Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 179 | Tuesday, October 12, 2021 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

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CALLOUT Sara’s close contacts asked to monitor for symptoms, take RT-PCR test STORY ON PAGE 2

A city government of Davao employee repairs a used metal Christmas tree, which will be installed around the downtown area as part of the decorations for the upcoming “Pasko Fiesta sa Davao,” at Magsaysay Park in Davao City. Just like the previous year, the city government will set aside Christmas activities and celebrations due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

CALLOUT

President Rodrigo Duterte discounts the possibility that his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, would heed her supporters’clamor as she has made up her mind not to join the 2022 presidential race. Edge Davao

Sara’s close contacts asked to monitor for symptoms, take RT-PCR test By MAYA M. PADILLO

lose contacts of Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio in the past 14 days have been asked to self-monitor for symptoms and get a reverse transcript polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tested five to seven days from contact. On Saturday night, the presidential daughter’s office issued a statement that Mayor Sara has tested pos-

itive for Covid-19. This was a day after her followers waited for her filing of Certificate of Candidacy (CoC)

for President in the 2022 elections which did not happen. Instead, the bad news of her contracting the dreaded virus came. Mayor Sara became the third of the Duterte household to test positive for the Covid-19 virus. First was Vice Mayor Baste Duterte then recently, Congress-

man Paolo Duterte who is currently in isolation at a hospital while his family is under quarantine at their residence after testing positive for Covid-19. The Office of the City Mayor of Davao issued the notice over the weekend informing the public that the mayor has mild symptoms

be sourced from the annual budget allocation of the different offices like the City Health Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office, the City Mayor’s Office, and other offices. For this year, the Covid-19 response and preparedness budget expendi-

tures have already reached P89 million of which P72 million came from the budget of the CHO, CDRRMO and CSWDO. While P17 million came from the City Mayor’s Office for the ongoing construction of 17 barangay isolation units that would serve as disease surveillance stations in 17 barangays.

As of October 10, the number of active cases in the City of Mati went down to by 10% or 78 from 86 the previous week. Weekly deaths are also down to 4 from 6 the previous week. 42 individuals or 53% of the active cases are under granular lockdown (household level). The total

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Military captures over 1,000 NPA anti-personnel mines in Bukidnon

peratives of police and army claimed it recovered 1,076 pieces of various sizes of landmines at Sitio Malinao, Barangay Kalasungay, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on Friday (October 8). 1Lt. Abigail Lorenzo, chief of the civil military operations of Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (IB), in a statement said the recovery of these anti-personnel landmines (APM) happened after the revelation made by an NPA returnee, Ronald Landasan, a former squad leader of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 89. Landasan recently surrendered to the government troops together with his wife, Diden and their 21 and 16 years old daughters, Honey Mae and Yassi. According to Lorenzo, the said dynamites bur-

PNP chief orders early security preps for ‘Undas’

Mati to allocate P140M budget for A Covid-19 response, preparedness

ity of Mati Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat has approved the 2022 Covid-19 Response and Preparedness Budget (Covid-19 RPB) to the tune of around P140 million as proposed by the Mati City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in a meeting last October 8. The Covid-19 RPB will

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ied were to be used by the communist group to make APMs purposely to kill the soldiers operating in the mountains of Bukidnon. 8th IB commander Lt. Col. Edgardo Talaroc Jr,said they are coordinating with the police to file appropriate charges against the communist terrorist group. “They have violated the Ottawa Convention which prohibits the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of anti-personnel mines. We will also investigate and find out the source who gave the said dynamites to the CNTs to file charges against them,” Talaroc said. The said dynamites were already turned over to Bukidnon Provincial Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine for proper disposition.

fter the successful implementation of the security measures for the eight-day filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs), the Philippine National Police (PNP) is now preparing for this year’s observance of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said early security preparations have been proven effective in ensuring the safety of the public on big events that include the Undas on November 1 and 2. Eleazar said he has in-

structed unit commanders to start preparing for the security of the two-day event next month. “Inaasahan ko ang ating mga chiefs of police ay makikipag-ugnayan ng maaga sa kani-kanilang mga local government units upang pagplanuhan ang mga patakarang ipapatupad sa mga sementeryo, memorial parks at columbarium lalo na at nasa gitna pa tayo ng pandemya (I expect that our chiefs of police will coordinate early with their respective local gov-

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NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

Road workers put on the pedestrian lane markings on a newly asphalted street at the junction of J.P. Laurel Avenue and Sta. Ana Street in Davao City. Edge Davao

Free RT-PCR test for F2, F3 close contacts resumes Army destroys 77 landmines captured from NPA rebels

total of 77 assorted improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were destroyed by members of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division (ID) at Barangay Tignapoloan, Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday (October 9). Maj. Francisco Garello Jr., chief of the Division of Public Affairs Office (DPAO) of 4th ID, in a statement said these IEDs seized from the communist New People’s Army (NPA) purpose-

ly made as anti-personnel landmines (APM). The items were safely disposed of through detonation by the 10th Forward Service Support Unit (10FSSU) under its commander Lt. Col. Vladimir DC Sta. Maria. The 10FSSU was assisted by personnel from 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Platoon, 2nd EOD Company of the EOD Battalion of the Army Sup-

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

he city government of Davao has resumed conducting free reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) swab testing for the second-generation (F2) and third-generation (F3) contacts of a Covid-19 positive at the Magsaysay Swab testing Center since October 5, 2021. “Gibalik ang swabbing sa Magsaysay for F2 and F3, Tuesday last week. So ang maximum capacity daily sa Magsaysay is 150-250 per day,” said Dr. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson for Davao City Covid-19

Task Force. This is while the city is still waiting for the repair of the extraction machine that will run swab specimens of the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC). The repair

that the State of Israel has a national pavilion in an event of such magnitude in an Arab country. The invitation for Israel to participate in the event was already extended in 2018, even before the decision was taken to establish official relations. It is estimated that around 15 million people will visit the Israeli pavilion during the course of the event. The Israeli pavilion,

Israel joins in Dubai Expo 2020

he inauguration ceremony for the Israel Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai took place in the presence of 300 invited Israeli guests and UAE guests led by H.E Dr. Ahmad Belhoul, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium Enterprises. A press release dated October 11 (Monday) stated that the inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Israel Minister of Tour-

ism Yoel Razvozov and with the participation of Ministry of Tourism Director-General Amir Halevi, MFA Deputy Director General for Media and Public Affairs Noam Katz, the Commissioner-General of Israel’s Expo 2020 Pavilion Elazar Cohen, Rabbi Eli Abadi and the Israeli Consul in Dubai Ilan Sztulman. Rabbi Duchman affixed the mezuza during the opening ceremony. This is the first time

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caused the suspension of the RT-PCR test for the F2 and F3 close contacts of the Covid-19 last month. Schlosser added that the city government is maximizing its Los Amigos Molecular Laboratory and Davao International Airport (DIA) molecular laboratory to conduct and process more tests. She also stressed that even there was a temporary suspension of swab testing the contact tracing for the close contacts did not stop.

“We continued to inform them to conduct self-monitoring for COVID-19 symptoms,” Schlosser said, adding that those who exhibit symptoms or Influenza-Like-Illnesses (ILI) are immediately recommended for swabbing,” she said. On the other hand, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio clarified that the city will not issue an executive order to suspend EO 20-A or the mandatory swabtest for F1, F2, F3 while the

gender-sensitive but also gender-responsive. “That is why karon it is important for us to instill in the public that our gender and development efforts are there for us to encourage men, women and the LGBTQ+++ to join and help us nga kaning atong HPBS program will not be only gender-sensitive but

also gender-responsive. Regardless of gender, we will encourage everyone to participate in the future of HPBS,” Cue said on Monday through Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR). Cue said in the transport sector is driven by men everyone fails to look at the role of women and

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HPBS team assures no sector will be left behind he High Priority Bus System (HPBS) program management team assured on Monday no sector will be left behind in the full implementation of the project. Nicole Erika Cue of the regional office of the Department of Transportation (DOTR 11) said the HPBS program will not be only

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

A pump attendant refills a motorcycle with gasoline at a gasoline station along MacArthur highway in Matina, Davao City on Monday. Oil firms are expected to implement another big-time price hike on their petroleum products starting today, October 12, 2022. Edge Davao

DA, BOC sign accord to bolster ties vs. agri-products smuggling T he Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) have forged an accord to implement a new set of measures to curtail the entry of smuggled agricultural commodities.

In a statement on Saturday, the DA said Agriculture Secretary William Dar and Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero agreed to strengthen the “second border” inspections and create a technical working group (TWG) to review the 15-year-old guidelines and procedures on handling imported food items. “Our goal is to curb the entry of smuggled agri-fishery products, while ensuring consumer safety in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act (RA) No. 10611 or the ‘Food Safety Act of 2013’ and other applicable laws,” said Dar. The two agencies will implement an intensified

and stricter second border inspection and control procedures to ensure that all imported agricultural commodities will be monitored for food safety. The inspection will also include investigation of misdeclared goods, and violators will be penalized accordingly. As part of the renewed and strengthened DA-BOC anti-smuggling efforts, Dar said that all fresh and frozen agri-fishery cargoes will still undergo an “open-close” examination at the “first border” or port of entry, but will now be subjected to a stricter 100% inspection once they arrive at the designated warehouses or “second border.”

“This measure will only be temporary pending the completion of the first border facilities that will be constructed by the DA at major ports, starting in Subic, called as Commodity Examination Facility for Agriculture (CEFA),” the Agriculture chief said. The DA and BOC agreed to create a TWG to review and strengthen guidelines and protocols as stated under Department Memorandum Order No.4, Series of 2007. The TWG – chaired by agriculture assistant secretary for regulations Liza Battad, and co-chaired by DA assistant secretary for economic intelligence Federico Laciste, BOC deputy commissioner intelligence group Raniel Ramiro and assistant commissioner for post-clearance audit group Vincent Phillip Maronilla – will help establish sanitary

18 trading week, Unioil Petroleum Philippines said the price per liter of diesel could increase by P1.40 to P1.50. Gasoline prices, meanwhile, were seen to hike by P1.20 to P1.30 per liter. Oil companies usually

announce price adjustments every Monday to be implemented in the morning of the following day. Effective October 5, 2021, oil companies implemented a price hike of P1.45 to P1.50 per liter

and phytosanitary measures, food safety standards, and other regulatory measures in conducting first/ second border inspection and control procedures. The members of the TWG include respective heads of DA regulatory agencies such as the bureaus of plant industry (BPI), animal industry (BAI), and fisheries and aquatic resources (BFAR), and National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) and concerned BOC officers. Section 12 of the Food Safety Act states that “Imported foods shall undergo cargo inspection and clearance procedures by the DA and the Department of Health (DOH) at the first port of entry to determine compliance with national regulations. This inspection by the DA and the DOH shall always take place prior to assessment for tariff and other charges by the BOC.”

for gasoline and P2.00 to P2.10 per liter for diesel. Year-to-date adjustments stand at a total net increase of P16.55 per liter for gasoline and P15.00 per liter for diesel, according to the latest data from the Department of Energy.

Fuel prices seen to go up big-time this week

ump prices of petroleum products were expected to go up big-time this week, which would mark the seventh consecutive week of price hikes. In its fuel price forecast for the October 12 to

Zambo Sibugay farmers graduate from DAR’s farm business school

total of 37 certified farmer-entrepreneurs, graduated from the Farm Business School (FBS) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) during a ceremony held in Zamboanga Sibugay recently. DAR-Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Mohammad Dassan Adju said the FBS aims to develop agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to become agricultural entrepreneurs. Of the total 37 graduates, 22 are ARBs and farmer-members of the Tomitom Small Rubber Farmers Association and 15 are farmers tilling at least 500 square meters of vegetables and high-value crops in Zamboanga Sibugay “It has always been the purpose of DAR to look after the needs of the farmers, from training to agricultural inputs, we provide what they need to help them. And now with the FBS, we are not only helping them with their farm production but also equip them with the

knowledge in marketing their products,” Adju said. He said the FBS program is a unique educational system designed to help farmers learn and improve their knowledge and skills in entrepreneurship and farm business management. “The student farmers underwent a curriculum including assessing their current farm situation, devising a farm business plan and how to translate that plan into action, making their farms profitable, by managing their own farm business,” he added. “We are very lucky for being recipients of the DAR’s Farm Business School because we were taught on the preparation of a farm business plan that serves as our guide in farming,” said Mary Jane Butalid, a 39 year-old-farmer from Barangay Tomitom, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, one of the graduates. Butalid added the farmers in their community used to sell their harvests without knowing if they gained or lost.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

ECONOMY

A total of 37 farmers graduate from the Farm Business School (FBS) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) during a ceremony held in Zamboanga Sibugay recently. FBS aims to develop agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to become agricultural entrepreneurs. DAR

Small businesses, powerhouses of APEC’s economy: Ministers Over P12B in smuggled goods seized so far in 2021, says BOC

he Bureau of Customs (BOC) said Saturday it had so far seized more than P12 billion worth of smuggled goods this year, exceeding the full-year amount it seized in 2020. “Latest nito, lalampas kaunti sa kalahati ng taon, nalampasan na namin ‘yung figures na nahuli namin last year nasa mahigit 12 bilyong piso worth ng smuggled items na ang nahuli ng BOC sa taon na ‘to,” BOC Assistant Commissioner and spokesperson Vincent Maronilla said on PTV’s Laging Handa. (At the latest, just a few months over the first half of the year, we already surpassed last year’s figure of over P12 billion worth of smuggled items seized by the BOC this year.) Maronilla noted that in the first six months of 2021 alone, over P10 billion worth of smuggled goods were seized by the Customs Bureau. Meanwhile, the BOC

said that in September alone it surpassed its revenue collection target of P56.9 billion by 5.3% in September as it collected a total of P59.9 billion last month. This, as eight out of the seventeen collection districts exceeded their target for the month, namely: the Ports of Limay, Manila, San Fernando, Zamboanga, Davao, Iloilo, Legaspi, and Clark. Year-to-date, the BOC collected P472.204 billion since January reflecting 76.6% of the 2021 collection goal of P616.749 billion. Maronilla attributed the agency’s performance to its anti-corruption initiatives such as improved valuation as well as intensified collection efforts of all the ports, improvement of importation volume, and the government’s effort in ensuring the unhampered movement of goods domestically and internationally considering the pandemic situation.

inisters responsible for small and medium enterprises in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) have vowed to continue to address the needs of small businesses in Asia-Pacific through relief programs since they are the economic powerhouses. The affirmation was made as the region moves through the next phases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic response and recovery, according to a statement issued by the 27th APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting and received here on Saturday. Ministers convened

virtually at the 27th APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting on Saturday, with a collective goal to strengthen the resilience of small businesses across the Asia-Pacific region focused on digitalization, inclusive growth, and well-being. New Zealand’s Minister for Small Business Stuart Nash chaired the meeting.

In his opening remarks, Nash reiterated the role of small businesses as “the powerhouses of economies and communities.” “They unite our communities. The survival and resilience of our small businesses through this pandemic is critical to a sustainable economic recovery and maintaining the cohesion of our communities,” Nash said. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) constitute over 97 percent of businesses in the APEC region, employing over 60 percent of the workforce and comprising 40 to 60 percent of economic growth in most economies.

Nash urged members to acknowledge the essential role of trade in enabling a strong economic recovery for the region’s small businesses in the face of a global pandemic. “Our economies need to take bold action to enhance MSMEs and startups, ensuring access to international markets and supply chains by facilitating an open and inclusive trade and investment environment,” he added. APEC ministers acknowledged the critical importance of digitalization as an enabler of an effective recovery from economic shocks and agreed

March 2020 by increasing their gold sales to the BSP, the bank’s director of Mint and Refinery Operations Department Joseph Norbert David told reporters. “We are looking at making our rates more attractive to small miners and sellers. We are also looking at minimizing the processing cost,” David

said. Currently the Philippine Central Bank mint’s main office in Quezon City is required to assay or analyze gold purchases within 13 days. It is able to do a preliminary assay to assess the value and quality of gold it is purchasing within a few minutes before the payment of 99 per-

cent of the transaction cost. The fire assay takes longer, because they have to melt down the gold to assess the final pureness of the precious metal. It takes even longer when the gold has to be shipped from the Central Bank’s buying stations around the Philippines.

FSMALL, P10

Officials explore ways to entice small miners, sellers to transact with BSP

he Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is exploring ways to encourage small scale miners to transact with the central bank and to formalize their entry into the banking system, an official said. Small scale miners and traders have taken advantage of tax exemptions which took effect in

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

On his filing of candidacy for President:

Tinawagan ako [ni Cusi] 3 o’clock in the afternoon [on Friday] na pumunta sa Sofitel para mag-file ng COC. Okay, I’ll be there, pero malayo ako ha, baka ma-traffic ako, alas-5 ang deadline. Binilisan ko, pumunta ako doon. Iyon na, ginawa namin ‘yong COC at nag-file.” Sen. Bato Dela Rosa

EDITORIAL

Millennials in politics

One aspect of the filing of certificates of candidacy for the 2022 elections in Davao City from October 1 to 8, 2021 is that many of the aspirants are millennials. Millennials are aged 25 to 40 years or those born between 19811996. If the 18-24 year olds are included, it is said that 31.41 million of Philippine voters which now stand at more 61 million are young people, majority of them millennials.

4. Bonz Andre Militar, an IT graduate who served as chief of staff of his grandfather, veteran Councilor Bonifacio Militar, a popular lawyer who started his professional life also as a chief of staff of the late Vice Mayor Cornelio Maskariño. Militar authored Davao City’s ordinances against smoking in public and the ban on firecrackers, among other landmark legislations.

In Davao City, among the millennials who filed their COCs as of October 8, deadline of the filing, are:

6. Robert “Tambi” Sarenas, grandson of former Davao City Mayor Rodolfo Sarenas, a popular commentator and educator.

James Jimenez, director of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), told CNN “that’s how significant the youth vote is in the coming election.” 1. Danilo Dayanghirang II, a commercial pilot, son of Danilo, Sr., a popular city councilor who started his three-decade career as a millennial himself. Danilo Sr. is running for 2nd District congressman. 2. Luna Maria Dominique Acosta, a law graduate, daughter of consistent topnotcher councilor Maria Belen Sunga-Acosta.

3. Lorenzo “Enzo” Benjamin Villafuerte, a physical therapist, son of councilor Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte, a medical practitioner, who worked for the establishment of a first ever city hospital.

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To be sure there are millennial incumbent city councilors who also filed their COCs for reelection to add to the number of young lawmakers. These include Councilors Javi Garcia-Campos, Bonguyan, Dayap and others whose ages we still have to verify.

After the 2022 local elections, don’t be surprised if more than half of the 24 city councilors will be millennials. These young minds will be a well spring of fresh ideas of new ordinances and of innovative public service which will be needed by our growing city, 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

ANA MARIE G. SILPAO Layout

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

5. Paola Salvador, a former basketball coach, granddaughter of the inimitable opposition councilor Pedrito “Pedring” Salvador of Sasa and Buhangin. Sports development is Paola’s foremost advocacy.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

VANTAGE POINTS

HENRYLITO D. TACIO WHAT YOU CAN DO VS. CLIMATE CHANGE If there’s one issue that catches the attention of everyone, it’s climate change. After all, no one is spared from its consequences: sea level rise, famine, scorching heat of the sun, water crisis, more super typhoons and massive floods, and unwanted diseases. With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries of climate change. In fact, sea level rise in the country is expected to be three times that of the global average if the situation is unabated, according to the Climate Change Commission of the Philippines. In addition, sudden shifts from hot temperatures to incessant rains pose uncertainties to agriculture. Extreme rainfall and heat, heavy floods, and constant changes in weather pose great threat to lives, health, livelihood and development. Climate change knows no boundaries. It affects everyone. It will make the poor poorer, create more climate refugees, and greatly affect the vulnerable – children, women, elderly, persons with disabilities, and indigenous peoples. “Think globally, act locally,” so goes a slogan. The world is doing something to stop

the consequences of climate change. While the international community is trying to cut carbon dioxide emissions, there are some things that an individual can do. In the journal Environmental Research Letters, there are four actions that can make a difference. Let’s take a closer look at each: Living without a car: A typical passenger vehicle emits about 4.7 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year, according to the US Environment Protection Agency (EPA). This is assuming that the average gasoline vehicle in the road has a fuel economy of about 21.6 miles per gallon and drives around 11,4000 miles per year. “Every gallon of gasoline burned creates about 8,887 grams of carbon dioxide,” EPA claims. In addition to carbon dioxide, automobiles also other greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide from the tailpipe and hydrofluorocarbon emissions from leaking air conditioners. “The emissions of these gases are small in comparison to carbon dioxide; however, the impact of these emissions can be important because they have

a higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide,” EPA says. Avoiding air travel: “We hear much about the environmental costs of air travel,” wrote Duncan Clark in a feature which was published by The Guardian. “The problem is not just that planes burn a lot of fuel and therefore kick out plenty of carbon dioxide per passenger. Just as important are a host of other high-altitude impacts, including vapor trails and ozone production, that are usually estimated to cause as much warming as the carbon dioxide itself.” Compared to other modes of transport – like driving a car or taking the train – traveling by air has a greater climate impact per passenger kilometer, even over longer distances. “It’s also the mode of freight transport that produces the most emissions,” states the David Suzuki Foundation in its website. It’s not only carbon dioxide that planes emit. “When jet fuel is burned, the carbon in the fuel is released and bonds with oxygen in the air to form carbon dioxide,” the foundation explains. “Burning jet fuel also releases water vapor, nitrous oxides, sulphate and soot.” Avoiding eating meat: The

Guardian‘s Fiona Harvey wrote that intensive livestock-rearing is a major cause of greenhouse gases, “in part because of the methane produced by the animals and the massive slurry pits that accompany large farms.” Not only that, livestock raising also diverts water and grains to grow animals, “which is less efficient than directing the grains towards direct human consumption.” A study done scientists at the Oxford Martin School found out that by shifting to eating vegetables, or just by simply eating cutting down meat consumption “within accepted health guidelines,” would make a large dent in greenhouse gases. Another study, published in Nature Communications, analyzed about 500 food consumption and production without cutting down more forests. “The biggest contributing factor to food-related deforestation is eating meat,” the study says. Have less children: “More people mean more demand for oil, gas, coal and other fuels mined or drilled from the below the Earth’s surface that, when burned, spew enough carbon dioxide into the atmosphere to trap warm air inside

like a greenhouse,” the Scientific American says. According to Robin Andrews, in a feature which appeared in iflscience.com, wrote that that having just one less child “saves a remarkable 59 tons of carbon dioxide. This is 295 times more effective than regularly recycling, or 590 times more effective than using energy-efficient lightbulbs.” A couple of years back, Pope Francis made news when he commented that climate change is real and that it was mostly man-made. He did also urge couples not to breed “like rabbits” but rather plan their families responsibly. The Washington, D.C.based Worldwatch Institute said it right: “If we cannot stabilize population, there is not an ecosystem on Earth that we can save.” Currently, the population of the Philippines almost 107 million, based on the latest United Nations estimates. The country ranks number 13 in the list of countries by population, and home to 1.38% of the total world population. Let’s help stop the consequences of climate change. If we do all these four actions, we can do it!

FRED C. LUMBA SPECKS OF LIFE

THE POOR ARE LAGGING BEHIND “People are like dirt. They can either nourish you and help you grow as a person or they can stunt your growth and make you wilt or die.” - Plato. *******

This was the gist of the speech delivered by World Bank Group head David Malpass in Khartoum, Sudan recently. Malpass did not make an observation but rather a strong declaration that poverty hounds citizens of Third World countries - in Asia, Arica and South America specifically - no end. In our country, we need not even associate the chaos and the difficulties that the pandemic has brought upon us because poverty has been staring us in the face since the Philippines slowly but surely wilted under the onslaught of global developments in the sixties. Yes, don’t you forget that we were running second to Ja-

pan then. Our foreign exchange was only at four to one dollar until it slid to six per. Were we even bothered by that economic slide? No, I never thought about it. Because politics was then engulfing our national consciousness and we were enjoying the democracy we blindly copied after the Americans. While Singapore was then only creeping out of its cocoon, we never noticed that we needed a leader who had a good grasp of economics and executive management skills, not to say integrity. We were so deeply immersed in political rhetoric that we are now seeing today the folly of our ignorance and nonchalance. Yes, there are millions of Filipinos who are still dirt poor today because our leaders did not possess the vision that should have ideally provided the direction the country

trekked in the same manner that Singapore did. Why am I comparing the Philippines to Singapore? Why not? This small city state broke away from Malaysia’s apron strings to grow up on its own two feet, reaching First World status and the envy of every country. Looking back, we can carefully deduce that we cannot fault anyone but us for having installed political leaders who, through these decades past, have only sought their own preservation and establish poliical dynasties. Am I correct? Scan the political horizon and what do you see? Only the names of a few prominent families whose political stars continue to shine to this very day. They have been lording over our lives since even the advent of the Commonwealth regime. Their political tentacles have stretched far and

wide, from just mere provincial, then to regional and now nation-wide in scope. Poverty is the country’s public number one but every president who sat in Malacanang has vaguely addressed the issue as if it were just “one of those things.” To this day, one administration after another continues to rely on importations of food stuff - including rice, meat (pork and poultry) - when our agricultural sector can ably produce these. What gives? The adequate production of agricultural products and produce for national domestic supply and consumption will help bring prices of commodities down but we are not doing our economics. Mindanao has become the country’s breadbasket that has distinctly outlined the lives of Mindanaoans as distinctly different from their counterparts in the urban areas of Lu-

zon, particularly Metro Manila where millions of residents are groaning. FIlipinos do not deserve to live under these conditions. We live in an archipelago gifted with rich natural resources that are being eyed with covetousness by powerful nations around us. . However, we also have a people who cannot make heads or tails of our historical legacy and the contemporary socio-economic conditions because of a confused and chaotic mix-up of culture, ethics, education, religion and what have you. The poor cannot lag behind forever. They have been suffering for a long time and they cannot endure suffering eternally. A national leader with a vision and mission will one day appear and be hailed. Mark my words. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@ yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

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EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

EXTREME RIGHT: Breakfast all-day, every day at Omotown Breakfast Club. RIGHT: Breakfast is better with Omotown’s Eggs Benedict and a cup of coffee. BELOW: Omotown Breaakfast Club’s Spanish Omelette.

FOR ME, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Not only does it warm you up for the daily grind, breakfast sets the right tone and mood for the rest of your day. So imagine my utter delight to find a restaurant that specializes is everything a good breakfast has to offer.

Opened just recently, Omotown Breakfast Club is a quirky little restaurant that serves breakfast all-day and allnight long. Created by friends Melaika Rose Cudilla, Eloize Angeli Dayanghirang, Kristian Mikael Dillera, Julianne Kudemus, Gianna Marie Narvaez, and Elaine Patricia Tupas, Omotown is a product of ideas and inspiration drawn from a fusion of cafés they have seen from their travels abroad. “The name ‘Omotown’ came to fruition when we started our first business, our online store for Kpop merchandise @omotownonline. The term was coined by combining

OMNOMNOM AT OMOTOWN BREAKFAST CLUB LEFT: Omotown Breakfast Club’s Chef Joseph Magaling. EXTREME LEFT: Omotown Breakfast Club’s Clubhouse Sandwich and Burger Combo. the Korean expression ‘omo’ with ‘town.’ Omo, if anyone is familiar with, is a Korean expression related to exclaiming excitement or joy. The word ‘town’ emphasizes a community that shares that expression of joy or excitement.” shared Creative Director Elaine Tupas. “Even when our restaurant is not as much related to Kpop, we still wanted to carry the same name and establish it as a brand to keep for every business we decide to venture into the future.” Breakfast, brunch, and breakfast again While many restaurants in Durianburg carry a variety of ethnic flavors, Omotown Breakfast Club is unique with its specialization in breakfast and breakfast culture. Setting foot onto Omotown is like

stepping into a 1960’s diner with pastel pink walls, rose gold furniture, and neon lights all over. A quick glance at their menu and one is greeted with classic breakfast favorites. From classic Filipino breakfast staples such as beef tapa, pork tocino, to champorado served with danggit. For more international fare, Omotown serves decadent Eggs Benedict, and luscious Avocado toast, I am just missing a glass of mimosa. “Breakfast, as our moms always say, is the most important meal of the day” says Eloize Dayanghirang, Omotown’s Brand Director. “It’s also the most versatile as you could choose between savory or sweet or both. However, lately, breakfast has become a privilege because of the morning rush with work and school.

So as a group that enjoys the variety of food that breakfast offers, we thought of serving that luxury at our customers’ most convenient time. No matter what time they wake up or when their schedule frees up, they could still enjoy that filling and hearty meal any time of the day—indeed, it’s breakfast o’clock.” Eloize adds, “We are proud to serve food items that are made fresh in our kitchen. The different types of meat that we serve are being marinated and prepared by our kitchen staff daily, and so are the batter and specially-created sauces for our sweet and savory dishes. We do not skimp on quality and the serving size of our food; we want to make sure that it’s of great taste but at a reasonable price. Also, we pride ourselves on ensuring that the food is

nicely plated. It comes with the whole Omotown experience that we want our patrons to enjoy.” Aside from its outstanding breakfast choices, Omotown also has a great selection of sandwiches, pasta, pancakes, and waffles. There are also various shakes, milk teas, and coffee concoctions to get one’s caffeine fix, available all-day, every day. Omotown Breakfast Club can be found at Door 5B Autoville Compound, F. Torres St., Davao City and is open on Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. On Mondays, the restaurant is open from 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM. They also accept orders for pick-up and delivery. For more information, you can visit their FB page @omotownbreakfastclub or call +639672462765.

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VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

ENVIRONMENT

BAMBOO HELPS MITIGATE CLIMATE CHANGE, CURBS SOIL EROSION Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

lthough bamboo is considered a “poor man’s timber,” it has two valuable reputations when it comes to environmental protection. For one, bamboo can help mitigate the effects of climate change. For another, bamboo has proven to be an effective barrier against soil erosion. If it has to heed the report of Nobel Prize-winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world has only 11 years “to beef up its efforts to reduce global temperature before it crosses the threshold leading to climate catastrophe.” One of the best ways to save the world from the effects of climate change is by planting trees – “at least a trillion of them, and fast,” pointed out Laura Geggel in an article published by Live Science. “That may sound like a lot of trees, but the Earth has room for their gnarled bows and branches,” Geggel explained. Citing a study that excluded cities and agricultural areas, “researchers found that the planet has nearly 9 million square kilometers to spare for trees.” A “tree” that may just do the trick is bamboo, which is common in the Philippines. Bamboo, said the Interna-

tional Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR), is “a strategic resource for countries to reduce the effects of climate change.” Carbon sequestration “A number of bamboo species are potential tools for carbon sequestration and combating climate change,” said INBAR Director General Hans Friederich on behalf of its 40-member countries. This is good news as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is aiming to use bamboo in rehabilitating one million hectares of denuded uplands inside the country’s critical watersheds. “It’s not just economics that makes bamboo attractive for reforestation – bamboo is also ideal for climate change mitigation,” said Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu during the virtual summit on re-imagining, developing and sustaining mining communities with bamboo last September. Cimatu cited some studies which said that bamboo can sequester more than 5.0

tons of carbon dioxide per hectare annually. “That’s quite a big reduction in our carbon dioxide emissions,” he said. The environment department’s principal research and development arm when it comes to bamboo is the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB). Having done research on bamboo since 1987, it has established a Bambusetum at the Los Baños Experimental Station to conserve and preserve more than 40 different rare and endangered bamboo species. From 2013 to 2014, ERDB conducted a study assessing the carbon sequestration of four economically important bamboo species: “bolo” (Gigantochloa levis), “buho” (Schizostachyum lumampas), giant bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper), and “kawayan-tinik” (Bambusa blumeana). Results of the study showed bamboo can store 39.8% to 44.3% of carbon of its total biomass. “The carbon sequestration ability (of these bamboo) is almost comparable to trees (47.66%) which makes it an ideal element for reforestation efforts,” the ERDB said. Greenhouse effect During the Climate Change Media Workshop some years back in Davao City, Dr. Rosa T. Perez said that carbon dioxide and cer-

tain other gases are always present in the atmosphere. These gases create a warming effect that has some similarity to the warming inside a greenhouse, hence the name “greenhouse effect.” Dr. Perez explained human activities that emit additional greenhouse gases to the atmosphere increase the amount of heat that gets absorbed before escaping to space, thus enhancing the greenhouse effect and amplifying the warming of the earth. “Although the Earth’s climate has changed many times throughout its history, the rapid warming seen today cannot be explained by natural processes alone,” pointed out Dr. Perez who has a PhD in Meteorology from the University of the Philippines. Erosion control Bamboo can also help control soil erosion, according to a study conducted by a team of researchers from Central Mindanao University (CMU). They came up with the conclusion after assessing the contribution of giant bamboo (scientific name: Dendrocalamus asper) in the Taganibong Watershed in Musuan, Bukidnon. Soil erosion was measured every time it rains through the erosion bar method. In two years, data showed that giant bamboo cuts soil losses by 75% or

22.66 tons per hectare per year compared with 90.12 tons per hectare per year in open areas. Displaced soil particles are lessened by 80% while a river near a giant bamboo plantation decreased water discharge by 85%. The study, which was funded by the Laguna-based Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), also found that sediment yield – a major cause of siltation and flooding in lowland areas – decreased to 2 tons per hectare in a giant bamboo plantation compared to 50 tons per hectare in an open area. “Bamboo foliage also helps in intercepting raindrops and minimizing the impact to the soil surface,” the study said. “Bamboo litters also shield the soil from the impact of raindrops as decomposed litter improves soil structure and promotes water entry by 40%. This further reduces surface flow, translating to minimize soil erosion and landslides.” Bamboo is indeed an excellent choice when it comes to erosion control. “As an alternative to retaining walls and other man-made structures, bamboo can serve as an excellent means of erosion control,” observes the website,

bambubatu.com. “Whether you’re dealing with grades and terraces on a sloped property, or the loss of topsoil to river beds and irrigation run-off, the mighty roots of a well-established bamboo plant will provide a remarkable solution to erosion and other related problems.” According to the website, live bamboo, especially its vigorous root network, works in different ways to: consolidate topsoil, stabilize slopes, preserve river beds, prevent runoff, discourage trampling and reduce evaporation. Economic importance On its economic importance, bamboo is now one of the most sought-after materials in furniture production and building purposes. In fact, it is now gracing many high-end homes, hotels, and offices around the world. “The global bamboo market size was valued at $68.8 billion in 2018 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.0% from 2019 to 2025 to reach $98.30 billion by 2027,” said the website, grandviewresearch.com. “Growing investments focused on infrastructure development, increasing use of sustainable building/ construction resources, and rising consumer awareness regarding the uses and benefits of bamboo are expect-

FBAMBOO, P10

EDGEDAVAO

CALLOUT... FROM 2

and is in isolation. The statement also stated that the family requests for complete privacy at this time and respectfully urges the public to refrain from sending tokens for well wishes. Mayor Sara has received two shots of the China-made Sinopharm vaccine. Last week, Mayor Sara announced that her planned trip to Singapore for health reasons scheduled on October 5 to 8, 2021 was canceled after one of her staff who will accompany her on the trip tested positive for Covid-19. Mayor Sara’s supporters sent a prayer for her fast recovery at the same time appealing to her to change her decision and run for president in the 2022 elections. “Get well soon Inday Sara. We will pray for your immediate recovery. Still hoping for your decision to run for president. You are our only hope considering the kind of situations our country are facing right now. Please take good care of yourself!” Lalaine Kho posted. Lea Martinez commented that may the Lord touch the mayor’s heart and praying that she will be the next president of the country. “Healing be upon you May-

or Inday Sara in the name of Jesus! Praying for protection of the whole family and the people that surrounds you. May the Lord touch your heart and give you wisdom, knowledge and understanding because we are still hoping and praying that you will be our next president. Wala mi na wad-an og pag laom. We thank also Tay Digong for his service to the Filipinos. Dili ka namo malimtan Tay,” he commented. “We will support you all the way, prayers whole family we Will pray sa Ginoo ubanan ka permi sa tibook nmu mga lkaw ug desesyon, we love you ... Madam Inday Sarah we need you more ikaw ra among kusog ug kakampi. god bless you always,” Jamella Inti posted. Meanwhile, the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) extended its prayers of good health and speedy recovery to Mayor Sara following the unfortunate news that she has recently contracted Covid-19. On the other hand, Davao City First District Representative Paolo Z. Duterte is currently in isolation at a hospital while his family is under quarantine at their residence after testing positive for Covid-19.

confirmed cases now stands at 2,912 with 2,743 recoveries and 91 deaths. The City of Mati has also issued EO No. 100, series of 2021, last October 8 which eases up the age restrictions. Children ages 5 years old and above and senior citizens aged 65 years old and above can now go out of their houses provided the following: 1. Children must be accompanied by an adult that is fully vaccinated 2. Senior citizens must be fully vaccinated EO 100 is in support of the General Community Quarantine guidelines and IATF Resolution no. 142. On the ongoing Covid-19 vaccination program, 28.3 % of the target population are now

fully vaccinated while 7.3% have received their 1st dose with 64.3 % still unvaccinated. Mati IMT commander Dr. Ben Hur Catbagan Jr. is hopeful that with the current stocks of vaccines at the DOH Region 11, the City of Mati could achieve its aim of vaccinating at least 40% of the city’s target population by December. It was learned that Davao Oriental will get the biggest chunk of vaccine allocation for the latest deliveries at 225,516 doses total for both Sinovac and Pfizer brands. Despite the decreasing number of active cases and the easing up on age restrictions, the City of Mati will still strictly enforce City Ordinance 427 along with the Safety Seal enforcement. (CIO MATI)

under the banner Connecting Thoughts - Creating the Future and the headline To Tomorrow in a Hebrew and Arabic logo, features a design (by AVS Creative) inspired by the desert dunes common to both Israel and the Gulf States. The pavilion, which has no sides or barriers, signifies openness and welcoming guests. All these reflect the idea ofthe power of tomorrow to connect us and that creating a better future for humanity is within reach if we combine forces. The secondary theme, Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability, allows Israel to show-

case its capabilities in a variety of different areas such as agriculture, cyber security, medical equipment, water technologies and more. Israel Minister of Tourism Yoel Razvozov: “Peace allows us to forge a new reality in the Middle East that will bring prosperity, security and stability to all. We believe that in order to reach a better tomorrow, one should choose practical and positive actions today. So, I’m delighted to invite each and every one of you and each and every visitor, participant and host at this EXPO to come and visit our country.”

other genders. This is the rea-

and reduce traffic congestion. It aims to provide safe, convenient, sustainable, and efficient public transportation for all. In its continued assistance to PUV drivers and operators affected by the HPBS, the city government of Davao distributed 32 livelihood starter kits to beneficiaries at the Tugbok District Hall Gymnasium on October 7, 2021. The starter’s kits are part of the HPBS Livelihood Restoration Program, a joint program of the city government of Davao and partner agencies. A total of 17 beneficiaries received Sari-sari store starter kits and 15 others received the Bigasan package. Each package amounts to P10,000. The beneficiaries of the program also underwent GAD orientation led by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO). By Maya M. Padillo

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son why the team has integrated Gender and Development (GAD) in HPBS to include all the sectors in the society. “In the transport system makita nato nga ang women and other vulnerable sectors kay maapektuhan sila sa HPBS. GAD is very important becasue we recognize the equality in gender sa atoang society. Dili lang between men and women pero apil pud sa atong gipang recognize katong atong mga kaigsoonan nga under sa LGBTQ+ spectrum. This GAD aims to empower everyone regardless of gender for us to live a sustainable life that we are really driven sa self-determination and empowered,” Cue said. HPBS is a city government of Davao project that aims to shift from public utility jeepneys to bus systems to address the growing transportation demand

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PNP... FROM 2

ernment units to plan for policies that will be implemented in cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbarium especially as we are in the middle of a pandemic),” he said in a video message sent to reporters. Eleazar also reminded the public to plan ahead and check the regulations that will be implemented in their respective local government units (LGUs) in relation to visiting cemeteries. Last year, some LGUs closed down cemeteries and memorial parks on November 1 and 2 in anticipation of the influx of people amid the threat of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19). Some LGUs, on the other

hand, implemented visiting schedules to ensure the observation of Undas would not turn into a super spreader event. On the days that visits to cemeteries will be allowed, Eleazar said the police will strictly monitor the flock of people and guarantee that the minimum health standards will be followed. “Nagawa na natin ito noong nakaraang taon kaya’t nasisiguro kong magagampanan ulit nang maayos ng ating kapulisan ang kanilang tungkulin sa panahon ng Undas (We already did these last year so I am sure our police officers will be able to perform their duty during Undas),” he added. (PNA)

SPMC laboratory is undergoing repair. In April this year, Mayor Sara has ordered the mandatory quarantine of all F1 or “first-generation” contacts of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the city through executive order (EO) for the mandatory swab testing of “all F1, F2, and F3” contacts of Covid-19-infected individuals whose results were confirmed by an RT-PCR test. F1 contacts are “first-generation contacts of an RT-PCRconfirmed Covid-19-positive case; F2 contacts the second-generation contacts of an RT-PCR-confirmed Covid-19-positive case (close

contacts of F1); F3 contacts are third-generation contacts of an RT-PCR-confirmed Covid-19-positive case (close contacts of F2). “Dili ta magpagawas og executive order (to suspend EO 20-A, mandatory swab test for F1, F2, F3) pero duna lang tay internal agreement with the health group with regard to maghatag ug leeway because dili sala sa mga tao nga nadaot ang machine dinha sa SPMC. But kung ang tao ma-contact trace siya and masultihan siya nga kinahanglan siya magpatest pwede gihapon siya magpatest on his own sa private laboratories,” the mayor announced last month.

port Command (ASCOM). Garello said the disposal operation was successfully conducted with all safety protocols followed. The biggest of the IEDs is a 20-liter container sized explosive device that could have easily killed or injured innocent civilians had it not been captured by the government troops. 4th ID chief Maj. Gen. Romeo S Brawner Jr, meanwhile said that the IEDs/APMs seized or captured from the communist terrorist group (CTG) by the Battalions of the 4ID will be continuously disposed of. Brawner added that the recent disposal of the APMs is made to ensure that it will not be used anymore since it is strictly prohibited and a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the Ottawa Treaty. Under the Ottawa treaty or the 1997 Anti-Personnel Mine (APM) Ban Convention, the use of landmines is prohibited. The treaty prohibits the production, stockpiling, transfer, and use of APMs to

ensure the implementation of humanitarian rules restricting armed violence. He said the continued production and use of APMs and other types of IEDs by the CPP-NPA-NDF proved that they have no regard on the value of human life and the sacredness of a human body as its use as a method to defeat an adversary is inhumane and unnecessary. “We call on the CTG to stop using APMs and other IEDs that put our people in grave danger. While your Army continuously assures commitment to strictly adhere to the IHL, we implore the CTG to abide and respect the IHL and the laws of armed conflict or else we will ensure that they will be held accountable and be brought to justice,” Brawner added. The IHL is a set of rules that limit the effects of armed conflict and protect civilians who are not participating in the hostilities. IHL also restricts the means and methods of warfare.

that the adoption of digital solutions and tools are no longer optional, but necessary. “Rapid innovation and digital technologies have supported us to overcome many of the significant obstacles we have faced as a result of Covid-19, such as the restricted movement of goods and people,” Nash said. “There are huge opportunities for APEC economies to enhance cooperation around adopting digital technologies and innovation to create more efficient and resilient futures for us all,” he added. Nash also urged member economies to ensure that policies deliver economic opportunities for all, including women, indigenous people, and other vulnerable groups, as greater focus on

inclusive growth will unleash untapped economic potential. “Building small businesses’ resilience also needs to take into consideration the well-being of the owners,” he said. “By reducing disparities and improving the well-being of small businesses’ owners, APEC economies can increase engagement and productivity, and thus underpin economic stability and growth and enhance the overall well-being of our communities.” Small businesses also have a significant role to play in fostering an environmentally sustainable recovery. APEC ministers agreed to create an enabling environment for small businesses to engage in innovative, environmentally sustainable practices and activities. (Antara)

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ed to drive the market growth

over the forecast period,” the website added. Bamboos, along with rattan, provide several environmental, economic, and social benefits to the community where it is grown. “Bamboo is a sustainable resource that can grow under a range of climatic conditions, but preferably a tropical climate,” the website said. “It provides approximately 35% more oxygen and absorbs 40% more carbon dioxide as compared to trees, which results in a substantial improvement in the air quality. Further, cultivation of bamboo offers carbon fixation, controls soil erosion, and purifies the environment.” In the world market, bamboo is more preferred over timber as the former is easier to harvest, transport and are relatively affordable. Aside from being resilient, bamboo grows fast. Some species of bamboo are clocked at growing over 90 centimeters in height in a day. That’s over 3.8 centimeters in one hour! No other plant on earth can do that. “Bamboo can reach full maturity in one to 5 years (depending on species),” states the bamboobotanicals.ca. “Hardwood trees can take 30 to 40 years. It is the only woody plant that can keep up with the rate of human consumption and deforestation.” The bamboo business, however, is labor intensive, more so during the first two years of operation. Studies have shown that labor alone eats around 90 percent of the total production cost. But the beauty of bamboo growing lies in passing the first two critical growing years. “If the bamboo survives, you are assured of money for the next 30 to 50 years,” says a bamboo grower. Another good thing: the price of bamboo does not suffer from severe fluctuations unlike pork and chicken. In fact, they are priced depending on the diameter, volume and distance traveled. Renewable resource One good thing about bamboo is that it is a renewable resource. When it is harvested, bamboo will continue to grow new shorts from its root system. There is no additional

planting or cultivation. Bamboo requires no chemicals, pesticides or fertilizer to grow and thrive. Its very own fallen leaves provide the necessary nutrients that get recycled back into the soil. Meanwhile, the environment department has issued Department Administrative Order No. 2021-26 (DAO 202126), which lays down the rules and regulations governing the establishment, harvesting and transport of bamboo in the country. Under the administrative order, a one-time registration fee for a certificate of bamboo plantation registration, which has no expiration until the bamboo stand is declared unproductive, is all needed for a person who wants to plant bamboo in his land. DAO 2021-26 also stated that registration of tenured forest land holders and backyard farms is exempted, “if these are for personal consumption and transported within the municipality.” If backyard farms want to produce bamboo for commercial production, these may be registered as individuals “provided that they have steady and sustainable supply,” or may opt to form a cooperative/association instead. The environment department will also help bamboo entrepreneurs in accessing technology transfer arrangements provided by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and concerned government units. In addition, the administrative order also provides incentives to bamboo plantation owners for plantation development and bamboo processing enterprises, and outlines guidance on capacity-building, research and development, technology transfer, financial subsidy, and other support activities. “Bamboo is not a weed, it’s a flowering plant. Bamboo is a magnificent plant,” commented Steve Lacy. Thomas Alva Edison supposedly used a carbonized bamboo filament in his experiments in developing the light bulb. Alexander Graham Bell also used bamboo for his first phonograph needle. “You can eat, wear, and build with bamboo,” said Michael Block

pa bakunado. Kaya nakikiusap ako sa inyo, please magtiwala kayo sa gobyerno at magtiwala kayo sa bakuna,” he appealed. The government has currently administered a total of 48.4 million doses of vaccines with a daily average of 463,320 doses in the last seven days, as of October 6. A total of 22.7 million Filipinos are fully vaccinated while another 25.7 million have received their first shots. To avoid further risks of getting and spreading the virus, Go also reminded the public to observe proper mask use, physical distancing and other health protocols. He assured that the government is doing everything it can to procure a sufficient supply of vaccines at the soonest possible time while ensuring patients continue to receive the care that they need. In line with government’s efforts to improve access to health care, the Senator announced the official launch of the country’s 142nd and the city’s second Malasakit Center which he also personally attended later in the day at the Valenzuela Medical Center. The Malasakit Center at the Valenzuela City Emergency Hospital previously opened its own in August 2019. The Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops pioneered by Go that host the government agencies with programs that provide medical assistance to

patients, particularly the poor and indigent. The agencies include the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The program was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, also known as the Malasakit Centers Act, which President Rodrigo Duterte signed in 2019. The Act, which Go authored and sponsored in the Senate, aims to help reduce a hospital bill to the lowest possible amount by covering various patient services and expenses. Representative Gatchalian filed the counterpart bill in the lower house. “Batas ito na isinulong namin ni Senator (Sherwin) Gatchalian at Rep. Gatchalian noong 2019. Nasa loob na ng ospital ang mga ahensya na tutulungan kayo hanggang maging zero balance ang inyong billing para wala na kayong babayaran sa inyong pagpapa-ospital. Iyan ang Malasakit Center. Walang pinipili ‘yan, walang pulitika diyan,” explained Go. “Huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa amin at kami ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan niyo kami ng pagkakataon para makapagserbisyo. Ako, hindi ko sasayangin ang oras na ito. Magseserbisyo ako sa inyong lahat sa abot ng aming makakaya,” he vowed.

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SPORTS

Tyson Fury (top) knocks out Deontay Wilder in the 11th round during their WBC heavyweight title fight at T-Mobile Arena on October 09, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Nets’ Irving can practice with team

rooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving will be able to practice with his team, NBA insider Shams Charania confirmed on Saturday. “New York City has determined the Brooklyn Nets’ practice facility, HSS Training Center, is a private office building -- clearing Nets All-Star Kyrie Irving to practice at home,” Shams Charania said on Twitter. A City Hall official

said Irving is cleared to practice at home, but still will not be able to play in games at Barclays Center until the All-NBA guard fulfills vaccine requirements, Charania added. The 29-year-old has yet to practice with his team at their facility due to New York City’s vaccine mandate. A seven-time All-Star, he had won the 2016 NBA title with the Cleveland Cavaliers. (Anadolu)

Fury caps epic trilogy vs. Wilder with 11th-round KO

AS VEGAS — Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder put on a heavyweight battle for the ages on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena. There were five knockdowns, three by Fury and two by Wilder, in a wild battle that enthralled the crowd of 15,820 that witnessed one of the best heavyweight fights in years. Fury dropped Wilder with a crushing right hand in the 11th, causing referee Russell Mora to wave it off and stop it at 1:10, giving Fury the TKO victory and a 2-0-1 edge in their epic trilogy.

Over the three fights, Fury knocked Wilder down five times and Wilder dropped Fury four times. They saved the best for last, though. They went at each other with, yeah, a fury on Sat-

heavyweight in the world and he’s the second-best.” This was, by far, the most entertaining fight of the series. The first fight was excellent but most of the drama in that bout was saved for the 12th, when Wilder dropped Fury and Fury unexpectedly got up. Fury dominated the second bout, stopping Wilder in the seventh. But this time, both took and gave out a lot of punishment. In the third, Fury dropped Wilder late in the round and that may have saved Wilder from being stopped then.

reached her putative meeting with Simona Halep in the next round, she would have had no coach with her at all. Such logistics are not primarily Raducanu’s responsibility, even if she is unusually hands-on for an 18-year-old. It should be up to the people around her to provide everything she needs. Instead, the impression is that her family, agents and advisors have been taken by surprise by her sudden emergence. Perhaps this is understandable, given the shock factor of the US Open triumph. When you add up the hundreds of major tournaments that had gone past without a qualifier ever winning one, what Raducanu did in New York was effectively impossible. Still, a sustainable plan for the future is now urgently required, even if there must now be a possibility that the

rest of 2021 will be written off while a permanent coaching appointment is sought. Indian Wells was always going to be a challenging return to the game for a woman who now has a target on her back. And Raducanu herself sounded woebegone after the match. Speaking to a small group of reporters, she was asked how she planned to replace Andrew Richardson – the coach who had assisted her during the US Open, only to find that his contract was not extended thereafter. Raducan’s reply was unexpected. “If any experienced coaches are out there looking, you know where to find me,” she said. We initially thought that this was just a throwaway line, but she came back to it in the very next answer. “I’m not joking,” she insisted, “if anyone knows any experienced coaches.”

Raducanu wants new coach

Emma Raducanu sends out plea for new coach after opening-round defeat at Indian Wells - GETTY IMAGES

urday, ripping big shots at each other from the opening bell. But Wilder was weakened by the big shots the nearly 280-pound WBC champion kept hitting him with. He was struggling to keep his balance in the latter stages, but was still dangerous and catching Fury with big shots. “It was a tough fight and he came in really determined,” said Fury, the lineal champion who retained the WBC heavyweight title with the 31st win and 22nd knockout of his career. “I’ve always said I’m the best

mma Raducanu’s straightsets defeat on Friday night will have come as no surprise to anyone who studies tennis history. There are isolated examples of players winning their next tournament after a maiden grand-slam title – Victoria Azarenka and Ashleigh Barty included – but most newly minted champions take longer to adjust. What was more concerning, however, was the lack of support around Raducanu in the Californian desert. Here is the hottest property in tennis; arguably even in sport. And yet she had no more than a skeleton crew with her at Indian Wells: co-agent Chris Helliar, hitting partner Raymond Sarmiento (who lives locally in Los Angeles) and locum coach Jeremy Bates, who was always going to leave the tournament this weekend because of prior commitments. Had Raducanu

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 179 • TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2021

The new Wellness Entertainment Sports or WES Arena in Valenzuela City.

SPORTS ARENA Go lauds opening of first multi-sports arena

enator and Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports Christopher “Bong” Go on Thursday, October 7, personally witnessed the inauguration of the Wellness Entertainment Sports or WES Arena in Valenzuela City which he believes will serve as a catalyst for the further development of the city and its constituents. In his speech, Go praised the city government for its handling of the vaccine drive. He expressed confidence that the arena will enable the program to expand at an even quicker rate and reminded officials to continue prioritizing getting their constituents vaccinated ahead of the campaign season. “May pakiusap lang po ako sa lahat, wala pa naman pong kampanya. Medyo mainit lang ‘yung usapan sa pulitika dahil nag-aantayan. Isa lang po ang pakiusap ko sa mga kababayan ko, sa mga kandidato, puwede ba mamaya na lang natin pag-usapan ‘yung pulitika. Maraming salamat po sa lahat ng papuri pero mas kailangan po ng taumbayan ngayon na magtrabaho muna tayo,” Go emphasized. “Ulitin ko po, bakuna muna bago ang pulitika. ‘Yun po ang kailangan natin sa ngayon,” added Go, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Health. An initiative of Deputy Speaker and 1st District Representative Weslie Gatchalian, the 1.2-hectare facility is the first multi-sports arena in Valenzuela and will feature basketball courts, a volley-

ball court, and a badminton area, among others. The arena will continue to be used as a vaccination site until the conclusion of the COVID-19 vaccination program. “Ang ganda ng takbo ng vaccinations sa Metro Manila at nako-contain na ang mga kaso ngayon. Sana tuluy-tuloy ang ginagawa ninyo dito at nakakatuwa na mayroon tayong mga napakagaling na timon,” he continued. The Senator expressed optimism as the government expands the vaccination program to the general population. He explained that vaccines are key to achieving lasting protection against the virus towards herd immunity and return to normalcy. “Mabilis ‘yung pagpapabakuna natin ngayon, so nakakatuwa na unti-unti ng bumababa ‘yung bilang ng mga kaso. Napatunayan natin na ‘pag bakunado ka, protektado ka. Nakikiusap ako sa mga taga-Valenzuela, please magpabakuna na kayo. Huwag kayong matakot sa bakuna at pinaghirapan ng gobyerno na ma-procure ito para sa inyong lahat,” continued Go. “Nasa datos naman na kung sino ang nag-positibo at grabe ‘yung sintomas ay kadalasan ito ‘yung mga hindi

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