#ThewRap: Things you need to know, August 17, 2017

Good morning!

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte threatens to have human rights advocates killed, blaming them slowing down the pursuit of justice for crime victims. His pronouncement is well-applauded by an organization against crime and corruption, which celebrated its anniversary at the Malacañang presidential palace.

Duterte’s gravest threat toward human rights champions comes on the same day he lauds an overnight series of police anti-drug operations that killed 32 persons and injures about 100.

Also on Wednesday, the Commission on Appointments – the powerful body of 25 congressmen and senators that vet presidential appointees – rejects Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, a former anti-martial law activist and university professor. It sparks online protests and criticism from various sectors.

A piece of good news, however, comes Thursday morning, as the Philippine Statistics Authority announces the country’s GDP grew 6.5% in the 2nd quarter of 2017, recovering from a slowdown for the past 3 quarters.

Here are the major stories you shouldn’t miss this Thursday.

PH President Duterte warns to have human rights advocates killed

‘Para makita talaga kung anong klaseng human right,’ says President Rodrigo Duterte about his latest threat

Lawmakers reject the appointment of social welfare chief Taguiwalo

(UPDATED) Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo is the 3rd Duterte Cabinet appointee to be rejected by the powerful body

Duterte: Good if we can replicate Bulacan raids that killed 32

President Rodrigo Duterte also says he wants to ‘investigate’ human rights groups for ‘conspiracy’

PH GDP grows by 6.5% in Q2 2017, still behind China

(UPDATED) The 6.5% growth in GDP places the Philippines ahead of ASEAN nations that have released their 2nd quarter figures. But it is still behind China.

After more than 2 months, Saudi king orders reopening of Qatar border

(UPDATED) The decision comes after the kingdom received an envoy from Doha for the first time since Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates severed ties with Qatar on June 5.

As told by LTFRB, Uber to give money assistance to drivers