Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 312 | Saturday, March 26, 2022

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL.14 ISSUE 313 • SATURDAY, MARCH 26, 2022

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ALARMING Covid-19 TF alarmed of Roxas Night Market gathering STORY ON PAGE 2

Two women night market goers choose from different food items on bamboo skewers displayed at one of the stalls at Davao City’s Roxas Night Market during its reopening on Thursday night. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

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ALARMING

Acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte bares his plan to talk to the members 19th City Council in order to amend the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance to extend its coverage to former rebels. Edge Davao

Covid-19 TF alarmed of Roxas Night Market gathering

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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r. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson of the Davao City Covid-19 Task Force, expressed alarm on the gathering of people during the reopening of Roxas Night Market on Thursday.

“I was there and I checked it out myself para maka-witness ko and I observed. Sa kadaghan ug tao, we have also to under-

stand na kung naay ingon ato na gathering, high risk to siya for transmission of Covid-19,” she said on Friday.

The Roxas Night Market officially reopened on March 24, 2022. The much-anticipated reopening was graced by a huge number of Dabawenyos who missed the back massage, barbecued entrails, and pre-loved items who inevitably will mass gather in every stall.

As part of the safety and

fter years of fighting the communist insurgency, the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry “Agila” Division (10ID) said it has cleared this city of the presence of the communist New People’s Army (NPA).

During Thursday’s gathering in Davao City of former rebels who used to operate in the city, Maj. Gen. Nolasco Mempin, 10ID commander, said government troops managed to

beat President Rodrigo Duterte’s deadline to make Davao City “insurgency-free.”

“The army can finally move forward to doing more activities that promote patriotism and nation-building instead of fighting local wars. I am very glad to share this momentous victory, we achieved to clear the city of insurgencies ahead of the target deadline of the Pres-

ident,” Mempin said.

Dismantled The Army-hosted event gathered former NPA combatants from the Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC 5), which was considered the most active NPA unit in the country before being dismantled by government forces.

Mempin lauded the former NPA fighters for their decision to give up arms and start a new life in main-

health protocols, customers will be checked if they are wearing their face masks and upon entry are advised to wash their hands in a customized lavatory set up in the entrance.

“Daghan gyud kaayo tao. So I hope you will be responsible, you are all wearing your masks but

stream society.

He recalled that in 2016, the NPA’s SRC5 had two active Guerilla Fronts and three Pulang Bagani Command operating in most of the Davao Region.

The Philippine Army’s implementation of Executive Order 70, which institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach in addressing the insurgency problem, Mempin said the NPA units began disintegrating, lead-

FALARMING, P10

Expanded anti discrimination ordinance to benefit ex-rebels

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he Acting City Executive mulls of amending the city ordinance on Anti-Discrimination to include the peace champions or the former rebels who would like to be integrated in the mainstream society.

Acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte bared his plan to talk first to the members 19th City Council in order to amend the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance during the victory declaration against the communist insurgency in Davao City, five months before the end of the term of the present administration.

He intended to expand the coverage of the anti-discrimination ordinance to former rebels.

“While you are in Davao City, you can assert your right by not being labelled as former rebels when you apply for a job or to just simply live in the city as an ordinary citizen,” Duterte

said.

He told the peace champions that by the time they surrendered, they also restored the trust and confidence they earlier lost from the government.

Duterte welcomed the peace champions and prodded on them to contribute to the civil society or to just live in the city.

He said that with the amendment to the Anti-discrimination ordinance, they can complain to the government once they are redtagged as former NPAs. Duterte also congratulated the leadership of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade under the leadership of Brig. General Consolito Yecla for dismantling the sub-regional committees of the Southern Mindanao Revolutionary Committee of the New People’s Army.

“We commend your relentless efforts in sustaining the peace and security in

ing to the dissolution of the regional rebel apparatus in the Davao Region.

He said he was elated to see the city’s ecotourism take off with the dismantling of local communist armed groups.

“As we continue to pursue our quest in attaining our vision of becoming a world-class army that is a source of national pride in 2028, we hope that you extend the same support and

guidance that you have so generously shared as we also pursue our mission of ending the local communist insurgency in Southern Mindanao before the term of President Duterte ends,” he said.

Preserve life, prevent atrocities Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Ernesto Torres Jr., the former 10ID commander who flew from his current post

FEXPANDED, P10

Army declares Davao City ‘insurgency-free’ A FARMY, P10

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NEWS

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The multi-billion Davao City Coastal Road Project is “very different” from ordinary highways, according to Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Roger G. Mercado. He issued the statement after vice presidential candidate Walden Bello alleged that the flagship project was tainted with corruption. Edge Davao

WTE project expected to take off immediately

Swedish-owned BPO firm opens hub in Davao City

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Swedish-owned BPO company Transcom Worldwide Philippines, Inc. recently opened its highly-equipped satellite office called “T:Space” for its Work-At-Home (WAH) agents at Bldg. 3 of Matina IT Park in Davao City.

The first in Davao City and Mindanao, the new hub will serve as a venue for training, collaboration, and IT equipment deployments to support WAH operations. It is also a backup workspace for employees who are experiencing service issues that prevent them from working at home effectively.

Kenneth Juarez, managing director for the Asia Pacific, said among its benefits in business operations, T:Space will also establish the Transcom brand and culture in different communities in the Philippines.

Juarez also emphasized that Transcom’s culture is about caring for people and doing the right things for the clients, communities, and team members.

“Investing in our people and our culture of support will continue to fuel growth for us and for those we serve,” Juarez added.

Mark Lyndsell, Transcom’s regional CEO, said T:Space aims to ensure business continuity and provide quality, uninterrupted service for our clients and their customers at the same time provide the employees a safe and welcoming environment to work.

Transcom first came to Davao City in August 2018 when it acquired Awesome OS, an e-commerce business that supports various brands in North America. The combined workforce of Awesome OS and Transcom’s WAH in the city is at least 4,000.

“In terms of Davao City as an investment, I think most people know that spending time here, this is really a special place. When we came down to Davao there is so much energy in everyone. There is a non-

FSWEDISH, P10

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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punan. kailangan sunigin na natin. We are adopting the advance technologies of Japan,” said Benito Antonio de Leon, Undersecretary for Enforcement, Solid Waste Management, Local Gov-

ernment Units Concern and Attach Agencies in an interview on Friday.

The city government of Davao started exploring WTE as a waste management option about four years ago as the existing sanitary landfill near full capacity.

De Leon said if the outcome of the said project is good this will be replicated in other parts of the country including Quezon City and Cebu City.

In her recent State of the City Address (SOCA), Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio reported that the city government of Davao was able to partner with DENR and secured P740 million of the needed P3.5 billion to supplement the available Japanese grant.

Currently, we are working closely with the other national government agencies to secure the entire funding amount.

In September last year,

leged that the flagship project was tainted with corruption.

The official said the project is a “composite highway with larger components” to solve the burgeoning traffic along the Cotabato-Davao Road starting from Toril area going to the city proper.

He added the bypass road will serve as a costal shore protection and break-

water that protects the city from sea wave actions, water surges and shore erosion.

“Matter of fact, during the last surge in 2020, many residents in nearby subdivisions were thankful of this project as they were spared from the surge effect,” he said.

He said the project covers the construction of a four-lane (15.40-meter road

width), 10mm thick asphalt pavement with anti-rutting additive, a bicycle lane, and a curb, gutter and sidewalk.

The entire width of the road including off-carriageway is 25.54 meters or almost equivalent to an 8-lane road.

“Road facilities are also constructed on embankment with average height

he Department of the Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is hopeful that the Waste-To-Energy (WTE) project in Davao City will soon take off to immediately address the waste problem in the city.

“Dito sa Davao City I think we will be the first one to implement the WTE project. Hopefully, maka-take off na yan para makatulong tayo sa pagbawas ng basura. Wala na tayong ta-

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he multi-billion Davao City Coastal Road Project is “very different” from ordinary highways, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Roger G. Mercado said on Tuesday.

Mercado issued the statement after vice presidential candidate Walden Bello, a staunch critic of the Duterte administration, al-

FWTE, P10

FCOASTAL, P10

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

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Newly employed contact agents undergo training at a call center company in Davao City pre-Covid pandemic. Some business process outsourcing (BPO) companies are willing to give up the fiscal incentives they are enjoying from the government just to adopt the work-from-home (WFH) arrangement, according to a group of BPO workers. Edge Davao

PH eyes concluding trade deal with UAE next year

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he Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) targets to conclude the trade and investment agreement with the United Arab Emirates as early as next year, DTI Assistant Secretary Allan Gepty said Thursday.

During the virtual presser of the Presidential Communications Operations Office’s Office of the Global Media and Public Affairs, Gepty said the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agree-

ment (CEPA) with UAE is the country’s free trade agreement (FTA) in the Middle East.

This, as the Philippines and UAE last month both expressed to pursue the CEPA.

“This will be the platform by which we can reach out to the vast market of the Middle East, including the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council),” Gepty said.

He added the Philippines also aims to make the UAE as the country’s gateway to North Africa through CEPA. The trade deal negotiator said more Filipino brands will be expected in the UAE once CEPA is concluded.

t least four to six companies in the business process outsourcing (BPO) are willing to give up the fiscal incentives they are enjoying from the government just to adopt the workfrom-home (WFH) arrangement, a newly organized group of BPO workers said.

In a press conference Thursday, Alliance of Call Center Workers (ACW) co-convenor Lara Melencio said not less than four companies are choosing to forego their tax perks rather than force their workers to

return to office, according to employees of these BPO firms.

Melencio said BPO employees expect to still enjoy the same salary and incentives even though their employers stand to lose tax perks from the government as they continue the WFH setup.

ACW was organized through a Facebook group two weeks ago, now with some 1,400 member workers from various BPO firms.

ACW co-convenor Emman David said the group

was established to urge the government to allow the industry’s request to extend the WFH arrangement beyond this month.

The government has ordered companies, especially BPO firms, to return their operations in economic zones and information technology (IT) parks where they registered their businesses to continue enjoying fiscal incentives provided by the government by April 1.

Enterprises registered with investment promotion agencies are enjoying incen-

Gepty said through CEPA, the country aims to stabilize trade relations with UAE, especially petroleum imports.

He said the two countries will now work on the terms of reference of the deal and negotiate what elements will be included in the deal.

Both the Philippines and UAE will conduct their respective studies and consultations with stakeholders. (PNA)

tives, such as income tax holiday or a 5-percent special corporate income tax in lieu of value-added tax, income tax, and local business tax.

David said in a recent poll done by the group, 156 members said they will resign from their jobs if the WFH setup will no longer be allowed, 117 are undecided, while 37 members will stay in their work even if they have to go back to their offices.

He added some BPO employees living in the provinc-

Some BPO firms opt to forego tax perks than stop WFH setup A FSOME, P10

BOC automates 82% of customs processes, improves collection

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he Bureau of Customs (BOC) has automated and streamlined 139 or 82 percent of its 170 processes and procedures under the Duterte administration through its continuing modernization program, which has resulted in above-target collections despite the economic slowdown induced by the pandemic.

In its report to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, the BOC said that at the height of the pandemic in 2020, it collected PHP537.69 billion, which is 106.2 percent of its PHP506.15 billion goal.

In 2021, the BOC collected PHP643.56 billion, or 104.3 percent of its target of PHP616.75 billion for this period, and higher than its 2019 pre-pandemic collection of PHP630.31 billion, Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said.

Guerrero said the BOC’s revenue haul included PHP1.5 billion generated from its post-clearance audit of 342 companies and PHP895.95 million from 176 prior disclosure program (PDP) applications.

He said that among the

notable accomplishments of the BOC under its customs modernization program is the integration of the Ports of Manila, Cebu, and Davao and the Manila International Container Port (MICP) to the Customs Operations Center located in the bureau’s head office in Port Area, Manila.

Guerrero also cited the full implementation of the World Customs Organization (WCO) cargo targeting system, which requires foreign carriers (sea vessels and aircraft) or their authorized agents to electronically transmit cargo information in advance using manifest data for profiling, risk assessment, anti-terrorism, law enforcement, and other related purposes.

Dominguez congratulated the entire BOC for a “great job done” on the agency’s modernization efforts.

“Without your leadership, this modernization program would not have gone as far as it has gone, and your collections certainly would not have been as good,” Dominguez told Guerrero.

Guerrero said among

FBOC, P10

ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

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5

Street food lovers gather in front of a stall selling wide array of street food during the reopening of Roxas Night Market in Davao City on Thursday. Edge Davao

BSP key rates steady despite hikes in inflation forecasts Prices of local rice, seasonal veggies remain stable: DA

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rices of locally-produced rice, seasonal vegetables including those used as pinakbet (mixed vegetables) ingredients, and onion remained stable.

In the Laging Handa public briefing aired Thursday, Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary Noel Reyes said stable prices appear to give consumers a little leeway amid the mounting crude prices for some time.

“Panahon po ngayon ng anihan, ang presyo po ng palay ay maganda naman po, nasa disisyete hanggang disi-nuwebe, ang disinuwebe naman po, iyan ang buying price ng National Food Authority at maganda naman po sa karamihan sa atin ang palay (It’s harvest season, the prices of rice are good, ranging from PHP17 to PHP19; PHP19 is the buying price of the National Food Authority, most of our rice are of good quality),” he said.

Meanwhile, regular milled rice ranges from PHP36/kg to PHP38/kg; the price of well-milled rice is about PHP39/kg to PHP42/ kg; while the fancy or premium rice amounts to more than PHP40/kg.

Reyes said although the Philippines has been able to increase its self-sufficien-

cy for rice, the country still needs to import the staple to sustain a stable supply.

“Although gumaganda na ang ani ng ating palay mula pa noong 2019 – umabot na ng 19 million metric tons, naging 19.2 na ngayon ay 19.96 noong last year. So umaangat na po, 92 percent sufficient na po tayo sa bigas kaya lang kulang pa po ng walong porsyento (Although we are having a good rice harvest, ranging from 19 million metric tons, then 19.2, and even up to 19.96 last year… It’s increasing, we’re 92 percent self-sufficient for rice, but we still lack the 8 percent),” he said.

The DA also said prices of seasonal vegetables remain at ease, particularly string beans, squash, okra, bitter melon, eggplant, or those in pinakbet (mixed vegetables).

Even the price for onions which usually come from Nueva Ecija maintains its stable range.

“Maganda po ang presyuhan ngayon, nasa PHP30 to PHP35 per kilo po ang pula. Iyan naman po ang karamihan nating tinatanim at inaani, karamihan dito sa Luzon po lalo na sa Nueva Ecija (Price rates are now good, it ranges from PHP30 to PHP35 per kilo for red

FPRICES, P10

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he Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) policy-making Monetary Board (MB) on Thursday kept the central bank’s key policy rates despite the upward adjustments in the average inflation forecasts for this and next year.

Thus, the central bank’s overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) rate is still at record low 2 percent, the overnight lending rate is at 2.5 percent, and the overnight deposit rate is at 1.5 percent.

In a virtual briefing on Thursday, BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said

the latest average inflation forecast for this year was hiked to 4.3 percent, higher than the government’s 2-4 percent target band, and the 2023 projection was changed to 3.6 percent.

These were at 3.7 percent and 3.3 percent for 2022 and 2023, respectively,

during the MB meeting last February.

Diokno attributed the hikes in the inflation forecasts to upticks of commodity prices in the international market.

“Inflation expectations have likewise risen but continue to be anchored to the 2-4 percent target band,” he said.

Amidst these developments, Diokno said “the balance of risks to the outlook remain broadly balanced for 2023.”

He said domestic infla-

he Department of Agriculture (DA) has urged local government units to invest in or allocate more funds to agricultural projects in order to help the country achieve food security.

“Kailangang kailangan natin ng investments di lamang sa gobyerno, ang national government, pati ang local governments. We encourage our local government units na talagang crop producing, palay producing, corn, livestock, fishery na kailangan mag-invest din po kayo,” DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Noel Reyes

said at the Laging Handa briefing on Thursday.

(We really need investments not only from the national government but also from the local governments.

We encourage our local government units that are producing crops, rice, corn, livestock, or fisheries to also invest in agriculture.)

“Bigyan ng malaking pondo ang nalilikha nilang agriculture sector,” he added.

(Allocate a bigger budget for the agriculture sector.)

The DA official said candidates in the local elections

should prioritize the issue of food security.

“Pangangailangan natin cold storage facilities, bio fertilizers, at iba pang local feed sources. Hindi kakayanin ng buong pamahalaang Duterte ang ating pangangailangan dito kailangan andiyan ang LGUs at private sector,” Reyes said.

(We need cold storage facilities, bio fertilizers, and other local feed sources.

The Duterte administration alone cannot support all of these. That’s why we need the support of LGUs and the private sector.)

The DA official, mean-

tion pressures are driven by supply issues on pork and fish and the potential impact of higher oil prices on transportation fares.

“In this regard, the BSP supports the implementation of social protection measures to alleviate the impact of rising crude oil prices on vulnerable sectors. Sustained initiatives to ensure adequate domestic food supply could also mitigate further supply-side pressures on inflation,” he said.

Diokno further said

while, said the distribution of P3,000 fuel vouchers to corn farmers and fisherfolk is ongoing.

Last week, the Agriculture department began distributing fuel subsidies for the farm sector, with the goal of mitigating the impact of a series of fuel price increases on the livelihoods of approximately 160,000 farmers and fisherfolk.

The released funds are charged against the 2022 budget of the DA, which has an allocation of P500 million to provide assistance through fuel discounts to

FBSP, P10

LGUs urged to invest in agri to help achieve food security T

FLGUs, P10

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

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On the gathering of crowd at the Roxas Night Market:

I was there and I checked it out myself para maka-witness ko and I observed. Sa kadaghan ug tao, we have also to understand na kung naay ingon ato na gathering, high risk to siya for transmission of Covid-19.”

Dr. Michelle Schlosser Spokesperson, Davao City Covid-19 Task Force

EDITORIAL Those harmful balloons Balloons seem to have a role in political rallies. Aside from the festive atmosphere it brings, it also contributes to the aesthetics and optical illusion in moving and inanimate images.

Balloons filled with helium – a finite and rapidly dwindling resource – travel hundreds or even thousands of miles. They land as litter on beaches, rivers, lakes, oceans, forests and other natural areas.

Which saddens us when we see the supposed educated and decent class allowing for the use of balloons in campaign rallies.

According to research, polyurethane balloons take about 450 years to decompose. Yes, 450 years. There will be 75 national elections before the balloons released in this campaign period will perish.

However, it is time to be awakened on the ballooning harmful effect of balloons to the environment.

Why are balloons such an issue?

Balloons are often seen as fun, harmless decorations - but they become deadly litter as soon as they are released into the air and forgotten. Research has found balloons to be in the top three most harmful pollutants threatening marine wildlife in particular. Balloons that are released or accidentally escape from outdoor events make their way into waterways and oceans.

Deliberate releases of tens, hundreds or sometimes thousands of balloons are common sights at weddings, graduations, memorials, sporting events and other celebrations. These fleeting feel-good acts inflict long-lasting and potentially deadly consequences on the environment and wildlife.

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So let’s assume these balloons used in rallies are of the biodegradable type. Still, these biodegradable alternatives are also not a favorable option for the environment. They take 3–4 months to disintegrate completely, depending on whether they fall on land or in water. For example, if they fall into the sea, they can take more than a year to decompose, becoming a significant hazard to the environment and animal life.

This elections will tell us who is true to their words. It may just be a small thing -- a lowly balloon -- to be talking about, but the small things people cannot conscionably observe with propriety and prudence reflect one’s true personality.

Don’t be fooled by balloons. They are indications of a penchant to mock the law.

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

Let’s talk straight. Balloons – and balloon accessories like plastic clips and ribbons – are not biodegradable.

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)

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VANTAGE POINTS

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HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

THE POWER OF POSITIVE THINKING “Nothing will change if you worry. Rather it may aggravate negative emotions within you.

Don’t waste your time worrying.” ― Maddy Malhotra, How to Build Self-Esteem and Be Confident: Overcome Fears, Break Habits, Be Successful and Happy ***

One day, a lady who lived in town looked out of her window and saw a big truck pull up to her house. Out jumped five rascals and started unloading electric guitars and loudspeakers and drums. They took them into the neighboring house.

The woman was furious.

Now, her night’s rest and her ears and her life would be ruined by all the noise that would come from the house.

Her husband came home from work and she started to scream at him. “We’ve got to move away from here or else we’ll go deaf and mad with that string band next door,” she said.

But he calmed her down a bit and said, “Honey, why are you angry? Don’t you realize who those musicians are?

They are a famous Sanguma

Stringband that plays overseas to large crowds. We should be glad they are here: we’ll be getting all this famous music for free.”

His wife’s frown turned into a smile. She ran to the telephone and began to call her friends to come over sometime and take advantage of the presence of the Sanguma Stringband.

How attitude changed everything!

William James, an American psychologist, once said: “The great discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitude of mind.”

“A positive attitude is most easily arrived at through a deliberate and rational analysis of what’s required to manifest unwavering positive thought patterns,” explains H.E. Davey, the director of the Sennin Foundation Center for Japanese Cultural Arts. “First, reflect on the actual, present condition of your mind. In other words, is the mind positive or not?

“We’ve all met individuals who perceive themselves as positive people but don’t appear as such,” he further explains. “Since the mind is both invisible and intangible, it’s

therefore easier to see the accurate characteristics of the mind through a person’s words, deeds, and posture.”

Davey cites an example: If you say, “It’s absolutely freezing today! I’ll probably catch a cold before the end of the day!” Then your words expose a negative attitude. But if you say, “The temperature is very cold” (a simple statement of fact), then your expressions, and therefore attitude, are not negative.

“Sustaining an alert state in which self-awareness becomes possible gives us a chance to discover the origins of negativity,” Davey says. “In doing so, we also have an opportunity to arrive at a state of positiveness, so that our words and deeds are also positive, making others feel comfortable, cheerful, and inspired.”

In Meditation: Insights and Inspirations, Amit Ray wrote: “It does not matter how long you are spending on the earth, how much money you have gathered or how much attention you have received. It is the amount of positive vibration you have radiated in life that matters.”

“What is the difference between an obstacle and an opportunity?” asked J. Sidlow

Baxter, a pastor and theologian who authored as many as thirty books. “Our attitude toward it. Every opportunity has a difficulty, and every difficulty has an opportunity.”

Among the students at a well-known college was a young man who used crutches.

A homely sort of fellow, he had a talent for friendliness and optimism.

He won many scholastic honors and the respect of his classmates. One day, a classmate asked the cause of his deformity. “Infantile paralysis,” he answered.

“But tell me,” the friend said, “with a misfortune like that, how can you face the world so confidently?”

“Oh,” he replied smiling, “the disease never touched my heart.”

Of course, you heard of Thomas Alva Edison, who was named by Life magazine as the number one man of the millennium. John C. Maxwell, author of 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, gives some qualities on what made famous.

“Probably the most notable display of Edison’s positive attitude can be seen in the way he approached a tragedy that oc-

curred when he was in his late sixties,” Maxwell wrote. “The lab he had built in West Orange, New Jersey, was world famous.

He called the fourteen-building complex his invention factory.”

Of course, Edison loved the place very much. “He spent every minute he could there.

He even slept there, often on one of the lab tables,” Maxwell wrote. “But on a December day in 1914, his beloved lab caught fire. As he stood outside and watched it burn, he is reported to have said, ‘Kids, go get your mother. She’ll never see another fire like this one.’”

Had it happened to you, you would definitely have been crushed. But not Edison; after the tragedy he was quoted as saying: “I am sixty-seven but not too old to make a fresh start. I’ve been through a lot of things like this.”

The statement of Rodolfo Costa is a fitting statement to end this piece. “Cultivate an optimistic mind, use your imagination, always consider alternatives, and dare to believe that you can make possible what others think is impossible,” he wrote in Advice My Parents Gave Me: and Other Lessons I Learned from My Mistakes.

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

RUBBING ELBOWS WITH ICONS The bromide saying ‘first impression lasts’ makes more sense if you are a journalist whose life is defined by the kind of iconoclas-tic individuals you meet or talk to in the course of your profes-sional journey. Over a 45-year stint as community scribe, stringer, and broadcaster, first-time contact with five significant characters deserve remembrance in today’s column.

Pope John Paul II. On February 20, 1981, the city hosted future saint John Paul II, the only Roman Catholic pope to set foot in Da-vao. He concelebrated a Holy Mass outside the old airport with a huge crowd in attendance. After the rites, he was promptly whisked into a holding room. Only a handful of guys, including church leaders and selected members of the media, were allowed inside.

After a brief message, a prayer, and handshakes, the agile pope

distributed rosaries from what was like a giant valise. That blessed rosary would eventually be lost to a Quiapo, Manila, pickpocket who slashed my late wife’s shoulder bag.

Alejandro Almendras. That was also February, in 1992, an elec-tion year, when the senator sent his aide, P/Capt. Toto Salimban-gon, to fetch me at DXUM where I was news editor.

The reason for the invite in his Matina house was a column in the People’s Daily Forum titled ‘The forty sins of Duterte.’ Always charming with his cheek mole, the lawmaker regaled me with a story of Rodrigo Duterte asking for help when he decided to run for city mayor. All that the future president had was a campaign money of P1,200.

That story, though, does not add up anymore today. The Dutertes now live in mansions notwithstanding claims to the contrary.

Miguel Rodriguez. Then a neophyte politico I got acquainted with only weeks earlier, Sonja Rodriguez, introduced me to Mi-guel Rodriguez and asked to host the actor. The set was at Tindalo, a night lounge at Habana residence. Miguel, a gym rat, created an impression as a tall guy taking on the bad folks.

Seating on a bar stool across him, I observed him as friendly.

Nosiness, though, got the best of me. I was curious how tall he was, suggesting he was about my height. I took a peek on the floor and found he was few inches shorter than me because he was not sitting on the stool.

Years later, he died from pancreatitis on February 14, 1997, a Val-entine’s Day. Elias B. Lopez. Like the previous profiles above, the city’s only full-blooded Bagobo mayor has always struck me as sound and sociable. Sitting side by side

with him in a table did not happen until the 1990s when he was congressman. I was invited to a casu-al lunch at the second floor of Kusina Dabaw; it was hosted by Mr. Yang, the owner.

While everyone’s busy, he chatted away with me, not skipping a heartbeat in ensuring our glasses were always filled with brandy to the brim. His preference for ‘tinuba nga tagay’ impressed me and his drinking style remains of the late Paul Gai-sano who treated us in his mall guest room during a Gen. Santos City sortie.

Rodolfo Biazon. Even while posted as commander of the Ma-rines in the city, interviewing him for the daily paper was given to field reporters. Despite knowing the ramrod-straight officer from a distance, joining him in person did not happen until 1992 when he ran for the Senate. With the late Ram

Maxey as buddy, the cam-paign brought us to many places. At Cotabato City, Tisay, his wife, usually braved the early morning visiting the public market, unaware that such decision exposed her to danger. The group stayed at Imperial Hotel (later burned). The late sports editor Ra-mon “Ram” Maxey shared a room with me while my conjunctivi-tis slowly transformed my sight into vampire eyes. Biazon won.

Observing small details is not just about being labeled a “Marites;” it is also about appreciating twists and turns that come with daily life, especially in our dealing with people. To be an ef-fective historian, putting to mind those trivial events and connect-ing them to incidents that can happen in the future may provide an inspiration in understanding while certain events have tran-spired.

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

‘Sibol’ Art Exhibit ongoing at SM City Davao until March 31 Squeeze in art appreciation time.

Discover the works of 60 artists, artisans, designers, and creatives in Davao Art Kollective: Sibol Art Exhibit at the Main Mall Atrium, SM City Davao on March 22 to 31.

A partnership be-

tween SM City Davao and Davao Art Kollective, the exhibit features the artworks of artists like Noi Narciso, Ega Carreon, T. Golez Art Collection, Lair Gomez, Gorjel Llanita, Gigi Denzon, and Piper Chan.

This also showcases the works of fashion

designers Ivan Raborar, Julien Gentica, Alexies Gerenomio Redecio, and Daryl Tejano as well as the fashion editorial photos of Dale Chan.

The exhibit further features the works of designers and creative communities such as Atong Komunidad,

Fashion Designers Alliance Mindanao, and Mayari Arts.

Head on to the art exhibit now and get inspired from the colorful works of the different artists.

For more updates, visit the official social media pages of SM City Davao.

SKY’S VIRTUAL RUN FUNDRAISER CAN PROVIDE FOOD RELIEF TO OVER 5,000 ODETTE SURVIVORS SKY’s “Isang Daang Hakbang Sa Pagtutulungan: Kapamilya Virtual Run” raised more than P500,000 in donations, which can provide food packs to over 1,000 families or 5,000 individuals who are still struggling after the devastation caused

by Super Typhoon Odette.

The four-week virtual run, which concluded last February 28, had almost 1,500 participants completing the run’s 100step challenge, including Kapamilya actor Piolo Pascual, celebrity coach Rio Dela Cruz, and ABS-CBN Foundation’s Director for Advocacy and “G Diaries” host Ernie Lopez.

Several participants gladly shared their photos and videos finishing the challenge on Facebook and Instagram, using the hashtag #100HakbangSaPagtutulungan to encourage friends and family to join. Whether they completed the challenge safely indoors or outdoors, they enjoyed the opportunity to be active and healthy amid the pandemic while also being able to help others in a simple way.

Shirley Diaz, one of the participants, proudly shared on her Facebook after completing her 100 steps, “It may not have

been a marathon-level performance, but I was able to extend help to those affected by Typhoon Odette.”

Gel Jose, another participant, said in a Facebook post, “I was able to donate money that will help provide food and essential supplies to families affected by Typhoon Odette. I also pledged to run 5K, which I completed all at one go after a year of being sedentary. Hopefully, I can maintain this momentum towards having a more active life.”

Aside from the 100step challenge, around 300 participants went the extra mile and completed 5K and 10K virtual runs to send larger donations for the victims.

“We are extremely thankful to everyone who participated in ‘Isang Daang Hakbang Sa Pagtutulungan: Kapamilya Virtual Run.’ More than your donations, the time and effort you made to complete the challenge and share it on social media makes a big difference in inspiring others to also take a step towards helping our Kapamilyas. Every peso means food, clothing, medicines, home, and hope for our kababayans in need. All of you greatly

contribute to our mission to be in the service of the Filipino,” said Jaynalen Redondo-Roque, SKY’s head for Integrated Marketing and Airtime Business and the organizing committee head of the virtual run.

SKY’s organizing team for this virtual run also hopes that this initiative will inspire others to be more creative with engaging activities and efforts to help our Kapamilyas in need.

“Isang Daang Hakbang Sa Pagtutulungan: Kapamilya Virtual Run” was organized by SKY, in partnership with HBO and History, to support ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN Foundation’s “Tulong-Tulong sa Pagahon: Isang Daan sa Pagtutulungan,” the second phase of their fund drive for the benefit of Odette survivors. As of March 17, ABS-CBN Foundation has delivered food packs to 207,029 families with the

help of the donations. Even more families will be able to receive aid with the donations collated from this virtual run.

Aside from the continued support of food packs to the survivors still in evacuation centers, ABS-CBN Foundation will also utilize the donations to distribute even more home repair kits to families whose houses were destroyed in the calamity.

As of March 17, 584 fami-

lies in underserved areas have received home repair kits to support the rebuilding of their homes.

This campaign is under ABS-CBN Foundation DSWD Authority/Solicitation Permit, DSWD-SBSP-00026-21, valid nationwide until May 28, 2022.

For updates, follow SKY on Facebook (fb.com/ myskyupdates), Twitter (@myskyupdates), and Instagram (@myskyupdates).

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With Joem Bascom: The actor appeared together with Jake Cuenca in Loel Lamangan’s Lihis.

shed not just her baby fat but an old, worn-out image as well,” Cuartero wrote.

Santos is not alone. After her, there were those who became stars in their own right after showing some skin in the films produced

by Jesse Ejercito. Alma Moreno in Ligaw na Bulaklak, Rio Locsin in Menor de Edad, Lorna Tolentino in Dulce Amor, Ina, Elizabeth Oropesa in Mister Mo, Lover Boy Ko, Beth Bautista in Huwag, Bayaw, Daria Ramirez in Lord, Give Me a Lover, Chanda Romero in Sa Kagubatan ng Lungsod, Janet Bordon in Ako si Emma, Babae, and Amy Austria in Nang Bumuka ang Sampaguita.

But their movies were somewhat tame compared to those done by the following: Didith Romero, Amanda Amores, Myra Manibog, Myrna Castillo, and Cherry Madrigal. Some of them even engaged in “real pumping.”

Men also dared and

the Philippines, which was bestowed to Amalia Fuentes.

“The truth is, I never really liked being compared with her,” Fuentes said in an interview. “I was starting in showbiz when the title was given to me, but I wanted to have my own identity, to be known on my own merits and not because I was being likened to somebody.”

But still, it didn’t stop people comparing some Filipino stars to Hollywood stars: Barbara Perez with Audrey Hepburn, Nestor de Villa with Fred Astaire, Merle Tuazon with Ava Gardner, Paraluman with Greta Garbo, Lou Salvador, Jr. with James Dean, Dante Rivero with Burt Lancaster, and Eddie Mesa and Eddie Gutierrez with Elvis Presley.

Speaking of Fuentes, there was a time when she was pitted against Susan Roces, thus Amalians and Susanians came into existence. “The practice of bundling fans into groups

bared in some movies. As a promotional stunt for his first movie, Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang, Christopher de Leon posed nude for the centerfold of a magazine.

He did a frontal nude scene in Iwahig.

Mark Joseph, however, outdid de Leon when “he let it all hang loose” in the film Silip, which was directed by Elwood Perez. Daniel Fernando also showed his “private thing” in Scorpio Nights.

Other movie actors who left nothing to imagination for movies include George Estregan (yes, the brother of Joseph Estrada), Rico Roman, Roldan Rodrigo, Ricky Rogers, Tony Martinez, Bobby Benitez, Ronald Nepomuceno, and Tani Cinco.

“I am not bisexual. I am not gay. I have never had sex with men,” said Friends star Matt LeBlanc. Well, in Philippine movie industry, there are straight men who accepted doing gay roles.

Respected actors who portrayed such characters in movies include Dolphy, Eddie Garcia, Dindo Fernando and Ronaldo Valdez.

In recent years, among those who agreed to portray a woman trapped in a man’s body include Dennis Trillo, Ricky Davao, Gardo Versoza, Michael De Mesa, Eric Quizon, Albert Martinez, Roderick Paulate, Emilio Garcia, Polo Ravales, Paolo Paraiso, Marco Morales, Paulo Avelino, Martin del Rosario, Jake Cuenca, and Joem Bascom.

Filipino films try to imitate Hollywood movies.

Ditto for movie stars themselves. This is the reason why we have such comparisons as Elizabeth Taylor of

by branding them started in the 1960s with the rise of Amalia Fuentes and Susan Roces, who became two of the industry’s longest-reigning movie queens,” Cuartero wrote.

After them, there were the Noranians and Vilmanians. What intrigued Cuartero was the anecdote shared to him by veteran movie writer Baby K. Jiminez. Fans of Nora Aunor came to the house of the superstar. “The fans took turns rounding up her bed, one by one. Most of them held a handkerchief. They would wipe any part of Nora’s body, and then they would wipe it on their neck or face or wherever,” Cuartero wrote.

Jiminez told Cuartero: “I was shocked as I uttered, Oh my God. Ano ito? Parang milagrosa? I sat down in a corner and watched. Some were crying. Many were just too ecstatic. To me, it was the height of idolatry.”

Titles of movies are chosen because they can make or unmake in the box-office.

In some instances, titles can titillate. Consider the following: Nagalit ang Buwan sa Haba ng Gabi; Nakawin Natin ang Bawat Sandali; Ligaya ang Itawag Mo sa Akin; Masikip, Maluwang: Paraisong Parisukat.

In the past, there were such suggestive movie titles as Dingding Lang ang Pagitan; Pag-ibig sa Kapirasong Banig; Diligin Mo ng Suka ang Uhaw na Lumpia; Halinghing sa Likod ng Puno ng Saging; and Ang Bukid ay Basa.

The book is easy to read. Once you start reading a page, you end up reading more. It is written in a

NOT-SO-CONFIDENTIAL STORIES FROM PHILIPPINE MOVIE INDUSTRY

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

I

n Hollywood, the film capital of the world, stars talk about sex ordinarily.

“Sex is part of nature. I go along with nature,” said the original sex goddess Marilyn Monroe. Mae West described sex as “emotion in motion.” Oscar-winning Angelina Jolie was quoted to have said, “I need more sex, OK? Before I die, I wanna taste everyone in the world.”

Men have something to say, too. “Sex without love is a meaningless experience, but as far as meaningless experiences go its pretty damn good,” said award-winning actor-director Woody Allen. Comedian Steve Martin said, “I believe that sex is one of the most beautiful, natural, wholesome things that money can buy.”

In the Philippines, as in most parts of the world, editors usually tell their scribes to write their reports somewhat sexy. The reason: sex sells. This especially true when it comes to movies and about those who are involved in motion pictures.

So, I wasn’t surprised that the newly-published book, Ph Movie Confidential, focuses on the subject – and more. Not surprisingly, it is authored by Nestor Cuartero, one of the country’s most respected movie writers.

Cuartero was – he still is – one of those that inspired me to write about movies. During my early days as a writer, I contributed to Tempo, writing about Hollywood trivia, where he was the entertainment editor.

There is a fine line be-

tween gossip and rumors.

But Cuartero doesn’t rely on those to make his writings fascinating and intriguing. Instead, he comes up with factual write-ups that are credible as well as entertaining.

His second book – At Large, At Leisure (2008) was his first one – is a testament to that. As Charo Santos-Concio, former president and chief executive officer of ABS-CBN puts it: “Ph Movie Confidential is a fascinating snapshot of the Philippine movie industry through the lens of veteran journalist Nestor Cuartero, whose decades-spanning reporting experience makes him one of the most credible presenters in the entertainment business.”

The 130-page book has 14 chapters. Each chapter is worth reading. Take the case of Chapter 3 entitled, “Uhaw, Hayok: How Dare!”

It opened with the story of Vilma Santos, the star for all seasons. In 1977, she “shocked the (movie) industry” when she starred in Celso Ad. Castillo’s Burlesk Queen.

“Prior to Burlesk Queen, Vilma was known for her virginal image, nice and sweet as bubble gum. With such a landmark role, she

Cover of the book: A compendium of anecdotes and facts about the Philippine movie industry.

With Dennis Trillo: In the film, Aishite Imasu, he portrayed a gay guerilla in drag during World War II.

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you have to be responsible also na as much as possible dili ingon ato kadaghan ang gathering. Sobra gyud puno kaayo. The entire alley gikan sa Ateneo pdulong sa pinakadulo sa may Paternos, ingon ana kadaghan ang tao, ma-shakira gyud ka,” Schlosser said.

Schlosser reminded the Dabawenyos that Covid-19 is still present. She said although the goal is economic recovery the public should not neglect their health because health as well as economy gives life.

“I hope you all remember than and I hope mag remember pud mo, naa pa gyud ta kalaban na Covid so extra careful pa rin. Ayaw lang pabayaa ang health kasi both area health as well as economy gives life.

Either way makadaut gyud siya kung pabayaan,” she said.

She said based on Davao City Daily Covid-19 Case Monitoring, the city has recorded 12 new cases as of March 21, 2022, which is approximately 2 percent of the city’s positivity rate.

“Karon naa ta’y 12 new cases and for several days nag-one digit na lang ta. So careful lang ta labi na gyud sa atoang mga nakita sa Roxas Night Market and a lot visitors sa night market are they were mostly teenagers. Reminder sa mga parents easy lang sa pagpagawas sa inyuhang mga bata. I understand na for a long time walay gawas gawas ang mga bata but we still have to be careful,” she said.

the region, especially with the return to the folds of the law, 78 former rebels. This achievement is a testament to the success of our unceasing campaigns against insurgency and terrorism,” he said.

Duterte also thanked the Philippine Army leadership and men for their unwavering commitment to serve the people as far as security is concerned.

He looked forward that through working together more guerrilla fronts will be dismantled in Mindanao with the joint initiatives to promote peace in Mindanao.

“We implore to our security sector to continue pushing forward to sustain the gains we have achieved,” Duterte stressed.

(PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

in Northern Luzon to celebrate with the 10ID, welcomed the NPA surrenderers to the fold of the law.

“The greatest victory that we have is we are able to preserve lives. We were able to prevent further atrocities, further pain, especially to our guests (members of the SRC5), thank you for your decision to surrender. I am happy that I was able to experience this moment during my career to witness the fall of insurgencies,” Torres said.

He also assured that with the proper treatment given to the surrenderers, the mass surrender of NPA rebels is not only happening in Davao City.

“It’s not only a trend here, it is happening nation-

wide. You can be assured that the commitment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines will continue. We now have a government that really and truly cares, it is no longer necessary to bear arms against the government,” Torres said.

Meanwhile, Acting City Mayor Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte thanked the Philippine Army and the former rebels.

“We salute the force, the Philippine Army, for a job well done. And we thank the former members of the SRC5 for surrendering to this government. I want to tell you that the moment you have surrendered, you are already forgiven. You are welcome to restart your life here in Davao City,” Duterte said.

the processes automated by the BOC through its information and communications technology (ICT)-backed projects is the submission, processing, and approval of applications of importers and exporters defined as authorized economic operators (AEOs) or those recognized as having complied with WCO or equivalent supply chain security standards.

These processes and procedures are now done electronically through the BOC’s AEO online portal.

Besides the AEO online portal, among the 30 ICT-supported systems implemented in the BOC, are its customs dashboard, customer care portal system, document

tracking, parcel and balikbayan boxes tracking system, electronic advance ruling system (e-ARS), electronic certificate of origin (eCO), automated bonds management system (ABMS) and Computerization of Super Green Lane Office.

The BOC also successfully deployed its automated inventory management system for customs bonded warehouses (CBWs) at the Port of Manila to determine and monitor the stock inventory of bonded goods from the time of its entry into the CBW up to the liquidation of the goods declaration covered by the warehousing single administrative document.

[onions]. Most of which are planted and harvested in

Luzon, particularly in Nueva Ecija),” he added. (PNA)

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WTE... FROM3 Mayor Sara also announced that the project, planned in partnership with Davao City’s sister city Kitakyushi

in Japan, has been reverted to DENR upon the recommendation of the Davao Regional Council.

stop interaction with a lot of people and it is really incredible. If we really want to translate that in our business, if we have people who love what they do, have an amazing commitment to what they do for our organization, for our clients, and brand partners, it really creates magical things that clients don’t get from other companies. So we are really excited about Davao City,” said Eric Gist, CEO of Awesome OS. The opening was graced by Annika Thunborg, Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines, who said that the opening of Transcom is among the business opportunities that were discussed during a webinar organized by the Sweden Embassy in partnership with the European Chamber of Commerce in

the Philippines (ECCP), and the Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC) in the middle of pandemic last year.

“This webinar gave Swedish investors an overview of the attractive opportunities in Davao City for foreign investors. My visit here this week is a follow-up to this endeavor. I am commending Transcom for opening a satellite office in Davao City,” said Thunborg.

Transcom provides digitally enhanced customer experience (CX) services to some of the world’s most ambitious brands. More than 300 clients globally, including disruptive e-commerce players, category redefining fintechs, and technology legends rely on us for on-, off-, and nearshoring services. By Maya M. Padillo

of around 6.50 meters complete with drainage and separation geotextiles therefore a significant volume of earthworks (borrow materials) is required,” Mercado said.

He said that on one side, geotubes were installed for the reclamation as protection.

Class I and Class II rocks were also put in place with hexapods, seawall and wave deflector to reduce the intensity of wave actions which is prevalent in the area during northeast monsoon season.

On the other side, he added that grouted riprap slope protection was constructed over Class III rocks.

The coastal road is a 17.352-kilometer road project, stretching from Jct. Bago (south), Jct. Talomo, Matina Aplaya, Roxas Avenue to Sta. Ana Wharf toward R. Castillo Avenue (north) and is divided into four segments: Segment A – Bago Aplaya Times Beach, 7.620 kilometers; Segment B – Times Beach – Roxas Avenue, 4.557 kilometers; Segment C- Roxas Avenue-Sta. Ana Wharf Road, 2.026; and Segment D – Sta. Ana Wharf Road – Alcantara, R. Castillo, 3.149 kilometers.

es are reluctant to return to their offices, as they have to rent for their accommodation in Metro Manila, which have contracts of at least three months.

They fear that if the government will shift to stricter alert levels, they would have to go back to WFH setup when they already paid for their rentals in advance, David added.

He said BPO employees are supporting small-scale

businesses more in a WFH arrangement as they buy products and services now from local micro and small enterprises.

“When we are in the ecozones, or in BGC (Bonifacio Global City), we are buying from these large businesses.

So, how are we not supporting MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) in a work-from-home arrangement?” he said in mixed Filipino and English.

farmers and fisherfolk who either individually own and operate agricultural and fishery machinery or operate through a farmer’s organization or cooperative.

For the second tranche, targeted for distribution in April, it would source the money from excess revenues to be collected as of end-March.

downside risks to the rate of price increases come from the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases and the emergence of new Covid-19 variants, which is expected to hamper global economic recovery and may result in implementation of new movement restrictions.

He said the MB also noted that domestic economy activities continue to gain ground following the

easing of movement restrictions.

“However, heightened geopolitical tensions and a resurgence in Covid-19 infections in some countries have also clouded the outlook for global economic growth. Supply-chain disruptions could also contribute to inflationary pressures, and thus warrant closer monitoring to enable timely intervention

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Other facilities include detour/access road, metal guardrails, roundabouts at

simple manner so you don’t need a dictionary to look up the meaning of a word.

“My aim is simple in writing about particular trends and movements in Philippine movies,” Cuartero wrote in Author’s Word.

“I hope to transform and elevate entertainment writing far beyond the level of gossip and trash commonly associated with it.”

Liza Diño-Seguerra and Dr. Carl E. Balita, two of the respected people in the industry, wrote forewords. “(The book) is an insider’s look into what made Philippine show business the way it is today,” penned Diño-Seguerra, chair of the Film Development Council of the Philippines. “As a member of the press, Nestor is privy to many things the average audience isn’t, and his wealth of researched factoids and personal experience gives readers a more accurate picture of the entertainment scene from the 1970s

to the current times.”

Dr. Balita, president and CEO of CEB Group of Companies, wrote: “This book is a celebration of the lives of the stars and celebrities: their humanity, their vulnerabilities, failures, weaknesses, as well as their victories, philosophies, among others. It puts the stars in their rightful places at the same time making them human, exposing their truths behind the façade. These stories in turn provide lessons that value other people’s human experiences to life and living.”

To end this review, allow me to quote the author’s final statement: “Because the truth is, it can be – and is – a craft with its own seriousness of purpose, a historical perspective, a sense of responsibility – all achievable without robbing the stories of their natural grasp, look and feel of the beautiful, the rumorous, the vibrant, and well, yes, the entertaining.”

mar Stevens had 16 for the Cavaliers, who have lost two straight and three of five. Darius Garland had 18 points and 10 assists, and Kevin Love added 12 points and 10 rebounds. Cavs rookie Evan Mobley scored 11 points on 5-for-7 shooting and had eight rebounds.

Toronto missed six of seven attempts to start the game but made seven of its next 13, helping turn a 1510 deficit into a 25-17 lead

after one. The Raptors had assists on seven of their eight baskets in the first, including a no-look pass from Barnes to Siakam, who scored 12 in the quarter.

Thad Young and Boucher combined for 19 points in the second and the Raptors led 58-48 at halftime.

Garland scored nine points in the third but Siakam answered with 11 as Toronto took an 83-75 lead to the fourth.

toward the Paris Olympics,” Tolentino said.

He added that the POC will liquidate the athletes’ expenses to the Olympic

Solidarity on a quarterly schedule based on the submission of reports by the scholars and their NSAs. (PR)

arc as Memphis made a season-high 21 3-pointers.

Before the game, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins announced that leading scorer Ja Morant would miss the next two weeks with right knee soreness.

Morant sat out the previous two games after tweaking the knee in Memphis’ loss to Atlanta last Friday.

But the Grizzlies were sharp again without their All-Star, just as they were in a 132-120 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday, and became the second team to lock up a spot in the postseason.

With Memphis leading 107-71 entering the fourth, the Grizzlies reserves finished up the game.

Lance Stephenson led the Pacers with 25 points, while Terry Taylor had 17.

Goga Bitadze finished with

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in order to arrest potential second-round effects,” he added.

With these factors, Diokno said the MB “sees scope to maintain the BSP’s policy settings in order to safeguard the momentum of economic recovery amid increased uncertainty, even as it continues to develop its plans for the gradual nor-

Besides Morant, the Grizzles were also without Dillon Brooks, who rested his left ankle, and Brandon Clarke (left hip soreness.)

Indiana also was playing the second consecutive night after a last-second loss to Sacramento. Like Memphis, the Pacers had multiple players out. Additionally, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle missed the game for personal reasons.

As they did against Brooklyn, the Grizzlies surpassed 70 points in the first half, taking a 74-48 lead into the locker room. Bane had 23 points, missing only one of his shots in the half, going 5 of 6 from outside the arc.

The Grizzlies opened the second half on a 10-0 run and Memphis had its seventh win in the last eight. malization of its extraordinary liquidity measures.”

“Given the potential broadening of price pressures over the near term, the BSP stands ready to respond to the buildup in inflation pressures that can disanchor inflation expectations, in keeping with its price and financial stability objectives,” he added.

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Pascal Siakam tries to gain some separation from Darius Garland. PHOTO: AP

Raptors roll past Cavs, tighten East playoff race Obiena leads PH athletes given Olympic Solidarity scholarships

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orld-ranked pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena and young golf sensation Rianne Malixi lead seven other Filipino athletes who were granted Olympic Solidarity Scholarships (OSS) by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said also making the list besides the 26-yearold Obiena and 14-year-old Malixi are Elreen Ando (23 years old, weightlifting), Samantha Catantan (19, fencing), Aira Villegas (27, boxing), Rogen Ladon (28, boxing), Patrick Coo (20, BMX cycling), Jericho Francisco (20, skateboarding) and Allen Arcilla (19, wrestling).

All the athlete scholars were endorsed by their respective national sports associations (NSAs), except for Obiena, the most accomplished on the list as the Asian men’s pole vault record holder.

Under the scholarships, Tolentino said each athlete will receive a grant of USD833 a month until the Paris 2024 Olympics.

“The POC wishes to congratulate these nine promising athletes for earning scholarships as they focus

on their qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics,” Tolentino said in a news release on Thursday. “This is the first time that our country has such a large number of scholars.”

Tolentino said Obiena’s inclusion even without the endorsement of the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association is testament to the IOC respecting and honoring the decision of national Olympic committees (NOCs).

The scholarship includes access to appropriate training facilities, a coach who specializes in their respective disciplines, regular medical and scientific assistance and control, accident and illness insurance, board and lodging costs, pocket money and most essentially travel costs for the athletes’ participation in relevant competitions and Paris 2024 qualification events.

The OSS is an IOC program that aims to assist elite athletes selected and proposed by their respective NOCs in their preparation and qualification for Paris 2024.

“All these athletes need to do is to focus on their training and set their goal

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ORONTO — Pascal Siakam matched his season high with 35 points, Chris Boucher scored 17 and the Toronto Raptors tightened the Eastern Conference playoff race by beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 117-104 on Thursday night (Friday, Manila time).

OG Anunoby returned from injury to score 14 points, Scottie Barnes had 11 and Fred VanVleet and

Precious Achiuwa each added 10 as Toronto (4132) snapped a three-game home losing streak and tied

Cleveland for the sixth-best record with nine games to go in the regular season.

Cleveland had won all three previous meetings with the Raptors this season, meaning the Cavs hold the tiebreaker over Toronto and retain possession of the No. 6 seed in the East. That is the last guaranteed postseason spot, with teams finishing in the Nos. 7-10 spots headed for the play-in tournament.

Siakam’s six 3-pointers matched his career high. He shot 6 for 7 from long range.

Anunoby started for the Raptors, returning to the lineup after missing 15 games because of a fractured right ring finger. He shot 4 for 11 in 26 minutes, finishing 4 for 8 from behind the arc.

Lauri Markkanen scored 20 points and La-

FRAPTORS, P10

Grizzlies rip Pacers to clinch playoff spot

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EMPHIS, Tenn. — Desmond Bane scored 30 points, hitting 12 of 15 shots, and the Memphis Grizzlies built a big lead early before coasting to a 133-103 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night (Friday, Manila time) to clinch a spot in the playoffs.

Jaren Jackson Jr. finished with 20 points, going 7 of 13 from the field, as the Grizzlies shot 54%. De’Anthony Melton added 19 and John Konchar matched his career high with 18. Bane was 5 of 7 from outside the

FGRIZZLIES, P10

Desmond Bane finds an open lane as Goga Bitadze looks on. PHOTO: AP

12 SPORTS

Dennis Anthony Uy: Newest PBA team owner

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 313 • SATURDAY, MARCH 26, 2022

NEW TEAM Converge acquires Alaska franchise

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laska team management expressed its appreciation to Converge ICT Solutions for acquiring its PBA franchise.

Former Alaska owner Wilfred Uytengsu was delighted that one of the top telecommunication service providers in the country is coming in to take over the franchise.

“We are pleased that the new owners of our storied franchise are industry leaders, and are grateful to Mr. Dennis Uy and Converge for ensuring that the Alaska Aces team will get to continue in this new direction under his stewardship,” said Uytengsu in a statement.

Upon its takeover of Alaska, Converge vowed to honor contracts of players that go beyond this season, and the current coaching staff are to be considered for evaluation.

Uytengsu vouched for the integrity Alaska had established in the entirety of its stay in the league.

“We have a great staff and a competitive team, and with this development, we are assured that they will continue to be given the opportunity to shine in the PBA,” he said.

As Alaska leaves PBA, Uytengsu bats for ‘level playing field’ in the league “We wish Converge all the best to continue our winning tradition.”

Alaska last month announced it was leaving the league after 35 seasons that saw the Aces become one of the winningest clubs.

Converge later took over and acquired the franchise.

The value of the franchise was estimated at P150 million, a massive recoup for Uytengsu, who bought the franchise in the mid-1980s, a time when it was worth less than P1 million.