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NOT RUNNING Sara says she isn’t vying for President next year STORY ON PAGE 2
A personnel of Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) unloads empty tanks of medical oxygen near the entrance of the hospital’s emergency section along Dumanlas Road in Davao City on Thursday. Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has affirmed that an allocation for the purchase of oxygen sets and establishment of an oxygen plant in Davao City, which aims to have a steady supply of medical oxygen, is already available. Edge Davao
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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO
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After President Rodrigo Duterte formally accepted his nomination as the official vice presidential candidate of the ruling party, the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio bares that she is not running for a national position as their family agreed only one of them will run for a national position in 2022. Edge Davao
NOT RUNNING Sara says she isn’t vying for President next year
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By MAYA M. PADILLO
s Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio on “laban o bawi” mode? In July this year, Mayor Sara announced that she was open to running as President in next year’s national elections and that she was feeling the pulse of the people on the “Run Sara Run” movement. As a result, social media went frenzy.
On Thursday, traditional and social media were stirred anew after the mayor said that she is not running for a national position.
In a transcript of her interview with Manila-based media, the mayor affirmed she is not running following President Rodrigo Duterte’s
acceptance of the nomination as vice presidential candidate of PDP-Laban. “Yes, I am not running for a national position as we both agreed only one of us will run for a national position in 2022,” the mayor said. Mayor Sara is referring to the agreement in the family that only one of them can run for a national post next year. However, she assured that her relationship with the President is same as it
was before. “The same as it was before. Our politics do not interfere with our familial relationship. Iba ang trabaho, iba ang pamilya. Walang personalan,” she said. With the President firming up his plans for vice president, the mayor said it does not affect any of her plans for 2022. When asked about her opinion on Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go’s
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4 rebs killed in Bukidnon battle
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our suspected members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) were killed while nine others were arrested including a 12-year-old child-soldier in an encounter with government troops in a forested area in Barangay Mabuhay, San Fernando, Bukidnon on Wednesday morning (September 8). Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) civil military operations (CMO) head Maj. Francisco Garello said the 88th Infantry Battalion conducted strike operations in the barangay in response to a report on alleged extortion activities of the rebels. The army troopers encountered around 20 suspected rebels under alias Migz, the alleged front secretary of Guerilla Front Malayag of the Sub Regional Committee 2 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee. The firefight, which started around 8 a.m., lasted for an hour, according to Garello that also resulted in the seizure of 3 AK47 Rifles, 4 M16 Rifles and 1 M203
Grenade Launcher. “Major General Romeo Brawner Jr., the commander of the 4ID conveyed his sincerest condolences to the families of the dead NPA. He said that the tragic demise of the said communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) and the recruitment of a 12 year old minor is a manifestation of the futility of the armed struggle. The series of victories against the CNTs this past week, he said, is a testament of the people’s trust and confidence to our soldiers. “The people are fed up and tired of the never ending violence and treachery perpetrated by the CTG including their wanton disregard of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in recruiting minors to bear arms. I assure you that they will not win against the government, especially with the people on our side, as the people have long wanted to live in peace and collectively pursue development initiatives,” Brawner
pandemic. But do we really mean it? Don’t we think it’s about time that we rise up and seriously do our part to stop the spread? Be proactive,” the BFP-Davao Oriental said in a Facebook post. It also reminded the public to always observe the minimum health standards – wear masks, wash hands frequently, and observe safe physical distanc-
ing.
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Execs mull stricter quarantine BFP DavOr mobilizes fire trucks for GenSan City, traders wary for info drive against Covid-19
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t is better to assume that the dreaded COVID-19 Delta variant is already in the city than it is not, remarked an official of the local chapter of the Philippine Medical Association (PMA). This as officials in the city are reportedly mulling a possible shift back to a stricter status than the current General Community Quarantine (GCQ) in the city, which worries many small
business owners and low income earners whose businesses and employment status suffered in the past. In an online IATF emergency meeting over the weekend, Dr. Butch Peñamante, president of the PMA General Santos chapter, noted a rise in the number of infections in the city despite the current GCQ classification and an intensified vaccination rollout.
Peñamante noted that since two months ago, the positivity rate of the city now stands at 35 percent, higher compared to Metro Manila and other areas in Luzon and the Visayas. Peñamante explained that for every 100 swab samples taken from residents of this city, 35 of them turn out to be COVID-19 positive.
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he Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Davao Oriental has joined efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) by deploying fire trucks equipped with public address system to encourage residents to do their part in battling the pandemic. “Folks, each of us wishes to put an end to this
“All these will eventually slow down and stop if we sincerely work to combat the dreaded virus. Magtinabangay kita, kaya nato kini (Let us help each other, we can do it),” it added. Meanwhile, Governor Nelson Dayanghirang issued Executive Order (EO) No. 20 placing the province
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NEWS
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President Rodrigo Duterte, chairman of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan (PDP Laban), administers the oath taking ceremony to reaffirm the membership of the PDP Laban members during the PDP Laban National Convention and Proclamation of Candidates for the 2022 National and Local Elections at the Lausgroup Complex in San Fernando City, Pampanga on Wednesday afternoon. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
PRRD formally accepts VP bid for ‘continuity’
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resident Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday formally accepted his nomination as the official vice presidential candidate of the ruling party, the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), to ensure the “continuity” of his efforts to bring progress to the country. During the PDP-Laban’s national convention and proclamation of its candidates for the 2022 national and local elections, Duterte thanked his party mates for their “continued trust and confidence” in his leadership and for picking him as the party’s vice presidential candidate. “No words can express my gratitude for your continued trust and confidence in my leadership and for
nominating me as the party’s official vice presidential candidate in the 2022 elections,” Duterte said in his keynote speech delivered in San Fernando, Pampanga. Duterte also wiped his tears, as he expressed his intent to continue serving the country after his presidency ends in June next year. He said he would be gunning for vice presidency to make sure that his administration’s efforts to eradicate illegal drugs, terrorism, and corruption in government would continue to bear fruit beyond his six-year term. “Alam mo kung bakit ako tatakbo ng vice presidency (Do you know why I will seek the vice presidency)? Is it ambition? Maybe. But is it really a sense of love
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DA grants halal goat project To Muslim farmers in Davao
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he Department of Agriculture 11 has awarded P1-million to the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) 11 beneficiaries for the establishment of multiplier farm for halal goat production in two towns in Davao Region. The project aims to enhance the growth of Halal industries and assist farmers in complying with - Halal standards. Some 50 Muslim farm-
er-beneficiaries from Hagonoy town in Davao del Sur and Pantukan, Davao de Oro will benefit from the project that includes support for the construction of Goat House and development of Pasture Area, provision of Goat Stocks, and the technical skills training on Livestock and Pasture care and maintenance. DA 11 Regional Executive Director Ricardo M. Oñate, Jr. said that a tech-
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DDH experiences surge of critical, severe cases By MAYA M. PADILLO
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eryone, it has to prioritize patients who need the most care and medical attention while balancing it with its available resources and personnel. The DDH Molecular Laboratory processed 62 reverse transcript polymerase chain reaction (RT-
PCR) test samples, 16 of them found positive. Meanwhile, the city government of Davao has recently approved the request of the Davao Doctor’s Hospital (DDH) to pursue the Home Care Program for Covid-19 patients following the surge of new cases in the past days due to the Delta variant of Covid-19. DDH posted on its Facebook page that Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio approved the request on September 7, 2021. In her letter address to Ronald Tangente, medical
doctor of DDH, emphasized that there is a need to further implement response strategies to address the increasing number of patients that currently overwhelmed the hospitals. The mayor is also stated in the letter that the city and DDH will continue to work together and count on their support on the Covid-19 efforts in Davao City. DDH will post details and mechanics of the DDH Home Care Program will be posted soon on its official social media channels.
said he will be an avid fan of the mayor forever. “Layo pa kaayo ang election. Anything can happen. I always believe in God’s will!!! What is important is that she has the desire to serve the people and everything will follow. We believe in her leadership and I will always believe in her and I will always be her avid fan
no matter what now and forever,” Bautista said. Mayor Sara announced on Thursday that she is not running for a national position following President Rodrigo Duterte’s acceptance of the nomination as vice presidential candidate of PDP-Laban. IPM 2022 is a group of supporters convinc-
ing Mayor Sara to run for President this coming 2022 elections and to continue the projects started by her father President Rodrigo Duterte. IPM was launched by Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) in July this year and started campaigning outside Davao City. By Maya M. Padillo
he Davao Doctor’s Hospital (DDH) announced on its Facebook Page on Thursday that it is currently experiencing a surge of severe and critical Covid-19 cases that require a higher level of care. Based on the latest data available from the Hospital Information System as of 7 a.m. of September 9, 2021, the ICU bed occupancy rate for Covid-19 cases was at 100 percent. The hospital is appealing that as much as it would like to accommodate ev-
Sara has the desire to serve the people: Governor Bautista
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avao Occidental Gov. Claude Bautista expressed his strong belief in the leadership of Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. This after the mayor announced that she will no longer run for President in the 2022 national elections. Bautista, who is the chairman of Ituloy ang Pagbabago Movement 2022 (IPM 2022),
4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO
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Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua says the Duterte administration accomplished several reforms that took decades to be enacted that helped the country attain its lowest poverty rate in 2018 and will pave the way for the achievement of its 2040 vision. Presidential Photo
Castriciones appeals to minority ARBs to resolve issue with MEPI I n a radio interview with Davao-based RGMA 1125kHz Saksi program, the Agrarian Reform chief said: “The important thing is that [the ARBs] continue to receive their benefits from a business organization which entered into an agreement with them originally.” Castriciones was referring to the decision made by the Presidential Agrarian Reform Council (PARC) on September 1, 2021, to uphold and continue the leaseback agreement between MEPI and the majority ARBs under the Davao Marsman Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose cooperative (DAMARB MPC). This decision effectively negated PARC Resolution
No. 2016-30-05 issued in 2016 which revoked the Contract of Lease between MEPI and DAMARB MPC. Castriciones explained that during the PARC meeting “[the council members] had a discussion and we talked about how to resolve this motion. The first group, DAMARB MPC—which is composed more or less of 700 farmers, and they are the majority—wants to set
aside the first resolution which revoked the AVA with MEPI. However, this other group opposed it and they are composed of only a few ARBs.” He added that “If this minority will separate, the lands that they have are located in different areas, i.e., some in the middle, some on the sides, which are separate. So, what happens is that if the land is given to them, there won’t be any value or meaning to the business and will affect the majority of the ARBs.” MEPI is one of the country’s top exporters of Cavendish banana. The Agrarian Reform secretary pointed out that during the PARC meeting,
“the majority though voted that the first resolution should be set aside because it will affect the majority of the ARBs. Furthermore, the ARBs and MEPI already have a new agreement which basically says they will continue with their agribusiness venture agreement (AVA). The decision is not only favorable to MEPI but also to DAMARB MPC [members]. The two [parties] want to continue with their AVA agreement”. Castriciones emphasized that: “since we are in a democracy, the will of the majority will be followed and what the minority insists cannot be done be-
ning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua highlighted five of NEDA’s top contributions since 2016 to help provide a better life for all Filipinos. These are strong economic management, the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) or national ID program, the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), the infrastructure program, and the Ease of Doing Business Law. The NEDA chief said that in the first four years of the administration, the Philip-
pines recorded a strong economic growth performance averaging 6.6 percent from 2016 to 2019, the lowest unemployment (5.3 percent), and underemployment (14.8 percent) rates in January 2020. In addition, Chua said that in 2018, the Philippines recorded the lowest poverty rate (16.7 percent) in the country’s history. “Ang ating pangako na maiangat ang anim na milyong Pilipino mula sa ka-
hirapan ay nakamit po natin noong 2018, four years ahead of our schedule. Kasi ang una pong naisip po natin ay maaabot yan sa 2022. Pero dahil po sa mga reporma natin, four years ahead of schedule po tayo. (Our promise of lifting 6 million Filipinos out of poverty was achieved in 2018, four years ahead of schedule. We initially targeted to achieve this by 2022, but due to our country’s commitment to push for the needed reforms,
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Structural inflows to buoy peso against Fed rate normalization
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he peso is expected to be negatively affected by the looming rate adjustment in the US but the country’s robust foreign exchange reserves, among others, are expected to support the local currency. In his presentation during the budget hearing for the proposed 2022 national budget at the Senate on Wednesday, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said economic managers have set a PHP48 to PHP53 range for the peso against a US dol-
lar for this year. “While we expect some depreciation pressures on the peso from the eventual US Federal (Reserve) rate adjustment, structural foreign exchange flows and hefty gross international reserves could provide support on the peso,” he said. The peso closed Tuesday at 50.025 against a greenback. The country’s gross international reserves (GIR) stood at USD107.15 billion as of end-July 2021.
we achieved this four years ahead of schedule),” Chua said. Among these reforms are the national ID program and the RTL. The national ID program was first attempted in 1973 and was finally enacted 45 years later in August 2018. It provides all Filipinos with a unique proof of identity to facilitate financial inclusion and the more efficient provision of key services. As of Sept. 3, 2021, 41.9
million Filipinos have registered for step 1 or the demographic data collection. Of this, 28.6 million have registered for step 2 or the biometrics capture and 5.2 million individuals have applied for a bank account, while 1.5 million Filipinos have already received their identification cards or PhilID. The national ID may also be used in the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine rollout and distribution of emergency subsidies.
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PRRD enacts reforms to provide better life for Pinoys
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he Duterte administration accomplished several reforms that took decades to be enacted that helped the country attain its lowest poverty rate in 2018 and will pave the way for the achievement of its 2040 vision, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said. In his presentation during the Talk to the People of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that aired Wednesday, Socioeconomic Plan-
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A young girl sells face masks and face shield at the sidewalk along San Pedro Street in Davao City on Thursday. Children below 18 years old would have to stay at home due to the threat of the highly contagious Delta variant, according to Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), but some parents even the authorities are ignoring the order. Edge Davao
Fort Pilar Energy to expand Digos Solar Power Plant capacity to 40MW Cebu Pacific announces 1-week sale of Super Pass
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udget carrier Cebu Pacific on Thursday announced the one-week sale of its Super Pass, which allows passengers to book local flights at one-way base fares of P99 without a fixed date and destination. In an advisory, Cebu Pacific said the sale of the Super Pass started 10 a.m. Thursday, September 9, and will last until next Thursday, September 16. The vouchers can be redeemed from September 9, 2021 to September 23,
2022, with a travel period of September 16, 2021 to September 30, 2022. The Super Pass will serve as a travel voucher that passengers can use to book 30 days before the flight’s departure until seven days before the intended flight, depending on seat availability. Guests can avail of 10 vouchers per transaction, but there is no limit on the number of total vouchers passengers can avail until
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Liboganon fisherfolk group receives bangus fingerlings, cash donation
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nchored on achieving a food-secured city, the local government unit of Tagum through the City Agriculture Office (CAGRO) in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) conducted a turn-over activity to the fisherfolk association in Liboganon last September 7. Held at the Community Fish Landing Center in the said barangay, 25,000 bangus fingerlings were turned over to Liboganon Fisher-
folks Association (LIFA) clusters 1 and 3. It can be recalled that the same activity was conducted since January where 60,000 bilang-bilang and 50,000 tilapia were distributed to the association. Ronald Eliot, chairman of the Committee on Food and Agriculture, expressed his gratitude to the implementing office for this ingenuity since it will greatly help in achieving food security in the city while helping
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ort Pilar Energy Inc. on Wednesday said it will spend P500 million to expand the capacity of Digos Solar Power Plant in Davao del Sur to 40 megawatts from the current 28.59 megawatts.
Fort Pilar said the expansion plan includes upgrading the electrical systems and acquiring more powerful PV cells, as well as increasing its footprint in the Digos area. The announcement comes as Fort Pilar acquired Digos Solar Power
Plant owner and operator Alterpower Digos Solar Inc. from the joint venture of Hanwa Global Asset Corp. and Alterpower Specialist Inc. for P1.5 billion. “Our investment in a solar power plant in Mindanao reflects our firm
belief that the growth of the Philippines lies in the development of our rural areas,” chairperson Sheila Romero said in an emailed statement. “While we remain committed to our legacy businesses in infrastructure and transportation, we believe that our company’s shift to the energy industry is a logical transition given our track record in building successful enterprises in challenging industries,”
she added. At present, the Digos Solar Power Plant produces an estimated irradiation of 1,872.4 kilowatt-hours per square meter, equivalent to 43 million kilowatt-hours annually, using 92,232 polycrystalline PV modules. Fort Pilar is also in the process of putting up a battery energy storage system in Zamboanga City set to be commissioned in February 2022.
ba na maaasahan ang palay farmers dito sa 2022 budget?” Brosas said. [Can rice farmers expect cash assistance under the DA’s 2022 budget?] In response, Dar said: “Wala po. Ang ayuda po, in a form of ayuda... are the free inputs that we give... production support.” [None. Our assistance is also in the form of free inputs, of production support.] The DA has proposed a P91-billion budget for next year. Dar instead said that
rice farmers have obtained cash and food assistance, worth P4.16 billion, from the Bayanihan 2. Aid from the excess tariffs were also given to them, he added. Bayan Muna party-list Representative Ferdinand Gaite also expressed dismay about the non-allocation of assistance for rice farmers in the DA’s budget for next year. “Nakakadismaya na ang tugon po ng Department of Agriculture ay walang ayuda na inaasahan ang ating mga magsasaka sa harap ng ragasa ng pandemya, ‘yung
tama ng African Swine Flu na hanggang ngayon ay di pa talaga nalulunasan, ‘yung epekto ng importation sa livestock industries, Gaite said. [I am dismayed with the response of the Department of Agriculture that the farmers could not expect assistance amid the effects of the pandemic, the African Swine Flu, and the importation of livestock industries.] Dar, however, clarified that the agency is also providing “in kind” assistance to
Agri dep’t grilled over assistance to rice farmers in 2022 budget
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wo progressive lawmakers on Wednesday grilled the Department of Agriculture for the supposed absence of funds for cash assistance to rice farmers in its proposed 2022 budget. During the budget deliberations at the House, Gabriela party-list Representative Arlene Brosas pressed DA Secretary William Dar if a portion of its proposed budget for next year is allotted for the cash assistance that will be given to rice farmers. “May cash assistance po
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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO
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On Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio’s acceptance of Home Care Program for COVID-19 patients from the Davao Doctor’s Hospital:
We hope that through our collective efforts, we can count on your support of COVID-19 response measures in Davao City.” Sara Duterte-Carpio Davao City Mayor
EDITORIAL Another service novelty Despite strong headwinds encountered by the country’s ship of state in its journey amid the pandemic, Dabawenyos can still come up with novel ideas of public service.
The mayor also pointed out the need for more strategies to curb the spread of the virus “as hospitals are currently overrun by the increasing number of patients everyday.”
The program as bared by Dr. Ronald Tangente of DDH has to do with providing primary health care to COVID-19 patients in their homes as existing health facilities in the city have been overwhelmed by the persistently rising number of cases daily.
The missive exchange between Mayor Inday and the DDH is healthy as the pandemic continues to rage with the city having 327 new cases on Tuesday, bringing the total number of active cases to 7,018 since the pandemic started early last year.
One such creative idea comes from the private sector, no less than the Davao Doctors Hospital (DDH), Davao City’s biggest and most modern private hospital.
Mayor Sara has approved the idea even before its details were revealed saying “we hope that through our collective efforts, we can count on your support of COVID-19 response measures in Davao City.”
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DDH ought to be lauded for being aggressive with new strategies to combat COVID-19 matched only by the openness of Mayor Sara to embrace such novel ideas. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief
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
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LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. Consultant Correspondent 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
In a statement, the DDH said “Details and mechanics of the DDH Home Care Program will be posted soon on our official social media channels.”
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VANTAGE POINTS
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HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!
FINDING YOUR LIFE’S PURPOSE It doesn’t matter whether you are rich or poor, handsome/beautiful or ugly, fat or thin, intelligent or dull, famous or ordinary, married or single. We are here in this world for a purpose. “The purpose of life is not to be happy,” wrote American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. “It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” Unless you know your true purpose in this world, you will never find the true meaning of your life. It’s as if there is always something lacking. There is always that question which needs an answer. “I shall pass through this world but once,” Stephen Grellet, a prominent French-born American missionary, once said. “Any good that I can do, or any kindness that I can show any human being, let me do it now and not defer it for I shall not pass this way again.” Does the name George Washington Carver ring a bell to you? He was a man who lived with purpose, goodness, and balance. Born as a slave into a family of slaves, he struggled against tremendous odds to finally achieve a formal education.
After years of abuse, Carver did finish his master’s degree and was invited to accept a position with Iowa University . It was a coveted position and no other black had ever been appointed to such a prestigious faculty in that university. Other members of the faculty learned to love him and students eagerly sought to be in his classes. Life was wonderful for him for the first time in his life. Then, a letter arrived from Booker T. Washington asking George to join together with him in a dream to educate the blacks of the South. After some soul-searching, he resigned for his job to give himself to the dream of Booker. Leaving the comforts of his prestigious position, he traveled to the parched cotton fields of the South to live and work and educate his starving people. People were not only starved for food but for learning and the opportunity to do better. Years of sacrifice and many insults followed but surely and slowly he started to make his mark. Whenever he was questioned about his brilliance as a scientist, George always said that the good Lord gave him everything. An unheard of characteristic was that he refused to accept money for any of his discoveries and would freely give
those secrets to anyone who asked for them or their use! Three American presidents would claim him as their friend and confidant. Industries would vie for his services. At one time, Thomas Alva Edison offered him a beautiful laboratory to be built to his specifications along with an unheard of salary in his day, US$100,000 per year, if he would bring his services to the Edison laboratories. When George turned down the very lucrative and enticing offer, some of his critics commented and questioned his motives. He was challenged: “If you had all this money, you could help your people more.” George’s reply was: “If I had all that money, I might forget my people.” Charles Fillmore pointed this out: “The value of all service lies in the spirit in which you serve and not in the importance or magnitude of the service. Even the lowliest task or deed is made holy, joyous, and prosperous when it is filled with love.” Years ago, while unearthing an ancient Egyptian tomb, an archaeologist came upon seeds buried in a piece of wood. Planted, the seeds realized their potential after more than 3,000 years!
“I visualized where I wanted to be, what kind of player I wanted to become,” American basketball superstar Michael Jordan disclosed. “I knew exactly where I wanted to go, and I focused on getting there.” We are who we are because that is what we want ourselves to be. Some of us would like to become stars but not everyone could reach the “impossible star.” If you cannot be a star, then be a tree that bears fruits. And if it can’t still be a tree, then be a grass. But just don’t be content with being a grass; instead, be the best grass of all grasses. Don’t be mediocre – even in the work you have chosen. Never settled for less. Martin Luther King Jr. reminds, “We are challenged on every hand to work untiringly to achieve excellence in our lifework. Not all men are called to specialized or professional jobs; even fewer rise to the heights of genius in arts and sciences; many are called to be laborers in factories. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence. If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep even as Michelangelo painted, Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should
sweep streets so well that all the host of heaven and earth will pause to say, ‘Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.’” Our purpose in this life differs from each other. But we are the ones who shape our destiny. “The human race may be compared to a writer,” Felix Adler once wrote. “At the outset a writer has often only a vague general notion of the plan of his work, and of the thought he intends to elaborate. As he proceeds, penetrating his material, laboring to express himself fitly, he lays a firmer grasp on his thought; he finds himself. So the human race is writing its story, finding itself, discovering its own underlying purpose, revising, recasting a tale pathetic often, yet none the less sublime.” We only have one life to live in this world. We are here to uplift our fellow beings. We have to follow the golden rule: Do to others what you would like others to do to you. You reap what you sow. As Rick Warren, the author of The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For?, summed it: “Without God, life has no purpose, and without purpose, life has no meaning. Without meaning, life has no significance or hope.”
ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD
DEMYTHOLOGIZING DATU BAGO (2) A yet to be resolved issue in Datu Bago’s historicity is the year the Spanish trading ship San Rufo was attacked and burned by the Moros of Davao under Datu Ongay. Historians place the date of the unfortunate incident anywhere between 1839 and 1844. In our case, we first postulated the 1844 date over a decade ago based on Jesuit accounts. In a letter dated Jan. 2, 1865, written by Fr. Quirico More, SJ to the Mission Superior, the date of the burning of the ship could have taken place in 1844 despite inconsistency in the missive. First, Fr. More said he got the report from ‘one of the servants who had been caught but escaped.’ He adds the guy ‘returned much later with [Don Jose] Oyanguren and was on various occasions [acted as] my
helmsman. He finally died in the shipwreck of Fr. [Marcelino] Vivero.’ (A sore thumb in this claim is that the shipwreck took place at Punsan Point off Caraga on Nov. 11, 1876. How could have Fr. More predicted the death of the witness eleven years hence?) Second, Fr. More wrote that the coastal vessel ‘chartered by one of the merchant houses in Manila had arrived shortly before the conquest effected by Jose Oyanguren in 1847.’ The premise that 1844 could be the date of the attack is premised on several events. In 1836, the sultanate of Maguindanao forged an agreement with Spain, ceding Davao Gulf to the colonists. This development suggests two things: (i) prior to the pact, Datu Bago and the territories within gulf were
submissive to the Maguindanao polity and (ii) the signing of the cession translated to loss of protection on the part of former tributaries. The following year, Don Jose Oyanguren was appointed judge of Tondo, serving the post until 1945 when he was retrenched as part of reorganization. The loss of job could have encouraged him to revive his mercantile contacts when he was trading in Caraga before he joined the judiciary. Most likely in 1846, while on a visit to Davao Oriental, he was told by Maria Luisa Azaola, his future wife, of the death of her brother Antonio in the San Rufo attack. In an act of chivalry, he volunteered to seek help from Manila authorities to avenge the killing and, on a personal note, to earn the respect from his ladylove. If the Davao incident trans-
pired in 1839 according to several published sources, the idea of taking revenge could have not entered Oyanguren’s mind given that he was busy with his judicial function; he could not have made a visit to Caraga also for the same reason. It was only in 1847 that he was granted the approval to launch the conquest of Datu Bago as fulfillment of the promise he made to Azaola. The San Rufo episode, on the other hand, has numerous holes that need answers. Was the ship attack performed with the knowledge of Datu Bago? Who was Datu Ongay? Why was he given the job to do the task that would trigger Spanish anger that led to the conquest of Davao? Historically, Davao was classified only as a mere sitio, or a hamlet in the 1804 report
addressed to the governor general. The communication, written by Caraga governor Salvador Ximenez Rendon, identified the chief of the gulf at the time as Datu Damuli. Interestingly, in the letter addressed to Rendon that same year, Datu Damuli was one of the signatories. His name, however, appears first, making him the principal signatory, followed by Datu Mama of Davao. This may suggest that Datu Damuli could have been the chief of the gulf and Datu Bago was his prime minister or next in command. Given this hypothesis, it seems like Datu Bago (which means ‘recent’ in Maguindanaoan dialect), was not really the principal ruler, but one of the privileged leaders who has earned the respect and trust of the highest Moro leader in the gulf.
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LIFESTYLE
DREAM DESKS FROM OUR HOME
AFTER more than a year of working from home, it’s time to indulge yourself by creating a working space that’s both decorative and functional. And most likely, the desk will be the centerpiece of one’s home office in terms of design and activity.
The good news is that whether you’re working from home, having an online class, starting a new business or hobby, or simply browsing the net, Our Home has stylish selections that combine comfort, functionality and designs that you’ll love. And it offers some tips when choosing your dream desk. • Choose a desk that’s right for your needs and that suits your space and style. Consider your workflow and activities to make sure that you can use your desk comfortably and productively. Also, consider your overall house design in choosing your desk. If your place is more traditional, the classic Hambu Writing Desk would be a perfect fit; while the white Havana Computer Desk will compliment contemporary spaces. • Size (and Shape) Does Matter. Making the mistake of buying a desk that’s either too big for your space or too small for the way you work will not be good for your productivity and comfort. You’ll also discover that apart from size, your desk shape does matter in helping you getting organized. Rectangular desks, like Our Home’s Gavin’s Office Desk, are the most popular choice, and these
are available in a variety of width and depth sizes. Corner desks for awkward spaces, and wave desks that provide you with the benefits of a rectangular desk while also giving you a larger desk top, are also great alternatives. • Consider Storage. Without any storage, your home desk can become cluttered and disorganized. Opting for a chest with drawers is an ideal way to keep your workspace organized and to make sure that all your essentials are at your fingertips. Better still, opt for a desk and storage combination. • Sitting Well. Sitting comfortably at your desk is necessary for making sure that you can be as productive as possible as you work. It will also ensure your back is continuously supported. Our Home has ergonomic chairs for a healthy WHF, as well as desk lamps to make sure your area is properly lighted. Visit Our Home stores at SM
Clockwide from top left: Create a streamlined workspace with this sleek and polished Gavin Office Desk. Double deck Scandinavian designed Janine II Desk perfect for small spaces and for your kid’s online classes. Our Home’s Farkins Office / Study Desk has one side for writing and paper work, and another side for storage and décor. Glass, wood, and metal blend in beautifully in this this modern contemporary designed white Havana Computer Desk. Classic Hambu Writing Desk in elegant dark wood finish has both open and pull-out drawers for a more organized work space.
City Davao and SM Lanang Premier for more Desk and Home Office ideas. Customers
who prefer to shop online can expect the same great shopping experience through www.
ourhome.ph. In addition, Our Home has introduced Contactless Shopping Options for customers who prefer to stay in their homes. Customers can Call & Deliver – call 0917 8315260, pay online, and have their items delivered. They can Shop Live where a personal shopper takes them on a virtual tour of the store via video call. Curbside Pickup is also available.
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HERBAL CAPSULE AS POSSIBLE CURE VS DENGUE UNDER TRIAL By HENRYLITO D. TACIO
I
courtesy of DOST
f there’s a disease these days that needs no introduction, it’s coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In the past, it was dengue fever and its lethal form, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Although there is now a vaccine available in the market against dengue, most Filipinos are afraid to use it. The reason: it was linked to the deaths of children. In fact, it is for this reason why most Filipinos are afraid of being vaccinated with anti-COVID vaccine. Dengue vaccine is a vaccine used to prevent dengue fever in humans. Development of dengue vaccines began in the 1920s, but was hindered by the need to create immunity against all four dengue serotypes. In 2021, one version – sold under the brand name Dengvaxia – became commercially available. But look no further. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through its Tuklas Lunas program, has developed a herbal capsule that may treat dengue. The clinical trial is expected to end soon. The clinical trial, which costs nearly P12 million, is being implemented by Pharmalytics Corporation. The funding comes from DOST through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD). The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study – which is being conducted in Cavite – aims to determine the effi-
cacy and safety of an herbal capsule when taken orally by adults with dengue fever showing no warning signs. Each fixed-dose capsule combines the ability of tawa-tawa (scientific name: Euphorbia hirta) and banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa) to increase platelet count with the immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties of luya (Zingiber officinale). Tawa-tawa was once used by students of the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Pharmacy. They wanted to find out the effects of tawa-tawa decoction to a dengue patient showing a symptom of thrombocytopenia (low platelet count due to excessive bleeding). Results of the study showed that platelet count increased by 47%, depending on the drug used to induce thrombocytopenia. Bleeding time was reduced up to 62% while blood clotting time decreased to 58% compared to the control group. Banaba, also known as giant crape myrtle, is used to treat diabetes and kidney failure, as well as obesity and high fever. Luya, more popularly known as ginger, is high in gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
“Once proven safe and effective, the herbal capsule will be the first definitive treatment for dengue,” the press statement said. “It could pave the way for use in cases showing warning signs and even in severe types.” On the economic side, farmers can benefit from cultivating any of the three medicinal plants, the increased demand for which may come from local pharmaceutical companies that could manufacture the treatment for domestic and even overseas markets. Dengue causes a wide spectrum of disease. “This can range from subclinical disease (people may not know they are even infected) to severe flu-like symptoms in those infected,” explains the Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO). “Although less common, some people develop severe dengue, which can be any number of complications associated with severe bleeding, organ impairment and/or plasma leakage.” There are four distinct, but closely related, serotypes of the virus that cause dengue (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3 and DENV-4). “Recovery from infection is believed to provide lifelong immunity against that serotype,” the WHO says. “However, cross-immunity to the other serotypes after recovery is only partial, and temporary. Subsequent infections (secondary infection) by other serotypes increase
the risk of developing severe dengue. Like death and taxes, dengue exempts no one: fat or thin, ugly or beautiful, rich or poor, educated and illiterate. Children, who are exposed in open areas while playing, are more prone to dengue. “Children are much more likely to get DHF than adults,” explains Dr. Allan Schapira, who used to be person in-charge of infectious diseases at the WHO regional office in Manila. “This is the reason why children are much more at risk of dying.” Adults, however, are not spared. Franklin Penas (not his real name) was a lawyer based in Manila but at one time he went to Baguio for a vacation and it was there that he contracted dengue. A few days after being bitten, he suffered high fever, severe headache, and pain behind the eyes. There was also an outbreak of rashes in some parts of his body. From Baguio, Franklin was brought to Manila. But it was already too late. He suffered hemorrhage in the liver and died three weeks after being confined in one of the well-known hospitals in Makati City. Even doctors die from dengue, too! There was a case of a lady physician whose daughter suffered from dengue. Unknowingly, a mosquito which bit her daughter had bitten the doctor. A few days after the daughter died, as a result
of dengue, the doctor also showed manifestations of having dengue. She also died of the same disease. Dengue fever is characterized by high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, and muscle and joint aches. Many people, including doctors, mistake dengue for influenza and flu-like diseases, so it often goes untreated until symptoms become severe and the patient goes into shock. It happens when DHF strikes in. “There’s often a rash in dengue while there’s none in flu,” explained Dr. Allan Schapira, an epidemiologist who was then with the regional office of the World Health Organization (WHO) when interviewed by this author. “Fever caused by dengue tends to last almost a week, while that of flu disappears after three to five days.” After a dengue patient goes into shock, it’s usually a matter of time before multi-organ failure occurs and death becomes inevitable. This terrifying scenario is characterized by high continuous fever (40-41 degrees) lasting up to seven days that may be accompanied by loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and bleeding from the skin, nose or gums. In the worst cases, the patients’ condition may suddenly deteriorate after a few days of fever, and they may die within 24 hours. “Death often results from bleeding in the brain, intestines or
other organs,” said Dr. Lulu Bravo, a professor of pediatric infectious and tropical diseases at the College of Medicine, University of the Philippines. While waiting for the anti-dengue capsule to be available commercially, the best protection against dengue is still not to be bitten by the mosquito carrying the virus. According to Dr. Willie T. Ong, there are several things you can do about that. “There’s no need to panic (when it comes to dengue) because we have 10 ways to beat dengue,” says the 2007 recipient of the Outstanding Filipino Physician award from the Department of Health. 1. Clean up your backyard. Mosquitoes love to stay in the dark and damp areas. So if your garage is littered with boxes and assorted garbage, clean them up or throw them away. Don’t let them become mosquito havens. Schedule a weekend clean-up day. 2. Empty containers with stagnant water. The dengue-carrying mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. This means that flower pots, garbage cans, aquariums, unused swimming pools, tires and other piles are potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. So after the rains fill them with water, throw the water away. Next time, keep these containers closed and upside down. Flower vases should also be
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positioning when it comes to his nomination by the party, the mayor said from the last time she and President Duterte talked, this was PDP-Laban’s Plan A. “The Plan B was for SBG (Senator Bong Go) to run as VP,” she said. Mayor Sara refused to comment on their senate slate. When asked also if Hugpong Ng Pagbabago (HNP), her regional party, will help PDP-Laban in next year’s elections similar to the support her party showed in 2019, Mayor Sara said “No. I will not share my light this time.” The mayor also gave her message to her supporters. “Yes, I am happy we are united in our desire to see a better Philippines in the future. I will be eternally thankful for your trust and confidence,” she said. Meanwhile, President Duterte expressed his gratitude for PDP-Laban’s continued trust and confidence in his leadership and for nominating him as the party’s official VP candidate. “No words can express
my gratitude for your continued trust and confidence in my leadership and for nominating me as the Party’s official Vice-Presidential candidate in the 2022 [National] Elections. I am hopeful that this will allow me to continue serving the Filipino people and help lead the entire nation towards greater progress. Alam mo kung bakit ako tatakbo ng vice presidency? Is it ambition? Maybe. But is it really a sense of love of country? Yes. Is it really… Because I want to see the continuity of my efforts even though I may not be the one giving the direction. Baka makatulong lang ako. Alam mo, alam ninyo na --- alam man natin na ang problema droga pa rin, terorismo, nandiyan ‘yung NPA. Well, of course, it’s quite in Sulu now. Iyang NPA, hindi pa rin hanggang ngayon it is really the one factor that’s pulling us down,” President Duterte said during the National Convention of the National Convention of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) on September 8, 2021.
said. Brawner lauded the courage and bravery of the troops of the 88IB and cited the men and women as a beacon of gallantry and selfless commitment in protecting the people and
fighting for peace. “Surely this victory is another setback that will encourage perhaps most CTG members to return to the peaceful path and abandon the armed struggle,” Brawner said.
City Mayor Ronnel Rivera appears in agreement with Peñamante, saying the city’s COVID-19 situation is at a “critical level,” with the continued rise in average daily attack rate and positivity rate. He said despite the GCQ status of the city since June “padayong taas ang ihap sa mga residenteng na-igo sa coronavirus.” On September 7, local authorities reported 1,033 active cases of COVID-19 in the city after logging in more than 100 new cases for the third time in five days. Peñamante said this shows that there is failure on the part of the public and the local government in the strict implementation of minimum health standards as a way to avoid infections. “Nagpapakita lamang ito na kulang ang effort ng mamamayan, kulang ang effort ng LGU, kulang ang effort nating lahat,” Peñamante said. During the IATF meeting, it was presented that
the current COVID-19 occupancy rate is at 90.7 percent and occupied intensive care unit (ICU) beds are 85.71 percent in the six major hospitals in the city. Four of these hospitals declared 100 percent in full capacity. Dr. Ryan Aplicador, head of the city government-run Dr. Jorge P. Royeca Hospital, said their COVID-19 facility is already filled to capacity. GenSan Chamber president Elmer Catulpos, who attended the IATF meeting, said it is always good for our city officials to be proactive with the current situation, but they must always strike a good balance in implementing health and safety measures without disrupting businesses and employment. “Our city already does not have enough resources, mangutang na man gani. How can they support now residents who will lose their livelihood and employment and nowhere else to run to in the event of strict quarantine status?” he said
under general community quarantine (GCQ) with additional restrictions from Sept. 8 to 20. Under the EO, only people aged 18 to 65 years old are allowed to go out of their residences for essential purposes. The provincial government also imposed a 24hour liquor ban and curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. All celebratory/ social events shall be sanctioned by all respective local government unit’s (LGU) Incident Management Team (IMT).
Religious gatherings are limited to at least 10 percent capacity but LGUs may increase it to up to 30 percent capacity while wakes are limited to a maximum of three days. Cockfighting, including E-sabong, and other forms of gambling are prohibited and outdoor contact sports are not allowed. “Mass/public transport is allowed and LGUs may still implement ECQ or hard lockdown in critical areas,” the EO further read. (PNA)
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of country? Yes. Is it really because I want to see the continuity of my efforts even though I may not be the one giving the direction. Baka makatulong lang ako (I hope I can help),” Duterte said. Duterte expressed hope that Filipino voters would let him serve them again by electing him next year as the country’s second top official. “I am hopeful that this will allow me to continue serving the Filipino people and lead the entire nation towards greater progress,” he said. Achieve ‘genuine, lasting’ prosperity The PDP-Laban formally endorsed Duterte as its vice presidential candidate during its national assembly in Pampanga. Apart from Duterte, the PDP-Laban also announced that its official presidential candidate is Senator Christopher Lawrence Go. The party also proclaimed Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade, and Leyte Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez as its official senatorial candidates. Its guest senatorial candidates include Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, Public Works Secretary Mark Villar, Presidential An-
ti-Corruption Commission chairperson Greco Belgica, and House Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta. Duterte called on the newly-proclaimed candidates of the PDP-Laban for next year’s elections to seek “genuine and lasting prosperity” for the country. “Let me congratulate the party’s official candidates for the 2022 national and local elections. I trust that you will duly prepare for your future responsibilities as elected public officials. Regardless of the election results and even beyond the election period, I expect you to uphold the party’s principles and aspirations,” he said. Duterte also encouraged them to stay united and focus on improving the quality of life of every Filipino, especially amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. He likewise told them to disregard the political noise and just focus on serving the public. “Let us not be hindered by those who only seek personal political gain and instead realign ourselves with the party’s objectives,” Duterte said. “I am confident that with a strong resolve and solidarity we’ll once again claim victory in the upcoming elections.” (PNA)
nical team will monitor the development of the project and the community as a whole to ensure the successful implementation of the project. “We are expecting more livestock heads from these multiplier farms to be distributed and benefit neighboring Muslim communities. These farms will also serve as a venue to showcase various technologies and practices in line with the Halal standards,” Oñate said. The agency’s Halal Food Industry Development Program has intensified various projects for the provision and upgrade of the necessary common service facilities such as slaughterhouses, warehouses, refrigeration facilities, and laboratory and equipment, in strategic production, processing and manufacturing areas. “There is a vast market opportunity for the Halal food industry not just
in the country but also in South Asia and Asia Pacific regions. This indicates demand for halal products and services is likely to continue upward its upward growth curve and become an increasingly influential market over the next decade,” Oñate added. NCMF 11 Regional Director Sherrila Porza Sawah, for her part said their office will also create a technical manpower requirement for the operation of the project to make sure that it complies with the agreement. Sawah thanked the DA for the strengthened partnership in empowering Muslim communities, adding they are expecting more collaborations from the department as they continue to intensify its campaign for a more developed Halal food industry with empowered farmers and other stakeholders.
cause the majority of the farmers will benefit as well as the corporation which entered into this agreement with the beneficiaries.” It should be pointed out that even as the minority beneficiaries oppose the deal, they continue to receive the same benefits the majority beneficiaries receive. MEPI’s agrarian reform beneficiaries received their land for free under the Com-
prehensive Agrarian Reform Program without any cost to them and the government but on the condition that there will be a leaseback agreement. For this leaseback deal, the beneficiaries are currently paid P90,000 per hectare—which is the highest land rental in the country’s agricultural sector— aside from a host of other benefits.
farmers as not all aid is in the form of money. “Sa atin sa Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka, dalawang klase ang ayuda na binibigay po natin, in cash at saka in kind. ‘Yun po ang tulong natin, in
cash and in kind, direct subsidy. ‘Yung in cash palagi ko sinasabi na base sa batas, ‘yung RTL [Rice Tariffication Law] and isang source, number two ang isang source ‘yung Bayanihan,” Dar said.
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replaced weekly. 3. Check your surroundings for stagnant water. Some ornamental plant leaves have this “whorl” or cup-like shape that can hold water. Beautiful to behold but deadly in design. Turn them over and throw the water away. Upturned coconut shells are also notorious for holding water. Non-moving rivers, especially in squatter areas, are full of mosquito eggs. 4. Close your doors and windows. Some people open their doors in the morning for a whiff of fresh air. They also believe that mosquitoes would leave the house and go into the sunlight. “But my advice is to keep your doors shut at all times,” he advises. If it’s too stuffy, then place a screen door that keeps the flies and mosquitoes outside. 5. Spray insecticide regularly. To rid your house of mosquitoes, flies and cockroaches, spray insecticides every few days. Make sure you spray those dark corners, crevices, and cabinets. You’ll be amazed at the number of pests you’ll find dead in the morning. Just make sure that household members are not exposed to the insecticide as they are not the target. Just spray selected rooms when people are not around. 6. Wear pants, pajamas, long sleeves, and socks. Mosquitoes are attracted to your breath as you exhale so they know how to reach you
even in the dark. “I guess they love bare, plump skin, especially the kids who don’t shoo them away and let them suck as much blood as they want,” Dr. Ong believes. 7. Apply insect-repellants or use mosquito nets. If your kids are going hiking, camping or off to school, you can apply insect-repellants like Off-Lotion. Kids like to play outdoors and are prime targets of these mosquitoes. You can wipe it on selected areas of the clothing like collars, sleeves and pants. Avoid applying lotion on the eyes, mouth or hands. 8. Kill those mosquitoes. When it comes to dengue, it’s either kill or be killed. Instruct everyone to kill as many mosquitoes and flies as they can. Once you’ve got them trapped in your bathroom, show no mercy. Mosquitoes belong to the forest, not in your home. 9. Involve the whole community. The best way to defeat dengue is if the whole community is aware of the threat. Ask your community leaders to schedule a clean-up day. The danger is in those empty houses and lots, which are excellent breeding places for mosquitoes. Become a volunteer to monitor and clean up your surroundings. 10. Spread the word: Dengue fever is here. You’ll never know where dengue will strike next so better be prepared. Inform your neighborhood.
The central bank said this level is adequate to cover 12.2 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income. Other structural sources of US dollars for the country include the remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and the business process outsourc-
ing (BPO) sector. OFW cash remittances coursed through the formal channels grew by 7 percent year-on-year to USD2.638 billion in June 2021. In the first half of the year, cash remittances expanded year-on-year by 6.4 percent to USD14.918 billion. (PNA)
September 16. “Because the situation continues to be fluid, we know the CEB Super Pass is a timely option for guests who know they want and need travel, but are unsure of destinations and dates,” Vice President for Marketing and Customer Experience Candice Iyog said.
Payments may be made through existing travel funds or other online payment options such as credit cards. The Super Pass will be sent via email for successful purchases. Cebu Pacific currently flies to 32 domestic destinations, mainly from its hubs in Manila and Cebu.
to uplift the socio-economic status of the beneficiaries as this serves as additional income generation for them. On the other hand, Bean O’clock Coffee To Go co-owner Jullibee Lee Salazar, doled out to LIFA cluster 2 members 6,100 pesos as part of their mission of giving back to the community for patronizing their business. For each cup of coffee sold, Bean O’clock sets aside two pesos for their advocacy.
According to Ms. Salazar, in their eight months of operation, they were able to donate 25,000 pesos to the association which is roughly around 12,490 cups of coffee sold. Also present in the event was Councilor Jan Dmitri Sator who extended his heartfelt thanks to Salazar for their initiative. Further, he hoped that more Tagumenyo business owners will follow the lead of Jullibee of adopting an association.
Cleveland, Denver, Brooklyn and Detroit. Alize Johnson averaged 2.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in three seasons with Indiana and Brooklyn.
Thomas averaged 4.0 points over two seasons with Toronto and Utah, and Thompson went undrafted out of Oregon State this year.
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Ginebra’s new acquisition Christian Standhardinger is still struggling with his new team.
Kings remain patient with Standhardinger C T
Cavs sign Euro League veteran
he Ginebra Kings remains patient with new acquisition Christian Standhardinger, aware the Fil-German big man will eventually settle down with the Kings’ scheme of things. While the 6-foot8 Standhardinger has churned out consistent numbers so far, it’s still obvious the struggles he’s going through trying to fit in to coach Tim Cone’s system. But the veteran mentor that he is, Cone knows it’s just a matter of time before the 32-year-old center becomes at ease playing his role with the team. “When you’re a top player like that who comes into a championship team, when you’re a top player and you goes to a team that needs a lot of help, and you’re still gonna be the star, it’s a lot easier,” said the champion coach following the Kings’ 83-77 win over Rain or Shine at the Don Honorio Ventura State University gym. “But when you come into a championship team, you feel like you have to fit in with these
guys, and you got to hold yourself back.” That has been the case for Standhardinger in the early part of Ginebra’s campaign in the PBA Philippine Cup where the Kings are the defending champions. Since the season restart in Bacolor, Pampanga, the big man though, appears to have slowly but surely get himself acquainted with his new environment. Standhardinger finished with 16 points, six rebounds, and five assists in the Kings’ grind out win over the Elasto Painters. That brings his average to 16.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in the two games he played so far in Pampanga. “We just have to keep him aggressive and keep him loaded with our system,” said Cone. “We think the more he plays with us, the better
he’s gonna be, the better we’re going to be. I think that’s really the key.” Cone believes a few more games with the Kings, and Standhardinger, acquired in the off-season from NorthPort in a trade with Greg Slaughter, will finally be back to his old playing form.
And that means danger to the rest of the field. “If we continue to play with this kind of effort, and continue to grow as a group, and continue to get Christian grow with us, I think we can make some noise at the end of this conference,” said Cone.(PBA)
LEVELAND — The Cavaliers signed point guard Kevin Pangos to a two-year deal, his agency announced on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time). The 28-year-old Canadian spent the past six years playing in Europe. “Hard work pays off,” Priority Sports tweeted after Pangos signed. The Cavaliers have not announced the signing. Pangos most recently played for Zenit Saint Petersburg, where he av-
eraged 13.5 points and 6.6 assists while being named All-EuroLeague. One of Cleveland’s offseason priorities was adding depth to its backcourt. The Cavaliers acquired veteran Ricky Rubio this summer in a trade with Minnesota and Pangos gives them another guard with experience. Pangos can also help mentor young guard Darius Garland, who is heading into his third NBA season.
C
HICAGO — The Chicago Bulls signed former Toronto Raptors forward Stanley Johnson on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time). They also announced deals with free agent forwards Tyler Cook and Alize Johnson and guards Matt Thomas and Ethan Thompson. Stanley Johnson averaged 6.2 points for Detroit, New Orleans and Toronto since the Pistons drafted him with the eighth overall pick in 2015. He averaged 4.4 in 61 games for Toronto last season — his second with the Raptors. Cook averaged 4.0 points and 2.4 rebounds over two seasons with
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The rebuilding Chicago Bulls signed former Toronto Raptors forward Stanley Johnson and four other players.
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Manny Pacquiao with trainers Freddie Roach and Buboy Fernandez. Photo: Wendell Alinea
‘I’M TO BLAME’
Pacquiao admits amid finger-pointing in his team
S
o as not to further widen the reported rift within his team, Manny Pacquiao said there’s no one to blame for the loss to Yordeni Ugas in their world welterweight title fight two weeks ago but himself. Pacquiao admitted he overtrained for the 12-round fight which marked his return to the ring after a two-year absence but absolved trainers Freddie Roach and Buboy Fernandez as well as strength and conditioning coach Justin Fortune. Pacquiao suffered from cramps from the second round on and lost a unanimous decision to the 35-year-old champion from Cuba. “Sabihin ko na lang, para hindi sila nagsisisihan or nag-aaway, sa akin na lang i-blame lahat,” said the 42-year-old Filipino senator during an appearance on Rappler Talk. “Siguro sa sobrang passionate ko, na over-train ako.” Pacquiao accepted the blame in a bid to put a stop to the finger-pointing within his team prior, during, and after the August 21 title fight at the T-Mobile Arena. Initially, there was the confusion on the roles of Roach and Fernandez in Pacquiao’s corner. Fernandez claimed he has been the lead trainer of Pacquiao since the Lucas Matthysse title fight in 2018 yet Roach, supposedly relegated to active consultant, continued to
call the shots during fights. The latest spat pitted Fortune against Roach after the strength and conditioning coach from Australia accused the 61-year-old Hall of Fame trainer of putting the blame on him for the cramps that slowed Pacquiao during the Ugas fight. ‘Buo naman ang team namin’ Pressed about the matter, Pacquiao said he’s not aware of any misunderstanding in his camp. “Wala akong nalalaman tungkol sa ganyan. Buo naman yung team namin,” said the Pacman, who completed his 10-day quarantine at the Conrad Hotel on Wednesday together with his family and close relatives. “Hindi ko naman nakikita sa kanila. Nag-uusap naman kaming lahat,” added the eight-division world champion. “Bago ako umalis (ng US) nag-usap naman kami, after ng fight. Wala namang problema.” In order to spare anyone of culpability, Pacquiao said all fingers should point to him. “Tanggapin ko na lang. That’s boxing, e,” he said.