princesssantiago1993

[princesssantiago1993]

The famous Playboy Mansion is for sale to anyone willing to pay $200 million (P9.45 billion) The mansion is owned by 89-year-old Hugh Hefner, who also owns Playboy Enterprises One condition for prospective buyers is that they will allow Hefner to stay in the mansion until he dies LOS ANGELES, California – The Playboy Mansion is up for grabs on buyers who are willing to pay a not so little amount. The famous mansion, which was built in 1927, is owned by Hugh Hefner, who is also the owner of Playboy magazine. The mansion will be listed for sale over the next month and Playboy Enterprises is wanting, at least, $200 million (P9.45 billion) for it. An article by TMZ published on January 9 said the six-acre Holmby Hills estate has been described as a “tear-down,” with much of its value actually compared from the acreage. However, it is unlikely that the mansion will be sold at the desired price. Reports said the property has recently gone for $60 million. But given the mansion’s history, the property might increase between $80 million and $90 million. An article by Anneta Konstantinides for Mail Online published on January 9 said that the buyer of the mansion should give 89-year-old Hefner a life estate, meaning he can continue to live there until he passes away. Reports said that prospective buyer will be allowed to tour the property, however, the star’s bedroom is off limits. Photo Credit: Getty Images An article by Alistair McGeorge for The Mirror said that Playboy magazine revealed its final nude cover prints, and made the final decision to stop publishing photos of naked women. The magazine had been famous for its “bunny girls” which long-list includes huge names like Baywatch star Pamela Anderson and supermodel Kate Moss. The move to change the content of the magazine aims to make it more accessible to the public, as it enters its 63rd year. “You’re now one click away from every sex act imaginable for free. And so it’s just passe at this juncture,” said Cory Jones, the chief content office of the magazine, in an interview last year. “Don’t get me wrong. Twelve-year-old me is very disappointed in current me. But it’s the right thing to do,” he added. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Court of Appeals Associate Justice Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo was asked by the JBC what would she tell Pia Wurtzbach if she ever meets her The CA Justice tells the JBC that she would tell Pia that bringing US bases back is unconstitutional Justice Castillo is eyeing a spot in the Supreme Court Justice Castillo tells the JBC she would rule to strike down EDCA MANILA – The Miss Universe fever has apparently reached the halls of justice in the Philippines. A Court of Appeals Justice was confronted with a question regarding Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach while being interviewed by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) for a position in the Supreme Court. Court of Appeals Associate Justice Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo was asked a question from Twitter about what would she tell the reigning Miss Universe if she ever meet her. Expanding on the question, the JBC panel asked Castillo what she would tell her in light of her answer during the Question and Answer portion of the pageant. “Our representative [in the Miss Universe pageant] was asked if, let’s say a US military presence would be restored, how would she feel about it. What would you tell her?” the JBC asked Castillo. Castillo answered that she would tell her that that bringing back US military bases is unconstitutional. It can be recalled that the Filipino-German beauty queen was asked about her thoughts on possibly bringing back military bases to the Philippines. The 26-year-old candidate answered: “I think that the US and the Philippines have always had a good relationship with each other. We’ve been colonized by the Americans and we have their culture in our traditions even up to this day. The Philippines is very welcoming with the Americans and I don’t see any problem with that at all.” Castillo, in her interview, explained that “it is stated in the Constitution that there should be no military base [in the Philippines] unless concurred by Congress or approved by the people in a plebiscite.” According to an article by Mark Merueñas of GMA News, US bases in Subic were removed in 1991 but last year Philippine and American officials signed the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, which will allow an enlarged rotational presence of American troops in the country. It was signed hours before US President Barack Obama arrived in Manila for a two-day state visit. There is currently a pending petition with the Supreme Court seeking to nullify the defense pact. When Castillo was questioned about the EDCA petition, she said she would vote to strike down the bilateral defense deal. “Strictly speaking, the Supreme Court can pass on the constitutionality of an executive agreement. I think I would declare it unconstitutional because US personnel and troops are here because of that. Structures are being built to store their weapons,” Castillo said. She confessed, however, that it would be hard to secure an undivided ruling from a collegial body like the Supreme Court, especially in the context of alleged security threats posed by China over the territorial disputes on the South China Sea, according to an article by Leonardo Postrado of the Manila Bulletin. “I think there would be no unanimous decision because China is really a bully right now,”” said Castillo, when asked if she thinks it wise to have US presence here to counter China’s military strength. According to an article by Perfecto T. Raymundo Jr. of Philippine News Agency which is posted on InterAksyon, Castillo is the head of the Court of Appeals ethics committee. She last applied for the Supreme Court in 2010 but chose to delay it until now because she wanted to clear her case backlogs first. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

The famous Playboy Mansion is for sale to anyone willing to pay $200 million (P9.45 billion) The mansion is owned by 89-year-old Hugh Hefner, who also owns Playboy Enterprises One condition for prospective buyers is that they will allow Hefner to stay in the mansion until he dies LOS ANGELES, California – The Playboy Mansion is up for grabs on buyers who are willing to pay a not so little amount. The famous mansion, which was built in 1927, is owned by Hugh Hefner, who is also the owner of Playboy magazine. The mansion will be listed for sale over the next month and Playboy Enterprises is wanting, at least, $200 million (P9.45 billion) for it. An article by TMZ published on January 9 said the six-acre Holmby Hills estate has been described as a “tear-down,” with much of its value actually compared from the acreage. However, it is unlikely that the mansion will be sold at the desired price. Reports said the property has recently gone for $60 million. But given the mansion’s history, the property might increase between $80 million and $90 million. An article by Anneta Konstantinides for Mail Online published on January 9 said that the buyer of the mansion should give 89-year-old Hefner a life estate, meaning he can continue to live there until he passes away. Reports said that prospective buyer will be allowed to tour the property, however, the star’s bedroom is off limits. Photo Credit: Getty Images An article by Alistair McGeorge for The Mirror said that Playboy magazine revealed its final nude cover prints, and made the final decision to stop publishing photos of naked women. The magazine had been famous for its “bunny girls” which long-list includes huge names like Baywatch star Pamela Anderson and supermodel Kate Moss. The move to change the content of the magazine aims to make it more accessible to the public, as it enters its 63rd year. “You’re now one click away from every sex act imaginable for free. And so it’s just passe at this juncture,” said Cory Jones, the chief content office of the magazine, in an interview last year. “Don’t get me wrong. Twelve-year-old me is very disappointed in current me. But it’s the right thing to do,” he added. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Court of Appeals Associate Justice Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo was asked by the JBC what would she tell Pia Wurtzbach if she ever meets her The CA Justice tells the JBC that she would tell Pia that bringing US bases back is unconstitutional Justice Castillo is eyeing a spot in the Supreme Court Justice Castillo tells the JBC she would rule to strike down EDCA MANILA – The Miss Universe fever has apparently reached the halls of justice in the Philippines. A Court of Appeals Justice was confronted with a question regarding Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach while being interviewed by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) for a position in the Supreme Court. Court of Appeals Associate Justice Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo was asked a question from Twitter about what would she tell the reigning Miss Universe if she ever meet her. Expanding on the question, the JBC panel asked Castillo what she would tell her in light of her answer during the Question and Answer portion of the pageant. “Our representative [in the Miss Universe pageant] was asked if, let’s say a US military presence would be restored, how would she feel about it. What would you tell her?” the JBC asked Castillo. Castillo answered that she would tell her that that bringing back US military bases is unconstitutional. It can be recalled that the Filipino-German beauty queen was asked about her thoughts on possibly bringing back military bases to the Philippines. The 26-year-old candidate answered: “I think that the US and the Philippines have always had a good relationship with each other. We’ve been colonized by the Americans and we have their culture in our traditions even up to this day. The Philippines is very welcoming with the Americans and I don’t see any problem with that at all.” Castillo, in her interview, explained that “it is stated in the Constitution that there should be no military base [in the Philippines] unless concurred by Congress or approved by the people in a plebiscite.” According to an article by Mark Merueñas of GMA News, US bases in Subic were removed in 1991 but last year Philippine and American officials signed the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, which will allow an enlarged rotational presence of American troops in the country. It was signed hours before US President Barack Obama arrived in Manila for a two-day state visit. There is currently a pending petition with the Supreme Court seeking to nullify the defense pact. When Castillo was questioned about the EDCA petition, she said she would vote to strike down the bilateral defense deal. “Strictly speaking, the Supreme Court can pass on the constitutionality of an executive agreement. I think I would declare it unconstitutional because US personnel and troops are here because of that. Structures are being built to store their weapons,” Castillo said. She confessed, however, that it would be hard to secure an undivided ruling from a collegial body like the Supreme Court, especially in the context of alleged security threats posed by China over the territorial disputes on the South China Sea, according to an article by Leonardo Postrado of the Manila Bulletin. “I think there would be no unanimous decision because China is really a bully right now,”” said Castillo, when asked if she thinks it wise to have US presence here to counter China’s military strength. According to an article by Perfecto T. Raymundo Jr. of Philippine News Agency which is posted on InterAksyon, Castillo is the head of the Court of Appeals ethics committee. She last applied for the Supreme Court in 2010 but chose to delay it until now because she wanted to clear her case backlogs first. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Cartoon character food art is getting hearts’ (favorites) online One artist creates rice balls which looks like Pikachu, Doraemon, and minion, among others Another food artist uses hotdogs, buns, and veggies, among others Cartoon character food art — involving rice, buns, veggies, and hotdogs, among others — is getting hearts (favorites) online. Photo credit: Peaceloving Pax In an article published on Bored Panda, the creations of artist who uses the name “Peaceloving Pax” was shared. The food artist, who is also a doctor, creates rice balls which looks like cartoon characters Pikachu, Doraemon, and minion, among others. “Creating cute food art is my hobby. Even though my schedule is quite hectic, I always find time to do what I really love. One day I just wanted to cook lunch for myself and I saw pics of cute bento made by Asian mommies on Instagram. This inspired me to try make one by myself. I made my first character lunchbox with panda family rice balls and curry and I found out that I felt so much fun and happiness while making it, so I continued this hobby and collected the pictures of my creations,” said Peaceloving Pax, who posts her edible arts on Instagram. Her followers, aparently, like her food art. “This is so adorable!” commented @thismommymakes. “They are all so cute!” wrote @f3nnyyap. “You made them so perfectly!” @deesakuma said. Photo credit: Erin Jang Peaceloving Pax also makes “mashed potato art, toast art, steamed cake art, Japanese glutinous dumplings (shiratama) and some food art tutorials.” Meanwhile, another artist, Erin Jang, creates edible masterpieces then post it on his Instagram account, too. He uses hotdogs, buns, and vegetables, among others. “New work for @disney! Pluto, constructed out of hot dog and hamburger buns, salami, provolone cheese, black olives and dark rye bread,” he captioned one of his photos. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Number of World War II veterans in Pangasinan is growing shorter every day From 759 veterans in 2014 there were only 498 listed by the end of 2015 Pangasinan annually holds an event that recognizes the heroism of WWII veterans in the province The number of World War II veterans in the province of Pangasinan is decreasing by the day, a veterans affairs official said adding that “a veteran dies almost every day.“ Romeo Madriaga, regional head of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) in Pangasinan, disclosed in an interview by Gabriel Cardinoza of Philippine Daily Inquirer, that from 759 veterans in 2014, there were only 498 listed by the end of 2015. Madriaga stressed that this is the reason why most of them had failed to attend Pangasinan Veterans Day, an event held annually that recognizes the heroism of WWII veterans in the province. The activity coincides with the 71st anniversary of the Lingayen Gulf landings on January 9, the day in 1945 when American Gen. Douglas MacArthur and the Allied Forces landed on the shores of the Lingayen Gulf to liberate Luzon from the Japanese. According to Florence Berba, an officer at the province’s social welfare and development office, many of the veterans were already bedridden. “We visited 86 veterans last year. Some of them were in their diapers and were just seated. Three of them were dying. Many of them could no longer talk. One of them thought he was still fighting in the war and treated us as if we were his enemies,” Berba was quoted in the published article. The house-to-house visit, ordered by Gov. Amado Espino Jr., sought to validate the veterans’ situation after many of them failed to attend the Veterans Day celebration last year. Veterans who attended this year’s celebration were treated with free medical check-up and medicines. Based on PVAO records, the youngest Pangasinan WWII veteran is 85 years old while the oldest is 105. Under the law, a WWII veteran receives an old age pension of P5,000 and a total administrative disability pension of P1,700 every month. Two years ago, PVAO Administrator Ernesto Carolina disclosed that the House committee on veterans affairs approved the increase in old age pension for WWII veterans from P5,000 to P20,000. “This has been approved in Congress. We hope President Aquino signs it before his term ends,” Madriaga said. The Lingayen Gulf Landings commemorative event is an expression Pangasinan’s gratitude and thanksgiving, in honor of civilian volunteers, prisoners of war, and defenders of freedom and democracy. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Cartoon character food art is getting hearts’ (favorites) online One artist creates rice balls which looks like Pikachu, Doraemon, and minion, among others Another food artist uses hotdogs, buns, and veggies, among others Cartoon character food art — involving rice, buns, veggies, and hotdogs, among others — is getting hearts (favorites) online. Photo credit: Peaceloving Pax In an article published on Bored Panda, the creations of artist who uses the name “Peaceloving Pax” was shared. The food artist, who is also a doctor, creates rice balls which looks like cartoon characters Pikachu, Doraemon, and minion, among others. “Creating cute food art is my hobby. Even though my schedule is quite hectic, I always find time to do what I really love. One day I just wanted to cook lunch for myself and I saw pics of cute bento made by Asian mommies on Instagram. This inspired me to try make one by myself. I made my first character lunchbox with panda family rice balls and curry and I found out that I felt so much fun and happiness while making it, so I continued this hobby and collected the pictures of my creations,” said Peaceloving Pax, who posts her edible arts on Instagram. Her followers, aparently, like her food art. “This is so adorable!” commented @thismommymakes. “They are all so cute!” wrote @f3nnyyap. “You made them so perfectly!” @deesakuma said. Photo credit: Erin Jang Peaceloving Pax also makes “mashed potato art, toast art, steamed cake art, Japanese glutinous dumplings (shiratama) and some food art tutorials.” Meanwhile, another artist, Erin Jang, creates edible masterpieces then post it on his Instagram account, too. He uses hotdogs, buns, and vegetables, among others. “New work for @disney! Pluto, constructed out of hot dog and hamburger buns, salami, provolone cheese, black olives and dark rye bread,” he captioned one of his photos. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Number of World War II veterans in Pangasinan is growing shorter every day From 759 veterans in 2014 there were only 498 listed by the end of 2015 Pangasinan annually holds an event that recognizes the heroism of WWII veterans in the province The number of World War II veterans in the province of Pangasinan is decreasing by the day, a veterans affairs official said adding that “a veteran dies almost every day.“ Romeo Madriaga, regional head of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) in Pangasinan, disclosed in an interview by Gabriel Cardinoza of Philippine Daily Inquirer, that from 759 veterans in 2014, there were only 498 listed by the end of 2015. Madriaga stressed that this is the reason why most of them had failed to attend Pangasinan Veterans Day, an event held annually that recognizes the heroism of WWII veterans in the province. The activity coincides with the 71st anniversary of the Lingayen Gulf landings on January 9, the day in 1945 when American Gen. Douglas MacArthur and the Allied Forces landed on the shores of the Lingayen Gulf to liberate Luzon from the Japanese. According to Florence Berba, an officer at the province’s social welfare and development office, many of the veterans were already bedridden. “We visited 86 veterans last year. Some of them were in their diapers and were just seated. Three of them were dying. Many of them could no longer talk. One of them thought he was still fighting in the war and treated us as if we were his enemies,” Berba was quoted in the published article. The house-to-house visit, ordered by Gov. Amado Espino Jr., sought to validate the veterans’ situation after many of them failed to attend the Veterans Day celebration last year. Veterans who attended this year’s celebration were treated with free medical check-up and medicines. Based on PVAO records, the youngest Pangasinan WWII veteran is 85 years old while the oldest is 105. Under the law, a WWII veteran receives an old age pension of P5,000 and a total administrative disability pension of P1,700 every month. Two years ago, PVAO Administrator Ernesto Carolina disclosed that the House committee on veterans affairs approved the increase in old age pension for WWII veterans from P5,000 to P20,000. “This has been approved in Congress. We hope President Aquino signs it before his term ends,” Madriaga said. The Lingayen Gulf Landings commemorative event is an expression Pangasinan’s gratitude and thanksgiving, in honor of civilian volunteers, prisoners of war, and defenders of freedom and democracy. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

A man is named ‘Mr. Plastic Fantastic’ by Guinness World Records for owning 1,500 credit cards Walter Cavanagh is also the owner of the world’s longest wallet which can hold 800 cards Cavanagh started collecting credit cards in the 1960s A man was named as “Mr. Plastic Fantastic” by the Guinness World Records for owning nearly 1,500 valid credit cards to his name. In an article written by Sumitra of Oddity Central, Walter Cavanagh holds the Guinness record for the most credit cards. He is also a proud owner of the world’s longest wallet; stretching to 250 feet, weighing to 38 pounds, and can hold 800 cards. “Me and a buddy in Santa Clara, Calif., made a silly bet: the guy who could collect the most credit cards by the end of the year would win dinner,” he shared; stating it was in the late 1960s. He got 143 cards by the end of the year while his friend gathered 138 only. This was when Cavanagh decided to collect credit cards from gas stations, airlines, bars, and even a Texas ice cream store. The 72-year-old retired financial planner and credit expert has only one piece of advice to share: “Never use a card to buy anything you can’t pay off in a couple of months. If you don’t have the discipline, you shouldn’t have the cards.” No Newberry card Cavanagh has no credit card from J.J. Newberry Co. According to him, the company denied him a card in the early 1970s. “They said I had too much credit. And to this day I don’t have a Newberry card in my collection,” he said. Still applying Meanwhile , Cavanagh hasn’t stopped applying for new cards. He copies whole pages from a U.S. directory of businesses and keeps sending applications. If he receives a rejection, he then writes back to the company explaining his goal and intentions. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

A man is named ‘Mr. Plastic Fantastic’ by Guinness World Records for owning 1,500 credit cards Walter Cavanagh is also the owner of the world’s longest wallet which can hold 800 cards Cavanagh started collecting credit cards in the 1960s A man was named as “Mr. Plastic Fantastic” by the Guinness World Records for owning nearly 1,500 valid credit cards to his name. In an article written by Sumitra of Oddity Central, Walter Cavanagh holds the Guinness record for the most credit cards. He is also a proud owner of the world’s longest wallet; stretching to 250 feet, weighing to 38 pounds, and can hold 800 cards. “Me and a buddy in Santa Clara, Calif., made a silly bet: the guy who could collect the most credit cards by the end of the year would win dinner,” he shared; stating it was in the late 1960s. He got 143 cards by the end of the year while his friend gathered 138 only. This was when Cavanagh decided to collect credit cards from gas stations, airlines, bars, and even a Texas ice cream store. The 72-year-old retired financial planner and credit expert has only one piece of advice to share: “Never use a card to buy anything you can’t pay off in a couple of months. If you don’t have the discipline, you shouldn’t have the cards.” No Newberry card Cavanagh has no credit card from J.J. Newberry Co. According to him, the company denied him a card in the early 1970s. “They said I had too much credit. And to this day I don’t have a Newberry card in my collection,” he said. Still applying Meanwhile , Cavanagh hasn’t stopped applying for new cards. He copies whole pages from a U.S. directory of businesses and keeps sending applications. If he receives a rejection, he then writes back to the company explaining his goal and intentions. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

DARBHANGA, India – As another dangerously underweight toddler balances precariously on his set of scales, Dr Om Prakash knows he has to move fast to avert tragedy. "The children who are severely malnourished can die between a few hours to a few days," says the doctor during a shift at an intensive care unit exclusively for children in India's poorest state. "For the health of any person, nutrition is the first requirement. When nutrition is affected, all of the body's functions are deranged." The 30-bed hospital at Darbhanga in the eastern state of Bihar teems with children with protruding bellies and sunken eyes – telltale signs of wasting and stunting, owing to severe malnutrition. While its economy is growing at a healthy rate, India still lags behind some of its poorer neighbors on child nutrition with more than 40 million stunted children, according to a recently released report. Despite the government spending billions of rupees on tackling the scourge, it has yet to make a serious dent in a problem perpetuated by poverty, gender inequality, and disease. "India actually houses the largest number of malnourished children in the world, larger than in sub-Saharan Africa," Sashwati Banerjee, Managing Director, Sesame Workshop India told Agence France-Presse. These children, if they survive, will grow up shorter and weaker, with their brains and immune systems compromised, more vulnerable to illness. Between 2006 and 2014, stunting levels in children under five declined from 48 percent to 39 percent, according to the Global Nutrition Report. But it still far exceeds a global average of 24 percent, found the report, which was overseen by the International Food Policy Research Institute. Shrivelled and scrawny, the children at the Bihar centre are weighed in bright blue plastic tubs, normally used to carry water or laundry. There are no toys or drawings on the walls, only the sound of children wailing while others sit motionless and stare, dazed. Normal food 'a disaster' Doctors feed them a special concoction of sugar and milk based on how much they weigh. "It would be a disaster if normal food was given to them. So we give them food that has lower calories and is easily digestible," said Prakash. "Over time we increase the amount, then we switch to semi-solid food and gradually to the locally available food." Zalumun Khatoon's 4-year-old grandson Shahadat Hussein weighs eight kilos, just half of the normal weight for his age. "He was on medication for nine months, then he had a fever all the time and he started to lose weight," she said, as doctors and nurses busily zipped in and out of the facility. While overall levels of malnutrition are on the slide, eradication efforts are also being undermined by the rapid rise in India's population which is expected to surpass China's by 2022, according to UN projections. Bihar, which already has a population of 104 million, has one of the fastest rates of growth in the country with the average woman giving birth to four children. Often this is more mouths than they can afford to feed. The impoverished, largely rural state also has one of India's highest rates of malnutrition. The mothers, often poor and illiterate, are undernourished themselves – women's lower status means they lose out on limited food resources, leading many babies to be underweight from birth. A lack of awareness means they switch to cow or buffalo milk instead of breastfeeding, making their children prone to various illnesses. In addition, high rates of open defecation in India contribute to the problem. The World Health Organization, together with UNICEF and USAID issued a report in November 2015 which they said demonstrated a link between a lack of sanitation and malnutrition. Open defecation increases the spread of diarrhoea, multiple episodes of which can permanently alter a child's gut, preventing the absorption of essential nutrients leading to stunted growth. In addition, intestinal parasites such as roundworm, and hookworm, are transmitted through contaminated soil in areas where open defecation is practiced. Hookworm is a major cause of anaemia in pregnant women, leading to malnourished, underweight babies, UNICEF said. Family planning Purnima Jha, director of the Janani family planning centre, says the situation in Bihar is exacerbated by a traditional resistance and ignorance when it comes to family planning. "We can't force everyone to have a sterilisation so the basic is that we should educate them, that two children is okay," said Jha. "In the schools, at least in high and secondary schools, contraception has to be taught." The Bihar unit was set up last year with help from French charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF or Doctors Without Borders) and authorities are hoping to open dedicated wards for malnutrition in every government hospital in the state in the near future. Malnutrition poses a threat to India's growth – a study by British charity Save the Children estimates that the economic impact of malnutrition on the country could be $46 billion by 2030. Prakash says that while the specialist centres play a key role, long-term success would depend on efforts to educate mothers about both nutrition and hygiene. "Awareness is what is needed more than a drug," he said. – Rappler.com #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte wooed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan ahead of the first day of the election period. The presidential candidate is on a 3-day visit to Taiwan upon the invitation of Taiwanese Representative to the Philippines Gary Song-Huann Lin. A post on Duterte's official Facebook page said he visited the Taipei Expo Park, "where he was mobbed by hundreds of [OFWs]." Duterte told the OFWs that he would ensure their families back home would be protected by the state, should he become president. The tough-talking mayor also reiterated his promise to immediately curb illegal drugs and crimes if he wins in the May 2016 elections. (READ: Duterte vows peace in 3-6 months if elected president) Duterte and his running mate, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, are running on a platform centered on fighting crime and corruption. They recently announced that they wanted to increase the salaries of policemen – a plan that Interior Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento has expressed concerns about. Aside from Duterte, another presidential aspirant – Senator Grace Poe – also recently wooed OFWs abroad. The senator spoke to Filipino workers in Hong Kong, assuring them that she remains a candidate in the 2016 polls despite the cases against her presidential bid. – Rappler.com #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Palace says strict implementation of gun ban is an important part of election A 151 election-day period for May 9 elections starts on January 10 and will end on June 8 Exempted from the gun ban are the police and armed forces, other law enforcement officials, and selected government officials As stressed by Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., strict implementation of gun ban during the election period is one of the most important parts of the preparation of election and one of the most effective ways to ensure the public safety, as well. Coloma made the statement as the 151 election-day period for May 9 national and local elections and the nationwide gun ban and other election-related bans commenced on January 10, an article written by Rosette Adel which was published by Philippine Star stated. In addition to this, the communications secretary cited that the 2013 election has been successful due to the gun ban. Meanwhile, the Palace official said the police and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) coordinated in putting up organized checkpoints specifically placed on strategic sites to prevent people carrying or transporting firearms or deadly weapons from January 10 to June 8. During gun ban, all permits to carry firearms will be suspended or put on hold, unless they are covered by a Certificate of Authority from the COMELEC. On the other hand, police officers manning checkpoints to observe standard operating procedures in checkpoint operations which include being in full uniform and setting up checkpoints in well-lighted areas to allow motorists to be able to read the checkpoint signage and see the policemen. Exempted from the gun ban are the police and armed forces, other law enforcement officials, and selected government officials. Individuals and other groups may apply for a Certificate of Authority before the COMELEC. Forms are available on the COMELEC website. Guidelines for the gun ban are provided in COMELEC Resolution 10015. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Palace says strict implementation of gun ban is an important part of election A 151 election-day period for May 9 elections starts on January 10 and will end on June 8 Exempted from the gun ban are the police and armed forces, other law enforcement officials, and selected government officials As stressed by Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., strict implementation of gun ban during the election period is one of the most important parts of the preparation of election and one of the most effective ways to ensure the public safety, as well. Coloma made the statement as the 151 election-day period for May 9 national and local elections and the nationwide gun ban and other election-related bans commenced on January 10, an article written by Rosette Adel which was published by Philippine Star stated. In addition to this, the communications secretary cited that the 2013 election has been successful due to the gun ban. Meanwhile, the Palace official said the police and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) coordinated in putting up organized checkpoints specifically placed on strategic sites to prevent people carrying or transporting firearms or deadly weapons from January 10 to June 8. During gun ban, all permits to carry firearms will be suspended or put on hold, unless they are covered by a Certificate of Authority from the COMELEC. On the other hand, police officers manning checkpoints to observe standard operating procedures in checkpoint operations which include being in full uniform and setting up checkpoints in well-lighted areas to allow motorists to be able to read the checkpoint signage and see the policemen. Exempted from the gun ban are the police and armed forces, other law enforcement officials, and selected government officials. Individuals and other groups may apply for a Certificate of Authority before the COMELEC. Forms are available on the COMELEC website. Guidelines for the gun ban are provided in COMELEC Resolution 10015. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Pope Francis says he is a sinner and he needs God’s mercy The pope said these statements on his first book entitled “The Name of God is Mercy” The pope reminds the faithful about the importance of forgiving, condemning sins and loving the sinners VATICAN CITY – All are sinners, and Pope Francis is not an exception to this as he describes himself as “a sinner” in need of God’s mercy. An article by GMA News published on January 10 said that Pope Francis admits being a sinner in the first book of his papacy entitled, “The Name of God is Mercy,” where he also said he is “a man who is in need of God’s mercy.” The upcoming book was published on Tuesday in 86 countries, and comprises a series of interviews; some of them highly personal. The upcoming book of the 79-year-old Argentine-born pope urges the Catholic Church to focus on its mission as a grassroots, hands-on organization. An article by Kate Louise Davies for Mail Online published on January 10 said that the pope’s book also expounds on the notion of forgiveness; referring to his “special relationship” with convicts. “I have always been very much attached to them, precisely because of the awareness that I have of being a sinner,” Francis says on the book. Photo Credit: KPBS “Every time I cross the doorway of a prison, I always ask myself, ‘Why are they here, and not me?’ I should be here, I should deserve to be here. Their fall could have been mine. I don’t feel superior to those in front of me,” the Pope added. In an interview by veteran Vatican reporter Andrea Tornielli, the pope also talks about the power of “shame,” where he described it as guidance from God for providing a moral path. “Shame is a grace: When we feel God’s mercy, we really are ashamed of ourselves. Despite all our past of wretchedness and sin, God remains faithful to us and raises us up,” the Pope said. An article by NDTV published on January 10 said that Pope Francis also reminds the faithful to condemn sin but love the sinners. “The church condemns sin because it has to tell the truth: this is a sin. But at the same time, it embraces the sinner who acknowledges what he is. I hope that the jubilee will show the face of a Church which is rediscovering the womb of mercy,” Pope Francis said. “A Church that goes out into the world… a field hospital whose characteristic is to spring up wherever there’s fighting. Not some elaborate structure, kitted out with everything… [but] a mobile structure, for saving [people], for fast intervention,” he added. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

Pope Francis says he is a sinner and he needs God’s mercy The pope said these statements on his first book entitled “The Name of God is Mercy” The pope reminds the faithful about the importance of forgiving, condemning sins and loving the sinners VATICAN CITY – All are sinners, and Pope Francis is not an exception to this as he describes himself as “a sinner” in need of God’s mercy. An article by GMA News published on January 10 said that Pope Francis admits being a sinner in the first book of his papacy entitled, “The Name of God is Mercy,” where he also said he is “a man who is in need of God’s mercy.” The upcoming book was published on Tuesday in 86 countries, and comprises a series of interviews; some of them highly personal. The upcoming book of the 79-year-old Argentine-born pope urges the Catholic Church to focus on its mission as a grassroots, hands-on organization. An article by Kate Louise Davies for Mail Online published on January 10 said that the pope’s book also expounds on the notion of forgiveness; referring to his “special relationship” with convicts. “I have always been very much attached to them, precisely because of the awareness that I have of being a sinner,” Francis says on the book. Photo Credit: KPBS “Every time I cross the doorway of a prison, I always ask myself, ‘Why are they here, and not me?’ I should be here, I should deserve to be here. Their fall could have been mine. I don’t feel superior to those in front of me,” the Pope added. In an interview by veteran Vatican reporter Andrea Tornielli, the pope also talks about the power of “shame,” where he described it as guidance from God for providing a moral path. “Shame is a grace: When we feel God’s mercy, we really are ashamed of ourselves. Despite all our past of wretchedness and sin, God remains faithful to us and raises us up,” the Pope said. An article by NDTV published on January 10 said that Pope Francis also reminds the faithful to condemn sin but love the sinners. “The church condemns sin because it has to tell the truth: this is a sin. But at the same time, it embraces the sinner who acknowledges what he is. I hope that the jubilee will show the face of a Church which is rediscovering the womb of mercy,” Pope Francis said. “A Church that goes out into the world… a field hospital whose characteristic is to spring up wherever there’s fighting. Not some elaborate structure, kitted out with everything… [but] a mobile structure, for saving [people], for fast intervention,” he added. #RagnarokConnection

[princesssantiago1993]

The Comelec looks into the removal of airtime limits of TV and radio political ads The Supreme Court has ruled that the current limits imposed by the Comelec are unconstitutional The polling body will hold a public hearing at 2 p.m. on Monday to discuss the matter The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is eyeing modifications on the present rules imposed for political advertisements, especially those that are broadcasted over television and radio networks. In Erwin Tulfo’s report for TV5’s Aksyon on January 8, it was disclosed that the country’s polling body will hold a public hearing for the proposed amendments to the agency’s resolutions related to Republic Act 9006 (Fair Elections Act of 2001) and Republic Act 7166 (Synchronized Elections Law of 1991) at 2 p.m. on Monday. According to Atty. James Jimenez, chief of Comelec’s Information and Education Division, the commission will particularly discuss the provisions of section 13 of RA 7166, which speaks about the authorized campaign expenses of political candidates. Jimenez said that the agency is now looking into the removal of the airtime limits after confusions on the body’s resolutions on political campaigns rose in the recent years. In 2014, the Supreme Court has declared that Section 9a of Comelec Resolution No. 9615 as amended by Resolution No. 9631 is unconstitutional as it violates freedom of speech and expression, as well as the freedom of the press. Under the rule, candidates for national positions may consume 120 minutes of airtime in television advertising and 180 minutes in radio campaigns. On the other hand, local candidates are given a maximum of 60 minutes for television exposure, and 90 minutes for radio commercials. According to Jimenez, the provisions contained in RA 6166 are vague; causing different interpretations from both the broadcasting networks and the candidates themselves. The high court has ruled that the aforementioned limits are to be interpreted as effective “per TV or radio network,” and not as an overall total. Meanwhile, the camp of Vice President Jejomar Binay has refuted several reports that ranked the country’s second highest official as the top spender for political campaigns. In a statement, Media Affairs Head Joey Salgado of the Office of the Vice President said that based on a study conducted by Nielsen Philippines, former Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas spent a total of P774.192 million from January to December 2016, while Binay only shelled out P695.555 million. Salgado said that media researchers might have failed to include the ads that contain the wordings “Mar Roxas for President” and “Mar Roxas School Alumni” in their computations. “If you include these entries, Roxas would still emerge as the biggest ad spender even in November,” he said. #RagnarokConnection