DOH records at least 50 firecracker injuries

MANILA, Philippines - More than 50 people have been rushed to hospitals due to firecracker injuries, the Department of Health (DOH) said Saturday.

Dr. Eric Tayag, chief of the DOH's epidemiology center, said a total of 55 cases of firecracker-related injuries have been recorded as of December 26.

"Wala pa namang napuputulan (Fortunately, nobody has been amputated)," Tayag told radio dzMM.

The DOH started its anti-firecracker campaign before December, showing gory pictures of blasted hands and amputated body parts caused by firecrackers.

Tayag said Filipinos should welcome the New Year "silently" to avoid being hurt by firecrackers.

A radio dzMM report, meanwhile, said 2 persons, including a 9-month-old baby have been rushed to the Amang Rodriguez Hospital in Rizal province due to firecracker injuries.

The radio report said Gorcella Bongoy, 23 of Sitio Silangan, Barangay Dela Paz, Antipolo City and 9-month-old baby Perez. of Molave Street, Barangay Parang in Marikina City were rushed to hospital on Friday.

The 2 sustained injuries in the legs and hands after being hit by a "Boga," a bazooka-like cannon, and a firecracker called Piccolo.

The victims have been discharged from the hospital.

Travel diaries: Batanes as eco-tourism haven

MANILA, Philippines - In the town of Chavayan in Batanes, small stone houses with cogon-thatched roofs line the street in rows.

Some are crumbling, while some are still inhabited, creating a feeling that time stood still hundreds of years ago.

The noontime sun was intense, and old men and children sat lazily on the curbs, swatting flies or sucking on "ice candy."

Walking down the quiet street, searching for a breeze, I spotted an old woman frying up garlic inside one of the houses. She saw me and beckoned for me to enter. Inside, it was noticeably cooler.

She let me linger for a while as I poked around her kitchen. Then she returned to her work.

This could be the Ivatan nature in a nutshell. The locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists, but then they'll go on their way because they always have work to do. If they're not fishing, they're farming. If they're not farming, they're tending to cattle.

And these historic vernacular houses, so adaptive to the climate and practically typhoon-proof, are one of the cornerstones in the local government's plan to market the cultural landscape of Batanes.

Once refurbished and improved with basic amenities, these houses could be opened up to visitors, providing bed-and-breakfast type services. Visitors can also participate in the town's daily activities like planting camote (sweet potato) or bundling up cogon grass.

Not the next Boracay

A simple, revolutionary idea miles away from the usual luxury developments is what Batanes's local government wants for its local tourism plan.

"People always tell me, 'Batanas should be the next Boracay'," Batanes Governor Telesforo Castillejos said. "I have to explain to them plainly, we cannot be Boracay (in Aklan). Why put up a 5-star resort here? It's true that the place is very unique, but the moment we introduce changes, then it's no longer an exciting place to visit."

Batanes has things to offer beyond the usual casinos, malls, or videoke joints--and the government intends to keep it that way.

When Gov. Castillejos came to office in 2007 for his 4th term, he cancelled a plan to lease some o fthe islands and immediately came up with ordinances that prioritized local investors.

"It's an unwritten policy," he explained. "We do not encourage big investors. What the national government is promoting is not something we can cope with."

"We can afford to be slow with growth--our way of living, which has been carried on from past generations, is sustainable. If the big investors succeed, we wake up one day and become second class citizens in our own town," Castillejos said.

Sustainable community

The Ivatan identity is one based on a certain independence and self-sustainability.

As an isolated island, they have never been integrated into the larger market economy. Each landowner traditionally produces his own food for consumption.

Once listed as one of the 20 poorest provinces in the Philippines, Batanes is now in the top 10, with one of the highest Human Development Indez Ratings in the country.

This was reportedly after the national government poured in more funds and called on Prof. Roberto Bastillo as a consultant to the area's development back in 1993.

Bastillo asserts: "Modernization was not the answer. Not industrialization or golf courses or annexation to Taiwan. It's keeping what they have because it's sustainable."

Bastillo, who is the acting tourism officer for Batanes, said it was hard to explain his plan to the officials at first but once they got it, there was a groundswell of support from the community.

Though the concept of conservation has not yet been ingrained in the minds of all the people in Batanes, it is getting there.

The Batanes Eco-Cultural Tourism Industry is launching programs like the Community Stay where Batanes homes will provide rooms for guests, who can live among the Ivatans. It also launched the "Amazing Tour", a competitive race with team challenges that revolve around Ivatan culture and practices.

"Tourists also have a role to play," Bastillo said. "They can hopefully help the people rather than pull them apart, by educating others on the cultural landscape of Batanes--which is often hard to explain--and in turn the Ivatans will be proud of their uniqueness."

World heritage site

Currently, Batanes is on the "tentative list" of world heritage sites documented by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

According to officials in the area, Batanes satisfies the "Outstanding Universal Value" sought by UNESCO's World Heritage Centre.

Batanes has beautiful rolling hills and virgin beaches strewn with heavy boulders that make the province a must-see.

But beyond the cinematic visuals, there are also sustainable farming and fishing systems (they've been organic from the beginning) and deeply rooted cooperative traditions like community building of stone houses and even an "Honesty Cafe" that has no storekeeper.

Batanes, a worthy travel destination, is certainly deserving of preservation.

Pacquiao opens novelty shop in Manila

MANILA, Philippines - Boxing champion Manny Pacquiao opened a souvenier shop offering branded "Team Pacquiao" items in Manila on Tuesday.

Pacquiao, along with his wife Jinkee and his entourage, were greeted by swarms of fans at the Robinson's Mall in Ermita, where the "Team Pacquiao" shop was opened.

The shop sells Manny Pacquiao t-shirts (including Nike branded tees), jackets, boxing gloves, shorts, shoes and trinkets that were reportedly handpicked by Jinkee Pacquiao.

The store's opening came barely 2 months after the Pacquiaos opened a "Team Pacquiao" souvenier shop at the Robinson's Place Mall in General Santos City (GenSan), which is Manny's hometown.

The store also offers a selection of signature Manny Pacquiao clothes and accessories.

Each store carries a distinct "Team Pacquiao" logo on the storefront with a scrawled signature bearing the words "By: Manny Pacquiao" below.

Business acumen

This is not the Pacquiao couple's only foray into business, as the pair have opened a boutique and a chain of coffee shops in GenSan. (Read about Manny Pacquiao's many investments here)

Jinkee opened her boutique in August this year called "Jinkee's Fashion World" at the JMP Building along Osmeña Street in GenSan.

The high-class boutique, which has a large framed picture of Jinkee near the store counter, sells earrings, blouses, designer printed bags, watches, hair accessories and wallets.

The glass-paneled, green-walled boutique also carries Manny Pacquiao merchandise like jackets, round-necked t-shirts, and ceramic mugs or plastic tumblers with the trademark "Nike Pacquiao Identity Crest" bearing the boxer's initials.

The Pacquiao couple also opened franchises of BluGre Coffee, Davao's leading specialty coffee shop chain, in GenSan.

One of the coffee shops was opened at the JMP Building and another at the Robinson's Place Mall.

Aside from tending to their blossoming businesses, the Pacquiao couple are also busy preparing for Manny Pacquiao's birthday celebration on December 17

Skin filler treatment arrives in RP--and it's not botox

MANILA - All women dream of having a beautiful face and smoother skin, but are afraid to undergo cosmetic surgery.

Thankfully, a non-invasive, non-surgical and non-permanent alternative beauty treatment was developed-- and is tagged as the safe and natural way to beauty.

Restylane, a dermal filler originally from Sweden, was developed as a treatment to smoothen skin for around half a year.

The treament's active component is called NASHA or non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid. The material is commonly used for augmentation procedures.

NASHA are the same polysaccharides present in the human body that give volume to skin; shape to the eyes; reduces lines, folds and wrinkles; and creates fuller lips and elasticity to the joints.

This is injected into the body and through the process of isovolemic degradation, NASHA is broken down in the body. The compound progressively binds with water to maintain its effect.

When injected into the skin, it temporarily gives it a smooth appearance. Through NASHA injections, women could reportedly have the lips they'd been longing for or have their eyebags disappear.

It is reported to be long-lasting and safe. According to the company's official website, the injection pain is tolerable.

Procedure know-how

Jean Capistrano, Division Head of Q-Med, the official Philippine Distributor of Restylane, all the procedures for the enhancement are done in less than 2 hours.

Aside from the fact that the processes are all non-surgical, Capistrano said that offers an "immediate effect and a visible results that can last from 6 to 12 months." Restylane must be injected by a trained medical professional.

“Unlike surgery, Restylane, being non invasive and temporary, offers users the power to take control of their looks... [Restylane] is absorbed by the body over time with no risk of disfiguration," said Dr. Gary Bunagan, an Oculoplastic surgeon (a surgeon who deals with the eye area).

"This makes Restylane 100% safe and natural,” Bunagan said at the product's recent launch at Green Hills in San Juan.

“(The) products are ‘tissue tailored’ to ensure the appropriate dose and consistency for each specific treatment. This means versatility in treatments and cost since there is less injection volume needed per tissue layer,” he said.

Treatments reportedly cost from $425 to $525 (P19,554 to P24,155), according to various internet sources.

Though low-risk, some side effects of the treatment include bruising, redness of the skin, swelling, pain, tenderness and itching. Those who have severe allergies are discouraged from using the product.

RP world's 'most dangerous' for media: monitor

MANILA - The Philippines has become the most dangerous place in the world for journalists, according to an international press watchdog, after an election-linked massacre of at least 57 people this week.

The Belgium-based International Federation of Journalists said that by its count at least 12 journalists and "around eight media staff" were among the victims of the mass killing, blamed on a local politician and his bodyguards.

"Under the current government the Philippines has become the most dangerous place in the world for media workers," the group said in a statement, urging President Gloria Arroyo's government to give the press more protection.

"At least 74 journalists have been killed during its eight-year tenure, yet the government has not acted to end the culture of impunity. At last count, only four convictions had been secured," it said.

The group said it would send an investigative mission to the southern Philippines region of Mindanao, where the killings happened on Monday.

"The Arroyo administration must make a clear and unequivocal commitment to an immediate, independent and effective inquiry into this atrocity," said the group's general secretary Aidan White.

"With elections due in six months' time the authorities must act now to guarantee the safety of journalists throughout the country."

Arroyo on Wednesday vowed to hunt down the perpetrators of the massacre.

Police have identified the top suspect as Andal Ampatuan Jnr, a member of Arroyo's ruling coalition and the son of a powerful regional politician who has helped secure votes for the president in previous elections.

The victims were abducted as they were travelling in a six-vehicle convoy to nominate a rival of the Ampatuan clan as the opposition candidate for provincial governor in elections next year.

Obama names envoys to Singapore, Philippines

WASHINGTON - US President Barack Obama on Thursday named two ambassadors to Southeast Asia, tapping a close political ally as envoy to Singapore and nominating a career diplomat to the Philippines.

Obama named David Adelman, a state senator in Georgia and a force behind the president's record-breaking fund-raising in last year's election, to be ambassador to Singapore.

Adelman chaired the Democratic candidate's campaign in Georgia, a Republican-leaning southern state which Obama turned competitive but fell short by five points.

A lawyer, Adelman represented presidential contender Al Gore in his legal battles against eventual winner George W. Bush in the 2000 race.

Adelman has also been active in initiatives to prevent domestic violence and spearheaded a Georgia law prohibiting state contracts to companies seen as benefiting from the bloodshed in Sudan's parched Darfur region.

For the Philippines, Obama named Harry K. Thomas, Jr., a career foreign service officer who served as ambassador to Bangladesh from 2003 to 2005. He has also been posted in India, Nigeria, Peru and Zimbabwe.

The nominations, which require confirmation by the US Senate, come after high-level US visits to the two US-friendly nations.

Obama visited Singapore last week as part of a four-nation Asia tour, while Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stopped in the Philippines.

US ambassadors generally step down when a president leaves office. Obama is still filling positions more than a year after his election, with nominees subject to increasingly tough scrutiny.

Despite his vows for a cleaner government, Obama has tapped major fund-raisers as his ambassadors to close US allies including Australia, Britain, France and Japan.

Gov't to procure 40 more rubberboats

MANILA, Philippines--In preparation for similar massive flooding, the government will be purchasing 40 additional rubberboats to expedite its rescue operations, a spokesman said today (Oct. 7).

Lt. Col. Ernesto Torres Jr., newly designated spokesman of the National Disaster Coordinating Council, said they are set to procure the additional vessels to augment their rescue equipment by authorities during high floods.

Torres said rescue efforts to many trapped on top of their houses in Metro Manila and nearby provinces due to high flood water had been slowed down by the lack of rubberboats to go around during the operations.

He admitted that the NDCC, being only an ad hoc body, has still some operational limitations. "The NDCC only convenes during disaters or calamities. It does not continuously coordinate with member agencies," Torres said.

Among the NDCC members are the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Education, Department of Health, and the Philippine National Police.

Torres said they are hoping that the recent flooding brought by tropical storm Ondoy would facilitate the passage of the Disaster Risk Management Act now pending Congress. The proposed measure seeks the creation of a body with more "teeth" to address disaster preparedness and mitigation.

Aside from the operational limitations, NDCC has only P90 million annual budget, P70 million of which goes to personnel services or salaries of its employees.

Torres also appealed to those families still not reached by the government's relief operations to be more patient as the teams, both the government and private sectors, are doing their best to bring aid to them.

"There is enough (relief goods) for everyone but please don't mob our people," he said.

Death toll from Philippine floods hits 100: govt

MANILA, Philippines (AFP) - – The death toll from devastating floods in the Philippine capital and surrounding areas has climbed to 100, with 32 people still missing, the government said Monday.

In its latest update, the National Disaster Coordination Council said the number of people displaced in Saturday's deluge had risen to more than 451,000.

The government had said earlier Monday that the death toll was 86.

As you can see in all the televisions and youtube's a lot of Filipino people were died and lost their love one's. its really painful for them of what had happened. The typhoon ONDOY caused such damaged for them. They dont have food to eat, and clean bed to rest with.

Despite of that, we are so happy knowing that there are lots of people who are willing to help and willing to share their blessings.

Thank you so much for those who helped and send their donations.

Kris names other celebrities for Noynoy

MANILA - Actress-host Kris Aquino thanked all the celebrities who have volunteered to help the candidacy of her only brother, Senator Benigno "Noynoy" III, in the May 2010 presidential elections.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News on Wednesday, Kris admitted that she has already received calls and text messages from stars who are willing to help campaign for her brother.

The Queen of Talk said she's really overwhelmed and touched by the expressions of support from her friends in showbiz.

"Naiyak ako talaga kasi pinadala ni Ogie Alcasid 'yung song na he wrote for Noy. Regine sang it, they recorded it," Kris said.

She also shared that Concert King Martin Nievera will be composing a song for Noynoy. The song will be performed by Nievera and Divine Diva Zsa Zsa Padilla.

"Mayroon siyang kinompose naman na awitin niya with Zsa Za," she said.

To show their gratitude--and for the stars to personally meet her brother--the Aquino family will host a dinner for them on October 4, Sunday.

"I'm really overwhelmed kasi with so many stars, it just took a text or a call, and [now] we are having dinner with a lot of them [on] October 4, kasi we want them to meet Noynoy. Its ‘getting to know you’ kasi it's important na 'yong taong susuportahan mo makilala mo at makausap mo," she said.

Kris also said there are 16 stars who confirmed have their attendance to the dinner.

Among the celebrities expected to come are Mariel Rodriguez, Claudine Barretto, Bea Alonzo, Anne Curtis and Jodi Sta. Maria-Lacson. They have offered to help Noynoy.

"Si Jodi Sta. Maria-Lacson, we worked together and we are very good friends. And I told her 'I didn't ask you because I didn't want any political color and I didn't want to put you on the spot.' And she said, 'But Kris, I love you and your family and that's why I'm texting you, you have my support, and whatever materials I can give you, it's my personal donation to you,'" Kris said.

Kris also said she cried when she learned about Pokwang's decision to support her brother instead of another presidential candidate.

"Kay Pokwang, naiyak ako don talaga kasi malaking bagay 'yon. Sabi ko, 'Hindi namin kayang tapatan kung ano ang ino-offer sa iyo.' Sabi niya, 'Ano ka ba? Mahal kita at mahal ko si Noy.' Yon, so many people, instead na kumita pa sa kampyang, ito nag-aabono pa for us," she said.

While Pokwang's support made Kris cry, she laughed after reading Queen of Comedy Ai-Ai delas Alas's text message.

"I just wanted to say na thank you also talaga to Ai-Ai. Ang cute, kasi kasi sabi niya, 'Friendship, huwag mo lang ako ipapadala kung saan ako makikidnap kasi alam ko wala kang pantubos sa akin.' So gusto kong mag-thank you sa kanilang lahat,” Kris said.

'No politics in hosting'

To avoid being accused of bias, Kris said that she has decided not to tackle politics in her shows, "The Buzz" and “SNN: Showbiz News Ngayon."

"It's just that ayaw kong may kulay and ayaw kong sabihan kami na I use my shows for Noy. I just really want to be careful about that. So, whenever there's...may politics involved or may mga news involved, I really try na si Boy ang nag-[ho-host or nagi-spiel noon]. And of course, if I have to answer anything on behalf of the family, I do," she said.

Kris said that she really wants to help and support her brother’s candidacy, but she stressed that she will now be doing it outside of her programs.

"Natural lang naman na gusto mong suportahan mo ang kapatid mo, pero mas maganda naman na magawa ko ito outside my work. Tutal naman ang kinikita ko sa work ko sa kanya na," Kris said.

'Real score with Korina'

After revealing in public that she and popular broadcaster Korina Sanchez have reestablished communications and are now “united” again in support of the Liberal Party tandem, Kris admitted that she has not had a chance to personally talk to Sanchez..

"Kasi mahirap naman na loving-loving na kami. We haven't seen each other, hindi pa kami nagkakausap. Naiintindihan ko na she's busy with her wedding," the host said.

Sanchez will be marrying Senator Mar Roxas, the erstwhile Liberal Party standard-bearer, on October 27. Roxas gave up his presidential bid in favor of Noynoy Aquino.

Kris said she's hoping that she and Korina will be able to find time to talk and bond again, but stressed that what is important now is their support for the men they love.

"Ang importante, si Noy at Mar ay nagkakasundo. Support lang naman kami dito, hindi kami bida. For once in our lives, kami ang nasa likod lang, so dapat kung naasan sila, doon kami," she said.

On Wednesday, September 23, Kris with her sisters Pinky, Viel and Ballsy, recorded rosary songs for Star Records. According to Kris, the CD is their birhday gift for their mom, the late President Corazon Aquino, who was known for her devotion to The Holy Rosary.

Ruby Rose Barrameda-Jimenez father-in-law surrenders

MANILA, Philippines - One of the primary suspects in the 2007 murder of Ruby Rose Barrameda-Jimenez, her own father-in-law, surrendered to police in Angono town, Rizal yesterday afternoon.

Angono police chief Superintendent Rommel Estolano told us that lawyer Manuel Jimenez Jr., accompanied by his wife, Merced, gave himself up at around 2:15 p.m.

Estolano said Malabon Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 170 Judge Hector Almeda issued a warrant of arrest against Jimenez yesterday for murder and recommended no bail be granted the suspect.

He said Jimenez learned from friends that an arrest warrant had been issued against him, prompting his decision to surrender.

Jimenez was brought to the Angono Medic Hospital after complaining of chest pains but was later declared out of danger, Estolano said.

He told us Jimenez will be in the Angono police’s custody and will be transferred to the Parañaque police.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) filed murder charges last Aug. 24 before a Navotas RTC against Jimenez; his younger brother, Lope, who owns the Buena Suerte Jimenez Fishing and Trading Co; Manuel Montero, who confessed to participating in the killing and testified for the Barrameda family; and Eric Fernandez, Spyke Discalzo and Roberto Ponce.

The DOJ investigating panel cleared Ruby Rose’s estranged husband, Manuel Jimenez III; and Rudy de la Cruz.

The Barramedas recently asked the DOJ to reconsider Jimenez III’s acquittal.

Ruby Rose was on her way to visit her two daughters at her husband’s house in Las Piñas when she disappeared last March 14, 2007.

A body, which police and Montero claim was that of Ruby Rose was fished out of the seawaters off Navotas on June 11.

Meanwhile, two police teams from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) served the arrest warrant on Lope Jimenez in his office in Navotas and his residence in Parañaque City but failed to find him

Roxas’ decision to step aside makes LP ‘formidable’

Malacañang on Wednesday conceded that the decision of Sen. Manuel Roxas II to give way to Sen. Benigno Simeon “Noynoy" Aquino as Liberal Party standard bearer in the 2010 presidential elections made the party “formidable," but doubted whether the so-called “Cory magic" would last long.

In a press briefing, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said Roxas’ move created awareness that LP, one of the oldest political parties in the Philippines, is still alive.

Sen. Manuel “Mar" Roxas II on Tuesday said Aquino made it clear to him that he is ready to carry the torch of leadership. Roxas made the announcement as he withdrew from the 2010 presidential race so that Noynoy could run. [See: Mar gives way to Noynoy as Liberal Party standard bearer]

Whether or not Roxas’ giving way was sufficient to usher in Noynoy Aquino to the presidency has yet to be seen, he said.

“This only proves our point that many things can still happen ... these are all guesses that we can all make. People will try to validate it through surveys. Those are nothing but intellectual guesses as to what might happen," Ermita said.

Calls for the only son of former President Corazon Aquino and assassinated former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy" Aquino Jr. to seek a higher elective post grew louder after the demise of his mother last Aug. 1.

Ermita said while the legacy of Aquino’s parents makes him currently popular, it was not an assurance that his popularity could be translated into votes come election time.

"That depends on the people," Ermita said when asked for his opinion on how long the Cory magic would last for the senator. "I am only guessing because I am not on same party as they are," he added.

Earlier, Malacañang dared Aquino to get out of his parent’s shadow and be “his own man" if he wanted to run for a higher post. (See:Palace to Noynoy: Stop using parents' legacy for 2010 bid) "He has to show that he is his own man kung gusto po niya na maging magaling na presidente ng bayan natin (if he wants to be a good president of this country)," said deputy presidential spokesman Gary Olivar. Olivar, likewise, claimed that Noynoy is basking in his parents’ glory to gain political capital that would help his bid in the 2010 elections by “invoking" their memory.

Since the death of Mrs. Aquino, Noynoy’s rating has spiked up. He even emerged as the top contender for the vice presidential race survey conducted by the Issues and Advocacy Center. [See:Noynoy tops PR firm's survey on VP bets]

Various groups like Tuloy pNoy movement and Heightened Ethics League of the Philippines (Help) were also launched to support Aquino.

Aquino, a vocal critic of the Arroyo administration, is set to make an announcement 6 p.m. Wednesday about his decision for the 2010 polls.

Major development

Ermita said Aquino’s entry into the political landscape is a “major development" that cannot simply be dismissed.

“Siempre the administration has to think very well ... how to beat the opponent. We are the strongest party ... we have to rethink our position especially since we have not yet chosen our presidential bet," he said. He also extolled Aquino’s qualities as a politician. “He is exposed … he knows a lot of things. In case he wins that’s a big plus factor ,not to mention the character which comes from the way the family brought him up," he said.

On Roxas’ decision to step aside, Ermita said it was a stroke that showed the qualities of a statesman and may erase the “bad impression" image he painted on himself when he uttered invectives during an anti-Arroyo rally sometime last year in Makati City.

“He is a statesman to have come up with such a decision," Ermita said.

Ermita said an Aquino-Roxas tandem could also be formidable but added that he is confident the administration Lakas-Kampi-CMD is confident it can match it.

He said the ruling party will announce its standard bearer this month

Meet with Mar went well - Noynoy

Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III disclosed on Sunday that his initial talks with Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II and Liberal Party (LP) leaders are going well.

Roxas had earlier confirmed that he and Aquino will meet this weekend to discuss the possibility of running as partners in 2010. He said there have been ideas of a Mar-Noynoy tandem even before Aquino's mother the late President Corazon "Cory" Aquino died.

“Nag-share ako sa kanila ng mga feedback, ito ang mga natatanggap ko… Maganda ang aming meeting,” said Aquino in a short interview at his family’s house in Quezon City Sunday afternoon.

He said however that talks would continue especially during this long ‘weekend’ at the same time apparently avoiding to present exact details on the contents of his meeting Saturday night.

“May continuing dialogues pa,” said Aquino.

He said that he and Roxas were a bit tired Saturday night citing that LP ‘s declared presidential aspirant had just come from General Santos City.

He admitted that he himself, has been attending to the many letters in connection to the death of his mother the late former President Corazon “Cory” Aquino. He cited that there still four boxes of letters that he needs to respond to – and some still have ‘get well’ messages for his late mother.

Aquino also said that the LP was fortunate that the party has “great leaders.” He said the party leaders has expressed their support during the meeting.

When asked if there has been any decision to change Roxas as the LP standard bearer, Aquino said: “As of this time there is no need for any change, there is only one declared aspirant for the [presidential] position therefore and we have been campaigning for our standard bearer.”

No decision yet

He also disclosed that he has yet to make up his mind if he will run for a higher elective position in the 2010 elections.

“Gusto ko pang mangayari kapag tinanggap ko ang hamon niyo dapat mayroon tayong magawa. Kung nababagalan kayo sa desisyon tandaan na lang po natin na napakabigat po ng repsonsiblisdad na ating pong aakuihin. Kapag pinasukan po natin iyan, ginawa nating madalian, ay parang ginawang biro ho ang nangyari at di po karapat-dapat na response iyon sa inyong mga mungkahi,” Aquino responded when asked on his message to groups who have been asking him to run for president.

Aquino also said that he has been discussing his possible plans with his sisters.

“I've had very good dialogues with my sisters contrary to my initial expectations. Siyempre nandoon pa rin ang 'eto na naman!'. At the same time it is not as difficult as I had imagined. There's seems to be a meeting of the minds tapos varying degrees of 'ganadong-ganado' at di ko rin naman siguro masabing ganado,” said Aquino.

He confirmed however that her sister Viel, who was not able to attend Sunday’s family gathering was still hesitant on his running. Aquino said that Viel was attending her father-in-law who just suffered an accident.

Aquino’s sister, Kris, had also confirmed his brother’s meeting with Roxas but said she had no knowledge on what transpired.

Aquino also said that he would be going to consult his mother’s spiritual colleagues and advisers saying that he will visit the different religious orders and even “convent to convent” to help him in making his decision.

He did say however that an announcement would be forthcoming.

“Until when? Siguro napapalapit na tayo doon,” said Aquino adding that it may be done after the 40th day of her mother’s death.

May be adopted

Another party meanwhile has signified that it will support Aquino should the LP decide not to support his possible presidential bid.

Sonia Roco, Aksyon Demokratiko leader and wife of the late senator Raul Roco, said that her group wants Aquino to run for the presidency in 2010.

“Dapat siguro presidente lang ang tatakbuhin niya. Dahil babasahin natin kung ano ang mga events o ang signs of the times na nagsasabi na ngayon ang panahon niya na tama siyang tumakbo dahil kung 2016 wala na, parang wala na ang momentum, wala na ang crest ng wave na gusto mong sakyan,” said Roco

'First Gentleman, GMA must explain roles'

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Richard Gordon yesterday called on President Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel Arroyo to explain their presence at the ZTE main office in China at the height of the controversy surrounding the $329-million national broadband network (NBN) contract in 2006.

Gordon, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee, said the First Couple should be cited for impropriety or possible violation of ethical conduct.

Gordon said the Arroyos went to the Shenzhen Golf Club in China, even played golf and had lunch with ZTE officials on Nov. 2, 2006.

A scandal later erupted, with reports alleging that the award of the NBN contract was being rigged to favor several individuals, Gordon said.

Gordon said the President should explain her meeting with ZTE officials at a time when there were supposed efforts by the camps of former House speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. and former elections chief Benjamin Abalos to corner the multimillion-dollar deal.

The senator noted that Mrs. Arroyo and her husband had been exonerated of any liability by the Ombudsman over the signing of the NBN deal with ZTE amid indications that their visit would formalize the signing of the scandal-ridden contract.

“It’s too early to say that (the Arroyos will be cleared of any liability) although in my report, there are issues that the President would have to explain,” Gordon told The STAR during the sidelights of GMA-7’s fun run event held yesterday.

Gordon stressed Mrs. Arroyo should explain why she went to the ZTE headquarters in China, her subsequent actions following her meeting with Chinese officials while Abalos’ and De Venecia’s groups were competing to bag the contract.

“Well, if you are the President and there is a big contract, you should not be playing golf with those who are pushing the contract. You should not dine with them. That is where the doubts arise,” he pointed out.

Gordon explained the Senate is not looking for the criminal aspect of the issue but to point out indications of unethical conduct on the part of the officials involved.

“We can recommend if there are clear evidence of lacking in ethical conduct since we have the code of ethics on people in government like the President, First Gentleman and even Speaker De Venecia, his son, Joey and even (whistleblower Rodolfo ‘Jun‘) Lozada,” Gordon said.

Over the weekend, Gordon declared De Venecia and his son and namesake Joey should also be held accountable.

Gordon said the Senate’s hearing on the issue set for tomorrow would tie the loose ends in the testimonies of witnesses.

The First Gentleman has been invited for tomorrow’s hearing to explain his side on the issue. Joey de Venecia and Lozada have so far confirmed their appearance in the hearing.

“We have seen many gaps that needed to be cleared. We want to fill up these gaps (in) re-opening the case,” Gordon said.

Gordon though admitted there is not enough evidence to pin down Mr. Arroyo on the criminal aspect.

Gordon added the President’s only fault was her apparent failure to pacify the camps of De Venecia and Abalos trying to corner the NBN contract.

Sen. Loren Legarda, for her part, also believes Mrs. Arroyo should explain what she told then Socio-economic planning chief Romulo Neri when informed about the $200-million bribe offer by Abalos.

“Really, I don’t think Neri and Abalos would act on their own without the go signal of the highers-up,” Legarda said.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. also revealed some members of the Blue Ribbon committee have agreed that the Arroyos should be made to explain their role in the NBN-ZTE project.

Pimentel, however, admitted the absence of any evidence that could criminally pin down the First Couple.

Even if there was evidence, Pimentel said the President could not be prosecuted because she enjoys immunity from suit.

Now that the Ombudsman started its probe, Pimentel said the Senate could simply recommend additional people that should be prosecuted in relation to the case.

Mistake in judgment

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago said President Arroyo might have committed a mistake of judgment when she accepted the invitation from ZTE at the height of the negotiations over the NBN deal.

But Santiago said Mrs. Arroyo could not be charged criminally for that mistake.

“The President, like all presidents, cannot be charged criminally. In the United States, a civil case can be filed against the President. If you recall, President (Bill) Clinton was charged in a civil case or a case for damages filed (by) a woman,” Santiago said.

Santiago also revealed the First Gentleman told her that he did not berate the younger De Venecia to “back off” from pursuing the ZTE deal.

“For FG (Mr. Arroyo), he is a private citizen. On the claim that they met at a golf course where he asked Joey de Venecia to back off, it was the First Gentleman who personally told me that he never did that at anytime,” Santiago said.

In the earlier stages of the Senate hearing on the issue, the younger De Venecia testified that Mr. Arroyo pointed a finger at him while telling him to “back off” in an effort to discourage him from pursuing the NBN project.

De Venecia went on to testify that Abalos was acting as the broker of the NBN contract and was fronting for Mr. Arroyo.

Santiago, however, vouched for the Arroyo family and said they usually speak in Spanish even during common conversation.

She said its not in Mr. Arroyo’s personality to use American slang.

“They usually do not use American slang like ‘back off’,” Santiago said.

Santiago also saw nothing wrong with the First Couple visiting ZTE headquarters, including a picture of them playing golf. She said the picture could not be used as evidence against them.

“The question remains is what happened when they played golf in China… What we know is that there is a picture that showed that they all played golf... There is no testimony about the picture. A picture is not enough,” she said.

The only fault that can be seen, according to Santiago, is that they accepted the invitation from the ZTE officials.

“They claimed they were invited there. They might be (in) a misjudgment because we know they have deals on a certain contract. So that the public would have nothing to say, they should have turned down (the invitation to play golf),” she said.

Face off

Former speaker De Venecia, for his part, challenged Gordon to force the appearance of the First Gentleman before the Senate to clear things up.

De Venecia stressed Gordon should take the first step of looking into the liability of Mr. Arroyo in the NBN deal instead of implicating him and his son Joey over the botched contract.

“How come Senator Gordon (in) all these months never subpoenaed Mike Arroyo and his cronies to appear before the Blue Ribbon committee?” the Pangasinan lawmaker asked in a statement.

“Mike Arroyo says he is sick and is under doctor’s orders. How come Mike Arroyo has traveled to Europe many times, to Australia, to Asia and to the United States? Don’t tell us Senator Gordon is not aware of this,” he said.

De Venecia said the Office of the Ombudsman has cleared him and his son Joey “from this evil ZTE transaction that has bedeviled the nation.”

“But the Ombudsman decision and its discharge of justice is incomplete. What about President Arroyo and First Gentleman Arroyo who are clearly behind the ZTE transaction and who met with ZTE headquarters in China?” he asked.

De Venecia pointed out that he should know because he was there.

His colleagues at the House of Representatives, however, scored De Venecia for making the suggestion to Gordon.

Palawan Rep. Antonio Alvarez said it would be “grossly unfair” for the First Gentleman to be summoned and appear before the Senate on the role he supposedly played in the NBN-ZTE scandal.

Alvarez pointed out the Ombudsman has already cleared Mr. Arroyo in the controversy.

“By urging Senator Gordon to push through with the hearing (tomorrow) with Mr. Arroyo in attendance, De Venecia challenges and assails the Ombudsman’s ruling indirectly,” Alvarez said.

“That would be grossly unfair not only to the First Gentleman, but with the other officials who were already cleared by the anti-graft body,” he said.

Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga also slammed the Senate in its effort to revive the NBN-ZTE controversy.

Barzaga said it would be a “waste of time” for the Senate to revive a “dead issue.”

“We have had enough of these hearings and what the public is anxious about is for the Senate committee to come up with its long overdue report,” he said.

Barzaga asked why the Senate withheld its report even after Gordon had announced the committee already prepared a draft report ready for perusal of its members.

Surigao del Sur Rep. Philip Pichay also raised doubts that the new Senate hearing on the issue would yield new answers.

Pichay questioned the timing of the Senate to revive the issue, particularly at the onset of preparations for next year’s elections.

On another perspective

Gordon, on the other hand, explained the Senate hearing on the issue would focus on loopholes in the government procurement process in the light of the scandal left by the NBN-ZTE deal.

Gordon pointed out the problem lies in the ZTE deal that was not even part of any executive agreement between the Philippines and China.

Gordon also urged the public not to be carried by emotions that prevailed during the testimonies of witnesses at the initial stages of the Senate inquiry over the issue.

“We established that all concerned should explain because it showed that there were interested parties who were fighting to bag the deal,” Gordon said.

Gordon also said the suspension slapped by the Ombudsman against Neri is proper because he did nothing when he was informed of the irregularity.

“He should have been suspended not because he did not accept the bribe but because he failed to act and stop the bidding after he learned about the shenanigans by the differing interested parties. He should have cancelled the bidding outright,” Gordon said.

Pimentel also said Neri has only himself to blame for his misfortune.

While it was Neri who revealed the bribe attempt and reported it to the President, he still refused to reveal the details of his conversation with Mrs. Arroyo, Pimentel said.

“(Neri) did not want to reveal exactly what they discussed. The implication is that he was covering up a crime,” Pimentel said.

While it may look awkward that the investigation report of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee would be released after the Ombudsman acted on the case, Pimentel stressed the committee report would be very valuable because this will strengthen the evidence against the erring parties.

Moreover, Pimentel explained the inquiry conducted by the Senate is essentially aimed at proposing legislative measures to prevent misuse of public funds.

Philippines to witness solar eclipse on July 22

MANILA - The Philippines will witness a partial solar eclipse on July 22, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Thursday. The state weather bureau said the path of the moon's umbral shadow will begin in India and is expected to cross Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Central China, the Pacific Ocean, Ryukyu Island, Marshal Island and Kiribati. It said a partial eclipse will be witnessed in several parts of the Philippines including Metro Manila, Calayan Island, Laoag City, Tuguegarao City, Baguio City, Angeles City in Pampanga, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Lucena City, Naga City, Iloilo, Cebu, Zamboanga, Sulu, Davao and General Santos City. PAGASA said the eclipse will start in Metro Manila at exactly 8:33:01 a.m. The eclipse's full visibility will be seen at 9:43 a.m. and will end at 11:01:51 a.m. Other areas in the globe that will witness partial solar eclipse are those in eastern Asia and the Pacific Ocean. The weather bureau, meanwhile, cautioned spectators to avoid directly looking at the eclipse without safety eye devices. It said people can cover their eyes with X-ray films, sun glasses, smoked glass and photographic films and negatives. It said the safest method to view the eclipse is by indirect viewing "like projecting the image with a pinhole camera."

Pussycat Nicole too busy to have love life

Right at the NAIA when she arrived with the three other Pussycat Dolls at noon last Monday, Nicole Scherzinger said she was overwhelmed by that “coming home” feeling.

“I felt the warmth as soon as I got off the plane,” recalled Nicole during a one-on-one with Funfare yesterday at the Executive Lounge of Sofitel Hotel (formerly Westin Philippine Plaza) where the Dolls are billeted until Friday when they fly back to the States after their concert at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Concert Grounds tomorrow night.

“Everybody was calling my name and I was so touched,” added Nicole who is half-Filipino (her father is surnamed Valiente, from Batanes), part-Russian and part-Hawaiian. “I felt that I belong here.”

She felt even more so when she saw her face on the huge billboards advertising Clear, the shampoo she’s endorsing.

“Then I saw the commercial on TV and I realized why everybody knew my name,” she sounded amused. “In the commercial, I said, ‘My name is Nicole.’ No wonder, at the airport they were calling, ‘Nicole, Nicole!’ I was teary-eyed.”

The presscon and the photo session, which lasted no longer than 20 minutes, was held at the hotel’s Seven Pecados where Nicole and fellow Pussycat Dolls Melody Thornton, Kimberly Wyatt and Ashley Roberts sat on stools onstage while fielding questions from the press and flashing sweet smiles at the photographers.

Asked why one member, Jessica Sutta, was missing, Nicole explained that Jessica sustained a broken hip during the Dolls’ concert in Australia and had to beg off from their Manila gig and fly back home.

Presented by MTV Philippines and Clear Shampoo, A Clear Doll Domination: Pussycat Dolls Live in Manila is the Dolls’ second time to perform in Manila, the first having been in 2006. Their album, also titled Doll Domination, is released locally by MCA Music, Inc. Nicole recorded Jai Ho a year before it won a Best Song Oscar along with A.R. Rahman who composed it for Slumdog Millionaire which won Best Picture.

“It came as a surprise. I felt honored. I was happy for Rahman and for the Slumdog kids.”

It was Funfare’s third time to interview Nicole. The first was last year in Kuala Lumpur where the Dolls performed at the MTV Music Awards and the second time was two weeks ago in a phone interview from Australia where the Dolls had a concert and I was in Hong Kong for an exclusive interview with Kelly Clarkson, the first American Idol (watch for it in next Sunday’s Conversations with Ricky Lo). Nicole was consistently sweet and friendly during those interviews, looking at you straight in the eye while answering your questions. It was only Nicole who did one-on-ones yesterday.

She has been vocal about her admiration for Lea Salonga whom she first saw in Miss Saigon when she was 15, inspiring Nicole to audition for the megahit Cameron Mackintosh musical. Told that Lea is in the States for a series of shows, Nicole said she would have wanted to meet her idol.

Asked who her other role models (musical influences) are, she named Whitney Houston, Beyoncé Knowles and Shania Twain.

What did she remember from the Dolls’ first visit to the Philippines?

“The warm reception,” smiled Nicole. “I remember getting off the plane and being also greeted by many people. Everybody was smiling at me. I was blown away by the warm reception. The short time that I was here was very emotional. It was something that I waited for all my life — going to the Philippines. I couldn’t forget our show. I think that was the best crowd reaction we ever had. Unbelievable! I was just very proud to be there.”

And what did she tell her fellow Dolls about the Philippines?

“That the Filipinos are so warm.”

Nicole said that most of her relatives are in Hawaii. She has no idea if some are still in the Philippines. She begged off from talking any further about her family.

I asked Nicole, as I did during the first two interviews, if there’s any “friendly” rivalry among the Dolls and her answer was the same, “We are just human, you know. But generally, we are supportive of each other. We are like sisters. We don’t compete with each other; we compliment each other.”

With the Dolls’ tight schedule (they’re either on the road or in the studio recording), does Nicole have time for her love life?

She gave a straight, unblinking answer, “No. But I don’t think I’m missing out on anything because I am surrounded by my family, my friends and my fans, and I love what we are doing.”

But for sure, she does pamper herself every now and then.

“Yesterday afternoon, a few hours after we arrived, I went to the hotel’s Les Spa. I had a massage. It was so soothing and relaxing. My tired muscles were relieved. That’s the way I usually pamper myself.”

Richard Gutierrez hurt in car accident

MANILA, Philippines -- One died in a car accident involving actor Richard Gutierrez, his personal assistant and his bodyguard in Cavite this morning. Gutierrez, who came from a shooting stint, bumped his sports car into a lamp post after missing a semi curve in Tagaytay City. With him are Norman Pardo, his personal assistant, and George Mustura, his bodyguard. Pardo was declared dead on arrival at the Adventist University Hospital, while Mustura sustained serious injuries and is still being treated at the Tagaytay Medical Center. Gutierrez, who was also rushed to the Tagaytay Medical Center, was transferred to the Asian Hospital in Alabang and is now in stable condition.

Sharon ups 'reward' money to P10-M!

Remember the P1-M “reward” money Sharon Cuneta put up last year for whoever could produce “hard evidence” (pictures, etc.) that her husband, Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, has a mistress?

Sharon named that “price” sure as she is that the persistent rumor is untrue and without basis.

Don’t look now but Sharon is even willing to raise the amount to — hold your breath — P10-M because she said she knows fully well, convinced beyond any doubt, that the rumor is the product of an evil mind’s wild imagination.

“In this age of the Internet and sophisticated cellphones,” said Sharon during a one-on-one with Funfare the other day after the press launch of her new album Children’s Rhymes and Lullabies (released by Sony Music), “how come nobody is producing any proof?”

The “old issue” was casually brought up during the one-on-one because Kiko has already announced his intention to run for vice president in the 2010 elections, again as an Independent like he did in 2007 when he ran for reelection.

For sure, skeletons will be rattled and Kiko’s opponents will dig up as much “dirt” (if any) as they can, including the yarn about his having “another woman” with whom he has not just one but two children (daw).

“What else can they throw at us?” asked Sharon. “Everything about us is public knowledge. There’s nothing left to dig up.”

Asked if she’s ready to be a Second Lady, Sharon said she is.

“It’s something you should prepare for.”

Sharon graced the Rock The Vote concert held a few days ago to encourage new voters (numbering more than one million) to register and, that’s it, vote in 2010. Kiko was among those who organized the event.

“I am supporting my husband all the way,” she stressed, adding that she and Kiko thoroughly discussed his 2010 plan before Kiko announced it. “I believe in my husband’s ability.”

Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos is being lured by some presidentiables as their running mate. If Gov. Vilma says “yes,” she’ll be pitted right smack with Kiko.

What if...? Funfare asked Sharon who is an avowed Vilmanian.

“Of course,” she said, “I will have to root for my husband. I’m sure Vilma will understand. If, for example, her husband Ralph (Recto, director-general of the National Economic Development Authority) would run against my husband, siempre Vilma would rally behind Ralph.”

In the meantime, while the start of the campaign is eight months away, Sharon is focused on her career.

Her latest movie, Star Cinema’s BFF (Best Friends Forever), a riotous comedy directed by Wenn Deramas and co-starring Ai-Ai delas Alas, shows to the hilt Sharon’s comic side which has never been fully exploited. BFF pokes fun at the two stars’ physical defects — Sharon’s excess poundage and Ai-Ai’s prominent chin — and moviegoers lap up with gusto the two stars’ self-deprecating humor.

“I enjoyed doing the movie,” admitted Sharon. “It was so much fun that after the shooting, I really missed everybody.”

She’s now busy promoting the Sony album which is divided into four parts, each consisting of English songs with corresponding Filipino translations: School/Learning Time (Alphabet Song, Seven Days a Week/Pitong Araw Sa Isang Linggo, Sampung Mga Daliri, etc.); Play Time (I’m A Little Teapot/Ako Ay Maliit na Pitsel, Maliliit Na Gagamba/Eency Weency Spider, etc.); Activity Time (Magtanim Ay Di Biro/Bahay Kubo, Leron Leron Sinta, etc.); and Sleep Time (Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, When You Wish Upon A Star, etc.), plus the bonus track You’re My #1 from Sharon’s Nido Milk TV commercial. The CD comes with a Sing-Along with Sharon Disc 2.

She’s also preparing for her US concert tour that will start at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, produced by US-based journalist Jackie Regala; and, possibly, the production of an indie movie in which she herself might star.

But even if she and ex-husband Gabby Concepcion have recently already “made peace” personally when they crossed paths in ABS-CBN, much to the relief of their daughter KC who had been wishing for it, Sharon dismissed any possibility of them doing a “reconciliation” movie (preferably with KC) — not now anyway...not with the forthcoming 2010 elections.

“I don’t want my family to be dragged into the movie’s promotion and publicity,” said Sharon, referring especially to her and Kiko’s young daughters Frankie and Miel who are too young to draw a line between the reel and the real. “It’s enough that Gabby and I have talked na personally although we’d been talking on the phone.”

And what did she and Gabby talk about this time?

“Wala lang. About small things.”

Nothing heavy, really.

Philippine senator angered by Alec Baldwin's joke

MANILA, Philippines – Alec Baldwin's joke about getting a Filipino mail-order bride provoked a sharp response in the Philippines, with one senator saying Monday that the "30 Rock" star faces violence if he ever visits.

Baldwin, 51, who is divorced with a teenage daughter, said in a May 12 interview on "The Late Show" with David Letterman that he would love to have more children.

The Emmy-winning actor quipped that he was "thinking about getting a Filipino mail-order bride at this point ... or a Russian one."

Baldwin has been involved in a bitter dispute with his ex-wife, Oscar-winning actress Kim Basinger, over custody of their 13-year-old daughter, Ireland.

Philippine Sen. Ramon Revilla said Monday that Baldwin's comment was "insensitive and uncalled for" and an insult to millions of Filipinos.

He called the actor "arrogant" and said he is apparently unaware that the Philippines has a law against mail-order brides.

"Let him try to come here in the Philippines and he'll see mayhem," Revilla said, using a local idiom that implies the speaker will personally administer a beating.

The senator is a former action-movie star who occasionally still appears on Philippine TV.

G20 blacklists RP, 3 other tax havens

LONDON – The Philippines was among four nations blacklisted as uncooperative tax havens yesterday after Group of 20 leaders declared the age of banking secrecy was over and said they would no longer tolerate shady havens draining away badly needed tax revenue.

At the request of the G20 summit of rich and developing nations, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) named the Philippines, Uruguay, Costa Rica and the Malaysian territory of Labuan as the worst offenders, saying they had refused to adopt new rules on financial openness.

Leaders had agreed to name and shame the countries that refuse to exchange tax information, which could result in tough sanctions – including the withdrawal of financing by the World Bank or International Monetary Fund.

“The time of banking secrecy has passed,” French President Nicholas Sarkozy said following the summit. “Everyone around the table wants an end to tax havens. Everyone knows we need sanctions.”

The announcement reflects mounting concern that banking secrecy in tax havens has helped to worsen the economic crisis by disguising the true value of some global assets. Anti-poverty activists say such places provide corrupt officials places to stash illicit funds, often depriving poor nations of needed resources.

The OECD has divided countries into three categories: those who comply with rules on sharing tax information, those who say they will but have yet to act and nations which have not yet agreed to change banking secrecy practices.

Switzerland and Liechtenstein, which both have strong banking secrecy traditions, said last month they would adopt international rules on tax cooperation and were ready to comply with G20 demands.

Liechtenstein, Switzerland’s tiny Alpine neighbor, said it has already met with British officials to prepare for the new standards. Monaco said earlier that it would be more transparent with foreign tax authorities.

In return they were spared the fate of being blacklisted but were left in a gray area of countries that still have to implement their commitment to accept new information-exchange standards.

China supported the blacklisting, but would not agree to have two territories, Hong Kong and Macau, classified as uncooperative tax havens.

Potential sanctions for transgressors include extra audits of those who use tax havens and curbs on tax deductions claimed by businesses using the territories.

In their communiqué, leaders said they may consider further penalties in their bilateral relations with tax haven territories.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Brown and President Barack Obama played a key role in pushing for a crackdown on tax havens.

At least 35 offshore tax havens, from Britain’s Channel Islands to the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean, are under increasing pressure to provide more information to international authorities to prevent people from evading taxes or hiding income by shifting money to such places.

Stephen Timms, financial secretary to the British Treasury, said a culture of banking secrecy had worsened global economic problems.

“That lack of transparency – that opaqueness – has contributed to the severity of the problems we are seeing in the world economy at the moment,” he said.