Edge Davap Volume 14 Issue 228 | Thursday, December 9, 2021 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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While most of the politicians and their supporters are busy with their caravans to woo voters for next year’s polls, ordinary Filipinos like this scavenger spends his day collecting scrap items from the trash bins to make both ends meet. Edge Davao

TROUBLE AHEAD If Marcos will be disqualified, PH will be in turmoil: Pulong STORY ON PAGE 2

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 228 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

President Rodrigo Duterte signs Executive Order No. 155 regulating the prices of drugs and medicines used to address the leading causes of morbidity in the country. Presidential Photo

TROUBLE AHEAD P

Duterte signs executive order regulating drug prices in PH

If Marcos will be disqualified, PH will be in turmoil: Pulong By MAYA M. PADILLO

residential son and Congressman Paolo “Pulong” Duterte said he expects turmoil if presidential aspirant former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., will be disqualified.

“Ilaha man daw giplanuhan i-disqualify daw. Gubot na sa tinuod lang. Sa latest survey naa sya karon mga 54 percent. Kung ila ng buhaton gubot ang Pilipinas,” he said in an interview with the media during the

turnover ceremony of the patient transport vehicles and ambulance trike to barangays in the first district on Wednesday. Duterte, who is supporting the tandem of Marcos and his sister, Mayor

Sara Duterte-Carpio, said it is up to Marcos to face the disqualification case. Marcos is facing two more disqualification filed with the Commission on Elections and were elevated to the Comelec’s 1st Division on December 6, 2021. These two petitions were filed by Akbayan and other civic leaders National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Commissioner Abuba-

kar Mangelen, who claimed to be the duly elected chairman of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), which is carrying Marcos’ presidential bid. His petition also asked the poll body to nullify one of Marcos’ candidacy papers because it was supposedly issued by PFP without his consent. Based on reports, both petitions by Akbayan and

PHP10,000 after completing PhilSys (Philippine Identification System) Step 2 registration.” The PSA also clarified that PhilID applicants can apply for a Land Bank of the Philippines account or prepaid card but they carry no balance, initial fund or financial aid. To avoid falling prey

to fake information, the PSA advises registrants to obtain PhilSys updates from PSA-PhilSys official website philsys.gov.ph and Facebook account PSAPhilSysOfficial. It also reminded registrants not to give their personal PhilSys information to untrusted or un-

FTROUBLE, P10

PSA warns public vs. fake info, websites

he Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) cautioned the public against the sites dswdayuda-news.blogspot . com and facebook.com/ updatepilipinas as they are not official government accounts. The PSA also clarified that no government program provides financial

aid using the Philippine Identification (PhilID) card or national ID. “The website and Facebook page are not affiliated with the government,” a recent post from PhilSys Davao Oriental read. “Do not believe the information coming from these pages that PhilSys registrants will receive

FPSA, P10

resident Rodrigo Duterte has signed an executive order regulating the prices of drugs and medicines used to address the leading causes of morbidity in the country. Under Executive Order No. 155, price regulation via maximum retail price (MRP) and/or maximum wholesale price (MWP) will be imposed on 34 drug molecules and 71 drug formulas used in agents affecting bone metabolism, analgesics, anesthetics, anti-angina, antiarrhythmics, anti-asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease medicines, antibiotics, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, antidiabetic drugs, antidiuretics, and antiemetics. The order also covers drug molecules and formulas utilized in anti-glaucoma, anti-hypercholesterolemia medicines, antihypertensive medicines, anti-neoplastic/anti-cancer medicines, anti-Parkinsons drugs, drugs for overactive bladders, growth hormone inhibitors, immunosuppressant drugs, iron chelating agents, and psoriasis, seborrhea and ichthyosis medicines. The order also says that manufacturers and sellers of these drugs should also display their retail prices.

The EO specifies that the maximum retail price, “preceded by the words ‘RETAIL PRICE NOT TO EXCEED,’ and ‘UNDER DRUG PRICE REGULATION,’ on a red strip, shall be clearly printed on the label of the immediate container of the drug and medicine and the minimum pack thereof offered for retail.” The list of medicines and their corresponding prices shall be subject to the review of the Department of Health (DOH), in consultation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) six months from the effectivity of the EO, and every six months thereafter. Violators of the executive order will be dealt with according to the Republic Act No. 9502 or the Universally Accessible Cheaper and Quality Medicines Act of 2008. Under the said law, the Health secretary can impose administrative fines of not less than P50,000 pesos and not more than P5,000,000 on its violators. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said Duterte signed the law “to improve access to affordable, quality medicines and reduce the health-related expenses of our countrymen, consistent with the goals of the Universal Health Care Act.”

EDGEDAVAO

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NEWS

Davao City First District Rep. Paolo Z. Duterte bares that he initiated the withdrawal of the certificate of nomination and acceptance (CONA) of Nilo “Small” Abellera Jr. from Hugpong Sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL) and Hugpong Ng Pagbabago (HNP). Photo courtesy of the office of the First Congressional District of Davao City

Nordeco expresses strong opposition vs bill expanding DLPC franchise area City to strengthen response strategies amid ‘Omicron’

he city government of Davao is strengthening its response strategies amid the threat of the Omicron variant of Covid-19. “Naa gihapon ngadto sa strengthening our initial strategies sa response because we are not yet out of the pandemic. We are not in the clear. There is a threat of another variant nga posible magdala og dako nga surge of cases,” Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said. The city is using the prevention and enforcement group; the health group, which she said is the bulk of the test, trace, and treatment strategies; and the management of the dead to address Covid-19. The mayor said the city is also gearing for another surge by preparing the rollout of boosters and the construction of the oxygen plant. “Ginapaspasan pud nato in preparation for another surge is katong mga allowed na nga boosters and atoang oxygen plant. And we are also continuously coordinating with SPMC concerning medicines since ang medicine karon is not for the use of all hospitals but only hospitals that are granted special compassionate use permits,” she said. Omicron, which was

first detected on November 11, 2021 in Botswana and on November 14, 2021 in South Africa, is a variant likely will spread more easily than the original SARSCoV-2 virus or Covid-19 and easily spreads compared to Delta. Experts said that anyone with Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms. The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) has placed South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, and Mozambique along with Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and Italy under the Red List effective November 28, 2021, until December 15, 2021. This means that those under the Red List countries/jurisdictions/territories shall not be allowed entry to any port in the Philippines. Meanwhile, the regional office of the Department of Health (DOH 11) has reported 29 repatriates or travelers who arrived in Davao International Airport (DIA) from the “red list” countries with addresses in Davao Region are currently monitored amid the threat of the new Omicron Covid-19 variant.

FCITY, P10

By MAYA M. PADILLO

he Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (Nordeco), Inc., formerly Davao del Norte Electric Cooperative or Daneco strongly opposed the passage of House Bill No. 10554, which was approved on November 29, 2021 by the Legislative Franchise Committee of the 18th Congress.

The House Bill is set to be calendared before the plenary to seek the amendment of the franchise coverage area of Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) under Republic Act 8960 to include Tagum City, Island Garden City of Samal, Municipalities of Talaingod, Asuncion, Kapalong, San Isidro, New Corella, in Davao del Norte and the Municipality of Maco in

Davao de Oro. The House Bill (HB) No. 10554 or “an act expanding the franchise area of Davao Light and Power Company Inc. (DLPC), amending for the propose Republic Act. No. 11515, entitled ‘an act extending for another 25 years the franchise granted to the Davao Light and Power Company Inc., under Republic Act No. 8960 entitled ‘an act further

extending the term of the franchise granted to Davao Light and Power Company Inc., to construct, operate, and maintain an electric light, heat and power system in Davao City and the municipalities of Carmen, Panabo, Dujali, and Santo Tomas, Province of Davao del Norte for 25 years and other purposes and ensuring the continuous and uninterrupted supply of electricity in the franchise area” was sponsored by Palawan First District Representative Franz Alvarez, Ako Bicol Representative Alfredo Garbin Jr, Davao del Norte First District Rep. Pantaleon “Bebot” Alvarez, and PBA Rep. Jericho Nograles.

In a statement, Nordeco stated that in the Legislative Franchise Committee hearing which lasted an hour and 45 minutes in a virtual platform, HB 09978 was hastily carried and approved even in the absence of the position papers from the Department of Energy (DOE), National Electrification Administration (NEA), and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), which are yet to be submitted as manifested by their respective representatives. Nordeco, through the representation of one of its legal counsels lawyer Daniel C. Campoamor, presented its position paper citing

end. In a text message on Monday, Basadre said their drainage system overflowed due to heavy rains and flooded the highway where the drainage canals could not contain the water runoffs. But he said they immediately worked on the drainage systems in their area and in the highway. The firm has been extracting nickel, cobalt and

chromite ores, among other mineral ores within a 3,564-hectare mining zone and shipping them abroad. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has required mining firms to build settling ponds to prevent massive siltation. MGB-Caraga regional director Larry Heradez said in a text message Monday that they dispatched a team to the area

on the same day to investigate. “While we are waiting for the validation report from MGB we are doing drainage improvement. Restore the normal course of the drainage,” Basadre said. He denied claims that their settling pond got busted. He said the drainage system simply overflowed.

FNORDECO, P10

Drainage system of mining company overflows, causes flood in Surigao Sur

he drainage system of the settling pond of a large-scale mining company operating in Carrascal town in Surigao del Sur overflowed causing flooding and massive siltation along the highway. Charlo Basadre, resident mine manager of CTP Construction and Mining Corporation told MindaNews the flooding occurred over the week-

FDRAINAGE, P10

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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A security guard checks the vaccination card of a customer at the entrance of a store in Surigao City on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. The store imposes a“no vaccination, no entry”policy. MindaNews photo by ROEL N. CATOTO

World Bank revises PH growth forecast upward

The World Bank revised its growth upward after observing that the economy grew in the first three quarters of 2021 despite the reimposition of the most stringent community quarantine in late March and early August. “(M)obility restrictions are overtime having less impact on economic activities,” World Bank Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thai-

land Ndiame Diop said in a virtual briefing Tuesday. Diop said in the first three quarters of the year, the Philippine economy grew by 4.9 percent from a 10.1-percent contraction in the same period in 2020. The World Bank’s outlook for the country in 2022 and 2023 is higher at 5.8 percent. Economic growth for the next two years will be

driven by consumption, infrastructure spending, vaccination, and revival of businesses, he added. However, Diop said a potential new wave of infection in the future remains a key risk to economic growth. He added even countries with high vaccination rates are still experiencing surges due to new strains of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), but the vaccination manages the severity of cases and mortality due to the virus. World Bank Philippines senior economist Kevin Chua listed policy recom-

lobe Telecom said Tuesday it was “optimistic” the Senate would pass a measure that aims to remove obstacles to building telco infrastructure in private villages, subdivisions and housing projects. The House of Representatives recently passed

on the third and final reading House Bill 10399, a bill seeking to promote digital connectivity in urban centers and in populated areas, the Ayala-led telco said in a statement. Under the proposed bill, all housing projects, subdivisions, villages or other residential areas in-

cluding socialized housing projects should allocate 30 percent of the gross area for open space to establish ICT infrastructure and related amenities. Globe said it has encountered “numerous permitting issues” with homeowners’ associations in establishing right-of-way in

he World Bank has upgraded its economic outlook for the Philippines this year to 5.3 percent, higher than its projection in September at 4.3 percent.

mendations to the government to sustain the country’s growth momentum. “Key policies must aim to protect long-term fiscal sustainability, leverage the private sector in the recovery, and limit the economic scarring from the pandemic,” Chua said. Among the policy recommendations of the World Bank include a progressive fiscal consolidation plan, boosting market competition and reduction of regulatory restrictions, harnessing digitalization, and timely and targeted social protection programs. (PNA)

subdivisions. “We are thankful to our lawmakers for their support. This piece of legislation helps address the permitting issues for rightof-way and cell site development in villages and subdivisions that affect Globe’s commitment to delivering a

Globe backs bill to ease telco builds inside subdivisions G FGLOBE, P10

DA releases atlas to guide farmers on corn production

ulfilling the mandate of President Rodrigo Duterte to uplift the lives of farmers, the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) launched on Tuesday the Atlas of Soil-based Agricultural Guide Maps for Corn. The atlas is a product of the collective efforts of DA-Regional Field Offices, local government units, and farmers through the Soil Health Assessment – National Soil Sampling and Testing project. “We hope that the vital information contained in this atlas will help our farmers make a better judgment in improving their farm productivity and restoring soil health. We also aspire that it will be utilized to aid decision-making and in legislating policies that are site-appropriate and clientele-benefiting. We, therefore, enjoin the recipients of this atlas to further communicate and convey the findings to all stakeholders,” the agency said in a statement. DA-BSWM said the atlas aims to provide sci-

ence-based information to ensure the sustainable use and management of soils and increase agricultural productivity. “This is of pivotal importance for the DA-BSWM to continue building and improving our country’s knowledge based on soil, and contribute to the attainment of the DA’s twin goals of masaganang ani, mataas na kita (productive yield, higher income),” the agency added. The DA-BSWM had previously published seven other major agricultural materials since President Duterte gave the go-signal in 2016. In his first State of the Nation Address, the President cited that efforts to address soil degradation and promote sustainable soil management have been sporadic, small in scale, and mostly locally-led. DA-BSWM shared that it was only in 2016 that a nationally led initiative underpinning soil as one of the basic foundations of sustainable food produc-

FDA, P10

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ECONOMY

Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar leads the distribution of assistance worth P159.6 million to individual farmers and associations in Caraga Region. Edge Davao

House ratifies bill amending Foreign Investment Act

he House of Representatives on Tuesday ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the amendments to the Foreign Investment Act to make the Philippines more accessible to foreign investors. During the plenary session, the chamber approved the final version that reconciles the disagreeing provisions of House Bill 300 and Senate Bill 1156. The priority measure aims to generate employment opportunities for Filipinos and help strengthen the economy. Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said the approval of this measure complements the passage of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act, in attracting foreign investments, as it reduces the number of direct hires required by foreign employers, from 50 to 15, that would help encourage smaller foreign investors to locate in the Philippines. “A key thrust of CREATE is to try to invite foreign investors who can contribute to the economy regardless of size,” Salceda said. He said allowing enterprises identified as “startup enablers” to be fully owned by foreigners will encourage investments in cutting-edge industries that are not yet present in the Philippines. These areas include financial technology, precision agriculture, health technology and other higher-order technological enterprises that are crucial to Philippine long-term

growth and resilience. “Startups are solutions-based and the Philippines will not lack for problems that require efficiency-enhancing solutions from tech companies. The FIA amendments, no doubt, are also good news for them,” he said. He said allowing professions not governed by special laws to be entered in by foreigners also allows the country to learn from professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and other key professions. “The inability to hire their own professionals has been a key constraint to investors who would otherwise have invested in the Philippines,” he said. He said subjecting officials involved in investment promotions to the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices also provides an additional safeguard against extortion of potential investors by government officials, and is a step towards greater ease of doing business. Salceda urged the Inter-Agency Investment Promotion Committee, institutionalized under the proposal, to perform its mandate of truly creating new markets for Philippine products and promoting the Philippines as a market and hub for global investments. He also reiterated his call for the release of the Strategic Investment Priorities Plan (SIPP) under CREATE, so that the government can use it as a tool to promote the Philippines as an investment destination. (PNA)

Caraga farmers get P160-M aid from DA A

total of PHP159.6 million worth of assistance was released by the Department of Agriculture (DA) to individual farmers and associations in Caraga Region on Tuesday.

The distribution activity in the town of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur was led by DA Secretary William Dar, the DA-13 (Caraga) said in a statement Tuesday. During the distribution, 1,844 rice farmers from Prosperidad were given PHP5,000 cash assistance each. “A total of 16,037 rice farmers from Agusan del

Sur, including those who received from Prosperidad, are eligible to receive the PHP81.3 million cash aid. The assistance will help them augment their production needs,” the DA-13 said. Dar also handed over PHP9.7 million worth of post-harvest machinery, processing, logistics, and marketing support to 15 farmers and fishers’ cooper-

atives in the region. The support equipment forms part of the Enhanced Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita Inclusive Food Supply Chain Program of the agency aimed to equip the farmers and fisherfolk in the area who are considered as reliable food commodity suppliers to sustainably operate Kadiwa retail stores in their localities. Among the groups that received the equipment are the CARCANMADCARLAN Agri-based Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, and the Sumilihon-Taguibo Farmers Association in Butuan City.

The Bayugan Achievers Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Bayugan City and the local government unit (LGU) of Cabadbaran City in Agusan del Norte also each received a refrigerated van with a total amount of PHP10.96 million. A total of 14 units of mechanical recirculating dryers amounting to PHP37.3 million were also turned over to the different LGUs in the region. “The recirculating dryers will be operated by the said through their identified farmers’ cooperatives

stood at 5%, higher than the 4% for men. The same study found that male online sellers have a higher online sales average of P10,898 versus the P6,041 for females, but researchers noted that more data is needed to establish whether the gap is gendered or attributable to other factors. “We conducted some basic econometric modeling and observed that engagement in online selling is more likely for women,

married individuals, and more educated persons,” said PIDS Senior Research Fellow Jose Ramon Albert, one of the authors of the study. “As a person grows older, there is a greater chance of engaging in online selling, but this reverses among older people,” he added. The study was also authored by Senior Research Fellow Francis Mark Quimba, Research Fellow Aubrey D. Tabuga, Consul-

tant Mary Grace Mirandilla-Santos, former Supervising Research Specialist Maureen Ane D. Rosellon, Research Specialist Jana Flor V. Vizmanos, Research Analyst Mika S. Muñoz, and former Research Analyst Carlos C. Cabaero. Albert also said that Filipinos in rural areas are less likely to engage in online selling, while unemployed, self-employed, and students are more likely to sell online than employed individuals.

FCARAGA, P10

More Filipino women online sellers, but male sellers make more — PIDS study

here are slightly more Filipino women engaged in online selling but they earn less than their male counterparts, according to a recent study conducted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS). According to the ‘Expanded Data Analysis and Policy Research for National ICT Household Survey 2019,” the proportion of female internet users engaged in online selling

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 228 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

On the presidency as not claimed but it is for the people to decide whom they want to lead them:

Dili nimo puwede ng ipugos ang Presidency para sa imoha. Ang tao gyud magboot ana. Now kung destiny nimo or ihatag na sa Ginoo.” Cong. Paolo “Pulong” Z. Duterte

EDITORIAL Timely warning The public is being warned of existing modus operandi on cyberspace using the Philippine Identification Card (PhilID or national ID) as a means to dupe the public that the government is extending financial aid.

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrollment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts.

Likewise, no government program provides financial aid using the Philippine Identification (PhilID) card or national ID.

Just to be clear. PhilID applicants can apply for a Land Bank of the Philippines account or prepaid card but they carry no balance, initial fund or financial aid. Obviously, the social media ad is fake.

The anomalous internet-based scheme involves sites purportedly run by government. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) identified these sites as dswd-ayuda-news.blogspot.com and facebook. com/updatepilipinas which are not official government accounts. The scheme advertises a P10,000 financial aid to be received from the government for every Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) registrant once they complete Step 2 registration. Nothing of such aid exists as an offer from the government as a way to promote PhilID. Signed into law by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in August 2018, Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act, aims to establish a single national ID for all Filipinos and resident aliens.

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For that reason, the PSA advises registrants to obtain PhilSys updates from PSA-PhilSys official website philsys.gov.ph and Facebook account PSAPhilSysOfficial. The public is also warned not to give their personal PhilSys information to untrusted or unknown websites.

There’s a lot of schemes around cyberspace and while we believe the PhilSys is a laudable project, there are some unhappy souls wishing it would fail. 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

It also seeks to boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government services where people will only need to present one ID during transactions.

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

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VANTAGE POINTS

HENRYLITO TACIO SERAFICA D. J. WEIS THINK ON CORNER THESE! IBP DAVAO

AIDS 40 YEARS LATER The first case of a person infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was in 1981. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a report of five young men with fatal or life-threatening Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). Almost never seen in people with intact immune systems, PCP turns out to be one of the major “opportunistic infections” that kill people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome or more popularly known as AIDS. At that time, there was no treatment available. But today, being infected with HIV is no longer a death sentence. Once a person has the infection, his or her body cannot get rid of it. But there’s an effective treatment called antiretroviral therapy (ART). This is a combination of several medicines that aims to control the amount of virus in the body of an HIV-infected person. Just a word of warning: Taking HIV treatment regimen, however, does not prevent transmission of other sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. In addition, there is also PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), a medicine people at risk for

HIV can take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV. Now, the bad news. The latest HIV Drug Resistance Report from the Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO) showed that “drug resistance is growing” and urges governments “to ensure people will receive effective medicine to treat and prevent HIV.” Surveys conducted in 10 countries in sub-Saharan Africa showed that “nearly half of infants newly diagnosed with HIV carry drug-resistant HIV before initiating treatment.” The report did not state whether such a survey was also conducted in Asian countries, including the Philippines. What about PrEP, which is an effective prevention option for HIV-negative individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection? “Resistance is most likely to occur when PrEP is started in the setting of undiagnosed acute HIV infection,” the WHO said in a press release. “As countries implement PrEP to prevent HIV infection, it should be accompanied by surveillance of HIV drug resistance in people who become infected despite use of PrEP,” the WHO

suggested. According to WHO, there were 37.7 million people living with HIV, 1.5 million new HIV infections and 680 000 AIDS-related deaths in 2020. Around 65% of HIV infections globally were among key populations, including sex workers and their clients, gay men and other men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs and transgender people, and their sexual partners. With millions of lives on the line, especially in this time of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) urgently called for expanded access to health treatments and technologies and for human rights to be upheld. “Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many of the populations most at risk were not being reached with HIV testing, prevention and care services,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus during World AIDS Day last December 1. “The pandemic has made things worse, with the disruption of essential health services, and the increased vulnerability of people with HIV to COVID-19. Like COVID-19, we have all the

tools to end the AIDS epidemic, if we use them well,” the WHO chief stated. If the world does not tackle discrimination and inequalities, UNAIDS and WHO warn that the next decade could see 7.7 million AIDS-related deaths. “We know how to beat AIDS and we know how to beat pandemics,” said Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS. “The policies to address the inequalities standing in the way of progress can be implemented, but they require leaders to step up and be bold.” In the Philippines, UNAIDS estimated that 120,000 adults and children are living with HIV. Of this figure, only 78,000 know their status. Among those people, only 48,000 people are on ART. ART is available in the country through the Department of Health and the efforts of the private community. It is available in over 160 private and government treatment facilities in the country. What most Filipinos don’t realize is that ART treatment is covered by Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) through its Outpatient HIV/ AIDS Treatment (OHAT) package. A press statement from

a PhilHealth official issued in 2002 yet stated: “We will pay simultaneously for the anti-retroviral therapy as well as TB treatment of HIV-positive members and dependents. If they are hospitalized due to any other secondary illnesses, they will also be provided the regular inpatient benefits.” The official also said: “Owing to their impaired immune system, Filipinos living with HIV are extremely vulnerable to TB. Their bodies are unable to stop the TB bacteria from reproducing.” Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death among people living with HIV. Aside from TB, they are also susceptible to other opportunistic diseases like pneumonia, or even vicious fungal infections. According to DOH, there are four ways a person can get HIV: sexual contact (heterosexual, homosexual, and bisexual), needle sharing among injecting drug users, mother-to-child transmission, and blood transfusion. HIV is present in all body fluids of an infected person but is concentrating in blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is present in virtually all body tissues and organs including the brain and spinal cord.

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

DAVAO’S HISTORIANS (1950-2020) In the last seven decades (1950-2020), writers from Davao who have written or published at least one history book are as rare as rain in a desert patch. They number just over a dozen and most of them are popular only among academicians and history buffs. Here are six of them. Known as the ‘Dean,’ Damian Mercader Lomocso is the first Davao historian to self-publish a book about Davao region. Though his work is preceded by an earlier book, ‘Davao: Its Progress and Future’ (1950), written by Manila-based Salvador L. Pacis, later Malacañang press secretary. Lomocso wrote (and self-published) a number of books, that include ‘The Brain’ (undated); ‘The Truth about Sabah’ (1971); ‘The Lord of Daba-daba’ (1967), part of the Saga International Yearbook

of Foreign Policy Studies’ ‘East and West Studies Series’ (1961); ‘Mindanao Culture and Progress’ (1953); ‘Davao Culture and Progress: A Reference and Guide Book for Social Studies, Travelers, Teachers, Instructors and Professors’ (1953); and ‘Mercy’s Practical Industrial Processes’ (1950). It was Dr. Gloria B. Dabbay, after self-publishing her doctoral dissertation titled ‘Davao: Its History and Progress’ (1981), who reignited historical interest about the region. Though her book was later updated, many of information contained therein were updated following the opening of cyberspace to archival and institutional online research. Ernesto I. Corcino, a former librarian of the United States Information Service (USIS), elevated interest in Davao history by using American sources not

available to local writers. His association with media, public engagements, and later his book simply titled ‘Davao History’ (1998), which was published by the city, contributed much to the rise of historical awareness. Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) graduate professor Dr. Heidi K. Gloria wrote ‘The Bagobos: Their Ethnohistory and Acculturation’ (1987) arguably the first definitive ethnologic study of specific Davao tribe. She later wrote several books, including ‘History from Below’ (2014). Palanca Awards recipient and Ateneo de Davao educator Dr. Macario D. Tiu has written two seminal books on Davao history, namely: ‘Davao 1890-1910: Conquest and Resistance in the Gardens of the Gods,’ (2003) and ‘Davao: Reconstructing History from Text and Memory’ (2005). The sixth in the list is Redemptorist Br. Karl M. Gaspar,

with a doctorate in History, who has published around half a dozen books, two of these are ‘The Lumad’s Struggle in the Face of Globalization’ (2000) and ‘Davao in the Pre-Conquest Era and the Age of Colonization’ (2015). The other local historians who have contributed to the growth of Davao’s historical research include Jesuit priest and social anthropologist Fr. Alberto Alejo, while assigned at the ADDU, wrote ‘Generating Energies in Mount Apo: Cultural Politics in a Contested Environment’ (2000). Josefina C. San Pedro published the first volume of the biographies of Datu Bago Awards, namely ‘The Datu Bago Awardees 1969-1995,’ (1996). Other authors who have contributed to the growing stack of books about Davao history include Maria Virgin-

ia Yap Morales (‘Diary of the War: WWII Memories of Lt. Col. Anastacio Campo,’ 2006); Aida Rivera-Ford (‘Oyanguren: Forgotten Founder of Davao,’ 2010); Lolita R. Lacuesta (‘The Davao We Know,’ 2011); Marina Suazo (‘The Love Story of Don Jose Oyanguren,’ 1994); R. Dennis J. Garcia ‘Davao Pioneers and Public Servants’ (2005) and Vincent J. Garcia’s two-volume ‘The Leon and Milagros Garcia Family of Davao: A History in Photographs’ (2019). (This corner’s contribution to local history, meanwhile, includes ‘Confluence of Two Rivers: History of Monkayo’ (2003); ‘Davao: Origin of Place-Names’ (2010); ‘First 50 Years: History of the Brothers of Sacred Heart 1959-2009’ (2012); ‘Brokenshire 1908-2018: 100 Years & Beyond’ (2017); and ‘Datu Bago and the Kingdoms of Sarang-ine and Hijo’ (2017).)

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

CROCS got AC BONIFACIO rockin’ this season C rocs showcases the very best of its classic collection for this season 2021, creating a variety of opportunities for personalization and creative self-expression. A global leader in innovative casual footwear for all, Crocs Philippines invited none other than the fast-rising dancefloor sweetheart AC Bonifacio to use Crocs as a canvas for self-expression with Jibbitz™ charms and hailing all to “Come As You Are.” Artist AC Bonifacio will showcase her infinite freedom of expression with classic collection and Jibbitz™ charms with her dance moves, “I’ve always loved Crocs, it allows me to express myself and to feature my creativity, and just be myself that matches with my uniqueness and personality,” AC enthuses. Her visuals and video content will be shared on Crocs Philippines Official Facebook and Instagram. #CrocsPH

#GirlRocks. Along with Artist AC Bonifacio, Crocs will unveil the latest addition to the Crocs Classic collection featuring the popular Unisex Classic Bleach Dye Clog, Women Classic Platform Clog, Unisex Classic Crocs Sandals and Women Classic Crocs Slide. For the Classic Collection – Bleach Dye, each shoe features 13 holes to allow stylish personalization with unique Jibbitz™ charms’, anywhere and anytime, allowing everyone the ability to be truly comfortable in their shoes. For the Classic Collection – Classic Platform Clog, it features a heightened, contoured outsole that supports the upper you know and love with a slimmer, sleeker look

with customizable backstrap that also holds Jibbitz™ charms, so you can personalize your look even more. When you’re in the mood for a little extra boost, style it up with the Classic Platform. For the Classic Collection – Classic Crocs Sandals, the look and feel of this comfortable Classic Clog and Crocs Slide, now in sandal form. Two upper straps offer even more comfort and foot security, and seven holes on each shoe allow you to personalize with Jibbitz™ charms. We invite all one-ofa-kind and all kinds to Come As You Are to unleash your creativity in more ways than ever before! Follow us for more updates as AC crocin’ her dance groves at Crocs Philippines official Facebook and Instagram. You can also visit https:// crocs.com.ph/ for more details. Crocs is available at

UNISEX CLASSIC CROCS SANDALS IN COBALT BLUE. Unisex style with a two-strap upper. Two upper straps offer even more comfort and foot security with this Unisex Classic Crocs in Cobalt Blue, with seven holes on each shoe that allows you to personalize them with ‘Jibbitz™ charms’.

CLASSIC BLEACH DYE CLOG BLACK. Comfort and style. This stylish classic clog with allows everyone the ability to be truly comfortable in their shoes with its bleach dye design with a print for every personality Includes easy to clean features, pivoting heel straps for a more secure fit and customizable with ‘Jibbitz™ charms’.

CLASSIC BLEACH DYE CLOG CANDY PINK. Lightweight and flexible. This iconic clog, now with a bleach dye design features 13 holes to its shoe to allow stylish personalization with unique ‘Jibbitz™ charms’, anywhere and anytime, allowing everyone the ability to be truly comfortable in their shoes.

The SM Store and Crocs boutique stores at most SM Supermalls nationwide and https://crocs. com.ph/ About Crocs, Inc. Crocs, Inc. (Nasdaq: CROX) is a world leader in innovative casual footwear for women, men, and children, combining comfort and style with a value that consumers know and love. The vast majority of Crocs™ shoes contain Croslite™ material, a proprietary, molded footwear technology, delivering extraordinary comfort with each step. In 2021, Crocs will reinforce its mission of “everyone comfortable in their own shoes” with the fourth year of its global Come As You Are™ campaign. To learn more about Crocs Philippines or our global Come As You Are™ campaign, please visit https://crocs.com. ph/ or follow Crocs Philippines Facebook Page and Instagram for more details for updates.

WOMEN CLASSIC PLATFORM CLOG WHITE. When you’re in the mood for a little extra boost, you can style it up with this classic platform clog which features a heightened, contoured outsole that supports the upper and love with a slimmer, sleeker look and the customizable backstrap which also holds ‘Jibbitz™ charms’, so you can personalize your look even more.

Artist AC Bonifacio showcases the latest additions to the Crocs Classic Collection: the popular Unisex Classic Bleach Dye Clog, Women Classic Platform Clog, Unisex Classic Crocs Sandals and Women Classic Crocs Slide. Available at The SM Store and Crocs boutique stores located at most SM Supermalls.

FAST-RISING dancefloor sweetheart AC Bonifacio uses Crocs as a canvas for self-expression with personalized ‘Jibbitz™ charms and hailing all to ‘Come As You Are.’

UNISEX CLASSIC CROCS SANDALS IN PINK. Incredibly light and fun to wear. Enjoy the look and feel of the comfortable Classic Clog and Crocs Slide in sandal form with this Classic Crocs Sandal with 7 holes in each shoe and customizable ‘Jibbitz™ charms.’

Crocs Philippines shows some cool moves with artist AC Bonifacio featuring the very best of its classic collection showcasing her infinite freedom of expression with ‘Jibbitz™ charms’ in her dance moves. “I’ve always loved Crocs, it allows me to express myself and to feature my creativity, and just be myself,” AC enthuses.

CLASSIC PLATFORM CLOG IN ORANGE SORBET. Personalize your look even more with this orange sorbet classic platform clog which features a heightened, contoured outsole with a slimmer, sleeker look and the customizable backstrap that can hold personalized ‘Jibbitz™ charms’.

Dingdong, Zia Dantes are newest brand ambassadors

HOPEE, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, closes the year with its annual 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, the most joyful yearend celebration in the region. 12.12 is set to bring a smile to users as they shop from the widest variety of products to reward themselves and their loved ones during the happiest time of the year. Through the 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, shoppers can also spread the holiday cheer to their favorite local businesses, with 2 times more items sold by local businesses this year. Users can look forward to a delightful celebration throughout the festive season. In the past year, Shopee has brought fun to users with exciting giveaways and exclusive content, recording over 13 billion engagements and views across its social media channels. This 12.12, users can expect even more entertainment and engagement with a brand-new commercial featuring international superstar Jackie Chan and performances by popular K-Pop group Tomorrow X Together. To get into the Pinoy family spirit of the

holidays, Shopee also welcomes first-ever celebrity father-and-daughter brand ambassadors, Dingdong and Zia Dantes. Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Every 12.12, Shopee comes together with our users to celebrate the milestones and achievements over the past year. This year, we would like to show our appreciation to all our users for letting us be part of their daily lives. Many more users are now using digital services, and local businesses are increasingly embracing the shift online. We are glad to have been able to adapt to their evolving needs this past year and we will continue to help more people benefit from the digital economy as we head into a new year. We look forward to celebrating the year-end with all our users as we bring smiles to one another this holiday season.” 1. Celebrating the happiest time of the year with the best deals As shoppers hunt for the best gifts, Shopee is thrilled to bring users the most exciting deals this 12.12. These include:

• The best promotions: Shoppers can enjoy the best deals for all their gifting needs with deals such as free shipping with no minimum spend, ₱1 Deals, and 10% off daily. • Big discounts: They can also get discounts up to 90% off on the biggest Shopee Mall brands: 2. Celebrating the holidays with entertainment for the whole family Users can also expect non-stop entertainment from today until the big finale on December 12. Highlights include: • Fun-filled 12.12 TV Spe-

cial: Filipinos can tune in to GMA 7 and Shopee Live this December 12, 10:30pm, to catch Tomorrow X Together, Korea’s hottest rising boy group, grace the stage with a very special performance. Celebrities such as Michael V, Ysabel Ortega, Kate Valdez, Rayver Cruz, Julie Ann Jose, and Andrea Torres will also join host Willie Revillame for a fun and star-studded evening. • Entertaining content from Shopee’s newest brand ambassadors: Fans can catch Dingdong and Zia’s festive new TV commercial, which features the beloved Pinoy

Users can enjoy fun content from the celebrity father-and-daughter duo, free shipping with no minimum spend, ₱1 Deals, and 10% off daily at Shopee’s most anticipated year-end sale

Christmas tradition bunutan ng pera, on local TV networks and on Shopee’s official Facebook and YouTube accounts. Users can also check out Shopee’s YouTube and Tiktok accounts for heartwarming videos featuring Dingdong and Zia, wherein they recreate social media challenges, go shopping on Shopee, and more. • Exciting games and contests: Users can win voucher giveaways by joining Dingdong- and Zia-themed games and contests on Shopee’s official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. From December 1-12, users can win a total of ₱12,000,000 in prizes from their favorite local celebrities, including Dingdong and Zia, by playing Shopee Celebrity Pamasko on the app. Users simply have to tap on the angpao to win a prize from the celebrity of the day. 3. Celebrating local businesses and culture Local businesses represent a significant part of local culture and as the need for digitalization increases, Shopee is committed to supporting these sellers and helping them thrive:

• Shopee Celebrates Local: Shopee launches ‘Shopee Celebrates Local,’ a special contest to share and promote beloved local sellers. Users can read their stories on the #TatakPinoy page and on Shopee’s social media channels, and vote for their favorites until December 5. Winning sellers stand to win prizes they can use for their businesses, while users stand to win Shopee vouchers. Through the Tatak Pinoy page, users can also enjoy exclusive deals when supporting these sellers. 4. Celebrating wider communities Through 12.12, Shopee will continue to uplift local communities through its platform. In the spirit of Christmas, Shopee launches the Frontliner Holiday Package to show gratitude for local heroes. Starting December 10, frontliners can avail of this package, which includes vouchers they can use for their holiday celebrations. For more information about Shopee 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, visit https://shopee.ph/m/christmas-sale.

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oconut (scientific name: Cocos nucifera) is a crop with a thousand products. Now, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has just launched a new product from the “tree of life.” It’s called bukolyte, a powdered coconut juice drink developed by its Davao regional office’s food innovation facility. Bukolyte, launched last November 24, 2021 at the SM City Davao in Ecoland, was one of the various innovative food products developed from the Food Processing Innovation Center-Davao (FPIC-Davao). The FPIC-Davao is a one-stop-shop food research and development hub for local food processors, students, food technologies, and researchers who can collaborate and co-create value-adding food products. It is a collaborative project by the DOST XI, Philippine Women’s College Davao, Department of Trade and Industry XI, and the Food Processors Association of Davao (FPAD), Inc. The powdered juice drink is developed using the FPIC’s spray-drying technology that converts liquid extracts into powder while preserving its important nutrients. The juice drink is a healthy alternative to other commercially available fruit juices as it has no artificial flavoring and preservatives added. “Bukolyte can treat dehydration caused by exces-

sive vomiting and diarrhea, heavy sweating due to exercise and heat, and hangovers,” the DOST said in a press statement. Just like the coconut water – or buko juice – bukolyte is also loaded with nutrients and minerals and contains four electrolytes, namely potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium that are known to support rapid hydration to the body. Since bukolyte is just the powdered form of coconut water, let’s talk more about it. American nutritionist Jonny Bowden, author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, calls coconut water a “perfectly good option” for people who want to stay hydrated. “Coconut water is considered a sports drink because it contains many nutrients lost in physical exertion and sweating,” Susan Ferrandino points out in an article published in Livestrong.com. “It is marketed as an isotonic beverage, which means that concentration levels of nutrients are the same as in human blood. As a result, coconut

AGRITRENDS

THOSE INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

FROM COCONUT Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

water is absorbed readily into the body and can prevent dehydration after a workout.” Coconut water is a good source of the electrolyte potassium, and provides 600 milligrams per onecup serving. This is the reason why it’s good for those engaged in sports to drink coconut water. “Normal potassium levels are necessary for regular cell function,” writes Rebecca Slayton for Livestong.com. “When potassium levels drop too low, it affects your nervous system and can lead to an irregular heartbeat, which can be fatal.” But it’s not only because of potassium why it’s a good sports drink. “Coconut water also contains 252 milligrams per serving of sodium, which is another electrolyte lost during exercise through sweat,” Slayton claims. “Sodium plays a role in your critical body functions by regulating the movement of water in and out of your cells.” Coconut water is indeed a perfect sports drink. “The potassium and sodium content found in coconut water make it a smart choice when you become dehydrated, whether from physical activity or sickness when you are experiencing diarrhea or vomiting,” Slayton states.

additional photos: DOST

But that’s not all. “Coconut water offers a good source of vitamins making it a nutritious drink option,” Slayton writes. “One serving of coconut water provides 5.8 milligrams of vitamin C, along with folate, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin and vitamin B6. Coconut water also provides other key minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc.” Aside from coconut water, there are many other products that you can get from coconuts. After all, in Sanskrit, coconut is called kalpavriksha, which means “the tree that provides all the necessities of life.” “It is not enough that we plant the most number of trees or produce the highest number of nuts,” said Dr. Patricio S. Faylon, executive

director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD). “It is getting the highest value and benefits from this crop that matters most. The best way to do this is to transform the nuts and other coconut parts into high-value products.” That’s what Neil Garcia La-as is trying to do with his coco cider soap, branded as Bakku2Basik (literally means “back to basic”). Containing natural ingredients, it is the world’s first multi-beneficial coco cider soap. As coconut is known globally as antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral, Bakku2basik’s coco cider soap takes advantage of these qualities. It is made

from the sap of the coconut tree’s flowers and is fermented for 8-12 months. As it naturally turns into vinegar, it becomes a source of important nutrients and minerals. The soap is even formulated with detoxifier activated bamboo charcoal, giving it a dark color that assures cleansing ability. “Coconut is a tree of life,” said La-as. “But this is not just coco cider. It is infused with activated bamboo charcoal that effectively cleanses the body. It makes the skin lighter, closes pores, and saves the skin from pimple attacks. Coco cider soap also makes many of our psoriatic patients very happy. It alleviates their autoimmune symptoms.” Although it is still in its

FCOCONUT, P10

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Mangelen cited Marcos’ tax conviction in the 1990s as basis for his disqualification under the Omnibus Election Code. “Ginoo ra pud ang nahibalo pero naa man siya iyahang mga abogado, unta malusotan niya kay overwhelming man ang suporta sa mga Pilipino. Kabalo naka aning pulitika maningkamot gyud ang uban na silay ma-presidente bisan di gyud para sa ilaha. Ang Ginoo nay muhukom nila,” Duterte said. Duterte also said the presidency is not claimed but it is the people who decide whom they want to lead them. “Dili nimo puwede ng ipugos ang Presidency para sa imoha. Ang tao gyud magboot ana. Now kung destiny nimo or ihatag na sa Ginoo,” he said. Duterte believes that Marcos is the only one who can lead the country.

“Bongbong marcos gyud ang akong suportahan wala nay lain. Siya lang ang nakita nako na maoy makadala aning Pilipinas,” he said. Photos of him in the BBM-Sara uniteam caravan circulating online strengthened his support for the tandem in the 2022 elections. When asked if their support to Marcos has the approval of the President, he said he did not inform his father about it. “Wala man ko nananghid niya. Murag kanya kanya man katungod sa tao,” he said. Duterte also said that he will be supporting and will vote for his father President Rodrigo Duterte who is running for Senator in next year’s election. He also thanked Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go for taking care of the President.

nine reasons of its opposition to the said HB that include: it does not adhere to the National Policy of the State specifically Section 2 of the Presidential Decree No 269, as amended that government officials should give tenable support to the Electric Cooperatives (ECs) like Nordeco to the fullest extent as mandated by the State. The statement also stated that a power rate increase is inevitable. On the power rate, distribution charges should be compared and not the total bill as the other charges are only passed through costs paid or remitted to the generation suppliers, transmission provider, and the government. It said that DLPC’s Distribution Charge is P2.3552 per kilowatt-hour while Nordeco is P1.5372 per kilowatt-hour, which makes DLPC’s rate higher by .8180 per kilowatt-hour than Nordeco. It also stated that as a consequence, an increase in the generation charge to P17.27 per kilowatt-hour from P6.36 per kilowatt-hour would be borne by the remaining 94,244 billed consumers of the municipalities of Mabini, Pantukan, Laak, Monkayo, Montevista, Compostela, New Bataan, Nabunturan, Mawab, and Maragusan once HB 10554 is approved into law. “The 100,915 billed

consumers equivalent to 71 megawatts would be handed to DLPC, leaving only 35 megawatts to Nordeco,” the statement said. Nordeco assured it has a sufficient power supply for its franchise area. Contrary to the allegations, it has a total contracted power supply of 112.50 megawatts which is more than enough to meet its 104MW peak demand requirement, and that there was never an applicant-consumer that Nordeco refused due to the lack of supply.

tion was again given importance. Duterte committed to conduct nationwide soil testing and underscored the need for soil rehabilitation and sustainable fertilization to optimize production. The DA, then under the leadership of Manny Piñol, commissioned the BSWM to lead the task of fulfilling the President’s commitment by preparing updated soil-based agricultural

guide maps. “These maps can serve as additional planning and decision-support tool to improve crop production by providing information on soil nutrient level and fertilizer guide. This undertaking was reaffirmed by current DA Secretary, Dr. William Dar, as part of efforts to intensify soil rejuvenation program to sustain increased crop productivity,” DA-BSWM said. (PNA)

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“In fact for the past fiveyears,Nordeco’sindustrialorhighvoltage accountsincreasedfrom 1,302to3,203whichisa clearmanifestationthat investorsarecominginin theECfranchisecoverage area,” it said. In a zoom interview with the Davao media, CampoamorsaidNordeco iscurrentlypreparingits legalmeasurestoprotect theintegrityofthefranchise. “Katong committee levelwithduerespectsa atoang mga kongresistakaygiingnannatanga disrespectful,saakong pagtan-awangkaugmaon sa230ngakonsumante sakooperatibadililang natomahusgahansulod sa45minutes.Saminuto lang na gihatag sa committeelevel,akongmasultinakulangugadunay paglapassadueprocess requirement,” he said.

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known websites. For queries and other concerns, send a message to info@philsys.gov. ph or call PhilSys hotline 1388. Signed into law by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in August 2018, Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act, aims to establish a single national ID for all Filipinos and resident aliens.

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrollment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts. It also seeks to boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government services where people will only need to present one ID during transactions. (PNA)

Based on the list provided by the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) to DOH 11 two weeks ago, of the 29 repatriates, 13 are from Davao City; two from Davao del Sur; one from Davao Oriental; two from Davao de Oro; and 11 from Davao del Norte. “Lahat negative so far ang kanilang mga results doon sa mga na contact trace, negative lahat ang kanilang mga swabs and doon sa hindi pa na contact

trace and still for verification, yun pa ang pina-follow up sa different RESUs,” said Dr. Rachel Joy Pasion, head of the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) of DOH-Davao. Pasion added that contact tracing is ongoing and there are others that upon contract tracing are not yet here in Davao City or the region. She said DOH 11 reported this to DOH central office. By Maya M. Padillo

A passerby who requested anonymity said it was scary navigating along the portion of the highway that was flooded

by murky waters coming from the mountain. But he said the road remained passable. (Roel N. Catoto/MindaNews)

This is what should scare NBA teams to their core about this Warriors team. Curry is as good as ever, the team is rolling and Thompson is a few weeks away from finally getting back on the court. A good team is going to get that much better. And Curry will be even better when it happens, because defenses know that they can’t leave Thompson alone. “I just like where we are right now,” Curry said. “We’ve got good vibes around what we’re doing. There’s good energy. We’ve bounced back from tough losses really well. We’re handling our business right now.” It’s an old cliché that regular fans don’t start watching the NBA until

Christmas, and there is a certain amount of truth to that. That said, there have been compelling stories involving big names already this season. Kevin Durant, coming off another Olympic gold medal, is making scoring look easy in Brooklyn. Phoenix, coming off last season’s run to the NBA Finals, just won 18 consecutive games before falling to the Warriors. The reigning champion Milwaukee Bucks, when their whole roster is together, look title-capable again. But Curry is must-see TV anytime, even when he’s just taking shots from the stands before games. And the Warriors are probably going to be worth watching all the way to the end.

#1stWorldNetwork to Filipino homes,” Globe General Counsel Atty. Froilan Castelo said. President Rodrigo Duterte earlier urged telcos to improve connectivity. Demand has also peaked as workers shift to remote setup during the pandemic. The government has since approved various measures to aid in the construction of new telco

infrastructure such as the provisions included in the country’s first and second coronavirus response laws also known as the Bayanihan 1 and 2. Globe, PLDT Inc and even pure fiber network provider Converge have been ramping up telco builds to expand coverage. Globe for its part said it is on track to migrate all broadband users to fiber by 2022.

and associations,” the DA-13 said. The recipients of the mechanical dryers included the municipalities of San Agustin, Marihatag, Lanuza, Madrid, Hinatuan, San Miguel, Tago, and Bislig City in Surigao del Sur; the towns of Prosperidad, Bunawan,

Rosario, Talacogon, and San Francisco in Agusan del Sur; and Cabadbaran City. The Kangyat Multi-Purpose Cooperative, a corn clustered organization in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, also got PHP3 million worth of recirculating dryer with a generator.

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infancy stage as a product, coco cider soap has started to gain a solid market globally from overseas Filipino workers (OFW), particularly those working in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, Dubai and East Asia (Singapore and Malaysia). “Our international expansion has been inevitable. Once Filipinos discover it, anywhere they are, they welcome it,” La-as said. Copra or dried coconut meat is the main product of coconuts. It has high oil content, as much as 64%. Coconut oil, which is the most readily digested among all fats of general use in the entire world, furnishes about 9,500 calories of energy per kilo. Its chief competitors are soya bean oil, palm oil, and palm kernel oil. “Many people praise coconut oil for its health benefits, including antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, improved skin and oral health, and weight loss potential,” writes Sade Meeks, a registered dietitian for healthline.com. More so, if it is virgin coconut oil (VCO). The oil does not undergo refining, bleaching, or deodorizing and can be obtained with or without the use of heat. Thanks to the untiring efforts of the late Dr. Condrado S. Dayrit, he was able to establish that VCO works like a drug “that regulates the body’s functions and defense mechanism. It restores the normal balance of tissues or cells that have become dysfunctional.” In the United States, VCO has increasingly become popular in natural food circles and with vegans. It was described in a New York Times article as having a “haunting, nutty, vanilla flavour” that also has a touch of sweetness that works well with baked goods, pastries, and sautés. One person who uses VCO in his products is Alvin Louie Ang from Pantukan, Compostela Valley. He has developed beauty products with VCO as the main ingredient. “I decided to broaden the use of coconuts, which are abundant in my province, by creating products which are considered a necessity,” Ang says. He thought of beauty soap. “These days, it is really hard to find an organic soap of good quality that is not very expensive. With that, I

was inspired to make some VCO-based beauty soaps and perfumes.” You can also get sugar out from coconut toddy. That’s what Benjamin Lao, a coconut farmer from barangay Eman in Bansalan, Davao del Sur, did. To learn more about coconut sap sugar production, Lao had to undergo training in various government agencies. He learned from DOST that coconut toddy contains 12%-18% sugar in its natural form with important vitamins and amino acids. It is also rich in nutrients and high in potassium. It also contains phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, calcium and vitamin C. The flowers of the coconut tree provide the sap that is made into sugar. In his research, Lao found out that a coconut tree in a good stand can yield an average of two liters of sap daily. At least four coconut trees are needed to produce one kilograms of sugar per day. “The production of coconut sugar is very simple,” he says. “It is just a natural process of heat evaporation to convert liquid sap to solid form of sugar granules. It requires no complicated and high-cost machineries or equipment nor a huge capital.” In the beginning, he only sold the locally-produced coconut products inside his farm. Believing there was an untapped market for such a product, he hired people and started producing other alternative sweeteners like coco honey and coco sap drink that are used for desserts and other delicacies. Lao later registered these products with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under the moniker Donnabelle – a combination of the names of his two daughters. He started distributing his products in some outlets in nearby areas and the cities of Davao, Digos, General Santos and Butuan. Due to the increasing demand for his products, he decided to incorporate Lao Integrated Farms Inc. in 2009. Since then, he has been exporting his products to the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and other countries. “My coconut sugar is guaranteed 100-percent free from chemicals,” he assures.

will be able to head down to the event and watch the boxers being put through their paces on the pads, while also enjoying a series of family-friendly activations hosted by KO8 Fitness, WOW HYDRATE and Greenhill. There will also be a meet & greet with the fighters, and an opportunity to purchase tickets for Saturday’s Fight Night. The event runs from 6.30pm until 8.30pm. On Friday December 10, the Weigh-In for the event will take place at the Coca-Cola Arena, with all fighters in attendance as they hop on the scales for the final time. Media are invited to come along, with the session scheduled to start

at 10.30am. Fans attending Fight Night itself, which begins at 5.30pm on Saturday, can look forward to a fantastic night of boxing at one of the region’s most impressive venues. In addition to the two world title fights, the card will also feature a host of hugely talented boxers, including the likes of Donnie Nietes, Jono Carroll and Jalolov, while two exciting Emirati fighters – Sultan Al Nuaimi and Fahad Al Bloushi – will be representing the UAE on home soil. Tickets for the event are now on sale in-store at Virgin Megastore and online via Coca-Cola Arena and Platinum List.

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SPORTS

Steph Curry is on the cusp of breaking Ray Allen’s NBA record for most three-pointers made. PHOTO: AP

Curry best shooter ever? No debate, case closed All set for UAE’s biggest boxing card

he UAE’s biggest-ever boxing occasion takes place in Dubai this coming Saturday (December 11) as the Coca-Cola Arena hosts Probellum: Revolution, with an action-packed week of events taking place in the lead-up to Fight Night, including a Public Workout – which is open to the media and members of the local community – at City Walk on Wednesday December 8. Probellum, the fastest-growing brand in the world of boxing, announced its arrival into the sport in September, and in less than two months it has made a huge impact, signing over 20 top-level fighters to its stable, including the likes of Badou Jack, Ricky Burns, Muhammad Waseem, Paul Butler and Nonito Donaire. Probellum: Revolution, the brand’s first major event, takes place at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on Saturday and features two world championship fights as Sunny Edwards (UK) defends his IBF flyweight

title against Jayson Mama (Phillipines) and John Riel Casimero (Phillipines) puts his WBO bantamweight title on the line against Paul Butler (UK). World-famous ring announcer Michael Buffer, who has worked on some of the biggest fights in the history of the sport, is confirmed for the event, while Uzbekistani boxer Bakhodir Jalolov will be making his first appearance since winning a super-heavyweight Gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in August. In the lead-up to the event, every fighter on the card will be taking part in a Public Workout at City Walk on Wednesday December 8, where media are invited to attend in order to conduct interviews with the boxers and Buffer, along with other Probellum talent involved in the event, including broadcasters Jim White and Ali Drew, Sam Jones and former fighter Paul Smith. Members of the public

FALL SET, P10

he shot has been replayed millions of times already on video and social platforms. And considering it was from the stands before a game, it obviously didn’t even count. Such is the lure of Stephen Curry. When he does something, everyone tunes in. For those who haven’t seen what he did Saturday night, here it is. It’s a tradition he continued from the Golden State Warriors’ former home, Oracle Arena, and brought to the Chase Center. At Oracle, it was a shot from the tunnel at the end of his pregame shooting session. At Chase, it’s been from a variety of places, most recently a corner of the stands. A security guard fires him a ball and Curry lets fly. Swish. “He’s got range,” San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich said. Curry’s got it all. Range, game, rings, charm, skills, a sparkling resume, a great organization, great arena, great fan base and, once again, a great team. He’s funny. He’s one of the best interviews in the NBA. He’s made birdies at Augusta National. He went to the Ry-

der Cup as a fan and actually thought nobody would notice. He’ll be 34 by the time the season ends, is averaging just under 28 points and is playing like he has a very real chance of winning the NBA’s MVP award this season. The Golden State Warriors, along with Phoenix, are an NBA-best 20-4 after beating the Orlando Magic on Monday night (Tuesday, Manila time). They’ve been playing as well as any team in the league. They’re a legitimate title contender. And in a few days, Curry will overtake Ray Allen as the career leader in 3-pointers made. Curry has 2,958 after making seven more in Monday’s win over the Magic. Allen retired with 2,973. Fans in Philadelphia on Saturday or Indiana on Monday are probably going to see a treat — some history, when Curry becomes the 3-point king. There are some arguments that will never be

settled. Wilt Chamberlain or Bill Russell, LeBron James or Michael Jordan, Phil Jackson or Pat Riley, Celtics dynasty or Bulls dynasty. The best shooter argument, though, there really is no debate. It’s Curry. Case closed. The dunk used to be the coolest thing in basketball. It’s the 3 now and Curry is why. “There’s never been anyone like him,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. If the NBA had a likeability metric, Curry would be the leader there, too. He’s 6-foot-3 and 198 pounds, not 6-foot-10 and 275. And although he’s put on some noticeable muscle in recent years, he still kind of has the everyman vibe to him. He plays the way that most people on playgrounds think they play: great ballhandling, great shooting, except he’s actually a great ballhandler and great shooter and the guy on the playground makes the occasional deep 3 and gets to pretend. “I think he was still, for some reason, under the radar in the beginning,” Popovich said. “He’s kind of slight statute. At the time,

he wasn’t that strong. He always looked like he was 17 or 18 years old. You didn’t look at him and say ‘Hey, he’s going to do this.’ But as the years went by and you realized he’s one of the greatest shooters you’ve ever seen, it became apparent that everything record-wise would be available to him.” Popovich is right. Just about every 3-point record in existence is owned by Curry, or soon will be. Nobody has made more 3-pointers for one team, or in one season, or in one postseason. He made 30 3’s against Minnesota in the 2018-19 season, the most anyone has made against one opponent in a season. He’s made 163 all-time against the Clippers, another record for most all-time against an opponent. He’s already passed Allen for most 3’s all-time, when including playoffs. The only record he hasn’t gotten is most 3’s in a game; his best is 13, the record is 14, set by Klay Thompson. “He’s one of the greatest players in the history of the game,” Kerr said. “And he’s the greatest 3-point shooter of all time.”

FCURRY, P10

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PINOY PRIDE

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Donaire defends WBC bantam title vs Gaballo

egendary multi champion Nonito “Filipino Flash” Donaire will have a mandatory World Boxing Council bantamweight title defense against undefeated Reymart “Assassin” Gaballo on Saturday December 11 at Dignity Health Sports Park, Carson, California. Nonito (41-6, 27 KO`s) will arrive as the oldest man. Nonito won the title at age thirty-eight by defeating overwhelming champion Nordine Oubaali, knocking him down twice with his trademark left hook in the third and then knocking him down with a left hook in the fourth. He is living his third reign as a bantamweight champion. As Nonito triumphantly declared: “The King has returned!” Nonito, now thirty-nine years old, has been a professional boxer for twenty extraordinary years, is a world champion in four divisions, from flyweight to featherweight. The list of boxers he has defeated includes Victor Darchinyan twice, Fernando Montiel, Jorge Arce, Wilfredo Vazquez Jr, Omar Andres Narvaez, Jeffrey Mathebula, Toshiaki Nishioka and Stephon Young. But, one of Nonito’s biggest fights was against Naoya “Monster” Inoue, who retained his WBA and IBF bantam-

weight titles via UD, and also won the WBSS Muhammad Ali Trophy. But … he had to make a titanic effort and fight like never before in his life to achieve it. Nonito slashed him over the right eye with a short left hook in the second round, and then made him suffer a nosebleed. Naoya, who is slimmer, used his dazzling speed and firepower to win. His youth was forceful in the final three rounds, so much so that after a torrid 10th round, he dropped the robust but tired veteran in the 11th inning with a lightning bolt to the liver. Nonito, who walked away suffered a painful delayed reaction, before bravely getting down and up, he had to use all his experience, conditioning and steadfast courage to survive the ensuing typhoon. Such was Naoya’s level of respect, that after the final bell, he approached Nonito’s corner where “Flash” was sitting sensibly, and knelt in front of him to give him a second hug of admi-

ration and deep respect. Naoya later revealed that he suffered a fractured nose and right eye socket. Fortunately, neither of them needed surgery. Nonito, is still a force of nature to be reckoned with. He can fight fiercely and box beautifully. You can operate effectively with your back foot or your front foot. Lead or kickback. His power is still there since some of him has amassed a lot of accumulated boxing wisdom. However, he is fourteen years older than Reymart Gaballo, who turned pro in 2014. His record is 24-0, with 20 KO`s. Reymart, who always likes to show up, did well to win the WBA interim bantamweight title against left-hander Stephon Young, knocking him down in the third and winning via UD. Nonito defeated Young for the WBC diamond and WBA bantamweight titles. More recently and just prior to this next fight, Reymart fought his way through a difficult test against former IBF champion Emmanuel Rodriguez to win the vacant WBC Interim belt. Rodriguez, who had previously been knocked out by Inoue, regrouped to prove himself a worthy opponent, counterattacking economically but effectively. Reymart’s uninterrupted aggression earned him a split decision. Hopefully you’ve

smoothed out some of its rough edges too. Rodriguez moved a lot, using silky defensive skills against Reymart, but in contrast, Nonito will actively seek him out and apply much more intense and attacking pressure. The Reymart team is channeling their natural power, which is a considerable and marked asset, combined with their relative youth. But, he must strike more decisively and hone his boxing skills, because Nonito would mercilessly punish any style mistake. Reymart has to use that strength and stamina to try to drag Nonito into the deeper waters of later rounds, where his youth can prove decisive. For his part, Nonito must strictly use his boxing chair and wisely apply his power, especially that famous left hook, to make a forceful impact. It’s a contest that rightly balances the vitality and strength of youth against the wisdom and subtlety of experience intertwined with a dose of the power of longevity. It is not often that two Filipinos fight each other for a world title. The pride this will generate will make it even more exciting. Another Filipino, John Riel Casimero, the WBO bantamweight champion, was scheduled to fight Nonito in August, but at the end of June, these plans fell through.