D
Dolores
Guest
Dorian not expected to hit Dominican Republic
Presidency presents recommendations for tourism in Pedernales
India wants to get involved in Dominican renewable energy projects
Arts Patronage Bill passes in Congress
Dengue making the rounds
Greenberg, Gallup and Emevenca to poll Danilista pre-candidates
Asisa Research says Fernández will win PLD candidacy
Citizen Participation calls for an independent probe into the Peralta drug trafficking operation
Two accused in Cesar Emilio Peralta case say they will go to US to answer charges
Disappearing night club owners leave big tax debt
Is the Justice keeping a low profile for Marisol Mercedes Franco?
Marisol Franco arrested in Cesar Emilio Peralta drug case
Tragedy strikes newlywed couple
Alejandro Fernández to perform in Punta Cana in October
Dorian not expected to hit the Dominican Republic
Tropical Storm Dorian is unlikely to affect the Dominican Republic. At 8am on Wednesday, 28 August 2019, the National Hurricane Center of the United States had located the storm at 17.1N 64.1W. The storm is now removed from the Mona Channel that divides Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. The storm is small and compact. At most, weather forecasts now indicate the country will receive heavy rain, gusty winds and high surf along its east and northeastern coasts.
The early forecast of a hit has helped prepare the nation for the peak hurricane season that historically has run from the end of August through September. The earlier forecast had the storm crossing Punta Cana, the nation’s leading tourist destination and serve to rev up regional protocols.
To prepare, on Monday, 26 August 2019, La Altagracia province governor Ramón Güílamo Alfonso had met with the institutions that make up the Center for Emergency Operations (COE) in the municipality. During the meetings, the mayors and municipal directors of Higüey, San Rafael del Yuma, Bayahibe and Verón-Punta Cana coordinated actions with representatives of the Civil Defense, Dominican Red Cross and Fire Brigade. Also participating were executives of the Consorcio Energético Punta Cana-Macao (CEPM), hotels, tour operators and water and land excursions. The Punta Cana Macao Energy Consortium (CEPM) is collaborating with the pruning of trees and the cleaning of scuppers by the municipalities.
La Altagracia province has about 350 experienced volunteers and sufficient equipment for the mobilization of obstacles. The 911 Emergency System is also now operating in La Altagracia province.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...-posible-impacto-de-huracan-dorian-CD13895700
https://z101digital.com/el-sector-turistico-en-rd-se-prepara-para-tormenta-dorian/
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at5+shtml/114938.shtml?cone#contents
Presidency presents recommendations for tourism in Pedernales
The Presidency reports that the Canadian consulting company Lemay presented its master plan for the sustainable development in southwestern Pedernales. Local authorities want to build a sustainable development model with a focus on the Bahia de las Aguilas beach natural attraction.
A government has created the Pedernales Trust Committee to oversee the development of the tourism potential of the province.
During the meeting, Presidency Minister Gustavo Montalvo spoke favorably of developing ecotourism and nature circuits to attract active, adventurous and high standard tourists with higher spending per day capacity. Montalvo said this model focuses on ecological and cultural experiences and creates greater linkages with the community. He explained the circuits would take the tourists to visit natural attractions such as Bahía de las Aguilas, Laguna de Oviedo and Hoyo de Pelempito. “What we are looking for is to value the opportunities that exist, given the nature of Caribbean beaches, the wide biodiversity and the different microclimates of the area,” said Montalvo during the meeting.
The development plan includes the construction of roads, renewable electricity generation parks and the provision of basic services in some areas to promote circuit-based tourism.
Those present discussed strategies for promoting the destination to potential international investors specializing in this type of tourism.
Gustavo Montalvo said the community of Pedernales, social and environmental groups in the province, as well as the country's leading technicians in tourism, environment and public works participated in the drafting of the master plan.
In addition to Montalvo, others participating in the meeting were President Danilo Medina, Tourism Minister Francisco Javier Garcia, Hacienda Minister Donald Guerrero, Economy Minister Juan Ariel Jimenez, and Environment Minister Angel Estevez. Also, the administrator of the Banco de Reservas, Simón Lizardo Mézquita; Vice Minister of Public Works, Ramón Pepín; René Hubert, from the Lemay group; Dominican architect Franc Ortega, architect; Dominican landscape architect Juan Diego Vásquez, among others.
https://presidencia.gob.do/noticias...uitos-turisticos-para-aprovechar-diversidad-y
https://lemay.com/en
https://hoy.com.do/presidente-medin...vechar-su-diversidad-y-microclimas-GL13900420
India wants to get involved in Dominican renewable energy projects
Energy and Mines Minister Antonio Isa Conde met with the Minister of State for Foreign and Parliamentary Affairs of India Vellamvelly Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs to discuss Indian know how for renewable energy projects.
Also participating was India Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Madhu Sheti.
Together they reviewed the Memorandum of Understanding on Renewable Energy Cooperation that was signed by the two countries in 2015. The agreement proposes Indian technology for gasification with rice husks, production of briquettes from biomass, homemade biodigestors, and time measurement for wind and solar energy. The MOU also covers the possibility for training of professionals and technicians in various renewable energy technologies.
https://m.elcaribe.com.do/2019/08/2...onde-trata-cooperacion-con-ministro-de-india/
Arts Patronage Bill passes in Congress
The Chamber of Deputies approved on Tuesday, 27 August 2019, the bill that establishes the Regime of Incentive and Promotion of Cultural Patronage in the Dominican Republic (Ley de Mecenazgo).
This is an initiative to stimulate the arts through economic incentives, training, project management and administration. The bill now passes to the Executive Branch for signing and publishing. The Senate had already approved it.
The initiative is to promote public and private collecting through the direct purchase of works from artists or art galleries.
Also to stimulate the arts with donations or sponsorship nonprofit programs, scientific and cultural research, art exhibitions, competitions, literature, audiovisual productions, craft fairs, among other activities.
The bill creates the General Patronage Agency (DGM) as an autonomous and decentralized institution of the state with administrative, financial and technical autonomy but under the Ministry of Culture.
This new institution will be in charge of promoting policies to stimulate art and culture and of promoting policies aimed at national or foreign investors for their insertion as "cultural patrons."
The Patronage Council (Conme) is created as the governing body of the General Patronage Agency. Conme members represent the ministries of Culture, the Presidency, and Hacienda. Other members are a university rector chosen by the rectors of the country's universities, a specialist in program management and cultural planning appointed by the President of the Republic, a specialist in tax and cultural financial management, appointed by the President of the Republic and the director general of the General Patronage Agency, who will serve as secretary, with voice but no vote.
Dengue making the rounds
The Ministry of Public Health is intensifying actions against the dengue epidemic that is affecting the country. The Ministry has declared 27 provinces on yellow alert and one in red, San Jose de Ocoa. The Ministry is concerned that the passing of the tropical storm Dorian could trigger a further exacerbation of the cases of the disease. Efforts are underway at creating awareness of the need to eliminate the breeding grounds of the dengue virus mosquito transmitter.
2,964 cases were notified in July, for 7,324 cases and 10 confirmed deaths for the first seven months of the year. Interestingly, the provinces with the less cases are those of María Trinidad Sánchez, Pedernales and Samana that are in green alert.
Greenberg, Gallup and Emevenca to poll Danilista pre-candidates
Secretary general of the ruling Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), Reinaldo Pared Perez says that five polling companies will determine whom among the followers of President Danilo Medina will match former President Leonel Fernandez in the 6 October 2019 primary.
These are Greenberg, Gallup, Emevenca and two others he did not name. He said the party wanted to hire Mark Penn but could not do so because the company already had an exclusivity contract with another entity.
Eligible voters would be polled on 2, 3 and 4 October.
The PLD Central Committee named 11 pre-candidates. These are
Reinaldo Pared Perez, Francisco Domínguez Brito, Carlos Amarante Baret, Andrés Navarro, Radhamés Segura, Temístocles Montas, Gonzalo Castillo, Manuel Crespo, Maritza Hernández and Melanio Paredes.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...atos-se-enfrenten-en-las-primarias-KE13716804
Asisa Research says Fernández will win PLD candidacy
The 23-25 August 2019 Asisa Research Group poll indicates that former President Leonel Fernández is the favorite to win the PLD candidacy in the 6 October primary. 69% of those polled said Fernández would win. The same poll says he would go on then to win the 2020 election in May 2020 with 61.3% of the vote.
Lilian M. Pagán, president of Asisa, says that 54% say Fernández has the most leadership in the party, 34% mention President Danilo Medina and 12% are undecided.
PLD pre-candidate Gonzalo Castillo received 12% in popularity, compared to 2% for Francisco Domínguez Brito got 2%, and Andres Navarro 1%.
The same poll reveals that in regards to the leading opposition party, the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), 62% of eligible voters say Luis Abinader is the party leader and will win the primaries with 75% of the vote compared to 27% that will vote in the 6 October primary for former President Hipólito Mejía.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...mientras-62-simpatiza-por-abinader-BL13902928
Citizen Participation calls for an independent probe into the Peralta drug trafficking operation
Citizen Participation (PC) states that only through complicity and bribery could César Emilio Peralta have been able to operate for 20 years in complete impunity. Peralta is accused of leading the leading drug trafficking and asset laundering operation in the Caribbean.
The civic watchdog organization says that the investigation of César Emilio Peralta's criminal organization must begin with the authorities themselves and must be led by a UN commission of experts.
The civic movement is the Dominican chapter of Transparency International. It demands an independent investigation led by experts appointed by the United Nations (UN) in collaboration with the authorities.
PC highlights that Peralta created a criminal structure of such magnitude that he and his top associates were able to again use complicity in government to elude arrest after the United States government denounced them.
The FBI, the CIA, the United States Treasury Department and its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Secretary of Security, the Secretary of Defense and the Attorney General participated in the investigation of the Peralta Drug Trafficking Operation, explains the civic movement. As part of US government actions, a list of nine Dominicans, including Cesar Emilio Peralta are penalized under the Kingpin Designation of Foreign Narcotics Act (Kingpin Act). This bans any kind of financial operations with these individuals.
Participación Ciudadana laments that the investigation into the crime operation had to come from abroad. So far, none of those identified by the US authorities have been arrested. Local law enforcement officers carried out a raid on Peralta DTO residences and property, involving more than 600 people, including 50 career prosecutors and 500 members of the National Drug Control Agency (DNCD).
Participación Ciudadana writes that the lack of arrests of the Kingpin Act designated persons reflects the infiltration of the Peralta DTO in the agencies that prosecute crimes related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
Participación Ciudadana says that "this is not a hard blow to drug trafficking, but to the credibility of our authorities, who no longer have the confidence of the citizenry to conduct an investigation that must begin within themselves". The institution requests that the competent authorities require the collaboration of the UN for the designation of a specialized body to carry out an in-depth investigation that can identify the local authorities that have served impunity for more than 20 years to the Peralta DTO.
Participación Ciudadana states that President Danilo Medina, who appoints those who have been responsible for these impunity over 20 years cannot continue to remain silent in the face of facts that are under his responsibility. PC urges the President to address the nation to explain what actions he will take in this regard.
https://pciudadana.org/pc-expresa-q...ta-operara-por-20-anos-en-completa-impunidad/
https://hoy.com.do/participacion-ci...or-operara-por-20-anos-en-completa-impunidad/
Two accused in Cesar Emilio Peralta case say they will go to US to answer charges
José Jesús Tapia Pérez, alias "Bola Negra" or "El Boludo" and former baseball player Baltazar Mesa (El Maestro) agreed to travel to the United States to answer to charges of trafficking, possession and distribution of cocaine in that nation, as well as to their alleged links to the Cesar Emilio Peralta Drug Trafficking Operation. They observed “justice is good” in the United States.
An indictment from the Southern District of Florida charges Baltazar Mesa and Tapia Perez with being top associates of the Peralta criminal organization to import, distribute and promote cocaine in Florida and New York.
Meanwhile, the Second Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice postponed for 6 September 2019 the hearing on the extradition request against Sergio Gómez Díaz, who is accused of being a leader of the network of the alleged capo Peralta. Gómez Díaz's lawyer indicated that he has another criminal case pending in the Fourth Collegiate Court of the National District. "Gomez Diaz is being prosecuted for violation of the Drug Law, Money Laundering and association of criminals," his defense said. He said his client already has already posted bail and cannot leave the country. The lawyer has asked the judges to postpone the extradition process to the United States against Gomez Diaz until the process in the country is concluded and he is released.
An editorial in El Dia points out how the deals drug traffickers have struck with US justice officers have worked well for these. Among those who have been extradited and were able to keep big fortunes are Quirino Paulino Castillo, Ernesto Guevara Díaz (Maconi), Antonio del Rosario Puente (Toño Leña) and Yubel Enrique Mendez Méndez (Oreganito).
https://noticiassin.com/el-boludo-y...o-cabecilla-tiene-causa-pendiente-en-el-pais/
https://www.ktsa.com/former-mlb-stars-caught-up-in-largest-drug-bust-in-dominican-republics-history/
https://elcaribe.com.do/2019/08/27/panorama/pais/baltazar-mesa-tambien-acepta-ser-extraditado-eeuu/
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...a-ser-extraditado-a-estados-unidos-DD13897206
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...peralta-lo-que-sea-me-toca-y-cuando-toca-toca
https://hoy.com.do/porque-alla-la-justicia-es-buena-firman-extradicion/
https://eldia.com.do/extradicion-premiada/
Disappearing night club owners leave big tax debt
Many of the businesses now related to the Cesar Emilio Peralta Drug Trafficking Operation (Peralta DTO) owe millions in back taxes, according to Magín Díaz, the director general of the Tax Agency (DGII). He said that most of the companies had been notified over the years.
The Peralta DTO had more than 15 discotheques. Among these, the larger are Kuora (Villa Consuelo); Aqua Club (Avenida Ortega Ortega y Gasset 91 Esq. Felix Evaristo Mejia); París Bar & Lounge, on Club Rotario, Santo Domingo Este; VIP Room, Av. Abraham Lincoln corner Independencia; and Flow Gallery Lounge (Villa Consuelo).
Media reports indicate that the luxury nightclubs part of the Peralta DTO operated cash only.
On Tuesday, 20 August, the Attorney General Office held a raid against the businesses accused of being related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
The authorities say they do not know the whereabouts of Cesar Emilio Peralta and the top associates charged by the US government.
https://n.com.do/2019/08/27/directo...el-abusador-deben-millones-de-pesos-al-fisco/
https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Documents/20190820_peralta_chart.pdf
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...nen-deudas-millonarias-con-impuestos-internos
https://hoy.com.do/dgii-perseguia-a-cesar-el-abusador-por-deudas-millonarias-con-el-fisco/
Is the Justice keeping a low profile for Marisol Mercedes Franco?
Listin Diario reports that Marisol Mercedes Franco, wife of drug capo César Emilio Peralta (El Abusador) is included in the arrest order against 18 persons issued on Monday, 19 August at 4:30pm by the Instruction Court of the National District. She is charged with collaborating in the asset laundering scheme of the organization led by César Emilio Peralta "acquiring goods and benefiting from their illicit profits knowing that these came from drug trafficking."
Listin Diario reports that while the Attorney General Office has not publicly stated that Franco is included, she is on the list of those charged of drug trafficking and asset laundering.
From the very first moment, the Public Prosecutor's Office, which handed over the case on the 19th at 10:57 a.m. before the office of the examining magistrate, José Alejandro Vargas, did not reveal Mercedes Franco's name when it revealed the identity of the prisoners, those who had arrest warrants and others under persecution of the law.
The newspaper said that on Sunday afternoon, 25 August 2019, the Attorney General of the Republic had issued a press release in which he reports on the progress of the investigation, and takes stock of each of the people arrested by the case and those who the office is pursuing. The name of Marisol Franco does not appear in either of the two lists.
On Tuesday the 21st of this month, the Attorney General's Office, DNCD and DEA deployed raids and interventions that have left 10 people imprisoned and 14 fugitives. The United States has named nine people as major drug traffickers: Ramón Antonio del Rosario Puente (Toño Leña), Kelvin Enrique Fernández Flaquer (Cotto), Yaher Rafael Jáquez (Jake Mate), Bernardo Ant. Valdez García (Papi Cris), Natanael Castro Cordero; Jhonan Alexander Martínez Ureña; Boarnerges Sánchez Nolasco (Warnel) and Carlos Fernández.
https://n.com.do/2019/08/27/si-exis...a-marisol-franco-esposa-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...dor-peralta-por-cooperar-en-esquema-de-lavado
Marisol Franco arrested in Cesar Emilio Peralta drug case
The authorities arrested Marisol Franco, wife of justice fugitive César Emilio Peralta (El Abusador) on Tuesday, 27 August 2019 at the home of the couple in Blue Tower in the Naco area of Santo Domingo. She was with her four children. The children were allowed to stay with relatives.
Peralta is accused of being the ringleader of a powerful international drug trafficking gang that sent cocaine and heroin shipments from the Dominican Republic to the United States and Europe.
Franco is charged of collaborating in the asset laundering scheme of the organization led by César Emilio Peralta "acquiring goods and benefiting from their illicit profits knowing that these came from drug trafficking."
But upon making the arrest at her home in Blue Tower, National District prosecutor Rosalba Ramos said that the woman is being investigated and the fact that she is the wife of an accused does not make her responsible for her husband’s actions, as reported in Diario Libre printed edition on 28 August 2019.
When she was arrested, she was accompanied by her lawyer Joaquin Belisario who stated: “A wife has no criminal responsibility, but for her personal deed. She is calm, waiting for prosecutors to investigate the case. The fact that you have an arrest warrant does not criminally commit you,” said the attorney.
https://m.elcaribe.com.do/2019/08/28/panorama/pais/apresan-pareja-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://eldia.com.do/apresan-a-marisol-franco-pareja-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...e-cesar-el-abusador-marisol-franco-GL13902334
https://pgr.gob.do/2019/08/27/ministerio-publico-arresta-esposa-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://eldia.com.do/autoridades-ar...busador-y-sus-hijas-entregadas-a-sus-abuelos/
Tragedy strikes newly wed couple
Surgeon Ivan de Jesús Minaya Taveras, 32, and his bride of five months Hilda María Báez Tactuk, 32, died on the road to Jarabacoa in La Vega province. A tree fell on their vehicle, a Kia K5, killing the couple and seriously injuring Minaya's sister, Aura, who was traveling in the back seat.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...a-al-caerle-un-arbol-a-su-vehiculo-CC13880750
Alejandro Fernández to perform in Punta Cana in October
Mexican singer Alejandro Fernández will be presenting his "Breaking Borders" tour at the Fillmore Hall in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana. The show is booked for 12 October 2019.
Alejandro Fernandez is a winner of two Latin Grammys and three Billboard Awards.
He is bringing his "Breaking Frontiers" show with best hits from his last album. The album has been a gold and platinum record and in Spain a gold record. It is regarded as one of the best contemporary pop albums in Latin music.
Tickets for the concert at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana will be available as of Thursday, 29 August at La Sirena, Super Pola stores and online at Ticket Express and at www.tuboleta.com.do
https://listindiario.com/entretenim...nandez-se-presentara-en-octubre-en-punta-cana
Presidency presents recommendations for tourism in Pedernales
India wants to get involved in Dominican renewable energy projects
Arts Patronage Bill passes in Congress
Dengue making the rounds
Greenberg, Gallup and Emevenca to poll Danilista pre-candidates
Asisa Research says Fernández will win PLD candidacy
Citizen Participation calls for an independent probe into the Peralta drug trafficking operation
Two accused in Cesar Emilio Peralta case say they will go to US to answer charges
Disappearing night club owners leave big tax debt
Is the Justice keeping a low profile for Marisol Mercedes Franco?
Marisol Franco arrested in Cesar Emilio Peralta drug case
Tragedy strikes newlywed couple
Alejandro Fernández to perform in Punta Cana in October
Dorian not expected to hit the Dominican Republic
Tropical Storm Dorian is unlikely to affect the Dominican Republic. At 8am on Wednesday, 28 August 2019, the National Hurricane Center of the United States had located the storm at 17.1N 64.1W. The storm is now removed from the Mona Channel that divides Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. The storm is small and compact. At most, weather forecasts now indicate the country will receive heavy rain, gusty winds and high surf along its east and northeastern coasts.
The early forecast of a hit has helped prepare the nation for the peak hurricane season that historically has run from the end of August through September. The earlier forecast had the storm crossing Punta Cana, the nation’s leading tourist destination and serve to rev up regional protocols.
To prepare, on Monday, 26 August 2019, La Altagracia province governor Ramón Güílamo Alfonso had met with the institutions that make up the Center for Emergency Operations (COE) in the municipality. During the meetings, the mayors and municipal directors of Higüey, San Rafael del Yuma, Bayahibe and Verón-Punta Cana coordinated actions with representatives of the Civil Defense, Dominican Red Cross and Fire Brigade. Also participating were executives of the Consorcio Energético Punta Cana-Macao (CEPM), hotels, tour operators and water and land excursions. The Punta Cana Macao Energy Consortium (CEPM) is collaborating with the pruning of trees and the cleaning of scuppers by the municipalities.
La Altagracia province has about 350 experienced volunteers and sufficient equipment for the mobilization of obstacles. The 911 Emergency System is also now operating in La Altagracia province.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...-posible-impacto-de-huracan-dorian-CD13895700
https://z101digital.com/el-sector-turistico-en-rd-se-prepara-para-tormenta-dorian/
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at5+shtml/114938.shtml?cone#contents
Presidency presents recommendations for tourism in Pedernales
The Presidency reports that the Canadian consulting company Lemay presented its master plan for the sustainable development in southwestern Pedernales. Local authorities want to build a sustainable development model with a focus on the Bahia de las Aguilas beach natural attraction.
A government has created the Pedernales Trust Committee to oversee the development of the tourism potential of the province.
During the meeting, Presidency Minister Gustavo Montalvo spoke favorably of developing ecotourism and nature circuits to attract active, adventurous and high standard tourists with higher spending per day capacity. Montalvo said this model focuses on ecological and cultural experiences and creates greater linkages with the community. He explained the circuits would take the tourists to visit natural attractions such as Bahía de las Aguilas, Laguna de Oviedo and Hoyo de Pelempito. “What we are looking for is to value the opportunities that exist, given the nature of Caribbean beaches, the wide biodiversity and the different microclimates of the area,” said Montalvo during the meeting.
The development plan includes the construction of roads, renewable electricity generation parks and the provision of basic services in some areas to promote circuit-based tourism.
Those present discussed strategies for promoting the destination to potential international investors specializing in this type of tourism.
Gustavo Montalvo said the community of Pedernales, social and environmental groups in the province, as well as the country's leading technicians in tourism, environment and public works participated in the drafting of the master plan.
In addition to Montalvo, others participating in the meeting were President Danilo Medina, Tourism Minister Francisco Javier Garcia, Hacienda Minister Donald Guerrero, Economy Minister Juan Ariel Jimenez, and Environment Minister Angel Estevez. Also, the administrator of the Banco de Reservas, Simón Lizardo Mézquita; Vice Minister of Public Works, Ramón Pepín; René Hubert, from the Lemay group; Dominican architect Franc Ortega, architect; Dominican landscape architect Juan Diego Vásquez, among others.
https://presidencia.gob.do/noticias...uitos-turisticos-para-aprovechar-diversidad-y
https://lemay.com/en
https://hoy.com.do/presidente-medin...vechar-su-diversidad-y-microclimas-GL13900420
India wants to get involved in Dominican renewable energy projects
Energy and Mines Minister Antonio Isa Conde met with the Minister of State for Foreign and Parliamentary Affairs of India Vellamvelly Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs to discuss Indian know how for renewable energy projects.
Also participating was India Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Madhu Sheti.
Together they reviewed the Memorandum of Understanding on Renewable Energy Cooperation that was signed by the two countries in 2015. The agreement proposes Indian technology for gasification with rice husks, production of briquettes from biomass, homemade biodigestors, and time measurement for wind and solar energy. The MOU also covers the possibility for training of professionals and technicians in various renewable energy technologies.
https://m.elcaribe.com.do/2019/08/2...onde-trata-cooperacion-con-ministro-de-india/
Arts Patronage Bill passes in Congress
The Chamber of Deputies approved on Tuesday, 27 August 2019, the bill that establishes the Regime of Incentive and Promotion of Cultural Patronage in the Dominican Republic (Ley de Mecenazgo).
This is an initiative to stimulate the arts through economic incentives, training, project management and administration. The bill now passes to the Executive Branch for signing and publishing. The Senate had already approved it.
The initiative is to promote public and private collecting through the direct purchase of works from artists or art galleries.
Also to stimulate the arts with donations or sponsorship nonprofit programs, scientific and cultural research, art exhibitions, competitions, literature, audiovisual productions, craft fairs, among other activities.
The bill creates the General Patronage Agency (DGM) as an autonomous and decentralized institution of the state with administrative, financial and technical autonomy but under the Ministry of Culture.
This new institution will be in charge of promoting policies to stimulate art and culture and of promoting policies aimed at national or foreign investors for their insertion as "cultural patrons."
The Patronage Council (Conme) is created as the governing body of the General Patronage Agency. Conme members represent the ministries of Culture, the Presidency, and Hacienda. Other members are a university rector chosen by the rectors of the country's universities, a specialist in program management and cultural planning appointed by the President of the Republic, a specialist in tax and cultural financial management, appointed by the President of the Republic and the director general of the General Patronage Agency, who will serve as secretary, with voice but no vote.
Dengue making the rounds
The Ministry of Public Health is intensifying actions against the dengue epidemic that is affecting the country. The Ministry has declared 27 provinces on yellow alert and one in red, San Jose de Ocoa. The Ministry is concerned that the passing of the tropical storm Dorian could trigger a further exacerbation of the cases of the disease. Efforts are underway at creating awareness of the need to eliminate the breeding grounds of the dengue virus mosquito transmitter.
2,964 cases were notified in July, for 7,324 cases and 10 confirmed deaths for the first seven months of the year. Interestingly, the provinces with the less cases are those of María Trinidad Sánchez, Pedernales and Samana that are in green alert.
Greenberg, Gallup and Emevenca to poll Danilista pre-candidates
Secretary general of the ruling Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), Reinaldo Pared Perez says that five polling companies will determine whom among the followers of President Danilo Medina will match former President Leonel Fernandez in the 6 October 2019 primary.
These are Greenberg, Gallup, Emevenca and two others he did not name. He said the party wanted to hire Mark Penn but could not do so because the company already had an exclusivity contract with another entity.
Eligible voters would be polled on 2, 3 and 4 October.
The PLD Central Committee named 11 pre-candidates. These are
Reinaldo Pared Perez, Francisco Domínguez Brito, Carlos Amarante Baret, Andrés Navarro, Radhamés Segura, Temístocles Montas, Gonzalo Castillo, Manuel Crespo, Maritza Hernández and Melanio Paredes.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...atos-se-enfrenten-en-las-primarias-KE13716804
Asisa Research says Fernández will win PLD candidacy
The 23-25 August 2019 Asisa Research Group poll indicates that former President Leonel Fernández is the favorite to win the PLD candidacy in the 6 October primary. 69% of those polled said Fernández would win. The same poll says he would go on then to win the 2020 election in May 2020 with 61.3% of the vote.
Lilian M. Pagán, president of Asisa, says that 54% say Fernández has the most leadership in the party, 34% mention President Danilo Medina and 12% are undecided.
PLD pre-candidate Gonzalo Castillo received 12% in popularity, compared to 2% for Francisco Domínguez Brito got 2%, and Andres Navarro 1%.
The same poll reveals that in regards to the leading opposition party, the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), 62% of eligible voters say Luis Abinader is the party leader and will win the primaries with 75% of the vote compared to 27% that will vote in the 6 October primary for former President Hipólito Mejía.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...mientras-62-simpatiza-por-abinader-BL13902928
Citizen Participation calls for an independent probe into the Peralta drug trafficking operation
Citizen Participation (PC) states that only through complicity and bribery could César Emilio Peralta have been able to operate for 20 years in complete impunity. Peralta is accused of leading the leading drug trafficking and asset laundering operation in the Caribbean.
The civic watchdog organization says that the investigation of César Emilio Peralta's criminal organization must begin with the authorities themselves and must be led by a UN commission of experts.
The civic movement is the Dominican chapter of Transparency International. It demands an independent investigation led by experts appointed by the United Nations (UN) in collaboration with the authorities.
PC highlights that Peralta created a criminal structure of such magnitude that he and his top associates were able to again use complicity in government to elude arrest after the United States government denounced them.
The FBI, the CIA, the United States Treasury Department and its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Secretary of Security, the Secretary of Defense and the Attorney General participated in the investigation of the Peralta Drug Trafficking Operation, explains the civic movement. As part of US government actions, a list of nine Dominicans, including Cesar Emilio Peralta are penalized under the Kingpin Designation of Foreign Narcotics Act (Kingpin Act). This bans any kind of financial operations with these individuals.
Participación Ciudadana laments that the investigation into the crime operation had to come from abroad. So far, none of those identified by the US authorities have been arrested. Local law enforcement officers carried out a raid on Peralta DTO residences and property, involving more than 600 people, including 50 career prosecutors and 500 members of the National Drug Control Agency (DNCD).
Participación Ciudadana writes that the lack of arrests of the Kingpin Act designated persons reflects the infiltration of the Peralta DTO in the agencies that prosecute crimes related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
Participación Ciudadana says that "this is not a hard blow to drug trafficking, but to the credibility of our authorities, who no longer have the confidence of the citizenry to conduct an investigation that must begin within themselves". The institution requests that the competent authorities require the collaboration of the UN for the designation of a specialized body to carry out an in-depth investigation that can identify the local authorities that have served impunity for more than 20 years to the Peralta DTO.
Participación Ciudadana states that President Danilo Medina, who appoints those who have been responsible for these impunity over 20 years cannot continue to remain silent in the face of facts that are under his responsibility. PC urges the President to address the nation to explain what actions he will take in this regard.
https://pciudadana.org/pc-expresa-q...ta-operara-por-20-anos-en-completa-impunidad/
https://hoy.com.do/participacion-ci...or-operara-por-20-anos-en-completa-impunidad/
Two accused in Cesar Emilio Peralta case say they will go to US to answer charges
José Jesús Tapia Pérez, alias "Bola Negra" or "El Boludo" and former baseball player Baltazar Mesa (El Maestro) agreed to travel to the United States to answer to charges of trafficking, possession and distribution of cocaine in that nation, as well as to their alleged links to the Cesar Emilio Peralta Drug Trafficking Operation. They observed “justice is good” in the United States.
An indictment from the Southern District of Florida charges Baltazar Mesa and Tapia Perez with being top associates of the Peralta criminal organization to import, distribute and promote cocaine in Florida and New York.
Meanwhile, the Second Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice postponed for 6 September 2019 the hearing on the extradition request against Sergio Gómez Díaz, who is accused of being a leader of the network of the alleged capo Peralta. Gómez Díaz's lawyer indicated that he has another criminal case pending in the Fourth Collegiate Court of the National District. "Gomez Diaz is being prosecuted for violation of the Drug Law, Money Laundering and association of criminals," his defense said. He said his client already has already posted bail and cannot leave the country. The lawyer has asked the judges to postpone the extradition process to the United States against Gomez Diaz until the process in the country is concluded and he is released.
An editorial in El Dia points out how the deals drug traffickers have struck with US justice officers have worked well for these. Among those who have been extradited and were able to keep big fortunes are Quirino Paulino Castillo, Ernesto Guevara Díaz (Maconi), Antonio del Rosario Puente (Toño Leña) and Yubel Enrique Mendez Méndez (Oreganito).
https://noticiassin.com/el-boludo-y...o-cabecilla-tiene-causa-pendiente-en-el-pais/
https://www.ktsa.com/former-mlb-stars-caught-up-in-largest-drug-bust-in-dominican-republics-history/
https://elcaribe.com.do/2019/08/27/panorama/pais/baltazar-mesa-tambien-acepta-ser-extraditado-eeuu/
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...a-ser-extraditado-a-estados-unidos-DD13897206
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...peralta-lo-que-sea-me-toca-y-cuando-toca-toca
https://hoy.com.do/porque-alla-la-justicia-es-buena-firman-extradicion/
https://eldia.com.do/extradicion-premiada/
Disappearing night club owners leave big tax debt
Many of the businesses now related to the Cesar Emilio Peralta Drug Trafficking Operation (Peralta DTO) owe millions in back taxes, according to Magín Díaz, the director general of the Tax Agency (DGII). He said that most of the companies had been notified over the years.
The Peralta DTO had more than 15 discotheques. Among these, the larger are Kuora (Villa Consuelo); Aqua Club (Avenida Ortega Ortega y Gasset 91 Esq. Felix Evaristo Mejia); París Bar & Lounge, on Club Rotario, Santo Domingo Este; VIP Room, Av. Abraham Lincoln corner Independencia; and Flow Gallery Lounge (Villa Consuelo).
Media reports indicate that the luxury nightclubs part of the Peralta DTO operated cash only.
On Tuesday, 20 August, the Attorney General Office held a raid against the businesses accused of being related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
The authorities say they do not know the whereabouts of Cesar Emilio Peralta and the top associates charged by the US government.
https://n.com.do/2019/08/27/directo...el-abusador-deben-millones-de-pesos-al-fisco/
https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Documents/20190820_peralta_chart.pdf
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...nen-deudas-millonarias-con-impuestos-internos
https://hoy.com.do/dgii-perseguia-a-cesar-el-abusador-por-deudas-millonarias-con-el-fisco/
Is the Justice keeping a low profile for Marisol Mercedes Franco?
Listin Diario reports that Marisol Mercedes Franco, wife of drug capo César Emilio Peralta (El Abusador) is included in the arrest order against 18 persons issued on Monday, 19 August at 4:30pm by the Instruction Court of the National District. She is charged with collaborating in the asset laundering scheme of the organization led by César Emilio Peralta "acquiring goods and benefiting from their illicit profits knowing that these came from drug trafficking."
Listin Diario reports that while the Attorney General Office has not publicly stated that Franco is included, she is on the list of those charged of drug trafficking and asset laundering.
From the very first moment, the Public Prosecutor's Office, which handed over the case on the 19th at 10:57 a.m. before the office of the examining magistrate, José Alejandro Vargas, did not reveal Mercedes Franco's name when it revealed the identity of the prisoners, those who had arrest warrants and others under persecution of the law.
The newspaper said that on Sunday afternoon, 25 August 2019, the Attorney General of the Republic had issued a press release in which he reports on the progress of the investigation, and takes stock of each of the people arrested by the case and those who the office is pursuing. The name of Marisol Franco does not appear in either of the two lists.
On Tuesday the 21st of this month, the Attorney General's Office, DNCD and DEA deployed raids and interventions that have left 10 people imprisoned and 14 fugitives. The United States has named nine people as major drug traffickers: Ramón Antonio del Rosario Puente (Toño Leña), Kelvin Enrique Fernández Flaquer (Cotto), Yaher Rafael Jáquez (Jake Mate), Bernardo Ant. Valdez García (Papi Cris), Natanael Castro Cordero; Jhonan Alexander Martínez Ureña; Boarnerges Sánchez Nolasco (Warnel) and Carlos Fernández.
https://n.com.do/2019/08/27/si-exis...a-marisol-franco-esposa-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...dor-peralta-por-cooperar-en-esquema-de-lavado
Marisol Franco arrested in Cesar Emilio Peralta drug case
The authorities arrested Marisol Franco, wife of justice fugitive César Emilio Peralta (El Abusador) on Tuesday, 27 August 2019 at the home of the couple in Blue Tower in the Naco area of Santo Domingo. She was with her four children. The children were allowed to stay with relatives.
Peralta is accused of being the ringleader of a powerful international drug trafficking gang that sent cocaine and heroin shipments from the Dominican Republic to the United States and Europe.
Franco is charged of collaborating in the asset laundering scheme of the organization led by César Emilio Peralta "acquiring goods and benefiting from their illicit profits knowing that these came from drug trafficking."
But upon making the arrest at her home in Blue Tower, National District prosecutor Rosalba Ramos said that the woman is being investigated and the fact that she is the wife of an accused does not make her responsible for her husband’s actions, as reported in Diario Libre printed edition on 28 August 2019.
When she was arrested, she was accompanied by her lawyer Joaquin Belisario who stated: “A wife has no criminal responsibility, but for her personal deed. She is calm, waiting for prosecutors to investigate the case. The fact that you have an arrest warrant does not criminally commit you,” said the attorney.
https://m.elcaribe.com.do/2019/08/28/panorama/pais/apresan-pareja-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://eldia.com.do/apresan-a-marisol-franco-pareja-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...e-cesar-el-abusador-marisol-franco-GL13902334
https://pgr.gob.do/2019/08/27/ministerio-publico-arresta-esposa-de-cesar-el-abusador/
https://eldia.com.do/autoridades-ar...busador-y-sus-hijas-entregadas-a-sus-abuelos/
Tragedy strikes newly wed couple
Surgeon Ivan de Jesús Minaya Taveras, 32, and his bride of five months Hilda María Báez Tactuk, 32, died on the road to Jarabacoa in La Vega province. A tree fell on their vehicle, a Kia K5, killing the couple and seriously injuring Minaya's sister, Aura, who was traveling in the back seat.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...a-al-caerle-un-arbol-a-su-vehiculo-CC13880750
Alejandro Fernández to perform in Punta Cana in October
Mexican singer Alejandro Fernández will be presenting his "Breaking Borders" tour at the Fillmore Hall in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana. The show is booked for 12 October 2019.
Alejandro Fernandez is a winner of two Latin Grammys and three Billboard Awards.
He is bringing his "Breaking Frontiers" show with best hits from his last album. The album has been a gold and platinum record and in Spain a gold record. It is regarded as one of the best contemporary pop albums in Latin music.
Tickets for the concert at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana will be available as of Thursday, 29 August at La Sirena, Super Pola stores and online at Ticket Express and at www.tuboleta.com.do
https://listindiario.com/entretenim...nandez-se-presentara-en-octubre-en-punta-cana