Mindanao journalists push for freedom of information law

By CHERYLL D. FIEL | Davao Today

Journalists, some of whom experienced being denied information related to the last elections, have committed to campaign among colleagues and lawmakers for the "Freedom of Information Act of 2007," which, once passed into law, will require government to release public documents within a specific number of working days upon receipt of a request and will eliminate the excessive cost of acquiring these data, which is imposed by government agencies.

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Duterte undergoes surgery; Sara takes over

By CHERYLL D. FIEL | Davao Today

Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, who was scheduled to undergo surgery last week, said he had no qualms leaving his post because he has complete trust in his daughter. Asked about the possibility of criminals on the loose while he is away, the mayor retorted, "When the cat is away, the tiger takes over," apparently alluding to his daughter.

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Lawyers say HSA worse than martial law


During the commemoration of the 35th year of declaration of martial law on Sept. 21, different lawyers' organizations in Davao City came together at the Centennial Park not only to light candles for judges, lawyers, and paralegals who were victims of the abusive law. They were also there to denounce the Human Security Act, which they called "illegal." The lawyers describe the present state of the country as even worse than during martial law. They see more human-rights abuses under the law. On the same occasion, the lawyers launched HOTLINE 296-0070; people who are faced with HSA-related violations can call and ask for help. (davaotoday.com photo by Cheryll D. Fiel)

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