Catanduanes gov Club Ilonggo in Kuwait disowns ‘mega shabu lab,’ implicates02 NBI exec hosts ‘ProudNanay 04 2016’ www.kuwaittimes.net

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016

Fil-Aseak celebrates Christmas in advance Page 3 Abu Sayyaf leader tagged in Samal kidnapping killed MANILA: The Abu Sayyaf leader who was involved in the 2015 kidnapping of four tourists on Samal Island in Davao del Norte has been killed, the mili- tary said yesterday. Abraham Hamid and two cohorts were killed during an encounter between the Abu Sayyaf group and local authorities in Lahad Datu, Sabah on Thursday. Two Abu Sayyaf members identified as Samsungaljan and Awal Hajal were also caught during the operation. Two others are missing, according to the Western Mindanao Command. Hamid is identified as the leader of the group that took Robert Hall, John Ridsdel, Maritess Flor and Kjartan Sekkingstad from the Ocean View Resort in Camudmud, Samal City on September 21, 2015. He was also tagged in the kidnapping of four Indonesian crew members of Tugboat Henry near Tawi-Tawi last April.— ABS-CBN News

Manila says will not help US on patrols MANILA: Masked protesters display placards as they gather for a rally near the Presidential Palace to mark International Human in South China Sea Rights Day in Manila, yesterday. The protesters are calling on the Government for an end to extra-judicial killings in MANILA: The Philippine defense secretary said the country which already claimed the lives of more than 4,000 people. —AP Thursday it is highly unlikely his country will allow the U.S. military to use it as a springboard for free- dom of navigation patrols in the disputed South China Sea to avoid antagonizing China. Philippine vice president to lead Delfin Lorenzana said U.S. ships and aircraft could use bases in Guam, Okinawa or fly from air- craft carriers to patrol the disputed waters. opposition to Duterte policies Under President Rodrigo Duterte’s predeces- sor, Benigno Aquino III, some U.S. aircraft and MANILA: Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo president and vice president are elected separately in has claimed more than 4,800 lives and led to accusa- ships stopped in the Philippines on the way to vowed Monday to spearhead national opposition to the Philippines, and the current pair belong to rival tions that the government is overseeing widespread patrolling the disputed waters to challenge extrajudicial killings and other flashpoint issues sur- parties. extrajudicial killings. China’s territorial claims. Duterte, who took office rounding President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial Robredo accepted a post as a housing czar after “I will oppose all policies with a stronger voice... in June, has taken steps to mend ties with China anti-crime crackdown. Duterte took office on June 30, following a tradition in that I think are detrimental to the Filipino people,” and became hostile toward the Obama administra- The announcement, which came a day after she which the vice president is given a cabinet position Robredo said, specifically citing “extrajudicial killings”. tion after it raised concerns over Duterte’s deadly quit Duterte’s cabinet, makes her the highest-ranking regardless of political affiliation. But their simmering She also vowed to speak out against plans by the crackdown on illegal drugs. Asked if the Philippines official to publicly voice such firm dissent to the presi- tensions boiled over because of Duterte’s decision to Duterte administration to bring back the death penal- will continue to host U.S. ships and aircraft dent’s hardline law-and-order platform. allow the embalmed body of dictator Ferdinand ty and lower the age of criminal responsibility to nine. patrolling the disputed waters, Lorenzana said “This is not the time for fear. It is a time for convic- Marcos to be buried at the national heroes’ cemetery “If being an opposition leader entails that, then I tion. It is a time for courage,” Robredo, a lawyer, told last month. will be an opposition leader,” she said. Duterte will not likely allow that to happen “to reporters. Robredo, 51, resigned from Duterte’s cabi- Robredo, 51, cited the Marcos burial as one issue With surveys showing Filipinos overwhelmingly avoid any provocative actions that can escalate ten- net after a top presidential aide told her over the on which she would be a “stronger voice” now she had endorse Duterte’s hardline anti-crime policies, he has sions in the South China Sea. It’s unlikely.” weekend she had been banned from its meetings. quit Duterte’s cabinet. so far faced very little political opposition. Continued on Page 2 Duterte on Monday accepted her resignation. The She also highlighted Duterte’s drugs war, which Continued on Page 2 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016 2 Manila says ... Continued from Page 1 commercial waterways. “We’ll avoid that for the meantime,” After Duterte met Chinese President Xi Lorenzana said. “Anyway, the U.S. can fly over Jinping in Beijing in October, China allowed there coming from other bases.” Filipinos to fish at disputed Scarborough In Washington, State Department spokes- Shoal. China took control of the rich fishing woman Elizabeth Trudeau said Thursday she area in 2012 after a tense standoff with could not comment on Lorenzana’s remarks as Philippine government ships. she hadn’t seen them, but added: “Our adher- Philippine coast guard ships have also ence to freedom of navigation is well known. resumed patrols at the shoal. You know, we will fly, we will sail anywhere Aside from the easing of tensions at within international waters and we will con- Scarborough, Chinese coast guard ships are tinue that.” no longer blocking Philippine resupply ships The commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific, from Second Thomas Shoal, farther south in Adm. Harry Harris, said last month that the Spratlys, Lorenzana said. despite Duterte’s rhetoric, military coopera- Lorenzana said he and his Chinese counter- tion with Manila has not changed. part agreed in October, during Duterte’s trip to Duterte has publicly threatened to scale China, to resume exchanges of defense back the Philippines’ military engagements observers and students under a 2004 agree- with the U.S., including scuttling a plan to car- ment. The exchanges were suspended in 2012 ry out joint patrols with the U.S. Navy in the when the Philippines brought its territorial dis- disputed waters, which he said China oppos- putes with China to international arbitration es. under Aquino’s presidency, angering Beijing, U.S.-Philippine annual combat exercises he said. have been reduced and will be redesigned to China has also inquired if it can supply arma- focus on disaster response and humanitarian ments to the Philippines, he said. missions. Among the maneuvers to be China can further expand its influence in the dropped starting next year are amphibious region if U.S. President-elect Donald Trump pur- landing exercises and beach raids aimed at sues an isolationist foreign policy, former MANILA: Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) officials destroy P3.1 million enhancing the country’s territorial defense, Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario ($62,000) worth of chemicals and laboratory equipment seized in President Rodrigo military officials said. said. Duterte’s ongoing efforts to stop the drug trade on Thursday in Valenzuela city, Duterte’s actions have become a hindrance “If the U.S. relinquishes (its) leadership pos- Bulacan province north of Manila, Philippines. —AP to U.S. efforts to reassert its presence in Asia, ture in terms of the region, that vacuum will be although the U.S. military has vowed to con- quickly filled by our northern neighbor,” del tinue patrolling one of the world’s busiest Rosario said.—AP Catanduanes gov disowns ‘mega shabu lab,’ implicates NBI exec Philippine vice ... MANILA: Catanduanes Governor Joseph Cua A Chinese national named Jason Gonzales Continued from Page 1 Robredo’s cabinet exit. “Her departure from President on Wednesday vehemently denied any con- Uy and three other unidentified Chinese men Turncoats are a feature of the Philippines’ democra- Duterte’s cabinet is long overdue given her very obvi- nection to a recently busted “mega shabu lab- operated the laboratory in the guise of a plas- cy, and many members of Robredo’s Liberal Party ous adversarial attitude and opposite stance from his oratory” in Virac town, linking instead a tic recycling warehouse, the governor added. joined the president’s alliance so they could receive policies,” it said. Duterte made no mention of Robredo funding and enjoy other opportunities of siding with in a Christmas speech at the presidential palace, his National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) official The four Chinese were allegedly tipped off the winner. Robredo also on Monday elaborated on only public appearance on Monday. to the facility that can produce hundreds of by NBI agents or local police of the a day her claims Sunday that there was a plot to oust her as However he reiterated there would be no let-up in kilos of methamphetamine daily. before the raid of the laboratory last vice president. his campaign against illegal drugs, telling police not to In a press conference, Cua said the lab, November 26. She alleged that Duterte’s allies wanted to install fear being accused of abuse. “Do not worry. Just do which is the biggest discovered in the country Cua went on to deny allegations that he Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jnr, son of the late dic- your job. Just obey my order, look for them and hunt so far, sits on a land that belongs to a certain dabbles with illicit drugs through his shipping tator, in her place. for them. Follow this and I will take all the responsibili- Sarah Sarmiento and leased by Angelica business. He surmised that his political detrac- Marcos Jnr finished a narrow second to Robredo in ty. I will answer for it personally,” he said. Duterte has Balmadrid, the common-law wife of NBI tors are responsible for dragging his name the May elections, and has filed a legal challenge to likened his campaign against drug addicts and traf- Region 7 director, Atty. Eric Isidro. Cua added into the narcotics trade. Insisting that he nev- the result alleging voter fraud. The Marcoses are fickers to Adolf Hitler’s efforts to eliminate Jews. that data gathered by his team shows that the er had drug ties in his years of public service, Duterte allies and the president has said they helped Last week he threatened to have human rights mega shabu lab was constructed in 2015 he added that he is open to any investigation. fund his presidential campaign. defenders killed for speaking out against the crime under a different administration. —ABS-CBNnews A statement from Marcos Jnr’s office hailed war. —AFP

‘Sing Galing Duo’ Club organizes Christmas Party KUWAIT: Pinoy Arabia FM ‘Sing Galing Duo’ Club has recently organized Christmas Party at the Slayton’s residence in Jabriya. The group has served sumptuous food over sev- eral number of songs shared to the thrilled guests and visitors. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016 3

Fil-Aseak celebrates Christmas in advance KUWAIT: The Filipino Association of Secretaries of Employment Recruitment Agencies in Kuwait (Fil-Aseak) organized on Friday ‘Chritmas Party at Holiday Inn Salmiya. Event was attended by acting Philippine Labor Attache to Kuwait Angelita Narvaez and some other officials. The agency’s sectary and their companies being represented also received some awards/recognition from the embassy. Various activities followed like games and gift sharing. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016 4

Club Ilonggo in Kuwait hosts ‘ProudNanay 2016’ KUWAIT: Club Ilonggo in Kuwait (CIK) organ- hosting festival and fiestas, their high sense of you shed a tear or two... from CIK, Leizel Aba from Rugbii, Lorna Vernal ized ‘7th Cultural Fiesta 2016’ with a search spirituality and inter-cultural values paved the #PabongganiNanayis when they gracefully from CIK and Virginia Crodua from OFW for ‘proudnanay’ (Proud Mother 2016)! The way of this celebration as a Thanksgiving for walk down in their fabulous evening gowns, Movement. All winners received a bouquet, event was held at the Best Western Hotel almost everything the Divine Providence has soft music from the background while the sash, trophy and cash prices. The pageant Salmiya on Friday. Philippine Ambassador to lavishly endowed them. This is already a tradi- video of their family played on.This render judges includes Dr. Jesusa Cristina Puno, Miss Kuwait Renator Pedro Villa graced the occa- tion all Ilonggo’s had loved and cherished emotions not onlyvto the audiences but to Jennifer Torres, Mr. Rian Jay Banaga, Mr. Noel sion along with other officers/staff/person- since childhood. No matter where destiny the candidates the most who only viewed the Silva, Mrs. Antonia Caba and Welfare Officer nel of the embassy and other Filipino com- brings them, they held this close to their time. Cheers and good luck from their families Nestor Burayag. Tabulators are: Mr. munity leaders. hearts,” Diong said. and children lifted enough spirits to inspire HengieTaton and Ms. Mae Ortiz..... And was For the past six years, CIK celebrate Cultural Conceptualizing a fun, humorous, melo- them to give their best effort. hosted by Mr. Gerson De Guzman... Fiesta with the hope of not only carrying on dramatic show, the organizers put a twist and #PabibongNanay is an interview portion The show was graced by his Excellency this tradition but also to showcase Ilonggo spice from the usual competition. A total of where the candidates picked the judges num- Amb. Rene Villa and team.... talents and bring together and share the spirit nine participants had been selected to com- ber and this judge will pick the pre-prepared Major sponsors:Camella Homes Vistaland, of camaraderie of not only to other Filipinos pete on the following category: question from the envelop and read it to Al Rashid Travel, California Dream Saloon, Lbc but to foreign friends as well. The highlight of #Pasikat Number (Production Number) them. All candidates answered from the heart Express - Kuwait, AmiriPinoy Restaurant, the show was the crowning of CIK Queen. But where candidates opened the show with and cheers and chants are getting louder FRONTROW, Mr. Mohammad Al Lababidi, this year the group came up with a different Megan Trainor’s hit “Better When I’m Dancing” from the crown for their favorite candidates. Madam Linda Castro, Madam Mariam Al plan. Realizing most members are mothers as they danced their way to the audience Top five candidates finally capped the Zankawi and Mr. Al SayedAyoub. Thanks to all who have endured long years of being an heart with a perfect score on audience show with Ms. Thelma Tamayo Canindo of Community Leaders and Organization, Guests OFW hence decided to give tribute to all their impact. IWOK emerging as this year’s and to all CIKinians who were present during sacrifices for the sake of their love ones back #ProudNanay Attire -ramped the catwalk in #ProudNanay’16 title gathering all the minor the event . home. So the Search for #ProudNanay ‘16 their uniforms at work may it be a Chef, a awards of #Pasikat in Nanay, #ProudNanay Indeed, it was a night to remember! (#proudmother) was created with the Nanny, a Babysitter, a Sales Manager or an Attire, #PasikatniNanay, #PabongganiNanay Cikinians will keep and continue this tradition thoughts of honoring these super moms. With Aerobic instructress. Everyone geared up with and #PabibongNanay award. 1st runner up and keep the values of Filipinos of love, spiri- the initiative of the CIK President Oliver Doing, all props including “hugot lines” that draws was ZarmelioneElguira from CIK, 2nd runner tuality, kindness and camaraderie. And so the agreed to invite participants from other laughter and tears from the crowd. up Edna Aguilos from CIK, 3rd runner up CIK’s philosophy “Combined talents and Filipino organization that befits the qualifica- #Pasikat in Nanay where they showcases NenaMacastor from CIK/Rugbii and 4th run- efforts = Success. —By Gilcia Rose Hernan - tion which should be a mother and 45+ years their talents of dancing, singing, monologues ner up Emily Espiritu from OFW Sharing Love CIK Vice, President of age. “For Ilonggo’s, we are very fond of and even true-to-life drama that will make Foundation. Other candidates are Lydia Perez Oliver Tupaz Diong- CIK President SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016 5 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016 6

ZPAVANOO-KWT organizes ‘Christmas Party’ KUWAIT: ZPAVANOO-KWT organized a ‘Christmas Party’ at Hawally Qadsiya Sporting Club (Covered Basketball Court) last Friday. The event started with the ‘Santa Clause Parade’ participated-in by children, and parents who acted like Santas followed by the opening prayer by no other than Pres Edelyn Lucban. The magical show by Jeffrey Rendon, a certified & professional magician from Baroue, mesmerized kids. Intermission numbers by Zin Janice, Mean & Mariz and other participants also added colors to the joyous feat. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016 7 ZPAVANOO-KWT organizes ‘Christmas Party’

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016

‘Feeling young’ Pacquiao eager for Mayweather

VEGAS: WBO welterweight world champion said Tuesday he felt like a young man in his twenties and would relish another crack at Floyd Mayweather. The Filipino icon, 37, made a winning comeback from his brief retirement earlier last month and said he was in great shape to try to avenge his defeat to Mayweather last year in the richest fight in boxing history. “I feel young. I feel like I’m just 25, or that I’m just 28 years old,” Pacquiao told ABS-CBN television. Asked if he wanted to fight Mayweather again, Pacquiao said: “Of course, if he wants to come back (to) boxing”. LAS VEGAS: Manny Pacquiao fueled talk of “Pacquiao-Mayweather 2? Pacquiao believes when he invited the undefeated American, who retired he’s suited to fight Floyd in September 2015, to attend his successful comeback Mayweather again ...just against Jessie Vargas in Las Vegas on November 5. look at his jacket. With a Last week, Pacquiao teased fans about a possible rematch seeming more rematch by posting pictures on social media wearing and more likely every day a suit bearing photos of him and Mayweather in the ... Manny is now using his lining. wardrobe to add to the But Mayweather, 39, said days later he had no plans hype. to come out of retirement. Pacquiao originally retired in May after beating American Timothy Bradley in a non-title fight before standing for and winning a seat in the Philippines Senate. But he said he would not be stepping away from the ring again any time soon. “I still believe in my skills. You just need discipline, how you discipline yourself and work hard,” Pacquiao said, adding he would only walk away once he no longer wanted to put in the long hours of training. “Because once you get lazy, that’s the start of the decline of your performance and your body.” —CBB Final date, venue of next Miss Universe pageant announced

MANILA: The next Miss Universe pageant is Universe Pia Wurtzbach of Cagayan De Oro as already set in stone. she takes her final walk and passes her crown In a press conference on Thursday, Tourism in her home country, the Philippines.” Secretary Wanda Teo said the coronation cere- “We are counting on you, our media part- mony of the next edition of Miss Universe will ners, event partners, sponsors, to join us as we be held at the Mall of Asia Arena on January welcome the Miss Universe candidates, their 30, 5 a.m. The announcement was made amid followers, and their supporters from all over rumors that the upcoming pageant will be the world. Together, let us show them the soul cancelled, and a petition to reconsider hold- of the Philippines, and our warm Filipino hos- ing it in the Philippines. pitality,” Teo said. “After all that’s been said and done, I happi- It was last July when Teo announced that ly welcome on behalf of the DOT the latest the Philippines will host the next Miss announcement of the Miss Universe Universe. The pageant has so far been held in Organization (MUO) through Pia Wurtzbach the country twice - in 1974 and 1994. that finally the Philippines will indeed play The Philippines will be fielding Maxine host to the much awaited 2016 Miss Universe Medina, a 25-year-old interior designer and pageant,” Teo said. model, in next year’s pageant. “The Miss Universe 2016 in Manila is She will attempt to succeed Pia Wurtzbach, brought to you by the DOT, MUO, LCS Group the first Filipina to win the Miss Universe title of Companies ...in partnership with Okada in over four decades. Manila, SM Group of Companies, Solar Ent The two other Miss Universe from the Corp, our broadcast partner.” Philippines include Margie Moran (1973) and MANILA: Reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach will crown her successor in front of “This is one proud moment for all of us (1969), mother of actress and a Filipino crowd next year. Filipinos to be a witness to the reigning Miss model Isabelle Daza. —ABS-CBN News