Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 10 | Thursday, March 25, 2021

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN THERE’S FIRE? HEALTH P9

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PREVENT NEXT WAVE VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

f

@EdgeDavao

www.edgedavao.net

edgedavao@gmail.com

P 15.00 • 12 PAGES

Optimize contact tracing, strict imposition of isolation protocols to prevent second wave: CHO STORY ON PAGE 2

A trader checks the hogs he is selling at the livestock area at Agdao Public Market in Agdao, Davao City on Wednesday.

Hog Farmers Association of Davao Inc. (Hogfadi) said during the 22nd Davao Agri Trade Expo (DATE) webinar series on Biosecurity measures and farm management system on Wednesday that the group is hoping that Davao City will become a model city in prohibiting the entry of meat products from African Swine Fever-infected countries. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

Senator Christopher Lawrence Go talks to Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian during the turnover ceremony for the second batch of 400,000 CoronaVac vaccines donated by the Chinese government to the country at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Wednesday. Contributed photo

PREVENT NEXT WAVE Optimize contact tracing, strict imposition of isolation protocols to prevent second wave: CHO

By MAYA M. PADILLO

D

avao City Health Officer Dr. Ashley Lopez said optimization of contact tracing and strict implementation of isolation protocols are needed to prevent possible second wave of Covid-19 cases in Davao City.

“Test before travel was already reinstated sa airport at to follow ang land and sea. We intensify surveillance on influenza-like illness (ILI) or an acute respiratory infection (ARI) in the communities in coordination with barangay health officers, do more RT-PCR testing and strict imposition of isolation/ quarantining protocols and deliver strict adherence to basic health protocols,” Lopez said.

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio recently announced that the city government of Davao will be intensifying surveillance on influenza-like illnesses in the communities to prevent a possible second wave of Covid-19 in Davao City.

The mayor added the city will try its best to prevent from happening the

similar surge of cases in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Cebu City.

The city will also review the contact-tracing as it is one of the challenges during the first wave of cases in Davao City.

The mayor said another strategy is to fast-track the request of Department of Health 11 (DOH 11) list for the private hospitals.

The city has already implemented the “no RTPCR negative result, no entry” in Davao City for airline passengers upon entry at the Davao International Airport (DIA).

For inbound passengers, a negative RT-PCR (nasopharyngeal) negative test result (by DOH accredited lab facility) or a saliva based RT-PCR negative test result (by Philippine Red Cross only)valid

FPREVENT, P10

Poultry farmers push for breeder farm in Davao City

T

he Davao Poultry and Egg Producers Inc., is pushing for the establishment of a breeder farm in Davao City to address shortage of chicken in the market.

Lawyer Lalaine Lillibeth dela Victoria, president of Davao Poultry and Egg Producers Inc., said the group is hopeful that the regional office of the Department of Agriculture (DA 11) will push through with the proposal for them to be able to support the

local poultry farmers.

“Kasi as of now we depend on hatching eggs from Luzon and other areas at maliliit lang ang mga breeder farms in Davao Region,” Dela Victoria said during the 22nd Davao Agri Trade Expo Webinar Series on Biosecurity Measures and Farm Management System on March 24, 2021.

According to her, among the factors why there is shortage of chicken include the integrators

lower down their production level and some of the breeder farms conducted culling that resulted to unavailability of hatching eggs.

“Syempre yung imported hatching eggs hindi na rin nakakarating because of the pandemic,” she said.

Dela Victoria is hopeful that the DA will act on the said proposal as this would also ensure food security.

“As of now nakikita na-

tin the only alternative to pork is chicken and then kung mawawala pa ito sa merkado then magkakaroon tayo ng problema regarding food security,” she said.

Dela Victoria also called on the barangay officials and personnel of the city government of Davao to respect biosecurity measures implemented in the poultry farms.

“Since the beginning of time the barangay officials

the DANECO and the FDC Misamis Power Corp. (FDCMPC) for the latter to supply 15 megawatts of power to the cooperative.

In a December 16, 2020 18-page order issued last March 9, ERC also ordered DANECO, “to submit its updated actual demandsupply scenario from 2015 to 2020 and forecasted demand supply-scenario from 2021 to 2025 and clarification on the submitted rate impact simulation

to prove its claims on the effect of supply of FDCMPC to the current generation mix.

The ERC also directed the beleaguered power coop to submit its compliance of the order 15 days after receiving it.

“DANECO needs to submit complete documents to further substantiate its allegation that the subject EPPA covering the 15MW supply is really necessary to augment the growing

demand of DANECO,” the order said.

In denying the application, the regulatory body said the petitioners “were unable to clearly establish through their submitted documents the urgency and the necessity” of granting the agreement.

They were also “not able to substantiate their claim that upon the inclusion of the FDCMC supply, the monthly generation

FPOULTRY, P10

ERC thumbs down contract of DANECO, power supplier

T

he Davao del Norte Electric Cooperative (DANECO), which has been renamed Northern Davao Electric Cooperative, faces another setback in its effort to look for sources of power for the consumers in the provinces of Davao de Norte and Davao de Oro and the cities of Tagum and IGaCoS. The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has denied the joint application for provisional authority of

FERC, P10

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

New members added in amended E.O. on HPBS TF

M

Almost empty water containers are seen inside a comfort room of a house in Central Park, Bangkal, Davao City as residents were not informed ahead of time of a scheduled water interruption on Wednesday. Edge Davao

Hog raisers want Davao City to lead drive for ASF-free PH

By MAYA M. PADILLO

M

ayor Sara Duterte-Carpio disclosed that the AstraZeneca vaccines the city government of Davao ordered are expected to arrive third quarter of this year.

E

radicating African Swine Fever (ASF) remains a challenge especially for local hog raisers. While some blamed its spread on swill feeding, a group of hog raisers in Davao Region pointed out that the national government is also accountable for the outbreak due to being lax on implementing biosecurity measures in the borders.

Eduard So, president

of Hog Farmers Association of Davao Region Inc., (HogFADI), said the group is hopeful for Davao City to become a model city in prohibiting the entry of meat products from ASF infected countries.

“Right now, we are lobbying to the city government of Davao to have a strict compliance on this item and it is on the second reading because if we really take this seriously

we have to do that. I think the City Council is taking this seriously and hopefully Davao City will be the model for this,” So said during the 22nd Davao Agri Trade Expo Webinar Series on Biosecurity Measures and Farm Management System on March 24, 2021.

So said talking about biosecurity must start from the border control.

“If you look at the history, ASF-free tayo dati sa Philippines. When the first case of ASF in Asia was in Vietnam and China coming all the way from Europe, but the problem is the Philippines is very lax

Davao City’s one-stop shop for guns registration, licensing opens

T

he Davao Region Police Office today inaugurated its onestop-shop for the registration and licensing of firearms.

Brigadier General Filmore Escobal graced the occasion and called the event a milestone in bringing its services closer to the people.

He said the one stop shop for license to own and possess firearm complies with the ease of doing business with the police based on the Anti-Red Tape Act, by relaxing the processes in firearm registration and processing.

“Through building this facility, we are able to accomplish a requirement based on the ARTA Law, by easing the processes, and we now have a place

where we conduct the neuro-examination and thirdly, we now have a facility that is first in Mindanao. With just one facility, we accomplish many things,” Escobal said.

He hopes that through this facility, their services will improve especially to clients who apply or renew firearm registration and licensing.

The one-stop shop facility of the Regional Office offers neuro-psychological test, drug test, firearm registration, crime lab, financial processes and police clearance.

Escobal said the facility will limit the movement of people within the camp because all transactions are confined in one building while the public still needs to contend with the

COVID-19 pandemic.

“This endeavor is vital in our fight against criminality especially in curving gun-related cases,” he said.

Escobal recognized that the Philippine National Police has to intensify its campaign against loose firearms by ensuring that only qualified and responsible gun holders must be given license to own firearms.

He also stressed that with the downtrend of COVID-19 infection in Davao Region, the public must remain vigilant and not complacent by always adhering to the basic health protocols.

“It is safer now in Davao Region where some of the protocols have been relaxed. Even then, we

FDAVAO, P10

on biosecurity on borders.

Take note Philippines is known for swill feedings (lamaw) which right now the government is trying to prohibit that. To be honest it’s a long shot. We just cannot say that you stop swill feeding,” he said.

He said even in the middle of ASF outbreak, the government still don’t have strict biosecurity implemented on borders.

“Example, we still see a lot of imported meat coming from infected countries, pumapasok at naka-display. The department issued penalties on infected meat for local

FHOG RAISERS, P10

ore members were added to the Davao City High Priority Bus System (HPBS) Project Inter-Agency Task Force after Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte issued Executive Order No. 14, Series of 2021, amending the composition of the TF as mandated by E.O. No. 3 she issued early this year.

Duterte, in E.O. 14, said, “There is a need to include additional members to the current membership of the Davao City High Priority Bus System Project Inter-Agency Task Force.”

In the amended E.O., which was released on March 23, the mayor also identified the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Davao City District Engineer Office and DPWH-Davao City District Engineer Office II as members.

The previous E.O. only included DPWH 11.

Also included were the City Information Office (CIO), Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Region (LTFRB) 11 to complete the task force that is also composed of the office of the City Vice Mayor, Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau Region 11, Office of the Assistant City Administrator for Administration, City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), Office of the City Building Offi-

cial (Ocbo), HPBS project consultant/s, and Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII).

The mayor ordered heads of member agencies to name their respective alternate and permanent representatives who shall take their place in their absence.

The mayor included national agencies in the TF HPBS, citing Section 2 (paragraph c) of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991 that mandates all national agencies and offices “to conduct periodic consultations with appropriate local government units (LGUs), non-governmental and people’s organizations, and other concerned sectors of the community before any project or program is implemented in their respective jurisdictions.”

E.O. 3, Series of 2021, was issued on January 25. Section 2 of E.O. 3, states that “The TF HPBS is primarily tasked to plan, coordinate, implement, and align across agencies all project components of the HPBS Project.”

The group will meet once a month. The City Administrator’s Office is mandated to be the TF HPBS Secretariat and will handle all administrative and secretarial functions.

The operating costs of the TF HPBS will be sourced from the available funds of the City Government of Davao, or the project itself, subject to usual accounting and auditing rules and regulations.

CIO

to recognize and promote the rights of the Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

As such, “this activity is truly remarkable for this not only highlights the importance of protecting IP Ancestral lands, but also informs the general public of the Indigenous Knowledge Systems and practices in a creative way,” he said.

He added that this will publicize to the world the extent of the IPs’ rich history heritage and culture.

10th Infantry Division (ID) Commander, Major General Ernesto C. Torres Jr., through his representative Col. Jun Glenn Calambuhay, acknowledged the

“significant” role of the IPs in nation building.

“This photo exhibit is just one way of recognizing their great contributions by showcasing their vibrant profile, cultures, traditions and stunning tourist destinations in their respective ancestral domains,” he said.

He added that in order to further strengthen the Army and the IPs’ partnership, the 10th ID’s doors are open for IPs who are interested to become soldiers of the Philippine Army “At present, 10ID has numerous IP soldiers who are deployed all over the area of responsibility,” he said.

However, he noted

IPs recognized in Tagum book launch, photo exhibit

T

he National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) launched Epanaw, a set of three coffee-table books recognizing the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), at Tagum City Atrium on March 21, 2021 where it also staged a Photo Exhibit showing the public a glimpse on what can be found and read in EPANAW. Newly installed Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, Major General Greg T. Almerol, through Eastern Mindanao Command Deputy Commander, Brigadier General Leopoldo A. Imbang Jr., said that this activity is in line with the Constitution’s mandate

FIPS, P10

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

Philippine Airlines announces the cancellation of additional 44 international flights scheduled March 23-26 and March 31, and several domestic flights from March 23 to April 4, due to the arrival restrictions at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Edge Davao

PCCI calls on consumers F to buy PH-made products

PAL cancels 44 more international flights, several domestic flights

T

he Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), country’s largest business organization, has called on Filipino consumers to patronize locally-made products to help businesses thrive amid the pandemic.

“We are still reeling from a crisis that is unparalleled in recent history.

In the face of losses from reduced economic activity, we are calling on all consumers and industry users to support Philippine-made products. This is to help local businesses survive, rebound, and continue providing jobs for the Filipino people,” PCCI

president Benedicto Yujuico said in a statement Tuesday.

The PCCI also launched the #PinasMunaTayo movement to support government’s initiatives to promote Filipino brands such as Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) ‘Buy Local, Go Lokal’ campaign, and Department of Science and Technology’s

oneStore.ph.

PCCI director for industry Alfredo Yao has lauded DTI’s Build Lokal campaign as it aligns with the business group’s initiative to encourage local contractors, manufacturers, enterprises, and multinational companies to source their raw materials that are locally available.

“The PCCI recognizes that the Build Lokal campaign of the DTI aligns with our strategic thrust to support policy initiatives which will improve the overall local business climate and contribute to socio-economic develop-

ment. As such, we fully support this campaign by the government to promote the consumption of locally-produced, quality building materials for public and private sector construction projects,” Yao said.

The business group likewise has recognized the national government’s effort to increase local sourcing as the General Appropriations Act mandates government agencies to prioritize local building materials for their infrastructure projects and other requirements for all their activities. (PNA)

request of the country’s Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

It looks at the accomplishments and the challenges facing the Philippines’ skills training system as new industrial technologies, known as Industry 4.0, rapidly change the nature of work and the demand for skills.

“Industry 4.0 poses a huge challenge to developing nations like the Philippines, as they have traditionally relied on industrialization and its capacity to generate high-paying jobs as a path toward economic growth,” ADB Vice-President Ahmed Saeed said in a statement Tuesday.

The review is especially

timely as the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) continues to take a heavy toll on the Philippine labor market. More than ever, the importance of adequate and timely investment in skills -- including reskilling, upskilling, and the development of strong technical and soft skills -- is needed to help displaced workers transition into new jobs.

ADB study calls for skills training reform in PH

T

he Philippines should reform its technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system to meet fast-changing industry needs, a new Asian Development Bank (ADB) study recommends.

The study, Technical and Vocational Education and Training in the Philippines in the Age of Industry 4.0, was carried out at the

lag carrier Philippine Airlines announced on Tuesday the cancellation of additional 44 international flights scheduled March 23-26 and March 31, due to the arrival restrictions at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) now capped at 1,500 international passengers daily.

PAL has announced cancellation of these flights scheduled for March 23: PR 507/508 Manila-Singapore-Manila; PR 412/411 Manila-Osaka Kansai-Manila; PR 890/891 Manila-Taipei-Manila; PR 300/301 Manila-Hong Kong-Manila; PR 428/427 Manila-Tokyo (Narita)-Manila. and Flights PR 102/103 Manila-Los Angeles-Manila.

The other canceled flights are: March 24 PR507/508 Manila-Singapore-Manila PR438/439 Manila-Nagoya-Manila PR 300/301 Manila-Hong Kong-Manila PR 730/731 Manila-Bangkok-Manila PR 421/422 Manila- Tokyo (Haneda)-Manila PR 591/592 Manila-Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)-Manila PR 525/526 Manila-Kuala Lumpur-Manila PR 658/659 Ma-

nila-Dubai-Manila March 25 PR 468/469 Manila-Seoul (Incheon)-Manila PR 890/891 Manila-Taipei-Manila PR 427/428 Manila-Tokyo (Narita)-Manila PR 102/103 Manila-Los Angeles-Manila PR 658/659 Manila-Dubai-Manila March 26 PR5686/5687 Manila-Dammam-Manila PR428/427 Manila-Tokyo (Narita)-Manila PR412/411 Manila-Osaka (Kansai)-Manila PR507/508 Manila-Singapore-Manila PR426/425 Manila-Fukuoka-Manila PR 658/659 Manila-Dubai-Manila PR 300/301 Manila-Hong Kong-Manila March 31 PR 468/469 Manila-Seoul (Incheon)-Manila PAL will continue to announce additional flight cancellations once the details are confirmed, it said in the advisory posted on its Facebook page.

Affected passengers may refund their tickets, or rebook their flights with no rebooking fee until December 31. They can also convert their tickets to a travel voucher (must be requested on/before June 30).

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

EDGEDAVAO

ECONOMY

5

Phoenix Petroleum selling some assets to pay debts

D

avao-based businessman Dennis Uy’s Phoenix Petroleum is selling some of its assets so that it can pay its debts, the company disclosed to the stock market on Tuesday.

Phoenix said it was ready to negotiate for “possible transfer, sale, mortgage or disposition of certain corporate properties, assets, or investments as may be necessary.”

The company said this was “part of its debt management and funding activities.”

The independent oil firm has yet to release its full-year financial report, but booked a net loss of over P95 billion from January to September last year as the pandemic cratered fuel demand.

In a disclosure last December, Phoenix Petroleum President Henry Albert Fadullon said 2020 was a turbulent year but the company was “making headways in our engagements with

creditors.”

The company's share price closed 2.38 percent lower at the end of Tuesday's trading.

Phoenix’s disclosure comes just days after Uy’s Chelsea Logistics and Infrastructure Corp also sold off its stake in shipping and logistics firm 2GO to the SM Group.

Chelsea disclosed that the proceeds from the sale of its stake in 2GO will be used to pay the loan used for the acquisition of the shares in the shipping and logistics firm.

Uy, who is ranked 22nd in Forbes list of richest Filipinos, lords over a business empire spanning petroleum, oil and gas, shipping, logistics, real estate, education, gambling and telecoms.

Uy’s DITO Telecommunity recently launched commercial services in Visayas and Mindanao, but does not expect to turn a profit until the fifth year of operations.

Over 600 firms fail to comply with COVID-19 rules, says DOLE

Davao City-based businessman Dennis Uy’s Phoenix Petroleum is selling some of its assets to pay its P95 billion debts from January to September last year as the pandemic cratered fuel demand. Edge Davao

NEDA: Return to tighter quarantine to worsen hunger, unemployment

A

return to tighter quarantine will raise hunger and unemployment figures in Metro Manila, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said on Tuesday, as it sought to justify current protocols to slow a surge of COVID-19 cases.

Metro Manila and 4 surrounding provinces are under general community quarantine, the second loosest of 4 lockdown levels, until April 4, with additional restrictions.

Should Metro Manila return to modified enhanced community community (MECQ), the second strictest level, about 266,000 COVID-19 cases and 4,000 deaths will be

prevented, said NEDA Acting Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua.

However, some 58,000 people will be added to the current 3.2 million who are experiencing hunger, while 128,000 will lose their jobs. Metro Manila and adjacent areas will record an income loss of P2.1 billion, and 78,000 people would die due to non-COVID causes, he said.

Chua said this was why his agency recommended

ANILA – European companies have invested EUR406.5 million (around PHP23.43 billion) in the Philippines last year, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said on Tuesday.

In a virtual invest-

ment roadshow for European businesses, Lopez said top investments from Europe that the country received last year were from the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and France. “(T)he nature and quality of investments from European compa-

nies and business partnerships formed with our companies have helped move the Philippines up the value chain. In particular, we’ve advanced with regard to innovation-based manufacturing and high value technology-based services,” he said.

that Metro Manila, which accounts for about a third of the gross domestic product, stay under GCQ. Only essential travel is allowed to and from Metro Manila and nearby Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal provinces until April 4.

Restrictions in these areas, which the government collectively calls "NCR Plus" bubble, include curfews and a ban on mass gatherings.

The DTI chief urged European companies to look into opportunities in the Philippines particularly in five key sectors —aerospace, automotive, copper, information technology and business process management (ITBPM), and electronics sectors. (PNA)

European firms invest over P23B in PH in 2020

M

O

ver 600 establishments were found to be non-compliant with health measures to control the spread of COVID-19, according to initial findings from assessment made by the Department of Labor and Employment and Department of Trade and Industry.

In a press briefing Tuesday, Labor Assistant Secretary Maria Teresita Cucueco said 3,888 establishments were inspected by authorities from Jan. 1 to Feb. 28 this year to determine their compliance with guidelines on the prevention of COVID-19.

Of those evaluated, 3,220 or 82 percent have complied with health standards. The remaining 668 were found to have "deficiencies" in implementing COVID-19 rules.

While majority of compliant companies were in Metro Manila (2,608), the region also recorded having the most non-compliant establishments (443), a joint report from DOLEDTI showed.

Central Luzon, Northern Mindanao and Davao Region have the highest compliance rates of 100 percent, 99.61 percent, and 92.59, respectively.

The regions with the least compliance rates are Zamboanga Penin-

sula (14.58 percent), Cagayan Valley (40.85 percent) and Mimaropa (54.14 percent).

Cucueco explained that those from the Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas and Caraga have yet to be included in the findings as processing of data is still ongoing.

Many of the establishments monitored

by DOLE and DTI came from the following industries: wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, accommodation and food service activities, administrative and support service activities, and financial and insurance activities.

Among the 668 establishments with deficiencies, 346 have committed violations under the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) program, Cucueco said.

A total of 247 have no safety officer to ensure observance and strict implementation of minimum health standards, while wearing of face masks and face shields were not observed in 116 establishments, she added.

The DOLE and DTI also recorded incidents of temperatures of workers and visitors not being checked, absence of signs on COVID-19 safety measures, and no disinfectant foot baths at the entrance.

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

On the optimization of contact tracing and strict implementation of isolation protocols to prevent possible second wave of Covid-19 cases in Davao City: Test before travel was already reinstated sa airport at to follow ang land and sea.

We intensify surveillance on influenzalike illness (ILI) or an acute respiratory infection (ARI) in the communities in coordination with barangay health officers, do more RT-PCR testing and strict imposition of isolation/ quarantining protocols and deliver strict adherence to basic health protocols.”

Dr. Ashley Lopez

Chief of City Health Office (CHO)

EDITORIAL Two-pronged programs Sports psychology plays a critical role in molding athletes and preparing them for competitions. If scaled down to the household, every child needs to be honed psychologically as well and not just be limited to physical training and development.

As it is today, mental health is critical during the pandemic while we are estopped from doing the normal physical activities like sports and exercise. Hence, most sporting events have been scrapped or limited in numbers.

School sports also came to an abrupt halt during the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic. How this impacted adolescents’ health, who were otherwise generally active in sports in their school, is examined in new research.

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

According to studies, sports participation during the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with significant mental and physical health benefits in adolescents; those who returned to sport participation in fall 2020 reported lower anxiety and depression symptoms and higher physical activity levels.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has come up with a novel vehicle to pursue healthy lifestyle and exercise with its online sports fitness training series. So far, it has filled the gap in the need for both athletes and ordinary people from doing exercise and sports as well as improve mental health.

There is also the online program of a popular energy drink brand to conduct online training and competitions.

They also came up with a PE online platform for students.

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

the national association of newspapers

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 224-1413 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net edgedavao@gmail.com

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. Correspondent

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

MAYA M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ATHENA JILLIAN BRAVO NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN MEGHANN STA. INES FERINA SANTOS Lifestyle

CHRISTIAN JAY H. RAFAL GRACE M. BORDIOS Layout

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

OLIVIA D. VELASCO SOLANI D. MARATAS RICHARD C. EBONAJASPER OLIVIA D. VELASCO V. BACSAL General Manager PresidentAdvertising Specialist Finance General Manager / VP Operations JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE MANILA MARKETING OFFICE RICHARD C. EBONA LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-YacapinProduct Sts. Development officer Cagayan de Oro City Address: No. 18 Purok 4B, Madelo Street, Lower Bicutan, Taguig City Tel: (088) 852-4894 Mobile number: +63 947 265 2969(smart); +63 916 955 8559(globe)

7

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

VANTAGE POINTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

EDGEDAVAO

LIFESTYLE

LENOVO YOGA LAUNCHES ‘FOR ALL OF US’ CAMPAIGN HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

ARE VACCINES REALLY NECESSARY?

“Despite what you may hear or read, all current vaccines are safe,” assures Dr. Zulkifli Ismail, professor of pediatrics and director of Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. “Vaccines have helped prevent more diseases than all antibiotics put together.”

“Vaccines are one of our most important tools for preventing outbreaks and keeping the world safe,” Dr. Tedros GLOBAL INNOVA-WHO Adhanom Ghebreyesus, TION LEADERsaid Lenovo director-general, in a is partnering press statement.with multi-hyphenates So-side But like all medicines, effectsHeussaff can occur and afterNico getting lenn a vaccine.to showcase “However, how these Bolzico (side effects) are usually there’s a Yoga device very minor and short duration, made “ForofAll of Us.” such as a sore arm or a mild Known for their quirky fever,” the WHO said.

“More personas and thriving serious side effects are possicareers both within ble, but extremely rare.” and outside entertainment, A person is far more likethe embodies the by ly toduo be seriously harmed uncompromising a disease than by a flexvaccine. ibility and performance For example, tetanus can cause extreme pain, that muscle of Yoga notebooks spasmsto(lockjaw) andevery blood cater practically clots, measles can cause kind of personality or encephalitis (an infection of the profession.

“Lenovo’s Yoga ‘For All of Us’ campaign celebrates people’s uniqueness and how this particular line of our devices is designed to easily adapt to any situation and fit the users’ needs. Solenn and Nico are stylish, ambitious, and inventive, and these are qualities and principles that we integrate within our Yoga devices. With this project, we hope to inspire fans and customers to be as seafarer’s injuryinduring boldAand unapologetic their any recreational activity pursuit of excellence,” saidsuch as a videoke is comMichael Ngan,session Lenovo Philippensable under the “personal pines President and General comfort” doctrine.

Manager.

The Supreme Court utiLaunched globally last in the lized this legal paradigm year, thecase Yogaof “For All of Us” recent John Oscares campaign highlights humanvs.

Magsaysay Maritime Corp ity’s unique traits –December both the 2, (G.R. No. 245858 2020) disability positive in andawarding the negative – and benefits to the pairs them withinjured Yoga’s seafarer. innovathe vessel antive While technology to allowwas people chored in Panama, the seafarer to perform to their fullest was singing in front of a vidpotential.

It celebrates innate eoke machine together with attributes that Yoga notebooks another crew member when spark further among users he slipped and fell out of balsuch as creativity and resourceance. fulness, the same time As awhile result,athe suffered masupports human flaws such as jor knee injuries. impatience and repatriation forgetfulness to Upon his the seafarer with Philippines, its purposefulthe design. underwent This is a starksurgery contrastfollowed from by rehabilitation usual physical campaigns that only wherein he shouldered the revolve around achievements, cost. and people can see all of this When he claimed for disunfold by following Solenn ability benefits, the company and Nico’s journey as they denied liability arguing thatgohis through their dynamic lives knee injuries are not compenwith their notebooksisinnot sable sinceYoga the incident hand. related. He was not hired work loveon how authentic to “I sing board so it and cannot be said that his injury different Lenovo’s Yogawas ForinciAll dental to his employment. of Us campaign is as it’s not His act of tosinging while afraid celebrate bothjumping our

brain) and blindness. Many vaccine-preventable diseases can even result in death. The benefits of vaccination greatly outweigh the risks, and many more illnesses and deaths would occur without vaccines.

According to WHO, all the ingredients of a vaccine play an important role in ensuring a vaccine is safe and effective.

Some of these include: antigen (a killed or weakened form of a virus or bacteria, which trains the bodies to recognize and fight the disease that can be encountered later on), adjuvants (help to boost the immune response), preservatives (ensures a vaccine stays effective), and stabilizers (protect the vaccine during storage and transportation).

Vaccines are different from drugs. “A vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies, exactly like it would if you were exposed to the disease,” explains the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“After getting vaccinated, you develop immunity to that dis-

ease, without having to get the disease first.”

That’s what makes vaccines such powerful medicine. Unlike most medicines, which treat or cure diseases, vaccines prevent them. And this is the reason why children, particularly newly-born babies, are advised to be vaccinated.

“Immunity is the body’s way of preventing disease,” the Atlanta-based CDC says.

“When a baby is born, his immune system is not fully developed, which can put him at greater risk for infections.

Vaccine reduces a child’s risk of infection by working with his body’s natural defenses to help safely develop immunity to disease.”

Here’s an even more understandable explanation from WHO: “Our immune systems are designed to remember. Once exposed to one or more doses of a vaccine, we typically remain protected against a disease for years, decades or even a lifetime. This is what makes vaccines so ef-

fective. Rather than treating a disease after it occurs, vaccines prevent us in the first instance from getting sick.”

Most vaccines are given by an injection, but some are given orally (by mouth) or sprayed into the nose. Aside from those mentioned earlier, vaccines protect against many different diseases, including: cervical cancer, cholera, hepatitis B, influenza, Japanese encephalitis, measles, mumps, pneumonia, rabies, rotavirus, rubella, typhoid, varicella, and yellow fever.

Vaccines protect people throughout life and at different ages, from birth to childhood, as teenagers and into old age. “If we delay vaccination, we are at risk of getting seriously sick,” the WHO warned. “If we wait until we think we may be exposed to a serious illness – like during a disease outbreak – there may not be enough time for the vaccine to work and to receive all the recommended doses.”

Not everyone could be vaccinated though. Among

those that cannot be immunized are the very young babies, those who are seriously ill or have certain allergies.

“They depend on others being vaccinated to ensure they are also safe from vaccine-preventable diseases,” the WHO said.

As with all medicines, every vaccine undergoes several studies and testing before it is released to the public. “To designing lifestyle develop athrough vaccine,her there first brand.

Nico has to has toMeanwhile, be research done also been under spotlight, understand thethe nature of the but those commitments come infection you’re trying to prevent,” Prof.

Adam Finn, the second to being a fully-fledged David and Baum professor of father entrepreneur in paediatrics at the University the agribusiness industry. of Bristol in the United Kingdom, The couple shares their life on explained to Gary Finnegan’s social media where they have Vaccine Today.

“You need to amassed a huge following. know enough about the virus Solenn and Nico’s or Matching bacterium that causes the energy and flexibility areundertwo infection; you have to of the most versatile Yoga stand the structure of thenotebug books in the thecreate Yoga because in lineup order –to Slim 7i Carbon a vaccine you and needthetoYoga know enough about the7iinfection 9i.

The Yoga Slim Carbon’s to be able to mimic A vaccine featherweight bodyit.and longis essentially a mimicked lasting battery life can assist infection.”in home and career Solenn tasks, ranging from her art, music, and writing to, most importantly, family needs. The Yoga 9i, on the other hand, allows Nico more opportunities for his businesses through its touch-screen In-Plane Switching (IPS) display with Integrated Pen, two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports for seamless connection, and up to 17 hours of battery use. Both devices also feature Intel’s powerful ensure that shipsprocessors that fly itsthat flag 11th-generation provide and maintain decent provide uncompromising perrecreational ameniformance andfacilities, contain several ties and services, as adapted to useful smart features for home meet the special needs of seaand work. farers who must live and work their robust onAside ships,from consistent with feaprotures, thethe Yoga Slim 7i Carbon moting seafarers’ health and Yoga 9i come with and well-being.

Lenovo’s 3-Year PreRecreational facilities and servicesmium should bewarranty reviewed Care frequently tothat ensure that they solution provides an are appropriate in the lightofof advanced and tailored level changes in the of seafarcare capable of needs reducing downers resulting from technical, time and increasing efficiency. operational and asother Its services, such a 24x7developments in the shipping indirect hotline to technicians dustry. and On-Site help Some Repair, of the canfacilities removeshould delays be for people withat that included vibrant like Solenn no cost lifestyles to the seafarer, where and Nico, allowing themsports to practicable are (a) equipment do more with including Yoga devicesexerno cise equipment, table games matter how they use them. and deckSolenn games;(b) electronFollow (@solenn) ic equipment such as radio, and Nico (@nicobolzico)a on television, personal computer Instagram to see how they and cassette recorder/player; celebrate humanity’s unique and (c) bars on board for seatraits in Lenovo’s Yoga For All farers. of UsAtty. campaign.

Built to enable Gorecho heads the flexibility, resourcefulness, seafarers’ division of the Saand ambition among artists, palo Velez Bundang Bulilan professionals, law offices. businessmen, For comments, email info@sapalovelez. and everything in between, com, or call Lenovo’s Yoga09175025808 notebooks are or 09088665786) here to help everyone.

SOLENN HEUSSAFF, NICO BOLZICO NAMED AS NEW BRAND AMBASSADORS

DENNIS R. GORECHO PINOY MARINO RIGHTS

feats and flaws as humans. I love taking care of things for my family, but I also make mistakes, having to juggle a lot of things in being a mother has no relation to It’s histhe duties and with my career. as Second Assistant Engineer. same with Nico as well.

It was a purely However, makingpersonal mistakes and is social function. just normal and it’s in these In order for a seafarer’s inmoments that we learn and jury to be compensated, it must grow.

I love how(1) Lenovo be shown that: the injury or focuses must on thatbeand we’re illness work-related; grateful opporand (2) for thethe work-related injutunity to inspire others ry or illness must have existed during the term oftrue the seafaras our genuine and er’s employment contract. selves,” said Solenn.

A work-related injury Nico also relishes the op- is defined as one arising portunity to show parts ofout hisof and in the course of employdaily routine that he hasn’t ment. shared yet. “I am excited to be In the case of Luzon Stepart of thisCorporation campaign. Itvs.sends vedoring WCC a( 193 reallyPhil. strong that 91),message the Supreme mistakes arethat only“acts temporary Court held reasonsetbacks that we to canhealth build on. ably necessary and Being in of thean spotlight, people comfort employee while at work, such as living satisfaction tend to think we’re a of his thirst, or other perfect life buthunger, we’re not. physical demands, or protectThere’s a lot of ing himself from excessive hard cold, are incidental to the employment and injuries sustained in the performance of such acts are compensable as arising out of and in the course work of employment.” behind Thethe Supreme Court scenes, and I’m ex- benefits to awarded disability the the “percitedseafarer to see howusing my Yoga sonal where devicecomfort” will helpdoctrine me be better. acts of personal ministration I’ll be able to share more of my

“PERSONAL COMFORT” DOCTRINE AND COMPENSABILITY OF INJURIES DURING RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES for the comfort or convenience of the employee or necessary to his physical well-being is an incident of employment.

The company argued that the personal comfort doctrine is not applicable since it only covers acts which are related to one’s personal comfort for a brief momentary period, such as using the restroom.

The seafarer’s act of singing while jumping is not included, is a purely personal and social function, and is not incidental to his work.

However, the Supreme Court pointed out that the seafarer’s act of singing can be considered necessary to his health and comfort while on board the vessel. He incurred his injury while he was performing this act.

Music plays a special role on Filipino seafarers’ life, whether at sea or on land. It is an understatement to say that karaoke is a central part of pop culture of Filipinos, including seafarers whether on board or in between contracts.

The seafarer neither willexfully injured himself nor acted with notorious negligence.

Noperiences torious negligence is defined in business and as something than that mere home life, the more challenges I

or simple negligence or contributory negligence; it signifies a deliberate act of the employee to disregard his own personal safety.

Jumping while singing cannot be considered as a reckless or deliberate act that is unmindful of one’s safety.

There is nothing inherently dangerous about jumping while singing. The company did not allege that the seafarer intentionally face injured daily, himself or was negligent. and how He I simply lost his balance. overcome Accordingly, the seafarer’s them with injury is compensable. the of for While inside thehelp vessel andis several months,my a family seafarer peers, and now exposed to extreme weather technology conditions andwith rough seas as well as physical psychologasand well.” ical stress due toLenovo’s his job, lack Yogaof sleep, heat stress, emergency For All of Us works and campaign homesickness fits in for being awayperfectly from his with family. the These couple’s can havevibrant potentially lifedisastrous consequences in style.

Aside from her terms of reduced performance TV and film appearas well as poor physical and mentalances, health.Solenn is a painter, makeup artist, and mother Recreation is an important to one-year-old Thylane consideration for the Maritime Labour 2006 Katana.

She isConvention also a success(MLC2006). ful author of two books and Eachinvolved memberin state shall has been product

8

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

COMPETITIVE EDGE

Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Ra. Cagas (L) together with Hagonoy Municipal Mayor Ret. Gen. Franco M. Calida (center) and DA PRDP-RPCO XI RIE Marc Adrian Baddongon (Back L) leads the inauguration of the DA-PRDP XI’s 14.32-Km Farm-to-Market Road in Hagonoy and Matanao, Davao del Sur (inset). Photo by: Celso C. Vergara, DA11

partners aim to get DA-PRDP XI turns over P173.6-M DOH, TB care back on track agri infra to Davao del Sur O

B

etter roads, better opportunities for our farmers.

To provide farmers with market access and reduce the transportation cost of their produce, the Department of Agriculture XI - Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP XI) has turned over P173.6-million Farmto-Market Road (FMR) to the municipalities of Hagonoy and Matanao in Davao del Sur. The 14.32-km FMR under PRDP I-BUILD Subproject traverses the banana production areas, rice, and sugarcane production areas in the five barangays of Hagonoy namely: San Isidro, Sinayawan, Sacub, Lanuro, Poblacion, Cabligan and Km. 67 of Matanao, Davao del Sur. In his message during the turnover ceremony on March 10 at Brgy. Lanuro, Hagonoy, DA-PRDP XI Rural Infrastructure Engineer Marc Adrian C. Baddongon highlighted the purpose of the said subproject and how it would ben-

efit the farmer-beneficiaries in the locale.

With this subproject, we are expecting an increased income among households by 20 percent per annum as their travel time is reduced by almost 30 percent and their travel cost and of their commodity by 40 percent, said Baddongon.

He added that this subproject will reduce the hauling cost of farmers; produce by about 40 percent from its current cost of P35 per sack (except for sugarcane) to P20 per sack and for sugarcane from the current cost of P250 per ton to P200 per ton.

In his acceptance speech, Davao del Sur Provincial Governor Douglas Ra. Cagas said that the FMR will have a big impact to the farming community as it does not only lessen the transportation and hauling cost but ensure the quality of their produce.

“As we put premium on the quality of our agricultural commodities, we have to make sure that there is really an increased income among farmers.

This will also increase farm productivity and efficiency as farmers will not just have an easy access to market but also the farm inputs and technology needed for their venture,” said Cagas.

He also thanked DA-PRDP XI for pooling resources for the people in the province. Adding that: “We hope that this strengthened partnership will continue to benefit the people of Davao del Sur especially in increasing farmers' productivity and income as well as their quality of living.

This PRDP subproject under the I-BUILD component of the DA is jointly funded by the World Bank, the national and local government units.

Meanwhile, DAPRDP Regional Project Coordinating Office XI (RPCO XI) Deputy Project Director Marila L. Corpuz said that the success of the project is a result of the collective effort between DA-PRDP XI, the Provincial Government of Davao del

Sur, and the Municipal Governments of Hagonoy and Matanao.

This will never be made possible without everyone's hardwork and dedication to serve in empowering our farmers and fisherfolk in the Davao region to be progressive and resilient members of the farming community, Corpuz said.

She added that the development of the agriculture sector is a two-way process.

While DA continues to provide the assistance needed, farmers are also encouraged to let the DA’s counterparts in the LGUs know on the problems they have encountered, so that agency could provide immediate and appropriate action.

“We encourage farmers to get listed under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) for them to avail the agency’s programs and projects, and to provide real faces of our heroes in the field,” she said. (Celso C. Vergara, DA11)

ver 100,000 Filipinos may die of tuberculosis (TB) in the next five years or 20,000 TB deaths per year if TB services continue to be disrupted because of mobility restrictions brought about by COVID-19.

A modelling study by the Imperial College of London projected between 65,100 to 146,300 TB deaths may happen if local TB services remain limited in another year.

Since March 2020, disruption in regular TB services from consultation, testing, to treatment due to limited mobility have resulted in a drastic drop in the number of TB cases notified in the country.

By the end of 2020, approximately 268,816 new and relapse TB cases were notified to DOH, a 35% decrease from 2019 data. Case notification is an important activity of the TB Program for finding and treating identified TB patients promptly will help reduce the spread of TB and set the course for its elimination.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) global TB report in 2020, the Philippines has the highest TB incidence rate in

Asia, with 554 cases for every 100,000 Filipinos.

TB disease is caused

by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacteria passed on from a person with TB when he or she coughs, sneezes, spits or even talks. Bacteria will be expelled in respiratory droplets and close contact may inhale the bacteria. At first, the body’s natural defense system will fight the bacteria but once the immune system weakens, the bacteria may attack the lungs and other parts of the body.

TB is curable and treatment is free in public health facilities nationwide. The 2016 National TB Prevalence Survey pointed out that only 19% of people with TB symptoms sought treatment and care. The rest would do nothing or self-medicate. These behaviors may likely prevail today as mobility restrictions continue with COVID-19.

Amid the pandemic, DOH and its partners are doubling efforts to get TB care back on track.

In observing World TB Day on March 24, DOH makes an urgent plea to local leaders to support the activities to find and treat as many Filipinos with TB as possible.

9 HEALTH EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

What should you do when there’s fire?

Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

W

hen I was 18, I learned the value of knowing what to do in an emergency. It was 4:30 in the morning, and my 12-year-old sister Elena was too excited about a school field trip the next day to sleep. She had been asked to bring rice for her classmates, so she got out of bed and headed for the kitchen of our home while the rest of the family was still sleeping.

Elena put rice and water into a kettle, and placed it on top of our earthen stove.

Then she emptied the last of a kerosene container onto the firewood and lit it. The wood initially caught, but the flames died down a few seconds later.

She found another can that she thought contained kerosene and poured it straight onto the dying fire.

In fact, it was gasoline, which immediately burst into flames. Shocked, Elena dropped the can, spilling gasoline over her feet. In an instant, she was literally on fire.

Just at that moment, I walked into the kitchen to get a drink of water and was horrified to see Elena engulfed by flames. Remembering my first aid training at secondary school, I grabbed a wet blanket that was soaking in a laundry basin and wrapped it around her to smother the flames.

Elena’s cries of pain woke the entire family, and we rushed her to the hospital – still wrapped in the wet blanket.

My quick action probably saved my little sister’s life.

“If you had not been around, it would have been worse,” the emergency room doctor told me later. “Good thing you knew what to do.”

In 1989, then President Corazon Aquino signed Proclamation 360 declaring March as Burn Prevention Month. It

aims “to disseminate knowledge in the field of burn prevention and to enhance education in all phases of burn care.”

Burn is usually caused by fire.

During the time of the administration of Ferdinand Marcos, Proclamation 115A was signed assigning each month of the year a particular aspect of safety and accident prevention.

March was Fire Prevention Month as a way to propagate “safety consciousness among our people every day of the year as a positive preventive approach to a problem that can be solved by more caution, vigilance, sobriety, exercise of common sense and respect for the law.”

March was chosen because of the alarming increase of fire incidents happening across the country during this month. It is also the start of the hot dry season which runs until May. Recent data from the Philippine Statistical Authority (PSA) showed March has one of the highest fire incidents from 2010 to 2013. In those covered years, at least 4,561 fire incidents were recorded.

The month of April, however, recorded the most numbers: 5,355. May recorded a total of 4,056 fire incidents.

December also recorded high fire incidents of 3,270.

An average of 9 fire in-

cidents around the country are happening everyday, the national headquarters of the Bureau of Fire Protection reports.

Are there ways, deaths – even burns – can be avoided when there’s fire?

Yes, there are, according to the information posted by my friend, Dr. Teofredo R. Esguerra, in his Facebook. He is the only flight surgeon in Southeast Asia and has been lecturing and sharing his expertise on disaster management.

What are some of the things you need to do before a fire? First and foremost, try to familiarize yourself to “where you are” and be sure to know how to reach not just one but two nearest exits.

Bear this in mind, too: In a fire situation, smoke is blinding and will bank down in the rooms and hallways. To escape to safety, you have to crouch or crawl. “By always being aware of your surroundings, your knowledge of the nearest two exits, and having a plan will greatly increase your ability to deal with sudden emergencies,” the information said.

Now, what if you are notified or discover yourself in a fire? Here are the things you need to do: Move quickly to the nearest accessible exit.

Notify, and assist others to evacuate along the way. If the building fire alarm is not yet sounding, manually activate the alarm pull station located near the exit.

After doing that, get out of the building as quickly as possible.

In the event of an actual emergency incident, persons with mobility issues or who are unable to safely self-evacuate should follow this procedure: Relocate to an entry to an evacuation stairwell, marked

by a red exit sign. Call 911 (if you are in Davao City or Kidapawan City) or any local emergency numbers and notify a dispatcher of your location, identifying the stairwell number or a nearby room number.

Wait near the enclosed exit stairwell if there are no smoke or other threats to your safety.

If smoke, fire, or other threat is imminent, move into the stairwell. After the stairwell crowd has passed below your floor level, enter the stairwell with assistant(s) and wait on the stair landing. Make sure that the door is securely closed. Wait for assistance.

First responders will be assigned to assist you if evacuation is necessary.

More often than not, there are fire extinguishers all over

the building. When should these be used and who should do it?

The information offers these: Only if you are trained and confident in fire extinguisher use. Only if the fire is small in size (no larger than a small trash can). If you do fight the fire, use only one extinguisher and then evacuate the building.

As a reminder: you are not obligated to fight fires of any size. If you have any doubt, do not attempt to fight the fire.

Just remember this: Total and immediate evacuation is the safest.

Now, what if you are caught in smoke?

What should you do? Drop to hands and knees and crawl towards the nearest exit. Stay low,

smoke will rise to ceiling level first. Hold your breath as much as possible. Breathe through your nose and use a filter (such as a shirt, towel or handkerchief).

A firefighter pointed out: “It’s very dark inside a room filled with thick smoke. Crawl down looking for the wall and the wall will lead you to the exit.”

During a fire incident, the number one enemy is actually smoke inhalation. People are scared of the flames and think it is the main killer. Lack of oxygen will kill a person faster, firefighters claim.

“Inhalation of chemicals released in the smoke, such as hydrogen chloride, phosgene, sulfur dioxide, and ammonia,

FWHAT SHOULD, P10

10 EDGEDAVAO PREVENT... FROM2

within 72 hours from administering the test and

upon arrival at Davao City are required.

do not respect biosecurity, everytime na pumapasok sila sa poultry farm, pumapasok lang talaga sila kahit sarado kami dahil meron kaming mga manok. I’ve been asking the DA and the City Vet to talk to the barangay officials na maintindihan nila na we are implementing biosecurity measures for the protection of the farm pero hanggang ngayon hindi pa rin sila nakikinig,” she said.

She said that these officials give the farm owners notice for coordination when they are going to enter the premises.

“The City Health has already understood that pero ang mga barangay officials and the City Treasurer’s Office for tax mapping they will insist on entering the premises even though meron kaming mga manok. We were just lucky that we were not hit by avian flu but there is always a risk for diseases because an outsider goes in and we don’t have the clothing that they should use and they would not understand that they would have to shower and wash their hands. They don’t understand those things,” she said. Maya Padillo

rate of DANECO is expected to decrease.

The ERC noted that upon its evaluation, by the time the supply is included in the mix, the rates would even go up by P0.0047 per kilowatt-hour.

“The Commission needs to further evaluate and assess the reasonableness of the proposed efficiency cap on fuel,” it noted.

In evaluating the application, the ERC noted that DANECO “appears to have failed to submit either the soft and/or hard copies of its accomplished URR (Uniform Reportorial Requirement) together with the required supporting documents.

On December 19, 2018, the commission issued a show cause order directing the cooperative why it should not be administratively penalized for not complying with the reportorial requirement.

It also pointed out that based on record, the cooperative only started submitting the requirement in July 2020 in hard copy and that some of the figures cannot even be read and that “there are lacking data particularly the Technical Data of DANECO which will show its total monthly peak demand.”

The claim of DANECO that it would lose 15 megawatts from the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp.

(PSALM) would only be until 2020, was not true.

When it sent an electronic mail to PSALM, the commission said that the renewal of the supply agreement between Daneco and PSALM was on process and would take effect in January 21 until December 2025 and that it was approved by its board on October 28, 2020.

With the absence of reports from DANECO on its supply and demand figures, the ERC used its real technical situation through the Billing Determinant Demand (BDD) from the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) in making the evaluation.

In the joint application, DANECO pointed out that it needed another 15 megawatts from FDCMPC, which operates a coal-fired power plant in Misamis Occidental because of its projected shortfall by 2021 which it foresaw would increase to 24 megawatts.

Other DANECO suppliers of power aside fro PSALM are the EEI Power Corp. SMC Global Power, the FDCMPC, Therma South Inc. and the Mindoro Grid Corp., the latter being a supplier only for the Island Garden City of Samal.

However, Therma South, a subsidiary of Abotiz Power Corp., has stopped supplying DANECO since 2018 as it has failed to pay its debt of about P300 million, based on reports.

still maintain the basic health protocols including in this facility,” Escobal

pointed out. (PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

much easier for the idiots out there to say, 'this is the price of freedom', in terms of owning guns. 'This is the price of freedom,' that's possibly the dumbest expression I've ever heard in my life," said Kerr, speaking sternly on what he calls

"weapons of war."

Kerr's father, Malcolm, was murdered in Beirut while president of American University of Beirut when Kerr was 18 and a college freshman at Arizona.

POULTRY... FROM2

ERC... FROM2

DAVAO... FROM3

THE QUESTION... FROM11

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

HOG RAISERS... FROM3

IPS... FROM3

that the IPs’ are still facing “fundamental challenges” such as the need to reduce the high rate of poverty, and the need for greater protection from threats and other peace disruptors.

“In response to this call, 10ID has been doing its best to assist the living conditions of our IPs and free them from bondage of poverty and injustices,” he said.

Torres Jr. said that it is a continued challenge for every Filipino to take part in promoting equal opportunity for the IPs to be empowered in taking part in nation building with an environment that protects them from threats of terrorism and other “peace spoilers”.

“As the commander of 10ID, together with the Agila troopers, we pledge our commitment in uplifting human and cultural

rights of our beloved IP brothers and sisters,” he promised.

Similarly, “the Eastern Mindanao Command has pursued significant strides to ensure that government services reach the IP communities,” Almerol said.

He cited that for this, through the Community Support Program, the command works handin-hand with Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies, and IP youth Organizations.

These resulted in the building of government-accredited schools, dwelling units sheltering the IPs, the establishment of Youth for Peace Movement and Youth Leadership Summit, and the assistance to former rebels who have surrendered.

(Jan Vincent Leuterio/ PIA-XI)

THE QUESTION... FROM9

World Athletics has committed to developing a World Plan for athletics for the period 2022-2030.

A draft plan will be developed for presentation to the World Athletics Council in the middle of the year.

Once the draft plan is accepted, a final plan will be distributed to member federations for formal approval at the biennial World Athletics Congress in November 2021.

"The World Plan for Athletics 2022-2030 will

be a key document for development and direction shaping of the sport, as it will be a roadmap setting out the vision, objectives, and mission of global development of athletics," World Athletics Council member Wang Nan said.

As vice president of the Chinese Athletics Association (CAA), Wang added that he believed the World Plan will be of great importance for the CAA to help better promote the sport in China.

can swell and damage the lungs and trachea,” explains “The Merck Manual of Medical Information.” “Eventually, the small airways leading to the lung narrow, further obstructing airflow.”

Smoke can also contain chemicals that poison the body’s cells, such as carbon monoxide and cyanide. “High levels of carbon monoxide in the blood may cause confusion or disorientation or may even be fatal,” the Merck manual said.

If ever you are trapped in a room due to fire or smoke, call 911 to report your location and conditions. Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire. Wet and place cloth material around or under the door to help prevent smoke from entering. If the room has an outside window, be prepared to signal to someone outside.

The source of above information, by the way, is Tufts University in the United States. It is recognized as “a premier university dedicated to educating new leaders for a changing world.”

Although it took her three months to recover from the burns to her feet and legs, my sister Elena was lucky. Some 120,000 people – many of them children under five – die from fire-related burns each year, according to the World

Experts estimate that once the heart stops, there is a window of four to six minutes to restore circulation before brain cells begin to die.

First aid depends on the severity of the burn. A feature which appeared in Reader’s Digest, shared the following rules that can be applied to mild to moderate burns: Running cool water over a burn may alleviate some of the pain. Mild burns may be treated with burn creams – never use butter. Any burn that encircles a body part (such as a wrist or finger), or any significant burn to the face, should be evaluated by a physician.

Cover burns with sterile bandage to keep them clean and dry. If blisters form, don’t open them.

For third-degree burn, which leave skin charred and turn it white or cream-colored, take the following steps: Call the emergency medical services in the area. Do not move the victim unless he’s still in danger. Don’t try to remove the victim's clothing. Cover the burns by laying a clean sheet or blanket over the burned area. Protect the victim from draughts and keep him dry.

Raised burned areas above the level of the heart if possible. Monitor the victim and proceed with steps for cardiopulmonary resuscita-

tion (CPR) if needed.

CPR is the cornerstone of emergency medicine. There are a lot of reasons why someone’s breathing or heartbeat might stop and burn is one of them. The required action is this: Put oxygen into the victim’s lungs by performing rescue breathing, and circulate it through the body by doing chest compression.

Dehydration develops in people with third-degree burns, because fluid seeps from the blood to the burned tissues. “Shock develops if dehydration is severe,” the Merck manual says. Dehydration is treated with large amounts of fluids given intravenously.

“A person who has gone into shock as a result of dehydration is also given oxygen through a face mask,” the Merck manual points out.

According to the Merck manual, first- and second-degree burns heal in days to weeks without scarring. Deep second-degree and small (less than one inch) third-degree burns take weeks to heal and usually cause scarring.

“Larger third-degree burns require skin grafting,” the Merck manual explains.

“Burns that involve more than 90% of the body surface, or more than 60% in an older person, usually are fatal.” – (Additional photo by Darrell Blatchley)

producers but I don’t see any penalties or smugglers that’s been arrested even before when in fact there are already regulations prohibiting the importations of meat from infected countries,” he said.

So said the enforcement from the government is weak. He said eliminating the coming in of the infected meat will give the country a better chance of addressing the issue of biosecurity.

He added that “smugglers” of frozen meat products including frozen siomai and siopao are taking advantage of high prices of pork meat.

“Right now we are jumping to the farm level pero yung surroundings natin we are still allowing imported meat and even with the rising prices of these meat ang malaking naka-take advantage nito ay yung mga smugglers.

For me the Filipino farmers are the victims of this virus,” he said.

It can be recalled that Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio created the Davao City

African Swine Fever Task Force (ASF TF) by virtue of Executive Order No. 37, Series of 2019 last September 5, 2019 aiming to protect the public and the swine industry of the city from the threats of African Swine Fever that spread in many countries. The composition of the task force are the following: Chairperson –City Mayor or City Administrator (as duly representative); Co-Chairman – City Veterinarian’s Office; and Members – City Planning & Dev’t Office, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Agriculturist Office, City Health Office, City Information Office and Private Sector Representatives of Hog Raisers.

The ASF TF implements B.A.B.E.S. strategy to prevent the incursion of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Davao City. The following activities are being implemented by the ASF TF in line with the meaning of the acronym BABES, which are: B- ban pork import, A- avoid swill feeding, B- block entry, E- educate people.

ceived their salaries since the league postponed its season last March due to the pandemic.

Duremdes issued a memorandum that all the semifinalists must pay their players at least 20 percent of their supposed salaries during the

lockdown, but he said that a few days before the start of the bubble on March 10—when the restrictions were slowly being eased—the Steel players had yet to get their wages, even only a one-month salary just for them to participate.

(PNA) Health Organization.

Burns are classified as minor, moderate, or severe.

“The severity determines how they are predicted to heal and whether complications are likely,” the Merck manual notes. “Doctors determine the severity of the burn by estimating the percentage of the body surface that has been burned. Special charts are used to show what percentage of the body surface various body parts comprise.”

For instance, in an adult, the arm constitutes about 9% of the body. Separate charts are used for children, because their body proportions are different.

“All first-degree burns as well as second-degree burns that involve less than about 14% of the body surface usually are classified as minor, although they may seem severe to the person,” the Merck manual says.

A third-degree burn may be classified as minor if it involves less than 5% of the body surface, “unless it involves the face, hands, feet, or genitals.

Burns involving these areas or involving deeper layers of skin over larger areas of the body are classified as moderate or, more often, as severe.”

In case of fire, what can you do to save a person? The first minutes of an emergency can be critical, to say the least.

WHAT WENT... FROM11

THE QUESTION... FROM11

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

11

76ers hold off Warriors Tobias Harris finished with 25 points and 13 rebounds to help the Philadelphia 76ers hold off the Golden State Warriors.

S

AN FRANCISCO — Tobias Harris hit a go-ahead jumper with 3:44 to play, scored another basket on the next possession and finished with 25 points and 13 rebounds to help the Philadelphia 76ers hold off the Golden State Warriors, 108-98, on Tuesday night (Wednesday, Manila time).

Harris also converted a free throw on Draymond Green's technical foul with 2:47 remaining.

Ben Simmons added 22 points and eight rebounds for the Sixers, who pulled

off their second consecutive road win after a 101100 victory at New York on Sunday. Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia improved to 31-13 with its ninth victory in 10 games.

World Athletics launches ‘World Plan’ campaign

P

ARIS – Athletics' world governing body launched a Global Conversation survey campaign on Monday to help develop a "World Plan" for the sport over the rest of the decade.

According to an official press release, World Athletics is inviting the entire international athletics community to participate in the Global Conversation to contribute insight and feedback.

The survey campaign, which will run for six weeks, is available in 12 different languages for member federations, athletes, coaches, officials, fans, schools, meeting directors, partners, and media.

"Today, we are embarking on an unprecedented Global Conversation with all those who love our sport and want to have a say in its

future," said Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics.

"The global pandemic has highlighted the need and desire of governments and communities to keep fit and healthy. Athletics, as the most accessible and participated sport on the planet, has a key role in helping to achieve this."

"Through this global engagement phase, I want to hear from everyone who cares about athletics and about health and fitness.

Our strength as a sport lies in the diversity of our community and we need to hear the voices of our key stakeholders in all of our 214 countries and territories to develop a plan that fully represents our global aspirations for athletics to grow and thrive over the coming years," Coe said.

FWORLD, P10

Kelly Oubre Jr. had 24 points and 10 rebounds to carry the load for the Warriors, with Stephen Curry sidelined for at least another week because of a bruised tailbone.

Jordan Poole added 19 points for the short-handed Warriors, who roared back with a big third quarter after trailing by 24.

Curry missed his third straight game since falling hard on his backside at Houston last Wednesday and won't play for at least a week, coach Steve Kerr said before the game.

Younger brother Seth Curry of the Sixers also sat out after spraining his left ankle last Wednesday in an overtime loss to the Bucks.

He missed his third straight game.

One member of the family delivered with a big night: Their brother-inlaw, Damion Lee, scored 16 points for Golden State in 24 minutes off the bench.

Rookie center James Wiseman returned from the NBA's health and safety protocol after missing three games and will stay in the starting lineup indef-

initely, Kerr said.

Philadelphia hit 12 of its initial 22 shots to build a 27-9 lead and was up 3517 after one quarter.

A moment of silence was held before tipoff for Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor, who died on Monday at age 86.

CURRY'S STATUS Curry underwent an MRI exam Tuesday and the test revealed inflammation in the tailbone. He will miss at least the next two games for Golden State before being re-evaluated in a week.

Poole started in Curry's

Harden stars, Green steps up as Kyrie-less Nets edge Trail Blazers

P

ORTLAND, Oregon — James Harden had 25 points and 17 assists to lead the Brooklyn Nets to a 116112 victory over the Portland

Trail Blazers on Tuesday night (Wednesday, Manila time).

Jeff Green finished with 20 points, 15 in the first half and a pair of free throws to close it out with 4.8 seconds left.

Nicolas Claxton had 16 points and nine rebounds off the bench for Brooklyn, which played without Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

Enes Kanter had 19 points, 19 rebounds and six assists, while Damian Lillard had 22 points and nine assists for the Trail Blazers. Lillard and has backcourt partner McCollum had a tough night against the Nets, going to a combined 10 for 35 (28%) from the field.

Kanter nearly had a double-double in the first quarter, with 13 points and eight rebounds to help Portland take a 41-37.

Portland led 66-65 at halftime.

Harden's pass to Claxton gave the Nets a 92-91 lead after three quarters. A layup by Blake Griffin, on Harden's 13th assist, gave the Nets a 105-97 lead, forcing another Blazers timeout with 8:08 remaining.

Back-to-back 3-pointers by Robert Covington cut the Brooklyn lead to 105-103. With the Nets leading

place again.

STRONG MESSAGE Kerr sat sternly in front of a black background featuring 18 names — representing each of the people killed in mass shootings over the past week in Atlanta and Boulder, Colorado.

Before Kerr began to talk basketball, he delivered yet another message about gun violence that hits so close.

"If we don't humanize it just continues to be a statistic and it makes it

F76ERS, P10

114-111, the Blazers successfully challenged a call to set up a jump ball at the center circle.

Derrick Jones Jr. won the tip for Portland, which led to a Brooklyn foul against Covington with 7.8 seconds remaining.

Covington missed the first but made the second, making it 114-112, before Green made his finishing free throws.

TIP-INS Blazers: After suffering the worst home loss in franchise history on Sunday, the Blazers believe it was the product of a rare poor shooting night. "We've been a good shooting team all year. I think that was a little bit of an anomaly of Dame and CJ and (Carmelo Anthony) not making a 3. I think the offense will be better and that will help our defense." ... The Blazers had two players removed from the lineup just before tip-off, with Anfernee Simons and Nassir Little both entering the league's health and safety protocols.

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 10 • THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

WHAT WENT WRONG?

MPBL commish Duremdes airs side on Basilan Steel drama

MPBL Defensive Player winner Mark Yee of Davao Occidental.

M

aharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) commissioner Kenneth Duremdes has finally broken his silence about the brewing drama between the league and the Basilan Steel which was handed a forfeiture loss in the South Division Finals rubber In a statement on Tuesday, Duremdes said the MPBL has to be very strict about the Inter Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease’ guidelines set on the league's bubble in Subic considering a crucial clause that a positive coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) test would merit the total cancellation of the bubble.

That is why he was disappointed Basilan has kept on calling him out for not allowing them to play.

"Itong pinag-uusapan natin ngayon, ano ba mas importante (Regarding this topic we are talking right now, which is more important)?

You have to be considering the health risks and factors of each individual," Duremdes said.

He then bared that they were not keen on allowing the Steel to play in the first place after the release of the first RT-PCR test results showing two Basilan players positive for Covid-19.

"Actually, nung may dalawang nag-positive na sa kanila, pinapauwi na dapat sila (when two of them were tested positive, we asked them to return home),” Duremdes continued, adding that he made the plea since the entire delegation arrived in Olongapo through a single bus, making them close contacts.

"Sabi namin, 'Wala kami magagawa kasi Department of Health and Subic Bay Management Authority na nagsabi.' So nag-appeal sila (We told them, 'There is nothing we can do because the Department of Health and the Subic Bay Management Authority already said it.' So they appealed) for re-swabbing. After consulting with our medical team headed by Dr. Aris Cabigao, we agreed. So re-swabbing was seven days," he said.

Duremdes said he told Basilan coach Jerson Cabiltes and team manager Jax Chua the impli-

cations of the retesting and that they agreed to it with Cabigao and MPBL operations head Emmer Oreta as witnesses.

"They cannot deny that. Ako, itataya ko credibility ko diyan at yung lahat ng accomplishment ko sa basketball (I will stake my credibility and all my accomplishments in basketball for this)," the 1998 Philippine Basketball Association Most Valuable Player said.

Duremdes said they could have given the Steel another chance after the second test netted four more suspected Covid-19 cases, but said that he has footages of the players breaking quarantine protocols, which seemed like the last straw.

"We have CCTV video kaya hindi nila puwede sabihin na nag-quarantine sila sa isang room: 'Nag-isolate kami based on sa sinasabi ninyo' (so they cannot claim that they underwent quarantine and isolation in a single room).

We have video. This is during the additional days of their quarantine. Alam ba ng team owner nila [Hegem Furigay] yan (Do their team owner know all about this)?" Duremdes said.

He said Basilan is not being singled out here and that they would do the same if someone from Davao Occidental, San Juan, or Makati would be tested positive for Covid-19 as well.

Financial rift?

Duremdes also addressed the financial issues hounding the Steel.

The team's participation in the MPBL bubble was in peril even before it started due to monetary constraints.

The commissioner hinted that there was some tension within the Basilan side when he said that Chua and Cabiltes told him and some other league officials that they and the players allegedly never reFWHAT WENT, P10