Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 175 | Thursday, October 7, 2021 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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EASING UP

City allows MICE under ‘new’ GCQ status STORY ON PAGE 2

A group of teenagers, commissioned by a fish breeder, seines tilapia and catfish fingerlings in a fishpond in Tugbok District, Davao City. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 175 • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 07, 2021

EASING UP

Senator Christopher Lawrence“Bong”Go stops by to greet his supporters. Days after filing his certificate of candidacy (COC) for vice president, Go has gained the support of at least 45 governors nationwide.

City allows MICE under ‘new’ GCQ status By MAYA M. PADILLO

he city government of Davao has allowed the holding of meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibits or MICE as well as other social events after the city reverted to the ‘new’ General Community Quarantine (GCQ) which no longer mandates heightened restrictions. The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) has placed Davao City under GCQ from October 1 to 31, 2021. “Pag GCQ without restrictions, allowed na ang MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibits) and then naa napud apil

ang social events, allowed na siya,” said Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. Mayor Sara reminded the public to review the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Memorandum Circular 21-28 and DTI Advisory 2116-A

wherein among the provisions include except as may be authorized by IATF resolutions, mass gatherings remain to be prohibited; gatherings that are for the provision of critical government services and authorized humanitarian activities while adhering to the prescribed minimum health standards shall be allowed; religious gatherings in areas under GCQ shall be allowed up to 50 percent of the seating or venue capacity; religious gatherings shall be limited to the conduct of religious worship and/or

service provided that there is no objection from the local government unit where the religious gathering may take place; and religious denominations should strictly observe their submitted protocols and the minimum public health standards, particularly the social distancing measures and nonpharmaceutical interventions such as the obligatory wearing of face masks and immediate availability of hand hygiene necessities in the premises. For the re-opening of

bugay) , 21. Melchor Diclas (Benguet), 22. Roberto Uy (Zamboanga del Norte), 23. Oyie Umali (Nueva Ecija), 24. Gwen Garcia (Cebu), 25. Noel Degamo (Negros Oriental), 26. Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo (Camiguin), 27. Presby Velasco (Marinduque), 28. Gerardo A. Noveras (Aurora Province), 29. Francisco Emmanuel Ortega III (La Union), 30. Maria Jocelyn Valera Bernos (Abra), 31. Hernilando Mandanas (Batangas), 32. Bonz Dolor (Oriental Mind-

45 governors back Bong Go’s VP bid

our days after he filed his certificate of candidacy for vice president, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has gained the support of at least 45 governors nationwide. The following governors who have expressed support for Go’s vice presidential bid are: 1. Ben Evardone (Eastern Samar), 2. Edwin Ong (Northern Samar), 3. Michael Tan (Western Samar), 4. Dominic Petilla (Leyte), 5. Damian Mercado (Southern Leyte), 6. Roger Espina (Bil-

iran), 7. Dax Cua (Quirino) , 8. Jim S Hataman Salliman (Basilan), 9. Jose Alvarez (Palawan), 10. Zaldy Villa (Siquijor), 11. Imelda Dimaporo (Lanao del Norte), 12. Edgar Tallado (Camarines Norte), 13. Migz Villafuerte (Camarines Sur), 14. Gov. Jose Riano (Romblon), 15. Dale Corvera (Agusan del Norte), 16. Jun Ebdane (Zambales), 17. Bonz Dolor (Oriental Mindoro), 18. Nancy Catamco (Cotabato province), 19. Arthur Yap (Bohol province), 20. Wilter Palma (Zamboanga Si-

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GenSan worried over seniors’ reluctance on Covid vaccines

he city government has raised concern over the continuing reluctance by some senior citizens here to get vaccinated against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Dr. Rochelle Oco, head of the City Health Office, acknowledged on Tuesday that they are facing problems with the vaccination coverage for priority group A2 or senior citizens even as they are considered as among the most vulnerable to severe infections. She said such concern is also a challenge to other local government units as seen with the daily updating of inoculation accomplishment in Region 12 (Soccsksargen). “[But] we’re really doing our best to capture all our vulnerable senior citizens and have them protected against COVID-19,” she said during the city council’s question hour. The Department of Health (DOH)-Region 12

earlier cited misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccine as among the reasons for the reluctance of some individuals to get inoculated, among them senior citizens. Some people believe that getting the vaccine will only make them more vulnerable to severe infections and even death while others adhere to baseless claims that they could be used to track down people working for the “anti-Christ.” In this city, Oco said a total of 14,698 senior citizens have already been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of Oct. 1, about 41 percent of the over 35,000 target. Some 14,187 others have received their first dose, mostly with Sinovac’s Coronavac and Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines. CHO has so far administered some 223,173 vaccine doses, with 98,318 already fully vaccinated and

ment’s key considerations in recalibrating the inoculation plan during President Rodrigo Duterte’s Talk to People aired late Monday. Among the immediate goals are a “better Christmas and safe election period” and gradual resumption of face-to-face classes, Galvez said. The key phases of the recalibrated strategies include securing the safety,

efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of the different Covid-19 vaccines; assessment on the current vaccine rollout of some cities experiencing inflection point; reevaluation of LGUs’ handling capacities; review of sustainable vaccination program in the fourth quarter of 2021; crafting vaccine security roadmap amid the presence of Covid-19 vari-

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NTF planning booster shots, election season vaccination ooster shots, evaluation of current local government units’ (LGU) policies, and vaccination during election season are part of the National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19’s recalibrated national vaccination program for the remaining months of 2021 and until next year. NTF chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. on Monday night presented the govern-

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EDGEDAVAO

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NEWS

Vice Governor Emmylou “Lala”Taliño-Mendoza files her certificate of candidacy (COC) for governor of North Cotabato at the provincial Commission on Elections (Comelec) at AMAS Capitol compound in Kidapawan on Wednesday. Edge Davao

Four new cases of Delta variant detected in Davao Region Mendoza seeks gubernatorial seat

ice Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza of the Province of Cotabato vowed to sustain the gains of her advocacy program “Serbisyong Totoo” in her bid for the gubernatorial seat in the province. Taliño-Mendoza has served as governor of North Cotabato for nine years. “Hindi natin maikakaila na malayo na ang ating

narating. Nakita natin ang resulta ng Serbisyong Totoo. Mula 2010 hanggang 2019, marami sa mga pangarap natin ay ating naabot. Ang mga programa ng Serbisyong Totoo ay natunghayan, nadama, at nahawakan ng bawat Cotabateño. Ang Cotabato natin noon ay nakita nating higit na umunlad, higit naging malakas, at ang bawat Co-

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

our new cases of Delta variant have been added to the Davao Region bringing the total number of cases to 127 as of October 2, 2021 based on the data of DOH 11. Dr. Rachel Joy Pasion, head of the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) of the Department of Health 11 (DOH 11), bared this on Tuesday but clarified that the patients have already recovered. However, they are still subject for strict contact tracing as part of the strict protocol to prevent the

spread of the virus. She also said in addition to the Delta variant, 13 new Beta variant cases were also recorded, bringing the total to 322 Beta cases in the region. Pasion said DOH 11 is also currently monitoring the Alpha variant with only one new case detected bringing the total to 142.

In the entire Davao Region, there are a total of 591 cases of variants of concern (VOCs). However, DOH 11 has not yet released a breakdown of how many are recorded in each province and city. Meanwhile, based on the Regional Situation Update on Covid-19 in Davao Region as of October 5, 2021, DOH Davao Center for Health Development reported 349 new cases of COVID-19 in the region bringing the total number of active cases to 19,116.

Of these new cases, 176 were from Davao City, 29 from Davao de Oro, 111 from Davao del Norte, 25 from Davao del Sur, and eight from Davao Oriental. There were 991 recoveries reported and among these, 658 were from Davao City, 152 from Davao de Oro, 115 from Davao del Norte, 1 from Davao del Sur, 49 from Davao Occidental, and 16 from Davao Oriental. There are 30 death cases. Among these are six from Davao City (all late reported),

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PRRD endorses Bong Go in his VP bid

resident Rodrigo Duterte has expressed his support for Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s vice presidential bid in the upcoming May 2022 polls during his Talk to the People address on Monday, October 4. In his message, the President expressed his confidence that Go will continue the positive changes and gains made by his administration. “I strongly and fully believe that Senator Bong Go is the best person to help the next president continue my legacy and build on the gains that we have achieved, espe-

cially in terms of providing basic services to healthcare, education and other social services for the people,” according to the Chief Executive. Duterte also commended Go’s track record of service and strong work ethic, saying that they are “rooted in compassion towards the poor and the neglected.” “I strongly believe that he will be the best vice president of the country. With this, I encourage our kababayans to look at his deeds and achievements as you consider your list of candidates for the next vice presi-

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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Workers conduct metalwork on a structure of an advertising billboard in Bankerohan, Davao City on Wednesday. Edge Davao

DTI making R&D D more inclusive

DOE tells oil firms to secure supply amid price increases

nities and support young entrepreneurial talents in technology and creative industries. RIICs serve as the integrating portal to region-based resources that can be tapped by entrepreneurs. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can also utilize the RIIC to position their products in the global value chain to ensure that they have com-

petitive edge in the global market. “The presence of startup enterprises capitalizing on rigorous R&D to generate new products, services, processes, or other solutions is vital to the growth of the country’s knowledge economy,” Lopez said. He added the development of local talents in technology and creative industries will also help in job creation, increasing customer demand, and more vibrant trade in goods and services. Lopez further cited startup development programs that will promote

Philippine products and services in the world market. These programs include the Global Acceleration Program (GAP), Strategic MSMLE and Startup Link (SMARTLink), Startup Acceleration and Incubation by DTI (AID), International and Local Exposure Assistance Program (iLEAP), and Startup Venture Fund (SVF). “We do need an ecosystem approach to enhancing innovation and value creation and to supporting our startups and other enterprises in order for them to engage productively in the global knowledge economy,” Lopez said. (PNA)

tember 2021. “I welcome certain aspects of the September inflation report, with the caveat that the decline in prices for certain goods can go faster,” he said. He urged the implementing agencies of the RCEF to sustain the implementation of its programs and accelerate the completion of backlogs from the mechanization component

to improve farm yields. “Earlier this year, I already warned about a potential increase in world rice price due to supply pressures in Vietnam, our leading supplier,” he said. He said as rice bran is also a key component of livestock feed, improved domestic rice production will also have positive impacts on the prices of meat.

he Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is boosting research and development (R&D) by making it more accessible across the country.

In his message during the Asean Summit on Spin-Off Technologies Tuesday, DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez said the agency is organizing Regional Inclusive Innovations Centers (RIICs) throughout the country to democratize the development of startup communities. Lopez said R&D is the “real heart” and the “DNA” of entrepreneurship, thus making it inclusive will enable more startup commu-

Solon wants to expedite release of rice funds to boost production

lawmaker on Tuesday said expediting the release of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) to boost domestic production could help mitigate risks from higher rice prices abroad. Albay Representative Joey Salceda said this is a necessary government intervention to ease food prices as the inflation rate slightly decelerated in Sep-

epartment of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso Cusi has reminded oil companies to ensure local supply of the commodity amid the tight global supply in the coming months. Cusi said oil firms should comply with the Minimum Inventory Requirement (MIR) under Executive Order (EO) No.134 directing local oil suppliers and bulk companies to maintain a minimum petroleum stock to ensure adequate supply and avoid a surge in prices. “I am directing all oil companies in the country to ensure adequate supply, and come up with plans to mitigate possible price hikes of oil products in the coming months,” the DOE chief said in a statement Tuesday. Under the implementing guidelines of the EO, oil companies and bulk suppliers shall maintain at least

15 days’ worth of supply of petroleum products, and a minimum stock equivalent to seven days for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). On the other hand, refiners should secure a minimum inventory of crude oil and refined petroleum products equivalent to 30 days. “Aggressive demand in the fourth quarter is seen to reach as much as 103 million barrels of crude oil per day (mbpd) when supply is currently only at about 103.22 mbpd,” the Oil Industry Management Bureau said. Oil producers are sticking to gradually increasing output by 400,000 bpd despite economic activities expected to ramp up during the last quarter of the year. Brent crude reached above USD80-level per barrel on Monday, the highest trading price in three years.

velopment (MBHTE-TESD) and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MIPA) agreed to provide free skills training for IPs in the region. “This intends to help the IPs chosen for the programs impart what they have learned from the training on modern farming techniques to their communities,” MBHTE-TESD Maguindanao Provincial Director Salehk Mangelen told

reporters here Tuesday. On Monday, Mangelen and MIPA Minister Melanio Ulama signed the memorandum of agreement to highlight the opening ceremony of the IP Month celebration in the region. The agreement provides that MIPA will identify and screen 160 qualified applicants for the scholarship program.

BARMM free skills training program to benefit 160 IPs total of 160 members of indigenous peoples (IPs) across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) are set to benefit from free skills training on modern agriculture techniques. This, after the BARMM’s Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education - Technical Education Skills De-

EDGEDAVAO

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ECONOMY

A man working for an establishment selling car accessories pushes a metal cart carrying tire rims and tires along E. Quirino Avenue in Davao City on Wednesday. Edge Davao

BIMP-EAGA to focus on livelihood initiatives to combat pandemic SEC pushes for scam-free future; joins World Investor Week fete

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is calling on the public to secure their financial future by becoming smart investors, as it joins the celebration of World Investor Week from October 4 to 10. The World Investor Week is a global campaign by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) that encourages securities regulators to put a spotlight on efforts to promote investor protection. This year’s theme focuses on sustainable finance and the prevention of frauds and scams. “The SEC is pleased to take part in this year’s World Investor Week, taking cues from the IOSCO’s mission to boost financial literacy in order to promote sustainable economic growth and prevent the spread of scam and fraud among the investing public,” SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino said. “We recognize the importance and continue to strive for a scam-free financial environment, which will only be possible if we work together with the public

in exposing and avoiding fraudulent schemes.” As of October 5, the SEC has issued 87 advisories against groups and individuals who have been soliciting investments from the public without the necessary license from the Commission. A total of 126 and 50 advisories were issued in 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Commission has also issued four cease-anddesist orders against 15 groups and individuals, including Chiyuto Creative Wealth Documentation Facilitation Services and Royal O’ Consultancy Services, for their unauthorized investment-taking activities during the same period. Further, the SEC currently has 48 cases pending in court for violations of Republic Act No. 8799, or The Securities Regulation Code (SRC). So far, a total of 187 individuals have been charged with violations of the SRC, with the SEC securing 17 judgments of convictions against 19 individuals meted with a total of imprisonment of 572 years and a total fine of P25 million imposed by various courts.

Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Abdulgani Macatoman, who is the current chairperson of the BIMP-EAGA said the ongoing imposition of lockdowns to curb the spread of the virus has made it very difficult for most of

the local people to earn a living just to cover their daily subsistence needs. “This abrupt difficulty of our people to purchase things during this pandemic has clearly disrupted the economic flow that resulted in the downturn of our re-

spective country’s economic performance,” he said during the virtual conference. He also hoped that the SOM will look at the challenging situation and ponder on what they can do as a sub-regional cooperation to help in revving up economic activities within the local economies during the pandemic. “[In this way], we can at least help our national government in their efforts at providing livelihood and business opportunities to our people in the focus areas. Perhaps, it is also worthwhile to consider for this sub-region to comeup with creative ways that could make it easier for people to do business in the

budget for 2022, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said Tuesday. “In the national government’s 2022 National Expenditure Program, there is an allocation of P45.3 billion (around $900 million) for the procurement of COVID-19 vaccine booster

shots under unprogrammed appropriations,” Dominguez said in a statement. Dominguez said that the National Task Force Against COVID-19, the Department of Health, and the Department of Finance “have initially identified multilateral and bilateral financial insti-

he 29th Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) organized by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) on Tuesday will focus on initiatives that could help provide livelihood and income to the people during the ongoing pandemic in the local communities, particularly those living in the focus areas of BIMP-EAGA.

sub-region during this pandemic,” Macatoman emphasized. Meanwhile, he also commended Malaysia for steering BIMP-EAGA’s SOM Chairmanship for almost two years and added that it has effectively managed and took things in stride just to ensure various BIMP-EAGA efforts and initiatives keep moving. “The Philippines is equally challenged to take on the responsibility after Malaysia and assures every one of our commitment to stay the course and keep up with the current momentum as we navigate ourselves in these turbulent times of the pandemic,” Macatoman stressed.

tutions as possible sources of funding for this allocation.” “In fact, exploratory discussions with the Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the World Bank have been initiated to help

PH to seal $900-M loan deals for COVID-19 booster shots —DOF sec he Philippine government is expected to secure, by the end of the year, around $900 million worth of loans to fund the purchase of COVID-19 booster shots, which are under unprogrammed appropriations in the proposed P5.024-trillion national

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On Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s vice presidential bid in the upcoming May 2022 polls:

I strongly and fully believe that Senator Bong Go is the best person to help the next president continue my legacy and build on the gains that we have achieved, especially in terms of providing basic services to healthcare, education and other social services for the people.”

President Rodrigo Duterte

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EDGEDAVAO

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VANTAGE POINTS

HENRYLITO D. TACIO MENTAL HEALTH SHOULD NOT BE NEGLECTED Mental health is one of the most neglected areas of public health. Close to 1 billion people are living with a mental disorder and 3 million people die every year from the harmful use of alcohol, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). And now, billions of people around the world have been affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which is having a further impact on people’s mental health. “The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on people’s mental health,” the WHO says. “Some groups, including health and other frontline workers, students, people living alone, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions, have been particularly affected. The children are not spared from the effects of the pandemic. “With nationwide lockdowns and pandemic-related movement restrictions, children have spent indelible years of their lives away from family, friends, classrooms, play – key elements of childhood itself,” said Henrietta Fore, the executive director of the United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Globally, more than one in seven adolescents aged 10–19 is estimated to live with a di-

agnosed mental disorder. “The impact is significant, and it is just the tip of the iceberg. Even before the pandemic, far too many children were burdened under the weight of unaddressed mental health issues,” Fore said. In the Philippines, mental illness ranks third among the types of disabilities in the country, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Young professionals have also become victims of mental health illnesses, as intentional self-harm is the ninth leading cause of death among those aged 20-24 years old. “Mental health and well-being are a concern of all,” says the health department in a statement, adding that it is addressing concerns related to MNS (mental, neurological and substance use disorders). Data from the health department showed 3.3 million Filipinos suffer from depression and another 3.1 million have anxiety disorders. The suicide rates are 2.5 in males per 100,000 and 1.7 in females. Davao City was among the cities in the country with high teenage suicide and depression cases in 2017, according to city councilor Joselle Villafuerte. So much so that in 2019, the Mental Health Code of Davao was approved. Last May, Davao City May-

or Sara Duterte-Carpio urged Dabawenyos to check on their mental health amid the ongoing pandemic. “We have psychosocial support,” the mayor said during her regular program aired via 87.5 FM Davao City Disaster Radio. “It’s a telemedicine for mental wellness. If you feel you need to talk to a person, please access the initiative of the health group of the response cluster of the Davao City COVID-19 Task Force.” Having a mental health problem is a grave concern. “Let us not judge those who have mental health issues,” DOH Undersecretary Eric Domingo was quoted as saying by stateowned Philippine News Agency. “Let us think that it is like hypertension and diabetes when we see someone with symptoms of depression.” Dr. Marjorie Culas, Davao City Health Office Assistant Head, said the common symptoms of someone experiencing depression include anxiety, change of behavior or personality, overeating, and loss of appetite, among others. Some of the verbal or behavioral warning signs for suicide include talking about wanting to die, feeling immense guilt or shame, or feeling like a burden to others. Other signs are feeling empty, hopeless or trapped, or having no reason

to live, or feeling extremely sad, anxious, agitated, or full of anger. Among behavioral changes that can also be warning signs, are researching ways to die, staying away from friends, giving away important items, showing extreme mood swings, eating or sleeping too much or too little, and using drugs or alcohol more often. “If you feel sad or have thoughts of harming yourself, you have to talk to a mental health professional or someone you trust,” Dr. Culas urged. The WHO Global SchoolBased Health Survey conducted in 2011 has shown that in the Philippines, 16% of students between 13-15 years old have “ever seriously considered attempting suicide” while 13% have “actually attempted suicide one or more times during the past year.” Bullying, early pregnancy and depression – not necessarily in that order – are some of the culprits why children and teenagers resort to suicide, which is defined as the intentional taking of one’s life. Every October 10, the international community celebrates World Mental Health Day. First observed in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), it highlights global mental health education, awareness and advocacy

against social stigma. This year, the theme is “Mental Health in an Unequal World.” “Access to mental health services remains unequal, with between 75% to 95% of people with mental disorders in low and middle-income countries unable to access mental health services at all, and access in high-income countries is not much better,” explains Prof. Gabriel Ivbijaro, WFMH Secretary General. “Many people with a mental illness do not receive the treatment that they are entitled to and deserve and together with their families and carers continue to experience stigma and discrimination,” Prof. Ivbijaro continues. “The gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’ grows ever wider and there is continuing unmet need in the care of people with a mental health problem.” It is for this reason that Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Health, said mental health should also be given a priority during this time. “In this time of pandemic, we should also ensure that mental health is valued, promoted and protected,” Go said in a statement. “Aside from physical health, ‘yung mental health, napaka-importante rin po.”

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

WHO IS DAVAO’S ‘FATHER OF HISTORY?’ In world history, the academicians are in consensus that Herodotus, a Greek, is the first historian. That makes him the ‘father of world history.’ Locally, though, there is contention on who should earn the credit as Davao’s ‘father of history.’ While some quarters bestow the title on the late Ernesto I. Corcino, a former librarian of the United States Information Service (USIS) in Davao City who authored ‘Davao History’ (1998), he was not the first to write and publish a book about the region’s history. Except for articles in periodicals and journals, nobody in prewar Philippine came out with a book-length research about Davao as a district or province. The books written by foreigners, both travelogue and scientific papers, were compendiums of the authors’ observations and field research. There was nothing in the books that almost exclusively dealt with

local histories. The first postwar history book of Davao towns was ‘Davao History: Its Progress and Future,’ written in 1950 by Vicente Albano Pacis, an Ilocano journalist with the defunct Philippine Free Press, who became press secretary and Philippine envoy; he also wrote books. Three years later, Damien Mercader Lomocso came out with ‘Davao’s Culture and History,’ which puts under one cover the brief histories of towns in Davao region. He also wrote a historical novel about ‘Datu Bago,’ the legislated hero of Davao. In 1978, Juan S. Dacuycuy came out with a booklet titled ‘History of Cateel,’ an extant copy is at the National Library. In 1992, Gloria P. Dabbay, an educator, published his doctoral dissertation in book form as ‘Davao City: Its History and Progress.’ While its title has specific reference to the city,

a good portion of the book includes historical profiles from across the region of Davao. Being called ‘the father of local history’ is simply an oxymoron of who was the first wrote the history of a place. In Herodotus’ case, he wrote about the world as he saw it during his time and was ‘the first person to record events as accurately and faithfully as possible.’ In our case, the honor as ‘father of Davao history’ rightly belongs to Pacis. Born on August 24, 1901, Pacis was born in Vintar, Ilocos Norte. Educated abroad, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois, USA (1924) and his Master’s in Education from the University of Wisconsin, USA (1925). Initially, he worked as reporter for a paper in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the wire service agency Associated Press in Washington, D.C. Back in the Philippines,

he served as editor of Graphic, Evening News, and Philippines Herald, and became executive editor of the Ramon Roces Publications. A prolific author, his books include ‘Philippine Government and Politics, A Second Look at America,’ which was co-authored with Emilio Aguinaldo, and the two-volume ‘President Sergio Osmeña: A Fully-Documented Biography.’ He also served as vice-president of the University of the East (UE), and in government as press secretary to President Elpidio R. Quirino, information director of Southeast Asian Treaty Organization (SEATO, forerunner of ASEAN), and Philippine ambassador to Geneva. The son of Cornelio F. Pacis and Benigna Albano, Vicente had twelve siblings. He was married to Beatriz Concepcion with whom he had four children. He died in 1975 in Califor-

nia, USA. Adding depth to historical narratives are books issued in the last three decades, including Marina Suazo’s ‘Davao: The Love Story of Don Jose de Oyanguren’ (1994); Macario D. Tiu’s ‘Davao 1890-1910: Conquest and Resistance in the Garden of the Gods’ (2003) and ‘Davao: Reconstructing History from Text and Memory’ (2005); Aida Rivera-Ford’s ‘Oyanguren: Forgotten Founder of Davao’ (2010); Heidi K. Gloria’s ‘History from Below: A View from the Philippine South’ (2014); Karl M. Gaspar’s ‘Davao in Pre-Conquest Era and the Age of Colonization’ (2015); and Antonio V. Figueroa’s ‘First 50 Years: History of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in the Philippines’ (2013), ‘Datu Bago and the Kingdoms of Sarang-ine and Iyo’ (2017) and ‘Brokenshire (1908-2018): 110 Years & Beyond’ (2019).

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

Cherry Mobile Prepaid opens 4th Concept Store in Davao T

Offers income-generating opportunities for partners

here’s no stopping Cherry Prepaid from doing more for its stakeholders. CherryMobile Communications, Inc. (CMCI), the company behind Cherry Prepaid, launches its fourth Concept Store here, to the delight of local residents. CMCI was founded in 2014 by Mr. Maynard Ngu, its Chairman and CEO, and launched Cherry Prepaid in November 2015. “Relative to the pursuit of CHERRY, which is to provide cost-efficient technology to all Filipinos, we have partnered with Globe Telecom to launch Cherry Prepaid, and crafted campaigns and promos that will appeal to our consumers and let them stay connected at affordable rates. Now, we want to go even a step further by creating the Cherry Prepaid Partner Program, which provides additional income, especially during these trying times, to our Partner Agents in perpetuity.” explains Ngu. Last September 24, a

new Cherry Prepaid concept store was unveiled in Davao City following the success of the Imus, Lucena and Tagum store openings. The company emphasized its goal to have stores in most major cities in the country within the year. During the national media press conference held on September 28, 2021, Mr. Jacy Chua, CMCI President and COO, led a virtual walkthrough of its Davao City store and announced the opportunities that await Cherry Prepaid partners and subscribers. “The goal is to provide cost-efficient technology to all Filipinos. So all our offers are designed to cater to the needs of our target consumers, to

Get internet speed of up to 200Mbps and zero dead zones

eliable internet connection at home is very important these days as students, teachers, and parents go online for distance education. The use of WiFi Mesh evenly distributes the network’s signal so that all corners of large homes receive WiFi coverage. With SKY Fiber’s Super Speed plans, subscribers can improve their online experience with the free WiFi Mesh device. The number of mesh units included will depend on the chosen plan. Here’s how the WiFi Mesh can help with the stress of managing online schooling: 1. Children can have class in any comfortable or quiet space at home Distractions and noise at home are inevitable, but a comfortable and quiet workspace is crucial for students’ focus. Unfortunately, students will sometimes choose an area with better internet signal while having class or doing

school work instead of a quiet place, just so they can avoid getting disconnected. Having a WiFi Mesh set up can remedy this because dead zones around the house can be eliminated. Kids will be able to move around and have class in their rooms or a private corner in the living room, whichever is best for their learning! 2. All members at home can easily work at the same time When several users are connected to the WiFi, it can spell trouble because devices are competing for the internet connection. Using the WiFi Mesh, it evenly distributes the signal so that parents and kids can all efficiently use the internet in different parts of the house. It also has control features that allow family members to set speed limits for the devices connected. 3. Parents can better facilitate the online learning of young kids

FGET, P10

be able to stay connected at affordable rates.” says Chua. He also added that “Cherry prepaid strives and focuses on ways we can provide more to our kababayans, especially during this very difficult time. Commissions can be received continuously by Cherry Prepaid Partners as long as the subscriber they activated continues to keep their sim-card active. Partners are entitled to get a commission from every load top-up of the subscriber, regardless of where they purchase it from.” The Davao City concept store is the fourth Master Distributor branch in the Philippines. This premium store will cater to all potential business partners under the Cherry Prepaid Partner Program within the Davao City area. “Anyone can be a Cherry Prepaid Partner. We have different programs that individuals or businesses can be part of, providing additional income of P5,000 to P50,000

monthly,” adds Chua. Cherry Prepaid’s Davao City and Tagum City Master Distributor, Mr. Dino Ginete,

shared “The Cherry Prepaid Partner Program is something new to the industry, and not only provides a more sustainable business but also helps provide Filipinos a new business opportunity amid this pandemic. We ourselves, and I’m sure along with millions of other Filipinos, suffered financially caused by this pandemic. Many lost their jobs and livelihoods were affected. A lot of Filipinos are continuing to find ways to boost their income. This partnership ensures that everyone, all the types of Partners, share in the growth

and progress of Cherry Prepaid.” explains Ginete. Applicants to the Cherry Prepaid Partner Program only need to present a valid government ID, a Barangay Clearance Certificate, and the joining fee, which varies depending on the Partner type. The company also announced that it will be opening its fifth store in Calamba City, Laguna this October 1. Similar to its previous store openings, the first 96 partners who will be onboarded will receive new smartphones.

within 24 hours of departure. “While we back the scrapping of testing requirements for fully vaccinated individuals, we also make sure that we observe the highest health and safety standards in all of our flights. We also call on our guests to be responsible travelers. The recent easing of restrictions will surely entice more travelers opting for workation to leisure destinations or simply enjoy the long overdue holidays with their families in the various provinces,” Dailisan added. AirAsia was recently awarded as the Best LowCost Airline in the world and in Asia for the 12th consecutive year by international airport and airline review and ranking site Skytrax. AirAsia Group is also among the top airlines worldwide to achieve the top 7/7 rating for being

Covid-19 safe by the aviation experts at Airlineratings.com. To ensure safety for its guests and employees, and as part of its Covid-19 mitigation plan, AirAsia has made check-in via the airasia Super App mandatory for all guests. All guests are encouraged to download and make full use of the airasia Super App, the only all-in-one app that guests would need for their journey - from flight to hotel bookings. Over recent times the airline has implemented numerous contactless procedures including during check-in, boarding, inflight and baggage collection. Furthermore, 100% of AirAsia Philippines’ flight crew and ground staff are already vaccinated against COVID-19 so guests can be assured of the highest safety and hygiene standards at all times.

AirAsia backs eased mobility for fully vaxxed travelers

irAsia Philippines is giving Filipinos more reasons to fulfill their travel plans these Ber months from as low as PhP1 one-way base fare to any AirAsia destination beginning October 4 to 10, 2021. Guests can also enjoy up to 60% off on hotel bookings in AirAsia partner hotels. They may also opt to avail SNAP (flight + hotel) combos from as low as P2,435 per guest for a round trip ticket and 3 days 2 nights stay in Boracay, Bohol, Cebu and other leisure destinations. On top of these, a 20% discount will also be given to guests who will pre-book their baggage and seats during the promo period. Travel period meanwhile is from October 4, 2021 to October 29, 2022. AirAsia Philippines Spokesperson Steve Dailisan said, “We want our

guests to feel that AirAsia is with them in ensuring a budget-friendly travel and lifestyle experience from flights to accommodation. We’ve got everything covered for you. All you have to do is go the airasia way.” “Piso one way base fare is also our way of giving back to our loyal guests for continuously supporting us, and making AirAsia the World’s Best Low-cost Airline for 12 consecutive years.” More local government units have now relaxed their restrictions for fully vaccinated travelers. Following Tacloban’s initiative, Negros Occidental has now scrapped its RT-PCR requirement for fully vaccinated individuals. Cebu Province on Friday meanwhile, issued an executive order removing the negative RT-PCR test in lieu of a medical certificate taken

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“T

he problem with plastics has been escalating for decades, and the Philippines has been identified as the world’s third largest contributor of plastics in the ocean. Plastic pollution has always been a huge issue in the Philippines with the continuous generation of plastic wastes and poor waste management.” – World Wide Fund for Nature

The “sachet economy” is choking the country’s water. Wherever you go these days, rivers, lakes, beaches, and even streams are being drowned by plastic wastes. In a recent four-day Waste and Brand Audit (WABA) conducted by Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS) in three rivers in Davao City, the group collected a total of 3,704 pieces of mixed wastes. Most of the wastes were classified as non-biodegradable, which means they cannot be broken down by the action of living organisms. “Plastics are a threat to both humans and non-human species and their continued proliferation is an irony to the city’s claim that ‘Life is Here,’” deplored IDIS in a position paper on banning single use plastics in Davao City. Thanks to the “sachet economy,” the bodies of water that were free from trash in the past are now loaded with ubiquitous plastics. They are clogging the canals and piling up on waterways. So, every time there is rain in most cities these days, flooded areas become the norm. Cheap but expensive Sachets are advertised as indispensable, convenient and affordable. They are popular among Filipinos because of their “tingi” culture. Products sold in

single-use sachets include instant coffee, shampoo, soy sauce, cooking oil, food seasoning, and toothpaste. Name it, there’s a sachet for it! “Because they are easy to sell – ribbons of single-use products hang from neighbourhood stores even in the most remote communities – large multinational manufacturing companies continue to market them,” said the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). According to one research group, the Philippines discards 60 billion plastic sachets each year. That’s about one sachet per person per day on a per capita basis. “Sachets may have brought better quality products to poor communities but the problem is that they have become a waste nightmare,” said Miko Aliño, Asia-Pacific program manager of Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA). “When sachets are discarded indiscriminately, these clog drains and contribute to flooding or even pollute our oceans.” At a first glance, sachets may be perceived as inexpensive, and convenient because of their small and durable packaging. In reality, however, “they are expensive for cities to manage, difficult to effectively recycle, and cannot be reused,” Aliño

ENVIRONMENT

WHY SINGLE-USE PLASTICS

SHOULD BE BANNED Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

said. In a report commissioned by GAIA, it was found that corporations producing these sachets have managed to evade responsibility for sachet waste, “which leaves local governments and communities struggling with this non-recyclable waste to address the imminent sachet pollution crisis.” “Corporations have greatly benefited from these products by marketing them for their low cost and convenience but they are not made accountable for the pollution that comes along with its production and disposal,” Aliño said. Major contributors A news report said single-use plastics for food and cosmetics are one of the main contributors to plastic waste in landfills and in oceans. Around 40% of all plastic that is produced is used for packaging, and the World Economic Forum estimates that 95% of this is not recycled after its initial use. That’s horrendous, indeed. “Following the trajectory of plastic production and mismanagement, United Nations reports predicted that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the oceans than there are fish,”

Environment Secretary Roy E. Cimatu said in a press statement. In the award-winning 1967 movie, The Graduate, the character portrayed by newcomer Dustin Hoffman (who received a well-deserved Oscar nomination for Best Actor) asked some advice on career direction. “Plastics, my boy. Plastics,” he was told. Businesses all over the world are heeding the advice. “Plastic is a miracle material,” wrote Erik Solheim, head of United Nations Environment Program, in a foreword for Single-Use Plastic: A Roadmap for Sustainability. “Thanks to plastics, countless lives have been saved in the health sector, the growth of clean energy from wind turbines and solar panels has been greatly facilitated, and safe food storage has been revolutionized. “But what makes plastic so convenient in our day-today lives – it’s cheap – also makes it ubiquitous, resulting in one of our planet’s greatest environmental challenges,” Solheim added. Plastics last forever Plastics – which are non-biodegradable – are materials made to last for-

ever. “Disposed plastic materials can remain in the environment for up to 2,000 years and longer,” wrote Barry E. DiGregorio in an article. “Plastics are a clear and present danger to the future of our planet,” says Céline Cousteau, TreadRight Ambassador. Aside from plastics made of sachets, the other most ubiquitous are the plastic bags. Since they were introduced in the 1970s, plastic bags have infiltrated the lives of human beings. “Globally, we carry home between 500 billion and a trillion every year – about 150 bags for every person on earth, or to put it another way, a million every minute and rising,” wrote Caroline Williams in New Scientist. According to UNEP, one to five trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide every year. “If tied together, 5 trillion bags would cover an area twice the size of France,” UNEP emphasized. Plastic “is in our air, our water, our food, our excrement,” Nina Butler, the chief executive officer of More Recycling, a research and consulting company that works with the plastic industry on recycling, was quoted as saying by the media. “It’s

very, very pervasive.” Damage to health and environment Plastics pose serious damage to the health of human beings. “When they are burned, plastics emit chemicals which are considered toxic for humans,” IDIS pointed out. “These chemicals weaken the immune system, affect fetal development for those who are pregnant and may also cause skin disorder.” Once plastics are stored in the landfills for several years, they may turn into microplastics or fragments of any plastic less than 5 millimeters in length. These microplastics could be ingested by fish and mollusks. They can also infiltrate seaweed and algae. “Many of these tiny plastic particles are swallowed by farm animals or fish who mistake them for food, which we in turn eat,” IDIS explained. “The toxic chemicals used in manufacturing plastics get transferred to animal tissues, eventually entering the human food chain.” Plastics also damage the environment and wildlife species. Jonas Leones, undersecretary for policy, planning and international

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the following establishments/ activities: driving schools; traditional cinemas, and videoand interactive game arcades; libraries, archives, museums, and cultural Centers; MICE, and limited social events at accredited establishments of the Department of Tourism (DOT); and limited tourist attractions such as parks, theme parks, natural sites, and historical landmarks are subject to the issuance of implementing guidelines providing for their operational capacity. “So, i-review po nila, i-review po natong tanan. Mao na atong guide during a GCQ,” Mayor Sara said. It can be recalled that Davao City was placed under GCQ with heightened restrictions last July 16 to July 31,

2021 due to the continuing surge of Covid-19. Based on the IATF guidelines, allowed in areas under GCQ with heightened restrictions are essential travel; indoor dine-in services at 20 percent venue or seating capacity or al fresco dining at 50 percent of the venue or seating capacity; outdoor tourist attractions may reopen at 30 percent with strict adherence to minimum public health standards. Religious gatherings, wakes, inurnment, and funerals for those who died of causes other than Covid-19 at 10 percent of the venue capacity; parlors beauty clinics at 30 percent capacity and allowing individuals aged 18 to 65 to go out of their residences.

124,855 others still waiting for their second doses. Oco said they continually expand their daily vaccination coverage, currently at 3,000 to 3,500 per day, depending on the available vaccine supplies. She said the vaccination activities are being conducted in the 12 rural health units (RHUs) and three mall-based mega sites.

The RHUs have daily targets of 200 to 300 individuals while the mega sites accommodate as much as 1,500. “We already hired additional health workers to augment our local vaccine operations center teams to accommodate more individuals as more vaccines become available,” she said. (MindaNews)

oro), 33. Al Francis Bichara (Al-

bay), 34. Jose Riano (Romblon), 35. Joven Miraflores (Aklan), 36. Ayik Pimentel (Surigao del Sur), 37. Vic Yu (Zamboanga del Sur), 38. Abdusakur “Sakur” Tan (Sulu), 39. Joseph Cua (Catanduanes), 40. Bonifacio Lacwasan (Mt. Province), 41. Eleanor Bulut-Begtang (Apayao), 42. Susan Yap (Tarlac), 43. Rodito Albano III (Isabela), 44. Amado Espino III (Pangasinan), 45. Frank Matugas (Surigao del Norte) In joint statement on Tuesday, the governors hailed Go’s “wide and valuable” insights on both local and national governance, as well as his offered solutions for pressing issues in the country. “We, provincial governors, crossing party lines, support the candidacy for vice president of Sen. Bong Go and vow to campaign tirelessly for his election to the country’s second highest elective position,” the statement read.

The provincial governors said Go, from being President Rodrigo Duterte’s long-time aide to being a senator, is ready to take on the challenge as the second highest official in the country if the lawmaker wins in the next year’s elections. “Such experience has prepared him adequately for elective public office - as senator and hopefully as vice president. Having come from the ranks of local public servants, we have no doubt that Bong Go understands the issues we face 24/7 in our respective provinces,” they said. They believed that Go, if elected vice president, would continue Duterte’s programs, including the relentless efforts to fight illegal drugs, criminality and corruption. “These are some of the problems we continue to face as local officials, despite the administration’s gains in stamping out such nefarious activities,” the governors said.

ants and reformulated booster shots; review of the vaccine portfolios; and vaccination strategies during the May 2022 national and local elections. “Ang pinaka-desired outcome po natin nito ay talagang magkaroon po tayo ng safe and equitable, cost-effective vaccination kasama po ‘yung tinatawag natin na pediatric and booster vaccination, at

the same time pati po ‘yung general population po natin na gagawin po natin ngayong fourth quarter (Our most desired outcome here is to have a safe, equitable, and cost-effective vaccination program for the pediatric population, usage of booster shots, and inoculation of the general population by the fourth quarter this year),” Galvez said.

one from Davao del Sur (late reported), 15 from Davao del Norte (4 new death cases, 11 late reported), six from Davao Oriental (2 new death cases, 4 late reported), and two from

Davao Occidental (all late reported), Death cases that were reported late are due to verification from some facilities and hospitals.

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determine possible funding

sources for additional vaccine requirements in 2022,” the Finance chief said. “We expect to execute loan agreements towards the end of the year,” he added. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) defines unprogrammed appropriations as those items which will be funded “when revenue collection exceeds targets and when additional grants of foreign funds are generated.” The DBM earlier revealed that the P45-billion budget-

ary requirement for buying

COVID-19 vaccine booster shots is not yet funded under the proposed 2022 budget, pendingsolidfindingsthatthey are essential. Healthexpertsarecurrently divided on the necessity of boostershotstocounterwaning efficacy of COVID-19 vaccine doses over time. The DepartmentofHealthsaidthatthereis nocompleteevidenceyetonthe needforboosters,whiletheUS hasauthorizedPfizer-BioNTech boostersforseniorcitizensand vulnerable sectors.

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Children entering preschool are also not spared in this online school set-up. Parents may want to manage their kids’ internet usage by using the WiFi Mesh (particularly the model that is available in Metro Manila & Luzon), which has a WiFi Scheduler that allows you to set a time when to turn the WiFi on or off. You can also set which devices cannot be connected to the internet plus other useful features. If you’re looking to level-up your internet connection at home, visit mysky.com.ph/ skyfiber. New subscribers can choose from a variety of SKY

Fiber’s Super Speed plans with free WiFi Mesh number of mesh units included will depend on the chosen plan). Existing subscribers are also welcome to purchase WiFi Mesh units on top of their plans for only P1,900 per unit. SKY Fiber’s Super Speed plans are available up to 200Mbps for those residing in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Cebu, Dumaguete, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Davao. Those in GenSan and Zamboanga can get plans with up to 120Mbps, while those in Baguio can get plans with up to 80Mbps.

tabateño ay nagkaroon ng malinaw at maunlad na pananaw sa buhay,” Taliño-Mendoza said. “Serbisyong Totoo” focuses on agriculture, infrastructure, investment in human capital, confidence in the ability of young people, strengthening culture, tourism and sports, security and peace. Among major projecs under “Serbisyong Totoo” that benefited the Cotabatenos were the road concreting project in the province through the partnership of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and introducing a variety of rubbe to help the farmers boost their production. “Pero kutob lang mi mag assist sa farmers kung unsa iyang gusto kani bang small o ja karaang variety na six years o four years na gestation. Sa among paglibot makita namo na nitaas ang ilang production sa latex. Kung dako ang production dili man usahay maayo ang presyo kay depende sa market, ang kadako sa production maoy

mubalanse sa maong presyo,” Taliño-Mendoza said. She said from 2010 to 2019, “Serbisyong Totoo” programs are witnessed, felt, and touched by every Cotabateño. “The pandemic stopped us, and our direction was temporarily diverted. To this day we are still groping. Many lives were taxed. Many still continue to mourn. We need to act so that this depressing situation can be alleviated and changed. Let us not allow the things we have already reached to be ignored and wasted. With the help of all of you, today, I will onceagainoffermysinceredesire to serve as the governor of the Province of Cotabato,” she said. Taliño-Mendoza filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) on October 6, 2021 at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Provincial Office together with her daughter Samantha Talino-Santos, who will run as representative for the third district of Cotabato. By Maya M. Padillo

dent,” Duterte said. In response, Go thanked President Duterte and the Filipino people for their untiring support to the administration’s advocacies and efforts to provide a comfortable life for all. “Maraming salamat mahal na Pangulo. At sa mga minamahal kong kababayan, maraming salamat po sa patuloy na paniniwala at suporta ninyo sa amin ng Pangulo at sa buong administrasyong Duterte,” Go said. He explained his decision to run for VP saying, “nabanggit ko noon pa na hindi ako tatakbong pangulo kung hindi si Pangulong Duterte ang Vice President dahil alam po natin na ito ang continuity na inaasam natin.” “Kung papalarin po ako bilang susunod na Bise Presidente ay ipagpapatuloy ko po ang kampanya laban sa korapsyon, kriminalidad, at iligal na droga. Ipagpapatuloy ko ang mga magagandang programa tulad ng libreng edukasyon, libreng pagpapagamot tulad ng serbisyo mula sa Malasakit Centers, mga Build Build Build projects, at marami pang iba tungo sa ating hangarin na mabigyan ng mas maginhawa at komportableng buhay ang mga Pilipino,” Go explained further. Should the Filipino people elect him, Go has vowed to be a “working vice president,” noting that he will not just be a “spare tire” but rather a public servant that ordinary Filipinos can turn to. “Walang masasayang na oras o minuto, magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino gaya ng ginagawa ko ngayon bilang Senador at lingkod-bayan,” he said. Go however clarified that despite his vice presidential bid, his focus now is on his duty as senator and in helping the government and the people overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. “Pero sa ngayon, ayaw kong pag-usapan muna ang pulitika.

Unahin muna nating malampasan ang krisis na dulot ng COVID-19. Bakuna muna bago pulitika,” he said. “Tutukan muna natin ang economic recovery at ang pagahon mula sa pandemya. Ibalik natin ang sigla ng ekonomiya. Bigyan natin ng trabaho ang mga nawalan ng kabuhayan at siguraduhin nating walang magugutom. Higit sa lahat, huwag nating pabayaan ang mga mahihirap at walang matakbuhan,” he added. “Importante po ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino kung kaya’t walang tigil ang ating serbisyo upang walang maiwan sa muling pagbangon ng bansa tungo sa pagbalik natin sa normal na pamumuhay,” Go expressed further. Accompanied by Duterte, Go filed his own Certificate of Candidacy at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay City last Saturday, October 2. During his filing, Go said that his decision to run was determined by his desire to continue the legacy of the Duterte Administration. “Napag-desisyunan kong tumakbo bilang Bise Presidente sa darating na halalan upang maipagpatuloy ang mga magagandang programa at tunay na pagbabagong naumpisahan ni Pangulong Duterte — at sisikapin nating dagdagan pa ang mga ito,” said Go. Go’s vice presidential bid has also garnered support from various individuals and groups. Greco Belgica, chair of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission, has already indicated his support for Go’s vice presidential run, as has the Pederalismo ng Dugong Dakilang Samahan group that he heads. Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, in a letter, has also stated his support for Go, saying, “We fully endorse and support your candidacy for Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines in the 2022 National Elections.”

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affairs of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, said the effects of plastics can be devastating for marine biodiversity. “Small litters like candy wrappers end up in our oceans,” he said. “It is eaten by marine species, clogging their stomachs and causing their death.” In Davao Gulf, for instance, news reports accounted for 63 whales and dolphins found dead since 2009, 47 of which have swallowed plastic trash mistaken as food. In addition, several marine turtles have been choked or reported dead due to plastic bags and straws. “Clearly, plastic pollution is a rising and serious concern as it has destroyed many of our marine species and threatens our overall marine biodiversity,” IDIS deplored. The blatant use of plastics has to stop – now! “It is high time we refrain from using disposable plastic products that are used in minutes, but persist in the environment forever,” Cimatu stressed. Good news But there’s good news. Sachets and plastic bags are examples of single-use plastics (SUPs). They are among those that should be regulated under House Bill 9147, which was approved in the lower house last July 28. The measure, said principal author Lord Allan Velasco, aims to protect life, both land and water, from hazards posed by plastic pollution and to ensure that non-compostable SUP products do not leak into nature. “The measure also provides steps for the eventual phasing of single-use plastic products, a step that is from all accounts, one in the right direction,” Velasco pointed out. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines lauded the House of Representatives for the passing of the bill on its third reading. “The passage of HB 9147 is a step in the right direction,” said Ina Guingona, WWF’s No Plastics in Nature’s Policy Officer. “Plastic pollution has been a scourge to our environment and our communities. A more integrative approach that is

grounded and solutions-focused is needed to address the multifaceted issue of plastic pollution. The passage of this bill signifies the Philippines’ commitment to tackling the problem in a holistic manner.” Last June, Davao City approved Ordinance No. 0500-21 s. 2021 regulating the sale, distribution and use of single-use plastics (particularly cups, condiment packets and containers, stirrers, straws and cutlery). “We laud the Davao City government for enacting this much-needed ordinance which will help address the problem of plastic pollution and chart a more sustainable development path for Davao City,” said Rachel Herrera, commissioner of the Climate Change Commission. Data from the DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau showed that in 2020 four hundred and eighty-eight (488) local government units (LGUs) have ordinances banning single-use plastics. “With this, the stand of the local government against plastic pollution is evident,” EcoWaste Coalition said. Unlimited garbage About 35,800 tons of garbage, which include plastics, are generated each day by Filipinos, according to a position paper written by Alicia Castillo and Suchiro Otoma. “On average, each person in the country produces about 0.5 kilogram and 0.3 kilogram of garbage every day in the urban and rural areas, respectively.” Another report – from the National Solid Waste Management Commission and the World Bank – said 2.27 million tons of garbage are collected every year out of the 2.7 million tons produced. “Of this, 386,000 tons are still leaked into the ocean,” the report said. “An absence of garbage collection services in secondary cities and many of the country’s smaller islands is largely to blame for the overwhelming amount of plastic coming from the country,” Froilan Grate, GAIA executive director of the Philippine branch, was quoted as saying by South China Morning Post

cago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs and Milwaukee Bucks. He was the No. 3 pick in the 2001 NBA draft, being selected by Atlanta and traded to Memphis. Gasol won a world championship title with Spain in 2006, in addition to European titles in 2009, 2011 and 2015. He helped Spain bag Olympic silver medals in 2008 in Beijing and 2012 in London, as

well as a bronze in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro. Gasol recently won an election to represent athletes for the next seven years at the International Olympic Committee. He joined an IOC membership list drawn variously from European and Middle East royal families, international sports bodies, business leaders and 12 athletes elected by their peers.

The San Francisco Department of Health recently announced that anyone aged over 12 must be jabbed to attend indoor sports events. Wiggins drew attention to the issue last week, telling reporters it was his issue to deal with, not journalists’. Asked about the potential for lost in-

come, he said: “It’s my problem, not yours.” On Monday he described getting the vaccine as giving in. “Hopefully, there’s a lot of people out there that are stronger than me and keep fighting, stand for what they believe, and hopefully, it works out for them,” he said.

just let me focus on my craft,

slew of new off-court obligations, she admits that it has also opened the door to fun opportunities, including attending the Met Gala. “That was definitely an experience to get ready, to put on the makeup, get the hair done, putting on the heels for the very first time,” said Fernandez. “It was a little hard to walk on at first. The one thing on my mind going up the stairs in the Met was don’t fall down. Just walk one foot in front of the other.”

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on my tennis, and not be overwhelmed with everything that’s going right now,” said Fernandez. “Honestly I just can’t wait to be back on the tennis court competing again.” The Canadian has shot up to 28th in the rankings and is the 23rd seed at Indian Wells, where she will get a firstround bye at an event widely considered the unofficial fifth Grand Slam. While Fernandez’s U.S. Open run has resulted in a

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Former Lakers center Pau Gasol has retired from basketball.

Pau Gasol retires at 41

ADRID — Wishing his “older brother” Kobe Bryant could be there by his side, Pau Gasol finally put an end to a basketball career that went “way beyond my dreams and expectations.”

Gasol announced his retirement from basketball on Tuesday after a career that lasted more than two decades and earned him two NBA titles and a world championship gold with Spain’s national team. “In the end, playing until the age of 41, with everything that I have done, I think that’s not bad,” Gasol said. “I’m very pleased and very grateful for having the career that I had and for receiving so much affection and support.” Gasol had already announced his farewell from international basketball in August after Spain lost

to the United States in the quarterfinals of the Tokyo Games, which marked his fifth Olympics. Gasol had been with Spanish club Barcelona since February. His career had stalled before that because a left-foot injury that lingered and kept him from playing for nearly two years. “I’m going to retire from professional basketball,” Gasol said. “It’s a difficult decision after so many years, but it’s a decision that I really thought over.” The retirement announcement was made in an event at an opera house in Barcelona attended by

former teammates and family members, including his wife, young daughter and younger brother Marc. Gasol got choked up when mentioning someone who was missing — Bryant, his former Los Angeles Lakers teammate, who died in a helicopter crash last year. “I really would have liked for him to be here,” Gasol said. “Sometimes life can be very unfair and we miss him and his daughter ‘Gigi’ a great deal. He taught me how to be a better leader, a better competitor. He showed me what it meant to be a winner. I have always considered him my older brother, so thank you, Kobe.” Gasol said it was a risk to keep playing because his fractured foot could get worse and he could “only be able to swim and ride a bicycle for the rest of” his life. He said he had “the de-

Fernandez eager to return to action after Sharapova pep talk

anada’s Leylah Fernandez, who lost in the final of the U.S. Open, said on Tuesday she has since received advice from five-times Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova and cannot wait to get back on court. A day after falling to British teenager Emma Raducanu in last month’s final, Fernandez attended New York’s annual Met Gala where she had a chance to speak with Sharapova. “She gave me some pretty good advice,” Fernandez, 19, told reporters ahead of her return to competition this week at Indian Wells

for the BNP Paribas Open. “I don’t want to disclose any of it because it’s very personal for me. “She’s an amazing person. She told me her own experience and the way that she was able to bounce back and she’s just a great person, great inspiration to kind of look up to.” Fernandez won the Monterrey Open in March but upped her game considerably in New York where she beat defending champion Naomi Osaka, three-times Grand Slam winner Angelique Kerber and world number two

Aryna Sabalenka en route to the final. Against Raducanu, an 18-year-old qualifier making only her second Grand Slam appearance, Fernandez struggled with her serve during a straight sets loss but still showed enough to suggest she could be a lasting force. Fernandez has since faced a surge in demand for her time since the U.S. Open but credits her team for allowing her to stay focused on tennis. “I’m very lucky to have a great team around me to

FFERNANDEZ, P10

sire to be more at home, to spend more time doing other things.” Gasol said he did everything possible to return from the foot injury and was glad to be able to fulfill his dream of playing in front of his daughter. “It’s been one of the most beautiful periods of my career,” he said. “And to play again with the Spanish national team was something very special. We weren’t able to come away with a medal (at the Tokyo Olympics), but just being able to play was a great success for me.” Gasol won two NBA titles with the Lakers, in 2009 and 2010, and averaged 17 points and 9.2 rebounds in 1,226 regular-season games with five NBA teams, playing as a center and power forward. His other teams were the Memphis Grizzlies, Chi-

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‘Skeptic’ Wiggins says he was forced to get COVID-19 jab

OS ANGELES -- Golden State Warriors swingman Andrew Wiggins says he was forced to get the one dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine in order to keep playing in the National Basketball Association. “I guess you don’t own your body,” Wiggins said after the Warriors exhibition game Monday against Portland. “That’s what it comes down to. If you want to work in society today, then I guess they made the rules of what goes in your body and what you do.” Wiggins said he received the one dose Covid-19 shot which would allow him to compete in Golden State’s home games this season.

Wiggins had applied to the NBA for a religious exemption last month, but was denied. In his first public comments since receiving the vaccine, the 26-year-old Canadian said he was left with no other choice but to get it. “The only options were to get vaccinated or not play in the NBA,” Wiggins said. “It was a tough decision. Hopefully, it works out in the long run and in 10 years I’m still healthy.” Under new civic health and safety rules, Wiggins would have been barred from taking part in Golden State home games if he didn’t get vaccinated.

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Leylah Fernandez (CAN) works out on the practice courts at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. File Photo Reuters.

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PSC Indigenous Sports and Games Webinar series opens on Oct. 7

PSC Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey is in charge of IP sports program. PSC

nternational and local experts in traditional sports will headline the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)-backed 2021 Indigenous Sports and Games Webinar Series: Preserving and Promoting the Rich Cultural Heritage of our Ancestors starting October 7. The four-part webinar series is in conjunction with the celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Month which will bring together renowned resource speakers in the field. Tourism Officer of Hungduan, Ifugao Haydee Hermosora will open the series with a lecture forum on “Punnuk”, a post-harvest thanksgiving ritual practiced and performed by residents of Hungduan and later tagged as one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2015. Professor Jo-Ann Gimenez Grecia of the Department of Professional Education, University of East (UE) Manila will talk about “Teaching Philippine Games: Perspective from Non-Indigenous Physical Educator” on October 21. Followed by Director Ferdausi S. Cerna of the Bureau Office of Education, Culture, and Health of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples

(NCIP) who will explain “Cultural Sensitivity” on October 28. Capping off the series is Prof. Pere Lavega, President of the European Association of Traditional Sports and Games who will present “Traditional and Indigenous Games as Intangible Cultural Heritage” on November 5. PSC Commissioner Charles Raymond A. Maxey, oversight for the Indigenous Peoples Games program, said that he expects meaningful insights from all four invited resource speakers. “We believe that these honored resource speakers will further encourage not just the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) but all Filipinos to promote and showcase our traditional games,” Maxey said. Some 1,000 participants are expected to attend all four sessions which will commence at 1 p.m via Zoom. The four-part webinar is in collaboration with the NCIP and Pocari Sweat.