Noticiero de Ecuador (Emisión Estelar 27/01/2024)

Summary

The transcript covers various news stories in Ecuador, including legislative debate over raising the VAT tax, energy rationing due to contaminated water supplies, drug trafficking operations disrupted by police raids, rebuilding efforts after landslides cut off rural communities, job recruitment by the National Police and Navy, concerns over quick passage of laws in the National Assembly, tax preparation for deduction of family expenses, and promoting tourism in Guaranda during canceled Carnival celebrations.

Takeaways

• 😊 Second debate passed in National Assembly on bill to increase VAT to address armed conflict, social and economic crisis
• 😮 Bank profits over $50M to be taxed 5%, special 15-25% tax on bank profits over $100M
• 🤔 Only Pachacutik voted against Energy Efficiency Law, seen as favoring private sector with little debate
• 😠 Terrorists contaminated Chongón canal while stealing diesel, now water rationing in rural areas
• 😡 Army and police found VIP cells, pools, nightclubs in Cotopaxi prison before takeover
• 😠 13 arrested for stealing 6000 gallons of fuel daily via tunnel to pipeline in Santa Elena
• 🤔 Army blocked 1.5km illegal runway in Los Ríos province used for drug trafficking
• 😊 National Police announces officers recruitment, no tattoos allowed
• 😮 150 people die daily worldwide from fentanyl overdoses, men 20-35 most prone to use
• 😢 Landslide over a month ago leaves Pangua cut off, residents risk lives to get food

Q & A

What was the main topic discussed at the beginning of the transcript regarding the National Assembly?

The National Assembly passed to a second debate the bill regarding the increase of the VAT. The bill's proponents claim several observations and new proposals have been included.

What is one of the new VAT proposals mentioned in the transcript?

A special contribution tax to bank profits that is expected to raise around $200 million dollars.

What criticisms did Assemblyman Blasco Luna raise regarding the VAT increase?

He said increasing the VAT is not the solution. He presented a minority report proposing raising the VAT temporarily to 6% which he says would raise $600-700 million.

What did the Constitutional Court rule regarding the referendum questions submitted by the executive branch?

Out of 10 questions, 6 passed the constitutionality test. 4 others regarding constitutional amendments will go back to the rapporteur judge for further analysis.

What were some of the illegal things found by police and military inside the Cotopaxi prison?

Authorities found VIP cells, swimming pools, nightclubs, and an alleged extortion network inside the prison.

What illegal activity was stopped by the military in the Los Rios province?

The military shut down a clandestine airport runway that was likely being used for drug trafficking.

How much cocaine has the National Police seized so far in 2024?

Over 40 tons across the country, mostly destined for Europe according to authorities.

What are some key facts about fentanyl addiction mentioned in the transcript?

It kills 150 people daily worldwide. Men aged 20-35 are most prone to use it. 2mg is considered a toxic dose.

What is the current situation in Pangua, Cotopaxi?

A landslide a month ago has left 25 communities isolated. People risk their lives crossing the landslides to get food.

How is tourism sector in Guaranda preparing for Carnival holiday?

With big events banned, businesses are creating promotions and activities to attract tourists who already made investments.