium- and heavy-duty trucks and industrial vehicles and equipment. “This filing lays out a clear plan to accelerate the adoption of electric transportation, which is critical to California achieving its climate change and environmental goals,” said SCE President Ron Nichols. “The benefits of electric vehicles are growing, but barriers to their adoption still exist — and utilities and other market participants have a clear role to play in overcoming those barriers.” In addition to innovative programs for passenger vehicle adoption, the plan is tailored to Southern California, where 40 percent of the goods entering the nation are moved through the region’s ports and over its highways. This immense goods movement industry is crucial to the state and local economy, but it is also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution from heavy commercial and industrial vehicles at ports, warehouses and along freeway corridors. These projects will benefit all SCE customers, with a particular focus on “disadvantaged communities” — areas that are disproportionately affected by pollution and economic hardship, often located along transportation corridors. “Transitioning to zeroand near-zero emissions modes of transportation is essential to achieving air quality goals in this region,” said Wayne Nastri, executive officer of the South Coast Air Quality Management District. “We are pleased and encouraged by SCE’s plans that complement our efforts to accelerate this transition, including a focus on disadvantaged communities that are disproportionately impacted by air pollution.” SCE also released a white paper, “Transportation Electrification: Reducing Emissions, Driving Innovation,” showing the central role transportation electri-
gases by more than 70 percent and smog-producing air pollutants by 85 percent compared to gas-powered cars. As more renewable resources are added to the grid, electric vehicles will increasingly benefit the environment. The proposed projects in the commission filing complement and expand on SCE’s Charge Ready pilot program, which focuses on installation of EV charging stations in parking lots where passenger vehicles are parked for extended periods of time. The Charge Ready model, which involves SCE installing all of the electrical infrastructure on a customer’s site to support charging stations and providing a rebate toward the purchase of those charging stations, would be applied to new vehicle segments, including plug-in trucks, electric buses, cargo-handling port equipment and forklifts. If approved, the overall package in today’s filing would mean more than $570 million in programs and infrastructure to help grow the transportation electrification market over a fiveyear period and stimulate greenhouse gas reductions to support moving California closer to its 2030 climate change goal of 40 percent below 1990 levels. Supporting the shift to electrification will help reduce tailpipe emissions that contribute to violations of federal healthbased ozone standards in Southern California. Many of these projects may have future applicability in other parts of California, supporting progress toward the state’s emission reduction targets. Proposals include: Funding for medium- and heavy-duty vehicle charging infrastructure. As in the Charge Ready program, SCE would install infrastructure on a customer’s site and provide a rebate toward the purchase of the charging station. In addition to trucks, this program would support plug-in buses, forklifts and other off-road equipment. While it is not part of the current filing, SCE will be exploring options with the South Coast Air Quality Management District and other stakeholders for a zero-emission freight movement program for transporting freight from the Port of Long Beach to inland distribution hubs. Rates designed to incen-
stimulate charging during periods of the day that benefit both customers and the grid (i.e., low-cost periods during the day to support integration of renewable energy).
A number of short-term pilot programs are also part of the package: Customer rebate for residential charging station installation. SCE would provide a rebate to residential customers living in single-family residences or smaller multi-unit dwellings not covered in the Charge Ready program to install a “make-ready,” which is the electrical infrastructure required in a garage or at a parking space to support EV charging. The rebates would alleviate the cost of installing a new circuit and, for some customers, the cost of a new panel. Building vehicle charging infrastructure for electric transit buses. Similar to the medium- and heavy-duty vehicle program, SCE is proposing a one-year pilot to install infrastructure and provide a rebate toward the purchase of the charging stations for buses. This project will focus specifically on progressive transit agencies that are already preparing to receive electric buses and will provide charging infrastructure to speed adoption of electric transit buses. Port electrification projects. At the Port of Long Beach, SCE would install charging infrastructure for the electrification of equipment used to unload and move goods containers from ships to off-port transportation vehicles currently powered by diesel engines. Building urban DC Fast Charger (DCFC) clusters. SCE would install five DC fast-charge sites in urban areas. Each site would have up to five dual-port charging stations for a total of 50 DCFC ports. The sites would be located in publicly accessible urban locations — for example, near a corridor, downtown or in high-density apartments. Bonus reward to rideshare/taxi drivers who use EVs. SCE proposes a monetary reward to rideshare and taxi drivers who use an EV and exceed a specified number of rides during a given time period. The pilot promotes the use of EVs in rideshare services, increases EV miles traveled and introduces more passengers to the experience of riding in an EV.
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Calbayog City records high dengue cases in 2016 CALBAYOG CITY, Samar, Jan. 16 (PNA) – Despite the sustained advocacy campaign, the number of dengue cases in the city increased last year compared to 2015. The local health office records show that in 2016, a total of 233 dengue cases was admitted at the hospitals, which is way above the 47 confined cases a year ago. In an interview, city epidemiology and surveillance unit head Grace Campo said the data excludes those cas-
es that were brought to other health facilities outside Calbayog and those treated only at their homes. She added the surge in cases could be due to an increase in the existing breeding places of the mosquitoes carrying dengue virus. “One more reason would be that the public is complacent of dengue, for the fact that we had reported low cases the past year,” Campo added. With this result, the health office will continue
and strengthen its advocacy campaign against dengue, focusing on those villages with high cases. Campo stressed that they will closely work hand in hand with the village officials to help monitor the occurrence of the illness in the area. She also appealed to the public to maintain the cleanliness of their surroundings and destroy the possible breeding sites of dengue-carrying mosquitoes. The official hopes that
in the future, vaccination program will also cover the city. Records from the city health office revealed that it was in 2010 when the city had the highest reported dengue cases at 470 with four deaths. The incident prompted the local government unit to launch the dengue prevention campaign, which encourages all local employees and village officials as well as residents to conduct a weekly clean-up drive in the city.
Philhealth: Pampanga best in Central Luzon in health insurance benefits implementation CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Jan. 19 (PNA) – Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Region 3 vice president Walter Bacareza said that Pampanga is the best performing province in Central Luzon
in terms of distribution and implementation of health insurance benefits. “Pampanga is one of the best performing provinces I’ve seen in the whole country, the best in the region,” he said.
Ilocos Norte plans to revive local councils for HIV, blood donation LAOAG CITY, Jan. 19 (PNA) – The provincial health office here has highlighted the importance of reviving its local councils for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and blood donation, due to the rise in HIV cases and the slight lack of blood stocks in Ilocos Norte province. Provincial health officer, Dr. Josephine Ruedas, said the office plans to tap barangay officials in encouraging
their constituents to donate blood and help save lives. Ruedas added that their target is to have at least 100 annual blood donors from each barangay. She further urged the public to donate quarterly or once every three months. According to studies, donating blood reduces the risks of developing life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
Bacareza said that he was amazed with the performance of the provincial government in utilizing all the benefits and delivering them to the poorest of the poor. He also lauded the well-maintained district and provincial hospitals which maximized the benefits of the said health care. Meanwhile, Bacareza asked the Pampanga PhilHealth to guide the other provinces which are underperforming. “Please help us improve their performance by showing them how you got that ‘almost 100%’ statistics,” he said. Based on records, Pampanga registered PHP42,333,600 worth of Point of Care enrollment in 11 district and provincial hospitals which gained
PHP151,740,144 utilized benefits recorded last year or 365% utilization. Provincial Health Office (PHO) officer-in-charge Dr. Jay Rivera said Governor Lilia Pineda is not yet 100 percent satisfied with the performance of the hospitals with regard the Philhealth program as she wants more and better results as the Cuban-like health management system in the province will kick-off in February, this year.
Hontiveros’ Expanded Maternity Leave bill to benefit dads.
Children with asthma more likely to become obese – study
WASHINGTON, Jan. 23 (PNA/Xinhua) – Children with asthma may be at higher obesity risk later in childhood or in adolescence, according to new research published online this week. Researchers from the University of Southern California found that young children with asthma were 51 percent more likely to become obese over the next 10 years than children who did not have asthma. However, the good news is that the use of asthma rescue medications reduced the risk of becoming obese by 43 percent. “Asthma and obesity often occur together in children, but it is unclear whether children with
asthma are at higher risk for onset of obesity or whether obese children develop asthma, or both,” said Zhanghua Chen, lead author and a postdoctoral research associate of preventive medicine at the University of Southern California. “Our findings add to the literature that early-life asthma history may lead to increased risk of childhood obesity,” Chen said. Chen and her colleagues looked at 2,171 kindergarteners and first graders who were not obese at the time they were enrolled for the study. At enrollment, 13.5 percent of the children had asthma.
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Arnel Pineda, Journey all set for ‘overdue’ PHL concert Filipino rocker Arnel Pineda is now preparing for the Asian tour of the classic American rock band Journey. Pineda announced that the band will kickoff its Asian tour in Japan. “Sa January 25, aalis na ako kasi we will start our Asian tour on February 1,” he said. “Mayroon kaming Osaka, Nagoya at saka Tokyo.” In the interview, Pineda also expressed his excitement over Journey’s concert in Manila, which will happen on February 17 at Mall of Asia Arena. “Actually love overdue na siya. It took eight years for us to comeback, I think it’s just the right time. Sana tangkilikin ulit ng ating mga kababayan,” he said. Pineda and Journey first
Aga Muhlach
‘Lolo’ Aga now has 3 grandkids Aga Muhlach is elated to become a grandfather anew after the wife of his son Luigi gave birth to their third child last week. “Luigi is making me feel old. I have three grandchildren already!” said Muhlach. Nonetheless, the actor said he is very happy for his son with actress Janice de Belen “because he is such a great dad.” Luigi’s wife gave birth to baby Anya last January 9. (MNS)
Iza Calzado
Does Iza’s boyfriend get jealous of Piolo?
Just last week, Piolo Pascual made headlines when he revealed his list of the five sexiest women in Philippine showbiz. Among them is Iza Calzado, Pascual’s date to the Star Magic Ball in 2014 and his leading lady in the now-defunct TV series “Hawak Kamay.” According to actor, Calzado is sexy in a very classy way, blessed with noticeable curves and a beautiful face. The feeling is apparently mutual since Pascual also happens to be Calzado’s celebrity crush. Despite this, Calzado’s longtime boyfriend, British entrepreneur Ben Wintle, doesn’t seem to mind. Wintle simply said “nope” when asked if he gets jealous of Pascual. Wintle and Calzado will mark their fifth anniversary this month. “I promise that every meal we share together will be something that we will both enjoy and we will feel good about it afterwards,” Wintle told the actress, adding that he will propose the moment he finds the engagement ring that she deserves.
performed in Manila in 2009. The concert, which was also held at the Mall of Asia grounds, was even videotaped and released on DVD. Journey was supposed to perform at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in 2013 but the concert was cancelled. For next month’s concert, Pineda vowed to give their best for their Pinoy fans. “Gagawin naming fresh para sa lahat ‘yung tunog. At the same time tutugtugin namin ‘yung most-loved songs ng Journey for the fans,” he said. (MNS)
Arnel Pineda
Rose blooms amid online bashing Growing up in showbiz has been difficult for Rose Van Ginkel, a singer-actress who got her start with the group Pop Girls at 13. She said it’s “truly frustrating” at times, particularly for someone going through the changes that come with puberty. “Siyempre may baby fats ka pa nu’n, tsaka pipiyok-piyok pa boses mo… ang hirap.” Netizens didn’t help matters any, seemingly noticing every little thing “like one time, may nagsabi ang pangit ko daw, ang kapal daw ng kilay ko.” She carries on, however, head held high and all. “Thankful ako sa Pop Girls kasi du’n talaga ako nahasa,” Rose acknowledged. “Eventually I became confident enough with my abilities like sa dancing and
Rose Van Ginkel
sa singing.” At the moment, Rose is the most senior members of the Pop Girls at 20. “There will come a time na aalis din ako sa grupo kasi we graduate eh. Ang Pop Girls kasi parang teen group talaga ’yan and members graduate at a certain age,” she said. Note that among past
members of Pop Girls are Nadine Lustre and Shy Carlos, both now enjoying lucrative solo careers. Does she feel left behind? “May times pero kasi pana-panahon ’yan. Like ako ngayon nag-aaral pa ako so, divided ’yung time ko. I actually take inspiration kay Nadine at Shy kasi sila very hardworking naman talaga. Sa kanila ko na-realize na if you really work hard you will reach your goals.” To widen her fan base, Rose made inroads in acting by appearing in such films as “Diary Ng Panget,” “Talk Back And You’re Dead,” and “Chain Mail,” among many others. Currently she appears on Sari-Sari Channel’s “Wife Of The House.” Her latest movie project is “Dark Room,” a horror-thriller.(MNS)
Kylie Padilla 3 months pregnant – report Kapuso (GMA 7) actress Kylie Padilla is three months pregnant, a local show-biz news website reported. Citing reliable sources, the Philippine Entertainment Portal, or PEP, said Padilla is believed to be bearing a child with boyfriend Aljur Abrenica, a fellow Kapuso star. Earlier, the couple was rumored to have rough sailing, but a close friend from Abrenica’s camp claimed that, on the contrary, the two were “very much in love.” In 2014, they ended their relationship, citing such reasons as Abrenica’s alleged infidelity and Padilla’s father Robin’s disapproval of their relationship. But the two reportedly reconciled late last year, de-
Kylie Padilla
claring their sweet “second chance” on social media. Padilla and Abrenica have remained tight-lipped about the pregnancy issue. The 23-year-old actress was reportedly seen going to an OB-gynecologist. Likewise, some viewers noticed that Reyna Amihan’s cos-
tumes were getting loose lately in contrast to her previous figure-flattering costumes. Abrenica, meanwhile, has been getting hate messages from netizens who blamed him for Reyna Amihan’s (Padilla’s character in the Kapuso fantaserye “Encantadia”) rumored departure from the show because of her condition. “Encantadia” director Mark Reyes himself hinted at Padilla’s departure from the series via an Instagram post, saying a sang’gre (princess) would soon bid farewell to the show. This was then followed by shocked and saddened reactions from the netizens using the hashtag #WagSiAmihan. (MNS)
Vhong in no rush to marry girlfriend “It’s Showtime” hosts Billy Crawford and Anne Curtis made headlines when they announced their engagement to Coleen Garcia and Erwan Heussaff, respectively. Since good news usually comes in threes, all eyes are now on Vhong Navarro to follow suit. But Navarro doesn’t seem to be pressured, saying he is waiting for that “perfect timing” before he asks for his girlfriend Tanya Bautista’s hand in marriage. “Sobrang happy ako for Anne and Erwan and Billy and Coleen. Mga kapatid ko ‘yang mga ‘yan… Maganda ‘yung moment nila so dapat ibigay ko muna sa kanila,” he said. “Meron talaga dapat [timeframe] kaya lang feeling ko hindi aabot. Ang dami ring dumating na kailan-
Vhong Navarro
gang asikasuhin ko muna. Alam naman ni Tanya ‘yun. Hintayin ko lang ‘yun matapos and soon, papunta din naman kami doon,” he added. When he ties the knot again, Navarro said he wants to make sure that it will already be his last. Navarro was previously married to Bianca Lapus but their marriage was annulled
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in 2010. The “It’s Showtime” host, meantime, expressed how fortunate he is to have Bautista in his life. “Maghahanap pa ba ako? Hindi na, wala na. Nasa kanya na lahat iyon. Nakita naman nating lahat kung ano ang paghihirap niya sa akin, sa dami ng pinagdaanan ko nung 2014, patuloy siyang nandiyan, nakasuporta sa akin,” he said, referring to the mauling incident involving the group of Deniece Cornejo and Cedric Lee. Since that time, Navarro vowed to make a conscious effort to assure his current girlfriend of his loyalty. “Gusto ko lang sabihin na wala na akong hahanapin pa kay Tanya. At gusto ko, siya na makasama ko habang-buhay,” he previously said. (MNS)
Anne Curtis, Kuya Kim will run the Boston Marathon
Anne Curtis and Kim “Kuya Kim” Atienza are both one step closer to completing their marathon bucket list after revealing that they will be participating in this year’s the Boston Marathon. Sharing a photo of an email confirmation she received, Curtis said: “So excited to share this. In the running world everyone knows how HARD it is to get into THE Boston Marathon. I feel extreme- Anne Curtis ly lucky to be given this opportunity and I’m going to grab this once in a lifetime chance.” Likewise, Atienza did the same after getting his, writing: “Here we come! To God be the glory! [Anne Curtis], we are doing this!” It remains unclear whether the two got the spots via the regular qualifying procedure, or through invitation which the marathon hands out to those running for charity. As Curtis mentioned, it is notoriously difficult to qualify for the Boston Marathon, considered to be the world’s oldest annual marathon and ranks as one of the toughest road racing events. Those who would want to join will need to run other sanctioned marathons and submit their best times. If it is within the Boston Marathon’s minimum qualifying times, then they will be considered. But as reports show, not everyone who qualify and submit their registration will be accepted. Over 4,000 applications were said to have been rejected as the runners were simply not fast enough to make the final cut. Approximately 30,000 runners are accepted every year. Back in November, Curtis and Atienza both ran and finished the New York Marathon, which is considered the largest and most popular marathon in the world. Curtis, a celebrity advocate for UNICEF Philippines, said she dedicated her first ever marathon to the Filipino youth. The 2017 Boston Marathon is scheduled on April 17. (MNS)
Angeline’s ‘foolish love’ Angeline Quinto candidly admits that there was a time she was a fool for love. It was not too long ago, the star of Regal Entertainment’s “Foolish Love” revealed, that she was in a one-sided relationship. The object of her affection knew very well that she was in love with him, but, sadly, he did not reciprocate the feeling. And Angeline? She continued on loving, pining, hoping for the guy for over a year – even though she knew that it was hopeless. Now, she says, she is accepting suitors. However, she makes it clear that it is her career that is her priority. This is actually also the reason her closeness with fellow singer, Erik Santos, did not blossom into a romance. “Gusto na niyang mag-asawa,” she revealed. “Hindi pa ako ready. Doon po kami hindi nagkakasundo. Every time sinasabi sa akin ni Erik na ready na siya, nasa tamang edad na
Angeline Quinto
siya. Ako lang ‘yung nagsasabi sa kanya na kung gusto niya na talaga, sa iba.” Her career and her family are on top of her priorities right now, she admitted. When does she see herself entering a serious relationship? “Kapag tapos na po akong magbayad ng bahay,” the 27-year-old replied, “Tatlong taon pa raw bago niya matapos ang pagbabayad ng kanyang bahay. Ayaw ko namang pumasok sa isang relasyon na ang dami pang naiwan. Actually, ang Mama Bob ko, okey na nga, ready na rin siya.
The moment Mariel overcame her postpartum depression Mariel Rodriguez admitted to have suffered postpartum depression following the birth of her first child, Isabella, with Robin Padilla. But that’s all in the past now, according to her, after she was reunited with her husband here in the Philippines early this week. On her Instagram account, Rodriguez shared a video of Padilla cuddling their daughter while taking her for a short walk. She wrote as the caption: “This video is their morning routine. ...Isn’t it perfect? Bye bye postpartum depression, my family is complete.” Rodriguez, who suffered two miscarriages back in 2015, gave birth last November 14. She decided to
Mariel Rodriguez
deliver her baby in the US to receive extra care during her delicate pregnancy. Isabella is the couple’s first child since getting married back in 2010 in India. Padilla was unable to travel to the US after failing to secure a visa. (MNS)
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JC Santos to shoot movie with Kim Chiuoa Fans of JC Santos, who became a household name after he took on the role of Ali on “Till I Met You,” won’t miss him much after the ABS-CBN series concluded last week. According to the actor, he will soon work on a Star Cinema movie where he will get to work with Kim Chiu. “Hindi ko pa siya nakatrabaho and lagi ko lang siya napapanood. Gusto ko rin siya makatrabaho. Gusto ko malaman kung paano siya umarte, kung paano kami magshe-share ng kuwento sa eksena,” he said. Without revealing a lot
of details, Santos shared: “Makakasama ko si Kim Chiu sa isang love triangle.” But before that, Santos also has an upcoming movie titled “Sakaling Hindi Makarating” which will open in theaters on February 1. “Actually ginawa ko siya bago yung ‘Till I Met You.’ It was the perfect 2016 entry for me kasi ito ‘yung unang pelikula ko na ang role ko ay may pagka-leading man. Sobrang nakakapanibago kasi usually I am going for character roles and then this time, leading man. Ibang iba siya sa akin. Hindi siya madali, sobrang hirap din
niya,” he said. Since he started out as a theater actor, Santos admitted he has to do a lot of adjustments every time he is in front of the camera. “Sobrang malaking adjustment. Ang na-realize ko, ang difference between the theater and screen acting is sa theater, may rehearsals. Kailangan mo aralin ‘yung lines mo, days to paint. Sa TV and film, it’s improvisational lahat ng bagay. Kailangan mabilis ka and marunong ka mag-troubleshoot,” he said. In addition to his Star Cinema movie, Santos said
9
JC Santos
he might also work on another independent film and another one to be produced by Viva Films.(MNS)
Pia Wurtzbach confirms relationship with Marlon Stockinger Matteo Guidicelli
No body double for Matteo in new action movie Go-kart racer-turned-actor Matteo Guidicelli has revealed that he had no body double for his upcoming movie “Across the Crescent Moon.” Guidicelli said he wanted to do his stunts himself. The actor also revealed that he had always wanted to do an action film and he saw this movie as his opportunity to do that. “Pangarap ko talaga mag-action. And timing talaga, before this film, I was already training for this martial art called ‘Kali,’ it’s a Filipino martial art,” Guidicelli said. According to him, he had no hesitations in accepting the movie offer after reading its script. “Noong inoffer nila itong pelikula, sabi ko, ‘I want to do it, I want to do it,’” Guidicelli said. “Without hesitation, I
said yes... enjoyed it so much kasi ang laki-laki ng stunts.. ang bigat ng eksena,” he added. In “Across the Crescent Moon,” Guidicelli plays Special Action Force (SAF) officer Abbas Misani, a Muslim man who is married to a Christian woman named Emma. Guidicelli revealed that the crew worked with real-life SAF officers and the actor had nothing but praise and respects for the elite cops. “Across The Crescent Moon” is directed by Baby Nebrida and stars Christopher de Leon, Dina Bonnevie, Gabby Concepcion, Ivan Carapiet, Sandy Andolong and Joem Bascon. It will open in theaters on January 25, the second anniversary of the Mamasapano clash. (MNS)
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For the first time, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach opened up about her relationship with Filipino-Swiss race car driver Marlon Stockinger. “We are together,” Wurtzbach said. “I’m glad that I finally met somebody who’s very secure with himself and who understands my job, and who’s not afraid to let me have my moment such as right now, now that the competition is happening here.” Wurtzbach, who is currently in Manila to take part in the Miss Universe pre-pageant activities, went on to note the many similarities between her and Stockinger. Aside from being half-Filipinos, the two also grew up as Catholics. “I’m also happy with the fact that he’s a Filipino and that he’s also a Catholic. I think we have a lot of things in common,” she said. When asked about Stockinger’s best trait, Wurtzbach replied: “He’s very funny, like he’d always make me laugh. Hindi pilit ‘yung parang dahil gusto ko siya, natatawa lang ako.”
“He knows a lot of things about me that I probably shouldn’t tell other people, but he’s cool with it,” she added. Wurtzbach also happily shared that her relationship with Stockinger is approved by the people important to her, including the Miss Universe Organization. “Esther (Swan, her manager) approves, that’s the number one thing,” she said. “Paula (Shugart, Miss Universe president) likes him,
Esther likes him, the Miss Universe Organization likes him. That’s a huge relief on my part because, whew, I don’t have to worry.” It was in October last year when Stockinger admitted that he and Wurtzbach are seeing each other, but the race car driver maintained that they “want to keep it down low.” The two have long been close to each other, even before Wurtzbach won the Miss Universe crown. (MNS)
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MANILA, Jan 23 (Mabuhay) -- Television and radio host Tim Yap is engaged to his boyfriend, events director Javi Martinez Pardo. Yap went down on one knee and proposed to Pardo during his Miss Universe-themed 40th birthday party. “When you have good thing you have to make it last forever. ... Javi wear this ring and with all the people in the universe I want to ask you: will you be my partner for life?” Yap asked Pardo, who excitedly nod and kissed Yap on his lips. Party guests Cristalle Belo, Isabelle Daza, KC Concepcion and Teacher Georcelle cheered the couple on. Former Miss Universe winners Gloria Diaz and Margie Moran also graced the party.(MNS)
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MOTORING Lexus takes center stage in Super Bowl Spot Newest products star alongside movement Artist Lil Buck and latest single from Sia; Actor Minnie Driver debuts as new voice of Lexus TORRANCE, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2017) — Two new flagship vehicles will join the Lexus lineup this year, each uniquely confirming Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance. The first-ever Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h performance coupes and the completely redesigned Lexus LS 500 luxury sedan take their place at the pinnacle of Lexus’ extensive product lineup. To celebrate the next chapter in Lexus’ history, the company today unveiled a 60-second extended version of its Super Bowl spot featuring the LC, as well as a few surprises. The spot, titled “Man & Machine,” recognizes the parallels between the shapes and movements of the human form and the power and athleticism of Lexus’ most premium models. The spot features movement artist Lil Buck and music from chart-topping recording artist Sia. A 30-second
Lexus LC Commercial - Man and Machine 02
version of “Man & Machine” that also includes the allnew LS 500 will air during the second quarter of Super Bowl LI on Sunday, Feb. 5. “Lexus’ newest models reaffirm the brand’s performance, engineering, design, and craftsmanship prowess,” said Brian Bolain, general manager, Lexus Marketing. “The LC and LS were built from the ground up to satisfy the most demanding and discerning luxury buyers, and reflect a brand ethos that aligns with the world’s best luxury lifestyle brands.” In addition to featuring a standout performance by Lil Buck, known for a street dance style called jookin, the powerful “Move Your Body” track from Sia’s current album (“This Is Acting”) drives the spot aggressively forward. “Man & Machine” was directed by renowned
Swedish film and music video director Jonas Åkerlund, whose sophisticated, artful, and high-energy style dominates the look and feel of the spot, which is further elevated thanks to styling from B Åkerlund. The Super Bowl spot signals a contemporary expression of luxury and performance by the Lexus brand. It also signals the first official use of the brand’s new global tagline, “Experience Amazing,” reflecting Lexus’ historically unyielding commitment to providing the best possible customer experiences. To bring this to life with a fresh voice, acclaimed actor Minnie Driver was chosen to personify the brand with her uniquely qualified voiceover talent, debuting with “Man & Machine.” To view the commercial, visit YouTube.com/Lexus.
2016 TMMK 30th Anniversary – Camry: Camry, America’s best-selling car, rolls off the line at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2016.
Toyota production in North America exceeds 2 million again in 2016 More than 30 million vehicles produced in North America since 1986 Erlanger, Ky. (Jan. 19, 2017) – In 2016, Toyota achieved another record year of North American vehicle production with 2,124,608 vehicles built at its North American vehicle assembly plants. Production volume was up 4.4 percent over the previous year total of 2,035,028 vehicles. Toyota’s total vehicle production in North America since 1986 has reached more than 30 million. Key drivers of this year’s increased production include low fuel prices, continued stabili-
ty in the overall economy and strong customer demand for trucks and SUVs. “Our success is driven by the talent and dedication of the men and women who manufacture our products here in the U.S.,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor North America (TMNA). “Every part and every vehicle that rolls off the line reflects our commitment to safety, quality, value, and, above all, our passion for exceeding customer expectations.” Toyota marked milestone anniversaries in 2016 for the following manufacturing facilities: Cambridge, Ontario - 30 years Georgetown, Kentucky -
30 years Princeton, Indiana - 20 years Buffalo, West Virginia - 20 years Huntsville, Alabama - 15 years The company also broke ground for its 15th, stateof-the-art manufacturing facility in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato in November; the new plant is scheduled to begin Corolla production in 2019. Toyota produces 13 models in North America including: Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, Lexus RX 350, Lexus ES 350, Yaris and Yaris iA. Toyota directly employs more than 44,000 people.
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Jack Lam owes PAGCOR PHP13.9-B
MANILA, Jan. 23 (PNA) – The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) on Monday disclosed that Macau-based gaming tycoon Jack Lam owed the agency around PHP13.9 billion. PAGCOR Assistant Vice President and comedian Arnell Ignacio made this disclosure after being asked by Sen. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian during the Senate inquiry into the alleged PHP50 million bribery scandal involving top officials of the Bureau of Immigration (BI). Ignacio could not give exact figures on Lam’s debts but confirmed that the tycoon’s online gaming op-
erations in Clark were not licensed under the agency. He also said that most of the illegal online gaming operations were disguised as call centers operating locally but extends the illegal online gaming nationally and even internationally. Gatchalian pointed out that Lam’s unlicensed online operation was only one of the many operations stealing money from the Filipino people. He meanwhile expresses hope that these illegal online gaming will be dealt with soon under the new leadership of PAGCOR. “I hope under the new leadership ng PAGCOR these debts will not increase.
The Filipino people had been short changed for a very long time,” Gatchalian said. PAGCOR has so far issued demand letter to Lam, as per the outstanding balance he has with the agency. Lam owns an online casino called Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino in Clark, Pampanga which employs Chinese nationals illegally working in the country.
Global Positioning System, there are innocent civilians caught in the crossfire,” apparently referring to US airstrikes against terrorist hideouts in the Middle East and Afghanistan. “Of course, because of these unpleasant collateral damages, there seem to be an appearance of human rights violation which the western media quickly write.” The intensified drug war launched by the police all over the country the past six months has claimed the lives of over 3,000, and the surrender of over 700,000 drug users.Also the PNP seized a total of over PHP 3.7 billion worth of illegal drugs during the first six months of the campaign. This is the result of the unremitting dedication and support of the PNP to the flagship program of President Duterte’s war on illegal drugs called “Oplan Double Barrel.” According to statistics
from the PNP National Anti-Illegal Drug Monitoring Center (NAIDMC) from July 1, 2016 to January 12, 2017, all 18 Police Regional Offices recovered more or less 95,000 sachets of shabu where 8,581 sachets came from the National Capital Region Police Office. On the other hand, Police Regional Office 3 recovered the most marijuana sachets (111,350 sachets) out of more or less 113,000 sachets of marijuana recovered nationwide. Said figures exclude the illegal drugs seized by the PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Group (AIDG) and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) which have separate reports through their relentless operations. The PNP is on its continuous campaign against illegal drugs with more focus on the arrest and account of High Value Target Personalities and progressing towards the Barangay Drug Clearing Strategy of the government.
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HATE CRIMES Gerstenfeld said. On reporting hate crime A.C Thompson, another resource speaker at the NAM telebriefing on Wednesday, is an award-winning investigative journalist with ProPublica. According to Thompson, reporters can help fill the gap in hate crime reporting through coverage of local incidents in their communities. The nonprofit news outlet is working to establish a mapping database to record incidents of hate crimes across the country. “We’re trying to add another layer of information to what’s out there,” he said. “People around the country can report hate crime incidents and hate bias.” Straddling the line between sympathy and skepticism towards victims would help reporters covering hate crimes for their communities, Thompson added. “You want to get the best sense possible of whether or not the story makes sense,” he said.
Thompson said one of the best ways to approach a potential hate-crime story is to look for witnesses who may have seen or heard from the victim around the time of the alleged crime for help corroborating a story. “Medical records and police reports are also important, as they can add further proof of injuries or damage resulting from a hate crime,” Thompson added. Using social media, he continued, would help provide insights into the motives of victims and criminals. “News stories drawing attention to such incidents will not only help keep communities from suffering in silence, but also assist researchers develop a clearer picture of hate-crime trends,” Thompson said. ProPublica database contains stories that could be vetted and recorded for future investigation by journalists and experts. “The idea is to map and track as much as possible in the absence of solid federal data,” he said.
ti-Kidnapping Group head Senior Supt. Glenn Dumlao. They asked her to convince her husband to just follow the supposed “script” on the case of Jee’s case. Aguirre ordered the NBI to provide security to the family of Sta. Isabel.
“Very serious ang mga threats nito, kaya ang ginawa ko ay kinausap ko si Jinky kung anong gusto niyang proteksyon at sinabihan ko na din ang NBI na tingnan ito kung paano sila mapo-proteksyunan,” he said in radio interview.
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six percent between 2014 and 2015 – the number of hate crimes reported against Latinos remains relatively unchanged. Alarmingly however, the FBI’s 2015 report a 67 percent increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes, said Levin. “We’ve been in a range of 105 to 160 anti-Muslim hate crimes a year since 2000, but again this is dependent on self-reporting from local agencies,” he said. Another NAM telebriefing resource speaker Phyllis Gersternfeld, a criminal justice professor at CSU Stanislaus and author of Hate Crimes: Causes, controls and Controversies, added that law enforcement personnel often lack the training necessary to fully understand hate crimes “With the exception of California, states do not specifically require police to undergo training on how to identify potential hate crimes. That missing component can lead to hate incidents being misidentified or going unreported,”
45th President of the United States “has definitely created a new US-Philippines political environment on a new era based on equitable setting.” Pedery, who closely follows what is happening in the Philippines, said that President Duterte fulfilled his campaign promise to wage an honest-to-goodness fight to eradicate illegal drugs and corruption. Pedery said that when he visited Barotac Nuevo in Iloilo last December he saw an acronym on a billboard which reads: “D E A D: DRUGS ENDS ALL DREAMS.” “How true. When I was writing this, to describe President Duterte’s passion, I created a more positive and progressive thought --”Drugfree Philippines: Saves All Dreams,” he said. Pedery added that in any type of warfare, “there are innocent civilians getting killed. Even the United State with its most advance
KIDNAP SLAY
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with all the troubles in the world, when we look at you, we forget the universe, but only you,” he added. The President thanked the Miss Universe Organization for allowing the Philippines to host again the 65th edition of the most prestigious international competition. “I am confident that the Department of Tourism and our valuable partners in the private sector for government have prepared well enough to make this event to remember,” Duterte said. “I hope that the contestants had a wonderful time
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U.S. CASIN ST O BE
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Morquicho testified that the abductors told her that her boss was involved in illegal drug trades. Kyungjin Choi, wife of the slain Korean businessman, said the perpetrators demanded an PHP8-million ransom. She reportedly paid PHP5 million on Oct. 30, 2016 but did not give the remaining PHP3 million when the kidnappers failed to present proof of life.
investigating body in the case build-up against police officers who are involved in the murder of the Korean so that he could prove that he deserves the trust of the President,” Tugna said. Meanwhile, Kabayan Partylist Rep. Harry Roque noted that calls for Dela Rosa’s resignation are just a “band-aid solution” to the deeper problem of a flawed criminal justice system. Roque also urged Dela Rosa to concentrate on the difficult process of rebuilding PNP.
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tape. Three policemen -- SPO4 Roy Villegas, SPO3 Rickey Sta. Isabel and PO2 Christopher Baldovino -- are now being investigated by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). According to news reports, Jee and house helper Marisa D. Morquicho were abducted by two unidentified men from his house in Pampanga on October 18 last year.
DE LA ROSA
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before reading his speech to express his admiration to the candidates of the Miss Universe Pageant which the Philippines will host for the third time. “Before I proceed, I’d like to make an admission that never in my life I have been in a room full of beautiful women. This is either privilege and an honor and I hope that this day will never end,” President Duterte said, drawing laughter from the audience including his Cabinet members. “And I must say that God is really good. Aside from the worries of governance,
visiting places such as Vigan, Cebu, Baguio, Batangas, and Davao. It is truly a great honor for us to be sharing you your most beautiful destinations including the rich culture and history behind each of these gems,” the President added. The Philippines, which already produced three Miss Universe title holders, hosted the Miss Universe Pageant in 1974 and 1994. “It is an event which has undeniably brought enormous pride and joy for the countries of winning candidates.
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intendent Raphael Dumlao. Jinky claimed that Dumlao called her saying they were planning to tag another policeman in the crime and they would all be spared later on. Jinky claimed that she met Dumlao and PNP An-
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