Edge Davao Volume 13 Issue 280 | Saturday, March 13, 2021 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROLLS OUT STELLAR LINE-UP INDULGE P8

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OFW from Talomo who tested positive with UK variant recovers STORY ON PAGE 2

A trader prepares durian for a customer along the sidewalk in Central Park, Bangkal, Davao City. The Philippines has started to export frozen durian products, the Puyat and the Duyaya varieties, from Davao City to Melbourne, Australia. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

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President Rodrigo Roa Duterte leads the unveiling of the marker of the Port Operations Building at the Port of Dumaguete in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental on Thursday afternoon. The President was assisted by Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino, and Philippine Ports Authority General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

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OFW from Talomo who tested positive with UK variant recovers By MAYA M. PADILLO

ity Health Office (CHO) acting head Dr. Ashely Lopez disclosed that an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) from Talomo Crossing in Davao City tested positive of B.1.1.7 or the Covid-19 UK variant after undergoing testing in Manila has recovered. Lopez also affirmed that the patient, who arrived from Dubai, was not able to return to Davao City after being tested and required to go on quarantine for 14 days.

The patient has since been tested negative. “Naa ta’y reported second case sa UK variant pero OFW ni siya gikan ug Dubai ug ang gibutang na address is Talomo

Crossing pero that particular case pag-abot niya ug Manila nag-positive then ilang gi-sequencing and found out that it was a UK variant. Pero wala siya nakauli ug Davao kay sa Manila pa lang na quarantine na siya,” Lopez said. After the 14-day quarantine, the OFW underwent another test and was tested negative and was cleared of the new variant. This is the second

time that cases of the UK variant were reported from Davao City. The first confirmed case of the UK variant in Davao City was last month involving a 10-year old boy with no travel history outside the city while his family has no known exposure to foreigners. “Okay nato ug naka-recover nato siya and they were already given the medical clearance two weeks ago pa,” Lopez

2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. He said he has no choice but to reopen the Philippine economy, stressing that the country could not afford to be on strict mode “forever”. “Now, this is the devil and the deep blue sea tayo (we are between the devil and the deep blue sea). But I have to reopen the economy. I’ve given a timetable of just weeks, we cannot forever be in the strict protocols because we have to open the economy. People

are hungry, people have to work, to eat to survive,” Duterte said. The government’s plans to further reopen the country’s economy and ease restrictions are seen to be effective ways to help Filipinos recover from the pandemic, especially those who have lost their jobs due to Covid-19. On March 4, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles floated the possibility that the entire Philippines might be placed under the least restrictive mod-

ified general community quarantine by April since the country is expected to receive more than two million Covid-19 vaccines that month. Duterte, however, said he is still “in a quandary of what to do.” He said he would further relax the quarantine measures in the country, once the number of Filipinos who have been inoculated with Covid-19 vaccines reaches one million. “I said the economy must be opened in a short

FRECOVERED, P10

Bong Go wants to be president: PRRD

enator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go is eyeing the presidential seat next year, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Thursday. Duterte made the announcement when he introduced Go during the inauguration of the newly-constructed Port Operations Building at the Port of Dumaguete in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. In his speech, he said Go had asked him a favor to tell the public about the lawmaker’s supposed plan to join the 2022 presidential race. “Itong si Senator Bong Go, pababa kami sa eroplano, sabi niya na ‘Sir, may hingin sana ako saýo ng pabor.’ Sabi ko, ‘Ano?’ Sabi niya, ‘Medyo, it leaves a bad taste in the mouth, malayo pa pero ikaw na lang ang mag-sabi sa kanila.’ Sabihin ko, ang

totoo talaga, isang bagay lang. Sabihin daw sa inyo, gusto niya maging president (Senator Bong Go, when we were about to disembark from the plane, said, ‘Sir, I have a favor to ask.’ I asked him, ‘What is that?’ He said, ‘It somehow leaves a bad taste in the mouth, it’s still far but I want you to tell them.’ I will tell you the truth. He wants me to tell you that he wants to be president),” Duterte said, drawing cheers from the crowd. It was, however, unclear whether he was serious when he made the remarks. Go, who joined the event, was seen shaking his head in disapproval. Duterte’s latest statement came despite Go’s insistence that he is not gunning for the presidency in 2022. It also came amid calls

FBONG GO, P10

PH can’t forever be in strict protocol

resident Rodrigo Duterte admitted on Thursday that Filipinos would go hungry in case he extends further the implementation of strict quarantine protocols in the country. During the inauguration of the newly constructed Port Operations Building at the Port of Dumaguete in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Duterte said he has to make a tough decision to help Filipinos cope with the impact of the coronavirus disease

while,” he said. “Kung makita ko na umabot na ng milyon angvaccinated, probably, especially around towns and big cities, okay na (When one million Filipinos have already been vaccinated, especially around towns and big cities, that’s already fine with me).” The President also appealed for public cooperation to ensure the successful containment of Covid-19 in the country. “It is only when everyone’s cooperation that the

nation can effectively contain the spread of Covid-19 and triumph against the pandemic. Through (these) concerted efforts, I am confident that we will emerge as (a) strong nation,” he said. Duterte also reiterated that Filipinos still need to observe strict health protocols, such as wearing face shield and face mask. He said face masks and face shields are sufficient gadgets to protect the public against Covid-19. (PNA)

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NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

DOT, DOLE offer 1,312 jobs to displaced workers By MAYA M. PADILLO

t least 1,312 jobs were offered to displaced workers from the tourism industry in a virtual job fair initiated by the regional offices of the Department of Tourism (DOT 11) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE 11) in partnership with the Public Employment Service Office (PESO).

PH to continue AstraZeneca vax amid blood clot reports in Europe

he Philippine government will continue using AstraZeneca vaccines against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) even as European countries suspended their use over reported blood clots in some inoculated individuals. In a joint statement released on Friday, the Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) echoed the position of the European Medicine Authority (EMA) that "the vaccine’s

benefits continue to outweigh its risks." Both agencies said they are aware that, as a precautionary measure, some European countries have halted their vaccination campaign with AstraZeneca jabs as they conduct a full investigation to determine if there is a link between the jabs and the blood clots. "At present, the DOH and FDA emphasize that there is no indication for the Philippines to stop (the) rollout of AstraZeneca vaccines," the joint statement read.

They assured that the government would closely monitor all deployed vaccines as the DOH and FDA coordinate with the National Task Force Against Covid-19 over reports of adverse events abroad. Denmark, Iceland, and Norway paused their vaccination program with AstraZeneca while a full investigation is ongoing whether the shot could be linked to reports of blood clots, including one case in Denmark where a person died. (PNA)

tigators are still working to identify the perpetrators through closed-circuit television recordings in the area. He told reporters during the AFP-PNP Press Corps briefing on Wednesday (March 10) at the DCPO headquarters that the police are committed to solve the killing of 47-year old Christine Sunga Corpuz, of NCCC Village, Bajada, this city. Corpuz reportedly went missing in the afternoon of February 28 after

she left their residence asking permission from her husband to go to a tailoring shop at San Pedro Village, also in Buhangin. She failed to return home and was found lifeless in the grassy area at the back of McDonald’s beside Ladislawa Village in Buhangin District the following day. “Meron na tayong eye witness at CCTV footage sa persons of interest. So konting panahon na lang. Kinokonek lang namin yong mga missing links

Kraft tells station chiefs to field 75% of policemen

avao City Police Office (DCPO) Chief Col. Kirby John Kraft directed all police station commanders to see to it that at least 75 percent of their personnel should be fielded to increase police visibility and prevent commission of crime. Colonel Kraft made the move as he vowed to solve the murder of a manager of a cosmetic company who was found lifeless in Buhangin this city on March 1. The DCPO director said inves-

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Majority of the tourism industry workers in Davao region lost their jobs or livelihoods due to the pandemic. The fair, which was conducted on March 12, 2021 at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao, offered job vacancies of customer service champion, technical support expert, sales representative, merchandiser, promodiser, brand ambassador, sales demo,

construction laborers, machine operator, electricians, baker, branch supervisor, driver, warehouse and delivery helpers, mobile promoter, and winchman. The participating companies were A N Escalante Cosntruction Inc., 3ME Manpower, Acabar Marketing, Borromeo Insurance Agency Inc., BP Waterworks, Concentrix, Davao Luxur Ventures

ative people in Davao City labi na sa mga kabataan who have scientific mind. Ang naka-apan sa atong mga inventors ug innovators usahay ma-discourage na sila ug dili na sila mupadayon sa ilang invention kay wala’y support o kulang sa suporta sa city government,” Braga said. Braga said they are looking at the new building of the Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC) to set up the center. “Kung naa pa bakante na lugar ug kung wala na,

mangita mi lain location,” she said. Braga said the ordinance received the endorsements of the regional offices of the Deparment of Science and Technology (DOST 11) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI 11). “This will be the first in Mindanao. Kay nakita nila na kinahanglan gyud ni nato kay naa man ta’y Republic Act mandating all local governments to come up with inventors and innovating center for

FDOT, P10

Braga to press for creation of innovation, invention hub

avao City Councilor Pilar C. Braga will push for the creation of an innovation and invention center to help local inventors and innovators. Dr. Braga, who is the chair of the City Council committee on education, science and technology, arts and culture, said she is crafting an ordinance aimed at assisting Dabawenyo innovators and creators through technical training, and financial and marketing support. “We have a lot of cre-

A female soldier of 10th Infantry Division feeds a baby of a former rebel while her mother participates on the activities prepared during the pampering and gift-giving program to former rebels by 10ID together

FBRAGA, P10

with its stakeholders at Balay Panaghiusa, a halfway house in Asuncion, Davao Del Norte yesterday. 10DPAO

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

CEREMONIAL HAND-OVER OF UNITS AT AEON TOWERS. Aeon Luxe Properties, Inc. had its first turnover ceremony for the month of March with ALPI Senior Vice President Mr. Andrew P. Bautista receiving the turnover kit and the keys to his unit on March 3, 2021 at 6F, Club Aeon, Aeon Towers. Present in this ceremony is ALPI President and

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CEO Mr. Ian Cruz, VP for Operations Engr. Daniel Manalo, VP for Sales & Marketing Ms. Almira Mariano and Sales Admin Manager Mr. Luis Dollesin.

PH exports Davao City durian to Aussie market V

2-month vehicle sales down 7.3%

he Philippines has exported its first frozen durian products from Davao City to Australia, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Thursday. In a statement, the DTI said the initial shipment arrived at Port of Melbourne on March 2. Davao durian products were imported by Aus Asia Produce Pty. Ltd., an importer and distributor of exotic tropical fruits, Asian vegetables, herbs, and other products for the Australian market. Two varieties of Davao durian were included in the initial shipment —Puyat and Duyaya. “Puyat is sweet with

a hint of ‘bitterness’ as desired flavor amongst new generation durian connoisseurs. Whilst Duyaya has the most flesh of any durian I have ever seen in my life, and I’ve eaten many before and this is even more meaty,” Aus Asia director Thanh Truong said. Further, Philippine Ambassador to Australia Hellen De La Vega said the recent shipment of the country’s durian products in land down under is a breakthrough and it could be expanded

to other fruits and vegetables exports from Mindanao. “The Philippine government continues to find ways to make available our food products here in Australia and we are working with stakeholders in government and in business to deliver premium variety to the Australian market,” De La Vega added. The Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Sydney, which represents DTI in Australia, is also looking forward to bringing more high quality and worldclass Filipino products in Australia and making them available to mainstream consumers.

Recently, the PTIC-Sydney announced that Filipino products are now available in mainstream retail stores in Australia through giant retailer Woolworths. Woolworths has 60 stores in Australia. Filipino brands that are available in Woolworths include sauces, mixes, vinegar, soy sauce, salty snacks, biscuits, and rice noodles, among others. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that Australia is the country’s 18th largest export partner in 2020. Philippine exports to Australia amounted to USD357 million.

dress shocks from these factors is limited thus, BSP officials continue to monitor for any second-round effects, such as rate hike proposals for power and transport fare. This, he said, is because initial effects of supply shocks “tend to be short-lived in nature.” “Notwithstanding the impact of supply-side factors on the inflation path, we are not inclined to tighten monetary policy at this juncture,” he said, adding that “there has been limited evidence of second-round effects thus far.” Diokno said sup-

ply-side pressures are best addressed by non-monetary measures, such as the price cap on pork, the supply of which was affected by the African swine fever; the institution of the special hog lanes for uninterrupted flow of supply around the country; and an increase in pork importation. He said the challenge for central bank officials is “in finding the right balance between seeking to reduce inflation and avoiding the further weakening of the real sector.” Diokno said BSP officials “believe that monetary policy settings remain appropriate to

support domestic activity.” “We will continue to evaluate in the coming months if adjustments in the policy stance will be warranted,” he added. Core inflation, which excludes volatile items like rice and oil, stood at 3.5 percent in the first two months of 2021, within the government’s 2 percent to 4 percent inflation target until 2023. Headline inflation rate registered a faster rate of 4.5 percent during the same period. It has been on the rise since the last quarter of 2020. (PNA)

No need to change policy stance amid inflation upticks: Diokno

emand-side price pressures remain well-anchored despite the acceleration of headline inflation. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno thus maintains that there is no need to adjust policy rates this time. In a virtual briefing on Thursday, Diokno said the acceleration of the domestic inflation rate remains driven by supply-side pressures, such as the volatility of prices of oil and agricultural products, weather disturbances, and government policy changes. He said the central bank’s capacity to ad-

ehicle sales from January to February this year declined by 7.3 percent from the same period in 2020, the joint report of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) said Thursday. Combined CAMPI and TMA sales for the first two months of the year reached 49,610 units from 53,513 units in the pre-pandemic period. An increase in passenger car sales was noted this year, growing by 3.8 percent to 15,194 units, compared to January to February 2020 sales of 14,636 units. On the other hand, the commercial vehicle segment declined by 11.5 percent to 34,416 units in the first two months of 2021 from 38,877 units in the same period last year. This segment accounted for 72.65 percent of automotive vehicle sales. For February alone, sales also went down by 12 percent year-on-year from 29,790 units to 26,230 units. Month-on-month numbers, however, showed an increase of 12.2 percent from 23,380 vehicles sold in January this year. Passenger car sales slowed down by 2.4 percent to 7,899 units in February 2021 from 8,093 units

in February 2020. Commercial vehicle sales recorded a larger decrement of 15.5 percent selling 18,331 units last month from 21,697 units sold in the same month last year. CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez said the industry is concerned with the impact of the imposition of safeguard measures on imported vehicles on the industry’s recovery. “CAMPI expresses concerns on the imposition of safeguard measures. While the industry sees early signs of recovery, the provisional import duties, more so if it becomes definitive, will derail any recovery efforts of the automotive industry,” he said in a statement. A 200-day safeguard duty was slapped on imported passenger cars and commercial vehicles starting January 20. The imposed provisional safeguard duties amounted to PHP70,000 per imported passenger car and PHP110,000 per light commercial vehicle. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez earlier said the decision of imposing the provisional safeguard measures on imported vehicles aims to stop further injury to the local automotive industry due to the influx of imported cars in the domestic market. (PNA)

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ECONOMY

A vendor sprinkles water on the shellfish she is selling at a makeshift stall at Bankerohan Public Market. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) warned that shellfish collected at coastal waters in various parts of the country including in Balite Bay, Mati City, Davao Oriental and Lianga Bay and the coastal waters of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur still tested positive for a paralytic poison that is beyond the regulatory limit. Edge Davao

Poultry dressing plant soon to rise in Mati City

he City of Mati LGU will soon start construction of the P45 million poultry dressing plant inside the Mati City Agriculture Complex in Sitio Sudlon where the Farmers Market is also located. The said dressing plant is just one of the agricultural projects of the Mati LGU through the City Agriculture Office, in partnership with the local government and Farmer’s Choice Farm. The groundbreaking ceremony and unveiling of perspective was held on Thursday, March 11, and attended by Councilor Eric Rabat as Mayor Michelle Rabat’s representative; City Agriculture Officer Eleanor Sambas; Department of Agriculture XI-NMIS OIC Regional Technical Director Dr. Rolando Marquez; City Veterinarian Dr. Marites Erispe; Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Eric Dagmang; TIIDPO head Engr. Rosendo Linsag; and SK Chairman Mat-

thew Batingana. The chicken dressing plant is expected to boost the chicken growers industry in the city and the province. This is also to address the shortage of chicken supply, not only in Mati City, but also in the entire Davao Region. The city’s poultry dressing plant is the first chicken dressing plant in the entire Davao Region that will be managed by a local government. All poultry products that will come out of the dressing plant will be branded as “Mati’s Choice”. The initial 20 Mati's Choice Chicken were also turned over during the groundbreaking ceremony as sample of the upcoming product. (CIO MATI)

Duterte signs EO allowing inclusive access to satellite systems services

resident Rodrigo Duterte signed an executive order (EO) liberalizing access to satellite services, which in turn will open opportunities for telecommunication companies to provide better Internet services and access nationwide. EO 127 amends EO

467, which provides the policy guidelines and regulations concerning the operation and use of international satellite telco facilities and services in the country. “The government recognizes that universal access to fast and reliable Internet services is vital in order for the country

to join the ranks of developed economies due to the Internet’s transformative impact on e-government and the delivery of basic services, the elimination of red tape, freedom of information, disaster preparedness, public safety, readiness for climate change, education for all, and inclu-

sive growth,” the EO read. Under the order, enfranchised telco entities duly authorized by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and Value-Added Service (VAS) Providers and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) duly registered with the NTC shall

on Thursday, PETA Asia senior campaign manager Nirali Shah said meat shortage would not be a problem if there were other options available in the market. “PETA encourages the government to invest in and support the plant-based

meat sector – something that Singapore, China, the EU, and the US are already doing,” Shah said. Prices of pork cuts have increased to as much as P400 per kilo in Metro Manila after hog populations were decimated by African swine fever.

The government has put a cap on the prices of pork and chicken to combat what it said was "price manipulation." The measure, however, is being opposed by wet market vendors, with some going on a pork holiday, saying the price ceiling will force them to sell at a loss.

FDUTERTE, P10

PETA calls for investment in plantbased meat as pork crisis lingers nimal-rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) called on the government to invest in "plant-based meat" amid high prices of pork, chicken and other meats. In a statement released

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.13 ISSUE 280 • SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 2021

On the vaccination program in Davao City for medical workers: So far, maayo ang response sa atong mga pasyente sa Sinovac, walay dapat ikahadlok.”

Dr. Josephine Villafuerte Covid-19 Vaccination head

EDITORIAL

A familiar human tragedy

At least 2,000 people in Agdao District, Davao City are now homeless and suffering as a result of a massive fire that hit their thickly-populated village early this week. The raging inferno gobbled up a total of 300 houses in Barangay Vicente Duterte. The Bureau of Fire Prevention stated that a total of 546 families were affected. A family is usually composed of four to five members so it is safe to assume that at least two thousand people are momentarily staying with their relatives or quartered in temporary shelters provided by the barangay and the city government. They are probably hungry and suffering from lack of amenities of comfortable living. What a grim reminder of March being traditionally and officially observed as Fire Protection Month each year! Of course, to most of us who have resided in the city’s urban jungles for decades the fate of a fire refugee is a familiar human drama. It is very easy to relate to it since most of us were fire victims at one time or another. The story is not all horror though. Fortunately, nobody perished in the incident. Aside from the assistance that government agencies and officials are extending to victims, there are charitable institutions which have launched relief campaigns for them. Among the leaders who sprang into action to the victims’ succor are our lady city mayor, Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio and neophyte Senator Cristopher Lawrence “Bong” T. Go. A chip off the old block, the presidential

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

daughter is known to be always fast in extending Davao City LGU’s assistance to people in distress even in other cities and provinces of the country. Known for his now quintessential Malasakit centers, Bong Go is the ubiquitous newbie lawmaker who does not fail to pop-up wherever and whenever a disaster strikes. Apart from giving assurance of the government’s assistance, Senator Go updated his neighbors in the Second Congressional District about ongoing government efforts to upgrade the country’s checkered fire-fighting capability, chiefly via laws and budgetary measures. The subject is close to the hearts of Filipinos who have endured the shocks and awe of a horrific incident like the Ozone Disco fire, wherein 162 people, mostly teenagers, perished on March 18, 1996. Davao City’s smaller version, although no less shocking was the NCCC Mall fire which killed 37 call center agents on December 23, 2017. A riveting topic for residents of Davao City, where skyscrapers are mushrooming despite the pandemic, is the city’s capability to fight fires in multi-story buildings. We need to level up this special fire-fighting capability. And we must be fast in doing this to catch up with the building boom. Needless to say, the lessons of the NCCC mall tragedy and similar fire incidents should not be lost on us.

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VOL.13 ISSUE 280 • SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 2021

7 AGRIBUSINESS

EDGEDAVAO EDGEDAVAO

Bamboo: No longer man’s timber Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO n the Philippines, particularly in the rural areas, bamboo abounds. Mostly, bamboos are found along river banks. Folktales state the supposed descendants of Filipinos -- Malakas (strength) and Maganda (beautiful) -- came out of a bamboo. Of course, everyone knows that.

But what most Filipinos don’t know that what used to be known as the “poor man’s timber” is now gracing many high-end homes, hotels, and offices around the world. Yes, the humble bamboo has gone a long, long way. “The global bamboo market size was valued at $68.8 billion in 2018 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.0% from 2019 to 2025 to reach $98.30 billion by 2027,” said the website, grandviewresearch.com. “Growing investments focused on infrastructure development, increasing use of sustainable building/ construction resources, and rising consumer awareness regarding the uses and benefits of bamboos are expected to drive the market growth over the forecast period.” Bamboos, along with rattan, provide several environmental, economic, and social benefits to society. “Bamboo is a sustainable resource that can grow under a range of climatic conditions, but preferably a tropical climate,” the website said. “It provides approximately 35% more oxygen and absorbs 40% more carbon dioxide as compared to trees, which results in a substantial improvement in the air quality. Further, cultivation of bamboo offers carbon fixation, controls soil erosion, and purifies the environment.” In the world market, bamboo is more preferred over timber as the former is easier to harvest, transport and are relatively affordable. “(Bamboos) are water-resistant by nature and offer high durability,” the website said. “These benefits result in the sustainable use of bamboos in applications such as furniture, shelter, and handicraft products. They are also used to produce flooring, charcoal, mats/ screens, and woven products.” In the Philippines, the Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI), a line agency of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is promoting the use of engineered bamboo. Engineered bamboo, designed to be a replacement for wood, is a low cost product manufactured from bamboo. It has been used as paneling, vehicle beds, concrete formworks, lightweight building construction. It is even used for shelters after the 2004 tsunami. In comparison to the woods that have been traditionally used, a number of benefits and drawbacks have been identified with engineered bamboo. Lower cost, especially when replacing wood that would otherwise have been imported, is a key advantage. Further benefits include greater hardness and shape retention, especially in high temperatures. “We are happy to say that the Philippines now has its own engineered bamboo industry,” says Dr. Romulo T. Aggangan, FPRDI director. “Although still immature and bugged by various problems, it is also blessed with a lot of strengths, and given enough support from concerned groups, can be expected to grow strong, and in time be able to meet the needs of local clients or even capture a slice of the global market.” Among the most common species used for engineered bamboo are “kawayan tinik” (Bambusa blumeana), giant bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper), “bolo” (Gigantochloa levis), “botong” (D. latiforus) and “bayog” (B. merrilliana). There’s a big demand for engineered bamboo. Since 2010, it has been mandated by law that 25% of all school desks and furniture in the country’s public schools should be made of engineered bamboo. Indeed, there’s money in growing bamboo. In fact, Filipino farmers could earn a net income of “as much as P200,000 per hectare” by planting giant bamboo, according to Secretary Emmanuel Piñol of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). Piñol learned the profitability of bamboos when he visited the Bukidnon Giant Bamboo

Resources Corporation recently. Several bamboo species grow in the Philippines but giant bamboo (known in the science world as Dendrocalamus asper) is the most preferred commercially. “Farmer can make a profit of P200,000 per hectare per year, year after year with minimal maintenance cost (no replanting, fertilizer, etc.),” said the prospectus released by Mindanao’s first bamboo processing facility. “What makes bamboo a versatile crop is its regenerative characteristic where several shoots grow to replace a harvested pole,” said Rod Bioco, the corporation’s president who sets up the bamboo processing facility in Malaybalay City. Among the end products the corporation produced are treated and dried bamboo slats (intermediate raw material), laminated bamboo lumber/ beams and boards, and finished products (like doors, jambs, mouldings and furniture). “Most of these materials are now manufactured in China and imported by construction supply companies,” said Piñol in a statement he posted in his Facebook. Thus, growing giant bamboo is a profitable venture. The development cost up to three

years of rearing is P50,000 per hectare (100 to 150 clumps). According to the prospectus, initial harvest can be started after 5-6 years but commercial harvesting starts in the seventh year. Poles should be 3-5 years old. Farmers get a net income of P90-P120 per pole. The yield is 120-150 poles per hectare per year or around 120-150 metric tons per hectare per year. Some farms get 1,500 to 2,000 poles per hectare per year (15-20 poles per clump). The prospectus said harvesting crew get P50-P80 per pole, depending on the terrain, thus generating an income of more than P8,000 per 16-metric truckload per 4-5 days per crew of 6-7 people. Ideally, the supply is within 30-kilometer radius to control trucking cost (less than P50 per pole or P0.50 per kilogram). The plant capacity is 60,000 metric tons per year (two shifts) or 600,000 poles per year, which can be supplied from just 600 hectares of giant bamboo. The buying price is P2.50 per kilogram on delivered/unloaded basis. The production capacity, when finished, is 200 metric tons per day or 2,000 of fresh poles (3-5 years old at 40%mc)

yielding 24,000 board feet per day. The investment is P150 million. For dried, treated slats, they spent P55 per board feet and export them at P65 per board feet. “We sell engineered bamboo lumber or beams for P100 per board feet and panel boards for P120 per board feet,” Bioco said. “If we process them further into mouldings, floor panels, doors or jambs, we can sell for P180-P250 per board feet, while furniture can fetch P300-P500 per board feet.” Bioco said they are hoping to sell more locally. “Every board foot of engineered bamboo is a board foot of a tree not being cut,” he pointed out. For centuries, the beauty and durability of bamboo have been known among Asians. In China, for instance, bamboo is one of the four noblest plants (the three others are the orchid, the plum tree, and the chrysanthemum). It is also one of the three multi-purpose plants grown in thousands of Indonesian villages today, the other two being banana and coconut. Although often listed as a “minor” forest product, bamboo is fast regaining its rightful place these days. According to an article, which appeared in Reader’s Digest, bamboo “is

delicate enough to be used in phonograph needles, yet strong enough to be used in bridge construction.” As such, bamboo can replace or indirectly decrease consumption of three critically scarce resources: wood, metal and oil. Bamboo is also indispensable in the fishing and banana industry. In Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, people use bamboo as material for making rafts, fishing rods, outriggers for bancas and for fish pens. In salt-water areas, bamboo is used as stakes in the culture of mussels and oysters. In the banana industry, bamboo poles are used as props to support fruit-bearing bananas. The demand for bamboo props is large. In Davao alone, about 20 million props are needed every year. Experts say that growing bamboo for banana props is seen as a means to stop the illegal cutting of young commercial timber species in the forest to be used as banana props. Bamboo is also used in the manufacture of musical instruments like horns, clarinets, saxophones, flutes, piccolos, xylophones and drums. The world famous bamboo organ at the Roman Catholic Church of Las Piñas is a historic example of the importance of bamboo.

There are also sophisticated uses of bamboo – charcoal for electric batteries, liquid diesel fuel obtained by distillation, and enzymes and media for shoot extracts used for culturing disease-causing bacteria. The white powder produced on the outer surface of young culms for the isolation of a crystalline compound is medically useful. Bamboo can also fight hunger. The young bamboo shoots are a good source of vitamins and minerals. In Thailand, bamboo salt seasoning and bamboo salt soybean paste can be bought in public markets. In the Philippines, bamboo shoots are cooked with saluyot and shrimps sautéed with coconut milk. Bamboo shoots emerge during the wet or rainy season. About 7-17 days after emergence, they may be harvested for food. The shoots are harvested using a sharp bolo or hatchet. To harvest, a sharp crowbar may be used. “It’s a pity that we have neglected this important crop for so long,” says Jethro P. Adang, the director of the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center, a non-government organization based in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. It’s never too late to plant bamboo now! -

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LIFESTYLE

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROLLS OUT STELLAR LINE-UP H

arley-Davidson announces its highly anticipated Model Year 2021 (MY21) line-up of motorcycles, now available in The Philippines. Unveiled at the global virtual launch on 19th January, the latest line-up focuses on more performance, style, technology, and freedom for the soul in 2021, offering riders more choices with enhanced technology at attractive prices starting from as low as PHP 700,000 for the iconic Sportster™ Iron 883™.

“As part of our constant endeavor of pursuing excellence to meet our customers’ demands, Harley-Davidson’s suite of innovative motorcycles is poised to offer an enhanced riding experience, that is equipped with the latest technology and refreshed features at attainable prices,” said Mr. Sajeev Rajasekharan, Managing Director, Harley-Davidson, Asia Emerging Markets & India. “We are confident that our community of passionate two-wheeled enthusiasts will only continue to grow, and we are committed to make riding accessible and be a part of their journey to discovering freedom.”

Leading the rumble this year are the gritty Street Bob™ 114 and restyled Fat Boy™ 114 cruisers. Combining modern power and technology with authentic American styling to offer pure riding experience, the new Street Bob™ 114 model receives a displacement upgrade with the powerful Milwaukee-Eight™ 114 engine, making it the lightest-weight Softail™ model. With prices starting from PHP 1,100,000, the Street Bob™ 114 is a quick-and-nimble ride with power to spare. The legendary Fat Boy™ 114 model is re-styled with brilliant chrome and is available with prices starting from PHP 1,250,000. The highly anticipated Low Rider™ S and Softail™ Standard will also make its entry into the market with prices starting from PHP 1,000,000 for the Softail™ Standard. The Low Rider™ S model is built around a Harley-Davidson® Softail™ chassis enhanced by premium suspension components tuned for aggressive riding stoked by the unrelenting power of a muscular Milwaukee-Eight™ 114 engine, with styling cues inspired

by the coastal build scene and Harley heritage. Defined by high bars and horsepower, the cruiser is available with prices starting from PHP 1,200,000.

Harley-Davidson’s most mile-devouring motorcycles, the 2021 touring motorcycle line, includes a trio of hot rod baggers with fresh swagger and new features with prices starting from PHP 1,500,000. With a slammed stance and muscular Milwaukee-Eight™ power, the Road King™ Special, Road Glide™ Special and Street Glide™ Special models combine a commanding street presence with the long-haul capabilities of the Harley-Davidson Touring chassis. Celebrating self-expression, on-trend new styling options have been made available, such as the two-tone paint options, to choose from for Street Glide™ Special and Road Glide™ Special and a range of 2021 Color options for Road King™ Special models.

Harley-Davidson will also offer three super-premium models created by its Custom Vehicle Operations™ team. Representing the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson

style and design and created for the most discerning riders, the 2021 CVO™ models debut all all-new Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate, an advanced audio system, featuring speakers and amplifiers designed specifically for Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. This is accompanied with show-stopping finishes, advanced technology, exclusive components and attention to detail that borders on obsessive, engineered and assembled to factory-quality standards and backed by the Harley-Davidson® limited warranty. Harley-Davidson authorized dealerships across The Philippines will be hosting a MY21 Open house from 20 – 21 March 2021 so customers can view the MY21 motorcycles in person and be one of the first to own these latest models. For customers that are unable to visit the Open House and are hoping to have a first glimpse of the line-up, Harley-Davidson authorized dealerships will be hosting a Virtual Live Show on Saturday, 20 March 2021, 3PM on their own Facebook pages.

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

Lenovo beefs up WFH management offerings with VST-ECS and FileWave partnership

lobal tech innovator Lenovo recently signed a partnership agreement with ICT distribution leader VST-ECS and mobile device management (MDM) software company FileWave to drive digital transformation among local organizations and help upgrade their work-from-home teams.

The coronavirus pandemic has forced many companies to enter work-from-home mode with their employees, which in turn has driven them to strengthen their digital capabilities and accelerate their digital transformation. In this time of need, the Lenovo partnership with FileWave and VST-ECS, FileWave’s exclusive distributor in the Philippines, offers organizations with work-from-home teams with an all-in-one solution that can come with commercial Lenovo devices upon configure-to-order system to help them speed up and simplify

Global tech innovator Lenovo partners with leading ICT distributor VST-ECS and multi-platform management pioneer FileWave to offer local organizations an all-in-one WFH management platform. In photo are (L-R) Princess Chua, COO and EVP, VST ECS Phils Inc; Jimmy Go, President and CEO, VST ECS Phils Inc.; Michael Ngan, President and General Manager, Lenovo Philippines; and Nannette Caina, APJ Sales and Operations, FileWave. mobile management. A pioneer in the multi-platform endpoint management, FileWave makes managing a remote workforce more convenient for businesses and enterprises with small to large teams. Offering an all-encompassing solution, it is an essential soft-

ware for organizations especially now that most companies are enforcing the work-from-home model, and thus are heavily reliant on IT tools such as video conferencing and file-sharing apps to ensure that their employees are able to execute tasks as efficiently as when they work

Davao Light releases pawikan hatchlings T he year 2021 started in a very favorable way after three batches of pawikan eggs were hatched in the first quarter of the year. A total of 334 newly-hatched sea turtles made their way to the sea from the shoreline of the outdoor biodiversity park, popularly known as the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park at Sitio Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City. The first batch has a total of 128 pawikan hatchlings. The release was led by Davao Light President and COO Rodger Velasco last January 20. A few weeks after, on February 5, Davao Light released another batch with 92 baby pawikans. Davao City 2nd District Councilor Diosdado Angelo R. Mahipus, Jr., who chairs the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, and the new Department of Environment and Natural Resource (DENR) XI Regional Executive

Director, Bagani Fidel Evasco were present to witness the event. Lastly, the third nest with 107 pawikan hatchlings was released last February 23. Seven (7) additional pawikan eggs hatched from the same nest and were released last March 6. This makes a total of 5,145 hatchlings released at the park since 2014. All these pawikan nests were found in the last quarter of the previous year. The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park is an eight-hectare ecological preserve which is managed by Davao Light, an AboitizPower subsidiary. It aims to preserve the pawikan nesting grounds, be a home of many thriving bird species and help maintain ecological balance for other sea and land creatures. Davao Light also supports the government's campaign against the use of single-use plastics to help in the pawikan conservation.

on-site. “The pandemic has ushered in a whole new era of digital. While digital transformation has long been accepted by companies across industries, the circumstances in the past year have hastened this trend and have propelled organizations to

transform even further to adapt to the current climate. By putting customers at the core of our business, Lenovo designs with purpose to meet their needs to fully prepare them for the quick nature of digitalization. Through the help of VST-ECS, a long-time partner of Lenovo, I am cer-

tain that FileWave will touch a broader reach of partners, resellers, and users,” said Michael Ngan, Lenovo Philippines President and General Manager. As the BYOD (bring your own device) and CYOD (choose your own device) work mod-

FLENOVO, P10

Three batches of pawikan hatchlings released at the Cleanergy Park for the year 2021. Davao Light, as part of its corporate social responsibility program, releases three batches of pawikan hatchlings at the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park. Since 2014, Davao Light has already released a total of 5,145 hatchlings and is expecting more pawikan visits in the park.

Bon voyage. 107 pawikan hatchlings made their way to the sea from the shores of the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park after being released last February 23, 2021.

10 EDGEDAVAO RECOVERED... FROM2

said. Lopez assured that there has been no human-to-human transmission involving the B.1.1.7 or the Covid-19 UK variant in Davao City. “Wala ta’y any possible transmission ka’y wala to (OFW) nakatung-tong ug Davao. Sa karon wala ta’y active cases for any new Covid-19 variant,” Lopez added. In her video message, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio reminded Dabawenyos that amid downtrend of Covid-19 cases in Davao city in the past weeks, it is not yet the time to be complacent, as the new variants of COVID-19 will drown the city if the second wave of community transmission happens. “Gusto na nato nga malingkawasan ang pandemya apan dili pa karon ang panahon. Mokanat sa laing lugar ang bayrus nga gikan sa mga lugar dunay taas nga kaso niini. Ug ang gataas nga kaso sa Manila ug Cebu sigurado nga makaapekto sa siyudad sa Davao kung atong usbon ang atong mga kasaypanan miaging tuig,” she said. Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH), on its official website March 5, 2021 press release, bared in a joint report with the UP-Philippine Genome

Center (UP-PGC), and the UP-National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH) the detection of 52 additional B.1.351 variant (South Africa variant) cases, 31 additional B.1.1.7 variant (UK variant) cases, and 42 additional cases with mutations of potential clinical significance among the ninth batch of 350 samples sequenced by the UP-PGC. These samples came from NCR, Region 7, and Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs), attributing to the increased number of cases in these areas. The statement said that of the 52 B.1.351 (South Africa Variant) cases, “41 have indicative addresses in NCR, while 11 cases are being verified if these are local cases or ROFs.” While one NCR case has recovered, the rest of the 51 cases are currently active and are still being managed. Of the 31 active UK variant cases, 28 have indicative addresses in NCR while the three cases are being verified whether local or ROFs. The DOH also noted that of the 42 cases with mutations of potential clinical significance, 34 are residing in Region 7, while six are from NCR, and two cases are being verified if local cases or ROFs. Region 7’s 34 cases have recovered while the rest are still active cases.

dent Volleyball Philippines is in good hands,” he said. “We have to work really, really hard if we want to win a gold medal.” Alinsunurin is hoping that the men's team could sustain its newfound success amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Meanwhile, Rhovyl Verayo and Paul John Doloiras will handle the national men’s and women’s beach volleyball teams, respectively. Jason Gabales and Reycarl Dimaculangan will backstop Verayo in the

men's team. “We’ll do everything to get a gold because our program is improving,” Verayo said. Meanwhile, Dolairas might still have Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons, arguably the Philippines' top two women's beach volleyball players right now, to pair up in bettering their bronze medal finish in the 2019 SEA Games. “We will do our best to improve slowly every game until SEA Games,” Dolairas said. (PNA)

be allowed direct access to all satellite systems, whether fixed or mobile, international or domestic, to build and operate broadband facilities to offer Internet services. Broadcast service providers may also be allowed to directly access satellite systems subject to NTC rules, regulations, and authorizations. There used to be a franchise requirement in the access of international satellite systems. EO 127 directs the NTC to update its regulations and expedite its administrative processes to enable VAS providers

and ISPs to directly access, use, own, and operate facilities for Internet access service using satellite technologies, such as but not limited to, Very Small Aperture Terminals, Broadband Global Area Network, and similar technologies, for all segments of the broadband network. It is understood, however, that VAS providers and ISPs shall comply with existing policies and requirements concerning the registration of VAS and ISP offerings and submission of their schedule of rates. The new EO updates

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Corporation, Filipinas Port Services, Golden Mindanao Global Holding Company, Rose Excellence Corp., San Miguel Foods, Sonic Sales and Distribution Inc., Technotrade, and VXI Global Holding B.V. The applicants were interviewed by the employers via Zoom. “Primarily the target

are the displaced tourism workers but this is also open for all,” said Tanya Rabat-Tan, regional director of DOT 11. DOLE 11 Assistant Regional Director Atty. Jason P. Balais this is the first of the many virtual job fairs that DOLE 11 is going to do amid the pandemic.

and we will file the case within the coming days or week,” Kraft said. The autopsy result indicated that Corpuz was raped and then killed. Kraft also assured the family of 6-year old Kenjay Jainan Gido in Toril that a murder case will be filed anytime soon against a suspect. Gido was found at the riverside in Batolusa, Bangkas Heights, Toril District this city on March 4 with multiple stab wounds and head injuries. Prior to the incident, the victim asked permission from his mother to take a bath in the rain outside but failed to return home. He was found dead at 6:40 p.m of the same day.

Kraft directed all station commanders to intensify police visibility. “Yong ating ginagawa ngayon na more on police on the streets. Police visibility yong ating pinaka- main effort dito na dapat ang mga pulis ay nasa kalsada,” he said. Kraft said 75 percent of station personnel should be on the streets to conduct foot and bike patrol to prevent crimes. Kraft assured Dabawenyos that the city is still generally peaceful. “Meron tayong mga incidents na na-sensationalized but it does not reflect the whole peace and order situation in the city. Meron lang mga pangyayari na isolated cases na na- sensationalized,” he said. (AMA)

for Go and Duterte to run for president and vice president, respectively. Earlier Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque recalled Duterte’s previous statement that the Chief Executive has no plan to become the country’s next vice president next year. Meanwhile, Duterte also hinted at the possibility that his top lawyer, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel, might seek a seat at the Senate in the 2022 national and local elections. This was after Duterte alluded that Panelo could be a “good senator” in the future. He also praised Panelo’s credentials, noting

that the Palace official’s former clients include celebrities. “Sal Panelo is the lawyer. Ito ‘yung abugado ng mga artista. Totoo, ‘yung mga iskandalo, nag-aaway. Kaniya iyang lahat. High profile itong si Sal (He is the lawyer of the stars. That’s true, he defended those involved in scandals. That’s him. Sal is high-profile). And maybe, he would make a good senator someday,” Duterte said. Apart from Panelo, the President also lauded some of his Cabinet officials, including Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and Public Works Secretary Mark Villar. (PNA)

start-up and the gipondohan pud ni President Rodrigo Duterte ning balaod to give tangible support and not lip service only to the innovators,” she said.

Braga will submit a committee report in the next two sessions of the City Council. “Hopefully, maaprubahan ni nga ordinance,” she said. Maya Padillo

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the definition of the term "direct access" to any of several measures permitting direct dealings between authorized entities and satellite system providers at specified levels as defined by NTC. Direct access used to refer to measures permitting direct dealings between authorized entities and international

satellite system providers. EO 127 also directs the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in consultation with concerned agencies and sectors, to regularly review the responsiveness of the policy and submit recommendations to the Office of the President.

LENOVO... FROM9 els began to be a norm, device management became more complicated for organizations as employees preferred working using varying operating systems. An all-in-one unified endpoint management (UEM) software, FileWave serves companies with differentiated device lifecycle management, equipping them with mobility and flexibility in order to constantly adapt and evolve within the ever-changing landscape of the business. “We see device management as essential for every business, but it was the pandemic that amplified that need for our clients. As the need for personal devices to integrate into companies’ networks hastened, organizations were managing an increasingly diverse IT landscape. It used to be a logistical IT nightmare. However, with a universal device management tool such as FileWave, device on boarding and deployment becomes seamless, making us the solution that grows with these organizations. FileWave gives companies that flexibility to equip their workforce with an environment for high productivity to take place,” said Charles Springgay, Vice President, FileWave Asia-Pacific and Japan. Through its streamlined approach to device management, FileWave brings all major operating systems into an easyto-use console and allows organizations to manage company devices from one intuitive and highly customizable interface. The software offers unique features including inventory management that allows IT teams to see everything that’s connected to their network, device tracking and location tools to find and recover stolen devices, self-healing capabilities that reduce the risk of privacy breaches through automatic pushing of necessary security patches, and even a self-service kiosk that allows end users to install pre-approved apps and software to avoid technical complications. FileWave’s entire suite of remote-enabled tools ensures that companies create a frictionless work environment while running businesses as smoothly as usual, despite having to work

remotely. “The demand for computers and high-end solutions accelerating digital transformation has significantly grown during the pandemic, especially from organizations. Local businesses were challenged when they were met with the urgent need to go digital in order to survive at this point. With this partnership with Lenovo, we aim to assist companies in transforming their businesses and help secure their longevity through FileWave, which has become a very important component of the workfrom-home solution for a lot of organizations worldwide,” said Jimmy Go, President and CEO, VST-ECS Phils., Inc. FileWave empowers businesses as it meets their management needs, while granting individual users with a reduced time needed to get accustomed to its system. Lenovo’s commercial devices like the ThinkPad and ThinkBook lines may be easily configured to work with the FileWave software and reap its benefits, enabling companies to maintain every device proactively and automatically throughout the entire organization in an easy and secure way. “The pandemic did push companies to drive digital transformation, but this transformation is a continuous journey and will carry on even long after the crisis has subsided. Technology can and should be a positive catalyst for change. Lenovo believes that in our shared digital future, no one should be left behind, which is why we strive to empower people with technology and opportunity. Businesses, regardless of size and industry, and even users themselves, will need to embrace the reality that they need to bring their stuff online. It is inevitable,” said Ngan. The collaboration of Lenovo, VST-ECS, and FileWave not only supports organizations during the crisis, but also further equips them to keep pace with the global digitalization. More information about Lenovo’s commercial devices and offerings may be found at Lenovo Think PC’s official Facebook page<fb.com/ thinkpcphilippines> and the Lenovo Philippines website<lenovo.com/ph>.

York's Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson, Toronto's Fred VanVleet, Atlanta's Trae Young and the Houston trio of Eric Gordon, John Wall and Christian Wood. Jordan, who now plays for Brooklyn, is also a newcomer to the pool even though he was on the 2016 Olympic team. All 44 players that were announced as part of the original pool last year remain, with two exceptions: Golden State's Klay Thompson is recovering from Achilles surgery, and Boston's Marcus Smart, who has battled injuries as well throughout much of this season. The players back from last year's pool are: Bam Adebayo, LaMarcus Aldridge, Barnes, Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, Malcolm Brogdon, Jaylen Brown, Butler, Mike Conley,

Curry, Davis, DeRozan, Andre Drummond, Durant, George, Green, Harden, Montrezl Harrell, Joe Harris, Tobias Harris, Gordon Hayward, Dwight Howard, Brandon Ingram, Irving, James, Kyle Kuzma, Leonard, Damian Lillard, Brook Lopez, Love, Lowry, JaVale McGee, Khris Middleton, Donovan Mitchell, Victor Oladipo, Paul, Mason Plumlee, Jayson Tatum, Myles Turner, Kemba Walker, Westbrook and Derrick White. "Having a larger player pool than what we normally have is critical because of all of the uncertainties we face about availability," Colangelo said. "But for USA Basketball to receive the commitment of so many outstanding players remains an indicator of the great honor of representing your country means to these men."

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LeBron, Durant, Paul lead 57-man USA Basketball

SA Basketball is a step closer to choosing the team that will play in this summer’s rescheduled Tokyo Olympics, releasing the names Thursday (Friday, Manila time) of 57 players who are part of the pool to fill the squad. Among the group: 15 players who have already won Olympic gold medals for the U.S., including three-time gold winner LeBron James and two-time gold medalists Kevin Durant and Chris Paul. The other past gold medalists under consideration for spots this summer are Harrison Barnes, Jimmy Butler, Anthony Davis, DeMar DeRozan, Paul George, Draymond Green, James Harden, Kyrie Irving, DeAndre Jordan, Kevin Love, Kyle Lowry, and Russell Westbrook. It's also already drawing major interest from some NBA stars who have yet to taste Olympic gold. Kawhi Leonard said this week he intends to play if healthy this summer, and Stephen Curry has long said he would like the chance to compete in the Olympics. Curry has won a gold medal

in a Basketball World Cup, but never been on the Olympic stage. There will be no tryouts. USA Basketball will pare the list to a 12-person Olympic team by early summer. Thise decisions will be made by a selection committee and based in part on player availability and health. Training camp will start with player arrivals in Las

Vegas on July 2 while the NBA playoffs are ongoing, and the Olympics start July 23. That's just one day after the potential date of Game 7 of the NBA Finals. The U.S. is scheduled to play as many as five games in Las Vegas before leaving for Tokyo on July 19. The Americans, who are seeking a fourth consecutive gold meda,

open the Olympics against France on July 25. James, if he chooses to play, could join Carmelo Anthony as the only men's players to make four U.S. Olympic teams. He has said in recent months he will consider the opportunity, noting the lure of playing for U.S. coach Gregg Popovich is a factor. "With the postponement

of the Tokyo Olympics from 2020 to 2021, it's important that we continue to remain flexible and consider all players who can contribute to our efforts to field the best USA team possible," USA Basketball men's national team managing director Jerry Colangelo said. "These additions we are announcing today will help ensure that we are doing that."

perliga (PSL). "To PVL, thank you for inviting us. May the new partnership be fruitful, not just for the league but moreover to Philippine volleyball," the Cargo Movers said in a statement. Since joining the

PSL in 2016, F2, which has been mainly composed of La Salle alumnae, has won five championships, even coming close to a grand slam in 2019. "It is with grateful hearts that we thank Philippine Superliga

for being our home for the past five years. Defeats and victories molded our team's character. We will not be the champions today without you," the club said in gratitude. They then called on their fans for their continuous support as they take part in the PVL's first season as a full-fledged professional league in Calamba starting May 8. "We look forward to battling against old and new opponents who will never be enemies," the Cargo Movers further stated. It was then confirmed that they would take over the spot vacated by the Air Force. The military team begged off from playing in the Open Conference due to lack of available players. (PNA)

James Harden, Chris Paul, Kevin Durant and Lebron James could team up again for Team USA in the Tokyo Olympics.

Powerhouse F2 team moves to PVL 2 just made the move. The women's club volleyball powerhouse announced on Thursday that they too are jumping to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) after five years with the Philippine Su-

F2 Logistics has just joined the Philippine Volleyball League after 5 years with the Philippine Suerliga.

Those additions, who were not part of the pool created in early 2020 in anticipation of an Olympics happening last summer, are: New Orleans' Zion Williamson, Miami's Duncan Robinson, Cleveland's Jarrett Allen, Detroit's Jerami Grant, Brooklyn's Blake Griffin, Milwaukee's Jrue Holiday, Chicago's Zach LaVine, New

FLEBRON, P10

Alinsunurin retained as PH men’s volleyball coach

ante Alinsunurin will continue to lead the way for the Philippine men's volleyball team as the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) reappointed him as head coach. The PNVF also tapped Odjie Mamon to coach the women's team. The appointments have been formalized after both Alinsunurin and Mamon met with the PNVF's top officials on Thursday. “After careful and stringent deliberation and evaluation, the federation selected coaches Odjie and Dante, both of whom bring with them impressive and credible credentials,” PNVF president Tats Suzara said. Alinsunurin led the Philippines to a breakthrough silver medal in the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Pasig, stunning powerhouse Thailand in the semifinals to do so. Meanwhile, Mamon makes a return to the

women's national team after steering them to bronze medals in the 2001 and 2003 SEA Games. “It’s a call to duty for the national colors and you can’t decline once the country asks for your service,” he said upon accepting the appointment. Alinsunurin will have Ariel dela Cruz and Sherwin Meneses in his coaching staff. On the other hand, Creamline coach Tai Bundit and Grace Antigua will assist Mamon. The next task now is to build solid national teams in volleyball ahead of this year's SEA Games in Hanoi. And Suzara is confident that both coaches will pull it off. “Our appointed coaches will do whatever it takes to assemble the best ever team in the SEA Games with their vast coaching experience even during this situation. So we’re confi-

FALINSUNURIN, P10

12 SPORTS

VOL.13 ISSUE 262 • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 VOL.13 ISSUE 280 • SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 2021

HOMESICK EDGEDAVAO

Ancajas fights off ‘hard life’ in prep for title defense

Dabawenyo world champion Jerwin Ancajas is hell bent on defending his title against dangerous Mexican challenger Jonathan Rodriguez.

abawenyo world champion Jerwin Ancajas is set on defending his IBF junior bantamweight title against mandatory challenger Jonathan Rodriguez in April. The Panabo City native is going through the 'hard life'--homesickness and all--if only to keep his belt. "Eto na pinaka matagal na nawalay kami sa pamilya," Ancajas' coach Joven Jimenez said in an interview. The Ancajas team has been in Los Angeles since October 2020. It has been the team's decision to set its lengthy camp in the US where he gets a better chance of getting fights especially while the pandemic rages on. "Kaya naman ibubuhos niyang lahat ng pinaghirapan sa laban," said Jimenez. The 29-year-old Ancajas has not fought since December 2019 when he stopped Miguel Gonzalez via sixth-

round technical knockout. Ancajas and Rodriguez were originally scheduled to fight in Carson, Calif., in November 2019, but the fight was shelved after the Mexican challenger failed to obtain his US visa. The fight was supposed to finally happen in Las Vegas, Nevada in April 2020, but got postponed again due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Jimenez said Ancajas remained in constant communication with his family back in their Survival Camp in Magallanes town, Cavite to fight off home sickness. Also staying with Ancajas in their rented apartment in LA are Pinoy boxers Eumir

Marcial and Jonas Sultan. This somehow helped the champion to remain focused on his mission, said the coach. "Palaging patawa o positive lahat na bagay ginagawa naming lahat. Nakikita ninyo naman sa YouTube posts namin masiyahin palagi. Palagi ko silang kinakausap lahat," said Jimenez. The boxing coach said the Rodriguez fight is the one chance that will open up Ancajas to more opportunities in the US at this time of the pandemic. "Kaya nakatutok ako sa kanya 24/7 dahil iisa lang ang paniwala namin. Hindi namin sasayangin ang binigay na tsansa ng Panginoon sa amin," he said.