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Medina attends the inauguration of a wind farm
President Medina promotes Ramón Pepín to Minister of Public Works
New vocational school affiliated to ITLA
Government officers campaign for Gonzalo Castillo
Hard currency injected to contain peso depreciation
Plan for Bahia de las Aguilas on hold until after 2020 elections
Vehicles in circulation up 149% in 14 years
Santiago business calls for better roads and ports in the North
Conep worries over lack of intermediaries in the national debate
EU, UK and Netherlands campaign for clean oceans
Will Haiti become the next country to sign diplomatic ties with China?
Kids keep killing themselves on motorcycles
Tragedy in San Francisco de Macorís: Five youths die in road crash
Acento: DEA is investigating three former Drug Agency heads
Visionary businessman Enrique Armenteros Rius passes away
Another reason to visit the National Zoo
DR plays in FIVB Volleyball Women's World Cup
Medina attends the inauguration of a wind farm
President Danilo Medina was in southcentral Peravia province for the dedication of the 34 MW wind farm in Sabana Buey on Thursday, 12 September 2019. The investment is said to be around US$71 million.
The Grupo Eólico Dominicano, an affiliate of Genera Avante, developed the project and with local financing from the Banco Popular (BPD) and the Banco Progreso.
The wind farm can provide electricity for 30,000 homes and businesses. The Matafongo Eolic Park will have 17 windmills that generate 2.0 MW each. The generators are Gamusa G97 models that are 80 meters high and the blades have a diameter of 97 meters.
https://elnacional.com.do/parque-generara-34-megas-energia
https://www.evwind.es/2019/09/12/wi...tafongo-wind-farm-with-17-wind-turbines/70823
President Medina promotes Ramón Pepín to Minister of Public Works
Late last week, President Danilo Medina named Ramón Antonio Pepín del Rosario Minister of Public Works in Decree 317-19. Pepín replaces Gonzalo Castillo, who is now campaigning to be the presidential candidate for the ruling party primary to be held 6 October 2019.
Pepin had been the deputy minister and acting minister ever since Castillo resigned on 5 August 2019. Pedro Peña Rubio, another deputy minister, will take on Pepín's old job.
https://elnacional.com.do/poder-ejecutivo-designa-a-ramon-pepin-nuevo-ministro-de-obras-publicas/
New vocational school affiliated to ITLA
President Danilo Medina was present on Friday, 13 September 2019 for the inauguration of the Polytechnic ITLA, with 34 classrooms and capacity to accommodate 910 students. The school was built by the Office of Engineers Supervisors of State Works (OISOE) in eastern Santo Domingo at the cost of over RD$80.9 million.
The high school will accommodate students from the Liceo Guaricano Primero and students from elementary schools Santa Lucia, Maria Caro and Estados Unidos in the Boca Chica area. Graduates can continue their education at the Technological Institute of the Americas (ITLA).
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...presidente-medina-entrega-el-politecnico-itla
Government officers campaign for Gonzalo Castillo
The Medina cabinet seems to be going all out to back former Public Works Minister Gonzalo Castillo as he seeks to defeat former President Leonel Fernández. Both aspire to be the presidential candidate in the 2020 election for the ruling Dominican Liberation Party (PLD). Both Castillo and Fernández want to motivate Dominicans to turn out to vote for them in the 6 October 2019 primary. In the PLD primary, anyone eligible to vote can vote for the pre-candidates.
This is the first time practically an entire cabinet goes all out to campaign for a pre-candidate. The campaign is to encourage all to vote for Castillo, who represents those loyal to President Danilo Medina. Castillo has promised to continue the government of President Danilo Medina.
The action, though, violates Political Parties Law 33-18, as reported in El Nacional. The law that governs public officials (Law 41-08) also bans the campaigning. But Public Administration Minister Ramon Ventura Camejo says that Law 41-08 refers to campaigning in the workplaces and using government resources. He says that the government officers can campaign "in their free time." That is, after 4pm.
The civic movement Participacion Ciudadana says the government officers should take a leave of absence to carry out their political campaigning responsibilities.
A report in Diario Libre says that the campaign leaders are:
Deputy Miriam Cabral is named National District coordinator. Others on that team are Culture Minister Eduardo Selman; Industry & Commerce Minister Nelson Toca; Economy Minister Juan Ariel Jiménez. Also mentioned as part of the team is Minister of Public Works Ramón Pepín; the director of the Santo Domingo Water & Sewage Corporation (CAASD), Alejandro Montas and the director of the National Bus Office (OMSA), Hector Mojica. Others joining the effort in the National District are Claudia Franchesca de los Santos, who is the director of the National Transit and Ground Transport Institute (Intrant).
Diario Libre says that Simón Lizardo, who is the administrator of the Banco de Reservas, is named the coordinator for the province of Santo Domingo. The director of the Dominican Postal Institute (Inposdom) Modesto Guzmán, the director of the National Children and Adolescent Council (Conani), Kenia Lora and the spokesman for the Presidency, Roberto Rodríguez Marchena are part of the team.
In Santiago, leading the effort is Interior & Police Minister José Ramón Fadul; Education Minister Antonio Peña Mirabal, Public Administration Minister Ramón Ventura Camejo; and the director of the Customs Agency, Enrique Ramírez.
For Azua, San Juan de la Maguana ane Elías Piña the team is made up of Carlos Segura Foster, who is the administrator of the Agriculture Banco; Agriculture Minister Osmar Benítez; the director of the Tax Agency Magín Díaz, among others.
Former Education Minister Andrés Navarro and Environment Minister Angel Estévez are the coordinators for Duarte (San Francisco de Macorís), Sánchez Ramírez (Cotuí), Monseñor Nouel (Bonao), Hermanas Mirabal (Salcedo) provinces. Working with them is Youth Minister Robianny Balcácer; the director of the Budget Luis Reyes; the director of the National Health Service, Chanel Rosa; and the director of the National Institute of Water Resources, Olgo Fernández.
Radhamés Segura is in charge of San Cristóbal, Peravia (Baní) and San José de Ocoa. He is working with Manuel Saleta, director of the Metro Office; Horacio Mazara, director of the National Institute of Potable Water and Sewage (Inapa), and the president of the Dominican Institute of Telecommunications (Indotel), Nelson Guillén.
The president of the Chamber of Deputies Radhamés Camacho is the coordinator for Barahona, Bahoruco, Independencia and Pedernales provinces. He is working with the Hacienda Minister Donald Guerrero; Public Health Minister Rafael Sánchez Cardenas, the director of the Provincial Development Commission Frank del Valle; the director of the National Lottery, Miguel Mercedes, among others.
Administrative Minister of the Presidency José Ramón Peralta is coordinating the provinces of Monte Plata, San Pedro de Macorís, Hato Mayor, El Seibo, La Romana and La Altagracia. He is working with Labor Minister Winston Santos; the director of the Office of Supervisory Public Works of the Presidency (Oisoe) Francisco Pagán; the National Treasurer Luis Perdomo; the director of the State Sugar Council (CEA), Luis Piccirillo. Also joining his team is Mercedes Rodríguez, director of the National Health Plan (Senasa), Deputy Minister of Education Luis de Leon, among others.
In the North, Tourism Minister Francisco Javier García is coordinating the Puerto Plata, María Trinidad Sánchez and Samaná. He is working with National Controller Nelson Sánchez, the director of Migration Ramón Rivas and others.
Superintendent of Stock Market Gabriel Castro was named coordinator for Valverde, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón and Montecristi in the northwest. He is working with the director of the National Housing Institute, Mayobanex Escoto; the director of the National Statistics Office Alexandra Izquierdo; the director of the government Social Plan, Iris Guaba. Also, the director of Passport Agency, Aura Toribio; the director of the National Council of Free Zones Luisa Fernández, among others.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...n-comando-gubernamental-de-campana-EG14124275
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...-peso-del-estado-estan-beneficiando-a-gonzalo
https://elnacional.com.do/danilo-esta-compelido-a-sancionar-ministros/
https://www.elcaribe.com.do/2019/09/16/camejo-aclara-que-ministros-pueden-hacer-proselitismo/
https://hoy.com.do/equipo-de-campan...ros-mira-lo-que-dijo-participacion-ciudadana/
Hard currency injected to contain peso depreciation
Central Bank Governor Hector Valdez Albizu announced the injection of US$100 million from international reserves into the exchange market as of Monday, 16 September 2019. He said that the depreciation of the peso had been 2% in the first eight months of the year. He said this compares to currency depreciation of 36% in Argentina, 11.6% in Uruguay, 6.4% in Brazil, 6.2% in Colombia, 5% in Paraguay and 3.6% in Chile. It now takes RD$52 Dominican peso to buy a US$1 at some commercial banks.
Upon making the injection, Valdez Albizu said that the stability of the local exchange market is not negotiable. "We are committed to an orderly and stable exchange market," he said, upon making the announcement.
Valdez Albizu said that annual accumulated inflation is 1.99%, while interannual inflation (from August 2018 to August 2019) is 1.72%. The Central Bank estimated a year-end inflation rate of 4.0% ± 1.0%.
https://www.bancentral.gov.do/a/d/4681
Plan for Bahia de las Aguilas on hold until after 2020 elections
The government is putting on hold the touristic development plans for Pedernales province on the border with Haiti.
Plans for high-level tourism, eco-tourism and massive local tourism, mostly centered on Bahia de las Aguilas with its gorgeous beaches and breathtaking scenery will have to wait. Listín Diario reporter Candida Acosta says the development of the area depends on the completion of roadworks to reduce the travel times. At present, it takes around five hours to get to Pedernales from Santo Domingo. Former Public Works Minister Gonzalo Castillo had explained there are plans to cut 40 minutes on the Bani-Azua leg of the journey and 20 minutes from Enriquillo to Pedernales.
Economy and Planning Minister Juan Ariel Jimenez says the master plan for Bahia de las Aguilas calls for the construction of 10,000 hotel rooms overall.
The government has not shared details of the master plan with the general public.
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...-las-aguilas-tendra-que-esperar-que-pase-2020
Vehicles in circulation up 149% in 14 years
The number of vehicles in the Dominican Republic has increased nine times more than the population, according to Claudia Franchesca de los Santos, executive director of the National Transportation and Traffic Institute (Intrant). Engineer de los Santos participated in an event on traffic sponsored by the INTEC university in Santo Domingo. She spoke of the challenges the growth in vehicles means for the country.
De los Santos noted that between 2004 and 2018, the total number of vehicles in the nation increased by 149% when the population only increased by 16%. People were encouraged by preferential rates commercial banks made readily available. In the Dominican Republic, it is much easier to get a loan for a luxury vehicle than for productive activities.
De los Santos told the Listin Diario newspaper that notwithstanding, 46% of the vehicles in circulation date before 2000.
She said that there has been a 149% increase in vehicles at a time when the roads are the same in the cities. This has caused major bottle jams, mainly in the National District. The increase in vehicles in circulation has been nine times that of the population. As of 31 December 2018 there are 4,350,884 vehicles in the Dominican Republic. This is 20% more than in 2015.
Moreover, of the 4,365,884 vehicles in circulation as of 31 December 2018, 55% of these are motorcycles, or 2.4 million. Motorcycles are involved in most traffic accidents. 42% of fatalities in traffic accidents are persons ages 15 to 29. In 2017, 2,804 persons died in traffic accidents and 97,821 were injured according to the Permanent Road Safety Observatory (Opsevi).
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...tado-un-149-en-14-anos-dice-directora-intrant
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...n-el-transporte-urge-regimen-de-consecuencias
https://hoy.com.do/problemas-transito-creciente-parque-vehicular-sin-planificar/
Santiago business calls for better roads and ports in the North
The president of the Santiago Chamber of Commerce and Production cut the tape to open the 2019 Expo Cibao at the city's Central Park located on the grounds of the old airport in Santiago. Expo Cibao took place over the weekend. News reports estimate 100,000 persons visited the stands and RD$250 million in transactions were made. Expo Cibao gathered over 150 companies.
Carlos Hernandez, the Chamber president, said that the country requires an efficient highway system that connects the Cibao more efficiently. He also called for massive improvements for Manzanillo and Puerto Plata ports on the north coast.
https://elnacional.com.do/piden-mejora-sistema-vial-de-region-norte/
Conep worries over lack of intermediaries in national debate
The executive vice-president of the National Business Council (Conep), Cesar Dargam told reporters the organization stands for maintaining stability and peace. He says the priority of the entity is to foster a good climate for investment and business. This is regardless of who is in government.
The Conep spokesman said that after an initial visit to the Central Electoral Board (JCE), the group decided that they should visit the leaders of the different parties to get their take on things. He said the visits in no way can be taken as an indicator of any preference by the Conep.
He did note that at present there are no mediators in the political scene. He said Conep officers will continue to visit civic centers, universities and some of the smaller parties. "There is a lack of communication channels and bridges between the different actors. Perhaps now, like no other time in Dominican history there is a need for mediation," he told reporters.
Conep became a controversial issue after the president of Conep, Pedro Brache spoke out in favor of constitutional reform. Conep, later, in an interview with El Dia, would clarify that the Conep does not have a position regarding the proposals for amending the Constitution to unify the municipal, congressional and presidential elections and other matters. Dargam stated that the Conep does not have a position in this regard. He said there is no such consensus among the members.
https://eldia.com.do/conep-ve-preocupante-ausencia-intermediarios-en-los-debates-nacionales/
EU, UK and Netherlands campaign for clean oceans
The embassies of the European Union, United Kingdom, Netherland and Germany set the example with a Guibia Beach clean up operation on Saturday, 14 September 2019. The campaign also urged the population not to liter on streets, because the garbage ends up contaminating rivers, seas and oceans. Ambassadors Gianlucca Grippa and Annemieke Verrijp of the Netherlands were present.
European Union ambassador Grippa said: "This initiative is to guide and warn people about the dangers posed by toxic waste when it reaches our rivers and the ocean. This is a journey that is taking place at the international level," said the ambassador. Around 150 people from different organizations, including the Ministry of Environment and the City Government of the National District participated in the event.
"We share a love for our blue planet and we all have a responsibility to keep it healthy through cleanliness and prevention. Encourage your family and friends, show the world that together we can make the ocean great again," Grippa said.
Scientific studies warn that by 2050 there could be more plastics than fishes in the oceans.
On 18 September, the International Beach Clean Up Day will be celebrated with more beach clean up activities.
https://elnacional.com.do/embajadas-limpian-la-playa-de-guibia/
Will Haiti become the next country to sign diplomatic ties with China?
China is more than interested in Haiti. A report in the South China Morning Post says that China is willing if the Port-au-Prince government "can uphold the one-China principle." As reported, the People's Republic of China would be offering "interest-free loans and concessional loans" to Haiti. Haiti is one of just 17 countries that main diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The Dominican Republic signed in 2018.
The SCM Post reports that in an interview with Haitian newspaper Le Nouvelliste last week, Wang Xiangyang, head of China's office of commercial development in Haiti, delivered Beijing's opening bid.
The political, social and economic crisis in Haiti has direct effects on the Dominican Republic.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/dip...aiti-bid-isolate-taiwan-its-diplomatic-allies
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3776905
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...una-millonada-subsidiando-partos-de-haitianas
Kids keep killing themselves on motorcycles
In Santiago, a 12-year old got himself killed as he was racing his small motorcycle (pasola) on the Av. Circunvalación, the northern beltway in Santiago. Authorities said that there was a RD$400 peso bet on the race. The young boy, a seventh grade student, died from the multiple injuries suffered in his crash.
His family wants to know who gave the motorcycle to the boy to race. The case is investigated.
In the meantime, the National Police have announced the arrest of 21 persons tied to illegal motorcycle racing along the Hispanoamerica Avenue in the south part of Santiago. The early dawn raid captured 14 motorcycles being used to race on the street. None of them had license plates. The police announced an intensification of their efforts to put a stop to the racing and loss of lives.
https://www.elcaribe.com.do/2019/09/13/menor-muere-en-carrera-clandestina-de-motores/
https://eldia.com.do/policia-apresa...alizar-carreras-clandestinas-en-motocicletas/
Tragedy in San Francisco de Macorís: Five youths die in road crash
Five students from the La Altagracia high school in San Francisco de Macorís crashed early in the morning on Sunday, 15 September 2019 into a building while traveling at high speed. They were identified as Miguel Ángel de La Cruz and Luis de Jesús Almonot, 17, respectively; Nabil Piña de la Rosa Cabreja, Camil Rodríguez Hernández and Emil Suárez Ledesma, all 16 years old.
The five classmates lived relatively close by, so the night before they had gathered for a night of partying. They traveled in a Toyota Corolla.
Tragically, they had made a video of the outing that serves as evidence they were not in control. Shortly after the video, the vehicle crashed into the Plaza Hípica El Furgón, on the stretch that leads from San Francisco de Macorís to La Vega at around 4:30am. The vehicle was totaled. The youths died from the blows received in the accident.
Other evidence that the vehicle was traveling at high speed with the youths consuming alcohol is evidenced by the Whatsapp chat one of the youths shared with his pals. "If we die here… I love you kids, we love you kids," wrote one of the boys before the crash.
The victims were the children of well-known people in San Francisco de Macorís, including a judge, a lawyer, a merchant and a journalist. Duarte province senator Amílcar Romero lamented the tragedy. He pointed out the entire province was in shock and collective mourning. They were mourned at their school.
https://eldia.com.do/cinco-adolescentes-muertos-fueron-velados-en-el-colegio/
Acento: DEA is investigating three former Drug Agency heads
Online news portal Acento reports that three former National Drug Control Agency (DNCD) presidents and 33 high-ranking military officials are investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The DEA recently shared with the Dominican Republic its file on a major drug operation, that of Cesar Emilio Peralta (Cesar El Abusador) that lead to the Attorney General Office to take action and order arrests.
As reported on 15 September 2019 in Acento, the visas of the officers were revoked by the US Department of State. Of these, reportedly two are still active in the Dominican Armed Forces. The report says that six other generals and 28 colonels, some already in retirement, and others that still serve in intelligence operations are investigated. According to the DEA document, the military were allegedly providing facilities and sensitive information to drug trafficking organizations in the country.
The data handled by the DEA and the US Justice system was compiled as the result of deals made by the US judiciary with Dominican, Colombian and Venezuelan drug traffickers who have been extradited to the US from the Dominican Republic over the past 10 years, as reported. Between 2009 and 2019, the DNCD has expelled almost 2,000 DNCD officers and agents for alleged links or closeness to people in drug trafficking organizations. During the same time span, 58 colonels were canceled, but none have faced charges in the justice system.
The high-ranking military under investigation allegedly have assets such as apartments in expensive areas in Santo Domingo and Santiago and villas in vacation enclaves, businesses, high-cost vehicles, bank deposits in and outside the country, and even luxury yachts that do not correspond to their legal income.
https://acento.com.do/2019/actualid...otros-33-altos-oficiales-bajo-lupa-de-la-dea/
Visionary businessman Enrique Armenteros Rius passes away
Dominican businessman Enrique Armenteros Rius, who was founder and president of the National Business Council (Conep) and of the Popular Association of Savings and Loans (APAP), passed away on Sunday, 15 September 2019 at the age of 92. A visionary, he was also behind the Dominican Development Foundation (FDD) and the Fundación Progressio, that sought to defend the forests of the Central Mountain Range.
He was married to Charo Martínez Aviar. He is also survived by his daughters Teresa, María Antonieta, Martha, Marisol and Mónica Armenteros Martínez. A mass is scheduled in his honor at the Iglesia Santísima Trinidad and the wake is at the Blandino Funeral Home.
https://hoy.com.do/fallecio-don-enrique-armenteros-rius/
Another reason to visit to the National Zoo
The four baby inhabitants at the National Zoological Park (ZooDom) are doing well and can be seen by the general public. The babies were born this spring to the Bengal tiger, the lioness, and an ostrich. The baby tigers were named Nar and Mahila and are now on show for the visitors. Nala, the baby lioness, is described as a toy wanting to be cuddled, belying her savage nature.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...ista-por-los-visitantes-del-parque-DH14130672
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...edium=te-puede-interesar&utm_campaign=related
DR plays in FIVB Volleyball Women's World Cup
The Dominican Republic, ranked in the top 10 women's teams in the world, lost its first game in the FIVB Volleyball Women's World Cup to Japan 1-3 (21-25, 11-25, 26-24, 14-25). But it then defeated South Korea 1-3 (17-25, 26-24, 23-25, 23-25) at the start of the preliminary round. The country plays Cameroon on 16 September, China on 18 September, Russia on 19 September, Kenya on 22 September, Brazil, 23 September, USA 24 September, and Argentina on 27 September in the first round.
The tournament is taking place from 14-29 September 2019 and features 12 teams playing in round-robin format in five cities across Japan. The competition begins in Yokohama and Hamamatsu over five match days, before teams travel to Sapporo and Toyama for three more matches. The tournament wraps up in Osaka.
https://eldia.com.do/las-reinas-del-caribe-vencen-a-corea-y-obtiene-su-primera-victoria/
http://www.fivb.com/en/about/news/fivb-volleyball-womens-world-cup---standings?id=88814
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-09/15/c_138393634.htm
President Medina promotes Ramón Pepín to Minister of Public Works
New vocational school affiliated to ITLA
Government officers campaign for Gonzalo Castillo
Hard currency injected to contain peso depreciation
Plan for Bahia de las Aguilas on hold until after 2020 elections
Vehicles in circulation up 149% in 14 years
Santiago business calls for better roads and ports in the North
Conep worries over lack of intermediaries in the national debate
EU, UK and Netherlands campaign for clean oceans
Will Haiti become the next country to sign diplomatic ties with China?
Kids keep killing themselves on motorcycles
Tragedy in San Francisco de Macorís: Five youths die in road crash
Acento: DEA is investigating three former Drug Agency heads
Visionary businessman Enrique Armenteros Rius passes away
Another reason to visit the National Zoo
DR plays in FIVB Volleyball Women's World Cup
Medina attends the inauguration of a wind farm
President Danilo Medina was in southcentral Peravia province for the dedication of the 34 MW wind farm in Sabana Buey on Thursday, 12 September 2019. The investment is said to be around US$71 million.
The Grupo Eólico Dominicano, an affiliate of Genera Avante, developed the project and with local financing from the Banco Popular (BPD) and the Banco Progreso.
The wind farm can provide electricity for 30,000 homes and businesses. The Matafongo Eolic Park will have 17 windmills that generate 2.0 MW each. The generators are Gamusa G97 models that are 80 meters high and the blades have a diameter of 97 meters.
https://elnacional.com.do/parque-generara-34-megas-energia
https://www.evwind.es/2019/09/12/wi...tafongo-wind-farm-with-17-wind-turbines/70823
President Medina promotes Ramón Pepín to Minister of Public Works
Late last week, President Danilo Medina named Ramón Antonio Pepín del Rosario Minister of Public Works in Decree 317-19. Pepín replaces Gonzalo Castillo, who is now campaigning to be the presidential candidate for the ruling party primary to be held 6 October 2019.
Pepin had been the deputy minister and acting minister ever since Castillo resigned on 5 August 2019. Pedro Peña Rubio, another deputy minister, will take on Pepín's old job.
https://elnacional.com.do/poder-ejecutivo-designa-a-ramon-pepin-nuevo-ministro-de-obras-publicas/
New vocational school affiliated to ITLA
President Danilo Medina was present on Friday, 13 September 2019 for the inauguration of the Polytechnic ITLA, with 34 classrooms and capacity to accommodate 910 students. The school was built by the Office of Engineers Supervisors of State Works (OISOE) in eastern Santo Domingo at the cost of over RD$80.9 million.
The high school will accommodate students from the Liceo Guaricano Primero and students from elementary schools Santa Lucia, Maria Caro and Estados Unidos in the Boca Chica area. Graduates can continue their education at the Technological Institute of the Americas (ITLA).
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...presidente-medina-entrega-el-politecnico-itla
Government officers campaign for Gonzalo Castillo
The Medina cabinet seems to be going all out to back former Public Works Minister Gonzalo Castillo as he seeks to defeat former President Leonel Fernández. Both aspire to be the presidential candidate in the 2020 election for the ruling Dominican Liberation Party (PLD). Both Castillo and Fernández want to motivate Dominicans to turn out to vote for them in the 6 October 2019 primary. In the PLD primary, anyone eligible to vote can vote for the pre-candidates.
This is the first time practically an entire cabinet goes all out to campaign for a pre-candidate. The campaign is to encourage all to vote for Castillo, who represents those loyal to President Danilo Medina. Castillo has promised to continue the government of President Danilo Medina.
The action, though, violates Political Parties Law 33-18, as reported in El Nacional. The law that governs public officials (Law 41-08) also bans the campaigning. But Public Administration Minister Ramon Ventura Camejo says that Law 41-08 refers to campaigning in the workplaces and using government resources. He says that the government officers can campaign "in their free time." That is, after 4pm.
The civic movement Participacion Ciudadana says the government officers should take a leave of absence to carry out their political campaigning responsibilities.
A report in Diario Libre says that the campaign leaders are:
Deputy Miriam Cabral is named National District coordinator. Others on that team are Culture Minister Eduardo Selman; Industry & Commerce Minister Nelson Toca; Economy Minister Juan Ariel Jiménez. Also mentioned as part of the team is Minister of Public Works Ramón Pepín; the director of the Santo Domingo Water & Sewage Corporation (CAASD), Alejandro Montas and the director of the National Bus Office (OMSA), Hector Mojica. Others joining the effort in the National District are Claudia Franchesca de los Santos, who is the director of the National Transit and Ground Transport Institute (Intrant).
Diario Libre says that Simón Lizardo, who is the administrator of the Banco de Reservas, is named the coordinator for the province of Santo Domingo. The director of the Dominican Postal Institute (Inposdom) Modesto Guzmán, the director of the National Children and Adolescent Council (Conani), Kenia Lora and the spokesman for the Presidency, Roberto Rodríguez Marchena are part of the team.
In Santiago, leading the effort is Interior & Police Minister José Ramón Fadul; Education Minister Antonio Peña Mirabal, Public Administration Minister Ramón Ventura Camejo; and the director of the Customs Agency, Enrique Ramírez.
For Azua, San Juan de la Maguana ane Elías Piña the team is made up of Carlos Segura Foster, who is the administrator of the Agriculture Banco; Agriculture Minister Osmar Benítez; the director of the Tax Agency Magín Díaz, among others.
Former Education Minister Andrés Navarro and Environment Minister Angel Estévez are the coordinators for Duarte (San Francisco de Macorís), Sánchez Ramírez (Cotuí), Monseñor Nouel (Bonao), Hermanas Mirabal (Salcedo) provinces. Working with them is Youth Minister Robianny Balcácer; the director of the Budget Luis Reyes; the director of the National Health Service, Chanel Rosa; and the director of the National Institute of Water Resources, Olgo Fernández.
Radhamés Segura is in charge of San Cristóbal, Peravia (Baní) and San José de Ocoa. He is working with Manuel Saleta, director of the Metro Office; Horacio Mazara, director of the National Institute of Potable Water and Sewage (Inapa), and the president of the Dominican Institute of Telecommunications (Indotel), Nelson Guillén.
The president of the Chamber of Deputies Radhamés Camacho is the coordinator for Barahona, Bahoruco, Independencia and Pedernales provinces. He is working with the Hacienda Minister Donald Guerrero; Public Health Minister Rafael Sánchez Cardenas, the director of the Provincial Development Commission Frank del Valle; the director of the National Lottery, Miguel Mercedes, among others.
Administrative Minister of the Presidency José Ramón Peralta is coordinating the provinces of Monte Plata, San Pedro de Macorís, Hato Mayor, El Seibo, La Romana and La Altagracia. He is working with Labor Minister Winston Santos; the director of the Office of Supervisory Public Works of the Presidency (Oisoe) Francisco Pagán; the National Treasurer Luis Perdomo; the director of the State Sugar Council (CEA), Luis Piccirillo. Also joining his team is Mercedes Rodríguez, director of the National Health Plan (Senasa), Deputy Minister of Education Luis de Leon, among others.
In the North, Tourism Minister Francisco Javier García is coordinating the Puerto Plata, María Trinidad Sánchez and Samaná. He is working with National Controller Nelson Sánchez, the director of Migration Ramón Rivas and others.
Superintendent of Stock Market Gabriel Castro was named coordinator for Valverde, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón and Montecristi in the northwest. He is working with the director of the National Housing Institute, Mayobanex Escoto; the director of the National Statistics Office Alexandra Izquierdo; the director of the government Social Plan, Iris Guaba. Also, the director of Passport Agency, Aura Toribio; the director of the National Council of Free Zones Luisa Fernández, among others.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...n-comando-gubernamental-de-campana-EG14124275
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...-peso-del-estado-estan-beneficiando-a-gonzalo
https://elnacional.com.do/danilo-esta-compelido-a-sancionar-ministros/
https://www.elcaribe.com.do/2019/09/16/camejo-aclara-que-ministros-pueden-hacer-proselitismo/
https://hoy.com.do/equipo-de-campan...ros-mira-lo-que-dijo-participacion-ciudadana/
Hard currency injected to contain peso depreciation
Central Bank Governor Hector Valdez Albizu announced the injection of US$100 million from international reserves into the exchange market as of Monday, 16 September 2019. He said that the depreciation of the peso had been 2% in the first eight months of the year. He said this compares to currency depreciation of 36% in Argentina, 11.6% in Uruguay, 6.4% in Brazil, 6.2% in Colombia, 5% in Paraguay and 3.6% in Chile. It now takes RD$52 Dominican peso to buy a US$1 at some commercial banks.
Upon making the injection, Valdez Albizu said that the stability of the local exchange market is not negotiable. "We are committed to an orderly and stable exchange market," he said, upon making the announcement.
Valdez Albizu said that annual accumulated inflation is 1.99%, while interannual inflation (from August 2018 to August 2019) is 1.72%. The Central Bank estimated a year-end inflation rate of 4.0% ± 1.0%.
https://www.bancentral.gov.do/a/d/4681
Plan for Bahia de las Aguilas on hold until after 2020 elections
The government is putting on hold the touristic development plans for Pedernales province on the border with Haiti.
Plans for high-level tourism, eco-tourism and massive local tourism, mostly centered on Bahia de las Aguilas with its gorgeous beaches and breathtaking scenery will have to wait. Listín Diario reporter Candida Acosta says the development of the area depends on the completion of roadworks to reduce the travel times. At present, it takes around five hours to get to Pedernales from Santo Domingo. Former Public Works Minister Gonzalo Castillo had explained there are plans to cut 40 minutes on the Bani-Azua leg of the journey and 20 minutes from Enriquillo to Pedernales.
Economy and Planning Minister Juan Ariel Jimenez says the master plan for Bahia de las Aguilas calls for the construction of 10,000 hotel rooms overall.
The government has not shared details of the master plan with the general public.
https://listindiario.com/economia/2...-las-aguilas-tendra-que-esperar-que-pase-2020
Vehicles in circulation up 149% in 14 years
The number of vehicles in the Dominican Republic has increased nine times more than the population, according to Claudia Franchesca de los Santos, executive director of the National Transportation and Traffic Institute (Intrant). Engineer de los Santos participated in an event on traffic sponsored by the INTEC university in Santo Domingo. She spoke of the challenges the growth in vehicles means for the country.
De los Santos noted that between 2004 and 2018, the total number of vehicles in the nation increased by 149% when the population only increased by 16%. People were encouraged by preferential rates commercial banks made readily available. In the Dominican Republic, it is much easier to get a loan for a luxury vehicle than for productive activities.
De los Santos told the Listin Diario newspaper that notwithstanding, 46% of the vehicles in circulation date before 2000.
She said that there has been a 149% increase in vehicles at a time when the roads are the same in the cities. This has caused major bottle jams, mainly in the National District. The increase in vehicles in circulation has been nine times that of the population. As of 31 December 2018 there are 4,350,884 vehicles in the Dominican Republic. This is 20% more than in 2015.
Moreover, of the 4,365,884 vehicles in circulation as of 31 December 2018, 55% of these are motorcycles, or 2.4 million. Motorcycles are involved in most traffic accidents. 42% of fatalities in traffic accidents are persons ages 15 to 29. In 2017, 2,804 persons died in traffic accidents and 97,821 were injured according to the Permanent Road Safety Observatory (Opsevi).
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...tado-un-149-en-14-anos-dice-directora-intrant
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...n-el-transporte-urge-regimen-de-consecuencias
https://hoy.com.do/problemas-transito-creciente-parque-vehicular-sin-planificar/
Santiago business calls for better roads and ports in the North
The president of the Santiago Chamber of Commerce and Production cut the tape to open the 2019 Expo Cibao at the city's Central Park located on the grounds of the old airport in Santiago. Expo Cibao took place over the weekend. News reports estimate 100,000 persons visited the stands and RD$250 million in transactions were made. Expo Cibao gathered over 150 companies.
Carlos Hernandez, the Chamber president, said that the country requires an efficient highway system that connects the Cibao more efficiently. He also called for massive improvements for Manzanillo and Puerto Plata ports on the north coast.
https://elnacional.com.do/piden-mejora-sistema-vial-de-region-norte/
Conep worries over lack of intermediaries in national debate
The executive vice-president of the National Business Council (Conep), Cesar Dargam told reporters the organization stands for maintaining stability and peace. He says the priority of the entity is to foster a good climate for investment and business. This is regardless of who is in government.
The Conep spokesman said that after an initial visit to the Central Electoral Board (JCE), the group decided that they should visit the leaders of the different parties to get their take on things. He said the visits in no way can be taken as an indicator of any preference by the Conep.
He did note that at present there are no mediators in the political scene. He said Conep officers will continue to visit civic centers, universities and some of the smaller parties. "There is a lack of communication channels and bridges between the different actors. Perhaps now, like no other time in Dominican history there is a need for mediation," he told reporters.
Conep became a controversial issue after the president of Conep, Pedro Brache spoke out in favor of constitutional reform. Conep, later, in an interview with El Dia, would clarify that the Conep does not have a position regarding the proposals for amending the Constitution to unify the municipal, congressional and presidential elections and other matters. Dargam stated that the Conep does not have a position in this regard. He said there is no such consensus among the members.
https://eldia.com.do/conep-ve-preocupante-ausencia-intermediarios-en-los-debates-nacionales/
EU, UK and Netherlands campaign for clean oceans
The embassies of the European Union, United Kingdom, Netherland and Germany set the example with a Guibia Beach clean up operation on Saturday, 14 September 2019. The campaign also urged the population not to liter on streets, because the garbage ends up contaminating rivers, seas and oceans. Ambassadors Gianlucca Grippa and Annemieke Verrijp of the Netherlands were present.
European Union ambassador Grippa said: "This initiative is to guide and warn people about the dangers posed by toxic waste when it reaches our rivers and the ocean. This is a journey that is taking place at the international level," said the ambassador. Around 150 people from different organizations, including the Ministry of Environment and the City Government of the National District participated in the event.
"We share a love for our blue planet and we all have a responsibility to keep it healthy through cleanliness and prevention. Encourage your family and friends, show the world that together we can make the ocean great again," Grippa said.
Scientific studies warn that by 2050 there could be more plastics than fishes in the oceans.
On 18 September, the International Beach Clean Up Day will be celebrated with more beach clean up activities.
https://elnacional.com.do/embajadas-limpian-la-playa-de-guibia/
Will Haiti become the next country to sign diplomatic ties with China?
China is more than interested in Haiti. A report in the South China Morning Post says that China is willing if the Port-au-Prince government "can uphold the one-China principle." As reported, the People's Republic of China would be offering "interest-free loans and concessional loans" to Haiti. Haiti is one of just 17 countries that main diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The Dominican Republic signed in 2018.
The SCM Post reports that in an interview with Haitian newspaper Le Nouvelliste last week, Wang Xiangyang, head of China's office of commercial development in Haiti, delivered Beijing's opening bid.
The political, social and economic crisis in Haiti has direct effects on the Dominican Republic.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/dip...aiti-bid-isolate-taiwan-its-diplomatic-allies
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3776905
https://listindiario.com/la-republi...una-millonada-subsidiando-partos-de-haitianas
Kids keep killing themselves on motorcycles
In Santiago, a 12-year old got himself killed as he was racing his small motorcycle (pasola) on the Av. Circunvalación, the northern beltway in Santiago. Authorities said that there was a RD$400 peso bet on the race. The young boy, a seventh grade student, died from the multiple injuries suffered in his crash.
His family wants to know who gave the motorcycle to the boy to race. The case is investigated.
In the meantime, the National Police have announced the arrest of 21 persons tied to illegal motorcycle racing along the Hispanoamerica Avenue in the south part of Santiago. The early dawn raid captured 14 motorcycles being used to race on the street. None of them had license plates. The police announced an intensification of their efforts to put a stop to the racing and loss of lives.
https://www.elcaribe.com.do/2019/09/13/menor-muere-en-carrera-clandestina-de-motores/
https://eldia.com.do/policia-apresa...alizar-carreras-clandestinas-en-motocicletas/
Tragedy in San Francisco de Macorís: Five youths die in road crash
Five students from the La Altagracia high school in San Francisco de Macorís crashed early in the morning on Sunday, 15 September 2019 into a building while traveling at high speed. They were identified as Miguel Ángel de La Cruz and Luis de Jesús Almonot, 17, respectively; Nabil Piña de la Rosa Cabreja, Camil Rodríguez Hernández and Emil Suárez Ledesma, all 16 years old.
The five classmates lived relatively close by, so the night before they had gathered for a night of partying. They traveled in a Toyota Corolla.
Tragically, they had made a video of the outing that serves as evidence they were not in control. Shortly after the video, the vehicle crashed into the Plaza Hípica El Furgón, on the stretch that leads from San Francisco de Macorís to La Vega at around 4:30am. The vehicle was totaled. The youths died from the blows received in the accident.
Other evidence that the vehicle was traveling at high speed with the youths consuming alcohol is evidenced by the Whatsapp chat one of the youths shared with his pals. "If we die here… I love you kids, we love you kids," wrote one of the boys before the crash.
The victims were the children of well-known people in San Francisco de Macorís, including a judge, a lawyer, a merchant and a journalist. Duarte province senator Amílcar Romero lamented the tragedy. He pointed out the entire province was in shock and collective mourning. They were mourned at their school.
https://eldia.com.do/cinco-adolescentes-muertos-fueron-velados-en-el-colegio/
Acento: DEA is investigating three former Drug Agency heads
Online news portal Acento reports that three former National Drug Control Agency (DNCD) presidents and 33 high-ranking military officials are investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The DEA recently shared with the Dominican Republic its file on a major drug operation, that of Cesar Emilio Peralta (Cesar El Abusador) that lead to the Attorney General Office to take action and order arrests.
As reported on 15 September 2019 in Acento, the visas of the officers were revoked by the US Department of State. Of these, reportedly two are still active in the Dominican Armed Forces. The report says that six other generals and 28 colonels, some already in retirement, and others that still serve in intelligence operations are investigated. According to the DEA document, the military were allegedly providing facilities and sensitive information to drug trafficking organizations in the country.
The data handled by the DEA and the US Justice system was compiled as the result of deals made by the US judiciary with Dominican, Colombian and Venezuelan drug traffickers who have been extradited to the US from the Dominican Republic over the past 10 years, as reported. Between 2009 and 2019, the DNCD has expelled almost 2,000 DNCD officers and agents for alleged links or closeness to people in drug trafficking organizations. During the same time span, 58 colonels were canceled, but none have faced charges in the justice system.
The high-ranking military under investigation allegedly have assets such as apartments in expensive areas in Santo Domingo and Santiago and villas in vacation enclaves, businesses, high-cost vehicles, bank deposits in and outside the country, and even luxury yachts that do not correspond to their legal income.
https://acento.com.do/2019/actualid...otros-33-altos-oficiales-bajo-lupa-de-la-dea/
Visionary businessman Enrique Armenteros Rius passes away
Dominican businessman Enrique Armenteros Rius, who was founder and president of the National Business Council (Conep) and of the Popular Association of Savings and Loans (APAP), passed away on Sunday, 15 September 2019 at the age of 92. A visionary, he was also behind the Dominican Development Foundation (FDD) and the Fundación Progressio, that sought to defend the forests of the Central Mountain Range.
He was married to Charo Martínez Aviar. He is also survived by his daughters Teresa, María Antonieta, Martha, Marisol and Mónica Armenteros Martínez. A mass is scheduled in his honor at the Iglesia Santísima Trinidad and the wake is at the Blandino Funeral Home.
https://hoy.com.do/fallecio-don-enrique-armenteros-rius/
Another reason to visit to the National Zoo
The four baby inhabitants at the National Zoological Park (ZooDom) are doing well and can be seen by the general public. The babies were born this spring to the Bengal tiger, the lioness, and an ostrich. The baby tigers were named Nar and Mahila and are now on show for the visitors. Nala, the baby lioness, is described as a toy wanting to be cuddled, belying her savage nature.
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...ista-por-los-visitantes-del-parque-DH14130672
https://www.diariolibre.com/actuali...edium=te-puede-interesar&utm_campaign=related
DR plays in FIVB Volleyball Women's World Cup
The Dominican Republic, ranked in the top 10 women's teams in the world, lost its first game in the FIVB Volleyball Women's World Cup to Japan 1-3 (21-25, 11-25, 26-24, 14-25). But it then defeated South Korea 1-3 (17-25, 26-24, 23-25, 23-25) at the start of the preliminary round. The country plays Cameroon on 16 September, China on 18 September, Russia on 19 September, Kenya on 22 September, Brazil, 23 September, USA 24 September, and Argentina on 27 September in the first round.
The tournament is taking place from 14-29 September 2019 and features 12 teams playing in round-robin format in five cities across Japan. The competition begins in Yokohama and Hamamatsu over five match days, before teams travel to Sapporo and Toyama for three more matches. The tournament wraps up in Osaka.
https://eldia.com.do/las-reinas-del-caribe-vencen-a-corea-y-obtiene-su-primera-victoria/
http://www.fivb.com/en/about/news/fivb-volleyball-womens-world-cup---standings?id=88814
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-09/15/c_138393634.htm