authors
list | date_download
timestamp[s] | date_modify
null | date_publish
timestamp[s] | description
stringlengths 1
5.93k
⌀ | filename
stringlengths 33
1.45k
| image_url
stringlengths 23
353
| language
stringclasses 21
values | localpath
null | title
stringlengths 2
200
⌀ | title_page
null | title_rss
null | source_domain
stringlengths 6
40
| maintext
stringlengths 68
80.7k
⌀ | url
stringlengths 20
1.44k
| fasttext_language
stringclasses 1
value | date_publish_final
timestamp[s] | path
stringlengths 76
110
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
[
"Froilan E. Magtoto",
"Anthony Vargas",
"Leander C. Domingo",
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-29T14:50:11 | null | 2016-08-29T22:16:01 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2F2-kilos-of-cocaine-intercepted-at-clark%2F282862%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | 2 kilos of cocaine intercepted at Clark | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga: Anti-drug authorities intercepted two kilos of high- grade cocaine estimated at P16 million and arrested an American citizen at the Clark International Airport here on Sunday night.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Central Luzon (PDEA 3) Regional Director Emerson Margate identified the suspect as Alan Sohoo, 58, a resident New York.
Margate said Sohoo is of Chinese descent.
The regional director revealed that they received information that the suspect was arriving at the Clark International Airport with illegal drugs.
Sohoo travelled from Dubai to Clark via Cebu on board Emirates Flight 338, Margate said.
Operatives of the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Customs, Aviation Security Group, PDEA-National Capital Regional Office and the Homeland Security Agency found the cocaine inside Sohoo’s hand-carried bag with a trolley.
Authorities are yet to determine if the suspect belongs to an international drug group.
The suspect and the confiscated drugs are in the custody of PDEA-3 in the City of San Fernando. | http://www.manilatimes.net/2-kilos-of-cocaine-intercepted-at-clark/282862/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/abe6a1b16996243ad7c9f245d2dd508b92dfd2f5562bb91df2477e85fd3af626.json |
[
"Al S. Vitangcol",
"Mauro Gia Samonte",
"Efren L. Danao",
"Ambassador Amado Tolentino"
]
| 2016-08-26T18:50:37 | null | 2016-08-27T02:00:54 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fcombating-illegal-drugs-crime-and-corruption%2F282346%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/07/vitangcol.jpg | en | null | Combating illegal drugs, crime and corruption | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | The present Administration is bent on stopping the proliferation of illegal drugs, notwithstanding the threats of an international lawsuit for crimes against humanity or local hearings “in aid of legislation.” Likewise, the President promised a “clean government” and kick started it with the mass termination of all appointive officials (appointed by then President Aquino) effective Aug. 22, 2016.
VACC Summit
In line with the President’s programs against illegal drugs and corruption, the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC), headed by Founding Chairman and President Dante L.A. Jimenez, recently convened a one-day Summit on Illegal Drugs, Crime and Corruption.
The primary objective of the Summit was to draw a 10-point agenda on combating illegal drugs, crime, and corruption. This agenda, together with the group’s recommendations and doable actions, shall be presented to President Rodrigo Duterte on the VACC’s 18th Founding Anniversary.
The Summit was well attended, with representatives coming from various interest groups from almost all sectors of society.
Slow and biased justice system
One of the reactors on the topic of illegal drugs was Mary “Rosebud” Ong, a whistleblower on the involvement of law enforcers in the illegal drugs trade. Also present in the audience was Maia S. Deguito, the erstwhile Jupiter Branch manager of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), who was allegedly involved in the money laundering scheme of the funds stolen from the Bangladesh Central Bank sometime in February this year.
Ms. Ong, upon seeing Ms. Deguito, remarked that the latter would not be in her present predicament had our justice system been working properly. She said that it’s the very slow, and clearly biased justice system, which is the root of all of our society’s ills. In 2001, Ms. Ong testified before the Senate of the Philippines that pointed out that a certain Kim Wong was involved in the illegal drugs trade. Fifteen (15) years after, the same Kim Wong appeared in the Senate. This time in connection with the Bangladesh Central Bank heist. Ms. Ong added that if Mr. Wong was charged and jailed way back in 2001, there would be no Mr. Kim Wong who would have received the stolen money from RCBC.
Ms. Ong emphasized that the small fries and runners in 2001 are the big-time drug lords of today. This reeks of something. Somewhere, somehow there is really something wrong with our judicial system.
Reforming the judicial system
The sad reality is that cases are not decided based on the merits but on the prevailing political and “economic” conditions. More often than not, the judges’ (or even justices’) decisions are in accord with the pronouncements of the appointing authorities and those in power. This is a real dilemma in a society where the judges are the sole decision makers in the outcome of a case. There will always be a judge (or even a justice) who would succumb to the offer of money, or even power, to thwart the outcome of a case.
One of the suggestions of Mr. Greco Belgica, of the DAP-PDAF fame, is the adoption of a jury system – for all hierarchies of courts. He said, “Start talking about and pursuing the jury system. If we have one law for all, then we should have one court for all.”
Institutionalizing a jury system
Efforts to institutionalize a jury system in the Philippines are not new. In 2005, Philippine Jury Campaign International (PhilJury), a London-based organization, started pushing for the adoption of a jury system in our country. They have lobbied before our lawmakers and conducted orientations and educational campaigns nationwide.
Similarly, there are individuals who are pushing for reforms in the judicial system by way of the jury system. Atty. Marlowe Camello wrote that the jury system is “[t]he only effective device to minimize government corruption ever invented by man, according to US President Thomas Jefferson, and proven to work effectively for over 226 years in the US. Juries have been effective against the abuses of kings and rulers in the United Kingdom since the 12th century or over 800 years now.”
“Government monopoly of Justice is the basic cause of government corruption anywhere in the world. The Philippine judicial branch is a government monopoly and the weakest branch due to the absence of direct participatory deciding voting power of the Filipino people in justice. Judges and prosecutors are unshielded from political interferences for lack of juries. People participation in justice through the jury system is the basic and no other solution against government corruption. Its members, as private citizens, can decide freely and without inhibition. Their power to decide cannot be controlled by public officials because their jobs with private employers cannot be sabotaged by said officials,” he added.
I totally agree with him. We are on the same page on this one. For so long a time, I have observed the loopholes and weaknesses of our prosecutorial and judicial processes. I can still remember handling a case for a complainant-client before the City Prosecutor’s Office. The respondent, a known personality, never appeared in the preliminary investigation hearings. Based on the Department of Justice’s prosecution manual, the case should be decided based on the allegations in the complaint-affidavit. The handling prosecutor even lawyered for the absentee-respondent and concocted defenses, which were never raised by the respondent.
In another case, my client’s co-accused was being assisted by a Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) lawyer. The PAO lawyer intimated to me that the case could be “fixed” with the prosecutor. Later on I learned that that PAO lawyer eventually became a prosecutor in the City Prosecutor’s Office. Just imagine how he would decide the cases pending before him.
Well, I appreciate this one judge who was candid with a past client of mine. He said to him, “I am sorry to tell you that I have talked to the defendants already. If you have approached me earlier then I might have closed a deal with you.” Of course, we lost in the original decision. However, when we filed a motion for reconsideration, the judge granted it and reversed his previous ruling. I don’t know what my client did and I don’t want to know.
How a jury system works
Typically, there are two different juries – a grand jury and a trial jury.
A grand jury is composed of a number of civic-minded citizens (called jurors) who have chosen to work for the good of their communities by evaluating the operations of the local government units and the performance of government officials. The grand jurors are, in fact, the real agents of change.
The grand jury issues criminal indictments to require the defendants to go on trial. They determine the existence of probable cause. It investigates allegations of a public official’s corrupt or willful misconduct in office, and when warranted, files an accusation against that official. The grand jury does the work of an investigating prosecutor and that of the Ombudsman. Once there is an indictment, or accusation, from the grand jury, then the case goes on trial. The advantage here is that the indictment is a product of a collegial body (the jury) and not by a single soul (prosecutor or Ombudsman, who is susceptible to “external influence”).
A trial jury is then formed through a selection process called “voir dire” where prospective jurors are examined to determine their qualifications and suitability to serve on a jury. Once a jury is finalized, the trial can commence and the jury receives and evaluates the evidence presented by the prosecution and the defense. The jury then decides to convict or acquit – on a unanimous basis. The fate of the accused now lies in the hands of several of his peers – not in the hands of a sole judge or justice.
In a jury system the role of the judge is limited to sentencing. Once a guilty verdict is handed by the jury, the judge would determine the proper sentence, as governed by prevailing statutes and applicable laws.
The trial jury is disbanded once the case on hand is disposed of. The jurors are properly compensated for their time away from their usual work. Able and qualified citizens are required to be on jury duty at least once in their lifetime.
VACC recommendations – a 10-point agenda
As mentioned earlier, the VACC will be submitting its Ten-Point Agenda on Illegal Drugs, Crime, and Corruption to the President early next week. I hope that one of my recommendations will make it to the final agenda.
First among my recommendations is for existing criminal laws (Revised Penal Code and other Special Penal Laws) to be thoroughly reviewed, properly amended and updated to be reflective of the needs of the times. Mind you, the Revised Penal Code was enacted by the Philippine Legislature way back in December 1930 and took effect on January 1932. Some of the crimes, penalties, and most of the fines therein are no longer relevant. This is the time for the House of Representatives to act and do their mandated jobs.
I also recommended to the group to include judicial system reforms in the agenda, specifically in the observance of the speedy trial clause as enshrined in Section 14 of the Bill of Rights of the Constitution.
Email your comments to [email protected]. | http://www.manilatimes.net/combating-illegal-drugs-crime-and-corruption/282346/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/f64c3f1966ec94220c22ac47608c3f53b10865275c524d694a19b78f87a90ca8.json |
[
"Agence France-Presse",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Emil C. Noguera"
]
| 2016-08-29T12:50:07 | null | 2016-08-29T20:02:25 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fdjokovic-nadal-kick-off-us-open-campaign%2F282799%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Djokovic, Nadal kick off US Open campaign | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | NEW YORK: Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal get their US Open campaigns under way Monday (Tuesday in Manila) in the shadow of Arthur Ashe Stadium’s spectacular $150 million retractable roof and alongside rock music legend Phil Collins.
Defending champion Djokovic and fellow two-time winner Nadal come into the season’s final Grand Slam with injury concerns.
World number one Djokovic, the 2011 and 2015 champion, admits he is “not 100 percent” after suffering a wrist injury on the eve of the Olympic Games where he was a shock first-round loser.
The 29-year-old has also said “personal problems” contributed to his third-round exit at Wimbledon which ended his hopes of going on to capture the first calendar Grand Slam since 1969.
Nadal, meanwhile, is also battling the effects of a left wrist problem which forced a mid-tournament withdrawal from the French Open and sidelined him until the Olympics where he was a gold medal winner in the men’s doubles.
The injury concerns, combined with the absence for the first time since 1999 of five-time winner Roger Federer, have put 2012 champion Andy Murray in the position of favourite.
Djokovic starts his bid for a third major of 2016, and 13th of his career, against Polish giant Jerzy Janowicz, who was a Wimbledon semi-finalist in 2013.
A serious knee injury has limited Janowicz to just six matches all year and seen his world ranking collapse to 228.
Nadal, the 2010 and 2013 champion in New York, tackles Denis Istomin of Uzbekistan.
The Spaniard has a 4-0 career record over world number 107 Istomin, including a win over the Russian-born player at the 2010 US Open.
Nadal closes the daytime session on Ashe while Djokovic starts the evening entertainment.
In between, the tournament will stage its opening ceremony with Collins, making his first concert appearance in six years, headlining the occasion by reprising his “In the Air Tonight” hit.
Play on the cavernous Ashe stadium starts at 1500GMT with 2015 women’s runner-up Roberta Vinci, the Italian seventh seed, facing Germany’s Anna-Lena Friedsam.
Vinci stunned Serena Williams in the semi-finals in 2015 before losing the championship match to Italian compatriot Flavia Pennetta who retired in the immediate aftermath of her first and only Grand Slam win.
World number two Angelique Kerber, the Australian Open champion who can dethrone six-time US Open winner Williams as world number one in New York, opens against Polona Hercog of Slovenia.
Action on Louis Armstrong Stadium starts with 2014 champion Marin Cilic against Rogerio Dutra Silva of Brazil.
That’s followed by former major winners Francesca Schiavone and Svetlana Kuznetsova.
They played the longest ever women’s match at the Australian Open in 2011, a four-hour 44-minute epic won by Schiavone after saving six match points.
French Open champion Garbine Muguruza, the Spanish third seed, faces Belgian qualifier Elise Mertens.
The brand new Grandstand arena kicks off with Taylor Townsend of the United States facing two-time runner-up Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark.
Serena Williams and 2012 champion Andy Murray will get underway on Tuesday.
AFP | http://www.manilatimes.net/djokovic-nadal-kick-off-us-open-campaign/282799/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/39393d086671bb93e57c2dbf90be00ae37f56a9843f7f365e99b0e9b4174de0a.json |
[
"Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-30T08:50:12 | null | 2016-08-30T15:00:20 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fthree-hurt-in-suicide-blast-at-chinas-kyrgyzstan-embassy%2F282938%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Three hurt in suicide blast at China’s Kyrgyzstan embassy | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan: A car driven by a suicide bomber exploded after ramming through a gate at the Chinese embassy in Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday, wounding three people, authorities said.
“As a result of the explosion, only the suicide bomber terrorist died. Security guards were injured,” Kyrgyzstan’s Deputy Prime Minister Jenish Razakov told journalists.
Razakov said the three wounded were all Kyrgyz employees of the Chinese embassy and that they had been taken to hospital. Local medics said their injuries were not serious.
Bishkek police sources told Agence France-Presse that a Mitsubishi Delica car smashed through a gate at the embassy before blowing up in the center of the compound close to the ambassador’s residence.
Another source from the security service of the ex-Soviet Central Asian nation—which borders China—said an “explosive device” had been placed inside the vehicle.
Local residents told Agence France-Presse that the blast had blown in their windows and caused their houses to shake.
Employees from the Chinese and nearby American embassy on the edge of the city were evacuated, the Kyrgyz emergency service said.
Impoverished majority Muslim Kyrgyzstan has a history of political instability and battling Islamist extremism.
The economically troubled ally of Russia has seen two governments overthrown and ethnic violence claim hundreds of lives since it gained independence in 1991.
The authorities regularly announce that they have foiled attacks planned by the Islamic State group in the country.
Security forces last year said they had engaged in several deadly shootouts with suspected “terrorists” in Bishkek.
Officials say that some 500 Kyrgyz are thought to have joined the ranks of Islamic State fighting in Syria and Iraq.
Chinese officials in the country have previously been targeted, with one shot dead in 2000 in an attack blamed on radicals from China’s Uighur minority.
Kyrgyzstan and the other ex-Soviet Central Asian nations have come under fire for using a purported terror threat to silence criticism of their secular regimes. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/three-hurt-in-suicide-blast-at-chinas-kyrgyzstan-embassy/282938/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/d2996e910f92f4ad08feeaca9703fcb0de09936e30d6c491ab15b517e25ff6e5.json |
[
"Kristyn Nika M. Lazo",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Aberon Voltaire Palaña",
"Catherine Talavera"
]
| 2016-08-26T16:48:36 | null | 2016-08-27T00:42:51 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fpnb-declares-p1-25-cash-total-p1-25b%2F282314%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | PNB declares P1.25 cash; total P1.25B | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | THE Philippine National Bank (PNB) said it will pay a total of P1.25 billion in cash dividends.
In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Friday, the Lucio Tan led PNB said its board of directors approved the distribution of a cash dividend of P1 per share to stockholders on record as of August 19.
The dividend will be payable on or before September 15.
The bank said it received the go-signal from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) last August 19 to issue the cash dividend.
The cash dividend will come from the unrestricted retained earnings of the bank as of end-March 2016.
Incorporated in 1916, PNB is engaged in commercial banking with a total network of 665 domestic branches, 75 overseas branches and 937 automated teller machines (ATM) as of end-2015.
The bank boasts of having the most extensive international footprint in different locations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. | http://www.manilatimes.net/pnb-declares-p1-25-cash-total-p1-25b/282314/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/7f29adefa86edbf15b0e895b716c936a78fe2e2fa2a5f4105ffb12dfd1b6093f.json |
[
"Realyn Stevens",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Emil C. Noguera",
"Agence France-Presse"
]
| 2016-08-29T12:50:10 | null | 2016-08-29T20:04:12 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ftierro-thumps-arcilla-in-pca-open-cebuana-lhuillier-finals%2F282804%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Tierro thumps Arcilla in PCA Open-Cebuana Lhuillier finals | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Davis Cup veteran Patrick John Tierro ruled the men’s singles of the 35th Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Open-Cebuana Lhuillier tennis tournament held on Sunday at the PCA indoor shell-clay court in Paco, Manila.
Tierro denied fellow Davis Cup veteran Johnny Arcilla his ninth title via a 6-2, 7-6 (5) decision in the finals of the tournament sanctioned by the Philippines Lawn Tennis Association.
“It’s either make or break. I just went for it. You have to be willing to gamble on that because if you got pressured and you just push the ball, he’s (Arcilla) going to attack. So I dictated and I’m glad that my shots went in,” said Tierro, who now has two PCA titles under his belt. His first was in 2014.
Tierro sizzled with a 3-0 start in the first set with his vicious baseline attacks that left Arcilla struggling to catch up.
The 36-year-old Arcilla managed to get his bearings back and closed the gap to 2-4. But Tierro seemed to be unflappable as he retaliated quickly and eventually took the first set.
Arcilla shook off the sting of the first set loss and went on to grab an early 5-3 lead in the second set, looking to forge a deciding set.
Tierro would have none of it though as he scored three straight points to steal advantage, 6-5. Although Arcilla was able to force tiebreak, 6-6, he ran out of gas and made a couple of unforced errors, which handed the victory to his younger opponent.
“I played well but he (Tierro) played better and had less errors,” Arcilla admitted. “Well, I did everything. His shots were really good, while my shots were a little shorter so I have to develop that next time,” said Arcilla.
Tiero pocketed a whopping P50,000 cash prize while Arcilla settled for P25,000 in the tournament supported by The Philippine Star, Dunlop, Whirlpool-Fujidenzo, Chris Sports, Mary Grace, Aseana City, PVL Restaurant, Maverick, Compass, Babolat, Just Jewels, Rexona, Palm Rock, Coca Cola Femsa Philippines, Pearl Garden Hotel, Pearl Lane Hotel, Sen. Manny Pacquiao, L&M, Broadway Motors, Stronghold Insurance and Monte.
There will be little rest for Tierro and Arcilla who will once again showcase their wares in the main draw of the PCA Open-Cebuana Lhuillier Asian Tennis Federation (ATF) Tour slated on September 1 to 4 at the same venue.
Tierro and Arcilla will go up against the finest tennis players in Asia.
In the men’s doubles finals, Arcilla and Ronard Joven proved too much for the duo of Elbert Anasta and Mark Anthony Alcoseba, 6-3, 6-3, and took home the title and P20,000 cash prize. | http://www.manilatimes.net/tierro-thumps-arcilla-in-pca-open-cebuana-lhuillier-finals/282804/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/9ec349f81779e31a1a8e1393d4e4d1019b3a6a1817c866add83b10d49148890d.json |
[
"Rigoberto D. Tiglao",
"Francisco Tatad",
"Yen Makabenta",
"Ricardo Saludo"
]
| 2016-08-31T00:52:09 | null | 2016-08-31T00:22:44 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fthe-newest-yet-hidden-philippine-oligarch-isnt-even-filipino-anthoni-salim%2F283067%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2015/08/tiglao1_d2baf28b2ede0d1611d82c84a7683b05.png | en | null | The newest, yet hidden, Philippine oligarch isn’t even Filipino: Anthoni Salim | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | First of Two Parts
This is how bad our country has become. The newest, yet hidden oligarch in the Philippines isn’t even a Filipino: He is the Indonesian magnate Anthoni Salim.
If President Duterte tries to make a list of oligarchs in the country — the few who rule the commanding heights of the economy — he is likely to miss Salim, for he may not have read his name in the country’s biggest newspapers.
In three of these, which he totally controls or has substantial stakes in — Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, BusinessWorld — and in the third biggest TV-radio network in the country, Channel 5, which he also dominates, “Salim” is the name that can neither be written nor spoken.
It’s the elephant in the room of Philippine media, which practitioners pretend does not exist: How can a foreigner become the country’s media mogul despite the fact the Constitution prohibits even a single coin of foreign money invested in the press?
Salim has never ever set foot on Philippine soil, yet his First Pacific Co. Ltd. conglomerate in the Philippines has achieved growth through major moves under each of the past four Philippine administrations, with each President apparently extending crucial assistance and support — a phenomenon that would fit the definition of cronyism. With such support from sitting Presidents, Salim has overtaken many of the old magnates in stature in just two decades, even capturing the prized corporations of two of the country’s old elites, the Cojuangcos and the Lopezes.
There’s worse news. Salim’s conglomerate is based on telecoms, power, water distribution, and other public utilities — the few sectors the Constitution bars foreigners from controlling since they exploit natural and national resources that in all nations in the world are reserved for citizens. How bad can it get?
Salim, 67, has probably even become the most powerful oligarch in the Philippines.To situate Salim as an oligarch, Roberto Ongpin, whom Duterte had identified as an oligarch, actually simply acted as a clever investment banker who packaged Salim’s acquisition of Philex in 2009, after the Indonesian was rebuffed by the Social Security System (SSS) and when he faced a stiff challenge for control by the San Miguel Corp.
Salim is the controlling owner through his 45-percent stake in First Pacific Co. Ltd. This is the mother firm of the country’s biggest public utility companies, which include the lucrative cellphone sector (PLDT’s Smart), the electricity monopoly in metropolitan Manila (Meralco), the water distribution firm for the western half of the metropolis (Maynilad Water Services), the company operating the longest toll road system in the country, the infrastructure firm that is constructing the country’s expressways and light-rail systems, and the nation’s largest gold mining company, Philex Mining.
The reason why most Filipinos outside of big-business have never heard of Salim – even if they have most likely bought his products and services such as Smart phones, electricity, water and toll roads — is that he has been hidden very successfully from public view by the face of his top executive Manuel V. Pangilinan.
Instead of Salim, his top executive Pangilinan has been portrayed — falsely — as the biggest stockholder, or leads the stockholders of First Pacific, the Hong-Kong based, Bermuda-incorporated holding company of the vast Philippine conglomerate.
Colossal deception
This has been such a colossal deception foisted on the nation, so successfully that Salim’s conglomerate is routinely referred to as the “MVP Group of Companies.” Likewise, Pangilinan has always been known as the “top businessman” controlling the First Pacific group of companies, and never, ever, as “Salim’s executive.”
However, Pangilinan, despite his more than 30 years as Salim’s employee, receiving over P2 million a day in executive pay from Salim’s firms, owns insignificant shares in Salim’s conglomerate.
■ Pangilinan owns only a total of 1.4 percent stake in First Pacific Co., while Anthoni Salim owns 45 percent. This is exactly the same percentage share his father Soedono held when, with three other cronies of the Indonesian strongman Suharto, he set up the company in 1981 in Hong Kong. First Pacific was intended to move their crony wealth outside Indonesia, in a strategic move to prepare for the fall of Suharto, who at that time had already been in power for 14 years.
One of these cronies, Sutanto Djuhar, who had held 45 percent in 1981, is First Pacific’s next biggest stockholder with a 3 percent stake. The rest of First Pacific shares are distributed among 600 of the world’s most lucrative fund management firms, with 20 percent held by US institutions, making the firm essentially a Salim-US multinational.
■ Pangilinan holds only token shares — less than half a percent — in PLDT, MPIC, Philex and other Philippine companies of the Salim conglomerate. In all of these firms, the biggest stockholders are intermediaries or subsidiaries of Salim’s First Pacific. (The other Filipino who has been behind Salim’s expansion in the Philippines, having been his adviser since the 1980s, is former Philippine Ambassador to the US and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, who has been a director of First Pacific from 2003 until 2011, and several of its biggest Philippine firms. Del Rosario’s wealth – he was the richest of Aquino’s Cabinet members – appears to have come mostly from his compensation from and business with Salim’s firms.)
One reason why many believe Pangilinan controls First Pacific is that his public image has been deftly managed since the 1990s, that he has a high-profile “corporate citizenship” unmatched by any tycoon or executive, past or present.
He has been portrayed as a patron of the sports, especially basketball, a generous donor of academic institutions (mainly his alma mater Ateneo), and a board member of prestigious universities to which he gives his precious, free financial advice. It has been, of course, Salim’s firms, mainly through the huge advertising budget of PLDT and Smart, that have been bankrolling these activities.
There is even a website for the “MVP Group of Companies CSR”, which reports the “Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs of the MVP Group of Companies.” Its site includes firms like First Pacific Co. (Pangilinan’s employer) and Indofood, the Jakarta-based Salim-owned firm with which he doesn’t have any connection to at all.
A brilliant PR move for Pangilinan has been First Pacific’s acquisition of 12 hospitals, which include iconic ones such as Makati Medical Center, Cardinal Santos Medical Center and Manila Doctors’ Hospital. This has portrayed him (but not Salim whose Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings owns these hospitals) as a tycoon concerned not only with business profits but also with humanitarian endeavors such as medical care. But this isn’t solely philanthropic activity: First Pacific’s income from these amounted to $66.4 million (P3 billion) between 2010 and 2015.
Pangilinan’s “corporate citizenship is, indeed, a laudable quality so much needed in a country ruled by oligarchs, who view the Philippines merely as a country where they make profits, and not their real nation.
There is obviously however, a big ulterior reason for First Pacific’s huge public relations campaign to portray Pangilinan as a tycoon with a high sense of civic duty. This is to build up public sympathy for him, to make it easier for gullible Filipinos, including its political leaders, ,to believe the myth that he owns the First Pacific conglomerate, concealing the reality that it is tightly controlled by an Indonesian magnate, in violation of constitutional provisions limiting foreign capital in public utilities.
Beneath the hullabaloo of our wild democratic system, the drama of presidential contests, the seeming gravity of issues such as the US military basing agreement and China’s intrusion into our territory, and the drug pandemic, the heights of our economy has been quietly taken over by an Indonesian, and billions of dollars are being siphoned off the country as super-profits from public utilities — and most Filipinos aren’t even aware of it.
What a sad, unlucky country.
On Friday, even Forbes magazine now conceals Salim, who is not only an oligarch, but going by the UK-magazine The Economist’s definition, a crony.
Sources of data and a more comprehensive history and account of the Salim empire in the Philippines are found in my book, available online at rigobertotiglao.com/book and soon at major bookstores:
[email protected] | http://www.manilatimes.net/the-newest-yet-hidden-philippine-oligarch-isnt-even-filipino-anthoni-salim/283067/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/b5d689c20ee9c5a0fefb8fe675db86ade9172f2b2ddc50770cea5d37295ab628.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Lito Averia",
"Marlen V. Ronquillo",
"Rep. Christopher V. P. De Venecia",
"Mabait Na Pinoy",
"A T Paragas",
"Rosauro Feliciano"
]
| 2016-08-31T02:52:10 | null | 2016-08-31T00:15:13 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Four-confusing-rich-national-language%2F283064%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Efren-Danao.gif | en | null | Our confusing, rich national language | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | THOUGHTS ON NATIONAL LANGUAGE WEEK
QUICK, which is the correct Filipino name of Quezon City – Lungsod Quezon or Lungsod ng Quezon?
Many may say it doesn’t really matter because one will readily understand that the words refer to Quezon City. After all, that’s what communication is all about – to be understood. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done as far as our national language is concerned.
On this last day of Linggo ng Wika, it’s a most opportune time to remind everybody that while Filipino is a rich language, it could also cause confusion. (With apologies to my Bulakenyo friend Bert de Guzman.)
The problem is that while Filipino is supposed to be understood all over the country, it has many words that have different meanings when spoken in some regions. A guy may greet another “Kumusta ang lagay?” (How are you doing?) and get a friendly reception. However, he’ll be met with an embarrassed or quizzical look when these are said to a Bisaya. You see, “lagay” is Bisaya word for the male organ.
“Libog” is a bad word in Filipino but not to a Bisaya. A sweet young thing may say “Naglibog ako” with no tinge of embarrassment for she merely means that she’s confused.
I’ve written about this anecdote before but I want to repeat it because it still gives me a lot of kick.
An Ilocano won P1 million in a national contest and was immediately interviewed by a media man. Here’s how the interview went:
Reporter: Congratulations! Ano ang gagawin mo sa isang milyon na napanalunan mo?
Ilocano: Bibili ako ng daga.
Reporter: Ha? Bibili ka ng daga? Aanhin mo ang daga?
Ilocano: Tatalunin ko.
Reporter: Ano? Patatalunin mo ang daga?
(At this point, somebody told the reporter that “daga” is Ilocano for “land,” and “tatalunin” means “to farm” and that the winner is a farmer.)
Reporter: Magsasaka ka pala!
Ilocano: Oo pero nagsa-sandals din ako.
More confusion
Another source of confusion, especially in conversing with foreigners, is the general failure of Pinoys to properly pronounce “f, v, z and th” since these are not found in the Filipino alphabet. “Francisco” is “Prancisco,” “Valium” is “Balium,” “freezer” is “priser,” and “thought” is “tot.” One can say “pud por tot” and be understood by a Pinoy but not by a foreigner.
More confusion takes place if ultra-nationalists insist on translating English technical terms into Filipino. A reader, Rocky Avila, born in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, accentuated the ensuing confusion in an email to me.
Incidentally, Rocky said he was baptized “Roque” but changed his name when he moved to the US.
Rocky said “asset” is “ari” in Filipino so what is “fixed asset?” “Aring nakatirik?”
Here are other translations of accounting terms in his email:
Dead asset – patay na ari
Written-off asset – aring pinutol
Double entry – dalawa ang nakapasok
Erroneous entry – mali ang pagkapasok
Multiple entry – labas-pasok ng labas-pasok
Correcting entry – itinama ang pagpasok
Reversing entry – baligtad ang pasok
Rich language
The richness of Filipino may be seen in the many terms used for “money.” Aside from “pera” or “salapi,” these words denote the many uses and sources of money: abuloy, limos, padulas, sahod, buwis, paluwal, kupit, hulog, tong, utang, kobra, ambag, etc.
And how about “pork barrel?” That’s easy.
“Pang-senador at kinatawan.”
[email protected] | http://www.manilatimes.net/our-confusing-rich-national-language/283064/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/3df46e906d48f1f3ec35e90e2833ae0551a99b5268c1c37474a32d5ad63cece3.json |
[
"Jomar Canlas",
"Jaime Pilapil",
"Jefferson Antiporda",
"Jing Villamente"
]
| 2016-08-29T16:50:14 | null | 2016-08-30T00:29:26 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fcourt-of-appeals-halts-commissions-review-of-telco-deal%2F282905%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Court of Appeals halts commissions review of telco deal | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | TELCO giants PLDT and Globe Telecom scored an initial victory in connection with a legal battle over their acquisition of the telecommunications business of San Miguel Corp., with the Court of Appeals halting competition regulators from reviewing the mega-deal.
In a seven-page resolution obtained by The Manila Times, the 12th Division of the appellate court issued a writ of preliminary injunction barring the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and its agents from conducting the review.
The injunction was issued, the court said, so as not to impair the rights of PLDT, Globe and San Miguel as it hears the telco giants’ petition questioning the PCC’s decision to investigate the P69.1-billion deal.
PLDT first brought the PCC to court. Globe filed its own petition later, and the two petitions were consolidated under the appellate court’s 12th Division.
The August 26 injunction, penned by Associate Justice Ramon Bato with Associate Justices Manuel Barrios and Maria Elisa Sempio-Diy concurring, was addressed to PLDT.
“Let a Writ of Preliminary Injunction be issued, enjoining and directing the respondent PCC, their officials and agents, or persons acting for and on their behalf to Cease and Desist from conducting further proceedings for the pre-acquisition review and/or investigation of the subject acquisition based on its Letters dated 7 June 2016 and 17 June 2016 during the effectivity hereof and until further orders from this Court,” the resolution stated.
PLDT was asked to post a P1-million bond “to answer for whatever damages the respondent PCC will suffer should this Court decide that PLDT is not entitled thereto.”
“The pre-acquisition review, if not enjoined during the pendency of the instant case, will violate the right of PLDT to be accorded safe harbor or protection from challenge,” the appeals court added.
Moreover, PLDT could suffer “grave and irreparable injury not subject to mathematical computation,” as the review could affect its stock price and ability to raise financing for the San Miguel acquisition as well as infrastructure needed to improve internet speed, it said.
The court also pointed out that the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) had approved a co-use agreement in which PLDT and Globe will share San Miguel’s high-speed frequencies. Delaying the co-use agreement may result in sanctions from the NTC, the ruling stated.
In June, newly appointed competition regulators ordered the pre-acquisition review and investigation of the P69.1-billion, 50-50 acquisition by PLDT and Globe of Vega Telecom, Inc., a subsidiary of San Miguel.
PLDT and Globe argue that the deal, signed May 30, was covered by a PCC memorandum circular in which all mergers and acquisitions were supposedly “deemed approved” before the approval of the implementing rules and regulations of the new Philippine Competition Act (PCA), or Republic Act 10667.
The competition law was signed by President Benigno Aquino 3rd on July 21, 2015, but the implementing rules were approved only on May 31, the day after the telco deal was signed.
The PCC has said that its first memorandum circulars were “transitory in nature and do not dilute the authority of the PCC to conduct substantive review under PCA, especially where national interest and public policy require it.” | http://www.manilatimes.net/court-of-appeals-halts-commissions-review-of-telco-deal/282905/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/ca1b378ffe144061c3c1dd4026e2333dc6cb938b3c734192580a34521622a8a2.json |
[
"Crispin R. Aranda",
"Agence France-Presse",
"Al-Jan Jam Ebbah",
"Rey Elbo"
]
| 2016-08-28T16:49:52 | null | 2016-08-29T00:35:58 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fcanada-needs-transport-workers-how-do-you-qualify%2F282674%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/03/ARANDA.jpg | en | null | Canada Needs Transport Workers. How Do You Qualify? | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | News items citing a report from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Asia Pacific Gateway Skills Table (APGST) said “Canada is now in need of at least 36,000 workers for its transport sector.”
Apparently, the number of posts needed to be filled up is more than what was reported.
The number is actually pegged at 177,375 jobs in four transportation sectors across the four Western Canadian provinces, according to findings released on July 12, 2016 of the Asia Pacific Gateway Corridor Labor Market Information Project, an initiative of the APGST.
In addition, the Canadian Trucking Alliance listed 34 occupations in the Air, Logistics, Rail and Trucking sectors within the Asia Pacific Gateway Corridor – also referred to as Western Canada – consisting of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
The need and shortage are driven by increased trade activity between North America and Asia and “because many experienced workers are retiring while others are moving to other provinces.”
Occupations in the Transportation Sector
The Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre, a public advocacy group for newcomers to British Columbia, explains that the transportation industry is made up of numerous occupations, each with its own unique set of experience and training requirements. It includes the following sectors:
• Truck transportation
• Air, rail, water, and scenic and sightseeing transportation
• Transit and ground passenger transportation
• Pipelines, and postal service and couriers
Occupations with the greatest demand in BC are Class 1/AZ truck drivers and truck/trailer mechanics. Most jobs in the trucking sector (60%) are with firms that conduct short haul trips.
Employment by Occupation (Canada)
The APGST report shows that Alberta will account for nearly half of the job growth of the corridor even as the province’s economic recovery is set in 2017.
Alberta suffered the costliest disaster in Canadian history, inolving wildfires which started on May 1 southwest of FortMcMurray which spread across Northern Alberta and Saskatchewan. The fire destroyed 2,400 homes and buildings across approximately 590,000 hectares before it was declared under control on July 5, 2016.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada regard the fires as the costliest insured natural disaster in Canada’s history, with claims jumping by $1.4-billion from the first quarter to the second.
By 2017, APGST expects Alberta to begin experiencing some challenges sourcing workers with increased difficulty fulfilling labor supply needs in 2018. British Columbia, meanwhile, while experiencing steady growth, would be affected by “attrition due to retiring workers.”
To replace its aging workforce, British Columbia would have to rely “substantially” on international workers for the industries in need of skilled workers. The province that will experience the slowest growth and grapple with the low supply of workers, the report concluded, would be Saskatchewan.
Manitoba’s Employment Outlook, Next 10 Years
The province’s labor demand in the next decade will need qualified applicants to fill 17,730 jobs. Of this number, 14 percent would be generated by expansion and 86 percent by Replacement. After peaking in 2019, job openings are expected to stay flat.
The sectors with the most number of positions to be filled up are Air (6,130), Logistics (5,730), Rail (6,535), and Trucking (8,215).
The complete report of APGST can be viewed here: http://www.lmionline.ca/projects/apgc/?occupation=all-occupations#documents-list
Meanwhile, 25 percent of the workers in the 34 occupations today will retire and leave the Manitoba labor market by the end of the forecast period; 67 percent of the New Supply will come from New Entrants; 20 percent of new workers will come from other countries.
Eight percent of new workers will choose to work and reside in other provinces instead of Manitoba. Twenty-one percent of other workers in different occupations already in Manitoba will move to the 34 occupations in demand in Western Canada.
34 Occupations in Demand
1. Air Pilots, Flight Engineers and Flying Instructors NOC 2271
2. Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors NOC 7315
3. Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers NOC 7321
4. Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians NOC 2231
5. Civil Engineers NOC 2131
6. Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics NOC 7311
7. Customs, Ship and Other Brokers NOC 1315
8. Dispatchers NOC 1525
9. Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians NOC 2241
10. Engineering Inspectors and Regulatory Officers NOC 2262
11. Facility Operation and Maintenance Managers NOC 0714
12. Industrial Electricians NOC 7242
13. Industrial Instrument Technicians and Mechanics NOC 2243
14. Inspectors in Public & Environmental Health and Occupational Health & Safety NOC 2263
15. Machinists and Machining and Tooling Inspectors NOC 7231
16. Managers in Transportation NOC 0731
17. Material Handlers NOC 7452
18. Non-Destructive Testers and Inspection Technicians NOC 2261
19. Production Logistics Co-coordinators NOC 1523
20. Purchasing Agents and Officers NOC 1225
21. Purchasing and Inventory Control Workers NOC 1524
22. Purchasing Managers, NOC 1524
23. Railway and Yard Locomotive Engineers NOC 7361
24. Railway Carmen/women NOC 7314
25. Railway Conductors and Brakemen/women NOC 7362
26. Railway Yard and Track Maintenance Workers NOC 7531
27. Retail and Wholesale Buyers NOC 6222
28. Senior Managers – Construction, Transportation, Production and Utilities NOC 0016 29. Shippers and Receivers NOC 1521
30. Supervisors, Motor Transport and Other Ground Transit Operators NOC 7305
31. Supervisors, Railway Transport Operations NOC 7304
32. Supervisors, Supply Chain, Tracking and Scheduling Co-ordination Occupations NOC 1215
33. Transportation Route and Crew Schedulers NOC 1526
34. Transport Truck Drivers NOC 7511
For details on how to meet the standards of a specific occupation under NOC those interested may visit: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/noc.asp
Express Entry Competitors
If your occupation is listed in the 34 occupations above, or you are employed in a transport sector in the Philippines, there are two main hurdles you would have to overcome.
1. Express Entry. It is Canada’s new selection system for skilled workers (professionals and other occupations) launched in January 2015. This application management system was created to generate qualified applicants for Canada’s economic immigration programs including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class and a portion of the Provincial Nominee program.
Canadian employers in the sectors needing workers and provincial governments intending to replace retiring workers can tap the prequalified candidates in the Express Entry pool instead of recruiting overseas, paying thousands of dollars in placement fees for each applicant.
Second, international students are authorized to work in Canada without obtaining a work permit. Employers, provincial or federal government agencies that have immediate openings and need to interview qualified applicants need not even check the Express Entry pool. All they have to do is to post job vacancies in school boards and have face-to-face interviews with potential employees.
2. Meeting Federal or Provincial Standards. While employers in various sectors need workers, they need workers with qualifications, credentials, and/or experience that compare with the Canadian counterpart. For example, certain trade workers in Canada must meet the Red Seal standard. The Red Seal Program is the Canadian standard of excellence for skilled trades. Formally known as the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program, it sets common standards to assess the skills of trade workers across Canada. Trade workers who meet the Red Seal standards receive a Red Seal endorsement on their provincial/territorial trade certificates.
The number of Express Entry applicants invited to apply to the Provincial Nominee Program by Province or Territory show which provinces are the preferred destinations.
Thousands more jobs that Canada needs: 182,000 people to fill these IT positions by 2019
In a study funded by the Government of Canada’s Sectoral Initiatives Program, IT World Canada, in report initially published on December 12, 2015 and updated on March 19, said, “Canada needs 182,000 people to fill positions for information systems analysts and consultants, computer and network operators, Web technicians, software engineers and others in by 2019.”
The reason?
“Skills mismatch, demand-supply imbalances, an aging workforce and other factors, creating a major technology shortage in the next five years.”
As with the needed workers in the transport and construction sectors, the same standards apply: candidates must meet the criteria set by employers, industry and immigration authorities.
To sum up: the news provides the tale.
We provide details. | http://www.manilatimes.net/canada-needs-transport-workers-how-do-you-qualify/282674/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/3cbd3b57df4a840cc9d9fe74dd54d28593798bcc9619e0df843787c0fb2c5013.json |
[
"Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-29T10:49:54 | null | 2016-08-29T18:15:12 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fmore-than-300-reindeer-killed-by-lightning-in-norway%2F282767%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | More than 300 reindeer killed by lightning in Norway | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | OSLO: More than 300 wild reindeer have been killed by lightning in southern Norway, Norwegian officials said Monday, in the largest such incident known to date.
The 323 reindeer, including 70 young, were found on Friday by a gamekeeper on the Hardangervidda plateau, a national park where Europe’s largest herd of some 10,000 wild reindeer roam freely.
Television footage showed the animals’ dead bodies lying close together on the ground.
“There were very strong storms in the area on Friday. The animals stay close together in bad weather and these ones were hit by lightning,” an official from the Norwegian Environment Agency, Kjartan Knutsen, told Agence France-Presse.
Reindeer are social creatures and usually move in packs.
“It’s unusual. We’ve never seen anything like this on this scale,” Knutsen said.
Norwegian authorities have yet to decide what to do with the animals.
“We’re going to decide soon whether to let nature run its own course or whether we will do something,” he said.
Of the 323 reindeer killed, five had to be put down due to their injuries.
Thee are some 25,000 wild tundra reindeer in Norway, located in the southern mountain ranges, according to experts. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/more-than-300-reindeer-killed-by-lightning-in-norway/282767/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/91c2786b26ed9eebdd78f91da8c18e99d6e72b7bc75b7dbaf55b629b992de62d.json |
[
"Manila Times",
"Raadee S. Sausa",
"Angelica Ballesteros"
]
| 2016-08-27T12:49:13 | null | 2016-08-27T19:50:58 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fspanish-police-smash-chinese-immigration-ring%2F282395%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Spanish police smash Chinese immigration ring | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | MADRID: Spanish police said Saturday they had smashed a major ring allegedly providing Chinese nationals living illegally in the country with fake contracts as domestic staff so they could get residency permits.
Police arrested 57 people across the country as part of the operation, including a Chinese couple suspected of running the ring, police said in a statement.
The authorities suspect Chinese nationals living illegally in Barcelona paid the ring around 8,000 euros ($9,000) for fake domestic work contracts with employers in the holiday island of Lanzarote, allowing them to obtain residency permits.
“They would return to Barcelona once they obtained a residency permit to work in the textile sector, without ever carrying out job they were hired for,” the statement said.
The ring allegedly paid employers, usually hotels in Lanzarote, 1,500-2,000 euros for each fake work contract they provided a Chinese national.
A police spokeswoman could not say how many Chinese nationals obtained residency permits through the scheme, saying only that the ring was “very important”.
Just under 200,000 Chinese nationals legally live in Spain, making the Chinese immigrant population the fourth largest foreign community in the country, according to national statistics institute INE. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/spanish-police-smash-chinese-immigration-ring/282395/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/92d8387d89ca8b6715d5993623f7183355ac377b2ede6744b214d55be37fad23.json |
[
"Julmunir I. Jannaral",
"Gab. Keith",
"Jaime G. Aquino",
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-28T14:49:39 | null | 2016-08-28T21:42:48 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Farmm-steps-up-solid-waste-management%2F282631%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | ARMM steps up solid waste management | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | COTABATO CITY: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENR-ARMM) is intensifying its advocacy to promote solid waste management. The program, dubbed Basuranihan is included in DENR-ARMM’s first 100 days action plan. Earlier this week, 50 trash bins were turned over by the regional government to Marawi City in Lanao del Sur and to the town of Shariff Aguak in Maguindanao. DENR-ARMM Secretary Kahal Kedtag said the distribution of the trash bins is part of the advocacy to promote waste disposal and management in the region. The first 100 days action plan of each department in ARMM is a marching order of Governor Mujiv Hataman to continue the reform agenda in the region.
JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL | http://www.manilatimes.net/armm-steps-up-solid-waste-management/282631/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/d8d4c037d08577f375131a084539b29f185d33f7727b0d91ed998ee5b1978c55.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-31T10:50:27 | null | 2016-08-31T17:53:29 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ftaiwan-youth-ambassadors-in-manila%2F283149%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Taiwan youth ambassadors in Manila | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | A GROUP of students from Taiwan are in the Philippines to strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries.
The youth ambassadors, who arrived on August 29, will be in Manila until September 4.
Headed by Minister Odi Shri-ren Sun, the group will stage a public performance on Wednesday at 4 p. m. at the Medicine Auditorium of the University of the Santo Tomas.
The students will also visit the Senate, the governments of Makati and Tagaytay, Cultural Center of the Philippines, and prominent national newspapers.
With this year’s theme “Dynamic Youth, Friendly Taiwan,” Gary Song-Huann Lin, Representative of Taiwan (ROC) to the Philippines, said the visit of the Taiwan Youth Ambassadors will further strengthen the interactions between Taiwan and the Philippines.
The visit of the youth ambassadors is very timely as Taiwan President Tsai-Ing-wen has launched the “New Southbound Policy.” Under this policy, the Philippines will be the gateway and major partner of Taiwan in expanding an array of multifaceted cooperation and partnership among Asean countries.
Based on the New Southbound Policy, Taiwan will speed up and broaden its cooperation with the Philippines not only in trade and investment, agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture, SMEs, ICT, climate change, but especially in education and culture. Raadee S. Sausa
RS/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/taiwan-youth-ambassadors-in-manila/283149/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/60b2afccb9eb546dde041c1c1b9285167cca5740328ef1666369e11824f5346e.json |
[
"Josef T. Ramos",
"The Manila Times",
"Emil C. Noguera"
]
| 2016-08-31T14:50:33 | null | 2016-08-31T22:37:42 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fde-ocampos-basket-saves-tropang-texters-from-batang-pier%2F283226%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | De Ocampo’s basket saves Tropang Texters from Batang Pier | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Talk ‘N Text escaped GlobalPort with a narrow 122-120 win on Wednesday in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 41 Governors’ Cup at the Ara- neta Coliseum.
Jayson Castro, who notched 37 points including six three-pointers plus eight assists, pulled off a smooth pass to Ranidel De Ocampo that sank a two-pointer securing Talk ‘N Text’s win with five seconds remaining in the game.
The Tropang Texters with their seventh victory after eight games remain on top of the team standings with a win-loss record of 7-1.
“The game went up with GlobalPort in the second half,” said Talk ‘N Text coach Jong Uichico during the postgame interview. “GlobalPort can really score especially when Stanley Pringle and Terrence Romeo get it going.”
“We fell into a lull in the offense in the latter part. We needed this win anyway, anyhow and we move on to the next,” he added.
De Ocampo finished with 17 points and seven rebounds; Larry Fonacier contributed 14 points and Ryan Reyes 11 points.
Import Michael Madanly and Kelly Williams contributed 10 and eight points, respectively also for Talk ‘N Text.
Mychal Lamar Ammons of the Tropang Texters was outplayed by his counterpart Mike Glover, finishing with mere seven points and 11 rebounds because of early foul trouble.
Glover posted 38 points plus 18 rebounds while Terrence Romeo had 33 points and seven assists.
Stanley Pringle scored 25 points also for the Batang Pier.
GlobalPort’s win-loss record fell to 3-5.
Talk ‘N Text scored more three pointers (14-9) and assists (20-14) than GlobalPort.
Talk ‘N Text, riding on a strong start, established a 35-18 lead in the first quarter and managed to maintain a huge advantage came the second quarter. Castro, after a hefty 22-point output in the first half, scored a three-pointer that gave the Tropang Texters a 60-38 lead with still 4:30 left in the second canto.
GlobalPort tried to match Talk ‘N Text’s production in the second period scoring 34 points against 35 of the Texters but it wasn’t enough to trim the gap. Talk ‘N Text, continued to dominate the match with commanding 70-52 lead at the half.
The Tropang Texters shot 27-of-44 (61 percent) overall in the field against GlobalPort’s 21-of-48 (43 percent) in the first half.
There was a glimmer of hope for the Batang Pier at the start of the second half with Pringle and Glover reducing the deficit to 10 points before the end of third period.
GlobalPort outscored Talk ‘N Text in the third period, 34-26, to narrow the gap, 86-96, with 12 minutes left in the game.
The Batang Pier inched closer with a 10-0 run midway in the fourth period highlighted by Pringle’s back-to-back lay-ups to tie the score 120-all with 16 seconds left in the game.
But Castro and De Ocampo get in the way in the dying seconds powering Talk ‘N Text’s slim win.
Anthony Jay Washington’s costly blunder with 2.2 seconds left also contributed to the end of Batang Pier’s three-game winning streak. | http://www.manilatimes.net/de-ocampos-basket-saves-tropang-texters-from-batang-pier/283226/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/de3866c22740046dab802ff95a8b412e878b2f3dcc66b3a514b6989bceb72083.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Ben Kritz",
"Gilbert Chao"
]
| 2016-08-29T08:50:03 | null | 2016-08-29T16:19:10 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fnew-pajero-now-with-euro-4-power-plant%2F282764%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/pajero20160830-300x207.jpg | en | null | New Pajero now with Euro 4 power plant | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Mitsubishi Motors Philippines last week introduced the upgraded version of its flagship model, the Pajero, which is now available with the much cleaner Euro-4 spec gasoline and diesel power plants. Aside from giving less emissions, the Pajero’s new diesel engine is now more powerful further raising up its stature as the most aspired for full-sized SUV in the market.
The 2016 model year (MY) Pajero comes in two variants: the 3.2 GLS 4WD AT diesel, which is powered by a 3.2-liter, inline-four, 16-valve double overhead cam (DOHC) turbocharged and intercooled VGT Euro 4 (4M41) engine; and the 3.8 GLS 4WD AT gasoline, which is powered by the 3.8-liter V6 24-valve single overhead cam (SOHC) MIVEC Euro 4 (6G75) engine.
The new Pajero’s diesel engine is now complemented with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger or VGT. The variable geometry technology reduces the lag time and increases overall efficiency across the entire engine speed (rpm) range. As a result, power and torque output has increased by 16-percent and 18-percent, respectively, bringing the 4M41 engine to 192 ps (189 horsepower) at 3,800 rpm and 441 Newton-meters at 2,000 rpm. Cooling performance and internal component strengths are improved to meet higher power requirements. Aside from being powerful, durable and dependable, this engine has been noted to be responsive, economical and environment friendly as it now meets stricter Euro 4 emission regulations.
The new Pajero’s gasoline variant maintains the same 3.8-liter V6 24-valve SOHC MIVEC (6G75) engine but is now Euro 4 compliant. Its power remains the same although it now emits less harmful emissions.
The flagship model boasts of Mitsubishi’s rally-proven Super Select 4WD-II system with full-time 4WD setting. Being a symbol of luxury and success, the Pajero continues to offer a sophisticated design and styling. It is aesthetically pleasing as it is technically sound with its elegant fascia, LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), HID Headlamps with automatic dimming function and power tilt, and sunroof for an even more pleasurable drive.
Safety features of the 2016 Pajero are top of its class. Major features are the Mitsubishi Active Stability and Traction Control (M-ASTC), which controls engine power and brakes to prevent understeer or oversteer and its anti-lock braking system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution acting on the four-pot front disc brakes and rear disc brakes. The monocoque body frame has been developed under the Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body frame technology helping the occupants withstand various kinds of collisions.
The refreshed Pajero is available in Rio Grande White, Clay Soil Beige (Two-tone with Deep Sea Green Mica), Skylark Gray, Sapporo Silver (Two-tone with Skylark Gray), Quartz Brown Metallic and Midnight Graphite.
The Pajero is also available in GLS 3.8L MIVEC Gasoline AT with a suggested retail price of P2.550 million while the Pajero GLS 3.2 VGT Di-Diesel is available for P2.750 million. | http://www.manilatimes.net/new-pajero-now-with-euro-4-power-plant/282764/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/a6f6abdefac51daef3d9a0938e1d6a64dfe074df604a142f87d5286b0be8a9ac.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-31T12:50:26 | null | 2016-08-31T19:40:17 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fjapan-gunman-in-deadly-shooting-captured-after-standoff-with-police%2F283158%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Japan gunman in deadly shooting captured after standoff with police | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | TOKYO: A Japanese gunman accused of shooting dead a construction worker and wounding three others was taken into custody on Wednesday following a long and tense standoff with police, news reports said.
Yasuhide Mizobata fled into an apartment building on Tuesday afternoon after firing repeatedly at officers who challenged him, a force spokesman said.
About 17 hours later the suspect shot himself in the abdomen, public broadcaster NHK reported without giving details of his condition. Jiji Press also reported the self-inflicted wound.
NHK footage showed police storming the building after hearing a gunshot as an ambulance apparently carrying the suspect sped off. The broadcaster said police arrested him.
Police could not immediately confirm details.
The standoff surprised Japan, where gun violence is exceedingly unusual and there are very strict controls on firearms ownership.
Mizobata had spent the night holed up in the building, surrounded by heavily armed police trying to persuade him to surrender.
Television footage had showed him brandishing two pistols as he stood atop scaffolding.
Media reports said the suspect had threatened to shoot police and turn the gun on himself during the overnight standoff in Wakayama, 450 kilometers (280 miles) southwest of Tokyo.
Broadcasters said the building was been evacuated as the incident began. Local residents were told to stay indooors.
A massive hunt began on Monday after Mizobata allegedly killed 45-year-old Junsuke Ishiyama and wounded three others when he opened fire during a meeting at the offices of a construction company.
He is reportedly the son of the company owner.
Mizobata had been scheduled to go to jail on Monday after having been convicted of drugs charges, the Sankei Shimbun daily said.
In 2015 Japan had just eight reported gun crimes nationwide, with one person killed and three wounded.
The few weapons in circulation are often linked to organized crime. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/japan-gunman-in-deadly-shooting-captured-after-standoff-with-police/283158/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/0840e216977f8d43bc63f21527fd6d9a766595b4aa24386a0154bdec9b4bd9b1.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Agence France-Presse",
"Emil C. Noguera",
"Realyn Stevens"
]
| 2016-08-31T14:50:35 | null | 2016-08-31T22:36:15 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fskudarat-aces-head-pps-tuna-fest-cast%2F283220%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | SKudarat aces head PPS Tuna Fest cast | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Carlyn Bless Guarde and Vince EJ Tugade gear up for a tough outing as they go for a two-title sweep in their respective divisions in the Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala Tuna Festival regional age-group tennis championship unfolding Friday at the Gen. Santos City Tennis Club.
Guarde and Tugade are the top seeds in the 16- and 18-and-under divisions with the top junior players from Isulan, Sultan Kudarat all primed up for the twin crowns against a field teeming with talents in the Group 5 tournament sponsored by the country’s leading pawnshop, remittance and claim center Palawan Pawnshop and presented by Slazenger.
Guarde, 15, faces the likes of Davao’s Patricia Velez, Dana Abad, Jazelle Madis and Winona Cabardo in both sections while Tugade brace for a showdown for both crowns either against Janus Ringia, Kylde Lagarde or Wilfred Bentillo.
Twelve-year-old Minettle April Bentillo, meanwhile, heads the girls’ 14-U cast that includes Ma. Angelica Novis, Febe Lagarde and Princess Cerbito and is the top bet in her division which also features Tennielle Madis, Jilian Managking and Paula Taketomi.
“While Guarde and Tugade look poised to dominate, we expect a number of reversals with a lot of young players eager to prove their worth even against the fancied bets in the fold,” said Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro.
John David Velez, also a 12-year-old rising star from Davao, banners the boys’ 14-U field that also drew Nikhel Nowlakha, Earljan Casal, Jorros Managking and Cedric Pamplona. He also heads the 12-U cast along with Nowlakha, Pamplona, Managking and Reyman Saldivar Jr.
Tennielle Madis and Salvidar, on the other hand, are the players to beat in the 10-unisex side of the tournament backed by Asiatraders Corp., exclusively distributor of Slazenger, the official ball.
The four-day event also serves as a prelude to the Tuna Festival Open set Sept. 5-10 which features the country’s leading players, including recent Olivarez Cup Open champion and defending titlist Johnny Arcilla and last week’s PCA Open titlist Patrick John Tierro.
Listup is ongoing. For details, contact Bobby Mangunay, PPS-PEPP Regional Age Group Tennis Event organizer and Sports Program Development director at 0915-4046464.
The Tuna Festival is the first of three major Open tournaments on the PPS-PEPP calendar, the two others being the Pintaflores Festival Open on October 31 to November 6 and the Dagitab Festival Open on December 18 to 22. | http://www.manilatimes.net/skudarat-aces-head-pps-tuna-fest-cast/283220/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/cacfca13164db89bf3347f89d634bed616f6d51a67302d2f753f22f1a3aa0eee.json |
[
"Brenda V. Pimentel",
"Ben Kritz",
"The Manila Times",
"Al-Jan Jam Ebbah"
]
| 2016-08-30T06:51:55 | null | 2016-08-27T00:15:31 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fgetting-to-know-maritime-philippines%2F282292%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/04/atty.jpg | en | null | Getting to know Maritime Philippines | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Readers may be wondering how basic this topic could be. In the first place, is there a need to be primed on such a dry subject? My simple answer is: because you are Filipino and your country of birth is surrounded by vast waters. “Maritime Philippines” is a tag every Filipino should easily identify with. Sadly, it is not the case.
Maritime issues are hardly discussed except within the limited circles of industry players, especially in the seafaring sector and related activities. Oh yes, tourists stand in awe at the country’s beautiful beaches. Yet, “Maritime Philippines” is mainly associated with seafarers and it is not uncommon to hear the ordinary Filipino say “it is about the seaman.”
We can not blame the populace who think maritime is “seafaring.” Government unwittingly impresses on the public that functions relating to seafarers are the “be all” when it comes to the maritime world. Why for instance, does maritime education appears to be limited to merchant marine courses? Has it ever occurred to the officials of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) that the Philippine archipelago needs to develop maritime expertise and the best students can be found in its indigenous population; that being a country of more than 7,000 islands, we have in our midst the best maritime laboratory?
It is equally unsettling that the issue of which agency should oversee the seafaring sector persists. As appeals to reverse legislation and settle the issue fail, a new bill is filed to repeal the same law, never mind that the new subject is extraneous to the main subject. As the turf war rages on, Maritime Philippines remains stunted; and so stays the ordinary Filipino’s appreciation about Maritime Philippines as simply “about the seaman.”
I am amazed at the amount of time, money and energy spent and lost in trying to dislodge MARINA from taking charge of the implementation of the International Convention on the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), which is an international instrument adopted with the primary objective of ensuring maritime safety. The enormous dollar remittances of seafarers dictated the distorted view taken by many in government and industry that STCW should be seen as an essential component of labor rather than a maritime concern. Maritime stakeholders and shipowners, i.e., those who engage seafarers and who own the million-dollar assets (ships) which they operate, do not share the same view. I just hope that the Philippines’ trying to reverse the adverse audit findings is not lost on many in the industry. This is a situation which limits understanding of the maritime industry to being “about the seaman.”
Seafaring placed the Philippines in the international maritime arena. It is a fact known to many Filipinos; the Filipino seaman is actually the only notion of maritime in the mind of the ordinary man. The need to find what else of the country’s maritime circumstances could help further its position in international shipping becomes relevant in light of the growing competition in the shipboard market. What must “Maritime Philippines” do to advance its standing in the international maritime community?
It make sense to know that the maritime workplace is not limited to the ship. It extends to facilities seaward as in offshore units or towards the shore and landward as in ports, shipyards, passenger terminals and cargo sheds, or any similar shipping structure. Therefore, the country could play host to various maritime enterprises outside of the seafarer’s workplace. Within this context, developing the human capital to cater to the demands of maritime enterprises must be pursued, and “Maritime Philippines” could draw from the population a pool of maritime workforce.
It helps to be reminded of the richness of the waters that surround the country. The natural resources which could be mined and harnessed would provide a large amount of economic and social benefits. Ships connect the islands, an important aspect of trade and commerce; it enhances mobility and thereby enables people to pursue education and become productive members of society. These are what make “Maritime Philippines.” These, together with seafaring, should and would become the foundation for an inclusive and sustainable socioeconomic progress for “Maritime Philippines!” | http://www.manilatimes.net/getting-to-know-maritime-philippines/282292/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/ffea5495c8793fd61c8b16b2a711342a0cecba540cb548a11791f3bf3ac26a5d.json |
[
"Jefferson Antiporda",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Catherine S. Valente",
"Kristyn Nika M. Lazo",
"The Manila Times",
"Country First",
"Na Me"
]
| 2016-08-26T13:03:40 | null | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fde-lima-drug-matrix-fit-for-garbage-can%2F282142%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/250816_delima3_bob-300x190.jpg | en | null | De Lima: drug Matrix ‘fit for garbage can’ | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | SENATOR Leila de Lima on Thursday branded as “garbage” the “matrix” released by President Rodrigo Duterte showing her alleged links to illegal drug operations, appealing to the Chief Executive to stop his attacks.
“As I have often said, I will not dignify further this so-called drug matrix which, as any ordinary lawyer knows too well, properly belongs to the garbage can,” said de Lima in news conference.
The senator said she found it “almost laughable” and amusing how the President’s men tried to pin her down through the “Muntinlupa connection” matrix, and couldn’t do it properly.
De Lima noted that Duterte’s matrix looked rushed and had grammatical errors, and didn’t even contain the names of drug lords and drug convicts at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa who supposedly gave her money.
The senator said three names included in the so-called matrix were former colleagues, while the rest were not close to her.
“Even the arrows all point to Governor Espino. Are they indicating that I’m reporting to the governor indirectly?” de Lima said.
The senator explained that as Justice secretary of the previous Aquino administration, she ordered Espino investigated by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in connection with a murder complaint based on the testimony of a minor. The case did not prosper because of inconsistencies in the statement of the witness.
“It does not surprise me anymore to hear it from someone who had long professed to destroy me at all costs.
Like the many tirades thrown at me, these are bound to fail again with all of these trumped-up accusations and the worst matrix of all time,” de Lima said.
“Even a 12-year-old can draw such thing,” added the senator.
Wish: Love life
De Lima will be turning 57 on Saturday (August 27), and her birthday wish is for the President to stop his “madness.”
“This is my number one birthday wish. I seriously hope that the President would leave me alone, that he puts an end very soon to this madness,” de Lima said.
The former Justice secretary also said she wants to have a love life.
“I’m sad because it seems the President is bent on finding rumors about me. I really don’t want to have a love life anymore. I don’t want to remarry after the annulment of my marriage, that is my commitment to myself and to my children, that I won’t be remarried,” she said.
But given the situation, de Lima said she might need a partner who could somehow help her.
She clarified that “Warren,” who the President claimed was her new boyfriend, worked for the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and is now part of the security staff assigned to her.
The neophyte senator, however, described the President’s latest revelation as “plain and simple chismis (gossip).”
“Maybe it’s part of their strategy…trying to diminish my credibility and trying to break my spirit. They’re dead wrong if they can think they can break my spirit,” de Lima said. | http://www.manilatimes.net/de-lima-drug-matrix-fit-for-garbage-can/282142/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/7c1f792bee16009b5bab32cd5ebc16f58e58275f52a9df3446dce419525c6dc2.json |
[
"Toots Ople",
"Crispin R. Aranda",
"Agence France-Presse",
"Al-Jan Jam Ebbah"
]
| 2016-08-28T16:49:47 | null | 2016-08-29T00:37:01 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fillegal-recruiters-are-monsters%2F282669%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TOOTS-OPLE.jpg | en | null | Illegal recruiters are monsters | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | I have a dog. His name is Almond. When I come home after spending hours in torturous traffic, his tail wags away all the karmic evil in my world. He loves pillows and so he has his own, and he lies on it when we watch TV together. I can go on and on about my dog, and in my twilight years I shall endeavor to write my own bible about the virtues of a pet.
Now, on the opposite side of canine goodness, are vile, two-legged monsters disguised as humans. They only appear to be human. Human beings have hearts that beat and feel and strive to make other people’s hearts happy. These monsters have dead hearts, and yet they live to serve a dark purpose as Lucifer’s motivational speakers. I consider these monsters as the scum of the scum of the scummiest creatures on earth. In our world, they are called the illegal recruiters.
Why do I hate illegal recruiters so much? Illegal recruiters are thieves. They steal dreams and strip people of their money, honor, and future. Their “job” is to find honorable people with a genuine desire to work abroad but are gullible enough to part with their money to cover “placement or processing fees.”
Remember these names: Osmando “Ozhie” N. Habilag, Veraflor de los Reyes, and Alejandro Navarro. The older guy, “Ozhie” owns Bantayog Travel and Tours, which was located at 2/F Unit C CL Building, Biwas, Tanza, Cavite. Navarro, owns PADS Travel and Tours, located at 164 Mother Ignacia Avenue, Quezon City. Osmando and Alejandro are cousins.
These two male monsters have duped at least 200 job-seekers, mostly from Davao City and Davao del Norte, out of “processing fees” ranging from P70,000 to P300,000.
Veraflor de los Reyes owns Visa Assist Fortune Diamond Rays, a travel consultancy in Davao. She refers clients to Bantayog Travel and Tours and PADS Travel and Tours.
On her Facebook page, the she-monster posted:
Work abroad, short-term process, big salary, hassle free, renewable visa, free accommodation in Japan, Australia, Germany and Canada.
Hassle-free? Short-term process? Renewable visa? Music to every dreamer’s ears! Sadly, many of these dreamers bought the lie, and were told to fly to Manila, and oh, hurry up, because the slots are limited.
Sam, who works as a butcher from Davao City, borrowed money from his brother who works in New Zealand. Sam thought the lie was true. He flew to Manila and was met at the airport by one of Ozhie’s agents. Sam paid Osmando P180,000 in three days. He wanted to make sure that one of the limited slots was his. Three others, who also work as butchers from Davao City, followed his lead. They paid Ozhie money borrowed from someone else.
The victims said they were recruited between March and May 2016. The monsters seduced dreamers with this common script:
Immediate deployment within 30 to 60 days.
They will leave the country as “name-hires” through the POEA.
Ozhie’s cousin, Alejandro of PADS Travel and Tours, know someone at POEA who can fast track their papers.
Applicants will have a free place to stay while their documents are being processed.
Ozhie, the monster, even shared a global perspective: the victims would be able to work in these countries under existing bilateral labor agreements.
Last August 10, the applicants received a text message to proceed to Manila because they will have to make a personal appearance at the POEA. Sam recalled waking up at 4 o’clock in the morning that day, because he didn’t want to be late. The transient house where he and the other applicants were staying was in faraway Cavite.
At 6 o’clock, Sam and Erwin, his fellow butcher-applicant, were at the POEA. The guard said it was too early to let them in. Soon enough, the gates opened. They waited for Ozhie. They waited for Ozhie’s cousin, Alejandro. They waited and waited, and their numbers grew as more of Habilag’s victims went to the POEA. A message came. The “personal appearance” has been reset to August 12. Almost 200 applicants showed up that day. Their recruiters didn’t. The recruiter-monsters have disappeared.
POEA Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac announced last week that Osmando Habilag and Alejandro Navarro are now the subject of a nationwide manhunt. Navarro has several pending warrants of arrest dating back to 2007.
If you know the whereabouts of these monsters, please call the POEA hotline: 722-1144 or 722-1155. Habilag and his cohorts are facing charges of large-scale illegal recruitment, a non-bailable offense under RA 10022. These monsters must pay for what they have done to good people like Sam the butcher, Darla the caregiver, and so many others. If caught, Ozhie will spend his whole life behind bars wishing he could live elsewhere, perhaps in Australia or New Zealand. Or why not in Japan and Germany? Hassle-free, of course. | http://www.manilatimes.net/illegal-recruiters-are-monsters/282669/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/18daad0d77a49acb006a5f2a05a762f5813a3014b02ac91bd1aedc925a55b9e3.json |
[
"Catherine Talavera",
"Jefferson Antiporda",
"The Manila Times",
"Jing Villamente"
]
| 2016-08-26T14:50:12 | null | 2016-08-26T22:01:04 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fpag-ibig-grocery-chain-offer-more-perks%2F282284%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Pag-IBIG, grocery chain offer more perks | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | The Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG said it is beefing up privileges that Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders may avail of as it partners with Puregold Price Club Inc.
In a statement on Friday, Pag-IBIG said it has signed an agreement with Puregold in line with providing additional benefits to Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders who can now earn points and privileges when they shop at any Puregold supermarket.
Florencio Galang Jr., Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Vice President for Public Relations and Information Services Group of Pag-IBIG Fund, said the partnership aims to maximize the value of a Pag-IBIG membership, through the Loyalty Card.
“The project is our way of showing loyalty to our 16.4 million members, as it makes Pag-IBIG more relevant in the lives of Pag-IBIG members through benefits that they can enjoy more frequently. What we did was to tie up with private-sector entities that can offer discounts and privileges to our Pag-IBIG members,” Galang added.
One benefit that Loyalty Card offers holders is earning peso points on groceries when they shop at Puregold.
Pag-IBIG noted that Loyalty Card holders will earn one point for a minimum purchase worth P400.00 of any item, paid in cash or credit card, at any Puregold store.
“Each point is equivalent to P1.00 which they can use to purchase items at Puregold. Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders must have at least 50 points to use or redeem earned points at any Puregold store,” it said.
This can be used in Puregold’s 260 outlet stores nationwide, which offer a wide range of consumer products, furniture and appliances.
“As of June 2016, more than 94,000 points were granted to Loyalty Card holders who shopped at Puregold,” the fund said.
Aside from earning points at Puregold outlets, Galang said availing of the Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card is the best way for Pag-IBIG members to have their permanent Membership Identification (MID) number at hand because it will be printed on the card.
As of July 2016, there are more than 2 million Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card holders in the country.
Pag-IBIG members who are interested to avail of the Loyalty Card can proceed to the nearest Pag-IBIG Fund branch nationwide.
“Those who are employed can coordinate with their company’s Human Resources Department for enrolment kiosks to be deployed to their offices,” Pag-IBIG said.
The Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card also provides additional benefits to Pag-IBIG members in the form of special discounts and rewards when they pay for medicine, groceries, tuition, fuel and travel, among others, which can be availed through the fund’s 119 partner-merchants in the country.
CATHERINE TALAVERA | http://www.manilatimes.net/pag-ibig-grocery-chain-offer-more-perks/282284/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/72fa313c45352b5cc63c7d99156114f543b455f3450ca709f6ee16e539367ad0.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Anthony Vargas",
"Maria Laura Margherita Angeles"
]
| 2016-08-27T16:49:17 | null | 2016-08-28T00:09:43 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ffacebook-automates-trending-news%2F282525%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Facebook automates trending news | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | SAN FRANCISCO: Facebook said it is further automating its “trending” stories feature, a move that will scale back human input to prevent personal bias from influencing which stories get highlighted.
The social media giant will rely more heavily on an algorithm to operate the feature — which lists what news or events are hot topics — no longer requiring people to write descriptions, according to a Facebook blog post.
The feature prompted controversy earlier this year, with critics alleging that Facebook’s news curators were deliberately omitting stories from politically conservative outlets, allegations the company denied.
Facebook said relying more heavily on software will allow the feature to cover a wider scale, while lessening the risk that personal bias could manipulate the list of trending topics.
“We looked into these claims and found no evidence of systematic bias,” Facebook reiterated in its blog post Friday, but added that “making these changes to the product allows our team to make fewer individual decisions about topics.”
With the change, instead of seeing story summaries in the trending list, users will simply see topics and the number of people talking about them.
Letting a cursor hover over a topic will show “an automatically selected original news story with an excerpt pulled directly from the top article itself.”
Humans will still be involved in the process to ensure that topics are real-world news and not based on an internet trend like #lunch.
Facebook in May made changes aimed at keeping political bias out of its “trending” stories list even though an internal investigation revealed no evidence that it was an issue.
“Our investigation has revealed no evidence of systematic political bias in the selection or prominence of stories included in the Trending Topics feature,” Facebook general counsel Colin Stretch said in a letter responding to a query from Republican US Senator John Thune, who chairs the commerce committee.
“In fact, our analysis indicated that the rates of approval of conservative and liberal topics are virtually identical in Trending Topics.”
Facebook updated terminology in its guidelines to be clearer and gave reviewers refresher training that emphasized content decisions may not be based on politics or ideology, the letter said.
The review team became subject to more oversight and controls, and Facebook stop relying on lists of external websites and news outlets to assess the importance of topics in stories.
“We’ve built Facebook to be a platform for all ideas,” Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg said on his social network page after a meeting at the company’s California headquarters to discuss the allegations about anti-conservative bias.
Zuckerberg called the meeting after technology news outlet Gizmodo reported anonymous allegations that Facebook was deliberately omitting articles with conservative viewpoints from the sidebar that lists popular stories.
AFP | http://www.manilatimes.net/facebook-automates-trending-news/282525/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/1e44f7807fa9c4783db5aa0d405142947488847cc814e9b05238af3088321ddb.json |
[
"Yen Makabenta",
"Francisco Tatad",
"Rene Saguisag",
"Ben Victoria",
"Ely Cresencio",
"Tony De Leon",
"Rowell Del Rosario",
"Len Rimando",
"Rasol Abbas",
"Nick Azul"
]
| 2016-08-26T13:04:25 | null | 2016-08-19T23:43:54 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fleila-de-lima-and-the-art-of-shame-defense%2F280981%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2015/08/YEN-MAKABENTA.png | en | null | Leila de Lima and the art of shame defense | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | First Read
Whenever a public figure comes out publicly to answer a scandalous accusation or exposé against them, I instinctively measure their performance against the big-time examples of denial and defense, which are safely memorialized in the annals of history.
I think of these now as I ponder the nightmare that Senator Leila De Lima must be living through, and her desperate quest for an availing strategy or tactic to surmount the devastating attack fired against her by President Duterte on Wednesday.
She must simultaneously fend off (1) a charge that she is an adulterer, and kept a lover who was both an employee of the Department of Justice and an agent of the illegal drugs trade; and (2) that she received drug lord payoffs to fund her campaign for the Senate in the May elections.
You cannot wipe away the shame and stain by a simple denial; you need a well- crafted strategy of putting your response into words and into an action plan. Hence, I say it’s instructive to study how the big scalawags in history wiggled out of their predicaments.
1. Bill Clinton: I did not have sex with that woman.
First on my ‘wall of shame’ defenses is
Bill Clinton’s “I did not have sex with that woman.”
On August 17, 1998, in a television address to the nation from the White House, President Clinton acknowledged that he had an inappropriate relationship with onetime intern Monica S. Lewinsky and deceived the American people about it, but he defiantly challenged independent counsel Kenneth W. Starr to stop “prying into private lives.”
Clinton dropped the defense he used seven months earlier, of saying he did not have sex with “that woman” and of making a distinction between getting head and having intercourse.
“I did have a relationship with Miss Lewinsky that was not appropriate,” he said: “ I know that my public comments and my silence about this matter gave a false impression,” he added, although he did not say directly that he had sex with Lewinsky. “I misled people, including even my wife. I deeply regret that.”
The Washington Post reported: “The president’s tone during his five-minute statement was flavored with as much anger as remorse as he lashed out at [special prosecutor]Kenneth Starr and declared: “I intend to reclaim my family life for my family,” he said. “It’s nobody’s business but ours. Even presidents have private lives. It is time to stop the pursuit of personal destruction and the prying into private lives and get on with our national life.”
2. Richard Nixon: “I am not a crook”
My second specimen of scandal defense is Richard Nixon’s five-word classic: “I am not a crook.”
On November 17, 1973, at a press conference in Orlando, Florida, President Nixon addressed media stories of crooked dealings by the President.
He said: “I want to say this to the television audience. I made my mistakes. But in all of my years of public life, I have never profited – never profited from public service. I’ve earned every cent. And in all of my years of public life, I have never obstructed justice … because people have got to know whether or not their President is a crook. Well, I’m not a crook. I’ve earned everything I’ve got.”
Nixon was elected to the US presidency in 1968, and reelected in 1972. But he was forced to resign his office in 1973 because of the Watergate scandal.
De Lima’s defense
How does Senator de Lima’s response to Duterte’s accusations measure against these classic cases of shame defense?
Alas, not well at all. Where Clinton and Nixon surmounted their ordeal, de Lima could sink deeper in the quicksand of scandal and embarrassment. Duterte may have more bombs to explode.
I listened to de Lima’s press conference statement diligently, but I looked in vain for a coherent strategy that could get her off the hook.
Surprisingly, Leila desisted from denying the truth of any of Duterte’s allegations.
She opted, instead, for an underdog strategy of:
1. Harping on the mismatch between the awesome powers of the President, and her limited powers as a senator.
2. Alleging the abuse and misuse of executive power by President Duterte;
3. Playing on public sympathy because she is a woman whose honor has been trampled on; and
4. Declaring that the President’s attacks were brought on by her decision to lead the Senate inquiry next week into the administration’s war on drugs, and the extrajudicial killings.
In the absence of her denial of an adulterous affair, most Filipinos have concluded that she is, indeed, having an affair with her driver and subordinate, and that she gave him two houses in Pangasinan.
The affair is said to be an open secret at the justice department and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). There’s even an alleged sex video that has been making the rounds on social media; and many dread the prospect of watching it. Yet, she does not categorically deny the allegations.
A problem of credibility
De Lima’s big problem is her lack of credibility, in comparison with President Duterte’s high trust and approval rating.
People remember her as President BS Aquino’s hatchet girl for the persecution of his political enemies, like former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and former chief justice Renato Corona. They remember how she even defied a Supreme Court order allowing Arroyo to travel abroad.
For six years, De Lima was head of two critical pillars of our criminal justice system – the pro section arm and the correctional arm. Under her, the country’s prisons system became a tool for the drug trade. And prosecutions focused mainly on jailing and harassing political opponents.
Filipinos are great believers in karma or gaba – retribution for the bad things that people do in life. Many believe that de Lima is now reaping the karmic destiny that she has sown.
Liberal Party is no help
If a poll were taken today on where Filipinos side in this face-off between de Lima and Duterte, it is highly likely that more than 80 percent will side with the President. Meanwhile, the senator would be lucky to get 10 percent of public support.
Even de Lima’s colleagues in the Liberal Party are not convinced she’s free of the blame.
The day after the Duterte blast, the party released a supposedly official statement calling on Senate President Aquilino Pimentel 3rd to stand by de Lima for Senate independence.
It was hardly a ringing endorsement for the lady senator. No Liberal senator or Liberal leader was mentioned in the release.
Miraculously, the press release was carried all over the media, despite the lack of attribution.
The Liberal Party, scared to become the political opposition, is not only missing from our politics today; it is even missing from its own press releases.
[email protected] | http://www.manilatimes.net/leila-de-lima-and-the-art-of-shame-defense/280981/ | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/2521ebbf24f0ce1fbab48830c4e88afff50260f34c3d2dbf8d215cf235ed0902.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-31T12:50:26 | null | 2016-08-31T20:15:05 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fuk-labors-corbyn-set-for-easy-leadership-victory%2F283161%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | UK Labor’s Corbyn set for easy leadership victory | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | LONDON: The head of Britain’s main Labor opposition party Jeremy Corbyn is set to win a crushing victory against leadership challenger Owen Smith, according to the first poll of the contest published Wednesday.
The poll by YouGov for The Times found 62 percent of those entitled to vote would back Corbyn and 38 percent Smith, meaning the veteran socialist would win by an even bigger margin than in last year’s leadership election.
The survey by YouGov found 52 percent of Labor members would vote for Corbyn, along with 70 percent of registered supporters and 54 percent of trade union affiliates—the three categories voting.
The 67-year-old Corbyn is opposed by a majority of Labour lawmakers in parliament, who are more centrist and do not believe he can win a general election.
They have also criticized him for half-hearted campaigning in favor of Britain staying in the EU ahead of the country’s momentous June referendum.
Smith, 46, is a Welsh MP who has said he will fight to keep Britain in the EU through a second referendum.
The divisions in the party have raised the prospect of a permanent split after the leadership vote and the YouGov survey found 39 percent of respondents believed this was either very or fairly likely.
The survey had 1,236 respondents and was conducted between August 25 and 29 in the first polling since postal ballots began to be sent out on August 22. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/uk-labors-corbyn-set-for-easy-leadership-victory/283161/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/640b49da361836f8578bcd77f0ff4f23f674c08fe2b4cb4ecc40ba42825315a2.json |
[
"Catherine Talavera",
"Kristyn Nika M. Lazo"
]
| 2016-08-30T16:50:16 | null | 2016-08-31T00:48:26 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fcreba-backs-passage-of-land-use-plan-bill%2F283100%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | CREBA backs passage of land use plan bill | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | THE Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Association Inc. (CREBA) has expressed support for the passage of the proposed National Land Use Act (NLUA), saying it would serve as a policy reference for all local comprehensive land use and development plans in all sectors.
“A national land use plan has long been needed by this country. If done correctly, it shall be a key policy reference for all local comprehensive land use and development plans in all sectors, including commercial, industrial, housing, and real estate,” CREBA national president Charlie Gorayeb said in a statement.
The said bill set four major categories of land uses for planning purposes: protection, production, settlements and infrastructure.
CREBA said the proposed land use plan is part of its five-point agenda for housing, which is aimed at raising housing production to 500,000 units per year over a timeline of 20 years.
Gorayeb said the NLUA bill should be in harmony with existing laws, such as Republic Act 7279, or the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992 (as recently amended by RA 10884) covering all lands in urban and urbanizable areas; Presidential Decree 399 limiting the use of strip lands; and RA 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, empowering local government units (LGUs) to reclassify agricultural lands.
“The NLUA bill must also resolve the uncertainty as to where and what exactly is the extent of the ‘protected lands’ that are banned from conversion,” CREBA national chairman Noel Toti Carino said in a statement.
Gorayeb cited a CREBA study debunking the misconception that the real estate sector is to blame for food shortage in the country due to its “indiscriminate” conversion of lands.
The study found that the agriculture sector accounts for 42.72 percent or 12.5 million hectares of the Philippines’ total land area of 29.5 million hectares while developed or built-up areas only account for 2.52 percent or 741,353 hectares.
“The study indicates that lands built up or developed for non-agricultural uses—from time immemorial up to Year 2010—have hardly made a dent in the country’s total agricultural hectarage despite all the government and private infrastructure nationwide,” Gorayeb pointed out.
According to CREBA, the results of the study underscore the need for a national land use plan.
“What all these data tells us is the need for a rational and holistic land use policy that reflects the realities on the ground, covering all areas of land use, and factoring in all the development requirements of every sector to achieve a well-balanced and stable economy,” CREBA said. | http://www.manilatimes.net/creba-backs-passage-of-land-use-plan-bill/283100/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/a919bd600cf8e5de47ca4926c769194128d6faa059ae847c24b709c3412c2be4.json |
[
"Manila Times",
"Leodegardo Pruna"
]
| 2016-08-31T02:52:12 | null | 2016-08-30T20:15:54 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Flacson-blocks-p80m-project-proposals-of-lawmakers%2F282991%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Lacson blocks P80M project proposals of lawmakers | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | SENATOR Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday said he will work for the removal of the P80 million budgets of different government agencies inserted by some congressmen in their proposals.
Lacson said he was able to obtain a copy of the pro-forma list of projects, programs and activities submitted by some congressmen to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM)
The senator said DBM Secretary Benjamin Diokno admitted some projects requested by some lawmakers were embedded in the proposed budgets of different agencies.
Lacson said such “intervention” should not be allowed.
“That (intervention) is a long-time practice that is not necessarily legal,” he said in an interview after the briefing of the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) on the proposed 2017 budget.
Diokno said legislators are not prohibited from proposing to the head of the agencies programs, activities, projects which his or her constituents brought to their attention to be financed by national government.
“What I’m saying is a congressman, if he is really hard working, can approach a secretary and the secretary will really listen to them,” he said.
Among the priority programs of the Duterte Administration, presented during the DBCC briefing, are putting an end to insurgencies and organized crime, cutting poverty rate through investments that create quality jobs and disperse wealth.
Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said the “Budget for Real Change” that Malacañang submitted for congressional approval will flesh out the vision of President Duterte.
“The people elected President Duterte because they want real change and a break from the status quo. To achieve President Duterte’s promise to the people to deliver real change that the people can feel, we need to enact big reforms that can steer the country toward a better future,” he said. JEFFERSON ANTIPORDA | http://www.manilatimes.net/lacson-blocks-p80m-project-proposals-of-lawmakers/282991/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/1eadd8d44f1d657516211451f2c391612641468a213fd660db5b72a41136446c.json |
[
"Mayvelin U. Caraballo",
"Llanesca T. Panti"
]
| 2016-08-28T18:49:48 | null | 2016-08-29T00:54:05 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fcabinet-execs-eye-stop-to-nfa-rice-trading-activities%2F282689%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Cabinet execs eye stop to NFA rice-trading activities | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | CABINET officials are set to recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte the abolition of the grains buying and selling functions of the National Food Authority (NFA), where reports of corruption date back to its creation in 1972 during the Marcos administration.
This was the decision of an interagency body composed of the heads of the Departments of Finance, Agriculture, Budget and Management, and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), said Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia.
“The decision that is going to be proposed to the President, which I am sure he will like, is to remove the proprietary and commercial activity of NFA, and [allow it to]focus on its core function of regulation,” Pernia told reporters.
Under the Office of the President, the NFA is responsible for ensuring food security and the stability of supply and price of rice, the Philippines’ staple grain.
The NFA has the monopoly of rice importation and buys rice at above market prices supposedly to support rice farmers. At the same time it sells rice at below market prices to keep the cost of the staple low, resulting in billions of losses.
Pernia, the NEDA director general, said the removal of the agency’s commercial functions means the agency would no longer be engaged in buying and selling of rice, a source of corruption.
“[Instead] they will just focus on regulation and ensure adequate buffer stock. They should have a buffer stock. Buffer stock is really reserved, it should always be there, in case of contingencies,” he said.
Once approved, the selling of cheap NFA rice in accredited stores will also stop, Pernia said.
“Rice will be mainly imported by private sector. The imported rice is always cheaper than homegrown rice. It is very expensive to grow rice in our country. It also removes the smuggling problem,” he explained.
This measure will also control the ballooning debt of the agency, Pernia said.
“The problem with NFA is it buys high and sells low so it incurred a lot of loss. The accumulated debt of NFA is already at P165 billion,” he said.
To pay for the debt, the NFA can sell certain assets such as real estate, Pernia said.
The interagency body will still determine if the abolition of the NFA’s commercial functions can be implemented by an executive order or through legislation.
“There will be a lot of objections. Many people would want to maintain the commercial function of the NFA, because it’s a milking cow,” Pernia said.
“It is a good time to do it now, because President Duterte has strong support in Congress. We are trying to push it now because it has to be done, otherwise the bleeding will continue,” he added. | http://www.manilatimes.net/cabinet-execs-eye-stop-to-nfa-rice-trading-activities/282689/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/12333293ff2d38592464a9ce221e8d24f8c4512e458cd37002777fde6263a29d.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-31T12:50:23 | null | 2016-08-31T20:16:19 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Frussia-claims-it-killed-is-spokesman-adnani-in-syria%2F283162%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Russia claims it killed IS spokesman Adnani in Syria | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | MOSCOW: Russia’s military on Wednesday said its air strikes had killed top Islamic State group strategist Abu Mohamed al-Adnani, after Washington said coalition forces had targeted the jihadist propaganda chief.
In a statement, Russia’s defense ministry said an Su-34 warplane on Tuesday killed “up to 40” IS fighters in a bombing raid near the village of Um Hosh in the province of Aleppo.
Russia has been flying its own bombing campaign in Syria in support of leader Bashar al-Assad since September but this is first time they have claimed to have killed a top-ranking IS leader.
“According to information confirmed through several intelligence channels, field commander Abu Mohamed al-Adnani was among those killed,” the statement said.
The IS-affiliated Amaq news agency announced propaganda chief Adnani’s death late on Tuesday, saying he “was martyred while surveying operations to repel the military campaigns against Aleppo” in northern Syria.
The United States said coalition forces had targeted Adnani, who had a $5-million bounty on his head, in an air strike in Aleppo province on Tuesday and that the Pentagon was still assessing the result.
His death will be a major blow to IS, which has suffered a series of setbacks this year including territorial losses in Syria and Iraq and the killings of other top figures.
Adnani, a Syrian born in 1977, was one of IS’s most recognized leaders, at the heart of a sophisticated propaganda and recruitment machine that produced slick videos and sustained a huge social media presence. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/russia-claims-it-killed-is-spokesman-adnani-in-syria/283162/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/6c23ec45d8f398f172fb5a46d4d6c02ae5327e5a8e584899489d2303dce95fa4.json |
[
"James Konstantin Galvez",
"Agence France-Presse"
]
| 2016-08-30T16:50:20 | null | 2016-08-31T00:43:47 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fglobe-steps-up-anti-spam-campaign%2F283095%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Globe steps up anti-spam campaign | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | As part of an aggressive initiative so far to counter spam and scam messages, Globe Telecom Inc. is stepping up its fully-automated blocking tool towards the total elimination of annoying and unsolicited messages.
“Since August 16, Globe started blocking an average 300,000 spam/scam messages daily coming from both Globe and other networks,” said Anton Bonifacio, Globe chief information security officer.
Bonifacio noted 100,000 of the unsolicited messages were from other telcos.
The Ayala-led Globe activated in February a fully-automated mechanism to rid its network of spam and scam messages.
Under the first phase of the program, the anti-spam mechanism blocked spam and scam messages from Globe network SIMs. Entering into the second phase of the program, Globe enhanced its anti-spamming tool to include messages sent by other network SIMs.
“Globe is now a step closer towards totally eradicating the transmittal of spam and scam messages to our customers. The company will continue with the optimization process of the blocking mechanism to stamp out transmittal of such messages whether or not they are coming from the Globe network,” Bonifacio said.
The company has already blocked around 50 million spam/scam messages since February when its new blocking tool put to work, with a daily average of 200,000 from the Globe network alone.
The enhanced mechanism now covers the company’s more than 2.5 million mobile postpaid customers and the majority of its nearly 59 million prepaid customers.
Globe Telecom’s blocking tool consists of a hardware and software solution with complex anti-spam algorithms. It can filter up to 1 billion SMS a day, and be reconfigured to address the specific spam and scam messages that goes through the Globe network. | http://www.manilatimes.net/globe-steps-up-anti-spam-campaign/283095/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/42c5e7d35ea9b6745657b8ff83f9835fb60767b5838ff75189ca307269e68954.json |
[
"Persida Acosta"
]
| 2016-08-30T14:50:11 | null | 2016-08-30T21:58:26 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fnon-alienable-land-cant-be-subject-of-homestead-patent%2F283028%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/pao-logo.png | en | null | Non-alienable land can’t be subject of homestead patent | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Dear PAO,
Since 1956, my grandfather has owned, cultivated and developed an approximately six hectares of land in our home province. This land is not covered by a certificate of title. We applied for homestead patent for it. But the application was denied by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources because the land was classified as timberland. We heard from one of the geodetic engineers who previously conducted a survey in the area that the land can now be the subject of titling because it is already disposable.
How can we prove that the land is disposable? Why is it that we cannot have a title over this land, even if it has been in our possession since 1956?
Marcelo
Dear Marcelo,
The land, which is subject of homestead patent application, is classified as timberland. Section 2, Article XII of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, states, “All lands of the public domain, waters, minerals, coal and petroleum, and other mineral oils, all forces of potential energy, fisheries, forest or timber, wildlife, flora and fauna, and other natural resources are owned by the state. With the exception of agricultural lands, all other natural resources shall not be alienated. The exploration, development and utilization of natural resources shall be under the full control and supervision of the State. Xxx xxx.”
In your case, the land for which you are applying for issuance of homestead patent is timberland, which is not alienable and not disposable. Since the land is not alienable, it is not also registrable or cannot be the subject of homestead patent. If, however, you come to learn that the land you are applying for homestead patent is already alienable, then you have to present evidence to prove the same. It must be stressed that incontrovertible evidence must be presented to establish that the land subject of the application is alienable or disposable (Republic of the Philippines-Bureau of Forest Development vs. Roxas, G.R. No. 157988, December 11, 2013).
To prove that the land subject of an application for registration is alienable, the Supreme Court elucidated in Republic of the Philippines vs. Candymaker Inc. (G.R. No. 163766, June 22, 2006), that:
“[A]n applicant must conclusively establish the existence of a positive act of the government such as a presidential proclamation or an executive order, or administrative action, investigation reports of the Bureau of Lands investigator or a legislative act or statute. Until then, the rules on confirmation of imperfect title do not apply. A certification of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources stating that the land subject of an application is found to be within the alienable and disposable site per a land classification project map is sufficient evidence to show the real character of the land subject of the application.”
Again, we find it necessary to mention that this opinion is solely based on the facts you have narrated and our appreciation of the same. The opinion may vary when the facts are changed or elaborated.
We hope that we were able to enlighten you on the matter.
Editor’s note: Dear PAO is a daily column of the Public Attorney’s Office. Questions for Chief Acosta may be sent to [email protected] | http://www.manilatimes.net/non-alienable-land-cant-be-subject-of-homestead-patent/283028/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/42516b5a3790a60c23043c3cd44f9be9e311f4b8a6ddaa53ff0a86f42bd360e3.json |
[
"Agence France-Presse",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Emil C. Noguera",
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-29T12:50:06 | null | 2016-08-29T20:05:24 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Freed-rallies-to-earn-spot-in-us-ryder-cup-team%2F282807%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Reed rallies to earn spot in US Ryder Cup team | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | LOS ANGELES: Patrick Reed came from behind to win The Barclays on Sunday (Monday in Manila) to claim his fifth USPGA Tour title and a spot on the American Ryder Cup team.
The 26-year-old Reed caught and passed 54-hole leader Rickie Fowler who stumbled to the finish by playing his final four holes in three over.
Fowler failed to make the US team and will have to rely on a captain’s pick when Davis Love makes his final four selections in the coming weeks.
“It is awesome,” said Reed, who earned $1.5 million for his first win of 2016.
“I worked hard with my coach the last couple weeks so it shows I am moving in the right direction.
“I am glad I was finally able to close one off.”
Reed finished at nine-under 275 for a one-stroke victory over Sean O’Hair (66) and Argentina’s Emiliano Grillo (69), who tied for second.
Top-ranked Jason Day of Australia (69) was two strokes back and tied for fourth with Gary Woodland (69) and world number seven Adam Scott of Australia (71) at the Bethpage Black course in Farmingdale, New York.
Fowler (74) was three strokes back and tied for seventh with Ryan Moore and Jason Kokrak, who each carded 69s.
World No.3 Jordan Spieth (69) tied for 10th with Justin Thomas (71) at four shots behind.
The Barclays marked the start of the PGA Tour playoffs but it also signaled the end of the Ryder Cup qualifying for the Americans.
Dustin Johnson, Spieth, Phil Mickelson, Jimmy Walker and Brooks Koepka already made the team. Reed, Brant Snedeker, Zach Johnson rounded out the team when the points standings closed on Sunday.
World number 14 Reed bolstered his chances by being the 18-hole leader and then holding the outright lead at 36 holes.
His mixed bag round on Sunday included four birdies and three bogeys.
Love will announce three of his four Ryder Cup captain’s picks September 12 and save his fourth and final pick for September 25th.
“We have an extremely talented group of eight automatic qualifiers for this year’s US Ryder Cup team,” Love said. “Each has a real passion for the Ryder Cup.”
The European team consists of four players from a European Tour money list along with five from a list of world ranking points.
Rory McIlroy, Danny Willett, Henrik Tenson and Chris Wood are in by virtue of the money list, while Sergio Garcia, Justin Rose, Rafa Cabrera Bello, Andy Sullivan and Matt Fitzpatrick secured spots through the world rankings.
Clarke is due in the coming days to announce his three captain’s picks for the tournament, which begins next month in Minnesota.
The top 100 players in the FedEx Cup standings advance to next weekend’s Deutsche Bank Championship, the second playoff event at the 7,207-yard, par-71 course in Boston, Massachusetts.
AFP | http://www.manilatimes.net/reed-rallies-to-earn-spot-in-us-ryder-cup-team/282807/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/76bea3290f2aa6851570d90c374bfb3e36ff88169892f5db816a38ed03004059.json |
[
"Agence France-Presse",
"Michael Joe T. Delizo",
"Llanesca T. Panti"
]
| 2016-08-30T18:50:12 | null | 2016-08-31T01:10:36 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fvietnam-says-all-will-lose-in-war-over-south-china-sea%2F283118%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Vietnam says all will lose in war over South China Sea | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | SINGAPORE: Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang warned on Tuesday there would be no winners in any armed conflict sparked by territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
Quang, who is on a state visit to Singapore, told a forum that recent developments there were threatening regional security.
The Vietnamese leader did not mention any country but there is growing unease over China’s actions.
China claims most of the South China Sea. It has reclaimed reefs and built airstrips capable of hosting military equipment, sparking anger from competing claimants led by Vietnam and the Philippines.
“The South China Sea, located at the heart of Southeast Asia, not only brings about many important benefits to nations in the region but it is also a vital route to maritime and air transport of the world,” Quang said.
But “recent worrying developments” there “have had a negative impact on the security environment of the region, especially maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation and overflight.”
“And should we allow instability to take place, especially in the case of armed conflicts, there will be neither winners or losers but rather all will lose,” he warned.
Quang was speaking to diplomats, academics and students at a forum organized by the Iseas Yusof Ishak Institute.
Four Southeast Asian states—Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam—as well as Taiwan have competing claims in the sea.
Vietnam has been among the most vocal critics of China’s blanket territorial claims. In 2014 China moved a controversial oil rig into contested territory, prompting riots in Vietnam.
China’s activities in the sea have also drawn criticism from the United States, which says it seeks to ensure freedom of navigation in the waterway through which $5 trillion in annual global trade passes.
The sea row has also driven a wedge between members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which has failed to forge a unified front against Beijing’s actions.
On July 12, the Philippines won a case against China at a UN-backed tribunal in The Hague which rejected Beijing’s historical claims to most of the sea.
China boycotted the hearing and has refused to recognize the ruling. | http://www.manilatimes.net/vietnam-says-all-will-lose-in-war-over-south-china-sea/283118/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/8c4af5d17ad9e6691e274c885632d373ccd451dd078406592b0683367a41a7b0.json |
[
"Realyn Stevens",
"Josef T. Ramos",
"Jean Russel V. David"
]
| 2016-08-31T14:50:34 | null | 2016-08-31T22:34:57 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fwncaa-to-feature-fil-chinese-culture%2F283217%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | WNCAA to feature Fil-Chinese culture | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | First-time host Saint Jude Catholic School (SJCS) will feature Filipino-Chinese culture elements during the opening ceremony of the Women’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (WNCAA) 47th season on Saturday at the Makati Coliseum.
“We would like to share our Filipino-Chinese culture, being a Filipino-Chinese School. So we would be having a fusion of performances so we would have the traditional dragon dance, lion heads and we would also be having fire-themed dancers,” said SJSC Creative Director Bianca Gelido in a news conference.
The theme of WNCAA, “Women on Fire: A legacy of passion,” took inspiration from the year of the Fire Monkey of the Chinese lunar calendar.
Volleyball superstar Alyssa Valdez and former University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) seniors’ basketball team captain Ross Teotico will be the event’s guest speakers.
WNCAA Executive Director Maria Vivian Manila announced that St. Paul College Pasig (SPCP), Miriam College (MC), and Rizal Technological University (RTU) would receive overall championship awards in the midgets, juniors, and seniors divisions, respectively, during the opening ceremony.
The WNCAA basketball tournament will also start on Saturday with the SJCS facing St. Stephen’s High School (SSHS) at 12 noon in the juniors division, five-peat Centro Escolar University (CEU) battling third place Philippine Women’s University (PWU) at 1:30 p.m. and UA&P clashing with MC at 3 p.m. in the seniors division.
Meanwhile, the volleyball matches will start on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Malate. Second placer San Beda College Alabang (SBCA) will go up against Assumption College San Lorenzo at 12 noon while CEU and PWU will face St. Scholastica’s College (SSC) and MC, respectively.
The 16 participating schools will compete for titles in basketball, volleyball, badminton, lawn and table tennis, taekwondo, softball, futsal, swimming and cheerdancing. | http://www.manilatimes.net/wncaa-to-feature-fil-chinese-culture/283217/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/f89873ed9fc8b5bd979305782569935a8cae4ee6fe2594594ae9df625733f21e.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-31T12:50:26 | null | 2016-08-31T20:14:07 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fph-eyes-reviving-mothballed-nuclear-plant%2F283160%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | PH eyes reviving mothballed nuclear plant | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | MANILA: The Philippines may revive a nuclear power plant that was completed 32 years ago but never switched on due to safety fears, the government said Wednesday.
The spokesman for new President Rodrigo Duterte said the government is considering brining the $2.3 billion plant into operation to meet the country’s growing power needs, despite entrenched opposition from activists and environmentalists.
The 620-megawatt plant, built in Bataan province during the notoriously corrupt regime of dictator Ferdinand Marcos, has been a subject of controversy for decades.
“(Officials) are considering all options for sustainable and affordable energy, and reviving the Bataan Nuclear Plant is being considered,” spokesman Ernesto Abella said.
He stressed that Duterte and the cabinet would need to approve the use of the plant, located 30 kilometers (19 miles) west of Manila.
The plant was built under Marcos to help meet energy needs following the oil price shocks of the 1970s.
But after Marcos was toppled in a military-backed popular revolt in 1986, the government of president Corazon Aquino refused to use it.
Concerns that the plant was built too close to earthquake fault lines and an active volcano as well as the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in Ukraine in 1986 firmed up the government’s decision not to operate the plant.
Despite power shortages and high oil prices, calls to activate the plant were counteracted by events such as Japan’s 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster.
However in a speech to an international atomic energy conference in Manila on Tuesday, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said “nuclear technology can be a viable choice”.
Senate president Aquilino Pimentel told the same forum the Philippines was seeking alternatives to fossil fuel.
“Nuclear power offers so much potential,” he said but noted its negative consequences especially in an earthquake-prone country like the Philippines. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/ph-eyes-reviving-mothballed-nuclear-plant/283160/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/24f683040c7e604b92930ec3c92c0e44de6b27bb40fd77862a02d3203a179ceb.json |
[
"Benjie Vergara",
"The Manila Times",
"Agence France-Presse",
"Jefferson Antiporda"
]
| 2016-08-29T16:50:13 | null | 2016-08-30T00:41:26 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fjoma-sison-off-the-european-terror-list%2F282909%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Joma Sison off the European terror list | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | PRESIDENTIAL Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza returned to Manila on Monday after the resumption of talks with communist rebels, announcing that Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison has been removed from the European Union listing of terrorists.
But the CPP, its armed wing the New People’s Army, and political arm the National Democratic Front (NDF) remain classified by the EU as a terrorist group, he said.
Nonetheless, Dureza is confident both sides will achieve peace given a “high level of confidence.”
“In a peace process, every agreement is a foundation. It is a brick on a building that one must build from. Just like lovers, you have to build on that relationship, trust, and it takes time,” Dureza said in a news conference at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Dureza, along with Angeles City Mayor Ed Pamintuan, arrived from the peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway aboard a Thai Airways flight.
Pamintuan, who is a government peace panel adviser, said Sison expressed a desire to conclude the negotiations in six months.
But the government expects the process to take eight months, he said.
Dureza cautioned that the peace process would have bumps along the way and there would be a lot of “sensitive issues.”
The negotiating panels of the Philippine government and the NDF reached agreements on six major items, he recalled.
These are: reaffirmation of previous agreements, reconstitution of the list of NDF members covered by safe passes under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees, acceleration of peace negotiations, release of NDF consultants, a government amnesty proclamation for prisoners listed by the NDF, and an indefinite ceasefire.
Both parties agreed to resume talks on October 8 to 12 in Oslo.
The government panel is looking toward a final peace agreement with the NDF to end almost half a century of armed hostilities in the Philippine countryside. | http://www.manilatimes.net/joma-sison-off-the-european-terror-list/282909/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/80f66994cd31d8c5f4e0e0db29bb72ff03ab31f203cc2aaa60fa8e6f44ac2b22.json |
[
"Josef T. Ramos",
"Jean Russel V. David",
"Jaelle Nevin Reyes"
]
| 2016-08-31T14:50:25 | null | 2016-08-31T22:34:35 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fred-lions-chiefs-gun-for-crucial-victories%2F283222%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Red Lions, Chiefs gun for crucial victories | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | San Beda College and Arellano University will be on a hunt for important victories today when they take on separate foes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 92 men’s basketball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.
The San Beda Red Lions will face the Mapua Institute of Technology Cardinals in the second game at 4 p.m. while the Arellano Chiefs will face the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA Altas in the first game at 2 p.m.
Despite losing Donald Tankoua because of injury last week, the Red Lions remain on top of the team standings with an 11-2 win-loss record. The Red Lions beat reigning champions Colegio San Juan de Letran Knights, 83-71, also last week.
Without Tankoua, San Beda will rely anew on the 6’6 Benedict Adamos, who registered a double-digit output in their recent wins against Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) and Letran.
Davon Potts, Robert Bolick, Ranbill Tongco, AC Soberano, Roldan Sara and Javee Mocon will support Adamos.
“We need a big game tomorrow (today) to beat Mapua. The last time we played against them (Allwell) Oraeme had 21 points and 20 rebounds and we can’t afford that to happen again. We really need a collective effort to win,” San Beda coach Jamike Jarin told The Manila Times in a phone interview.
“Our hands will be full against Mapua. We cannot take them for granted,” he added.
The Cardinals, currently No.4 with 7-5 win-loss record, will likely exploit the absence of Tankoua. Mapua coach Atoy Co said the presence of the 6’8 Oraeme would give them a huge lift in the game.
“We have a solid advantage if the system will be followed and Allwell’s presence is a huge boost. But Allwell has a minor knee injury, he’s not 100 percent but he’ll play. The chance to beat them is there,” Co told The Times.
Mapua previously lost 67-69 to San Sebastian College.
Meanwhile, Arellano is eyeing an 11th win.
“We need to keep our rebounding alive and we need to play defense of course. We cannot afford to lose because most teams are winning and climbing up. Jio (Jalalon) will be there to lead us but it is going to be a collective effort,” said Chiefs coach Jerry Codiñera. | http://www.manilatimes.net/red-lions-chiefs-gun-for-crucial-victories/283222/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/d3f54380fedf74601d1b49aacf5c52a012f96fcb17f1d89b9bf5d6930175cf39.json |
[
"Philippines News Agency",
"Benjie Vergara",
"The Manila Times",
"Agence France-Presse"
]
| 2016-08-29T16:50:02 | null | 2016-08-30T00:42:47 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fph-grown-dragon-fruit-hits-canadian-market%2F282910%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | PH-grown dragon fruit hits Canadian market | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | BURGOS, Ilocos Norte: Over a decade since a scaly bright pink fruit that reminded some of a dragon found its way to the Philippines, tons of dragon fruit are now being produced in various parts of the country, providing a source of profits and livelihood to countryside entrepreneurs.
On August 26, the first shipment of more than 600 kilos of Philippine premium dragon fruit landed on Richmond City in British Columbia, Canada through fruit and vegetable importer Pahoa Produce Ltd.
While packing the freshly picked fruits in a box, Edita Aguinaldo-Dacuycuy, known as the multi-awarded “dragon fruit lady” of the Philippines for advancing dragon fruit production in the country, beams with pride.
In Canada, dragon fruit produced by the Dacuycuy family’s Refmad Farms in Paayas village, Burgos town sells at $7.99 a pound.
Edita’s daughter, Mildred, the farm’s operations manager, said: “It’s a long journey, which we have been waiting for. Now, what we’ve been working hard for is a success.”
Mildred hopes this will be the start of “something big” that will benefit organized dragon fruit growers in the country, given the huge demand for the fruit because of its mildly sweet taste and health benefits.
The cactus fruits, which is native to Central America according to the website dragonfruitpitaya.org, is a hit in the Asian market particularly in Vietnam where it is extensively cultivated.
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or pitahaya, is popular among diabetics for its blood-glucose controlling properties. It is also a source of antioxidants, fiber, Omega 3s and minerals.
Since 2006, the mother-and-daughter tandem of Edita and Mildren had worked to develop their pioneering dragon fruit plantation and resort in Burgos.
Edita was inspired by her daughter Kaye, who has cerebral palsy. One of the fruit’s selling points is that it eases constipation, which is common among persons with cerebral palsy like Kaye.
With the support of government agencies working for the advancement of agriculture in the countryside, the Dacuycuy family found a strong support group of plant hobbyists, farm enthusiasts, scientists, researchers, extension workers and businessmen, among others.
The farm operation started as a pocket-sized garden at the Dacuycuy residence in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, with just a few cuttings of dragon fruit. It has since grown into a 30-hectare plantation in Burgos town.
Other farmer-cooperators and adopters followed suit, and the dragon fruit industry gained ground in Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao over the past 10 years.
Dragon fruit products have also been developed—dragon fruit ice cream, dragon fruit energy tea, dragon fruit cookies, dragon fruit pandesal, dragon fruit jam, dragon fruit wine and dragon fruit soap.
Recently, Refmad Farms developed an “all-natural and organic” dragon fruit freeze-dried extract powder that can be used for smoothies, teas and food. | http://www.manilatimes.net/ph-grown-dragon-fruit-hits-canadian-market/282910/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/7c67195b007935f4052f7c3627e7041339204a2fd84fb8332b899b832428ebac.json |
[
"Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-29T04:49:48 | null | 2016-08-29T10:53:32 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fcolombia-ceasefire-to-end-half-century-war-in-hours%2F282708%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Colombia ceasefire to end half-century war in hours | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | BOGOTA: A historic midnight ceasefire is set to end a 52-year-old war between the Colombian state and FARC rebels.
Hundreds of thousands of Colombians have died since 1964 as rebel armies and gangs battled in the jungles in what is considered Latin America’s last major civil armed conflict.
The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) on Sunday issued the order for its fighters to observe the cease fire from midnight (0500 GMT Monday).
“I order all our commanders and units and each one of our combatants to definitively cease fire and hostilities against the Colombian state from midnight tonight” top FARC leader Timoleon Jimenez said in a declaration before the media in Cuba, where peace talks were held.
On the government side, President Juan Manuel Santos on Thursday ordered the Colombian national armed forces to halt military operations against the FARC.
“We noted with excitement the president’s order to the army. Consequently we are proceeding to give the same order to our troops,” Jimenez said Sunday, surrounded by FARC commanders in white shirts.
Santos wrote on Twitter: “The end of the conflict has arrived!”
The FARC declared a unilateral ceasefire in July 2015. But Sunday night’s ceasefire is the first in which both sides have committed to a definitive end to the fighting.
“The ceasefire is really one more seal on the end of the conflict. It is the test of fire,” said Carlos Alfonso Velazquez, a security expert at the University of La Sabana.
Demobilization
Santos and Timochenko are due to sign a final, full peace agreement sometime between September 20 and 26.
The ceasefire and definitive end of hostilities will be followed by a six-month demobilization process.
From Monday, the FARC’s estimated 7,500 fighters will start heading to collection points to give up their weapons under UN supervision.
Guerrillas who refuse to demobilize and disarm “will be pursued with all the strength of the state forces,” Santos told El Espectador newspaper.
Before the demobilization, the FARC will convene its leaders and troops one last time before transforming into “a legal political movement,” according to a statement published on Saturday.
On October 2, Colombians will go to the polls to cast ballots in a referendum that Santos hopes will endorse the peace agreement.
“A victory for the ‘Yes’ vote will be a mandate from citizens for future governments,” Santos was quoting as saying by El Espectador.
“The plebiscite will grant the political legitimacy that is needed.”
He said the exact question that will be posed to voters in the referendum would be announced “in the coming days.”
“We are on the verge of perhaps the most important political decision of our lives,” Santos said in a speech on Saturday.
Deadly conflict
The territorial and ideological conflict has drawn in various left- and right-wing armed groups and gangs.
It has left some 260,000 dead, 45,000 missing and 6.9 million people uprooted from their homes.
Efforts to launch peace talks with a smaller rebel group, the National Liberation Army, have yet to bear fruit.
But with the country’s biggest rebel group, the FARC, ordering a definitive ceasefire, the conflict appears to be reaching an end.
“To the soldiers, naval personnel and air force pilots, police and state security and intelligence agencies, we wish to express our clear and definite will for reconciliation,” said Jimenez, known by the nom-de-guerre Timochenko, in Havana.
“Rivalries and resentment must remain in the past. Today more than ever we regret that so much death and pain has been caused by the war. Today more than ever we wish to embrace them as compatriots and start to work together for a new Colombia.” AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/colombia-ceasefire-to-end-half-century-war-in-hours/282708/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/8f5eebe8f6c135cbdc8be62e73619b5b9d5f32086065d791dfd7731fae800558.json |
[
"Mary Rose Magsaysay",
"Ma. Isabel Ongpin",
"Ambassador Jose Romero",
"Teresita Tanhueco - Tumapon",
"Mabait Na Pinoy"
]
| 2016-08-26T13:02:52 | null | 2016-08-25T00:06:08 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fkey-questions-on-changing-the-form-of-government-to-federalism%2F281914%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MARY-ROSE-MAGSAYSAY.jpg | en | null | Key questions on changing the form of government to federalism | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | There is a need for change in governance to maintain the change brought about by the Duterte style of governance, and that is federalism. In this light there are questions that need to be addressed that may help us as a nation to have a successful and continuous change where services can reach the people fast. As the head of a Local Government Unit for many years, the President knows that service delayed is service denied, as well as justice delayed is justice denied. To do this, federalism as a form of government may be the best route. But as this change is very disruptive and does involve significant cost, let us clarify the questions that need to be answered.
I discussed the proposal for federalism with Dr. Ador Torneo and I agreed on three major points that need closer consideration. He raised important questions that have remained unanswered since 2005 when we were classmates at the University of Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance.
1. Which form of federalism should the Philippines adopt? There are many forms of federalism including the US model, Malaysian model, German model, Swiss model, etc. and each is suited to a different set of circumstances. The basis for choosing one form over another should be clear.
2. How much will the government have to spend in adopting a federal form of government? This is bound to be costly because state/regional governments and administrative structures will have to be established and capacities have to be developed. Related to this is, how long is the transition?
3. How will state/regional governments support and sustain their operations given the large discrepancies in terms of resource base and resource generation capacity across regions? Addressing this is important because there are regions that currently have small resource base and resource generation capacity. It will not help the goal of federalism if regional/state governments are not fiscally sustainable and have to be subsidized by the national/federal government, because fiscal dependence will also have a bearing on their autonomy.
These questions need to be answered in the course of drafting proposals on federalism.
In light of achieving clarity for measurable and achievable results, we have to work hand in hand and keep an open mind.
I am reminded of a time I delivered a lecture to enforcement officers when I was a public servant, in a meeting in Palawan, emphasizing the need for them to take extra precautions in their manner of observation and the content of their reporting. I asked that they seriously consider the reality that you and the person next to you may be in the same place at the same time, looking at the same incident, your respective observations will never be the same. This is because the extent to which our critical mind can absorb and process reality is limited by the sum total of our individual life experiences. Not even identical twins are spared of this constraint. Thus, our interpretation of events, even with distinct parameters in place, can never be truly objective. Nothing then becomes absolute, and what is considered right today may be deemed wrong in the future, or vice-versa. Overcoming this necessitates a conscious effort toward open-mindedness and empathy.
Mary Rose Magsaysay served as Undersecretary of the Department of Energy, having taken her BS and MA DEGREES from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. She also completed the Exec Course on National Security from the National Defense College of the Philippines and the Strategic Management of Regulatory and Enforcement Agencies at the Harvard Kennedy School of Govermemt in Boston Massachusettes. | http://www.manilatimes.net/key-questions-on-changing-the-form-of-government-to-federalism/281914/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/48e4fbf928e4b12e46f5164c5c43d59b848a3f0214de1aca673f5170a61d1806.json |
[
"Llanesca T. Panti",
"Al Jacinto",
"Fernan Marasigan",
"The Manila Times",
"Michael Joe T. Delizo"
]
| 2016-08-30T18:50:15 | null | 2016-08-31T01:15:17 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2F15-soldiers-killed-in-clash-with-abus%2F283121%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MAIN-PHOTO-038124-01-02-300x196.jpg | en | null | 15 soldiers killed in clash with Abus | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | FIFTEEN soldiers, including an officer, were killed while 12 others were wounded in a fierce firefight with more than 120 heavily armed Abu Sayyaf members in Patikul, Sulu late Monday afternoon.
The military clashed with the terrorist and kidnapping group at 4:30 p.m. in Sitio Kan Jalul, Barangay Maligay in Patikul town, Brig. Gen. Arnel de la Vega, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, said in a report to Gen. Ricardo Visaya, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff.
De la Vega said the composite team of soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 35th and 21st Infantry Battalions was conducting combat operations when it engaged the Abu Sayyaf.
The firefight lasted for an hour and a half.
The slain soldiers were identified as 2nd Lt. Ernan Gusto, 33; Staff Sergeants Ruel Catubay, 39 and Jay Erwin Almohallas, 38; Corporals Omar Raddulan, 41, Ronald Galoniga, 33, Elid Ismael, 49 and Salik Mandangan, 31; Privates First Class Nestor Bacaling, 26, Jison Falcasantos, 28, Gerald Yubal, 29, Dhendo Dujo, 32, Roselito Arnoco, 29, Glend Resma, 24 and Rogelio Vincoy, 28; and Private Jonas Lumayan, 23.
The military withheld the names of the 12 wounded soldiers, saying it had yet to notify their next of kin.
The AFP Western Mindanao Command said about two dozen militants were killed in the clash, but troops recovered only 10 cadavers.
One of them was the body of Mohammad Said alias Amah Maas, an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader blamed for the beheading of Canadian hostages John Ridsdel and Robert Hall earlier this year after their families failed to raise P600 million in ransom.
Troops operating in the area immediately rushed to the encounter site to pursue the terrorists. Other Army units provided blocking forces, the AFP said.
In a statement, Visaya said the “ultimate sacrifice and acts of gallantry” became the soldiers’ “driving force” to attack the Abu Sayyaf, who lost 25 members to Army-initiated armed encounters last week on orders of President Rodrigo Duterte.
“There may still be casualties along the way as we advance this solemn duty to eradicate these bandits and terrorists of 25 years, but we will not stop until we rid our country of the menace this [Abu Sayyaf Group] brings to the world,” he said.
Visaya told the soldiers to keep the pressure on the enemy until they wear out.
Aside from the various military units in Sulu, the Philippine Navy was deployed to the island province to make sure no one escapes and no reinforcements arrive for the terrorists.
President Duterte ordered security forces to destroy the Abu Sayyaf following the beheading of Filipino hostage Patrick James Almodovar on August 24. Almodovar’s family failed to pay P1 million in ransom demanded by the bandits.
2,500 troops to Sulu
In Malacañang, presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said five battalions or 2,500 troops will be sent to reinforce the military in Sulu.
“The President is focused on making sure that the threat from the Abu Sayyaf Group will be terminated as soon as possible,” he said in a news conference.
Abella, however, clarified that Duterte did not set a timeline for defeating the Abu Sayyaf.
“It should not be an extended engagement,” he said.
Not familiar with terrain?
The soldiers were said to have been unfamiliar with the terrain of Patikul, a lair of the Abu Sayyaf who are still holding nearly two dozen Malaysian and Indonesian hostages.
There was no word on the fate of the hostages, including Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, who was kidnapped last year at Samal Island in Davao del Norte along with Ridsdel and Hall.
Duterte had said negotiators paid P50 million to the Abu Sayyaf for the release of Sekkingstad, but the terrorists demanded P250 million more. He did not say where the ransom money came from.
Over a hundred Abu Sayyaf gunmen have been battling security forces since last week in Patikul and Talipao towns.
‘No conscience’
Falcasantos, one of the slain military men, was reportedly beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf, who even sent a mobile phone message to the soldier’s family in Zamboanga City.
The bandits told the relatives, using Falcasantos’ phone, that they chopped off the head of the infantryman. A militant said: “Your son is dead. His head is gone, we cut it off yesterday.”
Falcasantos’ family replied: “You have no conscience.”
But the unidentified Abu Sayyaf member went on to say: “Of course. We don’t have conscience because they (soldiers) came to our place. I’ll also cut your head off.” | http://www.manilatimes.net/15-soldiers-killed-in-clash-with-abus/283121/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/d437ff36a2a8a7a7a5b334f28bbb2eecfc30d0a99f8c97191dccf2fd13e7b2a1.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-28T16:49:48 | null | 2016-08-29T00:48:39 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fsocial-network-addiction%2F282679%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/edit20160829-300x211.jpg | en | null | SOCIAL NETWORK ADDICTION | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | null | http://www.manilatimes.net/social-network-addiction/282679/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/6182c64a89208dfcaba7a6b89049e257113e6d9febe43a824a5dc1c4f72cc6c6.json |
[
"Julmunir I. Jannaral",
"Frederick Silverio",
"William Depasupil",
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-29T14:50:10 | null | 2016-08-29T22:09:03 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fcotabato-tmo-bombing-diversionary%2F282854%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | ‘Cotabato TMO bombing diversionary’ | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | COTABATO CITY: The Philippine National Police here is convinced that the explosion that rocked the Traffic Management Office (TMO) on Saturday night could be a diversionary tactic or an attempt to free detainees from Cotabato City Police Station 1 detention cell. Senior Insp. Roel Zafra, Cotabato City police spokesman, on Monday said bomb experts found fragments of a smoke hand grenade at the blast site. Zafra said the explosive was lobbed at the top of the roof of the traffic office but it rolled down and exploded at the pavement. “Our analysis, it was aimed at creating confusion in the police office so inmates could escape,” Zafra said, adding that smoke penetrated the detention cell. | http://www.manilatimes.net/cotabato-tmo-bombing-diversionary/282854/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/6d7eca66648af36119d118bf8b3da99d419088ab109d3156365e77bf31abf128.json |
[
"Angelica Ballesteros",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Anthony Vargas",
"Maria Laura Margherita Angeles"
]
| 2016-08-27T16:49:19 | null | 2016-08-28T00:12:48 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fqc-mayor-denies-links-to-drug-trade%2F282527%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | QC mayor denies links to drug trade | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Mayor Herbert Bautista of Quezon City on Saturday maintained that he was never involved in any illicit drug operations in the city.
“I will never involve myself to the illegal drug trade. Anti-drug has been my advocacy since I was 17 years old,” Bautista said in a statement.
Bautista, who is currently working as a peace adviser of the government panel in the peace talks with communist rebels, issued the statement a day after the Volunteers Against Crime and Corrpution (VACC) filed complaints against him and his brother, Councilor Hero Bautista, for dishonesty, neglect of duty, misconduct, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
“As to my brother Hero—it pains me, my sister Harlene and the rest of our family that Hero is a drug dependent,” the mayor said. “It is really very painful for us. It is good that he took the drug test and was found to be a drug user. He is now undergoing rehabilitation.”
Bautista admitted that people have been asking why he did not try to address Hero’s use of illegal drugs.
He explained that he and his brother have their own concerns and lead separate lives.
“Hero is 48 years old, has his own family, is independent from us. We barely see or talk to each other because we, as individuals, have our own set of lives and concerns,” the mayor said.
“We only see each other on special family gatherings,” he added.
Bautista, however, maintained that he is proud of Hero for taking full responsibility for the consequences of his actions.
The mayor also belied rumors that he had a hand in the appointment of district directors of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) whose two chiefs were linked to the illegal trade trade.
“He is concluding that because the two generals linked in the illegal drug trade were former QCPD chiefs ergo the mayor is too,” Bautista said, referring to VACC Chairman Dante Jimenez.
He said he never received a list from the Philippine National Police of recommended police officials even if the policy allows the local chief executive to choose candidates for the regional directors.
“In my experience as QC mayor, it has always been (and up to this point) a district director is appointed to QCPD without any consultation or “courtesy” to the LCE,” he stressed.
“Secondly, because I am not technically involved in the affairs of the QCPD, it is imperative that the District Director is given full administrative and operational control over the QCPD’s rank and file,” Bautista said.
He added that the city government continues to support the QCPD in its efforts to curb criminality and stop the drug menace. | http://www.manilatimes.net/qc-mayor-denies-links-to-drug-trade/282527/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/e9896962d37e87653cde5a8c989bb37ef1fa77d1174277517cca303272475351.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-28T16:49:48 | null | 2016-08-29T00:43:36 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ffinding-common-ground-fighting-common-threats%2F282665%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Finding common ground, fighting common threats | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | As we have said before in this space, the relationship between the Philippines and China should not be defined by the disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea.
That relationship has many dimensions, including economic, people-to-people relations and other common interests. And while there are many common threats confronting both countries, from a security standpoint none is more disconcerting than the threat of a North Korea with weapons of mass destruction and long-range delivery capabilities.
Next year, the Philippines will take over the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). Not only that, from mid-2018, Manila will take over Singapore’s role as country coordinator for Asean’s relations with China. Of course, trade and investment will top the agenda, but in order for economic relations to flourish, there must be peace and security in the larger Pacific region.
The Duterte government’s approach to China so far – to neither provoke nor taunt Beijing – should allow the Philippines to play the role of country coordinator more effectively. To be clear, finding common ground with China does not mean abandoning national interests or sovereignty rights.
On the contrary, working with China offers more positives than negatives. Those who doubt whether China can act responsibly should take a closer look at its actions on other issues, particularly those that pose a real threat to the region.
Encouraging signals from China
In May, North Korean government officials were stopped at the Beijing airport while attempting to enter China. One of these individuals was reportedly Jang Yong-son, an Iran-based North Korea Mining Development Trading Corp. representative who had flown in from Tehran, according to the english edition of The Chosun Ilbo.
The message to North Korea could not have been any clearer – that even senior officials of its government-affiliated organizations, and particularly its arms dealers, no longer enjoy effective immunity in China. While these detained individuals were eventually released – the paper said the Chinese officials tried to send Jang Yong-son back to Iran, but he resisted so they sent him to Pyongyang – such incidents are becoming an increasingly common occurence in Beijing, traditionally a favorite hub among North Koreans.
Before that incident, China and the UN Security Council passed Resolution 2270 in response to North Korea’s latest string of provocations. That resolution imposed additional sanctions on North Korea for its nuclear test in January and its ballistic missile launch the following month.
While similar previous sanctions had been passed and failed to deter North Korea’s aggressive nuclear ambitions, this time appears to be different. Apparently fed up with North Korea flouting China’s wishes and despite repeated attempts to guide its estwhile ally, Beijing appears to be committed to enforcing Resolution 2270 and imposing the real cost on the reclusive state.
The effectiveness of UN Resolution 2270, as with any initiative aimed at tempering North Korea’s behavior, hinges entirely on China’s participation. While historically its adherence to these types of sanctions has been mixed to say the least, China appears – at least in this instance – to be adhering to international law much more closely and making good-faith efforts to restrain its neighbor.
This type of constructive international engagement, wherein China employs its power and influence in a responsible fashion, should be lauded – ongoing disputes with its neighbors, like the Philippines, set aside for now – as evidence that Beijing takes international obligations seriously and can be prevailed upon, the nature of the issue and geopolitics permitting, to act accordingly. | http://www.manilatimes.net/finding-common-ground-fighting-common-threats/282665/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/fa4fe87784d5e1c1329ef40b287787a785375076df23d84a91c449ad98102358.json |
[
"Rene Saguisag",
"Francisco Tatad",
"Yen Makabenta",
"Ricardo Saludo",
"Amnata Pundit",
"Tim Duque",
"Samuel Abiertos"
]
| 2016-08-26T13:02:27 | null | 2016-08-26T02:07:53 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Flenis-slam-dunk-lmb-and-plaza-miranda%2F282151%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/05/rene.jpg | en | null | Leni’s slam-dunk, LMB and Plaza Miranda | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Mike Varela, my Bedan campus contemporary and friend, is gone, at 76. Prayers, please, for one who got along well with everybody.
Tactful
DFA Secretary Jun Yasay does his darndest best to protect tactless Prez Digong from himself. Sabah/Malaysia and Scarborough/China are tough issues, let alone our relations with other countries. Digong should bone up on them and not squander scarce valuable presidential time thrashing Sen. Leila de Lima, a task better suited to Sal Panelo, a Defend-and-Attack-Dog who blocked the probe into Digong’s bank account, described by Sen. Sonny Trillanes to be in humongous amounts. How much time has Digs wasted on that, OK, feisty woman? She looks at human rights issues, but Digong keeps changing the subject.
Aside from Panelo, he has Messrs. Medialdea, Andanar, Abella and Evasco to do the pedestrian job of palengkeros. He should not minimize the presidency. Justice Sec. Vit Aguirre may probe Leila. Vit and I were among those who helped defend Hubert Webb, who had to spend more than 15 years in jail, having been tried and convicted by publicity. Digong has a prosecutor’s background and bias.
The Senate should institutionally resist the invasion by the House, which reportedly will probe Lei. Incredible parliamentary discourtesy, if true. It seems to me Speaker Bebot Alvarez should talk quietly with fellow Mindanaoanon Senate Prez Koko Pimentel and tell him about his mission for Master Digong and look for a solution that would not needlessly strain the relationship of the two chambers. The House, dominated by tutas, should prudently communicate with the Senate about any of the latter’s members. Absent any action, within a reasonable time, we can understand why we need a Circular Firing Squad thrashing itself (and therefore the lawmaking branch, which Mark Twain calls in the US as the only distinct American criminal class). Sen. Leila’s colleagues should support her to prevent heavy institutional damage. The Senate should protect itself and the relevant institutional arrangement.
Digong wants a new organization vice the UN. What if only North Korea, Syria and Somalia apply? He still has to acquire the gravitas of a statesman-diplomat. “Above all, no zeal,” advises Talleyrand. Digong may well be a diamond in the rough but he has to stop telling people publicly what he thinks of them and their ancestors, or their sexual orientation. This is 2016. Human dignity matters. It has always mattered. But, he seems to treat serious matters as jokes. (I recall that when I’d give Prez Cory serious advice, she’d laugh and laugh, but when I’d tell her a joke, she’d implement it.)
Gravitas I do not see in BongBong Marcos, either. People talk of how he lost to Leni Robredo by a slim margin.
That is not how I see it. BB has billions and a well-known name (if controversial), vital in name recall, I am told.
Raissa Robles had a 2012 story on how BB “had a direct hand in trying to withdraw US$213M from a Swiss bank in 1986.” Ill-gotten wealth. BB has the Solid North. He dissembled about his nonexistent degrees from elite British and American universities.
Leni comparatively has nothing but a good non-controversial name. She would take the bus to and from Naga, alone (she has security now). Unassuming, I sensed, when she was my grad law school stude in San Beda in 2013. I read somewhere that she candidly admitted having taken the bar exam twice (like Claro Recto, Hillary Clinton and Gerry Spence). The virtue of candor. No talk of bogus Oxford and Princeton degrees.
No Solid Bicol, either. She had to compete with Chiz Escudero, Gringo Honasan and Sonny Trillanes. (And Alan Peter Cayetano, given the reported Bicol origin of Lani, the one he married; not to ask me here about those he did not, ha?)
BB should have won walking away, with all his advantages. I see his loss as comparative to the San Beda seniors losing to St. Scholastica’s high school team. To lose to a newbie should give the Marcoses pause.
Some may see the veep result as close, for BB. I see it as a soaring win for Leni. A slam-dunk. A la Gabe Norwood’s, over Argentina’s Luis Scola. But, Gabe had help from his teammates; Leni, from the people (including San Beda HS’59). The kind of help that matters.
Staff who misled led Prez Digong to name and shame a judge gone to a better world years ago helps validate that military-police intelligence could be a contradiction in terms. PNP boss-chief “Bato” de la Rosa even challenges men to duels, a violation of Art. 261 of the Revised Penal Code. Law enforcer, lawbreaker.
We continue to name and shame Judas, Hitler and Macoy. A Nazi prison guard, 95, was convicted last June.
No Japanese premier can visit a war shrine without provoke ng rioting in Korea and China. Another Macoy we don’t need. He destroyed the natural evolution of leaders and “salvaged” many youthful leaders like Edgar Jopson in the flower of their youth. He damaged our values of honesty, palabra, delicadeza and meritocracy.
His mother engaged in drug trafficking in Arellano High School and his Lolo was executed by the guerillas. Per Tibo Mijares and many others, he murdered Nalundasan.
I join Rep. Tolits Atienza in clearing Macoy though on the Plaza Miranda bombing on August 21, 1971. But, Tolits did not have to make it sound original. That has been widely known long long ago. Uncle Jovy Salonga orally told me about it in the ‘90s. And in his 2001 book, a Journey of Hope, he narrates same in detail on pages 178-89 and he concluded: “My own view is that, in the absence of a more credible account, the available evidence, based on the testimony of former Central Committee members and Party officials, and the statements of those who participated in that execution of the bombing and the trial of Danny Cordero in Isabela, overwhelmingly point to Jose Ma. Sison as the principal author of the Plaza Miranda tragedy of August 21, 1971.” Can JoMa give us a more credible account?
BTW, we called, and sent someone to, the Batasan to get a copy of Lito’s speech but we were made to meander through the bowels of the bureaucracy.
Erap says “respect the dead.” Of course, we have to respect the memory of Mijares and Boyet Mijares. And of Edgar Jopson, Eman Lacaba, Lorena Barros, and countless other martyrs whose names are inscribed in the Bantayog ng mga Bayani.
Also gone is Hero Baby Dalupan, a coach’s Coach. I only saw him from afar. My earliest recollection was of Dalupan and the PCCBA (Philippine College of Commerce and Business Administration), now UE, and of the NCAA. We were thrilled over the Crispa-Toyota feud in the mid-‘70s when the PBA was the only game in town that mattered. Baby and Leni are two peas in a pod.
Wherever Baby is buried, he will be cherished, as Jesse Robredo is. El sitio nada importa. The place does not matter.
Macoy should be kept where he is cherished, not where he can be spat and pooh-poohed on. And it would cost a humongous sum to prevent such possible desecration in terms of additional sekyus (who’s spending for the announced transfer and the year-round security?). No need though for an epitaph saying HERE A LAWYER LIES STILL or HERE A LAWYER STILL STEALS.
The time has not yet come. The Marcoses still have to acknowledge the gross human rights violations (kleptocracy established by our Supreme Court on July 15, 2003) that occurred in their time, say sorry, and just maybe put up a fund for the treatment and burial of aging ailing victims and scholarships for deserving apos with the talent and integrity of their ancestor. Then, the healing may begin. Meantime, patience, while 75,000 human rights compensation claims are being processed.
Finally, in the various pending Libingan ng Mga Bayani petitions led by Ocampo V. Enriquez, we got the other day a copy of a Supreme Court Resolution dated August 23, 2016, stating in part:
“(c) NOTE the Petition (In Intervention) dated August 18, 2016 filed by Rene A.V. Saguisag, Sr. and REQUIRE the adverse parties to COMMENT thereon not later than August 26, 2016; (d) NOTE the Manifestation dated August 18, 2016 filed by petitioners-intervenors Rene A.V. Saguisag, Sr., Rene A.Q. Saguisag, Jr. and Rene A.C. Saguisag III;”
Sr. is me, 77. Jr. is Rebo, 43. III is Tres, 7. I hope no one is reminded of Holmes’ “Three generations of imbeciles are enough!” | http://www.manilatimes.net/lenis-slam-dunk-lmb-and-plaza-miranda/282151/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/12b7f5aef9e3c45f92e11aa6fe28c66076e180815e3e1bb4f113d1646ae61879.json |
[
"Josef T. Ramos",
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-28T12:49:34 | null | 2016-08-28T19:57:57 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Falaska-routs-import-less-blackwater%2F282621%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/blackwater20160829-213x300.jpg | en | null | Alaska routs import-less Blackwater | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | After a disappointing loss to reigning champion San Miguel Beer, Alaska vented its ire on Blackwater by posting a 107-87 lopsided win on Sunday in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 41 Governors’ Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Import LaDontae Henton took advantage the absence of Blackwater import Eric Dawson, as he scattered 33 points on 14-of-21 shooting in the field plus eight rebounds in the first three quarters before sitting out in the whole fourth frame.
“It was a good advantage for us that Dawson is not around although he’s there in our preparations,” said Alaska coach Alex Compton during the post game interview. “We just lost to San Miguel Beer without an import. We didn’t play fantastic but we played solid.”
Rookie Kevin Racal tallied 12 points on a perfect 4-of-4 shooting beyond the arc and guard Chris Exciminiano had 11 points, while Chris Banchero added eight points along with a career-high 12 assists and three steals also for the Aces.
“It was nice to get back into the win column we’re not used to be where we are right now,” added Compton.
The Aces improved to 3-5 win-loss record. Alaska was coming off a frustrating 103-106 loss to San Miguel Beer on Wednesday.
After leading by 25-20 at the end of first period, the Aces went to Henton and Racal to ignite a 29-16 run in the second quarter leading to 54-36 cushion at the half. Henton had 13 points alone in second period and the rookie from Letran shot a perfect 3-of-3 from downtown.
Alaska exploited Blackwater’s porous defense by scoring six three-pointers against one of the Elite aside from dishing out 15-6 assists and 4-3 steals output in the first half. The Aces, playing fantastic throughout the game, maintained their performance even in the third and fourth quarter.
Alaska outscored Blackwater in the third frame, 28-18, to establish its biggest advantage, 82-52, before closing out that quarter ahead by 82-54. The Elite tried to make a comeback, but the insurmountable lead of the Aces was hard to overcome in the last quarter.
Dawson didn’t play the entire game due to back spasm.
Rookie Art Dela Cruz posted 23 points plus four steals, while Carlo Lastimosa finished with 18 points to lead the Elite.
Blackwater dropped to 1-7 win-loss record. | http://www.manilatimes.net/alaska-routs-import-less-blackwater/282621/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/918dc34a574d4453471cd82d61eb3ab76cc88a3c285d10d5bebe6d2961ded60b.json |
[
"Agence France-Presse"
]
| 2016-08-30T06:51:54 | null | 2016-08-29T19:47:09 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2F3-eu-nations-eye-closer-post-brexit-ties%2F282792%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | 3 EU nations eye closer post-Brexit ties | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | WEIMAR, Germany: The German, French and Polish foreign ministers vowed on Sunday (Monday in Manila) to increase ties between their countries when Britain leaves the European Union to secure a safer and more effective union.
“Confronted by unparalleled challenges in Europe… [we must]intensify cooperation and create a new drive,” Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Jean-Marc Ayrault and Witold Waszczykowski said in a joint statement.
They were gathered in the eastern German town of Weimar to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the “Weimar Triangle” political forum.
They vowed to “reinforce the foundations of European integration, aspiring to a more flexible EU that reflects the different ambitions of member states regarding increased integration” once Britain had left the bloc.
Talks between the 27 EU nations remaining in the bloc are likely to be challenging, as Berlin’s preferred vision of a centralized, federal Europe clashes with proposals for a confederation of nation states popular among leaders of eastern EU members.
The three foreign ministers gathered in Weimar also called for the bloc’s combined foreign and security policies to be strengthened with the creation of an annual European Security Council meeting of EU heads of government.
Their comments came as German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Sunday that the refusal of some EU countries to accept Muslim refugees is “unacceptable” and called for quotas to divide the influx throughout the bloc.
“We know that there is no simple answer to these challenges, but we are determined to confront them together in a spirit of renewed mutual confidence,” said the minis- ters’ statement.
The Weimar Triangle, created in 1991, is a consultative body that promotes cooperation and common interests between the three EU states.
AFP | http://www.manilatimes.net/3-eu-nations-eye-closer-post-brexit-ties/282792/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/443615fedcd9aef1fcf2a3230e2f4bd79ccbe6f1deaa8b77b70c39beea28200e.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Maan D Asis Pamaran",
"Joel M. Toledo"
]
| 2016-08-27T12:49:07 | null | 2016-08-27T20:43:32 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ffour-poems%2F282397%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Four Poems | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Terminal
We marched until our heads knock the clouds
As our feet were buried on the muddy ground top
Our hands had touched the river
And creeks earlier, and struck the pebbles
We have been here many times and we have named
This unnamed mountain before,
We feel her powers to pull our thoughts
Stop the howling winds and toss them up higher
She can make giant trees dance and make leaves purr
She can close the nets of the day and
Silence the night, then circle it with peace
She let the choir of crickets sing,
And make us sleep,
Then wake us by her cloudy morning
She let us light a fire to prepare the coffee
And make one full round day
Before the sundown, we start to make steps
Down the village, where there are souls
Waiting for us.
The Oracles
I read and posted
The oracles of the old
And you have seen it
The affairs are coming fast
Map it on your mind
They are not baseless predictions
Or witchcraft, or of house cards
Palmistry, numerology
Or rituals to weep and gamble…
The flowers bloom
But there are stinging bees
Flowers may wilt in summer
But there are songs to waken them up
We know where to start
The ghosts are afraid
There we are, we change…
Fortitude
I am a daughter of this noble nation
And earth, a nursling of the old
rottening social disorder of semifeudalism
and semicolonialism
I was born to a pore of the maginals
Along the rivers, farmlands, haciendas,
the dirty streets, dead houses, maladies
and I want change, I may lack idioms for it
I may have less metaphor for it, but
for social liberation I fight for it,
and our dreams cannot die…
Amidst the storms that may bend
or even break my knees and when
The dark world thinks we are over
and the devils are feasting on blood
and torch schools and houses
Like a child from the womb of this nation and earth,
Like a ghosts from the tomb,
Fighters arise to struggle and build anew…
Waiting in silence to capture the hiding
bad ghosts
we sat near the murmuring river
as clouds lazily move rearranging the sky
packing up into our minds
we have to be silent
but we could hear the birds singing
coming from the deep woods…
we have to wait until tomorrow,
and walk under the moonlight
we are mastering guerrilla movements
our predecessors mastered the forest
and social terrain by appearing
and fading into the light
they have captured the hiding bad ghosts
we are learning from them.
MAYA DANIEL | http://www.manilatimes.net/four-poems/282397/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/39855bdeec631e51f7cb0786b8327a3a553efa3109e466d5012cd4ecad003c63.json |
[
"Emil C. Noguera",
"Jean Russel V. David",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Realyn Stevens"
]
| 2016-08-30T12:50:13 | null | 2016-08-30T20:46:07 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fpsl-101st-national-series-call-for-entries%2F283005%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | PSL 101st National Series call for entries | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | The Philippine Swimming League (PSL) opens its doors to aspiring young swimmers as it stages its 101st National Series Novice and Motivational Swimming Meet on Saturday at the Diliman Preparatory School in Quezon City.
The event is open to all with ages 6-under up to 15-over for boys and girls.
“This is really a grassroots development program. They are starting as novice and if they stay in the program, you can see what they will become a year after,” said PSL President Susan Papa.
“We are starting this novice program to continue our search for new talents and potential swimmers. We monitor them, from novice to become regular competitive swimmers,” she added.
Trophies and medals will be awarded to the Most Outstanding Swimmers per age band.
“We inspire our new swimmers, recruit and train them. Again use swimming for healthy citizenry, discipline this young kids and perhaps become champions, you will never know. The least and help themselves become varsity swimmers and finish their studies,” Papa stressed.
Among the products of the PSL novice competitions are Marc Bryan Dula, Micaela Jasmine Mojdeh and Kyla Soguilon, who are now making waves in international competitions including the South Africa, Australia, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan.
Dula will be seeing action in the SSC Midget Swimming Championship scheduled next month in Singapore.
PSL is a national sports swimming association for Universities and Colleges accredited by the Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines (Fessap), internationally affiliated member of Federation of International Sports University (FISU). | http://www.manilatimes.net/psl-101st-national-series-call-for-entries/283005/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/62cb611cd72bff66756348670dcfd45302f4bef16a481a237c82b4ae44f74e8a.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Catherine S. Valente",
"Jefferson Antiporda",
"Kristyn Nika M. Lazo"
]
| 2016-08-26T13:04:02 | null | 2016-08-26T01:17:56 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fclinton-aides-unfazed-by-pay-for-play-accusations%2F282139%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Clinton aides unfazed by pay-for-play accusations | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | BOSTON: Clinton staffers are brushing off what opponents are calling a “pay-for-play” scandal — the stunning revelation that more than half of the people who met with Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton while she was secretary of state were pouring money into the controversial Clinton Foundation.
“I think there’s a lot of political criticism, and that’s natural in an election year,” Craig Minassian, chief information officer for the Clinton Foundation, said on Herald Radio yesterday. “I think critics are going to be critics of whatever we do.”
Clinton spokesman Brian Fallon claimed the Associated Press report on donations relied on “pretty flawed methodology” and said in an interview with MSNBC yesterday that Clinton was being held to a different standard than other politicians with charitable work.
“It is only now because she is running for president that the work of the Clinton Foundation is being tarred,” Fallon said. “If any American voter is troubled by the idea that the Clintons want to continue working to solve the AIDS crisis on the side while Hillary Clinton is president, then don’t vote for her.”
GOP pundits, meanwhile, say the story is yet another strike against Clinton, whose campaign has had to ward off a number of scandals through the election cycle.
“If this isn’t pay-for-play, then I really don’t know what is,” said Marty Connors, a Republican consultant and former strategist for Mitt Romney. “Will it hurt her? Who knows? If you overlook this, you have a selfish interest in the game being played.”
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has attacked the links between the Clinton Foundation and the State Department, saying the scandal shows she is “unfit.”
“It is impossible to figure out where the Clinton Foundation ends and the State Department begins,” Trump said at a rally Tuesday night in Austin, Texas. “It is now abundantly clear that the Clintons set up a business to profit from public office.”
At least 85 of 154 people from private interests who met or had phone conversations scheduled with Clinton when she was secretary of State donated to her family charity or pledged commitments to its international programs, according to the Associated Press report. The donors contributed as much as $156 million, and at least 40 donated more than $100,000 each. Twenty gave more than $1 million.
“I mean I think any secretary of State meets with thousands and thousands of people in the course of doing their job,” Minassian said. “I can say what we do at the foundation and what the donors expect from us is that our work is impactful and lifesaving, and it is.”
Trump has said the foundation should be shut down immediately. Trump, who donated to the Clinton Foundation, has repeatedly charged that his opponent, while secretary of State, provided access to foundation contributors in exchange for donations to the charity.
Minassian said the AP report did not call into question the good things the foundation has done for people.
“One thing that you’re not hearing is anybody criticizing that work,” Minassian said. “In fact we get very high marks from charity rating agencies and the results speak for themselves. I think political critics are always going to be critical of us. They’re look for reasons in an election year to find anything to criticize the candidates about, but this has nothing at all to do with the work that we’re doing: saving lives around the world.”
TNS | http://www.manilatimes.net/clinton-aides-unfazed-by-pay-for-play-accusations/282139/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/b8471db0583d0dc81692e11985df22453f5f45432a64bb1e6e888f2b77f9c54a.json |
[
"Marlen V. Ronquillo",
"Francisco Tatad",
"Rigoberto D. Tiglao",
"Ricardo Saludo",
"Mariano Patalinjug",
"Junie Delabo",
"Na Me",
"Silverio Cabellon Jr",
"Ex Tee"
]
| 2016-08-29T04:51:38 | null | 2016-08-28T00:05:28 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fdemocracy-needs-bomb-throwers-to-flourish%2F282516%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Ronquillo.gif | en | null | Democracy needs bomb throwers to flourish | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | From a personal realm, I admire Mr. Duterte. He defies tradition, shatters orthodoxies, and he wants to take the country to a path never taken before. Just to untangle the country from its old and deep ties with the liberal global order is an exciting — though risky — one. He has even upped the ante. Recently, in a state of pique, he threatened to pull the country out of the United Nations.
Frame his pull-out threat from this context: The country was a founding member of the UN and our own Carlos P. Romulo once presided over the UN General Assembly. Our ties to the UN has been one of the sacred givens of our international relationship.
Even non-believers of the UN want to be part of the UN, in part because their dictator-leaders want a backdoor way of acquiring a visa to the US, and perhaps shop (using illegally amassed dollars) at the Big Apple. Mr. Duterte will have none of that.
His admonition to the Senate against ratifying the Paris Accord on Climate Change, so as not to rein in his dream to make manufacturing viable, is one big proof that he does not really care about global comity when national interests is impaired by that comity.
Viewing his leadership through the prism of Mr. Aquino’s orthodoxy and the previous administration’s fixation with the usual GDP growth and credit upgrades, Mr. Duterte is also forcing the nation to take leadership decisions seriously. Ordinary Filipinos used to take their presidents for granted, given the relative orthodoxy of their governance. From Mrs. Aquino to Mr. Aquino, it was the same old, same old pursuit of growth and the dream to make it to “economic tiger status.”
This time, the president is different.
Mr. Duterte has combined his unorthodox view of our global relationship with a domestic policy never tried before. Law and order issues are first and foremost, and eliminating criminals with extreme prejudice, drug lords first and foremost, is a natural part of that process. From Mrs. Aquino to Mr. Aquino, economics was first and foremost and law and order was always in the back burners of policy priorities. Mr. Aquino, indeed, launched his own war, but it was a one-sided corruption campaign that primarily targeted his political enemies. The proliferation of vice lords — from narco to gambling lords –- never bothered Mr. Aquino a bit, and it was that opening, a nation tired of the chaos and anarchy, that the Duterte campaign deftly recognized and exploited.
And this is the best part — Mr. Duterte has high approval and appreciation ratings. The nation, on the whole, favors the governing principles of Mr. Duterte.
The heady mix of unorthodoxy, high approval ratings, and a fresh approach to governance has had the effect of muting all criticisms, partly because Establishment Politics does not know how to react to a president in the mold of Mr. Duterte. The main reason is political cowardice. No one wants to confront an unorthodox and popular president — even on the issue of extrajudicial killings.
But that should not be the case in a democracy. For democracy to flourish, bomb throwers and dissidents are a must.
Even the sainted Nelson Mandela had his staunch critics during his term as the post-apartheid leader of South Africa. Even the late Cory Aquino, during the euphoric years after EDSA 1, was not spared from criticisms.
Enter Senator Leila de Lima, an outspoken critic of Mr. Duterte dating back to his Davao City years. As the supposedly brave men of the two chambers of Congress gave Mr. Duterte full governing leeway, Ms. De Lima became the solitary voice in the mainstream political establishment to question aspects of Mr. Duterte’s war on drugs. | http://www.manilatimes.net/democracy-needs-bomb-throwers-to-flourish/282516/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/e39e92a0f36c6903de5b66a4420f1a40ae3b2fe57d497a13590aa0ba23d38acb.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-27T12:49:04 | null | 2016-08-27T20:48:51 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fculture-of-and-for-the-people%2F282401%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Culture of and for the people | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | “THE Filipino culture is well and alive and our goal is to let our countrymen have a deeper understanding of culture, tradition and the arts.”
These were the words of the Philippine Information Agency’s (PIA) Region 3 Regional Director William Beltran at the Central Luzon launch of the 2016 NCCA-PIA Cultural Promotions Project, which seeks to do an intensive dissemination and promotion program for arts and culture in all of Luzon.
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and PIA did a pilot launch of the project in Region 4 MIMAROPA on August 1, which was followed by a series of launches for Region 3 on August 8, Region 1 on August 10, and Region 2 on August 15.
In San Fernando, Mayor Edwin Santiago welcomed attendees of the Region 3 Cultural Promotions Launching, highlighting San Fernando City’s initiatives in the culture and arts sector. PIA Region 3 also seeks to do cultural forums, kapihan press conferences, a lecture series, and campus tours towards cultural promotion.
The Luzon-wide regional launch events are also a venue for showcasing each region’s best performers. Choral groups, dance troupes, and writers give the public the best of a region’s artistic and cultural productions, which is exactly what this NCCA-PIA Partnership seeks to promote.
The Central Luzon launch was filled with performances from various dance troupes for example, with Lahing Kayumanggi Dance Troupe of Bulacan State University, University of the Assumption Dance Troupe, Tarlac State University Performing Arts Dance Troupe, and the City College of San Fernando Dance Troupe. At the Region 1 launch, the internationally acclaimed choral group Samiweng Singers, from Ilocos Norte, serenaded the attendees.
The regional launch events of NCCA-PIA’s Cultural Promotions Project is also an opportunity to encourage local government units to submit project proposals for the NCCA Call for Project Proposals for 2017. This is NCCA’s initiative to provide grants to cultural groups, local government units, educational institutions, and individuals that might have projects that enrich and promote Filipino culture. | http://www.manilatimes.net/culture-of-and-for-the-people/282401/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/9e790fc908b8e53dd73d21fa9d3b5eba60001d41e3af26ca29ff12137a9e7397.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Emil C. Noguera",
"Agence France-Presse"
]
| 2016-08-31T14:50:31 | null | 2016-08-31T22:36:57 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fup-whips-stags-gains-v-l-semifinals%2F283223%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | UP whips Stags, gains V-L semifinals | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | University of the Philippines broke away from a tight first set duel with a strong windup then bounced back from a close second set defeat with a pair of lopsided victories to trounce San Sebastian, 25-17, 23-25, 25-5, 25-18, on Wednesday and clinch the third semifinal berth in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Collegiate Conference at The Arena in San Juan.
Kathy Bersola turned in a solid 20-hit game, including 10 kills on one-step attacks and an impressive eight-block game to lead the Lady Maroons to a dream Final Four stint
UP, which toughened up for this mid-season tournament of the league sponsored by Shakey’s by competing in the Open Conference, thus closed out it quarters stint with a 3-2 card, joining early semifinalists National U and Far Eastern U.
San Sebastian wound up with a 2-3 slate although the Lady Stags can still force a playoff for the last semis seat with an FEU victory over Ateneo in a match being played at presstime.
But should the Lady Eagles prevail, the Loyola-based school will complete the Final Four which fires off Saturday.
UP went on a scoring binge to break from a 12-all count in the opening frame to score the eight-point then bounced back from a second set defeat with a smashing triumph in the third that saw the Lady Maroons hold the Lady Stags to just five hits.
SSC failed to recover from the third set slump, enabling UP to control the fourth on its way to victory and the Final Four of the tournament backed by Mikasa as official ball and Accel as official outfitter.
“We controlled the net and our floor defense held,” said UP mentor Jerry Yee.
Meanwhile, La Salle outpointed Far Eastern U in a thrilling fifth set duel, hacking out a 20-25, 25-23, 26-24, 21-25, 15-8 victory to clinch the coveted semifinal berth in the Spikers Turf Season 2 Collegiate Conference.
Cris Dumago fired 24 points while Arjay Onia and Mike Frey combined for 26 hits to make up for Raymark Woo’s eight-point output as the Archers finished the single round elims with a 4-1 card in Group A to join the National U Bulldogs in the Final Four.
Earlier, University of Santo Tomas subdued Emilio Aguinaldo College, 25-20, 25-12, 29-27, for a 4-1 slate to finish second behind defending champion Ateneo in Group B. | http://www.manilatimes.net/up-whips-stags-gains-v-l-semifinals/283223/ | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/1b716f576b0624115d88d37329e885bab6a15270a352b29b226d7f4a148bdd85.json |
[
"Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-26T13:00:10 | null | 2016-08-26T20:14:10 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fbarretto-named-new-bjmp-chief%2F282252%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Barretto named new BJMP chief | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | President Rodrigo Duterte has named Superintendent Serafin P. Barretto Jr. the new head of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
Barretto was appointed as Officer-in-Charge of the bureau on August 8, 2016, replacing Supt. Deogracias Tapayan.
Upon his designation as OIC, Barreto launched his flagship program, SALAMAT BJMP which means Samasamang Lilinisin ang Pamamahala at Maglilingkod ng Tapat sa BJMP.
SALAMAT BJMP contains the action plans, programs, and strategies of his leadership, among which is the Oplan RODY that seeks to remove personnel involved in illegal drugs and corruption inside jails. The plan also includes the disbandment of gangs, jail decongestion, and instilling discipline among personnel and inmates.
“We will make BJMP a prime mover in the country’s thrust of a clean government and honest service,” Barretto said. JING VILLAMENTE
JV/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/barretto-named-new-bjmp-chief/282252/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/e55c41993a4cb5b79589d90c7d4da269e523082a8ffa422c482bee02f62e4c34.json |
[
"Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-27T04:48:57 | null | 2016-08-27T11:24:10 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Frousseff-allies-fight-impeachment-in-brazil-political-turmoil%2F282361%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Rousseff allies fight impeachment in Brazil political turmoil | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | BRASÍLIA: Angry quarrels erupted at suspended Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff’s impeachment trial, while her key ally, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, faced corruption charges on a day of turmoil for Latin America’s biggest country.
Day two of Rousseff’s Senate trial in the capital Brasilia began with shouting matches that forced Supreme Court Chief Justice Ricardo Lewandowski to put the session on hold until tempers calmed.
Senate President Renan Calheiros called the row, prompted by a Rousseff loyalist’s questioning of the notoriously corrupt Senate’s moral authority, “a demonstration of infinite stupidity.”
Rousseff, 68, is accused of breaking the law by taking unauthorized state bank loans to cover up budgetary shortfalls during her 2014 re-election.
She says the budgetary maneuvers were legal, describing herself as victim of a right-wing power grab after 13 years’ rule by her leftist Workers’ Party.
Witnesses for the defense were called Friday following the trial’s opening day Thursday, when the case against Rousseff was presented.
Rousseff herself is planning to testify Monday in a dramatic last-ditch attempt to save herself before senators vote — with analysts widely predicting her defeat.
Lula’s troubles deepen
At stake is not just Rousseff’s fate, but that of the once mighty Workers’ Party.
Its founder, Lula, faced his own mounting problems after police Friday filed a request for corruption and money laundering charges linking the influential ex-president to a vast embezzlement and bribery scheme at state oil company Petrobras.
Lula’s lawyer Cristiano Zanin Martins said Lula was innocent and targeted by a politically motivated case.
“Once again there is an act that by a strange coincidence occurs at a politically important moment for the country,” he told a news conference in Sao Paulo.
“That makes me think that this play, apart from being a fiction, has a clear political connotation.”
Although prosecutors and a judge must still approve the recommendation for Lula to go to trial, the police filing represented another blow for a man seeing his lifelong project to build Brazil’s left put in peril.
Adding to the drama, Lula was planning to travel from his home city of Sao Paulo to Brasilia to support Rousseff when she confronts her accusers in the Senate on Monday.
Under current plans, a vote would then take place within 48 hours after the senators’ final speeches. A pro-impeachment vote would see Rousseff immediately removed from office.
However, given the snail’s pace of the trial so far — with the first defense witness finishing only late afternoon Friday — it was not clear whether the schedule would change.
Two thirds of the Senate — 54 of the 81 senators — must back impeachment to remove Rousseff from office.
Her allies insist they can still sway a half dozen or so senators to prevent that happening, but analysts believe there is no appetite for allowing Rousseff to return to power.
And opponents of the former leftist guerrilla say they have the votes in the bag.
Senator Raimundo Lira, a strong backer of impeachment, told AFP that senators “have already made up their minds, and I don’t think there will be any change at the vote.”
If Rousseff goes, Michel Temer — Rousseff’s former vice president turned bitter enemy — will be sworn in. He has already served as acting president since her suspension in May and moved quickly to shift Brazil away from the left, saying the country needs reform to rebuild its giant, crumbling economy.
It shrank 3.8 percent in 2015 and is forecast to drop a further 3.3 percent this year, a historic recession. Inflation stands at around nine percent and unemployment at 11 percent.
Temer is hardly more popular than Rousseff, however: a recent opinion poll found only 14 percent of Brazilians thought he was doing a good job. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/rousseff-allies-fight-impeachment-in-brazil-political-turmoil/282361/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/5ef7338a97125d9b542271b63351db69a818fa1da9b99e6d6e0c9fd1cfb11259.json |
[
"Josef T. Ramos",
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:56:39 | null | 2016-08-26T20:36:02 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fpumaren-proclaims-red-warriors-readiness-for-uaap-season-79%2F282245%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Pumaren proclaims Red Warriors readiness for UAAP Season 79 | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Compared to last year, University of the East (UE) Red Warriors coach Derrick Pumaren said that his wards are sturdier and smarter as they begin their campaign in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (uaap) Season 79 men’s basketball tournament.
Pumaren, who led De La Salle University to back-to-back titles in 1989 and 1990 said the Red Warriors are ready to collide against the league’s top teams like De La Salle University and defending champion Far Eastern University. Pumaren is now on his third year of coaching the Red Warriors.
“We are ready this coming season,” Pumaren, the elder brother of coaches Franz and Dindo, told The Manila Times in a phone interview on Friday. “I’m confident of our chances this time to enter the Final Four because we’re more of a cohesive and competitive unit now.”
Last season, UE failed to reach the Final Four after finishing No.6 with De La Salle University that also carried a 6-8 win-loss record. “We worked so hard polishing our defense and I think we can compete better than last year. We’re aiming to be in the Final Four this year and that’s very doable. We just have to work harder and play smarter,” he added.
UE will be playing without 6’5 center Chris Javier, who already graduated. The Red Warriors will now be banking on Bonbon Batiller, Clark Derige, Paul Varilla, Emil Palma, Philip Manalang, Edgar Charcos and Fran Yu.
“We had an early preparation and we also prepared offensive plays. I expect the players to be more disciplined and aggressive this coming season,” said Pumaren, who has a 30-year experience coaching teams in professional and collegiate leagues.
As part of their preparation, the Red Warriors competed in a Guam tourney in July and finished second behind eventual champion Guam.
“NU (National University) also played there and it was a good experience for our players,” he said.
JOSEF T. RAMOS | http://www.manilatimes.net/pumaren-proclaims-red-warriors-readiness-for-uaap-season-79/282245/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/fdf6bb5034887ad15267b0d68cc8941ae35905f7e77ace8dedf7866dd38da442.json |
[
"Raadee S. Sausa",
"Anthony Vargas",
"Jaime Pilapil",
"Jefferson Antiporda"
]
| 2016-08-27T14:49:15 | null | 2016-08-27T22:23:49 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fofw-builds-own-electric-car-2%2F282447%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | OFW builds own electric car | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | AN Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) reached a milestone in his career as a mechanical engineer when he built an electric vehicle.
Adonis Lagangan’s Clima Mobility is the newest member of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP).
The mechanical engineering graduate of the Mapua Institute of Technology said his “baby” is a product of an intense passion for automobiles and concern for the environment.
“Right now, we manufacture on a build-to-order basis. We need green financing to help finance our operations and an inventory of electric cars. Thus, we are now in search for grants and funding to build up our plant capacity. We are also open to partnership, whether local or foreign, for funding and technical assistance to improve our product,” Lagangan told The Manila Times.
The vehicle does not fit the profile of a regular EVAP member. It is not backed up by a big manufacturing company or a foreign partner or funded by a foreign multinational company.
To acquire the needed funding to realize his dream of designing and assembling his own electric car, Lagangan worked as an OFW in coal-fired power plant projects around Asia as a project-based commissioning engineer for Marubeni Corp.
Driven by his dream, he honed his skills in forming and 3D CADD designing in between deployments.
“I then worked to complete the design of the prototype of my dream electric car. I fervently hoped that one day,
I will become a full-time EV manufacturer,” Lagangan said.
He got his wish. As soon as he got the chance to be home more often, he set up Clima Mobility and went about building the prototype of his electric car. This became their flagship product, an electric mini sedan they call the Genius EV.
The Genius EV has a seating capacity of five persons and is powered by a 10 kw, 72 volts brushless DC motor. Power is provided by six pieces of 12-volt, 120 ampere-hour Motolite batteries. It has a maximum speed of 75 kph with a range of 60 to 70 kms after charging for four to five hours. He expects to sell the Genius EV for P450,000 to P500,000.
Lagangan’s plan is to offer the Genius EV to local government units and other government agencies, corporate clients, taxi operators and individuals.
“It can be used as a small electric taxi for Metro Manila, as a patrol car for the barangays, as a service vehicle for LGUs, government agencies and big companies and as a delivery car for logistics companies with the rear portion modified as an enclosed van. Even individuals who wish to save on fuel and help reduce pollution in the city will find the Genius EV the perfect solution,” he said.
EVAP President Rommel Juan said Lagangan and his Clima Mobility are are on the right track toward the mass production of Genius EV.
“At this stage, a little help from government would be much needed because now, we have a mini sedan that we could proudly claim as Gawang Pinoy!” he said. | http://www.manilatimes.net/ofw-builds-own-electric-car-2/282447/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/16804b49c00537c3c02700d842205c2c5d2f8ddc70f6f60ca63dbe7c004c1ef8.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-26T14:48:58 | null | 2016-08-26T22:04:15 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ftodays-front-page-august-27-2016%2F282287%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Today’s Front Page August 27, 2016 | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | null | http://www.manilatimes.net/todays-front-page-august-27-2016/282287/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/ebd06d04d6e4d5bfbd94f1b01868135a140251943cbfb23593900f95592221a7.json |
[
"Jefferson Antiporda",
"Llanesca T. Panti",
"Jing Villamente",
"The Manila Times",
"Jaime Pilapil"
]
| 2016-08-29T16:50:07 | null | 2016-08-30T00:20:58 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fhang-yourself-or-resign-duterte-tells-de-lima%2F282903%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Hang yourself or resign, Duterte tells de Lima | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | President Rodrigo Duterte’s scathing attacks on Sen. Leila de Lima are far from over.
On Monday, the President said his nemesis should hang herself or resign from her post.
“If I were de Lima, ladies and gentleman, I’ll hang myself. Your life, as well as the innermost of your core as a female, is being serialized everyday,” Duterte said when interviewed in Samar where he visited the wake of PO1 Gary Cabaguing, who was killed during an anti-drug operation.
Duterte earlier slammed de Lima for being “immoral” for having an affair with her married driver, saying the latter profited from the illegal drug trade.
Yesterday, the President said de Lima should resign from her Senate post because she is no role model for women.
“Mag resign ka (You should resign). Wala kang ipakita…anong ipapakita mo sa mga babae (You have nothing to show. What are you going to tell women, follow me? [That] this is how to be a woman of the world?” Duterte said.
He admitted that his bad blood with de Lima started when she, as the chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights, investigated Duterte’s links to the Davao Death Squad (DDS), a vigilante group that killed suspected criminals in Davao City where Duterte served as mayor from 1998 to 2016.
Duterte said DDS stands for Davao Development System.
“That is what’s tough. When I was the mayor, she said she would prove that Duterte is the leader of the DDS. Why do you have to interpret it the wrong way?” the President said.
“Sino bang gustong pumatay (Who really wants to kill?) You think it is very easy to kill a fellow human being? You build the nation on the bones of your countrymen?” he added.
Neither weak nor guilty
But de Lima rejected Duterte’s advice.
While she admitted that she considered resigning because of the vicious attacks against her, she chose not to.
“After much reflection resignation at this point will be an admission of guilt and a sign of weakness and I’m neither weak nor guilty,” de Lima stressed.
The senator said she has no intention to attend the hearing of the House of Representatives on the alleged proliferation of drugs at the National Bilibid Prison during her term as Justice secretary.
“I have been adjudged guilty already by the President and do you think that House inquiry will be anything near fair to me?” de Lima said.
“I’m finished in so far as the President is concerned that is why he wants me to resign and then I will show up in that hearing? I won’t have any respect left for myself if I do that,” the senator added.
De Lima earlier said that she is willing to resign if the President can prove her alleged links to illegal drugs. | http://www.manilatimes.net/hang-yourself-or-resign-duterte-tells-de-lima/282903/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/fbaa3bdb129df8547b628ac606d2d1d88f5ffc4b0eeecd16f6ff779c3dbd28be.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Jefferson Antiporda",
"Catherine Talavera",
"Jing Villamente"
]
| 2016-08-26T14:50:04 | null | 2016-08-26T22:01:27 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fheros-burial-for-marcos-still-possible-suarez%2F282285%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Hero’s burial for Marcos still possible - Suarez | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | The Supreme Court (SC) can still rule in favor of a hero’s burial for former President Ferdinand Marcos despite its issuance of a 20-day status quo ante order that stopped the interment at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
House Minority Leader Danilo Suarez of Quezon made the pronouncement on Friday, or a day after President Rodrigo Duterte said the trauma from martial law during Marcos’ rule is gone.
“I would say [the SC]just issued that ruling to ventilate more issues but it could still turn to favor the hero’s burial. Come to think of it, most of the people today, majority of them young, know nothing about Marcos,” Suarez said in a phone interview.
“The President is right. The votes for Marcos Jr. are a manifestation that [the elder]Marcos is out of the picture now,” he added.
Suarez was referring to Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who is contesting results of the race for Vice President in the May 2016 elections.
Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, whose brother Hermon disappeared during military rule and is still missing earlier welcomed the High Court ruling.
“We truly appreciate this favorable development. That means to say that the Supreme Court will look very keenly at the arguments proffered by the petitioners [against the hero’s burial for Marcos],” Lagman said.
Suarez said the SC issuance of the status quo ante order snagging the hero’s burial for the former president that was earlier set for September 18, 2016 as ordered by President Duterte was just a temporary setback.
According to the Quezon lawmaker, the SC in issuing the ante order just gave the petitioners the opportunity to present their arguments.
It did not mean that “the SC is against the burial at the moment, the decision was intended to give the complainants the chance to present their side as part of the judicial process,” he explained.
Deputy Speaker and Capiz Rep. Fredenil Castro welcomed the SC order “as part of the judicial process.”
Deputy Speaker and Batangas Rep. Raneo Abu said the public should support the statement that the President made before the High Court issued the order that he would respect whatever decision the tribunal handed down.
Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Rodel Batocabe, president of the Party-List
Coalition, said the SC’s order is “a good respite from all the wrangling and heated debates brought about by a highly divisive issue like the Marcos burial.”
The SC rescheduled for August 31 oral arguments on six consolidated petitions against the hero’s burial for the former leader. | http://www.manilatimes.net/heros-burial-for-marcos-still-possible-suarez/282285/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/467fc4f587f3a92fe9e8e265c92ce786c7e8dbf855ef8d90aaab5166ab969e1c.json |
[
"Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-29T10:49:56 | null | 2016-08-29T18:02:55 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Findonesian-church-attacker-obsessed-with-is-leader%2F282741%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Indonesian church attacker ‘obsessed with IS leader’ | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | MEDAN, Indonesia: An Indonesian teenager who stabbed a priest in a church and tried to set off a homemade bomb was obsessed with the Islamic State (IS) group leader, a minister said Monday.
The 17-year-old attempted Sunday to set off the crude, low-grade explosive as the Catholic priest held mass in the packed church in Medan on Sumatra island, and then stabbed him with a knife.
The explosive, which authorities compared to a firecracker, did not detonate properly and only gave off smoke while the priest sustained minor injuries to his arm.
The congregation tackled the attacker after he ran at Father Albert Pandiangan and knifed him, stopping the teenager before he could do more harm.
Security Minister Wiranto said that the attacker was fixated on the leader of IS. The group’s influence has been blamed for a string of recent attacks and attempted attacks in Muslim-majority Indonesia.
“From the mobile phone confiscated by authorities, this kid is obsessed with Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi from ISIS,” the minister told reporters, referring to the jihadist group by a different name.
Wiranto, who like many Indonesians goes by one name, said the words “I love al-Baghdadi” were found written on the attacker’s backpack, although officials did not believe he had joined any terror network.
A search of his rented room turned up copper cables, gunpowder and light bulbs, materials that could be used to assemble simple bombs, said Wiranto.
The backpack he carried during the attack contained cut up sections of a pipe, packed with gunpowder. The devices were not capable of producing a serious explosion, said Wiranto.
An eyewitness said the assailant was seen fiddling in his bag, which produced a small explosion, before he ran towards the priest.
It was the latest attack that was either linked to or thought to be inspired by IS in Indonesia.
A suicide bombing and gun attack in the Indonesian capital in January claimed by IS killed four attackers and four civilians. In July an IS-linked suicide bomber attacked a police station on Java island, causing minor injuries to one officer.
Sunday’s incident was also the latest assault on a religious minority in Indonesia, which is home to substantial numbers of Christians, Hindus and Buddhists. AFP
AFP/CC | http://www.manilatimes.net/indonesian-church-attacker-obsessed-with-is-leader/282741/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/c000be3d8e55477cfba44d51ac9c23714b5269ca00df463b13c83cdb78d77800.json |
[
"Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-29T06:49:50 | null | 2016-08-29T14:15:04 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fexplosion-at-brussels-crime-lab-no-casualties-prosecutors%2F282718%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Explosion at Brussels crime lab, no casualties - prosecutors | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | BRUSSELS: An explosion at a criminology institute in Brussels early Monday has caused major damage but no casualties, prosecutors and the fire service said.
It was not immediately known what caused the blast, but a fire service spokesman said “it was probably not accidental.” AFP | http://www.manilatimes.net/explosion-at-brussels-crime-lab-no-casualties-prosecutors/282718/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/0536b29c365ee1ea120281e4abf11e59f3a039ab4427b1a07a2dcaa52bce6280.json |
[
"The Manila Times"
]
| 2016-08-28T10:49:34 | null | 2016-08-28T17:44:46 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ftaiwan-youth-ambassadors-visit-philippines%2F282551%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | Taiwan Youth Ambassadors visit Philippines | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Twenty bright and talented university students from the Republic of China (Taiwan) are in the Philippines until September 4 as part of the annual Taiwan Youth Ambassadorship Program.
Headed by Minister Odi Shri-ren Sun, they are scheduled to stage a public performance on August 31 at 4 p.m. at the Medicine Auditorium of the University of the Santo Tomas. Aside from the cultural performance, they will also visit the Philippine Senate, the governments of Makati and Tagaytay, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and prominent national newspapers.
With this year’s theme “Dynamic Youth, Friendly Taiwan,” Dr. Gary Song-Huann Lin, Representative of Taiwan (ROC) to the Philippines, said that the visit of the Taiwan Youth Ambassadors will further strengthen the growing people-to-people interactions between Taiwan and the Philippines.
They are here not only to reflect their goodwill and showcase the authentic Taiwanese culture, but also to enhance their understanding of the Philippines, as Taiwan and the Philippines are close neighbors.
The visit of the Taiwan Youth Ambassadors is very timely as the ROC (Taiwan) government, under newly elected President Tsai-Ing-wen, has launched the “New Southbound Policy.” Under this policy, the Philippines, which has always been on top of the agenda, will be the gateway and major partner for Taiwan to expand an array of multifaceted cooperation and partnership among ASEAN countries.
Based on the New Southbound Policy, Taiwan will speed up and broaden its cooperation with the Philippines not only in trade and investment, agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture, SMEs, ICT, climate change, but especially in education and culture which is well exemplified by the visit of the Taiwan Youth Ambassadors. | http://www.manilatimes.net/taiwan-youth-ambassadors-visit-philippines/282551/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/497604cb1e3b5aa1c5976f579d9dbae0279e36c5222c36a9b2ac035c4d4b2e9f.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Ben Kritz",
"Gilbert Chao"
]
| 2016-08-29T08:50:01 | null | 2016-08-29T16:10:26 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Ftoyota-garners-awards-in-regional-quality-circle-convention%2F282751%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/MNL-Times_250-x-250-logo.jpg | en | null | TOYOTA GARNERS AWARDS IN REGIONAL QUALITY CIRCLE CONVENTION | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) shone in the recently-concluded 36th Quality Circle Regional Convention (QCRC) as they received Gold and Silver awards for their presentations on quality improvement.
TMP’s “D’Bumpers” team was conferred a Gold award under the Production Category for their presentation showcasing improvements made in spot welding. “D’ Bumpers” will also represent TMP at the Productivity Improvement Circle National Convention (PICNC) to be held in Cagayan de Oro in September.
Under Team Category, TMP’s “D’ Big Brothers” bagged a Silver award and Best in Oral Defense for their presentation on improvements made in sealer application on fender liners.
Internally, Toyota continues to raise quality standards company-wide through Team Members’ constant practice of Kaizen (continuous improvement). In photo are members of the “D’ Bumpers” (from left) Jaypee Herrera, Angelo Bermil, Hernan Hernandez, Francis Benitez and Armando France during their presentation at the 36th QCRC. | http://www.manilatimes.net/toyota-garners-awards-in-regional-quality-circle-convention/282751/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/adc7808e3a70bbf2fcb8e1c82654729fc4405a9cdca5dc63dda12f1b76cd05c9.json |
[
"The Manila Times",
"Philippines News Agency",
"Anthony Vargas"
]
| 2016-08-27T16:49:15 | null | 2016-08-28T00:18:18 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.manilatimes.net%2Fclinton-emails-no-threat-to-white-house-bid%2F282529%2F.json | http://14255-presscdn-0-60.pagely.netdna-cdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/08/aguinaldo-1-300x198.jpg | en | null | Clinton: emails no threat to White House bid | null | null | www.manilatimes.net | WASHINGTON: Hillary Clinton said Friday she was certain no revelations from emails or foreign entities’ ties to her husband’s charitable foundation will derail her bid for the US presidency.
“I am sure, and I am sure because I have a very strong foundation of understanding about the foundation” and the good work it has done, the Democratic candidate said in an interview with MSNBC.
Clinton, who is leading in the polls, has come under withering scrutiny over whether Clinton Foundation donors received favored access at the State Department while she was secretary of state during President Barack Obama’s first term.
Republican rival Donald Trump earlier this week called for an independent investigation after a fresh batch of Clinton emails released as part of a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit showed foundation donors lobbying her top aides for access.
The Associated Press, meanwhile, reported that more than half the people outside government who met Clinton while she was secretary of state donated money to the Clinton Foundation.
“My work is not influenced by outside sources. I made policy decisions to keep Americans safe. I believe my aides also acted appropriately,” she said on MSNBC.
“We have gone above and beyond most of the legal requirements, beyond the standards to voluntarily disclose donors and to reduce sources of funding that raised questions — not that we thought they were necessarily legitimate, but to avoid those questions,” she said.
Clinton said her critics should look at the good work the foundation has done, for instance making low-cost HIV medicines available to millions around the world.
Bill Clinton announced this week that if his wife is elected, the foundation will accept only US contributions, that he will step down from the board and will no longer raise funds for the charity.
Asked why the foundation didn’t simply turn over its programs to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation or some other charity, she said it was now looking for partners.
“We are going to be testing that. That’s why the foundation is looking for partners and, you know, there are potential partners for some of the work but not necessarily the same partner for all of the work. I think winding down the program takes time.”
AFP | http://www.manilatimes.net/clinton-emails-no-threat-to-white-house-bid/282529/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.manilatimes.net/97b30296c532efabe450092364d7c3958a1393ef985216183107c8cb4f02173c.json |
[]
| 2016-08-28T22:50:48 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazetaesportiva.com%2Fcanal-do-torcedor%2Fnoel-salvador-ba%2F.json | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/wp-content/uploads/imagem/2016/08/28/WhatsApp-Image-2016-08-28-at-18.57.17x.jpeg | pt | null | Noel - Salvador - BA | null | null | www.gazetaesportiva.com | null | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/canal-do-torcedor/noel-salvador-ba/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.gazetaesportiva.com/87b8f92801bf7b8163f7ebabcc32d3bcebda2473f7e2a06b095ec02245f27f4b.json |
[]
| 2016-08-29T02:50:52 | null | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazetaesportiva.com%2Fcanal-do-torcedor%2Fjoao-lucca-santos-sp%2F.json | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/wp-content/uploads/imagem/2016/08/28/WhatsApp-Image-2016-08-28-at-22.11.05.jpeg | pt | null | João Lucca - Santos - SP | null | null | www.gazetaesportiva.com | null | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/canal-do-torcedor/joao-lucca-santos-sp/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.gazetaesportiva.com/de034ba5317fd2a1b8f6ee8c8b9a48d3a2fcbba4311f5df380dba18d1852f439.json |
[]
| 2016-08-29T16:51:01 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazetaesportiva.com%2Fcanal-do-torcedor%2Falberto-santo-andre-sp%2F.json | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/wp-content/uploads/imagem/2016/08/29/1-21.jpg | pt | null | Alberto - Santo André - SP | null | null | www.gazetaesportiva.com | null | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/canal-do-torcedor/alberto-santo-andre-sp/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.gazetaesportiva.com/314a648b9a2aecc7645c01e54a338abe5368e07f2a10235140cd07a9b65c8ea2.json |
[]
| 2016-08-29T18:51:01 | null | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazetaesportiva.com%2Fcanal-do-torcedor%2Fwellington-grajau-sp%2F.json | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/wp-content/uploads/imagem/2016/08/29/1-29.jpg | pt | null | Wellington - Grajau - SP | null | null | www.gazetaesportiva.com | null | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/canal-do-torcedor/wellington-grajau-sp/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.gazetaesportiva.com/52a0f57bde5c023f600a0104a28fd9fdb7247ea79e5413ccecd0fbe27f779547.json |
[]
| 2016-08-27T18:50:26 | null | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazetaesportiva.com%2Fcanal-do-torcedor%2Fjefferson-de-jesus-laranjal-do-jari-ap%2F.json | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/wp-content/uploads/imagem/2016/08/27/WhatsApp-Image-2016-08-27-at-15.01.05.jpeg | pt | null | Jefferson de Jesus - Laranjal do Jari - AP | null | null | www.gazetaesportiva.com | null | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/canal-do-torcedor/jefferson-de-jesus-laranjal-do-jari-ap/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.gazetaesportiva.com/e95b84bbb7e82fe4f6b8ea11109a4723a23c9405b9ec43f660d9f89b5c641c55.json |
[]
| 2016-08-30T22:51:24 | null | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazetaesportiva.com%2Fvideos%2Fmaicon-andrade-comenta-conquista-do-bronze-no-rio-2016%2F.json | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/wp-content/uploads/imagem/2016/08/30/A1_-_TV_Ao_Vivo_2016_08_30_18_07_49_Track5_853x480.jpg | pt | null | Maicon Andrade comenta conquista do bronze no Rio 2016 | null | null | www.gazetaesportiva.com | null | http://www.gazetaesportiva.com/videos/maicon-andrade-comenta-conquista-do-bronze-no-rio-2016/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.gazetaesportiva.com/cade5457eec177e3164c9b5c9267c4879699a75c411d3278e4b5a414db75e00e.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:54:39 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fengineered-timber-flooring-melbourne-the-most-durable-flooring-you-can-get%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/timber-flooring-300x248.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | Solid timber flooring Melbourne is surely one of the most popular methods of timber flooring now a day. However, if you want to ensure the durability of this type of flooring then you must buy the timber from the best places. Then only you will be able to find out the best quality timber and you will also get them at the most affordable prices.
Buy the right timber:
For doing any kind of timber flooring it will be extremely crucial to buy the right type of timber for your flooring work. Only a good and experienced supplier can give you the right idea about the best timber product which you can use for the flooring. They will also be able to give you the idea about in which quantity you need to use those words.
They will ensure that you always get the right quality timer which will assure the durability of the timber and flooring. The suppliers based in Melbourne deals with the hard woods which can surely give the durability for the flooring. They can supply a variety of woods for your work and this way you will get a huge range of options to choose for.
Where you can get the delivery:
If you consider the suppliers of timber in the city of Melbourne they will supply woods in anywhere in Australia. So, if your house is far away from the city of Melbourne that will not at all be a big problem for getting the supply of the woods. They will even take extremely reasonable money for the same. You can contact these suppliers and can say about the state in which the timbers have to be delivered.
Get discounts:
It is needless to say that these timbers are very much expensive. If you want to buy the quality timber for flooring you have to spend a good amount of money for that also. So, if you can get the discounts and offers at the time of buying timbers it will be extremely handy for you. In Melbourne the suppliers will ensure this fact as well. They will provide you good amount of discounts by using which you will be able to buy the timbers at the most reasonable price available in the market.
How to find the best suppliers:
Now, this is going to be one of the most crucial parts. You need to find out the best suppliers for yourself to get the best quality of timber. You can surf through online and you will surely find out the best suppliers of timbers in Melbourne. You can even check their rank and necessary customers’ reviews online. It will help you to understand that which suppliers can actually provide you the best service in the city. You should also check the variety of timbers the supplier has and the price range in which they will give you the timbers.
Engineered timber flooring Melbourne is surely now one of the best methods of making the flooring of your house which will be perfectly durable. You will get the best possible service at the most reasonable price. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/engineered-timber-flooring-melbourne-the-most-durable-flooring-you-can-get/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/a68089f7a5f197ebac5b40c4855ecd7a15d53b09d3a925b7e6ba3df472b4cd1c.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:49:30 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fadvantages-of-using-technologically-advanced-electric-beds%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Electric-Beds-300x200.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | Adjustable beds also known as electric beds are no longer associated with hospitals. These beds have now become quite popular as their rates are reasonable and they can be accessed easily. Simple controls allow the lower or upper parts of the bed to be lifted and lowered so that even a healthy body can rest better. These beds have been in existence for quite some time and are not a recent discovery.
Some of these beds have been specially designed to provide comfort to patients who are suffering from certain health conditions. Some of these beds are able to relieve or lessen pain as the position is considered good for the patient to rest in. Some postures of sleeping increase the circulation of blood and absorption of oxygen. A patient who has undergone surgery is unable to hold himself/herself in a particular position for long. Thus, this bed helps maintain the posture which assists in the healing process.
Therapeutic benefits
It is not necessary that these beds be used only by patients. Listed below are some positive impacts that an adjustable base bed offers to the body of an individual resting on it:
Reduces swelling
Improves circulation
Prevention of acid reflux
Breathing
Relief from back pain
Post surgery healing
When blood is not able to circulate in the body it often leads to swelling of legs and feet. When feet are at a level above the heart, circulation improves and this reduces the swelling, also known as Edema. The upper part of the body needs to be elevated by 45 to 60 degrees to offer relief after childbirth and in some cases also post surgery. Acid reflux results in serious heart burn as the contents of the stomach might leak into the esophagus. Keeping the head and chest elevated provides relief and an adjustable bed is more preferable over sleeping on a pile of pillows.
Another posture known as the zero gravity position eases back pain and maintains proper circulation of blood. When the head and feet both are placed slightly above the level of heart then this position can achieved. Other than these standard positions the bed can be adjusted to suit the personal requirements of any individual.
Advantages of electric beds
Some of the benefits provided by these special beds are listed below:
Massage benefits
Are able to relax in bed as it becomes more comfortable
Customized according to the requirements of couples
Fairly convenient
This bed can also be used to sit up and read even when in bed. You do not need a mound of pillows to sit upright. Using pillows might strain the back and you need not support yourself on your arm as well. You can enjoy the benefits of a recliner or a lounger and enjoy the day in comfort.
These beds do not appear weird in home since they have lost the connection of being the hospitable bed. Some of the more technologically advanced versions of these beds also provide additional features like alarm or massage. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/advantages-of-using-technologically-advanced-electric-beds/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/0eec5139295de4b0b65bc0eb4c8c667e0df3a3d452d0486b8eefcad09197fc60.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:50:00 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fthe-best-memory-foam-mattress-topper-for-a-peaceful-sleep%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/memory-foam-mattress1-300x300.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | For a more comfortable feeling, a mattress topper is a piece of bedding is placed on top of the mattress that can also be removed. If a mattress is very soft or needs to soften, a good quality topper will support the mattress without removing what the mattress has to offer.
One’s entire life is completely changed on purchase of the best memory foam mattress topper. Memory foam toppers are the best, since sleep positions are easily adjustable, relieve stress and when asleep, lessen movements. So, prior to making any decisions, it’s important to understand every feature of the mattress topper that’s available on sale.
The benefits of memory foam toppers are –
Most comfortable than rubber foam
Offer more body weight support
Don’t cause allergies like rubber foam
Mattress pad fits like a bed sheet
Never attracts bed bugs
No dust mites
Breathe better
Healthier sleep space
A lot has to be considered when purchasing a good quality memory foam mattress topper. All the vital factors and important product information should be understood. To avoid cases out of the blue and obtain the requisite ones, careful consideration is required. Some of the factors are:
Density: Every memory foam mattress topper offers various types of densities. Furthermore, a higher density topper is better, since it helps reduce stress points and sustains the body weight. The topper should even comprise of temperature control and made with durable materials. This ensures a proper sleep without any disturbance. A lot of people use 3 pounds memory foams extensively these days. Nevertheless, for body issues similar to chronic pain like back pain, joint pain and head pain, 4 pounds foams ought to be utilized.
Thickness: The common types of thickness are 1”, 2”, 3” and 4” toppers. Based on the existing mattress, choose one that is suitable. Moreover, keep in mind that different levels of comforts and feelings are offered by the type of its thickness.
Size: The topper that fits the bed should be chosen. This results in a good snooze. An ordinary topper comes in a lot of sizes for instance California, king, queen, full and twin. Ensure to purchase one which fits the mattress and bed as well. Prior to the purchase, check the existing mattress and bed size. Check the information cautiously for an idea regards the topper’s size.
Material Purity: Top most quality toppers ought to be prepared from a hypoallergenic fabric or same type of fabrics that don’t offer allergic effects. It should be capable of protecting one from dust mites, moulds and any allergic effects. The best topper is capable of taking care of body oils and other such things from soaking through to its internal fabric.
Warranty: It is recommended to choose products that offer an extensive warranty period. The best guarantee is offered by the manufacturers and merchants that provide durable and quality products that should last for very long periods.
Nevertheless, a topper is an investment for the home which helps ensure peaceful moments from sleepless nights. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/the-best-memory-foam-mattress-topper-for-a-peaceful-sleep/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/2963ed37097a9d29d113c7126e05147d7e11d635b926fc82b71bda14d5c6d3ba.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:54:08 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Flearn-woodworking-with-these-simple-tips-and-advice%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Learn-Woodworking-300x190.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | Do you love to work with wood? Have you tried doing it before or just wish to get better at what you already know about it? Regardless of your skill level, you can pick up a few helpful hints from this article. Learn more when it comes to this art form by reading this article.
As with anything involving power tools, safety is the number one concern in woodworking. Always use your tools in the way they were intended to be used and wear safety equipment at all times. Always keep safety guards in place on power tools. Avoid accidents by getting the best miter saw.
Try making sanding blocks that are reusable on your own. Make a list of each sandpaper grit that you typically use, and then cut a full six blocks for each from scrap plywood, 3/4″ thick. They need to be 2.5″ X4.75″. Apply spray adhesive to both the blocks and the cork tiles. Stick a block on your cork, then make certain you cut the cork flush with a utility knife. Put adhesive on the sandpaper sheet and then apply it to the cork blocks face down. Use a utility knife to trim the sandpaper around the edge of the block. Label each block.
Use your tin snips to make quick work of trimming wood laminate. These make cutting laminate much easier. You should buy tin snips that you will use specifically for cutting laminate to make sure they stay sharp.
if you’re using loud equipment for woodworking, always make sure to protect your ears. Working with wood can be very noisy. Too much exposure to these loud sounds can harm your hearing over time. Get a pair of inexpensive ear plugs, or buy a great pair of noise canceling headphones. Use them every time you use a machine.
If woodworking is new to you, one of the most important pieces of advice to take is to thoroughly read all plans and instructions before you begin anything. Be sure that no instructions are missing and that you understand the procedures. If there is something you don’t understand or something is missing, you could head to your home improvement store to see if someone there could offer suggestions.
Having a couple of beers when you are working on a project may seem like a good idea sometimes. However, working with a saw and drinking is a terrible combination. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while working with tools. Illegal and prescription drugs should also be avoided when working with woods.
Take the necessary safety precautions when you have the table saw out. If you are crosscutting, clamp a block to the fence when you want to set the cut length. This is safer and prevents board movement. This can save you from a serious injury during your project.
Woodworking is great for you, and now is the time to begin. Try not to feel intimidated. Just remember what you’ve learned from this article. With focus and dedication, you can improve your woodworking skills. The rest is just up to your creativity and practice. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/learn-woodworking-with-these-simple-tips-and-advice/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/486a55155a92dca1a9ce572f208d30ef6b4727fb97f31ca87618b628fd84d5e2.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:51:44 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fpurchase-electric-pressure-washers-for-all-purposes%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Electric-pressure-Washers-300x300.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | The new electric pressure cleaner is a machine that has made cleaning in and around the house super easy and efficient. It saves you time as well as money when you decide to go on a cleaning spree. Because of the latest technological innovations, the rules of science are being applied to even the most basic, household needs and chores. Even simple things like washers are becoming transformed, and certainly more time-saving and efficient, as people begin to embrace this sort of technology. Such is the principle behind something as simple, yet ingenious as the electric pressure washer.
Understanding the mechanism of the pressure washer
Before you can consider the uses of the pressure washer, it is important to understand what it actually is. It looks like a vacuum cleaner, and as suggested by the name, it runs on electricity. When you plug it is, a pressure is created inside the machine, whereby a strong jet of water is ejected by the nozzle, which is long and pointed, helping to direct it in any way you wish. One of the best things about this is that it is highly portable because it barely weights anything, and because it runs on electricity, it is also pollution-free. It is considered one of the best forms of cleaning tricky things.
The Uses of Pressure Washers
When you buy a pressure washer, rest assured, you will not have trouble cleaning anything anymore, in fact, in some cases you don’t even need to buy soap and other chemical cleaners, because the force of the jet of water is enough to remove all the dust and grime from surfaces and even nooks and crannies. With this machine, you can clean everything from the corners in your fence, to your car, your surfaces and other things, which you might otherwise have difficulty cleaning.
Perfect for Sensitive Cleaning Jobs
The electric pressure washer is designed to eject water at a speed and force which is 25% more than the force of water that comes out of a hose. This thin and fast jet ensures that you can displace sticky and tricky pieces of dirt and grime from places that you previously thought was inaccessible. This machine has made life easier for a lot of people. You can even clean large objects like your car in a matter of minutes. One of the best things about this machine is that you can adjust the pressure, depending on what you are cleaning at the moment.
How To Buy The Best Cleaner
If you are wondering how to buy a good cleaner then this article will help you surely. You have to consider certain things before you actually buy a cleaner. One is how and when you plan to use it, and then again, you also have to consider the amount of space that you have to store it. After consideration certain other factors, you can pick out the best electric pressure washer for your home, and you will realize what a blessing it is to have around. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/purchase-electric-pressure-washers-for-all-purposes/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/632d0c3513a6d8b1a658b35873f49fe9c4bd45f2e0a2075b9a271dfae91693dc.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:52:46 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fwhat-should-you-look-for-when-hiring-an-excellent-painter%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/hiring-an-excellent-painter-300x212.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | If you are looking to color your house and making it magnificent, then you should have the knowledge of some fundamental factors. You may think that the painting of a house is a very easy task and simply possible by any painter. But, this is not true. There are several factors which are responsible for making your house beautiful.
The decoration of a house is an art which was started from ancient times. It is fully dependent on the quality of colours, proper methodologies, knowledge or good experience of painters and their honesty. Sometimes, you spend a lot of money for coloring your house, but do not get the aesthetic beauty that you desire. Therefore, in case of selecting a professional or a company, you should be careful about some essential factors such as the experience, feedback of customers, cost, and services with former customers of that company.
What factors should you look at?
In modern age, there is the availability of various companies in the competitive market. So, you face difficulties in the time of selecting a good company. You may be recommended by your neighbor about a company and take services from them without determining anything by yourself. However, you should always judge by yourself in case of choosing any services. Similarly, in this regard, you must consider some factors. These factors are – | http://www.diariolacalle.net/what-should-you-look-for-when-hiring-an-excellent-painter/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/8db5b7e38d45c7a7a0656b60bd7031657b0fe905dacffd981eeb0b6aafbffaee.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:48:37 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fthings-to-consider-before-purchasing-a-sleeper-sofa%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/leather-sectional-sleeper-sofa-300x182.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | Well, what you see is what you get, most likely said. The same can be said about a comfortable home. Its content after all characterizes the persons breathing in there too. If the house is untidy and seems to be messy, this would rather make guest think the people living within are careless, irresponsible, crazy and irrational. So, the first thing one can do is, change the furnishings. This way a new environment can be set up and what is needed is a leather sectional sleeper sofa that sets up the place around the idea.
The sleeper sofa offers both the comfort and purpose of a bed and sofa for the same price. Moreover, it is good for everybody and especially well-suited for adults to help recuperate their body and mind through sleep. The mind and body is kept alert with a good night sleep in comfort. Therefore, the best sleeper sofa is intended for leisure, comfortable sleep and come with anywhere seating support.
Moreover, there are quite a few things to consider before purchasing one.
Practical Purchasing Decision – Think about the quality of the produce. The brand name does not signify it’s of high quality and standard. What is relevant is that it guarantees value for money while providing comfort and style.
Product Compatibility – It consists of bedding of regular sizes, so extra accessories are not required. It is also foldable to maximise space and designed for elegance and flair, hence will always remain stylish
Product Uses – Consider who will use the product, prior to purchasing. The best quality leather sleeper sofa can be utilized either by family, relatives and also guests.
Its amazing features include:
Fabric and Upholstery – 100% leather especially designed for comfort, elegance and flair
Additional Features – Consist of a sinuous spring and pocket coil cushion
Product Compatibility – Shipped in two cartons that fits through the door
Comfortable and Relaxed feeling – Provides a relaxed experience especially while watching the television and provides a peaceful and comfortable sleep.
No further bumpy and hard sofas – High flexibility foam cushions offer a cosy and soft feeling. It assists in a better sleeping posture.
No further disturbances – No worries about awaking with shoulder, neck and pack aches or falling down. It has soft and comfortable cushions and lengthy enough, ensuring a full sleep.
Stain Resistant – Its black leather top is highly stain-resistant and hence easily cleaned.
A leather sectional sleeper sofa makes the most use of the available limited space and offers two utilities i.e. seating and sleeping, for the price of one. Moreover, most reviews explain clients appreciating purchasing the leather sectional sleeper sofa. They are happy with its convenience and affordable price.
Hope this is of some help while considering all the options on saving your finances. Don’t look any further; the best decision ever is the leather sectional sleeper sofa, for its long lasting nature. So, if you’re looking to buy a good quality and reasonably priced leather sectional sleeper sofa, what makes you wait? | http://www.diariolacalle.net/things-to-consider-before-purchasing-a-sleeper-sofa/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/83031aa4aef28362334b3bf891789784c7ebf6f86cd3a55f8f2475a093423734.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:52:14 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fthe-answer-to-your-electric-needs%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/electrical-services-278x300.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | Electricity has become a part of our life – as significant as water, air and food. Connection to appliances that make lives much easier and less troublesome is through this pulsating life line. Thus, it comes as no shock that there is a huge demand for expert and reliable technicians who can manoeuvre even the most complicated and latest technologies. That is where Raw Electrical Services come into the picture. If there is a problem with your electric line or cable wiring, your telephone line or your data line- whatever you want, they provide the perfect solution. They undertake both commercial as well as residential projects. The wide array of services provided includes:
Data: Network installation either by phone or by internet. All points will be patched through. This includes data cabling, phone cabling and telephone system cabling.
Electrical installations: Installing new points for switches or power points.
MDF connections: Connect your line either to your residence or work place by resorting to MDF jumpering.
Renovation: For renovating premises, extra points of connection can be added by simultaneously consulting with the other party thereby making the job much easier.
Maintenance: Faulty fittings are repaired. If the fittings are beyond repair, they are replaced with new fittings. Globe replacement, emergency lighting and exit tests, rewiring, smoke alarm tests, all are part of the maintenance brochure. They also provide safety checks followed by detailed reports and if need be, repairs and service if required.
Extra outlets for telephone: For easier usage, extra phone points for the same number or a different number can be obtained. This allows usage of multiple lines at the same time. It is ideal for large homes and offices.
Upgrading of switch boards: Switches of new technology which are safe and efficient can be replaced in place of old circuit breakers and fuses. These include-
Sensors used in security lighting
Installation of smoke detectors
Upgrading 2 phase to 3 phase
Coaxial cabling
Wall mounting of television without any visible wires
New Antenna points
Installing timer
Maintenance and repairs: Enrol yourself for a maintenance service or in case of need, contact the company via phone and immediate service is provided. The technicians will determine the problem and carry out the necessary actions.
Apart from gaining credibility for excellent work in minimum amount of time, Raw Electrical’s services are also recognised for its vast area of service. They have provided services for business as well as residential sites in regions falling under North shore areas to Ryde. If you do not know what modification can be made to your existing electrical system visit www.rawelectrical.com.au to determine the service you require and get a free quote. They also assist under times of duress, as they have technicians available round the clock. Free inspections are also a part of their services, which often enable people to know the state of their electrical system and do the necessary if need be. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/the-answer-to-your-electric-needs/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/593ce4a3653352543dfcc57b84f93a3af6dbedaed1368c57768f3801176bd0a0.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:51:12 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Foverview-of-an-exclusive-router%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Bosch-router-280x300.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | If you are a professional woodworker or a carpenter and want to save your precious time in the sense of making many things from wood, then a good device should be availed. Many people also like to do woodworking tasks by themselves and at their homes, instead of going to a professional carpenter. It also saves their expenses. For this purpose, one often requires a useful device called wood router. This device is popularly used in various workshops, generally where woodworking is done. It is nothing, but an electronic gadget that is operated by a motor.
Nowadays, there is the availability of wide range of routers for cutting wood. But, none of them can be compared with Bosch 1617evspk router with respect to the quality as well as performance. With 25000 revolutions per minute and the speediest motor, it operates a number of hard tasks within a minute.
Extraordinary aspects and advantages
Surely, this product has some exceptional qualities, or else, it can never be considered as a top-notch product in the market. These exclusive aspects are mentioned below –
The most important part of any electronic instrument is its motor. The motor controls the overall system. So, the working capacity of a device is increased with the power of a motor. The good thing is that a high-speed motor is used in this device. The maximum speed of this motor is 25000 rpm whereas the minimum speed limit is 8000 rpm. Due to the difference in speed, it features a dial which has variable options for different speed values.
This device offers two bases. The first one is fixed (Ra1161) and another is plunge (Ra11166). Both bases make the controlling of this device easier.
The handles of this device are designed for decreasing effort and increasing efficiency.
There is no hassle for starting this device. It offers smooth starting.
It offers a useful case in which all necessary items can be easily carried.
The dimension of this product is 6.2 X 19.5 X 14.5 inches.
The weight of the entire product is only 18.2 lb. Due to its light weight, it is the preferable choice for many of the customers.
Now on the design, it offers an eye-catching look, which no doubt attracts the customers easily.
The last thing is that it provides 1-year warranty from the buying time.
The price is also very reasonable.
Working with the Bosch wood router
The Bosch wood router is very simple device. With very little effort, difficult work can be easily accomplished with it. It can perform many types of tasks on wood.
Start the device by pressing ‘on’ switch present on the motor. Before using it, the customers should know the details of its two types of bases. The base which is fixed used for cutting any round shaped piece from wood. The depth of the required piece can be adjusted by it. On the other hand, very small or accurate design can be achieved by another type of base. A new user must read the manual before using it.
So, the Bosch router is without any doubt, a key device that has an excellent capacity in terms of woodworking. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/overview-of-an-exclusive-router/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/8bfd60c0750f79ceb77e865be78a669e93c6af6bea19b190e67acf93f3853377.json |
[
"Posted Admin"
]
| 2016-08-26T12:49:03 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diariolacalle.net%2Fwoodwork-for-rookies%2F.json | http://www.diariolacalle.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/woodworking-projects-300x273.jpg | en | null | Home Remodeling: Design Ideas, Pictures | null | null | www.diariolacalle.net | Do you like woodworking? Woodworking is a very interesting hobby to pick up and it is also a good time pass. If you do, given below are few of the projects you can take up. The ones listed below are easy to make. It will not be difficult to get the hang of how to make the items and you can get great satisfaction when an item is complete. These beginner woodworking projects will also increase your skills with wood.
Jewellery Box
You can store all your jewellery, expensive watches, valuable items and other small things. Making a jewellery box is very simple and it should be the first woodwork you should do. This jewellery box can be very elegant in looks that you can even present it to someone. This is an ideal project to start on, you will also learn how to make small cuts, make use of a biscuit joiner and also in applying the felt liner. It will stand out where ever you place it.
Wineglass showcase
If you have a bar cum living-room, the most ideal thing you can make is a wineglass display shelf. It will add to the decoration in the house, and make it very showy. Not only on looks but also a shelf to keep the wineglasses. Having one in the kitchen will be ideal too! Avoid making a complex shelf like the traditional one, since after all you’re just a rookie. A simple one will blend well with almost any background, and since it has four easy parts, it will be much easier to build.
Rack for CD
If you have a collection of CDs, building a rack will make storing them look a lot neater and easy to take out and put back, instead of just stacking them up. You can organise them in any order, and getting a CD will be quick. Building a cross-halving joint rack which is traditional is very complex, yet it can hold about 35 CD cases. It’s better to build a simple one, once you get the hang of it making more won’t be an issue.
Curio Shelf
If you like to buy curios and don’t have a place to display them, making a curio shelf will just do the job. Displaying your nice curio collection on your curio shelf made by you, can give you a sense of pride. Having it in the living room will add brightness and give an attractive look too the house as soon as guests enter. It is one of the easiest projects and will hardly take any time to build.
Nesting tray
If you have guests visiting you often, serving them snacks in these trays will make it convenient and it will also look presentable. Theses trays are pretty simple to build. By using riveted joints and cut out handles, you can easily build your own. It is a good way to serve guests.
All of these ideas mentioned above about woodworking are very simple to build and can be done in your free time. It is a great way to keep you occupied and also be creative. | http://www.diariolacalle.net/woodwork-for-rookies/ | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.diariolacalle.net/05a1658f087b12b7af3ae32d7caf70b9372f6e045643b14ea49d3f4ec2767cac.json |
[]
| 2016-08-26T12:50:52 | null | null | Indigenous Herald is a public affairs magazine launched in June 2006, exclusively for North Eastern states of India. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.indigenousherald.com%2Findex.php%2Fnews-alert%2F11-promotion-of-higher-education-in-tribal-area.json | http://www.indigenousherald.com/plugins/system/jat3/jat3/base-themes/default/images/favicon.ico | en | null | Promotion of Higher Education in Tribal Area | null | null | www.indigenousherald.com | News Alert
Promotion of Higher Education in Tribal Area
New Delhi
In order to focus attention in universities located in backward/rural/remote/border areas, the Universities Grants Commission (UGC) has been implementing a scheme, namely, “Special Development Grant for Universities in Backward Areas” to strengthen their available infrastructure and to create additional basic infrastructure. The UGC has also been implementing a scheme to provide
assistance to eligible colleges located in rural/remote/border/hill/tribal areas for providing accommodation for teachers and students on rental basis, development of location specific curricula, and for providing conveyance allowance to eligible poor students.
Indira Gandhi National Tribal Open University, with its headquarters at Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh, has been established as a teaching and affiliating university to promote avenues of higher education and research for the tribal population in the country. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is responsible for enhancing education through distance mode including in remote tribal areas, and for promoting coordinating and determining standards in open learning and distance education Systems.
The National Mission on Education through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been envisaged as a Centrally sponsored scheme to leverage the potential of ICT in teaching and learning process for the benefit of all learners in Higher Education Institutions in any time and any where mode. A new scheme has been envisaged in the XI Plan to provide financial assistance to State Governments to set up a model degree college in each of the 374 educationally backward districts, identified including tribal districts identified by UGC in the country, where the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher Education is less than the national GER. December 10, 2009
Source: PIB | http://www.indigenousherald.com/index.php/news-alert/11-promotion-of-higher-education-in-tribal-area | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.indigenousherald.com/c2fcc3f4b8fd936f27a832b2214c67f7adc971d58ae99a9074e3362933256522.json |
[]
| 2016-08-30T12:49:33 | null | null | Azi | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eazi.ro%2Fstil-de-viata%2Fscapat-de-sub-control.json | http://www.eazi.ro/images/favicon.ico | null | null | Scăpat de sub control | null | null | www.eazi.ro | null | http://www.eazi.ro/stil-de-viata/scapat-de-sub-control | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.eazi.ro/fbe26794d097cf8604ae54adaf8be8c0035c9a022a09ac464efcc6125a0f9908.json |
[]
| 2016-08-31T12:49:54 | null | null | Azi | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eazi.ro%2Fsport%2Frecord-mondial-la-100m-mixt.json | http://www.eazi.ro/images/favicon.ico | null | null | Record mondial la 100m mixt | null | null | www.eazi.ro | null | http://www.eazi.ro/sport/record-mondial-la-100m-mixt | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.eazi.ro/b52830bfeb8e724e02774c5a0462d64e9be560fd591c1ce8b54f6ce91724711e.json |
[
"Craig Anderson"
]
| 2016-08-27T06:46:12 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pressandjournal.com%2F113-news%2Fsend-news-to-us%2F113-fill-send-us-your-news.json | http://www.pressandjournal.com/113-news/send-news-to-us/113-fill-send-us-your-news | pl | null | Send Us Your News | null | null | www.pressandjournal.com | null | http://www.pressandjournal.com/113-news/send-news-to-us/113-fill-send-us-your-news | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pressandjournal.com/031f9d90d2d4aad3b7695c5a3aad218520aead23cd3bb2893b176b2bef16916a.json |
[]
| 2016-08-26T13:05:43 | null | 2016-08-24T07:00:00 | A central midfielder is at the top of Fleetwood’s head coach Uwe Rosler’s wish-list with the closure of the transfer window just a week away. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffleetwood-town%2Fftfc-latest%2Fmidfielder-is-top-target-for-fleetwood-1-8085190.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8085189.1471997264!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Midfielder is top target for Fleetwood | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | A central midfielder is at the top of Fleetwood’s head coach Uwe Rosler’s wish-list with the closure of the transfer window just a week away.
Rosler has added three players to his senior squad since replacing Steven Pressley a week before the season began.
Burnley striker Chris Long, who has featured in the last two games, and Manchester City’s George Glendon have arrived on loan, while midfielder Martyn Woolford is lined up for a debut at Southend on Saturday following his move from Sheffield United.
But Rosler would like to add another midfielder if the club can find the right man.
The Town boss said: “Seeing how the club is in terms of budget, I don’t think we will be very busy (before next Wednesday’s deadline).
“We will try to maybe get the right player at the right price but a lot of teams are trying to do the same thing.
“I think ideally I would add another midfield player because I think it is needed with the way we play. I need to have the options to rotate.”
Rosler believes the left-footed Woolford will strengthen the side with his versatility and experience.
The 30-year-old former Scunthorpe and Millwall player signed on a one-year contract last Friday.
Woolford fell out of favour at Bramall Lane and hasn’t played this season, and Rosler believes his desire to prove his old employers wrong will benefit the side.
The Town boss said: “I think it is a very good signing for us. We can’t double up in every position, so we need players who are versatile.
“Martyn is 30 years old and can play everywhere on the left side – left attack, left midfield and left full-back.
“We don’t have too many left-footers who can play so many positions.
“When you have a small squad like we do, I think it is very important that you have players who are versatile and have experience.
“I think he will help us in terms game management, game knowledge, and I think our young players will learn from him.
“He is a very good pro, who comes here wanting to prove a point to his former club.
“I think that is great for us to get such a motivated player.” | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/sport/fleetwood-town/ftfc-latest/midfielder-is-top-target-for-fleetwood-1-8085190 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/9a42c4924e8579930f853b887ae69eb044e96387da5b5bbc3b6e31524fcbac17.json |
[]
| 2016-08-27T10:48:54 | null | 2016-08-27T10:53:18 | Police in Blackpool want to speak to this woman after the theft of a pensioner’s handbag in the resort. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fpolice-appeal-after-theft-from-handbag-1-8092213.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8092212.1472292272!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Police appeal after theft from handbag | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | Police in Blackpool want to speak to this woman after the theft of a pensioner’s handbag in the resort.
Money and bank cards were stolen from the elderly woman’s bag at an address on St Annes Road, Blackpool.
The victim’s son, aged 61, met the woman outside Ma Kelly’s Public House on Lytham Road at around 11.15pm on Friday August 19.
They travelled back to the man’s address on Lytham Road, when the woman told him she was going out to make a phone call.
However, the woman didn’t return and the man then discovered that bank cards and around £60 cash had been stolen from his 80-year-old mother’s bag.
PC Ian Byrne from Blackpool Police said: “If you recognise this woman or have any information that could assist us, please get in touch.”
Anyone with information can all police on 101 quoting incidentLC-20160820-0108. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/news/local/police-appeal-after-theft-from-handbag-1-8092213 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/ec2989653769a311b1c9903679e2f43bb6af30a47292e3a45ea3fa903a816679.json |
[]
| 2016-08-30T18:49:50 | null | 2016-08-30T17:43:52 | Members of Fleetwood Lifeboat will say a fond farewell to their old lifeboat vessel tonight (Tuesday). | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fchance-to-say-fond-farewell-to-old-lifeboat-1-8096566.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8096569.1472575693!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Chance to say fond farewell to old lifeboat | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | Members of Fleetwood Lifeboat will say a fond farewell to their old lifeboat vessel tonight (Tuesday).
The Fleetwood station received a £2.2m state-of-the-art Shannon Class vessel, Kenneth James Pierpoint, at the end of June.
And that spelt the end of Tyne class vessel William Street’s time at Fleetwood, after 27 years of active service.
As part of their farewell ceremony on Tuesday (August 30), the lifeboat crew will launch William Street at 8.30pm and take her for one last trip up the Wyre channel, accompanied by the inshore lifeboat, Mary Elizabeth Barnes.
The lifeboat will then make her way to Fleetwood Marina, where she’ll be lifted out of the water and taken to RNLI HQ in Poole, Dorset, on the back of a truck.
That journey should take around six or seven hours by road, but if the William Street had gone by sea the voyage would have taken the best part of week, meaning crew members would be out of action for too long a time.
Fleetwood lifeboat’s Captain Dave Eccles said, ‘It’s obviously very sad to see her go, she’s got us out of some tight spots over the years.
“But she’s helped us saved lives for 27 years and now it’s time for her to step aside and let the new generation lifeboat, the Shannon class, take over.”
The volunteer lifeboat crew from Fleetwood hope friends and supporters will want to say their own farewell to the William Street as well.
Members of the public should get a good view of its final voyage from the Esplanade, Fleetwood, on Tuesday evening, at 8.30pm. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/news/local/chance-to-say-fond-farewell-to-old-lifeboat-1-8096566 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/14468fbfc0155a23b80bd3fb4154a364fa23b87ab02079e9d294ea0e56aa5824.json |
[]
| 2016-08-30T12:48:33 | null | 2016-08-30T11:58:29 | A Blackpool woman is preparing to premier her first short film having made the stop from in front of to behind the camera. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fentertainment%2Flindsay-creates-a-film-sure-to-be-remembered-1-8095642.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8095638.1472554685!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Lindsay creates a film sure to be remembered | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | A Blackpool woman is preparing to premier her first short film having made the stop from in front of to behind the camera.
And Lindsay Bennett has chosen her home town to provide the backdrop and talent for short film Lions, Tigers and Bears which is set to feature as part of the Other World’s Festival later this year.
Scenes from Lions, Tigers and Bears, by Lindsay Bennett
Actor Lindsay sunk her own cash into the production, which is up for consideration to be screened at 55 other festivals around the world.
The drama short about the fear of being forgotten and the consequences of wanting to be remembered and follows Alfie, a successful but ageing rock star and his manager Juliette who has dedicated her life and career to his success. When Alfie explains that he wants to quit while people still know who he is, Juliette has a bigger plan to make sure his name will always be remembered.
The film was shot at Berlin Studios in Bispham and at Bootleg Social in Topping Street.
And Linsday, 36, a former Greenlands High School Pupil, was keen to get local talent involved.
It’s my first film so I’ve financed it myself which was a big step given I’m due to get married
Blackpool band Sound of Superstring provided the soundtrack with Paul Horrocks from the band taking the role of Alfie.
Lindsay said: “I’d written a couple of solo theatre shows, it seemed a logical progression from acting.
“I’ve been involved in a few independent films and I wanted to see if I could make the jump from in front of to behind the camera.
“It’s my first film so I’ve financed it myself which was a big step given I’m due to get married.
“But I wanted to do it and I had a very clear vision.
“I knew I wanted Paul Horrocks for the part.
“We wanted to use local talent.”
A production company from Bolton, which Lindsay had worked with previously as an actor, shot the film with the first-time director adamant everybody should be paid industry rates.
“It was a big undertaking,” said Lindsay.
“But I’m glad we did it.
“It’s a film which deals with some quite serious themes.
“I hope it will be well received.” Executive producer on the film was Rick Thompson, the man behind Blackpool’s Other World’s Festival.
And he was keen to have Linsday’s film screened as part of the event.
Lions, Tigers and Bears will be shown at the Regal Cinema in Church Street during the festival which runs from October 13 to October 16.
Lindsay, who also co-stars in the short, is hoping her work will be seen in wider circles to.
She said: “It’s been submitted for 55 festivals around the world.
“You never know with those but hopefully we’ll be able to show off what Blackpool has to offer on some international screens.” | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/what-s-on/entertainment/lindsay-creates-a-film-sure-to-be-remembered-1-8095642 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/133a2ad4d05bf79e73e855be8593ef4e7bf2972a8df4aa50dabed8f9ef5236a1.json |
[]
| 2016-08-27T16:48:33 | null | 2016-08-27T16:00:36 | Chris Long’s first goal for Fleetwood Town gave them a half-time lead at Southend. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffleetwood-town%2Fftfc-latest%2Flong-strike-gives-fleetwood-half-time-lead-1-8092454.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8092453.1472310017!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Long strike gives Fleetwood half-time lead | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | Chris Long’s first goal for Fleetwood Town gave them a half-time lead at Southend.
Chris Long’s first goal for Fleetwood Town gave them a half-time lead at Southend.
The loan striker from Burnley took Amari’i Bell’s pass to fire home from outside the area on 18 minutes.
Town boss Uwe Rosler recalled Bobby Grant and Devante Cole in an attacking line-up and it was Grant who had their first opportunity after five minutes, firing over from Nathan Pond’s pass.
All the chances of note were falling fleetwood’s way as an Eggert Jonsson header was cleared off the line by Jason Demetriou.
Cole had a shot blocked and Pond headed just wide from a corner as a Fleetwood second goal looked far more likely than an equaliser for the hosts.
Indeed, Ryan Leonard’s drive over the bar two minutes before the break was Southend’s first opening of note.
They ended the half strongly, however, as Luke O’Neill’s effort forced Chris Neal into his first save of the afternoon. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/sport/fleetwood-town/ftfc-latest/long-strike-gives-fleetwood-half-time-lead-1-8092454 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/e1276677ba2038895b59dd9afe51e26fc8892ac6fafb3cae35c16e3475b3db47.json |
[]
| 2016-08-26T13:03:55 | null | 2016-08-26T08:05:43 | Chris Neal highlighted an important issue for Fleetwood Town to tackle in training this week – dealing with second balls. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffleetwood-town%2Fftfc-latest%2Fneal-hopes-hard-work-pays-off-1-8090036.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8090035.1472195126!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Neal hopes hard work pays off | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | Chris Neal highlighted an important issue for Fleetwood Town to tackle in training this week – dealing with second balls.
The Town number one shone at Bolton last weekend, pulling off a number of fine stops, including a sharp double save.
However, Bolton won 2-1 after overturning David Ball’s opener for Town – and speed of reaction to the second ball was a factor.
First, Amri’i Bell cleared David Wheater’s header off the line but Gary Madine was first to the rebound and fired home.
Then Conor Wilkinson’s header across the box dropped fortuitously to Kaiyne Woolery before Josh Vela steamed in to scored the winner.
And Neal says that being first to such rebounds and ricochets is something Town are working on ahead of Saturday’s trip to Southen.
The 30-year-old former Shrewsbury and Port Vale keeper said: “What we have been told is that second balls in this league are the ones that we need to concentrate on.
“Unfortunately we did not do that at Bolton, but we are work on that on the training ground this week and for the rest of the season.
“But Uwe Rosler (head coach) told us to keep our heads up as there is no point sulking about it.
“We put in a good performance at Bolton. We have not been outplayed and we move on to the next game.
“The most important thing is the team, but personally it was good to pull off some saves at Bolton.”
Neal is encouraged to see his new club playing without fear this season.
He added: “We went to Bolton with nothing to fear and I think that showed.
“We were disappointed not to come away with any points – we should have at least come away one.
“I think we showed against Leeds (in the EFL Cup-tie which Town lost on penalties) that we don’t fear anyone.
“The manager has instilled that in us and all the coaching staff.
“It means that when we are going away to some of the bigger clubs in the league, like Bolton and Charlton, we are not fearing anything.”
Neal is expecting a physical test at Southend tomorrow, similar to the one he experience on his debut in the 1-1 draw at Northampton on the opening day.
The St Albans-born keeper, who began his career at Preston, added: “We move on now and we have a big game again on Saturday.
“I’m expecting a similar game to the one at Northampton.
“They have quite a small pitch and are a physical team – that is how they look to play.
“It is going to be a tough game but we have a full week to prepare and we will go there looking to pick up some points.” | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/sport/fleetwood-town/ftfc-latest/neal-hopes-hard-work-pays-off-1-8090036 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/437f74b2ca9376885f22e9794e303b823354dbbeb2afb05825556f99d74144d5.json |
[]
| 2016-08-26T12:49:39 | null | 2016-08-24T14:04:20 | A former Fleetwood man who is well known as a musician on the Fylde coast and beyond has released a new album. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fdarrel-hits-the-right-note-with-new-album-1-8086163.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8086162.1472043846!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Darrel hits the right note with new album | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | A former Fleetwood man who is well known as a musician on the Fylde coast and beyond has released a new album.
Darrel Treece-Birch, who is the keyboardist for rock bands Ten and Nth Ascension, also enjoys writing his own material in an ambient, progressive style.
The 49 year old, who lives in Cleveleys, is set to release his second solo album – No More Time, which he believes is his most ambitious work.
Darrel, a married father-of-two who has been involved with local bands for more than 30 years, says the new work is a personal account of birth, maturation and eternal existence.
It is certainly a deeply thought work, and Darrel’s son Luke, who is art student, worked with him on the album’s striking cover.
Aside from the keyboards, Darrel also plays drum and bass on the album, but he has called on some of his music colleagues and friends to help as guest artists.
He said: “My main instrument is the keyboards but I am no guitar ace or lead vocalist, so I brought in some of the members from Ten and Nth Ascension and Counterparts to help.I sing backing vocals but the main singer is Karen Fell. I first wrote some of the songs on this album 20 years ago, including one when my father died, and over the years I’ve put them aside.”
Darrel, who is married to Sarah, works by day for St Annes Town Council as an events manager.
But his real love is music and already the album has received excellent reviews from music writers from as far afield as Argentina, Brazil, Europe and Japan.
Darrel added: “Over the years I’ve been lucky to work with some brilliant musicians.”
The album is available on CD and digitally, via Melodic Revolutions Rceords, from Amazon and Spotify. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/news/darrel-hits-the-right-note-with-new-album-1-8086163 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/9b3e4798b8a04a3db1204bfdae59ea959ba737021f1dfd72ff729b2510e54f28.json |
[]
| 2016-08-26T13:10:14 | null | 2016-08-24T13:00:02 | A gambler who lost tens of thousands of pounds over the years smashed a roulette machine with a stool because he was losing money. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fcrime%2Ffleetwood-from-the-courts-24-08-16-1-8085838.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8019726.1472051228!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Fleetwood: From the courts 24-08-16 | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | A gambler who lost tens of thousands of pounds over the years smashed a roulette machine with a stool because he was losing money.
Paul Nuttall said he had once banned himself from the betting shop but the bookies had wooed him with incitements to gamble and coupons.
Nuttall, a 42-year-old painter and decorator, formerly of Park Road, Fleetwood, now of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to causing damage.
He was sentenced to pay £609 compensation to the bookmakers by Blackpool magistrates who imposed no other penalty.
Prosecutor, Martine Connah, said on January 11 about 9pm Nuttall was playing on a roulette machine at Betfred, Lord Street, Fleetwood.
The manager there had known him for about three years and considered him a friend.
Nuttall was losing money on the machine and said: “I’m going to throw a stool at the machine in a minute.”
The manager knew Nuttall had had a drink and told him not to be daft and to go home.
Nuttall then picked up the stool and threw it, smashing the glass.
The manager said he was gobsmacked as he had never known Nuttall to behave like that.
Nuttall had been given a caution by the police on the condition he paid full compensation for the damage, but he did not pay.
Nuttall told magistrates: “I can’t defend smashing the machine, it was ridiculous. I have had a gambling habit of 11 years.
“I have lost tens of thousands of pounds. What I did was the culmination of that.”
• A Bulgarian kebab shop worker walked down a main shopping street and then suddenly pounced on a teenage girl groping her groin.
Muhamed Mahmud committed the offence as the 17 year old victim and her friends walked down Victoria Street West in Cleveleys.
Mahmud had drunk more than half-a-bottle of American whiskey on his day off work from The Best Kebab on the same street,Blackpool, Magistrates were told.
He pleaded guilty to indecent assault and to being drunk and disorderly.
Pam Smith, prosecuting, said that the defendant had been seen apparantly fighting with a friend on the tram tracks.
Police separated the two men and as they were arresting Mahmud, who also wrestles professionall,y when the officers were approached by the 17-year-old who told them about being assaulted earlier.
“He had followed her down the street then got in front of her and suddenly grabbed her groin. It was very upsetting for the victim,” said the prosecutor.
Howard Green, defending, said: “This man intends to go back to Bulgaria in the near future.He had been drinking heavily before ewhat happened and apologises profusely.”
The defendant was given 16 weeks jail suspended for a year,ordered to pay his victim £100 compensation and placed on a 12 week curfew.
• A woman was unable to attend court because she was having surgery in hospital.
Danielle Salisbury, 30, of Eamont Place, Fleetwood, who is accused of stealing a woman’s purse valued at £45, had her case adjourned by Blackpool magistrates.
• A Fleetwood man walked into the port’s police station and admitted a shoplifting offence committed three months ago.
Dylan Johnstone, 19, currently of no fixed address pleaded guilty to stealing an Armani coat worth £120 from a store in the town in May this year.
Johnstone was given a one year conditional discharge by District Judge Jeff Brailsford sitting at Blackpool Magistrates Court.
He must also pay £120 compensation.
Steven Townley defending, said : His mother has thrown him out and he is now homeless.Money was the motive for this crime.”
• A man who stole a carer’s handbag as she assisted two disabled sisters in a shop has been jailed for 21 months.
Karl Lee Broadhead, 35, of Devonshire Avenue, Thornton, and his cousin Lee Metcalfe, took the bag from the back of a wheelchair as the carer helped the 67-year-old who is paralysed, and her partially sighted sister, 57, in Cool Trader on June 8.
Karen Brooks, prosecuting, said: “When they leave the house (the older sister) uses the wheelchair to assist her to move about.
“There was a bottle of water in her handbag which meant the zip wasn’t properly shut and it was hung on back of the wheelchair.
“When she went to till she discovered her purse was missing. She had £85, her driving licence and cards in the purse and also a number of cards she received from her deceased mother which were of sentimental value.”
Preston Crown Court heard he was seen stealing the bag on CCTV and recognised by a PCSO along with his co-accused – who pleaded guilty and is due to be sentenced by Blackpool Magistrates on a date to be set.
Broadhead also admitted burgling an elderly woman’s house in the area in a separate incident.
The court heard he broke into the ground floor flat of an 87-year-old, and stole a handbag belonging to her friend, who was visiting to help her with domestic chores.
It contained her keys, cards and cash and three guardian charms, and she had to have the locks changed on her vehicle and car.
Broadhead’s fingerprint was found on the kitchen window.
Colette Renton, defending, said he had been addicted to drugs since the age of nine and said he had been led astray by his cousin.
She added: “He is the man who took the purse, but he was directed by his cousin and it was an unplanned theft.
“In late 2014 the defendant, having been released from prison, made a decision he wanted to change his life for the better and moved out of the Blackpool area to live with his grandfather. For a long time, he remained clean.
“He had a blip in this otherwise good progress.
“He is embarrassed and ashamed to be back in this situation.”
Activating an extra 14 weeks of a suspended jail term he had breached, Recorder Christopher Alldriss said: “You have an absolutely appalling record of 54 convictions for 202 offences including 128 thefts.
“Yours is a depressingly familiar story. Your life has been one of criminality to feed a habit.”
• A couple accused of having a dangerous American Bulldog which bit a policeman’s foot have made their first appearance at court.
Mitchell Flackett, 29, and Rebecca Smith, 22, of Hamlet Road, Fleetwood, pleaded not guilty to having a dangerous dog which was out of control and caused injury outside Fleetwood’s Arden Green on May 18.
Flackett also denied having a dangerous dog which was out of control in the port’s Hamlet Road on May 26.
Their case was adjourned for Blackpool magistrates to fix a trial date.
• A callous thief with a history of stealing from loved ones took thousands of pounds worth of jewellery belonging to his girlfriend.
Duncan Stirzaker then sold the jewellery to fund his addiction to cocaine and cannabis.
His mother had been treasurer for a committee and he had previously stolen cheques from the committee chequebook for which he was on a suspended prison sentence at the time of the jewellery theft.
Stirzaker, 30, of Windsor Place, Fleetwood, pleaded guilty to theft.
Prosecutor, Pam Smith, said Stirzaker and a young mother had been in a relationship for about five months and he had stayed at her Fleetwood home.
In June Stirzaker’s girlfriend looked in the bottom section of her jewellery box and found about £2,000 worth of it missing.
When confronted by her and her parents he denied stealing it.
Later he messaged her and admitted taking it. He said he would get the jewellery back but he did not.
He had sold it for scrap for between £400 and £500 at a jeweller’s on the port’s Lord Street and if was no longer recoverable.
When interviewed Stirzaker said he had broken his back in January. He said he had been lying to his girlfriend and taking cocaine and cannabis daily.
David Charnley, defending, said his client had fallen into the depths of drug misuse at the time. Stirzaker, who was full of remorse for what he had done, said he was now off drugs.
Presiding magistrate at Blackpool Magistrates’ Court, Stuart Gay, told him: “There was a breach of trust. It was emotionally upsetting for the victim and items of considerable sentimental value were taken.”
Stirzaker was bailed to appear for sentence at Preston Crown Court on September 21.
Keep up-to-date with all the latest news from blackpoolgazette.co.uk with our mobile app - download it here
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Fleetwood: From the courts 24-08-16 Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area... | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/news/crime/fleetwood-from-the-courts-24-08-16-1-8085838 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/976717b5cff9a49e743435d91a2e1981d5201c98e898d7f4445af02e9d0f7da6.json |
[]
| 2016-08-26T12:51:52 | null | 2016-08-24T11:56:10 | Not many pubs can attract number one charting recording artists to perform but that’s exactly what The Duke of York have done, with 2013 X Factor winner Sam Bailey coming to perform at their reopening on Thursday. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fentertainment%2Fsam-gives-refurbished-pub-the-x-factor-magic-1-8085830.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8085829.1472036155!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Sam gives refurbished pub the X Factor magic | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | Not many pubs can attract number one charting recording artists to perform but that’s exactly what The Duke of York have done, with 2013 X Factor winner Sam Bailey coming to perform at their reopening on Thursday.
Bailey, whose debut single ‘Skyscraper’ and album ‘The Power of Love’ both hit the top of the charts, is headlining a special gala reopening night alongside Miss Rory and the Liverbirds.
The free, invite-only party is to mark the reopening of the pub, on Dickson Road, following a £50,000 investment.
Matthew Armstrong, who runs the pub alongside the designer Kevin Barnard said: “It’s fabulous. The customers love it - people can’t believe it’s the same pub.
“Inside has a contemporary feel, with modern light fittings and vibrant colours so it looks much airier. It was only right to relaunch in style, so we’ve got a great night planned.”
This is the latest show of a busy schedule for X Factor winner, Sam Bailey, who has just finished playing Mama Morton in a UK tour of the musical ‘Chicago’, she said: “I’m now doing a Butlins tour, I’ve got a single that’s just come out two weeks ago and an album which is coming out on the 16th September.”
Bailey says that her new album ‘Sing My Heart Out’, recorded in LA with Steve Dorff, and being released on her own label Tiger Drum is very personal: “I’ve put my heart and soul into it.
“It was written about experiences that I’ve learnt and every single song has some sort of story behind it.
Bailey’s looking forward to performing in Blackpool after her enjoying first visit with the resort “open” earlier this year, and despite the lower profile these days, the singer says it’s not too different from when she was on the X Factor three years ago. She added: “The pop tour’s great, I’m top of the bill and there’s sometimes 5,000 people there to see me so it’s great. It’s like being on the X Factor again.
“I’m always excited to do new things and perform and it’s always good to be part of something great and I thought that this was a great opportunity for me.”
The show starts at 9pm on Thursday. It’s a free event. For more information or invites, call into the pub. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/what-s-on/entertainment/sam-gives-refurbished-pub-the-x-factor-magic-1-8085830 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/4bb2d6ff5de4401d3880c66101efe8e05803ebd7b788c4009a89bf2b05cdde29.json |
[]
| 2016-08-29T12:48:23 | null | 2016-08-29T12:30:55 | A band nominated for Best Group at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards are the special guests at St Annes Folk Club on Saturday. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fentertainment%2Fyou-ll-want-to-cross-the-road-to-watch-this-folk-band-1-8094300.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8094299.1472470234!/image/image.jpg | en | null | You’ll want to cross the road to watch this folk band | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | A band nominated for Best Group at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards are the special guests at St Annes Folk Club on Saturday.
Jaywalkers are a three-piece consisting from Lancashire, who play guitar, double bass and violin and who have been described as the rising stars of the folk world.
Regular performers at the Cambridge Folk Festival and Sidmouth Folk Week, they have released three successful albums and are heading to St Annes after a summer spent touring the UK.
“It’s pretty exciting to have a band of this calibre coming to play St Annes,” said Steve Canavan, who runs the folk club and is also a Gazette columnist.
“They are a really talented group who have become pretty successful in the last few years.
“I like them because not only are they great musicians and sound terrific – I defy anyone not to tap their feet along to the tunes – but they stay true to their Lancashire roots and a lot of their songs are about the north west.
“It should be a really good night.”
The folk club takes place at the Pavilion Café in Ashton Gardens, St Annes, and tickets for the concert are £7 – available by emailing [email protected] or by buying direct from the venue.
Doors open at 7.15pm on Saturday September 3, the music starts at 8pm. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/what-s-on/entertainment/you-ll-want-to-cross-the-road-to-watch-this-folk-band-1-8094300 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/97701d8e87eee4503e649c8219942b8a962c46c67a505e20227d4e1d015f599f.json |
[]
| 2016-08-31T12:48:46 | null | 2016-08-31T13:04:12 | Pier Jam will make its long awaited return to North Pier this Saturday, just so long as the weather stays calm. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fentertainment%2Fpier-jam-braves-storm-with-more-stars-1-8097973.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8097972.1472645030!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Pier Jam braves storm with more stars | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | Pier Jam will make its long awaited return to North Pier this Saturday, just so long as the weather stays calm.
Part two of the four-part series was called off on Saturday, August 20 due to “unprecedented weather”, in line with advice from the Authorities, Local Licensing & Pier Safety Officers.
Duke Dumont, Tchami, Philip George and Son of 8 had been due to perform at the house music event but the adverse weather conditions made this impossible.
However ticket holders for Pier Jam 2 were offered a refund or the chance to transfer their ticket over to this weekend’s event.
Part three on Saturday is headlined by Hannah Wants, with performances from Shadowchild, Shiba San, Tough Love and Monki also scheduled.
Hannah Wants headlines the event on the back of being voted Best Bass DJ at the Pacha Music Awards and Best DJ at the BMA’s in 2015.
Over the last few years her hard-hitting style has made her world-renowned and a must for any festival organisers.
Shadowchild is the alias of Simon Neale, somewhat of a veteran of the electronic music scene.
Also joining them is WMC Award winner Shiba San, BBC Radio 1’s Monki and Tough Love, best known for their top 20 single ‘So Freakin’ Tight’.
Tickets are on sale from £20 and are available at http://www.pierjam.com/tickets. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/what-s-on/entertainment/pier-jam-braves-storm-with-more-stars-1-8097973 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/0a0a9bac91798b606d4425d630f88f97be12cbf8031c7b23da32358dbea09670.json |
[]
| 2016-08-26T13:04:40 | null | 2016-08-17T15:05:59 | Follow our live match coverage of Fleetwood Town’s League One game against Oxford here. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffleetwood-town%2Fftfc-latest%2Flive-fleetwood-v-oxford-1-8074188.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8074187.1471700857!/image/image.jpg | en | null | LIVE: Fleetwood v Oxford | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | The types of cookies we, our ad network and technology partners use are listed below:
Revenue Science ► A tool used by some of our advertisers to target adverts to you based on pages you have visited in the past. To opt out of this type of targeting you can visit the 'Your Online Choices' website by clicking here.
Google Ads ► Our sites contain advertising from Google; these use cookies to ensure you get adverts relevant to you. You can tailor the type of ads you receive by visiting here or to opt out of this type of targeting you can visit the 'Your Online Choices' website by clicking here.
Digital Analytics ► This is used to help us identify unique visitors to our websites. This data is anonymous and we cannot use this to uniquely identify individuals and their usage of the sites.
Dart for Publishers ► This comes from our ad serving technology and is used to track how many times you have seen a particular ad on our sites, so that you don't just see one advert but an even spread. This information is not used by us for any other type of audience recording or monitoring.
ComScore ► ComScore monitor and externally verify our site traffic data for use within the advertising industry. Any data collected is anonymous statistical data and cannot be traced back to an individual.
Local Targeting ► Our Classified websites (Photos, Motors, Jobs and Property Today) use cookies to ensure you get the correct local newspaper branding and content when you visit them. These cookies store no personally identifiable information.
Grapeshot ► We use Grapeshot as a contextual targeting technology, allowing us to create custom groups of stories outside out of our usual site navigation. Grapeshot stores the categories of story you have been exposed to. Their privacy policy and opt out option can be accessed here.
Subscriptions Online ► Our partner for Newspaper subscriptions online stores data from the forms you complete in these to increase the usability of the site and enhance user experience.
Add This ► Add This provides the social networking widget found in many of our pages. This widget gives you the tools to bookmark our websites, blog, share, tweet and email our content to a friend. | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/sport/fleetwood-town/ftfc-latest/live-fleetwood-v-oxford-1-8074188 | en | 2016-08-17T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/11c13da08e6679b3b1d4d58df04762588ffa3b55c3db62dba2de8bbb52935356.json |
[
"Pam Norfolk",
"Pamnorfolk Tiscali.Co.Uk"
]
| 2016-08-26T13:00:53 | null | 2016-08-24T10:00:00 | From poet John Keats to Prince Charles, and from life-changing scientists to prize-winning authors, some of the world’s most famous people have relied on ‘bedders’ to see them through their toughest student days at Cambridge. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fwhat-s-on%2Fbooks%2Fbook-review-the-staircase-girls-by-catherine-seymour-1-8081798.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8081797.1471861083!/image/image.jpg | en | null | Book review: The Staircase Girls by Catherine Seymour | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | From poet John Keats to Prince Charles, and from life-changing scientists to prize-winning authors, some of the world’s most famous people have relied on ‘bedders’ to see them through their toughest student days at Cambridge.
In her fascinating account of just some of the hundreds of working-class women who have looked after the students of Cambridge University, Catherine Seymour, whose grandmother and great-grandmother were bedders, reveals their secret lives, heartaches and joy.
For centuries, the university’s bedders – the equivalent at Oxford is a ‘scout’ – have cleaned, tidied, made beds, dispensed advice and physical aid, and offered a reassuring maternal presence to generations of nervous, lonely students.
Bedders still look after today’s Cambridge students but the work they do, and the young people they care for, have changed over the last decades.
Until the 1980s, bedders carried buckets of coal up the stairs to light fires in the rooms of the fellows as well as dusting, tidying, taking away rubbish and, in some colleges, making the students’ breakfasts.
It was hard work but it came with privileges and offered an experience unlike other jobs available to working-class women. Some of the bedders had previously worked in shops or as waitresses, cleaners, factory hands and other low-paid manual jobs.
The college offered them family-friendly hours, starting work early but allowing them to get home in time for lunch and to make an evening meal for their children. Often bedders would pay neighbours to look after their pre-school youngsters.
In the first half of the 20th century, some of the upper class (male) students saw their bedders as simply servants but for many others, these women who instructed them on everything from dressing properly to combing their hair, were the only warm, motherly presence in an otherwise cold, paternalistic environment.
In turn, many bedders enjoyed their glimpse into a world they knew little about and during her research Seymour discovered that the women appreciated the genuine return of affection from students who often left gifts for them at Christmas, term ends and after graduation.
And for some of the bedders who got to know their students well, graduation was almost like watching their own children leave home.
In these unique, vivid and often moving stories, inspired by the accounts of bedders from the 1920s to the 1960s, we meet women who endured the Second World War and then had to contend with poverty, ill health and bereavement.
For 16-year-old Joyce, who lived in one of the poorest streets in Cambridge, the college building where she was about to start work represented privilege, wealth, a life she would never live. What she never expected was to find herself mothering, chastising and sometimes even covering up for ‘her boys.’
These hard-working women loved, lost and loved again. But their friendships gave them strength, and their work gave them happiness, and even a lasting connection with their charges, some of whom would go on to run the country.
As much a social history as the individual stories of the bedders, The Staircase Girls is a memorable and eye-opening glimpse into the remarkable lives of a very special group of women.
(Pan, paperback, £7.99) | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/what-s-on/books/book-review-the-staircase-girls-by-catherine-seymour-1-8081798 | en | 2016-08-24T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/fd51e7a9a1e504a9007a04aee599ab038c87be596f7cbc9d09a95f1c922844c8.json |
[]
| 2016-08-31T10:50:00 | null | 2016-08-31T10:09:36 | Fylde MP Mark Menzies has called on the Government to ensure an investigation into a Lancashire water crisis remains on track. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Frebuffed-fylde-mp-demanding-answers-in-lancashire-water-probe-1-8097341.json | http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_300,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/webimage/1.8097338.1472634551!/image/image.jpg | en | null | ‘Rebuffed’ Fylde MP demanding answers in Lancashire water probe | null | null | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk | Fylde MP Mark Menzies has called on the Government to ensure an investigation into a Lancashire water crisis remains on track.
The Tory MP has written to the Secretary of State at the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs, the Rt Hon Andrea Leadsom MP, to ask her to intervene after long delays in seeing the results of the Drinking Water Inspectorate’s inquiry following last summer’s cryptosporidium outbreak.
How we reported the outbreak last August
More than 300,000 homes and businesses in Lancashire were first warned to boil all drinking water to protect against the nasty parasite in August last year.
It took 30 days for all supplies to return to normal, leading to compensation payments of between £50 and £60 to all domestic consumers and much more to businesses affected by the alert.
But despite fresh demands for answers, the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) has still not revealed the source of the problem.
It comes after Mr Menzies contacted the organisation to find out the status of the investigation – but was rebuffed by officers.
He said: “This situation has gone on for long enough and people are unhappy at being left in the dark about a situation which caused untold inconvenience last summer.
“When I contacted the Drinking Water Inspectorate for some information I received a rather blunt response that they would publish their findings when they are good and ready.
“I’m afraid that’s just not good enough. This process needs to be open and transparent to give people the confidence they can trust their suppliers and the regulators put in place to protect their interests.
“With that in mind, I have written to the Secretary of State to ask her to intervene. While I understand the investigation must be carried out thoroughly and correctly, I think people deserve to know that is happening and be given some kind of timescales as to when they can expect answers.
“Without those assurances, then it is difficult to know whether the Drinking Water Inspectorate is working effectively and whether it is fit for purpose.” | http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/news/local/rebuffed-fylde-mp-demanding-answers-in-lancashire-water-probe-1-8097341 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/31e9a12a57e68cb63df11d1b23e992d236eacd1d5cb46f39e7a237ab18522131.json |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.