Pinoy Buzz: Breaking News

Direk Maryo J. Delos Reyes dies at 65

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Film and TV director Maryo J. Delos Reyes died on Saturday evening, January 27. He was 65.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRGIFKuqU18yF2X19ZHeWiaa0mqcDNaAcfMYsTpr6wLUnbdbTv7Hna7xLo1Pi7Ct8933wtmRZsqbL_vtjsF3NcRKsKgYpNpUssQN-vNYH3GuqwZ9QLke6UqXDiYjkcecAfP5ZRW0kAfT2/s1600/direk-maryo-j-delos-reyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Direk Maryo J. Delos Reyes dies at 65" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="959" data-original-width="959" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRGIFKuqU18yF2X19ZHeWiaa0mqcDNaAcfMYsTpr6wLUnbdbTv7Hna7xLo1Pi7Ct8933wtmRZsqbL_vtjsF3NcRKsKgYpNpUssQN-vNYH3GuqwZ9QLke6UqXDiYjkcecAfP5ZRW0kAfT2/s1600/direk-maryo-j-delos-reyes.jpg" title="Direk Maryo J. Delos Reyes dies at 65" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Courtesy of Direk Maryo J. Delos Reyes Facebook page.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Jun Rufino, Delos Reyes' manager confirmed the news saying that the blockbuster director passed away around 10 p.m. after suffering a heart attack while attending a party with a friend in Dipolog City.<br /><br />“We have loved him in life, let us not forget him in this time of sorrow," Rufino said.<br /><br />ABS-CBN reporter MJ Felipe also shared on social media the details of the sudden demise of the showbiz personality.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">THIS JUST IN: Film and TV Director Maryo J Delos Reyes has passed away around 10pm this evening January 27. Direk Maryo’s team and his manager June Rufino confirmed this news. Initial info: Direk Maryo suffered a heart attack while attending a party in Dipolog City with a friend.</div>— MJ Felipe (@mjfelipe) <a href="https://twitter.com/mjfelipe/status/957309294944268288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">READ: Statement of June Rufino - “It is w/ deep sadness that we inform everyone that our beloved Maryo J. Delos Reyes passed away at 10pm January 27, 2018. Details of his wake and funeral services to follow. We have loved him in life, let us not forget him in this time of sorrow.</div>— MJ Felipe (@mjfelipe) <a href="https://twitter.com/mjfelipe/status/957333919208161281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br />Celebrities and friends in the industry pour their tribute online.<br /><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">Rest In Peace, Maryo J. Delos Reyes.</div>— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) <a href="https://twitter.com/MsLeaSalonga/status/957370073106321408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">Rest in peace Direk Maryo. Found out last night thru my nurse friend in Dapitan but kept quiet hoping it wasn’t true. Direk Maryo was my first script teacher in UP. I also first experienced real shooting when we visited him on the set. I remember him as gentle and very generous.</div>— Theodore Boborol (@TheodoreBoborol) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheodoreBoborol/status/957412705819795456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">I’m in shock. Learned really sad news tonight. 😭 Philippine Cinema lost one of its finest directors. 💔 May you Rest In Peace Direk Maryo J. Delos Reyes... we did so many projects together and had the best times! You will be missed. Thank you for everything Direk!! 🙏🏼</div>— Ruffa Gutierrez (@iloveruffag) <a href="https://twitter.com/iloveruffag/status/957327303842832384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">I just read about direk Maryo’s passing 😭😭😭 I wish I was able to say thank you personally one more time...for all the tips and for all the great movies he created...such sad news 😩</div>— Bela Padilla (@padillabela) <a href="https://twitter.com/padillabela/status/957423445695959040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">Rest in peace, Direk Maryo 🙏🏼🙏🏼</div>— Gabbi Garcia (@_gabbigarcia) <a href="https://twitter.com/_gabbigarcia/status/957401623101243392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br /><center><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="326" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Falma.concepcion%2Fposts%2F10155341742675415&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe></center><br />Among the notable films Delos Reyes directed were "The Unmarried Wife," "Magnifico," and "A Love Story."<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

Direk Maryo J. Delos Reyes dies at 65

MANILA, Philippines - Film and TV director Maryo J. Delos Reyes died on Saturday evening, January 27. He was 65. Photo Courtesy of Direk Mar...

BREAKING NEWS: Fire hits HTI Cavite factory anew

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Fire broke out anew at House Technologies Inc. (HTI), a factory located inside the Cavite Economic Zone in Rosario, Cavite, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said Friday, January 19, 2018.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibf5CXaJXpghisJXZzY50ARW63n5f1YKlChvVhyr1vxJS9XoXk-zN45sTD7qHMBrIv3eE-yVZQuKorudY6bdDWUJj6it4ErZTSv6swGLEGZyQKDiMSCw02weeo8Pw8Wjf3agMltHEfck8-/s1600/FIRE-HTI-cavite-january-2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fire hits HTI Cavite factory anew" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibf5CXaJXpghisJXZzY50ARW63n5f1YKlChvVhyr1vxJS9XoXk-zN45sTD7qHMBrIv3eE-yVZQuKorudY6bdDWUJj6it4ErZTSv6swGLEGZyQKDiMSCw02weeo8Pw8Wjf3agMltHEfck8-/s1600/FIRE-HTI-cavite-january-2018.jpg" title="Fire hits HTI Cavite factory anew" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fire hits HTI factory in Cavite on Friday, January 19. Photo Credit: Twitter/Richard Gordon</td></tr></tbody></table><br />BFP says the fire that started at 9:49 p.m. on Friday reached third alarm.<br /><br />Cavite Governor Jesus Crispin Remulla told Inquirer that two buildings are ablaze after the big fire hit facilities of HTI. Meanwhile, Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director Charito Plaza clarified that HTI's sister company Scad Services owned the facilities.<br /><br />Remulla added there's no people inside the building when the fire sparked.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><center><blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">Fire breaks out inside Cavite Export Processing Zone. <a href="https://twitter.com/michael_delizo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">@michael_delizo</a> gives updates. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ANCRecap?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">#ANCRecap</a> <a href="https://t.co/EGyYOsxESX" rel="nofollow">pic.twitter.com/EGyYOsxESX</a></div>— ABS-CBN News Channel (@ANCALERTS) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANCALERTS/status/954385360355672064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 19, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br />Senator Richard Gordon tweeted that the Philippine Red Cross - National Headquarters (PRC NHQ) has dispatched two fire trucks, and two ambulance units from Cavite and Pasay Chapter.<br /><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">On going fire incident at EPZA in Rosario, Cavite, on Task Force Alpha as of 10:01PM. PRC NHQ dispatched two fire trucks, and two ambulance units from Cavite and Pasay Chapter. <a href="https://t.co/Am4UU2Dfe4" rel="nofollow">pic.twitter.com/Am4UU2Dfe4</a></div>— Richard J. Gordon (@DickGordonDG) <a href="https://twitter.com/DickGordonDG/status/954367352002428929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">January 19, 2018</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center>The fire was declared "under control" at 11:49 p.m.<br /><br />HTI is the same factory that was <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/02/list-104-injured-10-severely-burned-hti-epza-cavite-fire.html" rel="nofollow">hit by fire on February 1 last year</a>.The incident resulted in five fatalities who all died in hospital and not during the fire incident, reports said.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

BREAKING NEWS: Fire hits HTI Cavite factory anew

MANILA, Philippines - Fire broke out anew at House Technologies Inc. (HTI), a factory located inside the Cavite Economic Zone in Rosario, Ca...

Duterte declares December 8 a non-working holiday

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law a bill declaring December 8 of every year a special non-working holiday to commemorate Feast of Immaculate Conception of Mary.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaWfgiNNWvOVDt6jbow4KzrcOcCnpZj6PaHxOBfeHHY-uHoNsy15usb48Wioolx2ChWrzlZ9lzUO_4BBDr4iBGlhYxFKuKNKwhsHyWTrppXLn4HW_CnE_HuF1ViSRPakJvGcN75G5YZ6on/s1600/manila-cathedral-philippines-immaculate-conception-philstar.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Duterte declares December 8 a non-working holiday" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaWfgiNNWvOVDt6jbow4KzrcOcCnpZj6PaHxOBfeHHY-uHoNsy15usb48Wioolx2ChWrzlZ9lzUO_4BBDr4iBGlhYxFKuKNKwhsHyWTrppXLn4HW_CnE_HuF1ViSRPakJvGcN75G5YZ6on/s1600/manila-cathedral-philippines-immaculate-conception-philstar.jpg" title="Duterte declares December 8 a non-working holiday" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Immaculate Conception. Photo Credit: Philstar</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The declaration through Republic Act (R.A.) No. 10966 will add another day to the many holidays and special non-working days the nation has in one year.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">President Duterte signs into law bill declaring December 8 a non working holiday. bill is initiative of ML Farinas <a href="https://t.co/C0nK42unlw" rel="nofollow">pic.twitter.com/C0nK42unlw</a></div>— RG Cruz ABS-CBN News (@1rgcruz) <a href="https://twitter.com/1rgcruz/status/946594756070539267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">December 29, 2017</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br />In 2018 and 2019, December 8 falls on a Saturday and Sunday, respectively.<br /><br />Majority leader Rodolfo Fariñas of Ilocos Norte authored the bill.<br /><br />The Filipinos consider the feast a "day of obligation," requiring Catholics to participate in Mass.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

Duterte declares December 8 a non-working holiday

MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law a bill declaring December 8 of every year a special non-working holiday to c...

Female passenger who collapsed inside MRT3 dies after 2 hours

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The 26-year-old female passenger who collapsed inside a southbound MRT-3 train Monday morning, December 4, was pronounced dead after two hours.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxo0KdEmz0FDbETE4zc-DGsPPtsu_J0i6GiKYU-9nb1rEfIiINUQUXRBdyHjrXIfOisWFGK9p44Lzjlpc7HGe-UQI5ALiuLqIwTTdKDgddvDSDkirl9VMBlsrDPhlarpPnGnFxjTPp0FU/s1600/mrt-3-woman-dies.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Female passenger who collapsed inside MRT3 dies after 2 hours" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxo0KdEmz0FDbETE4zc-DGsPPtsu_J0i6GiKYU-9nb1rEfIiINUQUXRBdyHjrXIfOisWFGK9p44Lzjlpc7HGe-UQI5ALiuLqIwTTdKDgddvDSDkirl9VMBlsrDPhlarpPnGnFxjTPp0FU/s1600/mrt-3-woman-dies.jpg" title="Female passenger who collapsed inside MRT3 dies after 2 hours" /></a></div><br />In a report released by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the woman identified as Marielle Ann Mar collapsed at 9:48 a.m. as the train was approaching Ortigas station.<br /><br />Mar was carried out of the train by security guards and first aid was immediately given by the MRT staff, according to a report by GMA News.<br /><br />Mar was then rushed to Victor R. Potenciano Medical Center in Mandaluyong but was declared dead at 12:05 p.m.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />A friend of Mar on Facebook also confirmed the sad news, Ken Reyes wrote: "Ito yung pagkakataon na inaasahan kong FAKE NEWS lang!! Hanggang ngayon hindi pa din nagsisink in sakin na wala kana, Marielle Ann Mar!!"<br /><br />DOTr said the incident happened during non-peak hours.<br /><br />As of press time, the cause of the Mar's death is not yet known but her family prefers that an autopsy not be conducted.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

Female passenger who collapsed inside MRT3 dies after 2 hours

MANILA, Philippines - The 26-year-old female passenger who collapsed inside a southbound MRT-3 train Monday morning, December 4, was pronoun...

PISTON cancels December 4 and 5 transport strike

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The scheduled nationwide transport strike on December 4 and 5 has been cancelled after the Transport group Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) heard the appeal of Senator Grace Poe.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWqtLrrPO0E-xrhXt-IYN2_x1UXjIkzRJjmUxDoQYz8P34Rz0OvcqjEcGiOprrK73wRujA39s_mhlylp8GnVQiRULvlWvznjJbVYnMzGHhEsluQoM_oYrNRs8UvZM9y6UwmrnOXzEk7at/s1600/PISTON-cancels-december-4-5-transport-strike.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="PISTON cancels December 4 and 5 transport strike" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="713" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWqtLrrPO0E-xrhXt-IYN2_x1UXjIkzRJjmUxDoQYz8P34Rz0OvcqjEcGiOprrK73wRujA39s_mhlylp8GnVQiRULvlWvznjJbVYnMzGHhEsluQoM_oYrNRs8UvZM9y6UwmrnOXzEk7at/s1600/PISTON-cancels-december-4-5-transport-strike.jpg" title="PISTON cancels December 4 and 5 transport strike" /></a></div><br />"We welcome the decision of Piston and No to Jeepney Phaseout Coalition to heed our appeal and call off their nationwide transport strike," Sen. Poe, Chair of the Committee on Public Services said in a statement.<br /><br />"Issues can be better discussed and resolved when sobriety and judiciousness are exercised, in pursuit of the highest public good," Poe added.<br /><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">We welcome the decision of Piston and No to Jeepney Phaseout Coalition to heed our appeal and call off their nationwide transport strike. <a href="https://t.co/biwV4POJr5" rel="nofollow">pic.twitter.com/biwV4POJr5</a></div>— GRACE POE (@SenGracePOE) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenGracePOE/status/937155186321063936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">December 3, 2017</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="en">On Monday, I will file a resolution in order to conduct a hearing that will address these issues of PUV drivers and operators alike. Their problems are not theirs alone, but that of the entire nation that depends on the kind of public transportation they offer.</div>— GRACE POE (@SenGracePOE) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenGracePOE/status/936766993025208320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">December 2, 2017</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br />In a press briefing, the militant group instead to voice out their concerns on the Senate hearing on Thursday, December 7.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />PISTON added the strike is being planned in January.<br /><br />The supposed disturbance in the transport sector had prompted the cancellation of classes on Monday. Several LGUs took back their announcement after the recent development (READ: <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/12/walang-pasok-class-suspensions-on-monday-december-4-2017.html" rel="nofollow">#WalangPasok: Class suspensions on Monday, December 4, 2017</a>).<br /><br />The groups are opposing the implementation of the government’s jeepney modernization program.<br /><br />Department of Transportation (DOTr) said that public utility vehicles (PUVs) that are more than 15 years old will be banned from the road, and will be replaced by vehicles with "low-carbon and low-emission technology."<br /><br />"The jeepney phase out is just one way for President Duterte to appeal himself to foreign and local capitalists. It has no other objective than for a few corporations to monopolize [the jeepney industry],” George San Mateo, PISTON’s national president said.<br /><br />Stop and Go Transport Coalition President Jun Magno said that drivers and operators could not shoulder the P1.6-million loan for new jeepney units and daily amortization of P800.<br /><br />The coalition proposed for the rehabilitation of old jeepneys instead of acquiring new units.<br /><br />In October, the militant groups led a two-day strike, which caused Malacañang to <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/10/walang-pasok-class-suspensions-on-monday-october-16-2017.html" rel="nofollow">suspend government work and classes nationwide</a>.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

PISTON cancels December 4 and 5 transport strike

MANILA, Philippines - The scheduled nationwide transport strike on December 4 and 5 has been cancelled after the Transport group Pinagkaisan...

Hashtags member Franco Hernandez dies in drowning accident

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Franco Hernandez, “It’s Showtime” boy group Hashtags member, tragically died in a drowning accident while aboard a motorized <i>banca</i> in Davao Occidental on Saturday, November 11. His death was confirmed by his talent agency, Cornerstone Entertainment to MJ Felipe of ABS-CBN.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4sVbShFcnqKnAQluGpvm8b1cR4fRsiXdCGMGYB2a0yHRU6XtINXpcBPHB0zSrSGyrP7babLp8lfCr8Gq7Wr-hpTg3xejK-XjDtRydEX4a4xLLJlvP66SL51Yfr9DteXwlUCgoN-poZ1Q/s1600/hashtags-franco-died-drowned.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Hashtags member Franco Hernandez dies in drowning accident" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="633" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4sVbShFcnqKnAQluGpvm8b1cR4fRsiXdCGMGYB2a0yHRU6XtINXpcBPHB0zSrSGyrP7babLp8lfCr8Gq7Wr-hpTg3xejK-XjDtRydEX4a4xLLJlvP66SL51Yfr9DteXwlUCgoN-poZ1Q/s1600/hashtags-franco-died-drowned.JPG" title="Hashtags member Franco Hernandez dies in drowning accident" /></a></div><br />Hashtags Franco was on his way to coast of North Lamidan, Don Marcelino town along with his girlfriend and another member of the Hashtags aboard a motorized banca. Reports said a huge wave hit their banca and capsized it and they all fell off board.<br /><br />Franco was already unconscious when his body was recovered. He was sent to the nearby clinic in the neighboring town of Mintal. Sadly, he was already pronounced dead on arrival.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Last June this year, Franco celebrated his 21st birthday on It’s Showtime.<br /><br />Stay tuned as we update this post for more details.<br /><br /><b>— Sally, The Summit Express</b></div>

Hashtags member Franco Hernandez dies in drowning accident

MANILA, Philippines - Franco Hernandez, “It’s Showtime” boy group Hashtags member, tragically died in a drowning accident while aboard a mot...

Isabel Granada passes away in Qatar

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Singer-actress Isabel Granada has passed away on Saturday, her cousin Joseph Rivera confirmed on Facebook. She was 41.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiF7jTF-p-gmwFnDxdvoknV4oLlzl74TcKu-MB_nDZau_-cclyVUqvBR8ZZ3kqj2E5E3oHKBwE1C9DlhTzNPOCn77h2-_WEKQ9m6toFlJ1o6dszY1x41P5oVi1G6T2ID5CERgwCfp0ZN-e/s1600/Isabel-granada.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Isabel Granada dead" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="686" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiF7jTF-p-gmwFnDxdvoknV4oLlzl74TcKu-MB_nDZau_-cclyVUqvBR8ZZ3kqj2E5E3oHKBwE1C9DlhTzNPOCn77h2-_WEKQ9m6toFlJ1o6dszY1x41P5oVi1G6T2ID5CERgwCfp0ZN-e/s1600/Isabel-granada.jpg" title="Isabel Granada dead" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PAALAM, Isabel! Photo Credit: Facebook/Joseph Rivera</td></tr></tbody></table>"It is with great sadness and grief that my cousin Isabel Granada peacefully joined our creator at 18:00 today with the comfort the family," Rivera shared.<br /><br />"For me she was more than just a celebrity but that of a National Artist. Cuz I'm devastated that you had to go so soon despite us just reconnecting our family just recent. I will miss you so dearly. We would like to request for everyone's continued prayers for Isabel and for us family at this challenging moment. Maraming Salamat po," Rivera added.<br /><br />Isabel's husband Arnel Principe-Cowley has released statement to confirm the heartbreaking news and thanked the Filipino community in Doha for giving their full support on his family.<br /><br /><center><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="726" scrolling="no" src="https://web.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2Fjoseph.rivera.583234%2Fposts%2F10214386318672542&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe></center><br />Meanwhile, her ex-husband Jericho Genasky Aguas has said goodbye to the actress also in a Facebook post.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />"Pahinga ka na... Paalam, Isa," Jericho Genaskey Aguas said in a Facebook post shortly before midnight.<br /><br /><center><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="683" scrolling="no" src="https://web.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2Fjerichogeryk.aguas%2Fposts%2F10214290944565020&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe></center><br /><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/10/isabel-granada-in-coma-after-collapsing-in-qatar.html" rel="nofollow">Isabel Granada was in comatose after she collapsed on October 24</a>. She was in Qatar for a business trip with her husband Cowley. <br /><br />According to a nurse at Hamad Hospital, Isabel experienced internal bleeding and aneurysm.<br /><br />Among the movies of the 80's artist were “Bakit Madalas ang Tibok ng Puso” (1986), "Magic to Love" (1989), “Shake Rattle and Roll 2” (1990), "Lessons in Love" (1990) where she starred with Chuckie Dreyfus, and Ligaya ang Itawag Mo sa Akin (1997).<br /><br /> <b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

Isabel Granada passes away in Qatar

MANILA, Philippines - Singer-actress Isabel Granada has passed away on Saturday, her cousin Joseph Rivera confirmed on Facebook. She was 41....

Miss Philippines Karen Ibasco wins Miss Earth 2017

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA — Philippines won again in the prestigious Miss Earth pageant!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWWoqihetZ3Dk6Y1teH9IIi8zPl7JgPBFEGhscGh_eXnS-CxtFw3AiILwvePQbGJHc6NTLkg0tsrSMvCaQc251jAkC9Re6entenaIZLfKZhVpZde-K55gO-Oc6K7PhPn_dlZovAivgp5u/s1600/karen-ibasco-miss-earth-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Miss Philippines Karen Ibasco wins Miss Earth 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="896" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWWoqihetZ3Dk6Y1teH9IIi8zPl7JgPBFEGhscGh_eXnS-CxtFw3AiILwvePQbGJHc6NTLkg0tsrSMvCaQc251jAkC9Re6entenaIZLfKZhVpZde-K55gO-Oc6K7PhPn_dlZovAivgp5u/s1600/karen-ibasco-miss-earth-2017.jpg" title="Miss Philippines Karen Ibasco wins Miss Earth 2017" /></a></div><br />Miss Philippines Karen Ibasco was crowned Miss Earth 2017 in the coronation night held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Saturday, November 4.<br /><br />Reigning queen, Ecuador's Katherine Espin passed onto Ibasco her crown. The Filipina bested 83 other beautiful women from around the world.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpCnN5X6wKO0G8ea2M7rFufGuxYCTyjWjtR3rNok54d5yTGvu6hMwDgmXxVH_aE6iNYDRvnJvNkuuy4YnFUhypIR6C4NfuDEoHSrkonyQ9Je3WtZyaj_uR06NcW2_J54a_WMa79eST81A/s1600/Karen-Ibasco-crowning.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Karen Ibasco Miss Earth 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpCnN5X6wKO0G8ea2M7rFufGuxYCTyjWjtR3rNok54d5yTGvu6hMwDgmXxVH_aE6iNYDRvnJvNkuuy4YnFUhypIR6C4NfuDEoHSrkonyQ9Je3WtZyaj_uR06NcW2_J54a_WMa79eST81A/s1600/Karen-Ibasco-crowning.jpg" title="Karen Ibasco Miss Earth 2017" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crowning moment. Photo Credit: Twitter/Mall of Asia Arena</td></tr></tbody></table>Ibasco, a licensed physicist and University of Santo Tomas (UST) alum aced the Q&A portion, in which the candidates were asked: "Who or what do you think is the biggest enemy of Mother Earth and why?"<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i>“I believe that the real problem in this world is not climate change. The real problem is us because of our ignorance and apathy. What we have to do is to start changing our ways, to start recalibrating our minds and redirecting our steps because together, as a global community, our micro-efforts will have a macro-effect to help save our home, our planet," Ibasco said.</i></blockquote><br />In 2014 and 2015, our very own Jamie Herrel and Angelia Ong won the Miss Earth title.<br /><br />Other elemental winners for this year's pageant were Australia’s Nina Robertson as Miss Earth Air 2017, Russia’s Lada Akimova as Miss Earth Fire 2017 and Colombia’s Juliana Franco as Miss Earth Water 2017.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZbLbYhw4WGRWh3MaGIiyLq92tFF-EfFxATVsKzShWpBpgDPlY1qRQWy-6X_5FitlB66ScUCCSZEF3PVrxcYZbC4-aAADbFx09Su7F2-2nq15zkBpjEv4EsGl83IawuPdhxlQT38tN5ix/s1600/Miss-Earth-top-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Final 4 Miss Earth 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZbLbYhw4WGRWh3MaGIiyLq92tFF-EfFxATVsKzShWpBpgDPlY1qRQWy-6X_5FitlB66ScUCCSZEF3PVrxcYZbC4-aAADbFx09Su7F2-2nq15zkBpjEv4EsGl83IawuPdhxlQT38tN5ix/s1600/Miss-Earth-top-4.jpg" title="Final 4 Miss Earth 2017" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss Earth 2017 Final Four. Photo Credit: Twitter/Mall of Asia Arena</td></tr></tbody></table>Watch the telecast of the grand coronation of Miss Earth 2017 on ABS-CBN this Sunday, November 5 at 10 a.m.<br /><br />Again, congratulations Karen Ibasco!<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

Miss Philippines Karen Ibasco wins Miss Earth 2017

MANILA — Philippines won again in the prestigious Miss Earth pageant! Miss Philippines Karen Ibasco was crowned Miss Earth 2017 in the coron...

Isabel Granada in coma after collapsing in Qatar

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - 90’s singer-actress Isabel Granada is now in a critical condition after she collapsed on Tuesday, October 24.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqpSAhW8WAQXeKIA48GMhn0u34vzmW-11MZiTCVPLXcOLCRGi1uPE4VU7u9PVS2rC7-H97xY9-TjAQAxsbH2EDzkhlvB_2BOB5PiXlITaIsk4L36aDVJW7AlXxf1MVmMTQSlBxWCZ__M5/s1600/isabel-granada.png" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Isabel Granada in coma after collapsing in Qatar" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqpSAhW8WAQXeKIA48GMhn0u34vzmW-11MZiTCVPLXcOLCRGi1uPE4VU7u9PVS2rC7-H97xY9-TjAQAxsbH2EDzkhlvB_2BOB5PiXlITaIsk4L36aDVJW7AlXxf1MVmMTQSlBxWCZ__M5/s1600/isabel-granada.png" title="Isabel Granada in coma after collapsing in Qatar" /></a></div><br />Isabel is in Doha, Qatar with her husband, Arnel Principe-Cowley as she was invited as a celebrity speaker for Philippine Trade Tourism Conference.<br /><br />Isabel’s dear friend, Bianca Lapus has been consistently asking for prayers and giving updates on her Facebook page. <br /><br />Earlier, she posted, “I would like to ask for healing prayers for my dear friend, sis Isabel Granada.”<br /><br />"She was rushed at the Heart Hospital Hamad Medical Corp. Now at HGH (Hamad General Hospital) in Qatar.”<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />"I have not communicated with her family yet. I’m waiting for updates. But the initial info I got is from our dear Robby Tarroza, according to his post, Isa is in critical condition. Massive internal bleeding in the head. Aneurysm”<br /><br />“She suddenly collapsed lang daw.”<br /><br />But a few hours, she posted an update, “UPDATE: ISA IS IN A COMA NOW. She was rushed at Heart Hospital and status was post cardiac arrest.<br /><br />"But according to the nurse I chatted with in Qatar, she was transferred to Hamad Hospital and its confirmed she has internal bleeding and aneurysm.<br /><br />"She will undergo a major operation anytime now.<br /><br />"But according to the respiratory therapist she had 6 times cardiac arrest.”<br /><br />Our prayers are with Isabel.<br /><br />The Summit Express will be posting more updates on Isabel’s condition.<br /><b><br /></b> <b>— Sally, The Summit Express</b></div>

Isabel Granada in coma after collapsing in Qatar

MANILA, Philippines - 90’s singer-actress Isabel Granada is now in a critical condition after she collapsed on Tuesday, October 24. Isabel i...

#WalangPasok: November 13-15, 2017 non-working days in NCR, Pampanga, Bulacan

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang Palace officially declared November 13, 14 and 15, 2017 as special non-working days in Metro Manila, Bulacan and Pampanga for the 31st  Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdvelTI63aDj_h1OwAwkHpVIqA-Zc17HWLiTwSXow1-TQCFojz7NYEsBiVkqbdr3jixle61bVUdXpzka5A3fHNBmASdv2t94QAlj5iz49L_UxHlXya6SbZuK5-_2zjI1CKQJOFmKPcJEA/s1600/asean-summit-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#WalangPasok: November 13-15, 2017 non-working days in NCR, Pampanga, Bulacan" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="365" data-original-width="716" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdvelTI63aDj_h1OwAwkHpVIqA-Zc17HWLiTwSXow1-TQCFojz7NYEsBiVkqbdr3jixle61bVUdXpzka5A3fHNBmASdv2t94QAlj5iz49L_UxHlXya6SbZuK5-_2zjI1CKQJOFmKPcJEA/s1600/asean-summit-2017.jpg" title="#WalangPasok: November 13-15, 2017 non-working days in NCR, Pampanga, Bulacan" /></a></div><br />The announcement was made on Monday, October 23, through Proclamation No. 332.<br /><br />"Various activities directly connected with the 31st ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, to be attended by ASEAN Leaders and ASEAN Dialogue Partners, will be held in NCR and Clark Field, Pampanga," the proclamation stated.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivE_5T9slryCCjgSFIewiCRbfzvJnjY2ULsr1o468b4PDl8p6_ut5pYHDOJT6uZLFss1FvkKYN3_IN2xshmkgAjx3gONVkdSQXg0IUiAeYFQo_QKy5Dzf6PJsm53hRgBUtCf7UkHZwExN/s1600/walang-pasok-november-13-15-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="November 13-15, 2017 non-working days in NCR, Pampanga, Bulacan" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="997" data-original-width="726" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivE_5T9slryCCjgSFIewiCRbfzvJnjY2ULsr1o468b4PDl8p6_ut5pYHDOJT6uZLFss1FvkKYN3_IN2xshmkgAjx3gONVkdSQXg0IUiAeYFQo_QKy5Dzf6PJsm53hRgBUtCf7UkHZwExN/s1600/walang-pasok-november-13-15-2017.jpg" title="November 13-15, 2017 non-working days in NCR, Pampanga, Bulacan" /></a></div>On October 14, MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago specifically proposed to suspend classes and work on the said dates as this would be beneficial to avoid heavy traffic on routes that would be used by ASEAN delegates to go to summit venues.<br /><br />Earlier, the Metro Manila Council agreed to <b><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/10/walang-pasok-class-suspensions-november-16-17-2017-asean-summit.html" rel="nofollow">suspend classes in all levels on November 16 and 17</a> </b>due to ASEAN Summit.<div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />It can be recalled that commuters in Metro Manila were stranded and have to endure long walks to get to work during the 2015 APEC summit.<br /><br /><b>Trump to visit PH in November</b><br /><br />Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella said US President Donald Trump will visit the country this November for the ASEAN Summit week. Trump's visit underscores the improving PH-US ties and President Rodrigo Duterte is looking forward to welcome the US President in Manila.<br /><br />The Philippines’ year-long and third ASEAN Chairmanship coincides with the regional bloc’s 50th founding anniversary. It will be held together with ASEAN dialogue partners Australia, Canada, China, the European union, India, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, South Korea and the United States.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

#WalangPasok: November 13-15, 2017 non-working days in NCR, Pampanga, Bulacan

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang Palace officially declared November 13, 14 and 15, 2017 as special non-working days in Metro Manila, Bulaca...

Duterte declares Marawi City liberated from terrorists

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, October 17, declared the liberation of Marawi City from "terrorist influence."<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHneBmFQKRonLJTjvXSaQbylq9YEnsZ9sffu5TbTPvt__tTrt7qSkU9xW-b7w8iaTU2JBfMZY-fQvyp2xOBW4lN8xi3EmLxRZUj_UDDIrtjE3TZBd_oyjppscaD4QcQuXuS4wVg4euwPB/s1600/duterte-marawi.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Duterte declares Marawi City liberated from terrorists" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHneBmFQKRonLJTjvXSaQbylq9YEnsZ9sffu5TbTPvt__tTrt7qSkU9xW-b7w8iaTU2JBfMZY-fQvyp2xOBW4lN8xi3EmLxRZUj_UDDIrtjE3TZBd_oyjppscaD4QcQuXuS4wVg4euwPB/s1600/duterte-marawi.jpg" title="Duterte declares Marawi City liberated from terrorists" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">President Rodrigo Duterte with the troops during his sixth visit in the war-torn Marawi City on October 2, 2017. Joining the President are National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go, and actor Robin Padilla. PHOTO CREDIT: Facebook/PCOO</td></tr></tbody></table>"Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from the terrorist influence that marks the beginning of rehabilitation," Duterte said in a speech before troops 148th day into the crisis.<br /><br />The historic announcement was made after the death of terrorist leaders Omar Maute and Isnilon Hapilon on Monday in the main battle zone of Marawi, the capital of Lanao del Sur.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />AFP Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, told the press that the war in Marawi continues. "It will continue until armed elements are dealt with. But terrorists no longer have complete control."<br /><br />Marawi City has been dragged by the ISIS-inspired terror group Maute since May 23. <br /><br />With over five months of battle against the Maute group, more than 800 of the enemies were killed, a total of 162 government troops and 47 civilians died to defend the land.<br /><br />Duterte and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said it will cost more than ₱50 billion to rehabilitate the war-torn city.</div>

Duterte declares Marawi City liberated from terrorists

MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, October 17, declared the liberation of Marawi City from "terrorist influenc...

#WalangPasok: Palace suspends classes, government work on October 16, 2017

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Classes at all levels, both public and private, and government work, nationwide, will be suspended for tomorrow, October 16, 2017, Malacañang Palace officially declared Sunday.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZ__2Sth-RjTbEAM6MwsoFHPVB-iEKA-a3Z0kLR9mtIog-189YdADXAbWbLnPMb_ypxkahlaVLbfJ2dwsQLsRSW8VDoh8C7BCMuubeQjAky33Kg1Rc2kSjVTBvLtnY1O8uzm8Qmu7-a1Q/s1600/walang-pasok-october+16-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Palace suspends classes, government work on October 16, 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="383" data-original-width="716" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZ__2Sth-RjTbEAM6MwsoFHPVB-iEKA-a3Z0kLR9mtIog-189YdADXAbWbLnPMb_ypxkahlaVLbfJ2dwsQLsRSW8VDoh8C7BCMuubeQjAky33Kg1Rc2kSjVTBvLtnY1O8uzm8Qmu7-a1Q/s1600/walang-pasok-october+16-2017.jpg" title="Palace suspends classes, government work on October 16, 2017" /></a></div><br />The suspension of classes and work was due to the scheduled transport strike on October 16-17 against the government's plan to phaseout old jeepney units. However, the Office of the Executive Secretary said the announcement does not include suspension on Tuesday.<br /><br />As clarified, the private sector will not be covered (but subject to discretion of employers). <br /><br />As to suspension of government work, Palace added it will issue the usual memorandum circular.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Last week, several areas including Makati City, Davao City, San Mateo (Rizal), San Fernando (Pampanga) and schools such as The National Teachers College and UST Legazpi already announced the cancellation of classes.<br /><br />In the past months, jeepney operators had protested against the modernization program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in which public utility vehicles (PUVs) that are more than 15 years old will be banned from the road, and will be replaced by vehicles with "low-carbon and low-emission technology."<br /><br />Stop and Go Transport Coalition President Jun Magno said that drivers and operators could not shoulder the P1.6-million loan for new jeepney units and daily amortization of P800.<br /><br />The group proposed for the rehabilitation of old jeepneys instead of acquiring new units.</div>

#WalangPasok: Palace suspends classes, government work on October 16, 2017

MANILA, Philippines - Classes at all levels, both public and private, and government work, nationwide, will be suspended for tomorrow, Octob...

#WalangPasok: Palace suspends gov't work, public schools classes on September 21

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Malacanang Palace on Tuesday announced the suspension of classes in public schools and work in government offices on September 21, 2017 (Thursday).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcN39-Rv3Ln28flWy3oGJWMhtnrRsXS0OFocYkJSLXJkW6Dmv_QZ5tZ9TtZFA8y0-4BOoJKYkXf3DoUEyyCOzNuolZ4hAVhElatrI1oCGfywngulW7loHC9nZhXuT5O8RrDOAW8vm1Ekd/s1600/ernesto-abella.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Palace suspends gov't work, public schools classes on September 21" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcN39-Rv3Ln28flWy3oGJWMhtnrRsXS0OFocYkJSLXJkW6Dmv_QZ5tZ9TtZFA8y0-4BOoJKYkXf3DoUEyyCOzNuolZ4hAVhElatrI1oCGfywngulW7loHC9nZhXuT5O8RrDOAW8vm1Ekd/s1600/ernesto-abella.jpg" title="Palace suspends gov't work, public schools classes on September 21" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella. Photo Credit: PCOO</td></tr></tbody></table>A memorandum circular will be issued soon as advised by Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.<br /><br />Abella added that it will be up to private schools and companies whether to suspend classes and work during that day.<br /><br />On Monday, President Rodrigo Duterte said that September 21 is <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/09/duterte-declares-september-21-2017-national-day-of-protest.html" rel="nofollow">not a holiday but a “day of protest.”</a><br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />“I have declared it as a day of protest. Lahat ng gustong mag-protesta laban sa gobyerno, pulis o military, magbabaan kayo dyan,” Duterte said.<br /><br />September 21 also marks the 45th anniversary of the declaration of martial law by the late President Marcos.<br /><br />Various reports said that militants are set to schedule demonstrations on Thursday to protest the government’s war on drugs and deaths being linked to it as well as other issues on Duterte administration.</div>

#WalangPasok: Palace suspends gov't work, public schools classes on September 21

MANILA, Philippines - Malacanang Palace on Tuesday announced the suspension of classes in public schools and work in government offices on S...

Duterte declares September 21, 2017 a national day of protest

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte announced on Monday that September 21, 2017 (Thursday) is not a holiday but a "national day of protest."<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIhHOIYhYRDVngZZoRWjUbPb7xUGdh3fGsJuet_DWo7igm0x9aQ5GXjx-9K3lyjeH-tRR0eEVbcf-LpFkRIyg_hrAKp5_OB_1b68oONKSIlSXspNAnJzFz7ZgJCYygr3O2KJ_WqNN1EzY/s1600/President-Duterte.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="September 21, 2017 not a holiday" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIhHOIYhYRDVngZZoRWjUbPb7xUGdh3fGsJuet_DWo7igm0x9aQ5GXjx-9K3lyjeH-tRR0eEVbcf-LpFkRIyg_hrAKp5_OB_1b68oONKSIlSXspNAnJzFz7ZgJCYygr3O2KJ_WqNN1EzY/s1600/President-Duterte.jpg" title="#WalangPasok: Duterte declares September 21, 2017 holiday" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">President Rodrigo Duterte said September 21 not a holiday. Photo Credit: Manila Bulletin</td></tr></tbody></table>Duterte added he would suspend government work and classes during that day.<br /><br />"Oo, walang trabaho. At kung gusto ng mga taga-gobyerno, may mga union, the unions... they should participate," said Duterte.<br /><br />September 21, 2017, Thursday, marks the 45th anniversary of the declaration of martial law by the late President Marcos.<br /><br /><b>RELATED STORIES</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/09/walang-pasok-september-21-2017-declared-muslim-holiday.html" rel="nofollow">#WalangPasok: September 21, 2017 declared Muslim holiday</a></li><li><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/09/walang-pasok-september-18-20-21-27-29-2017-special-holiday-selected-areas.html" rel="nofollow">#WalangPasok: September 18, 20, 21, 27, 29, 2017 special holiday declared in selected areas</a></li></ul><br />In his interview over state-run PTV-4 on Thursday, the president said his intention to declare holiday in time for the Martial Law celebration.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />"If it's a massive demonstration, at this early, I am announcing that I am ordering a holiday para walang masaktan. Walang trabaho ang gobyerno at classes suspended," Duterte said.<br /><br />Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also told the press about Duterte's plan to suspend work and classes.<br /><br />“During my interaction with him early this week, sinabi niya na pagka magkaroon ng massive rallies sa Metro Manila and it might inconvenience the public, para hindi ma-inconvenience, sinabi niya, ‘di ko na lang sila papasukin," Lorenzana said.<br /><br />“[He] will declare na wala nang papasok sa mga opisina so they will have a free hand kung anong gagawin nila sa mga demonstration nila. That’s what he said,” he added.<br /><br />UPDATE: Report said that document suspending government work and classes has not yet been signed by the president.</div>

Duterte declares September 21, 2017 a national day of protest

MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte announced on Monday that September 21, 2017 (Thursday) is not a holiday but a "national...

Magnitude 5.1 earthquake jolts Cagayan, Ilocos (August 30, 2017)

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a magnitude 5.1 earthquake that shook parts Northern Luzon on Wednesday morning, August 30, 2017.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomQixW8F6LeYVuum8Qnzhdn3pMwcg575zNMhUEc4hRdtYBcSghqDFEKqSYkNwhRkxk2Jtt7aFRTkhOWStrJEemwUJasCTY9Snkj_vm9wt7NPBHef3v1-GrktnmqOz8Dcp630ZFWDXIE3C/s1600/earthquake-cagayan-ilocos-august-30.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Magnitude 5.1 eathquake jolts Cagayan, Ilocos" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="577" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomQixW8F6LeYVuum8Qnzhdn3pMwcg575zNMhUEc4hRdtYBcSghqDFEKqSYkNwhRkxk2Jtt7aFRTkhOWStrJEemwUJasCTY9Snkj_vm9wt7NPBHef3v1-GrktnmqOz8Dcp630ZFWDXIE3C/s1600/earthquake-cagayan-ilocos-august-30.JPG" title="Magnitude 5.1 eathquake jolts Cagayan, Ilocos" /></a></div><br />The exact time of occurrence was recorded at 06:08:34 a.m. with epicenter at 19.13°N, 121.20°E - 033 km S 58° W of Calayan in Cagayan.<br /><br />The earthquake that occurred has a tectonic origin with 13 km depth of focus.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />The quake was felt at Intensity II in Laoag City.<br /><br />Instrumental Intensity II was recorded in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte and Sinait, Ilocos Sur.<br /><br />Phivolcs said there's no damage resulting from the quake, but said in its bulletin that aftershocks were expected.</div>

Magnitude 5.1 earthquake jolts Cagayan, Ilocos (August 30, 2017)

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a magnitude 5.1 earthquake that shook parts...

#WalangPasok: September 1, 2017 declared regular holiday for Eid'l Adha

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, August 28, officially declared September 1, 2017 (Friday) a regular holiday throughout the country in observance of Eid'l Adha  or the "Feast of Sacrifice."<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQAlciHJ7M45WMjHalwvvLlLPgOf4pTuHnYCerj6wlU3EJcpiOR6wIPCTSn3ikNC3dUdUHWJ0m6_14pLm78wawmhvcgh4hHUG-GdGyXZIQ0f24BOspCl4m15GsKMYR12szMmAbPwTz0u3F/s1600/eid-adha-philippines.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Eidul Adha is on September 1, a regular holiday in the Philippines" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQAlciHJ7M45WMjHalwvvLlLPgOf4pTuHnYCerj6wlU3EJcpiOR6wIPCTSn3ikNC3dUdUHWJ0m6_14pLm78wawmhvcgh4hHUG-GdGyXZIQ0f24BOspCl4m15GsKMYR12szMmAbPwTz0u3F/s1600/eid-adha-philippines.jpg" title="Eidul Adha is on September 1, a regular holiday in the Philippines" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CONFIRMED: Eidul Adha is on September 1, a regular holiday in the Philippines. Photo Credit: PhilStar</td></tr></tbody></table>As the holiday falls on Friday, it means that Filipinos will have another long weekend after Ninoy Aquino Day weekend ( August 19 to 21) and National Heroes Day weekend (August 26 to 28).<br /><br />The announcement was made through proclamation no. 297, based on the recommendation of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos. This is after the successful sightings of new moon crescent on Tuesday, August 22, as <b><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/08/september-1-2017-regular-holiday-for-eidul-adha-philippines.html" rel="nofollow">confirmed by the High Judicial Court (HJC) in Saudi Arabia</a></b>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdW7NtC9Zr_pSLYKIUEsSPLnMYNmkA1lTpUPhP4orlk5M2I30IBg_fOvUfZuS5bkIijdyy362XFOHp9_N4M73TvCdjtKg8M1hvU-ts1VRuaizh-TEvHGoADBq1BtZduaOwqxiR8w2Scxet/s1600/holiday-september-1-eid-adha.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Walang pasok September 1 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="998" data-original-width="719" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdW7NtC9Zr_pSLYKIUEsSPLnMYNmkA1lTpUPhP4orlk5M2I30IBg_fOvUfZuS5bkIijdyy362XFOHp9_N4M73TvCdjtKg8M1hvU-ts1VRuaizh-TEvHGoADBq1BtZduaOwqxiR8w2Scxet/s1600/holiday-september-1-eid-adha.jpg" title="Walang pasok September 1 2017" /></a></div><br />The Eid al-Adha is Islam's holiest festival celebrated annually around the world and an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries and in the Philippines.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Republic Act No. 9849 states that the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah or the twelfth month of the Islamic Calendar, is hereby declared as a national holiday for the observance of Eidul Adha.<br /><br />Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God, before God then intervened, to provide him with a sheep to sacrifice instead.<br /><br />Eid’l Adha, which has been a public holiday since 2002 in the country, is one of the two greatest feasts of Islam - the other being Eid’l Fitr or the Feast of Ramadan, which was also declared as a regular holiday on June 26.</div>

#WalangPasok: September 1, 2017 declared regular holiday for Eid'l Adha

MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, August 28, officially declared September 1, 2017 (Friday) a regular holiday thro...

Magnitude 5.6 earthquake shakes Metro Manila, Luzon areas on April 8, 2017

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a magnitude 5.6 earthquake that hit parts of Metro Manila and Luzon on Saturday afternoon, April 8, 2017.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWQz9vjkZ4jIv-rWRlWyXj2nnmhisYYMm-5eLFG3p8ISaKV3nKhZ-S1fx4NN-E2ASg8kPp7GMBW-b8CmmqHbvLyLO7-euBwtogQ8cmPoRaFZHAY7SfB0tg29S383TQ0FoALkJ4iH-fmQ/s1600/earthquake-april-8-2017.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Earthquake April 8, 2017" border="0" class="img" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWQz9vjkZ4jIv-rWRlWyXj2nnmhisYYMm-5eLFG3p8ISaKV3nKhZ-S1fx4NN-E2ASg8kPp7GMBW-b8CmmqHbvLyLO7-euBwtogQ8cmPoRaFZHAY7SfB0tg29S383TQ0FoALkJ4iH-fmQ/s1600/earthquake-april-8-2017.JPG" title="Earthquake April 8, 2017" /></a></div><br />The exact time of occurrence was recorded at 03:13.00 p.m. with epicenter at 13.76°N, 120.92°E - 002 km N 68° W of Mabini (Batangas).<br /><br />The earthquake that occurred has a tectonic origin with 4 km depth of focus.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-PVtEUrciNrHxwo91g_ZFxwrz_Q4e7om2Eb8rWsi35-rGj_imFQXZ-tfi9YcJk47pjVwk_PXzqhgVhJ7-SyRXjonQC-PiPsmueEN7Zb8nQiO3rVKPD7q8nxbXu5kh68k-kgiU8_EApg/s1600/EARTHQUAKE-Phivolcs.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Earthquake Phivolcs" border="0" class="img" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-PVtEUrciNrHxwo91g_ZFxwrz_Q4e7om2Eb8rWsi35-rGj_imFQXZ-tfi9YcJk47pjVwk_PXzqhgVhJ7-SyRXjonQC-PiPsmueEN7Zb8nQiO3rVKPD7q8nxbXu5kh68k-kgiU8_EApg/s1600/EARTHQUAKE-Phivolcs.JPG" title="Earthquake Phivolcs" /></a></div><br />Followers of The Summit Express said they felt the earthquake in Metro Manila, Cavite, Rizal, Pampanga, Laguna, Batangas and Quezon.<br /><br /><center><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="170" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmysummitexpress%2Fposts%2F1467289719990193&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe></center><br />There is no expected damage after the quake but Phivolcs warned of possible aftershocks.<br /><br />On April 4, magnitude 5.5 quake was also jolted Metro Manila and Luzon areas with series of aftershocks and damages reported.</div>

Magnitude 5.6 earthquake shakes Metro Manila, Luzon areas on April 8, 2017

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a magnitude 5.6 earthquake that hit parts o...

Former Chief Justice Renato Corona dies at 67

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Former Chief Justice Renato Tirso Antonio Coronado Corona dies at 67,  the Philippine Supreme Court's Public Information Office has confirmed on Twitter Friday morning, April 29, 2016.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnop8ZiY9GLOXPIPv7bRMqMg6miMDkGUV2Jl1uVQh2H6rG8JnSnrJPeyUo4Ly9lFNkbzo6GPOUjNZz1hO-oIRsWl2Tl3rl9hjJoU2G-_G2tYfXr0Li27_xP5JoHTqs3gR9cg791A-MYYxk/s1600/renato-corona-dies.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Former Chief Justice Renato Corona passed away." border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnop8ZiY9GLOXPIPv7bRMqMg6miMDkGUV2Jl1uVQh2H6rG8JnSnrJPeyUo4Ly9lFNkbzo6GPOUjNZz1hO-oIRsWl2Tl3rl9hjJoU2G-_G2tYfXr0Li27_xP5JoHTqs3gR9cg791A-MYYxk/s640/renato-corona-dies.jpg" title="Former Chief Justice Renato Corona passed away." width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Former Chief Justice Renato Corona passed away.</td></tr></tbody></table>"The PIO has just been informed by the family of former CJ Renato C. Corona that he has passed away this morning. No details available," SC PIO said.<br /><br />According to the National Transformation Council (NTC), Corona succumbed to cardiac arrest at 1:48 a.m.<br /><br />"It is with deep sorrow that the National Transformation Council announce the demise of Council member Chief Justice Renato C. Corona. At 1:48 am today, April 29, 2016, Chief Justice Corona succumbed to cardiac arrest. Please pray for the eternal repose of his soul as he joins his Creator," the council said in its Facebook post.<br /><br />The NTC to which Corona belonged is urging President Benigno Aquino III and other government leaders to quit.<br />The Chief Justice has directed that the  flag in the SC and all courts nationwide be flown at half mast to mourn the passing of Corona.<br /><br />In 2010, Corona was appointed by the former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as the 23rd chief justice of the SC. However, he was impeached by the  House of Representatives on December 12, 2011 due to failure to  disclose his statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth to the public.<br /><br />Corona was a former law professor, private law practitioner, and member of the Cabinet under two Presidents, Fidel V. Ramos and Arroyo, before being appointed to the high tribunal.<br /><br />He graduated with gold medal honors from the Ateneo de Manila grade school in 1962 and high school in 1966.</div>

Former Chief Justice Renato Corona dies at 67

MANILA, Philippines - Former Chief Justice Renato Tirso Antonio Coronado Corona dies at 67, the Philippine Supreme Court's Public Infor...

Magnitude-7.8 earthquake rocks Ecuador, kills at least 28

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit Ecuador on Saturday night, April 16 (Sunday morning in Philippine Time). At least 28 people have died, the country's vice president, Jorge Glas, told in a televised address.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1IJw5-8dSw42Uip6wUwS3TbJ9u7qxVW_RJUGfwEr8UrDs3VpHrEuE8ApbALsWAZt18HTdbCDJ72eKs6er0o14ZLj9_DKnA3ePPMIxOrPcaEph-mFUch-l3kCbkGV2d35mAvzndEBmHM2/s1600/ecuador-earthquake.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="At least 28 people killed after powerful earthquake hit Ecuador." border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1IJw5-8dSw42Uip6wUwS3TbJ9u7qxVW_RJUGfwEr8UrDs3VpHrEuE8ApbALsWAZt18HTdbCDJ72eKs6er0o14ZLj9_DKnA3ePPMIxOrPcaEph-mFUch-l3kCbkGV2d35mAvzndEBmHM2/s640/ecuador-earthquake.JPG" title="At least 28 people killed after powerful earthquake hit Ecuador." width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At least 28 people killed after powerful earthquake hit Ecuador. Photo Credit: Daily Mail Online</td></tr></tbody></table>"We have 16 people dead in the city of Portoviejo, 10 in Manta and two in the province of Guayas," Glas said at a news conference. He added that number is still for confirmation.<br /><br />Glas also declared state of emergency and said that preventive evacuations in coastal areas were underway because of possible tsunami risks.<br /><br />According to the United States Geological Survey (<a href="http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us20005j32#general" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">USGS</a>), the tremor was centered about 27 kilometers (16.8 miles) south-southeast of Muisne. Earthquake occurred as the result of shallow thrust faulting on or near the plate boundary between the Nazca and Pacific plates.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthp6yY_P_xr1PVhoKK5TEwc9ikCQXvV5yb37rvjZFKOgoKIN4bfLa-e4Qp83pehCbZWvVkxN6ypdWnuLT94Y0C_XGPzoCcodgybDhWT2LgAFXJhZnm3vToD5Ktj9j5fNezrj9VTWhDfbm/s1600/earthquake-ecuador.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="M7.8 Earthquake at 27km SSE of Muisne, Ecuador." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthp6yY_P_xr1PVhoKK5TEwc9ikCQXvV5yb37rvjZFKOgoKIN4bfLa-e4Qp83pehCbZWvVkxN6ypdWnuLT94Y0C_XGPzoCcodgybDhWT2LgAFXJhZnm3vToD5Ktj9j5fNezrj9VTWhDfbm/s1600/earthquake-ecuador.JPG" title="M7.8 Earthquake at 27km SSE of Muisne, Ecuador." /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">M7.8 Earthquake at 27km SSE of Muisne, Ecuador. Photo Credit: USGS</td></tr></tbody></table>CNN has reported that there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries in the capital of Quito, located 173 kilometers (108 miles) from the epicenter of the earthquake.<br /><br />The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a threat forecast for some parts of Ecuador, saying waves could could reach 1 meter (3 feet) above tide level. An earlier warning for other nations with coastlines on the Pacific was canceled.<br /><br />Ecuador is prone to earthquakes. It is located along the Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped, seismically turbulent area of the Pacific Ocean.</div>

Magnitude-7.8 earthquake rocks Ecuador, kills at least 28

A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit Ecuador on Saturday night, April 16 (Sunday morning in Philippine Time). At least 28 people have die...

Sandiganbayan grants bail to Napoles, Masbate governor

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The Sandiganbayan's Fourth Division of the anti-graft court has granted businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles and Masbate Governor Rizalina Seachon-Lanete to post bail for the controversial plunder case in connection with the alleged misuse of the lawmaker's Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXClcxykMIueefPn159iFj9RE5x10KZVYU8OIrvWxTLcfglNttv_wOgYwKOVhntt6LagBG9NdEOiKA5_Ws7I88zxFCs-dCfb434ttjxScwAG7w_HbAnXNB9wqtKVRUpfjiLXlu05lwTjQv/s1600/Janet-Napoles-posts-bail.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Janet Napoles, the alleged pork barrel scam mastermind." border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXClcxykMIueefPn159iFj9RE5x10KZVYU8OIrvWxTLcfglNttv_wOgYwKOVhntt6LagBG9NdEOiKA5_Ws7I88zxFCs-dCfb434ttjxScwAG7w_HbAnXNB9wqtKVRUpfjiLXlu05lwTjQv/s640/Janet-Napoles-posts-bail.jpg" title="Janet Napoles, the alleged pork barrel scam mastermind." width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Janet Napoles, the alleged pork barrel scam mastermind. Photo Credit to the owner.</td></tr></tbody></table>“Wherefore, considering that there is a finding that the evidence of guilt of accused Lanete and accused Napoles is not strong for the reasons cited above, the respective applications for bail of accused Lanete and Napoles are hereby granted,” the ruling read as shared by GMA News Online.<br /><br />The accused fixed the bail at P500,000 for each of them.<br /><br />Napoles and Lanete are both facing plunder and graft cases for the latter's alleged misuse of her PDAF during her term as Masbate representative from 2007 to 2009. According to reports, Lanete allotted her PDAF to fake non-government organizations created by Napoles.<br /><br />Lanete was jailed since February 2015 at the Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City while Napoles was detained in the same jail in April 2015.<br /><br />Lanete is expected to be released from jail soon after she completed other requirements but Napoles, due to reclusion perpetua as sentenced by the Makati Regional Trial Court for the illegal detention case filed by her second cousin Benhur Luy  would have to remain in jail.<br /><br />On the other hand, the First Division and Fifth Division of Sandiganbayan have denied her petition to post bail for the other plunder case involving Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. and Sen. Jinggoy Estrada.<br /><br />While graft is a bailable offense, the plunder case is non-bailable if the prosecution would be able to prove that the evidence of guilt against an accused is strong.</div>

Sandiganbayan grants bail to Napoles, Masbate governor

MANILA, Philippines - The Sandiganbayan's Fourth Division of the anti-graft court has granted businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles and Masbat...