Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 189 | Saturday, October 23, 2021 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

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PUSHING FINALLY Mindanao Railway project moves forward with contract signing STORY ON PAGE 2

Relatives visit their departed loved ones at the area of Wireless Cemetery in Davao City where the urn of ashes of Covid-19 victims and deceased infants are buried, two days before the scheduled closure of cemeteries and columbariums in the city. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

President Rodrigo Duterte shows the copy of Republic Act 11524 or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act that he received from Senator Cynthia Villar and Representative Alan Peter Cayetano before handing it over to Philippine Coconut Administrator Benjamin Madrigal Jr. during the joint National Task Force-Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict IV-A meeting at the Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City, Quezon on Thursday. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

PUSHING FINALLY A

DepEd to monitor measures vs Covid-19 among students

Mindanao Railway project moves forward with contract signing By MAYA M. PADILLO

he Mindanao Railway Project (MRP) is finally moving forward following the recent signing of the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the China Railway Design Corporation for the P3 billion project management consultant contract. DoTr-Mindanao Railway Project Manager Clipton J. Solamo affirmed to Edge Davao that DoTr has signed the contract for the project management last Monday and construction will follow. “There are two contractors for the Mindanao Rail. We signed the contract for the Project Management Consultant last

Monday. Construction will follow once we can procure the Design and Build Contractor,” he said. China Railway Design will assist the government in project management and cost estimates and design. “As soon as we receive the shortlist from China for the procurement, the construction of the project will

follow,” Solamo said. The Mindanao Railway Project-Tagum-Davao-Digos (MRP-TDD) first phase will be funded by China and covers the first 100-kilometers of the proposed 1,500-km Mindanao Railway project. The project has eight stations with three in Davao del Norte, three in Davao City, and two in Davao del Sur. A 10-hectare depot will be built in Tagum. The MRP is among big-ticket projects under the Duterte administration’s ‘Build Build Build” (BBB) program which is expected to have the most economic impact in terms

of revitalizing the economy and getting the Davao Region back to its pre-Covid crisis growth rates and employment levels. The Regional Development Council (RDC 11) has endorsed a list of Davao Region’s Build, Build, Build (BBB) Flagship Projects for endorsement to the Cabinet Economic Development Cluster (EDC) including the Mindanao train project. The RDC 11’s prioritized nine projects for the years 2020 to 2022 are Samal Island-Davao Connector (SIDC); Davao Public Transport Modernization (DPTM); Davao City Coast-

FPUSHING, P6

n official of the Department of Education (DepEd) assured on Friday that the agency will monitor whether schools have neglected measures against transmission of Covid-19 among students of the schools identified for the pilot testing of the face-to-face classes which will commence on November 15, 2021. This is to allay the fear of the parents in case transmission of Covid-19 occurs during the face-to-face classes. “Marami ang dahilan kung bakit nahahawa ang mag-aaral o guro sa Covid. Ang kailangan natin tingnan kung meron bang kapapabayaan yung paaralan nung isinagawa nila ang face-to-face. Ito ang titingnan natin sa bahagi ng DepEd. I-monitor natin ng masusi kung merong kapabayaan at yun ang magiging batayan kung meron bang pananagutan ang ating mga paaralan,” said Education Assistant Secretary Malcolm Garma in a virtual presser.

Education Secretary Leonor Briones assured that DepEd has been preparing for this since last year even consulted the Department of Health (DOH). “Maski na qualified ang eskwelahan kung may risko na ma-expose ang ating kabataan and teachers, hindi natin yan itutuloy (faceto-face),” she said. Recently, DepEd announced that there are only 30 public schools to proceed with the limited faceto-face classes that will start in the country next month. A second round of validation in the regions is underway for 70 more institutions. The face-to-face classes will also be held in the schools in Northern Mindanao, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen. A total of 18 schools in the Davao Region will pilot the holding of face-to-face classes and these schools were selected by DepEd 11. Meanwhile, the city government of Davao has recommended five schools

the new 4x4 Toyoto Hilux to Lt. Col. Gregore during a simple ceremony at the Mati City Hall Ground Friday, October 22. The new vehicle will be used by the Mati PNP for rescue and other police-related activities in Mati City. The vehicle cost is P1,66 With this support, The Mati PNP is very

grateful to City of Mati LGU for the support given to them most especially to Hon. Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat. The said vehicle is worth 1,663,080 pesos. On February 2020, Mayor Michelle also turned over a 4x2 Toyota Hilux to Mati PNP worth P1.6 million. (MATI CIO/ Kristine Garcero)

FDEPED, P6

RT-PCR for fully vaccinated MNR turns over brand DIA passengers still in effect new vehicle to Mati PNP

he city government of Davao is not yet keen on lifting the mandatory reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing for fully vaccinated air passengers arriving at Davao International Airport (DIA). Dr. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson of the Davao City Covid-19 Task Force, clarified that the city

is still following the testing and quarantine protocols of fully vaccinated passengers based on the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) Resolution No. 142 Series of 2021. “We are going to follow the IATF Resolution 142. Ang katong mga fully vaccinated they will still undergo facility-based quarantine until the re-

lease of their RT-PCR test. Kinahanglan kuhaan gihapon sila ug RT-PCR, kung naa sila’y RT-PCR negative valid for 72 hours they are still going to do the home quarantine which is the completion of 10-day home quarantine,” Schlosser said. The city government of Davao has issued re-

FRT-PCR, P6

n her message at the turnover of command ceremony of the City of Mati Philippine National Police, Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat promised the new city police chief Police Lt. Col. Ernesto Gregore of a new vehicle for his unit. In just a few weeks, Mayor Michelle personally handed over the key of

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

EDGEDAVAO

4 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

In appealing to the public to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and assuring that once the country attains population protection leading to herd immunity, the government can consider relaxing more economic restrictions:

Magtiwala ho kayo sa bakuna. Ang bakuna po ang tanging susi o solusyon sa ngayon para unti-unti na tayong makabalik sa ating normal na pamumuhay, wala na pong iba.”

Senator Christopher

EDITORIAL Full cooperation Face-to-face classes will soon commence in the country and the Department of Education is leaving no stones unturned in preparing for this highly-anticipated return to classroom teaching.

There will be an initial 30 public schools to proceed with the limited face-to-face classes that will start in the country next month. A second round of validation in the regions is underway for 70 more institutions. Based on Deped’s order, the face-to-face classes will be held in the schools in Northern Mindanao, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen. In the Davao Region, 18 schools will pilot the holding of faceto-face classes and these schools were selected by DepEd 11. As this developed, the city government of Davao recommended five schools in Davao City, with minimal risk of

EDGEDAVAO

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It will be a big challenge on the part of DepEd to push through with the face-to-face instruction but they have assured everyone that all the necessary measures are in place.

For this to succeed, DepEd will need the cooperation of the community especially the families of children who will be involved in this pilot program. 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

Covid-19, to be included in the pilot run of limited face-toface classes and these are Dalagdag National High School with Senior High in Barangay Dalagdag, G. Tajo National High School with Senior High in Barangay Lampianao, Saloy National High School with Senior High in Barangay Saloy, Mabuhay Elementary School now Victor Bernal Integrated School with Kindergarten in Barangay Mabuhay, and Gumitan Elementary School with Kindergarten in Barangay Gumitan.

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 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

“I

GAME CHANGER

used to think that life could happen as planned, even if not perfectly. But in the past few years, I have seen how the world could change in a few months, and even more in a few years. Most things in life are uncertain and unsure foundations…”

Those words came from the pen of Reychelle Moira K. Lagat, a twentyone-year-old Dabawenya who has travelled in several countries, including those in Europe, North and South America, and Asia. But what sets her apart from youngsters of her age is that she has already written two self-published books through Amazon. “This means that I write the books, my mom and I go through them for editing, and my dad takes care of the covers and the layout,” Lagat explains. “We also have to meet some requirements that Amazon asked for. All Amazon has to do is provide the opportunity for printing the books and making it available worldwide.” The first book was entitled, Puzzled Without You. “I did not know what I would feel as I shared this book with the world, but I can see now that God is doing great things, beyond what we ask or imagine,” she says. In the book, she says she adds some “reflective questions after every chapter to make readers think and reflect on how to apply what they have read.” She also says, “I hope and pray that this book will remind readers that if the world was a puzzle, it would be incomplete with-

out each of us. And if our lives were puzzles, they would be incomplete without God. The world would be puzzled without you, and you would be puzzled without God.” Printing the book was a herculean task. “My parents and I had to navigate through Amazon publishing and the whole process of printing,” she says. “It may sound like an easy process, but the four months of processing taught me a lot about patience and trusting God.” The second book was Rested in You, which highlights about finding true rest in Jesus. “In this season of pandemic and all throughout life, there are lots of struggles and battles people face,” she says. “As I learned to find rest in Jesus, I decided to write about what God was teaching me. (Through the book), I hope to encourage people to pause and rest, instead of feeling drained in this ‘hustle culture.’” Although the second book was still self-published, they already learned their lesson with the first book. “It also took me four months to write the book,” she admits. “Since I hoped to have it out by my birth month as well, it took two months to finalize the book, re-read it four times for editing, wait

PROFILE:

PORTRAIT OF 21-YEAR-OLD DABAWENYA AS AMAZON BOOK AUTHOR By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

courtesy of Reychelle Lagat

for the forewords, and finalize its cover. We may have had some experience, but the process was still a challenge.” If you are wondering why her books have Christian themes, it’s because Lagat grew up in a Christian family. “I understand that being a Christian is not something passed down, but personally realized,” she says. “So even if I knew almost all the Bible stories as a kid, and memorized different verses and songs, it was accepting Jesus to be my Lord and Savior that really changed my life.” Although Lagat was born in the Philippines, she literally grew up in the United States. Her mother worked as a nurse in the US when she was still single. She returned to the

Philippines when she married her boyfriend, whom she met in a church when both were still in high school. Three years after they tied the nuptial knot, Reychelle came. Reychelle was only eight months old when her mother brought her to California. Her father followed them a year later. From California, the family moved to Lawrenceville, Georgia where they lived for ten years. “Living in Georgia was amazing,” she recalls. “A few things I tell people about are the four seasons change, the not-so-busy life, and the scenery. It was a wonderful place to experience full summer heat, soft spring bloom, cozy fall vibes, and cold winter view. I loved experiencing every season, especially

fall and winter.” She bade goodbyes to all these when the family moved back to the Philippines in 2011. “My tenyear old, almost elevenyear-old self, was having a hard time wrapping her mind around the fact that everything I was familiar with would be replaced with unknown places and faces,” she admits. Not that she had not been to the Philippines yet. In fact, she visited the country two times before. “Both times, there was a new experience and more memories made,” she recalls. “I got to spend time with some relatives, explore places like Eden Nature Park and Samal Island, attend two family weddings, and even spend time with my lolo before he passed away.”

Having lived in the United States and now in the Philippines (settling in Davao City) is quite unique. “I spent half of my life in America and it is a country I hold dear,” she says. “The culture in America is a little different from that in the Philippines, but both countries have things I love about them.” Looking at it now, Lagat says, “I really am grateful to have two cultures, two countries, as part of my life,” she says. “I miss my friends and family, but thinking about everything God has allowed me to experience and go through helps me reflect on how I should think, act, and live.” Are those experiences help her to become a writer?

FPORTRAIT, P6

A1 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

An oil depot in Brgy. Sasa, Davao City. The Department of Finance (DOF) forecasted that around P131.4 billion worth of government revenues will be lost in 2022 if the proposed suspension of excise tax on petroleum products will be passed by lawmakers. Edge Davao

Gov’t to lose P131-B in 2022 from proposed fuel excise tax deferment

round PHP131.4 billion worth of government revenues are seen to be lost in 2022 if the proposed suspension of excise tax on petroleum products will be passed by lawmakers, the Department of Finance (DOF) said.

Specifically, around PHP24.7 billion will not be collected by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) as baseline excise revenues while around PHP106.7 billion will not be collected from the incremental excise revenues under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law or Republic Act 10963. These figures were based on the projected total excise collection from petroleum products in the 2022 Budget of Expen-

ditures and Sources of financing (BESF), Finance Undersecretary for Revenue Operations Group Antonette Tionko said in a memorandum to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III dated October 20. “Any suspension of the imposition of excise taxes should be appropriately studied as the revenue to be foregone is substantial and may affect the government’s budget for Covid-19 recovery measures,” she said.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi earlier proposed the suspension of excise taxes on fuel products given the upticks in domestic oil prices, which is a result of developments in the international market. He said the government can tap the provision of the TRAIN law for this purpose, particularly the suspension of excise tax if average Dubai crude oil prices based on Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) rose for three months prior to the scheduled excise tax hike implementation hits USD80 (around PHP4,000) per barrel or higher. He also cited the need for emergency powers like what was given to the President under the Bayanihan

to Heal as One Act to mitigate the upticks in fuel prices. He, however, later said the government cannot use both measures and the only way to suspend the implementation of excise tax on fuel products is legislation. Tionko confirmed that the government cannot tap the safety net provision under the TRAIN law because the covered period has lapsed. Under the TRAIN law, the said provision can only be utilized between Jan. 1, 2018 until 2020. “We agree that the only possible way DOE may be granted powers to suspend is through legislative means,” Tionko said.

Leechiu said in a press briefing Thursday. The POGO sector, where workers are mostly Chinese nationals, has given up around 30 to 40 percent of the office space and a higher rate of vacancy in the residential space amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. “Right now they are in the moat of stability. But when they start expanding again, I think it depends on the rate of expansion, they could easily wipe out all these vacant spaces in the market in the next two years,” he added. Leechiu also recalled how POGOs grew since

2016 when they are only occupying 200,000 square meters (sqm), to peaking at 1.7 million sqm. before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Leechiu said both the office and residential properties will be boosted with the return of POGOs in the country. Aside from POGO, the easing of travel restrictions is also attracting business process outsourcing (BPO) companies to expand in the Philippines. He added that many BPO firms, particularly newcomers, will be putting up their operations in the country. Most of these BPO com-

panies are in the healthcare sector coming from the United States and Europe. “I think the next administration will have to appreciate that we need more PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority) zones in Manila. We continue to meet new brands, names you never heard before… who are coming to the Philippines for the first time, and they need to be in Manila,” Leechiu said. PEZA has been pushing for the lifting of the ban on new ecozones in the National Capital Region (NCR) to encourage new investors from the BPO sector to open their operations in the Philippines.

1.3K firms failed to give 13th month pay in 2020: DOLE

ver 1,000 companies were not able to pay the 13th month pay of their workers last year, an official of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Thursday. “There are about 1,300 establishments that have not paid the 13th month of their workers,” Labor Undersecretary Ana Dione said during the Laging Handa briefing. Dione added they will be issuing compliance orders to these companies. Meanwhile, she also reported that some 14,000 firms have complied with the mandatory payment of 13th

month pay. “About 90.91 percent of the establishments inspected have complied,” Dione said. Last week, the Department of Trade and Industry said its financing arm, Small Business (SB) Corp., is preparing a loan program to help micro and small businesses provide employees with their 13th month pay. The DOLE, meanwhile, earlier said it will issue an advisory on the proper computation of 13th month pay for private sector workers amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Easing of travel restrictions benefitting PH property mart Oil company offers businesses

he easing of travel restrictions, especially for foreigners, has positive impacts on the Philippine real estate market, a property advisory firm said. Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC) chief executive officer David Leechiu said one of the positive outcomes of relaxing travel restrictions for foreigners is the comeback of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), which accelerated the growth of the office space market before the pandemic. “With travel restrictions easing up, we anticipate POGOs to start reopening their offices and begin to grow by the second quarter of 2022,”

‘solution’ vs. volatile fuel prices

ith the fluctuating prices of petroleum products, a local oil industry player provides solutions for businesses to hedge against fuel price hikes. Seaoil Philippines has partnered with financial technology firm LOCQ, OPC for a fleet management solution called PriceLOCQ for Business that allows companies to lock the fuel prices at the current rate, store the fuel price in the virtual tank, and use their credit when they refuel their fleet when prices are high. “PriceLOCQ for Business

is the only solution that allows businessmen to hedge against fuel prices -- that is to lock in fuel prices when they are low and redeem at Seaoil when prices go up,” Seaoil Philippines president and chief executive officer Glenn Yu said in a statement Thursday. For instance, those that subscribe to PriceLOCQ for Business bought gasoline at the current price of PHP70 per liter and stored it in the virtual tank, they can avail gasoline at PHP70 per liter even gasoline prices would go up to around PHP74 per liter by end-November.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

ECONOMY

President Rodrigo Duterte emphasizes the vital role of infrastructure development in the full reopening of the Philippine economy amid the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic. Presidential Photo

PRRD cites vital role of infra dev’t in economic reopening Koronadal gears up for dev’t of three commercial projects

he city government is gearing up for the development starting next year of three major commercial property projects here by the private sector. City Mayor Eliordo Ogena said on Thursday the preparations have continued to gain ground for the construction of the planned branches here of the SM and Robinsons malls, and membership shopping S&R. He said SM is currently finalizing their land acquisition while Robinsons has already started the initial site development and will likely start the actual construction phase in the coming months. The mayor said S&R representatives visited early this week their newly acquired site in preparation for the project’s implementation. “We are optimistic that these developments will go full swing by next year,” he said in a briefing. Ogena said the Robinsons Land Corporation, the owner and operator of the nationwide chain of Robinsons Malls, initially planned to start the construction of the mall complex last year but was slowed down by the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. The planned three-story

shopping mall, which would be the company’s eighth in Mindanao, will be constructed in an 8.3-hectare property in Barangay Zone 2. The site development area covers 3.8 hectares while 1.67 hectares were allotted for future expansion. The total construction floor area covers 99,862.31 square meters or nearly 10 hectares. For the SM mall, Ogena said the city government has helped settle a previous conflict between the owners and tenants of the 16-hectare site along the national highway in Barangay Sto. Niño. The property, which comprises two lots, is situated near the city hall complex and several other emerging commercial areas. He said they already drafted a compromise agreement among the involved parties, specifically SM, the land tenants, and the brokers. Once realized, Ogena said they expect the upcoming projects to bring in more opportunities for the people, especially in terms of jobs. He said the local government may negotiate with the involved companies to prioritize local residents for their human complement and also allot other slots for those from the nearby localities.

resident Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday emphasized the vital role of infrastructure development in the full reopening of the Philippine economy amid the prevailing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. In a speech delivered in Lucena, Quezon, Duterte said pursuing more infrastructure projects in the countryside would lead to inclusive growth. He added that greater productivity and progress can be achieved through improved mobility, including efficient access to goods and services. “As we continue to overcome the current pandemic and carefully reopen our

national and local economies, infrastructure development will play a vital role in our success,” he said during the opening and inauguration of Sariaya Bypass Road. Duterte also lauded the Department of Public Works and Highways and its project partners for the completion of the Sariaya Bypass Road, a 7.42 kilometer road project that starts at the Manila South

Road Daang Maharlika Road and ends at the Quezon Eco-tourism Road. Duterte said the road widening project is “another milestone” in his administration’s ambitious “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program. “This achievement affirms the administration’s strong commitment to improve the quality of life of Filipinos by pursuing strategic infrastructure projects across the country, thereby improving connectivity, increasing the people’s mobility, and creating jobs, and dispersing economic activity throughout the regions,” he said. Duterte expressed con-

fidence that the Sariaya Bypass Road would spur the growth of industries and business opportunities in the Quezon province. “It will not only provide faster and safer travel for motorists but also [allow] efficient transport of goods to and from the markets [in] Southern Luzon. This new bypass road is also expected to lessen the traffic volume along Daang Maharlika from Sariaya to Lucena by 40 percent,” he said. Duterte also hoped that the public would help the government in achieving its sustainable development goals and building a “brighter future that is brimming with opportunities for all.”

Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases),” Bello said in a text message to reporters. In Resolution No. 138 dated Sept. 9, the IATF adopted the use of the Alert Level System for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) with each alert level limiting restrictions only to identified high-risk activities. It also approved the guidelines on the pilot of the measure in the National Capital Region, which start-

ed on September 16. Restaurants and spas are among businesses that fall under the 3Cs (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) principle, which means the possibility of Covid-19 transmission in these establishments is high, prompting the need for individuals working and going to these places to be fully vaccinated. Asked if a similar establishment has to vaccinate all employees before reopening, Bello said, “That is

correct.” He, however, reiterated that there is still no legal basis for mandatory Covid-19 vaccination for all workers. “There is still no legal basis for mandatory vaccination for all workers. The IATF resolution issued is for a few businesses. Like restaurants and spas, they are allowed to offer in dinein services or in-person services provided that employees are vaccinated,” Bello added.

IATF resolution requires vaccinating workers in some industries: DOLE

here is a legal basis for some establishments to require their employees to get vaccinated against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Thursday. Secretary Silvestre Bello III said these include restaurants and spas. “The legal basis of restaurants and spas and other similar establishments is the resolution of the IATF (Inter-Agency Task

EDGEDAVAO

COMPETITIVE EDGE

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

Philippine Computer Society partners with Globe Business for tech solutions

irtualized communication is not new to many of us, but the challenges of the past two years have drastically heightened our appreciation for this kind of connection. Seeing the value of being able to stay in touch regardless of where one might be, both individuals and industries embraced the software and apps that enable this. Usage skyrocketed, and companies began to make bigger bets on workplace technologies designed to maximize employee productivity and set them up for success. The Philippine Computer Society (PCS), the longest-standing trade association of computing and information technology professionals in the country, recognized this need right away. Partnering with Globe Business in 2020, PCS has since benefited from utilizing the video conference software program, Zoom, as a means to communicate with its members anytime anywhere online. Shifting From Physical to Online Events With Zoom “Globe Business and Zoom came to PCS at a challenging time,” said Mr. Titus Manuel, Board of Trustee In-Charge of PCS. “Our traditional bread and butter of live events for members and partners came to a sudden halt. COVID-19 and lockdowns disrupted our business operations, with

no public meetings and people working from home. Globe Business and Zoom gave us an opportunity.” Empowered by Globe Business, PCS utilizes Zoom Cloud Meetings, which offers free and professional plans to any company. With the free plan, 100 concurrent participants are allowed 40-minute video conferences. The pro account (an add-on feature), which PCS has been sponsored with, can hold up to 500 participants with unlimited time duration. Digitization Paving The Way to New Normal Conferences “With the sponsorship and technical assistance, PCS-V was born. V for Virtual, our new platform,” added Mr. Manuel. “It worked like magic. Not only did it put us back in business, but it also made

our long-time dream of nationwide meetings possible, even reaching outside the country with attendees from the Middle East, Australia, and USA.” Aside from global meetings, town hall forums, and team huddles, PCS has indeed maximized their partnership with Globe Business. Over the past year, they have also been able to invite their members to take part in online learning sessions, such as in Tech Advancement and Data Privacy, and programs such as Virtual Tech Talks, where Mr. Bradley Pineda, Finance Industry Manager of Globe Business MSME Group, co-presented an Executive Briefing on Information Security. Globe Business is Your Partner – Not Just a Solutions Provider “At the time we needed someone, Globe Business was there. They provided us not only with Zoom accounts but also with technical speakers that added value to our programs,” Mr. Manuel said. “Today we are venturing into Professional Certification for Information Security, Non-Technical Skills for IT Professional (EQinIT), all with some form of technical and marketing assistance from Globe Business.” Online communication across organizations and locations has never been this easy. With Globe

Business, companies and businesses no longer need to look far for dependable ways to do such. With the features of Zoom Pro, they can enjoy seamless virtual meetings, events, and programs, surpassing geographical boundaries in this pandemic. Strengthening organizations by connecting

ippines) Inc. BLI 2021 Outstanding Achievement Award for Hybrid Workplace Scan Technology Canon won the BLI 2021 Outstanding Achievement Award for Hybrid Workplace Scan Technology for its comprehensive and complete portfolio of scanning technology. Its wide range of hardware options work seamlessly with uniFLOW and Therefore print and document management solutions. Therefore™ acts as a digital repository that can store data, manage information as an asset, gather analytics, and automate processes. uniFLOW, on the other hand, unifies print, scan, and device management of Canon multi-functional devices. Whether work is done in the office or remotely, Canon software enables efficient digitization of documents and integration of printing services - seamlessly powering a hybrid working environment. “With Canon’s com-

plete range of document scanners, multi-function printers, multi-function devices and cloud-based solutions, businesses can lift their information-management and workflow-automation technology to the cloud and make them accessible to all workers, no matter the location,” said Lee Davis, Associate director of Scanners/Software, Keypoint Intelligence For those interested to learn more, Canon holds webinars to demonstrate how these technologies can transform any company into an efficient hybrid workplace. Sign up by scanning the QR code below: BLI 2021 A4 Line of the Year Award Canon also stands out in the BLI 2021 A4 Line of the Year award with its outstanding portfolio of A4 printers and devices. The high quality output, impressive level of control over print costs, data security, and user-friendliness have been highlighted in the imageCLASS

LBP228x, imageCLASS LBP325x and imageRUNNER 1643 series. “Canon has stood out above the rest this year, offering a portfolio of outstanding A4 devices that is unmatched in breadth. From home offices to large workgroups, whether color or monochrome, single-function or multi-function, Canon has the device to meet the needs of almost any kind of office environment. Canon’s wide-spanning portfolio surpassed the competition in many ways, offering top-notch performances, and user-friendliness,” added Kaitlin Shaw, Associate Director of A4 Hardware at Keypoint Intelligence. To know more about Canon software and how you can digitize documents using Therefore™, uniFLOW, and IRIS, an advanced capturing solution with optical character recognition and automatic document reading, email Canon at business_ solutions@canon.com.ph or visit https://ph.canon.

Canon’s hybrid work solutions get award, webinars available for users

ANILA, Philippines (21 October 2021) – Canon has received recognition for the Buyers Lab Awards (BLI) 2021 Outstanding Achievement Award for Hybrid Workplace Scan Technology and for A4 Line of the Year Award by Keypoint Intelligence. With its 60-year track record, Keypoint Intelligence has become the leading and most trusted evaluator for document imaging software, hardware, and services. “It is a great pleasure and honor to be recognized by our peers from Keypoint Intelligence. Receiving these prestigious awards highlight our key strength in digital imaging solutions and our commitment to meet the needs of our customers. In the years to come, we will continue to innovate products and services that will support businesses in their new ways of working,” said Yasuhiko Shiraki, Business Imaging Solutions Director of Canon Marketing (Phil-

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200 men, women participate in Israel nude artistic installation

00 men and women participated in a nude artistic installation by the American artist Spencer Tunick in the desert landscape around Arad. The photographic installation is designed to support the establishment of the Dead Sea Museum in Arad. As part of the artwork, the artist used a white body paint that had never before been used. In a cooperation with the Israel Ministry of Tourism, the Arad Municipality, the Dead Sea Revival Project, Spencer Tunick has returned to the Dead Sea region after two earlier installations that won international acclaim and helped raise awareness of Israel as a tourism destination. Participants in the project say that, this project is expected to be one of the most daring and controversial ever undertaken by the artist. Tunick has created installations in, among others, New York, London, Vienna, Barcelona and Sydney. Today, Arad joins this illustrious list, hosted by the Israel Ministry of Tourism. About 200 people who agreed to participate in the installation arrived in Arad in the early afternoon and disrobed somewhere in the desert landscape surrounding Arad. The event took about three hours,

during which the artist positioned the volunteer models and the camera, according to the background and the light etc. The installation is designed to draw world attention to the importance of preserving and restoring the Dead Sea, as well as the establishment of the Dead Sea Museum to be built in Arad, under the initiative and leadership of Ari Fruchter who recruited Tunick for the promotional campaign. Tourism Minister Yoel Razvozov: “Every image published by the artist represents a tourism boost for Israel. Millions of people from around the world see the beauty and the tourism potential of Arad and Dead Sea. As Israel opens it skies to vaccinated tourists, we look forward to welcoming them once again to the unique landscapes of the Dead Sea region, one of Israel’s leading tourist destinations. “ Spencer Tunick: “It is difficult to hide the fact that the Dead Sea is disappearing and the establishment of the Dead Sea Museum is our way to create awareness of this fact. My visit to Israel was an experience for me and I am always happy to return here and photograph in the only country in the Middle East that allows art such as this.”

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AGRITRENDS

GOLDEN RICE TASTES JUST LIKE WHITE RICE BUT BETTER

ow does golden rice taste? During the inauguration of the Crop Biotechnology Center (CBC) at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) last September 30, external stakeholders finally had a taste of the vitamin A-enriched rice.

Participants sampled the white rice – the conventional background of golden rice and widely planted and familiar variety among farmers and consumers – and cleansed their palate with water before tasting golden rice. Agriculture Secretary William Dar set aside the white rice, remarking that he is in favor of golden rice. “If only this was available when I was still a kid, I would have been healthier. But now, with its presence, I can set aside this (white rice) in favor of golden rice. This will make me healthier and become younger again.” he said. In his speech, Dar highlighted the milestone approval of golden rice, which aims to complement current interventions to address the vitamin A deficiency prevalent in children and pregnant women. “We are the first country to approve golden rice for commercialization. As such, the rest of the world will be looking back on our experience with it before they join the bandwagon. As golden rice can now be commercially planted in the Philippines, we aim to complement current interventions to address malnutrition among children and pregnant women due to Vitamin A deficiency,” Dar said. During the launching of golden rice, among those who attended was Dr. Micaela S. Violago, representa-

tive of the Second Congressional District Nueva Ecija. An ophthalmologist, she commended the nutritional benefit that golden rice could provide, especially its significant contribution of vitamin A in the diet, which will help vulnerable populations. Congresswoman Violago also encourages farmers and consumers to support golden rice. “The smell ay parang pareho lang na mabango, the taste is almost the same but I think golden rice is much more delicious since I am imagining it contains margarine,” the congresswoman said. “In terms of its benefits, since I’m a doctor especially vitamin A which golden rice address, as an ophthalmologist, I think it has more benefits and you don’t have to have children take vitamins. We support and encourage that farmers and the citizens will accept golden rice,” she added. White rice and golden rice, she pointed out, have the same taste. However, she also encouraged switching white rice to golden rice as it will add health benefits for those who need it most. Ryan G. Bedford, agricultural attaché of the US Embassy, was also present during the launching. He underscored the importance of biotechnology as the development of Golden Rice could bring nutritious food that could help address vita-

Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

min A deficiency (VAD). “The development of golden rice demonstrates how biotechnology can add nutrition to a widely consumed food and help to address vitamin A deficiency among vulnerable populations,” he said. “I couldn’t help myself and I ate all of it. It is great. I am a fan and I will feed it to my two daughters.” A “rice that could save a million lives a year,” so said Swiss plant researcher Ingo Potrykus said of golden rice in 2000. Early this year, a biosafety permit was issued by government regulators, thus paving the way for the rice to be grown by farmers across the country. The permit stipulates that golden rice has “undergone satisfactory biosafety assessment pursuant to Department of Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Health, and Department of Interior and Local Government Joint Department Circular No. 1, Series of 2016.” Of the issuance of the permit, Dr. Jean Balie, director general of the Laguna-based International Rice Research Institute, said, “This milestone puts the Philippines at the global forefront in leveraging agriculture research to address the issues of malnutrition and related health impacts in a safe and sustainable way.” Golden rice is a type of rice that contains beta carotene (pro-vitamin A, a plant

pigment that the body converts into vitamin A as needed). This compound is what gives this grain its yellow-orange or golden color, hence its name. Golden rice is a production of biotechnology, particularly genetic engineering. “While ordinary rice does produce beta-carotene, it is not found in the grain,” IRRI explained. “Thus, scientists used genetic engineering to add the compound to the grain – a minor tweak that improved the grain’s nutritive value.” The beta-carotene in golden rice, which was made possible by the addition of two new enzymes, is identical to the beta-carotene found in green leafy (malunggay, for instance) and yellow-colored vegetables (carrot and squash), orange-colored fruits (mango and papaya), and even in many vitamin supplements and food ingredients. While golden rice is an enhanced version of ordinary rice, it comes without any additional cost or difference in taste. “While golden rice is ex-

Additional photo: IRRI

pected to cost and taste the same as regular rice, its beta-carotene content makes it a valuable asset in the battle against vitamin A deficiency (VAD),” IRRI said. Vitamin A is an essential micronutrient for growth, development, and keeping the body’s visual and immune systems healthy. VAD is one of the most important issues in terms of global public health, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). VAD weakens the body’s resistance to diseases and infections, causes blindness, and may even result in death if left untreated. One million of the 1.5 million blind children in the world live in Asia, according to a WHO study. “Each year, there are half a million new cases, 70 percent of which are due to vitamin A deficiency,” the authors wrote in 2001. At that time, the authors estimated that a child went blind somewhere in the world every minute. Worst of all, the study points out, the majority die within 12 months of losing their sight.

In the Philippines, VAD incidence continues to be a significant health issue affecting almost 17%, or 2 million children under the age of 5. This figure is based on the 2018 Expanded National Nutrition Survey of Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology. IRRI is very much aware that there are other approaches – such as vitamin A supplementation, food fortification, diet diversification, and promotion of optimal breastfeeding – which have made successes in combating VAD. “However, more work is necessary to address the needs of certain target populations, especially those in remote areas,” IRRI stated. “Additionally, millions continue to suffer from VAD to this day.” In Asia, where rice is a staple food, golden rice is one of the best ways to cut the prevalence of VAD. In the Philippines, Filipino consumes 114-120 kilograms of rice per capita per year on average.

EDGEDAVAO

PUSHING..FROM 2 . al Bypass Road (including Bucana Bridge); Davao City Bypass Construction; Davao International Airport Modernization; Davao City Expressway;

DEPED... FROM 2

Davao Sasa Port Modernization; Davao People Mover (Monorail); and rehabilitation and improvement of the Davao Fishport Project.

in Davao City, with minimal risk of Covid-19, to be included in the pilot run of limited face-toface classes and these are Dalagdag National High School with Senior High in Barangay Dalagdag, G. Tajo National High School with Senior High in Barangay Lampianao, Saloy

National High School with Senior High in Barangay Saloy, Mabuhay Elementary School now Victor Bernal Integrated School with Kindergarten in Barangay Mabuhay, and Gumitan Elementary School with Kindergarten in Barangay Gumitan. By Maya M. Padillo

quirements for air travel to Davao City. It stated that regardless if a passenger from a domestic destination is fully vaccinated is still required RT-PCR-saliva test (PNRC only) or nasopharyngeal swab negative result, tested 72 hours before arrival in Davao City must be presented upon check-in and arrival at Davao International Airport (DIA). Children 12 years old and below are exempted from Test Before Travel. Davao City residents must quarantine at home for 14 days. The authorized persons outside of residence (APOR) are urged to go to work and back to accommodation only. For passengers from international travel and

quarantined at the port of entry, quarantine days must follow IATF Resolution 114 and 123-C Series of 2021. Bureau of Quarantine certificate indicating number of days quarantined and copy of negative results of RT-PCR must be presented upon check-in and arrival at DIA. the BOQ Certificate is valid in seven days from the date of issue, else Test Before Travel applies. Davao City residents from international travel quarantine for 10 days at the port of entry must finish their quarantine at home for four days. All passengers must prepare Safe Davao QR Code (SDQR) and government-issued ID as shown in SDQR. By Maya M. Padillo

RT-PCR... FROM 2

VOL.14 ISSUE 189 • SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021

PORTRAIT... FROM 5

be puzzled without you, and you would be puzzled without God.” Printing the book was a herculean task. “My parents and I had to navigate through Amazon publishing and the whole process of printing,” she says. “It may sound like an easy process, but the four months of processing taught me a lot about patience and trusting God.” The second book was Rested in You, which highlights about finding true rest in Jesus. “In this season of pandemic and all throughout life, there are lots of struggles and battles people face,” she says. “As I learned to find rest in Jesus, I decided to write about what God was teaching me. (Through the book), I hope to encourage people to pause and rest, instead of feeling drained in this ‘hustle culture.’” Although the second book was still self-published, they already learned their lesson with the first book. “It also took me four months to write the book,” she admits. “Since I hoped to have it out by my birth month as well, it took two months to finalize the book, re-read it four times for editing, wait for the forewords, and finalize its cover. We may have had some experience, but the process was still a challenge.” If you are wondering why her books have Christian themes, it’s because

Lagat grew up in a Christian family. “I understand that being a Christian is not something passed down, but personally realized,” she says. “So even if I knew almost all the Bible stories as a kid, and memorized different verses and songs, it was accepting Jesus to be my Lord and Savior that really changed my life.” Although Lagat was born in the Philippines, she literally grew up in the United States. Her mother worked as a nurse in the US when she was still single. She returned to the Philippines when she married her boyfriend, whom she met in a church when both were still in high school. Three years after they tied the nuptial knot, Reychelle came. Reychelle was only eight months old when her mother brought her to California. Her father followed them a year later. From California, the family moved to Lawrenceville, Georgia where they lived for ten years. “Living in Georgia was amazing,” she recalls. “A few things I tell people about are the four seasons change, the not-so-busy life, and the scenery. It was a wonderful place to experience full summer heat, soft spring bloom, cozy fall vibes, and cold winter view. I loved experiencing every season, especially fall and winter.” She bade goodbyes to

all these when the family moved back to the Philippines in 2011. “My tenyear old, almost elevenyear-old self, was having a hard time wrapping her mind around the fact that everything I was familiar with would be replaced with unknown places and faces,” she admits. Not that she had not been to the Philippines yet. In fact, she visited the country two times before. “Both times, there was a new experience and more memories made,” she recalls. “I got to spend time with some relatives, explore places like Eden Nature Park and Samal Island, attend two family weddings, and even spend time with my lolo before he passed away.” Having lived in the United States and now in the Philippines (settling in Davao City) is quite unique. “I spent half of my life in America and it is a country I hold dear,” she says. “The culture in America is a little different from that in the Philippines, but both countries have things I love about them.” Looking at it now, Lagat says, “I really am grateful to have two cultures, two countries, as part of my life,” she says. “I miss my friends and family, but thinking about everything God has allowed me to experience and go through helps me reflect on how I should think, act, and live.”

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SPORTS

Aussie star Josh Giddey broke records in his NBA debut for the Oklahoma City Thunder in their 107-86 loss to the Utah Jazz.

Giddey shatters records in his NBA debut for Oklahoma City Thunder

osh Giddey made his eagerly-anticipated NBA debut for the Oklahoma City Thunder and managed to break records in his first outing.

Enes Kanter with teammate Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics. Photo: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images/AFP.

China wiped Celtics from existence over one tweet

n NBA team has been wiped in China without explanation after just one “ridiculous” tweet that has triggered a swift response. China has wiped the Celtics from its TV service without explanation following a damning tweet from Boston player Enes Kanter. Kanter on Thursday slammed Chinese President Xi Jinping as a “brutal dictator” and declared that “Tibet belongs to the Tibetan people”, risking reigniting tensions between Beijing and the NBA. The league and China have previously traded words in public after one team official spoke

out in support of Hong Kong democratic protesters last year. It resulted in one team being banned from being broadcast in China. It’s now happening for a second time with the Celtics disappearing from the live stream roster published by NBA broadcaster Tencent. China’s response has been swift. Coverage of the games had been downgraded to text and photo only, a status currently applied to the Philadelphia 76ers, where Morey is now president. A handful of confused fans asked on Tencent’s website and Weibo social media page why the streams were pulled.

After an impressive pre-season that earnt him rave reviews across America, Aussie star Josh Giddey broke records in his NBA debut for the Oklahoma City Thunder in their 10786 loss to the Utah Jazz and fellow Australian Joe Ingles at the Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City. Giddey now lays claim

to the most rebounds made by a Thunder player on debut, as the 19-yearold led the team with 10 boards. He also became the first Australian player to lead a team in rebounds during their NBA debut. It wasn’t the only stat Giddey led the team in either, as he shared the

most assists for the Thunder alongside Aleksej Pokusevski with three each. The former Adelaide 36ers guard also made Australian NBA history as he became the nation’s youngest player to make his debut in the competition at 19 years and 10 days, beating Dante Exum’s previous record of 19 years and 108 days. Giddey was on the court for almost 29 minutes in his debut and scored his first points

midway through the first quarter after driving at Jazz small forward Bojan Bogdanovic and making an easy bucket off the glass. For his second NBA basket, the 19-year-old floated a shot over fellow countryman Ingles from mid-range inside the arc for another two-pointer. Those were the only buckets made by Giddey, who was two from seven when shooting and did not attempt a three-pointer.

his total of 20 Grand Slam championships. The champion tennis player came under fire after he organized The Adria Tour 2020, a charity tennis exhibition series that was

canceled in the middle of the event after Bulgarian tennis player Grigor Dimitrov tested positive for coronavirus. Djokovic and his wife were tested positive for Covid-19, as well as tennis

stars Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki, who participated in the event. NBA players refuse to get jab The NBA management

Covid-19 jabs impact high profile athletes

ovid-19 immunization has had an impact on the careers of certain world-renowned athletes who believe that vaccine inoculation is a personal affair that should not be forced upon them. Novak Djokovic, the world number one tennis star, may miss the Australian Open in 2022 because he refused to disclose his Covid-19 vaccination status, which is mandatory in Victoria state, where the Grand Slam would be held. The player told the Serbian press on Tuesday that he does not like to be asked if he has been vaccinated, that it is a private matter, and that he is not sure if he will compete in the Australian Open next year. The Australian Open holds a special place in Djokovic’s career as he won nine titles in Melbourne, accounting for nearly half of

Novak Djokovic, the world number one tennis star, may miss the Australian Open in 2022 because he refused to disclose his Covid-19 vaccination status

FCOVID-19, P10

8 SPORTS

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MINDANAO BOOST PSC continues MSU partnership with swimming pool rehabilitation PSC Chairman William “Butch”Ramirez.

ontinuing its partnership with Mindanao State University (MSU), the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is set to rehabilitate the university’s swimming pool this year, as part of the national government rehabilitation program for Marawi City. PSC’s Engr. Eduardo Clariza and Arch. Noel Elnar have already conducted initial inspection at the MSU Marawi campus this week, and assessed the status of the swimming pool, which played host to several National UAAP competitions in the early 80’s, as well as other regional meets. “The plan is to rehabilitate the facility to meet international standards for competition. A covered pool is being designed in consideration of the environment and cultural sensitivity of Islamic practices,” said Clariza. The agency’s technical staff also inspected the newly rubberized MSU Track Oval, which was also refurbished with PSC support. MSU President Dr. Habib Macaayong expressed thanks and appreciation for the all-out support of the PSC and the national Government to MSU and the people of Lanao, during the courte-

sy visit of the PSC experts to his office. “We are forever grateful for this assistance from the PSC. MSU expresses full support of to the sports development programs of the Philippine Sports Commission,” said Macaayong. The PSC is looking forward to the completion of the rehabilitation of both sports facilities this year, and its designation as a “Center for Sports for Peace and Development” in Mindanao. PSC Consultant and MSU Prof. Henry Daut, together with University Engineer Engr. Presciosa Dimaporo assisted the PSC team during their visit. Last September 30, the MSU Marawi Campus conferred Doctor of Humanities Honoris Causa to PSC Chairman William Ramirez for his contribution to the Mindanao Sports for Peace movement, during the university’s celebration of its 60th founding anniversary.