BRUSSELS — The Council of the European Union on Monday formally approved a package of reforms expanding air passenger rights, with the new rules set to take effect in mid-2027.
The measures, which had already been approved by the European Parliament, will apply to all flights departing from European Union airports and to flights arriving in the bloc if operated by an EU-based airline.
Under the new rules, children younger than 14 will be allowed to sit beside their parents without paying seat reservation fees. The same benefit will apply to pregnant passengers and people with reduced mobility traveling with a companion.
Airlines will also be required to correct spelling errors in passenger names free of charge, provide printed boarding passes at no extra cost to checked-in passengers, and display fares that include cabin baggage by default to make price comparisons easier.
Passengers who miss the outbound leg of a round-trip ticket will still be allowed to use their return flight without penalty. Travelers downgraded to a lower class than booked will automatically receive a refund.
Compensation rules for delayed or canceled flights will remain largely unchanged. Passengers will continue to be eligible for compensation if their flight is delayed by at least three hours and the airline is responsible.
The reforms also clarify that airlines are not liable for disruptions caused by severe weather, natural disasters, unruly passengers, or strikes involving airport or ground-handling staff.
Under the updated rules, airlines must provide passengers with written information about their rights within 96 hours after the end of their journey. Travelers will have nine months to file a compensation claim, while airlines must either pay compensation or explain why a claim was denied within 30 calendar days.
During travel disruptions, passengers will be entitled to refreshments after two hours, a meal after three hours, additional meals every five hours thereafter—up to three meals per day—and hotel accommodation with transportation if an overnight stay is required.
The long road to marital bliss finally reached its end for actress Bea Alonzo as she and businessman Vincent Co tied the knot without much fanfare on Monday night in Makati City. The intimate wedding was officiated by Makati Mayor Nancy Binay, who posted her picture with the actress on Facebook on Tuesday, July 14. Article continues after this advertisement “Kinasal ko na po sila! Congratulations & Best wishes Vincent & Bea,” said the former senator in her posts. Bea Alonzo, Vincent Co finally married Images from Makati Mayor Nancy Binay’s Facebook page. Earlier, a source of INQUIRER Entertainment confirmed Alonzo and Co’s civil wedding took place on July 13 at Binay’s office. The source further said the parents of the newlyweds were not present during the union. The actress and Co, scion to the Puregold retail empire, came to the mayor’s office on their own, with the bride dressed in a simple cream suit dress, while the groom was in a short-sleeved barong. by TaboolaSponsored Links You May Like A new kind of ‘ceasefire’ between US and Iran where talks, strikes are part of the same process The Business Times Despite Brexit, London hasn’t lost its lustre as Europe’s financial hub The Business Times A Wolf Approaches a Girl on a Beach – See What Happens. Travel Sent READ: LOOK: Bea Alonzo hands-on with ‘house preps’ before canceled wedding Alonzo and Co recently purchased an apartment in Rockwell, Makati prior to their supposed wedding in Spain last May 14, making them official Makati residents. Article continues after this advertisement Their purported Spanish wedding, touted as what could have been the wedding of the year in showbiz and business standards, reportedly did not push through because of disagreements in certain provisions in their prenuptial contracts. Prior to this, the billionaire actress and the scion to the Puregold retail empire were reported to have planned a church wedding in Manila, but that too appeared to be a ploy in order to keep their nuptials away from prying eyes. Article continues after this advertisement Amid speculations on their relationship, the couple powered through to give love another chance, choosing forever with each other.
Bea Alonzo, Vincent Co tie the knot in intimate Makati civil wedding
MANILA, Philippines — Actress Bea Alonzo and businessman Vincent Co were married in a private civil ceremony in Makati City on Monday night, ending months of speculation about their wedding plans.
Makati Mayor Nancy Binay officiated the ceremony and confirmed the marriage in a Facebook post on Tuesday.
“Kinasal ko na po sila! Congratulations & Best wishes Vincent & Bea,” Binay wrote.
A source confirmed that the civil wedding took place on July 13 at Binay’s office. The source said the couple’s parents were not present during the ceremony.
Alonzo wore a simple cream suit dress, while Co, an executive from the Puregold retail group, wore a short-sleeved barong.
The couple recently bought an apartment in Rockwell, Makati, making them official residents of the city before their wedding.
Alonzo and Co had previously been reported to be planning a wedding in Spain in May, but the ceremony did not push through. Reports also linked the postponement to disagreements over provisions in their prenuptial agreement.
They were also previously rumored to be planning a church wedding in Manila, but the ceremony did not materialize.
The couple ultimately chose a low-key civil wedding in Makati, marking the start of their married life together.
MANILA, Philippines – Philippine investment promotion agencies are targeting P4.5 trillion in investment approvals under the revised Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP) — the first to be rolled out under the Marcos administration—which places greater emphasis on innovation and technology. That target is 33.14-percent higher than the P3.38 trillion generated under the previous 2022-2025 SIPP, which was crafted during the Duterte administration and focused largely on manufacturing, infrastructure and basic services. This investment pipeline generated more than 132,000 jobs. READ: New investment roadmap seen attracting higher-value capital Article continues after this advertisement “This is significant because this will be the first time that we have the new SIPP alongside the CREATE MORE (Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (Create More) Act,” said Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo, who also heads the Board of Investments (BOI). Rodolfo said the new investment plan would guide the grant of fiscal and tax incentives under the CREATE MORE law by classifying investment activities into three priority tiers based on their alignment with the Marcos administration’s economic agenda. At the top of the list are investments related to the “industries of the future.” by TaboolaSponsored Links You May Like A new kind of ‘ceasefire’ between US and Iran where talks, strikes are part of the same process The Business Times Singapore to pump S$800 million into transport and connectivity research and innovation over 5 years The Business Times Chrissy Metz Is So Skinny Now And Looks Gorgeous 5minstory.com Tier 3, the highest priority category, covers innovation-driven activities such as artificial intelligence, defense manufacturing, quantum computing, cybersecurity, hydrogen and nuclear energy, as well as advanced research and design. Tier 2 includes strategic industries such as defense services, desalination, electric vehicle infrastructure, sustainable aviation fuel and critical minerals processing. Article continues after this advertisement Meanwhile, Tier 1 covers modern basic needs, including agriculture, fisheries and forestry, manufacturing, alongside halal, kosher and organic-related activities. It also includes health care, disaster risk reduction services, infrastructure and logistics, energy and other services. Rodolfo said he expects most Tier 3 investments to flow through investment promotion agencies operating within the Luzon Economic Corridor, a multi-country initiative that aims to spur development within the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas growth belt. Article continues after this advertisement 6-year SIPP Renewable energy projects, however, are expected to remain concentrated at the BOI. As of the first half of 2026, the agency had approved P343.47 billion worth of renewable energy investments, accounting for 74.25 percent of its P461.84-billion investment pipeline. With that strong pipeline, Rodolfo said the BOI is now shifting its focus from investment promotion to project implementation. “The Philippines has already proven to be such a magnet for investments for renewable energy,” he said. While the BOI would scale back promotional efforts for the sector, renewable energy projects would continue to enjoy the same incentives, he added. READ: Gov’t eyes P60-B perks for EV makers Looking ahead, Rodolfo said the government is studying the possibility of extending the validity of SIPPs to six years to better align it with the Philippine Development Plan, which currently covers 2023 to 2028. For now, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the priority is to convert the investment plan into actual projects. “Our goal is clear – to turn these priorities into investments that create quality jobs, strengthen industries and generate more economic opportunities for Filipinos across the country,” Roque said in a statement. Subscribe to our daily newsletter Email Address SIGN ME UP By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Currently, the BOI is conducting nationwide roadshows to present the revised SIPP. It is targeting the release of its general policies and implementing guidelines in the third quarter.
PH targets P4.5T in investments under new priority plan
MANILA, Philippines — The government is targeting P4.5 trillion in investment approvals under the revised Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP), the first investment roadmap under the Marcos administration that places greater emphasis on innovation and technology.
The target is 33.14% higher than the P3.38 trillion in approved investments generated under the 2022-2025 SIPP, which created more than 132,000 jobs.
Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo, who also heads the Board of Investments (BOI), said the revised SIPP will guide the grant of fiscal and tax incentives under the CREATE MORE Act by classifying investment activities into three priority tiers.
Tier 3, the highest priority, covers innovation-driven industries such as artificial intelligence, defense manufacturing, quantum computing, cybersecurity, hydrogen and nuclear energy, and advanced research and design.
Tier 2 includes strategic industries such as defense services, desalination, electric vehicle infrastructure, sustainable aviation fuel, and critical minerals processing.
Tier 1 focuses on modern basic needs, including agriculture, fisheries, forestry, manufacturing, halal, kosher and organic industries, as well as health care, disaster risk reduction, infrastructure, logistics, energy and other services.
Rodolfo said most Tier 3 investments are expected to flow through investment promotion agencies within the Luzon Economic Corridor, while renewable energy projects will remain a major focus of the BOI.
As of the first half of 2026, the BOI had approved P343.47 billion in renewable energy investments, accounting for 74.25% of its P461.84-billion investment pipeline.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the government’s priority is to convert investment commitments into projects that generate jobs and strengthen industries.
The BOI is conducting nationwide roadshows on the revised SIPP and aims to release its implementing guidelines in the third quarter.
Today 7:57 PM
MANILA, Philippines — National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc told the Senate impeachment court on Tuesday that Vice President Sara Duterte was capable of carrying out her assassination threats against President Marcos, first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former Speaker Martin Romualdez, as prosecutors sought to establish that her remarks constituted grave threats and betrayal of public trust. On the fifth day of Duterte’s impeachment trial, Lotoc stood by the NBI’s finding that the Vice President’s statements were “serious, real and active,” adding that she had both the intent and the capability to execute them. Lotoc, formerly chief of the NBI’s Cybercrime Division that investigated Duterte’s remarks, testified that investigators found the elements of the crime of grave threats had been satisfied, prompting the bureau to recommend the filing of charges before the Department of Justice. Article continues after this advertisement READ: Highlights: Day 5 of Sara Duterte impeachment trial | July 14, 2026 Asked by Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian whether Duterte had the capability to carry out the threats, Lotoc replied: “Definitely.” “For one, she is the Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines,” he said. by TaboolaSponsored Links You May Like A new kind of ‘ceasefire’ between US and Iran where talks, strikes are part of the same process The Business Times Early payout from Philippines’ Maharlika Investment Fund raises eyebrows over its true nature The Business Times A Wolf Approaches a Girl on a Beach – See What Happens. Travel Sent When Gatchalian pointed out that her office alone did not necessarily give her that capability, Lotoc cited her political background. by TaboolaPromoted Links You May Like Buy Rose Quartz Crystals Cheap Luci Vico Sotto pumalag sa ‘preventive suspension order’: FAKE NEWS! Inquirer.net “We know the background… her father was a former president… So we look into that, that indeed being in that situation, she has the capability,” he said. Article continues after this advertisement READ: Lotoc: Actual sedition not required to charge inciting to sedition vs VP Duterte Gatchalian also questioned the basis for the NBI’s conclusion that Duterte had contracted someone to kill the President, the first lady and Romualdez. Article continues after this advertisement Lotoc said the bureau relied on Duterte’s own public statements, particularly her Nov. 23, 2024, online press conference and a Nov. 26 interview in which she reiterated that she had spoken to someone to exact revenge should she be killed. “We believe the Vice President was not kidding when she made those remarks. So our stand, she has spoken to somebody,” Lotoc said. “So our belief, the Vice President has talked to somebody. Now, insofar as who that person was, insofar as the existence of that person, the one who can answer that, since it’s their job, is our intelligence service or our director,” he added. He acknowledged that the Cybercrime Division had no independent evidence identifying the alleged hit man or confirming such a person existed. Asked whether the bureau’s conclusion rested solely on Duterte’s statements, Lotoc answered: “Yes. Statements and admission, Sir.” Denial not enough The NBI official said Duterte’s written denial was insufficient to negate the offense. “Mere denial would not discount the fact that she made those utterances and that she talked with somebody,” he said. Lotoc testified that investigators wanted to personally question Duterte to determine whether she had indeed contracted someone but that she did not appear before the bureau. “That’s the problem there… that’s why we want to talk to her personally so that we can ask other questions, so that we can see if it’s true that the Vice President contracted somebody or not. But she was not there, she didn’t appear,” he said. “Her answer was mere denial, there’s no basis, even circumstantial basis. So, we didn’t include as a factor in considering whether or not a crime of grave threat has been committed by the Vice President,” he added. During redirect examination, private prosecutor Amado Virgil Ligutan underscored that Duterte has never denied making the controversial statements. Instead, Lotoc said, she merely denied hiring an assassin. Lotoc pointed to Duterte’s Nov. 26 interview, saying it showed she repeated rather than retracted her earlier remarks. “It shows that the Vice President did not joke when she uttered those utterances,” he said. He also dismissed typographical errors in NBI documents raised by the defense, saying they did not affect the bureau’s findings. “It does not alter the fact that the findings of the NBI is that the Vice President committed the crime of grave threats and inciting to sedition,” Lotoc testified. Prosecutors argue that Duterte’s public threats against the President and his family constitute betrayal of public trust, an impeachable offense under the Constitution, saying the remarks demonstrated conduct unbecoming of the country’s second-highest official and raised questions about her fitness to remain in office as the constitutional successor to the presidency. ‘Romanov’ examined Senator-judges also questioned Lotoc about the so-called “Operation Romanov,” which Duterte has cited in claiming there were threats against her life. Responding to Sen. Raffy Tulfo, Lotoc said the NBI found that the term “Romanov” originated from Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte during a January 2024 rally and was directed at President Marcos and his family, not at the Vice President. “Insofar as our investigation is concerned, we could not validate any other Romanov operation,” Lotoc said. He added that information provided by vlogger Princess Maui, who raised “Operation Romanov” during Duterte’s Nov. 23 online briefing, was deemed unreliable after she failed to appear before the NBI to substantiate her claims. ‘Defense missed substance’ Lotoc said the bureau found no validated threat against Duterte, adding that its inquiry stalled because neither the Vice President nor her camp provided actionable information or cooperated with investigators. Before Lotoc’s redirect examination, prosecution adviser Robert Ace Barbers said the defense failed to undermine the NBI official’s testimony, arguing its cross-examination focused on “typographical and clerical errors” instead of its substance. “Our evidence is still strong—and even stronger,” he said. Prosecutor-spokesperson Zia Alonto Adiong said the defense tried to rationalize Duterte’s threats as protected speech but failed to answer whether such remarks were proper for a high-ranking public official. Subscribe to our daily newsletter Email Address SIGN ME UP By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Kabataan Rep. Renee Co added that since Duterte never denied making the statements, the impeachment case remains intact.
NBI official says Sara Duterte capable of carrying out assassination threats
MANILA, Philippines — National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc testified before the Senate impeachment court on Tuesday that Vice President Sara Duterte had both the intent and capability to carry out her assassination threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
On the fifth day of Duterte’s impeachment trial, Lotoc stood by the NBI’s findings that the Vice President’s statements were “serious, real and active,” saying investigators found sufficient basis to recommend filing charges for grave threats before the Department of Justice.
Asked by Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian whether Duterte had the capability to execute the threats, Lotoc replied, “Definitely,” citing her position as vice president and her political background.
Lotoc said the NBI relied on Duterte’s Nov. 23, 2024 online press briefing and a Nov. 26 interview, in which she reiterated that she had spoken to someone to exact revenge if she were killed.
He acknowledged that the Cybercrime Division had no independent evidence identifying the alleged hit man or confirming such a person existed, saying the bureau’s conclusion was based on Duterte’s own statements and admissions.
Lotoc also testified that Duterte did not appear before the NBI for questioning, preventing investigators from verifying her claims. He said her written denial merely rejected hiring an assassin but did not deny making the controversial statements.
Prosecutors argue that Duterte’s public remarks constitute grave threats and betrayal of public trust, an impeachable offense under the Constitution.
Lotoc also told the impeachment court that the NBI found no validated threat against Duterte related to the alleged “Operation Romanov,” saying investigators could not substantiate the claim during their inquiry.
MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) chief, Melvin Matibag, will be the last witness on July 21 as the House winds up its examination of the grave threat charge, which is part of the last of four articles of impeachment filed against Vice President Sara Duterte. According to its statement on Wednesday, the House prosecution panel has withdrawn the appearance of several other witnesses. “This withdrawal, Your Honor, renders Attorney Melvin Matibag, the NBI director, as our last witness for threat, who will be testifying this coming Tuesday, Your Honor,” Rep. Gerville Luistro, the House least prosecutor, said in her manifestation. Article continues after this advertisement READ: Impeach court to prosec, defense: No need to explain witnesses’ withdrawal The prosecution had earlier decided to forgo the testimonies of Duterte’s former chief of staff, Zuleika Lopez, and the House Legislative Security Bureau executive director, Capt. Belinda Bello. The prosecution announced the withdrawal after NBI Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc completed his testimony, allowing the panel to remove witnesses whose accounts would cover matters already established during the trial. by TaboolaSponsored Links You May Like A new kind of ‘ceasefire’ between US and Iran where talks, strikes are part of the same process The Business Times Early payout from Philippines’ Maharlika Investment Fund raises eyebrows over its true nature The Business Times A Wolf Approaches a Girl on a Beach – See What Happens. Travel Sent “First of all, we would like to acknowledge the positive response of the Honorable Impeachment Court to our previous manifestation. Accordingly, we would like to reiterate that the prosecution will no longer be presenting Attorney Zuleika Lopez, as well as Captain Belinda Bello, reiterating, however, the same concern on redundancy, surplusage and lack of necessity,” Luistro explained. by TaboolaPromoted Links You May Like She ditched a six-figure salary to save her dad’s business, and uncovered S$500K in bad debt CNA Vico Sotto pumalag sa ‘preventive suspension order’: FAKE NEWS! Inquirer.net Luistro also withdrew a representative of the Philippine National Police Firearms and Explosives Office, journalists Mikhail Flores and Bonz Magsambol, Sheriff Abe Andres, a relative of one of the alleged threat victims, and a psychiatrist after reviewing the evidence already placed on record. Article continues after this advertisement “The witness intended to testify that the respondent owns firearms, including high-powered ones, which demonstrate the capacity and capability to execute a threat. On the other hand, Your Honor, it has already been shown that the government took the threat seriously, and, as a matter of fact, it prompted the full-scale investigation, including the recommendation to file a criminal complaint,” she noted of the proposed police witness. The prosecution likewise determined that the two journalists were no longer needed to confirm Duterte’s statements during the Nov. 23, 2024, video conference because an NBI agent had authenticated the recordings and the defense had subsequently acknowledged that the videos were genuine. Article continues after this advertisement “Agent Calilung already established that the video is authentic, plus considering, Your Honor, the defense’s subsequent admission that the same are authentic videos, Your Honor,” Luistro stressed. Article IV accuses Duterte of culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust over her recorded statements concerning President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, which prompted an NBI investigation and a recommendation to file criminal complaints for grave threats and inciting to sedition. Confidential funds issue next With Matibag set to wrap up the prosecution’s threat case, the panel is preparing to begin its presentation on Article I on July 22 by seeking subpoenas for a House legislative archives official and two former LandBank branch managers connected to Duterte’s confidential fund transactions. “We would like to beg the kind indulgence of the Honorable Impeachment Court to note our next witnesses. This will be in support of Article I, confidential funds, and if we will be presenting Attorney Melvin Matibag on Tuesday, then this means that the first witness for confidential funds will be presented on July 22, that is Wednesday,” Luistro explained. READ: Impeach court to rule on subpoena plea for Duterte’s bank, tax records July 20 Subscribe to our daily newsletter Email Address SIGN ME UP By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. “We are requesting that we be allowed to request the issuance of subpoenas for our first three witnesses for confidential funds, including Marivic Pareja of the Legislative Archives and Museum Management Service of the House of Representatives, and two LandBank employees, Violeta Constantino, former branch manager of the LandBank Shaw Boulevard branch, and Nenita Camposano, former branch manager of the LandBank DepEd branch,” Luistro added.
NBI chief to be final witness on grave threats charge vs Sara Duterte
MANILA, Philippines — National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag will be the final prosecution witness on July 21 as the House prosecution panel concludes its presentation on the grave threats charge under the fourth article of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte.
House lead prosecutor Rep. Gerville Luistro told the Senate impeachment court on Wednesday that the prosecution had withdrawn several witnesses after determining their testimonies would be redundant following the testimony of NBI Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc.
The prosecution earlier dropped Vice President Duterte’s former chief of staff Zuleika Lopez and House Legislative Security Bureau Executive Director Capt. Belinda Bello as witnesses.
Luistro also withdrew a representative from the Philippine National Police Firearms and Explosives Office, journalists Mikhail Flores and Bonz Magsambol, Sheriff Abe Andres, a relative of one of the alleged threat victims, and a psychiatrist.
She said the proposed police witness was no longer necessary because the prosecution had already established that authorities took Duterte’s alleged threats seriously and launched a full-scale investigation.
The prosecution also said the journalists were no longer needed to authenticate Duterte’s Nov. 23, 2024 video statements after an NBI agent verified the recordings and the defense acknowledged their authenticity.
Article IV accuses Duterte of culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust over her alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
After Matibag’s testimony, the prosecution plans to begin presenting evidence on the confidential funds issue under Article I on July 22, starting with House legislative archives official Marivic Pareja and former LandBank branch managers Violeta Constantino and Nenita Camposano, for whom it is seeking subpoenas.
Cuba’s healthcare crisis strains cancer, heart care amid shortages
HAVANA — Cuba’s healthcare system is struggling under severe shortages of medicine, equipment and personnel, leaving patients facing long waits for treatment and lifesaving procedures.
At Havana’s National Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology, 64-year-old Rosa Valentina Perez has spent nearly three weeks waiting for a CT scan to determine whether her breast cancer has spread to her spine after losing mobility in her legs. The city’s only functioning CT scanner is at another hospital, where the waiting list remains long.
Health officials said the country’s medical system has deteriorated following the COVID-19 pandemic, tighter U.S. sanctions and an ongoing energy crisis, resulting in power outages, equipment failures and an exodus of healthcare workers.
Cancer institute director Luis Eduardo Martin said about 80% of the facility’s diagnostic and treatment equipment is obsolete or broken, while more than 1,200 patients are waiting for radiotherapy.
The crisis has also affected children, with Cuba’s childhood cancer survival rate falling from 85% before the crisis to 65%, according to government data. Doctors said shortages of equipment, medical supplies and fuel have limited routine testing and treatment.
Heart care has likewise suffered. The National Institute of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery said annual heart surgeries have dropped from more than 400 in 2018 to about 100, while around 130 patients are awaiting pacemaker implants.
Hospitals have also been forced to shorten dialysis sessions because of staffing shortages, a measure doctors say could reduce patients’ life expectancy.
Despite technicians repairing aging equipment and improvising to keep machines running, healthcare workers say resource shortages continue to hamper patient care across the country.
Alex Eala thanks fans, shifts focus to US Open after Wimbledon breakthrough
MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala received a rousing welcome from Filipino fans during her homecoming appearance at Glorietta Activity Center, where hundreds gathered to celebrate her historic Wimbledon campaign.
The 21-year-old tennis star was greeted by a packed crowd that filled the venue and lined the mall’s upper floors, prompting her to remark, “Ang dami niyo pala.”
Eala thanked supporters for staying up late to watch her matches and for their continued encouragement.
“Maraming salamat sa pagpupuyat. Maraming salamat sa pagdarasal. I’m doing my best to make you guys proud. Sana subaybayan niyo ko in my next matches and my journey to come,” she said.
During the event organized by Globe, Eala played games with fans, signed autographs and posed for photos. She also stayed after the program to greet supporters who were unable to enter the main event area.
The homecoming followed Eala’s breakthrough run at Wimbledon, where she reached the round of 16 — the best Grand Slam singles finish by a Filipino player. Her campaign included a third-round victory over defending champion Iga Swiatek.
Eala described Wimbledon as the biggest milestone of her career and said she hopes to continue inspiring Filipinos while helping raise the profile of Philippine tennis.
She will now turn her attention to the North American hard-court season, beginning with the Mubadala DC Open in Washington from July 27 to Aug. 2, followed by the Canadian Open in Toronto before competing in the US Open, where she earned her first Grand Slam main-draw win last year.
Eala said courage has been central to her journey, describing it as continuing to show up despite setbacks and difficult days. She added that she is excited for the opportunities ahead as she prepares for the upcoming tournaments.
Argentina rallies past England, reaches World Cup final
ATLANTA — Argentina scored twice in the closing minutes to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday, advancing to the World Cup final and moving within one win of a second straight title.
England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon and looked poised to reach its first World Cup final since 1966 before Argentina mounted a late comeback.
Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 85th minute after being set up by Lionel Messi, and substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home the winning goal in stoppage time from another Messi assist.
“I dreamed it. I told Alexis (Mac Allister) that I was going to score. I told him that I was going to come on and I was going to win it,” Martinez said.
The defending champions will face European champion Spain in Sunday’s final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Messi, who was largely contained for much of the match, proved decisive with assists on both goals as Argentina extended its remarkable run of comeback victories in the tournament.
“It is a show of the collectiveness, the brotherhood that we are in, the fight to the very end that we’ve got,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said.
The defeat marked another heartbreaking World Cup semifinal exit for England after losses in 1990 and 2018. Captain Harry Kane said the result was “gutting” after the team came within minutes of reaching the final.
England manager Thomas Tuchel said Argentina took more risks in the closing stages while his side became hesitant after taking the lead.
At 39, Messi is now one victory away from leading Argentina to consecutive World Cup titles and adding another milestone to his decorated international career.
FBI investigates suspected drugs found in van after fatal ICE shooting
HOUSTON — The FBI is investigating suspected drugs found inside the van involved in last week’s fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by a federal immigration agent, according to a search warrant affidavit filed in federal court.
The affidavit, signed by FBI Special Agent David McNeilly, states that investigators found what appeared to be a white crystal-like substance packaged in several small plastic bags inside the van. The search warrant was approved by U.S. District Judge Richard Bennett and executed Wednesday.
Salgado Araujo, 52, was driving the van with three passengers when he was shot and killed during what U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) described as a targeted enforcement operation.
The affidavit marks the first public reference by federal authorities to suspected drugs in the case. It also states that ICE agents initially attempted to stop the van, which allegedly crossed a median in an apparent attempt to flee before agents relocated it and tried to stop it again.
The document does not mention earlier claims by ICE that Salgado Araujo “weaponized” the vehicle by attempting to strike officers.
David Cruz, a spokesperson for the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), which represents Salgado Araujo’s family, rejected the allegations, saying the organization believes authorities are attempting to criminalize the victim.
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office said the FBI granted local prosecutors access to the van as part of their independent investigation. The Texas Rangers and the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General are also investigating the shooting, while the FBI is examining a possible assault on a federal officer.
No body camera footage of the shooting exists because the ICE agents involved were not wearing body cameras, and no video of the incident has been publicly released.
Investigation finds thousands of Texas students ages 10 to 12 arrested or cited at school
AUSTIN, Texas — Thousands of Texas students as young as 10 were arrested or issued criminal citations at school in recent years, according to a Texas Observer investigation that raises concerns about the use of the juvenile justice system to address routine student misconduct.
Reporter Josephine Lee reviewed records from 168 school districts with unusually high out-of-school suspension rates and found nearly 8,000 arrests or citations involving children ages 10 to 12 during the 2021-22 through 2024-25 school years.
Misdemeanor assault was the most common charge, a broad offense that can include minor unwanted physical contact or verbal threats. The investigation also found Black students were arrested or cited at nearly twice their share of district enrollment.
The report highlighted cases involving bullying, students with disabilities and allegations that some schools did not adequately investigate incidents before referring children to law enforcement.
Under Texas law, juvenile courts have jurisdiction over children beginning at age 10. Bills to raise the minimum age have passed the Texas House in 2019, 2021 and 2023 but failed to advance in the Senate.
School officials said they are responsible for maintaining campus safety and enforcing the law fairly. Ector County ISD disputed how some student referrals were classified as arrests.
A federal study cited in the investigation found school arrest rates were more than twice as high at campuses with police officers compared with similar schools without them. Texas law requires school districts to provide armed security at every campus, although exceptions are permitted.
The City of Austin is considering lowering Lake Austin by about 10 feet this fall in what would be the lake’s first drawdown since 2017. City staff told Austin’s Climate, Water, Environment and Parks Committee on Wednesday they hope to make a final decision by late summer, with a drawdown tentatively planned for October and November if the city reaches an agreement with the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA). The proposed six-week drawdown was requested by shoreline stakeholders to allow for maintenance along the lake’s banks and to help combat hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant that can clog waterways, block sunlight and harm aquatic ecosystems. Austin Water and Austin Watershed Protection officials said homeowners and businesses along the lake are eager to know whether the drawdown will move forward so they can begin securing permits for shoreline work. “The stakeholders are really interested to know sooner rather than later whether a drawdown will happen so they can get their permits lined up,” said Liz Johnston, an environmental officer with Austin Watershed Protection. The last time Lake Austin was lowered was in early 2017. Staff said persistent drought conditions have largely prevented another drawdown over the past several years. City officials also said they have met twice with a stakeholder group that includes homeowners, business owners and others affected by the proposal. During Wednesday’s meeting, District 10 Council Member Marc Duchen asked whether support for the drawdown remains strong. “I do believe there is,” Johnston responded. According to notes from a June stakeholder meeting obtained by KVUE, participants acknowledged there are long-term concerns about the effects of lowering the lake on hydrilla. However, the group concluded a drawdown is a better short-term option than relying heavily on chemical treatments along the shoreline. The city is also pursuing a long-term strategy to control hydrilla by stocking Lake Austin with sterile grass carp, which feed on the invasive vegetation year-round. Officials said more than 5,000 grass carp have been released into the lake over the past year as part of that effort.
Austin considers first Lake Austin drawdown since 2017 to fight invasive hydrilla
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin officials are considering lowering Lake Austin by about 10 feet this fall, marking the lake’s first drawdown since 2017.
City staff told the Climate, Water, Environment and Parks Committee on Wednesday that a final decision is expected by late summer. If approved in coordination with the Lower Colorado River Authority, the six-week drawdown would take place in October and November.
The proposal was requested by shoreline property owners to allow maintenance along the lake’s banks and help control hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant that can obstruct waterways, reduce sunlight and damage aquatic ecosystems.
Officials said homeowners and businesses want an early decision so they can obtain permits for shoreline work.
“The stakeholders are really interested to know sooner rather than later whether a drawdown will happen so they can get their permits lined up,” said Liz Johnston, an environmental officer with Austin Watershed Protection.
The city last lowered Lake Austin in early 2017. Officials said prolonged drought conditions have prevented similar operations in recent years.
District 10 Council Member Marc Duchen asked whether shoreline stakeholders still support the proposal, and Johnston said she believes support remains strong.
According to notes from a June stakeholder meeting, participants acknowledged concerns about the long-term effectiveness of drawdowns but agreed the approach is preferable in the short term to relying heavily on chemical treatments.
As part of its long-term hydrilla management plan, the city has also stocked Lake Austin with more than 5,000 sterile grass carp over the past year. The fish feed on hydrilla year-round to help control its spread.
Two Dallas City Council members have dropped their lawsuit over a potential City Hall vote, saying the court order blocking it gave them the relief they sought. The dismissal ends a legal fight over one of Dallas’ biggest civic questions: whether to spend hundreds of millions repairing the nearly 50-year-old I.M. Pei-designed City Hall or move city operations and redevelop the 12-acre downtown site. Council members Paula Blackmon and Adam Bazaldua filed a notice July 2 voluntarily dismissing their claims against the city, City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert and City Secretary Bilierae Johnson, Dallas County court records show. State District Judge Eric Moyé dismissed the case four days later. “We certainly don’t want to waste the city’s resources or anyone else’s in continuing litigation when there’s nothing left to fight about,” attorney John Adams, who represented Blackmon and Bazaldua, said Tuesday.
Dallas council members drop lawsuit over City Hall vote
DALLAS — Two Dallas City Council members have dropped their lawsuit challenging a potential City Hall vote after a court order blocked the action they sought to prevent.
Council members Paula Blackmon and Adam Bazaldua voluntarily dismissed their claims against the city, City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert and City Secretary Bilierae Johnson on July 2, according to Dallas County court records. State District Judge Eric Moyé formally dismissed the case four days later.
The lawsuit centered on whether the city could move forward with a vote involving the future of Dallas City Hall, one of the city’s most significant civic decisions.
City leaders are weighing whether to spend hundreds of millions of dollars renovating the nearly 50-year-old City Hall, designed by architect I.M. Pei, or relocate municipal operations and redevelop the 12-acre downtown property.
Attorney John Adams, who represented Blackmon and Bazaldua, said the court order blocking the vote provided the relief they were seeking, making further litigation unnecessary.
“We certainly don’t want to waste the city’s resources or anyone else’s in continuing litigation when there’s nothing left to fight about,” Adams said Tuesday.
Bea Alonzo confirms marriage to Vincent Co with wedding photos
MANILA, Philippines — Actress Bea Alonzo has confirmed her marriage to businessman Vincent Co after sharing photos from their intimate civil wedding on social media.
Alonzo posted a series of black-and-white photos on Instagram on Wednesday, captioning the post simply, “Home.”
The images showed the couple exchanging rings, embracing, sharing a kiss behind Alonzo’s bouquet, and holding a cake with the words “Just Married.” The post also marked the first time Alonzo featured Co on her Instagram account.
Her announcement came a day after reports that the couple had married in a private civil ceremony officiated by Makati Mayor Nancy Binay, who shared a photo with the newlyweds on Facebook.
Two independent sources previously confirmed that Alonzo and Co, an heir to the Puregold retail business, exchanged vows on the evening of July 13 at the Makati mayor’s office.
The ceremony was attended by only four close friends, while both of their parents were absent. Alonzo wore a cream-colored suit dress, while Co wore a short-sleeved barong.
The wedding followed months of speculation after the couple’s reported plans for a ceremony in Spain and a church wedding in Manila did not push through.
Amid reports that disagreements over a prenuptial agreement delayed their earlier wedding plans, Alonzo’s legal counsel said the couple freely and voluntarily signed the agreement without issue.
More stars join FIFA World Cup final entertainment lineup
MANILA, Philippines — FIFA has expanded the entertainment lineup for the 2026 World Cup final, adding more celebrity performers and special guests for Sunday’s championship match at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Justin Bieber has joined the halftime show, alongside previously announced performers Madonna, Shakira, Burna Boy and K-pop group BTS. The show, curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, will also feature conductor Gonzalo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus and a special appearance by the Muppets.
Bieber’s addition has fueled speculation that halftime could be extended to 30 minutes instead of the traditional 15, although FIFA has not confirmed any change.
Before kickoff, FIFA will stage a closing ceremony celebrating the tournament’s 48 participating nations and 16 host cities across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The pre-match ceremony will feature Filipino-American singer Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, content creator IShowSpeed and a special appearance by actor Tom Cruise. Jennifer Hudson will perform the U.S. national anthem.
“The closing ceremony will bring the tournament full circle through music, culture and football, before we kick off the highly anticipated match that will crown the champions of this groundbreaking tournament,” World Cup chief operating officer Heimo Schirgi said.
European champion Spain has already secured a place in the final and will face the winner of the semifinal between defending champion Argentina and England.
Tornado damages northwest San Antonio; no injuries reported
SAN ANTONIO — A tornado damaged parts of northwest San Antonio on Wednesday, tearing roofs from buildings, toppling trees and damaging businesses, but no injuries were reported, city officials said.
The storm affected areas including the University of Texas at San Antonio, The Rim, Camp Bullis, Crown Ridge and The Dominion. Officials reported damage to roofs, storefronts, signs and trees.
The most severe damage occurred at the Oasis Apartments on UTSA Boulevard, where a large section of the roof was ripped from the building. Three fourth-floor units were damaged, and residents described the storm as it moved through the area.
The city urged displaced residents to contact the American Red Cross for assistance and encouraged property owners to report damage through the state’s Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT). Officials noted that submitting an assessment does not guarantee disaster assistance.
Residents needing help with storm debris, downed trees or property damage assessments were advised to call 311. Officials also warned the public to avoid downed power lines and report them to CPS Energy, while anyone smelling natural gas should move to a safe location and call 911 and CPS Energy.
City crews removed 57 trees from storm-affected areas this week, including 34 on Wednesday, and barricaded 20 low-water crossings as they continued monitoring conditions.
Austin selects train manufacturer for Project Connect light rail
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin is one step closer to launching its Project Connect light rail system after the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) approved a contract Wednesday with Stadler to supply 21 trains for the new line.
The light rail will run from 38th Street to Oltorf Street before splitting into two branches serving South and Southeast Austin.
ATP officials said Stadler was selected based on its modern, rider-focused design and ease of accessibility. Each train will accommodate about 240 passengers and feature ADA-compliant areas, along with flexible spaces for bicycles, luggage and strollers.
Stadler, which has supplied about 13,000 rail vehicles worldwide since 1942, also manufactures CapMetro’s current Red Line trains.
The initial contract is valued at $39 million.
The approval follows recent ATP contracts for construction of the rail line and its operations and maintenance facility. Officials expect to break ground on the Project Connect light rail next year.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for her Netflix show. The former actor who married Britain’s Prince Harry in 2018 was nominated in the outstanding lifestyle program category for “With Love, Meghan” on Tuesday. by TaboolaPromoted Links You May Like A new kind of ‘ceasefire’ between US and Iran where talks, strikes are part of the same process The Business Times Eugene Domingo sa utang na loob: Kapag tinulungan mo, kalimutan mo na Inquirer.net The show is competing against “A Different Breed,” “George to the Rescue,” “The Motherhood,” and “The Wizard of Paws.” Subscribe to our daily newsletter Email Address SIGN ME UP By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. You may like: Meghan Markle celebrates love with Prince Harry, Lilibet, Archie The 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be presented Oct. 30 at the Hollywood Palladium. by TaboolaSponsored Links You May Like Indonesia’s long-term draw intact despite market, currency jitters, says new SBF chairman The Business Times The AI-Ready Trading Stack for Modern Markets Trade forex, crypto, metals and indices with XBTFX’s next-generation platform, API connectivity and tools for modern traders. Trading involves risk. XBTFX Fly now to North East Asia Experience Cathay Pacific’s award-winning cabins and service* when you fly to multiple destinations across North East Asia. Elevate your experiences in the sky whether you’re traveling for leisure or business. *T&Cs apply. Cathay Pacific The Duchess of Sussex’s show featured cooking, entertaining and gardening segments and included appearances by celebrities like Chrissy Teigen and Mindy Kaling, and a cameo by her husband, Prince Harry. The show aired for two seasons in 2025 and had a holiday special. ADVERTISEMENT Then known as Meghan Markle, she starred in the legal drama “Suits” from 2011 to 2018, before leaving to marry into the royal family. Daytime drama nominees CBS received a leading 48 nominations. The nominees for daytime drama series are: “Beyond the Gates,” “Days of Our Lives,” “General Hospital,” and “The Young and the Restless.” ADVERTISEMENT The nominees for lead actress in a daytime drama series are Stacy Haiduk of “Days of Our Lives,” Karla Mosley of “Beyond the Gates,” Michelle Stafford of “The Young and the Restless,” Heather Tom of “The Bold and the Beautiful,” and Tamara Tunie of “Beyond the Gates.” Eric Braden of “The Young and the Restless” is among the lead actor nominees. He’s joined by Steve Burton of “General Hospital,” Scott Clifton of “The Bold and the Beautiful,” Thorsten Kaye of “The Bold and the Beautiful,” and Christian Jules Le Blanc of “The Young and the Restless.” Daytime talk series nominees The daytime talk series nominees are “3rd Hour of Today,” “The Drew Barrymore Show,” ” The Kelly Clarkson Show,” “Live with Kelly and Mark,” “TODAY with Jenna & Friends,” and “The View.” Clarkson is among the nominees for daytime talk series host. The others are Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin & Ana Navarro of “The View,” Tamron Hall, Jennifer Hudson, and Sherri Shepherd. Clarkson is ending her seven-season run this fall, while Shepherd’s show was canceled in May after four seasons. ABC’s “The View” has been in the crosshairs of federal regulators who want to reopen the debate of whether it is subject to equal-time rules.
Meghan earns Daytime Emmy nomination for Netflix lifestyle show
LOS ANGELES — Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, received a Daytime Emmy nomination for her Netflix series “With Love, Meghan,” earning recognition in the outstanding lifestyle program category.
The show will compete against “A Different Breed,” “George to the Rescue,” “The Motherhood,” and “The Wizard of Paws.”
The 53rd Daytime Emmy Awards will be held on Oct. 30 at the Hollywood Palladium.
“With Love, Meghan” features cooking, entertaining and gardening segments, with celebrity guests including Chrissy Teigen and Mindy Kaling, as well as a cameo by Prince Harry. The series ran for two seasons in 2025 and also released a holiday special.
Before marrying Prince Harry in 2018, Meghan Markle starred in the legal drama “Suits” from 2011 to 2018.
CBS led all networks with 48 nominations. The nominees for outstanding daytime drama series are “Beyond the Gates,” “Days of Our Lives,” “General Hospital,” and “The Young and the Restless.”
🇵🇭 REGISTER TO VOTE AT FIESTA KO SA TEXAS! 🗳️ Overseas Voters’ Registration is coming to Fiesta Ko sa Texas this 1 August 2026 at the Bayou City Event Center! The Consulate will be on-site to help eligible Filipinos and Filipino Americans to register as overseas voters — so you can make your voice heard in the 2028 Philippine National Elections. It only takes a few minutes to register, and we’ll be right there in the middle of the kasayahan. Come for the food, music, and culture — and leave as a registered overseas voter! 🎉 📍 Bayou City Event Center 🗓️ 1 August 2026 🕘 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM 📝 Bring your valid Philippine passport or identification certificate (for dual citizens) Tara na at magparehistro! Your vote matters. 🇵🇭 See less
PH Consulate to hold overseas voter registration at Fiesta Ko sa Texas
HOUSTON — Eligible Filipinos and Filipino Americans can register as overseas voters for the 2028 Philippine National Elections during Fiesta Ko sa Texas on Aug. 1 at the Bayou City Event Center.
The Philippine Consulate General in Houston will provide on-site voter registration services from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., allowing qualified applicants to register while attending the annual Filipino community event.
Applicants must bring a valid Philippine passport or an Identification Certificate for dual citizens.
The voter registration drive aims to encourage more overseas Filipinos to participate in the 2028 Philippine National Elections.
Event details:
- What: Overseas voter registration
- When: Aug. 1, 2026, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Bayou City Event Center, Houston
- Requirements: Valid Philippine passport or Identification Certificate (for dual citizens)
Today 10:08 AM
MANILA, Philippines — The defense’s decision to use the prosecution’s marked video of Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged threats not only acknowledged its authenticity but also amounted to a confession that she made the recorded statements. In a statement on Thursday, private prosecution counsel Lorna Kapunan argued that the defense could no longer claim that the recording had been tampered with, spliced, or generated using artificial intelligence after referring to it during its own presentation. “So with the video of the vice president, where she said, ‘I’ve hired an assassin,’ it already has a marking, Exhibit P-4-10, which was also used,” Kapunan noted in Filipino. Article continues after this advertisement READ: Duterte trial may be shorter; defense seems to have no evidence Kapunan distinguished between merely acknowledging the existence of the recording and repeatedly explaining why the statements were made. “The experts are saying it: This is not only an implied admission, but a confession,” she said. by TaboolaSponsored Links You May Like A new kind of ‘ceasefire’ between US and Iran where talks, strikes are part of the same process The Business Times Early payout from Philippines’ Maharlika Investment Fund raises eyebrows over its true nature The Business Times Top Brokers in the Philippines for Cost Efficiency and Value Explore leading trading brokers in the Philippines and discover smarter ways to improve cost efficiency and overall trading value. UTSPAY “But I’ll say more about that: That’s not only an admission, but that’s a confession,” Kapunan stressed. by TaboolaPromoted Links You May Like A Wolf Approaches a Girl on a Beach – See What Happens. Travel Sent Cayetano answers complaint over Dela Rosa’s ‘escape’ – Ombudsman Inquirer.net “What does that mean? It’s a confession in which she said it all,” she added. Article continues after this advertisement The recording became central to the fourth article of impeachment, which accuses Duterte of culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes over remarks concerning President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. “Although they have their own video, our video was what the defense used. So they can’t question it — that it was tampered with, spliced, used artificial intelligence, etc. That’s already admitted,” she said. Article continues after this advertisement An NBI technical witness had earlier testified on the source, chain of custody and authenticity of the recording before a second witness discussed its contents and the agency’s resulting investigation. READ: Ex-NBI chief: ‘Oplan Romanov’ a threat vs Marcoses, not VP Duterte “Why is there a need to prove it when the defense of the vice president impliedly admitted that these statements were uttered?” Kapunan said. Subscribe to our daily newsletter Email Address SIGN ME UP By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy. Duterte made his remarks in a videotaped Nov. 23, 2024, online news conference, after which she denied that they constituted a grave threat and characterized them as a response to a supposed danger to her own life.
Prosecution says defense’s use of Duterte video acknowledges authenticity
MANILA, Philippines — The prosecution in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial said the defense’s use of a prosecution-marked video of her alleged assassination threats amounts to an acknowledgment that the recording is authentic.
In a statement Thursday, private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan said the defense could no longer claim the video had been altered, spliced or generated using artificial intelligence after relying on the same recording during its presentation.
“The experts are saying it: This is not only an implied admission, but a confession,” Kapunan said in Filipino, referring to the defense’s use of the marked exhibit.
Kapunan argued that while the defense may dispute the legal implications of Duterte’s remarks, it effectively accepted that she made the recorded statements by using the prosecution’s exhibit.
The video is central to the fourth article of impeachment, which accuses Duterte of culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust and other high crimes over statements involving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Kapunan noted that an NBI technical witness had already testified about the recording’s source, chain of custody and authenticity before another witness discussed its contents and the agency’s investigation.
Duterte made the remarks during an online news conference on Nov. 23, 2024. She has denied that the statements constituted grave threats, maintaining they were made in response to what she claimed were threats against her own life.
