Edge Davao Volume 14 Issue 324 | Friday, April 8, 2022 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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VOL.14 ISSUE 324 • FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2022

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FAKE LICENSES LTO 11 confiscates 300 illegallyprocessed driver’s licenses STORY ON PAGE 2

Passengers are seen walking on the jetty of Sta. Ana Port where its beachfront are piled with boulders as reclamation works is ongoing for the Davao Coastal Road project. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.14 ISSUE 324 • FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2022

President Rodrigo Duterte receives the uncut 50-outs of 1000-Piso Polymer Banknotes from Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III and the Chairman of the Monetary Board and Governor of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Benjamin Diokno during the presentation at the Malacañan Palace on April 6, 2022. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

FAKE LICENSES T

Mati City releases new rules on tricycle fares

LTO 11 confiscates 300 illegallyprocessed driver’s licenses By MAYA M. PADILLO

he Land Transportation Office 11 (LTO 11) revealed on Thursday the proliferation of fake driver’s licenses.

Thomas Edward Roales, chief of Law Enforcement Division of the LTO 11, bared that they have confiscated 300 illegally-processed driver’s licenses in Davao Region and recommended revocation.

Roales said these fake licenses, which were obtained from neighboring regions, were acquired even not showing to the issuing region and without accomplishing the requirements such as biometrics, proof of

passing the practical driving course, seminar, and medical certificates. “Ang problema man gud is mukuha sila and illegally processed from other regions and naay mu reklamo sa amoa. Isa pud diara, kung maparahan ka namo with violations or wala as we are authorized na mupara ug mu-check ug makit-an namo dili ka Davao resident

ug dili gikuha sa Davao ang license kay makita man na sa license code kung asa dapita, isa na siya ug probable cause na siya ug puwede na namo siya i-hold on the grounds of verifying,” Roales said on Wednesday. Roales said the system finds the attachments and biometrics of the license holders and if there is a re-

FFAKE, P7

Davao Region cops nab 738, seize P20-M illegal drugs in 3 months

olice units in Davao Region have so far confiscated over PHP20 million worth of illegal drugs since January this year, data from the Police Regional Office in Region 11 (PRO-11) showed. The amount represents the 2,049 grams of shabu and 9,625 grams

of marijuana seized in at least 658 anti-drug operations from January to March this year, according to records obtained by the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Wednesday. At least 738 suspects were apprehended in the operations. Earlier, PRO-11 issued a warning that police

units in the region remain firm against the proliferation of illegal drugs to achieve “a drug-free community.” Meanwhile, the authorities arrested a 24-year-old man Wednesday after he was caught it in a CCTV footage throwing illegal drugs over the wall of the Davao City Jail

here. Police said the shabu was worth around PHP270,000. Abdullah Asakil, the suspect, told the authorities he was only instructed by a person whose name he did not disclose to throw the illegal drugs, wrapped in a black tape,

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he City Government of Mati has issued a new set of tricycle fare guidelines due to the increase in gasoline prices over the past weeks. Under the City Ordinance No. 527 Series of 2022 or the “Ordinance Imposing the Regulation of Fare and Motorized Tricycle-for-Hire in the City of Mati,” the minimum fares are peg on the prevailing fuel prices. If the gasoline prices would hover at P40.00 to P49.99 per liter the minimum fare would be pegged at P9.00. If fuel prices are at P50.00 to P69.99 minimum fare would be at P12.00 The current minimum fare is now P14.00 as the price of gasoline is between P70.00 to P89.99. If the gasoline increase would go from P90.00 to

P99.00, the minimum fare will be P15.00. The price of gasoline is not the only indicator of the passenger’s fare. The destination also matters and the mutual agreement of both the driver and the commuter, as detailed in Section 3 of the said ordinance. The students, senior citizens, and differently-abled passengers are still entitled to their 20% discount. The drivers and operators of these motorized tricycles-for-hires may secure their copies of the new fare tariffs at the City Tricycle Franchising Office for only P50.00 The operator and the driver may face consequences for not putting the new fare tariffs in their tricycles visible to

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PRRD leads presentation of P1,000 polymer banknotes

resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday led the presentation of the PHP1,000-piso polymer banknote, which features the Philippine eagle, in a ceremonial program in Malacañan Palace. During the program, Duterte got to see a framed version of 50 pieces of the uncut PHP1,000-piso plastic money up close. Department of Finance

(DOF) Carlos Dominguez III and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno presented to Duterte the uncut PHP1,000-piso polymer banknotes. According to the BSP, the PHP1,000-piso polymer banknotes strengthen efforts against counterfeiting, safety concerns due to the Covid-19, and promote

FPRRD, P7

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NEWS

Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte attends the inauguration of the Honorary Consulate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for Mindanao with Ambassador Saskia De Lang of the Kingdom of Netherlands, and Honorary Consul Simon Bakker on Wednesday afternoon. CIO

More gov’t employees have no booster dose: TF 3 Reds surrender in Davao Norte

ome three communist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) fighters surrendered to military troops in Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division (ID) here said Wednesday. In a statement, 10ID identified the surrenderers as alias Bernon or Dose, a squad leader, alias Gorio, and alias Yanyan-all belonging to an NPA guerrilla unit under the Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC). The surrrenderers, who yielded on Tuesday, are all on an Army watchlist of NPA members operating in the boundaries of Davao de Oro, Agusan del Sur, and Davao del Norte, 10ID said. The three yielded

two high-powered firearms, assorted medical paraphernalia, and war matériel. Bernon said he and his colleagues decided to surrender after many of their leaders have already abandoned the rebel group recently. In addition, he said they can no longer sustain the hardship, lack of supplies, and support from their mass base. “We have no other means to survive since we cannot meet our needs from our former mass base anymore,” the former rebel was quoted as saying. Bernon said their surrender also became easier through the help of their former comrades,

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

the number of boosted individuals in Davao City. Based on the evaluation of the Vaccination Cluster and the Covid-19 Task Force it was found out that there is indeed

a number of offices and government employees that do not yet have their booster dose and these include the regional offices of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR 11), Commission on Audit (COA 11), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), National Housing

Authority (NHA 11), and Office of the Civil Defense (OCD). “Actually, daghan daghan pa ni sila and it would take time kung isa isahon pa ni siya but our vaccination cluster giisa isa ang opisina na wala pa’y na booster. Daghan pa kaayo government offices fully vaccinated yet more than 50 percent pa

Davao City on April 6, 2022. Formerly located at E. Jacinto Extension in Davao City, it is now strategically relocated to one of the city’s high-end commercial centers that

can be easily accessed by current and prospective customers for all their banking needs. Peter Faulhaber, HSBC Philippines head of Wealth and Personal Banking, told the media

that the relocation of the HSBC Davao branch aims to bring the experience and services closer to the customers, particularly those who have international needs.

avao City Covid-19 Task Force Spokesperson Dr. Michelle Schlosser reported that there are government offices in Davao City with employees who haven’t had their booster dose yet.

In a bid to intervene on the vaccination vacuum, the city government of Davao will be bringing its mobile vaccination in their offices to administer booster shots to increase

FMORE, P7

HSBC relocates Davao branch, offers new services, products

nternational universal bank HSBC Philippines promised a new range of products and seamless services as it relocated and upgraded its Davao City branch on the second floor of Abreeza Mall,

FHSBC, P7

4 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

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In reporting that there are government offices in Davao City with employees who haven’t had their booster dose yet:

Actually, daghan daghan pa ni sila and it would take time kung isa isahon pa ni siya but our vaccination cluster giisa isa ang opisina na wala pa’y na booster. Daghan pa kaayo government offices fully vaccinated yet more than 50 percent pa or more ang wala pa na booster dose.”

Dr. Michelle Schlosser

Davao City Covid-19 Task Force Spokesperson

EDITORIAL Boost the un-boosted There are 1,900 employees of the city government of Davao who have not yet boosted according to the recent report by the Davao City Covid-19 Task Force. The same report is saying more than half of the employees in some government offices in the city have no booster jabs yet.

At a time when the restrictions are easing up, there is a tendency for people to be complacent of the situation and brush off the value of vaccination. This is a very critical phase of the Covid roadmap the government is preparing. The way out of Covid is still by way of vaccination and that means complete and not partial vaccination. Hence, the need for people to get boosted otherwise the roadmap will not be fully realised. At this point, the city government needs to focus its thrust

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By conducting vaccination rollout in offices, the city government can address that vacuum and achieve the numbers it needed. That’s the easy part.

The hard part is to get those employees who are un-boosted to cooperate and willingly get their booster shots. And that’s another story. 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

on the areas where there is a vacuum in vaccination like these offices where several employees are yet to get boosted. The easiest way to achieve vaccination goals is to accomplish the so-called easier targets.

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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Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod 19th City Council 44th Regular Session Series of 2021 PRESENT: Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor Councilor

Alberto T. Ungab - Temporary Presiding Officer Ralph O. Abella Nilo D. Abellera Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula Wilberto E. Al-ag Dante L. Apostol Sr. Conrado C. Baluran Jessica M. Bonguyan Louie John J. Bonguyan Pilar C. Braga Augusto Javier G. Campos III Danilo C. Dayanghirang Jonard C. Dayap Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr. Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. Pamela A. Librado-Morata Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Jaffar U. Marohomsalic Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III

ABSENT: Vice Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte - On Official Business Councilor Maria Belen S. Acosta - OB – Attended a meeting with the Commercial Attaché of Switzerland Councilor Bonifacio E. Militar - On Sick Leave

ORDINANCE NO. 0784-21 Series of 2021

8. Person – an individual, firm, association, tree removal service, corporation, and its agents, officers, employees, or representatives. 9. Private property – shall refer to property or properties not owned by the City or any other government instrumentalities. For purposes of this Ordinance, it shall include, but not limited to, all private lands covered by Original Certificate of Title (OCT); Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT); including Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA); Tax-declared Alienable and Disposable lands of the Public Domain with pending application for titling through administrative or judicial process; and areas under a valid tenurial or land management, occupancy, or allocation instrument issued by government authorities. 10. Protected Non-heritage trees – a group of mature trees classified as such under this Ordinance which include trees within parks, avenues, public spaces, and/ or islands, forest and mangrove parks, tree reserves and ecologically important zones identified in the Zoning Ordinance such as Urban Ecological Enhancement Sub-Zones; Conservation Zones; Protection Forest Zone; inland wetlands or lakes; waterway and coastal easements; and buffer zones, whether in a public land or private property. It does not include trees in tree plantation developments or trees allowed to be harvested under DENR policies. 11. Public lands – lands that are not deemed private property as defined under Section 3 (9) hereof. 12. Urban – scope referring to the Central Business District (CBD) Poblacion, Agdao, Buhangin, Talomo; and including major urban districts in Toril, Calinan, Tugbok, Bunawan, Davao City. 13. Urban Trees Protection Plan (UTPP) – a plan that will map and define action points geared towards the protection and management of identified heritage trees and non-heritage trees within the City. Such plan will be developed within a year after the enactment of this Ordinance. SECTION 4. CRITERIA FOR IDENTIFYING HERITAGE TREES - Trees with any of the following status are deemed HERITAGE TREES of the City: 1. Old-Aged - any tree species with documents, recordings, assessed, or verified to be more than 50 years old. 2. Critical Conservation Status - any tree species that have the following status regardless of size: a. Critically Endangered b. Endangered or Near-threatened listed under the DENR Administrative Order 2017-11 or IUCN appendix of species c. Endemic to the country or region.

AN ORDINANCE PROTECTING HERITAGE TREES AND ALL OTHER TREES IN THE CITY OF DAVAO AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

3. Historical & Cultural Value - a mature tree that has historical significance as per documents, recordings, a historical landmark, or that has provided the citizens or the community with cultural importance.

Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City in session assembled, that:

4. Aesthetic/Architectural Value - a mature tree, intentionally preserved through a landscape or architectural design, or has provided aesthetical value for an area, building, establishment, or structure.

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE -This Ordinance shall be known and referred to as the “TREES PROTECTION ORDINANCE OF DAVAO CITY”. SECTION 2. DECLARATION OF POLICIES -The City Government of Davao hereby declares the following as its policies: 1. The City recognizes the environmental and economic benefits of trees such as its ecological role in the improvement of air quality, reduction of floods, and habitat of several wildlife species, among others. 2. Davao City deeply values the historical importance of heritage trees as it is an icon of the City’s past and a reminder that our forefathers also valued the ecological benefits of trees which would benefit the future generations. 3. The City needs to protect the remaining trees in the urban area to maintain the ecological, social, and historical values of trees. 4. The City recognizes, in the light of Climate Change, the importance of trees that serves as the “lungs” of the earth in mitigating the adverse effect of environmental degradation. 5. Protection and preservation of trees is a collaborative effort not only of the City Government but also of every Dabawenyo resident and private and public institutions based in Davao City. SECTION 3. DEFINITION OF TERMS -As used in this Ordinance, the following terms shall mean: 1. City – the City of Davao. 2. Damage – the removal of any part, dislocation of the main trunk, or any injury that compromises the tree’s health, structural integrity, and/or over-all aesthetics as per accepted national forestry standards. 3. DENR – Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 4. Heritage tree – a healthy native or endemic, exotic, rare, threatened and endangered tree with consideration to the scientific, rarity, the historical, cultural, social, educational, and aesthetic significance of the tree, whether in a public land or private property and qualified as such under the provisions of this Ordinance. It does not include trees in tree plantation developments and allowed to be harvested under DENR policies. 5. IUCN – International Union for Conservation of Nature. 6. Owner – the owner, possessor, occupant, cultivator of the private property on which the tree may be situated. 7. Parks – shall mean both government-owned and maintained public spaces and Privately-owned public open spaces (POPOS).

5. Large Size – all other mature tree of more than THREE (3) meters girth (trunk circumference). SECTION 5. CRITERIA FOR IDENTIFYING PROTECTED NON-HERITAGE TREES - The following are deemed PROTECTED NON-HERITAGE TREES of the City: 1. Trees within Parks, Plazas, Promenades, Center Islands, Riverbanks -These include the protection of all individual trees within Parks, Plazas, Promenades, Center Islands, Riverbanks, and designated open spaces whether privately or publiclyowned or managed. 2. Tree-lined Avenues - These include the protection of all individual trees along avenues such as, but not limited to: a. Roxas Avenue; b. Dacudao Avenue; c. Ecoland Drive; and d. Ecoland-Tulip Drive. 3. Tree reserves - Protection of all individual trees within protected areas, conservation areas and other ecologically important zones identified in the Zoning Ordinance. SECTION 6. TREE PROTECTION MECHANISM FOR HERITAGE TREES AND PROTECTED NON-HERITAGE TREES – Heritage Trees and Protected Non-Heritage Trees, whether on a private property or on a public land, are protected trees. The maintenance and protection of these trees is paramount. However, when the earth-balling, cutting, and/or utilization of the said trees may be allowed, any certificate of no objection to the earth-balling, cutting, and/or utilization of the said trees may only be issued by the City Mayor or an officer duly authorized by the City Mayor, upon the recommendation of the Parks System Board and which recommendation shall only be issued upon showing compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance or the presence of a circumstance allowing the activity under existing laws. Provided, applicants for the said certificate of no objection shall present the extreme necessity of the earth-balling or cutting activity; exhaustion of engineering interventions; and an undertaking to plant new trees, preferably within the area, in addition to the replenishment requirement of DENR. Provided further, that the Watershed Management Council of the City shall exercise jurisdiction and shall continue to exercise its mandate, powers and functions over specific zones or areas defined under the Watershed Code of the City. SECTION 7. ALL OTHER TREES – All other trees, whether on a private property or on a public land, shall also be maintained and protected and may only be earth-balled, cut, and utilized in accordance with this Ordinance, existing national laws, and DENR policies. SECTION 8. PROCEDURE FOR LGU ENDORSEMENT OF NO OBJECTION TO TREE CUTTING –In cases of application for cutting permits for the cutting of a Heritage Tree or a Protected Non-Heritage Tree to be issued by DENR, which requires the prior approval or

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endorsement of no objection from the city or any of the barangay local government units of Davao City, the said application for approval or endorsement of no objection shall be acted upon through the Office of the City Mayor in compliance with Section 6 hereof. Applications for endorsements of no objection to the cutting of all other trees not classified as either a Heritage Tree or a Protected Non-Heritage Tree may be issued by the barangay and validated by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office. For this purpose, barangays shall require applicants to secure a prior certification from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office for the determination of the tree classification and a certification of non-coverage under Section 6 of this Ordinance, when applicable. The City Mayor may issue the necessary issuances to this effect for the effective implementation of this Ordinance. This Ordinance shall not be in derogation of the powers of national agencies on the issuance of permits and licenses under their authority, however, all applications for endorsements of no objection to the cutting of trees covered by this Ordinance shall comply with the procedures and regulations provided herein, unless otherwise exempted under national laws. SECTION 9. PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES – It shall be prohibited for any person, natural or juridical, to intentionally commit the following prohibited acts within the jurisdiction of the City of Davao: a. Cutting, earth-balling, destroying, or poisoning of trees through the application of any harmful herbicide or any other harmful chemicals; b. Spilling, washing off, or directing liquid contaminated with oil, petroleum, paint, cement, mortar, or the like, onto the root zone of any tree; c. Ringbarking any tree or the scarring of its bark when operating any machinery; d. Affixing any object (such as a sign) on any tree found using nails, staples, wires, or fastening materials that significantly restrict the normal vascular function of the trunk or branches of trees, except when for horticulture purposes; e. Causing damage to any tree by destroying the tree’s root zone through compaction, excavation, or asphyxiation (including filling or stockpiling it with materials); f. Harming of any tree including the plants and animals that live within or/are interdependent on the said tree for their survival, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and/or ferns. SECTION 10. EXCEPTIONS – The following acts shall not be covered by the prohibitions under Section 9 hereof and shall not be a violation of this Ordinance: a. Earth-balling, or cutting and utilization of Heritage Trees and Protected NonHeritage Trees upon compliance with Section 6 hereof, DENR regulations, and existing national laws or when necessary in times of extreme emergency in order to save lives; b. Earth-balling, or cutting and utilization of all other trees not classified as either a Heritage Tree or a Protected Non-Heritage Tree for public safety upon compliance with DENR regulations and existing national laws; c. Pruning and trimming of trees to remove obstructions on legal easements; d. All other activities allowed under DENR regulations, and existing national laws for public or private purpose or when necessary in times of extreme emergency in order to save lives. SECTION 11. SPECIAL PROVISION – Consistent with Section 26 and Section 27 of the Local Government Code and unless otherwise specifically provided under existing laws, all earth-balling or cutting of a Heritage Tree or a Protected Non-Heritage Tree, whether in a public land or private property, for a government infrastructure project, shall at all times be with prior specific information given to and proper coordination with the City Mayor or an officer duly authorized by the City Mayor. It shall, however, be the policy of the City that Government infrastructure projects must be planned so as to preserve all Heritage Trees and Protected Non-Heritage Trees and all mature trees on public and private lands, parks, plazas, promenades, center islands, heritage sites, historical sites, protected areas, conservation areas, riverbanks in the City of Davao. SECTION 12. MONITORING AND IMPLEMENTATION - The Davao Parks System Board, created under Section 6 of Ordinance No. 0218-09, otherwise known as the “Davao City Parks System Ordinance” responsible in formulating plans, policies and courses of action for the standard and singular maintenance of all public parks, plazas, promenades, center islands, heritage sites, historical sites, protected areas, conservation areas, riverbanks and memorials within the City of Davao, shall have the primary responsibility of formulating plans, policies and courses of action to ensure the effective implementation of this Ordinance. Specifically, the Parks System Board, in addition to its existing functions, in order to fully implement this Ordinance, shall: 1. Introduce measures in order for the City to identify and maintain a list of all “Heritage Trees” in the City of Davao and also identify and declare areas with “Protected NonHeritage Trees” including the conduct of a yearly monitoring inspection to maintain said trees and to update the list if there are newly discovered “Heritage trees” and “Protected Non-Heritage Trees”. The Board may declare potential heritage trees through public nomination based on the criteria provided under Section 4 of this Ordinance. 2. Cause the installation of labels/signages within the periphery of every recognized “Heritage Trees” and in areas with “Protected Non-Heritage Trees” to indicate the following information: a. Scientific name; b. Local name; c. Approximate age; d. Location of the tree; e. Other relevant information regarding the tree/s.

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of this Ordinance as part of the policies and procedures for the unitary parameter of all Parks, Plazas, Promenades, Center Islands, Riverbanks, and designated open spaces for their proper preservation and regulation, for the furtherance of the ecological balance of the community. SECTION 13. COMPOSITION OF THE DAVAO CITY PARKS SYSTEM MANAGEMENT BOARD – In order to effectively implement the provisions of this Ordinance, the composition of the Davao City Parks System Board created under Section 6 of Ordinance No. 0218-09, otherwise known as the “Davao City Parks System Ordinance” is hereby amended to include: Chairperson: City Mayor or a duly designated representative; Members: Department Head, City Environment and Natural Resources Office; Chairperson, Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Environment and Natural Resources; Chairperson, Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Tourism and Beautification; City Planning and Development Coordinator; City Tourism Officer; City Engineer; City Legal Officer; Interim Office of the City Architect; Peoples’ Park Manager; Representative from the Liga ng mga Barangay; Representative from the Davao City Culture and Arts Council; Representative from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources; Representative from the Department of Public Works and Highways; Representative from a Non-Governmental Organization representing the Private Sector. SECTION 14. VOLUNTARY PRIVATE AGREEMENTS INVOLVING HERITAGE TREES AND PROTECTED NON-HERITAGE TREES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY - Any Heritage Tree and Protected Non-Heritage Tree that has been identified and found within a private property may be covered by a written agreement between the lot owner and the City Government, stating among others, that the property owner had voluntarily approved the tree to be declared as a Heritage Tree or Protected Non-Heritage Tree under this Ordinance. As such, if the property owner decides to develop the land for commercial or any purpose, the declared Heritage Tree or Protected Non-Heritage Tree shall be preserved by incorporating it to the development/architectural design. The property owner shall be entitled to incentives which may be developed by the Parks System Board. For this purpose, the Parks System Board shall endorse to the Sangguniang Panlungsod an incentive scheme for adoption and approval. SECTION 15. PENALTIES – Unless otherwise exempted by the provisions of this Ordinance and existing laws, any person or entity committing the prohibited acts mentioned under Section 9 hereof shall be punished with a fine of Five Thousand Pesos (PhP5,000.00) and/or imprisonment of not more than one (1) year at the discretion of the court. If the offense is committed by a corporation, partnership, or other juridical entity duly recognized in accordance with law, the Chief Executive Officer, president, general manager, managing partner or such other officer-in-charge shall be liable for the commission of the offense and shall be penalized under this Ordinance. SECTION 16. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION – The CENRO, City Information Office in coordination with the Division of City Schools and DENR, shall undertake a massive information/education campaign for the effective implementation of the Ordinance. SECTION17. IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS (IRR) -The City Mayor or any designated committee or body duly authorized by the City Mayor may formulate the Implementing Rules and Regulations necessary to carry out the effective and efficient implementation and enforcement of the provisions of this Ordinance. Provided that, absence of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) shall not prevent the effectivity and enforcement of this Ordinance. SECTION 18. REPEALING CLAUSE - All ordinances, executive orders inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby deemed repealed and/or modified, and amended accordingly. SECTION 19. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE - If for any reason or reasons any provision of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional by a competent court, other provisions which are not affected shall continue to be in full force and effect. SECTION 20. EFFECTIVITY - This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after posting and complete publication in a newpaper of general circulation in the City of Davao. ENACTED, November 23, 2021, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum. CERTIFIED CORRECT:

ATTESTED:

Jan.11,2022 APPROVED : _______________

Temporary Presiding Officer cns/kjtq ATTESTED:

3. Recommend to the City Mayor or the officer authorized by the City Mayor the approval and issuance of clearances or endorsements of no objection or the denial thereof in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance. 4. Develop an Urban Trees Protection Plan (UTPP) within a year after the enactment

AN ORDINANCE PROTECTING HERITAGE TREES AND ALL OTHER TREES IN THE CITY OF DAVAO AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

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FAKE... FROM2

quirement missing, LTO will automatically file for revocation and that the one that can revoke the license is the director of the issuing region. “Ipapadala naming sa region kung saan kinuha yung license at ipapa-revoke namin. These 300 cases na hold namo mga licenses kasi pina-process pa ang kaso until such time na makahatag sila ug judgment like tanggalan ba nila or revocation,” Roales said. Holders of these fake licenses may face charges with violations relating to the Anti-Red Tape Authority or ARTA and the Republic Act 10930 seeks to rationalize and strengthen policies on driver’s licenses by extending the validity

period of drivers’ licenses and penalizing acts in violation of its issuance and application. Roales believes the reason why a lot of people prefer to get a driver’s license in other regions is due to the long procedure here in Davao Region. “We are just following the ARTA and regular process. We don’t know nganong ma-short cut sa ubang regions. Kung unsa makita namo na mali within sa atoang region dakpon nato ug I try namo i- correct,” he said. He also said that more people are getting licenses in other regions because it is now easier to send details via messenger and it is also easy to send payment in Gcash.

their commuters and for asking for the new fares without having the said copies of the new fare tariffs in their vehicles. The fine for the violation stated above will be

P500.00. The ordinance was passed and was made effective on March 21, 2022. (PIA XI/Ezri Coda Jr. with reports from CIO-Mati)

over the jail’s high walls. Asakil said he was not aware that he was carrying illegal drugs and claimed he was paid PHP10,000 by the un-

identified person to do it. Police said Asakil tested positive of shabu in the ensuing test drug test. It was only discovered that he had criminal records for theft. (PNA)

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who assured them that the military would take care of all their needs, including legal requirements, and help them connect with their families and loved ones. On February 26, 13 members of the same NPA unit led by its commanding officer, alias SM, surrendered to the 60IB. Four other rebels led by a certain Datu Makatindog, the front’s secretary, also yielded on March 31. Lt. Col. Merrill Sumalinog, acting 60ID commander, noted that the series of surrenders “hap-

pened without a single bullet shot against the enemy.” The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973. (PNA)

“We usually review the locations for us to cater to the needs of the customers when they want us. We are strategically located in the best places where our customers would need us,” Faulhaber said. Faulhaber said HSBC Philippines wants its customers’ banking experience to be as seamless as possible and that the only time they need to go to the branch is when they pick up their account opening tools. He added that once customers have set up their digital profiles, they will be able to easily manage their accounts - such as enrolling and paying bills, transferring funds

locally and internationally, and performing other banking transactions anytime and anywhere. One of the bank’s propositions is the HSBC Premier account that allows its clients to the bank, thrive, and live without borders. Prospective HSBC Premier customers can remotely open an HSBC Premier bank account within the safety and comfort of their homes. Guided by Relationship Managers, customers can fill in smart forms with necessary details, and submit electronic copies of required documents using their laptops, tablets, or mobile phones. Faulhaber is hope-

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or more ang wala pa na booster dose,” Schlosser said on Wednesday. The Vaccination Cluster and Covid-19 Task Force started identifying government offices and establishments following the low turnout of booster dose in Davao City. “Hinay gyud ang booster shots turnout not just locally that is why the vaccination cluster and Covid-19 Task Force nag-identify ug offices ug sa government employees offices ug gi-evaluate nato ang vaccination status nila whether first second dose ug booster ug so nakit-an nato sa evaluation naa pa gyud ubay ubay na offices and government employees wala pa na booster,” Schlosser said. Schlosser said one of the steps being taken is conducting an in-office vaccination rollout. “So ang atoang mobile

vaccination is not only limited sa atoang houseto-house we also do the sectoral (establishments) at the moment we are also focused sa government offices and their employees na wala pa na booster kasi taas gyud ang number of individuals na fully vaccinated na. Unfortunately, medyo mababa ang atoang number of boosted individuals compared sa atoang fully vaccinated individuals,” she said. Meanwhile, Schlosser reported that there are 1,900 employees of the city government of Davao who have not yet boosted. “Gamay lang ni compared sa totality sa number of employees. Isa pud ta sa atong focus na booster nato sila so that makaingon ta nga fully vaccinated and boosted and protected ang atoang offices,” she said.

ful that more customers will come and experience first-hand the branch’s refreshed look and services. He said the opening of the new branch shows HSBC’s continuous effort to improve the banking experience for its customers and also affirms HSBC’s commitment to its business presence in the

Philippines. He also said that HSBC’s renewed purpose and values have opened a world of opportunity for its clients and provided them with a new range of products, experiences and by connecting them to more possibilities not just locally but globally. By Maya M. Padillo

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Fasting employees come to buy their favorite food items for the break of fast at the Ramadan Trade Fair inside the Bangsamoro Government Complex in Cotabato City on Wednesday (6 April 2022). Employees have made work time adjustments, starting at 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. The trade fair is an initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAFAR) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry( MTIT). MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA

Vaccination program, amendments to several laws boost employment

he continued vaccination against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), along with amendments to several laws such as the Foreign Investments Act (FIA), are expected to fuel the continued improvement of the employment situation in the country.

The Department of Finance (DOF), in an economic bulletin penned by chief economist and former Undersecretary Gil Beltran issued on Wednesday, said administration of the vaccines against Covid-19 “will help the country live with the virus.” “As always, the country needs to stay alert and not let its guard down as the virus continues to

mutate lest the previous episodes where the situation would appear to get better before things turn much worse play out again,” Beltran said. For the medium to long-term, he said the passage of the amendments to the FIA, the Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RTLA), and the Public Service Act (PSA) “will help bring in more employers.”

He said signing into law the amendments to these three laws “is a welcome development towards faster economic recovery and, ultimately, better employment opportunities.” “More employers seeking skilled labor could translate into higher offered wages. This market-based mechanism raises salaries even without increasing the minimum wage,” he said. Citing Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data, Beltran said there were almost 1.78 million new jobs created last January, resulting in an employment rate of 93.63 percent and easing of the unemployment rate to

6.37 percent. While there was a year-on-year increase of 732,000 jobs to 45.9 million last January, he said it declined by more than 3.6 million compared to the December 2021 level “due to the seasonal agriculture hiatus and the imposition of tighter quarantine restrictions during the surge in Covid-19 infections at the beginning of the year.” This was countered by almost 2.5 million additional jobs in the industry and services sectors, he added. Beltran said the manufacturing sector shared in almost 500,000 jobs and construction by 168,000

lion, a turnaround from a net loss of P73.1 billion in 2020. The company also said its revenues last year stood at P58.7 billion, up 6.2% from P55.3 billion year-on-year. “The significant increase in revenues was mainly due to the in-

crease in cargo revenues as air cargo has been a vital partner in delivering essential goods since the pandemic,” PAL Holdings said. The company added operating expenses were slashed by 23.3% to P62.8 billion in 2021 from P81.84 billion in

2020. “This is mainly due to expenses related to grounded aircraft which were recognized under ‘other charges’,” it said. The flag carrier, meanwhile, emerged from its voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy pro-

FVACCINATION, A3

PAL Holdings reverses net loss, books P60.6B net income in ‘21

lag carrier Philippine Airlines operator PAL Holdings Inc. saw its bottom line reversed from net loss to net income last year. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Wednesday, PAL Holdings reported a net income of P60.6 bil-

FPAL, A3

BFAR taps infotech for improved monitoring, control, surveillance

he Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has implemented the Integrated Marine Environment Monitoring System (IMEMS) Project, aiming to enhance the government’s capability in the monitoring, control, and surveillance system over its maritime domain while intensifying the campaign against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The IMEMS project is an innovative, optimized, and integrated monitoring system that expands and improves the DA-BFAR’s current program. With the IMEMS project, the DA-BFAR can now track and communicate with Philippine-flagged fishing vessels in real-time on a national scale, integrating communication, licensing, and law enforcement functionalities to ensure compliance with various conservation and management measures be-

ing implemented in Philippine waters, exclusive economic zones (EEZ), and other coastal states. “Implementing IMEMS project gives us the opportunity to benefit from technological innovations for a more improved fisheries management practices while empowering our fishers to become responsible resource users”, said Agriculture Undersecretary for Agri-Industrialization and for Fisheries Cheryl Natividad-Caballero. The project is part of Agriculture Secretary William Dar’s key strategies to level up the development in the agriculture and fishery sector dubbed the “One DA Approach,” which seeks to harness Information and Communications Technology (ICT)–enabled advisory services and vessel monitoring system to effectively connect farmers and fisherfolk in the regional and global value-chain, Caballero added. Under the new proj-

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ECONOMY

Peter Faulhaber, HSBC Philippines head of Wealth and Personal Banking, says he hopes more customers will come to their new Davao branch located at Abreeza mall and experience first-hand its refreshed look and services. Edge Davao

Stronger domestic demand to fuel PH economic growth in 2022, 2023 AirAsia PH launches allin-one digital platform

ow-cost carrier AirAsia Philippines is diversifying its business beyond airline operations following the launch of its all-in-one digital platform. “Diversification is the key. The key for any company to grow is to diversify and look at the trends in front of you to maximize and grow your business,” AirAsia Philippines chief finance officer Raymund Berja told reporters during the launch of the airasia Super App in Pasay City on Wednesday. “We see a lot of digital push even before the pandemic. We already rolled out our digital pivot in 2016, it was just expedited by the pandemic and everyone is going that space,” said Berja, who is also the country head of airasia Super App. The airasia Super App was first launched by Capital A (formerly AirAsia Group) as a digital venture in Malaysia and Thailand last year. In a press statement, AirAsia Philippines said the launch of the airasia

Super App in the Philippines complements its findings in a study commissioned in end-2021, where respondents have highlighted their interest in an integrated end-toend travel experience. The airline said that six out of 10 respondents are keen on booking packages composed of flights, hotels, tours, and activities. Apart from airline and travel-related services, the airasia Super App will soon offer ride-hailing, food delivery, and shopping. “The airasia Super App has arrived in the Philippines, and we are looking forward to serving all Filipinos with three key things - convenience, reliability and affordability. We are an everyday app, for everyone and we aim to create value for all airasia Super App users. We have grown from just an airline into a full-fledged super app today with strong products across key business verticals such as travel and delivery,” said Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A Berhad.

he Philippine economic recovery is expected to gain traction this and next year, underpinned by rising domestic investment and consumption as pandemic restrictions eased, allowing for more manufacturing and construction activities, according to a new report released by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Wednesday.

The Asian Development Outlook 2022, ADB’s flagship economic publication, forecasts the Philippine economy to grow by 6 percent in 2022, rising further by 6.3 percent in 2023. Government measures issued last month to

reopen the economy, lift mobility restrictions, expand coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccination, and relax international travel restrictions will boost the services sector. “Nearly all indicators point to higher growth for

the Philippines this year and in 2023, barring the impact of external factors from geopolitical tensions that may dampen growth globally, including in the country’s key export markets Europe and the United States,” ADB Philippines Country Director Kelly Bird said. “Policies to build the resilience of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which play a vital role in the country’s economic recovery, should be strengthened to support the sector’s digital transformation, business innovation, and skills development,” Bird added.

The ADB is currently assisting the government to provide employer-led skills training to selected sectors to upgrade MSME workers’ competencies under the Skills Up Net Philippines program. The capital Metro Manila and areas on the main Luzon island, which account for about 70 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), shifted to the lowest level of pandemic restrictions in March, as daily Covid-19 cases averaged below 1,000. Businesses and public transport are now allowed to operate at full

“They could implement (the fuel subsidy program) immediately but they have to wait for our resolution. The announcement is not the resolution. They have to wait for our resolution because the resolution will contain the conditions,” Comelec Commissioner George Garcia in a

press briefing said. Garcia said the poll body is expected to release the resolution on Thursday or Friday. “At least, this is (a) notice to the LTFRB and the different departments that they can now prepare the plan on how to properly implement the fuel subsidy, including the

list of the beneficiaries,” he said. Garcia assured that they support the fuel subsidy program. “Definitely, we will issue the resolution containing the instruction. We know that Filipinos are waiting for this. The Comelec is not the com-

FSTRONGER, A3

LTFRB’s fuel subsidy distribution allowed by Comelec to resume

he Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will resume its fuel subsidy distribution after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday announced that it has exempted the board from the cash disbursement ban due to the May elections.

FLTFRB’s, A3

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One dead, 675 displaced residents VACCINATION... FROMA1 return home after DavOr flooding PAL... FROMA1 A person died while 675 displaced individuals returned home after heavy flooding hit low-lying areas in Davao Oriental due to the Low-Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Mindanao, an official said Thursday.   In an interview, Provincial information officer Karen Lou Deloso identified the fatality as Valentine Caayon, 83, who died of drowning Wednesday in Barangay Alegria, Cateel municipality.   Deloso said the 675 in-

dividuals who evacuated Wednesday have already returned to their respective homes Thursday afternoon.   She said the flood also affected 15 households in Barangay Sergio Osmeña in the municipality of Governor Generoso; 65 families in La Union, San Isidro; and 35 families in Barangay Rafael in the municipality of Cateel.   “Teams from the local government units, the provincial government, and concerned agencies are

continuously conducting an emergency response,” Deloso said.   In addition, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Army, and the Philippine National Police have also deployed their personnel and equipment to assist in the emergency response operations. “Supplies of rice were also transported to the affected municipalities yesterday,” Deloso said.

As of Thursday, Deloso said the floodwaters have largely subsided.  However, moderate rain is expected to continue through the next two to three days over most parts of Davao Oriental due to the LPA, according to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). “The public is advised to be cautious and take all necessary measures to protect life and property,” Deloso said. (PNA)

BFAR inks partnership with NGO to boost fishery in Surigao Norte

he Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Caraga (BFAR 13) and the non-profit organization, Rare Philippines, have entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the expanded Fish Power Program in Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands in Surigao del Norte.   In a statement sent to Philippine News Agency Thursday, BFAR-13 said Wednesday’s MOA will ensure the continuing partnership between the agency and the Rare Philippines for another three years in the area.  Rare is a global

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ect, the DA-BFAR is currently constructing six of the 15 Port and Costal Monitoring System-Type 1 (PCMS-Type 1) towers and has installed 25 of 117 coast stations (PCMS-Type 2) in identified sites across the country. These control towers and coastal monitoring devices are set to feed real-time data on commercial fishing vessel activities to the Bureau’s National Data Center in Navotas City, now operational since March 2020. The National Data Center will be in charge of data processing and analytics, including integrated vessel tracking, license management, Enhancing Local Government Operations through e-Governance (E-LOG), and automated detection of illegal, unreported, and unregulated activities. The system also collects relevant oceanographic, meteorological, and fish catch data that can be used for quick response, disaster recovery, scientific research, and climate change mitigation measures. Using a low-cost technology that combines terrestrial and satellite systems on vessel data collection, the IMEMS ensures that the data gathered from fishing vessels are secured using up-to-date encryption technology and are made accessible to DABFAR partners to ensure data transparency.

non-profit organization devoted to environmental protection with works that span 60 countries, including the Philippines.   The MOA was signed between BFAR-13 Director, Dr. Nilo Selim Katada, and Rare Philippines Vice President Roquelito Mancao. “The purpose of the agreement is to enter into a mutually beneficial partnership between the two parties, leverage each other’s strengths and resources to help coastal and fisherfolk communities and their municipal governments in the Siargao

Over 491 Philippine-flagged commercial fishing vessels are now installed with Vessel Monitoring System transceivers (VMS-100), in compliance with the Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) 266, or the Rules and Regulations on the Implementation of Vessel Monitoring Measures (VMM) and the Electronic Reporting System (ERS) for Commercial Philippine Flagged Fishing Vessels Amending FAO 260 Series of 2018, the fisheries policy that supports the implementation of the IMEMS project. Under the newly amended FAO 266, all commercial fishing vessels with more than 3.1 gross tonnages, operating in domestic waters, in the High Seas, and other distant waters are now required to install VMS-100 transceivers in their vessels. Of the 491 Philippine-flagged vessels with newly installed VMS-100, 362 are commercial fishing vessels deployed in domestic waters, while 117 are fishing in High Seas Pocket 1 (HSP1) delineated by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC). The remaining 12 VMS-100 are installed in the DA-BFAR’s floating assets. The DA-BFAR targets to install around 5,000 Vessel Monitoring Systems in commercial fishing vessels by the end of 2021. (PR)

Island,” BFAR-13 stated.   In particular, it said the partnership will specifically focus on areas under the Siargao Islands Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS).   Under the MOA, the parties agreed to work together to implement and sustain effective coastal resource management programs, especially in areas considered sustainable for fisheries.  Rare’s Fish Forever program is a global approach focused on optimizing fisheries resource management in pursuit of conservation and social purposes, which would

eventually contribute to the security of fishing communities’ livelihoods.   The two institutions had already entered into a three-year partnership agreement last May 2019 that also covered the SIPLAS areas in nine towns on Siargao Island.   In the new agreement, Rare Philippines will provide support to the programs and projects of BFAR-13, particularly in the promotion of sustainable fisheries management, coastal resource management, and climate change adaptation.

mission that will prevent a very good project like this but we just want to make sure it is properly implemented,” he added. Earlier, the LTFRB halted the implementation of its fuel subsidy program after the poll body’s spending ban took

effect last March 25 which would run until May 8. The government allotted PHP2.5 billion for fuel subsidy which is set to benefit 377,000 public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers amid the increasing prices of fuel. (PNA)

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capacity. The government has reopened the country to fully vaccinated international travelers since February. This should boost tourism and employment in the services sector, which accounts for 60 percent of GDP, according to the report. Increased public investment in large, priority infrastructure projects will continue to boost growth, with the government aiming to sustain infrastructure spending at over 5 percent of GDP in 2022 from 5.8 percent in 2021, the report said. Recent upticks in private investment and the passage of policy reform measures to ease rules on foreign equity ownership and lower the minimum paid-up capital of foreign retailers will support economic growth. Imports of capital goods climbed at a dou-

ble-digit pace in January 2022 and bank lending to businesses posted its biggest annual increase in nearly two years in the same period. Net inflows of foreign direct investment rebounded by 54.2 percent yearon-year in 2021, with the inflows channeled mostly into manufacturing and utilities sectors. Inflation is forecast to rise to 4.2 percent in 2022 on pressures from higher global oil and commodity prices due to geopolitical tensions. In March, the government issued fuel subsidies and discount vouchers to public transport drivers, farmers, and fisherfolk to help them cope with rising fuel and production costs. Inflation is expected to decelerate to 3.5 percent in 2023 as global commodity prices moderate. (PR)

“as the government continues its BBB (Build, Build, Build) program.” “Trade, transportation,

and the hotels and restaurants sub-sector also saw increases in employment,” he added. (PNA)

ceedings last year. A Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing allows a business debtor to reorganize its debts while staying in operation. In September last year, the flag carrier filed a voluntary petition for a prearranged restructuring under the US Chapter 11 process. Under its arrangements with creditors, the flag carrier will secure some $505 million for its recovery plan upon its exit from the process —

the first tranche will be a $250-million facility debt to be pared down in the next five years, and the second tranche worth $255 million will be converted into equity. After overcoming financial challenges last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, flag carrier PAL expressed optimism that it would emerge stronger in 2022 as it unveiled plans for network expansion, digital innovation, and a more cargo-driven strategy.

were still ahead by 18 with under four minutes left in the third quarter. But Brooklyn cut it to 10 by the end of the period, then opened the fourth with a 15-2 spurt to storm into the lead. With Durant and Irving both playing the entire second half on the second night of a back-toback, Brooklyn outscored New York 60-31 after halftime. “I just kept telling our guys that this is our game,” Irving said. The Knicks recovered to go back ahead by three, but Durant scored eight straight Brooklyn points, including the tiebreaking jumper that made it 98-96 with 4:15 to play. The Nets followed with 3-pointers by Irving, Seth Curry and Patty Mills to break it open. “We’ve got to understand the intensity at that point of the game is different,” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said. Durant improved to 20-3 against the Knicks and has won won 12

straight games against the Knicks that he played in, with the last loss in 2013 in Oklahoma City. He said he still gets asked by Knicks fans why he decided not to join them when he left Golden State. “It’s all fun at the end of the day, it’s all funny, but people respect my decision.,” Durant said. “They respect my game, but I understand how big KnicksNets is in the city so I’m just trying to embrace it.” Curry and Mills each scored 15 points. Alec Burks scored 24 points, and RJ Barrett had 23 for the Knicks, who were in control after a 19-0 spanning the first and second quarters. The Knicks closed the first quarter with a 10-0 spurt to take a 29-25 lead. They ran off the first nine of the second period, making it 38-25 on Obi Toppin’s basket just over two minutes in. New York got consecutive 3-pointers from Barrett and Evan Fournier made it 63-46 and the lead was still 17 at the break.

57-54, with 3:55 to play. A 5-2 blast capped by a Winston triple forced a 59-59 deadlock with 2:43 to go, and the Green Archers had a chance when they forced a stop on Cagulangan on the other end. But La Salle came up empty in its next possession, and then paid dearly on the other end as they couldn’t keep Lucero off the boards. Lucero, who had nine offensive rebounds in the game, soared for another board and tipped in a miss to put UP ahead for good, 61-59, with 1:49 to play. La Salle still had its chances, especially after a shot clock violation by the Maroons and another Cagulangan turnover, but UP was able to use their fouls to stop the DLSU offense. “We used our fouls toward the end, and they didn’t have any timeouts left,” said Monteverde. The Green Archers’ final possession saw Mi-

chael Phillips drive to the hoop with three seconds left, but his layup was off the mark as time expired. Baltazar led the way for the Green Archers with 13 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, while Evan Nelle had 13 points. Neither team shot well from the field, with UP making 29.5% of their attempts and La Salle converting at 31.9%. But the Fighting Maroons had a 56-43 advantage in rebounding, including 24 offensive rebounds that proved crucial to their win. The scores: UP 61 -- Lucero 21, Tamayo 9, Cansino 9, Spencer 7, Diouf 7, Cagulangan 5, Fortea 3, Rivero 0, Alarcon 0, Abadiano 0. LA SALLE 59 -- Baltazar 13, Nelle 13, M. Phillips 9, Nonoy 9, Winston 7, Lojera 3, Galman 3, Nwankwo 2, Austria 0, B. Phillips 0, Cuajao 0. Quarters: 17-17, 3235, 43-48, 61-59.

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EDGEDAVAO The Brooklyn Nets are in eighth spot at 42-38, behind the Cleveland Cavaliers at 43-37. PHOTO: AP

Nets strengthen bid for best play-in spot

EW YORK — Kevin Durant loves being part of New York’s basketball rivalry, even finds it funny when he hears from the opposing fans.

He should enjoy it. When it comes to the Knicks, Durant always gets the last word. Durant had 32 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds, leading the Brooklyn Nets back from

21 points down to a 11098 victory Wednesday night (Thursday, Manila time) that strengthened their chances of the best spot possible next week in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.

Durant hasn’t lost a game against the Knicks in nine years and the stakes are even bigger now since he and Kyrie Irving showed up in Brooklyn in 2019. “We know how much Knicks fans don’t like us, especially now this era of the Nets, with us not choosing the Knicks, me and Kyrie. So it definitely

UP turns back LaSalle 61-59

avier Lucero put on a heroic show in the fourth quarter to carry the University of the Philippines (UP) past De La Salle University, 61-59, for their fifth straight win of the UAAP Season 84 men’s basketball tournament. The Fighting Maroons came back from a seven-point deficit in the fourth quarter behind a flurry of baskets from Lucero, who finished with a double-double of 21 points and 14 rebounds in Thursday’s game at the Mall of Asia Arena. UP improved to 5-1, having won all their games since dropping their opening day assignment to defending cham-

pion Ateneo de Manila University. The Green Archers, meanwhile, lost for just the second time in six games. Carl Tamayo shot just 4-of-14 from the field for nine points, but played stout defense on Gilas Pilipinas teammate Justine Baltazar in the fourth quarter. Joel Cagulangan made up for his five turnovers with seven assists, including key dimes down the stretch to Lucero. “I thought halos buong game, nag-struggle kami offensively,” said UP coach Goldwin Monteverde, whose players turned the ball over a whopping 23 times. “But it’s a good thing, especially in the fourth quarter, nag-pick

up ‘yung defense namin.” La Salle led by seven points, 52-45, with just under eight minutes left off a Schonny Winston jumper, before Lucero scored four straight points -- including a highlight-reel dunk on Baltazar -- to bring UP within striking distance, 52-49. A Baltazar layup on the other end pushed the lead back to five points, but Lucero was not done. The Filipino-American forward stretched for a layup, then Cagulangan drilled a three-pointer to knot the count at 54 with 4:41 left. In the next possession, Cagulangan found Lucero open for the go-ahead three-pointer,

FUP, A3

adds something to the rivalry,” Durant said. After watching the Nets come back from 28 down when he was hurt in their last visit to Madison Square Garden, Durant scored 23 points in the second half to fuel this comeback that pulled Brooklyn within a game of Cleveland for seventh place in the East.

The Nets host the Cavaliers on Friday night. If they win that and then beat Indiana on Sunday in their regular-season finale, they would finish seventh and need to win one game in two chances at home in the play-in to qualify for the postseason. Irving added 24 points, eight rebounds and seven

UP’s Zavier Lucero puts up a jumper against De La Salle. UAAP Media.

assists for the Nets, who swept the four-game season series and beat the Knicks for the seventh straight time, their longest winning streak in the local rivalry since taking a franchise-record 11 in a row from 1984-86. It appeared it would go the Knicks’ way most of the night, and they

FNETS, A3

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Justin Brownlee of Ginebra goes hard to the basket. PBA Images

Meralco tames Ginebra lee.

Okay, okay. So much talk about BrownWhat about Cliff Hodge?

Hey, this guy is not in the same league as JB, right? Well, he may not be but if you saw him stalk and hound the prolific Ginebra import all throughout Game 1, he deserves mention, at the least. Hodge was a special mention in my column here last Tuesday because I knew coach Norman Black would assign his prized banger to give JB a hard time. And he did. Not only that. To add insult to injury, the 6’6” power forward threw in 17 pts, (tipping in a follow-up, cutting inside for a lay-up and surprised everyone with an energy-sapping 3-pointer) to help the Bolts secure a convincing 104-91 win Wednesday. Hodge was outstanding. He is Ginebra’s problem not Tony Bishop. Despite 27 markers, Brownlee was visibly bothered by Hodge’s tough “D” and his Gins teammates’ mediocre outside shooting in the fourth quarter. LA Tenorio was a picture of dejection, contributing just 5 measly pts. Although Scottie Thompson and Christian Standhardinger played consistently well. Very obviously, coach Tim Cone missed Japeth Aguilar’s rebounding and fearful blocking prowess. Compared to the team chemistry Meralco displayed all throughout from the prelims to this finals series, Brgy. Ginebra was scratching for the

right combination. I think Cone couldn’t help but settle in rotating just 8 of his most reliable men. Past PBA coaches I knew and covered during the league’s early years, benched half of their squads in favor of just 8 players. As you witnessed in the opening battle, those who subbed from the bench were toyed with by even the Bolts second team. In the last two minutes, the Bolts elected to waste the 24-second clock and did not bother to shoot because mathematically, Meralc’s eleven point lead was adequate to bail them out of trouble. You could hear the proverbial pin drop at the MOA as hordes of fanatical Ginebra fans were grievously silenced. Meralco proved that it is not only a bill collector as Pinoys know but also an efficient energy distributor with that clinical operation. Analyze the respective quarter scoring: Ginebra - Meralco, 23-25; 1928; 18-25; 31-26). Like a chess grandmaster, Black prepared diligently for an opening repertoire, employing a solid Ruy Lopez against Cone’s fighting Sicilian Defense. What’s next? Well, honestly I don’t know. But healthy or not, Tim must call in Japeth Aguilar. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@ yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!