Belmonte: Easter a time for renewal for Pinoys

 News
Apr 192014
 
Belmonte: Easter a time for renewal for Pinoys

House Speaker Sonny Belmonte on Saturday called on the public to embrace an attitude of renewal in anticipation of Easter Sunday, saying it will usher in a brighter future for the country. “While we look inward and celebrate this salvation we have received, let us likewise make Easter a time of renewal as one people, as well as a time of rebuilding hope for ourselves and for the bright future we aspire for the Philippines,” Belmonte said in his Easter message. “Whatever difficulties we face today are like seeds, which eventually grow into strength and evolve into the success of our pursuits,” Belmonte added. Belmonte also reminded Filipinos worldwide that Easter first and foremost is a celebration of sacrifice, both Christ’s and ours, during the observation of Holy Week. “Salvation or redemption need not be perceived as rising above dire straits or from a state of negativity. Rather it results from the assessment of our strengths, our gratitude for them, and the determination to rise above our limitations. It is honing and maximizing the many potentials for growth we are afforded,” Belmonte added. On Wednesday, President Benigno Aquino III called on Filipinos to reflect on Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and related it to the challenge of the government’s Daang Matuwid (straight path) campaign against corruption in government. “Sa atin nga pong pagtahak sa tuwid na daan, humaharap tayo sa mga pagsubok. Ang panawagan po sa atin: Bilang Kanyang mga tagasunod, nawa’y maging handa rin tayong tumanggap ng sarili nating mga sakripisyo. Tiyak Read More …

Gigi Reyes' return helps afford her due process  – Palace exec

 News
Apr 192014
 
Gigi Reyes' return helps afford her due process  - Palace exec

Ex-Enrile aide Gigi Reyes comes home. Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile’s former chief of staff Gigi Reyes arrives in Manila from the US early Saturday, April 19, 2014. Reyes is among those charged with plunder for the PDAF scam. Reina Anne Dimapawi A Malacañang official on Saturday said the return from the US of Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile’s former chief of staff Jessica “Gigi” Reyes helps afford her “due process.” “[Her return] will afford her the opportunity for the full application of her right to due process,” Malacañang spokesman Edwin Lacierda said. Reyes, a key personality in the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam and one of several people charged with plunder because of it, arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 via PR-105 from San Francisco, GMA News reported. “I’m facing the charges. I’ve always faced it,” Reyes quoted as saying upon her arrival. On April 7, Reyes’ representatives asked the Office of the Ombudsman to reconsider its decision to file plunder charges against her over the alleged P10-billion por barrel scam. Reyes claimed her constitutional right to due process was violated, and denied receiving any commission from Enrile’s Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), popularly known as pork barrel. Last April 1, the Ombudsman found probable cause to indict Reyes, Senators Enrile, Ramon Revilla Jr. and Jinggoy Estrada, as well as alleged scam operator Janet Lim-Napoles, with plunder. The National Bureau of Investigation had alleged that Reyes had signed documents related to the release of Enrile’s pork barrel funds to Read More …

Philippines boosts MERS monitoring after UAE nurse scare  

 News
Apr 192014
 
Philippines boosts MERS monitoring after UAE nurse scare  

MANILA — The Philippines said Saturday it was stepping up its defenses against the deadly MERS virus, with the large numbers of Filipino workers in the Middle East seen as potential carriers. “It is important that families, friends and members of their local communities fully understand all that must be known about the MERS coronavirus,” Health Secretary Enrique Ona told a news conference. A male Filipino nurse who had tested positive for the MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) virus in the United Arab Emirates returned to the Philippines on Tuesday, according to the health department. The man was later tracked down and quarantined, along with relatives who picked him up at Manila airport, as part of the increased monitoring procedures, but all of them were subsequently found to be free of the virus, Ona said. Health authorities were continuing to track the rest of the 418 passengers on the same Etihad Airways flight, including 45 foreigners, so they could also be tested, he added. The virus has a two-week incubation period, so all those passengers “are still deemed to be at risk”, Ona said. A total of 119 passengers had so far been contacted by the health department, and all 40 who were tested yielded negative results, Ona said. While the World Health Organization has not declared a MERS epidemic, the Philippines has stepped up monitoring as it has a large number of workers in the Middle East, many of whom work in Saudi Arabia and the UAE which have Read More …

Phivolcs: No Tsunami threat from quakes in Solomon Island and Mexico  

 News
Apr 182014
 
Phivolcs: No Tsunami threat from quakes in Solomon Island and Mexico  

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology on Saturday said there is no threat from a tsunami following a magnitude-6.9 quake that hit the Solomon Islands. In an advisory issued 9:20 a.m., Phivolcs said there is “no destructive widespread tsunami threat” based on historical and tsunami data. While it said such quakes can sometimes generate local tsunamis that can be destructive along coasts within 100 km of the epicenter, “there is no tsunami threat to the Philippines from this earthquake.“ Citing initial information, Phivolcs said the quake at Solomon Islands occurred at 9:12 a.m. and had a preliminary magnitude of 6.9. Earlier, the Phivolcs similarly allayed fears of a tsunami from a magnitude-7.4 quake in Guerrero, Mexico. In its advisory issued 10:51 p.m. Friday, Phivolcs said the quake occurred in Guerrero, Mexico at 10:27 PM (Philippine Time) with a preliminary magnitude of 7.4. — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News

Pork scam suspect and former Enrile aide Gigi Reyes back in the PHL

 News
Apr 182014
 
Pork scam suspect and former Enrile aide Gigi Reyes back in the PHL

Seen as a key personality in the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam and charged with plunder because of it, Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile’s former chief of staff, Jessica “Gigi” Reyes, returned to the Philippines early Saturday. Reyes landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 via PR-104 from San Francisco, GMA News reported. “I’m facing the charges. I’ve always faced it,” Reyes was reported to have said when she arrived.  Earlier this month, Reyes’ representatives had asked the Ombudsman to reconsider its decision to file plunder charges against her over the P10-billion scam. Reyes claimed her constitutional right to due process was violated, and denied receiving any commission from Enrile’s Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), the infamous pork barrel. Reyes resigned as Enrile’s chief of staff last January, amid accusations she had personally wielded power over Senate matters on behalf of Enrile, who was then the Senate President. Enrile is among the three senators charged with plunder over the pork scam. — Joel Locsin/DVM, GMA News

Padaca denies challenging Sandiganbayan in plea vs. graft raps

 Entertainment
Apr 182014
 
Padaca denies challenging Sandiganbayan in plea vs. graft raps

A Filipino Catholic tradition detailing the life and passion of our Lord, Jesus Christ, through singing. It is sung using local dialects and the hymns depending on what province. Photo shows Catholic devotees in Pasig City sing the traditional Lenten „Pabasa ng Pasyon” in front of a makeshift altar, at the Pasig City Hall. „Pabasa” refers to the chant reading of the Filipino version of Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection as a form of Catholic devotees’ religious meditation during the Holy Week. (MNS Photo) MANILA (Mabuhay) – Election commissioner Grace Padaca on Wednesday denied challenging the independence of the Sandiganbayan in reiterating her supposed immunity from suit, being a presidential appointee, in her appeal to dismiss the graft case she is facing. The Sandiganbayan Third Division has junked her motion for reconsideration to dismiss the graft charges filed against her. The case stemmed from the P25-million grant to the Economic Development for Western Isabela and Northern Luzon Foundation, Inc. Padaca, a former governor of Isabela, was accused of allegedly giving undue advantage to the non-governmental organization (NGO) tapped to manage a credit facility for Isabela’s rice farmers under a hybrid seed distribution program. In decision penned by Associate Justice Jose Hernandez, the court said it would require an unprecedented stretch and bending of the law to utilize her appointment as a cause to dismiss or suspend the ongoing court proceedings. “To sustain the motion of the accused undermines independence and the exercise of judicial authority of the Court on account Read More …

Sophisticated 2015 Hyundai Sonata blends confidence-inspiring driving dynamics and premium design

 Entertainment
Apr 182014
 
Sophisticated 2015 Hyundai Sonata blends confidence-inspiring driving dynamics and premium design

2015 Sonata 2.0T NEW YORK – Hyundai today introduced its all-new seventh-generation 2015 Sonata at the New York International Auto Show. Following the incredible success of the outgoing Sonata, the all-new generation offers a more refined look through a new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language, stiffer body structure, better ride quality, reduced noise, vibration and harshness and advanced safety and convenience features. Sonata truly democratizes the premium design and convenient technology of the Genesis sedan for the mid-size class. The new 2015 Hyundai Sonata will be built at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama plant in Montgomery, Ala. and go on sale early this summer. Exterior Design The 2011 Sonata raised the bar for design in the mid-size sedan segment when it was introduced in 2009. Consumers noticed the groundbreaking design and so did the competition. Sonata’s design matures for the 2015 model year with energetic and crisp lines complimented by smooth and subtle surfaces. Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 is a confident evolution of the original fluidic sculpture design language that perfectly expresses Sonata’s premium look and excellent value. A larger, more refined grille with a wide air intake defines the face of the 2015 Sonata. Simple, harmonious lines adorn the exterior while hinting at the improved dynamic performance and human-machine connection Sonata provides. Taut, horizontal rocker panels reflect the chassis’ increased stability and surefootedness while the signature Sonata beltline is now stretched tight to accentuate the sedan’s strength. The coupe-like roofline remains, but it is balanced by a larger window graphic that Read More …

Gerald Anderson hopes to become a dad by 30

 Entertainment
Apr 182014
 
Gerald Anderson hopes to become a dad by 30

Gerald Anderson (MNS photo) Despite news of several celebrity couples tying the knot – or about to – Gerald Anderson is not feeling pressured to propose to girlfriend, Maja Salvador, saying they still have a lot of career plans. Although it is his long-term dream to have his own family, Anderson said that settling down is something he and Salvador have yet to talk about. “Hindi pa [namin pinag-uusapan] kasi sobrang focused kami sa pamilya namin at sa kung ano ‘yung meron kami ngayon. Hindi pa. Ang dami pa naming goals sa buhay. Pero siyempre one day kasama iyan sa mga pangarap na magkapamilya but ‘yun ‘yung mga later dreams ko pa,” he said. Anderson noted that he still needs to save up for himself and his family before thinking of entering into a lifetime commitment. The “Dyesebel” actor revealed that he wants to have his first child at the age of 30. “Malayo pa [’yung kasal], kailangan ko pa mag-ipon. Siguro kapag 30 to 35 na ako. Gusto ko 30 sana may anak na ako. Gusto ko parang barkada ko ‘yung anak ko,” the 25-year old actor said. Asked how many kids he wants to have, he said: “By 30, isa sana and then by 32 may isa pa. Gusto ko apat eh, I want a big family.” Meanwhile, Anderson said it was great working with ex-girlfriend Kim Chiu again. “It was great. Like I said, time will heal everything. Dahan-dahan. I’m just really happy na okay na. We Read More …

Lacson: Distribution of Yolanda funds by Mar Roxas appropriate

 Entertainment
Apr 182014
 
Lacson: Distribution of Yolanda funds by Mar Roxas appropriate

Secretary Manuel Roxas II accepts his appointment to the Department of Interior and Local Government replacing Sec. Jesse Robredo, as announced by President Benigno S. Aquino III during a press briefing at the President’s Hall in Malacanang Palace on Friday (August 31). On the other hand, Cavite 1st District Representative Joseph Emilio Abaya takes over the post of DOTC chief. (MNS photo) MANILA (Mabuhay) – Following  allegations of politicking against administration officials, rehabilitation czar Panfilo Lacson on Thursday defended the move of Interior Sec. Mar Roxas to distribute funds to typhoon-hit areas. In a statement, Lacson said “some people” questioned why it was Roxas and not the rehabilitation czar who distributed the checks for the reconstruction of public buildings in areas affected by super Typhoon Yolanda. Lacson said that while the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery (PARR) has the power to recommend rehabilitation measures to the President, the power to implement plans and programs still remains with the appropriate government agencies.  “When it comes to the distribution of funds for the reconstruction of structures like municipal buildings, public markets and civic centers, the DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) is the agency that has the power to implement the distribution of such funds,” he said. “[So] it was natural and appropriate for DILG Secretary Roxas to be the person distributing such funds since DILG is the government agency with the power to implement the distribution,” he added. He also clarified it was he, after consultation with the League Read More …

De Lima orders NBI to arrest Cedric Lee

 Entertainment
Apr 182014
 
De Lima orders NBI to arrest Cedric Lee

President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Justice Secretary Leila de Lima during the 8th East Asia Conference (EAC) on Competition Law and Policy at the Mindanao Ballroom, Sofitel Philippine Plaza in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City on Wednesday (August 28, 2013). EAC is an open event for key high-level officials of competition agencies in East Asia. EAC participants exchange ideas, views and experiences on emerging regional competition issues; and undertake to strengthen understanding and cooperation with regard to the implementation of competition policy and law across the region. (MNS photo) MANILA Mabuhay) – Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to serve warrants for the arrest of Cedric Lee and four others accused in the Vhong Navarro grave coercion case who have not posted bail. The other four are Ferdinand Guerrero, Bernice Lee, Simeon Raz, Jose Paolo Calma, who are among the seven people charged of grave coercion and serious illegal detention in connection with Navarro’s mauling last January 22 So far, only Jed Fernandez and model Deniece Cornejo have surrendered and posted P12,000 bail. Should Lee and the four others be arrested over the Lenten break, they can only post bail on Monday. The courts suspended work starting 12 noon today. (MNS)

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