Showing posts with label death. Show all posts
Showing posts with label death. Show all posts
Coal mine blast in China points to the cost of development for 1.3 billion people
Out of the 528 people working in XinXing coal mine, 420 survived the predawn blast on Saturday, Novermber 21, 2009. A total 104 died after gas levels suddenly went up and triggered a huge explosion. At least 4 were still unaccounted for and about 40 were brought to nearby hospital for treatment of burns and injuries.
According the survivors, some of their friends were not able to escape in spite of the warning they relayed on the impending explosion. Soon after the fatal blast, fearful mine workers in an adjacent site of the accident were hesitant to come down the shaft, but they had no choice for they need to work. Otherwise, they will be jobless and have no means of livelihood.
The blast is the worst in 2 years as China tries to generate its energy source for fuel for its 1.3 billion people. Coal is the source of ¾ of China’s electricity. The communist country, accelerating to grow and attain development, wants to achieve 8% economic growth for this year. This is part of their desire to boost their economy and have prominence among the world's influential nations.
In 2007, shafts at two neighboring mines suffered flooding which killed 181 miners in eastern Shandong province. A massive landslide caused by heavy mining led to deaths of 277 people in mud in Shanxi province.
Residents were awakened by the latest blast in the early morning in Hegang province, an old city with snow which often is dark-gray resulting from coal contamination---a big issue in environmental pollution. Despite closure of about 1,000 dangerous mines last year, accidents and deaths of miners still happen. (Photo Credit: Niklausberger) =0=
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Death toll of H1N1 reaches 4,000 in the US
In a recent estimate by the Center of Disease Control, H1N1 flu claimed the lives of 4,000 people since the disease spread to the United States in April. The number was more than the 1,000 that was previously reported. The rise in mortality was explained by adding the deaths caused by flu complications such as pneumonia and other infections.
So far about 40,000 people stricken with the H1N1 virus have been treated in hospitals. Authorities believe that the swine flu will not cause deaths more than the ordinary seasonal flu which kills about 36,000 people in the US yearly. The World Health Organization has placed the death toll of H1N1 pandemic to 6,000 across the continents.
The vaccine for H1N1 is now available and being administered to vulnerable individuals including those with pre-existing medical condition such as asthma, end stage renal disease, diabetes, those undergoing chemotherapy and immunosuppression. (Photo Credit: Amadaruth) =0=
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Bernie Madoff’s pal dies in pool
Jeffry Picower, the friend of Ponzi scam artist Bernie Madoff was found lifeless in his private pool in 1410 Ocean Blvd. in Palm Beach, Florida. The 67-year old man suffered Parkinson’s Disease and had heart probllems. His wife Barbara called 911 to report the incident. Fished out from the swimming pool, he was rushed to a nearby hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Picower, a philanthropist who donated to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, New York Public Library and Harvard Medical School had been accused by disgruntled Madoff clients as the largest beneficiary of money fraud.
“In 1999, the Picowers received a 950-percent profit from the Ponzi-scheme investments, according to a $5 billion lawsuit by the trustee overseeing liquidation of Madoff’s companies, Irving Picard. Picard is seeking $6.7 billion back from the Pickowers to help repay Madoff victims.”-----New York Post (10/25/09, Kay, J.)
Police officers cut off access of the Picower home as they investigate the cause of the death. (Photo Credit: Zadrian) =0=
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Mary Travers of Peter Paul Mary fame dies at 72
The highly successful Peter, Paul & Mary lost the only lady of the group Mary Travers who died of leukemia, an illness she suffered since 2004. The tall blonde singer who battled the disease with acceptance and bravery died on September 16, 2009 at the Danbury Hospital in Connecticut from complications of treatment. She received a bone marrow transplant.
“Travers and her fellow band mates, Peter Yarrow and Noel "Paul" Stookey, burst onto the American folk music scene in 1961 with an influential style punctuated by rich three-part harmonies and activist politics.”---AFP/; Inbquirer (09/17/09,)
Travers was the inspiring ballad singer and activist who sang with the group Peter and Paul and popularized songs like “If I had a Hammer,” “Lemon Tree," “Don’t Think Twice, It’s alright,” “Cruel War,” "Where Have All the Flowers Gone?." "Puff the Magic Dragon," and the hit song “Leaving on a Jet Plane”
Through her singing, in the 1960’s, Mary and her group were a significant voice in the civil rights and antiwar movement. In a rally-march in 1963 in Washington, they sang “Blowin’ in the Wind,” a song originally attributed to Bob Dylan. In pursuit of solo careers, the trio broke in the 1970’s, but teamed together later in concert tours which were interrupted when Mary got sick. (Photo Credit: www.grose.us) =0=
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Actor Patrick Swayze dies of pancreatic cancer
Barely two years after he was diagnosed to have pancreatic malignancy, Patrick Swayze, 57 died peacefully on Monday, September 14, 2009 in the presence of his immediate family. The actor known for his role as Johnny Castle in “Dirty Dancing” bravely battled the disease with grace and optimism, opting to work while being treated for a lethal form of cancer. His films include ‘The Outsiders,” “Red Dawn,”"Ghost," “Young Blood,”“Road House,”"To Wong Foo, and Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar" among others.
“He had kept working despite the diagnosis, putting together a memoir with his wife and shooting "The Beast," an A&E drama series for which he had already made the pilot. It drew a respectable 1.3 million viewers when the 13 episodes ran in 2009, but A&E said it had reluctantly decided not to renew it for a second season.” --- AP (09/14/09, Lemire, Christy)
A nature lover and conservationist, Swayze who was born in Houston, Texas was survived by his wife Lisa Niemi, a fellow dancer whom he married in 1975. He used to be accompanied by Niemi during his treatments from Los Angeles, Northern California to Stanford University Medical Center. His fans were distraught when they learned of Swayze's illness in March 2008. (Photo: AP; Garth Stead) =0=
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55,000 mourners pay tribute to INC's spiritual leader
Since the mortal remains of Erano Manalo, Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) supreme spiritual leader was shown for public viewing, an estimated 55,000 mourners came to pay their respect.
President Gloria M. Arroyo declared a time of national mourning till the burial of the religious leader on September 12, 2009. Manalo, the son of INC founder Felix Manalo got tributes from public officials and from about 2 to 8 million church members for all over the world. (Photo Credit: Malaya/ Rolly Salvador) =0=
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Erano Manalo, supreme Iglesia Ni Cristo leader dies
Erano Manalo (1925-2009)
Church spokesman Bienvenido Santiago announced that Erano Manalo, the supreme leader and successor of Felix Manalo, founder of Iglesia ni Christo (INC,) died in his home at the age of 84 on Monday, August 31, 2009 at 3:53 PM. Mourned by his flock, he was born in January 2, 1925---the fifth child of the church founder who died in 1963.
A friend to many, Ka Erdy as he was fondly called led the growth of the religious group with about 2 to 8 million members mostly in the Tagalog regions and others spread globally in about 60 countries.
In 2004, Ka Erdy supported Pres. Gloria M. Arroyo to be president. Having a strong political clout and grounded in his religious belief, the influential religious leader asked his members to participate in politics. He could persuade them to cast their ballot, as high as 75% of block voting, for a particular endorsed candidate.
“It is widely known that the INC's power lies in the tagubilin emanating from Manalo and other church leaders, orders that cannot be disputed by members and can be used to command voting blocs around the country... While Manalo often used his power to support certain candidates in the past - aside from Marcos and Estrada, he also backed Eduardo Cojuangco in 1992 - he famously wielded his clout during the EDSA Tres demonstrations that reached the gates of Malacañang, arguably still the most serious threat the Arroyo administration has faced. Three out of four of the demonstrators were reportedly INC members.”----GMANews.TV (08/31/09, Dedace, S; Ubalde, JH,
According to Dr. Ray Melchor Santos, Manalo, the executive minister of the religious group died of cardiopulmonary arrest. His remains will be taken to the INC’s central temple in Quezon City.
With the entire INC in bereavement, expressions of condolence have been conveyed by GMA and by many prominent Filipino leaders and politicians. Details of the interment are yet to be announced. (Photo Credit: INC houses of worship; Sidarthur) =0=
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Church spokesman Bienvenido Santiago announced that Erano Manalo, the supreme leader and successor of Felix Manalo, founder of Iglesia ni Christo (INC,) died in his home at the age of 84 on Monday, August 31, 2009 at 3:53 PM. Mourned by his flock, he was born in January 2, 1925---the fifth child of the church founder who died in 1963.
A friend to many, Ka Erdy as he was fondly called led the growth of the religious group with about 2 to 8 million members mostly in the Tagalog regions and others spread globally in about 60 countries.
In 2004, Ka Erdy supported Pres. Gloria M. Arroyo to be president. Having a strong political clout and grounded in his religious belief, the influential religious leader asked his members to participate in politics. He could persuade them to cast their ballot, as high as 75% of block voting, for a particular endorsed candidate.
“It is widely known that the INC's power lies in the tagubilin emanating from Manalo and other church leaders, orders that cannot be disputed by members and can be used to command voting blocs around the country... While Manalo often used his power to support certain candidates in the past - aside from Marcos and Estrada, he also backed Eduardo Cojuangco in 1992 - he famously wielded his clout during the EDSA Tres demonstrations that reached the gates of Malacañang, arguably still the most serious threat the Arroyo administration has faced. Three out of four of the demonstrators were reportedly INC members.”----GMANews.TV (08/31/09, Dedace, S; Ubalde, JH,
According to Dr. Ray Melchor Santos, Manalo, the executive minister of the religious group died of cardiopulmonary arrest. His remains will be taken to the INC’s central temple in Quezon City.
With the entire INC in bereavement, expressions of condolence have been conveyed by GMA and by many prominent Filipino leaders and politicians. Details of the interment are yet to be announced. (Photo Credit: INC houses of worship; Sidarthur) =0=
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Posthumous tributes to Sen. Edward Kennedy pours in from the world
Statement from Kennedy family:
“Edward M. Kennedy - the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply - died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port. We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him.“---Source: NBC 10 News (08/26/09) (Photo Credit: learfieldnews)
"Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy. -For five decades, virtually every piece of major legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well-being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.”--- Pres. Barack Obama
“Today we mourn the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy and we extend our heartfelt prayers and sincere condolences to his wife Victoria and their children, Kara, Edward, Patrick, Curran and Caroline. Senator Kennedy was blessed with a dedicated and loving family who stood by his side, particularly during the past year as he faced his illness with courage, dignity and strength. We join with his colleagues in Congress and the people of Massachusetts in reflecting on his life and his commitment to public service. For nearly half a century, Senator Kennedy was often a champion for the poor, the less fortunate and those seeking a better life. Across Massachusetts and the nation, his legacy will be carried on through the lives of those he served. ---Cardinal O’Malley
"I had hoped and prayed that this day would never come. My heart and soul weeps at the lost of my best friend in the Senate, my beloved friend, Ted Kennedy."----Sen. Robert C. Byrd, D-W-VA.
While we didn't see eye-to-eye on many political issues through the years, I always respected his steadfast public service - so much so, in fact, that I invited him to my library in 2003 to receive the Bush Award for Excellence in Public Service. Ted Kennedy was a seminal figure in the United States Senate - a leader who answered the call to duty for some 47 years, and whose death closes a remarkable chapter in that body's history.---Former President George H.W. Bush
“ America had "lost a great elder statesman ... and I lost a treasured friend." ---Sen. Orrin Hatch (Utah-R)
“Even facing illness and death he never stopped fighting for the causes which were his life’s work. I am proud to have counted him as a friend and proud that the United Kingdom recognized his service earlier this year with the award of an honorary knighthood.“ ----British Prime Minister Gordon Brown
I would like to extend our sympathies to the Kennedy family as we hear word about the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy. He believed in our country and fought passionately for his convictions.---Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin
"Personally benefited and grown from his experience and advice, and I know countless others have as well. Teddy taught us all that public service isn't a hobby or even an occupation, but a way of life and his legacy will live on."----- Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger of California (AP)
“Kennedy has been a friend for 30 years, a great American patriot, a great champion of a better world, a great friend of Israel. He will be sorely missed.“----Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
“I saw his focus and determination first hand in Northern Ireland where his passionate commitment was matched with a practical understanding of what needed to be done to bring about peace and to sustain it. I was delighted he could join us in Belfast the day devolved government was restored.” ---Tony Blair, former British Prime Minister
“The best tribute we could pay him is a renewed vigor in the fight to see his dreams realized. The world is going to miss Ted Kennedy. I already do.“ ----Rep. Jim McGovern (Massachusettes-D)
“Ted hailed from a most famous Irish-American family, and through his own endeavours and achievement, he has added further lustre to the reputation of a great family ... In good days and bad, Ted Kennedy worked valiantly for the cause of peace on this island. He played a particularly important role in the formative days of the Northern Ireland Peace Process in the early to mid-1990s...Today, America has lost a great and respected statesman and Ireland has lost a long-standing and true friend.” ---Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen
“Ted Kennedy was a great American, a great Democrat and also a great friend of Australia. He has made an extraordinary contribution to American politics, an extraordinary contribution to America’s role in the world.“ ----Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd
"Given our political differences, people are sometimes surprised by how close Ronnie and I have been to the Kennedy family. But Ronnie and Ted could always find common ground, and they had great respect for one another. In recent years, Ted and I found our common ground in stem cell research, and I considered him an ally and dear friend. I will miss him."---Frist Lady Nancy Reagan
“The last son of Rose Fitzgerald and Joseph Kennedy was granted a much longer life than his brothers, and he filled those years with endeavor and achievement that would have made them proud.“ ---Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney
“A great protagonist of American public life has disappeared, a combative and coherent interpreter of the role of the U.S. Congress, a constant defender of that democratic balance and the guarantees of freedom which have given strength and prestige to his country. In this sense, Ted Kennedy has left a profound mark and deserves the homage of the free world.” ---Giorgio Napolitano, President of Italy
"For decades Edward Kennedy was a towering figure in U.S. politics. His battle for justice and equality was defined by persistence and resoluteness. In Senator Kennedy both Germany and Europe have lost a great and dear friend." ---German Chancelor Angela Merkel
"He was not just a friend to those of power and high position, but even more to those who had neither. He was a voice for those who would otherwise go unheard, a defender of the rights and interests of the defenseless. Those who feel that government can too often be faceless and inhumane did not know Senator Kennedy. He stood for the best in all of us, and he will be missed." ---UN Sec. Gen. Ban Ki-Mon
"He was a great politician who supported Chilean democracy during very difficult times for our country. He raised his voice strongly to denounce the trampling of human rights, asking that democracy be re-established."---Chile Pres. Michelle Bachelet
Sources: AP/ TimesOnline/ CNN Politics.com
RELATED BLOGS: Sen. Edward Kennedy, 77 dies of brain cancer Posted by mesiamd at 8/26/2009; Sen. Edward Kennedy survives longer under the world’s best medicine available Posted by mesiamd at 7/07/2009
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Erlinda E. Bitancur, 74 of Naga City & Sorsogon
UP Ibalon-Bicol expresses its heartfelt condolence to the family of Erlinda Escalante Bitancur, 74, originally from Sorsogon and resident of Ateneo Avenue, Naga City.
Herlin, as she was fondly called, died on Sunday August 23, 2009. After a solemn concelebrated mass officiated by Fr. Bitancur and Fr. Barela, her mortal remains were interred at the Eternal Gardens Memorial Park in Naga City on August 27, 2009 at 10 AM. She was survived by her only daughter, Mrs. Tuy of LTO (Photo Credit: gsb_viva)
Eternal Rest Grant unto Her O’ Lord.
Requiescat in Pace.
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Sen. Edward Kennedy, 77 dies of brain cancer
Edward (Ted) Kennedy, the 77-year old brother of Pres. John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Sen. Robert Kennedy died after a fight against brain cancer in Massachusetts. The controversial patriarch of the Kennedy clan whose career in the senate spanned almost half a century was a liberal democrat with a strong voice on issues of healthcare, education, immigration, and better wages.
The senator who reached out to colleagues of all political persuasions championed civil rights, defended the poor, worked to end the Vietnam war, and advocated against nuclear proliferation. From all over the world, his death elicited a flurry of recollections and praises for a towering political figure with indelible contribution to public service.
The 9th and youngest child of an influential political family of Joseph and Rose Kennedy, Edward became a senator in the early ‘60s raising hopes that he would one day become president. The legendary saga of his family and career however had been marked by a series of tragedy and personal triumph.
His brothers John Jr. and Robert died on the hands of assassins cutting short their political careers. His bid for the White House was thwarted by Jimmy Carter who won the presidential nomination in 1980. His ambition to hold the highest office of the land was ruined by the Chappaquiddick incident when the car he drove plunged into the river killing a young woman named Mary Jo Kopechne.
Having served briefly in the Army, Edward went to Harvard without finishing his education but graduated in the University of Virginia Law School. He was married to Joan Bennett Kennedy in 1958, but got divorced in 1982.
The white haired, barrel-chested senator with a booming voice remarried a young Washington lawyer named Victoria Reggie. His children included daughter, Kara Kennedy Allen, sons, Edward Jr. and Patrick, the congressman from Rhode Island, and stepchildren, Caroline and Curran Raclin.
Vigorously treated by the best doctors under the current healthcare he wanted to reform, he succumbed to a vicious form of cerebral tumor called malignant glioma. An ardet supporter of Pres. Barack Obama whom he endorsed in the presidential race, he asked his niece Caroline Kennedy to seek the New York senatorial position vacated by Hillary Clinton, but failed.
Proximate to his death, Ted asked his colleagues to revert the choice of a senate replacement for him from election to a gubernatorial selection---- so that the transition of office at the time of his death could be easy. Because of his deteriorated health, the accomplished lawmaker wasn’t able attend the funeral of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, his elderly sister who died early this month. (Photo Credit: AP/ Cook)=0=
RELATED BLOG: Sen. Edward Kennedy survives longer under the world’s best medicine available Posted by mesiamd at 7/07/2009; Posthumous tributes to Sen. Edward Kennedy pours in from the world Posted by mesiamd at 8/27/2009; Sen. Edward Kennedy interred in Arlington Cemetery Posted by mesiamd at 8/30/2009
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Michael Jackson’s death ruled as homicide
After a month of investigation, the Los Angeles Coroners office issued a preliminary report ruling that Michael Jackson, the famed King of Pop, died of homicide. The initial toxicology result revealed Jackson had toxic levels of propofol, a potent anesthetic on the day of death on June 25, 2009. --- http://www.thesmoking gun.com/
Dr. Conrad Murray, the singer’s personal physician who said Jackson appeared to have developed an addiction to medications had been a subject of criminal probe. He claimed he attempted to pull him out of the habit. Aside from propofol, Jackson was injected two sedatives (lorazepam and midazolam) which probably potentiated the effects of profolol.
With homicide ruling, Dr. Murray, a cardiac surgeon in Las Vegas, will most probably face criminal charges. An affidavit of LAPD Detective Orlando Martinez gives a description of the circumstances surrounding the pop star’s intriguing death. (Photo Credit: ctv.ca) =0=
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Russian hydroelectric plant workers missing in an explosion
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Rescuers were racing against time to find about 70 workers trapped in a big hydroelectric plant where an explosion occurred. Russia’s largest hydroelectric facility located in Sayano-Shushenskaya, in a Siberia town of Cheryomushki suffered damage which caused electrical outages in several villages and factories.
Twelve people were confirmed dead and more than 70 were reported missing in the blast on August 18, 2009. There are others who were trapped in flooded rooms close to faulty turbines which could be the cause of the blast.
Though the dam of the electric plant was not destroyed, an oil slick developed after the explosion stretching about 50 miles in Yenisei River The plant serves about 10% of the total energy needs of Siberia. (Photo Credits: AFP; Reuters/ Naymushin llya) =0-=
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Kuwaiti wedding fire kills 41
On Saturday, August 15, 2009, at least 41 women and children attending a wedding party died when a rapidly spreading fire engulfed the reception. There was a stampede following a break-out of fire which may have been sparked by faulty electrical wiring. Among the casualties are least 70 people who were injured.
Authorities had difficulty evacuating the death scene as relatives and curious on-lookers trooped to the scene in al-Jahra district west of Kuwait City.
Since many were seriously injured, the death toll was expected to rise. Police initiated an investigation as to the cause of the fiery incident. (Photo Credit: gypsygirl) =0=
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Eunice Kennedy Shriver dies at 88
The sister of Pres. John F. Kennedy and Sen. Robert Kennedy, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, 88, dies in a Cape Cod hospital in Massachussetts after a series of stroke. The influential lady of the Kennedy clan is known for her public service just like her brother Sen. Edward Kennedy who is stricken ill with brain cancer.
Eunice who was sick for sometime, was the originator of the Special Olympics in 1968 for the handicapped and physically challenged. The sporting event which brought hope and happiness to the disabled had been attended by at least a million participants in more than 160 countries since its inception. In her prime, the pillar of the Kennedys was politically and socially active in keeping with family tradition.
Jean Kennedy Smith, her sister, becomes the last surviving daughter of Joseph P. Kennedy and Rose Fritzgerald Kennedy. At the time of death, her husband, five children and 19 grandchildren were present. (Photo Credit: MCS@40flickr) =0=
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Aquilino Lamit of Naga City
In Memoriam
UP Ibalon Bicol, AdenUHS'73, and friends express their sympathy and prayers for Aquilino (Jun) Lamit who passed away on August 5, 2009. They extend their condolence to his bereaved family.
A member of Ateneo de Naga University High School class 1963 and College 1968, Aquilino served as the school’s college registrar. He was a loving brother to Mateo, Cecilia, Boy, and Amelia. His remains lie at the Funeraria Imperial in Igualdad, Naga City, Philippines. Interment was scheduled in Santo Nino Cemetery of Naga on Sunday, August 9, 2009. (Photo Credit: Tinkerbell54)
"Grant eternal rest unto him O' Lord!"
150,000 mourners for Cory Aquino’s burial
A huge crowd of about 150,000 people lined up in Manila streets to bid Pres. Cory Aquino farewell during her interment on August 5, 2009. In her death, the beloved and popular leader known for her simplicity, unwavering faith, and steadfast defense of democracy brought shining inspiration to entire nation reminiscent of the People Power she led more than two decades ago.
Condolences poured in from all over the globe for Cory. The Aquino family, led by by Sen. Nonoy Aquino and TV celebrity Kris Aquino followed the hearse of their mother as mourners from all walks of life cheered, flashed “Laban” signs, and shouted “Cory, Cory” as tributes to the ex-president.
Under an overcast sky, tens of thousands of Filipinos wearing yellow and carrying balloons and flowers stood as the funeral cortege from Manila Cathedral snaked its way to Manila Memorial Park where the ex-president was buried in a simple crypt with her husband, the martyred political leader, Ninoy Aquino. (Photo Credit: Reuters/ Romeo Ranoco; Reuters/ Erik de Castro)=0=
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Pres. Cory Aquino's power of hope & gratitude
In Memoriam
"I still have great hopes. Tayong mga Pilipino, sasabihin, 'Ano ba naman, bakit hindi tayo umangat katulad ng iba nating kalapit bansa?' Sabi ko, darating at darating din yon."
If we can have only a fraction of hope and gratitude the world can share, the place we live in will be far better and more secure than what is now. In the transcript of her last interview on September 3, 2009, this is a profound and meaningful message Pres. Corazon Aquino has imparted to us Filipinos. (Source & Photo Credits: GMAnews.TV.com/ Severino, H et al) =0=
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"I still have great hopes. Tayong mga Pilipino, sasabihin, 'Ano ba naman, bakit hindi tayo umangat katulad ng iba nating kalapit bansa?' Sabi ko, darating at darating din yon."
If we can have only a fraction of hope and gratitude the world can share, the place we live in will be far better and more secure than what is now. In the transcript of her last interview on September 3, 2009, this is a profound and meaningful message Pres. Corazon Aquino has imparted to us Filipinos. (Source & Photo Credits: GMAnews.TV.com/ Severino, H et al) =0=
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Filipinos mourn the death of Pres. Cory Aquino
Requiescat In Pace
After more than a year of fighting advanced colonic malignancy, Pres. Corazon C. Aquino, 76 died in peace in Manila early Saturday, August 2, 2009. The passing of the widow of martyred political leader Ninoy Aquino brought loss and sadness to the Filipino nation. In her life, she exemplified calm, grace, and strong conviction.
Prayers were being said when the former president had her last breath. In her hospital bed at the Makati Medical Medical Center, she was surrounded by her five children and friends.
A proponent of non-violence and peaceful change, Cory, a devout Catholic, was the inspiration which led the country to oust strongman Ferdinand E. Marcos in a popular People Power uprising in 1986, leading to her assumption of presidency.
During her term, her administration was rocked by 7 attempts of coup d’ etat as she tried to rid the country of the remnants of the Marcos dictatorship. Restoring democracy, she embarked on the implementation of land reform, but was accused of protecting the interest of rich land-owners. At the same time she offered to make peace with the communists while she tried to find solution to the separatist movement of Mindanao. After her presidency, she continued to work for social and political causes.
Cory, the feisty US-educated lady who wore her usual signature yellow dress, demonstrated a life of understated simplicity, working for the country’s unity till the end of her life.
In her illness, friends and foes, rich and poor alike offered prayers for her recovery, including expressions of consolation from Pope Benedict XVI. (Photo Credit: walla2chick) =0=
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Hundreds died and scores injured in ethnic Uighur riots
At least 156 died and 828 people were injured in a bloody clash between Uighurs and government forces as the ethnic group, predominantly Muslim, came out of the streets on Monday, July 6, 2009 in northwestern China.
“The latest protests started in the provincial capital of Urumqi on Sunday, when demonstrators gathered to demand justice for two Uighurs killed in June during a fight with their Han co-workers at a factory in southern China.
The protests turned into the deadliest ethnic unrest to hit the region in decades.
Photos and video posted on the internet showed the city in flames, as rioters went on a rampage, clashing with police and rolling over police cars.”----AP/ CBCNesw.ca (07/06/09)
The Uighurs who are concentrated in the Xinjiang region of China have a turbulent relation with the ethnic Han Chinese who predominate in the country. As a result of the discrimination, the Uighurs complain against the Chinese government, the ethnic group has established a separatist group. Aside from job discrimination, they accuse the government of trying to eradicate their religion.
On the other hand, the Chinese government claimed that the fresh riots aimed to “destabilize the country” has been incited by exiled Uighur leader Rebiya Kadeer, the president of the Uighur American Association (UAA) who lives in exile since 2005 in Fairfax, Va. The exiled leader denied such a claim. (Photo Credit: AFP/ Peter Parks/ Yahoonews; AFP graphics) =0=
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Cebu jailbirds dance in homage to Michael Jackson
As the tragic details of Michael Jackson’s life are revealed to the world, many of his admirers cope up with the his untimely demise in many ways. Immediately after learning the grim news, many fans converged outside the UCLA Medical Center to find out what happened. In Apollo Theatre at the Harlem section of New York, a crowd gathered to remember and pay tribute the fallen music giant.
Half way across the globe, in the Philippines, about 1,500 inmates of the Cebu Penitentiary staged “Thriller” the dance they performed before that caught the fancy of You Tube viewers throughout the world. Their performance was viewed by almost 25 million people after it was made available in the internet. Grieving for their idol, the prisoners of the maximum security jail last Saturday gave their all dancing to the tune of Michael Jackson’s hit songs.
“After being told of Jackson's death Thursday in Los Angeles, the 1,500 inmates at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center hit the exercise yard, practicing for nine hours Friday night – and into the wee hours of Saturday morning – for the show.
They took breaks only to eat or when it rained, said professional choreographer Gwendolyn Lador, hired by the prison to teach the inmates the dance.
"I felt sad because we lost our idol," said inmate Wenjiel Resane, who plays the role of Jackson's girlfriend in the video.”----GMANewsTV / AP (06/27/09, Cerojano, T)
As the world tries to cope and make sense with the passing of a legendary musical entertainer, the sordid details that lead to his early death are starting to surface.
The controversial singer of incredible talent and fame who was adored and at the same time reviled by the public has left three innocent children. His finances are in disarray with about $500 million in outstanding debt. The series of concerts in London that should have ignited his stressful come-back in the entertainment world in July this year is in limbo---in part, because it's a freak creation of reckless, greedy, and manipulative people that managed the star during his career.
Amidst talk of abuse of prescription medications, the result of the pop star’s autopsy has been put on hold pending test results. In anger and frustration, the bereaved family and fans demanded a second autopsy---something that won’t change the sad fact that the king of pop is dead. (Photo Credit: Markiiboi; AFP/ Yahoo.News/ Aljibe, T) =0=
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