Sunday, November 30, 2014

Ruby Tuason has P200-M ‘Malampaya Mansion’ –Jinggoy

Detained Senator Jinggoy Estrada on Monday bared that pork barrel scam suspect turned whistleblower Ruby Tuason was one of those who profited greatly in the alleged anomalies regarding the use of royalties from the Malampaya gas project in Palawan.

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Reshuffle, drug testing eyed at NBP after seizure of marijuana, gadgets

A reshuffle of personnel and drug testing inside the New Bilibid Prisons are in the offing following the confiscation of marijuana leaves and various communication devices inside the national penitentiary over the weekend.

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12 NGOs linked to Napoles cornered P900-M Malampaya funds – COA

Twelve non-government organizations linked to alleged pork barrel scam brains Janet Lim-Napoles cornered the P900 million in royalties from the Malampaya gas fund released to the Department of Agrarian Reform, Commission on Audit chairperson Grace Pulido Tan said Monday.

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ER Ejercito cries foul over ‘unfair’ treatment of Aquino administration

Ousted Laguna Governor Emilio Ramon "ER" Ejercito expressed his anger toward President Benigno Aquino III for what he said was unfair treatment that he and his relatives have been getting from him just because they belong to the opposition.

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PNP issues dos and don’ts when riding taxis

Let family and friends know about the taxi you're riding, and don't sleep inside the taxi. These were among the do's and don'ts the Philippine National Police issued to the public as the holidays draw closer.

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House panel investigates alleged connivance between NBP officials, drug lords

The House of Representatives justice committee has scheduled a hearing this week in which New Bilibid Prison (NBP) officials will be given the opportunity to respond to allegations that prison official were involved in the illegal-drugs trade.

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UNA: Senate panel afraid to invite Napoles to Malampaya fund scam hearing

United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) interim president Toby Tiangco expressed surprise that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has dropped controversial businesswoman Janet Lim Napoles from its roll of resource persons for the upcoming probe on the P900-million Malampaya Fund scam.

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Abad submits final version of proposed supplemental budget to Congress

Budget Secretary Florencio Abad has submitted the final version of the supplemental budget requested by MalacaƱang to fund, among others, the continuation of projects halted by the abolition of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), House appropriations panel chair Rep. Isidro Ungab confirmed Sunday.

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On Bonifacio Day, militants march vs Aquino

Thousands of people gathered at Liwasang Bonifacio on Sunday, to mark the 151st birth anniversary of revolutionary Andres Bonifacio, and to protest against President Benigno Aquino III and his policies.

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Magdalo solons seek probe into alleged P250-M ransom paid to Abu Sayyaf group

Magdalo party-list Reps. Gary Alejano and Francisco Ashley Acedillo have called for an immediate congressional inquiry into the alleged payment of a P250-million ransom to the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group for the release of their two German hostages last October.

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Drilon says he might file perjury cases vs. Syjuco

Senate President Franklin is considering filing perjury cases against former Iloilo Representative Augusto Syjuco Jr. after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) junked the latter's vote-buying claims against the senator and several others.

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Saturday, November 29, 2014

80K top HS grads seen to benefit from Iskolar ng Bayan Act

Around 80,000 of the country’s best-performing public high school students are now assured of scholarships in 112 state universities and colleges (SUCs) now that President Benigno Aquino III has signed into law the Iskolar ng Bayan Program, now Republic Act No. 10648.

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Pope Francis’ safety during PHL visit tops govt’s priorities

The safety of Pope Francis during his visit to the Philippines in January is a top priority of the government, a MalacaƱang official on Sunday said.

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Rape cases in 2014 may surpass 10k, lawmaker says

Makati City Rep. Abigail Binay on Sunday warned that the number of rape cases nationwide in 2014 may breach the 10,000-mark.

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Budget bill bicam panel to meet on Tuesday — Escudero

The bicameral conference committee that will reconcile the Senate and House versions of the proposed 2015 national budget will meet on Tuesday, the head of the Senate finance committee said on Sunday.

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Cops warned vs. ‘loaded’ holiday greetings

As the holidays draw closer, police in Metro Manila were warned against giving so-called loaded holiday greetings especially to traders and motorists.

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PNP warns public vs. ‘Pitas Gang’

As the holidays draw even closer, the Philippine National Police advised the public to be wary of the so-called Pitas Gang.

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PNP gets better technology in fight against crime

The Philippine National Police is shifting to more advanced technology as it continues to try to deter crime and solve crimes that get committed.

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Aquino to lead kickoff ceremony on Monday for PHL hosting of APEC 2015

President Benigno Aquino III will kick off this Monday the Philippines' hosting of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit for 2015.

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Nun warns vs. ‘hidden’ sexual abuse in family

Many victims of sexual abuse by immediate family members, would choose to suffer in silence because of lack of support in the family.

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Friday, November 28, 2014

MIAA: 4 PAL Express flights canceled due to bad weather

At least four more domestic flights were canceled due to bad weather, the Manila International Airport Authority said Saturday noon.

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Palace: Up to DOJ to allow jamming of cell signals at New Bilibid Prison

MalacaƱang on Saturday said it will leave it to the Department of Justice to decide whether to jam mobile phone signals inside the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City to prevent drug lord-inmates from continuing drug-related transactions. Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said that while such a proposal is sound, the final decision is with the DOJ, which has jurisdiction over the Bureau of Corrections that runs the national penitentiary.

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PNP draws up 12 safety tips for Christmas

December is almost here – and with many about to go partying and shopping, the Philippine National Police has drawn up 12 safety tips for the public.

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MIAA: 4 domestic flights canceled due to bad weather

At least four domestic flights were canceled on Saturday due to bad weather conditions, the Manila International Airport Authority said.

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NGCP, teachers disseminate public reminders on power line safety

The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines is teaming up with teachers to educate students, parents, and residents on safety measures involving power transmission lines.

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MILF chair Iqbal: Bangsamoro entity still on schedule

The peace process between the national government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) remains on track even with the expected delay in the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), MILF peace panel chairman Mohagher Iqbal said on Friday.

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Symbolic decommissioning of MILF firearms set in January

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AMLC: Court cannot order disclosure of probe report on Luy, other whistleblowers

The Anti-Money Laundering Council has asked the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division to nullify its order directing the council to produce the bank documents of five whistleblowers in the pork barrel scam.

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Cayetano on 2016 polls: ‘Hindi ako atat’

Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on Friday said he is not in a rush to decide whether to run for president in 2016 even though he is reportedly being considered by his political party.

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Reg’l political party for 2016 Bangsamoro polls created

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Govt launches ‘Justice Zone’ to speed up cases

The government on Friday launched its "Justice Zone" Project which aims to further speed up the resolution of cases by allowing courts, the police, and lawyers to coordinate more efficiently.

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Whistleblower Sula willing to part with Napoles-given car

Pork barrel scam whistleblower Marina Sula on Thursday expressed willingness to surrender to the government the Toyota Innova given to her by alleged scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles while she was still her employee.

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Thursday, November 27, 2014

CPP-NPA’s Tiamzons to be brought to Cebu for arraignment Dec. 1

Police and military officials in Cebu on Thursday mapped out security arrangements for the court appearance of two top communist leaders before a court there on December 1.

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Militants set protest actions vs. pork barrel, EDCA on Bonifacio Day

Sunday will be a day of protests by militant groups targeting the pork barrel and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement to mark the 151st birth anniversary of Katipunan leader Gat Andres Bonifacio.

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Palace: Ona didn’t quit but will extend leave

Health Secretary Enrique Ona has not resigned but will extend his leave of absence, MalacaƱang said on Friday.

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COA orders 9 Metro Manila cities to return unused ‘pork’

The Commission on Audit has ordered at least nine city governments in Metro Manila to return to the National Treasury its unutilized Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), or more commonly known as pork barrel.

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PNP pushes Oplan Lambat Sibat vs. criminality

The Philippine National Police is aiming to improve its performance in neutralizing criminality, with a plan that zeroes in on groups behind crimes such as robberies and holdups.

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Napoles did not issue written instructions to avoid paper trail  –whistleblower

As advised by her lawyers, alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles did not issue written instructions to her staff regarding deals using government funds to avoid paper trail, whistleblower Marina Sula said Friday.

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CBCP offers spiritual help to peacekeepers in quarantine

Catholic bishops are offering spiritual support to more than 100 Filipino peacekeepers quarantined on Caballo Island following their return from ebola-stricken Liberia.

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Health chief offers courtesy resignation, says newspaper report

Health Secretary Enrique Ona has tendered his courtesy resignation at the end of his one-month leave, even as he belied a supposed irregularity in the purchase of medicines under his watch.

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NDRRMC: 12 casualties, 7528 affected in TD Queenie wake

At least 12 casualties were recorded while 7,528 were affected in the wake of Tropical Depression Queenie, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Friday.

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Bettor wins P20M Lotto 6/42 jackpot

A lotto bettor is now nearly P20 million richer after bagging the jackpot in the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office's Lotto 6/42 draw Thursday night.

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TD Queenie leaves 4 dead

At least four people were reported killed in the wake of Tropical Depression Queenie, which dumped rain over parts of Visayas and Mindanao this week.

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Enzo’s dad: Dalia, alleged mastermind already engaged

Dalia Pastor, the wife of the slain of car racing champion Enzo Pastor, is now engaged with the alleged mastermind in his killing, Enzo's father alleged.

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Results of Marine Engineer Officers Licensure Examinations out

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Thursday announced the results of the Marine Engineer Officers Licensure Examinations given earlier this month in Manila and Cebu.

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House leader says chamber to vote on Cha-cha before Christmas break

The House of Representatives is expected to approve on second reading the controversial measure to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution before Congress adjourns for its Christmas break, Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales II said Thursday.

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DOJ enlists help of military to find rumored drug lab in Bilibid

Unable to find a drug laboratory supposedly operating inside the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has decided to seek the help of the military to stamp out the illegal drug trade at the national penitentiary.

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AFP to public: Pope’s safety during PHL visit is everyone’s responsibility

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Thursday asked the public to cooperate in ensuring the safety of Pope Francis during his visit to the country early next year.

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PHL to China: The court has spoken on fate of Sino poachers

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Thursday said it could not intervene in the case of the nine Chinese fishermen who were found guilty by a local court of poaching in Philippine waters.

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Palace rejects China’s call for unconditional release of Chinese poachers

MalacaƱang on Thursday rejected China’s call for the unconditional release of nine Chinese fishermen found guilty of poaching in disputed waters.

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LP leader denies misuse of P315M worth of pork barrel funds

House Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales II on Thursday denied misusing P315 million of his pork barrel fund allocation from 2007 to 2009 but expressed readiness to face the graft and plunder charges filed against him before the Office of the Ombudsman by a multi-sectoral group called Sentinels of the Rule of Law.

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Custom-built ‘Popemobile’ to secure Pope Francis in PHL visit

The Philippines will custom-build a "Popemobile" for Pope Francis during his visit in the country in January next year, organizers said Thursday.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Let SC resolve EDCA petition—Drilon

There's nothing the Senate could do as regards the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement if MalacaƱang doesn't want to submit the supposed executive pact for ratification as a treaty, Senate President Frankliin Drilon said on Thursday.

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Will Ona be back as DOH chief? Palace can’t say for certain

Health Secretary Enrique Ona’s month-long leave of absence will end on Friday, but his fate in President Benigno Aquino III’s Cabinet remains uncertain.

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DOJ wants raps vs. 59 suspects in Zambo siege dropped —source

The Department of Justice has recommended the dismissal of the criminal charges against 59 of the more than 200 alleged members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) implicated in the Zamboanga crisis in September 2013, a reliable source said Thursday.

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Palace: EDCA talks can continue despite SC, Senate proceedings

Formal discussions between the Philippines and the United States on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) can continue despite legal questions the deal is facing before the Supreme Court (SC) and the Senate, MalacaƱang said Thursday.

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Chiz Escudero: Where did P137B for Yolanda rehab go? I don’t see it

The chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance on Thursday questioned the government's handling of the P137-billion that Congress earlier set aside for the rehabilitation and reconstruction in areas affected by supertyphoon Yolanda.

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Miriam bares ‘red flags’ for choosing leaders in 2016

Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on Thursday urged the youth to support politicians who resist to make corruption a routine practice in the government.

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DOJ indicts importer of stinking shipment from Canada

The Department of Justice has recommended the filing of criminal charges against a company responsible for importing garbage from Canada to the Philippines.

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Miriam: Abad statement shows 2015 budget not free of ‘pork’ 

Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on Thursday said that despite Budget Sec. Florencio Abad's insistence that the proposed budget for 2015 is free of pork barrel, there are some indications that it is not.

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Senate hearing on EDCA set on Dec. 1

The Senate committee on foreign relations will discuss next week whether the chamber should concur with the controversial new defense agreement the Philippines entered into with the United States — an pact that, according to Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago, could be a ground to impeach the president.

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Orphans, youths to welcome Pope Francis as he arrives in Manila  

Some 1,200 youths led by two orphans will greet Pope Francis as he arrives in the Philippines at dusk of Jan. 15 for his four-day visit.

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Bureau of Immigration posts ‘no escorting’ signs at NAIA

With the holidays approaching, the Bureau of Immigration has posted signs in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport against "escorting."

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Walang Pasok: List of schools in Vis-Min with no classes due to TD Queenie

Classes were suspended in several areas affected by Tropical Depression Queenie.

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Phivolcs: No tsunami threat from mag.-7 quake in Indonesia

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology on Wednesday evening allayed fears of a tsunami from a magnitude-7 quake that hit Indonesia.

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PNoy signs law allowing tech-voc graduates to earn units for undergrad degrees

President Benigno Aquino III has signed a law enabling graduates of technical-vocational (tech-voc) schools to earn units for college degrees.

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SC asked to stop Comelec’s bidding for new counting machines

The Supreme Court on Wednesday has been asked to stop the Commission on Elections from conducting a public bidding for the purchase of additional and new counting machines for the 2016 elections.

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Belmonte: LP can ‘definitely’ choose an outsider to be its standard-bearer

Echoing the sentiments of some party leaders, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said Wednesday that the Liberal Party need not limit the search for its standard-bearer in 2016 to within its ranks.

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12,245 pass Criminologist Licensure Exam –PRC

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Wednesday announced that 12,245 out of 28,187 passed the Criminologist Licensure Examination given last October.

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Pope Francis visit a ‘big challenge’ to security –Roxas

The five-day visit of Pope Francis in January next year will pose a “big challenge” to security, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas admitted Wednesday, noting the large number of Filipinos who want to see the pope in person.

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China silent on PHL protest on Kagitingan Reef activity – DFA exec

China seemed to have ignored a Philippine government protest over its ongoing reclamation activity on a Manila-claimed area in the disputed South China Sea, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday.

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768 stranded due to Queenie

At least 768 people were stranded Wednesday due to bad weather conditions brought by Tropical Depression Queenie, the Philippine Coast Guard said.

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Belmonte: No railroading of P23-B supplemental budget

Although he is bent on approving MalacaƱang’s request for supplemental budget before 2014 ends, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said Wednesday the proposal will have to go through the legislative mill just like other measures.

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Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Manny Villar asked if VP Binay probe had his go-ahead—wife

Certain personalities have asked the Nacionalista Party leadership whether the Senate Blue Ribbon Subcommittee's investigation into the alleged corrupt activities of Vice President Jejomar Binay had the blessing of NP president former Senate President Manuel Villar.

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US Embassy in Manila closed Nov. 27 for Thanksgiving

The United States Embassy in Manila will be closed on Nov. 27, Thursday, in observance of Thanksgiving, a holiday in the US.

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Farmers hope PNoy will release P71-B coco levy fund, not just interest

Farmers who marched for 71 days from Davao to Manila on Wednesday voiced hopes the full P71-billion coco fund levied on them decades ago would be released in full, and not just the P3-billion interest their money gained after the government took control of it.

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‘There are offers but Manny Villar won’t run for VP’

Former Senate President Manny Villar has yet to say whether he'll make another run at the presidency in 2016 but he certainly won't run for Vice President, his wife Senator Cynthia Villar said on Wednesday.

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Ombudsman indicts ex-PCGG chair Sabio for influence peddling

The Office of the Ombudsman has indicted former Presidential Commission on Good Government chairman Camilo Sabio for graft after he allegedly tried to influence his brother, then a magistrate in the Court of Appeals, as regards an ownership row in the Manila Electric Co. (MERALCO) in 2008.

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List of flights canceled due to bad weather

At least two domestic flights were canceled Wednesday due to bad weather brought by Tropical Depression Queenie.

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Protesters from Mindanao vandalize AFP HQ walls in picket

Some of the militants demanded justice for alleged human rights violations committed by the military's Oplan Bayanihan.

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Jinggoy returns to PNP Custodial Center after therapy

Sen. Jose "Jinggoy" Estrada was returned to his detention facility shortly after noon Wednesday, after having therapy at a San Juan hospital.

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DOJ eyes ‘conspiracy’ between drug lords and officials in New Bilibid Prison

Authorities are looking into a possible conspiracy between officials at the New Bilibid Prison and drug lords who are able to continue their operations even in detention, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said Wednesday.

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Pro-transparency group defends House version of FOI bill

Even though lawmakers under the Makabayan bloc have decried the recently-approved Freedom of Information (FOI) bill as “watered down” and “toothless,” a civil society coalition counters that the approved measure was a “genuine” and “strong” one that balances the peoples’ right to information and the interests of private individuals and the government.

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Manila prepared to secure Pope Francis, Erap says

The Manila city government is prepared to secure Pope Francis during his visit to the Philippines in January next year, former President and incumbent Mayor Joseph Estrada said.

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10 non-catholic leaders to meet with Pope Francis in PHL

Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines in January will indeed be an inclusive one, as far as religious groups are concerned.

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Jinggoy leaves Crame in convoy for therapy

Sen. Jose "Jinggoy" Estrada on Wednesday morning left the Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame for physical therapy for shoulder pain.

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LP eyes De Lima, Lacson for admin's 2016 Senate ticket

The Liberal Party is considering Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and rehabilitation czar Panfilo Lacson for the administration's 2016 senatorial slate, a ranking LP official said Tuesday.

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DOH reorganization had Ona’s blessing –Garin

Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin on Tuesday said the recent reorganization within the Department of Health (DOH) has nothing to do with the ongoing investigation on the agency's alleged anomalous purchase of vaccines in 2012.

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Protesters from Mindanao turn Mendiola into camping site

Members of indigenous groups from Mindanao and Southern Luzon held a protest march headed for Mendiola near MalacaƱang Monday and spent the night there.

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Erap sees investment boom in Manila after transfer of Pandacan oil depot

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada on Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to uphold his order to transfer the oil depot in the Pandacan district out of the city by January 2016.

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Belmonte on Miriam’s claim 2015 budget is pork-laden: That’s her opinion

House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. on Tuesday brushed off Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago’s claim that the proposed P2.6-trillion national budget for 2015 is laden with hidden pork barrel or lump-sum funds that can be used at the President’s discretion.

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Garin to detractors: ‘Let the DOH move on’

Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin on Tuesday appealed to their detractors to let the department "move on" and do its work "with or without" Secretary Enrique Ona, who is currently on leave.

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SolGen: EDCA not a guarantee of US defense if China attacks

The country's Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the United States carries no assurance that the superpower will come to the Philippines' defense if China attacks in connection with the disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea, the solicitor general said on Tuesday.

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Vietnam warships visit PHL amid South China Sea dispute

Vietnam on Tuesday showed off its two most powerful warships in the first-ever port call to the Philippines but an official said it was not trying to challenge China's superior naval forces amid tension in the South China Sea.

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China says Manila violated its sovereignty with fines on fishermen

China said on Tuesday that the fines imposed by a court in the Philippines on nine Chinese fishermen for catching sea turtles in a disputed shoal in the South China Sea had violated its sovereignty, in the latest row between the two over territory.

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Sandiganbayan allows Jinggoy to undergo therapy in Cardinal Santos

The Sandiganbayan Fifth Division on Tuesday allowed detained Sen. Jinggoy Estrada to leave Camp Crame twice a week for two weeks to undergo physical therapy for shoulder pain.

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Palace: 2015 budget not for 2016 polls, follows SC rulings

MalacaƱang on Tuesday maintained that it followed Supreme Court rulings against the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) in crafting the proposed 2015 budget, which is now being questioned before the high court.

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Proposed 2015 national budget not riddled with ‘pork,’ Chiz insists

Senator Francis Escudero on Tuesday denied that the 2015 proposed national budget is riddled with "pork," assuring the public that the “lump sum” funds in the measure will not be a source of corruption.

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Monday, November 24, 2014

Pinoy peacekeeper back on Caballo Island after recovering from malaria –DOH

The Filipino peacekeeper from Ebola-hit Liberia who fell ill with malaria two weeks ago has been taken back to Caballo Island to complete the 21-day quarantine period, the Department of Health (DOH) said Tuesday.

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BuCor director, prison guards get death threats from drug lord inmates —De Lima

Justice Secretary Leila De Lima on Tuesday revealed that Bureau of Correction director Franklin Bucayu and prison guards have received death threats from drug lords inside the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.

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SC junks ER Ejercito’s motion vs. disqualification

The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld the Commission on Elections (Comelec) decision unseating Laguna governor Emilio Ramon "ER" Ejercito.

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SC asked to declare proposed 2015 budget unconstitutional

Former Iloilo Rep. Augusto Syjuco Jr. on Tuesday asked the Supreme Court to declare the P2.606 trillion proposed 2015 budget unconstitutional for allegedly containing funds already declared illegal by the high court.

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DFA: Note verbale sent to China over reclamation activity on Kagitingan Reef

The Department of Foreign Affairs has already sent a note verbale to China protesting Beijing's reclamation activity on a Philippine-claimed reef in the disputed South China Sea.

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Ad hoc panel holds executive session on Bangsamoro bill

The ad hoc committee tackling the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) decided to hold a closed-door session for the first time Tuesday.

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Bongbong questions P12.9B budget for projects not under DILG’s mandate 

Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Monday night questioned the P12.9 billion allotment for water supply, low-cost housing and other projects to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) which were contained in the errata submitted by the Department of Budget and Management.

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BI lifts ban on blacklisted HK journalists

The Bureau of Immigration on Tuesday lifted a ban on nine Hong Kong journalists, upon the recommendation of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA).

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Pag-IBIG clarifies: No multimillion-peso contracts with Omni Security

The Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG) on Monday disputed reports it gave multimillion-peso contracts to Omni Security Investigation Inc. whose officers were contributors to Vice President Jejomar Binay's election campaign in 2010.

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39% of Pinoys see their quality of life improving – SWS

Nearly two out of five Filipinos or 39 percent were optimistic that their quality of life would improve in the next 12 months, a 2014 third quarter poll taken by the Social Weather Stations found.

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Lone bettor bags P70.1-M Grand Lotto jackpot

A lotto bettor is now P70 million richer after bagging the jackpot in the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office's Grand Lotto draw Monday night.

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Miriam links ‘lopsided’ 2015 budget to 2016 polls

Senate Miriam Defensor Santiago on Monday criticized the proposed 2015 budget, describing it as “very lopsided” and even linking it to the 2016 national and local elections.

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Jinggoy doubts authenticity of files in Benhur's hard drive

Benhur Luy, the principal witness in the 'Pork Barrel Scam' cases, admitted on Monday that for up to two weeks, he was not in possession of the hard drive that supposedly contains records of the alleged activities of lawmakers who transacted with businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles.

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Mothers of missing UP students ask CA to transfer Palparan to regular jail

The mothers of missing University of the Philippines students Karen EmpeƱo and Sherlyn Cadapan have asked the Court of Appeals to have retired General Jovito Palparan Jr. transferred to a regular jail, saying he should not be in military custody.

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UP Diliman grad tops list of Chemical Engineer Licensure Exam passers

A total of 596 out of 871 passed the Chemical Engineer Licensure Examination, with a graduate from UP Diliman topping the list, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced Monday.

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Sotto finally shakes Acting Health Sec. Garin’s hand

After almost three hours of grilling the Department of Health, acting Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III finally shook hands with acting Health Secretary Janette Garin, but not without telling her to be more careful next time.

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Conviction of 9 Chinese poachers will not affect PHL-China ties –DFA

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday defended a local court’s decision to convict nine Chinese fishermen of poaching in Philippine waters, but stressed it will not further strain Manila's ties with Beijing.

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Miriam: Let Senate examine EDCA

Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on Monday urged MalacaƱang to bring the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement to the Senate for ratification after some Supreme Court justices said ruling on the deal would be premature.

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DFA verifying Chinese construction activity in South China Sea

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday said it is verifying reports that China’s reclamation activity on a Philippine-claimed reef in the disputed South China Sea is already in its advanced stages.

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House panel approves FOI bill

The House committee on public information approved on Monday the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill Monday, almost a year after a technical working group (TWG) began deliberating on the measure.

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Sunday, November 23, 2014

Nine Chinese ‘poachers’ convicted despite Beijing’s warnings

A Palawan court on Monday found nine Chinese fishermen guilty of poaching and environmental crimes for fishing in disputed waters, in a case that has strained relations with China.

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DFA to ask for lifting of ban on HK journos

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday said it will ask for the lifting of travel ban on nine Hong Kong journalists who were barred from entering the country for heckling President Benigno S. Aquino III at an economic summit last year.

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Miriam urges colleagues: Reject House-approved definition of savings

Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on Monday urged her colleagues to reject the redefinition of ‘savings’ introduced by the House of Representatives, saying it is unconstitutional and diminishes Congress’ power over the ‘purse.’

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Palace asks BI to review blacklist order vs. 9 Hong Kong journalists

MalacaƱang has already requested the Bureau of Immigration to review the blacklist order issued against nine Hong Kong television and radio journalists who allegedly heckled President Benigno Aquino III last year.

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Sotto questions DOH’s plan to purchase ‘abortifacient’

Acting Senate Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III on Monday questioned the inclusion of procurement budget for subdermal implants — which he claimed to be an abortifacient — in the proposed Department of Health (DOH) budget for 2015.

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Acting Health Sec. Garin attends Senate budget deliberations

Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin arrived at the Senate Monday morning to attend the deliberations on the budget of the Department of Health amid concerns from senators.

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Son of Taiwanese fisherman killed in 2013 encounter arrives in PHL for hearings

The son of a Taiwanese fisherman shot dead in an encounter between Philippine officials and a Taiwanese fishing boat off disputed waters in 2013 arrived in the Philippines over the weekend to testify in a court case against Coast Guard officers.

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Journalists remember 32 colleagues slain in Maguindanao Massacre

Dozens of foreign and local journalists lit candles on Sunday to remember the 2009 murder of 32 journalists in the southern Philippines, the biggest recorded killing of media workers in history.

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Treating churches like businesses scandalous, Pope Francis tells faithful 

Pope Francis has criticized priests and laypeople who turn their parishes into a "business" by charging for baptisms, blessings, and Mass intentions.

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Govt vows justice five years after Maguindanao massacre

Top officials vowed on Sunday to deliver justice as the Philippines marked the fifth anniversary of a political massacre that killed 58 with no one yet convicted and several would-be witnesses murdered.

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Palace lauds victorious Pacquiao for exhibiting Pinoys’ unwavering spirit even amid adversity

MalacaƱang lauded Filipino boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao for his unanimous victory against undefeated American boxer Chris Algieri in their fight in Macau Sunday.

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Saturday, November 22, 2014

SC doing all it can to speed up Maguindanao Massacre trial – Chief Justice Sereno

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno assured the public Sunday that the Supreme Court is doing everything it can to speed up the Maguindanao Massacre trial

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Sereno: SC doing everything to speed up trial on Maguindanao massacre case

On the 5th anniversary of the worst election-related violence in Philippine history that left 58 people dead, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno assures the public that the high court is doing everything to fast-track the proceedings of the Maguindanao Massacre case, according to a "Balintanghali" report on Sunday.

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DTI steps up surprise inspections in provinces

With the holidays drawing closer, the Department of Trade and Industry stepped up its surprise inspections in stores selling Noche Buena items in the provinces.

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PhlPost issues Philippine festival masks stamps

Stamp collectors, get ready: The Philippine Postal Corp. has issued another set of stamps, this time celebrating the colorful Philippine festival masks.

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PHL can deny entry to foreigners who disrespect authorities – Immigration bureau

The Bureau of Immigration can blacklist foreigners for disresepcting symbols of Philippine authority but this can be subject to an appeal, a bureau spokespeson said Saturday.

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‘Concerned’ Hong Kong to contact PHL over reporters' blacklisting

Hong Kong authorities will contact their Philippine counterparts over the supposed blacklisting of nine Hong Kong journalists from covering the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit that the Philippines will host in 2015.

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Friday, November 21, 2014

4 papal stamp tilt winners announced, may personally present work to Pope Francis

Four more lucky people may get to meet Pope Francis during his visit to the Philippines from Jan. 15 to 19.

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WHO briefs AFP chief Catapang on Ebola

World Health Organization representatives in the Philippines on Friday briefed Armed Forces chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. on the Ebola virus disease.

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Pacquiao bout to be live-streamed on Caballo Island

The much-awaited fight between Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and American slugger Chris Algieri will be live-streamed on Caballo Island, where Filipino UN peacekeepers who came from Ebola-hit Liberia are quarantined as a safety precaution against the virus that killed thousands in West Africa.

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Palace: Cops, DTI to provide twofold protection for Xmas shoppers

MalacaƱang on Saturday expressed confidence the Philippine National Police and the Department of Trade and Industry can provide two-fold protection for Christmas shoppers as the holidays draw closer.

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PNoy to consider best replacement for retiring Comelec chief

President Benigno Aquino III will consider the best replacement for Commission on Elections Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. when he retires in February 2015, MalacaƱang assured the public Saturday.

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UP-CMC laments culture of impunity beyond media killings

While many associate the culture of impunity with the 2009 Maguindanao massacre, such a culture goes way beyond the heinous murder that took place five years ago.

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China building South China Sea island big enough for airstrip – report

Satellite images show China is building an island on a reef in the disputed Spratly Islands large enough to accommodate what could be its first offshore airstrip in the South China Sea, a leading defense publication said on Friday.

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Palace on supposed APEC 2015 media blacklist: Accreditation hasn't even started

MalacaƱang on Friday denied that it is barring Hong Kong journalists who yelled at President Benigno Aquino III last year from covering the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit to be hosted by the Philippines next year.

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Ozone fire victims' 18-year wait for justice an isolated case—De Lima

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima on Friday said the delay incurred in the 18-year-old Ozone Disco fire trial was an "isolated case."

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AFP chief to skip Pacquiao fight to honor fallen soldier

Armed Forces chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. will skip the much-awaited fight between Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and American slugger Chris Algieri on Sunday to honor a fallen soldier.

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Mercado challenges Binay to a debate

After backing out of a debate with Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, Vice President Jejomar Binay on Friday got another challenge from another of his critics—former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado.

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Maguindanao massacre victims’ kin write Pope Francis for justice

Two days before the fifth anniversary of the infamous Maguindanao Massacre, relatives of the victims turned to Pope Francis to help them get justice.

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QC court junks bail plea of cop suspect in Maguindanao massacre

A suspended municipal police chief said to be involved in planning the November 2009 Maguindanao Massacre will have to remain behind bars for the remainder of the five-year-old murder trial.

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Beijing’s cold caught up with PNoy?

President Benigno Aquino III on Friday suffered a coughing fit while delivering a speech lauding the Araneta family of Quezon City.

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Get masterminds or kidnap groups will be ‘back with a vengeance’, group tells PNP

A crime watchdog group reminded the Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group to go after the masterminds behind abductions — 43 incidents have been reported this year — to make sure kidnapping rings will not "come back with a vengeance."

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PNoy goes to the mall

President Benigno Aquino III went to a Quezon City mall on Friday afternoon, a photo posted on Twitter by Radio Television MalacaƱang showed.

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PNoy wants to step up counter-terrorism efforts –Palace

President Benigno Aquino III wants security officials to step up counter-terrorism efforts, MalacaƱang said Friday, after the Philippines ranked higher in the Global Terrorism Index Report.

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PNP records 43 kidnap cases since January

A total of 43 kidnapping cases have been recorded in the country from January to November this year, according to records from Philippine National Police's anti-kidnapping unit, with most cases already solved.

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Former Senator Paterno dies

Former Senator Vicente Paterno passed away at 8:40 in the morning Friday. He was 89 years old.

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De Lima: Nothing wrong with Binay accuser leaving PHL

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima neither confirmed nor denied on Friday information that former Makati vice mayor Ernesto Mercado, a whistleblower against Vice President Jejomar Binay, has left the Philippines.

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Thursday, November 20, 2014

Witness says Ong had Napoles acquitted for Kevlar mess

A witness in the multi-billion pork barrel fund scam on Friday said dismissed Sandiganbayan Justice Gregory Ong was behind the acquittal of alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles in the malversation case she faced in connection with the alleged anomalous sale of 500 Kevlar Helmets to the Philippine Marines in 1998.

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Govt to keep papal visit simple – Palace exec

The Philippine government will heed Pope Francis' request to keep his visit to the country as simple as possible, a MalacaƱang official said Friday.

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Laude killing highlights struggle for rights

The killing of a Filipina transgender woman, allegedly by a US Marine, has stoked nationalist outrage in the Philippines but activists say the spotlight should also be shone on "hate crimes" by locals targetting minority groups.

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Drilon: ICC construction hits snag due to Mejorada’s allegations

Senate President Franklin Drilon on Friday blamed the allegations hurled by former Iloilo provincial administrator Manuel Mejorada for the delay in the construction of Iloilo Convention Center.

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London-based group asks world leaders to stop ‘dangerous’ child labor

A London-based health and safety organization on Friday called on world leaders to stop children from "doing dangerous jobs."

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Ex-Makati vice mayor says he is in US, will return Nov. 30

Former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado on Friday confirmed he is in the United States, but said he will return by Nov. 30.

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Intl media group scores govt failure to protect Maguindanao massacre witness

An international media group on Thursday scored the government for its failure to protect witnesses in the 2009 Maguindanao Massacre, after an ambush that killed one prospective witness.

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NAIA: 2 domestic flights canceled due to bad weather

At least two domestic flights were canceled Friday due to bad weather conditions, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport said.

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CBCP renews call to stop corruption for Year of the Poor

Catholic bishops made a fresh call to stop corruption as the Church prepares to open the Year of the Poor on November 30.

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Ebola survivor backs DOH's quarantine protocol for  PHL peacekeepers

A Liberian doctor who contracted the deadly Ebola virus and got well from it said that the Department of Health's protocol in dealing with Filipino peacekeepers who have returned from Liberia is correct.

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Trillanes to seek higher office in 2016

Senator Antonio Trillanes IV will run for a higher position in the 2016 presidential elections.

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‘Cheap’ anti-Ebola suits for training purposes only – DOH

The Department of Health (DOH) has admitted that they used cheaper personal protective equipment (PPE) while training health workers expected to deal with Ebola.

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Ozone Disco survivor: ‘We’ve moved on but it’s good to know justice has been served’

Sherilyn Bruan, a production manader with GMA Network, was 18 years old and a second year college student during that fateful night in March of 1996. She was with her two cousins and two friends in Ozone Disco when tragedy struck.

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Sandiganbayan employees join protest for P16k minimum wage

Several Sandiganbayan employees on Thursday joined the nationwide protest demanding a higher national minimum wage of P16,000 for all workers in the private and public sectors.

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Vatican wants PHL to spend less on Pope Francis’ visit

The Vatican wants the Philippines to keep to a minimum the expenditures for Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines this coming January, and instead give more resources to help victims of recent calamities, a member of the papal visit organizing committee said on Thursday.

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No ‘epal’ acts please on Pope Francis’ visit—organizers

Organizers of the Pope Francis' visit in January on Thursday called on the country's politicians to refrain from using the event to somehow promote themselves before the Holy Father and the public.

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De Lima: Mercado has admitted involvement in anomalies

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima on Thursday said it is but normal to discover irregularities or anomalies involving former Makati vice mayor Ernesto Mercado, as he had admitted to being part of some illegal activities in the past.

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132 pass Aeronautical Engineer Licensure Exam –PRC

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Thursday announced that 132 out of 282 passed the Aeronautical Engineer Licensure Examination given in Manila in November.

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Calls for PNoy’s ouster over human rights record ‘unreasonable’ – Palace

MalacaƱang on Thursday described as "unreasonable" calls from some groups for President Benigno Aquino's removal from his post over his administration's human rights record.

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Makabayan bloc threatens to withdraw co-authorship of FOI bill

The seven-member Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives has threatened to withdraw its co-authorship of the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill if the public information committee passes what it calls a “watered down” and “toothless” measure.

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Security may be ‘challenging’ with ‘Pope of surprises’ – Church officials

Ensuring Pope Francis' security may be "challenging" during his visit to the Philippines in January next year since he is known for his spontaneity and his habit of breaking protocol in order to reach out to people.

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Tiangco: Miss Earth pageant should not be held at Mercado-owned resort

An ally of Vice President Jejomar Binay has asked the organizers of Miss Earth International pageant to reconsider using a resort in Coron, Palawan as the contestants' official residence, saying that the resort is part of the "ill-gotten wealth" of its purported owner, former Makati City Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado.

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Guingona: Senators safe when Janette Garin attends budget debates

Department of Health officer-in-charge Undersecretary Janette Garin on Thursday found allies in Senate President Franklin Drilon and Senator Teofisto Guingona III amid the flak she received for visiting quarantined Filipino peacekeepers without any protective gear. In an interview with Senate reporters, Guingona said it was safe to shake hands with Garin when she attends the plenary deliberation on the budget of DOH on Monday.

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5 years later, fate of Ampatuan patriarch’s bail plea known next month

After five years of hearing the high-profile murder case, the Quezon City judge in the Maguindanao massacre trial is finally set to decide whether or not to allow principal suspect and clan patriarch Andal Ampatuan Sr. to enjoy tenporary freedom.

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Hard to distinguish between working and campaigning, VP Binay admits

Is Vice President Jejomar Binay already campaigning for the 2016 presidential polls? Maybe yes. Maybe not.

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Sandiganbayan suspends arraignment of Elenita Binay

The Third Division of the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan on Thursday suspended the arraignment of Elenita Binay, wife of Vice President Jejomar Binay, on malversation and graft charges in relation to the alleged anomalous purchase of P45-million worth of hospital beds and medical supplies during her incumbency as the mayor of Makati City.

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Palace: No more family feud, but PNoy wants justice for Martial Law victims

Amid a renewed call to put the Aquino-Marcos family feud behind, a MalacaƱang official on Thursday said President Benigno Aquino III no longer harbor ill will against the Marcoses, but he wants justice for the victims of Martial Law.

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Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Senate may probe Binay accuser over unexplained wealth –Drilon

The Senate will investigate former Makati vice mayor Ernesto Mercado, chief accuser of Vice President Jejomar Binay, for alleged unexplained wealth once a resolution has been filed seeking for it, Senate President Franklin Drilon said Thursday.

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Govt working to thwart Islamic State recruitment in PHL – Palace

The government is exerting efforts to thwart reported recruitment activities of Islamic State militants in the Philippines, a MalacaƱang spokesman said Thursday.

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Preparations ‘on time’ for Pope Francis visit, say church officials

Church officials on Thursday said preparations are in place and are being followed on schedule so far for Pope Francis' visit in January 2015.

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Bong Revilla’s handwriting expert paid P200k

Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. paid a former handwriting expert of the National Bureau of Investigation P200,000 to boost his case in the bail hearing in connection with the plunder charges filed against him in connection with the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam.

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Bong Revilla says Sandigan may rule on his bail petition next week

Detained Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. on Thursday said the Sandiganbayan First Divison may decide on his bail petition as early as next week if the summation of the bail hearings finishes within the day.

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SC workers seek 16k minimum wage, oppose taxes on bonuses

Supreme Court employees on Thursday used a portion of their lunch break to hold a protest for a higher national minimum wage of P16,000 and against the imposition of taxes on their bonuses and allowances.

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AFP: Alleged involvement of Pinoy in beheading of Syrian soldiers may be ISIS propaganda

Claims that a Filipino was involved in the beheading of 18 Syrian soldiers may just be a propaganda by Islamic State fighters, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Thursday.

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Killing of Maguindanao massacre witness may have ‘adverse impact’ on the trial – media group

The National Union of Journalists in the Philippines on Thursday expressed concern over the killing of another potential witness in the Maguindanao massacre case, saying the incident may have an adverse impact in the trial.

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Garin willing to step down as acting DOH chief if proven she put public at risk of Ebola

While defending her decision to visit the quarantined peacekeepers from Liberia, acting Health Secretary Janette Garin said she is willing to step down if proven she has put the health of the public at risk.

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Mejorada insists govt agencies violated procurement law by using value engineering

The accuser of Senate President Franklin Drilon insisted Thursday that government agencies violated the procurement law when it used value engineering in the construction of the Iloilo Convention Center.

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Argentine priest to concelebrate Mass with Pope Francis during PHL visit

Pope Francis will not be the only Argentinian celebrating Mass during his visit to the Philippines this coming January.

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Work on Quirino Grandstand peaks for papal visit

Work on repairing and sprucing the Quirino Grandstand in Manila started to peak Thursday, in preparation for Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines this January.

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P3.35B in lotto prizes were unclaimed from 2006-2013 – PCSO

A total of P3.35 billion worth of lottery prizes, accumulated from 2006 to 2013, were unclaimed from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), officials told lawmakers on Wednesday, during a House Committee on Games and Amusement hearing.

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Male domestic abuse unprotected by current laws – men's rights group

Men's rights group Diego Silang Movement has claimed that current laws were insufficient to protect male victims of domestic abuse, GMA 7 news program "24 Oras" reported on Tuesday.

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Filipino allegedly among ISIS fighters in beheading video

An online news website claimed in a November 18 post that a Filipino was among the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) fighters seen in a video beheading a group of around 18 Syrian soldiers.

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Daughter of alleged Binay dummy denies condo was named after him

The daughter of one of the alleged dummies of Vice President Jejomar Binay denied the accusations of former Makati City mayor Ernesto Mercado that a condo unit was registered under her father's name for Binay.

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UNA dares Ernesto Mercado to undergo lifestyle check

The United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) party said that former Makati City Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado should undergo a lifestyle check, a report from GMA's “24-Oras” said Wednesday.

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United Nations, WHO, politicians commit to fight poor nutrition

International organizations and 170 governments committed to battling poor nutrition on Wednesday, saying that while hunger had dropped, half the world's population was in some way affected by nutritional problems.

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Flavier family donates ‘abuloy’ to NKTI’s nephrology for kids

As they thanked Filipinos for their love and support, the family of the late former Sen. Juan Flavier will donate the monetary contributions they received to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute. Flavier's daughter Joy said the contributions from kind-hearted people including friends and family amounted to some P349,150.

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Palace on Ona’s fate: Let’s not jump the gun

"Let's not jump the gun." This was MalacaƱang's statement on Wednesday when asked about speculations that on-leave Health Secretary Enrique Ona will be eased out of his post.

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SEC finds inconsistencies in financial statements of Tiu firms

The Securities and Exchange Commission has found several inconsistencies in the financial reports of the companies of and linked with businessman Antonio Tiu, who claimed ownership of the sprawling property in Rosario Batangas but which critics said was owned by Vice President Jejomar Binay.

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Aquino arrives from Singapore, chats with Garin at the airport

President Benigno Aquino III arrived home Wednesday evening from Singapore, where he went on a two-day working visit.

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2015 govt feeding program to reach 2M wasted and severely wasted children

Some two million wasted and severely wasted children all over the country are set to benefit next year from the government's 120-day feeding program after the Senate increased the funding for it.

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Garin defends ‘unprotected’ visit to quarantined peacekeepers

Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin has admitted she may have committed some “lapses” in visiting the Filipino peacekeepers from Ebola-stricken Liberia unprotected, but said Wednesday she is still keen on attending budget deliberations in the Senate next week.

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Maguindanao massacre suspect wants P11.4M bail reduced

An accused in the November 2009 Maguindanao massacre has asked the court to lower the P11.4 million bail requirement for his temporary freedom.

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Arroyo ally revives call for Christmas furlough for ex-President

A former Cabinet member under the administration of former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has renewed his call for the Sandiganbayan to allow the detained lawmaker to spend the Christmas holidays with her family in light of her deteriorating health.

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Napolcom asked to soon resolve admin raps vs. cops in Maguindanao massacre

Families of 13 victims in the five-year-old Maguindanao massacre on Wednesday asked the National Police Commission (Napolcom) to "immediately resolve" the four-year-old administrative case they had filed against local policemen implicated in the November 23, 2009 killings.

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MalacaƱang condemns witness’ killing in Maguindanao

MalacaƱang on Wednesday deplored the killing of a witness in the Maguindanao massacre case. At a press briefing, deputy presidential spokesperson Undersecretary Abigail Valte also offered sympathies to the family of the slain witness, Dennis Sakal.

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13 suspected Abu Sayyaf members nabbed in Sulu

Thirteen suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf group were arrested before noon Tuesday in Sulu, Armed Forces spokesman Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said Wednesday.

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To prove alibi, Zaldy Ampatuan camp presents airline exec, Maguindanao admin officer 

The camp of mulitple murder suspect Rizaldy "Zaldy" Ampatuan on Wednesday presented an airline supervisor and a Maguindanao administrative official to prove his claim that he was not involved in the planning and carrying out of the Nov. 23, 2009 massacre in Ampatuan in Maguindanao province.

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Pia Cayetano to welcome Garin to Senate with ‘hand on heart’

When Department of Health officer-in-charge Undersecretary Janette Garin arrives at the Senate on Monday, Senator Pia Cayetano would greet her with neither a handshake nor a kiss but with the a handless greeting made necessary by the spread of the Ebola virus in West Africa.

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Songs, prayers of the faithful for Papal Mass at Manila Cathedral may be in PHL languages

The Songs for the Papal Mass at the Manila Cathedral on January 16, 2015 might be in different Philippine languages, if not, the prayers of the faithful might be, a television report said on Wednesday.

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Drilon wants Roxas to be LP’s standard-bearer in 2016 polls

If Senate President Franklin Drilon would have his way, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas will be the Liberal Party's standard-bearer in 2016.

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Cardinal Tagle: Only two of Pope Francis’ events open to public

Only two of 11 events during Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines will be open to the public, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle said.

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PHL wants ‘concrete actions’ amid Chinese leader’s vow against violence in resolving sea row  

Although the Philippines welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s commitment that China will not use force in resolving the South China Sea disputes, Manila said Beijing’s assurance should be matched by its actions.

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Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Pinoy peacekeepers to receive arrival honors, additional allowance after quarantine

The 25 personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) who were part of the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping team from Liberia will be given arrival honors and additional allowance after they completed the mandatory 21-day quarantine on Caballo Island.

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Napoles kids refuse to enter plea in graft raps

Unlike their mother, the children of alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles on Wednesday refused to enter any plea in the numerous graft cases filed against them in connection with the multibillion-peso fraud.

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PNoy: Improved administration ratings show Pinoys don’t fall for falsehoods

President Benigno Aquino III looks at the improved satisfaction ratings of his administration as an indication that Filipinos don't fall for falsehoods.

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VP Binay visits folk in Cebu

While his critics continue to hurl accusations against him before Senate hearings, Vice President Jejomar Binay spent two days in Cebu province this week.

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Garin may have to wear protective gear during budget debates next week

Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin may have to wear a protective gear when she goes to the Senate next week during the budget deliberations of the agency’s proposed 2015 budget.

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UP sets mandatory holiday breaks Dec. 18-23, 29

The University of the Philippines community may enjoy a "mandatory" holiday break from Dec. 18 to 23 and on Dec. 29, UP president Alfredo Pascual declared.

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Senate wants those earning up to P82k to be included in 13th month pay tax exemption

If the bill seeking to increase the tax exemption cap for 13th month pay and other benefits would be passed into law, those earning up to P82,000 would also be covered.

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PNoy seeking consensus on 2016 bet, but not in talks with VP Binay

President Benigno Aquino III is currently seeking consensus among his allies on whom to anoint as his successor, but Vice President Jejomar Binay is not being involved in this process.

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PRC: Marine Deck, Master Mariner and Chief Mate exam results out

Forty new master mariners, 263 new chief mates and 1,329 new navigational watch officers-in-charge passed the latest round of licensure examinations the Board for Marine Deck Officers gave, the Professional Regulation Commission said Tuesday evening.

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SEC documents show links between alleged ‘bagman’ companies and VP Binay

A GMA News Research study has found Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) documents which show a connection, through several companies, between a Gerardo S. Limlingan Jr. and Vice President Jejomar Binay, GMA 7 news program “24 Oras” reported on Tuesday.

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US embassy gives heads up on possible delays in visa processing

Citing some technical difficulties, the United States Embassy in Manila advised the public of possible delays in visa processsing and in sending and receiving communications.

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VP Binay threatens to sue accusers

Vice President Jejomar Binay has threatened to sue the individuals who are implicating him in various anomalies involving corruption, a report from GMA News TV's “State of the Nation” said Tuesday.

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Ex-AFP chief Biazon: Is ASG sending a message amid BBL hearings?

Former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief and incumbent Muntinlupa City Rep. Rodolfo Biazon on Tuesday called for a deeper investigation on the clash that occurred between the military and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Talipao, Sulu on Friday.

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Some SC justices: ‘Raise EDCA issues before the Senate’

Saying it would be premature for them to rule on the matter, several Supreme Court justices on Tuesday said issues raised against the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) would best be resolved in the Senate.

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Doctors’ group says immunization rate low even with enough vaccines

Amid the controversy over the Department of Health's (DOH) procurement of some P833.6-million worth of anti-pneumonia vaccine two years ago, a doctors' group said the government should address the fact that vaccination is not carried out enough even when there is enough supply.

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Youth solon: SC declaring EDCA unconstitutional at top of ‘Christmas wish list’

With the holiday season drawing closer, Kabataan party-list Rep. Terry Ridon said there is no better Christmas wish that could be granted for nationalist youths than for the Supreme Court to strike down the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA)

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Ombudsman Morales opposes six Bangsamoro bill provisions

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales has opposed six provisions in draft Bangsamoro Basic Law.

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DOH: Second peacekeeper falls ill on Caballo Island

Another Filipino peacekeeper currently on Caballo Island in Cavite has fallen ill, a report from GMA's “Balita Pilipinas” program said Tuesday.

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US suspect in murders of Filipina, British bf extradited to PHL

An American man has been extradited to the Philippines to stand trial for the murder of a retired British policeman and his Filipina girlfriend, the Department of Justice said Tuesday.

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Grace Poe bares one reason why she won't run in 2016

Senator Grace Poe on Tuesday doesn't want to go through what her father, actor Fernando Poe Jr., experienced in 2004.

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De Lima insists on constitutionality of justice system under Bangsamoro Basic Law

Justice Secretary Leila De Lima on Tuesday maintained that the establishment of an autonomous justice system under the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is in accordance with the Constitution.

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Palace: Execs behaved ‘responsibly’ when they visited peacekeepers

Top officials of the Department of Health (DOH) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) acted "responsibly" when they visited quarantined Filipino peacekeepers from Liberia, MalacaƱang said Tuesday.

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Trillanes questions completion certificate for unfinished Makati Science building

Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Tuesday questioned the issuance of a completion and acceptance certificate for the 10-storey Makati Science High School building despite its being unfinished.

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Monday, November 17, 2014

PNP to public: Don’t fall for rumors of papal visit security threats

The Philippine National Police on Tuesday appealed to the public not to believe rumors that there are security threats to Pope Francis' upcoming visit and the Philippines' hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in 2015.

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Monitor your temperature, solon advises DOH’s Garin

Former military chief and incumbent Muntinlupa Rep. Rodolfo Biazon on Tuesday advised acting Health Secretary Janette Garin to monitor her temperature for 21 days following the latter's visit to the Filipino peacekeepers undergoing a 21-day quarantine on Caballo Island.

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Ex-ally says VP Binay owns units in 60 percent of Makati condos

Former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado on Tuesday alleged before the Senate Blue Ribbon Subcommittee that presumptive presidential candidate, Vice President Jejomar Binay, was given units in 60 to 70 percent of condominium buildings in the city in exchange for faster processing of permits, tax relief and other privileges for the developers.

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EDCA oral arguments start; Saguisag says Aquino has no say on EDCA

Oral arguments at the Supreme Court on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement started on Tuesday, with former Senator Rene Saguisag insisting President Benigno Aquino III has no authority to decide on the controversial bilateral pact.

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Apology not a bad idea, says ex-DOH Sec. on AFP, DOH execs’ visit to peacekeepers without protective gear

It is "not a bad idea" for Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. and Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin to issue an apology for not wearing protective gear during their visit to quarantined Filipino peacekeepers on Caballo Island, former Health Secretary Dr. Esperanza Cabral said Tuesday.

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SC denies Laude plea to intervene in EDCA cases

The Supreme Court has denied a bid from the family of slain transgender woman Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude to intervene in the pending cases against the controversial Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement between the Philippines and the US.

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Bong Revilla leaves St. Luke’s Medical Center after checkup

After an overnight stay at the St. Luke's Medical Center in Taguig City, Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. left for the Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame at noon Tuesday.

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Ex-Makati Vice Mayor Mercado donates part of alleged Binay property to govt

Former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado on Tuesday voluntarily surrendered to the government a part of the 350-hectare property in Rosario, Batangas, which is registered under his name.

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PNoy’s Singapore trip to cost P11.6M

President Benigno Aquino III's two-day trip to Singapore will cost the government P11.6 million, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said Tuesday.

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COA: Initial cost estimate for Makati Science building was only P348.6 million

Commission on Audit chairperson Grace Pulido Tan on Tuesday said the initial estimate cost for the 10-storey Makati Science High School with dormitories was only P348.6 million. Documents from the Makati City Hall showed the local government has shelled out P1.3 billion out of the P1.5-B budget for the 54-classroom school building.

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Experts: Makati Science HS building construction should only cost between P489M to P644M 

Experts said Tuesday the cost of construction of the Makati Science High School should be lower than the P1.3 billion the local government shelled out for it.

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French president Hollande to visit PHL in 2015, climate change tops agenda

French President FranƧois Hollande will visit the Philippines in 2015, in reciprocation for President Benigno Aquino III's visit to France last September.

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Aquino boards chartered flight for working visit to Singapore

President Benigno Aquino III and a Philippine delegation on Tuesday morning boarded a chartered flight to Singapore for a two-day working visit.

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4 to 6 million expected at Pope Francis’ Luneta mass

Organizers of Pope Francis' papal visit are bracing for four to six million people at the Mass the pope will lead at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Jan. 18 next year.

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Close to a year after Terminal 3 shooting, NAIA still lacks CCTV cameras

Close to a year since four people were shot to death at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, the Manila International Airport Authority has yet to finish installing security cameras at the country's primary airport.

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SC, parties all set for EDCA oral arguments

With the guidelines for the debate already in place, parties in cases contesting the constitutionality of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement are set to lay their arguments on the controversial bilateral deal before the Supreme Court on Tuesday.

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House set to resume floor debates on Cha-cha, anti-political dynasty proposals

Discussions on two controversial measures — the anti-political dynasty bill and the charter change resolution — are set to resume on the floor of the House of Representatives now that the proposed 2015 national budget has been submitted to the Senate.

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Doctors’ group hits AFP, DOH execs for visiting quarantined peacekeepers

The Philippine College of Physicians has criticized military and health officials' for visiting peacekeepers from Ebola-hit Liberia at their quarantine facilities in Caballo Island over the weekend.

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Albay mulling school holidays during APEC-ISOM on Dec. 8 and 9

Classes in Albay province may be suspended on December 8 and 9, Monday and Tuesday, when the province hosts a meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

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Solon seeks passage of Bill of Rights for Taxi Passengers

With the holiday season fast approaching, a lawmaker has renewed his push for the passage of a proposed “Bill of Rights for Taxi Passengers” to protect them from abusive and picky cab drivers.

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Only 2,000 attendees allowed for Pope Francis’ Mass at Manila Cathedral

Only 2,000 bishops, priests, and religious individuals are allowed to attend the Papal Mass at the Manila Cathedral on January 16, 2015, the second day of Pope Francis' visit in the Philippines.

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VP Binay’s affidavit: Senators acting as judges, witnesses

Vice President Jejomar Binay has submitted an eight-page affidavit to the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee formally denying the overpricing in the construction of the P2.7-billion Makati City Hall Building II and chiding senators for acting as prosecutors, judges and even witnesses against him.

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Senators remember Flavier as friend, confidant, father

Despite his achievements as a lawmaker, the late Senator Juan Flavier made his mark on his colleagues not just as an outstanding legislator but as a friend, confidant, adviser, and father.

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Bong Revilla leaves detention for overnight stay at St. Luke’s

Detained Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. on Monday left his detention facility at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame to undergo various medical checkups at St. Luke's Medical Center (SLMC) in Taguig City.

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Senate adjourns session early in honor of Flavier

The Senate on Monday adjourned its session early in honor of the late Senator Juan Flavier.

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AFP: Quarantined peacekeepers in Caballo Island all okay

The Filipino UN peacekeepers who are currently on their 21-day quarantine period at Caballo Island near Corregidor are in good condition, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc reiterated on Monday.

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Strike down EDCA, Laude kin ask Supreme Court

The family of slain Filipino transgender woman Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude on Monday asked the Supreme Court to declare the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States as unconstitutional.

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