Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 206 | Friday, December 11, 2020 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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NDF-Mindanao spokesperson Luque killed in encounter with gov’t troops STORY ON PAGE 2

A sleepy yet picturesque fishing village in Gov. Generoso, Davao Oriental is among the province’s destinations that is being frequent by local and out of town visitors pre-Covid-19 pandemic. The Department of Tourism (DOT) has recently reported that its survey showed 60 percent of Filipinos are willing to travel around the country despite the absence of a vaccine while the country’s tourism stakeholders encourage that the travel industry should restart even if the country is still waiting for the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines. Edge Davao

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VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

High-rise condominium buildings dominate the skyline of Davao City. A partnership between the city government of Davao and National Housing Authority (NHA) is currently being worked out to commence the implementation of the medium-rise residential projects that will house the“homeless”families in the city. Edge Davao

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No letup on city’s animal quarantine measures

NDF-Mindanao spokesperson Luque killed in encounter with gov’t troops By MAYA M. PADILLO

lvin Luque, a prominent leader of various progressive groups and a member the New People’s Army (NPA), was announced dead after engaging the government troops in a firefight in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur on Thursday. The encounter happened when the military was serving five warrants of arrest against Luque alias Joaquin Jacinto, who is a spokesperson of the Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG’s) Komisyong Mindanao (KOMMID). A statement issued by the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division stated that the joint elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippine’s (AFP’s) 401st Brigade and the Philippine National Police-Caraga served arrest warrants against Luque at Hermenias Resort, Purok Milion, Brgy San Agus-

tin Sur, Tandag City at around 1:00 a.m. on December 10, 2020. According to the statement, as the law enforcers served the warrants, Luque together with his companion, opened fire towards the arresting officers, which prompted the arresting officers to return fire leading to a gunfight and resulting in the death of the suspect and his male companion. The arresting units recovered the following items from Luque and his unidentified male companion: one caliber

45 Remington 1911 pistol chamber loaded with a magazine and live caliber 45 ammunition; one fragmentation hand grenade; 500 rounds of cal 7.62 mm ammunition for AK47; one blasting cap; one battery; improvised explosive devices (IED) firing mechanism and MOL 15 meters of electric wire; NPA flags; and subversive documents. Major General Andres Centino, commander of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army and Joint Task Force Diamond, said the death of Luque will give justice to the victims of the CTGs in Mindanao. Luque was charged with criminal cases that include kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by Judge Hector Salise of Bayugan City RTC Branch 7; attempted murder issued by Judge Kimal Salacop of RTC Br 6, Prosperi-

dad, Agusan del Sur; violation of RA 10364 or the International Labour Organization issued by Judge Tangonan of RTC Branch 34, Cabadbaran City; CC Nr 6527; and another kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by Judge Fudalan of RTC Branch 7 in Bayugan City. Luque is a former teacher of Assumption College of Davao and a student of Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU). He was also a prominent leader of various progressive groups in Davao City before joining the NPA. In May this year, Luque was reported among those fatally wounded and died in an encounter with government troops in Andap Valley, Surigao del Sur. However, his body was not found during the said encounter.

have “subdivision plans” approved by the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) that will warrant buyers to register land titles under their names. “Many people will want to look for affordable lots and get victimized by this scheme where they are just told to develop the drainage on their own. That will really cause you trouble because they don’t have plans that are approved by the government. You cannot own that land and get titles because

these are agricultural areas,” Cortez said. He said that the selling of “agricultural areas” packaged as “raw lots” for residential purposes is illegal. He urged the public to avoid sellers of raw lots, urging them to immediately report this rampant scheme on social media to authorities. “You will suffer from it because there will be no development and there will be no drainage. Buyers will not pool in resources to establish the

prescribed drainage. I noticed that those homes established in previous raw lots could reek of canal because… the grey water will accumulate around their homes,” Cortez warned. He said that buyers of residential lots should check if property owners have license to sell approved by the HLURB. “There are also others who don’t really own the raw lots and once they receive the down payment, they will immediately disappear,” Cortez said. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

Dabawenyos warn vs.purchasing of ‘raw lots’

avao City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) head Ivan Cortez warned Dabawenyos not to buy “affordable raw lots” in the city to avoid putting themselves in trouble later on. Cortez issued this warning during an interview over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR 87.5), after the local government noticed the rampant selling of raw lots on social media. He said that this is not allowed because land owners who sell their properties don’t

here is no let up in Davao City’s animal quarantine measures as cases of African Swine Flu were recorded in the nearby cities and provinces of Davao. Checkpoints are operating 24/7 to prevent the smuggling of livestock, particularly swine, to the city with demand increasing as Christmas approaches. Quarantine measures are observed to prevent another outbreak that happened February and March this year. City Veterinarian Office (CVO) head Dr. Cerelyn Pinili said their personnel are manning the animal quarantine checkpoints 24/7. The checkpoints are in barangays Lasang, Lacson, Buda, and Sirawan; three other areas in Sasa; and at the Sta. Ana Wharf. “Wala na tay ginapasulod gikan Samal area kay nag-positive ang Talikud Island. Dili napud kung Davao del Norte kung backyard pero kung commercial, dunay mga documents ipresent sa mga checkpoints (We no longer allow the entry of swine from the Island Garden City of Samal. Backyard hogs from Davao del Norte are also prohibited but if it’s commercial, documents just needed to be presented at checkpoints),” she said. The documents that needed to be presented are the ASF certificate proving the swine is negative, a veterinary health certificate, and a shipping permit. Pinili said commercial farms usually conduct ASF testing. She thanked the Task Force Davao (TFD) and the Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC)

for helping CVO personnel at the checkpoints in checking all vehicles and if found with livestock, they are then directed to a designated area for inspection. Since the incident of a livestock covered with coconut husks was caught at a checkpoint, there were no more incidents of illegal smuggling of livestock. Pinili also said, “Strikto og vigilant pud mga tawo nato diha with the help of TFD and PSSCC (Out staff designated at checkpoints are strict and vigilant with the help of TFD and PSSCC).” The staff of lechoneros, according to her, were already informed they don’t need to do such a thing as they would also be the ones directly affected when they lose their livelihood. The last ASF positive case in Davao City was reported in Barangay Lumiad in July 2020. The affected swine was immediately culled. The area is far-flung that no other hog was infected when testing was done in the adjacent barangays outside the one-kilometer radius. Pinili said she hopes that no more ASF cases will be reported in any of the city’s 182 barangays. It can be recalled that there were about 950 farmers affected due to the ASF outbreak in the city and some 4,450 pigs were culled. Under the Crisis Intervention Program, whose funding came from the City Mayor’s Office (CMO), P8.5 million were given as compensation to the affected raisers. CVO livestock technicians also continue to monitor the barangays and districts and submit weekly reports. CIO

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

DOLE reminds employers anew to give 13th month pay

ith just 16 days before Christmas Day, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Wednesday reminded anew private sector employers to give the 13th month pay to their workers. DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III said companies have until December 24 to give the 13th month compensation. “I would like to remind employers to pay the 13th month pay of their workers on or before December 24,” he said in a virtual forum. Bello said private sector employees who have been working in the company for over a month are entitled to the payment.

“An employee, regardless of status and has served his/her employer for a month, is entitled to a 13th month pay,” he said. He added that if the employers have yet to give the 13th month pay, they still have over two weeks to pay their workers. “Please don’t forget to pay your employees’ 13th month pay,” he added. Under Presidential Decree 851, all employers are mandated to pay the 13th month pay on or before December 24. The 13th month pay required by law shall not be less than one-twelfth of the total basic salary earned by an employee within a calendar year. (PNA)

City to construct medium-rise housing projects for homeless Dabawenyos

he construction of medium-rise residential projects that will house the “homeless” families in the city may start next year. Ivan Cortez, head of the Davao City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), said during interview over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR 87.5) that a partnership between the city government and National Housing Authority (NHA) is currently being worked out to commence the implementation of the housing project. He urged the “homeless” families, particularly those who are just renting out homes, to organize themselves to access the government’s financing programs. “They can group themselves – organize – and then once they are recognized as an organization, that’s the time when we can refer them to the proper financing agencies so that they can access financing programs of the government,” he added. Aside from providing shelters to the homeless families, Cortez explained that the local government prefers medium-rise residential buildings to “horizontal” development, characterized by single-detached housing units, to maximize the remaining areas of the city for development. He noted that although Davao boasts of a huge land area, its remaining areas for development become smaller due to “development constraints,” including areas identified with poten-

tial hazards due to flooding, landslide, liquefaction, earthquake, storm surge, among others. “We will maximize whatever is left for development. We will start medium-rise buildings for housing, which are like condo-type. If single-detached, our remaining areas will soon be occupied and will be unable to provide houses to those who need them,” Cortez said. Around 46,000 to 48,000 hectares out of the city’s 244,000-hectare total land area is available for development, according to Cortez. “We have identified development constraints for almost 200,000 hectares of the city, which cannot be disturbed at any given time,” he added. He said that development is likewise constrained in critical watershed areas, biodiversity areas, conservation areas, and agricultural areas. “In the perspective of real estate development, it seems that the progress in the city cannot be stopped. But if you look at the overall picture of sustainability, these lands that should never be disturbed, will provide us with the water and clean air that we need because we need a sustainable environment,” Cortez added. He said that these considerations have already been incorporated in the proposed amendment to the city’s existing 2013 to 2022 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

Task Force Zero Hunger chairman and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles and partners in the private sector and other non-profit organizations renew their promise to work together in addressing involuntary hunger and food security in the country under the Pilipinas Kontra Gutom movement.

Nograles recognized the country’s challenges on food production, distribution, and accessibility as well as hidden hunger and malnutrition, and immediate food needed during times of crises. Edge Davao

Demand of bananas amid pandemic poses a challenge to banana growers By MAYA M. PADILLO

anana may be the most popular fruit for boosting the immune system against Covid-19 virus, however, the high demand of the fruit due to increasing consumption poses a challenge to banana growers. Stephen Antig, executive director of the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA) Incorporated, said because of the recommendations of eating bananas to stay in tip-top shape during the pandemic, banana-exporting countries are now penetrating the Philippine market. He said there is an oversupply of bananas in South America and the price per box went down and were able to send their bananas to the Philippine markets at lower prices. Antig added that even China, the biggest market of most Filipino exporters, is now get-

ting so much bananas from Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar as part of its economic statecraft strategy. He also mentioned that another major challenge is the regulation in China that set the guidelines for the prevention and control of Covid-19 in the production and operation of cold chain foods, which will subject all banana boxes to spraying of disinfectant and drying for 3-4 hours before this can be claimed by importers. “Due to exposure to heat this can affect the quality of the fruit before it reaches the supermarkets,” Antig said.

He also said that at the onset of the community quarantine protocols implemented by local government units (LGUs), strict restrictions in the entry of banana vans, workers, supervisors and supplies from other areas going to the farms and ports in Davao City and Panabo City caused too much delay that affected the volume loaded for export. He noted that banana plantations and farms are located in 15 provinces and six regions in Mindanao. Meanwhile, Antig said that aggregate exports of members of PBGEA as of September 2020 decreased by 12.4 percent in terms of volume compared to 2019 during the pandemic. He said per data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), year-on-year value of fresh banana exports dropped

Notice of water service interruption in some poblacion areas December 12

Lake Holon dubbed as the“Crown Jewel of the South" in T’boli, South Cotabato will reopen to tourists on January 4, after almost a one-year closure to allow it to rejuvenate and due to the COVID-19 pandemic. MindaNews photo by BONG S. SARMIENTO

by $201.23 million or 14.04 percent during the period January to September 2020. “The drop in total production is largely due to Panama Disease as there is no concrete program implemented for its control and eradication,” he said. Established in 1974, PBGEA is a non-stock corporation that serves as the central coordinating agency for the development and the advancement of the banana export industry in the Philippines. It serves as the self-regulatory forum for the big players in the industry to ensure compliance to international quality standards, continued competitiveness in the global market, to undertake and promote research for technological innovations, and to look after the welfare of all those involved in the industry.

avao City Water District advises customers of a water service interruption scheduled on Saturday, December 12, 2020 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM in some Poblacion areas specifically portion of Doña Vicenta Village: streets of Road 1 to 6, Surveyor, Sigma, Apollo, Friendship, Mariner, Freedom, and immediate environs. DCWD has to temporarily shut off water supply in the affected areas to give way to the tapping and installation of a gate valve to DCWD’s existing pipeline for the new service connection of Atlas Housing & Real Estate Dev’t Corporation along Surveyor Street, Doña Vicenta Village. On behalf of the DCWD management, General Manager Edwin V. Regalado asks for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected customers and advises them to store enough water prior to the schedule. Water supply

may be restored earlier if work goes smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise. DCWD conducts flushing after service work is completed. However, once water is restored, customers are advised to open all faucets and allow water to run for at least two minutes. Do not drink tap water immediately but if needed, boil water beforehand as safety precaution. The general public may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/davaowater) for the latest water service updates. They may also call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 235-DCWD (3293) and press “4” on their phone dial for the latest daily water updates or contact 0927-798-8966, 0925511-3293, and 0908-4410653 for any matters pertaining to DCWD services. (Camille Margarette U. Solon)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

ECONOMY

Century Pacific gears up for major expansion of coconut business

Christmas grocery baskets are displayed at a supermarket in Davao City on Thursday. Most noche buena items' prices will stay the same as last year despite the impact of COVID-19 in manufacturing sector according to the

Department of Trade and Industry, as the Christmas season approaches. Edge Davao

Economic recovery plan step in right direction: DTI chief

epartment of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez believes the government is in the right direction with its economic recovery plan, which it will continue to roll out next year. During the first Economic Development Cluster briefing of the Presidential Communications Operations Office Global Media Affairs Wednesday, Lopez said the Inter-Agency Task Force

for the Management of the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) will deal more with recalibrating the reopening of the economy. He said safe and gradual reopening of economic activ-

Singapore to host World Economic Forum 2021

ingapore will host the World Economic Forum next year in view of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in Europe. The global meeting of top decision-makers is set to take place from May 13 to 16, Singapore’s Trade and Industry Minister Chan Chun Sing said in a statement on Facebook. This would be the second time since its inception in 1971 that the forum will be held outside Switzerland. In 2002, the forum was held in New York to show solidarity with the American people in the aftermath of 9/11. The meeting will be hybrid

in nature with some participants joining virtually. Klaus Schwab, the founder of the global economy forum, said: “A global leadership summit is of crucial importance to address how we can recover together.” “The Special Annual Meeting 2021 will be a place for leaders from business, government, and civil society to meet in person for the first time since the start of the global pandemic. Public-private cooperation is needed more than ever to rebuild trust and address the fault lines that emerged in 2020,” Schwab said, according to daily Straits Times. (Anadolu)

Senate, House ratify bicam panel report on P4.5-trillion 2021 budget

he Senate and the House of Representatives on Wednesday ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the measure providing for the proposed P4.5-trillion national budget for 2021. The ratification came hours after members of the bicameral panel, composed of senators and congressmen, adopted the report in their meeting in a hotel in Makati earlier in the day. The House was first to ratify at 6:30 p.m. The Senate followed two hours later. Included in the bicam-approved budget bill are P72.5 billion in regular and unprogrammed funds for COVID-19 vaccine procurement, storage, and distribution in 2021.

Around P23 billion has been realigned for the rehabilitation of communities affected by the recent strong typhoons that hit the country. According to House Committee on Appropriations chair Eric Yap, the P23-billion allocation was sourced from the funding intended for projects and programs that are deemed "unimplementable" and are least needed. "Tinitignan namin unang-una yung mga hindi implementable, yung mga least na kailangan at nilipat namin sa mga provinces like Cagayan tulad ng iba pa sa Bicol, [sa] Albay, doon namin nilagay yung mga infra, mga roads, mga kailangan nila," he said.

ities has been the working parameter of the IATF. “We continue to stay the course, and with that, we mean we will have to continue with all the reforms that we are supposed to do,” he added. The trade chief said they will continue to propose certain measures to further reopen some parts of the economy like the meetings, incentives, conference, and exhibition (MICE) industry

as long as only 30 percent of the crowd will be allowed and enforcement of health protocols will be ensured. Lopez said DTI eyes the economy to go back “closer to pre-Covid levels”. “Because right now, even (if) we continue to reopen the sectors (and) our economy have shown signs of recovery, we are still far from the pre-pandemic level. That just means we have to con-

FECONOMIC, P9

entury Pacific Food, Inc. (CNPF), one of the country’s leading food companies, has agreed to extend and expand its long-term agreement as original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for Vita Coco, the world’s leading coconut water brand, as it gears up for a major expansion of its coconut business. The multi-year contract valued at more than USD165 million reinforces CNPF’s position as the leading coconut water exporter from the Philippines and one of the largest suppliers for Vita Coco globally. “The extension of our long term agreement with the global leader in packaged coconut water is proof positive that both parties are fully confident that, together, we will continue on the growth trajectory we have seen over the last few years into the foreseeable future,” Noel Tempongko, vice-president and general manager of Century Pacific’s coconut business, said in a statement Wednesday. In 2021, CNPF is set to embark on a major expansion of its coconut business, increasing manufacturing capacity with an additional investment of PHP300 million to address the growing global demand for high-value coconut products. This comes at a time when product health and safety continue to be top of mind among consumers amid the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019(Covid-19) pandemic. “In addition to the future business potential, we are honored to sign this agreement with Vita Coco because of the many corporate values we share. These include our desire to provide better nourishment for consumers, pursue continuous improvement in the manufacturing process, and further support local coconut farming communities,” Tempongko said. The expanded deal be-

tween CNPF and Vita Coco is expected to benefit the many coconut farmers of Mindanao, where the company’s coconut factory is located and sources its main raw materials. Said farmers will be guaranteed market access for their products over the next few years, providing additional income to thousands of families in the area. Recently, CNPF tied up with Friends of Hope, a non-profit organization, to donate 100,000 seedlings a year for the next five to eight years to smallholder coconut farmers enabling the planting of productive coconut trees and the replacement of non-fruitbearing senile ones in South Central Mindanao. In addition to supporting farmer incomes and expanding long-term coconut supply in the region, planting the coconut trees will sequester about 416,680 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions over the next eight years, allowing the company’s coconut subsidiary aims to be “carbon-neutral” by 2028. Jonathan Burth, chief operating officer of All Market, Inc- owner of the Vita Coco brand - said: “We are very bullish on coconut water as a category, as it continues to be a more relevant product given the increasing awareness and demand from consumers for healthier and good-for-you beverages.” “This expanded contract will help supply that increased demand. Century has been one of our most committed, reliable and largest factories. We are pleased to strengthen our partnership even further,” he added. Christopher Po, Century Pacific’s executive chairman, added the long-term agreement with Vita Coco “bodes well for both our company and country as it helps us create maximum value from one of the Philippines’ most versatile fruits – the coconut.”

Pregnant women to get extra food to ease child stunting

ood news for pregnant women as they are targeted to receive additional meals and food commodities to improve their nutrition. This was bared during the soft launch of the Tutok Kainan Supplementation Program with Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles and National Nutrition Council Executive Director Dr. Azucena Dayanghirang on 23 November at the NNC Headquarters. Tutok Kainan program will provide the Enhanced Nutribun, ready-to-eat lipid-based nutritional supplement and hot meals for three months starting December this year. The program will initially target some 34,000 nutritionally at-risk pregnant women in provinces that have high rates of child stunting and areas affected by recent typhoons. By next year, the program hopes to expand to include malnour-

ished children 6-23 months old. Director Dayanghirang explained that malnourished pregnant women and 6-23 months old children are specifically targeted to prevent child stunting in the first two years of life or the period referred to as the First 1000 Days. “If we lose this opportunity to intervene in this critical period, we expect children to be stunted for the rest of their life as stunting becomes irreversible beyond 2 years. Stunting not only affects physical development but also mental development”, adds Dayanghirang. Tutok Kainan is done in collaboration with the Interagency Task Force (IATF) on Zero Hunger chaired by Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles who also led the ceremonial feeding to a few pregnant women from the

national capital region. The program is also in line with the recommendation of the IATF on Emerging Infectious Diseases last October to provide feeding to malnourished pregnant women and 6-23 months old stunted children to minimize the impact of the pandemic on the nutrition of vulnerable groups. Tutok Kainan initially targets Camarines Sur, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Cebu City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Bukidnon and the National Capital Region (Caloocan, Navotas, Parañaque and Pateros). The areas heavily hit by Typhoons Rolly and Ulysses are also targeted including Cagayan, Isabela, Albay, Catanduanes and Rodriguez, Rizal. About 500 participants attended the online event coming from the local government program areas, the Scal-

ing Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement Business Network and Civil Society Alliance as well as other government agencies. During the launch, local government units were requested to provide counterpart including the human resources and other logistics to complement the food commodities from NNC. Other partners were encouraged to provide additional support. Tutok Kainan is one platform of the National Dietary Supplementation Program of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 20172022. Aside from Tutok Kainan, the DSWD and DepED also implement feeding programs among children enrolled in day care centers and elementary schools to address malnutrition as well as some local government units and non-government organizations.

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

EDGEDAVAO

ECONOMY 5

Legacy Leisure Residences introduces new payment scheme

he pandemic may have paused the economy, but there’s no stopping anyone grabbing a good investment opportunity when presented. This month, Legacy Leisure Residences will be offering its new 15%-85% payment scheme. “Investing in real estate is always a good idea. The Covid-19 pandemic got a lot of investors into the wait-andsee attitude, but now is a good time to invest with property developers offering investment schemes that won't break the bank,” said Wesley Bangayan, Vice President of Legacy Leisure Residences. With Legacy Leisure Residences, the condominium development along Ma-a Road that was launched in January this year, the introductory price was offered with an easy payment plan. The deposit of Php 8,000 per month is payable in 48 months and the balance can be financed by a partner bank or Pag-Ibig Fund, or by availing of the inhouse loan. “The lockdown was implemented right after we launched,” said Bangayan, “Thus construction and sales

was put to a pause. When the restriction was eased, we went back to the field right away. Whatever delay there was, it was minor. Construction is back on schedule.” Bangayan said they did the same with their sales and marketing. “We had to get creative during this period pf pandemic. First and foremost, we boosted the team’s morale with the help of a motivational speaker. Then we strengthened product knowledge with everyone including our partners, and invited a creative, tech-savvy expert to join the team.” In place of marketing activities like mall exhibits and sales caravans, Bangayan said they went all out via the digital format—virtual tour of the showroom, sales meetings, etc. Adding to the company-initiated high visibility plan in both print and social media,

one of the thrusts of the Legacy Leisure is to get the partners involved in the advertising and promotions via social media. Now reaching a wider audience is why investing in Legacy Leisure Residences is wise: construction stayed on schedule even during the pandemic; the project is world-class with its resort living concept and impressive amenities; excellent residential location with easy access to key locations; and most importantly, owning the widest condominium space in the market today is most affordable at this project. The plan produced positive results. May Reyes, Legacy Leisure Residences’ marketing manager said, “There was a very substantial increase in our sales. From 5% of the units sold in Tower 2 the previous months, it picked up and sky-rocketed to 60% of the units sold by September to November.” “We are now reaching more people via different media channels. Many saw the advantages of investing in Legacy Leisure Residences and a lot of them are now homeowners. They grabbed the

chance to own before a price increase and while there are still available units for Tower 2. But our inventory is selling out fast. If you’re considering living in a vertical village, now is a good time to invest as well,” said Bangayan. Bangayan is also confident

that Legacy Leisure’s new 15%-80% payment scheme will further boost the sales of the condominium project. Reyes stressed that the advantage of this new payment scheme is a higher probability for banks to approve the amortization.

The new scheme offers no reservations fee and the is not restricted to the computed monthly price. The client can pay a higher monthly payment which will adjust and lessen the 85% balance. Hence, a higher probability for approved loan.

cordance with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan. Enverga is also the chair of the House Committee on Agriculture. He added that under this plan, directions and policies for the development and rehabilitation of the coconut industry will be set within a period of 99 years, with the goal to increase incomes of coconut farmers, to alleviate poverty and promote social equity, and to rehabilitate and modernize industry towards farm productivity.

"Our coconut farmers are in dire need of help yet the money could not be touched as there has to be a law passed by Congress before it could be used for the purpose it was intended," Enverga said. The coco levy fund in cash and assets, estimated to amount to around P100 billion, was generated from the additional tax collections imposed on coconut farmers under the administration of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. It was allegedly invested

in enterprises for the personal interests of the late dictator and his cronies. After Marcos was dislodged from power in 1986, local coconut farmers sought the assistance of the Presidential Commission on Good Government in filing court cases to refund their investment. In 2014, the Supreme Court ruled that at least P71-billion worth of coconut levy funds used to purchase shares in San Miguel Corporation during the Marcos years belonged to the govern-

ment and as such, should be used solely for the benefit of coconut farmers and for the development of the coconut industry. Back in the 17th Congress, both the Senate and the House of Representatives approved the first version bill creating the coco levy trust fund, targeted to help coconut farmers and protect their socio-economic well-being. President Rodrigo Duterte, however, vetoed the measure, saying that the bill was unconstitutional due to supposed lack of safeguards and

concerns it may violate the Constitution. The House eventually approved another version of the bill towards the end of the 17th Congress, but it did not get the same approval from the Senate. The President, during his fifth State of the Nation Address in July, called on Congress anew to pass the coconut levy trust fund bill. The Senate in October passed on third and final reading its version of the coconut levy trust fund measure.

Coconut levy trust fund measure passes second reading in House

he House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading the measure seeking to establish a coco levy trust fund, which is seen to benefit farmers and develop the coconut industry. In a voice vote, the chamber approved on second reading House Bill 8136, or the proposed "Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act". Quezon Representative Mark Enverga, who sponsored the measure, has explained that the use of the trust fund will be in ac-

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

On the decision of a United Nations body reclassifying marijuana (cannabis) as a less dangerous drug not affecting the Philippines’ policy outlawing its use:

As previously stated by the DDB, the decision will have no immediate impact in terms of drug control. The Convention limits exclusively to medical and scientific purposes the production, manufacture, export, import, distribution of, trade-in, use, and possession of Schedule I substances ... The unauthorized importation, sale, possession, cultivation, and use of cannabis remain to be punishable under the law.”

Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)

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ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. DR. MAURO L. PUYOD CHA MONFORTE Cartoonist Correspondent Consultant Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. BORBON • MARY ANN C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO DAVAL SR.,TRIA • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY Columnists: ANTONIO V.“ADI” FIGUEROA • HENRYLITO D. TACIO •B.JOHN CARLO • MUJAHID NAVARRA ••FRED C. LUMBA • DENNIS R. GORECHO ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO •“GICO” G. S. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER GREGORIO G. DELIGERO VIDA MIA VALVERDE • HAROLD CAVITE M. PEREZ

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

116 Regional police build IP houses in Talaingod

ne- hundred sixteen personnel from Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 were sent to Talaingod, Davao del Norte as part of the Bayanihan troops who will build houses for the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in Sitio Tibucag in the said town on Thursday. PRO 11 Deputy Regional Director for Operations Colonel Edgar Alan Okubo said the provincial government of Davao del Norte through Governor Edwin Jubahib requested the Regional Philippine National Police (PNP) to help them construct 24 bungalow houses in its desire to end the insurgency problem.

He said the project aims to entice the Lumads who believe in the wrong ideology of the communist group to return to the folds of the law and support the government. Aside from their firearms, they are also armed with hammers, wood saws, shovels, crowbar and other construction and masonry tools to build the houses. The construction is expected to complete by the second week of December this year. PRO 11 director Brigadier General Filmore Escobal, meanwhile, urged the troops to show their selfless and untiring obli-

gation towards the people as well as to reach out and make them aware of the good plans and programs of the government and to let the people feel that government is using all means to reach them. Jubahib, for his part, expressed his gratitude to PRO 11 for the support extended to his province as he vowed to support all the programs and projects of the PNP. He also thanked the troops for taking part in this noble project as this will have a lasting impact on the IP community and to win against insurgency. Ruth Palo/News Fort

NNC ED highlights efforts of NNC as a reactor during the 2nd NEP Forum

he formative evaluation of the PPAN under the NEDA-UNDP Strategic Monitoring and Evaluation Project was conducted to determine to what degree LGUs have applied the PPAN 2017-2022 strategic thrusts in nutrition programming. It pointed out some successes of the PPAN such as the 1) LGU mobilization as measured by the support to PPAN programs at the national, regional and provincial levels, and 2) sustained nutrition action planning processes at the national level. It also described challenges or constraints inhibiting effective nutrition planning, coordination, and delivery. Mr. Peter Srouji, Senior Research Manager of the Innovations for Poverty Action presented other key findings and recommendations of this formative evaluation during the 2nd National Evaluation Policy (NEP) Forum held virtually on 3 November 2020. He pointed out that some of their recommendations are to strengthen the credibility of the Operation Timbang Plus (OPT+), focus more efforts at the barangay level, sharpen messages around stunting, and strengthen programs that address stunting. One of the reactors invited by the Senate Economic Planning Office was the Executive Director of the National Nutrition Council (NNC), Dr. Azucena M. Dayanghirang, MD, MCH, CESE. The Executive Director acknowledged the presence of data quality issues

connected with OPT+, which are exhibited in low coverages and incomplete data. In connection with this, she reiterated some of the efforts to address these such as the shift from a manual system of data collation, calculation and reporting into an Excel-based electronic system, as well as procurement of weight and height measuring tools. However, Dr. Dayanghirang pointed out that addressing these issues cannot be done by merely computerizing the system. It requires a supportive environment and needs investment to hire BNSs, build their capacities on proper measurement techniques, buy appropriate measuring tools and computers to use the electronic tool. Thus, it is necessary to make nutrition an equally important program with funding complement. On the recommendation about focusing more at the barangay level, Dr. Dayanghirang stressed that the NNC continues to provide support to barangay nutrition workers to effectively deliver nutrition services, which includes orientation on the use of various tools to generate data for identification of appropriate interventions. The NNC also continues to train and retrain BNSs despite fast turnovers in human resource for nutrition due to varying reasons. Moreover, in 2019, the NNC conducted local nutrition action planning workshops to 28 HDPRC provinces to ensure that LGUs are orient-

ed on PPAN programs and that nutrition is integrated in their local development and investment plans. Various action planning workshops in non-PPAN priority provinces using the online platform are also being conducted. Lastly, on the recommendations on sharpening messages and strengthening programs that address stunting, Dr. Dayanghirang emphasized that this year’s Nutrition Month celebration focused on stunting with the theme “Batang Pinoy, SANA TALL… Iwas stunting, SAMA ALL!” Actions to achieve the objectives of the celebration have been sustained throughout the year. Dissemination of key messages on stunting were and are being conducted using a combination of channels such as through interpersonal communication at the community level through nutrition education classes, NNC’s 50 Nutriskwela Community Radio stations nationwide, First 1000 days PH Facebook page, and NNC Home Online Nutrition Exchange, among others. Many programs are also geared towards addressing stunting. In fact, the 32 PPAN focus provinces were selected mainly because of their high prevalence of stunting among children under 5 years old. These areas were also adopted as priorities of the Interagency Task Force Zero Hunger and the Expanded Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP).

NNC launches online portal of local nutrition ordinances

he National Nutrition Council (NNC) launches the online Compendium of Local Ordinances on Nutrition, one of the highlights of the opening day of the online 6th National Conference of Nutrition Action Officers on 01 October 2020. The Compendium serves as a knowledge-sharing platform for local government units to learn from initiatives of other local government units who have successfully harnessed the strength of policy instruments in scaling up nutrition. The Compendium was developed in partnership with the Nutrition Officers Association of the Philippines (NAOPA), with support from Nutrition International and UNICEF Philippines. NNC Executive Director Dr. Azucena M. Dayanghirang expressed in her message her hopes that the Compendium will be an instrument to mobilize more local governments in crafting responsive local policies towards sustained improvements in nutrition. Dr. Dayanghirang added that “today’s launch of the Compendium is another mechanism to mobilize local government units for nutrition improvement as

envisioned in the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition. Despite and because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to push nutrition especially among local government units. LGUs are the key for our country to eliminate all forms of malnutrition.” NAOPA President Jan Dmitri Sator said in his message that the Compendium will provide local government units especially the local legislative bodies a ready reference in crafting their own legislation: “LGUs can now navigate through the online portal and download local legislation to refer and adapt to support their work on nutrition. There is no need to invent the wheel, so to speak. With the online portal, these ordinances and executive orders are just a click away.”NAOPA President Sator The online portal has initially uploaded 208 local ordinances and 45 executive orders, contributed by provincial, city, and municipal local governments across the 17 regions of the Philippines. The uploaded local ordinances and issuances in the portal have been selected based on four criteria namely: responsiveness, coverage and reach,

impact, and replicability. The Compendium is a dynamic and living project. Both the online Compendium portal and the printed publication shall be updated progressively through the years to include new local ordinances and issuances on nutrition from local governments who wish to contribute to the collection and share their effective local policy development initiatives to scale up nutrition. The portal has been designed for easy navigation and can be accessed through www.nnc. gov.ph/compendium. Does your local government unit have a local ordinance, executive order, or resolution that has facilitated the improvement of the local nutrition program and the achievement of positive nutrition outcomes in your LGU? Submit your local policies and have them considered to be featured in the online portal of the Compendium of Local Ordinances and Issuances on Nutrition. Contribute to the knowledge-sharing platform of local government units to scale up local policy development for nutrition in the country, invest in nutrition, and access the portal now!

DOLE 11 launches ‘Eggs for Peace’ in former red areas

he Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 11 launched on Thursday, November 19, its P3-million worth livelihood project to boost productivity and sustainability in former NPA (New People’s Army) rebel-infested areas of Davao Oriental. The project dubbed ‘Eggsoon sa Kalinaw’ aims to strengthen convergence for peace of program partners in the province to include the provincial government, line agencies, private sector and the military to capacitate and assist three people’s organizations (POs).

The ‘Eggsoon sa Kalinaw’ is an egg production project utilizing layers that will be owned by the three identified people’s organizations who received P1million each from DOLE11 in a turnover ceremony on Thursday. These POs include 5M Farmers, Motors and Women Association in Caatiha, Boston; Malipayon Former Rebels Organization in Martin Marundan, Mati City; and the Indigenous People’s Youth Sigang Organization in Maragatas, Lupon, Davao Oriental. 701st Infantry Brigade Commander Colonel Krish-

namurti Mortela said the project will help generate additional food and income to the members of the people’s organizations and their families. “The 701st Brigade will assist the organization development, registration and capacity building of said organizations which are located in former conflict-affected areas and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas that are now the focus and priority for intervention and convergence assistance by Task Force ELCAC-Davao Oriental“ Mortela said. Ruth Palo/News Fort

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

EDGEDAVAO UP AND ABOUT

BESPOKE CABINETS IN THREE EASY STEPS 3

EVERYTHING STARTS with a dream. You have a clear picture in your mind of how your ideal cabinetry will look like. With ease, you see yourself moving from one cabinet section to another. Everything is where it should be, everything within easy reach.

From a distance, the space is a pretty picture. All components complement from the tones of the wall to the pieces of furniture around it. You nod with contentment to the wellplanned space. All you need is someone to help you turn this vision to reality. Now, you search for a reputable partner to make it happen. Look into the company’s experience, this counts a lot. So does the string of delighted clients on its roster. They have to be knowledgeable with the trends, hold a wide range of the latest materials in their cache, and supported by modern technology, too. A seasoned company can boast of a good track record. All these bear weight on your decision. Choose someone easy to work with, someone who shares the same vision. Like you, Merlgen Euro Design, Inc. was a product of a dreamer. A decade ago, modular cabinetry was sourced from out of town. It meant long distance transaction and consultation, logistics was a burden, so was after-service. It was costly. So the owners decided to make modern cabinetry accessible and affordable to everyone. They opened the MERLGEN in 2013. A couple of years later the company earned an international accreditation from a global business system, and in

Your dream cabinetry is within reach in 3 easy steps. 2016, the business expanded and the second manufacturing plant was inaugurated. With seven years of experience and making dreams come true. MERLGEN is a good choice.

Sit down with the designer and tell him your dream. Design consultations are brainstorming sessions, an exchange of ideas. Share what you require—the space, the look. The designer will suggest how you can achieve you vision in the most systematic way. The ergonomics of the project for easy, stress-free movement will be explained. A site visit and the architects working drawings will be necessary. The designer will show you how to maximize the area and where to locate the cabinets best. It will give you an idea the relationship of the cabinetry to the space around it. Just like

STEP 1. There is a team of designers who will work on your dream project.

in Feng Shui, everything must flow smoothly between areas. Whatever your budget Merlgen will work around it. But your expectations have to be managed as well. There is a wide selection of high-quality materials in stylish tones and finishes to choose from. For sure, something will catch your fancy. Although you can go all out to achieve the dream look, remember that a well-designed and attractive space need not be costly. The whole design process is computer aided. There’s a whole team of designers working on your project, but they work behind the scene. The design will be presented from different angles, including in 3D. This will give you a clear picture of the finished look. Revisions may be necessary to fit your requirement. Only when you say “this is it!” and give your approval will the project progress to the next step.

Leave it to the experts. The next team takes over, all well-trained manpower working with state-of-the-art technology. In the production stage, each component of the final design will be broken into components. The details of each piece will be encoded to the computer and the data shared with the manufacturing plant’s computer system running the CNC (computer numerical control)

machines. The CNC machine will process each component of your cabinetry’s design—doors and other panels—to meet the specifications of the coded programmed instruction. Precision manufacturing can describe the process. The result, each piece will fit to a T. But before anything leaves the manufacturing plant, each component is inspected and quality checked.

Finally, installation. Like the other teams, the assembly crew is as well-trained. Some components will be factory preassembled while others will be fastened on site. The process is systematic to make installation as prompt as possible, but never comprising the quality of work. As the modular cabinets are fitted to its appointed spaces, you’ll probably notice how every inch of the expanse is utilized. If it’s the kitchen cabinets you required, the crew can help in installing the range hood, sink or the stove top. They have to make sure everything fits. Once everything is put into place, the crew will tidy up for your use. You may be ecstatic over your new cabinetry and enjoying it. But Merlgen’s job is far from over. Should a concern arise, rest assured that the afterservice team will be there to address it ASAP. After service is one aspect of the company Merlgen can be proud of. MERLGEN is one partner you can trust to turn your dream cabinetry into a reality.

STEP 2. In the production stage, precision manufacturing is done.

STEP 3. Almost there. The insallation is a well trained as the rest of the other teams.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

ECONOMIC... FROM4

tinue this principle of risk management (rather) than risk avoidance. And I think that recalibrated reopening is the key,” Lopez said. He said since the IATF pushed for the gradual and

safe reopening of economic activities, health statistics have not worsened and a second wave of infection was not observed. “We are successfully doing the recalibrated reopen-

NOTICE OF AUCTION The VGM Pawnshop, Inc. will hold a Public Auction Sale to all unredeemed and unrenewed items on the following schedule listed below. Ang VGM Pawnshop, Inc. magpahigayon ug subasta sa tanang prenda nga wala nalukat sa maong iskedyul nga nakasulat sa ubos. BRANCHES

DATE PAWNED

DATE & PLACE OF AUCTION

June 01 30, 2020

December 22, 2020(Tue) 9:00 AM VGM Pawnshop, Inc, Matina Branch VGM Bldg., Km.06, Matina, Davao City

DAVAO: Sasa Maa Sandawa Matina Panabo Main Panabo Branch

THE MANAGEMENT

ing of the economy,” he said. Lopez said the country cannot afford another wider lockdown, noting the IATF and the local government units have agreed to implement granular lockdown in-

stead. “What we have agreed so far is a granular lockdown system. It has been working since July or August. We will continue to do that,” he added. (PNA)

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT-SHERIFF Davao City

SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM (SSS), Mortgagee, - versus - EJF-REM CASE NO. 17,807-20 ILDEFONSO C. SEALANA married to FOR: EXTRA-JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE NUMERIANA T. SEALANA Mortgagor/s. OF REAL EATATE MORTGAGE UNDER ACT 3135 as amended X---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------X

NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE FORECLOSURE & SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

Upon extra-judicial petition for foreclosure and sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the mortgagee Social Security System against the mortgagor/s ILDEFONSO C. SEALANA married to NUMERIANA T. SEALANA, with postal address at Lot 4, Blk.5 # 093 , Nagimit St. Nova Tierra Village 8000 Bo. Pampanga, DAVAO CITY, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of September 01, 2020 amounts to ONE MILLION TWO HUNDRED SIXTY TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED SEVENTY FIVE PESOS & 96/100 (Php=1,262,265.96), Philippine Currency, including interest thereon, penalties and other charges and plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale, the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on December 17, 2020 at 10:00 A.M., or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, Ecoland, Davao City, to the highest bidder to CASH and/or MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency, the following real property/ies mentioned and described below together with all its improvements found thereon, to wit: TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-133892 “A parcel of land of the subdivision project ( Lot 4, Block 5, of the consolidation plan, Pcs-11-00075,xxx),situated in the Barrio of Pampanga, City of Davao, Island of Mindanao. xxx Containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY (150) SQUARE METERS, more or less xxx.” All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the abovestated time and date. That in the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on January 21, 2021 without further notice. Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the title of the above-described real property and encumbrances thereon, if any there be. November 19, 2020 ,Davao City, Philippines. Davao City, Philippines, November 13, 2020.

For ATTY. FRANCISCO M. CAMPANER – the OIC Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Prov’l Sheriff (sgd.) IRVIN PAUL L. CUBELO Sheriff IV

STAR CINEMA'S 'FOUR SISTERS BEFORE THE WEDDING' SHOWING ON SKY MOVIES PAY-PER-VIEW

he four sisters you loved are back in Star Cinema's "Four Sisters Before the Wedding" that will premiere on SKY Movies Pay-Per-View on December 11. Following the 2013 blockbuster hit "Four Sisters and a Wedding" that starred Toni Gonzaga, Bea Alonzo, Angel Locsin, and Shaina Magdayao, this prequel will feature new faces—Charlie Dizon, Alexa Ilacad, Gillian Vicencio, and Belle Mariano, portraying the younger versions of Teddie, Bobbie, Alex, and Gabbie, respectively. Under the direction of Mae Cruz Alviar, the film takes the audience back to where it all began as the Salazar sisters, with their youngest brother CJ (Clarence Delgado), give a glimpse of their youthful days. Aside from dealing with their ups and downs in school and romance, the sisters face yet another

challenge in their lives as their mother, Grace (Carmina Villaroel), and father, Caloy (Dominic Ochoa) think about separation. Will they be able to help patch things up between their parents and be a happy family once more, or will their bright idea cause trouble for them? This holiday season, avid moviegoers can enjoy the world premiere of "Four Sisters Before the Wedding" at the safety and comfort of their homes via SKY Movies Pay-Per-View, distributed by CineXpress. From December 11 to 31, viewers may watch the movie in high definition and commercial-free for only P150, with 48-hour access upon purchase. Subscribers with SKYcable, SKY Fiber with HD Cable TV, and SKY Fiber with All-In Box subscription can avail of this special pay-per-view offer. Visit mysky.com.ph/cinexpress to subscribe.

10 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 206 • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

FRED C. LUMBA SPORTS KEN

SPENCE, CRAWFORD OR MCGREGOR? Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao hasn’t lost his superstar status. The trio of Errol Spence, Jr, Terence Crawford and mixed martial artist Conor McGregor are among those reportedly waiting to slug it out with him. The huge prize money in store is of course the primary consideration. However, none of them has categorically called out Pacquiao’s name for a momentous date in the squared arena. The sports media did not report anything earth-shaking after Terence Crawford knocked out Kell Brook in their WBO title encounter. Though he was interviewed, Crawford did not voluntarily mention Manny as his next

opponent. Managed by Top Rank, Inc., Crawford left it altogether to Bob Arum to do the talking. Arum, by reflex action, said something like they were looking forward to ink Pacquiao next year to a projected multi-million “dream” bout in Dubai. That was in November. Spence, who dominated challenger Danny Garcia in defense of his IBF and WBC crowns, did not also mention Pacquiao if a future meeting with the Filipino boxing hero could be in the works. Both Spence and Crawford seem unsure and wanted the media to call out Pacquiao as a possible opponent. Win or lose, having a date

with Pacquiao means any of these guys would be happy looking into his “enriched’ bank account. But maybe either Spence or Crawford is scared. Noting the who’s who in the list of Manny’s victims, this could be the reason for their having second thoughts. Crawford and Spence don’t want to be included in the elite list the Pacman has humiliated. Like Barrera, Morales, Marquez, Dela Hoya, Margarito, Cotto, Bradley, Vargas, Rios, Broner, Thurman. Even Floyd Mayweather took six years to make up his mind. Already 42 and reported to be having his eyes moist on the

presidency, the Sarangani senator would ideally want to end his illustrious and checkered career with a BIG bang, hoping it could rein in the votes and the popular support of his adoring fans in the grassroots. Not only that. Also the huge cash that he will need to bankroll his presidential ambition. Although, there had been initial exchange as per Freddie Roach, McGregor could also not commit himself as he has an assignment in January next year. Pacquiao’s sked is usually February and July because he doesn’t want to miss his duties at the Senate. But he hasn’t worn his mitts since dismissing the trash-talking

Keith Thurman in July 2019. He could be rusty, to borrow a cliché from boxing’s old hands. Former world welterweight titleholder Amir Khan has joined in the fray. At this writing, scratch out February as a playdate. Make it July, I’m quite sure of this. (The filling of Certificates of Candidacies for the 2022 presidential polls is October 2021, mind you.) I don’t know which name to recommend or suggest. It could be in any order. Anyone of these three hombres is an excellent match. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!