Edge Davao Issue 34

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VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

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The Business PAPER

COMPETITIVE EDGE p10

Davao trade surplus widens to US$ 45.5M

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figures of the week STOCK MARKET PERFORMANCE

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As of May 20, 2010

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As of May 20, 2010

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VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

Davao trade surplus up n

Neda Director Lim reports good performance in employment, governance, tourism

D

By Greg G. Deligero

AVAO Region continues to enjoy a favorable balance of trade this year with the value of exports surpassing the value of imports.

In a presentation during the Philippine Economic Briefing last Friday, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) regional director Maria Lourdes D. Lim said the trade surplus has widened this year at US$45.5 million, from US$ 29 million in 2010 due to increased export value for coconut (copra) and gold shipments.

Fresh bananas are the region’s top export commodity at US$100.6 million in export receipts.

Lim said that despite the disasters that hit Japan, the volume of banana shipments was not adversely affected and in fact increased by 7% during the 2nd quarter of this year.

Gold, in semi-manufactured form, maintained its rank as another top export earner and grew remarkably by 56% over its 2010 level.

The commodity upgraded its rank to 5th place with an export value of US$8 million from US$5.2 million in 2010.

Aside from copra, other top exports are commercial fruits such as pineapple mango, guava and mangosteen, natural rubber and activated carbon.

In terms of imports, rice did not dominate the import commodities unlike the preceding years.In fact rice was

not among the top 10 imports in the first quarter.

This year, Lim said petroleum oils and mineral/chemical fertilizers accounted for the largest chunk of imports, followed by uncoated Kraft paper and paperboard and insecticides and fungicides.

Employment Lim said fresh investments poured into the region generated more employment.

“More people were able to find full-time employment during the 1st half of the year due to more job opportunities, particularly in the construction and wholesale and retail trade subsectors,” she said.

Out of 17 regions in the country, Davao Region was one of only four regions in the country that posted lower unemployment and underemployment rates.

The region’s unemployment rate as of July this year dropped to 18.6% from 23.9% in 2010.

“The region was sustained by private construction for commercial purposes, notably the expansion of a shopping mall, bank and a hotel renovation project,” said Lim. Project commitments registered with the Board of Investments already amounted to P1.4 billion. The top investments are for five mass housing projects accounting for 99% of the total cost of registered projects. The rest are for manufacture of packaging materials (P97.5 million) and business process

outsourcing at P1.2 million.

Lim noted a continued shift of employment from the agriculture sector to the services sector in 2011. The agriculture sector absorbs 42% of employment while the services sector takes 46% and the remaining 12% are in the industry sector.

Governance Lim said the cities of Davao and Tagum instituted reforms to expedite business transactions that would considerably cut cost of doing business.

“In fact Davao City has been recognized by the World Bank as the second fastest LGU to streamline its process and make business start-ups easier, and the first in terms of processing of construction permits. The massive infusion of investments for building construction, as well as other business interests is a result of good governance practices by our Local Government Units,” she said.

Tourism The tourism sector was able to sustain its growth with 428,155 tourists recorded in January to July 2011 or an increase of 9% from 393,034 in the same period in 2010.

Domestic travelers including Balikbayans accounted for 92% of total visitor arrivals and posted a higher growth at 10.3% while foreign tourist arrivals declined “as global economies experienced a slowdown and slower than-expected recovery.”

Among the foreign tourists, Americans (8,620), Japanese (5,578) and Koreans (2,758) accounted for the bulk.

louie rabat Infrastructure Lim reported the completion of four foreign-assisted projects in 2011.. Among them, the construction of the Culaman Bridge in the municipality of Jose Abad Santos in Davao del Sur had the largest cost at P47.6 million.

For nationally-funded projects such as roads, school buildings, water supply facilities, she said that a total of P532.9 million has been disbursed wherein Davao City got the biggest share at P142.8 million.

Inflation In terms of inflation, however, Lim said that during the first 9 months of 2011, the inflation rate in the region was slightly higher at 5.7% than the national inflation rate at 4.9%.

She said that the rising costs of education, transport, medical and recreation services push the inflation. The region’s inflation last year was only 4.3%.

The economic briefing was preceded by an audio visual presentation on the theme “The Philippines: Reaching for Investment Grade

through Good Governance” which showed members of the Aquino government’s economic team reporting on their achievements.

Private sector reactions were delivered by banker Florante G. Santiago, first voice president of the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation and Louie Rabat, chairperson of the Wood Industry Cluster.

Praised In his reaction, Santiago praised the Aquino administration for strengthening of the country’s economic fundamentals and the emphasis on the war on poverty.

Rabat asked government to focus on significant projects that President Aquino had earlier prioritized as those addressing power supply and development of the mining sector.

He said “let’s decide once and for all what we want to do and focus on them. If we say we like to improve our energy sector and develop mining, government should eliminate the stumbling blocks.”

Of the team, only Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson and National Competitivenes Council co-chair Guilermo Luz were present. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas governor Amado Tetangco Jr., Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, NEDA Planning Secretary Cayetano Paderanga, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez Jr. and Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo only sent representatives.

Program host and moderator was BSP IRD Executive Director Claro Fernandez.

1,150 meter with a controlling draft of 10.6 meters.

“The berthing facility can only accommodate between four to six vessels at a time,” Bangcoy said. Although he could not ascertain big should the wharf and its container yard be, Bangcoy said for a primary wharf of the country it should be bigger.

The ports authority revealed that there is already the plan to improve the Sasa wharf, but Mr. Bangcoy said the expansion will take time to be completed. Two years ago, then President Gloria M. Arroyo led the inauguration of the P420-million expansion project as part of the rool-on-roll-off project of her government. That expansion included the rehabilitation of the quay and the construction of the concrete wharf, back-up area, mooring and fendering area, drainage system, lighting and rockworks.

The project was com-

pleted that year. Despite the expansion, cargo movers still complained that the wharf area is still small.

In January this year, the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association wrote the ports authority to complain that because the container yard is crowded, movement of cargoes has been delayed.

“It has been established that during peak hours, the process (in the wharf, whether loading or unloading cargoes) takes more than two hours to complete for every van,” said the association, the main group of banana exporters. Although the agency said in response to the letter that there was already a proposed expansion project, nothing was specified.

In a related development, Bangcoy did not comment on the controversy surrounding the designated examination area (DEA) as there are still cases before

the courts and the Office of the Ombudsman involving the area. The People’s Alliance Against Corruption earlier said the group will ask newly-appointed Customs Commissioner Rozzano Rufino Biazon to revive the DEA concept as this had been found effective in effectively curving smuggling and corruption at the port.

Businessman Rodolfo Reta, whose company Aquarius Container Yard operated the designated area, filed cases against former top officials of the Customs after the agency revoked the 25-year agreement that designated the area as inspection area. The order to stop the operations of the area came out after Reta uncovered an attempt to sneak a cargo of rice passed on as spare parts of vehicles. Instead of ordering an investigation on the reported technical smuggling, Reta said the agency accused him of not doing his job.

NEDA director Ma. Lourdes Lim

Poor Davao port facilities scored A

LEADING business leader and no less than an official of the Bureau of Customs identified the poor state of the port of Davao under the Philippine Ports Authority as one of the problems and constraints in the conduct of trade and commerce of the Davao Region.

During the Philippine Economic Briefing at a downtown hotel in Davao last Friday, businessman Louie Rabat, chairperson of the private sector Wood Industry Cluster of the Regional Development Council 11, told members of President Aquino’s economic team to act on the state of disrepair of the main port of the region at Sasa under PPA and the BOC. Due to the failure of government to provide sufficient and efficient port services at Sasa, private firms engaged in the export and import business have been forced to patronize private

ports, if not build their own, Rabat said, adding that such failure of government is one of the major problems of doing business in the region.

Part of the economic team present representing Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima was Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran.

Rabat echoed a similar lament aired a day before

by Davao Customs Collector Martiniano M. Bangcoy.

Bangcoy, who just assumed less than a month ago, told a tiny group of Davao editors and station managers BOC is facing a constraint in its desire to increase its collections as the container yard of the PPA is not only crowded, it is also very small.

PPA’s problem facilities has prompted the agency from approving the existing privately-run container yards to accommodate incoming cargoes.

Due to the limited area of PPA, Bangcoy said some

Collector Bangcoy importers have opted to bring their cargoes to privately-run container yards and that storage payment for these cargoes, instead of going to the government, goes to the owners of the yards.

Although the Sasa wharf has about 19 hectares in area, its container yard is “still very small.” The berthing facility of the wharf, where the ships dock, is just

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

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THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

The economy VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

as of august 2010

Cebu Pacific Daily Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri/Sun Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Silk Air Mon/Wed/Sat Cebu Pacific Thu Cebu Pacific Tue/Wed//Sat

5J961 / 5J962 Z2390 / Z2390 5J593 / 5J348 PR809 / PR810 PR819 / PR820 5J394 / 5J393 5J599 / 5J594 5J347 / 5J596 5J963 / 5J964 PR811 / PR812 5J595 / 5J966 MI588 / MI588 5J965 / 5J968 5J965 / 5J968

STAT WATCH INDICATIOR

LATEST

1. GNP Growth Rate (At Constant 1985 Prices)

1.9 % 2nd Qtr 2011

2. GDP Growth Rate (At Constant 1985 Prices)

3.4 % 2nd Qtr 2011

3. Exports 1/

USD 4,128 million Jun 2011

5:45 Manila-Davao-Manila 5:45 Manila-Davao-Manila 6:00 Cebu-Davao-Iloilo 6:10 Manila-Davao-Manila 7:50 Manila-Davao-Manila 7:50 Zamboanga-Davao-Zamboanga 8:00 Cebu-Davao-Cebu 9:10 Iloilo-Davao-Cebu 9:40 Manila-Davao-Manila 11:30 Manila-Davao-Manila 12:00 Cebu-Davao-Manila 18:55 Davao-Cebu-Singapore 12:55 Manila-Davao-Manila 13:35 Manila-Davao-Manila

6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 13:35 13:25 14:05

Silk Air Thu/Sun Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri Philippine Airlines August Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippines Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Sat Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Tue/Sat/Sun Cebu Pacific Daily Airphil Express Daily Philippine Airlines Daily except Sunday Philippine Airlines Sunday

MI566 / MI566 5J507 / 5J598 15:55 Z2524 / Z2525 5J967 / 5J600 PR813 / PR814 5J215 / 5J216 5971 / 5J970 5J973 / 5J974 5J969 / 5J972 2P987 / 2P988 PR821 / PR822 PR821 / PR822

18:55 Davao-Singapore 15:00 Cebu-Davao-Cebu Mani2Mani 16:50 16:05 Cebu-Davao-Cebu 16:35 Manila-Davao-Cebu 16:55 Manila-Davao-Manila 18:00 Cagayan de Oro-Davao-Cagayan de Oro 18:40 Manila-Davao-Manila 20:00 Manila-Davao-Manila 20:30 Manila-Davao-Manila 20:30 Manila-Davao-Manila 21:20 Manila-Davao-Manila 22:20 Manila-Davao-Manila

15:20 15:30 16:45 17:05 17:45 18:20 19:10 20:30 21:00 21:00 21:50 22:50

Catchment basins eyed for flood control

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s used in other urban centers, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is bent to push for the establishment of catchment or retarding basins to address problem on flooding.

Attending the first hop of the Philippine Economic Briefing held in this city Friday (Oct 21), DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson bared plans of using this catchment model as a means of flood control.

“With climate change, the rainfall that is suppose to be for 2 months are felt in 3 days that’s why we have excessive flood water. Thus, we need to retard that water upstream to be used for irrigation and most especially control flooding.”, Singson said.

4. Imports 1/

USD 4,503 million Jun 2011

5. Trade Balance

USD -376 million Jun 2011

6. Balance of Payments 2/

USD 222 million Jun 2011

7. Broad Money Liabilities

P4,423,849 million Jun 2011

8. Interest Rate 4/

he Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) P100,139 million issued a joint Memorandum Circular on Jun 2011 the Formulation of Local Investment and Incentives Code (LIIC) to enhance comP 4,777 billion petitiveness of local government units May 2010 (LGUs) and attract more investors at the local level.

P 42.81 The memorandum circular was Jul 2011 signed by DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo and DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo 4,503.6 during the 20th anniversary of the LoJul 2011 cal Government Code at the PICC, Pasay City. The signing was witnessed by DILG 126.4 officials, representatives of different Jul 2011 leagues of LGUs, and other stakeholders present in the event.

4.6 According to the memorandum, the Jul 2011 DTI, particularly the Board of Investments

Instead of allowing all the water to flow downstream at a time, the strategy rather recommends to establish retarding basins that would temporarily hold the water for a time, put it into good use instead of having it flow at once and cause flooding in lowlands.

The official believed on this strategy as this has been applied in Fort Bonifacio when the place was converted into a developed area. This, too, according to Singson is proven effective in other urban settings.

DPWH focuses on Davao City, looking at a river system that will have to integrate a river monitoring system with that of the PAG-ASA forecasts. “ We will be creating a model to protect

the city from flooding by working together with Pag-asa. What we have now is just a rainfall forecasting but we also hope to come up with a flood forecast.”, he added.

As for the budget, DPWH relies on the convergence program of the national government involving the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Concerned agencies will all look into a river system and have it as reference for future programs.

Singson said the government could not afford to continuously experience flooding in the next five years as damage cost would definitely be higher than the cost of programs intended for these years. [PIA11/Mai Gevera-Macapagat]

(BOI), being the lead agency in investments promotion and industry development, would assist the LGUs in the review and formulation of their own local investments code and investment priority areas, as well as to help them in their investment promotion activities such as investments conferences, business matching sessions, inbound and outbound investment missions, among others.

BOI will also make available to DILG and LGUs its expertise in the formulation of local investments code, project preparation, development and implementation of capacity building, training and technical assistance programs.

The DILG and the LGU leagues, on their part will advocate to the LGUs reforms in local investment climate through formulation or updating of their local in-

vestments and incentives code (LIIC) and implementation of investment promotion programs.

Also, the DILG will design and implement a monitoring tool to track the status of LIIC preparation and address the bottlenecks in the implementation of capacity building activities for LGUs related to investment promotion.

DILG, through its regional offices, will also provide support to BOI and its regional branches, the Local Government Academy (LGA) and other agencies in the conduct of local training and capacity development interventions for local governments.

The memorandum will make LGUs more competitive in terms of their investment policies and regulations and will be more conducive to businesses. [PNA]

DTI, DILG align investment, incentives code

4.48% Apr 2011

T

15. Core Inflation Rate 2000=100

3.7 Jul 2011

16. Visitor Arrivals

317,443 Apr 2011

DavOr on the road to rice self-sufficiency: Governor

17. Underemployment Rate /7

19.4% Apr 2011

18. Unemployment Rate /7

7.2 % Apr 2011

9. National Government Revenues 10. National government outstanding debt 11. Peso per US $ 5/ 12. Stocks Composite Index 6/ 13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100 14. Headline Inflation Rate 2000=100

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2009 - January 2011)

Month Average December November October September August July June May April March

2011

43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52

2010 45.11 43.95 43.49 43.44 44.31 45.18 46.32 46.30 45.60 44.63 45.74

February

43.70

46.31

January

44.17

46.03

2009 47.637 46.421

47.032 46.851 48.139

48.161 48.146 47.905 47.524 48.217

48.458 47.585 47.207

F

rom 42% rice-sufficiency when she assumed office, Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon reported that the province is now 60% rice-sufficient, and it will not rest until the province reaches its goal of total rice self sufficiency. This she was in an interview with the diocesan radio station, DXHM-AM. “I am reiterating my call to all the farmers in the province to plant rice so we can achieve our goal. We will see to it that we will not experience rice shortage ever again,” she said, adding that by ensuring a sufficient supply of rice, the province will no longer have to rely on outside sources.

To achieve the goal, the provincial government is looking at other areas for rice production, aside from the municipalities of Lupon and Banaybanay which form the rice basket of the province.

The municipality of Cateel promises to be the next most appropriate area for rice production. It is for this reason that Cateel has been chosen as the site of one of the biggest irrigation projects in the region which will soon be launched with Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala expected to witness event,” Malanyaon said, explaining that the provincial government has to open other areas for rice production after a big piece of riceland in the mu-

nicipality of Banaybanay was bought by a foreign investor.

BizQUIPS

‘IN Senate investigations, some are brazen in their display of ignorance of the rules of court—that is a crime in itself!’

--Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago in a forum at the University of the Philippine College of Law

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

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VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

property forum

we are hiring CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISOR Qualifications: • Civil Engineer/Architect not over 35 years old.

• Knowledgeable in the following: o Building materials, their proper handling and storage o Construction and land development o Interpreting architectural plans and sketching details for instructional purposes o Administration work involving the workplace, contractors and employees as well as the conduct of meetings and preparation of reports o Work job control measures to ensure the quality of construction and their completion within timetable • Fit and willing to work long hours to complete the project.

The contract or employment compensation is negotiable.

For interested applicants you may send your resume at ajsmelocoton@gmail.com, addressed to the HR MANAGER. Feel free to contact Ms. Grace Fadriquela at Tel. No. (082) 234 2994, local 214 for further inquiries.

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

Camella Northpoint’s mid-rise advantage C

amella Northpoint remains to be the only condo community in the city that allows its unit owners to enjoy all the benefits of condo living within the laid-back charm of a subdivision setting.

This landmark British colonial-themed condo development of Camella scores many benefits with its mid-rise buildings and pinefilled surroundings nestled in the heart of north Davao’s growth area.

Guaranteed security, privacy and exclusivity. Residents of condo communities housed in multi-use buildings lose their sense of privacy because of other people’s access to the common areas. This is true with high-rise condo buildings that house commercial establishments and business offices. The idea of sharing the lobby, entrance, exit, elevator, and parking with non-unit owners dilutes the sense of privacy and exclusivity of the condo community.

While living in a condo next to a mall or commercial center may be convenient, unit owners can kiss privacy and exclusivity goodbye because prying eyes will never be far away from their condo windows. Worse, their comings and goings can become fodder for those hanging out at the mall.

While Camella North-

point has a commercial area, it is outside the condo’s main gates and a reasonable distance from the buildings. It will feature specialty shops, fine dining restaurants, a boutique hotel, and other lifestyle options that will enhance the lives of the condo residents.

It also allows its residents to enjoy privacy and exclusivity in the real sense of the word, with its 24/7 security bolstered by a stateof-the-art entry-exit system at the main gates, secure perimeter fence, and CCTV. Relief from the hustle and bustle. With the higher traffic of high-rise condo buildings, it’s no wonder the hustle and bustle is just outside the door of unit owners. There is no gradual easing into the city’s commotion when going out of a condo home located right in the middle of the city’s hurly-burly.

While Camella Northpoint is located within the center of north Davao’s business and commercial district, it is tastefully tucked away from the city’s turmoil. Once residents enter the condo property, they are surrounded by lush greenery and wide open spaces that dissipate noise from city traffic.

Its fresh and serene ambiance is enhanced by over P4 million worth of imported Caribbean pine trees that can grow to over a hundred feet

tall, making it a veritable pine estate, a refuge from the stresses of city life. Yet its location is quite close to all the modern conveniences and daily essentials everyone needs.

No jostling for elevator space. High–rise buildings over 12-storeys tall have a denser population that results to over-crowding, rendering condo unit owners competing for elevator use.

While the elevators navigate the many floors of a highrise tower, unit owners will have to wait longer for it to reach their floor. With more people using the elevators, there’s lesser and tighter space for them.

Camella Northpoint offers low-rise advantage that high-rise condo buildings do not have. Its six-storey and 10-storey buildings are low- to mid-rise structures that house a population that is less dense, discouraging over-crowding. With lesser people, there are no long waits and no jostling for elevator space.

Residents have the luxury of a short ride up or down the elevators or can even take the wide, airy staircases to make their comings and goings as fast or as leisurely as they want it to be. To have this option is sweet, especially during rush hours when almost everybody has to leave for work at the same time.

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

agritrends october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

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DOST hails DavSur’s coco-sugar business P1.8-million profit from corn farming T

he coconut sugar firm in Bansalan, Davao del Sur is a role model of the Department of Science and Technology’s flagship program on countryside development.

DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo commended the Lao Integrated Farms, Inc. based in Barangay Eman, Bansalan for bringing improvements into the rural area of the province, using appropriate technology innovations.

Montejo said the inventor and producer of the Donnabelle coconut sugar and syrup products made from coconut sap, epitomizes DOST’s countryside development program as an effective and equitable strategy in realizing President Benigno Aquino’s goal for an inclusive economic growth.

He explained that countryside development covers the program of developing appropriate technology, improving existing products to be world-class and generating jobs around the area.

He said the enterprise “clearly exemplifies” this, citing particularly the present employment that the firm has provided for the rural folk.

“The Lao Integrated Farms is a very, very good example,” he said, adding “It is a perfect model in the middle of the countryside helping people and creating worldclass products.”

“We hope that the company would allow itself to become a model of the pro-

T

gram,” the DOST official said during his visit to the farm last week to see the impact of the DOST-assisted projects under the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

The DOST-SETUP provided the Lao Integrated Farms financial assistance of P660,000 with no interest, payable in three years.

The amount was used to purchase a double jacketed steel pasteurizer and rotary dryer project which made improvements in the production process and the quality of coconut syrup in compliance with export market standards.

During the visit, farm

owner and chief executive officer Benjamin Lao informed the DOST secretary on how the business had improved a lot from the time it started ten years ago from a barren land in Brgy. Eman.

Lao recalled that he started developing the onehectare coconut farm and introduced organic farming.

Today, Donnabelle coco sugar and syrup products are exported to Australia, Germany and Japan.

The business has also expanded to other coco sugar-based products such as ginger tea, moringa, lemon grass and seasonings.

Lao said he had only seven workers prior to the

quirements, because there is a provision attached to this offer, stating that, in case the establishment or farm fails the certification process, it shall reimburse all the expenses incurred by the certifying group,” Dizo said.

Other salient provisions of the Organic Agriculture Act or RA 10068 which was signed into law on April 6, 2010 and published in national broadsheets on June 18, 2010, are the following: creation of the National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB); creation of a Local Technical Committee for Organic Agriculture, which shall be headed by the local chief executive; accreditation of organic agriculture certifying body; registra-

tion of organic food and inputs producers; labelling of organic produce; incorporation of organic agriculture in formal and non-formal education; incentives; and penal provisions, among others; Dizo said the NOAB shall be composed of representatives from the departments of: Agriculture; Interior and Local Government; Environment and Natural Resources; Agrarian Reform; Science and Technology; Education; and Health. Small farmers are also given three slots in the Board, and one representative each from non-government organizations, the academe and the private or business sector.

[Aggie Media Service]

ered there, is one of the most destructive plant diseases. It is a soil-borne fungus that attacks the banana plant’s vascular system and obstructs the uptake of water and soil nutrients resulting to wilting and death of the pants.

Parawan said the DA through its High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) has already organized a task force that will work on implementation of quarantine measures and information drive.

“The task force is a composite team from national and local government as well as from the private sector, particularly the PBGEA [Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association] and MBGEA [Mindanao Banana Growers and Exporters Association],” he said adding: “Mapping and surveillance of severely affected areas is going on to identify and assess the extent of the damage.”

DOST assistance. The company now has a workforce of 86 toddy suppliers and 35 regular employees.

He plans employing 50 additional workers when he expands the business to Japan by the last quarter of 2012.

Lao is a national awardee as Outstanding Farmer and Magsasakang Syentista.

The provincial government also recognized Lao for his exceptional contribution not only in improving the agriculture sector, but also in uplifting agri-entrepreneurship through his invention and production of the coconut sugar/syrup. [PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon]

Free certification made available Los Amigos celebrates for organic farms, products - DA catfish fest

“I

t would normally cost a farmer or an establishment a whooping, P100,000 but now , the Department of Agriculture (DA) is giving a 100 percent subsidy for organic farming certification fees.”

This was bared by Organic Agriculture regional focal person, Dominador Dizo, during the briefing and orientation on the Organic Agriculture Act conducted recently at the Government Center, Mankilam, Tagum City.

However, Dizo cautioned organic agriculture practitioners not to be hasty in availing of this incentive.

Before you apply for certification, be sure you have satisfied all the re-

Strategies vs banana disease set

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he Department of Agriculture (DA) has outlined strategies to control fusarium wilt, a destructive fungal disease reportedly ravaging banana plantations in Mindanao.

Regional director Oscar Parawan said his office is currently working with private companies and local government units (LGUs) to save the local banana industry.

Fusarium wilt which is also known as Panama disease, since it was first discov-

T

he barangay of Las Amigos in Mintal district of this City will be celebrating their Pantatan Festival on October 25-28.

The festival’s name is derived from Pantat the native word for catfish which is the prime aquatic produce of this highland barangay.

According to Angelico Santander, barangay captain of Los Amigos, there are 36 registered fishponds in the area. These registered fishponds belong to the group Los Amigos Aquaculture Producers Organization Incorporated.

He said the registered ponds net an average of 1,500 kilos of fishes a day or about 547,000 kilos annually. An equal number are estimated to be produced from non-member ponds.

Aside from fishponds the barangay is also known for pantatan or hitoan, food establishments serving catfish.

Santander says that there are at least 17hitoan eateries which line the highway traversing the barangay.

He says that Los Amigos catfish has become famous not just in Davao but also across the country being one of the tastiest. Santander recall that then Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap during his visit to Los Amigos declared that among the hito he tasted from across the country, the fishes in Los Amigo is among the best-tasting.

he provincial government of Davao Oriental—through the Provincial Agriculture Office, held what in called a Corn Harvest Festival in Barangay Bobon, Mati City where 52 farmer cooperators benefited from the 1.8 million pesos worth of corn production from what was dubbed “Davao Oriental Corn Enhancement Project” under the Pagkain at Kita program, a brainchild of the Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon.

The first cycle alone had a total corn production of 50 metric tons of white corn and 136 metric tons of yellow corn from the 59-hectare area. The figures, however, are projected to increase as the agriculture sector remains determined to double its production in the second cycle.

Rotchie M. Ravelo, technical assistant to Pagkain at Kita Program was clearly elated, saying that this year’s biggest area in the entire city of Mati in terms of corn production is in Barangay Bobon.

Fifty-nine hectares was harvested out of the total 110 hectares established corn project site, 20 hectares of which were planted to the white corn variety and 39 hectares to the yellow variety.

The shelled white corn were valued at 13 pesos per kilo and the yellow corn at 9 pesos per kilo.

Ravelo added that the income would have been much higher if the produce was sold at higher cost.

“We will study how to balance the price so that we can compete with the market price,” said Malanyaon.

The provincial government is thinking of selling the

produce outside the province, a marketing strategy that is guaranteed to get a better price, thus increasing the local farmers’.

“For marketing support, the government bought a hauling truck (Forward truck) for P950,000 for transporting corn to Tagum City where it can be sold at a higher price,” Ravelo said.

Moreover, a new farm tractor worth 2.4 million pesos was bought through a counterpart scheme between the provincial government which granted 1.2 million pesos and the Department of Agriculture allotting 1.2 million pesos. “This only proves how strong the commitment of our government is to provide our people with a better life,” said Ravelo, who added that the income generated per hectare from white corn alone has reached P30,000.00 and P35,000.00 for the yellow corn. The 1.8 million total value of production (1,228,500 pesos for the yellow corn and 600,000 pesos on the white corn) has encouraged more corn farmers to further boost their production.

To realize this project, the provincial government has subsidized 800,000 pesos as counterpart of the 1.2 million-budget allotted. This includes trainings and seminars for the farmers, farming inputs such as corn seeds and fertilizers, as well as the provision of the tractor. The city government of Mati, the barangay LGU, and the cooperators themselves will continue to support to the programs of the provincial government in its thrust of advancing the agriculture sector.

DavNorte joins fight vs Panama disease

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he provincial agriculture office (Pagro of Davao del Norte is preparing to wage a massive early detection and prevention campaign against the proliferation of Fusarium wilt known as Panama disease.

In an interview, Pagro chief Dominador Encarnacion said his office is set to conduct an information and education campaign to let the public know more about the fungal infestation that is beginning to spread in banana plantations of the province.

During the campaign, Pagro will also warn banana growers against allowing farm animals such as chicken and pigs among others, to roam around their plantations as

they are liable to spread the fungus.

Encarnacion said the Fusarium wilt is a soil borne-fungus which could have already been present in local banana plantations and was spread by the frequent flashfloods in previous months.

Encarnacion said about 50.4 hectares of banana plantations in Davao del Norte have been found infested with Fusarium wilt.

The most affected areas are in New Corella where more than 30 hectares of cavendish banana plantations were found with Fusarium, so with 17 hectares in Sto. Tomas. There are 17,000 hectares of banana plantations in the entire province..

BizQUIPS

‘THERE is a possibility of a gold rush, because gold is the safest commodity right now. But we have to manage our resources well..this is not the kind of mining we want to encourage.’

--Environment Secretary Ramon Paje on the resurgence of mining in Mt. Diwata due to high price of gold.

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VANTAGE POINTS

VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

Solving the trisiboat problem

was driving in Quezon City when I encountered an apparition that is common in Davao but rarely seen in Manila’s major thoroughfares: a trisiboat.

With the streets typically congested to road rage-inducing levels, trisiboats are not normally found head to head with other vehicles in QC. But there it was, inching its way slowly ahead of my car as I moved forward with the green light, stalling my progress and forcing me to reduce speed to 10 KPH, until we were both in the middle of the intersection as the light turned orange. Then I heard a whistle from an MMDA enforcer. Being a law-abiding citizen, I complied with the enforcer’s hand signals and pulled over, while the trisiboat went its slow and merry way. I asked the enforcer what my offense was, and he replied that I was going too slow and delaying other vehicles as a consequence.

I politely pointed out that the reason for my turtle speed was the trisiboat that cut me off as I was moving forward, and why wasn’t its driver arrested? The enforcer told me that he couldn’t stop the trisiboat, because it was not registered and therefore, no sanctions could be placed on it.

I was dumbfounded.

Here I was -a polite, lawabider driving a registered vehicle with a valid driver’s license, a taxpayer who had fully paid a year’s worth of road taxes - and I was being unjustly punished because a trisiboat had cut me off.

Such occurrences may be rare in Manila, but not in Davao. Here, my daily drives will always include a close encounter with trisiboats, trisikads, tricycles, a payong-payong and all forms of slow motorized and non-motorized conveyances that transport people, animals, vegetables, scrap metal, eggs, gasul tanks, beds and sofas and the kitchen sink - and trailing behind them, a long line of vehicles driven by flabbergasted motorists whose pace is being dictated by an oversized rolling junk.

The trisiboat problem

is like a large tumor that indicates a cancer lurking beneath. It is an indicator of poor governance. More than a traffic problem, it is an indicator of a system that allows people with the audacity and impunity to ignore rules, while the lawabiding suffer.

I used to rant that these pseudo-vehicles should be totally banned from Davao.

But some local officials tell me banning them will deprive Davao’s poor of a means of livelihood. Given this humane argument then, how to solve the trisiboat problem? The answer is to regulate them.

First, require registration. Unregistered trikes must be impounded.The city government can determine a fair rate for registration - one that inculcates a sense of responsibility and accountability.

Second, regulation.

I believe such modes of transport have no place on national and major roads and the downtown area.

These conveyances are redundant when jeepneys ply their route. They should only be an option within and to and from residential areas where public transport is absent.

Third, standardization.

This means strict guidelines on how they should look (e.g. color-coding for those plying a specific, official route, including assigning body numbers for easy monitoring), how many passengers they are allowed to carry (for safety’s sake) and maybe even a uniform for its drivers (to give them some dignity while they pursue a living, not just a pathetic excuse for livelihood).

I am looking forward to the day when trisiboats and their pesky cousins shall have found their rightful place - a place that respects my rights as a motorist, and where Davao City will not allow them to multiply to the point of being a nuisance. Only then will I be able to say with pride that, indeed, Life Is Here!

Please send your reactions to nic_agustin@yahoo. com.

BizQUIPS

‘THESE are just some of the many more charges we are going to file against those who violate the law. There will ne no sacred cows at the bureau under my watch.’

--Customs Commissioner Rozzano Rufino Biazon

editorial

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After Gadhafi, what?

IBYANS celebrated last week’s capture and subsequent execution of Moammar Gadhafi who was Libya’s brutal dictator for more than 40 years.

In the early days of his reign, Gadhafi was openly supporting rebel movements in many countries, including reportedly the Moro National Liberation Front of Dr. Nur Misuari in the Philippines. He would openly say then that he intented to export the revolution, through which he rose to power as a firebrand and young agent provocateur.

Gadhafi later hosted the peace talks between the Philippine government and Misuari’s group which resulted in the so-called Tripoli Agreement in 1974.

At the height of his rule, he was linked to numerous acts of terrorism directed against the United States of America and its allies.

Despite his villainous rule as dictator and his murderous reactions against those who opposed him, the civilized world is now clamoring for an investigation into the circumstances

surrounding his death. Initial reports and television grab indicate that he was still alive when captured but was lynched like an ordinary felon an hour after. At least one of his sons suffered a similar fate in the hands of euphoric rebels on the rampage.

With Gadhafi’s sudden albeit ignominious death, the world is spared of a long spectacular trial of the late dictator for crimes against humanity. But was it right to kill him like a subjudicated mad dog, without trial?

The hunt for the late strongman’s mind-boggling wealth secretly stashed in some banks in different parts of the world has likewise begun. One early television account has it that Gadhafi’s deposits are in the vicinity of more than 200 billion US dollars.

Now, there is also the question of the future of a post-Gadhafi Libya. Who are going to be the leaders? There is a worrisome perception that some of the anti-Gadhafi leaders have links to the dreaded Al Qaeda.

Looking at the big picture, after Gadhafi who’s the next dictator to fall?

vantage POINTS

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

FACE OFF

On former Shariah Judge Nagamura Moner ‘HE made a business out of the elections.

(He debased the elections). Now, when his benefactors are no longer in power, he’s suddenly coming out like he’s a hero. He should go to jail.

‘I knew his handler back then. He had no money. He just wanted to help the opposition.

The other side learned about the plan and offered a big amount to Moner. That’s why when he appeared with a signed affidavit at the Senate then, he denied everything.’

--Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada

‘THERE’S a saying that it takes a thief to catch a thief. It’s difficult to get an angel for a witness, who has personal knowledge of all the evils committed.

He cannot expect to get a perfect witness, who would speak on wrongdoing committed in the past.’

--Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero

Tama na, sobra na!

T

HE ambush by some 80 Moro Islamic Liberation Force (MILF) of 41 Philippine Army soldiers in Al-Barka, Basilan last week that killed 19 of the troopers and wounded many more of their comrades was not the first, nor will it be the last, bloody encounter with the armed groups like the MILF, ercetera.

Nor is it true that the army troopers initiated the attack as alleged by the MILF leadership, by way of washing its hands off the murder, which it was, plain and simple. It is highly illogical for a 41man army group to attack an MILF-controlled area.

It’s like “walking into the tiger’s den” as the saying goes. In situations like that, an attacking force would certainly consist of a large number of heavily armed men, supported by artillery, armored cars and helicopter gunships as in the case of the successful attack on the MILF’s Camp Abubakar during the administration of President Joseph

Estrada. That certainly was not the case in the Basilan clash last week. The government troopers belonging to a Special Force were in Al-Barka to arrest a certain Dan Asnawi, allegedly an MILF member who had a warrant on him for having participated in the beheading of Philippine Marines in Basilan some years back.

He had been captured but subsequently escaped from detention along with two dozen other detainees.

What could have happened was probably a mistake on the part of the Army commander of the 41-man Special Forces unit for venturing mindlessly into unknown territory without thinking of the consequences. They were too trusting.

The latest Al-Barka caper has raised the hackles of many Filipinos who are averse to the unnecessary spilling of blood. Some of them even threaten to derail the undergoing peace process between the MILF and the government, with a good number of people asking for the suspension of the peace talks, an understandable knee-jerk reaction. Still some others are calling for an all-out war with the MILF whose leadership has been flaunting the MILF’s growing arsenal of arms and men—11,000 as of last count (“their” count, that is) by way of bragging rights.

How a self-respecting republic can countenance having heavily armed pri-

vate armies within its borders is beyond me. Past administrations are to blame for tolerating this anomaly, more for political reasons than anything else. Today they have grown into unwieldy, threatening armed forces that have been testing the government’s resolve to control them.

While we don’t believe it is necessary, despite what has happened many times in the past, to resort to an all-out war against the MILF, still there is a need for the government to reassert its sovereignty over a place like Al-Barka, nay, the whole of Basilan itself, by throwing the full might of its military to confront the armed renegades over there and restore order once and for all on an island province over which the Philippine flag flies.

Is the Aquino administration ready, able, and willing to prove it has self-respect by doing what needs to be done to rid that island province of its lawless elements? Tama na, sobra na!

EDITORIAL The Business Paper

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Pontius Pilate and politicians are soulmates (?)

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number of special days were given global or worldwide emphasis in September and October namely, World Teachers Day (Sept. 10), World Bread Day (Oct. 11), International Day of Nonviolence (Oct. 2), Global Handwashing Day (Oct. 15) and United Nations Day (Oct. 24).

UN Day has been observed for more than six decades without fail and with much fanfare because it is the founding day of the world body. That’s understandable.

All of these international days have their own unique significance and importance. For the moment, however, our main talking point is handwashing day, the latest and least known of global days which started only three years ago.

Although washing of hands is an ordinary common and simple activity, I found it quite intriguing, albeit, trivial, because of its biblical implication.

But health authorities say that observing this day will stress the importance of good and correct health habit which will serve as a preventive measure against sickness and diseases. Celebrating the day is worth our time and thoughts, they add. I have no quarrel with that. After all, health is wealth.

The term washing of the hands reminds us of that encounter between Jesus of Nazareth and Pontius Pilate, Roman Procurator of Judea in the year 29 A.D. The Jews accused Jesus of being revolutionary and an enemy of Rome. After his arrest, he was brought before Pilate for trial. After some questions about His character ( which Jesus refused to answer) Pilate declared Jesus innocent of the charges, and dramatized his verdict by washing his hands, saying that he had nothing to do with the blood of an innocent man. Then he endorsed Jesus to the crowd. And we all know what happened to Jesus.

Pilate washed his hands of responsibility for the death of Jesus. He did

so for fear of negative public opinion because he was concerned about his political future.

That was probably the first handwashing day in the world. And Pilate started it all.

Speaking further of washing the hands, our politicians and government officials are experts at it.

They have that rare talent of washing their hands of responsibility for bungled jobs, shady deals, scams and all sorts of anomalies involving the money of the people.

In fact, they have developed handwashing into an art. They wash their hands not with soap and water, but with bogus innocence and pompous rhetoric. Their trademark or standard statement is: “My conscience is clear.” (But their hands are not. COA sees their fingers dipping into the government cookie jar) Remember the Luneta hostage crisis not too long ago? Eight Chinese tourists died as a result of incompetent handling of the rescue operation. All those assigned to resolve the crisis washed their hands of any responsibility. They chorused they were not to blame. The Aquino bright boys were not man enough to accept or won collective blame for the failed operation.

HISTORICAL NOTE: Pontius Pilate served as procurator of Judea for 10 years. His job was to keep the peace and dispense Roman justice in Judea. He was ousted because of a massacre of Samaritans in Samaria. He was said to have embraced Christianity together with his wife Procula. Believe it or not, they are now both revered as saints by the Catholic Coptic Church, a nativeEgyptian Christian church now known as Orthodox Church.

This is just a suggestion: Maybe our politicians should honor Pontius Pilate as their patron saint. They have one wishy-washy thing in common. Besides, they are probably soulmates. ooOoo

BizQUIPS ‘CERTAINLY, no government in its right mind should give away for free its natural resources to private business enterprises, local or foreign, amidst widespread poverty among its people.’

--Supreme Court Justice Antonio T. Carpio

10 VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

competitive edge

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

Phoenix Petroleum wins Best TV Ad DENR on target in 2011 Catholic Mass Media Awards for NGP coverage T P hoenix Petroleum Philippines’s TV commercial ‘The Journey’ bagged the award for Best TV Ad-Branded under the advertising category in the 33rd Catholic Mass Media Awards Night held on October 19, 2011 at the San Carlos Seminary Auditorium in Edsa, Guadalupe, Makati City.

The CMMA annually recognizes and honors the best values-oriented works in radio, print, television, cinema, music, and advertising.

It is considered one of the most prestigious and credible award-giving bodies in the country.

The award is Phoenix Petroleum’s first CMMA recognition.

The first corporate TV advertisement of Phoenix illustrates how far a man would go to be with his family, and the company that brings him there. It is a touching story of love for family, a moving story of a man in a long, hard journey and the faith that overcomes distance.

he Department of Environment and Natural Resources 11 is confident it will meet its 2011 target for the National Greening Program.

Alfredo Zarasate DENR 11 Forestry Resources Management Division chief said that of the 5,504 hectares replanting target in the region under this year’s NGP they have already covered 4,952 hectares or 83% of the target.

“With still three months to go, we are confident of hitting the target.” Zarasate said.

About 2.2 million seedlings, mostly forestry and agro-forestry species, have been planted of the target of 2.7 million for 2011.

Most of the areas targeted for reforestation are Community-Based Forestry Management (CBFM) areas. Most of the species

It was launched early this year for the company’s “Ikaw, Anong Trip Mo?” campaign.

CMMA’s criteria for judging are based on the late Pope John Paul II’s Ethics in Media and the document of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines (PCP II). It includes: love for God, love for truth, respect for natural environment, promotion of positive Filipino values, and love for family and life.

The Catholic Mass Media Awards was organized in 1978 through the Archdiocese of Manila by His Eminence Archbishop Jaime Cardinal L. Sin. For years, it has been receiving thousands of entries from all over the country.

Phoenix Petroleum Philippines is the fastest growing independent oil company today with an expanding network of operations nationwide. It is engaged in the business of trading refined petroleum products and lubricants, operation of oil depots and storage facilities, and allied services.

Maternal health facility to rise at DavSur provincial hospital A

planned two-storey facility inside the Davao del Sur Provincial Hospital compound will house maternal health services and facilities.

The first phase of construction will include rooms for X-ray, ultrasound, emergency, nursery and central supply.

The second floor of the building will accommodate the obstetrics-gynecology wards.

The Department of Health central office released the first tranche of the funding that amounts to P60 million through the Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP).

The remaining P103 million will be released after the first phase project has been completed. This project is expected to be finished by December next year.

The hospital has a 170 bed-capacity that caters to

pregnant women to avail of obstetrical service.

It intends to put up 80 additional beds, hopefully towards the last quarter of 2014 or first quarter of 2015.

Two OB-Gyne consultants will be hired to ensure better maternal health care and services.

Provincial health officer Dr. Azucena Milana-Dayanghirang said maternal health services should be strengthened to reduce the maternal mortality rate.

Governor Douglas Cagas has been supporting this cause and is closely working with the Provincial Health Office for the upgrading of hospital facilities to provide better service to his constituents.

Only recently, regional director Dr. Teogenes Baluma of the DOH-Region 11 Center for Health Development turned over a check amounting to P44.5 million

to the governor for the implementation of hospital infrastructure upgrading project.

The amount represents 50 percent of the whole DOH funding of P89 million for Davao del Sur which also covers other hospital recipients such as Gregorio Matas District Hospital, Malita District Hospital, Tomas Lachica District Hospital and Sarangani Municipal Hospital.

Joining the health force are Rural Health Units and Barangay Health Stations to work hand in hand in the creation and promotion of safe birthing facilities in the municipalities of Jose Abad Santos, Kiblawan, Padada, Magsaysay, Hagonoy and Sarangani.

The remaining local government units will be given a budget allocation in the coming days. This project is aimed at targetting the Millennium Development Goals towards 2015. [PIO-DavSur/ Nilda S. Aniñon]

NCIP 11 wins Civil Service national photo competition

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photo of a group of Ata tribal elders and leaders being interviewed for a documentation on Testimony of Elders emerged as first place winner in the national photo contest in connecton with the 2011 Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA).

The winning photo taken in Panubaran, Sitio Pamantawan, Barangay Malabog, Paquibato district, Davao City was submitted

by Lyn A. Balanza, a staff of the National Commission on

Indigenous People (NCIP) in the region.

In a simple ceremony held in last week’s Monday convocation at the NCIP regional office, Civil Service Commission 11 regional director Atty. Annabelle B. Rosell awarded a certificate and cash prize of P10,000 to NCIP-11.

NCIP-11 representative Engr. Elvie Jabines, who was featured in the winning photo as the interviewee, received the certificate and cash prize of the 2011 PCSA

“Give It Your Best Shot” photography contest.

The agency’s acting regional director Leonor O. Quintayo and its division chiefs and employees witnessed the awarding ceremony.

The documentation on the Testimony of Elders is one of the mandatory activities of the Social Preparation Phase in the application for a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) as per NCIP Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2008. [NCIP11/Alma Villareal]

planted were coffee, cacao, abaca, rubber, mahogany and narra which were requested by the CBFM beneficiaries.

The planters consisted mainly of CBFM beneficiaries and other volunteers, mostly students, government employees and private entities which have also adopted replanting sites.

Zarasate said that for 2012 the target will be about 9,500 hectares and, aside from CBFM areas, the NGP will also cover ancestral domains and protected areas.

He said the seedlings are still sourced from the DENR clonal nursery in Tagum City which supplies about 80% of the seedling needs while the rest are sourced from the CBFM beneficiaries who have been tapped to look for other seedling sources.

[PIA 11/RG Alama]

SM City Davao joins global campaign for hand washing

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ast October 14, SM City Davao with partners from Department of Health, World Health Organization, UNICEF and Unilever joined the rest of the world in promoting children’s health through proper hand washing with soap.

This is SM Davao’s third year in joining the cause. The celebration was done simultaneously across 41 SM Supermalls nationwide as part of SM Cares Committee on Children’s Welfare.

At SM City Davao, the celebration was supported

BizQUIPS

by the local government of Davao through the Office of the City Mayor represented

by Sanitation Inspector Curtis Lazarraga, City Health Office, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection and Girl Scouts of the Philippines.

Pre-schoolers from Beginnings Child Care Center, Circular Homes and Project Hope of SIR Matina participated in the celebration of the Global Hand Washing Day. In her opening remarks, mall manager Lynette Lopez shares “…the responsibility to care for people is not just

‘I think that’s a good offer from them but I don’t think at this point in time it would be in the best interest of the people if the government were to re-run Petron – at least as far as refinery operations are concerned.’

--President Noynoy Aquino

a task of one, but of many.

We know as we collaborate shared efforts towards a common goal we will achieve our objectives not only for the future generations but in our own. There must be a conscious effort by all to care for the health of one another. And since we would not be here if not for our customers, our partners, we hope to give back, reach out and help educate children because SM Cares.”

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

11

ISO-QMS jumpstarts in Davao Port as PPA casts new vision

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Parent leaders attend assembly

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total of 88 parent leaders from the 12 LGU-beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilippino Program attended the assembly conducted by the provincial government of Cotabato last October 10-12, 2011 in Kidapawan City.

The forum served as a venue for the Parent Leaders to identify gaps, issues and concerns confronting the implementation of the 4Ps program.

They were also oriented on the Compliance Verification System (CVS), Grievance Redress System (GRS), Supply Side Assessment (SSA) and Beneficiary Update System (BUS) as well as leadership and teamwork.

Of the issues discussed, the BUS was perceived to be the most controversial where several questions were by the parent leaders.

Most of the parent leaders who attended the forum were mothers, an indication of gender equality and empowerment of women proving to society that mothers also have capabilities to successfully lead groups.

The province has a total of 41,320 household-beneficiaries among whom clusters were formed, each cluster chose a parent leader.

Today, there are 1,489 organized parent groups.

These parent leaders lead their groups in all meetings, develop rapport with the members of the assembly; follow up and monitor the attendance of household grantees in the community assemblies and family development education sessions; follow up and conduct home visits to households grantees who have not been attending

the community assembly and disseminate information to household beneficiaries.

With the crucial functions of the parent leaders in the implementation of the Program, Pantawid Pamilya, the forum helped them strengthen their roles and equipped them to be more effective as partners in the implementation.

“The provincial government is strongly pushing for efficient and effective implementation of the program since this is the biggest single instrument of the government to improve the human capital,” said Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza.

“Let’s not put to waste the government’s money. We should see to it that the program served its purpose,” she said. [edv]

hilippine Ports Authority (PPA) formally launched the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Quality Management System (QMS) for the Port of Davao with the Facilitation of Vessel Entrance and Clearance (VEC) as its core business process here last October 17, 2011.

VEC, a frontline service of the PPA entail four (4) core procedures, namely, 1) Entrance Formalities; 2) Assessment of Vessel Charges; 3) Collection of Charges (for both computerized and noncomputerized ports) and; 4) Departure Clearance.

Said procedures as embodied in the Quality Procedures Manual shall be implemented in the next three months before the respective internal and external audits.

QMS refers to the organizational structure, responsibilities, procedures, processes and resources to implement a service or come up with a product.

Once the manualized processes are operationalized and enforcement is perfected based on the standards audits, the Port of Davao (also known as Sasa Wharf) will eventually be qualified to apply for an ISO 9001-2008 accreditation.

“After several months of tedious work, I am very

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PORT), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Liner Shipping Association (PLSA) were in attendance during the QMS project launch.

The mandate to pursue QMS ISO accreditation stems from the national directive through Executive Order No. 605 issued by the then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo pushing for the Government Quality Management Program (GQMP). It is aimed at debureaucratizing workflow and simplifying frontline services for the public as well as enhancing national competitiveness to be at par with international counterparts.

To heed such call, PPA revised its corporate vision which was formerly pegged at year 2010 focusing on meeting international standards on port services and facilities into: “By 2030, customers doing business in our ports shall experience full and sustained productivity, efficiency, comfort, connectivity, safety and security.”

PMO-Davao also took the QMS VEC project launching as an opportunity to reveal PPA’s newly-crafted vision to the public by a ceremonial unveiling of a marker engraving said vision as well as the Authority’s mission statement. [PPA]

Put on those eye-patches and grab those jagged swords as Eden Nature Park and Resort takes you to a swashbuckling adventure at “Aye! Aye! Halloween” on October 31, 2011.

Be in your best Jack Sparrow and other pirateinspired outfits, or show off your favorite sea animal or mythical sea creature costumes. Head to Eden Nature Park and have the mari-TIME of your life! Fun Halloween games, exciting prizes and a tsunami of SEA-prises are in store for all pirates and guests to the party.

Take advantage of Eden Nature Park’s Halloween overnight packages, available for as low as PhP 1,500 (per hut on Campsite 1, good for 5 persons) with free ticket to the Halloween party.

Halloween overnight packages inclusive of free ticket to the Halloween party, dinner, breakfast, use of swimming pool and entrance to the Fishing Village are also available for as low as PhP 1,902 (Aster room, twin sharing).

Halloween party tickets with dinner are also available for only PhP 530 (adult)/ PhP 430 (4-10 years old)/ PhP 200 (0-3 years old). Party starts at 5:00 PM. Anchors away! It’s the ultimate pirate adventure only at Eden Nature Park and Resort…Naturally! Make your reservations now - call tel. nos. 299.0313/299.1020/ 296.0791, mobile no.

918.930.7590, email info@ edennaturepark.com.ph, or visit the website at www. edennaturepark.com.ph.

Pirate-themed Halloween set at Eden Nature Park

EDGEDAVAO

ALONG HI-WAY MATI CENTRAL

pleased to announce that Davao is finally ready to be an ISO-compliant port,” Port District Manager and concurrent PMO-Davao Port Manager Atty. Christian V. Santillan said during his inspirational message at the QMS launching.

PPA General Manager Atty. Juan C. Sta. Ana, in a taped message, conveyed his congratulatory message-cumchallenge for the PMO-Davao to consistently improve its frontline services in order to fully realize its certification from the ISO within the set schedule.

Acting Port Operations Services Department Manager of the PPA Head Office Roberto Aquino, who presented the QMS VEC Project Overview, likewise imparted the crucial timeline to be observed within the next five months for the timely compliance with the requirements for the full accreditation from an ISO certifying body for years 2012 to 2016.

Representatives from both the private and public sector who serve as partners in the VEC include the American President Lines (APL), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Davao Pilots Association, Inc. (DPAI), Davao Integrated Port Stevedoring Services Corp. (DIPSSCOR), Filipinas Port Services, Inc. (FIL-

The Business PAPER

Account Executive Qualifications: 25-35 years old Male or Female College Graduate Pleasing Personality Good Moral Character Can work with less supervision

Interested applicants submit your resume with recent 2x2 ID pictures to: Human Resource Department Zion Accuprint Publishing, Inc 14 Alcrej Bldg. Quirino Ave. Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601

BizQUIPS ‘AS a general rule, we are doing what we can to try to improve the business climate. The World Bank study indicates we still have some work to do on this. But investors can rest assured that we’re working on it.’

--Secretary Ricky Carandang of the Presidential Communications Ddvelopment and Strategic Planning Office.

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

ict hub

12 VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

PHP posts record numbers in PC shipments Twitter boasts 250 million tweets a day T he Philippine PC market is surging, posting record numbers in unit shipments for the second quarter of this year. According to a study from market data provider IDC, the country received 465,000 units (190,000 desktops/ 274,000 portable), which amounts to a 30 percent increase yearon-year.

The higher ship-in commitment from vendors is mostly attributed to the popularity of entry-level 14inch notebooks. According to IDC’s Asia/Pacific Quarterly Tracker, the 13+-inch notebook segment experienced a 35 percent quarter-overquarter increase. This is in contrast to the numbers for mini-notebooks.

The market segment, which has been in decline in spite of cheap prices, experienced an 8 percent drop for the quarter. “With the rise of media tablets and smartphones, competition in the secondary IT device is heating up and this is also affecting the demand for mini notebooks,” said Ng Juan Jin, the market analyst for personal system research at IDC Asean.

The smaller price gap between netbooks and notebooks have caused consumers to migrate towards fullfeatured portable PCs. “Discerning home users are now willing to spend on larger form factors, which provide more bang for the buck.”

Juan Jin added.

BPOs also contributed

to the rise in PC shipments.

Companies that fall under the large and very large enterprise segments caused an 8 percent increase in over-

all commercial PC spending. SMEs also added to the growth; the study claims that SME-centric notebooks received a favorable response.

aspersky Lab, one of the world’s leading IT security companies, is calling on all undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students of colleges and universities across the Philippines to send their best original research papers on internet security and cybercrime for the 2012 Kaspersky Conference for Young Professionals.

The most interesting and innovative submissions will be chosen by the conference committee of Kaspersky Lab experts and IT security professors. Authors of selected papers will be invited to present his/her work at the conference to be held on March 21-23, 2012 at the City University in Hong Kong.

All travel and accommo-

dation expenses for the chosen participants will be paid for by Kaspersky Lab. Winners in the conference will receive generous cash prizes and an invitation to attend the international Final stage of the conference in Europe in May 2012.

Registration is ongoing and deadline of submission of papers is on December 1,

2011.

The conference with the theme, “IT Security for the Next Generation,” aims to bring together students, young professionals, experts, scientists, researchers and professors from all over the world in a collaborative environment to present and discuss issues relating to cybercrime.

T

Kaspersky Lab wants students to research on security/cybercrime K Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial Region Branch 16 Davao City SP.PROC. NO. 11,546-11 IN RE: PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRY IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF AILEEN PARACUELLES CABALLERO IN THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF DAVAO CITY AILEEN PARACUELLES Petitioner versus-

witter CEO Dick Costolo revealed the microblogging website is still growing fast and is close to reaching a new milestone of 250 million tweets per day, up from 90 million a day in September 2010.

Twitter’s global active user base has ballooned to include more than 100 million people around the world, half of which sign in daily.

Technology blog Mashable reports that Dick Costolo said, “We had 30% of our monthly active users loggin (sic) in every day at the beginning of the year. Now it’s over 50%” while talking about Twitter at the Web 2.0 Summit in San Fransico, USA. The launch of Apple’s Twitter-friendly iOS 5 up-

date has helped increase new sign-ups for the platform. Since Apple’s new operating system was launched on October 14 Twitter sign-ups from iOS devices have tripled, said Costolo.

According to technology blog TechCrunch, Costolo added, “We think that we can be on 2 billion devices around the world, and reach every person on the planet, and the way to do that is through simplifying.”

To put those figures in context, Facebook has more than 800 million users of which more than 50 percent log on in any given day, and Google CEO Larry Page revealed that Google+ had more than 40 million users during the company’s earnings conference call on October 13.

Facebook is popular to book prostitutes

F

acebook is becoming an increasingly popular place to book prostitutes online.

“Malaysia No 1 Call Girl Service. 3C Agent: 012959****” is one of the pages set up to enable clients to hire girls from China, Thailand and Indonesia.

As of 7pm on last Thursday, it had 2,080 “likes”, reported Sinar Harian.

“Service will be provided only around Klang Valley. Please don’t call us to confirm, we don’t provide service in other countries, please cooperate,’’ said a post on Thursday.

The website asked customers to check into a hotel, call the 3C Agent to request the type of girl wanted and make payment before the

service is provided.

A reporter from the daily tried calling the number but it went unanswered.

Later that day the page owner wrote another post stating “We are full this month and too busy to entertain customers, we only take SMS.” The cost ranges from 180 ringgit (US$57) to 700 ringgit ($223) and clients can view the pictures of the women before purchasing.

Federal Criminal Investigation Department principal assistant director of anti-vice, gaming and secret society deputy director SAC Abdul Jalil Hassan said: “We are aware of the existence of the Facebook page. So far no one has been arrested for offering sex through the Internet,” he added.

THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF DAVAO Respondent x----------------------------------------------------x ORDER Acting on the verified amended petition filed by petitioner through cousel in which it is prayed of this Honorable Court that the Certificate of Live of the Petitioner be corrected particularly Item No. (2) thereof from Male to Female which is the correct sex/gender of the Petitioner.

Finding the said petition to be sufficient in form and in substance, it is hereby ordered that said petition be set for hearing on November 25, 2011 at 8:30 A.M. on which date, time and place, all persons whoare interested may appear and show cause if any, why said petition should not be granted.

Let a copy of this Order be published in a newspaper of general circulation at least once a week for three (3) consecutive issues at theexpense of the petitioner.

The Local Civil registrar, Davao City and the Assistant City Prosecutor are cited to appear on said date of hearing, in order to show cause, if any, why said petition should not be granted.

SO ORDERED. Davao City, Philippines, September 27, 2011 (SGD) EMMANUEL C. CARPIO Presiding Judge Serve on: Office of the Solicitor General Pros. Victoriano M. Bello Office of the Civil Registrar, D.C. Atty. Gerardo C. Olaguer Office of the Clerk of Court-RTC, Davao City Petitioner-c/o Atty. Gerardo C. Olaguer

weekly winners October 14 Mildred Ilognon Raquiel N. Lagrama Lyza D. Uayan Anne T. Langbid

October 15 Clara Aurelio Elmar Doctoka

October 16 Neila Batucan Sylvia Salarza Minda T. Somosot Manuel U. Chu

October 17 Alvin T. Teves Roy O. Donesa Carmi C. Duarte Jane J. Dela torre

October 18 Merlina M. Tan

October 19 Josephine Manliguez Welinda Elorde Fredie A. Te

Catherine Z. Demandante

Gemma Tiu Leo Montalban October 20 Maria Editha C. Monje Maria Chona T. Cañesares

Erwin. C. Ruales Gemma de Jesus Piculados

Frances Mariel M. Paulin

Melvin P. Asumbrado

Glory bee D. Delos Reyes

October 21 Vilma Cidro Perpetua R. Resada Rosemarie Jaucian Joseph C. Liwaliw

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

community sense october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

13

Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe receives Cora awards lots 500T from Aboitiz-owned Hedcor to 200 beneficiaries I

n celebration of the National Indigenous Peoples’ Month this year, AboitizPower’s wholly-owned subsidiary Hedcor Sibulan, Inc. honored tribal community by giving half a million pesos to Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe as their annual royalty share from the 42.5 MW Sibulan Hydropower Plant.

The share covers the third quarter of the year to be allotted to livelihood program, education, medicines, reforestation, and the maintenance of their ancestral Tudaya Falls. The turnover ceremony is witnessed by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) commissioners led by Atty.

Roque Agton, Jr of Region XI. “We are sincere in carrying out what we promise SHOWER OF BLESSING. Atty. Roque Agton of NCIP Reg. XI witness the turnover of royalty to share to our host commu- share to IP community represented by Datu Gideon Tolentino (left) and Datu Rudy Agtag nities. This share is over (second from left) in acceptance of a check amounting to P 527, 075. 60 from Hedcor vice and above what the law has presidents Gregorio Jabonillo (right) and Rolando Pacquiao (second from right) at the newly required from us,” said Vice inaugurated Tribal Purok at Barangay Sibulan, Davao del Sur. President in Mindanao Operations Rolando Pacquiao. skwela, daghan ng mga naay ceived from Hedcor is a big cestral land after the RA Hedcor regularly un- sakit nga naayo. Kini tanan help in reclaiming our land 8371 was implemented exdertakes Corporate Social tungod sa Hedcor. (Now, plen- that has been sold long time cept for immediate members Responsibility projects focus- ty of us can feed our children, ago”, Datu Agtag added. of the family. ing on education, health, re- plenty of kids go to school, and Before the RA 8371 or Hedcor is the largest forestation, energization, and many who got sick were cured. the Indigenous Peoples Act developer and the leading livelihood.

These are all because of Hed- of 1997 was implemented, producer of run-of-river hy“Sa karon, daghan na sa cor.),” Datu Rudy Agtag ex- some land of the IP was sold dropower facilities in Benamo ang aduna nay mapak- pressed his gratitude of thanks from them. guet, Ilocos Sur, and Davao aon sa among mga anak, to Hedcor.

Atty. Agton explained with a total generating capacdaghan ng mga bata ang naka “The shares we re- that no one can buy the an- ity of 150 MW.

67 years after

Battle of Surigao Strait recalled R

esidents of Surigao City are celebrating this week the 67th anniversary of the Battle of Surigao Strait which occurred before dawn of October 25, 1944 between ships of the United States Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy.

Theme of the celebration is “Peace across Cultures”.

The US 7th Fleet Task Force 77 commanded by Vice Admiral Jesse Oldendorf comprising 6 battleships, 6 cruisers over 20 destroyers and nore than a dozen Patrol Torpedo (PT) boats engaged a large Imperial Japanese Navy “Southern Force” led by Vice Admiral Shoji Nishimura in a night battle at Surigao Strait, through which the Japanese fleet was sailing towards Leyte Gulf to attack

the American beach head where Gen. Douglas MacArthur had landed 250 thousand troops for the liberation of the Philippines.

Caught by surprise, the Japanese Southern Force was routed in one of the greatest naval battles in history. That battle and subsequent engagements in Philippine waters reduced Japan to a 5th class naval power and marked the beginning of the end of the war in the Pacific which culminated ten months later in the two atomic bomb strikes on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and the unconditional surrender of Japan.

Naval historian Howard Sauer described the battle as the “Last Big Gun Naval Battle” involving ship-to-ship exchanges of artillery salvos

where Oldendorf achieved a classic tactical manuever “Crossing the T” formation where the Japanese single column of ships sailed perpendicular like the body of a letter “T” towards the horizontal line of American ships which formed the “cross” thereby being able to concentrate firing broadsides on the leading Japanese ship which could fire only its forward guns. The one sided battle forced the Japanese ships to turn and attempt to escape from the trap. Only a few survived the American bombardment and the American beachhead on Leyte was saved. Thousands of Surigaonons had a sleepless night watching in awe the historic battle from the safety of the beaches.

Invited to attend the an-

niversary celebration were officials of the embassies of Japan, Australia, the United States and the Philippines.

The event consisted of welcome messages by City Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas, Gov. Sol F. Matugas and Rep. Guillermo A. Romarate Jr. Also on the program were a Memorial Service, Ecumenical Prayer in Japanese, English and Surigaonon dialect, the playing of the national anthems of Japan, USA, Australia and the Philippines, Lighting of the Memorial Flame, Lighting of the Sky Lantern, Wreath Laying, Drum Roll, Gun Salute, Floral Offering (at sea) and various sports and musical events.

Invited as guest of honor was Maj. Joel A Dopp, Assistant Air Attache, representing the U.S. Embassy. [ram]

T

wo-hundred beneficiaries who are members of the GSIS Dahican Neighborhood Association, Inc. received on Tuesday (Sept. 21) the Deed of Assignment of their respective residential lots awarded

by Governor Corazon Malanyaon at the project site, Government Center, Barangay Dahican, Mati City, Davao Oriental.

Following a series of consultations with the Socialized Housing Committee and the association’s officers, Malanyaon ordered the fast tracking of the transfer and awarding of lots to the beneficiaries.

“After the long wait, the members of the association finally received their lots om which they can start building homes on,” said Flor Tabanao, Socialized Housing Office in-charge.

The project site is located within a 10 hectare government-owned property divided into three areas, namely, Muslim Village (three hectares) which was already awarded to its ben-

eficiaries, NASA (four hectares) an established residential area, and finally the GSIS Dahican (three hectares).

The project, including administrative, lot survey and development, cost 3,660,461 pesos.

During the awarding of the Deed of Assignment, the governor congratulated the residents. “Your dream of finally having your own homelot is finally realized,” she said.

The Deed of Assignment stipulates the rules and obligations of the beneficiary and entitles him/her to claim the lot assigned to him/her.

As part of the program’s thrust to provide affordable housing to the people of Davao Oriental, the residents who have acquired the said lots will have to pay 180 pesos per square meter payable in five years or an average of only 250 pesos per month.

Telling the beneficiaries to take care of the lots, the governor added that these should only be transferred through hereditary succession.

DENR on target for NGP coverage

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he Department of Environment and Natural Resources 11 is confident it will meet its 2011 target for the National Greening Program.

Alfredo Zarasate DENR 11 Forestry Resources Management Division chief said that of the 5,504 hectares replanting target in the region under this year’s NGP they have already covered 4,952 hectares or 83% of the target.

“With still three months to go, we are confident of hitting the target.” Zarasate said.

About 2.2 million seedlings, mostly forestry and agro-forestry species, have been planted of the target of 2.7 million for 2011.

Most of the areas targeted for reforestation are Community-Based Forestry Management (CBFM) areas.

Most of the species planted were coffee, cacao, abaca, rubber, mahogany and narra which were requested by the CBFM beneficiaries.

The planters consisted mainly of CBFM beneficiaries and other volunteers, mostly students, government employees and private entities which have also adopted replanting sites.

Zarasate said that for 2012 the target will be about 9,500 hectares and, aside from CBFM areas, the NGP will also cover ancestral domains and protected areas.

He said the seedlings are still sourced from the DENR clonal nursery in Tagum City which supplies about 80% of the seedling needs while the rest are sourced from the CBFM beneficiaries who have been tapped to look for other seedling sources. [PIA 11/RG Alama]

Tagum provides free armchairs From dynamiters to sea protectors T C

hristitu Decena used to be the boat captain of Joraya Fishing Industry, a commercial fishing company that dominated fish catch in the municipal waters surrounding Lupon, Davao Oriental.

He earned no less than P30,000 every month through the dynamite-fishing method the company indulged in to ensure abundant fish catch.

However, each time he came home bringing enough seafood for his family he would also see the sorry eco-

nomic situation of his neighbors whose form of living was small-scale fishing. “ Dagku ko ug kita apan nakita usab nako nga makaluluoy gyud ang akong mga siilingan nga mga gagmayng mangingisda. Wala silay makuhang saktong isda kay nahurot na sa mga dagkung commercial fishing companies.” (I earned much but I could see the pitiful state of my neighbors who were smalltime fishermen. They could not get enough catch because of the monopoly big fishing companies).

From the start, he was aware that commercial fishing and the method of fishing used has been killing the livelihood of ordinary fisherfolks and their families. Christitu, no matter how he justified his job, had sleepless nights knowing that he contributed to the dearth of fish catches and the suffering of his fellow fishermen.

This prompted him to resign as a boat captain and devote most of his time doing volunteer work for the Lupon Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management

Council. It is the body created by virtue of Executive Order 240 to help the government with its role as recommendatory and co-management body in achieving sustainable use of coastal and marine resources.

In 2000, he left Joraya Fishing and decided to work on his own. He then allotted time to join the other council members hold their regular pulong-pulong sa barangay where they explained to every fisherman the dangers of dynamite fishing and other illegal methods.

he Local Government of Tagum City had intensified its “social responsibility” with the estimated production of 15,000 pieces of school furniture which will be produced out from the first batch of turned-over confiscated hot logs that will be distributed to the different schools lacking in school chairs in the Provinces of Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley.

Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy made this pronouncement last October 19, 2011 when he led in the distribution of 223 chairs to Sonlon

National High School in the Municipality of Asuncion, Davao del Norte which is 35 kilometers away from the City of Tagum.

His team also went to New Corella National High School in the Municipality of New Corella last October 18, 2011 to personally deliver 220 armchairs to the said school which painted a huge smile in the faces of both teachers and students.

At New Corella, Mayor Uy personally went to each classroom and saw for himself the dismal state of their armchairs: swinging, no writing board and old.

governance

14 VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

DSWD to act against misuse of 4Ps funds, ATM pawning

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he Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 11 is intensifying its monitoring on reported cases of misuse of Pantawid Pamilya funds and pawning of ATMs used in withdrawing cash grants.

Regional Grievance Officer Odissa Esther Kilayco said Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) links at the community level are giving emphasis on the prohibition of ATM pawning and misusing of 4Ps cash grants during assemblies with beneficiaries.

They are also warning beneficiaries of the possible suspension of cash grant release if they are found guilty of using it to purchase goods or services other than for the education and health of their children.

“Dapat focus lang jud ang kwarta sa education ug

health sa mga bata,” she said in a radio interview over DXRP Radyo ng Bayan Davao.

Kilayco admitted that complaints on diversion of 4Ps cash grants, particularly to alcoholic drinking sprees, and pawning of 4Ps ATM cards had reached DSWD, but added that the accused were not outright delisted because due process has to be undertaken.

The complainant has to fill in a form stated his or her accusation. There will be fact-finding to be conducted and if found guilty, the accused will be warned verbally. A written warning will follow the succeeding offense and the accused is given 15 days to explain.

4Ps beneficiaries will also be delisted if they file a waiver stating their ineligibility for such government cash

11/jean duron-abangan]

ered by life insurance under the GSIS. The bill will cover government officials in the local and national levels.

The bill provides that upon his separation from such office, the official shall be refunded all life insurance premiums remitted to the GSIS, with the applicable legal interest, including both his personal and the government’s shares.

The bill covers any person who, at the time of his election to public office, already reached the mandatory retirement age, or persons appointed to a government position by the President of the Philippines who, at the time of his appointment already reached the mandatory retirement age.

Pichay said the bill in-

tends to accord them with certain benefits by extending the mandatory life insurance under the GSIS and mandating refund of all life insurance premiums remitted to the GSIS with the applicable legal interest, including their personal share and the government’s counterpart.

“The amount refunded would go a long way in helping them cope with the challenges of old age without additional cost to the GSIS,” Pichay said.

The alleviation of standard of living among government workers and the improvement of their benefits once they leave the service will also serve as a major factor in weeding out corruption in the government,” Pichay said.

grant which is intended only for the survival needs of the poorest of the poor.

If found having a regular source of income during the conduct of eligibility check routine (ECR), 4Ps beneficiaries will be removed from the list.

M e a n w h i l e , Sheryll Sanico, 4Ps regional information officer on the same occasion said, 4Ps has now registered a total of 125,057 beneficiaries in the Davao region covering four provinces, three cities, 32 towns and 625 barangays.

These beneficiaries are in Davao City (16,557); in eight towns of Davao del Sur (34,084); in two cities and eight towns in Davao del Norte (24,454); in nine towns of Davao Oriental (24,576); and in seven towns of Compostela Valley (25,186). [PIA

GSIS to give premiums to elected, appointed senior public servants

O

lder persons who were elected or appointed to government service will soon be covered by life insurance of the Government Security and Insurance System (GSIS).

Rep. Philip Pichay (1st District, Surigao del Sur), author of House Bill 5327, said Republic Act 8291 that created the GSIS and its implementing rules and regulations failed to recognize the services of those who heed the call of public service despite their being beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.

Under the bill, any person who is elected or appointed to a public office after reaching the mandatory retirement age shall be cov-

IGaCoS’ Pride Campaign to focus on biodiversity concerns

S

anipaan Marine Park on the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS),famous for its coral reefs, is the focus of the Pride Campaign, an initiative that inspires residents to do their share in marine management and protection.

The launching of the Pride Campaign was in cooperation with Rare, the leader in social marketing for biodiversity conservation.

This non-profit organization has proven its efficiency after partnering with more than 50 countries and providing assistance to help community folks help them-

BizQUIPS

selves preserve marine biodiversity.

After launching the campaign, Rare is set to train and support leaders from the world’s top environmental organizations, local grassroots groups and government units.

IGaCoS information officer Noel Daquioag explained that this campaign is anchored on social marketing, considered and used by the private sector as a marketing tactic to better understand audiences and promote positive community behavior.

“Pride campaigns focus on inspiring local communi-

‘ONCE we stop our flights, it will send a signal that doing business in the Philippines is very difficult and no European carrier will fly to the Philippines.’

--Cees Ursem, country manager of Air FranceKLM

ties to take control and ownership over their resources to secure the benefits for current and future generations.”

Daquiaog said.

The local government of IGaCoS unveiled its Scallop Shell Mascot as its partner in the promotion for marine resource conservation.

Also, the Pride Campaign song and jingle will be first heard by the Samalenos as local officials launched the jingle at Barangay Beach Park.

Scheduled in the afternoon of the launch were support activities like collection of Crown of thorns, Scubasurero, Swimming and Shoal clean up.

All these activities were aimed at telling not just local fishers but everyone in the community to take ownership, and understand the benefit, of no-take-areas and support essential management activities. [PIA 11/Mai Gevera-Macapagat]

BENEFICIARIES. 4Ps beneficiaries forming a long line to withdraw their cash grants from a Land Bank ATM machine.

Angara seeks inclusion of Moro history in the Philippine Educational System

A

urora Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara is seeking to plant the seed of a deeper multi-cultural understanding among Filipinos-- Christians, Muslims and Lumads alike -- especially in Mindanao by proposing the this should be fully incorporated in the country’s educational system.

“We all, as Filipinos, must build on the understanding and appreciation of these values. It is not impossible for unity to flourish in diversity,” Angara declared.

Angara, chairman of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, is author of House Bill No. 270 which proposes the inclusion in the curricula of all levels of education and training in all schools in the country, starting in Mindanao, of the study and understanding of Moro history, culture and identity.

“We must always highlight the positive relations

among Filipinos, especially Muslims and Christians, as well as their common origins and other points of commonality. We may have our differences but we have more in common, on top of which, is the clamor for peace,” Angara pointed out.

Angara stressed the need for a deeper understanding of the so-called Moro problem which he considers as a “historical and systematic marginalization and minoritization of the Islamized ethno-linguistic” groups in the Mindanao islands.

“This happened first during the colonial powers, Spain then the U.S., and more recently by successor Philippine governments dominated by an elite with a Christian-Western orientation,” he recalled.

“It is said that peace begins in the hearts and minds of persons. One of the most important institutions for this

is the school or educational system,” Angara stated. He believes that the vertical top-level peace negotiation with Muslim groups should be complemented with horizontal people to people peace among the Moros or Muslims, Christian settlers and their descendants, and the Lumads, especially at the community level.

House Bill No. 270 likewise mandates DepEd and CHED “to initiate and maintain regular programs and special projects to provide venues for information and discussion of Moro history, culture and identity, including the utilization of informal education and other means to stress the importance of respect therefore.’

“This measure should be able to redirect our educational system towards equity and justice among all citizens of the republic,” Angara concluded.

NEDA 11 forms communication body for development network

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he communication and information officers of national government agencies and local government units have organized themselves into a regional formation in their bid to make a wider impact in communicating government development programs and services.

They also elected week the first set of officers at the culmination of the two-day training in basic journalism, photography and media relations at the training center of the National Development and Economic Authority (NEDA-11).

The NEDA also serves as secretariat of the newly formed organization called the Regional Development Council’s Communication for Development Network (RDCCDN).

Some 50 government information officers (IOs) participated in the training workshop on communication for development (TWC4D) on October 11-12 that preceded the election from among themselves five members of the board of directors (BOD).

The provincial information officers of Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental as well as the IOs of Davao City and NEDA-11 automatically became members of the BOD. NEDA-11 regional director Ma. Lourdes D. Lim administered the oath taking of the following RDC-11 C4D Network officers: president, Romulo Tagalo (Davao del Norte); vice-president, Irvin Brabat (Davao del Sur); secretary, Catherine Laguesma (NEDA-11); treasurer, Rosa Ma. Cristina Manuel (10th ID, Armed Forces of the Philippines); and business managers, Fe Maestre (Compostela Valley) and Roldan Gorgonio (Davao City Information Office).

The other BOD members who also took their oath of office were Jenielito Atillo (DepEd), Dr. Rita Fe S. Cordova (DENR, Peter Niel Arendain (CHR) and Mika ChanMagtulis (DILG).

Lim said the TW-C4D and the creation of the RDC11 C4D Network will position the IOs in a regional undertaking to disseminate

to a wider audience the beneficial impact of the projects under the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016.

She said that the training workshop was intended to “capacitate our PIOs from partner NGAs/LGUs and the RDC 11 Secretariat with knowledge and skills that will aid in the communication and advocacy work of the RDC 11”.

The TW-C4D emphasized the working relationship with media partners “to bring government closer to the public”, aimed at providing the participants the basic skills on news and news-feature writing, photography, and techniques in the preparation of new articles for print and broadcast media.

“It is said that good public relations, not only increases recognition, but more importantly, improves the credibility of an individual or organization,” Lim saidd, adding that “It also projects the attribute of accessibility, not only to development partners, but to the general public.” [PIA 11/ Carina L. Cayon]

E-mail: edgedavao_editorial@yahoo.com.ph

HEALTH

All about beer

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ktoberfest is here; the time where we can unabashedly celebrate the most glorious golden beverage in the planet: Beer.

Ever since I could remember, Oktoberfest has always been a huge deal for partyphiles everywhere, and it seems like one of the happiest times of the year. The truth is the reason why we keep coming back to beer, aside from the taste and the intoxication is the camaraderie it brings along with it. It seems to me that people who share a beer eventually foster a fondness for each other. In a sense, beer is like glue that keeps partyphiles, from different social strata, together. This is why, for this instalment of CoaP, I’m going to give you everything you need to know about beer.

Dorothy Falcon asked: What is beer made of?

Answer: It is made from malted cereal grains; most commonly malted barley or malted wheat. It is usually flavored with hops (which lends the bitter flavor to the beer).

Dann Basilio: Where can I buy the cheapest beer?

Answer: In Davao City, your best bet is the friendly neighborhood sari-sari store or right from the factory. The cheapest beer I’ve purchased was in Jupiter Street in Makati at a place called Top Grill. They sold 5 bottles of Red Horse for only 99 pesos.

Alf Rae Tan: Is Red Horse the strongest beer? What beer is the mildest?

Answer: in the Philippines, Colt 45 is probably the strongest beer with 7.2% alcohol. However, this does not even come close to the world’s strongest beer. It is made by Scottish brewery named Brewdog and is called “The End of History”. It has 55% alcohol. It is also said to be the world’s most expensive beer, ranging from US$500 to US$700. As for

the mildest, non-alcoholic beers are now sold in beer specialty shops.

Jeremy Yap: What is the proper way of drinking beer?

Answer: First of all, always store your beer in the fridge, and in an upright position to prevent oxidization. Use a cold glass or beer mug when drinking beer, and do not add ice as it waters your beer down. Next, pour the beer high above the glass to give it some bubbles. Connoisseurs usually suggest three-fingers worth of head. “Head” refers to the bubbles.

It must be as thick as three of your fingers. After producing the proper amount of bubbles, you may then slowly sip the beer while enjoying its aroma.

Lish Falcon: Which country consumes the most beer?

Answer: The Czech Republic con-

sumes about 158.1 liters of beer per person each year. That’s about 400 ml of beer everyday.

Doy Bijis: Why do people act stupid when they drink beer?

Answer: When beer or any type of alcohol hits your cerebral cortex, you start being more talkative and less inhibited. Once it hits the hippocampus it causes memory loss and exaggerates your emotions. One it hits your cerebellum, it makes you lose balance and coordination.

Beer Recipes: Here are some unique ways you can enjoy your beer; simple cocktails that are bound to help you see beer in a different light and maybe inspire you to celebrate beer a little differently this Oktoberfest.

Mango Shandy: simply grab a glass, fill it halfway with ice and then fill half the glass with canned mango juice. Top it with Light Beer.

Spicy Beer: pour cold beer in a huge mug and then grab a Jalapeno, create a slit in the middle of the chilli by scoring it with a knife, and then drop it in the beer. It will slowly steep and will make your beer extra spicy. The contrast is perfect with ice cold beer.

Honey Beer: In a glass with ice, pour some dark beer (Cerveza Negra works wonderfully) and then top it with two Tablespoons of Honey. The effect is a deep, dark beer, with a

sweet undertone.

Danger Cocktail: Simply grab

a glass, pour one or two shots of Vodka, then top it with strong beer.

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event

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THE BUSINESS PAPER EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

Commitment to excellence C

onsistent with its commitment to excellence as our core value, Zion Accuprint, Inc. has recently acquired the modern ComputerTo-Plate (CTP) imaging technology wherein an image created in a desktop publishing application is output-ed directly to a printing plate.

The CTP, a major capex investment this year of the company, coupled with a set of two-color Heidelberg printing machine, will enhance greatly Zion’s capability to deliver quality, reliable, best-value printing solutions.

Red is red. Blue is blue.

No color distortions. No off-

registrations. The new machines likewise assure advertisers of Edge Davao, the business paper, best value for their money.

The state of the art equipment were unveiled during an open house and blessing ceremony last October 1.

EDGEDAVAO HEALTH THE BUSINESS PAPER

Testosterone alert

A

t t e n t i on please to all, specially the male readers of The Edge Davao!!! This is a Testosterone Alert!!!

Many men may be taking supplements of the male sex hormone testosterone to boost their sex drive, but it may not be that helpful after all.

A new study of men 60 and older who had low or borderline low levels of testosterone showed that testosterone replacement therapy did not improve erectile dysfunction (ED) or their ability to achieve and maintain an erection, compared to a placebo gel.

Men who used either a low dose or a conventional dose of testosterone gel showed no improvements in their sexual function during the course of the year-long study, compared with men who used placebo gel. “It appears that testosterone supplementation will not improve ED, though it may have other benefits on sexual function that were not evaluated with this data,” says study researcher Lauren W. Roth, MD, an obstetrician/gynecologist at the University of Colorado in Denver.

Sexual function is one of many reasons that many men are turning to testosterone therapy. With a laundry list of promises from a boost in sex drive and more energy to an increase in muscle mass and mental acuity, testosterone therapy can be tempting for many men who want to feel and look younger than they do. But, according to some experts, the hormone may be more harmful than helpful for some men.

“I am quite concerned about the rampant use of testosterone replacement therapy for

In some men, ED can be a red flag for heart problems. In these cases, men will likely need to see a cardiologist.

very soft indications,” says Rebecca Sokol, MD., professor of medicine and obstetrics and gynecology and the director of the andrology program at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. “It is very much a buyer beware situation.”

“We have to be very cautious about who we do and do not start on testosterone,” Sokol says. There are risks attached to the use of testosterone. “This hormone may cause the prostate gland to increase in size, and there is also the theoretic risk that we can stimulate the growth of cancer cells in the prostate. We have been looking carefully to see if testosterone initiates prostate cancer and there is no data to indicate that it does at this point.”

Testosterone may also increase levels of LDL “bad” cholesterol while decreasing levels of HDL “good” cholesterol, she says. Men who are considering taking testosterone need to weigh the pros and cons carefully with their doctor.

“The patient really needs to be evaluated by a physician

who is an expert in hormones and male reproduction,” Sokol says. “The indication for treatment needs to be very clear and verified by evaluation and physical exam.”

Part of the problem is that men are getting their testosterone from non-expert sources, including their buddies in the gym and online, says Joseph P. Alukal, MD. He is an assistant professor of urology and the director of male reproductive health at New York University’s Langone Medical Center in New York City.

Testosterone replacement does have a role in treating some men with erectile dysfunction who also have low levels of the hormone, he says.

“Testosterone is one of the treatments we have, but it’s not the only one.”

The first step is to measure a man’s testosterone levels to see if they are low. This needs to be done on more than one occasion to make sure the results are accurate, he says. If levels are low, and there are no other health problems that may be causing the problems with sexual functioning, testoster-

one replacement therapy is an option, says Alukal.

In some men, ED can be a red flag for heart problems.

In these cases, men will likely need to see a cardiologist, he says.

“Hormones are powerful,” Alukal says. “They have tremendous benefits and significant risks, so to go on them requires proper monitoring by a physician who understands their risks and benefits and knows how to monitor men.”

Doctors who prescribe testosterone should monitor the prostate gland closely, he says.

Alukal added, “We know that there is some relationship between testosterone and the growth of the prostate and the development of prostate cancer, but we don’t fully understand the relationship,” So before popping any pill, consult your doctor first to ensure that what you’re actually taking is improving your health rather than making it worst.

Always practice caution with regards to your health. Consult proper professionals and of course do your own readings and research too.

october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

17

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October 24 is United Nations Day at SM Davao!

Establishments

Tulip Drive, Ecoland, Davao City

General Santos

18 VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS decisions.

True to the celebration’s objective of uniting nations worldwide, SM City Davao mounts the coolest activities inspired by different nations from around the world!

On October 22, Little Pearls of Heaven showcases colourful cultural dances from different countries. Circular Homes presents hip and eco-friendly fashion ideas for moms and kids on Oct 23, 1 PM while More than Medals show off their Wushu routines at 4PM. To cap the celebration, all schools with students ages 4-7 are invited to join the grandest Parade of Nations on October 24. Two kids (girl and boy) with the best costume will each win Php 5,000 worth of gift certificates while the second placer gets Php 2,000 worth of gift certificates. Plus, teachers who come in costumes also get a chance to win Php 3,000 worth of gift certificates! Criteria for judging are: creativity (40%), overall appeal (40%) and audience impact (20%).

Experience United Nations at SM City Davao where we all come together!

For inquiries, please call the SM Davao Marketing Department at 297.6998 local 126. Visit www.smcitydavao. blogspot.com or like SM City Davao for event and promo updates.

EDGEDAVAO THE BUSINESS PAPER

games october 24-30, 2011 VOL. 4 NO. 34

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OF THE WEEK Enervon supports Brokenshire GOLFER Sophie Gustafson College athletes in Unigames S

T

he vaunted athletics squad from Team Brokenshire College got some energy boost for their sojourn to the ongoing 2011 Unigames in Capiz City.

Leading vitamin brand Enervon will supply the team’s vitamin requirements for the Unigames which runs until October 29.

Leo Aquino, Local Area Marketing Professionals of Unilab’s Consumer Health division, formally turned

over the Enervon vitamins to the Brokenshire Leopards headed by athletic director Dr. Arlene De Vera. Bravetower Events Promotions manager Neilwin Bravo facilitated the sponsorship of Enervon.

Bravetower also is the marketing arm of the WNCAA Mindanao.

“We are thankful to Enervon for this blessing and we hope this will inspire us to do our best,” said De Vera who will also be the team’s

head of delegation.

Team Brokenshire is bannered in the annual meet by multi-titled long distance ace Anthony Nerza along with Michael Ian Constantino, Jierty Calderon, Arnie Macaneras, Michael Absalon, Rolly aderna, Lebert delos Santos, Brix Rabago and El Brix Javier.

Coaching the squad is Charly Hifarva.

“Enervon and Unilab are proud to be part of a champion squad like the

titleholder Rotary Club of Sta. Ana Davao are the main protagonist in the final showdown today, Sunday, of the 25th Davao Inter-Rotary Bowling Tournament at the NCCC B3 Center.

RC East, skippered by Nandie Subido, notched a total of 1,488 pinfalls, overtaking RC Sta Ana from the No. 1 spot, but with a lead of only 7 points.

Governor’s Cup Both teams and four others –RC Digos, RC South Davao, RC Davao, and RC Matina Davao, -- will dispute the coveted Governor’s cup, during the tourney’s fourth and final outing today.

District Governor Leoncio “Nonoy” Villa-Abrille cut short his Bohol visit to hand the trophy to the team that would emerged the champion.

Also in contention for the top plum in the

tourney’s President’s Division are RC South Digos, the leader, RC Downtown Davao, RC Central Davao, RC Toril, RC North Davao and RC Davao 2000.

According to senior assistant governor Vir Sojor, tournament director, the rest of the three teams –RC Waling-waling, RC West Davao and RC Pag-asa/RC Calinan – competing in the Fellowship Division, Sojor said.

Top scorers Sojor also released the list of top individual top scorers as of October 18. RC East Davao’s Anita Subido and RC Toril’s Lucy de Leon tied for the highest average individual female scorer with 139 points, followed

by Armel Servanez of RC North and Bing Cabardo of RC South Davao.

Highest average individual scorers among males was Sammy Talaboc

Final showdown between RCs East, Sta. Ana in bowling championship

D

EFENDING champion Rotary Club of East Davao and erstwhile

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City Case No. 2011-XI-00820 Petition for Renewal of Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a FILCAB Ordinary Regular Service EUSEBIO C. MEJOS, JR. Petitioner x- - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - x NOTICE HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a FILCAB Ordinary Regular service on the route: ECOLAND SUBDIVISION (SM CITY OF DAVAO )ROUTE with the use of ONE(1) unit, which Certificate will expire on December 31, 2011. In the petition filed on September 28, 2011, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same units previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on NOVEMBER 15, 2011 at 09:50 a. m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 28th day of September 2011 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Transport Development Officer

ophie Gustafson is a Swedish professional golfer. She is a member of U.S. based LPGA Tour and a life member of the Ladies European Tour. She has five LPGA and 21 international wins in her career.

She is a four-time LET Order of Merit winner and has represented Europe in the Solheim Cup on each team since 1998.

Gustafson turned professional in 1992 whilst studying marketing, economics and law at Aranasskolan & Komvux University in Sweden. In the next three years she played 12 Telia Tour and four Ladies European Tour tournaments.

On the Telia tour she had six top ten finishes. Her best finish on the LET was a 22nd at her home tournament in Sweden.

of RC Sta. Ana with 179 points, followed by Rene Dalayon of RC Davao and Jules Mejos of RC Downtown Davao.

Highest female individual scorer is Armel Servanez of RC North Davao , while the highest individual male scorer is Sammy Talaboc of RC Sta. Ana. Talaboc, Dalayon and Mejos also lead the top 20 bowlers as of October 16 who will compete for the tournament’s masters champion to be played in two games. The other are Rotarians Marc Fernandez, Art Galendez, Ramsey Tancontian, Danny Amen-amen, Nel Arendain, Nandie Subido, Rudy Abellana, Dads Mahipus, Oca Escudero, Eric Choo, Boy Risonar, Tony Batao, Ryan Ma, Soc Cadayona, Billy Parilla, Bal Sarabia and Paul Basan.

(Left-right) Sherwin Bahani, Atty. Manases Carpio, Patrick Castro, Ramon T.Y. Garcia, and Eugene Go enjoy a light moment during the recently-concluded UPAA Davao “Tee-for-Two” golf tournament at the Apo Golf and Country Club sponsored by Anflocor, Cr8v Mat Inc., Upbrofil Logistics Inc., UP Brotherhood of the Filipinos 1955, Tranzealand Inc., Maer Summit, Environment Counselors Inc., and Japan Consul General Yoshiyuki Isoda. The tournament benefitted the UPAA-Davao Math Literacy Project and the UP Mindanao Oblation Plaza.

[Rene A. Estremera]

Quinsay, Hermiston top UP golfest

E

velyn Quinsay’s preparation for the delayed PAL interclub tournament has paid off when she and teammate Virgie Hermiston topped the UP Alumni Association-Davao “Tee-forTwo” Golf Tournament, recently, at the Apo Golf and Country Club.

Quinsay and Hermiston came up with better scores to clinch the women’s division title and share the top honors with over-all gross champion Vincent Gumapac

and Chikoy Saavedra.

The father-son tandem of Faisal Samanodi and Kureish settled for first runner-up honors while Soc Cadayona and Ting Castillo followed as second runnerup.

In Division A, Ramon T.Y. Garcia and Joel Yamyamin bagged the net crown over first runner-up Andy Ugdoracio and Tebor Marcelino and second runnerup Jun Diano and Dexter So.

Jake Ortega and John Gross ruled Division B over first runner-up Ronald Chan and Tomas Aquino and second runner-up Randy Arevalo and Mahaleel Bermas.

Frank Bautista and Chiboy Apostol emerged top winners in Division C besting the efforts of first runner-up Ferdie Pascua and Alex Maramba and second runner-up Butch Jocom and Edwin Villarino. [MPB]

1995 saw her join the Ladies European Tour gaining two top 10 finishes in 13 starts. 1996 was her first full year on the Ladies European Tour. She gained her first professional wins, winning once on the Telia Tour at the Rörstrand Ladies Open and once on the Ladies European Tour at the Déesse Ladies Swiss Open. In 1997 she earned her first win on the Ladies Asian Tour at the Thailand Ladies Open and finished T40th at LPGA Q School to earn non-exempt status for 1998.

In 1998 Gustafson won twice on the LET at the Donegal Irish Ladies’ Open and at the Marrakech Palmeraie Open, finish second on the

Order of Merit and was voted Waterford Players’ Player of the Year. She also played four times on the LPGA tour, recording a second-place finish at the cosanctioned Women’s British Open. She also won the Telia Tour Finale and made her debut in the Solheim Cup, replacing the injured Trish Johnson at the last minute. During 1999, Gustafson played on both the LPGA and Ladies European Tours. Her best result was a tie for 2nd at the Ladies’ German Open on the Ladies European Tour. [pr]

Real Madrid, support Maharlika

J

ust recently, football development in Sta.Cruz, Davao del Sur received a big boost from Real Madrid Foundation and Mapfre Insular Insurance Corp.

Rosa Roncal Gimenez, Real Madrid Foundation’s head of International Projects and Corporations, her colleague Antonio Garcia and Javier Warleta, president and CEO of Mapre Insular Foundation were accompanied by Davao Football Association officials led by secretary general Erwin Protacio to personally inspect the facilities and playing venues in Sta. Cruz.

Underprivileged children, some 70 of them, under the care of ANAKK-Sta.Cruz, a non-government organization, will be taught to play the sport under Davao coaches who will first receive training from a Real Madrid FC coach.

Next month, the program formally starts and the beneficiaries are already excited, including football officials who had high praise for Real Madrid and Mapre Insular officials.

Hala Madrid! Hala Madrid! Hala Madrid!

Ole, ole, ole Mapre Insular! *** Martial arts fans in Davao are crossing their fingers as Steve Grandeza goes into action on October 31 for the WBC Muay Thai title against champion Reinheirt Badato of Australia.

Steve, the World Kickboxing Federation (WKBF) welterweight champion, has been training hard for the fight that will be played at the posh Resorts World Manila with the backing of Phoenix Petroleum Philippines. Resorts World Manila is one of the country›s most exciting tourist destina-

tions after combining top-class hotel Marriot, budget hotel Remington, casino hotel Maxims Tower, restaurants, sports, games and entertainment facilities plus a mall in just one area.

We hope for a good outcome because the Davao fighter has also been preparing for his WKBF title defense in Dubai. *** Maharlika Charity Foundation›s coffers will soon be filled after the Merco 65th Anniversary Fun Run. The Ferrazzini family led

by Johnny and son Anton of the famous Merco has been organizing sports events to raise funds for the foundation in order to sustain its noble role of serving the poorest of the poor in Mindanao.

Those who cannot afford the high cost of cataract, squint, cleft lift, burn or general surgery go to Maharlika including those that need dental and hearing aid services.

Low-income parents whose children have disabilities or are found to be autistic avail of the services provided by top-notch doctors who have showed compassion to those who have less in life.

The Ferrazzinis would love to see a lot of runners at the Rizal Park on Sunday because the more participants, the more they will be donating to the foundation.

If you don›t have a good feeling to run, then, simply chipping in P150 for the registration fee will for sure make you feel better that day because you know your donation is for a good cause. *** Happy birthday to Oibone Enobio, Ateneo classmate Addie Borbon and Ateneo champion basketeer Raf Presbitero.

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VOL. 4 NO. 34 october 24-30, 2011

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