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ONAPI, KIPO and INTEC plan to revolutionize the cassava industry
4,113 jobs in government up for election in 2020
Keep saving water, drought is not over
Government to pick up the severance tab for Punta Catalina workers
Miguel Vargas is confirmed as PRD president
Medical Guild rejects eight-hour work shifts
Anadegas and Fenatrano complain, Industry & Commerce sues for defamation
Nothing yet on the elimination of advance tax for small business
Collapsed construction did not have all its construction permits
Dominican Navy stops 21 on the way to Puerto Rico
Ambassador to Mexico, Alejandro Gonzalez Pons dies in Spain
Siamese twins born at La Altagracia Maternity Hospital
What are "express kidnappings" and how to avoid being a victim
Spaniard deported for Morocco to Spain drug trafficking
New Insectlandia attraction at Sambil Mall
From Tony Fernandez to Domingo German; Haitian stamp on DR baseball
DR almost defeats China in VNL championship
Rains forecast
ONAPI, KIPO and INTEC plan to revolutionize the cassava industry
There is a growing emerging market for cassava because it is gluten-free. Now Korean innovation experts are assisting the Dominican cassava industry in finding a better way to industrialize the production.
The collaboration effort began after brothers Natanael and Arcadio Sánchez from Monción participated in the Appropriate Technology Competition organized by the National Office of Industrial Property (ONAPI), with the backing of the Korean Office of Industrial Property (KIPO) and INTEC university in Santo Domingo.
The brothers never thought their idea would get this far, ONAPI reported when explaining about the collaboration. The native inventors wanted to help their workers that frequently suffer hand injuries when grating cassava (yucca) by designing a machine that could better do the task.
Now their prototype will be radically improved by expert Korean engineers for mass production, thanks to the agreement signed between ONAPI, KIPO and INTEC university.
Korean experts are improving the original design and developing an industrial model for medium-sized companies. It integrates grating of cassava and the extracting of liquids from the root.
Cassava is a native food that dates back to pre-Hispanic times. It was a staple for the Taino Indian culture on the island. The cassava production is said to have made possible the discovery of Mexico. This was a food that traveled well because it has inherent preservation characteristics.
http://www.onapi.gov.do/index.php/noticias
4,113 jobs in government up for election in 2020
The Central Electoral Board (JCE) has announced that 4,113 people will be elected during the next 16 February and 17 May 2020 elections. This is in the municipal election in February and the presidential and legislative election in May. The JCE says it estimates upwards of 140,000 people will work in the polls.
In the February municipal election, citizens will vote to choose 3,849 mayors and vice mayors, and 2,328 city councilors and their replacements in 158 municipalities.
In the May election, voters will be electing the President and Vice President of the Republic, 32 senators and 178 deputies representing the 31 provinces and the National District. This, in addition to nine national delegates, seven overseas deputies, and 20 representatives to the Central American Parliament (Parlacen).
The JCE has planned for 4,321 polling stations throughout the country and overseas, or 16,469 electoral districts.
The numbers only get more significant, as there will be 82,000 people working the voting stations together with 33,000 facilitators and technicians. Besides, 30,000 police are planned to be on duty during those two days.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...an-en-juego-4-113-cargos-electivos-CP12844215
Keep saving water, drought is not over
The rains that have fallen as of Friday, 25 May 2019 had not significantly reduced the effect of the months-long drought in many areas of the country. The recent rains have not filled the nation's 32 reservoirs to full operating capacity, according to the head of the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources (INDRHI) boss Olgo Fernández.
Fernández says the drought has dropped the water levels of 90% of the nation's reservoirs to truly critical levels, threatening significant restrictions for farmers who depend on the availability of water for irrigation of their rice, banana or plantain plantations. The announcement of a zero-effect on the water levels in the reservoirs came as Fernandez was signing an agreement with the Agrarian Reform Institute on providing land for small farmers that will benefit from the dam at Monte Grande—when it rains.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...no-han-mejorado-pese-a-las-lluvias-EP12843869
Government to pick up the severance tab for Punta Catalina workers
The Public Electricity Corporation (CDEEE) announced it will comply with former employee demands with payments of RD$300 to RD$400 million. The benefits will be handed to 12,000 workers of the Central Termoeléctrica Punta Catalina (CTPC) within the next 15 days.
The CDEEE also announced a temporary stop of the testing operation of the Punta Catalina power plant. The plant has been operating at about half of its full potential. The plant has two generators with installed capacity for 376 MW each.
The 12-day shutdown will precede it full-time entry into the National Interconnected Electric System (SENI), the country's public electricity grid. During its test period, the plant has produced 229,829 MW for the SENI, which, at spot prices on the local market, has been invoiced at RD$1.6 billion.
As reported by the CDEEE, the Punta Catalina plant also served to offset the shutdown of several smaller facilities for major repairs and routine maintenance and provide power to the national grid.
During a press conference, the executive vice-president of the CDEEE, Rubén Jiménez Bichara told reporters that the CDEEE will be paying an exceptional compensation package for RD$300-RD$400 million to those who were working during the construction phase of the Punta Catalina plant and who have finished their work. The workers had carried out violent protests demanding their severance from the builders – the Odebrecht, Technimont and Estrella consortium. The government instead announced it is picking up the tab to end the impasse with the workers.
Jiménez Bichara also announced that the government is negotiating a purchase with the owners of the land where the Punta Catalina facility is located.
https://eldia.com.do/punta-catalina-sera-apagada-por-12-dias-para-realizarle-algunos-ajustes/
https://elcaribe.com.do/2019/05/24/panorama/dinero/punta-catalina-ya-facturo-1637-millones-de-pesos/
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...ca-de-rd-400-mm-a-empleados-de-punta-catalina
Miguel Vargas is confirmed as PRD president
The Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD) confirmed Foreign Minister Miguel Vargas as its president. The PRD has been a strong ally to the Medina administration since in 2014 Vargas backed President Medina's push to amend the 2010 Constitution to enable him to run for reelection.
During the 36th Extraordinary Convention, Yunior Santos, the mayor of Los Alcarrizos, was also chosen secretary general, replacing Francisco Antonio (Tony) Peña Guaba. Rafael (Fiquito) Vásquez was elected secretary of organization for the party. The posts are valid for 2019-2023.
The 36th Extraordinary Convention "Fulgencio Espinal" was held at the Volleyball Pavilion of the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center. It was called after a ruling by the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) deemed irregular the way Vargas had been named the president of the party and called for the election to adhere to party statutes.
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...l-prd-y-yunior-santos-sustituira-a-pena-guaba
Medical Guild rejects eight-hour work shifts
The president of the National District for the Dominican Medical Guild (CMD), José Peña Núñez says the CMD will not accept changes to the four-hour shifts for public hospital physicians. Peña Núñez says the privilege is an acquired labor right and cannot be changed.
The Dominican Labor Code says that working conditions can only be modified if they are convenient and accepted by the worker.
Peña Núñez was referring to the announcement of the director of the National Health Service (SNS), Chanel Rosa Chupany instructing regional directors that the medics under their responsibility need to work eight hours shifts.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...ento-de-tanda-horaria-a-ocho-horas-JP12841495
Anadegas and Fenatrano complain, Industry & Commerce sues for defamation
The Attorney General of the Republic, Jean Alain Rodriguez, reported late last week that his office will investigate the complaints by the National Association of Gasoline Retailers (Anadegas) and the New Option National Federation of Transportation (Fenatrano) regarding an alleged "mafia" that is distorting the fuel market. Both groups say the mafia operates in connivance with government figures.
Minister Nelson Toca Simó of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Small Business asked the Attorney General to investigate the complaints filed by Anadegas and Fenatrano after his ministry was named in the claims. The request by the minister also called for the plaintiffs, Juan Ignacio Espaillat Taveras of Anadegas, Juan Hubieres of Fenatrano and Arnulfo Rivas of Anadegas, to bring forward their evidence of the alleged mafia in the sale of fuels.
A day after, the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Mipymes (MICM) Nelson Toca Simo, filed a lawsuit for defamation against the leadership of Anadegas. The suit was filed in the Penal Court of the First Instance in the National District. The lawsuit calls for Arnulfo Rivas and Juan Ignacio Espaillat to be sentenced to one year in prison and to pay a RD$5 million fine to the Friends Against Cancer Foundation in accordance to articles 29 and 31 or the Law 61-32 regarding Expression and Thought Diffusion.
Anadegas leaders Rivas and Espaillat had gone on record stating that authorities at the MICM were "godfathering" the illicit sale of fuels in some 1,262 "backyard tanks" throughout the country but mainly in Santo Domingo.
Last week Fenatrano accused Industry & Commerce Minister Nelson Toca Simó and former Minister José del Castillo Saviñón of asset laundering and association of criminals for the fixing of prices and complicity in contraband. Hubieres of Fenatrano said that the mafia operates through resolutions that have the backing of the Presidency that seeks to earn money that would be destined to the reelection campaign. Hubieres said the business deals add RD$4 to each gallon of fuel sold. The case was submitted to the Government Administrative Corruption Prosecution Office (Pepca).
https://n.com.do/2019/05/23/hubiere...-en-combustible-contra-funcionaros-y-coastal/
https://elnacional.com.do/pgr-investigara-mafia-en-venta-de-combustibles/
https://elnacional.com.do/toca-simo...-por-difamacion-los-demanda-por-rd5-millones/
Nothing yet on the elimination of advance tax for small business
Announcements by the Tax Agency (DGII) and President Danilo Medina that the government would be eliminating the 1.5% advance tax on earnings for small business are still just announcements. The president of the Confederation of Small and Medium-Sized Construction Enterprises (Copymecom) and the Confederation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (Codopyme) said the advance tax payments are taking many companies out of business.
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...icipos-amenazan-la-sobrevivencia-de-las-pymes
Collapsed construction did not have all its construction permits
Five workers died last week when a trench collapsed during the development of an 11-floor 130-room hotel in Santiago in front of the Gran Teatro Cibao, a RD$1 billion investment.
Now it is reported that the builders, the Grupo DEPROC, Desarrollo de Proyectos del Cibao S.A.A., represented by Freddy Leonardo Fernández Ramírez, had not presented the full architectural plans for the construction of the 11-floor AC Marriott Santiago.
As reported in Noticias SIN, the land use had been approved by the city government and the Ministry of Environment had issued the no-objection for the construction of the hotel (0869-DEA-0864-19). But the paperwork was not completed when construction began. As reported, the final architectural plans and the formal permission for the building had not been issued.
The urban planning office of the city government of Santiago (OMPU) reported that on 23 October 2018 it approved the land use (certificate No. 4-542-17). But other documentation was pending. The office said the steps that call for the presentation of the final project had not yet been met by the company for the obtaining of the construction license from the Ministry of Public Works, as reported in Noticias SIN.
The architectural firm Arquitectos GVA said it was not responsible for the engineering or structural design of the project.
https://noticiassin.com/construccio...uelo-pero-no-permiso-definitivo-del-proyecto/
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...el-donde-hubo-derrumbe-en-santiago-AP12844499
https://www.diariolibre.com/economi...tel-en-area-monumental-de-santiago-FA11662777
https://noticiassin.com/grupo-depro...ion-donde-fallecieron-5-personas-en-santiago/
https://noticiassin.com/construccio...uelo-pero-no-permiso-definitivo-del-proyecto/
Dominican Navy stops 21 on the way to Puerto Rico
Once again, the Dominican Armada (ARD) or Navy, has interrupted a clandestine boatload of people trying to reach Puerto Rico. This time, the small craft was stopped just 8 nautical miles from Punta Espada, Boca de Yuma, in eastern La Altagracia province.
The 30-foot home-built craft was carrying 21 people and extra fuel for the crossing to Puerto Rico. From Boca de Yuma the detained travelers were sent to the Naval Intelligence Division in East Santo Domingo for processing.
https://elnacional.com.do/armada-intercepta-yola-con-21-a-bordo-rumbo-a-puerto-rico-en-boca-de-yuma/
Ambassador to Mexico, Alejandro Gonzalez Pons dies in Spain
Dominican ambassador Alejandro Gonzalez Pons was in Spain seeking medical treatment when he died of complications on 24 May 2019.
Since 2017 he served as ambassador in Mexico. A former professor of the UASD and INTEC universities in Santo Domingo, previously he had also been the Dominican ambassador in Spain and Belgium.
The wake will be on Wednesday, 30 May 2019 in Santo Domingo at the Funeraria Blandino.
http://hoy.com.do/fallece-embajador-alejandro-gonzalez-pons-en-madrid/
Siamese twins born at La Altagracia Maternity Hospital
32-year old mother from Lava Pies in San Cristóbal, Yudis Alcántara gave birth on Friday, 24 May 2019 to Siamese twins at the La Altagracia Public Maternity Hospital in Santo Domingo. The babies were born weighing nine pounds at 38 weeks by C-section. This is the mother's first birth.
As reported by the hospital, the girls have individual heads, hearts and lungs, but they share the spleen, liver, genitals and the digestive tract, including the intestines. That is, while the babies are two little bodies on the top, their bottom is shared.
The hospital says that the newborns are hooked to a respiratory oxygen machine. They need to be able to breathe by themselves and overcome their respiratory difficulties and then a possible operation to separate them would be discussed.
http://hoy.com.do/video-este-es-el-...-que-nacieron-en-la-maternidad-la-altagracia/
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...amesas-nacidas-en-la-maternidad-la-altagracia
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...agracia-comparten-higado-y-pesan-nueve-libras
What are "express kidnappings" and how to avoid being a victim
There have been recent stories of arrests made of men who have carried out several "express kidnappings" of a diverse group of people. As reported in El Dia, according to Josefina Reynoso, who directs the Center for Safety and Defense Studies at the Global Foundation for Democracy and Development (Funglode), the rapid and short-term kidnappings are seen around the globe and are prevalent in Latin America. Of course, they represent a threat to the Dominican Republic.
According to Reynoso, these kidnappings generally occur randomly, without any previous study or "casing" of the victim. In general, there is no following of the victim. An indication of wealth or money is what sparks action. For example, a fancy car, a nice watch, jewelry, a smartphone and so on.
She explains what the criminals are after is money and to get it fast. Often times they use the victim's car to go to ATMs to withdraw money.
So, what can be done? In the first place, be wary, cautious at all times when out in public. Anyone can be a victim. When in your vehicle, try to have the windows up and the doors locked at all times.
Never remain in dark or deserted places, and if in a parking lot/garage, enter the vehicle quickly and lock up at once. Move out quickly.
As you go about your business and errands, do not leave anything of value-cell phones, laptops, or pocketbooks out in plain sight. Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted areas.
Always let your family in the know on where you are going and when you plan to be back.
Do not display anything that shows wealth: watches, glasses, cell phones, etc. try to use as few credit cards as possible and never show large amounts of cash. Be very cautious with strangers, and never reveal your location on social media. You should use taxis and Uber that are known to you.
The statistics show that most of these lightning-strike kidnappings occur at night and usually when the person is alone.
Always be very cautious if your car is bumped from behind, especially under normal conditions. Since the criminals are generally satisfied with your belongings and money from an ATM, do not try to disarm or make them nervous. Caution is the key word for everyone nowadays.
Two recent cases of the named express kidnappings were recently promptly resolved by the Police. These were the case of two young men in Evaristo Morales neighborhood who at around 3am were leaving a get-together at a friend's house, and that of a young woman who boarded a supposed shared taxi where passenger and drivers were assailants. In both cases, young people were involved. The pattern seems to be to go after young people who are most likely to use bankcards that allow for quick cash access through ATM machines.
https://eldia.com.do/que-son-los-secuestros-express-y-cuales-medidas-debemos-tomar-para-prevenirlos/
http://www.policianacional.gob.do/n...caso-de-asalto-contra-hijastra-de-periodista/
http://www.policianacional.gob.do/n...e-fueron-asaltados-por-banda-de-antisociales/
https://noticiassin.com/director-pn...andas-dedicadas-a-realizar-secuestros-expres/
Frenchman deported for Morocco to Spain drug trafficking
Frenchman Michel Pierre Vincent Loubet, suspect of being the head of a drug and money-laundering network that had been operating in the Dominican Republic, was deported to Spain on Friday, 24 May 2019. He left on a flight from Las Americas International to Barajas International in Madrid.
Last week, the National Drug Control Agency and the Specialized Anti-Money Laundering Prosecutor's Office apprehended Vincent and three others Spaniards accused of laundering drug money in two simultaneous operations in Santiago city and the municipality of Constanza.
560,160 euros, 1,118,000 pesos, 889 US dollars and 4,000 Moroccan dirhams, were confiscated during the raids. Also five vehicles, two shotguns, a rifle, two pistols, dozens of ammunition.
The authorities reported the investigation continues and other arrests related to this criminal network are expected. The suspects are credited with trafficking more than 16 tons of hashish from Morocco to Spain between 2017 and July 2019. The arrests were carried out with the collaboration of Spanish law enforcement agents.
http://dncd.gob.do/index.php/notici...ado-a-red-de-lavado-de-activos-y-narcotrafico
https://noticiassin.com/apresan-en-santiago-ciudadano-frances-vinculado-a-red-de-narcotrafico/
New Insectlandia attraction at Sambil Mall
Children have a new playground in Santo Domingo, the new Insectolandia Park at the Sambil Mall on Av. John F. Kennedy. The park will be open all throughout summer. The half an hour experience takes children to encounters with giant ants, bugs, and bees. There is a rotating tunnel, a selfie-zone, a magic house, an illusions house and more. The tour costs RD$250 for children from three years and more. Adults are RD$200.
https://aplatanaonews.com/insectola...en-sambil-con-contenido-tematico-y-educativo/
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxi2CUSgaqh/
From Tony Fernandez to Domingo German; Haitian stamp on DR baseball
Baseball-Reference.com, the obligatory baseball reference guide shows that 19, 519 persons, as of 25 May 2019, from 55 different countries (except Ed Porray who was born on the high seas in 1888), have played Major League Baseball. But Haiti, located between three major contributors of Major League players, had yet to export its first big leaguer.
All this come to the fore after Domingo German Polanco last week lit up the social media platforms when he told reporters that he was 'also Haitian." Turns out that Domingo German Polanco is the leading pitcher in the American League with nine victories. He is the star of the New York Yankees pitching staff.
A report in Diario Libre by Nathanael Perez Neró explains that because of prejudices and other social restraints it is unusual for a public person to refer to any Haitian lineage. (In Anthropology and History this is known as 'subordinated popular culture').
However, the list of Dominican-Haitian Major League Baseball players is actually a long one, with many real stars. Most of these players come from the areas around San Pedro de Macoris and La Romana, where the Haitian workforce in the cane fields was predominant for over a century.
Diario Libre explains that for instance, Tony "Cabeza" Fernández, known for his silky hands at the shortstop position, winner of four Gold Gloves and with five All-Star appearances, is perhaps the most outstanding representative of this group of players with a 45.3 WAR (Wins-Over-Replacement).
And there is the case of Alfonso Soriano, one of just eight Dominicans to hit more than 400 home runs, whose father is Haitian. He is officially Alfonso Guilleard Soriano, but his name was shortened in the American style to Alfonso Soriano, much like the Alou brothers whose real name is Rojas Alou).
Retired players Felix José and Esteban Yan have Haitian lineage. Also current players Miguel Angel (Jean) Sanó, currently the 3rd baseman for the Minnesota Twins, Felix Pie, Orlando Calixte, Wirfin Obispo, brothers Jandel and Emilio Gustave, Freddy Dolsi. The list also includes Vidal Brujan, who was the first choice in last year's Dominican League draft and taken by the Toros of La Romana.
The Diario Libre feature explains that the mentioned ballplayers are just a sampling of those that were signed to play baseball. Sadly, there is another list of many, many more young men who could not be hired because they lacked the proper identification documents, such as a birth certificate or cédula. Take note that most Haitian migrants to the Dominican Republic cross over with no legal documentation as it is common to be undocumented in Haiti. Once in the Dominican Republic, some were not able to legalize their status in time to be recruited by the Major Leagues, and others didn't get the best deals because of delays in the normalization.
For instance, the case of Calizto is typical. Born in Batey Lecheria in West Santo Domingo, he initially was offered a US$3 million dollar bonus in 2009, he eventually was able to get his papers in order and sign for US$1 million a year later by the Kansas City Royals. Calixte speaks fluent Kreyol, the native language in Haiti, and often shows both Haitian and Dominican flags on his social media sites.
Diario Libre reports that there are several promising prospects in the pipeline. Vidal Brujan is listed as the #64 prospect for all of the Major Leagues, according to Baseball America. There is speculation that Robert Puason, from La Romana of Haitian parents, could be offered a bonus of US$5 million.
Last July 2018, the Tampa Bay Rays paid a US$1.4 million bonus to the shortstop from San Pedro de Macoris, Alejandro Pie, their biggest bonus paid to an international player.
Lastly, there is Estevan Florial, who belongs to the New York Yankees and who is being marketed as the first Haitian to get into Major League Baseball. Although his passport says that he was born in Port-au-Prince, his parents say that he was born in southwestern Bahoruco, Dominican Republic, on the border with Haiti, as is stated in the Yankee press guide for 2018.
https://www.diariolibre.com/deporte...lla-haitiana-entre-peloteros-de-rd-MP12846028
DR almost defeats China in VNL championship
The Dominican Republic senior women's volleyball team ended the first round of the FIVB Women's Nations League championship in 7th place of 16 teams. The Dominican Republic, ranked 10th in the world defeated Russia (5th) and Brazil (4th) and then lost to China (2nd). But China, ranked the second best team in the world, had to play its best not to lose that game. The Dominican team lost to China 3-1 with the scores 16-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-23.
https://www.volleyball.world/en/vnl/media/video?id=201915030
https://www.volleyball.world/en/vnl/media/video?id=201915033
Rains forecast
On Sunday, 26 May 2019, the Center for Emergency Operations (COE) had issued green alerts for 15 Dominican provinces. A passing trough is bringing intense rains and possible flooding nationwide.
On Monday, 27 May 2019, the National Meteorological Office (Onamet) reported the rains will continue in the northwest, southeast, southwest and Greater Santo Domingo. Likewise, Onamet forecasts thunderstorms for the central Cibao region and border provinces.
https://noticiassin.com/coe-eleva-a-15-las-provincias-en-alerta-por-vaguada/
4,113 jobs in government up for election in 2020
Keep saving water, drought is not over
Government to pick up the severance tab for Punta Catalina workers
Miguel Vargas is confirmed as PRD president
Medical Guild rejects eight-hour work shifts
Anadegas and Fenatrano complain, Industry & Commerce sues for defamation
Nothing yet on the elimination of advance tax for small business
Collapsed construction did not have all its construction permits
Dominican Navy stops 21 on the way to Puerto Rico
Ambassador to Mexico, Alejandro Gonzalez Pons dies in Spain
Siamese twins born at La Altagracia Maternity Hospital
What are "express kidnappings" and how to avoid being a victim
Spaniard deported for Morocco to Spain drug trafficking
New Insectlandia attraction at Sambil Mall
From Tony Fernandez to Domingo German; Haitian stamp on DR baseball
DR almost defeats China in VNL championship
Rains forecast
ONAPI, KIPO and INTEC plan to revolutionize the cassava industry
There is a growing emerging market for cassava because it is gluten-free. Now Korean innovation experts are assisting the Dominican cassava industry in finding a better way to industrialize the production.
The collaboration effort began after brothers Natanael and Arcadio Sánchez from Monción participated in the Appropriate Technology Competition organized by the National Office of Industrial Property (ONAPI), with the backing of the Korean Office of Industrial Property (KIPO) and INTEC university in Santo Domingo.
The brothers never thought their idea would get this far, ONAPI reported when explaining about the collaboration. The native inventors wanted to help their workers that frequently suffer hand injuries when grating cassava (yucca) by designing a machine that could better do the task.
Now their prototype will be radically improved by expert Korean engineers for mass production, thanks to the agreement signed between ONAPI, KIPO and INTEC university.
Korean experts are improving the original design and developing an industrial model for medium-sized companies. It integrates grating of cassava and the extracting of liquids from the root.
Cassava is a native food that dates back to pre-Hispanic times. It was a staple for the Taino Indian culture on the island. The cassava production is said to have made possible the discovery of Mexico. This was a food that traveled well because it has inherent preservation characteristics.
http://www.onapi.gov.do/index.php/noticias
4,113 jobs in government up for election in 2020
The Central Electoral Board (JCE) has announced that 4,113 people will be elected during the next 16 February and 17 May 2020 elections. This is in the municipal election in February and the presidential and legislative election in May. The JCE says it estimates upwards of 140,000 people will work in the polls.
In the February municipal election, citizens will vote to choose 3,849 mayors and vice mayors, and 2,328 city councilors and their replacements in 158 municipalities.
In the May election, voters will be electing the President and Vice President of the Republic, 32 senators and 178 deputies representing the 31 provinces and the National District. This, in addition to nine national delegates, seven overseas deputies, and 20 representatives to the Central American Parliament (Parlacen).
The JCE has planned for 4,321 polling stations throughout the country and overseas, or 16,469 electoral districts.
The numbers only get more significant, as there will be 82,000 people working the voting stations together with 33,000 facilitators and technicians. Besides, 30,000 police are planned to be on duty during those two days.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...an-en-juego-4-113-cargos-electivos-CP12844215
Keep saving water, drought is not over
The rains that have fallen as of Friday, 25 May 2019 had not significantly reduced the effect of the months-long drought in many areas of the country. The recent rains have not filled the nation's 32 reservoirs to full operating capacity, according to the head of the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources (INDRHI) boss Olgo Fernández.
Fernández says the drought has dropped the water levels of 90% of the nation's reservoirs to truly critical levels, threatening significant restrictions for farmers who depend on the availability of water for irrigation of their rice, banana or plantain plantations. The announcement of a zero-effect on the water levels in the reservoirs came as Fernandez was signing an agreement with the Agrarian Reform Institute on providing land for small farmers that will benefit from the dam at Monte Grande—when it rains.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...no-han-mejorado-pese-a-las-lluvias-EP12843869
Government to pick up the severance tab for Punta Catalina workers
The Public Electricity Corporation (CDEEE) announced it will comply with former employee demands with payments of RD$300 to RD$400 million. The benefits will be handed to 12,000 workers of the Central Termoeléctrica Punta Catalina (CTPC) within the next 15 days.
The CDEEE also announced a temporary stop of the testing operation of the Punta Catalina power plant. The plant has been operating at about half of its full potential. The plant has two generators with installed capacity for 376 MW each.
The 12-day shutdown will precede it full-time entry into the National Interconnected Electric System (SENI), the country's public electricity grid. During its test period, the plant has produced 229,829 MW for the SENI, which, at spot prices on the local market, has been invoiced at RD$1.6 billion.
As reported by the CDEEE, the Punta Catalina plant also served to offset the shutdown of several smaller facilities for major repairs and routine maintenance and provide power to the national grid.
During a press conference, the executive vice-president of the CDEEE, Rubén Jiménez Bichara told reporters that the CDEEE will be paying an exceptional compensation package for RD$300-RD$400 million to those who were working during the construction phase of the Punta Catalina plant and who have finished their work. The workers had carried out violent protests demanding their severance from the builders – the Odebrecht, Technimont and Estrella consortium. The government instead announced it is picking up the tab to end the impasse with the workers.
Jiménez Bichara also announced that the government is negotiating a purchase with the owners of the land where the Punta Catalina facility is located.
https://eldia.com.do/punta-catalina-sera-apagada-por-12-dias-para-realizarle-algunos-ajustes/
https://elcaribe.com.do/2019/05/24/panorama/dinero/punta-catalina-ya-facturo-1637-millones-de-pesos/
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...ca-de-rd-400-mm-a-empleados-de-punta-catalina
Miguel Vargas is confirmed as PRD president
The Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD) confirmed Foreign Minister Miguel Vargas as its president. The PRD has been a strong ally to the Medina administration since in 2014 Vargas backed President Medina's push to amend the 2010 Constitution to enable him to run for reelection.
During the 36th Extraordinary Convention, Yunior Santos, the mayor of Los Alcarrizos, was also chosen secretary general, replacing Francisco Antonio (Tony) Peña Guaba. Rafael (Fiquito) Vásquez was elected secretary of organization for the party. The posts are valid for 2019-2023.
The 36th Extraordinary Convention "Fulgencio Espinal" was held at the Volleyball Pavilion of the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center. It was called after a ruling by the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) deemed irregular the way Vargas had been named the president of the party and called for the election to adhere to party statutes.
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...l-prd-y-yunior-santos-sustituira-a-pena-guaba
Medical Guild rejects eight-hour work shifts
The president of the National District for the Dominican Medical Guild (CMD), José Peña Núñez says the CMD will not accept changes to the four-hour shifts for public hospital physicians. Peña Núñez says the privilege is an acquired labor right and cannot be changed.
The Dominican Labor Code says that working conditions can only be modified if they are convenient and accepted by the worker.
Peña Núñez was referring to the announcement of the director of the National Health Service (SNS), Chanel Rosa Chupany instructing regional directors that the medics under their responsibility need to work eight hours shifts.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...ento-de-tanda-horaria-a-ocho-horas-JP12841495
Anadegas and Fenatrano complain, Industry & Commerce sues for defamation
The Attorney General of the Republic, Jean Alain Rodriguez, reported late last week that his office will investigate the complaints by the National Association of Gasoline Retailers (Anadegas) and the New Option National Federation of Transportation (Fenatrano) regarding an alleged "mafia" that is distorting the fuel market. Both groups say the mafia operates in connivance with government figures.
Minister Nelson Toca Simó of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Small Business asked the Attorney General to investigate the complaints filed by Anadegas and Fenatrano after his ministry was named in the claims. The request by the minister also called for the plaintiffs, Juan Ignacio Espaillat Taveras of Anadegas, Juan Hubieres of Fenatrano and Arnulfo Rivas of Anadegas, to bring forward their evidence of the alleged mafia in the sale of fuels.
A day after, the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Mipymes (MICM) Nelson Toca Simo, filed a lawsuit for defamation against the leadership of Anadegas. The suit was filed in the Penal Court of the First Instance in the National District. The lawsuit calls for Arnulfo Rivas and Juan Ignacio Espaillat to be sentenced to one year in prison and to pay a RD$5 million fine to the Friends Against Cancer Foundation in accordance to articles 29 and 31 or the Law 61-32 regarding Expression and Thought Diffusion.
Anadegas leaders Rivas and Espaillat had gone on record stating that authorities at the MICM were "godfathering" the illicit sale of fuels in some 1,262 "backyard tanks" throughout the country but mainly in Santo Domingo.
Last week Fenatrano accused Industry & Commerce Minister Nelson Toca Simó and former Minister José del Castillo Saviñón of asset laundering and association of criminals for the fixing of prices and complicity in contraband. Hubieres of Fenatrano said that the mafia operates through resolutions that have the backing of the Presidency that seeks to earn money that would be destined to the reelection campaign. Hubieres said the business deals add RD$4 to each gallon of fuel sold. The case was submitted to the Government Administrative Corruption Prosecution Office (Pepca).
https://n.com.do/2019/05/23/hubiere...-en-combustible-contra-funcionaros-y-coastal/
https://elnacional.com.do/pgr-investigara-mafia-en-venta-de-combustibles/
https://elnacional.com.do/toca-simo...-por-difamacion-los-demanda-por-rd5-millones/
Nothing yet on the elimination of advance tax for small business
Announcements by the Tax Agency (DGII) and President Danilo Medina that the government would be eliminating the 1.5% advance tax on earnings for small business are still just announcements. The president of the Confederation of Small and Medium-Sized Construction Enterprises (Copymecom) and the Confederation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (Codopyme) said the advance tax payments are taking many companies out of business.
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...icipos-amenazan-la-sobrevivencia-de-las-pymes
Collapsed construction did not have all its construction permits
Five workers died last week when a trench collapsed during the development of an 11-floor 130-room hotel in Santiago in front of the Gran Teatro Cibao, a RD$1 billion investment.
Now it is reported that the builders, the Grupo DEPROC, Desarrollo de Proyectos del Cibao S.A.A., represented by Freddy Leonardo Fernández Ramírez, had not presented the full architectural plans for the construction of the 11-floor AC Marriott Santiago.
As reported in Noticias SIN, the land use had been approved by the city government and the Ministry of Environment had issued the no-objection for the construction of the hotel (0869-DEA-0864-19). But the paperwork was not completed when construction began. As reported, the final architectural plans and the formal permission for the building had not been issued.
The urban planning office of the city government of Santiago (OMPU) reported that on 23 October 2018 it approved the land use (certificate No. 4-542-17). But other documentation was pending. The office said the steps that call for the presentation of the final project had not yet been met by the company for the obtaining of the construction license from the Ministry of Public Works, as reported in Noticias SIN.
The architectural firm Arquitectos GVA said it was not responsible for the engineering or structural design of the project.
https://noticiassin.com/construccio...uelo-pero-no-permiso-definitivo-del-proyecto/
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...el-donde-hubo-derrumbe-en-santiago-AP12844499
https://www.diariolibre.com/economi...tel-en-area-monumental-de-santiago-FA11662777
https://noticiassin.com/grupo-depro...ion-donde-fallecieron-5-personas-en-santiago/
https://noticiassin.com/construccio...uelo-pero-no-permiso-definitivo-del-proyecto/
Dominican Navy stops 21 on the way to Puerto Rico
Once again, the Dominican Armada (ARD) or Navy, has interrupted a clandestine boatload of people trying to reach Puerto Rico. This time, the small craft was stopped just 8 nautical miles from Punta Espada, Boca de Yuma, in eastern La Altagracia province.
The 30-foot home-built craft was carrying 21 people and extra fuel for the crossing to Puerto Rico. From Boca de Yuma the detained travelers were sent to the Naval Intelligence Division in East Santo Domingo for processing.
https://elnacional.com.do/armada-intercepta-yola-con-21-a-bordo-rumbo-a-puerto-rico-en-boca-de-yuma/
Ambassador to Mexico, Alejandro Gonzalez Pons dies in Spain
Dominican ambassador Alejandro Gonzalez Pons was in Spain seeking medical treatment when he died of complications on 24 May 2019.
Since 2017 he served as ambassador in Mexico. A former professor of the UASD and INTEC universities in Santo Domingo, previously he had also been the Dominican ambassador in Spain and Belgium.
The wake will be on Wednesday, 30 May 2019 in Santo Domingo at the Funeraria Blandino.
http://hoy.com.do/fallece-embajador-alejandro-gonzalez-pons-en-madrid/
Siamese twins born at La Altagracia Maternity Hospital
32-year old mother from Lava Pies in San Cristóbal, Yudis Alcántara gave birth on Friday, 24 May 2019 to Siamese twins at the La Altagracia Public Maternity Hospital in Santo Domingo. The babies were born weighing nine pounds at 38 weeks by C-section. This is the mother's first birth.
As reported by the hospital, the girls have individual heads, hearts and lungs, but they share the spleen, liver, genitals and the digestive tract, including the intestines. That is, while the babies are two little bodies on the top, their bottom is shared.
The hospital says that the newborns are hooked to a respiratory oxygen machine. They need to be able to breathe by themselves and overcome their respiratory difficulties and then a possible operation to separate them would be discussed.
http://hoy.com.do/video-este-es-el-...-que-nacieron-en-la-maternidad-la-altagracia/
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...amesas-nacidas-en-la-maternidad-la-altagracia
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...agracia-comparten-higado-y-pesan-nueve-libras
What are "express kidnappings" and how to avoid being a victim
There have been recent stories of arrests made of men who have carried out several "express kidnappings" of a diverse group of people. As reported in El Dia, according to Josefina Reynoso, who directs the Center for Safety and Defense Studies at the Global Foundation for Democracy and Development (Funglode), the rapid and short-term kidnappings are seen around the globe and are prevalent in Latin America. Of course, they represent a threat to the Dominican Republic.
According to Reynoso, these kidnappings generally occur randomly, without any previous study or "casing" of the victim. In general, there is no following of the victim. An indication of wealth or money is what sparks action. For example, a fancy car, a nice watch, jewelry, a smartphone and so on.
She explains what the criminals are after is money and to get it fast. Often times they use the victim's car to go to ATMs to withdraw money.
So, what can be done? In the first place, be wary, cautious at all times when out in public. Anyone can be a victim. When in your vehicle, try to have the windows up and the doors locked at all times.
Never remain in dark or deserted places, and if in a parking lot/garage, enter the vehicle quickly and lock up at once. Move out quickly.
As you go about your business and errands, do not leave anything of value-cell phones, laptops, or pocketbooks out in plain sight. Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted areas.
Always let your family in the know on where you are going and when you plan to be back.
Do not display anything that shows wealth: watches, glasses, cell phones, etc. try to use as few credit cards as possible and never show large amounts of cash. Be very cautious with strangers, and never reveal your location on social media. You should use taxis and Uber that are known to you.
The statistics show that most of these lightning-strike kidnappings occur at night and usually when the person is alone.
Always be very cautious if your car is bumped from behind, especially under normal conditions. Since the criminals are generally satisfied with your belongings and money from an ATM, do not try to disarm or make them nervous. Caution is the key word for everyone nowadays.
Two recent cases of the named express kidnappings were recently promptly resolved by the Police. These were the case of two young men in Evaristo Morales neighborhood who at around 3am were leaving a get-together at a friend's house, and that of a young woman who boarded a supposed shared taxi where passenger and drivers were assailants. In both cases, young people were involved. The pattern seems to be to go after young people who are most likely to use bankcards that allow for quick cash access through ATM machines.
https://eldia.com.do/que-son-los-secuestros-express-y-cuales-medidas-debemos-tomar-para-prevenirlos/
http://www.policianacional.gob.do/n...caso-de-asalto-contra-hijastra-de-periodista/
http://www.policianacional.gob.do/n...e-fueron-asaltados-por-banda-de-antisociales/
https://noticiassin.com/director-pn...andas-dedicadas-a-realizar-secuestros-expres/
Frenchman deported for Morocco to Spain drug trafficking
Frenchman Michel Pierre Vincent Loubet, suspect of being the head of a drug and money-laundering network that had been operating in the Dominican Republic, was deported to Spain on Friday, 24 May 2019. He left on a flight from Las Americas International to Barajas International in Madrid.
Last week, the National Drug Control Agency and the Specialized Anti-Money Laundering Prosecutor's Office apprehended Vincent and three others Spaniards accused of laundering drug money in two simultaneous operations in Santiago city and the municipality of Constanza.
560,160 euros, 1,118,000 pesos, 889 US dollars and 4,000 Moroccan dirhams, were confiscated during the raids. Also five vehicles, two shotguns, a rifle, two pistols, dozens of ammunition.
The authorities reported the investigation continues and other arrests related to this criminal network are expected. The suspects are credited with trafficking more than 16 tons of hashish from Morocco to Spain between 2017 and July 2019. The arrests were carried out with the collaboration of Spanish law enforcement agents.
http://dncd.gob.do/index.php/notici...ado-a-red-de-lavado-de-activos-y-narcotrafico
https://noticiassin.com/apresan-en-santiago-ciudadano-frances-vinculado-a-red-de-narcotrafico/
New Insectlandia attraction at Sambil Mall
Children have a new playground in Santo Domingo, the new Insectolandia Park at the Sambil Mall on Av. John F. Kennedy. The park will be open all throughout summer. The half an hour experience takes children to encounters with giant ants, bugs, and bees. There is a rotating tunnel, a selfie-zone, a magic house, an illusions house and more. The tour costs RD$250 for children from three years and more. Adults are RD$200.
https://aplatanaonews.com/insectola...en-sambil-con-contenido-tematico-y-educativo/
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxi2CUSgaqh/
From Tony Fernandez to Domingo German; Haitian stamp on DR baseball
Baseball-Reference.com, the obligatory baseball reference guide shows that 19, 519 persons, as of 25 May 2019, from 55 different countries (except Ed Porray who was born on the high seas in 1888), have played Major League Baseball. But Haiti, located between three major contributors of Major League players, had yet to export its first big leaguer.
All this come to the fore after Domingo German Polanco last week lit up the social media platforms when he told reporters that he was 'also Haitian." Turns out that Domingo German Polanco is the leading pitcher in the American League with nine victories. He is the star of the New York Yankees pitching staff.
A report in Diario Libre by Nathanael Perez Neró explains that because of prejudices and other social restraints it is unusual for a public person to refer to any Haitian lineage. (In Anthropology and History this is known as 'subordinated popular culture').
However, the list of Dominican-Haitian Major League Baseball players is actually a long one, with many real stars. Most of these players come from the areas around San Pedro de Macoris and La Romana, where the Haitian workforce in the cane fields was predominant for over a century.
Diario Libre explains that for instance, Tony "Cabeza" Fernández, known for his silky hands at the shortstop position, winner of four Gold Gloves and with five All-Star appearances, is perhaps the most outstanding representative of this group of players with a 45.3 WAR (Wins-Over-Replacement).
And there is the case of Alfonso Soriano, one of just eight Dominicans to hit more than 400 home runs, whose father is Haitian. He is officially Alfonso Guilleard Soriano, but his name was shortened in the American style to Alfonso Soriano, much like the Alou brothers whose real name is Rojas Alou).
Retired players Felix José and Esteban Yan have Haitian lineage. Also current players Miguel Angel (Jean) Sanó, currently the 3rd baseman for the Minnesota Twins, Felix Pie, Orlando Calixte, Wirfin Obispo, brothers Jandel and Emilio Gustave, Freddy Dolsi. The list also includes Vidal Brujan, who was the first choice in last year's Dominican League draft and taken by the Toros of La Romana.
The Diario Libre feature explains that the mentioned ballplayers are just a sampling of those that were signed to play baseball. Sadly, there is another list of many, many more young men who could not be hired because they lacked the proper identification documents, such as a birth certificate or cédula. Take note that most Haitian migrants to the Dominican Republic cross over with no legal documentation as it is common to be undocumented in Haiti. Once in the Dominican Republic, some were not able to legalize their status in time to be recruited by the Major Leagues, and others didn't get the best deals because of delays in the normalization.
For instance, the case of Calizto is typical. Born in Batey Lecheria in West Santo Domingo, he initially was offered a US$3 million dollar bonus in 2009, he eventually was able to get his papers in order and sign for US$1 million a year later by the Kansas City Royals. Calixte speaks fluent Kreyol, the native language in Haiti, and often shows both Haitian and Dominican flags on his social media sites.
Diario Libre reports that there are several promising prospects in the pipeline. Vidal Brujan is listed as the #64 prospect for all of the Major Leagues, according to Baseball America. There is speculation that Robert Puason, from La Romana of Haitian parents, could be offered a bonus of US$5 million.
Last July 2018, the Tampa Bay Rays paid a US$1.4 million bonus to the shortstop from San Pedro de Macoris, Alejandro Pie, their biggest bonus paid to an international player.
Lastly, there is Estevan Florial, who belongs to the New York Yankees and who is being marketed as the first Haitian to get into Major League Baseball. Although his passport says that he was born in Port-au-Prince, his parents say that he was born in southwestern Bahoruco, Dominican Republic, on the border with Haiti, as is stated in the Yankee press guide for 2018.
https://www.diariolibre.com/deporte...lla-haitiana-entre-peloteros-de-rd-MP12846028
DR almost defeats China in VNL championship
The Dominican Republic senior women's volleyball team ended the first round of the FIVB Women's Nations League championship in 7th place of 16 teams. The Dominican Republic, ranked 10th in the world defeated Russia (5th) and Brazil (4th) and then lost to China (2nd). But China, ranked the second best team in the world, had to play its best not to lose that game. The Dominican team lost to China 3-1 with the scores 16-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-23.
https://www.volleyball.world/en/vnl/media/video?id=201915030
https://www.volleyball.world/en/vnl/media/video?id=201915033
Rains forecast
On Sunday, 26 May 2019, the Center for Emergency Operations (COE) had issued green alerts for 15 Dominican provinces. A passing trough is bringing intense rains and possible flooding nationwide.
On Monday, 27 May 2019, the National Meteorological Office (Onamet) reported the rains will continue in the northwest, southeast, southwest and Greater Santo Domingo. Likewise, Onamet forecasts thunderstorms for the central Cibao region and border provinces.
https://noticiassin.com/coe-eleva-a-15-las-provincias-en-alerta-por-vaguada/
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