Thursday Mar 30, 2023

The San Juan Daily Star, the only paper with News Service in English in Puerto Rico, publishes 7 days a week, with a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday edition, along with a Weekend Edition to cover Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Senate president: Affordable housing initiatives are too costly and moving at too slow a pace

By THE STAR STAFF

Senate President José Luis Dalmau Santiago said Wednesday that the costs of the affordable housing projects touted by the governing administration are too high.

The Popular Democratic Party senator chided the “scandalous, high cost of an affordable housing unit of the Department of Housing,” adding that it is a sign of “mismanagement and insensitivity” by the administration of Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia.

Dalmau Santiago charged that the government used $56 million in federal tax credits to build 89 affordable rental housing units in the “Ensueño” Project in San Juan, at a “scandalous” $629,000 per unit.

Senate President José Luis Dalmau Santiago

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He said the Mirador Las Casas Project in San Juan relied on $66 million in federal tax credits to rehabilitate 294 residences at the cost of $225,000 per unit. Likewise, he denounced the fact that units at La Égida Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, in which $41 million was used to construct 120 rental housing units for older people, will cost $341,000 each.

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“The untimely and inadequate use of federal funds at this high cost that the government is paying for affordable housing in various recently announced developments is unacceptable,” the Senate leader said. “These housing programs demonstrate the poor execution of the government in expediting the essential work to deal with thousands of families that still require a safe roof.”

Similarly, the R3 Program, which has some $3.2 billion for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of residences damaged by natural events and relocation of victims, had identified some 17,000 possible homes that deserve assistance, of which 1,200 were under construction as of February.

“Given the low rate of homes in the construction process, we have the shameful figure of 3,600 families that still live with a blue [tarp] awning as a roof, more than five years after Hurricane Maria,” Dalmau Santiago said.

Likewise, he noted, the City Revitalization Program has $1.3 billion in federal funds and some 324 approved projects with a committed investment of $800 million.

Of all the approved projects, some 148 are in the

design stage, 169 have yet to start, four are in the auction process, three are under construction, and none have been completed, Dalmau Santiago said.

He said the affordable housing initiative still needs to be completed two years into the current administration, even though the funds are available until 2025.

“So it is possible that it will be necessary to return part of these resources because they have expired due to not being used promptly,” the Senate president said.

Dalmau Santiago went on to point out that the Buyer Assistance Program has an allocation of $495 million. Some $181 million was earmarked to address some 5,389 cases, representing only 36% of the available funds. That low percentage is also linked to the existing requirements limiting the eligibility criteria for program benefits.

Opposition leaders blast governor’s state speech as ‘a catalog of federal money’

country and especially his own government have recognized that in the administration of Pedro Pierluisi, things are not happening.”

At a press conference after the address, Hernández Montañez elaborated on the issues of the reconstruction of the island that the governor addressed.

“The reconstruction funds have already been disbursed by FEMA [the Federal Emergency Management Agency], but the agencies have not executed the projects,” he said. “Six years after Hurricane Maria, it is unacceptable that not a single permanent works project has been completed.”

seen on the street,” Ortiz González said. “He had a great opportunity and wasted it. This message was much ado about nothing!”

“The governor dedicated his message to comparing the past two years with the previous four. All from NPP administrations,” he added. “In six years of the NPP, the recovery is moving at a trickle, the Public Safety Department does not work, the referrals of unattended child abuse continue to increase, the permit system continues to be a problem, the cost of living rises disproportionately and there is no alternative to mitigate that.”

By JOHN McPHAUL jpmcphaul@gmail.com

Senate President José Luis Dalmau Santiago blasted Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia’s State of the State speech on Tuesday, saying that “80% of this message is federal funds that Puerto Rico receives thanks to the Commonwealth.”

He added that the government has “only committed 15% of them.”

Independent Sen. José “Chaco” Vargas Vidot agreed, saying that the governor’s speech was a “catalog of federal money.”

Although he said he found the initiatives

positive, Vargas Vidot pointed out that they don’t come with recurring funds.

“My question is if the economic development plan of Puerto Rico is aware of the human being as its center, or is it a plan to continue benefiting large investors, as is the case with gentrification, with decrees?”

Vargas Vidot said.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Rafael Hernández Montañez said: “The governor’s message lied to the country.”

“Respectfully, we ask you not to lend yourself to lies,” he said. “During his message, the governor repeated nonsensically that his administration makes things happen. The whole

Puerto Rico Mayors Association President Luis Javier Hernández Ortiz concurred with Hernández Montañez’s assertion, adding that the speech was a partisan exercise in deception.

“We expected a State Message, but unfortunately the governor decided to start his political campaign under shouts of ‘four more years’ from his members in the House of Representatives,” Hernández Ortiz said. “He closed the Capitol to the general public and only allowed his NPP [New Progressive Party] co-religionists to enter.”

Popular Democratic Party Rep. Jesús Manuel Ortiz González echoed his fellow opposition leaders.

“Pierluisi focused his message on the federal funds to which the island has had access for six years, without execution being

“The governor said things are ‘in process, ongoing, obligated,’ another way of saying that nothing has happened,” said Dalmau Santiago, the Senate president. “The governor’s message is how the government works … superficially.”

Mayagüez-Aguadilla District Sen. Migdalia González Arroyo charged in a press release that the western part of the island was forgotten by Pierluisi in his message.

“No economic development projects for the west, no sports projects for the west, no health projects for the west, no projects of social interest to the people of the west, no major infrastructure projects for the west,” the chair of the Senate Western Development Committee said.

“You have to make things happen in the west; the west has a lot to give the country,” González Arroyo added. “The governor lives in a Puerto Rico that is different from mine.”

Governor expects to have fewer conflicts with fiscal board

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia said Wednesday that he anticipates having fewer conflicts with the Financial Oversight and Management Board this year, despite the fact that the United States Supreme Court did not side with his request to establish parameters regarding the fiscal entity created under the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA) when it comes to vetoing laws.

“Well, but what I can say is the following -- if I see any unreasonable action on the part of the board, I will point it out and I do not rule out going to court to enforce my approach,” the governor said in response to questions

from the press. “I hope that doesn’t happen constantly or regularly, because I see that we have a better working relationship with the board. I also see that the budget that we are going to be working with this next fiscal year has a larger amount, which will give us more flexibility to meet the needs of the people.”

The budget that the governor asked the oversight board to certify is $1 billion more than the current one.

“And although it may be that in some other cases there are differences with the board, I hope that for the vast majority of our initiatives, reasonable agreements will be reached with the board,” Pierluisi added.

The governor noted that the oversight board so far has not expressed opposition to

the draft amendments to the Internal Revenue Law.

“The board requested the economic study that was prepared,” he said. “While the board has not expressed itself in writing on the subject, I have had conversations with the board [and] they have been receptive. I do not rule out, however, it may be that at some point they recommend other changes in our tax system.”

Pierluisi said the Legislative Assembly should address the internal revenue legislation as a priority.

“The important thing here is that there are public hearings,” he said. “If any change is made to the bill, it has a fiscal impact, and they have to prepare a study, as we did in the

executive [branch] for the bill we submitted. That’s my approach.”

Gov. Pedro Pierluisi

Puerto Rico Mayors Association President Luis Javier Hernández Ortiz

DNER: Areas of Condado Lagoon suitable for bathers should be known by Friday

By THE STAR STAFF

Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Anaís Rodríguez Vega said Wednesday it may be by Friday that she will have a clear picture of which areas of the Condado Lagoon are suitable for swimmers.

On March 22, the DNER and the San Juan Bay Estuary notified the public to avoid direct contact with the lagoon and beaches of Condado and San Juan, to avoid fishing in Caño Martin Peña and the Bay of San Juan since wastewater discharges had impacted the waters.

Residents who took videos of the wastewater discharges first reported the incident on social media.

In an interview with Foro Noticioso, Rodríguez Vega indicated that all the beaches are suitable for bathers, except for those in the area of Jaime Benítez Park.

“We received the results of the last sampling that we

did, and both us, the Department of Natural Resources and the Bay Estuary, and certain there are … the nearby beaches are suitable for bathers, but that does not mean that each one of us must not be aware of the weather conditions and the swells,” the DNER secretary said.

She added that she hopes that by the weekend, she will have more accurate information about Jaime Benítez Park. To that end, officials will perform water quality tests today.

“This is the plan,” Rodríguez Vega said. “We are waiting for today’s rains; we have to wait 24 hours and see if they are enough to verify the status of the water quality of that area.”

Meanwhile, the Estuary reported on its social networks Tuesday that the most recent monitoring carried out in the area of the Condado Lagoon concluded that the El Escambrón spa, the Playita del Condado, and the Parque Sixto Escobar beach in San Juan were suitable for bathers.

PRASA chief urges prudent water usage as island faces dry spell

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) Executive President Doriel Pagán Crespo on Wednesday recommended moderating the consumption and use of water to maintain the levels of rivers and reservoirs given the dry spell the island is experiencing.

“We are observing a reduction in water supplies in both rivers and reservoirs, so we are reinforcing internal measures to reduce extraction and extend the levels of our water supplies,” the public official said in a written statement. “Likewise, we urge subscribers to become

aware of the period of low rainfall by making controlled use of water in their homes, businesses and industries.

Pagán Crespo noted that by moderating water consumption, PRASA customers can extend the water reserve levels in the distribution tanks and, therefore, also help preserve the levels in the bodies of waters that feed the PRASA filtration plants.

“We continue to monitor the levels of raw water intakes in reservoirs and rivers, wells have been activated, pressures have been controlled and we have made internal operational adjustments that allow us to maintain service,” she added.

In the western region, the dam on the Culebrinas River in Aguadilla, which supplies the Montaña and Culebrinas filtration plants, is under observation, as is Guajataca reservoir.

The filtration plants under observation in the eastern region are Juncos Urbano and Jagual San Lorenzo.

“We monitor daily water

supplies and watersheds to adjust work plans and continue operating the systems so that the fewest number of customers are affected,” Pagán Crespo said.

Natural and Environmental Resources Secretary Anaís Rodríguez Vega, second from left, indicated that the beaches on the Condado Lagoon are suitable for bathers with the exception of those in the area of Jaime Benítez Park.

Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority Executive President Doriel Pagán Crespo

Coastal resilience is subject of roundtable in caucus panel co-chaired by González Colón

By THE STAR STAFF

Coastalresilience, data collection, innovation in ocean energy, marine debris cleanup, seaweed control and the blue economy, among other things, were the priorities discussed during a roundtable held by a caucus board in the U.S. House of Representatives that is co-chaired by Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón.

The House Oceans Caucus board is comprised of co-chairs González Colón (R-P.R.) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-Oreg.): Senate co-chairs Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and honorary co-chairs Sens. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc). The caucus was formed more than a decade ago to create a bipartisan voice on ocean issues. It works to educate congressional members and staff, raise awareness and exchange information and ideas on issues affecting ocean health.

The caucus met Wednesday with the deputy secretary of commerce for oceans & atmosphere and administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Dr. Richard Spinrad, and the Ocean Caucus Foundation to discuss the caucus’ work agenda. The meeting was also attended by other members of Congress.

In 2021 and 2022, NOAA received billions of dollars in federal funding from legislation backed by the resident commissioner, including from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act for Coastal Resilience, Ecosystem Restoration, and Improvements in Climate and Ocean Data. In addition, several ocean bills became law through the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act.

The roundtable discussed the current status of those investments, NOAA’s work plan for implementation, and how to ensure those efforts benefit local communities on the ground. The commissioner asked Spinrad to include sargassum control in the agency’s work.

Co-chairs González Colón and Bonamici identified the following issues as priorities in the House for the caucus including: 1) data collection, smart ocean monitoring and planning, and illegal fishing; 2) coastal resilience and adaptation; 3) attention to plastics and marine debris; 4); innovation in ocean energy; 5) environmental stressors; and (6) communication and education in marine sciences.

Among the initiatives related to the conservation, research and protection of the oceans, and supported by the resident commissioner, are: funding allocations for the Integrated Ocean Observation System, which includes the Caribbean

Coastal Ocean Observation System and the National Sea Grant College Program, both located at the Mayagüez Campus of the University of Puerto Rico.

González Colón noted that she has long prioritized the need to invest in coastal resilience, particularly considering Puerto Rico’s vulnerability to natural disasters.

After Hurricane Maria, the resident commissioner secured $9 million to allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to conduct coastal erosion surveys on the island.

Authorities arrest 22 in drug gang crackdown in island’s southwest

By THE STAR STAFF

Federal and state authorities on Wednesday arrested 22 alleged members of a criminal organization operating in the southwestern coastal region of Puerto Rico, according to a federal grand jury indictment.

Last Wednesday, March 22, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned a six-count indictment charging 22 individuals with drug trafficking in the municipalities of Sabana Grande, San Germán, Lajas and Cabo Rojo.

The indictment alleges that from 2019 to the date of the return of the charges, the drug trafficking organization distributed heroin, crack cocaine, regular cocaine, marijuana, Fentanyl, Tramadol, Oxycodone (Percocet), and Alprazolam (Xanax) in the Majinas Ward, Las Guaras Ward, Cerro Gordo Ward, and José A. Castillo public housing project (PHP) in the municipality of Sabana Grande. They also distributed drugs

in the Sabana Eneas Ward in San Germán, Sabana Yeguas Ward in Lajas; Parabueyon Ward in Cabo Rojo and nearby areas for significant financial gain and profit.

“The charges, in this case, reflect the Justice Department’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking organizations that sow violence and fear in our communities,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.

Added FBI Special Agent in Charge Joseph González: “When I first came to San Juan, I said that violent crime would be our top priority. Today, I want to thank my FBI Aguadilla Team for helping me make good on that promise.”

As part of the conspiracy, the members acted in different roles to further the conspiracy’s goals, including serving as leaders, enforcers, runners, sellers and facilitators, according to the indictment. The defendants had access to other vehicles they used to transport money, narcotics, and firearms. They offered delivery services to their clients; they would meet up with clients in parking lots or wherever convenient for them.

The gang members used force, violence and intimidation to maintain control of the areas in which they operated. Twenty-one defendants are also facing a charge of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The defendants are:

José Alberto Pagán Casiano, a/k/a “Pito Cansio;” Víctor Galindo Padilla, a/k/a “Junito;” John M. Hernández Méndez, a/k/a “El Buster;” Terril Rivera Calder, a/k/a “TJ;” Julio Argenis Figueroa Martínez, a/k/a “Argenis;” Renty A. Areizaga García; Alexander Rivera Casiano, a/k/a “Papal;” Gustavo González González, a/k/a “Gotay/GTA/Negro/Tavo; ” Christian Belén Silva, a/k/a “Belén;” Michael Nazario Rivera, a/k/a “Michael Bolso/El Pri;” Yomvier Torres Ruiz; Jaime Rodríguez Juliá; Víctor Casiano Alameda, a/k/a “Junito;” Rodney A. Santiago Ramírez; Gabriel Olmeda Mercado, a/k/a “Rasta;” Justin Carlo Padilla, a/k/a “Donald Trump;” José M. Rodríguez Torres, a/k/a “JM;” Alex Ramírez Sánchez, a/k/a “Pote;” Axel Vélez

Denizac, a/k/a “Axel el Enano;”

Shariel Mercado González; Yehudy Toro Vargas; and Francisco Ayala Vega, a/k/a “Cabra/Sico.”

If convicted, the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau Aguadilla Strike Force are in charge of the investigation, with the collaboration of Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service, the United States Marshals Service, the Mayagüez Strike Force and Mayagüez Homicide Division, and the Mayagüez District Attorney. The arrest operation is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne Cordero Romo from the Gang Section is in charge of prosecuting the case.

Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón, at left

US border policies have created a volatile logjam in Mexico

By MIRIAM JORDAN and EDGAR SANDOVAL

Aseries of tough new border policies have sharply reduced the number of migrants crossing into the United States to their lowest levels since President Joe Biden took office, but the measures have created a combustible bottleneck along Mexico’s northern border, with tens of thousands of frustrated migrants languishing in overcrowded shelters from Tijuana to Reynosa.

The situation exploded on Monday when a protest at a government-run migrant detention center in Ciudad Juárez led to a fire that killed at least 40 people. But scenes of overcrowding and desperation have been unfolding in recent weeks along the length of the border as the Biden administration prepares for yet another surge in migration this spring.

Migrants have been waiting in anticipation of a major policy shift, expected in May, when the United States plans to lift a pandemic-era health policy that has allowed U.S. border authorities to swiftly expel many migrants crossing illegally from Mexico.

Separate new entry restrictions that have already taken effect require most migrants hoping to win U.S. asylum to apply for an appointment at a port of entry. Problems with the new mobile app have left thousands trying in vain for an appointment while stranded in Mexican border towns, where many have already been waiting for months.

“What we have in Tijuana and other Mexican border cities is a bottleneck,” said Enrique Lucero, director of the migration services office for the city of Tijuana, across the border from San Diego. “Thousands of migrants are waiting for the opportunity to enter the U.S., and more keep arriving.”

The city’s 30 shelters can accommodate 5,600 people; as many as 15,000 migrants are currently in the city, he said.

“The number of people who are able to access the United States is a couple hundred a day,” he said, “but we have thousands here. Shelters are at full capacity.”

Even before Monday’s fire, frustration had boiled over earlier this month in Juárez, when hundreds of migrants, mostly from Venezuela, tried to storm their way across the international bridges to reach El Paso, Texas, only to clash with U.S. authorities.

Under pressure from the United States, Mexico has agreed to accept the swelling numbers of migrants turned back by U.S. authorities, and to take other measures to help control the number crossing into the United States.

Some local officials on the U.S. side of the border said the Biden administration had created the situation by promising to end the pandemic-related expulsion policy, known as Title 42, which resulted in thousands traveling to the border, and then quickly imposing new restrictions.

“It’s desperation,” said Ricardo Samaniego, the county judge in El Paso, which lies across the border from Ciudad Juárez. “You dangle the end of Title of 42 and then you say, ‘Never mind,’ and people get stuck.”

He said he had learned through his counterparts in Mexico that shelters and detention centers in Juárez were at near capacity and that they were bracing for yet another surge in the days and weeks to come with plans to lift Title 42 on May 11.

Immigrant advocates have been warning for months that the situation was becoming explosive.

“The 39 lives lost last night in Ciudad Juárez are a horrifying indictment. The systems of enforcement that we have erected to patrol people who migrate are steel hands in velvet gloves, and death is part of the overhead. We are all responsible,” Dylan Corbett, executive director of the Hope Border Institute, a faithbased organization, said on Twitter.

With shelters in many border cities full, new arrivals have resorted to sleeping in dingy hotels until their money runs out, and have then ended up on the streets and in abandoned buildings. Tensions have flared, resulting in confrontations with Mexican law enforcement officers, whom migrants have accused of beating, arresting and extorting them. Powerful cartels that control illegal border passage have kidnapped and tortured migrants.

Every day bedraggled migrant families show up at Pro Amore Dei, a Catholic shelter in Tijuana, the largest city on the Mexican side, pleading for a place to rest their heads. “Every day I turn away at least 10 families with children,” said Leticia Herrera, the director of the facility, where entire families already share one bed. “God help us, we have already exceeded capacity,” she said of the facility, which can accommodate 250.

It’s the same story at another Tijuana shelter, Juventud 2000, where nearly 200 migrant families sleep in orange, green and blue tents pitched in a converted warehouse. “We went from being semi-empty last year to having to reject people,” said José Maria Garcia, the founder. “We have to do this constantly now, day after day.”

While Mexican migrant shelters are full, there has been a significant decline in migrant numbers on the U.S. side of the border.

“The number of people in our care has been halved since the start of the year,” said Kate Clark, senior director of immigration services for Jewish Family Service of San Diego, which runs shelters in the city.

Intent on curbing crossings, the Biden administration turned to more restrictive measures. It expanded the use of Title 42 to turn back a new flood of migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua

and Venezuela, while simultaneously establishing a program that enabled nationals of those countries to apply for parole in order to enter the United States from their countries of origin, if they had a financial sponsor.

Since that program’s inception, unlawful crossings have plummeted overall. After a record number of border apprehensions last year that reached 2.4 million, encounters this year have dipped to about 128,000 a month.

Last month, the Homeland Security and Justice departments went further, announcing a new rule, to take effect after Title 42 is lifted on May 11, that would presume migrants are ineligible for asylum if they entered the country unlawfully, and require them to have requested asylum from another country they had passed through before applying in the United States.

However, those who managed to reach the border would be allowed to enter if they met certain criteria and used the mobile app to schedule an appointment.

The app, intended to provide an orderly, streamlined system for processing asylum-seekers, has been overburdened with massive demand and plagued with glitches as tens of thousands of migrants have attempted to use it.

At eight ports of entry across the border, 740 migrants each day received appointments last month, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. At the entry point adjacent to Tijuana, 200 appointments were granted each day.

“Migrants arrive at the border already in distress after their journey. They have spent all their money to get here, and their hopes are dashed when they cannot manage to get an appointment on the app,” said Lucero, director of the migrant office in Tijuana.

Until the new app was rolled out, U.S. immigration lawyers were able to help especially vulnerable migrants to quickly gain entry into the United States, often escorting them across ports of entry. Now, there is no distinction made between those who are most in danger and others.

A month ago, a 4-month-old baby in need of emergency surgery died because the parents were unable to secure an appointment through the app, said Herrera of the Pro Amore Dei shelter in Tijuana. “Last year, the family would have been taken across the border, and the baby would be alive now,” Herrera said. In her seven years running the shelter, she said, the situation had never been more dire.

“People who have been tortured, beaten and are running for their lives are stuck here,” she said. “The most vulnerable people seem to wait the longest.”

Migrants waited in line last year for a meal at Primera Iglesia Bautista, which offers shelter to migrants, in Piedras Negras, Mexico, on May 14, 2022.

Nashville in anguish as a sanctuary for children is breached by gun violence

Tennessee does not have what is known as a red flag law that would allow authorities to temporarily confiscate guns from those found to be a danger to themselves or others, and the Republican-controlled state legislature has steadily loosened restrictions on owning guns.

Still, Drake said that if police had known that the perpetrator was suicidal or intended to hurt others, “then we would have tried to get those weapons.”

Even with the uncertainty over what motivated the attack, the magnitude of the loss was clear as relatives, friends and people who knew the victims expressed their grief.

The other children who were killed were identified as William Kinney and Hallie Scruggs, whose father is the pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church, the church connected to the school. Cynthia Peak, 61, was the substitute teacher killed.

Hannah Williams, who knows the Scruggs family, struggled to wrap her head around the trauma that those closest to the victims were now enduring.

“This family did not deserve this,” Williams wrote on a post on Facebook. “No family does. They deserve to wake up from this nightmare with Hallie by their side.”

ministry of the Covenant Presbyterian Church, has about 200 students attending its campus in an affluent area of Nashville, where streets overwhelmed by the city’s rush of development in recent years give way to tree-covered hills.

It is part of a network of conservative evangelical churches and private schools in Nashville that is tight-knit, even across denominational lines. Some families attended church at one place and school in another.

Palmer Williams, whose older son went to the Covenant School for his first several years of school, said she took her children out of the school only because she was involved in founding another school with a similar approach. “We wanted more schools like Covenant,” she said.

Koonce, the head of the school since 2016, had previously worked at Christ Presbyterian Academy, a private school just 5 miles away. There, she nurtured a passion for working with students who had learning disabilities.

“She has always been a woman who is deeply passionate about kids having a love of learning,” said David Thomas, a longtime friend of Koonce’s and a director of family counseling at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville.

By EMILY COCHRANE, ELIZA FAWCETT, JESÚS JIMÉNEZ and RICK ROJAS

In a stately stone building on a hill, the Covenant School was a private academy designed as an escape from the bustle of Nashville and a haven where students could learn and grow, with a curriculum that reflected the Christian values of the families who sent their children there.

Katherine Koonce, the head of the school, had a zeal for learning and saw in students potential they did not see in themselves. “You’ve got it,” she would tell a struggling student. Mike Hill, a custodian, found fulfillment in work that his daughter said he absolutely loved. And there were bright students like 9-year-old Evelyn Dieckhaus, “a light for her family,” her pastor said.

That carefully built sense of security was punctured Monday when an armed assailant breached the campus, opening fire at random students and staff members. The community surrounding the Covenant School was now wrestling with a horrifying reality: Koonce, Hill and Evelyn were all dead, as were two other 9-year-old students and a substitute teacher.

“Our hearts are completely broken,” Evelyn’s family said in a short statement released Tuesday. “We cannot believe this has happened.”

As investigators try to piece together a motive for the attack, authorities praised the actions of the Nashville police officers who rushed into the school, saying they moved swiftly in pursuing and fatally shooting the assailant.

Authorities said Tuesday that the 28-year-old perpetrator had legally purchased seven firearms recently — including the three used in the shooting — and was being treated by a doctor for an emotional disorder. Chief John Drake of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department said that the assailant’s parents had felt that their child “should not own weapons” and believed that their child did not.

In a video statement Tuesday evening, Gov. Bill Lee said that Peak was a close friend of his wife, Maria. “Cindy was supposed to come over to have dinner with Maria last night,” he said. He described the anguish caused by the shooting — “the emptiness, the lack of understanding, the desperate desire for answers, the desperate need for hope,” he said.

“We’re enduring a very difficult moment,” Lee said. “Everyone is hurting, everyone.”

Nashville has weathered turbulence and heartache in recent years. There were floods and a deadly tornado. In 2020, a man consumed by bizarre conspiracy theories detonated a van filled with explosives on Christmas morning, killing himself and severely damaging a swath of downtown.

But this was different, as it kindled in the city a level of terror that other communities had faced amid recurring mass shootings but Nashville had not. In a post on Twitter not long after the shooting, Mayor John Cooper said, “Nashville joined the dreaded, long list of communities to experience a school shooting.”

The shooting has reverberated beyond Nashville, too, stoking fury and frustration and invigorating once again the country’s divisions over violence and access to guns. President Joe Biden called for a ban on assault rifles, as he has done after other recent mass shootings — a repetition he acknowledged with a sense of exasperation Tuesday. “I can’t do anything except plead with the Congress to act reasonably,” he said.

In Dallas, as worshippers gathered Tuesday at Park Cities Presbyterian Church, the pain was much more personal. Chad Scruggs, the pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church and Hallie’s father, had been the pastor there before moving to Nashville.

“The reality is, this event in Nashville is not merely an event for one school or one church or city,” said Paul Goebel, an associate pastor at Park Cities Presbyterian. “It touches our church, our community deeply, but it also affects and touches our whole nation.”

The Covenant School, which was founded in 2001 as a

She tutored Joseph Fisher in math years ago. He’s 34 now but still remembers the way she encouraged him. “She just believed that I have more to give — and I did,” he said. When he learned that she had been killed, Fisher, now a truck driver, said that he parked and walked up a mountainside, stunned.

Hill, a father of seven and grandfather of 14, liked to cook and spend time with family, his family said in a statement. He was “beloved by the faculty and students who filled him with joy for 14 years,” the statement said.

The Covenant School had a student-teacher ratio of 8-to-1, and Koonce was invested in building a nurturing environment for students.

On the morning of the shooting, students sang “Amazing Grace” in the chapel and practiced saying “jambo” — a traditional Swahili greeting — with a missionary doctor who was visiting the school.

“It was just such a sweet interaction with those kids,” said Dr. Britney Grayson, the visiting doctor, a pediatric surgeon from Kenya. “Everything was normal about our day. It went exactly like we thought it would — better than expected.”

She left shortly before the shooting, stirring conflicting feelings: She knew she avoided witnessing the shooting, but she wondered if she could have been in a position to help.

Grayson said she had operated on children with gunshot wounds before, including one child who was injured in a school shooting in the United States. “It’s like, ‘Why wasn’t I still there?’” she said. “And in the very next breath, you think, ‘Well, I might be dead, too.’ I don’t know that I’ll ever be able to process those conflicting thoughts.”

But there was also hope that the spirit of the school — the sense of closeness and warmth — would endure.

On Monday night, Palmer Williams’ family joined others at a baseball field, gathering spontaneously to tie ribbons to a chain-link fence. Her son knew William Kinney through a baseball league. The children were running the bases — “grieving the way kids do,” Williams said, “which is sadness but also just being kids.”

A photo provided by the Metro Nashville Police Department shows investigators at the scene of a shooting at a private Christian school on Monday morning, March 27, 2023. Three children and two adults were killed in the shooting at the Covenant School, police said.

Biden concedes he is powerless to act on guns without Congress

By MICHAEL D. SHEAR

President Joe Biden earlier this week declared himself powerless to respond to the scourge of gun violence in America, a remarkably blunt admission one day after an assailant killed six people, including three children, at a school in Nashville, Tennessee.

“I have gone the full extent of my executive authority to do, on my own, anything about guns,” Biden told reporters, responding to questions about what actions he could take to prevent mass shootings.

It was a stark and surprising statement by the president, who essentially threw up his hands in the face of one of the most intractable problems facing American society.

While the political system has remained all but deadlocked for more than a decade on major changes to gun laws — despite one horrifying shooting after another — Biden sought to shift the burden to the senators and representatives who have so far refused to act.

Even with majorities in both houses of Congress during Biden’s first two years in office, Democrats were unable to pass an assault weapons ban, and any effort now is almost certain to fail in the Republicancontrolled House.

Biden rejected questions about whether he could, or should, do more through executive actions, such as trying to keep guns out of the hands of criminals or addressing mental health issues that are often viewed as the cause of mass shootings.

“The Congress has to act,” Biden told reporters as he headed for an economic event at a North Carolina semiconductor plant. “The majority of the American people think having assault weapons is bizarre; it’s a crazy idea. They’re against that. And so, I think the Congress should be passing the assault weapons ban.”

To be clear, he said, “I can’t do anything except plead with the Congress to act reasonably.”

Speaking later at the event in North Carolina, Biden did just that, urging Congress to ban assault weapons and saying that they should try to keep “weapons of war” out of the hands of people who could use them to kill children and others.

“People say, ‘Why do I keep saying this if it’s not happening?’” the president said. “Because I want you to know who isn’t doing it. Who isn’t helping. To put

President Joe Biden arrives at RaleighDurham International Airport in Morrisville, N.C., on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. Biden on Tuesday declared himself powerless to respond to the scourge of gun violence in America, a remarkably blunt admission one day after an assailant killed six people, including three children, at a school in Nashville.

pressure on them.”

He added that there was “a moral price to pay for inaction.”

But there was no sign that congressional action was imminent — far from it.

On Tuesday, as Democrats renewed their calls for passing gun safety legislation, Republicans made it clear they were not willing to budge from their opposition to assault weapons bans and other aggressive measures.

“With respect to any discussion of legislation, it’s premature,” said Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., citing an “ongoing investigation” and the need to collect more facts.

Other members of his party went further, seizing on the gender of the assailant, who authorities said identified as transgender, as a way to shift the conversation away from gun safety measures. Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, said in a post on Twitter that the tragedy suggested that “giving into these ideas” about accepting transgender people was “dangerous.”

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., highlighted questions about the shooter’s gender identity, which she said meant that “everyone can stop blaming guns now.”

Quinton Lucas, the chair of the criminal justice committee at the U.S. Conference of Mayors, said the president’s comments

echo the deep frustration among many Americans.

“It’s not so much disappointing or surprising, perhaps, that the president says that,” said Lucas, who is the mayor of Kansas City, Missouri. “It’s just telling of where we are right now in America that the president says that and each person just shakes their head and says, ‘yeah, that’s right.’”

Lucas said he and his colleagues often talk about how to manage school shootings — making the assumption they are inevitable in their communities.

“I feel like we’ve given up,” he said.

Mark K. Updegrove, a presidential historian, said Biden’s blunt comments about the limits of his power are not unlike the kind of private assessment that Lyndon Baines Johnson once gave to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. in private about his lack of power to pass voting rights legislation.

According to Updegrove, Johnson told King flatly in 1964 that he didn’t have the power to get the bill through Congress.

In Biden’s case, the frank acknowled-

gment was public, not private. Updegrove said it struck him as a way for the president to put additional pressure on Congress.

“That’s the right message to send,” said Updegrove, the president of the LBJ Foundation in Austin, Texas. “‘I’m doing everything I can for gun reform. I’ve already done the extent I can do. It’s incumbent on Congress to act.’”

Biden reminded reporters Tuesday that as a senator he led the successful effort in 1994 to pass a ban on assault weapons as a way to reduce the use of “weapons of war” in shootings at schools, shopping malls and elsewhere. The ban stayed in place until Congress let it lapse 10 years later.

Since then, however, Washington has refused to reinstate the ban, and has largely failed to pass significant new restrictions on the sale, manufacture or distribution of firearms. Modest bipartisan legislation passed last year, and signed into law by Biden, offered incentives to local governments to set up red flag laws and made minor changes to background check laws.

Commonwealth of Puerto Rico OFFICE OF THE COMPTROLLER

IMPORTANT NOTICE

By the power vested in the Comptroller of Puerto Rico by Act No. 9 of July 24, 1952, as amended, this Office proposes to amend the following regulations:

REGULATIONS 32, RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION OF CANDIDATES FOR EMPLOYMENT IN THE OFFICE OF THE COMPTROLLER OF PUERTO RICO

The purpose of these Regulations is to establish the rules to govern the recruitment and selection of candidates for employment in the Office of the Comptroller.

Hard copies of these Regulations will be available for 30 days after the publication of this Notice, from 7:45 to 11:45 a.m. and from 12:45 to 4:15 p.m. at the Reception desk of the Office of the Comptroller of Puerto Rico located at 105 Ponce de León Avenue, San Juan, Puerto Rico. In addition, these Regulations will be available on our webpage: http://www.ocpr.gov.pr

Comments on said Regulations may be submitted in writing, by email, or at an oral hearing within 30 days after the publication of this Notice. In addition, a request for an oral hearing may be submitted via email and must state the reasons that, in the judgment of the petitioner, warrant the holding of the hearing. Comments and requests for an oral hearing may be delivered in person to the Reception desk, or submitted by email to: ocpr@ocpr.gov.pr or by mail to the following address:

ASSISTANT COMPTROLLER PO BOX 366069

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO 00936-6069

Committed to improving the control and administration of property and government funds, to generate public value with good control practices.

Yesmín M. Valdivieso Comptroller

Federal regulators blame executives at SVB for collapse

By JEANNA SMIALEK

Atop regulator at the Federal Reserve earlier this week blamed Silicon Valley Bank’s executives for its collapse and provided little explanation for why supervisors had failed to stop its demise, saying that the central bank was examining what went wrong.

Michael S. Barr, the Fed’s vice chair for supervision, testified for more than two hours before the Senate Banking Committee alongside Martin Gruenberg, chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., and Nellie Liang, the Treasury’s undersecretary for domestic finance.

They faced skeptical questioning from lawmakers about why their agencies — in particular the Fed, which was Silicon Valley Bank’s main regulator — had not done more to stop the bank from imploding. Democrats pressed the officials on whether gaps in regulation had allowed problems in the banking system to build after rollbacks under the Trump administration. Republicans, by contrast, blasted Fed supervisors for either missing obvious risks or not addressing them effectively.

It is unclear whether the intense scrutiny will spur any new laws or changes to existing ones, especially in a divided Congress. But the episode is likely to prompt regulatory and supervisory changes at the Fed. The central bank is conducting an investigation into how it failed to stop growing vulnerabilities at the bank. Barr suggested repeatedly on Tuesday that tighter regulation and supervision would most likely be the result of that inquiry, which is set to conclude by May 1.

Fed supervisors were aware of at least some of the problems plaguing Silicon Valley Bank beginning in late 2021, although it was unclear how detailed of a grasp they had on the risks. Barr said Tuesday that he learned of some of the worst vulnerabilities at the bank only in February, just before its collapse.

Lawmakers from both parties questioned why the Fed wasn’t more successful at forcing the bank’s leadership team to change its practices, which included a misguided and unprotected bet that interest rates would remain low. Even as the Fed was still vetting what happened, Barr said, poor management at Silicon Valley Bank allowed its weaknesses to build to a point that the bank failed on March 10.

“Fundamentally, the bank failed because its management failed to appropriately address clear interest rate risk and clear liquidity risk,”

Barr said. “The Federal Reserve Bank brought forward these problems to the bank, and they failed to address them in a timely way — that exposure led the firm to be highly vulnerable to a shock.”

Silicon Valley Bank invested heavily in long-term bonds that became less valuable as interest rates rose last year. And it did not hold protection against higher borrowing costs. When it sold some of its assets and disclosed losses in early March, the announcement spooked depositors — many of whom had accounts in excess of the $250,000 that is guaranteed by the FDIC.

Customers, afraid of losing their money, raced to pull out their deposits: $42 billion left the bank on Thursday, March 9, and Barr said another $100 billion was about to head out the door the next day, when the bank collapsed and was seized by the FDIC.

The bank’s failure set off a chain reaction that has coursed through the global banking system in the weeks since. Regulators tried to find a buyer for SVB that weekend but could not: Of two bids from interested banks, Gruenberg said, one was ineligible because the bank’s board had not approved the offer, and the other was not a good enough deal for the government to legally accept it.

To contain the fallout, that Sunday evening officials made a sweeping rescue — an-

nouncing that another firm, Signature Bank, had failed but promising that the government would make sure depositors were paid back in full. The Fed simultaneously set up an emergency lending program that gives banks access to cash in a pinch in exchange for bonds and other securities.

The efforts to stop depositors from pulling their cash did not immediately stem the bleeding. First Republic took an injection of capital from other banks, and in Europe, Swiss lender Credit Suisse was rushed through a takeover by UBS.

But in recent days, government officials have said deposit outflows are stabilizing in the United States. Regulators reiterated on Tuesday that the banking system was sound — and said the actions they had taken were necessary to ensure that it remained so.

“I think there would have been a contagion,” Gruenberg of the FDIC said.

The turmoil brought to light a number of problems in the U.S. financial system, including the question of whether federal deposit insurance is correctly calibrated.

A big share of U.S. deposits are not protected by the government, and the businesses or individuals holding those accounts are more likely to pull their money at the first sign of trouble. The FDIC explicitly insures up to $250,000, but the government’s rescue calls into question

whether it is implicitly backing all deposits.

In the case of the two failed banks, officials invoked a rule that allowed regulators to pay out even uninsured depositors — something they would not usually be able to do — if the fallout otherwise posed a risk to the entire system. Liang reiterated on Tuesday that the government would be prepared to take such steps again, if they were deemed necessary.

“We have used important tools to act quickly to prevent contagion,” Liang said. “And they are tools we would use again if warranted to ensure that Americans’ deposits are safe.”

Still, much of the hearing focused not on deposit insurance, but on bank oversight.

Senators wanted to know whether Silicon Valley Bank failed because supervisors and regulators at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco and the Fed’s board in Washington dropped the ball, or whether they lacked the authority to react aggressively enough.

Democrats suggested on Tuesday that the problems tied back to deregulation under the Trump administration and greed on the part of Silicon Valley Bank’s executives.

“Monday morning quarterbacking aimed only at the actions of regulators this month is as convenient as it is misplaced,” Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, said at the start of the hearing.

Republicans also fired shots at bank managers, but said Fed supervisors were to blame for allowing problems to slip through the cracks.

“What were the supervisors thinking?” Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., said during the hearing. He implied, with no evidence, that the San Francisco Fed might have overlooked risks at Silicon Valley Bank because they shared a focus on climate change.

Republicans and bank lobbying groups have tried to minimize the role that regulatory changes made during the Trump administration — which relaxed rules for mid-size banks — played in Silicon Valley Bank’s demise. But Barr made it clear on Tuesday that the episode was likely to result in tougher oversight.

Randal K. Quarles, Barr’s predecessor, carried out a number of changes to bank oversight before stepping down in October 2021. Without the tweaks, Silicon Valley Bank would almost certainly have come under more intense scrutiny from Fed supervisors earlier.

Barr, who was nominated by President Joe Biden and took his post in July, said those changes would get a second look.

Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.) questions witnesses during a Senate Banking Committee hearing examining recent bank failures and the federal regulatory response on Capitol Hill in Washington, March 28, 2023.

Wall Street jumps with rosy outlooks from companies

U.S. stocks rallied on Wednesday, with all three major indexes ending up at least 1% as upbeat outlooks from Micron Technology and other companies eased some worries about the health of the economy.

In a sign of potential further strength, the S&P 500 also closed above its 50-day moving average for the first time since March 6, before the onset of the bank crisis, and the CBoe volatility index, Wall Street’s fear gauge, ended at its lowest level since March 8.

Micron shares shot up 7.2%, boosting the Nasdaq and S&P 500, and leading gains in the PHLX semiconductor index, which closed 3.3% higher.

The memory chip maker late Tuesday forecast a drop in third-quarter revenue in line with Wall Street expectations, while it gave a rosy outlook for 2025 with artificial intelligence boosting sales.

Adding to the optimism, Lululemon Athletica Inc jumped 12.7% after an upbeat annual results forecast.

“We had a couple of good reads into the economy from a couple of companies,” said King Lip, chief investment strategist at BakerAvenue Wealth Management in San Francisco.

“Micron is sort of a microcosm of the global economy because their chips go into so many different industries and sectors. If they are optimistic about things in terms of orders, that means the overall economy is doing well.”

Lululemon surges after strong reoprt, https://fingfx. thomsonreuters.com/gfx/mkt/dwpkdkmqkvm/Pasted%20 image%201680108260963.png

The bulk of S&P 500 companies begin reporting on the first quarter in mid-April.

Investors are also trying to gauge whether turmoil in the banking system may be subsiding, and what that may mean for Federal Reserve policy.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 323.35 points, or 1%, to 32,717.6, the S&P 500 gained 56.54 points, or 1.42%, to 4,027.81 and the Nasdaq Composite added 210.16 points, or 1.79%, to 11,926.24.

“People are feeling a little more comfortable with each day that passes since we had the failures,” said Michael O’Rourke, chief market strategist at JonesTrading in Stamford, Connecticut.

The banking turmoil, which started earlier in March with the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, caused a swift selloff in the sector shares and fueled jitters about the strength of the economy.

On Monday, regional U.S. lender First Citizens BancShares scooped up the assets of Silicon Valley Bank.

Michael Barr, Fed Vice Chair for Supervision, told Congress the scope of blame for Silicon Valley Bank’s failure stretches across bank executives.

Investors are awaiting Personal Consumption Expenditures data on Friday for further clues on inflation. The Fed has

MOST ASSERTIVE STOCKS

been raising interest rates to bring down inflation.

Advancing issues outnumbered declining ones on the NYSE by a 3.86-to-1 ratio; on Nasdaq, a 2.15-to-1 ratio favored advancers.

The S&P 500 posted 9 new 52-week highs and no new lows; the Nasdaq Composite recorded 69 new highs and 135 new lows.

Volume on U.S. exchanges was 10.61 billion shares, compared with the 12.73 billion average for the full session

over the last 20 trading days.

The Fed has pulled its key overnight rate to a range of 4.75% to 5%, up from virtually zero at the start of last year. It indicated last week that the troubles in the banking system could end up acting like rate hikes on their own, by slowing lending.

The managing director of the International Monetary Fund, Kristalina Georgieva, told a conference in Beijing on Sunday that risks to financial stability have risen as interest rates climbed. She said actions by central banks and other regulators have helped to ease strains on markets, “but uncertainty is high, which underscores the need for vigilance.”

Pope Francis is in hospital and will stay for several days

By JASON HOROWITZ and ELISABETTA POVOLEDO

Pope Francis will be hospitalized for several days for treatment of a respiratory infection, the Vatican said Wednesday, raising concerns over the health of the pontiff, who is 86 and has a recent history of medical challenges.

“In recent days Pope Francis complained of some respiratory difficulties, and this afternoon he went to Policlinico A. Gemelli for some medical checks,” Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said in a statement, referring to the Rome hospital that traditionally treats popes. “The outcome of these showed a respiratory infection (excluding COVID-19 infection) that will require several days of appropriate hospital medical treatment.”

He added, “Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer.”

After his morning audience, Francis — who as a young man survived severe pneumonia and had part of a lung removed — was taken in an ambulance to the Gemelli hospital and underwent a chest CT scan and other tests, the Italian news agency ANSA reported. His entourage expressed “relief” at the results of the medical checks, the news agency said, including his blood’s oxygen saturation, which was apparently fine. Earlier in the day, the Vatican said the hospital visit had been planned.

“The Holy Father has since this afternoon been at the Gemelli for some previously planned tests,” Bruni had said. Francis, who became pope 10 years ago, has knee problems and sciatica that have caused a severe limp and have, in recent months, often required him to use a wheelchair. In

the summer of 2021, he underwent major intestinal surgery.

Francis said at the beginning of his pontificate that he envisioned serving only a few years and has since said repeatedly that he would resign if failing health made it impossible for him to run the church. Soon after he was elected, he praised his predecessor, Benedict XVI, the first pope in almost 600 years to resign, for having the courage to step down.

But after his surgery in 2021, Francis told a Spanish-language radio station that he had never thought about quitting while suffering from poor health. And more recently, he has said he viewed the pontificate as a lifelong mission.

“I believe that the pope’s ministry is ad vitam,” he told a group of Jesuits in Congo last month, using the term “for life” in Latin. “I see no reason why it should not be so.” He added that retirement was, for the moment, not on his “agenda” and

said, “Think that the ministry of the great patriarchs is always for life! And the historical tradition is important.”

Since his knee gave out, Francis has depended, at first seemingly reluctantly, on others to move around. He sometimes uses a cane but also leans on aides and relies on a specific butler to put him in and lift him out of a wheelchair. On foreign trips, he now uses an elevator to get on and off the plane, but he has kept up his ambitious travel. In early February, he traveled to Congo and South Sudan.

In an interview in January, Francis told The Associated Press that bulges in his intestinal wall had “returned.” In 2021, the pope had roughly 13 inches of his large intestine removed because of what the Vatican said was inflammation that caused a narrowing of his colon. Otherwise, he said he was in good shape for his age; a fall had led to a slight bone fracture in his knee, but it healed without surgery.

“I’m in good health. For my age, I’m normal,” he said, adding in a frequent flourish, “I might die tomorrow, but it’s under control. I’m in good health.”

The pope also has problems with sciatica, a chronic nerve condition that causes back, hip and leg pain and makes him walk with a limp. Flare-ups of that condition have forced him to cancel or modify high-profile appearances.

Speaking to reporters on a papal plane in 2014, he said, “I know this will last a short time, two or three years, and then to the house of the Father.” In 2015, he said he saw himself serving as pope for about another five years.

Francis is scheduled to begin a busy series of ceremonies in the coming days, including Palm Sunday this weekend, followed by Holy Thursday, Good Friday, the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday on April 9.

Junta disbands Suu Kyi’s political party in Myanmar

By SUI-LEE WEE

The political party of Myanmar’s imprisoned opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, has been officially dissolved, in yet another blow to the Southeast Asian nation’s democracy.

The party, the National League for Democracy, was disbanded by Myanmar’s military-appointed election commission, state media said late Tuesday. The announcement set the stage for an upcoming election that will almost certainly keep the junta in power for years to come.

Before Tuesday’s announcement, the NLD had already made it clear that it would not participate in the election, calling it a sham. When the party failed to register with the election commission, Myanmar’s state television said that the NLD — as well as 39 other opposition parties — would be dissolved.

U Kyaw Htwe, a spokesperson for the NLD, said the party would continue its activities, despite the announcement from the election commission. “As Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said before, if there are people, the NLD party will

exist,” said U Tun Myint, another NLD spokesperson. “The NLD is already in the hearts of the people.”

Tun Myint said that the military has burned down more than 200 NLD offices, killed more than 90 party members and supporters and arrested more than 1,300 party members since the generals seized power in a coup two years ago.

“There is nothing darker than midnight,” he said, using a Burmese phrase that means things are as bad as they can get.

The NLD clinched landslide victories in three previous elections. In the last election, held in November 2020, the party won 82% of the available seats in Parliament. But before the new Parliament could be sworn in on Feb. 1. 2021, the military staged its coup, detaining Suu Kyi and other top NLD officials.

Suu Kyi, 77, has since been given a 33-year prison sentence. The military regime accused her of a range of charges, including corruption and violating the Official Secrets Act. The United Nations and international human rights groups have condemned the prosecutions, calling them po -

litically motivated with the intent of keeping Suu Kyi out of power.

After the coup, NLD leaders who escaped arrest — as well as politicians from other parties — formed a new government called the National Unity Government. The organization, which operates in exile and has not been recognized by any international body, has supported armed rebel groups engaged in violent clashes against the military. Battling against the People’s Defense Force, as the armed rebel groups are known, the military now struggles to control territory throughout the country.

Suu Kyi has long been a thorn in the side of Myanmar’s generals, who see her overwhelming popularity as a threat to military power. She was previously kept under house arrest for nearly 15 years until 2010, winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 in recognition of her struggle for democracy.

Although Suu Kyi is still revered by many in Myanmar, a large swath of the population is now looking beyond her for guidance. In the two years since the coup, a younger, more progressive — and confrontational — generation has emerged, reshaping politics and society.

Pope Francis, center in red, presides over the funeral of Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023.

As migrants’ desperation mounts at the border, a fire kills dozens

By ROCIO GALLEGOS, NATALIE KITROEFF, EMILIANO RODRÍGUEZ and SIMON ROMERO

Katiuska Márquez said she was begging for money on the streets of Ciudad Juárez on Monday afternoon when Mexican migration officers took her and her family to a migration detention facility just across the border from El Paso, Texas.

Hours later, the 23-year-old Venezuelan was released along with her two young children and husband, but she said authorities wouldn’t release her older brother, Orlando Maldonado.

One of the last things her brother told her, she said, was “don’t let me die.”

That night, a fire broke out inside the facility, killing at least 38 people and injuring 28 others. Sixty-eight men from Central and South America were being detained at the facility, the Mexican government said. (The government had reported that 40 people were killed, but it later revised the figure.)

Mexican migration authorities told Márquez to check local hospitals for her 30-year-old brother.

The cause of the fire has yet to be determined, but Mexico’s president said it started when detainees began protesting inside the detention facility — just the latest example of the disorder plaguing Mexican border cities dealing with a crush of migrants heading to the United States in recent months.

President Joe Biden has responded to the extraordinary surge in migration at the southwestern border by trying to dissuade people from crossing illegally, leaning more heavily on Mexico to take in migrants expelled by American border officials and house migrants who must wait in northern Mexico to apply for the chance to enter the United States and request asylum.

The measures have reduced the rush of people into the United States, but they have also added to the relentless buildup of migrants in Mexico, where shelters are overwhelmed and where authorities have a checkered record on human rights.

“Alongside the Mexican government, the U.S. has direct responsibility for what happens to migrants in Mexico, because they force people to stay in Mexico,” said Rachel Schmidtke, a senior advocate for Latin America at Refugees International.

The Biden administration argues that it is trying to discourage people from taking dangerous journeys to illegally cross into the United States. The administration has also opened legal pathways for migrants from certain countries to apply for humanitarian parole to enter the United States, hoping that

a more orderly process will be safer.

Senior administration officials told the Times that since Jan. 5, when the U.S. government launched a new program to allow migrants to apply for a two-year humanitarian parole, there had been a 97% drop in illegal crossings by Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans. The officials said they also have seen a reduction in at least one migrant camp on the Mexican side of the border.

A growing number of migrants have headed to the north of Mexico in recent weeks, many hoping to cross into the United States when the pandemic-era rule that allowed U.S. authorities to swiftly expel migrants expires on May 11.

The detention center fire comes after weeks of building tensions in Ciudad Juárez, which has been strained by the constant flow of arrivals.

“Our patience is running out,” Cruz Pérez Cuéllar, the mayor of Ciudad Juárez, said in a news conference this month, vowing that the city would take a tougher approach to migrants who “could affect the city’s economy and thousands of Juárez and El Paso residents.”

The number of migrants in the city swelled to 12,000, far outstripping the city’s meager shelter capacity, according estimates by the United Nations’ International Office for Migration. Migrants now sleep in churches, hotels and sometimes on the street.

To survive, many of them have taken to selling candies, cleaning windshields and begging for money. Migration officials brought in scores of agents from other parts of the country to help manage the influx.

Human rights groups, in a letter signed this month, denounced what they said were abuses by the migration officers and what they called “the criminalization of migrants.”

The letter said that migrants’ documents were destroyed in a raid on a local hotel on March 8 that appeared to be a joint operation by police officers, the national guard and the Mexican military.

“With the excessive presence, a clear message of intimidation is sent to the people,” the letter said.

Amid the tensions, migrants have also been taking more desperate action to reach the United States.

On March 12, hundreds of people — including women and children — rushed to the border and gathered at a bridge that connects Ciudad Juárez with El Paso, according to local media reports. The migrants begged to cross, but were turned back by law enforcement.

In a video recorded by La Verdad, a local media outlet, a woman carrying a small child on her shoulders shouted, “We just want to pass! Please help us! Enough is enough, we are tired of being here in Juárez! Migration does not leave us alone! It takes

away what little we have! Help us!”

The next day, the mayor announced the city would be taking “a stronger stance” on migrants.

Several news outlets said that Mexican authorities had been rounding up migrants in the city who were begging or selling merchandise on the street hours before Monday’s disaster, and that there had been tensions between the detainees and the facility’s staff.

The National Migration Institute, which is responsible for the detention center, declined to comment on the reports.

The Mexican government said it was conducting an investigation into the tragedy, and working with consulates in the migrants’ countries of origin to determine their identity.

The migrants killed in the fire were mainly from Central America and Venezuela, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said. Some of the victims were from Guatemala, the country’s foreign ministry said.

Tempers were flaring on Tuesday afternoon among the migrants gathering in front of the facility.

A Venezuelan girl sits near an impromptu memorial outside the National Migration Institute building in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, a border city across from El Paso, Texas, on Tuesday, March 28, 2023.

Biden’s defense of global democracies is tested by political turmoil

By MICHAEL CROWLEY

Apolitical crisis in Israel and setbacks to democracy in several other major countries closely allied with the United States are testing the Biden administration’s defense of democracy against a global trend toward the authoritarianism of nations like Russia and China.

President Joe Biden will deliver remarks Wednesday at the second White House-led Summit for Democracy, which Secretary of State Antony Blinken kicked off Tuesday morning.

The three-day, in-person and virtual event comes as Biden has boasted, more than once, that since he became president, “democracies have become stronger, not weaker. Autocracies have grown weaker, not stronger.”

Casting a cloud over the long-planned gathering is a move by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government to weaken the power of Israel’s judiciary, a plan that his opponents call an existential threat to the country’s 75-year democratic tradition.

But that is only the most vivid sign of how autocratic practices are making inroads around the world.

Biden administration officials are also warily eyeing countries like Mexico, which has moved to gut its election oversight body; India, where a top opposition political leader was disqualified last week from holding a post in Parliament; and Brazil, where the electoral defeat last year of the autocratic president, Jair Bolsonaro, was followed by a riot in January that his supporters orchestrated at government offices in Brasília, the capital.

Netanyahu’s decision to postpone the proposed judicial changes under intense political pressure may slightly ease the awkwardness of Israel’s participation in the summit, where he is set to deliver prerecorded video remarks. Mexico, India and Brazil will also participate.

Netanyahu’s retreat came after private admonitions from Biden officials that he was endangering Israel’s cherished reputation as a true democracy in the heart of the Middle East.

In a briefing for reporters Monday, John Kirby, a White House spokesperson, said that Biden had “strongly” urged Israel’s government to find a compromise to a judicial plan that has starkly divided society and ignited huge protests. Asked whether the White House might disinvite Israel from the summit, Kirby said only that Israel “has been invited.”

But the larger troubles remain for Biden, who asserted in his State of the Union address

last month that the United States had reached “an inflection point” in history and that during his presidency had begun to reverse a worldwide autocratic march.

Democracy activists call that a debatable proposition, and U.S. officials acknowledge that the picture is nuanced at best.

On the positive side of the ledger, U.S. officials and experts say, Biden has rallied much of the democratic world into a powerful coalition against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In a speech during his visit to Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, last month commemorating the anniversary of the invasion, Biden repeated his assertion about the growing strength of democracies against autocracies and said that the war had forced the United States and its allies to “stand up for democracy.”

Biden has also rallied democratic nations to take firmer stands against Chinese influence around the world at a time when experts say Beijing is looking to export its model of governance.

And some argue that Biden has been a savior of democracy by winning the 2020 presidential election — defeating former President Donald Trump, a U.S. leader with authoritarian tendencies — and by containing, for now, Trump’s efforts to reject the results of that election and myriad other democratic norms.

“Without suggesting that the fight has been won or that Biden is doing everything right, I think we need to give him credit for helping to save American democracy and standing up to the great authoritarian powers,” said Tom Malinowski, a former Democratic congressman from New Jersey.

But Biden’s claim that autocracies have

grown weaker faces a stark reality in some nations.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia may find himself economically isolated and militarily challenged in Ukraine. But he still has strong political support in Russia and has even consolidated power through a crackdown on dissent that has driven hundreds of thousands of Russians from the country.

In Beijing, Xi Jinping was awarded a third five-year term this month not long after suppressing protests against his government’s coronavirus policies. In its latest official worldwide threat assessment, the U.S. intelligence community found that arms of the Chinese Communist Party “have become more aggressive with their influence campaigns” against the United States and other countries.

Biden officials conceived a democracy summit during the 2020 campaign to address a belief that autocratic influence had been spreading for years, destabilizing and undermining Western governments. They also worried about a growing perception that political chaos and legislative paralysis in places like Washington and London — or in Israel, which held five elections in three years before Netanyahu narrowly managed to form his coalition — was creating a sense around the world that democracies could not deliver results for their people.

Biden’s first Summit for Democracy, in December 2021, featured uplifting language from world leaders and group sessions on issues like news media freedom and rule of law in which countries could trade best practices on strengthening their democracies and share advice on countering foreign efforts to manipulate politics and elections.

The summit this week will include about 120 countries and will be hosted by Costa Rica, the Netherlands, South Korea and Zambia in addition to the United States.

Recent democratic trends can be described as mixed at best. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s annual democracy index found last year that in 2021, the first year of Biden’s presidency, “global democracy continued its precipitous decline.” More recently, the same survey found that in 2022, democracy had “stagnated.”

Similarly, a report released this month by Freedom House, a nonprofit group that monitors democracy, human rights and civil liberties around the world, found that global freedom had slipped for the 17th year in a row, by its measurement. But the group also reported that the steady decline might have plateaued and that there were just slightly more countries showing a decrease in freedoms compared with those whose records

were improving.

“This seems like a critical moment,” said Yana Gorokhovskaia, an author of the Freedom House report. “The spread of decline is clearly slowing. It hasn’t stopped.”

That has been clear in some countries. Last month, Mexican lawmakers passed sweeping legislation hobbling the election oversight body that is widely credited with steering the country from decades of oneparty rule. Critics say the country’s populist president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, has shown some troubling autocratic tendencies.

In India, opponents of the country’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, have complained for years that he is weakening the democratic tradition of the world’s second-largest country by population by cracking down on critics and religious minorities. The concerns reached a new level with the expulsion from Parliament of Rahul Ghandi, a prominent opponent of Modi’s, a day after a court found him guilty of criminal defamation for a line in a campaign speech in 2019 in which he likened Modi to two thieves with the same name.

The tumult over Israel’s democracy has been particularly shocking to U.S. officials and experts who have long seen the country as a paragon of democratic values and an especially bright example in a region long plagued by dictatorship.

And the summit this week will notably exclude two members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Hungary and Turkey, whose autocratic political systems have grown no less repressive during Biden’s tenure.

Still, some people who track democratic trends say they are optimistic.

“Perhaps the most striking indication of democracy’s forward movement over the last two years has been the election of President Biden and the election of President Lula in Brazil,” said Sarah Margon, the director of foreign policy at Open Society-U. S.

Those events “sent a critical message to people who are looking to defeat autocrats or leaders with autocratic tendencies,” added Margon, whom Biden nominated last year to the State Department’s top position for human rights and democracy. (Her nomination expired after Republican opposition and was not renewed in January.)

But many world leaders profess to be unmoved by critiques from democracy advocates, especially from U.S. officials.

“If they want to have a debate on this issue, let’s do it,” López Obrador said last month. “I have evidence to prove there is more liberty and democracy in our country.”

President Joe Biden delivers remarks on reducing gun violence in Monterey Park, Calif. on March 14, 2023.

In Israel, democracy still holds

By BRET STEPHENS

Even Israel’s vehement critics might pause and marvel at what ordinary Israelis achieved this week.

After weeks of mounting demonstrations against the government’s judicial-reform bills, hundreds of thousands took to the streets Sunday night — proportionally, as if millions of Americans were on the march — when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he would fire his defense minister, Yoav Gallant, for backing away from the legislation.

The demonstrators were joined by labor unions, who went on a nationwide strike that shut down the country’s main airport; and by diplomats, who shut down Israeli consulates and embassies; and by at least some reservists, who threatened to refuse call-up orders. This was as close to a revolution as the modern state of Israel has ever seen.

On Monday, Netanyahu blinked, saying he would postpone the legislation to “take a timeout for dialogue.” In a better world — or a younger Israel — he would have resigned. As a matter of politics, he turned what should have been an electoral mandate for stability, security and economic growth into a fiasco for his own partisans. As a matter of statesmanship, he brought Israel to the brink

of disaster for the apparent sake of his personal legal expediency and the ideological fixations of some of his criminal, extremist, lowlife coalition partners.

Still, he blinked.

That deserves a measure of respect. Yes, it isn’t clear whether he means to have a genuine dialogue with the opposition or merely maneuver for tactical political advantage, and Israelis should be wary of every word he utters and every step he takes.

But it’s more than can be said for President Emmanuel Macron of France, who defied huge public protests and his own parliament to enact his controversial pension reforms. Or for President Andrés Manuel López Obrador of Mexico, who rammed through legislation to gut the country’s electoral institutions, also over huge protests. Or for a certain former U.S. president, who incited a mob to overturn the results of a democratic election.

If Israel’s democracy is to be judged, let it at least be judged against other democracies. By that standard, it may be in better health than is sometimes believed.

This is true in at least three respects.

First, Israel’s demonstrators were not against the status quo or “the system.” On the contrary, they came out to defend it. At every protest, marchers waved Israeli flags. I have seen no reports of serious property damage or physical injury, much less of death. The government and its allies have tried to dismiss the demonstrators as “leftists.” It’s a preposterous claim when critics of the judicial reforms include right-wing former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and a dozen former National Security Council chiefs, such as former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen and others who served directly under Netanyahu.

In other words, this was a revolt of the political center against the fringe — showing that the former is far more vital and energized than it is elsewhere in the democratic world.

Second, principled opponents of the government will often concede that there is a reasonable case to be made in favor of some type of judicial reform. The Israeli Supreme Court is unusually powerful, and it is legitimate in any democracy to question and sometimes move the boundary lines among executive, legislative and judicial powers. Benny Gantz, a former defense minister and one of the leaders of the political opposition, has noted that “a majority of Israeli citizens, at least 80%, agree on 80% of the issues” in terms of the reforms.

So there’s ample room for compromise. With broad consultation and a clearer process, court restructuring could win broad support. But Netanyahu’s efforts will never escape the taint of partisanship and self-dealing if he continues to grab for the ability to overturn court decisions with the slimmest parliamentary majority while

potentially appointing judges in his own corruption trial.

Third, Israelis appreciate that their physical security rests less on their military power than on social trust; that even bitter political rivals must recognize each other as comrades in arms. Netanyahu acknowledged as much when he warned last week that the refusal of reservists to serve put the state itself in “terrible danger.” A Jewish state that loses the trust of half of its citizens — particularly the wealthier, more secular and more globally mobile half — will do itself in even before its enemies do.

Most Israelis, who grow up with the understanding that their country’s margin of safety is unusually narrow, know this; it’s only opportunists and fanatics who forget. This week, the demonstrators reminded them that raw majoritarianism puts everyone at risk.

On Sunday, Israeli writer Amotz Asa-El of the Shalom Hartman Institute pointed out to me that ancient Israel endured 12 civil wars, beginning with the war between the tribe of Benjamin and the rest of Israel (Judges 1921) and ending with the fighting among the Jewish militias in Jerusalem during the Great Revolt against the Romans. “That’s an average of roughly one war every four generations,” he said.

In May, Israel will turn 75 — three generations, at least. It’s too soon to celebrate a victory, but the Israelis who have taken to the streets may have spared their country from repeating that history.

POR EL STAR STAFF

E L CAPITOLIO – El portavoz del Partido Nuevo Progresista en la Cámara de Representantes, Carlos ‘Johnny’ Méndez, solicitó a la delegación del Partido Popular Democrático (PPD) la evaluación y aprobación del Proyecto de la Cámara 1645, el cual implementa marcadas reducciones contributivas a la clase trabajadora y las pequeñas y medianas empresas (Pymes) en Puerto Rico.

“Reiteramos nuestro pedido a la delegación del partido popular en la Asamblea Legislativa para que atienda, con carácter de urgencia, el P de la C 1645, el cual establece una serie de reducción contributivas que aliviará la carga de los hogares trabajadores en Puerto Rico, así como las Pymes. Con esta medida le damos verdaderos alivios a la gente. No hay razón para que no se evalúe y apruebe en esta sesión, ninguna”, dijo Méndez.

El proyecto fue radicado el 28 de febrero de este año y desde el 7 de marzo se encuentra en la Comisión de Hacienda y Presupuesto de la Cámara Baja.

De acuerdo con lo establecido en la medida, los hogares con ingresos, sean individuales o combinados, entre $41,500 hasta $61,500, verán una reducción a una tasa de 24 por

ciento. Mientras que desde los hogares con ingresos entre $61,500 a $81,500, entran también en la nueva tasa de 24, ampliando así la base de la baja en contribuciones.

El proyecto también mantiene los descuentos de 5 y 3 por ciento establecidos en las leyes 257-2018 y 402020, respectivamente, para contribuyentes con ingresos de $100,000

Desalojan estudiantes tras incendio forestal en Camuy

barrio Puente del municipio de Camuy.

o menos.

Durante su Mensaje de Situación de Estado, el gobernador, Pedro Pierluisi, también pidió la aprobación de esa medida.

“El pasado cuatrienio (20172020) nosotros bajamos la carga contributiva, eliminamos el ‘B2B’ (impuesto del 2015 en transacciones entre comerciantes y comerciantes, así como de servicios profesionales), eliminamos la dañina patente nacional. Aprobamos la eliminación del impuesto al inventario, así como restituimos el bono de los seniors para hacerle justicia a nuestros retirados. Ahora tenemos el proyecto de ley que apoya ese esfuerzo con reducción reales para la gente, no hay razón para detenerlo”, añadió el expresidente cameral.

Méndez ha estado abogando por “serias” reducciones contributivas desde hace varios meses ante la realidad fiscal y económica de Puerto Rico.

CAMUY – Personal de Manejo de Emergencia del municipio de Camuy y del Negociado de Bomberos de Camuy, Hatillo y Quebradillas, trabajan el miércoles para extinguir un fuego detrás de la Escuela Superior Felipe Crespo de la carretera PR- 486 del

Según ila Uniformada, ocurrió un incendio forestar detrás de la escuela superior en la tarde, por lo que tuvieron que desalojar a los estudiantes del plantel escolar para prevenir alguna complicación de inhalación de humo.

Al momento nadie ha resultado afectado.

Municipio de Cataño paga $451 mil del “enfermito” a 257 empleados

CATAÑO – El alcalde del Municipio Autónomo de Cataño, Julio Alicea Vasallo, anunció el pago de $451,492.48 por concepto de las licencias por enfermedad acumuladas en exceso a 257 empleados municipales.

Siempre que la situación fiscal lo permita, el Código Municipal de Puerto Rico faculta a los organismos municipales, mediante ordenanza, a pagar el balance en exceso a los 90 días laborables al finalizar cualquier año natural.

“Con este pago cumplimos con nuestro com-

promiso de reconocer el trabajo de los servidores públicos municipales, luego de haber tenido un año de disciplina fiscal que permite al municipio efectuar este pago de manera responsable”, indicó el alcalde Alicea Vasallo en declaraciones escritas.

En cumplimiento de la reglamentación vigente, el Municipio de Cataño incluyó una partida en su presupuesto del año fiscal 2023 para el pago de licencias por enfermedad acumuladas en exceso.

La nómina, que fue desembolsada el 10 de febrero, benefició a todos los empleados cualificados para recibirlo.

POR CYBERNEWS

‘Johnny’ Méndez urge a la Asamblea Legislativa aprobar la reforma contributiva

Thursday, March 30, 2023 17

Myke Towers is seizing his moment

By CAT CARDENAS

Myke Towers could tell you that he never knew he would make it big, but that wouldn’t be true. Because in 2014, six years before the rapper would put out his debut, he was preparing for a make-or-break show in his hometown, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and breaking wasn’t an option.

“Puerto Rico is the most difficult crowd to please,” he said this month, videochatting from a Miami hotel room a few weeks before the release of his new album,

“La Vida Es Una” (“Life Is One,” a reminder that we only live once). “They don’t just give out approval, you have to show that you are good enough. If you make it in PR, you’re going to make it anywhere.”

Over the course of two back-to-back albums, he did just that. “Easy Moaney Baby” (2020) went triple platinum, building off the success of his 2016 mixtape, “El Final del Principio” (“The End of the Beginning”), while incorporating reggaeton, Brazilian funk and Colombian melodies. “Lyke Mike” (2021) was a firm statement of purpose that strung together harder trap bangers.

It peaked at No. 3 on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums chart and cracked the Top 50 on the all-genre Top 200. With his new album, released Thursday, Towers, 29, aimed to marry the two approaches, striking a balance that illustrates his creative flexibility.

“In this album, I want to make music to perform live,” he said, speaking animatedly in a casual white tee and a gold chain. “I want to give energy to people so they can go out and forget about their problems, forget about what’s stressing them.”

Almost a decade ago, Towers was still waiting for his shot. Raised in the barrio of Caimito in south San Juan, he grew up surrounded by music, mainly his

grandmother’s: salsa, merengue, old school boleros — if it was classic Latin music, she was playing it. But Towers wanted to cut his own path in rap, and by the time he graduated from high school, he had started releasing music on SoundCloud, initially fairly anonymously. “At the beginning, I didn’t even want to show my face,” he said with a laugh. “I just wanted to show my skills. I knew that I had to put in a lot of work to be in the mix.”

He didn’t just practice music, he analyzed it, dissecting every move idols such as Daddy Yankee and Jay-Z made, and seeing how he could apply them to his own life. “I

Continues on page 18

The San Juan Daily Star

The rapper Myke Towers in Miami, March 10, 2023. In just a few years, the rapper has become one of the most sought-after collaborators in Latin music. His new album, “La Vida Es Una,” surveys his many aesthetics.

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studied the game,” he said. “I have my own identity, but I started with them, and the respect that I had for them.”

As his SoundCloud releases gained more traction, he began putting his name on the tracks — styling “Mike” as “Myke” — and performing around the city. He viewed his first shows as tests, and by 2014, he was ready for graduation: that important hometown performance, in La

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For artists who grew up in the area, performing in La Perla, the island’s famous slum — located on a stretch of rocky coastline in Old San Juan — is a rite of passage. In video of Towers’ set posted to YouTube, he is dressed in all black, standing under a white beach canopy as he confidently delivers the verses of the aspirational “Dinero En Mano.” (He later released the track, filled with ominous strings, on “El Final del Principio.”) By the end of the song, the crowd is singing along with him.

“It was one of my most important shows,” he recalled. He shook his head and grinned, almost as if he was still in disbelief that he had pulled it off. “A lot of people, they didn’t even know my songs, but they were like, ‘Who’s that? Why is he confident performing like that?’”

Even before he released his first fulllength album, Towers had already teamed up with Bad Bunny and Becky G, laying the groundwork that would make him one of Latin music’s most in-demand collaborators. Since then, Towers’ features with Rauw Alejandro, Luis Fonsi and Farruko have all been certified platinum.

With “La Vida Es Una,” Towers agonized over the track list, sifting among more than 50 songs to select the set that could demonstrate his transition from a vanguard of Puerto Rico’s grassroots trap scene to a self-assured hitmaker. His versatility is what first grabbed the attention of Orlando Cepeda, known as Jova, one of Towers’ frequent co-writers and a co-founder of the Puerto Rican label that first signed him in 2018. After hearing his rap music, Cepeda asked if Towers had anything more commercial. Cepeda was impressed.

“He’s an artist without limits,” Cepeda said in a phone interview. “He’s a writer, he’s a composer, he’s a lyricist. I think that hearing someone who comes from the hood like he does, when you listen to his music, it inspires, it excites, it makes people want to work with him.”

In addition to tapping some of his past collaborators, including Ozuna and J Balvin, for “La Vida Es Una,” Towers also

“I want to show my fans the difference between ‘Mike’ and ‘Myke,’” he said, explaining his efforts to blend his grittier rap roots with his mainstream ambitions. “In the beginning, my fans would say things like, ‘Oh, you went commercial. What are you doing?’ Those comments would get in my head, and I felt like I was losing who I am, but I like to challenge myself. I took a lot of risks on this album, but I feel confident that when people listen to it, they’ll hear something they needed from me before.”

The new album includes songs for his more pop-minded fans: “Sábado” and the Daddy Yankee collaboration “Ulala (Ooh La La),” two dance-floor-ready tracks produced by Texas duo Play-N-Skillz. Towers heats things up on “El Calentón,” a sparse track that begins as a reggaeton jam before building to a display of his lyrical dexterity. And as its title might suggest, “Flow Jamaican,” produced by Di Genius, dives into reggae rhythms, with Towers switching up his flow in the lead-up to the song’s earworm of a hook.

The album was primarily recorded in Puerto Rico, a place with such a long, diverse musical history, Towers said, that anyone who taps into it comes away overflowing with ideas, influences and potential: “Wherever I go, I make music from Puerto Rico. When I’m making music, I’m listening to the people who came before me.” He lit up, a wide smile spreading across his face as he described his usual routine of returning home from tour to his wife and son, and then heading to the studio.

“My family is my home base,” Towers said. “Going back to them is spiritual to me. Before I had my son, I would be in the studio until 7 a.m., every day. I’ll always have that hustler spirit, but when I found out I was going to have a kid, it was about working smarter, not harder.”

Towers ends the album with a triumphant celebration, “Lo Logré” (“I Made It”). “It’s an anthem that a lot of people are going to relate to,” he said.

“People think I made it and it was easy. They forget the process, everything that it took to make it happen. I value every moment in my career because years ago, I was even crying trying to make it come true. There are trials you go through, but when you come out on the other side, people just see that you made it. And I have, but I haven’t. I have more dreams to achieve.”

GOBIERNO DE PUERTO RICO JUNTA DE PLANIFICACION SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO AVISO

VISTA PÚBLICA

20 de abril de 2023

SOBRE

PROPUESTA ENMIENDA AL MAPA DE CALIFICACIÓN DEL MUNICIPIO AUTÓNOMO DE JUNCOS

Para conocimiento del público en general y de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Ley Número 75 de 24 de junio de 1975, conocida como “Ley Orgánica de la Junta de Planificación de Puerto Rico”; la Ley Número 38 del 30 de junio de 2017, conocida como “Ley de Procedimiento Administrativo Uniforme del Gobierno de Puerto Rico”; y la Ley 107-2020, conocida como el Código Municipal de Puerto Rico”, la Junta de Planificación informa la celebración de la vista pública virtual para presentar el cambio de calificación número 2021-49-JPZ-0073 al Mapa de Calificación del Municipio Autónomo de Juncos. La vista pública se llevará a cabo a distancia de modo virtual por medio de la aplicación TEAMS, como se dispone a continuación:

www.jp.pr.gov

20 de abril de 2023 10:00 AM

VP Virtual Juncos-2021-49-JPZ-0073

Todo ciudadano que interese participar podrá acceder a la vista en el siguiente enlace: VP Virtual Juncos-2021-49-JPZ-0073. También puede utilizar el Código QR que se encuentra al final del Aviso, al cual deberá apuntar con la cámara del teléfono móvil. Al leer el código QR será redirigido directamente a la vista pública.

ASUNTOS A DISCUTIRSE:

Petición Número 2021-49-JPZ-0073 que propone enmendar el Mapa de Calificación del Municipio Autónomo de Juncos en el predio identificado con número de catastro 227-074-271-09 de un Distrito Residencial de Baja Densidad (R-1) a Comercial Intermedio (C-I), el cual ubica en la Carretera Estatal PR-198, Km. 15.4, Barrio Ceiba Sur del Municipio de Juncos.

EXPOSICIÓN DEL CASO Y DISPONIBILIDAD DE DOCUMENTOS:

El Aviso de prensa ha sido publicado en el día de hoy en un periódico de circulación general y en un periódico regional. Los documentos que forman parte de la propuesta enmienda estarán disponibles a partir del 3 de abril de 2023, en la Casa Alcaldía del Municipio Autónomo de Juncos; y mediante cita previa en el Programa de Planificación Física de la Junta de Planificación, Piso 15, de la Torre Norte del Centro Gubernamental Roberto Sánchez Vilella (antes Centro Gubernamental Minillas) y en la página de Internet de la Junta de Planificación www.jp.pr.gov. Además, los documentos estarán disponibles en la Oficina de Gerencia de Permisos ubicada en la Ave. F.D. Roosevelt # 385, Edificio Fomento Industrial, Piso 2, San Juan PR y en la Oficina de Gerencia de Permisos Regional de Humacao ubicada en la Carretera Desvío Sur, Ave. Boulevard del Río Piso 3, Humacao PR (al lado del Fondo del Seguro del Estado). Cualquier persona natural o jurídica, corporación, que interese información sobre las peticiones de enmiendas a considerarse en la vista pública, podrá obtenerla visitando los sitios antes mencionados.

INVITACIÓN AL PÚBLICO:

Se invita a los peticionarios y propietarios de terrenos que radican dentro del límite municipal antes mencionado, organismos gubernamentales y al público en general, a participar de dicha vista y a ofrecer sus comentarios.

Según dispuesto en la Ley Núm. 38-2017, se concede un término de treinta (30) días, contados a partir de la fecha de publicación de este aviso para presentar sus comentarios por escrito. Los comentarios deben ser presentados en la Oficina de la Secretaría de la Junta de Planificación, ubicada en el Piso 16 del Centro Gubernamental Roberto Sánchez Vilella (antes Minillas), edificio Norte, Avenida José De Diego, esquina Expreso Román Baldorioty de Castro, Parada 22, Santurce, en horario de 8:00 a.m. a 12:00 p.m. y de 1:00 p.m. a 4:30 p.m. Además, mediante correo postal a la dirección: Apartado 41119, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00940-1119.

Asimismo, se podrán enviar comentarios a través del correo electrónico de la Junta de Planificación a: comentariosip@jp.pr.gov. La Junta de Planificación acusará recibo de estos comentarios recibidos por la vía electrónica durante los próximos dos (2) días laborables, contados a partir de la fecha de su recibo, conforme a lo dispuesto en la Sección 2.1 de la Ley Núm.38-2017

GOVERNMENT OF PUERTO RICO PUERTO RICO PLANNING BOARD NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING APRIL 20, 2023 ABOUT

AMENDMENT PROPOSAL TO THE ZONING MAP OF THE AUTONOMOUS MUNICIPALITY OF JUNCOS

For the general public knowledge of the general public and in accordance with the provisions of Act Number 75 of June 24, 1975, known as the “Organic Act of the Planning Board of Puerto Rico”; Act Number 38 of June 30, 2017, known as the “Uniform Administrative Procedure Act of the Government of Puerto Rico”; and Act 107-2020, known as the Municipal Code of Puerto Rico”, as amended, notice is hereby given that the Planning Board notifies the celebration of public hearing to present amendment proposal petition in case 2021-49-JPZ-0073 for the Juncos Zoning Maps.

The public hearing will be held out remotely in virtual mode through the TEAMS application, as provided as follows:

Any citizen interested in participating can access the hearing at the following link: VP Virtual Juncos2021-49-JPZ-0073. You can also use the QR Code at the end of the Notice, at which you must point with the camera of your mobile phone. By reading the QR Code you will be redirected directly to the public view.

MATTERS FOR DISCUSSION:

Will be discussed petition 2021-49-JPZ-0073 for the amendment proposal of the Zoning Maps of the Municipality of Juncos, from district R-1 to C-I. The property subject of this petition cadaster number 227-074-271-09 is located at Road PR-198, Km. 15.4, Ceiba Sur Ward of the Autonomous Municipality of Juncos, P.R.

AMENDMENTS PROPOSALS EXHIBIT AND DOCUMENTS AVAILABILITY FOR DISPLAY:

Copies of the amendments proposals to the Zoning Maps of the Autonomous Municipality of Juncos will be available on, April 3, 2023, at the Juncos City Hall; at the Planning Board- Physic Planning Program, located on the fifteen Floor (15), North Tower, Roberto Sánchez Vilella Governmental Center. In addition, in the Planning Board website: www.jp.pr.gov, the documents also are available at the Central Management and Permitting Office, located at F.D. Roosevelt Avenue # 385 at Industrial Development Building, Floor 2, San Juan PR at the Humacao Regional Management and Permitting Office located at Desvío Sur Road, Boulevard del Río Ave., Floor 3, Humacao PR (next to State Insurance Fund). Any natural or legal person, corporation that request information about the proposed amendments for the scheduled public hearings, can get copies at the above-mentioned locations.

PUBLIC INVITATION:

Petitioners, landowners located within the municipal limit mentioned above, government organizations and the invited public to participate at these hearings and submit written comments or recommendations.

Act No. 38-2017, supra, grants a 30 day period, after the publication of this public hearing notice, to submit any written comments. Comments must be submitted to the following address: Puerto Rico Planning Board, Secretary’s Office, PO Box 41119, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00940-1119, located on the sixteen floor (16), North Tower Roberto Sánchez Vilella Governmental Center, Jose de Diego Avenue, Expreso Roman Baldorioty Castro corner, stop 22, Santurce, at the time of 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. In addition, written comments should be submitted to the following electronic mail address: comentariosjp@jp.pr.gov. The Puerto Rico Planning Board will acknowledge receipt of comments by electronic mail within the next two (2) business days upon receipt, according to section 2.1, of the above-mentioned Law. No. 38-2017.

GONZÁLEZ OLLER JULIO LASSUS RUIZ, LLM, MP,PPL Secretaria Presidente

GEORGINA GONZÁLEZ OLLER JULIO LASSUS RUIZ, LLM, MP,PPL Secretary President

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYA-

MÓN SALA SUPERIOR FIRSTBANK

PUERTO RICO

Demandante Vs. SUCESIÓN DE EDNA

IRIS NALES PEREZ

COMPUESTA POR

PEDRO EMIR ROSA

NALES, EDNARIS

MAIRIM ROSA NALES Y JANICE ANDREA

FUENTES NALES COMO ÚNICOS Y UNIVERSALES HEREDEROS Y MIEMBROS DE SU SUCESIÓN

Demandados

Civil Núm.: BY2018CV04191.

Salón Núm.: 505. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. LOS ESTADOS

UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS E.E.

U.U., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS. Yo, EDGARDO ELÍAS VARGAS SANTANA, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #193, Alguacil del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de Bayamón, al Público HAGO SABER: Que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que se me libró con fecha del 21 de junio de 2022, por la Secretaria del Tribunal Superior de Bayamón en relación con la Sentencia Sumaria en Rebeldía dictada en 28 de junio de 2019, notificada y archivada en autos el 28 de junio de 2019, y publicada la Notificación de Sentencia Por Edicto en 3 de julio de 2019, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor la propiedad inmueble que se describe a continuación: URBANA: Edificio uno punto uno (1.1) Apartamento: uno guión dos cero uno (1-201). Propiedad Horizontal: Apartamento de una (1) planta, tres (3) habitaciones en el Condominio Bosque Sereno, situado en la Avenida Las Cumbres, en el Barrio Cerro Gordo, Bayamón, Puerto Rico, con un área de mil cuarenta y siete punto cero cero (1,047.00) pies cuadrados, equivalentes a noventa y siete punto treinta (97.30) metros cuadrados. Colinda por el NORTE, con pared exterior; por el SUR, con pared exterior; por el ESTE, con pared exterior; y por el OESTE, con la pared medianera que comparte con el apartamento uno guión dos cero dos (1-202) y escalera. Tiene puerta de en-

trada en el lado Oeste que conduce a un pasillo común y tiene puerta en el lado Sur, que conduce al balcón del apartamento. Consta dicho apartamento de sala comedor, cocina, closet de alacena, closet de calentador de agua, balcón, closet de lavandería, un (1) baño, dos (2) dormitorios con sus respectivos closets, un (1) dormitorio principal con su closet y baño. A este apartamento le corresponden punto cincuenta y siete (.57%) de titularidad en los elementos comunes. A este apartamento le corresponden los estacionamientos números ciento once (111) y doscientos setenta (270). Consta inscrita al folio 98, del tomo 1875 de Bayamón Sur, finca número 77,303, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección I. Condiciones Restrictivas a través del Programa Bono de Vivienda: La Autoridad para el Financiamiento de la Vivienda de Puerto Rico, ha concedido a los compradores la suma de $7,950.00 para gastos de cierre, por lo que impone las siguientes condiciones restrictivas: No podrá vender, donar, permutar o de cualquier otro modo transferir la propiedad sin el previo consentimiento de la Autoridad dentro de un periodo de 10 años a partir de la fecha de la escritura relacionada en la inscripción primera. Por su procedencia está afecta a: a. Servidumbre a favor de la Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados de Puerto Rico. b. Servidumbre a favor de la Autoridad de Fuentes Fluviales de Puerto Rico. c. Servidumbre a favor del Municipio de Bayamón. d. Servidumbre a favor de la Puerto Rico Telephone Company. e. Condiciones restrictivas. Dirección de la propiedad: Condominio Bosque Sereno, Apartamento 1-201, Bayamón, Puerto Rico 00956. Se apercibe a los licitadores para que procedan con la inspección física del inmueble objeto de ejecución previo a la celebración de las subastas. El precio mínimo de licitación con relación a la propiedad anteriormente descrita y la fecha y hora de cada subasta es como sigue: PRIMERA SU-

BASTA: Se celebrará el 17 DE

ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA. PRECIO MÍ-

NIMO: $154,969.00. SEGUN-

DA SUBASTA: Se celebrará

24 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA. PRE-

CIO MÍNIMO: $103,312.66.

TERCERA SUBASTA: Se celebrará 1 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA.

PRECIO MÍNIMO: $77,484.50. Las subastas se llevarán a cabo para satisfacer al Banco demandante de las siguientes sumas de dinero adeudadas a

la parte demandante conforme a la Sentencia dictada, a saber, la suma de $140,365.98 adeudada por concepto de principal e intereses vencidos al 25 de septiembre de 2018, y los que se continúen acumulando al tipo pactado hasta el pago total y completo de la obligación, los cargos por demora vencidos que a igual fecha ascienden a $499.20, y los que se continúen acumulando al tipo pactado hasta el pago total y completo de la obligación, las sumas adeudadas por concepto de seguros y/o contribuciones, la suma de $139.25 por concepto de adelantos (Corp Advances), más la suma de $15,496.90, por concepto de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, según pactados. Las subastas de dicha propiedad se llevarán a efecto en mi oficina situada en el local que ocupa este Tribunal en el Tribunal de Bayamón, advirtiéndose que el que obtuviere la buena pro de dicha propiedad consignará en el acto del remate el importe de su oferta en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América, en adición a los gastos de la subasta, siendo éste el mejor postor. En cualquier momento luego de haberse comenzado el acto de la subasta, el Alguacil podrá requerir de los licitadores que le evidencien la capacidad de pago de sus posturas. Del producto obtenido en dicha venta, el Alguacil pagará en primer término los gastos del Alguacil, en segundo término las costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados hasta la suma convenida, en tercer término los intereses acumulados hasta la fecha de la subasta según pactados hasta su total y completo pago, en cuarto término, las sumas establecidas para el pago de recargos por demora hasta la fecha de la subasta y en quinto término la suma principal adeudada. Disponiéndose, que si quedare algún remanente luego de pagarse las sumas mencionadas, el mismo deberá ser depositado en la Secretaría del Tribunal para ser entregado a la parte demandada, previa solicitud y orden del Tribunal. El inmueble anteriormente descrito se encuentra afecto al siguiente gravamen posterior: ANOTACIÓN PREVENTIVA DE DEMANDA radicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia de Puerto Rico, Sala de Bayamón, Civil Número BY2018CV04191 sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca por la Vía Ordinaria de fecha 16 de noviembre de 2018, seguida por Firstbank Puerto Rico (Demandante) Vs. EDNA IRIS NALES PEREZ (Demandada). Por la misma se reclama el pago de

la suma de $140,365.98, más intereses y otras sumas, o en su defecto la venta en pública subasta, anotado al Tomo Karibe de Bayamón Sur, finca número 77,303, Anotación A, el cual se refiere al caso del epígrafe en la presente causa de acción. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito ejecutante, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistentes, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, toda vez que el precio de remate no se destina a su extinción.

La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento del caso de epígrafe están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Bayamón, durante horas laborables. Y PARA LA CONCURRENCIA, de los licitadores expido el presente Edicto que se publicará en el Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Alcaldía y la Colecturía de Rentas Internas del Municipio donde se celebrará la subasta por espacio de dos semanas y en un periódico de circulación general del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico por espacio de dos semanas y por lo menos una vez por semana. En Bayamón, Puerto Rico, a 14 de febrero de 2023. EDGARDO ELÍAS VARGAS SANTANA, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #193, ALGUACIL SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE AGUADILLA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN SEBASTIÁN ORIENTAL BANK

Parte Demandante V. SUCESIÓN DE ANDRES AGUSTIN SANCHEZ FUENTES COMPUESTA POR ANDRES SANCHEZ, FULANA DE TAL Y FULANO DE TAL

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: AG2022CV00181. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El que suscribe, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de SAN SEBASTIÁN, hago saber a la par-

te demandada, SUCESIÓN DE ANDRES AGUSTIN SANCHEZ FUENTES compuesta por ANDRES SANCHEZ, FULANA DE TAL Y FULANO DE TAL y al PÚBLICO EN GENERAL; que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia expedido el 11 de ENERO de 2023, por la Secretaría del Tribunal, procederé a vender y venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor pagadero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o giro postal, a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal, la siguiente propiedad con dirección física: SR 497 KM 1.2 BARRIO POZAS, SAN SEBASTIAN PR 00685 y que se describe como sigue: RUSTICA: Parcela número 2 de acuerdo con el plano de inscripción ubicado en el Barrio Pozas del municipio de San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, con una cabida superficial de 1,002.38 metros cuadrados, equivalentes a 0.2550 cuerdas. En lindes por el NORTE en 13.70 metros y en 6.03 metros, con camino municipal; por el SUR, en 19.05 metros con Sergio Colón y Noel Colón; por el ESTE en 58.33 metros con parcela número 3 y por el OESTE, en 49.00 metros con parcela número 1. Finca 18696 Inscrita al Folio 72 del Tomo 468 de San Sebastián. Registro de la Propiedad de San Sebastián. La finca antes descrita se encuentra afecta a los siguientes gravámenes:

(i) HIPOTECA en garantía de un pagaré a favor de Doral Mortgage LLC., o a su orden, por la suma de $135,000.00 al 6.625% y vencimiento 1 de julio de 2038, según Esc. #87, en Aguadilla a 30 de junio de 2008, ante Laura A Dahdah Surillo, inscrita al folio 73 del tomo 468 de San Sebastián, finca #18696, Inscripción 18va y última. La hipoteca objeto de esta ejecución es la que ha quedado descrita en el inciso (i). Será celebrada la subasta para con el importe de la misma satisfacer la sentencia dictada el 9 de septiembre de 2022, mediante la cual se condenó a la parte demandada pagar a la parte demandante la cantidad ascendiente a $106,200.62 de principal, más $5,276.88 a intereses acumulados que continuarán acumulándose al 6.625% anual hasta el saldo total de la deuda, más $417.76 a cargos por demora, más costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, según pactado, más cualquier otro desembolso que haya efectuado o efectúe la parte demandante durante la tramitación de este caso para otros adelantos de conformidad con el Contrato Hipotecario. La PRIMERA SUBASTA será celebrada el día 3 DE MAYO DE 2023, A

LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de SAN SEBASTIÁN, Puerto Rico. Servirá de tipo mínimo para la misma, la cantidad de $135,000.00 sin admitirse oferta inferior. De no haber remate ni adjudicación, celebraré SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día

10 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS

9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar, en la que servirá como tipo mínimo, dos terceras (2/3) partes del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $90,000.00. Si no hubiese remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, celebraré TERCERA SUBASTA el día 17 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar en la que regirá como tipo mínimo, la mitad (1/2) del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $67,500.00. El Alguacil que suscribe hizo constar que toda licitación deberá hacerse para pagar su importe en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América, de acuerdo con la Ley y de acuerdo con lo anunciado en este Aviso de Subasta. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables. Se entiende que todo licitador que comparezca a la subasta señalada en este caso acepta como bastante la titulación que da base a la misma. Se entiende que cualquier carga y/o gravamen anterior y/o preferente, si la hubiere al crédito que da base a esta ejecución continuará subsistente, entendiéndose, además, que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de estos, sin destinarse a su extinción cualquier parte del remanente del precio de licitación. La propiedad para ejecutar será adquirida libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Por la presente se notifica a los acreedores que tengan inscritos o anotados sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante o acreedores de cargas o derechos reales que los hubiesen pospuesto a la hipoteca ejecutada y las personas interesadas en, o con derecho a exigir el cumplimiento de instrumentos negociables garantizados hipotecariamente con posterioridad al crédito ejecutado, para que puedan concurrir a la subasta si les convenga o satisfacer antes del remate el importe del crédito, de sus intereses, costas y honorarios de abogados asegurados, quedando subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. Vendida o adjudicada la finca

o derecho hipotecado y consignado el precio correspondiente, en esa misma fecha o fecha posterior, el alguacil que celebró la subasta procederá a otorgar la correspondiente escritura pública de traspaso en representación del dueño o titular de los bienes hipotecados, ante el notario que elija el adjudicatario o comprador, quien deberá abonar el importe de tal escritura. El alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días a partir de la confirmación de la venta o adjudicación. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del deudor la ocupen. Y PARA CONOCIMIENTO DE LOS LICITADORES

Y DEL PUBLICO EN GENERAL y para su publicación de acuerdo con la Ley, expido el presente Edicto bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal. En SAN SEBASTIÁN, Puerto Rico, hoy 13 de marzo de 2023. LUIS A. NIEVES RIVERA, ALGUACIL DEL TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA DE SAN SEBASTIÁN.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA

RJY DEVELOPMENT & LEARNING CENTER, INC.

Demandante V. SUCESIÓN DE ALICE

NIDIA GARCÍA TORO

T/C/C ALICE N. GARCÍA TORO T/C/C ALICE

GARCÍA TORO T/C/C

ALICE NIDIA GARCÍA DE SÁNCHEZ; COMPUESTA POR JUAN JOSÉ

SÁNCHEZ DE JESÚS

T/C/C JUAN J. SÁNCHEZ DE JESÚS T/C/C JUAN

SÁNCHEZ DE JESÚS

POR SÍ Y EN CUANTO

A LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA; GERARDO SÁNCHEZ

GARCÍA, GLEN

SÁNCHEZ GARCÍA, CÉSAR ARMANDO SÁNCHEZ GARCÍA, JUAN JOSÉ SÁNCHEZ

GARCÍA; FULANO DE TAL, FULANA DE TAL, SUTANO DE TAL, SUTANA DE TAL, A, B, Y C COMO HEREDEROS

DESCONOCIDOS; HONORABLE SECRETARIO DE HACIENDA DEL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO

Demandados

Civil Núm.: FCD2012-0981. Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA - IN REM. AVISO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PUEBLO DE PUERTO RICO, S.S. YO, el(la) Alguacil que suscribe, por la presente anuncia y hace constar, que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia, expedido el 10 de enero de 2023 por la Secretaría del Tribunal de Carolina, procederé a vender en pública subasta y al mejor postor, quien pagará el importe de la venta en dinero efectivo o en cheque certificado o de gerente, a la orden del Alguacil suscribiente, en moneda del curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América, el día 13 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LA(S) 1:15 DE LA TARDE, en las oficinas del Alguacil del Tribunal de Carolina, todo título, derecho o interés que corresponda a la parte demandada sobre el inmueble que se describe a continuación:

URBANA: Solar radicado en la Urbanización Villa Carolina, situada en el Barrio Hoyo Mulas de Carolina, Puerto Rico, marcado con el número Treinta (30) de la Manzana Veintisiete (27), con un área de SEISCIENTOS VEINTINUEVE PUNTO OCHENTA Y NUEVE METROS CUADRADOS (629.89 m.c.). En lindes, por el NORTE, con el Solar Número Veintinueve (29), en una distancia de veinticuatro punto cuatrocientos cincuenta y cuatro metros (24.454 m.); por el SUR, con parque pasivo y área de juego, en una distancia de seis punto cero once metros (6.011 m.); por el ESTE, con el Solar Número Treinta y Uno (31), en una distancia de treinta y seis punto setecientos sesenta y cuatro metros (36.764 m.) y con la Calle Número Siete (7), en una distancia de diez punto ciento setenta y nueve metros (10.179 m.), con un arco; y por el OESTE, con el Solar Número Uno, Dos y Tres (1, 2 y 3), en una distancia de treinta punto trescientos veinticuatro metros (30.324 m.c.). Enclava una casa. Consta inscrito al folio 46 del tomo 386 de Carolina, Puerto Rico, Registro de la Propiedad de Carolina, Sección Segunda, finca 15,142. Dirección Física: #27-30 Street 7, Urb. Villa Carolina, Carolina, PR 00985. La propiedad descrita

deudora demandada en cuanto a la propiedad localizada en el: Municipio de Culebra, Puerto Rico, el bien inmueble se describe a continuación:

“HORIZONTAL PROPERTY”:

RESIDENCIAL UNIT TWEN-

TY FIVE ZERO ZERO TWO (2502) OF CLUSTER TWENTY FIVE (25) WHICH FORMS

PART OF THE COSTA BONITA

BEACH RESORT CONDOMINIUM REGIME, LOCATED AT LOS FRAILERS WARD, CULEBRA, PUERTO RICO. RECTANGULAR SHAPED ONE STORY UNIT, WITH A TOTAL CONSTRUCTION AREA OF SEVEN HUNDRED SIXTEEN POINT SIXTY SIX POINT FIFTY EIGHT SQUARE METERS (66.58). THIS UNIT SHARES PART OF THE GROUND FLOOR OF CLUSTER TWENTY FIVE (25) WITH RESIDENTIAL UNIT TWENTY FIVE ZERO ONE (2501). THE MAIN ENTRANCE IS LOCATED ON THE SIDE OF THE UNIT LEADING TO THE FOYER WHICH IS A LIMITED COMMON ELEMENT OF CUSTER TWENTY FIVE (25). ITS BOUNDARIES ARE: BY THE NORTH, WITH EXTERIOR COMMON AREAS OF THE CONDOMINIUM, BY THE SOUTH, WITH UNIT TWENTY FIVE ZERO ONE (2501) AND WITH THE FOYER WHICH IS AN INTERIOR LIMITED COMMON ELEMENTS, BY THE WEST, WITH EXTERIOR COMMON AREAS OF THE CONDOMINIUM, AND BY THE EAST, WITH EXTERIOR COMMON AREAS OF THE CONDOMINIUM. RESIDENTIAL UNIT TWENTY FIVE ZERO TWO (2502) CONTAINS A LIVING/SLEEPING AREA, A KITCHENETTE, A BATHROOM, TWO CLOSETS, AN OWNERS CLOSET, AN AIR CONDITIONING CLOSET AND A COVERED BALCONY AREA. THIS UNIT HAS THE EXCLUSIVE USE AND ENJOYMENT OF THE FOLLOWING LIMITED COMMON ELEMENT OF THE COSTA BONITA BEACH RESORT CONDOMINIUM, THE FOYER AND ACCESS STAIRWAYS OF CLUSTER TWENTY FIVE (25) WHICH GIVES ACCESS TO THE UNITS FORMING PART OF SUCH CLUSTER. THE PERCENTAGE SHARE OF THE UNIT IN AND TO THE GENERAL COMMON ELEMENTS IS POINT ZERO THREE ZERO OF ONE PERCENT (.6030%). THE PERCENTAGE SHARE OF THIS UNIT IN AND TO THE LIMITED COMMON ELEMENTS IS TWENTY FIVE PERCENT (25%). FINCA #1935 DE CULEBRA, INSCRITA AL TOMO KARIBE DEL REGISTRO DE LA PROPIEDAD DE PUERTO RICO, SECCION DE FAJARDO. Con el importe de dicha venta se habrá de satisfacer a la parte demandante las cantidades adeudadas, según la

Sentencia dictada en el caso de epígrafe, por el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Fajardo, cuyas cantidades ascienden a $170,379.47 de principal, 6 1/8% de intereses, los cuales continúan acumulándose hasta el saldo total de la deuda; $1,394.50 de gastos por mora, los cuales continúan acumulándose hasta el pago total de la deuda, $145.00 de otros gastos y la suma pactada de $18,360.00 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado.

El tipo mínimo para la subasta será la suma de tasación pactada, la cual es $183,600.00 según la escritura de hipoteca para la propiedad antes descrita. De declararse la subasta desierta, se procederá a una segunda subasta y servirá de tipo mínimo de 2/3 del precio mínimo antes mencionado; $122,400.00. Si tampoco hubiere remate ni adjudicación en esta segunda subasta, se procederá a una tercera subasta, en la cual regirá como tipo mínimo ésta la 1/2 del precio mínimo antes mencionado; $91,800.00. Art. 104 de la Ley Hipotecaria, 30 L.P.R.A. sec. 2721. Para el lote descrito, la PRIMERA SUBASTA se llevará a cabo el día 10 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 3:00 DE LA TARDE. De no comparecer postor alguno se llevará a efecto una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 17 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 3:00 DE LA TARDE. De no comparecer postor alguno se llevará a cabo una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 24 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 3:00 DE LA TARDE. La subasta o subastas antes indicadas se llevarán a efecto en mi oficina, localizada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Fajardo. De Estudio de Título realizado, no surgen gravámenes preferentes, surge el siguiente gravamen posterior: Embargo Estatal contra Lázaro Fernández, cuenta número 596-01-2153, por la suma de $467,034.73 según Certificación expedida por el Departamento de Hacienda de Puerto Rico, el 21 de marzo de 2022, en virtud de la Ley #210 de 2015, anotado al Asiento 2022-002680-EST en el Sistema de Embargos y Sentencias Karibe el 23 de marzo de 2022. Se le advierte a los licitadores que la adjudicación se hará al mejor postor, quien deberá consignar el importe de su oferta en el mismo acto de la adjudicación en moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica, giro postal o cheque de gerente a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal y para conocimiento de la parte demandada y de toda(s) aquella(s) persona(s) que tengan interés inscrito con posterioridad a la inscripción del gravamen que se está ejecutando, y para conocimiento de los licitadores y el público en

general y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general, una vez por semana durante el término de dos (2) semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones, y para su fijación en tres (3) lugares públicos del municipio en que ha de celebrarse la venta, tales como, la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la Colecturía y se le notificará además a la parte demandada vía correo certificado con acuse de recibo a la última dirección conocida. Se les advierte a todos los interesados que todos los documentos relacionados con la presente acción de ejecución de hipoteca, así como la de la subasta, estarán disponibles para ser examinados en la Secretaría del Tribunal. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titulación y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere al crédito de ejecutante, continuarán subsiguientes entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores, previa orden judicial dirigida al Registrador de la Propiedad de la sección correspondiente para la cancelación de aquellos posteriores. Y para conocimiento de la demandada, de los acreedores posteriores, de los licitadores, partes interesadas y público en general, expido el presente Aviso para su publicación en los lugares públicos correspondientes. Librado en Fajardo, Puerto Rico, a 16 de febrero de 2023. DENISE BRUNO ORTIZ, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #266. JORGE A. ORTIZ ESTRADA, ALGUACIL REGIONAL INTERINO #622.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBU-

NAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA

GLORIA SANCHEZ CRUZ

Demandante V.

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO; JUAN DEL PUEBLO Y JUANA DEL PUEBLO Y CUALESQUIER PERSONA DESCONOCIDA CON POSIBLE INTERÉS EN LA OBLIGACIÓN CUYA

CANCELACIÓN POR

DECRETO JUDICIAL SE SOLICITA

Demandados

Civil Núm.: CA2023CV00842.

Sobre: CANCELACIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO.

ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉ-

RICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: JUAN DEL PUEBLO Y JUANA DEL PUEBLO COMO POSIBLES TENEDORES Y CUALESQUIER PERSONA DESCONOCIDA CON POSIBLE INTERÉS EN LA OBLIGACIÓN CUYA CANCELACIÓN POR DECRETO JUDICIAL SE SOLICITA.

Por la presente se le notifica que ha sido presentada en este Tribunal una Demanda en su contra en el pleito de epígrafe.

1. En este caso la parte demandante ha radicado una Demanda para que se decrete judicia mente el saldo de un (1) pagaré hipotecario a favor de Banco Popular de Puerto Rico o a su orden, por la suma principal de $34,650.00, intereses al 8% anual, vencedero el 1 de agosto de 2006, constituida mediante la escritura número 76, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 22 de julio de 1976, ante el Notario Eduardo C. Baragaño, inscrita al folio 195 del tomo 571 de Carolina, inscripción 1era, sobre la propiedad que se describe a continuación: URBANA: HORIZONTAL PROPERTY: Apartment number twelve D in a building submitted to the Horizontal Regime, know as Condominio Marlin Towers number two, located at Road number one hundred eighty seven, kilometer two hectometer two, Carolina, Puerto Rico. This apartment which is destined to the used for residential purposes and has walls, ceilings and floor built out of concrete contains a floor area of seventy one square meters and ninety four hundredths of a meters, more or less with an irregular shape. Said apartment being located immediately to the Northwest, of the lobby on the twelfth floor of the building. The main entrance to the apartment immediately communicates with the lobby which is one of the communal facilities of the building and through this lobby direct access to the street is gained. The apartment bounds in the NORTH, in eleven meters forty three centimeters, with lobby, North exterior wall and apartment twelve A; on the SOUTH, in six meters fifty centimeters, with apartment twelve C; on the WEST, in ten meters twenty one centimeters, with West exterior wall, and on the EAST, in five meters forty four centimeters, with elevator shaft. Le corresponde a este apartamento una participación de 1.6632% en los elementos comunes. Finca 29,049, inscrita al folio 195 del tomo 571 de Carolina. Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Sección I de

Carolina. La parte demandante alega que dicho pagaré ha sido saldado según más detalladamente consta en la Demanda radicada que puede examinarse en la Secretaría de este Tribunal. Por tratarse de una obligación hipotecaria y pudiendo usted tener interés en este caso o quedar afectado por el remedio solicitado, se le emplaza por este edicto que se publicará una vez en un periódico de circulación diaria general de Puerto Rico. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https:// unired.ramajudicial.pr/sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Debe notificar con copia de ella a la abogada de la parte demandante la Lcda Lizbet Aviles Vega, Urb Los Sauces, Calle Pomarrosa #222, Humacao, PR 00791; Tel. (787) 354-0061, dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este Edicto, apercibiéndole que de no hacerlo así dentro del término indicado, el Tribunal podrá anotar su rebeldía y dictar sentencia concediendo el remedio solicitado en la Demanda sin más citarle ni oírle. EXPEDIDO bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal, en Carolina, Puerto Rico, hoy día 23 de marzo de 2023. LCDA. MARILYN APONTE RODRÍGUEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. MARICRUZ APONTE ALICEA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE SAN JUAN BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante V. IVAN IRIZARRY MEDINA, MARIA GONZALEZ DE IRIZARRY, JOHN DOE Demandadas Civil Núm.: SJ2023CV01640. Sobre: CANCELACIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO POR LA VÍA JUDICIAL. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, S.S.

A: JOHN DOE COMO TENEDOR DESCONOCIDO DEL PAGARÉ a favor de Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, o a su orden, por la suma principal de $125,000.00 en garantía de un pagaré a favor del Banco Popular De Puerto Rico, o a su orden, con intereses al 9-3/8% anual

y vencimiento el 1ro. de julio de 2021, tasada en $125,000.00, constituida mediante escritura #173 otorgada en San Juan el 7 de junio de 1991, ante Enrique Rodríguez Negrón, inscrita al folio 60vto. del tomo 579 de Monacillos, finca 20,192, Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Tercera Sección de San Juan. Por la presente se le emplaza y notifica que debe contestarla demanda incoada en su contra dentro del término de treinta (30) días a partir de la publicación del presente edicto. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar y notificar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el Tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la Demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. Los abogados de la parte demandante son: ABOGADOS DE LA PARTE

DEMANDANTE:

Lcdo. Reggie Díaz Hernández RUA Núm.: 16,393

BERMUDEZ & DIAZ LLP

Suite 209 500 Calle De La Tanca San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901 Tel.: (787) 523-2670

Fax: (787) 523-2664 rdíazbdprlaw.com

Expido este edicto bajo mi firma y el sello de este Tribunal, hoy 24 de marzo de 2023. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA REGIONAL.

LOYDA M. COUVERTIER REYES, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA

LIME HOMES, LTD

Parte Demandante Vs. WILLIAM RIVERA DEYNE

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: FCD2015-0304. Salón Núm.: (0404). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: WILLIAM RIVERA

DEYNE: Y AL PÚBLICO EN GENERAL:

El Alguacil que suscribe, certifica y hace constar que en

cumplimiento de Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que me ha sido dirigido por la Secretaría del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Carolina, procederé a vender en pública subasta y al mejor postor, por separado, de contado y por moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América. Todo pago recibido por el (la) Alguacil por concepto de subastas será en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del (de la) Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia. Todo derecho, título, participación e interés que le corresponda a la parte demandada o cualquiera de ellos en el inmueble hipotecado objeto de ejecución que se describe a continuación: URBANA: Propiedad Horizontal: Apartamento residencial de forma irregular localizado en la segunda Planta del Edificio H del Condominio Río Vista, localizado en el Barrio Hoyo Mulas del término municipal de Carolina, Puerto Rico, el cual se describe en la escritura matriz de dedicación al Régimen de Propiedad Horizontal con el número 122 con un área de 1,024.80 pies cuadrados, equivalentes a 95.24 metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE, en 17’ 10 1/2” con espacio abierto; por el SUR, en 21’10”, con espacio abierto; por el ESTE, en 36’5” con pared medianera que lo separa del apartamento número 132; y por el OESTE, en 37’8” con pared medianera que lo separa del apartamento número 112 y área de escalera que da acceso al edificio. Tiene su puerta de entrada y salida por su lado Oeste que da al área del pasillo que conduce a la escalera que le brinda acceso al Edificio y además tiene una puerta en el lado Sur la cual le provee acceso al balcón. Consta de balcón, sala-comedor, una (1) habitación dormitorio con un closet en su interior, un pasillo que brinda acceso a las siguientes áreas: cocina, un clóset pequeño, área de lavandería, un baño completo de uso general, una (1) habitación dormitorio con un clóset en su interior y una (1) habitación, dormitorio principal (master room) en la cual ubica un área de “walk-in-closet” y un (1) baño completo. Le corresponden a este apartamento dos (2) espacios de estacionamiento identificados con los números 53 y 54. A este apartamento el corresponde una participación en los elementos comunes del Condominio de 0.0060480%. Inscrita al folio

84 del tomo 1224 de Carolina, Registro de la Propiedad de Carolina, Sección Segunda, finca número 52,521, Inscripción

Primera. La propiedad objeto de ejecución está localizada en la siguiente dirección: Condominio Río Vista, Apartamento 122 Edificio H, Carolina, Puerto

Rico 00987. Se informa que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravamen posterior, una vez sea otorgada la escritura de venta judicial y obtenida la Orden y Mandamiento de cancelación de gravamen posterior. (Art. 51, Ley 210-2015). En relación a la finca a subastarse, se establece como tipo mínimo de licitación en la Primera Subasta la suma de $111,000.00, constituida mediante la escritura número 10, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 18 de junio de 2009, ante el notario Juan C. Galanes Valldejuli, e inscrita al folio 45 del tomo 1354 de Carolina, finca número 52,521, inscripción 4ta., como Asiento Abreviado extendidas las líneas el día 6 de marzo de 2013, según la ley número 216 del día 27 de diciembre de 2010. (Fue presentado el día 3 de agosto de 2009 al Asiento 1085 del Diario 387). Debidamente modificada la hipoteca de la inscripción 4ta., mediante la escritura número 600, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 29 de diciembre de 2012, ante el notario Ricardo Rangel Rivera, e inscrita al folio 45 del tomo 1354 de Carolina, finca número 52,521, inscripción 5ta. La PRIMERA SUBASTA, se llevará a cabo el día 4 DE MAYO DE 2023 A LAS 11:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en mis oficinas sitas en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Carolina, el tipo mínimo para la primera subasta es la suma de $111,000.00. Si la primera subasta del inmueble no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 11 DE MAYO DE 2023 A LAS 11:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo sitio y servirá de tipo mínimo las dos terceras partes del precio pactada para la primera subasta, o sea, la suma de $74,000.00. Si la segunda subasta no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 18 DE MAYO DE 2023 A LAS 11:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar y regirá como tipo mínimo de la tercera subasta la mitad del precio pactado para la primera, o sea, la suma de $55,500.00. Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo, para con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante el importe de la Sentencia dictada a su favor, a saber: Suma Principal de $103,445.20 de principal, más los intereses sobre dicha suma al 6.125% anual, más los cargos por demora que corresponden a los plazos atrasados desde la fecha anteriormente indicada a razón de la tasa pactada de 5% de cualquier pago que esté en mora por más de quince (15) días desde la fecha de su vencimiento, más adelantos para el pago, entre otros, de seguros y contribuciones, entre otros; más la suma de

$10,493.70 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados, más cualquier otra suma que resulte por cualesquiera otros adelantos que se hayan hecho la demandante, en virtud de las disposiciones de la escritura de hipoteca y del Pagaré hipotecario. Para más información, a las personas interesadas se les notifica que los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal, durante las horas laborables.

Este EDICTO DE SUBASTA, se publicará en los lugares públicos correspondientes y en un periódico de circulación general en la jurisdicción de Puerto Rico. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los referentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes. Se entenderá que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Se procederá a otorgar la correspondiente

Escritura de Venta Judicial y el Alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días, de conformidad con las disposiciones de Ley. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del deudor la ocupen. Expedido en Carolina, Puerto Rico, a 24 de marzo de 2023. HÉCTOR L.

PEÑA RODRÍGUEZ, ALGUACIL PLACA #278.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. LA SUCESIÓN DE BEATRIZ RIVERA MATOS COMPUESTA

POR MARÍA MILAGROS

RIVERA MATOS y MENGANO DE TAL, POSIBLE HEREDERO DESCONOCIDO

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: SJ2023CV01712. (508). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO, EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. EMPLAZAMIENTO

POR EDICTO E INTERPELACIÓN. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS E.E.U.U., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO.

A: MENGANO

POSIBLE

DE

TAL,

HEREDERO

DESCONOCIDO DE BEATRIZ RIVERA MATOS. Queda usted notificado que en este Tribunal se ha radicado demanda sobre ejecución de hipoteca por la vía ordinaria en la que se alega se adeuda las siguientes cantidades: $86,749.45 de principal, más intereses sobre dicha suma al 5.50% anual desde el 1 de junio de 2022 hasta su completo pago, más $14.97 de recargos acumulados, los cuales continuarán en aumento hasta el saldo total de la deuda, más la cantidad estipulada de $11,247.50 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados, así como cualquier otra suma que contenga el contrato del préstamo, incluyendo pero sin limitarse a gastos de mantenimiento, inspecciones y otros adelantos “corporate advances”. La propiedad que garantiza hipotecariamente el préstamo es la siguiente: URBAN: Residential apartment number K-9 of irregular located in Concordia Gardens Condominium, which in turn is located in the Southeast corner of the intersection of 65th Infantry Highway with State Road one hundred and eighty-one (181), in the Ward of Sabana Llana of the municipality of San Juan, with a total private area of one thousand three (1003.00) square feet, equivalent to 93.18 square meters, including separate storage, being its lineal measurements 28’ 0” in its widest dimension, by 41’ 8”, in its longest dimension which includes: foyer with closet, living-dining room, balcony, 3 bedroom with closets, kitchen, linen closet, storage closet and one bathroom. Bounding: on the NORTHEAST: with exterior yard; on the SOUTHWEST: with apartment number L-9; on the SOUTHEAST: with exterior yard; and on the NORTWEST: with apartment number J-9 and common corridor. This apartment has an entrance door with access from and exit to the principal corridor of the ninth floor of the building with connects or communicate the apartment with the elevator and the stairs, through which it has access from and exit to the public thoroughfare. This apartment has a separate storage room, located in the lobby area. A este apartamento le corresponde en los elementos comunes del cual forma parte, una participación de 0.4583%. Inscrita al folio 103 del tomo 330 de Sabana Llana, Finca 13575. Registro de la Propiedad de San Juan, Sección V. La escritura de hipoteca consta inscrita al folio 122 vuelto del tomo 985 de Sabana Llana, Finca 13575. Registro de la Propiedad de San Juan, Sección V. Inscripción decimose-

gunda. La demandante es la tenedora por endoso, por valor recibido y de buena fe del referido pagaré objeto de la presente acción. Se interpela a los demandados para que acepten o renuncien a la herencia de la causante dentro de los 30 días subsiguientes a la fecha que fuesen emplazados o requeridos que contesten, para darle cumplimiento el Artículo 1578 del nuevo Código Civil de Puerto Rico, 31 L.P.R.A. § 11021, entendiéndose que, si no se expresan dentro de dicho término, aceptan el caudal relicto; la renuncia se hará por instrumento público o por escrito judicial. La parte demandada deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Administración y Manejo de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del Tribunal. Se le advierte que si no contesta la demanda, radicando el original de la contestación en este Tribunal y enviando copia de la contestación a la abogada de la parte demandante, Lcda. Belma Alonso García, cuya dirección es: PO Box 3922, Guaynabo PR 00970-3922, Teléfonos: (787) 789-1826 y (787) 708-0566, correo electrónico: oficinabelmaalonso@gmail.com, dentro del término de treinta (30) días de la publicación de este edicto, excluyéndose el día de la publicación, se le anotará la rebeldía y se le dictará Sentencia en su contra, concediendo el remedio solicitado sin más citarle ni oírle. EXPEDIDO bajo mi firma y el sello del Tribunal, hoy 21 de abril de 2023 en San Juan, Puerto Rico. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA. BRENDA HERNÁNDEZ ZAVALA, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBU-

NAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. LA SUCESIÓN DE FERNANDO JOSÉ

ARZOLA RIVERA T/C/C

FERNANDO ARZOLA

RIVERA COMPUESTA

POR FERNANDO JOSÉ

ARZOLA COLLAZO, FERNANDO JAVIER

ARZOLA COLLAZO, ILEANA ROCÍO ARZOLA

COLLAZO, FULANO Y MENGANO DE TAL, POSIBLES HEREDEROS

DESCONOCIDOS, CARIDAD MERCEDES DE JESÚS MOREL T/C/C CARIDAD DE JESÚS T/C/C CARIDAD M. DE JESÚS MOREL POR SÍ Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: SJ2023CV01574. Sala: 604. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE. UU., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: FERNANDO JOSÉ ARZOLA COLLAZO, FERNANDO JAVIER ARZOLA COLLAZO, ILEANA ROCÍO ARZOLA COLLAZO, CARIDAD MERCEDES DE JESÚS MOREL T/C/C CARIDAD DE JESÚS

T/C/C CARIDAD M. DE JESÚS MOREL POR SÍ

Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA DE FERNANDO JOSÉ ARZOLA RIVERA T/C/C FERNANDO ARZOLA RIVERA.

Quedan emplazados y notificados de que en este Tribunal se ha radicado una demanda de COBRO DE DINERO y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA en sus contras. Se les notifica para que comparezcan ante el Tribunal dentro del término de treinta (30) días a partir de la publicación de este edicto y exponer lo que a sus derechos convenga, en el presente caso. Se les notifica que deberán presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired. ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberán presentar su alegación responsiva en la Secretaría del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de San Juan y enviando copia de su contestación a la parte demandante, Lcda. Belma Alonso García, cuya dirección es: PO Box 3922, Guaynabo PR 00970-3922, Teléfonos: (787) 789-1826 y (787) 708-0566, correo electrónico: oficinabelmaalonso@gmail.com, se les anotará la rebeldía en su contra y se dictará sentencia en su contra, conforme se solicita en la Demanda, sin más citárseles, ni oírseles. Se ORDENA a los herederos del referido causante a saber: FERNANDO JOSÉ ARZOLA COLLAZO, FERNANDO JAVIER ARZOLA COLLAZO, ILEANA ROCÍO ARZOLA COLLAZO, CARIDAD MERCE-

DES DE JESÚS MOREL T/C/C CARIDAD DE JESÚS T/C/C CARIDAD M. DE JESÚS MOREL POR SÍ Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA DE FERNANDO JOSÉ ARZOLA RIVERA T/C/C FERNANDO ARZOLA RIVERA, a que dentro del mismo término de treinta (30) días contados a partir de la fecha de la notificación, ACEPTEN o REPUDIEN la participación que les corresponda en la herencia del referido causante. Se les apercibe a los herederos antes mencionados que de no expresarse dentro de ese término de treinta (30) días en torno a su aceptación o repudiación de herencia, se tendrá por aceptada. Expedido bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal, a 20 de marzo de 2023. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. FERNÁNDEZ DEL VALE, LUZ E., SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE BAYAMÓN BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante V.

JOSÉ MIGUEL SILVA BONAR, SAIRA RIVERA SANFIORENZO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS, PREFERRED MORTGAGE CORPORATION, JOHN DOE

Demandadas Civil Núm.: BY2023CV01624. 402. Sobre: CANCELACIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO POR LA VÍA JUDICIAL. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, S.S.

A: JOHN DOE COMO TENEDOR DESCONOCIDO DEL PAGARÉ a favor de Preferred Mortgage Corporation por la suma $102,000.00, con intereses al 7.50%, vencedero el día 1 de julio de 2028, constituida mediante la escritura número 60, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 26 de junio de 1998, ante el notario Julio C. Silvagnoli Collazo, e inscrita al folio 51 del tomo 1884 de Bayamón, finca número 77,920, Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Primera Sección de

Bayamón. Por la presente se le emplaza y notifica que debe contestar la demanda incoada en su contra dentro del término de treinta (30) días a partir de la publicación del presente edicto. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar y notificar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el Tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la Demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. Los abogados de la parte demandante son: ABOGADOS DE LA PARTE DEMANDANTE:

Lcdo. Reggie Díaz Hernández RUA Núm.: 16,393 BERMUDEZ & DIAZ LLP Suite 209 500 Calle De La Tanca San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901

Tel.: (787) 523-2670

Fax: (787) 523-2664 rdíaz@bdprlaw.com

Expido este edicto bajo mi firma y el sello de este Tribunal, hoy 27 de marzo de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. ELIBETH TORRES ALICEA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL GENERAL DE JUSTICIA TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE BAYAMÓN ORIENTAL BANK

Demandante V. CARMELO AYALA VAZQUEZ, POR SI Y COMO MIEMBRO CONOCIDO DE LA SUCESIÓN CARMEN

DELIA SANCHEZ

HERNANDEZ EN CUANTO A LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA; JOHN DOE & RICHARD

ROE, COMO MIEMBROS DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESIÓN CARMEN

DELIA SANCHEZ

HERNANDEZ

Demandados

DEPARTAMENTO DE HACIENDA; CENTRO DE RECAUDACIONES DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES

Partes con Interés Civil Núm.: DCD2011-1088. [505]. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNI-

DOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El que suscribe, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Bayamón, hago saber a la parte demandada CARMELO AYALA VAZQUEZ, POR SI Y COMO MIEMBRO CONOCIDO DE LA SUCESIÓN CARMEN DELIA SANCHEZ HERNANDEZ EN CUANTO A LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA JOHN DOE & RICHARD ROE, COMO MIEMBROS DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESIÓN CARMEN DELIA SANCHEZ HERNANDEZ, DEPARTAMENTO DE HACIENDA; CENTRO DE RECAUDACIONES DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES, y al PÚBLICO EN GENERAL; que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia expedido el 11 de octubre de 2022, por la Secretaría del Tribunal, procederé a vender y venderé en pública subasta por el precio mínimo de $375,550.00 y al mejor postor, pagadero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o giro postal, a nombre del alguacil del tribunal, la propiedad que se describe a continuación [9 A SR 830 KM

2.4 CERRO GORDO BAYAMÓN, PR 00961]: RUSTICA: Predio de terreno radicado en el Barrio Cerro Gordo del término municipal de Bayamón, Puerto Rico, con una cabida superficial de MIL SETECIENTOS DIECINUEVE PUNTO CUARENTA Y SEIS METROS CUADRADOS (1,719.46 M.C.).

En lindes por el NORTE, en treinta y siete punto cero nueve metros (37.09 m.) con la parcela número diez (10); por el SUR, en cuarenta y un metros (41.00 m.) con la parcela “C” que se dedica a uso público como camino dedicado a público; por ESTE, en cuarenta y tres punto sesenta y nueve metros (43.69 m.) con la parcela número trece (13); y por el OESTE, en cuarenta y tres punto sesenta metros (43.60 m.) con el solar segregado y vendido a Don Santos Avilés Rivera y su esposa Dona María T. Torres Rivera. Es remanente de la finca luego de una segregación. Inscrita al folio 201 del tomo 1187 de Bayamón, finca número 52596, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección I. La finca antes descrita se encuentra afecta a los siguientes gravámenes: (i) Hipoteca a favor de Oriental Bank & Trust, o a su orden, por la suma de $375,550.00, con intereses al 6.50% anual, vencedero el 1ro de julio de 2035, según la escritura #377, otorgada en Bayamón, el día 15 de junio de 2005, ante el notario Wilson A. Galarza Galarza, inscrita al folio 203vto del tomo 1187 de Bayamón, inscripción 4ta, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón,

Sección I. Modificada la hipoteca según escritura #17, otorgada en San Juan, el día 12 de febrero de 2010, ante el notario Jacqueline J. Martinez Romero, por la suma de $424,650.00, intereses al 5%, vencedero el 1 de marzo de 2050, inscrita al folio 203vto del tomo 1187 de Bayamón, inscripción 4ta, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección I. (ii) Embargo a favor del Departamento de Hacienda, por $80,850.07, por concepto de Contribuciones sobre Ingresos, deudor: Carmelo Ayala Vázquez y Carmen Delia Sánchez Hernández, según Certificación del 27 de marzo de 2015, anotado al Sistema Karibe, anotación A y última, el 16 de mayo de 2017. (iii) Embargo a favor del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico, por $80,850.07, sabre Contribución sabre Ingresos, según Certificación del 27 de marzo de 2015, deudor: Carmelo Ayala Vazquez, anotado al folio 47, #1776, del Libro de Embargo

Estatal #31. (iv) Embargo Federal contra Carmen Delia Sánchez, por $51,842.14, notificación #956313213, numera patronal 66-0558928, del 29 de agosto de 2013, al folio 109, asiento 1 del Libro de Embargo

Federal #12. (v) Embargo Federal contra Carmen Delia Sanchez, por $10,386.19, notificación #956313313, número patronal 66-0558928, del 29 de agosto de 2013, al folio 109, asiento 2 del Libro de Embargo

Federal #12. (vi) Embargo Federal contra Carmen Delia Sánchez, por $51,117.81, notificación #952893313, número patronal 66-0558928, del 26 de agosto de 2013, al folio 104, asiento 1 del Libro de Embargo

Federal #12. (vii) Embargo Federal contra Carmen Delia Sánchez, por $3,664.68, notificación #983838814, número patronal 66-0558928, del 26 de febrera de 2014, al folio 141, asiento 2 del Libro de Embargo

Federal #12. (viii) Embargo Federal contra Carmen Delia Sánchez, A Corp., por $28,932.74, notificación #947317413, número patronal 66-0558928, del 29 de Julio de 2013, al folio 89, asiento 4 del Libro de Embargo

Federal #12. (ix) Embargo Federal contra Carmen Delia Sánchez, por $8,252.28, notificación #94 7317513, número patronal 66-0558928, del 29 de Julio de 2013, al folio 89, asiento 5 del Libro de Embargo Federal #12. (x) Embargo Federal contra Carmen D. Sánchez, por $6,299,773.86, notificación #954887213, seguro social xxxxx-8495, al folio 101, asiento 5 del Libro de Embargo Federal #12. (xi) Embargo Federal contra Carmen Delia Sánchez, A Corp., por $21,507.79, notificación #952894013, número patronal 66-0558928, del 26 de agosto de 2013, al folio 103,

asiento 5 del Libro de Embargo Federal #12. La hipoteca objeto de esta ejecución es la que ha quedado descrita en el inciso (i). Será celebrada la subasta para con el importe de la misma satisfacer la sentencia dictada el 21 de mayo de 2018, este Honorable Tribunal dictó Sentencia, mediante la cual se condena a la parte demandada, a pagar a la parte demandante la suma $422,408.69 de principal, más intereses por $134,642.77 que continuarán acumulándose desde el día 1 de noviembre de 2010 a razón de 58.6678736 diario hasta el saldo total, $6,337.85 de cargos por atrasos, $1,387.76 a otros cargos, $10,574.10 de escrow balance y $37,555.00 de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más cualquier otro desembolso que haya efectuado o efectúe la parte demandante durante la tramitación de este caso para otros adelantos de conformidad con el Contrato Hipotecario, incluyendo primas de seguro de hipoteca, prima de seguro de siniestro y cargos por demora.

La PRIMERA SUBASTA será celebrada el día 26 DE ABRIL

DE 2023

A LAS 9:45 DE LA MAÑANA, en la oficina del Alguacil, sita en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Bayamón, Puerto Rico. Servirá de tipo mínimo para la misma la cantidad de $375,550.00, sin admitirse oferta inferior. De no haber remate ni adjudicación, celebraré SEGUNDA SUBAS-

TA el día 3 DE MAYO DE 2023

A LAS 9:45 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar, en la que servirá como tipo mínimo, dos terceras (2/3) partes del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $250,366.67. Si no hubiese remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, celebraré TERCERA SUBASTA el día 10 DE MAYO DE 2023 A

LAS 9:45 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar en la que regirá como tipo mínimo, la mitad del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $187,775.00. El Alguacil que suscribe hizo constar que toda licitación deberá hacerse para pagar su importe en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América, de acuerdo con la Ley y de acuerdo con lo anunciado en este Aviso de Subasta. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables. Se entiende que todo licitador que comparezca a la subasta señalada en este caso acepta como bastante la titulación que da base a la misma. Se entiende que cualquier carga y/o gravamen anterior y/o preferente, si la hubiere al crédito que da base a esta ejecución continuará subsistente, entendiéndose, además, que el rematante los

acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción cualquier parte del remanente del precio de licitación. La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Por la presente se notifica a los acreedores que tengan inscritos o anotados sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante o acreedores de cargas o derechos reales que los hubiesen pospuesto a la hipoteca ejecutada y las personas interesadas en, o con derecho a exigir el cumplimiento de instrumentos negociables garantizados hipotecariamente con posterioridad al crédito ejecutado, para que puedan concurrir a la subasta si les convenga o satisfacer antes del remate el importe del crédito, de sus intereses, costas y honorarios de abogados asegurados, quedando subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. Vendida o adjudicada la finca o derecho hipotecado y consignado el precio correspondiente, en esa misma fecha o fecha posterior, el alguacil que celebró la subasta procederá a otorgar la correspondiente escritura pública de traspaso en representación del dueño o titular de los bienes hipotecados, ante el notario que elija el adjudicatario o comprador, quien deberá abonar el importe de tal escritura. El alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días a partir de la confirmación de la venta o adjudicación. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del deudor la ocupen. Y PARA CONOCIMIENTO DE LOS LICITADORES Y DEL PUBLICO EN GENERAL y para su publicación de acuerdo con la Ley, expido el presente Edicto bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal. En Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy 24 de marzo de 2023.

MARIBEL LANZAR VELÁZQUEZ, ALGUACIL PLACA #735, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA DE BAYAMÓN.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE BAYAMÓN

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF

AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST

2019-HB1

Demandante Vs. SUCESION JESUS RAUL CHACON Y ORTEGA

T/C/C JESUS RAUL

CHACON T/C/C JESUS

RAUL CHACON ORTEGA

T/C/C JESUS R. CHACON COMPUESTA POR

RODOLFO CHACON

GARCIA, IDALMIS

CHACON GARCIA, JESUS CHACON GARCIA; JOHN DOE Y JANE DOE COMO

POSIBLES HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS; ELOISA GLADYS GARCIA

GARCIA T/C/C ELOISA

GARCIA DE CHACON

T/C/C GLADYS GARCIA DE CHACON POR SI Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA; ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA; CENTRO DE RECAUDACION DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES

Demandados

Civil Núm.: BY2023CV00037.

Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: ELOISA GLADYS

GARCIA GARCIA

T/C/C ELOISA GARCIA DE CHACON T/C/C GLADYS GARCIA DE CHACON POR SI Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA; RODOLFO CHACON GARCIA, IDALMIS CHACON GARCIA, JESUS CHACON GARCIA; JOHN DOE Y JANE DOE COMO

POSIBLES MIEMBROS

DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESION JESUS RAUL CHACON Y ORTEGA

T/C/C JESUS RAUL

CHACON T/C/C JESUS RAUL CHACON ORTEGA

T/C/C JESUS R. CHACON.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al Tribunal su alegación responsiva a la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días a partir de la publicación de este edicto.

Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: http://unired. ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se

represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberé presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaria del tribunal. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente.

Greenspoon Marder, LLP

Lcda. Frances L. Asencio-Guido R.U.A. 15,622 TRADE CENTRE SOUTH, SUITE 700 100 WEST CYPRESS CREEK ROAD FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33309 Telephone: (954) 343 6273

Frances.Asencio@gmlaw.com Expedido bajo mi firma, y sello del Tribunal, en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy día 23 de marzo de 2023. Lcda. Laura

I. Santa Sánchez, Secretaria Regional. Mircienid González Torres, Secretaria Auxiliar.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE VEGA

BAJA

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. SUCESIÓN DE CARLOS MANUEL TIRADO FORTY, COMPUESTA POR CARLOS MANUEL TIRADO ROJAS, YILDA ENID TIRADO ROJAS, VICTOR MANUEL TIRADO BETANCOURT, JOSÉ MANUEL TIRADO BETANCOURT, KARLA JANICE TIRADO QUIÑONEZ Y FULANO DE TAL, POSIBLE HEREDERO DESCONOCIDO; SYLVIA IVETTE MARTÍNEZ BARRETO, POR SÍ Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: D4CD2017-0064.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO, EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El Alguacil que suscribe por la presente anuncia y hace constar que en cumplimiento de la Sentencia en Sumaria y Sentencia Rebeldía Nunc Pro Tunc dictada el 5 de diciembre de 2019 enmendada 16 de febrero de 2022 y enmendada nuevamente 14 de marzo de 2022 y notificada el 16 de marzo de 2022, la Orden de Ejecución de Sentencia del 1 de marzo de 2023 y el Mandamiento de Ejecución del 7 de marzo de 2023 en el caso de

epígrafe, procederé a vender el día 13 DE JUNIO DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en mi oficina, localizada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Centro Judicial de Vega Baja, Sala Superior, Carretera Número Dos (2) Kilómetro 38.3 (al lado del Centro Gubernamental) Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, al mejor postor en pago de contado y en moneda de los Estados Unidos de América, cheque de gerente o giro postal, todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada sobre la siguiente propiedad: URBANA: Solar marcado con el Número nueve (9) del Bloque B del plano de inscripción de la Urbanización Alturas de Cerro Gordo, situado en el Barrio Sabana, municipio de Vega Alta, Puerto Rico, con un área superficial de 893.00 metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE: en 23.50 metros con el Solar Número dos (2) del Bloque B del proyecto; SUR: en 23.50 metros con la Calle Número cuatro (4) de la Urbanización Alturas de Cerro Gordo; ESTE: en 38.00 metros con el Solar Número ocho (8) del Bloque B del proyecto; OESTE: en 38.00 metros con el Solar Número diez (10) del Bloque B del proyecto. Enclava una casa. La propiedad consta inscrita al Folio 166 del Tomo 165 de Vega Alta, Finca 8824. Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección III. La escritura de hipoteca y su modificación constan inscritas al Folio 97 vuelto del Tomo 289 de Vega Alta, Finca 8824. Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección III. Inscripción décima tercera (13ra) y décima cuarta (14ta), respectivamente. Dirección Física: Alturas de Cerro Gordo 1 & 2, 32 Calle Amanecer, Vega Alta, PR 00692-9047. Número de Catastro: 10-018-066-156-09-000. El tipo mínimo para la primera subasta será de $148,840.51. De no haber adjudicación en la primera subasta se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA, el día 20 DE JUNIO DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será de dos terceras partes del tipo mínimo fijado en la primera subasta, o sea, $99,227.00. De no haber adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día día 27 DE JUNIO DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será la mitad del precio pactado, o sea, $74,420.25. Si se declarase desierta la tercera subasta, se adjudicará la finca a favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si ésta es igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta, si el tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si ésta es mayor. Dicho remate

se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a la demandante el importe de la Sentencia por la suma de $133,501.38 de principal, más intereses sobre dicha suma al 4.95% anual desde el 1 de agosto de 2016 hasta su completo pago, más $158.88 por recargos adeudados desde el día 1 de septiembre de 2016 hasta su total pago, más la cantidad estipulada de $14,884.05 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados, así como cualquier otra suma que contenga el contrato del préstamo. Surge del Estudio de Título Registral que sobre esta propiedad pesan los siguientes gravámenes posteriores que afectan la propiedad en cuestión: Aviso de Demanda: Pleito seguido por Banco Popular de Puerto Rico Vs. Sucesión de Carlos Manuel Tirado Forty compuesta por Fulano y Mengano de Tal, Sylvia Ivette Martínez Barreto, ante el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Vega Baja, en el Caso Civil Número D4CD2017-0064, sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca, en la que se reclama el pago de hipoteca con un balance de $133,501.38 y otras cantidades, según Demanda de fecha 10 de febrero de 2017. Anotada al Tomo Karibe de Vega Alta. Anotación A. Se notifica al acreedor posterior o a su sucesor o cesionario en derecho para que comparezca a proteger su derecho si así lo desea. Se les advierte a los interesados que todos los documentos relacionados con la presente acción de ejecución de hipoteca, así como los de Subasta, estarán disponibles para ser examinados, durante horas laborables, en el expediente del caso que obra en los archivos de la Secretaría del Tribunal, bajo el número de epígrafe y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general en Puerto Rico por espacio de dos semanas y por lo menos una vez por semana; y para su fijación en los sitios públicos requeridos por ley. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante, continuarán subsistentes; entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate y que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores tal como lo expresa la Ley Núm. 2102015. Y para el conocimiento de los demandados, de los acreedores posteriores, de los licitadores, partes interesadas y público en general, EXPIDO para su publicación en los lugares públicos correspondientes,

el presente Aviso de Pública Subasta en Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, hoy 21 de marzo de 2023. LUIS F. ORTIZ ROSA, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #821, ALGUACIL DEL TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA SUPERIOR DE VEGA BAJA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL GENERAL DE JUSTICIA TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE VEGA BAJA

VACATION OWNERSHIP LENDING, L.P.

Demandante V. LUIMAR APONTE RODRIGUEZ, LETICIA ISABEL CALDERON GOMEZ Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES

GANANCIALES, COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Demandado(a)

Civil: VB2023CV00007. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

A: LUIMAR APONTE RODRIGUEZ, POR SÍ Y EN REPRESENTACIÓN DE LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES, COMPUESTA POR AMBOS; LETICIA ISABEL CALDERON GOMEZ, POR SÍ Y EN REPRESENTACIÓN DE LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES, COMPUESTA POR AMBOS; SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES, COMPUESTA POR AMBOS.

(Nombre de las partes a las que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 23 de marzo de 2023, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha

de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 23 de marzo de 2023. En Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, el 23 de marzo de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA. MARITZA ROSARIO ROSARIO, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE AGUADILLA.

ISLAND PORTFOLIO SERVICES, LLC, como agente de ACE ONE FUNDING, LLC. DEMANDANTE VS. CARLOS RUIZ MARTINEZ DEMANDADO

CIVIL NÚM.: A32021CV00721. SALÓN: SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO ORDINARIO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. Estados Unidos de América El Presidente de los Estados Unidos El Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. SS:

A: Carlos Ruiz Martinez

Urb. Roosevelt 450, Calle Fernando Calder, San Juan, PR 00918-2730. POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza y requiere para que conteste la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este Edicto. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), la cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired. ramaiudicial.pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda o cualquier otro sin más citarle ni oírle, si el tribunal en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. El sistema SUMAC notificará copia a los abogados de la parte demandante, la Lcda. Natalie Bonaparte Servera cuyas direcciones son: P.O. Box 71418 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-8518, teléfono (787) 993-3731 a la dirección natalie. bonaprte@orf-law.com, edwin. serrano@orf-law.com y a la dirección notificaciones@orf-law. com. EXTENDIDO BAJO ML FIRMA y el sello del Tribunal, en Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, hoy día 21 de marzo de 2023. En Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, el 21 de marzo de 2023. Sarahi Reyes Perez, Sec Regional. Arlene Guzman Pabon, Sec Auxiliar del Tribunal.

Thanks to their versatility, the Mets are feeling good

By TYLER KEPNER

It is one of baseball’s enduring little mysteries, how a game so rich in possibilities also offers so many precedents. You may see something new at the ballpark every day, yet if you stick around a while, you feel like you’ve seen it all before.

So it was in mid-March, when the New York Mets lost Edwin Díaz, the game’s premier closer, to a torn patellar tendon in his right knee just two weeks before opening day. The circumstances of the injury were novel — bouncing on the grass with his Puerto Rico teammates after a victory in the World Baseball Classic — but the basics were familiar to general manager Billy Eppler.

“I remember when we lost Mo,” said Eppler, a former New York Yankees assistant, recalling a season-ending knee injury to Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera in May 2012. “I remember exactly where I was sitting when I got the news: the Atlanta airport. I think I was seeing an amateur for the draft, and I was flying back. Twitter informed me, because everybody saw it at the same time.”

Rivera’s knee injury, which came while chasing a fly ball in batting practice in Kansas City, Missouri, did not stop the Yankees. Another veteran right-hander, Rafael Soriano, filled in ably for Rivera, and the team was talented enough to still win the most games in the American League.

Now consider these Mets, who start their season in Miami today against the Marlins. The Díaz injury was by far the most notable moment of spring training, yet for all the psychic pain of it — so sudden, devastating and public — the Mets should still be a postseason lock. They are not much different than the 101-win version from 2022.

“I think in pretty much every single category, we were inside the top five, whether it was pitching or offense,” Eppler said. “And that lends itself to: hey, if you’re in a game and you need to score a lot of runs, that can happen. Or if you’re in a starting pitching duel, we can win that game. We can win games in a number of different ways.”

Among National League teams last season, Mets pitchers had the most strikeouts, the second-fewest walks and the third-best ERA. The team’s hitters had the best batting average, ranked second in on-base percentage, tied for third in runs and were fifth in slugging percentage.

Mets manager Buck Showalter seems likely to decide his closer based on matchups, as the Philadelphia Phillies did, mostly with success, in the postseason last fall. Veteran

right-hander David Robertson, who saved Game 1 of the World Series for the Phillies, signed a one-year deal with the Mets, who also brought back Adam Ottavino and traded for left-hander Brooks Raley.

“We have the ability to create the right matchups regardless of what inning it is,” Showalter said.

If they don’t, Eppler can always make a midseason trade. Relievers are much more valuable to contenders than they are to alsorans, who always tend to have a couple of decent ones available. (Imagine Alexis Díaz — Edwin’s brother and an overpowering right-handed reliever for the lowly Cincinnati Reds — jogging in from the Citi Field bullpen, trumpets blaring, in late summer.)

The Mets have a few new complementary position players, but the offense is so well intact that in Saturday’s exhibition in Port St. Lucie, Florida, Showalter used the same lineup he did in the final playoff loss to the San Diego Padres last October.

The rotation looks different without Jacob deGrom, Chris Bassitt and Taijuan Walker, but with Justin Verlander, Kodai Senga and David Peterson — the winner of a spot vacated by José Quintana, who had surgery to repair a stress fracture in his rib — the results should be roughly the same.

“He’s got a very talented hand,” Showalter said of Verlander, a right-hander. “He changes the shape of his pitches a lot. He’s

in tune with the advanced part of it. It’s like he’s his own pitching coach, and I’ve got to tell you, he doesn’t suffer good execution by him — he’s chasing perfection.”

On Sunday, facing a threadbare Marlins split-squad lineup, Verlander labored through 95 pitches across five innings, allowing three runs, eight hits and four walks. He was struck twice by batted balls, although neither time on his pitching arm.

“I don’t particularly like the way I’m pitching right now, so I have to figure it out,” Verlander said. “Mechanics-wise I was kind of all over the place today. Control wasn’t great.”

Verlander, 40, is making $43.3 million — same as the Mets’ Max Scherzer — as part of Steven A. Cohen’s record $370 million pretax payroll. He was more matter-of-fact than glum about his final spring tuneup. The active leader in wins and strikeouts, Verlander has a keen sense of how to prepare for a season that stretches through the World Series.

With Houston last year, Verlander won his third AL Cy Young Award and finished with a long-awaited World Series victory. It was his first season after a long comeback from Tommy John surgery in which he concentrated not just on his elbow but on his entire body, for better mobility and endurance.

“I’ve always been fairly strong going into the latter half; I think it’s just knowing yourself, knowing your routine and focusing on recovery,” Verlander said Sunday. “Of course

I stuck with it, I hope with the same results. Every year you learn something new, so I’m just trying to pick up where I left off.”

Showalter slotted Verlander third in the rotation, after Scherzer and the left-handed Peterson, to put a different look between two Hall of Fame-bound right-handers and to line up Verlander for the home opener at Citi Field on April 6. He said he was eager to pitch for the home team in Flushing — “I know these fans are passionate and so am I,” he added — after a career in Detroit and Houston.

“It’s something that’s exciting to look forward to, but I don’t think it was ever a goal, per se, to pitch in New York,” Verlander said. “But I think you play long enough and a lot of guys find their way here. So here I am.”

Roger Clemens, Tom Glavine, Pedro Martínez, Randy Johnson and Scherzer all brought multiple Cy Young Awards to New York. All of them helped lead the Mets or the Yankees to the postseason, and Verlander should have the same experience.

The Mets, and their fans, would be wise to listen to the words Díaz told shortstop Francisco Lindor, his teammate with Puerto Rico, in the moments after the injury.

“He was like, ‘Keep on going, it’s all right, it’ll be fine, everything will be OK,’” Lindor said. “That’s just who he is. He’s a very optimistic person.”

And the Mets should be a very optimistic team.

The Mets reloaded their starting rotation by signing the right-hander Justin Verlander as a free agent this off-season.

The San Juan Daily Star

Sudoku

How to Play:

Fill in the empty fields with the numbers from 1 through 9.

Sudoku Rules:

Every row must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every column must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every 3x3 square must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Crossword

Answers on page 30

Wordsearch

Aries (Mar 21-April 20)

Need to make a sensitive decision? It may be related to home and family issues, and require you to consider another’s feelings as well as your own. Still, as the Moon in Cancer liaises with Venus, you’ll be a ready listener and able to say the right words at the right time. Whatever comes out of this Aries, it can be a step forward if handled in the right way. Trust your gut!

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

The people you connect with socially and professionally seem good for you. Even so, the coming days could bring insights on this score. With a sobering blend of energies inspiring you to look deeply into your life and your connections Taurus, you’ll realize that it’s what you bring to each relationship that makes it work. And with attention and sensitivity, one bond can now blossom.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

The Moon’s angle with the Sun could set you on edge, especially around matters associated with finances and spending. If you’re under pressure to make radical changes to your budget, then you might feel a twinge of rebellion that finds you splurging on an outing or other treat just because you want to. There may be ways to cut back painlessly Gemini, if you look for them.

Cancer (June 22-July 23)

The Quarter Moon in your sign can set you thinking about your direction in life, and what you hope to accomplish. You may have reached a milestone, and be keen to make the best decision for the future. To assist with this, it also helps to listen to any intuitive nudges, as they could give clues to what to embrace and what to ignore. If something makes your heart sing, consider it.

Leo (July 24-Aug 23)

You may be in two minds about an opportunity that could be yours if you want it. The Quarter Moon in a private zone, can highlight certain fears that you may take too seriously. These aren’t showing up to stop you, but to reveal how you might be sabotaging your own efforts by letting past experiences dictate your current choices. If you really want this, it’s time to move beyond them.

Virgo (Aug 24-Sep 23)

You may have a compelling urge to pursue a friendship that looks to be very good for you. If you’ve been getting on like a dream, then today’s lunar phase might find you ready to take this further. Whether this is a social or romantic bond, it can be time to step up a gear. And yes, your instincts are right Virgo, as they could prove to be an asset to you now and over the long term.

Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23)

With the Moon currently in your sector of goals and ambitions, a sensitive approach could give you an advantage in key situations. And if you’re supportive of others, you may net yourself an opportunity that might not have come along otherwise. You’ll know just how to appeal to others’ emotions, and this can make you very persuasive. Just don’t let close ones cramp your style.

Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)

You may want to widen your net in your search of romance, or a collaborative partner for a key project. Whatever the reasons for pairing up, your enthusiasm suggests that someone with the perfect credentials could soon show up. Yet as fiery Mars aligns with prudent Saturn, you might not hit it off right away. Once they know they can trust you Scorpio, it will be all systems go.

Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)

Despite your enthusiasm for something, you still need to be cautious. Today’s Quarter Moon encourages you to drill into the details that you’d rather not look at, such as costs and other vital issues. Don’t hold back from this Archer, as knowing where you stand makes it easier to get where you want to be. Without this information, your latest adventure just won’t happen.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)

Too busy to spend time with someone, Capricorn? It certainly seems you have a lot on your plate. If so, giving them a call or arranging to do something nice at another time, can make things between you more relaxed. The worse scenario would be to ignore them, as they won’t forget. If this person is important to you, then it’s worth making the extra effort to put them at ease.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb 19)

Keen to make changes to your lifestyle and habits? You may set an intention in this regard today. New information or insights could kick start this process, Aquarius. Even so, it might be uncomfortable as you get used to a new routine. Today’s Quarter Moon can coincide with a desire to get organized and to set goals and targets that you’ll accomplish little by little.

Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

Wondering whether to invest in something that could help increase your income? A lively lunar phase suggests it may be a good move, Pisces. Whether you have a desire to hone a creative skill, learn a new one, or take an entrepreneurial idea further, this is the time to go ahead. You will soon be rewarded if you stick with it. A budding romance might move to the next level too.

Speed Bump