Friday, August 24, 2007 (Philippines)

South African Ambassador to the Philippines Pieter Andries Vermuelen and wife Chrisna do some bit of hip swinging and foot stomping as they join performers from world-renowned Kaliwat Theatre Collective during a welcome dinner hosted by Acting Vice Mayor Sara Z. Duterte on Wednesday at the Royal Mandaya Hotel. (Sun.Star Davao/Rene B. Lumawag) ADMINISTRATORS of the University of Southeastern Philippines (Usep) on Thursday clarified "erroneous reports" of the local media accusing the school administration of inaction on the August 16 accidental electrocution of two female students within the campus. In a statement issued through Usep counsel Ramon Edison Batacan, the university officials assured the public that all efforts are being exerted in order to ease the burden of the two victims -- Lyneth Bajenting and Shiela May Barnaldez. Arroyo Watch: Sun.Star blog on President Arroyo Updates on the Kadayawan Festival 2007 [full story]