Thursday May 14, 2026

High-Wire Summit

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The San Juan Daily Star, the only paper with News Service in English in Puerto Rico, publishes 7 days a week, with a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday edition, along with a Weekend Edition to cover Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Housing secretary: Proposed stricter public housing regulations are optional

By THE STAR STAFF

The island’s housing secretary said this week that proposed federal rules requiring residents of public housing to work 40 hours a week will not put public housing benefits in Puerto Rico at risk.

In a radio interview, the new housing secretary, Luis Augusto Martínez, said the proposed federal housing rules are currently optional for Puerto Rico. He also said he does not expect any further changes that would affect Section 8 or other public housing assistance on the island.

Augusto Martínez said the government has not made any official statements about the proposed new federal rules, and that everything is running as usual.

“I went to Washington, D.C., to meet with HUD [the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development] and share our concerns about these federal proposals and what they might mean,” he said. “But right now, these federal measures are optional for Puerto Rico.”

Augusto Martínez stressed that Puerto Rico’s policy is to protect public housing and its residents, and to keep the right to apply only those rules that support that goal.

In May 2026, HUD proposed new rules that would let public housing authorities require adults ages 18 to 61 to work 40 hours a week and limit their assistance to as little as two years. The changes are meant to shorten waiting lists, but they could cause millions to lose housing help.

Under the proposed rules, after the two years on assistance residents might lose their subsidy or have to reapply. While older adults and people with disabilities are usually exempt, critics say that complicated paperwork could still cause them to lose benefits. The proposed rules also give local housing authorities and private owners more power to enforce the stricter policies, and some conservative states could require mandatory work reporting.

If the rules are widely used, as many as 3.7 million people, including 1.9 million children, could lose housing assistance. The public comment period for the proposals ended earlier this month, and published reports say more than 1,000 comments were submitted.

PRITS, Treasury Dept. provide guidance on secure tax relief registration

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico Innovation and Technology Service (PRITS)

Executive Director Poincaré Díaz and Treasury Secretary

Ángel Pantoja Rodríguez provided guidance Wednesday regarding the secure use of the Unified Internal Revenue System (SURI by its acronym in Spanish) portal to register banking information and receive tax relief funds.

“We are providing guidance to every citizen so that they may complete this process with total confidence,” Díaz said in written remarks. “We want the money not only to arrive quickly, but to arrive securely.”

The process applies to eligible taxpayers who did not include their bank account information on their 2025 tax return or who received their refund via check.

Pantoja Rodríguez emphasized that registration must be completed exclusively through the official link available within the taxpayer’s SURI account.

“Our mission is to guide the public to prevent them from falling victim to fraud schemes,” he said. “The Department of the Treasury has enabled a specific link within the SURI accounts of these taxpayers; this is the only official method

for registering bank account information.”

PRITS urged the public to verify that they are accessing the site directly at suri.hacienda.pr.gov and that any portal they use ends in pr.gov.

Díaz warned that any communications requesting bank account information outside of the SURI platform should be ignored.

“We are employing the highest cybersecurity standards to safeguard this process,” he added.

To complete the registration, taxpayers must log in to their SURI account using their username and password, access the “Individual” menu, and select the link labeled “2025 Tax Relief – Add Bank Account.”

They must then enter the routing and account numbers for their financial institution and save the confirmation number provided.

The Treasury Department reminded the public that it will never request sensitive information via email or text message. General eligibility requirements include having resided in Puerto Rico for the entire year, having filed a 2025 tax return -- or a timely extension -- and having an income of $150,000 or less.

Resident commissioner opposes cat removal plan

By THE STAR STAFF

Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera sent a letter this week to the National Park Service (NPS) opposing the plan to remove feral “community” cats from Paseo del Morro in Old San Juan.

“As someone born and raised in Old San Juan, I recognize the value of cats in the community and will lobby federal agencies to protect them,” the resident commissioner said.

The letter responded to concerns from residents, visitors and animal welfare organizations about the possible end of the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, which Save A Gato Inc. (SAG) and Alley Cat Allies have administered since 2005.

The TNR program, established in 2005,

humanely controls the community cat population on Paseo del Morro. In the letter, Hernández Rivera warned that removing the cats could lead to euthanasia of many animals and the arrival of new cats, which would perpetuate the problem.

The resident commissioner asked the NPS to suspend removal plans and collaborate with community organizations and members to find a humane, sustainable solution.

According to the SAG website, the cats are a part of the Old San Juan experience, and noted that “some of these cats are said to be descendants from the original cats that arrived on the ships when the first Spanish settlers came to the island.”

“Most of the cats around the Paseo del Morro are feral cats, which means that they

are not socialized to humans,” the group said. “They are cats that were either born outside and never had human care/contact, or cats that have become accustomed to living without human companionship.”

Through an agreement with the NPS, SAG said it provides food, water and medical assistance for the cats of Paseo del Morro. It also said it controls the colony’s population by trapping and neutering the cats. However, the group works on donations and encourages other ways to help the cats.

People observe cats outside Save A Gato, a nonprofit organization that has trapped, neutered and spayed the cats of Old San Juan, March 4, 2024. (Erika P. Rodríguez/ The New York Times)

Jordán Conde asks fiscal board to recognize UPR as essential under PROMESA

By THE STAR STAFF

University of Puerto Rico (UPR) President Zayira Jordán Conde has submitted to the Financial Oversight and Management Board a review of the Amended Fiscal Plan 2021, approved by the UPR’s governing board, which extends fiscal projections through fiscal year 2027 without accounting for additional increases in enrollment, student fees, or positions, or modifications to the university retirement system.

Jordán Conde asked the oversight board to recognize UPR as essential under Title V of the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA), highlighting its pivotal role in infrastructure revitalization and Puerto Rico’s recovery, competitiveness and development.

The proposal aims to secure UPR’s financial future, aligning the new fiscal plan with the public university system’s

operational, academic and economic realities.

The amendment reiterates the president’s stance that UPR’s fiscal sustainability depends on diversifying income sources rather than on new student fees or on creating uncertainty for employees and retirees.

The central administration includes $258 million in research proposals through June 2027 as a key alternative, highlighting UPR’s strength in securing funding and advancing academic and research initiatives.

“UPR needs fiscal stability, but not at the cost of access to education or the welfare of dedicated staff,” Jordán Conde said. “The Amended Fiscal Plan rejects hikes in enrollment, fees, or retirement changes. Instead, it focuses on real income alternatives -- research, grants, federal and public funds -- for sustainability.”

The review acknowledges the annual $500 million

allocation from Law 53-2021 for 2023-2027, which UPR considers vital for financial stability and responsible planning.

The UPR system is a strategic infrastructure, vital beyond education for research, training, health, innovation, social mobility and economic growth, Jordán Conde said.

“The University of Puerto Rico cannot be analyzed only from an operational or budgetary perspective. The UPR is strategic infrastructure for Puerto Rico,” the official added. “Here, the human capital that sustains our essential sectors is trained, high-impact research is developed, and innovation is promoted that strengthens the competitiveness and recovery of our island. That reality must be part of any responsible fiscal evaluation.”

The amended plan does not add new fiscal measures or reforms for 2027. It updates projections based on execution, revenues, appropriations and external funding opportunities.

Cayey students advance to World Robot Olympiad

By THE STAR STAFF

Cayey Mayor Rolando Ortiz Velázquez and District 29 (Cidra-Cayey) Rep. Gretchen Hau Irizarry on Wednesday congratulated Benjamin Harrison School in Cayey for another historic triumph, this time one accomplished by three of its students.

“We congratulate the EatChiwi team, composed of José F. Ortiz Mulero, Efraín J. Ortiz Mulero and Faneshka Cartagena Maldonado, who were crowned champions of the ‘Future Engineers’ category in the National Robotics Olympics,” the mayor said. “We in Cayey promote quality education as well as exposure to high-level competitive events. What we have today with these young people is evidence of this.”

Hau noted that the three students, belonging to the school’s Electronics Pre-Engineering Workshop/Robotics Club, will represent Puerto Rico in the World Robot Olympiad 2026 (WRO 2026).

“Our congratulations to this talented team led by their coach, Edward J. Gonell Rodríguez, a former student of Benjamin Harrison, who demonstrated unparalleled expertise and technical mastery, being crowned the best in Puerto Rico in their category,” she said.

The WRO 2026 International Final will be held Dec. 8-10 in San Juan with the central theme “Robots Meet Culture.” The 2026 season (https://wro-association.org/competition/2026-season) challenges young people ages eight to 22 to explore how robotics protects, preserves and shares culture, art and heritage.

Passport revocation for child support arrears could impact 435 people

By THE STAR STAFF

María del Mar Mateu Meléndez, who heads the island’s Child Support Administration, announced on Wednesday that the federal revocation of passports due to child support arrears could initially impact 435 non-custodial parents in Puerto Rico.

“Until last week, this restriction applied primarily when an individual attempted to apply for or renew their passport,” said Mateu Meléndez in a written statement.

The new federal phase will begin with non-custodial parents who have outstanding child support debts exceeding $100,000.

Of the 435 cases identified in Puerto Rico, 68 involve active cases concerning minors under the age of 21, while 367 involve cases concerning individuals over the age of 21.

“With this new federal directive, the landscape changes, as the federal government is now empowered to revoke passports that have already been issued to individuals with significant child support arrears,” the official said.

Mateu Meléndez said the process will soon be expanded to include cases involving lower outstanding balances, in accordance with current federal law.

The directive was issued last week by the U.S. Department of State, in coordination with the federal Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of Child Support Enforcement.

The regulation maintains the existing requirement to provide advance notification to any individual owing more than $2,500 in overdue child support regarding potential consequences -- such as the denial or revocation of their passport.

“Passport revocation reinforces existing tools designed to promote compliance with child support obligations and ensure that minors receive the financial support to which

they are entitled,” Mateu Meléndez added.

According to federal guidelines, an individual whose passport has been revoked must contact the jurisdiction in which the child support is owed in order to arrange for payment.

Once the debt has been settled and the relevant federal agencies have been notified, the individual may reapply for a passport, subject to an eligibility review. The federal government warned that a revoked passport cannot be used for travel, even if the debt has subsequently been settled.

The ASUME administrator urged obligors to contact the agency, address their cases, and bring their accounts up to date before facing consequences that could affect their ability to travel.

RUM begins gradual process to resume in-person operations

By THE STAR STAFF

University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus (RUM by its acronym in Spanish) Interim Chancellor Miguel Muñoz Muñoz announced on Wednesday that the campus has initiated a gradual process to resume in-person operations following the reopening of campus access points.

“The gradual resumption of operations is part of the institutional efforts aimed at guaranteeing the continuity of the Campus’ academic and administrative services,” Muñoz

stated in written remarks.

The reopening of access points took place in compliance with the permanent injunction issued by the Mayagüez Court.

As part of the first phase, personnel from Traffic and Security, Buildings and Grounds, and Health and Safety -- as well as deans and department directors -- resumed in-person duties during the workday.

Muñoz noted that work scheduled via remote modalities and telework would continue in the areas where applicable.

The campus will continue to evaluate the gradual return of other departments, while seeking to maintain a safe and orderly environment for academic, administrative and service-related activities, he added.

“Our call continues to be one of respect, dialogue, and university coexistence,” Muñoz stated.

The interim chancellor said that during this period, spaces for communication have been fostered with various sectors of the RUM community to address the issues that have been raised.

Rep. Aponte: Navy Frontier Pier needed to help relieve vessel traffic

By THE STAR STAFF

Rep. José Aponte Hernández on Wednesday asked the Convention Center District Authority and the Puerto Rico Ports Authority to keep the pier in Puerta de Tierra

known as Navy Frontier Pier open and operational.

“This isn’t new. Since 2019, I’ve been speaking out about the need to keep the Navy Frontier pier open and in optimal condition to receive both cruise ships and cargo vessels,” Aponte said. “Today’s news [regarding vessel traffic congestion] underscores the need for more port facilities in San Juan Bay. In December 2024, this facility accommodated the Nautica cruise ship because all other docks in San Juan were either in use or temporarily closed by the U.S. Coast Guard. It can be done. This dock will minimize security concerns in San Juan Bay, through which over 80 percent of all products and goods consumed on the island enter.”

The veteran lawmaker’s remarks come after the United States Coast Guard warned two vessels, Water Spirit 2 and Admiral Pride, on May 1 for anchoring in the San Antonio channel of San Juan Bay, which put the transit of other vessels at risk should they suffer any mishap.

The Navy Frontier Pier, located on Fernández Juncos

Avenue in Puerta de Tierra, near Old San Juan, was a strategic port point, designed to be used for multiple purposes, allowing the entry of cruise ships and cargo ships.

“The Convention Center District Authority has evaluated proposals for the construction of a commercial-residential project at the Navy Frontier,” Aponte noted. “However, actions such as those that occurred on May 1st, which jeopardized the flow of goods to the island, must be reevaluated, as well as the decision to permanently close the facility. Given that the island is heavily dependent on tourism and cargo, spaces should be expanded, not restricted.”

Ownership of the pier was transferred to the Convention Center District Authority during the administration of Gov. Luis Fortuño (2009-2012). Following the transfer, an unsolicited proposal emerged to develop a commercial, office and residential building, which has limited, and could permanently limit, the much-needed port use of the facility, the former House speaker recounted.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary resigns after weeks of pressure

By CHRISTINA JEWETT

Dr. Marty Makary, the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, resigned Tuesday, after weeks of pressure and rumors that President Donald Trump was planning to fire him.

Makary ultimately left over concerns about the administration’s decision to authorize fruit-flavored e-cigarettes, an action he opposed, according to four people familiar with the matter. Makary told those close to him that he could not in good conscience approve flavored vapes, given their appeal to young people, and would not do something he did not believe in.

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resigned on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, according to an administration official, after weeks of pressure and rumors that President Donald Trump was planning to fire him. (Al Drago/The New York Times)

“So much was accomplished under his leadership,” Trump wrote. “He was a hard worker, who was respected by all, and will go on to have an outstanding career in Medicine.”

“Marty’s a terrific guy, but he’s going to go on and he’s going to lead a good life,” Trump said as he left for a trip to China. “He’s a great doctor, and he was having some difficulty.”

Makary also faced repeated calls for his firing from abortion foes who accused him of dragging out the timetable for a study of the safety of mifepristone, an abortion drug, viewing the exercise as one that could support their efforts to restrict the drug’s distribution.

Makary, who was a Johns Hopkins University cancer surgeon and health policy researcher before entering government, attempted to play to Kennedy’s Make America Healthy Again movement, going as far as sitting in a frigid plunge pool with wellness influencer and biohacker Gary Brecka. He also led popular efforts to authorize natural food dyes and change how people talked about hormone replacement therapy for women.

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His departure caps a tumultuous run at the helm of an agency that regulates medical treatments, vaccines and much of the U.S. food supply. Makary came to the FDA as a reformer, instituting so many new initiatives that he became known — and sometimes mocked — for his whiteboard on wheels, festooned with Post-it notes lining up announcements that he promoted on frequent television appearances.

But his efforts at times put him at odds with the powerful food, tobacco and pharmaceutical industries. In the process, he made a number of enemies in Washington and on Wall Street, including some biotech leaders, abortion foes, tobacco executives and eventually some members of the administration.

As the criticism grew, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also urged Makary to step down, according to two people familiar with the matter.

Makary also drew criticism from public health leaders who viewed him as pandering to anti-vaccine activists with the release of an unsupported memo claiming that there were deaths related to COVID-19 vaccines. Criticism flared again when he allowed the renewed use of unproven peptides, or injectable compounds with uncertain effects, a policy favored by Kennedy.

“He has offended almost everyone in-

volved in FDA issues, which is not easy to do,” said Diana Zuckerman, the president of the National Center for Health Research, which weighs in frequently on FDA decisions. “But it would still be a disaster if he is replaced by someone who appeals primarily to tobacco companies, anti-abortion activists” and pharmaceutical lobbyists, she added.

The resignation was first reported by Politico.

Kyle Diamantas, the FDA’s top food regulator, was named the acting commissioner. Diamantas came to the agency from Jones Day, a law firm where he represented Abbott Nutrition, a leader in the infant formula industry. He has become a vocal champion for policies to remove chemicals from the food supply and increase transparency around food ingredients.

The most consequential clash of his tenure was over the authorization of flavored ecigarettes, a step Makary resisted over concerns that fruity and candy flavors would lure young people to addictive vapes. The White House ultimately prevailed. Earlier this month, two fruit-flavored vapes were approved. And last Friday, the FDA quietly issued a policy allowing them to be more widely marketed.

Trump told reporters Tuesday afternoon that he wished Makary well, and later posted a complimentary social media statement.

With the support of MAHA voters, Trump framed Makary as a bold reformer, someone who would right an agency that had “lost sight of its primary role as a regulator.”

Early on, Makary and Dr. Vinay Prasad — his hand-picked director of gene therapies, stem cell treatments and vaccines — drew scrutiny when they restricted the criteria for prescribing COVID vaccines to people older than 65 or with a list of health concerns.

Prasad resigned under pressure last summer after he was targeted by right-wing influencer Laura Loomer, in part over his crackdown on a drug company tied to several patient deaths. Prasad was later brought back but left the agency again in recent weeks.

Prasad and his counterpart in the agency’s drug division rejected a number of new drugs for rare diseases, citing flaws in a company’s research supporting an approval.

As Makary went on television to defend the rejections, frustrated biotech leaders and investors vented to the White House and Kennedy’s office.

“On vaccines and mifepristone, Makary rarely prioritized rigorous evidence,” said Lawrence O. Gostin, a professor at Georgetown Law who studies the FDA. “Ironically, his one stand for high-quality science — on flavored vapes — created the friction with the White House that contributed to him losing his job.”

Pentagon puts war at $29 billion as Hegseth is mum on funding request

By MEGAN MINEIRO

Atop Pentagon official testified earlier this week that the cost of the war with Iran had risen to around $29 billion, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth refused repeatedly to tell members of Congress how much he would request on an emergency basis, or when, to fund the 11-week-old conflict.

Jay Hurst, the Pentagon comptroller, said the cost of the war had risen to “closer” to $29 billion since Hegseth testified on Capitol Hill two weeks ago, when he estimated it had cost $25 billion.

“That’s because of updated repair and replacement of equipment costs and also just general operational costs,” Hurst said.

But in back-to-back hearings on Capitol Hill, Hegseth sidestepped questions about how much money outside the Pentagon’s normal budget would ultimately be needed to finance the war — and when he would request it — even as Republicans and Democrats alike pressed him for details.

He also made it clear that the administration had no intention of seeking authorization from Congress to continue operations in Iran.

“It’ll be helpful to get the supplemental sooner rather than later so we can get to work on it,” Rep. Ken Calvert of California, the Republican chair of the House Appropriations defense subcommittee, told the secretary, inquiring about when a funding request would be submitted.

“First of all, the munitions issue has been foolishly and unhelpfully overstated,” Hegseth replied. “We know exactly what we have. We have plenty of what we need.

“Whatever we think we need, we will submit,” he added.

The White House told Congress earlier this month that hostilities with Iran had terminated amid a ceasefire. On Tuesday, however, Republicans and Democrats raised questions about the cost of the continuing military operation in the region and the durability of the ceasefire that the administration was relying on to make that claim.

Hegseth was on Capitol Hill to testify to House and Senate appropriations subcommittees reviewing the Pentagon’s nearly $1.45 trillion budget request for the coming year.

His assertion that munitions had not been depleted by the war was difficult to square with the Defense Department’s historically large request, which includes a large infusion for restocking munitions.

The war has forced the Pentagon to rush bombs, missiles and other hardware to the Mid-

dle East from commands in Asia and Europe. The drawdowns have left these regional commands less ready to confront potential adversaries like Russia and China and have forced the United States to find ways to scale up production to address the depletions, officials in the Trump administration and in Congress have said.

But Gen. Dan Caine, the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also sought to allay fears that the war had significantly drained much of the U.S. military’s global supply of munitions.

“We have sufficient munitions for what we’re tasked to do right now,” Caine said, citing what he said top commanders around the world had told him.

Testifying to the Senate, Hurst said the $29 billion estimate did not include the cost of repairing more than a dozen U.S. military bases damaged by Iranian attacks.

“We don’t know how those bases would be reconstructed,” Hurst testified, adding, “We just don’t have a good estimate at this time.”

When Sen. Patty Murray of Washington, the senior Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, pressed Hegseth to provide a cost estimate, he deflected the question.

“What is the cost of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon?” Hegseth responded. “And the fact that this president has been willing to make a historic and courageous choice to confront that — it comes with costs.”

The House hearing concluded with the top Republican and Democrat urging Hegseth to move quickly to submit a request — on top of the Defense Department’s annual budget — for additional money to fund the war.

“Sooner is better,” Calvert said. “This makes my job easier, and at the end of the day,

The secretary made clear that the White House had no intention of doing so.

“Our view is that, should the president make the decision to recommence, that we would have all the authorities necessary to do so,” he said. President Donald Trump, he added, “has all the authorities he needs under Article 2” of the Constitution.

Hegseth sought to deflect questions about the durability of the ceasefire.

“As you know, for the most part, a ceasefire means fire is ceasing, and we know that has occurred while negotiations occur,” Hegseth said.

But he added that the administration could restart the war if negotiations were to collapse.

“We have a plan to escalate, if necessary,” the secretary testified, declining to provide more details. “We have a plan to retrograde if necessary. We have a plan to shift assets.”

it makes your job easier, Mr. Secretary, if we can get the information both on the base budget and on the supplemental.”

Democrats and one Republican rejected the Trump administration’s claim that the war had drawn to a close, pointing to the fighting in the Strait of Hormuz, and said the White House had demonstrated a pattern of withholding critical information from Congress about the conflict.

“We still have 15,000 troops that are forward deployed, more than 20 warships and an active naval blockade,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska. “In other words, it doesn’t appear that hostilities have ended.”

Murkowski, who has criticized the White House for failing to seek approval to wage the war, asked Hegseth if the administration “has considered or had intended” to seek an authorization.

Hegseth has repeatedly said he wants to rely in part on a reconciliation bill, a budget-related measure that is shielded from a filibuster, to fund the Defense Department. That would allow the White House to steer around Democratic opposition and push it through with only Republican votes.

But a senior Republican warned that strategy could backfire, suggesting that some in the GOP might not be willing to go along with the high levels of spending the Pentagon has requested.

“I would remind you that, frankly, the use of reconciliation depends on political support in Congress,” said Rep. Tom Cole of Oklahoma, the Republican chair of the Appropriations Committee.

He added, “It’s a high-risk strategy, as opposed to building things” into the annual appropriations bill, which needs bipartisan backing to pass.

China is much weaker than it seems. That’s the problem.

By BRET STEPHENS

As President Donald Trump visits Beijing this week, he should have the satisfaction of knowing that time, in the long run, is on America’s side. Unfortunately, that’s also the problem.

That’s the opposite of a conventional wisdom that holds that the United States is a fumbling status quo power, akin to Britain in the waning years of its empire, squandering its strength in sideshow wars (South Africa then; Iran now) while failing to grapple with its principal strategic and economic competitor (Germany then; China now). It’s this same conventional wisdom that has been telling us that, any year now, China will overtake the United States as the world’s largest economy.

But China’s economy most likely will never overtake America’s, just as past would-be contenders — whether they were the Soviet Union, Japan or the European Union — all fell short. Why? Because history shows that the most productive national assets are political freedom and open markets — the freer, more open and more competitive, the better.

That’s a point that often gets lost with those who think that good economics means a wise industrial policy, one that steers government revenues into technologies of “the future.” Hence China’s supreme leader, Xi Jinping, has ordered heavy investment in robotics, electric cars, lithium-ion batteries and military kit, just as Germany’s leaders at the beginning of this century made a titanic push into renewable energy — only to see it founder long before Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine exposed Berlin’s backdoor dependence on cheap Russian gas.

Outside of emergencies, particularly war, such an approach rarely works out well. Technologies of the future often turn out to be anything but. (Remember ethanol-fueled cars as environmental godsends?) Taxpayer funds steered toward so-called national champion industries frequently lead to sloppy practices as corporate leaders become more attuned to political demands — such as keeping money-losing factories open — than to tough-minded management. And corruption tends to become endemic whenever the lines between business and government become hopelessly blurred.

The United States periodically suffers from some of this, not least under the current administration. China’s problems are orders of magnitude worse.

As of last year, state-owned or “mixed-ownership” enterprises account for about 60% of China’s largest companies. The bursting of China’s real-estate bubble — creating the eerie phenomenon of “ghost cities” — has depleted the

savings of millions of ordinary Chinese and helped cause a municipal financing crisis. And China’s corporate sector is increasingly being “zombified” as companies become dependent on cheap credit to cover their losses: “Business debt has doubled since 2019, while revenues are only 30% higher,” reports Fortune.

This economic house of cards rests, if you’ll forgive the mixed metaphor, on a foundation of sand: an aging and declining workforce, net emigration, widespread youth unemployment, plummeting foreign direct investment, an arbitrary rule of law that terrifies business leaders, repeated purges of the military that project far more paranoia than confidence and a truculent foreign policy that does little more than alarm and alienate China’s neighbors.

Great powers should have a combination of hard and soft power — the power to compel and the power to attract, in Joseph Nye’s famous formulation. What today’s China has is brittle power: power with too much hardness and not enough capacity to bend or adapt. Sooner or later, it is destined to shatter.

That, however, is what makes today’s China so scary. Rising nations, which is what China was under Deng Xiaoping and Jiang Zemin, have the luxury of being able to bide their time. Declining nations don’t. It tends to make them more inclined to gamble with their future. It’s why Putin invaded Ukraine after he realized the country was moving inexorably into the West’s orbit. It’s also why Xi will be powerfully tempted to seize Taiwan by invasion or blockade despite the enormous risks it poses not only to the world’s economy but also to his own.

What would a wise U.S. policy look like in the face of this kind of challenge? In a sentence, it would be dovish on the terms of trade and hawkish on the defense of our allies.

That’s roughly the opposite of what the administration’s rhetoric and policies have been thus far: a constantly threatened trade war along with decidedly mixed signals on whether the U.S. will continue to supply Taiwan with arms or come to its defense in the event of a conflict. If Trump uses his summit to barter away a pledged $11 billion arms sale to the island in exchange for a variety of diplomatic or economic promises from Beijing — whether the subject is the Strait of Hormuz or the supply of rare earths — you’ll know the summit has been a fiasco.

Certain readers will be tempted to remark that, when it comes to repression or corruption, Trump is every bit the match of Xi. If that were true, this column couldn’t be published. What is true, as President Bill Clinton put it in his first inaugural address, is that “there is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America” — which goes for this administration. Nothing similar can be said about China’s Communist Party. That is what makes it dangerous to us now and an even greater danger to itself later.

PO BOX 6537 Caguas PR 00726 Telephones: (787) 743-3346 • (787) 743-6537 (787) 743-5606 • Fax (787) 743-5100

Dr. Ricardo Angulo

Huertas College, con más de 80 años en Puerto Rico, inaugura el Instituto

Teológico de Ciencias Cristianas

Huertas College, institución de educación superior acreditada por la Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) y con más de 80 años de trayectoria en Puerto Rico, continúa innovando y ampliando su impacto académico con la inauguración oficial del Instituto Teológico de Ciencias Cristianas (ITCC). El ITCC es una nueva unidad académica orientada a la formación integral de líderes eclesiásticos y profesionales cristianos, integrando el estudio de la teología con disciplinas contemporáneas como la neurociencia, el liderazgo, la administración y el emprendimiento. Este enfoque busca desarrollar líderes con capacidades no solo espirituales, sino también organizacionales y estratégicas, capaces de dirigir, estructurar y expandir iniciativas dentro de sus comunidades.

El evento contó con la participación del Hon. William Miranda Torres, alcalde del Municipio Autónomo de Caguas, así como líderes eclesiásticos, representantes institucionales e invitados especiales. Como parte de la actividad, se formalizó un Memorando de Enten-

dimiento (MOU) entre Huertas College y el Municipio Autónomo de Caguas, con el propósito de desarrollar programas de educación continua, talleres y certificaciones dirigidas a organizaciones de base de fe.

“El Instituto Teológico de Ciencias Cristianas representa un paso estratégico en la evolución académica de Huertas College. Esta iniciativa fortalece nuestra oferta educativa y responde a la necesidad de formar líderes con fundamento bíblico, pensamiento crítico y capacidades administrativas y empresariales para impactar la iglesia y la sociedad”, expresó el Dr. Isaac Esquilín Castro, presidente de Huertas College.

Durante la inauguración se presentó el panel académico “Fe, razón y transformación humana: perspectivas contemporáneas”, con la participación del Padre Carlos Pérez, el Pastor Otoniel Font y el Dr. Isaac Esquilín Castro, moderado por el Sr. Guillermo Encarnación, director de la Unidad de Bases de Fe del Municipio Autónomo de Caguas.

A través del ITCC, Huertas College ofrecerá cursos, talleres y certificaciones enfocados en teología, liderazgo, administración, emprendimiento y áreas interdisciplinarias, fortaleciendo las estructuras organizacionales de las comunidades de fe y su capacidad de servicio, sostenibilidad y crecimiento.

Con esta iniciativa, Huertas College reafirma su compromiso de innovar, educar y aportar al desarrollo integral de Puerto Rico, ampliando su alcance hacia nuevas áreas de formación con pertinencia, rigor académico y visión de futuro.

Bachilleratos en:

• Ciencias en Enfermería (BSN)

• Administración de Empresas con concentración en Contabilidad con Auditoría

• Ventas y Mercadeo

Grados Asociados en:

• Enfermería (RNA)

• Asistente Dental con Funciones Expandidas

• Técnico de Farmacia

• Terapia Física

• Asistente de Terapia Ocupacional

• Tecnología en el Manejo de Información de la Salud

Programas Técnicos en:

• Entrenador Personal (8 meses)

• Tecnología en Refrigeración y Aire Acondicionado (8 meses)

• Tecnología en Electricidad (1 año)

• Masaje Terapéutico (1 año)

• Estética (1 año)

Requisitos de admisión

• Diploma de 4to año

• Vacunas (menores de 21 años)

•Completar solicitud de admisión

¡Matricúlate HOY!

(787) 746-1400 ext.3 www.huertascollege.com

Localizado Caguas

In ‘Soul Power,’ a fresh look at the league that helped launch Dr. J

By STUART MILLER

While Kenan Kamwana Holley was shooting his documentary series “Soul Power: The Legend of the American Basketball Association,” he asked basketball players what they knew about the long-defunct ABA.

“We had young NBA players like Tyrese Haliburton and RJ Barrett send us videos talking about what the ABA means to them, and they all started with Dr. J,” Holley said. “We went to courts around the country like Rucker Park in Harlem and the court in Los Angeles where they made ‘White Men Can’t Jump.’ And when we asked players about the ABA, they all said, ‘Dr. J, Dr. J, Dr. J.’”

Dr. J, of course, is Julius Erving, the sublime superstar and three-time league MVP, whose above-the-rim play changed the game and helped keep the ABA afloat. Fifty years ago, the ABA introduced the slam-dunk contest to basketball, and it was Erving’s astonishing flight from the foul line to the basket that provided a memorable exclamation point to the league’s final season.

Premiering in February on Amazon Prime Video, the fourpart series, of which Erving is an executive producer, goes far beyond being a Dr. J highlight film, however. There was a rich history of fun, rebelliousness and innovation — the league invented the 3-point shot, for starters, and used a red, white and blue basketball — that Holley, who directed the series, wanted to show to younger generations.

The ABA, which included early versions of the Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, San Antonio Spurs and Brooklyn Nets (then the New York Nets), was started in 1967 with the explicit hopes of eventually forcing a merger with the already wellestablished NBA — just as the American Football League had initiated the previous year with the NFL.

Previous books and documentaries about the ABA emphasized the wacky behind-the-scenes stories of an underfinanced underdog league, effectively relegating it to footnote status, Holley said. But as he dug in, he found a fast-paced game that was

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more of a precursor to the modern game than was the NBA of the late ’60s and early ’70s. There was also plenty of talent, including future Hall of Famers Rick Barry, George Gervin, Artis Gilmore, Spencer Haywood and Dan Issel. As Holley discovered, ABA teams beat NBA teams in exhibition games more often than they lost.

“That was pretty incredible,” Holley said. “I’d never heard that before.”

“Soul Power” downplays zany anecdotes about volatile players such as Marvin Barnes in favor of a story about the playing style and relative racial harmony in a league that was far more integrated at the time than the NBA (which for years had an unwritten racial quota). There’s also a focus on the business battle to gain a merger with the NBA and on the players’ fight for respect and fair pay, which was also ahead of its time.

“The players who we interviewed all felt like they’ve been depicted like clowns” in earlier accounts, Holley said, “and no one really knows what they contributed to basketball history.”

Julius Erving of the New York Nets, center, laying up a shot against the San Antonio Spurs during an American Basketball Association game in 1976. The Nets eventually sold Erving to the Philadelphia 76ers. (Larry Morris/The New York Times)

Erving’s contributions are an obvious exception. Born and raised on Long Island, Erving went on to a storied NBA career in Philadelphia, winning a league MVP award and championship. But in a recent video interview about the docuseries, he made clear that he particularly cherished his glory days in the upstart league.

“I’m all ABA,” Erving said. “Anything associated with the league, I’m there for it.” These are edited excerpts from the conversation.

Q: What do you hope “Soul Power” shows people about the ABA?

A: We knew in our hearts we were as good as the NBA teams. It’s big to share that with the public. And the negotiations that went on between ABA and NBA in terms of the merger is one of the key things in basketball history that was forgotten about.

Also the ABA lives in the NBA today, no question about it. There’s the 3-point shot and the three referees and extra lines in the way stats are recorded. But there’s also the spirit of the ABA game, spreading the court, running the ball, the faster pace of play.

Q: Growing up, did you originally hope to play in

the NBA?

A: I didn’t even know I could be a pro until the summer after my sophomore year of college (at the University of Massachusetts Amherst), after I’d had a growth spurt and put on some weight and posted good numbers. I got invited to the Olympic development camp for the 1972 team but only as an alternate.

I went back to Roosevelt (on Long Island), and I was working at the park when two guys on the team got hurt. I got called out to Colorado and I got fitted for a jacket, but I still had no reason to believe that I was going to make this team. There were 40 players and 12 spots. The jacket didn’t even fit. But we went on a tour and went 10-3, and I led the team in scoring and rebounding even though we had two 7-footers. So I made the team, and the coach said I had a good shot at being a professional. I didn’t have any wish lists, but my assumption was I’d go to the NBA.

Q: How did you end up in the ABA?

A: After my junior year, an agent brought me to a meeting with the general manager and coach for the Virginia Squires. I didn’t know anything about the Virginia Squires. They were offering $500,000 for four years of play — which rivaled Bill Russell’s and Wilt Chamberlain’s contracts (with the NBA) — although they’d pay it over seven years. My mom was a hairdresser, and my stepfather worked for the sanitation department, and together they made $15,000. It was a no-brainer. What’s a brother to do?

Q: Who were your role models?

A: I had heroes like Martin Luther King and Bill Russell. I met Bill when I was 19 years old, and he extended the hand of friendship. There were things about him that I didn’t like and I wouldn’t do — he would be rude to people and he had some ways about him — but he had those ways because of how he grew up and how people treated him. So I accepted that. And he taught me a lot of life lessons.

But it started with my mom, because I never wanted to do anything to disappoint her. Her life was hard enough, so I didn’t want to be the child who made it more difficult. The business side of the game and being a sports icon and a brand grew out of that. And that wasn’t my intention. My intention was just being a good citizen.

S&P 500, Nasdaq boosted by chips to record closing highs

The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq gained ground on Wednesday with a boost from artificial intelligence-related tech shares, which helped markets look past hotter-than-expected inflation data and the growing probability that the Federal Reserve will hold to its restrictive monetary policy for the foreseeable future.

The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq reversed earlier declines to notch fresh record closing highs, as chip stocks (.SOX), rebounded from Tuesday’s decline.

Six of the Magnificent Seven group of AI-related megacaps gained between 1.4% and 3.9%.

“In the face of continued hot inflation data, technology remains resilient,” said Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at Carson Group in Omaha, Nebraska. “And after some weakness yesterday, the chip stocks came soaring back today.”

A report from the Labor Department showed producer prices jumped by 1.4% last month, the largest monthly increase in four years. While the surge was largely driven by crude supply disruption due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the report showed soaring oil prices are beginning to seep into other segments of the economy, and suggested that rising inflation is becoming pervasive.

Recent inflation data is dousing any remaining hopes for a near-term rate cut from the Federal Reserve. In fact, Boston Fed President Susan Collins said on Wednesday that a rate hike could be in the cards if inflation pressures fail to subside.

Kevin Warsh, President Donald Trump’s nominee to succeed Fed Chair Jerome Powell, was confirmed by the Senate in a vote along party lines.

“I would just be careful to not overlook the risk of a more prolonged period of inflation and elevated interest rates,” said Jim Baird, chief investment officer at Plante Moran Financial Advisors in Southfield, Michigan. He added that the PPI report “reinforces the inflation risk narrative and at least makes the case for a longer pause at the Fed.” Trump, Musk, Huang and Xi

Trump arrived in Beijing, along with an entourage that included Nvidia (NVDA.O), Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang and Elon Musk, ahead of a two-day summit with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. Topics on the agenda include urging Xi to “open up” to U.S. businesses and maintaining a fragile trade truce. Trump will also seek to bolster his approval rating, which has been battered by the Iran war and resulting surge in energy prices.

Nvidia and Tesla shares advanced 2.3% and 2.7%, respectively.

The meeting occurs amid China’s warnings regarding U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and criticism over proposed legislation that would make it harder for Chinese chipmakers to produce AI semiconductors.

“President Trump took almost a small army with him to meet with the Chinese leaders and President Xi,” Detrick said. “With all the negative news about Iran, he wants to

MOST ASSERTIVE STOCKS

walk away from this meeting in China with potentially some significant deals.”

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (.DJI), fell 67.36 points, or 0.14%, to 49,693.20, the S&P 500 (.SPX), gained 43.29 points, or 0.58%, to 7,444.25 and the Nasdaq Composite (.IXIC), gained 314.14 points, or 1.20%, to 26,402.34.

Among the 11 major sectors of the S&P 500, communication services (.SPLRCL), and tech (.SPLRCT), enjoyed the largest percentage gains, while utilities (.SPLRCU), were the biggest laggards.

Morgan Stanley raised its annual target for the S&P 500 index to 8,000 from 7,800, saying U.S. stocks have enough room to rally as companies continue to post strong earnings.

Ford (F.N), surged 13.2%, its biggest one-day percentage jump in six years, after Morgan Stanley called the automaker’s energy business and its partnership with Chinese battery giant CATL (300750.SZ), an “underappreciated” competitive advantage.

Nebius Group (NBIS.O), jumped 15.7% after the AI

PUERTO RICO STOCKS

COMMODITIES

CURRENCY

cloud firm reported a nearly eightfold rise in quarterly revenue.

EchoStar (SATS.O), climbed 3.0% the day after the Federal Communications Commission’s approval of the $40 billion sale of wireless spectrum to SpaceX and AT&T (T.N).

Cryptocurrency firms Coinbase (COIN.O), and Strategy (MSTR.O), slid 2.8% and 3.5%, respectively, dragged down by weakness in bitcoin and ethereum .

Declining issues outnumbered advancers by a 1.21-to1 ratio on the NYSE. There were 433 new highs and 175 new lows on the NYSE.

On the Nasdaq, 2,273 stocks rose and 2,450 fell as declining issues outnumbered advancers by a 1.08-to-1 ratio.

The S&P 500 posted 37 new 52-week highs and 46 new lows while the Nasdaq Composite recorded 119 new highs and 191 new lows.

Volume on U.S. exchanges was 19.03 billion shares, compared with the 18.12 billion average for the full session over the last 20 trading days.

Trump and Xi: Beneath the pomp and niceties, a geopolitical rivalry

By LUKE BROADWATER

Just weeks ago, after the U.S. military seized a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump said he suspected that the Chinese government was attempting to sneak a “gift” past the U.S. blockade and into the hands of Iran.

“I thought I had an understanding with President Xi,” Trump said in an interview with CNBC, calling himself “surprised.” He added: “But that’s all right. That’s the way war goes, right?”

China has rejected Trump’s accusation. But the incident underscores the uneasy nature of the relationship between Trump and President Xi Jinping as the U.S. president arrives in Beijing for a summit between two of the world’s most powerful men.

Trump, who has long wanted to court relationships with the world’s strongmen, has cultivated what he describes as a friendship with Xi, referring to China’s leader as “a brilliant leader.”

“He’s a wonderful guy,” Trump said this week before departing for Beijing. “He’s a friend of mine.”

President Xi Jinping of China and President Donald Trump with their wives during an opera in the Forbidden City in Beijing, Nov. 8, 2017. Beneath the public displays of warmth, Trump and Xi are at the center of the most consequential geopolitical rivalry of the 21st century, and their relationship is marked just as much by mistrust and confrontation as it is niceties. (Doug Mills/The New York Times)

Xi, in turn, has flattered Trump with ceremony on a scale rarely afforded foreign leaders, turning a state visit during his first term into a theatrical display of pomp and symbolism. On Wednesday, Trump was greeted by a military honor guard as well as men and women dressed in blue and white waving Chinese and American flags.

But beneath the public displays of warmth, the two men are at the center of the most consequential geopolitical rivalry of the 21st century. Their relationship is marked just as much by mistrust and confrontation as it is niceties.

For each public compliment, there is another maneuver in a trade war between the two countries. For each assertion of deep friendship, there is an uneasiness about the other’s military ambitions. For each attempt at flattery, there is an accompanying suspicion.

“Xi Jinping is not somebody who’s very sentimental about personal relationships, even inside his inner circle, never

mind with what he sees as the leader of his main geopolitical foe,” said Jonathan A. Czin, chair of foreign policy studies at the Brookings Institution. “He purged the most senior leader of the military this winter. If he’s willing to get rid of a guy like that, that he’s known for decades and has a deep relationship with, I think it’s very instructive about how he approaches a guy like Trump.”

The relationship between Trump and Xi has had its ups and downs since the U.S. president’s first term. There is rarely an interaction without some surprises.

The two men first met at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida in 2017. Trump greeted Xi with a military honor guard and a lavish dinner.

While they were enjoying what Trump called “the most beautiful piece of chocolate cake that you’ve ever seen,” the U.S. president informed Xi that the United States had launched missile strikes against Syria in response to President Bashar Assad’s chemical weapons attack in the Syrian civil war.

If the announcement was meant to catch the Chinese president off guard, Xi appeared unfazed.

and seated Trump beside Xi in a setting meant to project intimacy and prestige.

During that trip, Trump said he gave China “great credit” for taking advantage of the United States on trade.

“I don’t blame China,” he said. “After all, who can blame a country for being able to take advantage of another country for the benefit of its citizens?”

Rush Doshi, a researcher at Georgetown University and at the Council on Foreign Relations, said it was important for both leaders to exit any negotiations in a manner that saved face for themselves and their countries. That is why Trump has often praised China’s actions, even if they are hostile to America’s interests.

“His general impulse is to say, in effect: ‘I am a worldly pragmatist who understands that what they’ve done isn’t personal against me. It’s just business,’” Doshi said. “That’s the way in which he downplays these significantly escalatory acts.”

Trump arrived in China on Wednesday, and he departs Friday. Anna Kelly, a White House spokesperson, said there would again be moments of great symbolism on the trip but that Trump would also return with economic deals beneficial to Americans.

“This will be a visit of tremendous symbolic significance,” Kelly said. “But of course, President Trump never travels for symbolism alone. The American people can expect the president to deliver more good deals on behalf of our country. These agreements will further rebalance trade with China while putting American workers, farmers and families first and safeguarding U.S. economic strength in national security.”

The relationship between the two men has grown more tense. Trump’s trip was initially delayed because of his war against Iran, a major supplier of oil to China.

Since his first meeting with Trump, Xi has expressed more warmth for Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling him my “best and bosom friend,” and recently the Chinese president criticized Trump, though not by name, for flouting international law and returning “to the law of the jungle.”

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“We are so used to thinking of Trump as being very idiosyncratic, very different from his predecessors,” Czin said. “But from a Chinese perspective, this looks very similar to President Obama’s intervention in Libya and President Bush’s intervention in Iraq. This is just the United States doing in a more intense way what it’s done for most of the century.”

Trump emerged from that meeting claiming they had developed “great chemistry.”

Months later, Xi returned the favor with an extravagant state visit to Beijing unlike any reception afforded to Trump’s recent predecessors.

During what Chinese officials called a “state visit-plus,” Trump toured the Forbidden City in a highly symbolic gesture emphasizing imperial grandeur and historic continuity. The two men strolled through ancient palace courtyards as television cameras followed closely behind.

Chinese officials arranged a private opera performance

And Trump’s return to office brought an intensely confrontational economic agenda toward China, reviving tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

Within months of taking office, Trump imposed sweeping new tariffs on imports from a wide range of countries, with China receiving some of the harshest. Despite the aggressive talk, both governments eventually moved toward negotiations.

Tariffs are expected to be a major topic on the agenda this week.

Even so, Trump expects to be greeted in Beijing with great fanfare, and hopes to return the favor for Xi when the Chinese leader visits Washington later this year.

The U.S. president said he hopes to show off a renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to Xi. But he expressed disappointment that his signature project, a ballroom attached to the White House, will not be built in time for a lavish welcome.

“I only wish we had the ballroom finished,” Trump said before departing for China.

US intelligence shows Iran retains substantial missile capabilities

By ADAM ENTOUS, MAGGIE HABERMAN and JONATHAN SWAN

The Trump administration’s public portrayal of a shattered Iranian military is sharply at odds with what U.S. intelligence agencies are telling policymakers behind closed doors, according to classified assessments from early this month that show Iran has regained access to most of its missile sites, launchers and underground facilities.

Most alarming to some senior officials is evidence that Iran has restored operational access to 30 of the 33 missile sites it maintains along the Strait of Hormuz, which could threaten U.S. warships and oil tankers transiting the narrow waterway.

People with knowledge of the assessments said they show — to varying degrees, depending on the level of damage incurred at the different sites — that the Iranians can use mobile launchers that are inside the sites to move missiles to other locations. In some cases they can launch missiles directly from launchpads that are part of the facilities. Only three of the missile sites along the strait remain totally inaccessible, according to the assessments.

Iran still fields about 70% of its mobile launchers across the country and has retained roughly 70% of its prewar missile stockpile, according to the assessments. That stockpile encompasses both ballistic missiles, which can target other nations in the region, and a smaller supply of cruise missiles, which can be used against shorter-range targets on land or at sea.

Military intelligence agencies have also reported, based on information from multiple collection streams including satellite imagery and other surveillance technologies, that Iran has regained access to roughly 90% of its underground missile storage and launch facilities nationwide, which are now assessed to be “partially or fully operational,” the people with knowledge of the assessments said.

The findings undercut months of public assurances from President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who have told Americans that the Iranian military was “decimated” and “no longer” a threat.

On March 9, 10 days into the war, Trump told CBS News that Iran’s “missiles are down to a scatter” and that the country had “nothing left in a military sense.” Hegseth declared at a Pentagon news conference on April 8 that Operation Epic Fury — the joint U.S.-Israel campaign launched on Feb. 28 — had “decimated Iran’s military and rendered it combat-ineffective for years to come.”

The intelligence describing Iran’s remaining military capacity is dated less than a month after that news conference.

Asked about the intelligence assessments, a White House spokesperson, Olivia Wales, repeated Trump’s previous assertions that Iran’s military had been “crushed.” She said that Iran’s government knows that its “current reality is not sustainable” and that anyone who “thinks Iran has reconstituted

its military is either delusional or a mouthpiece” for Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.

Wales pointed to a social media post from Trump on Tuesday declaring that it was “virtual treason” to suggest that Iran’s military was doing well.

Joel Valdez, the acting Pentagon press secretary, responded to questions about the intelligence by criticizing news coverage of the war. “It is so disgraceful that The New York Times and others are acting as public relations agents for the Iranian regime in order to paint Operation Epic Fury as anything other than a historic accomplishment,” he said in a statement.

The new intelligence assessments suggest that Trump and his military advisers overestimated the damage that the U.S. military could inflict on Iranian missile sites, and underestimated Iran’s resilience and ability to bounce back. The New York Times reported last month that U.S. officials believed that Iran could regain as much as 70% of its prewar missile arsenal. The Washington Post reported last week on U.S. intelligence showing that Iran retained about 75% of its mobile missile launchers and about 70% of its prewar missile stockpile.

The findings underscore the dilemma Trump would face if the fragile month-old ceasefire in the conflict collapses and full-scale fighting resumes. The U.S. military has already depleted its stocks of many critical munitions, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, Patriot interceptor missiles, and Precision Strike and ATACMS ground-based missiles, and yet the intelligence suggests that Iran retains considerable military capability, including around the vital Strait of Hormuz.

The passageway carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s daily oil consumption, and the U.S. Navy now maintains a near-continuous presence transiting and patrolling it. The U.S. military’s Central Command said in a social media post on Sunday that more than 20 U.S. warships were enforcing the blockade against Iran.

If Trump ordered commanders to launch more strikes to take out or diminish those Iranian capabilities, then the U.S. military would have to dig even deeper into stocks of critical munitions. Doing so would further undercut U.S. stockpiles at a time when the Pentagon and the major arms makers are already struggling to find the industrial capacity to replenish U.S. reserves.

Trump and his advisers have repeatedly denied that U.S. munitions stocks have been drained to dangerously low levels. In private, Pentagon officials have offered similar assurances to anxious European allies. Those allies have purchased billions of dollars of munitions from the United States on behalf of Ukraine, and they are concerned that those munitions will not be delivered because the U.S. military will need them to replenish its own stocks — a worry that would only intensify if the president orders a return to hostilities with Iran.

In testimony on Tuesday to a House appropriations subcommittee, Gen. Dan Caine, the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said, “We have sufficient munitions for what we’re tasked to do right now.”

The joint assault on Iran by the United States and Israel inflicted considerable damage on Iran’s defenses and damaged or destroyed many strategic sites around the country. Many of Iran’s senior leaders have been killed, and its economy is staggering under the pressures of the war, leaving questions about how long it can sustain its hard line on a negotiated end to the conflict and the halt on nearly all oil tanker traffic and other shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

But Iran’s apparent ability to retain substantial military capacity has exacerbated concerns among U.S. allies about the wisdom of the war and generated criticism among Trump’s anti-interventionist supporters who opposed getting into the conflict in the first place.

As the Times previously reported, the United States expended roughly 1,100 long-range stealth cruise missiles in the war — close to the total supply that remains in the American stockpile. The military also fired more than 1,000 Tomahawk missiles, roughly 10 times the number the Pentagon procures in a year. And it used more than 1,300 Patriot interceptor missiles during the war, which accounts for more than two years of production at 2025 rates. Replenishing those stockpiles will take years, not months. Lockheed Martin currently produces around 650 Patriot interceptors a year. The company has announced plans to ramp up production of the crucial air defense weapon to 2,000 a year. But doing so will not be easy. And the industry’s ability to produce rocket motors cannot be scaled up as quickly as Trump has demanded, officials said. Sean Parnell, the chief Pentagon spokesperson, said the military has everything it needs to carry out its mission. “We have executed multiple successful operations across combatant commands while ensuring the U.S. military possesses a deep arsenal of capabilities to protect our people and our interests,” he said in a statement to the Times.

Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as Fed chair

By COLBY SMITH

The Senate on Wednesday confirmed Kevin Warsh to become the next chair of the Federal Reserve, marking the start of a new era for an institution that President Donald Trump has repeatedly attacked for not lowering interest rates as aggressively as he would like.

Warsh, whom Trump nominated for the top job at the central bank, was approved on a 54-45 vote. He will replace Jerome Powell, whose term as chair ends May 15. All but one Democrat in the upper chamber voted against Warsh, reflecting lingering concerns about his willingness to uphold the long-standing political independence of the central bank.

Trump has taken direct aim at that autonomy since returning to the White House last year. He is currently embroiled in a legal fight with Lisa Cook, a Fed governor he tried to fire over unsubstantiated allegations of mortgage fraud. The issue has since been taken up by the Supreme Court, which is expected to issue an opinion before its current term ends in July.

The president has also repeatedly insulted Powell, threatened to fire him and even backed a Justice Department criminal investigation into his handling of renovations of the Fed’s headquarters. That investigation was once a major impediment to Warsh’s confirmation. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., a member of the powerful Senate Banking Committee, vowed to block any Fed nominee from moving forward until the legal threats against Powell were dropped.

Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, relented late last month, but she maintained that the Justice Department could reopen the inquiry at any point. Pirro,

who asked a federal judge last week to vacate a ruling that threw out subpoenas she had issued against the central bank, has said she will proceed depending on what the Fed’s internal watchdog finds. Powell requested that inquiry in July.

Pirro’s abrupt about-face was sufficient to appease Tillis, who lifted his blockade of Warsh’s nomination shortly afterward. But it did not satisfy Powell, who had previously asserted that the investigation was retribution for the Fed’s refusal to acquiesce to the president’s demands for lower borrowing costs.

Powell said last month that he would not leave the Fed after his chair term ends on May 15 and would continue to serve as a governor, a position he can hold until January 2028. Powell said the pressure campaign being waged against the central bank left him no choice but to stay.

“I worry that these attacks are battering the institution and putting at risk the thing that really matters to the public, which is the ability to conduct monetary policy without taking into consideration political factors,” he told reporters at his final news conference as chair late last month.

Powell maintained that he would keep a “low profile” as a governor, but his continued presence could prove awkward for Warsh, who has vowed to embark on “regime change” at the Fed. Warsh, a Wall Street veteran who served as a Fed governor from 2006 to 2011, has already hinted at changes to the Fed’s massive portfolio of government bonds and mortgagebacked securities, what data it uses to assess the economic backdrop and how officials communicate about future policy changes.

Among Warsh’s first tasks will be to

interest rates as aggressively as he would like. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times)

establish his credibility as an independent chair, rather than someone who will do the president’s bidding. During his confirmation hearing, Senate Democrats sought to brand Warsh as Trump’s “sock puppet,” a label he repeatedly refuted. But the president’s insistence that he would only choose someone for the job who supported lower rates has only made Warsh’s job harder.

Adding to Warsh’s problems is that the case for rate reductions has become much weaker since the onset of the Iran war. Rising energy prices have pushed inflation sharply higher and fanned fears of a more persistent problem if the conflict does not end soon. The labor market, while vulnerable, has also held

up relatively well, obviating the need for any immediate action.

Investors had largely ruled out the idea of a rate cut this year as new inflation risks began to mount. This month, the balance tilted toward the potential for the central bank to raise interest rates next year.

No Fed official has so far called for a rate increase, but a growing group have begun to make the case for the central bank to signal that one is equally plausible as a rate cut at this juncture. That suggests Warsh will face a groundswell of opposition if he chooses to advocate for a reduction in the coming months. His first meeting as chair is scheduled for June 16-17.

10/5/ 12, BOOK I FOLIO 156, AS TO 64A, and AS SHOWN ON MEASURE BRIEF J DATED 11/13/ 12, BOOK I FOLIO 157, AS TO 64B

Defendants

ST-2021-CV-00237. ACTION TO QUIET TITLE. SUMMONS.

To: HERBERTO PEREZ BASRROSA

1073 Calle 12, Rio Piedras, PR 00927

Within the time limited by law (see Note below) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and answer to a Complaint filed against you in this action and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you as demanded in the Complaint.

/s/ Peter J. Lynch

Peter J. Lynch, Esq. VI Bar No. 1256 Z FLAG LAW VI By PO Box 303300 Court | St. Thomas, VI 00803 (340) 201-5955 pete@flaglawvi.com

Tamara Charles, Clerk of Court. Superior Court of the Virgin Islands April 16, 2026

Date

NOTE: The defendant, if served personally, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after service of this summons, excluding the date of service. The defendant, if served by publication or be personal service outside of the jurisdiction, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period of publication or personal service outside of the jurisdiction

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS CLERK OF THE COURT DIVISION OF ST. THOMAS AND ST. JOHN.

ABDEL HAMID GHRYEB Plaintiff, Vs ANNA LOUISE

ESANNASON GONZALEZ and HERNAN PEREZ

BASRA and ARNINDE

BARROSA HERNANEZ, and HERMBERTO PEREZ

BASRROSA, and any Unknown Heirs of ANNA LOUISE ESANNASON GONZALEZ HERNAN PEREZ BASROSSA ARNINDE BARROSA HERNANEZ, or HERMBERTO PEREZ

BASRROSA and SOPHIA MILLER and ALL PERSONS CLAIMING AN

INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS PARCELS NOS. 64A AND 64B PRINDSENS GADE, KINGS QUARTER

ST. THOMAS, VIRGIN ISLANDS, AS SHOWN ON MEASURE BRIEF DATED 10/5/ 12, BOOK I FOLIO 156, AS TO 64A, and AS SHOWN ON MEASURE BRIEF J DATED 11/13/ 12, BOOK I FOLIO 157, AS TO 64B

Defendants ST-2021-CV-00237. ACTION TO QUIET TITLE. SUMMONS. To: HERNAN PEREZ BASRROSA 1073 Calle 12, Rio Piedras, PR 00927

Within the time limited by law (see Note below) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and answer to a Complaint filed against you in this action and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you as demanded in the Complaint.

/s/ Peter J. Lynch

Peter J. Lynch, Esq. VI Bar No. 1256 Z FLAG LAW VI By PO Box 303300 Court | St. Thomas, VI 00803 (340) 201-5955 pete@flaglawvi.com

Tamara Charles, Clerk of Court Superior Court of the Virgin Islands April 16, 2026

Date

NOTE: The defendant, if served personally, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after service of this summons, excluding the date of service. The defendant, if served by publication or be personal service outside of the jurisdiction, is required to file his answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period of publication or personal service outside of the jurisdiction

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA REGIÓN JUDICIAL DE AGUADILLA SALA SUPERIOR BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante V. SUCESION DE MARIA ERNESTINA CRUZ

GONZALEZ T/C/C MARIA E. CRUZ GONZALEZ COMPUESTA POR FULANO DE TAL,

FULANA DE TAL, ZUTANO DE TAL, ZUTANA DE TAL, A, B, Y C COMO HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS; SECRETARIO DE HACIENDA; SECRETARIO DE JUSTICIA

Demandados

Civil Núm.: AG2025CV00404. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. AVISO DE VENTA EN PÚBLICA SUBASTA. Yo, ANTONIA RIVERA ACEVEDO, Alguacil

Supervisor de la División de Subastas del Centro Judicial de AGUADILLA, a las demandados y al público en general les notifico que, cumpliendo con un Mandamiento que se ha librado en el presente caso por el Secretario del Tribunal de epígrafe con fecha 3 de marzo de 2026 y para satisfacer la Sentencia por la cantidad de $50,001.82 de principal, dictada en el caso de autos el 26 de septiembre de 2025, y notificada el 2 de octubre de 2025, publicada por edicto el 10 de octubre de 2025 y notificada por correo el 14 de octubre de 2025, procederé a vender en pública subasta, al mejor postor en pago de contado y en moneda del curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América, mediante efectivo, giro o cheque certificado a nombre del Alguacil de este Tribunal todo derecho, título e interés que hayan tenido tengan o puedan tener los deudores demandados en cuanto a la propiedad localizada en: en el Municipio de Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, el bien inmueble se describe a continuación: G-8 (lote G-2) Jardines de Maribel Dev., Aguadilla, PR 00603. Descripción: URBANA: Solar sito en la Urbanización Jardines de Marybel, del Barrio Caimital Bajo de Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, que lleva el número dos (2) del bloque “G” del plano de inscripción. Tiene una cabida de 210.00 metros cuadrados. Colinda por el Norte, en 10.00 metros, con la calle #6 de la Urbanización; por el Sur, en 10.00 metros, con área de parque, por el Este, en 21.00 metros, con el solar #3 del bloque G de la Urbanización Jardines de Marybel; y por el Oeste, en 21.00 metros, con el solar #1 del bloque G de la Urbanización Jardines de Marybel. En el predescrito solar enclava una vivienda que forma parte de una estructura tipo Duplex, que consta de dos unidades de vivienda separadas por una pared medianera. Esta unidad contiene tres habitaciones dormitorios, salacomedor, cocina, balcón, baño y marquesina construida de hormigón reforzado y bloques con piso de losetas de terrazo. Finca #12313, inscrita al folio 49 del tomo 291 de Aguadilla, Registro de la Propiedad de Aguadilla. Con el importe de

dicha venta se habrá de satisfacer a la parte demandante las cantidades adeudadas, según Ia Sentencia dictada en el caso de epígrafe, por el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de AGUADILLA, cuyas cantidades son las siguientes: $50,001.82 de principal, 4.50% de intereses, los cuales continúan acumulándose hasta el saldo total de la deuda; más cargos por demora, costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado. El tipo mínimo para Ia subasta será Ia suma de tasación pactada, la cual es $73,514.00 para Ia propiedad descrita. De declararse la subasta desierta y tener que celebrarse una segunda subasta el tipo mínimo será las dos terceras partes (2/3) del tipo mínimo pactado apara Ia primera subasta Ia cantidad de $49,009.33. Si tampoco hubiere remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, regirá como tipo de la tercera subasta Ia (1/2) de) tipo mínimo pactado para la primera subasta la cantidad de $36,757.00. Si se declarase desierta Ia tercera subasta se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse a opción del demandante. Para el lote descrito, la PRIMERA SUBASTA se llevará a cabo el día 10 DE JUNIO DE 2026, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el Centro Judicial de Aguadilla, área del sótano al final del pasillo. De no comparecer postor alguno se llevará a efecto una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 17 DE JUNIO DE 2026, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el Centro Judicial de Aguadilla, área del sótano al final del pasillo. De no comparecer postor alguno se llevará a cabo una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 24 DE JUNIO DE 2026, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el Centro Judicial de Aguadilla, área del sótano al final del pasillo. Del estudio de título realizado el 30 de marzo de 2026 no surgen gravámenes posteriores. Se advierte a Ios licitadores que la adjudicación se hará al mejor postor, quien deberá consignar el importe de su oferta en el mismo acto de Ia adjudicación en moneda de curso legal de las Estados Unidos de Norteamérica y para conocimiento de la parte demandada y de toda(s) aquella(s) persona(s) que tengan interés inscrito con posterioridad a la inscripción del gravamen que se está ejecutando, y para conocimiento de los licitadores y el público en general y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general, una vez por semana durante el término de dos (2) semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones, y para su fijación en tres (3) lugares públicos del municipio en que ha de celebrarse la venta, tales como, la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la Colecturía y se le notificará además a la parte demandada vía correo

certificado con acuse de recibo a la última dirección conocida. La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores, previa orden judicial dirigida al Registrador de la Propiedad de la sección correspondiente para la cancelación de aquellos posteriores. Se les advierte a todos los interesados que todos las documentos relacionados con la presente acción de ejecución de hipoteca, así como la de la subasta, estarán disponibles para ser examinados, durante horas laborables, en la Secretaría del Tribunal. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y las preferentes, si las hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante, continuarán subsistentes; entendiéndose que el rematante las acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de las mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Y para conocimiento de las demandados, de las acreedores posteriores, de las licitadores, partes interesadas y público en general, expido el presente Aviso para su publicación en los lugares públicos correspondientes. Librada en AGUADILLA, Puerto Rico, a 22 de abril de 2026. ANTONIA RIVERA ACEVEDO, ALGUACIL CONFIDENCIAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE FAMILIA Y MENORES DE BAYAMÓN MYRNA LIZ RODRIGUEZ QUIÑONES

Parte Peticionaria Vs. LUIS MANUEL SEGUÍ ACEVEDO

Parte Peticionada Civil Número: BY2026RF00723. Salón: 3001. Sobre: CUSTODIA Y FACULTADES TUTELARES. EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: LUIS MANUEL SEGUÍ ACEVEDO - URBANIZACIÓN REPARTO SAN JOSÉ, A14 CALLE 5 ALTOS, GURABO PR 00778. POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva dentro de los 30 días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del emplazamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://www.poderjudicial.pr/index.php/tribunalelectronico, salvo que el caso sea un expediente físico o que se represente por derecho pro-

pio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la Secretaría del tribunal y notificar copia de la misma al (a la) abogado (a) de la parte demandante o a ésta, de no tener representación legal. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. Además, se le apercibe que, en los casos al amparo de la Ley Núm. 57-2023, titulada Ley para la Prevención del Maltrato, Preservación de la Unidad Familiar y para la Seguridad, Bienestar, y Protección de los Menores, entre los remedios que el Tribunal podrá conceder se incluyen la ubicación permanente de un (una) menor fuera de su hogar, el inicio de los procesos para la privación de patria potestad y cualquier otra medida en el mejor interés del (de la) menor. (Artículos 33, incisos b y f de la Ley Núm. 57-2023). Se le advierte de su derecho a comparecer acompañado (a) de abogado (a) en los casos que proceda. ELBA DEL POZO ROBLES RUA13408 edelpozo@servicioslegales.org notificaciones-bayamon@ servicioslegales.org SERVICIOS LEGALES DE PR INC PO BOX 2699 BAYAMÓN PR 00960-2699 TEL 787-785-3858 ext. 1608

EXPEDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA Y el Sello del Tribunal hoy día 28 de abril de 2026. ALICIA AYALA SANJURJO, SECRETARIA

REGIONAL. ASHLEY ORTEGA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE FAJARDO WM CAPITAL PARTNERS 76, LLC

Demandante V. EAST INVESTMENT

CORPORATION, JOSUE ROSARIO TORRES

Demandados Civil Núm.: FA2019CV01320. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. AL PÚBLICO EN GENERAL; A LA PARTE

DEMANDADA Y A LOS TENEDORES DE GRAVÁMENES POSTERIORES.

YO, JESSICA COLÓN MONTAÑEZ, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Fajardo, al público en general, POR LA PRESENTE HAGO

SABER: CERTIFICO Y HAGO

SABER: Cumpliendo con un Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia del Secretario de

este Tribunal, venderé en pública subasta al mejor postor en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos, efectivo, cheque de gerente, giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal, en mi oficina, en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Fajardo, el día 3 DE JUNIO DE 2026, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, la siguiente propiedad: URBANA: Solar o predio de terreno sito en el Barrio Quebrada vuelta del término municipal de Fajardo, Puerto Rico, sitio conocido como Vega Baja frente a la Calle Unión, que conduce de Fajardo a la Playa Puerto Real, marcado con los número doscientos dos (202) y doscientos cuatro (204) de dicha calle, compuesto de mil doscientos doce punto setenta y siete (1,212.77) metros cuadrados, equivalentes a cero punto treinta y uno (0.31) cuerdas, en lindes por el NORTE, con la Calle Unión e Hipólito Santiago; por el SUR, con la Calle de Vega Baja e Hipólito Santiago; por el ESTE, con Gilberto Ramírez y Juan A. Jackson; y por el OESTE, con Manuel García, Hipólito Santiago y Calle Principal o de Acceso a Vega Baja. Sobre este solar enclava un edificio de cemento y bloque dedicado a comercio. Consta inscrita al folio 175 del tomo 308 de Fajardo, Finca 13303, Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Sección Fajardo. La dirección física es: Lot #204 Unión St. Vega Baja Sector, Fajardo Town, Fajardo, PR 00736. Los tipos mínimos fijados para la ejecución del bien inmueble antes mencionado lo es la suma de $155,494.00 para la Primera Subasta; $103,662.67 para la Segunda Subasta; y $77,747.00 para la Tercera Subasta. La venta se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante, hasta donde sea posible, el importe de la sentencia dictada el pasado 22 de abril de 2022 en el caso de epígrafe, ascendente a las siguientes cantidades: $117,951.00 de principal, más $10,199.04 de intereses computados hasta el 27 de octubre de 2021, más aquellos que continúen acumulándose hasta el pago total y competo de la deuda, más la cantidad de $1,818.56 de atrasos, $4,987.50 de cargos bancarios, $1,837.50 de cargos misceláneos y $1,368.70 de “accrued interest”, más $15,549.00 por honorarios de abogados según pactados. En caso de que el inmueble a ser subastado no fuera adjudicado en la primera subasta, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 10 DE JUNIO DE 2026, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, y el tipo mínimo para ésta será el de las dos terceras partes del precio mínimo establecido para la primera subasta. Si tampoco hubiera remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA

el día 17 DE JUNIO DE 2026 A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, y el tipo mínimo para esta subasta será la mitad del precio mínimo pactado para la primera subasta. Cuando se declare desierta la tercera subasta, se adjudicará la finca a favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si esta fuera igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta, si el Tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si ésta fuere mayor. Todas las subastas deberán ser acordadas y celebradas según lo ordenado por el Tribunal. La subasta antes indicada se llevará a cabo en mi oficina, sita en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Fajardo. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante las horas laborables. El inmueble NO consta afecto de gravámenes preferenciales. El inmueble antes relacionado consta afecto los siguientes gravámenes posteriores: a. Hipoteca en garantía de un pagaré a favor de Pymes Financial Partners, Inc., o a su orden, por la suma principal de $131,000.00, con intereses al 10% anual, vencedero el día 20 de junio del 2032, constituida mediante la escritura número 9, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 20 de junio del 2012, ante el notario Luis R. Rosas Cintrón, Affidavit 1,808, e inscrita al folio 79 del tomo 477 de Fajardo, finca número 13,303, inscripción 23ª. b. Aviso de Demanda de fecha 23 de octubre de 2019, expedido en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Fajardo, en el caso civil número FA2019CV01320, sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca, seguido por Oriental Bank, contra East Investment Corporation, Josué Rosario Torres, por la suma de $124,451.38 más otras sumas, anotado el día 25 de agosto de 2020, al tomo Karibe de Fajardo, finca número 13,303, anotación C. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titulación y que las cargas preferentes, si alguna, continuarán subsistentes; entiéndase que el rematante los acepta y quedan subrogados en la responsabilidad del mismo sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Para la publicación de este edicto en un periódico de circulación general una vez por semana, durante dos semanas consecutivas, y para la colocación del mismo en tres sitios públicos visibles del municipio en que se celebre la subasta, libro el presente en Fajardo, Puerto Rico, hoy día 24 de abril del 2026. JESSICA COLÓN MONTAÑEZ, ALGUACIL #672, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INS-

en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 06 de mayo de 2026. En Humacao, Puerto Rico, el 06 de mayo de 2026. EVELYN FÉLIX VÁZQUEZ, SECRETARIA. MARÍA DE LOS A. AMARO SOTO, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE CAROLINA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA DOLORES MARTINEZ Y OTROS

Demandante V. RG PREMIER BANK Y OTROS

Demandado(a) Caso Núm.: CA2026CV00755. (Civil 408) Sobre: CANCELACIÓN O RESTITUCIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

RICARDO J. CACHO RODRÍGUEZCACHOR@MICROJURIS.COM.

A: JOHN DOE RICHARD ROE COMO POSIBLES TENEDORES DEL PAGARE.

(Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 07 de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se consi-

derará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En Carolina, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA. ROSALYN MELÉNDEZ GARCÍA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL. LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE PONCE SALA SUPERIOR DE PONCE

MARIA DE LOURDES

FERRER GONZALEZ

Demandante V. JAIME ZAYAS Y OTROS

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: PO2026CV00192. (Salón: 404 - RF Y MENORES). Sobre: EXEQUÁTUR - CIVIL. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. MARTA DIAZ PIETRI - MADIAZ@ SERVICIOSLEGALES.ORG. A: JAIME ZAYAS Y KAESHA NICOLE

FIGUEROA FERRER PARA SER NOTIFICADO MEDIANTE EDICTO P/C LCDA. MARTA DIAZ

PIETRI.

(Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto)

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 07 de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 08 de mayo de 2026. En Ponce, Puerto Rico, el 08 de mayo de 2026. CARMEN G. TIRÚ QUIÑONES, SECRETARIA.

MARY ANN LEÓN ROSARIO, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR

CATALINA MORALES SANTOS

Parte Demandante Vs. MARÍA M. RUIZ TAPIA

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: DO2023CV00027.

Sala: 402. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO R.60. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDEN-

TE DE LOS E.E.U.U., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R.

A: MARÍA M. RUIZ TAPIA - DIRECCIÓN FÍSICA Y POSTAL: BO. MAMEYAL CALLE PRINCIPAL #56

A, DORADO, PUERTO RICO, 00646; PO BOX 134 DORADO, PR 00646. AL PÚBLICO EN GENERAL.

El Alguacil del Tribunal que suscribe anuncia y hace constar: A. Que en cumplimiento de la Orden y/o Mandamiento que me ha sido dirigido por la Secretaría del Tribunal de Primera Instancia de Puerto Rico, Sala Superior de Bayamón, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor de contado y en moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América, cheque certificado o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal, todo derecho, título o interés que tenga la Parte Demandada en el bien mueble que se describe a continuación: Vehículo de motor:

Marca: Volkswagen.

Modelo: Tiguan S. Año: 2015.

Tablilla: ILA-226. VIN: WVGAV7AX6FWS10986.

B. Que los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado están de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables bajo el epígrafe de este caso. C. Que se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad, y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito ejecutante, continuarán subsistentes, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. La propiedad se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. D. Que el licitador y/o mejor postor pagará el importe de su oferta en efectivo, cheque certificado o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal. E. Que dicha subasta se celebrará para con el importe de la misma satisfacer a la Parte Demandante la suma de ONCE MIL QUINIENTOS DÓLARES ($11,500.00), conforme a la sentencia dictada el 6 de diciembre de 2023 en el presente caso y cualquier otra suma que corresponda conforme a derecho. F. Que el bien mueble objeto de esta subasta

se encuentra bajo la custodia del siguiente depositario: Sr. Alvin Andújar. Dirección: Capital Center Building, Avenida Arterial Hostos, Hato Rey Central, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00919. Localización: Estacionamiento, piso 7. G. Esta subasta no cuenta con tipo mínimo por tratarse de una ejecución de sentencia por embargo. H. La subasta se celebrará el día 27 de mayo de 2026, a las 2:00 de la tarde, en el lugar antes mencionado, donde se encuentra el bien mueble embargado. Y PARA QUE ASÍ CONSTE, y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general por el término dispuesto por ley y fijación en sitios públicos conforme a derecho, expido la presente bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal, hoy 20 de abril de 2026, en San Juan, Puerto Rico. PEDRO HIEYE GONZÁLEZ, ALGUACIL, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

CENTRO JUDICIAL DE HUMACAO SALA SUPERIOR SOLYMAR

CORDERO LEBRON

Demandante Vs. JONATHAN PACHECO COTTO

Demandado

Civil Núm.: HU2026RF00035. Sobre: PRIVACIÓN DE PATRIA

POTESTAD. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS. A La Parte Demandada: JONATHAN PACHECO

COTTO (PARADERO DESCONOCIDO).

Por la presente se notifica a usted que la parte demandante ha interpuesto una Demanda en su contra en la Secretaría de este Tribunal. Es abogado de la parte demandante el Lcdo. Alberto Álvarez Villa de la Oficina de Servicios Legales de Puerto Rico, Inc., en la Calle Georgetti 55, Esquina Carreras, P.O. Box 9096 en Humacao, Puerto Rico 00792, 787-8520905. Usted dispone de un término de treinta (30) días a contar de la publicación de este Edicto, el cual se publicará una vez, para formular la alegación que a su derecho competa. Término dentro del cual usted deberá contestar la Demanda, según se dispone en la Reg la 10.1 de Procedimiento Civil de Puerto Rico, y advertencia a los efectos de que, si no contesta la Demanda radicando el original de la Contestación ante el Tribunal correspondiente, con copia a la parte demandan te, se le anotará la rebeldía y se le dictará Sentencia concediendo el remedio solicitado sin más

citarle ni oírle. Expedido bajo mi firma y sello oficial del Tribunal Superior, Sala de Humacao, Puerto Rico hoy día 7 de mayo de 2026. EVELYN FÉLIX VÁZQUEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. DENISE LÓPEZ DÍAZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA COOPERATIVA DE AHORRO Y CRÉDITO DE MÉDICOS Y OTROS PROFESIONALES DE LA SALUD T/C/C MEDICOOP

Demandante V. RAFAEL ALVARADO JIMÉNEZ, GLORIA MATILDE RIVERA RIVERA Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Demandada Civil Núm.: CA2025CV02852. Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA - IN REM. EDICTO DE SUBASTA.

AL: PÚBLLCO EN GENERAL. A: RAFAEL ALVARADO JIMÉNEZ, GLORIA MATILDE RIVERA RIVERA Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS.

Yo, CYNTHIA CARRASQUILLO DE JESÚS, Alguacil de este Tribunal, a la parte demandada y a los acreedores y personas con interés sobre la propiedad que más adelante se describe, y al público en general, HAGO SABER: Que el día 08 DE JUNIO DE 2026 A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA en mi oficina, sita en el Tribunal de Primera lnstancia, Sala Superior de Carolina, en la Oficina de Subastas, Carolina, Puerto Rico, venderá en Pública Subasta la propiedad inmueble que más adelante se describe y cuya venta en pública subasta se ordenó por la vía ordinaria al mejor postor quien hará el pago en dinero en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del o la Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera lnstancia. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Carolina durante horas laborables. Que en caso de no producir remate ni adjudicación en la primera subasta a celebrarse, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA para la venta de la susodicha propiedad, el día 15 DE JUNIO DE 2026 A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA; y en

caso de no producir remate ni adjudicación, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 23 DE JUNIO DE 2026 A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA en mi oficina sita en el lugar antes indicado. La propiedad a venderse en pública subasta se describe coma sigue: URBANA: Marcado con el número once del bloque BE (11 BE) de la Urbanización Jardines de County Club, localizado en el Barrio Sabana Abajo del término municipal de Carolina, con un área de TRESCIENTOS METROS CUADRADOS CON TREINTA Y OCHO CENTÉSIMAS DE OTRO (300.38 mc). En lindes: por el NORTE: en veintidós metros con veinticinco centésimas de otro (22.25 m) con el solar doce (12) del mismo bloque; por el SUR: en veintidós metros con veinticinco centésimas de otro (22.25 m) con el solar diez (10) por el ESTE; en trece metros con cincuenta centésimas de otro (13.50 m) con la calle número ciento uno (101) y por el OESTE; en trece metros con cincuenta centésimas de otro (13.50 m) con la Avenida Galicia. ENCLAVA: Edificación. En la inscripción tercera (3ra) se dice que en el documento que motivó dicha inscripción describen la finca como solar once (11) del bloque VIII-BE. Número de catastro: 064-034948-11-001. La dirección física de la propiedad es: 11 BE Calle 101 Jardines de Carolina, Carolina, PR 00987. La subasta se llevará a efecto para satisfacer a la parte demandante la suma de $208,896.57 de principal, $27,385.48 por concepto de intereses devengados hasta el 30 de junio de 2025, más aquellos que se continúen acumulando hasta su total y complete pago; más $1,783.00 por concepto de cargos por demora y la cantidad de $25,500.00 por concepto de suma estipulada como líquida para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados. Que la cantidad mínima de licitación en la primera subasta para el inmueble será la suma de $255,000.00 y de ser necesaria una segunda subasta, la cantidad mínima será equivalente a 2/3 partes de aquella, o sea, la suma de $170,000.00 y de ser necesaria una tercera subasta, la cantidad mínima será la mitad del precio pactado, es decir $127,500.00. La propiedad se adjudicará al mejor postor, quien deberá satisfacer el importe de su oferta en moneda de curso legal y corriente de los Estados Unidos de América en el momento de la adjudicación y que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes preferentes, los hubiese, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate.

La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. EN TESTIMONIO DE LO CUAL, expido el presente Edicto para conocimiento y comparecencia de los licitadores, bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal, en Carolina, Puerto Rico a 01 de abril de 2026. CYNTHIA CARRASQUILLO DE JESÚS, ALGUACIL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE HUMACAO SALAS DE RELACIONES DE FAMILIA Y MENORES

GILBERTO

LÓPEZ SANTIAGO

Demandante Vs. MARÍA TERESA MORENO UBILES

Demandada Civil Número: YB2026RF00011. (305). Sobre: DIVORCIO (RUPTURA IRREPARABLE). EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, PRESIDENTE DE LOS E.E.U.U., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., S.S. A: MARÍA TERESA MORENO UBILESDIRECCIÓN Y PARADERO ACTUAL DESCONOCIDO. Por la presente se le emplaza y se le notifica que la parte demandante ha presentado ante este Tribunal una Demanda en la cual se solicita el siguiente remedio en su contra: Divorcio - Ruptura Irreparable. Dentro del término de treinta (30) días desde la publicación del presente edicto usted, la parte demandada, deberá presentar ante este Tribunal original de su contestación a dicha demanda y notificar con copia de la misma al Lcdo. Ivan Octavio Malavé De Jesús, cuya dirección es la siguiente: Urb. Park Gardens, P1-9 calle Chapultepec, San Juan, P.R. 00926-2126; Tel. (787) 767-3293; ivanoctaviomalave@gmail.com. Se le apercibe que, de no hacerlo, se le anotará la rebeldía y se podrá dictar sentencia en su contra, concediendo los remedios solicitados, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. Expedido bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal en Humacao, Puerto Rico, hoy 13 de abril de 2026. EVELYN FÉLIX VÁZQUEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. NICSIA MARITZA MARTÍNEZ RIVERA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL I.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE AIBONITO SALA SUPERIOR DE COMERÍO FIRSTBANK

PUERTO RICO, INC.

Demandante V. JONATHAN

FIGUEROA MADERA Demandado(a) Caso Núm.: CR2025CV00411. (Salón: 001). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO Y OTROS. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. JOSÉ A. LAMAS BURGOSJLAMAS@LVPRLAW.COM. A: JONATHAN

FIGUEROA MADERA - BO QUEBRADA GRANDE, BARRANQUITAS PR 00794; HC 1 BOX 3667, BARRANQUITAS PR 00794-9659. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 13 de abril de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 06 de mayo de 2026. En Comerío, Puerto Rico, el 06 de mayo de 2026. MAYRA L. CABRERA GARCÍA, SECRETARIA. CARMEN APONTE FLORES, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INST AN CIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE MAYAGÜEZ SALA SUPERIOR DE MAYAGÜEZ SHEILA ENID MONTES MUÑIZ Demandante V. JUAN CARLOS PÉREZ GUTIERREZ Demandado(a) Caso Núm.: MZ2026RF00113. (Salón: 303). Sobre: DIVORCIO - RUPTURA IRREPARABLE. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. TAMIL IVÁN ROSADO RAMOSYIROSADO@SERVICIOSLEGALES. ORG. A: JUAN CARLOS PÉREZ GUTIERREZ. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 07 de mayo de 2026, este

Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. NORMA G. SANTANA IRIZARRY, SECRETARIA. NILDA L. IRIZARRY RODRÍGUEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE AGUADILLA SALA SUPERIOR DE AGUADILLA ROSA CÁNDIDA RIVERA DE LEÓN

Demandante V. ORLANDO QUIÑONEZ Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: AG2026CV00215. (Salón: 603 CIVIL). Sobre: EXEQUÁTUR - CIVIL). NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

GIL G. VILLANUEVA HERNÁNDEZINFO@SERLEGINT.COM.

MARÍA E. AÑESES BOCANEGRAMEANESES@HOTMAIL.COM. YARELYS PAOLA VEGA GONZÁLEZ - YARELYSVEGA@PUCPR.EDU.

A: ORLANDO QUIÑONEZ - 1688 WEST AVE. #604, MIAMI BEACH, FL 34683-6711. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto)

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 05 de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de

20

revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. SARAHÍ REYES PÉREZ, SECRETARIA. AWILDA CABÁN SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL. LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE SAN JUAN SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN ISLAND PORTFOLIO SERVICES, LLC COMO AGENTE DE ACE ONE FUNDING, LLC

Demandante V. NASHALI LOPEZ NIEVES

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: SJ2025CV09257. (Salón: 902 CIVIL). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO ENMENDADA.

OSVALDO L. RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ - NOTIFICACIONES@ ORF-LAW.COM. A: NASHALI LOPEZ NIEVES.

(Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto)

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 26 de marzo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 06 de mayo de 2026. Notas de la Secretaría: SE ENMIENDA A FIN DE NOTIFICAR NUEVAMENTE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO POR ORDEN TRIBUNAL. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, el 06 de mayo de 2026. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA. LUCRECIA PAGÁN MORALES, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

Thursday, May 14, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

CENTRO JUDICIAL DE SAN JUAN SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante V. LA SUCESIÓN DE JUAN

SANTANA RIVERA Y OTROS

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: SJ2025CV07566. (Salón: 901 CIVIL). Sobre: USUCAPIÓN. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. BELMA ALONSO GARCÍAOFICINABELMAALONSO@GMAIL. COM.

A: LA SUCESIÓN DE JUAN SANTANA RIVERA: MINERVA SANTANA FRAGOSO, LA SUCESIÓN DE JUSTINA LABOR

ROQUE T/C/C JUSTINA

LABOY T/C/C CELESTINA

COSME, NARIET

SANTANA LABOY T/C/C

NARRIET SANTANA

LABOY COMO PARTE DE LAS SUCESIONES DE JUAN SANTANA

RIVERA Y DE JUSTINA

LABOY ROQUE T/C/C

JUSTINA LABOY T/C/C

CELESTINA COSME, CAROLINE SANTANA VÉLEZ COMO PARTE DE LAS SUCESIONES DE ELI; SANTANA LABOY

T/C/C ELI SANTANA Y DE JUSTINA LABOY

ROQUE T/C/C JUSTINA

LABOY T/C/C CELESTINA

COSME, FULANO DE TAL, POSIBLE HEREDERO DESCONOCIDO DE LA SUCESIÓN DE JUAN

SANTANA RIVERA, MENGANO DE TAL, POSIBLE HEREDERO DESCONOCIDO DE

JUSTINA LABOY ROQUE

T/C/C JUSTINA LABOY T/C/C CELESTINA

COSME, SUTANO DE TAL, POSIBLE HEREDERO DESCONOCIDO DE ELI SANTANA

LABOY T/C/C ELI SANTANA,PERENCEJO Y SUTANEJO DE TAL, POSIBLES HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS DE EDWIN SANTANA FRAGOSO. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto)

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 01 de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución

en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 04 de mayo de 2026. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, el 04 de mayo de 2026. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA. MARÍA I. COLÓN RIVERA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL. LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DE BAYAMÓN NORTHERN RADIOLOGY

ASSOCIATES, INC

Demandante V. BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO Y OTROS

Demandado(a) Caso Núm.: VB2025CV00704. (Salón: 507). Sobre: CANCELACIÓN O RESTITUCIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. MAYRA SOLANGE PÉREZ BERRÍOS - MAYRASPB.LAW@GMAIL.COM. A: ACREEDORES O POSEEDORES DESCONOCIDOS FULANO DE TAL. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 29 de abril de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se

considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En Bayamón, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. ALICIA AYALA SANJURJO, SECRETARIA. MARILYN COLÓN CARRASQUILLO, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE AGUADILLA SALA SUPERIOR DE AGUADA

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante V. LORENZO CRESPO LÓPEZ

Demandado(a) Caso Núm.: AU2025CV00609. (Salón: 0002 DISTRITO Y SUPERIOR) Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. GINA H. FERRER MEDINA - LAWOFFICES. GINAFERRERMEDINA@GMAIL. COM. A: LORENZO CRESPO LÓPEZ.

(Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 01 de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 04 de mayo de 2026. En Aguada, Puerto Rico, el 04 de mayo de 2026. Sarahí Reyes Pérez, Secretaria. Noemí Del C. Román Bosques, Secretaria Auxiliar Del Tribunal.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

CENTRO JUDICIAL DE CAROLINA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA CARIBE FEDERAL

CREDIT UNION

Demandante V. BRYANT LUIS

RODRÍGUEZ MERCADO

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: CA2025CV04194. (Civil: 407). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. ANDREA CAROLINA CHAVES FIGUEROA - LCDA. CHAVESFIGUEROA@GMAIL.COM. KARINA PAOLA CINTRÓN NEVÁREZ - CINTRONKP@GMAIL.COM. A: BRYANT LUIS RODRÍGUEZ MERCADO. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 05 de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En Carolina, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA. DENISSE MINERVA TORRES RUIZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DE TOA ALTA CARIBE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Demandante V. MANUEL

MORALES OJEDA

Demandado(a) Caso Núm.: TO2026CV00128. (Salón: 201B). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. ANDREA CAROLINA CHAVES FIGUEROA - LCDA. CHAVESFIGUEROA@GMAIL.COM. KARINA PAOLA CINTRON NEVAREZ - CINTRONKP@GMAIL.COM. MANUEL MORALES OJEDALIBRADAMORALES977@GMAIL. COM.

A: MANUEL

MORALES OJEDA. (Nombre de las partes que se le

notifican la sentencia por edicto)

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 29 de abril de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En Toa Alta, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. ALICIA AYALA SANJURJO, SECRETARIA. SUHAIL DÁVILA CRUZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DE TOA ALTA CARIBE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Demandante V. HÉCTOR MANUEL LÓPEZ PACHECO

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: TO2026CV00104. (Salón: 201B). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. ANDREA CAROLINA CHAVES FIGUEROA - LCDA. CHAVESFIGUEROA@GMAIL.COM. KARINA PAOLA CINTRON NEVAREZ - CINTRONKP@GMAIL.COM. HÉCTOR MANUEL LÓPEZ PACHECO - HL18021998@GMAIL. COM.

A: HÉCTOR MANUEL LÓPEZ PACHECO. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 29 de abril de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos

de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En Toa Alta, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. ALICIA AYALA SANJURJO, SECRETARIA. SUHAIL DÁVILA CRUZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE MAYAGÜEZ SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN GERMÁN LA COOPERATIVA DE AHORRO Y CREDITO DE CABO ROJO Demandante V. KATHIA MICHELLE TORRES AYALA Demandado(a) Caso Núm.: SG2025CV00756. (Salón: 0200). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. JOSÉ F. GIRAUD MEJÍASJGIRAUD@MCMLAWPR.COM. MARÍA CRISTINA MAYORAL MALDONADO - MCM@MCMLAWPR. COM.

A: KATHIA MICHELLE TORRES AYALA. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 07 de mayo de 2026, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 07 de mayo de 2026. En San Germán, Puerto Rico, el 07 de mayo de 2026. NORMA G. SANTANA IRIZARRY, SECRETARIA. YARELIS PÉREZ CASTILLO, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

Sudoku

How to Play:

Fill in the empty fields with the numbers from 1 through 9.

Sudoku Rules:

Every row must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every column must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every 3x3 square must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Crossword

Carlos Beltrán launches guide for fans joining him in Cooperstown

By THE STAR STAFF

Former Major League Baseball player Carlos Beltrán announced earlier this week the launch of “Un logro de todos” (An Achievement for All), a free digital guide designed to assist fans interested in joining him during his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York in July.

“This achievement is not mine alone; it belongs to an entire people who have supported me since day one,” Beltrán said Tuesday in a written statement.

The initiative includes the website carlosbeltranhof.com, which offers practical information regarding flights from Puerto Rico, accommodations, transportation, ceremony logistics, dress code recommendations, and commemorative merchandise.

“’Un logro de todos’ was born out of a desire to share this moment with my people and provide them with as much guidance as possible, so that they can be

present in Cooperstown,” Beltrán said.

The official induction ceremony will take place on Sunday, July 26 at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown during an event that is open to the public and free of charge.

Beltrán expressed his hope to see a strong Puerto Rican presence on induction day.

“I dream of seeing thousands of Puerto Rican flags accompanying me on that day,” the native of Manatí said.

The initiative aims to simplify the planning process for those wishing to attend the induction and to break down information barriers for fans in Puerto Rico, the Latino community, and baseball enthusiasts alike.

Beltrán will become the 20th Latino player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, following a two-decade career in the majors with the Kansas City Royals, Houston Astros, New York Mets, San Francisco Giants, St. Louis Cardinals, Texas Rangers and New York Yankees. He will be wearing a Mets hat on his plaque.

In January of this year, the former center fielder was notified of his induction after receiving more than 84% of the votes. His career statistics include 435 home runs and 312 stolen bases. The home page at carlosbeltranhof.com

Vaqueros, Gigantes pick up wins in BSN

By THE STAR STAFF

The Vaqueros of Bayamón and the Gigantes of Carolina were victors on Tuesday night in a pair of Superior National Basketball (BSN by its initials in Spanish) league games.

At Rubén Rodríguez Coliseum in Bayamón, the Vaqueros defeated the Criollos of Caguas, 107-80.

The Vaqueros set the pace right from the start, closing out the first quarter with a three-pointer by Renaldo Balkman to take a 37-16 lead.

Although the Criollos attempted to rally in the second period with a 7-2 run, Bayamón contained the threat and headed into halftime with a 57-39 advantage.

The Vaqueros’ offense continued to produce in the second half as their lead grew to 87-60 entering the final 10 minutes. The advantage would end up being the margin of victory.

Jaylin Galloway led Bayamón (13-8) with 26 points. Gary Browne added 18 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists,

while Xavier Cooks contributed 15 points and 7 rebounds. Moses Brown finished with 23 points and 8 rebounds for the Criollos (10-7).

Meanwhile, at Roberto Clemente Coliseum in Hato Rey the Gigantes outlasted the Cangrejeros of Santurce, 82-80.

The game featured seven lead changes in the first quarter, which ended 22-11 in favor of the Gigantes.

The Cangrejeros answered in the second period with an 8-0 run to quickly narrow the gap, and a basket by Davon Jefferson tied the game at 24 with 5:45 remaining in the first half.

Santurce outscored Carolina in the second quarter, 25-16, but the Gigantes went into halftime holding a slim 39-36 lead.

In the second half, the game remained tight, with the Cangrejeros still leading by three points, 61-58, going into the fourth quarter. Down the stretch, the Gigantes executed better in the decisive moments. A technical foul on Santurce’s Ángel Rodríguez allowed Isaac Sosa to extend

the lead from the free-throw line, and subsequently, Jaylen Nowell added another free throw with 7.1 seconds remaining for what would be the final score.

Nowell led five Gigantes in double figures with 25 points as Carolina improved to 10-7.

Davon Jefferson had 24 points and 15 rebounds, and Rodríguez scored 21 points for the Cangrejeros (612).

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Jason Collins, first active NBA player to come out as gay, dies at 47

By SOPAN DEB

J

ason Collins, a 7-foot center and NBA journeyman who in 2013 became the first openly gay player in any of the four traditional major American men’s sports leagues, has died. He was 47.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced the death in a statement on Tuesday. Collins’ family said he died of glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. In December, he disclosed his diagnosis and said he was undergoing treatments.

Collins entered the NBA in 2001, in a period when

professional basketball was less perimeter-oriented and geared toward taller players who played closer to the rim. While he was never a scoring leader or even a full-time starter, his height, professionalism and ability to defend against other centers made him a valuable asset to six NBA teams in a professional career that lasted 13 seasons.

When he retired in 2014, Collins said he hoped to be remembered as “a great teammate, someone who always sacrificed for the team.”

But his achievements on the court were eclipsed by a front-page essay he wrote in Sports Illustrated in 2013.

“I’m a 34-year-old N.B.A. center. I’m Black and I’m gay,” it began.

In the essay, Collins said he was spurred to speak publicly after his former Stanford University roommate, Joe Kennedy, a congressman from Massachusetts at the time, marched in a Pride parade in Boston.

“I’m seldom jealous of others, but hearing what Joe had done filled me with envy,” Collins wrote. “I was proud of him for participating but angry that as a closeted gay man I couldn’t even cheer my straight friend on as a spectator.”

Collins was a free agent when he wrote the essay, and there was an open question about whether it would end his career. Though the gay rights movement had made significant strides, same-sex marriage would not be made legal nationwide until 2015 and American men’s professional sports had not historically been welcoming to gay athletes.

But Collins received considerable support from celebrities and sports figures. He took a phone call from President Barack Obama and was invited to attend the 2014 State of the Union address as a guest of Michelle Obama, the first lady. He was appointed to serve on the president’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition.

The praise wasn’t universal. “All these beautiful women in the world and guys wanna mess with other guys SMH…” Miami Dolphins wide receiver Mike Wallace wrote on Twitter, using shorthand for “shaking my head.” He later apologized.

But the largely positive response from other NBA figures showed how views about gay people had shifted. Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, who was fined by the NBA in 2011 for directing an anti-gay slur at a referee, posted a message of support for Collins on social media: “Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don’t suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others.”

Collins also received a supportive call from retired star point guard Tim Hardaway, who in 2007 told a radio station that he hated gay people and that he would not have wanted to be on the same team as John Amaechi, another former player who had come out that year. Hardaway has since become a vocal supporter of gay rights.

Hardaway’s evolution was “something that many people in the L.G.B.T.Q. community are very familiar with,” Collins told The St. Paul Pioneer Press in 2022.

“They might start off on one end of the spectrum as far as not being supportive and being homophobic,” he said. “But then over time of having more exposure and more education, then they become an ally and next thing you know they’re at the Pride parade celebrating. That’s literally how it happened with Tim.”

No team signed Collins before the start of the 201314 season. He wasn’t even invited to any training camps. But midway through the season, Collins, then 35, signed with the Brooklyn Nets, the team where he began his career when it was based in New Jersey.

“My message to other athletes, period, is just be yourself,” Collins said after his first appearance with the team in February 2014, adding, “Never be afraid or ashamed or

have any fear to be your true authentic self.”

Jason Paul Collins was born on Dec. 2, 1978, in Los Angeles to Paul and Portia Collins. His mother, who was expecting just one child, gave birth to Jason’s twin brother, Jarron, eight minutes after delivering him. Jason and Jarron attended the private Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, where they led the basketball team to two state Division III titles. The twins were teammates at Stanford before moving on to the NBA.

Jason Collins was selected as the 18th overall pick in 2001 by the Houston Rockets and was swiftly traded to the Nets. He spent his first six seasons with the Nets, and was a key part of teams that made the NBA Finals in 2002 and 2003, the most successful stretch in franchise history.

After retiring in November 2014, Collins was a public speaker and political activist, campaigning for Hillary Clinton in 2016, and becoming a critic of President Donald Trump. After Carl Nassib became the first active NFL player to come out as gay in 2021, Collins told The Los Angeles Times, “As professional athletes, we’re used to inspiring the next generation, people who are younger than us. But he’s going to find that his actions have inspired not only people who are younger than him but older than him.”

Collins married Brunson Green, a film producer, in May 2025. In addition to his husband, Collins is survived by his parents and his brother, Jarron, who played 10 seasons in the NBA, most of them with the Utah Jazz, and is now an assistant coach with the New Orleans Pelicans.

In an essay for ESPN in which he revealed his glioblastoma diagnosis, Jason Collins recalled his announcement from more than a decade earlier.

“I got to tell my own story, the way I wanted to. And now I can honestly say, the past 12 years since have been the best of my life,” he wrote. “Your life is so much better when you just show up as your true self, unafraid to be your true self, in public or private.”

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Answers to the Sudoku and Crossword on page 21