Prosecutors Present Criminal Case Against Trump’s hush money
April 22, 2024, 2 Minutes Read
For the first time in history, prosecutors are preparing to present a criminal case against a former American president to a jury. On Monday, the trial of Donald Trump will begin, with prosecutors accusing him of a hush money scheme designed to prevent damaging stories about his personal life from being made public.
The trial will take place in Manhattan, where a 12-person jury will hear opening statements from both the prosecution and defense. This marks the first of four criminal cases against Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, to go to trial.
The focus of the trial is a hush money scheme that Trump allegedly orchestrated to silence individuals who possessed damaging information about his personal life. It is alleged that Trump paid large sums of money to these individuals in exchange for their silence, thereby preventing the release of damaging stories that could have had a negative impact on his reputation and political career.
The statements are expected to give jurors and the voting public the clearest view yet of the allegations at the heart of the case, as well as insight into Trump’s expected defense.
Attorneys will also introduce a colorful cast of characters who are expected to testify about the made-for-tabloids saga, including a porn actor who says she had a sexual encounter with Trump and the lawyer who prosecutors say paid her to keep quiet about it.(Source: New York/ AP News)
Photo by Wilfredo Lee/ AP Photo.
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The Holy See Protests French Court Ruling on Vatican Official
April 13, 2024, 2 Minutes Read
Photo by Gregorio Borgia/ AP Photo.
The Holy See has lodged a formal protest with France following a recent ruling by a French court. The court determined that a former high-ranking Vatican official was responsible for the wrongful dismissal of a nun from a religious order. The ruling has sparked controversy and prompted the Vatican to assert that it is a violation of religious freedom.
The Case of Sister Sabine de la Valette
The French court, known as the Lorient Tribunal, ruled in favor of Sister Sabine de la Valette, who was previously known as Mother Marie Ferréol. Sister Sabine was forced to resign from the Dominicans of the Holy Spirit, her religious order, following an investigation conducted by the Vatican.
The Vatican's Response
In response to the court ruling, the Holy See issued a statement expressing its surprise at the verdict. The Vatican stated that it had not been officially informed of the ruling, but nonetheless considered it a serious violation of the right to religious freedom.
The Holy See emphasized the importance of religious freedom as a fundamental human right. It argued that the court's decision infringed upon the autonomy of religious institutions and interfered in their internal affairs. The Vatican further contended that the ruling encroached upon the authority of the Catholic Church to make decisions regarding the governance of religious orders.
While the court ruling may have been based on the specific circumstances of Sister Sabine's case, the Holy See sees it as setting a dangerous precedent. The Vatican fears that such interference could undermine the ability of religious institutions to govern themselves and fulfill their spiritual and charitable missions.
As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how France will respond to the Holy See's protest. This dispute between the Vatican and the French court raises broader questions about the delicate balance between the rule of law and the autonomy of religious institutions.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis had tasked Cardinal Marc Ouellet, at the time the head of the Vatican’s bishops’ office, with conducting an investigation that ended with the Holy See taking a series of canonical measures against Valette, including her expulsion after 34 years as a nun in the order. ( Source: Rome/ AP News)
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The Impact of Arizona's Near-Total Abortion Ban on the U.S. Presidential Election
April 12, 2024, 1 Minute Read
Photo by Ross D. Franklin/ AP Photo.
Arizona was already expected to be closely contested in the upcoming U.S. presidential election, has now become an even more critical battleground. This transformation comes in the wake of a recent ruling that has instituted a near-total abortion ban, propelling Arizona to the forefront of the national debate over reproductive rights.
Known for its 378-mile border with Mexico and its large Hispanic and immigrant populations, Arizona has long been at the center of the nation's immigration debate. However, with the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to effectively end the federally guaranteed right to abortion, the state now finds itself at the center of another contentious issue.
The implementation of a near-total abortion ban in Arizona has supercharged the state's role in the presidential election. The stakes are high, as both major political parties recognize the significance of Arizona's electoral votes.
The outcome of the election in this sunbelt state with a fierce independent streak could have far-reaching implications for the future of reproductive rights in the United States. Supporters of the near-total abortion ban argue that it is necessary to protect the rights of the unborn and to promote a culture of life. ( Source: Manila, Philippines/ AP News)
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The U.S. Army Introduces Joint Battlefield Training in the Philippines
April 9, 2024, 1 Minute Read
Photo by Aaron Favila/ AP Photo.
About 2,000 U.S. and Philippine army forces will join the dayslong combat drills backed by helicopters and artillery fire against armed adversaries in a jungle setting in the northern Philippines in June, Maj. Gen. Marcus Evans, commanding general of the U.S. Army’s 25th Infantry Division, said Sunday.
The U.S. Army is introducing a joint battlefield training in the Philippines to improve combat readiness including by ensuring adequate supply of ammunition and other needs in difficult conditions in tropical jungles and on scattered islands, a U.S. general said.
The Biden administration has been strengthening an arc of military alliances in the Indo-Pacific to better counter China, including in any future confrontation over Taiwan. The U.S. moves dovetail with Philippine efforts to shore up its territorial defenses amid disputes with China in the South China Sea and ability to respond to frequent natural disasters.
The combat training will be held in the Philippines for the first time at Manila’s request. It’s not clear whether the longtime treaty allies would decide to turn the maneuvers into an annual exercise, Evans said. ( Source: Manila, Philippines/ AP News)
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President Biden Reaffirms U.S. Defense Commitment to Pacific Allies
March 16, 2024, 2 Minutes Read
Photo by Mark Schiefelbein/ AP Photo.
President Joe Biden reiterated the United States' unwavering commitment to its defense alliance with Pacific allies. During a meeting at the White House, President Biden gathered with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to address the growing concerns over provocative Chinese military actions in the Indo-Pacific region.
The United States and the Philippines have maintained a mutual treaty for over 70 years, solidifying their commitment to each other's defense. President Biden's strong affirmation of this alliance comes at a crucial time, as tensions rise due to ongoing skirmishes between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea.
Strengthening Defense Ties in the Indo-Pacific
The meeting between President Biden, President Marcos Jr., and Prime Minister Kishida signifies the importance of bolstering defense ties among the allies in the Indo-Pacific region. With China's increasing military assertiveness, it is crucial for the United States and its partners to demonstrate a united front in upholding regional stability and security.
President Biden emphasized that the U.S. commitment to its allies in the Pacific is "ironclad." This reassurance aims to provide a sense of security to the Philippines and Japan, as they navigate the challenges posed by China's actions. By standing together, the United States, the Philippines, and Japan send a clear message that any threat to regional peace will be met with a unified response.
Navigating Challenges in the South China Sea
One of the primary concerns discussed during the meeting was the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. The Philippines and China have been engaged in territorial disputes in the region, particularly regarding the Spratly Islands and Scarborough Shoal. These disputes have led to frequent encounters between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards.
President Biden acknowledged the challenges faced by the Philippines and expressed support for its efforts to protect its sovereign rights in the South China Sea. The United States has consistently advocated for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Furthermore, President Biden emphasized the importance of upholding freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, which is vital for regional trade and stability. The United States remains committed to working with its allies to ensure that international maritime rules are respected and that any attempts to change the status quo through coercion are discouraged. ( Source: Washington/ AP News)
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MANILA, Philippines- Finance Secretary Ralph Recto has welcomed the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Board's new endorsement to grant an agreement to a triumphant private sector consortium bidder for the restoration of the Ninoy Aquino Global Air terminal (NAIA).
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Board has awarded a contract to a private sector consortium bidder for the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). This is the largest solicited Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The project is expected to increase airport capacity from 35 million passengers annually to 62 million, expand air traffic movements per hour from 40 to 48, improve service by applying internationally benchmarked Minimum Performance Standards and Specifications, and utilize private sector expertise for modernization and capacity expansion.
The SMC-SAC Consortium is required to rehabilitate, operate, optimize, and maintain the NAIA airport, which includes improvements to its runways, four terminals, and other facilities. The project is expected to generate around P900 billion in revenues for the National Government in the course of its entire concession period, which is 15 years with a provision for extension of another 10 years. The total capital outlay for NAIA from the MIAA corporate operating budget was P13.56 billion from 2012 to 2022.(Source: Sunstar)
Photo from Department of Finance
NAIA recovery project to proceed according to DOF
February 16, 2024, 2 Minutes Read
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Pakistan's election was disrupted by violence and suspension of mobile services
February 8, 2024, 3 Minutes Read
ISLAMABAD- Pakistan conducted a general election on, which was ruined by militant attacks and the suspension of mobile phone services. After polling ended, the authorities started counting the votes. Tragically, it was reported that at least nine people lost their lives throughout the country. This election took place at a time when Pakistan is facing economic difficulties and an escalating wave of militant violence. The political climate is highly divided, adding further challenges to the already complex situation.
Thousands of troops were stationed on the streets and at polling stations throughout the nation, and the borders with Iran and Afghanistan were temporarily shut down in order to enhance security and guarantee a peaceful voting process. It is anticipated that television channels will announce initial result projections a few hours after the voting concludes at 5 p.m. (1200 GMT). As counting persists throughout the night, a clearer picture is expected to emerge early on Friday. However, numerous analysts are of the opinion that the election might not yield a definitive winner. Write your text here...
Thousands of troops were mobilized to maintain security during the elections, with their presence visible on the streets and at polling stations throughout the country. In an effort to ensure a peaceful polling process, the borders with Iran and Afghanistan were temporarily closed. Despite these measures, tragic incidents occurred, resulting in the loss of nine lives, including two innocent children. Bomb blasts, grenade attacks, and firing incidents were responsible for the fatalities. It is disheartening to witness such violence in the midst of an important democratic exercise. The authorities must continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of the citizens, taking further steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
Despite security concerns and frigid winter weather, people gathered in long lines at polling stations well before voting was scheduled to commence. However, the decision to suspend mobile networks has drawn criticism from opposition party leaders, including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of the Pakistan Peoples Party, who demanded an immediate restoration of service. The Chief Election Commissioner, Sikandar Sultan Raja, stated that the decision to suspend mobile networks was made by law enforcement agencies in response to the violence that occurred on Wednesday, and the commission would not intervene in the matter. Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, currently jailed former Prime Minister, urged citizens to remove passwords from their personal WIFI accounts to allow internet access for anyone in the vicinity on this crucial day.
ECP officials have reported that they have received numerous complaints from individuals who were unable to locate their designated polling stations due to the internet shutdown. If the election does not yield a clear majority for any party, which is forecasted by analysts, addressing various challenges will prove to be difficult. The most crucial challenge will involve securing a new bailout program from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) once the current agreement expires in March.Pakistan's election was disrupted by violence and suspension of mobile services. (Source: Reuters)
From Wikimedia Commons: Election Monitoring In Pakistan
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DENR not stopping APEX
February 8, 2024, 3 Minutes Read
DAVAO, Philippines- Apex Mining Co. Inc., the firm that utilized the specialists killed in an avalanche in Davao de Oro on Tuesday, keeps on working as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has not given any suspension request on the gold miner claimed by ports and gaming magnate Enrique Razon Jr.
Environment Undersecretary Joselin Fragada said in a meeting with Radyo 630 on Wednesday that subsequent to perusing the spot report from the episode, they didn't give a suspension request since they figured out that the avalanche happened beyond the operations of Apex.
She noted, nonetheless, that assuming they later find that the reason for the occurrence was the company’s shortcoming, then the DENR would issue such a request.
However, Fragada stated that Apex was free to carry on with its operations as it saw fit at this time.
“They can choose to do so, it’s their prerogative, right? If they like to, [they can] voluntarily cease [operations] first if the weather conditions are really like that,” Fragada said, referring to the continued heavy rains affecting Barangay Masara in Maco town where the incident happened.
“Apex Mining is on limited operations because it is focusing on fully supporting the rescue operations led by the provincial government of Davao de Oro,” Apex said in a statement on Wednesday.
The loss of life rose to 11 on Thursday, while the nearby government said families had revealed upwards of 110 individuals missing.
The company additionally accentuated that the occurrence didn't occur in that frame of mind of mining activity and that their vehicle transports were basically left external its premises.
“Just before the landslide, there were four 60-seater buses and one 36 person-capacity jeep waiting for the outgoing employees. One bus had left for Mawab while the rest were still waiting when the landslide occurred, its debris covering the terminal,” Apex said.
At the point when asked by one of the hosts for what valid reason the DENR didn't proactively issue the suspension to save local people, who were likewise utilized in Zenith's mining tasks, from additional risk, Fragada said the DENR was planning with Summit on its liability regarding the security of the occupants.
“We always remind the mining companies of their responsibilities, and of course, [that includes] watching the post-effect on communities, as well, since most of the host communities are employed with them,” the undersecretary said.
Environmental damage: However, in an explanation on Thursday, Bayan Muna demanded that Apex ought to be expected to take responsibility for the episode since the ecological harm its mining tasks had done caused the avalanche.
“Apex Mining Co. can’t just stay quiet and cover up their big liability and responsibility to their local workers that became victims, especially for those who died, because of the landslide and flooding that happened in its mining site,” said Bayan Muna vice president for Mindanao Eufemia Cullamat.
In the Davao region, Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) also demanded accountability for the Duterte political family.
KMP said the Dutertes allowed “decades of logging, mining, and plantation operations across Davao region [that] contributed to the destruction of the environment and vulnerability of the population to natural and man-made disasters.”
KMP also noted that President Duterte approved hundreds of Mineral Production Sharing Agreements and Financial or Technical Assistance Agreements covering nearly 100,000 hectares in the country's mining sector between 2018 and 2021. ( Source: Inquirer.Net)
Photo by: Agence France-Presse
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