Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 212 | Saturday, November 20, 2021 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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Sand miners collect sand from Davao River at a sand and gravel quarry site in Brgy. Waan, Davao City. Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS) reported during the Davao City Watershed Stakeholders Summit that threats continue to pose risks to the watersheds in Davao City such as the rampant illegal quarrying operations in Brgy. Waan. Edge Davao

NOT CONSULTED Barangay Lasang’s ‘no vaccine, no entry’ policy not discussed with Covid-19 Task Force STORY ON PAGE 2

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

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President Rodrigo Duterte discusses matters with National Security Adviser and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Vice Chairperson Hermogenes Esperon Jr. during the Joint National Task Force-Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-RTF ELCAC) Mimaropa meeting at the Bulwagang Panlalawigan, Provincial Capitol Complex in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro on Thursday. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

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SoCot heightens ASF watch as hog virus hits NorCot town

Barangay Lasang’s ‘no vaccine, no entry’ policy not discussed with Covid-19 Task Force By MAYA M. PADILLO

r. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson of Davao City Covid-19 Task Force, clarified that Barangay Lasang’s “no vaccine, no entry” policy was not discussed by the task force. However, she said she understands the barangay captains and barangay officials implementing such measure.

The “no entry, no exit policy” was implemented in the barangay for unvaccinated residents. “It was not raised within the task force and ma-understand nato ang mga barangay captains and barangay leaders that they are also doing their part. Naningkamot pud kaayo sila

na ma-chieve nila ang 100 percent vaccination or immunity sa ilahang community. So dili nako ni masisi ni nga barangay captains and barangay officials na they go as far as that measure. I believe dili na para sa ilaha pero para na sa ilahang mga constituents. Kung naa man sila’y gibuhat na ingon ana

nga activity I do understand why becauae ang sense of responsibility and liability is anaa sa barangay captains and officials,” Schlosser said. Last month, President Rodrigo Duterte has called on the local officials to double their efforts in convincing their unvaccinated constituents to get the Covid-19 shot. The President also warned uncooperative officials that they could be held accountable under the guidelines if they fail to do their job. “At the end of the day sila (barangay captains) ang pangitaan sa atoang good mayor ug sa atoang Pres-

idente nganong wala nila napabakunahan ang ilahang komunidad,” Schlosser said. Schlosser reminded unvaccinated Dabawenyos to get vaccinated to help the city government of Davao achieves herd immunity. She said as of November 12, 2021, there were a total of 951,686 Dabawenyos vaccinated with the first dose and 875,080 for the second dose. “Almost nata nakaabot ug one million for the first dose and almost na nato maachieve ang 70 percent herd immunity. Dapat makaapas ang atoang second dose,” she said.

date for the country’s top post is a male. He also implied that the presidential hopeful with a “very weak” character has many supporters. “I will not make it clear now. There’s even a presidential candidate na nag-cocaine (who used cocaine),” Duterte said during the joint meeting of the national and regional task forces to end local communist armed conflict.

Duterte, while he refused to reveal the identity of the presidential candidate taking cocaine, spilled more details, alluding that the latter is influential and adored by many because his father is prominent. “Bahala kayo kung ano ang gusto ninyong tao, inyo yan. Ang akin lang, pagdating ng panahon, basta sinabi ko sa inyo (You have the final say on your personal choice. I am only telling

you). And he is a very weak leader ang (and has a very weak) character, except for the name,” he said. Duterte said he made the revelation not to warn the Filipino voters but to make them aware of the presidential aspirant’s drug addiction. He also told the electorate that it is still up to them if they still prefer that candidate to lead the country

‘There’s a presidential aspirant who used cocaine’, says PRRD

resident Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday claimed that there is a presidential candidate in the May 9, 2022 national elections who is a cocaine user. Duterte made the revelation in a speech delivered in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, as he reiterated his vow to fight illegal drugs. Duterte did not name the presidential aspirant but hinted that the candi-

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outh Cotabato province has implemented stricter control and surveillance measures in its border areas in the wake of the detection of new African Swine Fever (ASF) cases in M’lang town, North Cotabato. Dr. Flora Bigot, head of the Provincial Veterinary Office, said on Thursday they have adopted fresh strategies to seal off the entire province from the unauthorized shipment of live hogs and pork products coming from North Cotabato and other areas with confirmed ASF outbreaks. She said they have blocked all possible entry points in its border areas, especially those with Sultan Kudarat province, this city, and other neighboring localities. Such move is the main component of the local government’s ASF prevention strategy dubbed “Babes,” which stands for block the entry, avoid swill feeding, banning of pork and by-products, educate the people, and submit samples. Bigot said the province has active veterinary quarantine checkpoints situated in barangays Magon in Tantangan town, Glamang in Polomolok, Dumaguil and Lapuz in Norala, New Panay in Sto. Niño, Miasong in Tupi, and San Jose in Koronadal City. She said they are planning to set up additional checkpoints in the coming days in Barangay New Cuyapo in Tantangan to secure an alternate route connecting to President Quirino town in Sultan Kudarat. “Based on our monitoring, some shippers and livestock consolidators have

been continuously attempting to use various alternate routes to enter our area so we have to stop that,” Bigot said in a press conference. The province is linked to M’lang, North Cotabato via the Makilala-Allah Valley Road that traverses portions of Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat. The Department of Agriculture confirmed the detection last Nov. 8 of ASF cases in six barangays of M’lang, which was prompted to declare a state of calamity last week due to the outbreak. Suspected cases traced from Tulunan and Matalam town were also found in hogs processed at M’lang slaughterhouse but the field surveillance has so far turned out negative. The official said they have expanded their surveillance against the ASF in slaughterhouses and backyard farms through barangays clusters. She said their personnel gather random blood samples from backyard hogs as well as animals processed in the slaughterhouses and submit them to laboratory examination. For private farms, she said they are mandated to submit samples every month as required for the issuance of ASF-free certificates. Bigot said they are also monitoring public markers, frozen meat shops, and other outlets selling pork products for the presence of unlabeled or authorized items. She said there’s a possibility that some of the products, among them pork tocino and chorizo or longganisa, are sourced

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EDGEDAVAO

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NEWS

Firefighters put out a blaze that destroyed over a dozen houses at a residential area in Barangay 5-A near Bankerohan Market in Davao City on Thursday, 18 November 2021. Mindanews Photo

Davao City watersheds continue to face threats from quarrying, wastes, leachate Dennis Uy’s DITO to build 166 towers in BARMM

abawenyo businessman Dennis Uy’s telecommunication firm Dito Telecommunity is now improving connectivity in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) with the installation of 166 cell towers. DITO CME Holdings Corp. President Ernesto R. Alberto announced during the recently concluded Davao Investment Conference 2021 (Davao Icon 2021), DITO is building 166 cell towers to service BARMM. Last month, a top-level meeting between the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC)-BARMM and DITO Telecommunity was held in Davao City wherein DITO briefed MOTC about its roll-out plan of setting up 166 cell sites in the BARMM from 2021 to 2023. Based on the statement of MOTC posted on its Facebook Page, some cell sites included in their 2021 target are already operational even if not yet officially launched. While the issuance of licenses for new cell sites is still with the National Telecommu-

nications Commission (NTC). MOTC Minister Dickson Hermoso told DITO about the problems with telecommunications in many areas in the BARMM, especially in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. The two parties then discussed possible areas of cooperation that would be formalized later in the year through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). In the course of the discussion, the possibility of pilot-testing a 5G network to serve the BARMM Government Compound came up. MOTC and DITO agreed to pursue this idea further. Meanwhile, Alberto did not give details on the construction of DITO towers in the Davao Region. “We are not at liberty to share this information at this time. What we can say is that on top of what we already have,” Alberto said. Based on his presentation, DITO Telecommunity currently completed more than 3,000 cell towers and over 4,000 cell towers are under construction. By Maya M. Padillo

By MAYA M. PADILLO

ampant quarrying, wastes from livestock and poultry farms, and leachate are among issues and threats faced by the watersheds in Davao City. Environmental Research Specialist Lemuel Lloyd Manalo of the Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS) reported during the Davao City Watershed Stakeholders Summit that these threats continue to pose risks to the watersheds in Davao City and this

is despite the strong calls from environmentalists for their protection and conservation. Davao City has identified eight watersheds namely Davao River Watershed area that covers 116,446 hectares where Tamugan River, Cugan Creek watershed Area, and

Suawan River watershed area are located; Matina Pangi River watershed area with an area of 7,880 hectares and consists of 18 barangays; Talomo River watershed area that 22,493 hectares and consists of 37 barangays; Lipadas watershed area that covers 16,768 hectares and consists of 27 barangays; Sibulan-Sirawan watershed with an area of 10,274 hectares and consists eight barangays; Bunawan-Pana-

he Provincial Government of Davao Del Norte in cooperation with various national government agencies (NGA) and non-government organizations (NGO) strengthens its intervention programs against child labor. This was the gist of the discussion of guests from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Child Fund International (NGO) in a radio program, “Kasamtangang Katikaran Sa Kalambuan (KKK)

hosted by Dr. Mervin Jay Z. Suaybaguio of the Provincial Information Communication and Knowledge Management Office (PICKMO). DOLE Davao del Norte division head on livelihood intervention, Lalaine Apugan; DOLE-Davao del Norte community facilitator Dave Andrie Villegas; and Michel Robin-Pascal of Child Fund International discussed the situation of child labor in Davao Del Norte and how their insti-

tutions formulated interventions against it. “Based sa among research, dili gyud tinuyuan sa mga bata na ma-involved sa child labor kundili tungod gyud sa kapobrehon sa ilang mga ginikanan (Based on our research, the children do not intentionally involve themselves in child labor but the poverty of their parents pushed them),” said Apugan emphasizing the role of poverty in child labor. She also discussed one

can River watershed with an area of 18,201 hectares and consists 28 barangays; Lasang River watershed with an area of 28,452 hectares and consists of 12 barangays; and Tuganay River watershed with an area of 17,763 hectares and consists of five barangays. Manalo reported that the Davao River basin, particularly the areas of Barangays Mandug, Dalagdag, Callawa, and Lampianao are

characteristic of child labor. “Katong mga bata nga gatrabaho kung asa makaguba sa iyang self-determination, maguba ang iyang physical ug emotional nga pag-grow niya sa society, isa na sya ka dako na makaingon ta nga child labor (Those children who work under settings detrimental to their self-determination, physical and emotional growth in the society can be considered as child labor issue),” she added.

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DavNor, NGAs strengthen child labor intervention programs T

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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Fishermen catch fish along Pakiputan Strait, which divides Davao City and Samal Island, on Wednesday (November 17, 2021). In the background are the almost completed condominium projects in Azuela Cove in Lanang, Davao City. MindaNews Photo

Udenna insists Malampaya deals underwent ‘competitive bidding’ U denna’s acquisition of 90 percent of the Malampaya gas project was not a “sweetheart deal” between the government and Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy, a top Udenna official said on Thursday.

Udenna, through its subsidiaries, acquired a 90 percent stake in the Malampaya project by buying the 45 percent stake of Chevron for $565 million, and another 45 percent stake from Shell for $460 million. Udenna President Raymundo Martin Escalona said both Chevron and Shell are international oil and gas firms that cannot be swayed by a mere call by Uy. “There were a lot of bidders. Do you think Udenna, being one with meager

resources will be able to coerce Chevron and Shell?,” Escalona said during an informal virtual briefing with the business community and the members of the press Escalona insisted that both deals went through bidding involving over 25 other firms which are mostly foreign. “Both Chevron and Shell transactions follow highly competitive bidding processes with rigorous due diligence conducted by both

global oil and gas companies,” he said. He added that both the Chevron and Shell transactions are also private share sales with no change in legal entities or transfer of rights or obligations, which does not require approval from the Department of Energy. LUTONG MACAU? Business groups, lawmakers, and other concerned groups meanwhile are questioning the deals. Uy and Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi are facing graft complaints before the Ombudsman because of the deal. Udenna’s Malampaya acquisition was also called the “most incredible crony deal” in history. Critics of the deal said the Department of Energy,

ully vaccinated tourists from “green list” countries and territories may soon enter the Philippines once the Inter-Agency Task Force issues the guidelines that are expected to come out before the end of the month. The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday said the IATF “has approved in principle the entry of ful-

ly vaccinated tourists from green list countries/territories/jurisdictions following the guidelines as may be finalized and approved” by the task force. In a text message, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the IATF is set to meet this afternoon to discuss the protocols, which will be released “definitely by November.”

She made an assurance that this move to open leisure travel from “green countries” would be based on strict conditions. Only fully vaccinated individuals with vaccines recognized by the country’s Food and Drug Administration under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) or those authorized by the World Health Organization

through the Philippine National Oil Company, should have exercised its right of first refusal and bought the stakes of Chevron and Shell. This would have given the government full control of the vital energy facility, they said, along with all of the profits from the project. By not exercising this right, the government had abandoned the country’s interests, they said. Senate Committee on Energy chair Senator Win Gatchalian meanwhile has called the sale of Chevron’s stake to Udenna as “lutong Macau” or rigged. Udenna’s Escalona denied all of this. “We are being accused of this being a sweetheart

will be allowed entry to the country. “Allowing tourists from green countries or territories that have the majority of its population vaccinated and with low infection rate, will greatly help in our recovery efforts--increasing tourist arrivals and receipts among others,” Romulo-Puyat said.

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PH reopening to fully vaxxed tourists before end of 2021 F

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Whole-of-gov’t approach vs. Covid pandemic boosts economic recovery

he whole-of-government approach to address the impact of the coronavirus-induced pandemic has resulted positively as shown by the continued recovery of the Philippine economy, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said. During the Visayas-leg of the BSP lecture series on Thursday, Diokno said when the pandemic hit last year, the BSP implemented measures targeted to keep economic activities robust and to cushion the temporary disruptions in the financial markets. “To support the immediate needs of the economy and preserve market confidence during this crisis, the BSP simultaneously deployed conventional and unconventional monetary policy tools to complement the efforts of the national government,” he said. Primary to these measures is the 200-basis-point reduction in the central bank’s key policy rates, with the overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) facility down to record-low 2 percent. This was made to encourage lending activities and ensure that economic activities will remain

strong. The BSP also cut banks’ reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by as much as 200 basis points to ensure that banks have ample liquidity to lend to its clients. It also allowed banks’ lending to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as temporary compliance to RRR for a certain period to help small business remain afloat during the pandemic. Diokno said these measures are on top of the comprehensive set of regulatory measures expected to help fuel economic activities dampened by the pandemic. “The BSP’s efforts to help safeguard livelihood, maintain order in the financial markets, and put the economy back on track are part of the whole-of-government approach in addressing the pandemic. These efforts are now yielding positive results,” he said. Growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), rose by 7.1 percent in the third quarter of the year, higher than year-ago’s -11.6 percent contraction but lower than the 12 percent in the second quarter of this year, which is the first expansion after five consecutives of negative prints.

EDGEDAVAO

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ECONOMY

A bystander looks at the ready-to-wear clothes on display at a store along MacArthur highway in Davao City on Friday. Edge Davao

Presidential bets bare economic platforms

Holcim signs agreement for on-site solar power plants

olcim Philippines said Friday it signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with renewable energy firm Blueleaf Energy for its plants in Bulacan and La Union. Under the deal, Blueleaf Energy will finance, build, operate and main-

tain solar energy facilities in Norzagaray, Bulacan and Bacnotan, La Union with a combined capacity of 29-megawatt peak, Holcim said in a disclosure to the stock exchange. Its annual generation is pegged at over 50-gigawatt hours that could supply up

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ive presidential aspirants bared on Thursday to the business community about their economic platforms when elected in the top national position. During the 47th Philippine Business Conference and Expo of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the country’s largest business organization, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Senators Bong Go, Panfilo Lacson, Manny Pacquiao, and Vice President

Leni Robredo were given the chance to discuss their programs for the economy. Moreno aims to slash taxes on two basic commodities --petroleum and electricity. “While it is true that this will be a loss of substantial enough revenues

for our government, it will also, at the other side of the coin, alleviate the sufferings of our people. It will also increase their purchasing power which will stimulate consumer spending,” he said. Moreno said the Philippines should also move from business process outsourcing to knowledge process outsourcing, creating high quality jobs for Filipinos. The Manila mayor added he will continue the

Build, Build, Build program of the current administration, but its focus will be building affordable housing. Go vowed to continue the comprehensive tax reform program, national rice program, Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso (P3) program, and the Build, Build, Build, program, among others. “The Duterte admin(istration) has accomplished so much, far more than

to give P12,000 each to 40 workers. SB Corp said the program that caters to micro and small businesses hit by the pandemic to help entrepreneurs. The loan facility is open to SMEs that had to resort to flexible working arrangements, suffered temporary closure before Nov. 2, or had to retrench a number of employees, said SB Corp

Spokesman Lito Acupan. The program aims to help more than 41,000 workers get their 13thmonth pay despite the hardship their company is experiencing. Eligible and interested enterprises can register with the Bayanihan Cares website before applying for the loan. Companies with up to 4

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CebPac adds flights to 6 DTI’s SB Corp. offering loans domestic destinations to SMEs for 13th-month pay

okongwei-led budget carrier Cebu Pacific said Thursday it is adding more flights to key domestic destinations in its network following the easing of travel restrictions. In an advisory, Cebu Pacific said it ramped up flights going to and from Boracay, Bohol, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao,

and General Santos. In particular, the airline said it would increase its Manila-Boracay Manila flights from six to nine times daily starting November 22, operating more than its pre-COVID capacity to the island. By next month, its Boracay flights from Cebu will be up to six times weekly. Flights between Bo-

hol and Manila will also increase from 12 times weekly to twice daily starting November 23. By December, operations between Cebu and Manila will increase from six times daily to nine times daily, while flights to Cagayan de Oro will ramp up from five times daily to up to six times daily.

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he government is offering a loan facility for distressed small and micro enterprises that need to pay workers’ 13th-month pay, the agency in charge of the program said on Thursday. The Small Business Corp (SB Corp), an agency of the Department of Trade and Industry, said small businesses can borrow up to P480,000, which is enough

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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

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On his commitment to push his proposal to offer cash incentives to the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries who will seek full vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19):

I don’t agree with ‘no vaccine, no help’ so let’s reverse it. I have already suggested to President Duterte to give a PHP500 cash incentive to all beneficiaries to entice them to get vaccinated.” Sen. Bong Go

EDITORIAL Infectious optimism Health authorities and local government leaders of Mati City are expecting Matinians to achieve herd immunity from COVID-19 sometime next month in time for Christmas. This optimism was expressed in a press statement released by the local government unit’s information office over the weekend. The handout quoted Dr. Ben Hur Catbagan Jr., head of the city’s Incident Management Team, as saying the latest data indicated that the Resbakuna Team has already vaccinated 50.8 percent of the target population of 107,442 for their first and second doses. This target population constitutes 70 percent of Mati’s total population of 153,488. A more updated data came from Ben Jason Tesiorna, chief of the city’s information bureau, that as of November 11, the city of Mati has already fully vaccinated 39,923 individuals and partially 14,601. “This brings to 54,524 Matinians already

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“Since the start of pediatric vaccination on November 8, Mati IMT vaccinates an average of 2,000 individuals a day,” reported Tesiorna. Mati is one of the top 50 priority areas under the National Vaccination Operation Center and the Department of Health has assigned more doctors and nurses to the city to help in the strong vaccination campaign rolled out by the city. As the capital city of Davao Oriental, Mati’s aggressive inoculation drive will surely inspire the other LGUs comprising the province of Davao Oriental. Indeed, its optimism in reaching herd immunity next month’s can infect neighboring localities and inspire them to be more aggressive in their own vaccination programs.

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

vaccinated, or 50.75 percent of the 107,442 individuals targeted to achieve herd immunity.

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

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EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

COVID-19 VACCINE BOOSTER Although COVID-19 vaccination for adults remains effective in preventing severe disease, recent data suggest vaccination is less effective at preventing infection or milder illness with symptoms over time. Emerging evidence also shows that among healthcare and other frontline workers, vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19 infections is also decreasing over time. “This lower effectiveness is likely due to the combination of decreasing protection as time passes since getting vaccinated,” states the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In the United States, COVID-19 vaccine boosters and additional vaccine doses are now authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The CDC recommends them for certain people. “A COVID booster shot is an additional dose of a vaccine given after the protection provided by the original shot(s) has begun to decrease over time,” explained Dr. Lisa Maragakis and Dr. Gabor Kelen, senior director of infection prevention and director of the Johns Hop-

kins Office of Critical Event Preparedness and Response. “Typically, you would get a booster after the immunity from the initial dose(s) naturally starts to wane,” they added. “The booster is designed to help people maintain their level of immunity for longer.” The Philippines is following suit. Starting last November 17, health workers fully vaccinated for COVID-19 have started to get their booster shots. This was after the FDA had issued an emergency use authorization for the booster doses. “(The booster shots are) only for healthcare workers for now,” said Dr. Edsel Maurice Salvana in his social media account. He emphasized that it is “voluntary,” meaning it is given only to those who are interested to have it. Dr. Salvana is the director of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the National Institute of Health at the University of the Philippines Manila. He is a clinical associate professor and research coordinator at the section of infectious diseases of the Department of medicine at the Philippine General Hospital.

“Whatever primary series you got, you are eligible for only one shot of one of these three vaccines only: Sinovac, Pfizer, and Moderna,” said Dr. Salvana. “Only those who are at least six months from their second dose are eligible. This may change depending on the final release since some studies have given boosters as early as three months.” From a pure safety standpoint, homologous boosters are more predictable, according to Dr. Salvana. In simpler terms, “if you got Sinovac, Pfizer or Moderna, you should go for a third dose of the same vaccine,” he pointed out. “There is data that mixing (heterologous vaccination) is more likely to cause reactions.” Frontline workers who are involved with COVID-19 patients and were vaccinated with Sinovac, “there is marginal preliminary data (which showed) that a single shot of Pfizer booster has an added 10% clinical protection compared to a third dose of Sinovac,” Dr. Salvana claimed. However, he said, the protection against severe disease is the same. “The efficacy data is

only for 14 days from the booster dose so these may change,” he said.

“For non-frontline healthcare workers, the decision point is whether you think the marginal added clinical benefit (but equal protection from severe disease) is worth the added risk of severe reactions,” he said. Bottom line, here are the recommendations of Dr. Salvana: · Got 2 doses of Sinovac after 6 months, frontliner, no allergy/adverse drug reaction (ADR) history: Pfizer booster · Got 2 doses of Sinovac, frontliner, after 6 months with allergy/ADR history: third dose of Sinovac · Got 2 doses of Sinovac after 6 months, not a frontliner, no allergy/ADR history: either Sinovac or Pfizer (personal choice) · Got 2 doses of Sinovac after 6 months, not a frontliner, with allergy/ADR history: third dose of dose Sinovac · Got 2 doses of Pfizer or Moderna after 6 months ago, either frontline or non-frontline health care worker (HCW): use third dose of the same brand

(note, Moderna booster is half dose) · Fully vaccinated HCW with any other vaccine, non-frontline or frontline (Janssen, Astra, Sputnik V etc.): no clear preference on what booster to take (Pfizer, Moderna, Sinovac), might want to wait for more data. If with allergy/ADR Sinovac might be safer. “These recommendations are subject to change as the science trickles in, and are by no means final,” Dr. Salvana said. “If you have a hard time deciding, it might be safer to wait for more data.” What will happen after you get your booster or additional dose? “So far, reactions after getting a booster shot were similar to that of the 2-shot or single-dose initial series,” CDC says. “Fever, headache, fatigue and pain at the injection site were the most commonly reported side effects, and overall, most side effects were mild to moderate. However, as with the 2-shot or single-dose initial series, serious side effects are rare, but may occur,” CDC says. Stay safe!

FRED C. LUMBA SPECKS OF LIFE

STATESMANSHIP, ANYONE? “I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have. I must stand with anybody that stands right, and stand with him while he is right, and part with him when he goes wrong.” ABRAHAM LINCOLN. *******

“Statesmanship,” per the Oxford dictionary, “is the ability, qualification or practice of a statesman, wisdom and skill in the management of public affairs.” Being skilled in the management of public affairs indicates possession of excellent tact, sagacity and wisdom in governance viz-a-vis the politics of the era. A statesman by definition is a “politician who is skilled in political affairs and exhibits an aura of dignity in his language and personal behavior.” Abraham Lincoln is my per-

sonal choice of a true and genuine statesman. Born February 12, 1809 in Larue County, Kentucky, Lincoln sat in Washington as the 16th US Head of State from March 4, 1861 up to his violent and untimely death on April 15, 1865. Revered for his personal sacrifice - including his family - to liberate the Negroes (African Americans) from slavery at a most difficult time when the US was struggling through the violent Cvil War years, he rose over and above the yardstick of American political standards to become the “Great Emancipator.” His wife, Mary Todd, served as a low-key First Lady. If by memory you recall his Gettysburg address (it begins with “Four scores and seven years ago,...), this will spark in you a nationalistic fervor that is much needed in these critical times of our lives. Lincoln held together the Union which was being

threatened by the Confederacy that has broken itself away because the latter wanted the status quo and nothing of Lincoln’s campaign to free the blacks from slavery. He did not live long to enjoy and savor the celebration of the Union’s victory because he was felled by an assassin’s (John Wilkes Booth) bullet soon after. “Honest Abe,” as he was dubbed for his candor and straightforwardness, lives forever. Lincoln, a lawyer and the son of a frontiersman, had independence of judgment and conspicuous courage, two sterling qualities of a statesman that our local politicians need to possess if their integrity would stand against public scrutiny. Unfortunately, everyone, it appears, just wants to compromise and trade horses, if you know what I mean. It is about scratching each other’s back. Politicians in our midst re-

main stagnant and self-seeking because they are not schooled in the art of diplomacy, tact and statecraft. This is sad. While the elder politicians of yesteryears desired to bequeath a legacy that would pull our country out of the rut, those who managed and are lucky to inherit their political genes have not displayed anything worthy of emulation. Or something that would make their fathers proud of them. Sure, they had prominent family names but that is all there is to it. I wonder if any of our aspiring young politicians today are curiously studying the lives of eminent political leaders here and abroad. Political dynasties have mushroomed even as their prohibition is legislated in our Constitution. I cannot help but compare our crop of leaders with those who have exemplary records in

politics, executive management and statesmanship. Fault finding, good-for-nothing politicians and character assassins should be ideally dismissed forever from our midst and sent to the graveyard of oblivion where they rightfully deserve their place. Our population is ever-growing but our national mindset is not. Tsk,tsk,tsk. Who contributes to the mental pollution that results in the mental bankruptcy of our countrymen? A reversal of this abhorrent attitude must come soon. Or we face the threat of subsiding into a fate similar to what has transpired in many unstable countries - democratic or whatever - we have read of. Myanmar? Syria? Afghanistan? Sudan? It is our choice, actually. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

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EDGEDAVAO ENTERTAINMENT

Indeed, Christmas is a season of joy. For SM Lanang Premier, joy comes in verdant green colors. For SM City Davao, joy means loads of thrill. This holiday season, SM Supermalls in Davao reimagined Christmas through thoughtful moments through decors inspired by gardens and parks made to bring joy to Dabawenyos in the middle of this pandemic. At SM Lanang Premier, the centerpiece element is a 55-foot Christmas tree that stands at the center of a lush man-made garden. The tree is topped with a Sputnik chandelier that sparkles from all corners. The verdant spot at the mall’s atrium is accentuated with 25-feet evergreen wrought-iron arches and life-size topiaries in giraffe form. Christmas spirit can be felt as every corner is filled with greens and sparkles through displays of platinum drop crystals, moss-covered

PARKS OF JOY balls, glitters, and glass balls.

Over at SM City Davao, the park-inspired space displayed lush installations that

celebrate an adventurous holiday. The activity center was transformed into a lively park with glistening greeneries, popup stalls, and large rubycolored Christmas balls for a funfilled outdoor vibe featuring five life-size statues of prancing Parisian bears. The main attraction is the 30-feet Christmas tree decked with 50,000 lights

and 300 balls and adjacent to it is the 12-feet Christmas ball-inspired dome with a tunnel of bright and sparkly lights. “All decors are refurbished and recycled for sustainability so we can save and give more back to the community,” said Lester R. Tantoco, mall manager of SM City Davao. The two Christmas in-

stallations lit up on November 5 and 6, 2021, respectively.

follow the minimum health and safety protocols while having fun in the displays.

These installations aim to recreate outdoor experiences like safe dining and a walk in the park as customers can be a part of these holiday displays through dining pods and easy access to holiday treats.

For quick gift inspirations and holiday treats, visit also the Christmas Markets that runs from November 6, 2021, to January 9, 2021, at the annex event center in SM City Davao and from November 18, 2021, to December 18, 2021, at the Northwing event grounds in SM Lanang Premier.

The malls’ management reminded Dabawenyos to

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

Davao City School is Blended Learning-Ready for High School and College campus reopening

n institution in Davao City, also known as Malayan Colleges Mindanao, A Mapúa School, is making preparations for the reopening of campus for limited face-to-face classes later this year or early next year. This follows the release of separate Joint Memorandum Circulars (JMC) of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Education (DepEd) with the Department of Health (DOH), namely, CHED-DOH JMC 2021-001 and DepEd-DOH JMC No. 001 s.2021, respectively. Based on CHED-DOH’s JMC 2021-001, Engineering, HRM, Tourism, and Marine Transportation programs have been approved for limited face-toface classes. Meanwhile, based on DepEd- DOH JMC No. 001 s.2021, pilot face-

to-face classes will start on November 15, 2021. “MCM is in the process of adjusting its physical plant and facilities (campus, laboratories, library, etc.) [to follow] safety and health protocols [and] to comply with CHED, DepEd, and DOH’s Joint Memorandum Circulars.” shared Engr. Alejandro H. Ballado, Vice President for Academic Affairs at MCM. The iPeople Schools, including MCM, have been planning for possible school reopening as soon as the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) was declared in March 2020. As such, the school strictly mandates proper guidelines and protocols in-campus to ensure health and safety, including protocols for students exhibiting minor coughs, colds, or fever. The main highlight is MCM’s classrooms and lab-

During limited face-to-face classes, the teacher also holds synchronous classes for those who are not on campus. (Disclaimer: there were no students present during this shoot).

he public health crisis continues to affect businesses. But more than a year into this pandemic, the Filipinos’ ingenuity to address the challenges, and optimism for an imminent recovery remain strong. As Filipino entrepreneurs navigate through the new normal, how can they move forward post-pandemic? How can small and medium enterprises (SMEs) prepare for the coming new year? What are the business opportunities and market trends in the next normal? These questions and more will be answered in Insular Life (InLife) and UnionBank Global Linker’s webinar entitled “Ready, set, thrive! How SMEs can grow in the next normal” on November 26, 2021, Friday, 3 to 5 p.m. UnionBank’s Chief Economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion will discuss the 2022 economic forecast and trends for SMEs. To illustrate a Filipino entrepreneur’s passion and purpose, UnionBank GlobalLinker SME owner Oscar Meija will share

how he embraced market opportunities to scale up his artisan perfumery. And to help SMEs mitigate business risks and secure their employees’ welfare, InLife’s Corporate Solutions Division Head Lorenzo Luis “Bong” Gallardo III will present group insurance plans. “InLife pioneered group insurance plans to help companies provide ‘A Lifetime for Good’ for their employees. For companies with as few as five employees to as many as 5,000 employees, InLife’s customizable solutions include life insurance, health care, credit protection, accident and disability, critical illness, retirement, and fund management programs,” Gallardo said. To reach out to more SMEs, InLife partnered with UnionBank of the Philippines and Digivation to be part of the online platform called the UnionBank GlobalLinker. “UnionBank GlobalLinker helps SMEs create and step up their digital presence, and connect with potential

Facade of the Malayan Colleges Mindanao campus at Gen. Douglas MacArthur Highway, Matina, Davao City, taken pre-pandemic

oratories which have been arranged accordingly to observe social distancing and proper ventilation — such as fitted acrylic barriers installed between teachers and students, air-conditioning, open windows, and fan for sustained airflow measured by an anemometer; and an arranged blended learning set-up. An online and limited face-to-face set-up in the classroom has been prepared by the institution by use of its video-conferencing tools such as Microsoft Teams to stream the ongoing class to other students who are watching from home — optimizing the on-

line and offline classroom set-up while still ensuring that those who do not have fast internet connection can still watch the recording of the session in their own time. Prior to the actual campus reopening for limited face-to-face classes, MCM will conduct consultations with parents, students, faculty, non-teaching personnel, and LGU to address any concerns. Afterward, Authority to Reopen will be secured from the CHED and DepEd regional offices with close coordination as well from the Davao City local government officials. Moreover, MCM is con-

tinually preparing the entire campus for the rest of the College Programs’ and High School Department’s openings, in anticipation of CHED and DepEd’s further release of additional guidelines. “Once the school has completed the retrofitting of the campus and the relevant adjustments, the school will conduct a self-assessment and eventually submit its application to CHED and DepEd Region XI offices for the necessary evaluation and approval.” Engr. Alejandro H. Ballado further explained. After receiving approval from CHED and DepEd, MCM will gradually reopen

the campus for College and High School students to accommodate those who want to participate in limited face-to-face classes. MCM has shown that they are more than ready with an earlier launch of their Flexible Learning Options in past months — a learning set-up that uses blended learning (in-campus and limited face-to-face classes) or remote learning (fully online). Malayan Colleges Mindanao, A Mapúa School, is now open for new students and transfer applicants for SY: 2022-2023 which you can learn more about at www.mcm.edu.ph.

InLife, UnionBank and GlobalLinker

to discuss 2022 economic outlook and trends to help SMEs thrive in the next normal customers, financiers, suppliers and partners. And through our webinar for SMEs, we are extending our online reach to our entrepreneurs, to help them learn more about the trends, opportunities, and challenges in the coming year,” UnionBank’s SME Segments Head Jose Paulo “Jaypee” Soliman said. Register to the “Ready, set, thrive! How SMEs can grow in the next normal” webinar through https:// bit.ly/UBP_Globallinker_ Event

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‘THERE’S... FROM 2

after his term ends in June 2022. “Hindi ako nag-iintriga. Bahala kayo. Find out kung sino (I am not making an intrigue. It’s up to you. Find out who that person is),” Duterte said. “Ang tatay, pero siya, anong ginawa niya (His father [is prominent] but what did that candidate do)? If that’s what the Filipino wants, go ahead.” Incumbent Senators Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and Emmanuel “Manny Pacquiao, former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., and Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso are among the known male personalities who are seeking the country’s top post. Earlier, Duterte expressed dismay over the decision of his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, to run for vice president under Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats despite being the top contender for president based on the previous pre-election surveys. Duterte also said Marcos might have influenced his daughter to seek the vice presidency instead of the top government post.

Bong Go is ‘bright’ Meantime, Duterte reiterated his support for Go’s presidential bid. “I am not into politicking, but let me just state for the record and in no uncertain terms that ang kandidato ko sa pagka-presidente ay si (my candidate for president is) Bong Go,” Duterte said. Duterte vouched for Go’s competence to lead the country, saying the latter is a “bright” person. He added that Go, his former long-time security aide, should not be underestimated, because the senator is a graduate from De La Salle University. “Akala kasi nila, pipitsugin lang na tao. Aide, aide, aide (They think he’s incompetent because he’s my aide). They were not able really to correct Bong’s talent actually. You know one thing sabi ko sa inyo, itong Bong na ito, mag-kwenta ng whatever, magkwenta ng pera o percentage, hindi ito nagsusulat (I am telling you, Go can compute without writing). Ganoon kahusay ito (That’s how bright he is). Bright,” Duterte said. (PNA)

DAVNOR... FROM 3

Villegas also highlighted the milestones of DOLE in combating child labor. “Part sa atong intervention campaign is ang paghatag ug ayuda or livelihood sa atong mga child laborer parents ug sa child laborers gikan 2016 na mga naprofile nato (We give assistance and livelihood projects to the parents of the children involved in child labor identified since 2016 as part of our intervention campaign),” Villegas said. He also thanked Child Fund International as its active NGO partner in implementing their programs. “Thankful mi sa pagpalapad aning programa tungod sa pagtabang sa Child Fund Philippines tungod kay palangga gyud kaayo nila ang Davao Del Norte kay naghimo gyud silag profiling ilaha ug nagbubo gyud silang saktong pondo para sa mga kabataan sa Davao Del Norte labi na sa agricultural sectors kung asa naapil ang daghan nga mga child laborers (We are grateful for Child Fund Philippines’ assistance in growing this program since they genuinely care about Davao Del Norte’s children and fund appropriately for them, particularly in the agricultural industries where many child laborers are employed),” he added. Michel Robin-Pascal, a former TV personality also enumerated the efforts of Child Fund International, as its rep-

resentative. “Ang Building Capacity Awareness Advocacy and Program gipondohan sa United States Department of Labor kung asa gihatagan ug pagtagad ang problema nato sa child labor diri sa Pilipinas. Nahuman nami’g enumeration sa Barangay Salvacion, San Miguel, Magsaysay, ug Alejal, sa Panabo (The Building Capacity Awareness Advocacy and Program is funded by the United States Department of Labor where our problem of child labor here in the Philippines is addressed. We completed the enumeration in Barangays Salvacion, San Miguel, Magsaysay, and Alejal, in Panabo),” Robin-Pascal said. She further said that the problem of child labor can only be addressed holistically if the parents will be educated on the impact of child labor on children. “Kung dili masabtan sa mga ginikanan ang impact sa child labor sa mga kabataan, dili mahuman ang problema sa child labor ug magpadayon lang ang cycle sa kapobrehon, magpadayon lang ang cycle sa child labor (If parents do not understand the impact of child labor on children, the problem of child labor will not end and the cycle of poverty will only continue, the cycle of child labor will only continue),” she added. (PIA XI Davao del Norte/jmda/Ezri M. Coda, Jr.)

“This move will likewise aid in bolstering consumer confidence, which is a large contributor to our gross domestic product or GDP growth,” she added. As of this posting, the following countries have been classified under the “green list” until Nov. 30, 2021: American Samoa Bhutan Chad China (Mainland) Comoros Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Federated States of Micronesia Guinea Guinea-Bissau Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China) India Indonesia Japan Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Malawi

Mali Marshall Islands Montserrat Morocco Namibia Niger Northern Mariana Islands Oman Pakistan Palau Paraguay Rwanda Saint Barthelemy Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saudi Arabia Senegal Sierra Leone Sint Eustatius South Africa Sudan Taiwan Togo Uganda United Arab Emirates Zambia Zimbabwe Puyat said the IATF approval was a welcome development as other countries have reopened their borders to international leisure travelers.

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from ASF-infected areas in the

neighboring regions. She said there were pork products seized in Tacurong City and Sultan Kudarat province in the past several weeks that turned out positive for ASF. “It’s very alarming. It is important for us to intercept these products before they could enter our markets,” she said. South Cotabato and this city remain under the “dark green” zone or among the areas in the country that remain free from ASF. The area is among the top

producers of live hogs in the country, shipping out at least 15,000 heads every two weeks to Metro Manila and Luzon. The South Cotabato Swine Producers Association, the biggest association of commercial swine farms in the area, has a combined sow population of 55,000 and produces more than 45,000 heads of hogs a month. About 10 percent of the group’s production is consumed in Soccsksargen and it supplies the 90 percent surplus to markets in Luzon and the Visayas. (MindaNews)

the most dredged and extracted without replenishment intervals and threshold assessments due to illegal quarrying. Manalo added that these quarry areas even reached Barangay Malamba and Barangay Bantol in the north. He also said that reports of illegal quarrying are rampant in Barangay Waan. This is despite the cease and desist order issued by Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio last year. Due to the distance and insufficiency in monitoring, the order was to completely hold the operations and clear out rampant illegal quarrying along the Lasang River. Meanwhile, the Talomo-Lipadas watershed continues to face threats of increasing livestock and poultry farms along its vicinity wherein some are allegedly operating without permits. Manolo also presented that the Panigan-Tamugan watershed in Baguio District is threatened by effluents and discharges from the mono-crop plantation and livestock farms, and residential wastes. The Matina Pangi watershed in Talomo district is facing threats of leachate and effluents from the sanitary landfill in New Carmen that pollutes the river quality. This issue has been subjected to complaints from residents near the area. “We are very much aware that we are under global pandemic, and despite that, our forces, partners, Bantay Bukid continue to participate and do their job in terms of environ-

mental protection. It is very important to give them the support and acknowledge their efforts to protect our watershed areas and environment in general particularly right now, we are facing a climate crisis,” said Mark Peñalver, executive director of IDIS. The Davao City Watershed Stakeholders Summit held on November 18, 2021, is an annual gathering of the watershed stakeholders in the city since 2013. This annual event is spearheaded by the Davao City Watershed Management Council and IDIS in partnership with various local government agencies, environmental networks, non-government organizations, and civil society organizations. This year’s summit is an avenue for watershed stakeholders and Dabawenyos to deepen their understanding of the importance of upscaling disaster and climate resiliency in managing and protecting the watersheds and to continue the initiatives towards a sustainable and lasting solution. Among this year’s objectives include solicit strategies and recommendations to effectively protect and sustainably manage the watershed amidst the health and climate crisis, showcase community-based efforts and practices in disaster resiliency and climate action representing watersheds in Davao City from ridge to reef, and conduct simultaneous community-based clean-up, riverbank, and coastal tree growing activities from ridge to reef.

to 15 percent of the energy requirements of the Holcim Philippines plant in the said areas, it added. The deal will also make Holcim the country’s first cement maker in the country with an on-site solar power plant, the company said. Holcim said use of renewable energy could save natural resources and reduce CO2 emissions. “Reducing the carbon foot-

print of our operations is one of our key sustainability commitments... Shifting to renewable solar energy will help us further improve as an environment steward and a partner in building progress in the country, sustainably,” Holcim president and CEO Horia Adrian said. Holcim, a member of the Holcim Group, operates cement manufacturing facilities in La Union, Bulacan, Batangas, Misamis Oriental and Davao.

Manila to Davao flights will go up to three times daily from five times weekly in December. Meanwhile, Cebu Pacific said it now flies to General Santos daily. “We continue to ramp up our domestic network to address rising travel demand and promote safe and responsible travel. This way we enable the public in rebuilding trust and travel confidence, at the same time pave the way towards economic recovery,” said Xander Lao, chief commercial officer at Cebu Pacific. The airline said Boracay has implemented acceptance of fully vaccinated individuals only, starting November 16. Minors, 12 to 17 years old, are required to present any proof of full vaccination status or a negative RT-PCR test re-

sult - saliva, nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal - taken within 72 hours to date of travel. Children under 12 years of age are exempted from submitting RT-PCR test results, and should be accompanied by fully vaccinated individuals. On the other hand, fully vaccinated travelers to Bohol, Cebu and General Santos need to present their vaccination cards in lieu of swab tests, the airline said. Adult travelers may take their children under four years of age for entry to Bohol. Visitors of Misamis Oriental may simply register in S-PaSS and StaySafe.Ph, while Davao does not require arriving guests to present any travel documents upon check-in, the airline said.

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tured 9-for-16 shooting on 3-pointers. The Warriors made 15 threes in the game, six in the fourth period. Lee finished with 11 points off the bench, while Nemanja Bjelica provided 14 and Andrew Wiggins 12 for Golden State, which hasn’t lost a regular-season game at Cleveland since Christmas Day 2016. Draymond Green contributed a game-high 14 assists in the win. Garland paced the Cavaliers with 25 points, shooting 10-for-22 overall and 4-for-11 on 3-pointers. Dean Wade and Kevin Love chipped in with 17 points each for the Cavaliers, who lost their third in a row as they con-

tinued to play without Evan Mobley and Collin Sexton. The Cavaliers’ Ed Davis led all rebounders with 14, while Isaac Okoro and Ricky Rubio added 10 points apiece. After the Cavaliers opened on a 10-0 run and the Warriors drew even before quarter’s end, the game was tightly contested until Love bombed in a pair of 3-pointers and was fouled on a third attempt, making all three free throws, to help Cleveland open a 77-65 lead late in the third period. Wade beat the third-quarter horn with a tip-in to put the Cavaliers up 13 entering the fourth quarter, but it was Cleveland’s last field goal for almost six minutes.

“Palagay ko, first week ng December,” he said of a new possible opening date. “Dapat, ilang araw lang,” he added. “Ilang days lang mamo-move ‘yun, hindi ganoon kalaki.” Meanwhile, already set to start this weekend is the PBA

3x3 competition, which features 13 teams. Games will be played at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City starting on Saturday. The PBA is also in discussions with several venues -including Ynares in Pasig -- to host the Governors’ Cup games.

Washington coach Wes Unseld Jr. was facing Miami for the first time. His father, former Washington Bullets coach Wes Unseld, went 11-15 against the Heat from 1989 through 1994. ... Wizards assistant Pat Delany spent 11 years in the Heat organization, starting in the video room, then scouting and eventually coaching in the G League. Heat: Markieff Morris (whiplash) missed a sixth con-

secutive game after taking the Nov. 8 hit from Denver’s Nikola Jokic. ... The Heat play their next four games on the road, and 10 of their next 15 over the next month are away from home. ... Including playoffs, Miami’s winning percentage against Washington is 69%, which is the best the Heat have against any franchise. Miami has won 66% of its games, against Sacramento.

deal from the government

but I tell you again, if you don’t know the facts, I encourage you please, get the facts and history of Malampaya. This is certainly not the first time where share sale transfers were done,” he added. Gatchalian also said Udenna’s UC Malampaya “has negative working capital.” But Escalona said the two Udenna entities acquiring shares in Malampaya, namely UC Malampaya Philippines and Malampaya Energy XP, have a combined capitalization of $191 million. On allegations that PNOC’s non-participation in the bidding

was a loss for the government, Escalona said the government currently gets 64 percent of Malampaya’s revenues, while the rest goes to the consortium where the expenses are charged. If PNOC bid for the Chevron and Shell shares, it would get less than the 60 percent since it would also be subject to expenses, he said. “At the end of the day, without doing anything the government enjoys 64 percent of Malampaya revenues... Over the years Malampaya has contributed around $12 billion to the government in revenues and that’s a substantial amount of money,” he said.

what previous administrations have done. We must only have to sustain the gains of this administration, and in order to continue the gains of these achievements and gains under the able leadership of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, I am presenting myself to the public,” Go said. Lacson said he will prioritize key infrastructure projects especially on transportation, inter-island connectivity, regional food terminals, and health facilities. “Build, Build, Build (program) completed only 11 out of 119 flagship projects as of second quarter of 2021,” he said.

The lawmaker added that in the past five years, PHP78 billion were spent for preventive maintenance of roads and other infrastructure and not based on the needs of the people. “Itigil ang pagbubungkal ng maayos pang kalsada (Stop excavating roads that are in still good condition)” Lacson said. Pacquaio said his administration will further cut corporate income tax from the current 25 percent to 15 percent. He added the government should focus on revenue generation but boosting the nontax revenues of the government.

workers, only need to present a barangay permit and a government-issued ID plus a bank account. Businesses with more than 4 workers, meanwhile are required to present a Mayor’s permit and a corporate secretary authorization. Companies with up to 99 workers can still apply but only up to 40 workers can be covered, meaning the loan-

able amount will only be good to give 13th-month pay to 40 workers. After application, the company needs to wait for 5-10 days to know whether the loan is approved or denied. A company that has been approved and taken out the loan will have a 3 month grace period to pay the loan which is payable in one year at zero in-

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SPORTS

Curry scores 40 as Warriors come back to beat Cavaliers

he Golden State Warriors tightened the defensive screws in the fourth quarter and Stephen Curry saved 20 of his game-high 40 points for the final 12 minutes as the Western Conference front-runners rallied from a 13-point deficit to defeat the host Cleveland Cavaliers 104-89 on Thursday night. Seeking a ninth win in their last 10 games, the Warriors began the fourth period down 8168 before holding the Cavaliers without a point for the first 5:40 of the quarter. In the meantime, Curry poured in 13 points, including three 3-pointers, and brother-in-law Damion Lee added a pair of two-point hoops in a 17-0 flurry that flipped the visitors into an 85-81 lead. A three-point play by Darius Garland tempo-

rarily stopped the Cavaliers’ bleeding and made it a one-point game, but Curry added seven more points, Juan Toscano-Anderson seven and Lee five in a 19-5 finish. The Cavaliers missed their first six shots of the period and mixed in five turnovers in the lead-losing drought. Garland had the team’s only two hoops in a period in which the hosts were outscored 368. Curry’s 40 points fea-

FCURRY, P10

PBA Governors’ Cup opening faces delay

he opening of the 2021 PBA Governors Cup may be moved to a later date as several imports have yet to arrive in the country. PBA commissioner Willie Marcial initially pencilled November 28 as the start of the Governors Cup, which will feature foreign reinforcements after the league held two consecutive All-Filipino conferences. “Target natin ‘yun… (pero) kailangan kumpleto ‘yung imports bago natin simulan,” said Marcial. As of Wednesday, only five imports are already in the Philippines: Alaska’s Olu Ashaolu, San Miguel Beer’s Brendan Brown, NLEX’s KJ McDaniels, NorthPort’s Cameron Forte and Terrafirma’s Antonio

Hester. Yet to arrive are: TNT Tropang Giga’s McKenzie Moore, Meralco’s Shabazz Muhammad, Blackwater’s Jaylen Bond, Magnolia’s Mike Harris, Phoenix Super LPG’s Paul Harris, Rain or Shine’s Henry Walker and Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee. “’Yung iba, pina-process pa ‘yung kanilang papeles, tapos pagdating dito, magka-quarantine pa ng 10 days, ‘di ba,” Marcial noted. “So kailangan, mag-practice pa sila.” “So mino-monitor ko ‘yung dating ng mga imports,” he added. With just 10 days to go before their target start date and many of the imports yet to arrive, Marcial admits the opening of the Governors’ Cup will likely be moved.

FPBA, P10

Stephen Curry scored a game-high 40 points.

Butler sparkles as Heat trip Wizards

M Bam Adebayo tries to control the leather against Montrezl Harrell. PHOTO BY: AP

IAMI — Jimmy Butler scored 32 points and the Miami Heat beat the Washington Wizards 112-97 on Thursday night (Friday, Manila time) for their fourth straight victory. The teams will meet again Saturday night in Washington. Butler shot 11 of 19 from the field and made all 10 of his free throws in his second consecutive outing over 30 points.

Bam Adebayo added 20 points, Gabe Vincent had 18 points and P.J. Tucker 15. The Heat improved to 1 Bradley Beal scored 30 points for Washington, and Kyle Kuzma added 19 points. The Wizards have lost two straight to drop to 10-5. The Heat made 7 of 8-pointers in the third period to take control. Duncan Robinson’s 3-pointer with 3:59 remaining in the quarter gave Miami its

largest lead at 75-57. The double-digit result was the ninth in the Heat’s 11 wins. Guard Tyler Herro, Miami’s second-leader scorer, sat out because of a bruised right wrist. The Wizards rested third-leading scorer Spencer Dinwiddie. TIP-INS Wizards: Beal also had five assists, including a pass on Montrezl Harrell’s first-quarter dunk that for career assist No. 2,500. ...

FBUTLER, P10

12 SPORTS

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CHAMP MINDSET

Jonas Sultan of the Philippines. Ring photo

UNESCO’s World Science Day features in PSC’s Rise Up Shape Up

n celebration of UNESCO’s World Science Day, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) presents a special back-to-back episode of Rise Up Shape Up highlighting women coaching and leadership this coming November 20-21, 2021. Through PSC’s web series “Rise Up, Shape Up,” the Commission aims to remind the public of the significant role of sports science in society and how it contributes to human growth and development. PSC Chairman William Ramirez hopes that the special episodes will inspire the public to develop their champion mindset and build healthy habits for growth and development. MAC’s CrankIt Tennis Academy (MCTA) of Australia founding Director and coach Patricia Puzon will headline the November 20 episode. Puzon who is also the book author of Becoming a Great Coach, will share her experiences and knowledge on coaching in the 10:30 am episode.

Meanwhile, coach Henry So, ATPCA International Director for Strength and Conditioning and ATPCA Master Pro Level 3, and National Presenter for Hong Kong will be starred on the Sunday episode. Women in Sports Commissioner Celia H. Kiram stresses that sports excellence and a champion mindset is not just about the physical, but also the emotional and mental wellness of an individual. Comm. Kiram will share inspiring anecdotes of Puzon and So in her regular segment “K-Isport”. The special webisode will also showcase snippets of the three-day virtual 2021 Women’s Leadership Training and Coaching Seminar conducted by PSC Women in Sports.