Edge Davao Volume 15 Issue 19 | Friday, May 6, 2022

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

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POLL DUTY RAISE Teachers in Davao Region who will serve as Electoral Board to receive raised allowance STORY ON PAGE 2

Members of the Board of Election Inspectors prepare the vote counting machine (VCM) for a mock election during the final testing and sealing of VCMs at Crossing Bayabas National High School in Toril, Davao City on Thursday. Edge Davao

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

President Rodrigo Duterte unveils the project marker of the new Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital (DJFMH) during the inauguration ceremony in Sta. Cruz, Manila on May 4, 2022. The President is assisted by Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, and DJFMH Medical Center Chief II Dr. Esmeraldo Ilem. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

POLL DUTY RAISE T

DSWD warns public against ‘fake’ recruitment for 4Ps

Teachers in Davao Region who will serve as Electoral Board to receive raised allowance

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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he Commission on Elections (Comelec) has increased the allowances or honorarium of teachers who will be serving in the upcoming May 9 elections.

The Chairperson of the Electoral Board will be receiving P7,000 for their performance for the entire duration of the election; poll clerk P6,000; third member P6,000; DepEd Supervisor Official (DESO) P5,000, and support staff P3,000.

“Lahat ng ito ay increased na from the previous election, increased ng P1,000. We have suggested

some figures but we understand the limitations of our budget,” said Jenielito Atillo, spokesperson of the Department of Education 11 (DepEd 11), on Wednesday.

The members of the Electoral Board, DESO, and their respective support staff are also entitled to a travel allowance of P2,000 each wherein P1,000 is for final testing and sealing

while the other P1,000 is for the election day. Each will also receive an anti-Covid allowance of P500 from the Comelec.

“The money is ready and to be distributed in the appropriate time,” Atillo said.

Also a P200,000 shall be awarded to the members of the Electoral Board, DESO, and their respective support staff who will suffer election-related injury or illnesses including Covid-19 infections.

A total of 21,806 teachers in the Davao Region, who are fully vaccinated,

will be deployed on election day.

The number of DepEd personnel involved in May 9 elections in Davao Region per province: Davao Occidental, 940; Davao del Sur, 2,521; Davao del Norte, 2,498; Davao City, 5,971; Panabo City, 555; Tagum City, 714; Mati City, 872; Digos City, 528; Island Garden City of Samal, 260; Davao Oriental, 2,438; and Davao de Oro, 4,509.

There are a total of 14,028 classrooms in Davao Region that will be used as polling precincts.

partment of Health (DOH), as well as the management and staff of the DJFMH, for building a “new and improved” hospital.

Duterte said he is also grateful for the “heroic” acts of health workers who remain at the forefront of the fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). “[I] encourage healthcare workers to remain

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he Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) warned the public against individuals posing as DSWD personnel who are conducting recruitment and enlistment activities for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

The department received a report that certain individuals wearing the DSWD red vest are allegedly asking non-4Ps members to provide their birth certificates with a promise to be included in the program.

Likewise, these individuals are issuing school certifications to 4Ps beneficiaries to lure them into giving their cash card account numbers.

The department clarified that there is no ongoing registration of additional 4Ps beneficiaries. It also emphasized that only those households assessed as poor in the Listahanan database are qualified to be registered as 4Ps bene-

ficiaries.

Furthermore, the DSWD reiterated that it did not deploy personnel to gather cash card account numbers of its beneficiaries as these are considered confidential information. The Department added that it is not within the program’s policy to collect documents such as birth certificates, during the validation of potential 4Ps beneficiaries.

Meanwhile, the agency urged the public to be extra vigilant in engaging with any malicious individuals and to refrain from giving personal information to others, which may compromise one’s security. Likewise, it reminded the 4Ps beneficiaries and the public to transact business, concerning the program with their City/Municipal Link or visit the nearest DSWD Field Office.

The DSWD appealed to the public to report any sus-

that apart from addressing the workers’ rights, the newly-established center also covers protection and assistance for their families.

“The concerns of the OFWs and their families are quite different, and we thought it is only proper to create this center that will solely attend to them,” Gallo said.

Currently, the center

is profiling OFWs based on records obtained from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The newly-opened center aims to offer services such as financial assistance, livelihood assistance, rescue, and psychosocial intervention depending on the assessed needs of the concerned

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Duterte to make PH’s healthcare New OFW center to swiftly system ‘better, more responsive’ address workers’ problems

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resident Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday promised to strengthen the country’s healthcare system until the end of his term.

Duterte made the vow, as he hailed the inauguration of the new Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital (DJFMH) at the San Lazaro Compound in Sta. Cruz, Manila.

“With less than two months in my term, I can-

not afford to waste time and resources as we fulfill our promise for a better and more responsive healthcare system across the country,” he said in a speech delivered before the medical professionals.

Duterte expressed optimism that projects like the newly-inaugurated DJFMH would make a “long-lasting, positive” impact on Filipinos.

He also thanked the De-

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abawenyos working abroad can now feel at ease with the newly-opened Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Families Welfare and Crisis Center that would look after the rights of the families they left behind.

Lawyer Marlisa Gallo, city social welfare and development office (CSWDO) chief, said in a radio interview Wednesday

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VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

NEWS

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Department of Interior Local Government 11 (DILG 11) Alex Roldan says during this week’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum that social effects of e-sabong among kids is one of the main reasons President Rodrigo Duterte ordered to stop its operations. Edge Davao

Survey finds e-sabong detrimental to children NEDA 11 urges BPO to go ‘back-on-site’

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he Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector is being encouraged to quit the WorkFrom-Home (WFH) scheme and go back to their offices and adopt the in-person op-

erations to help in the economic recovery efforts.

Rosendo Aya-ay, chief economic specialist from the National Economic and Development Authority 11

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

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n official of the regional office of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG 11) emphasized that e-sabong has a detrimental effect on children based on a survey that is why it needs to stop.

President Rodrigo Duterte has directed to stop the operations of the e-sabong effective evening of

INC endorses Legarda, 11 other Senate bets

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he powerful Iglesia ni Cristohas endorsed the Senate bid of three term senator Loren Legarda and 11 other aspiring senators in the coming May 9, 2022 elections.

Aside from Legarda, the influential religious group known for block voting, also endorsed the candidacies of the following in alphabetical order: former Vice President Jejomar Binay; Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano; former senator JV Ejercito; former Philippine National Police Chief Guillermo Eleazar; Sorsogon Governor Francis

Escudero; former Senator Jinggoy Estrada; Senator Sherwin Gatchalian; Senator Loren Legarda; action star Robin Padilla; Senator Joel Villanueva; former public works secretary Mark Villar; and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri.

The announcement was aired on Iglesia ni Cristo’s TV channel Net 25.

“Lubos po ang aking pasasalamat sa napakalaking karangalang mapabilang sa labindalawang kandidato para senador na susuportahan ng Iglesia Ni Cristo.

Kapag muling nahalal sa

Senado, tutumbasan ko po ng sipag at buong pusong paglilingkod ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ng kapatirang Iglesia Ni Cristo sa pangunguna ng tagapamahalang pangkalahatan kapatid Eduardo V. Manalo,” Legarda said.

Aside from INC, Legarda also secured the endorsement of the influential Catholic charismatic group El Shaddai. She was also among the select candidates personally endorsed

by President Rodrigo Duterte and other local leaders

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May 2, 2022, based on the recommendation of Interior Secretary Eduardo Año.

DILG 11 director Alex

Roldan said a survey was conducted two weeks ago on the people’s impressions and feeling on e-sabong and based on the results of the survey it turned out that it causes social damage, particularly to children.

The government is collecting around P640 million in taxes monthly from e-sabong operations.

“Ang pinakadako na

reklamo is sayang daw ang 640 million na revenue but based sa results sa among study/survey nigawas na mas dako ang social damage na nahitabo aside from the fact that e-sabong, puwedeng magpustahanay within or kung makita nila sa ilang laptop. Aside sa nagpusta sa GCash among themselves sa mga viewers

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Aside from Loren Legarda, Iglesia Ni Cristo known for block voting, also endorsed the candidacies of the following in alphabetical order: former Vice President Jejomar Binay; Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano; former senator JV Ejercito; former Philippine National Police Chief Guillermo Eleazar; Sorsogon Governor Francis Escudero; former Senator Jinggoy Estrada; Senator Sherwin Gatchalian; action star Robin Padilla; Senator Joel Villanueva; former public works secretary Mark Villar; and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri.

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

Mall goers buy pastry products from one of the stalls in the ongoing ‘Momprenuer Fair” at the activity center of Abreeza mall in Davao City on Thursday. Edge Davao

Next leadership to benefit from Dutertenomics: DTI

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epartment of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said the next administration will reap the benefits of major economic reforms legislated in the past six years.

“Makikita natin ‘yong benepisyo ng mga reporma natin sa next administration (We will see the benefits of our reforms in the next administration),” Lopez said during the Laging Handa public briefing Wednesday.

He cited key economic reforms that were recently passed, including the amendments on Retail Trade Liberalization Act, Foreign Investments

Act, and Public Service Act that target to attract more foreign investors to set up their operations in the country.

The Ease of Doing Business Law and the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Law also improve the country’s business climate by accelerating the process of doing business here and making tax rates for businesses more competitive.

“Importante dito hindi mare-verse, hindi mabaliktad itong mga reporma sa panahon ng Pangulong Duterte, mapagpatuloy in the next administration (What is important is these reforms during the term of President Rodrigo Duterte would not be reversed and be continued in the next administration),” Lopez added.

He said whoever wins in the May 9 polls, there will be continuity in the business environment in the country despite the change in administration by June this year.

Lopez added that based on the platforms of pres-

idential candidates, they are all advocating for job creation and improvement of the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“Kung anong makakabuti para sa’ ting mga kababayan ‘yon po ang kanilang mga plataporma… In fact, naririnig din natin MSME development. Lahat sila ay sumusuporta sa ganitong mga programa at polisiya at lahat ito ay will create more jobs. Kaya nakikita natin itong continuity nitong priority agenda na ito kahit sino po ang manalo (Whatever is for the betterment of our countrymen, that is their platforms… In fact, we

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Private sector accelerates shift to renewable energy

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he country’s largest mall operator, SM Supermalls, has surpassed its target in utilizing renewable energy for its power needs.

At the launch of the energy efficiency and conservation information campaign of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), Department of Energy (DOE), and SM Supermalls, SM Supermalls

Corporate Compliance vice president Liza Silerio said mall chain is currently sourcing 68 percent of its power from renewable energy.

Silerio said the firm has exceeded its target of going renewable energy by 50 percent in 2022.

She added SM is the first mall in the country that introduced solar rooftop to cater to the mall’s power requirement.

by 0.2 percent.

“Lending activity has gained further traction as the country’s improved COVID-19 caseload continues to support market confidence,” the BSP said.

Outstanding loans for production activities rose by 9.5 percent in March from 9.7 percent in February. Consumer loans to residents went up by 3.6

percent in March after a 0.9-percent increase in February amid a rise in credit card loans, the central bank said.

“The BSP continues to see scope to safeguard the momentum of economic recovery amid increased uncertainty over the outlook for growth and inflation,” the BSP said.

Filipinos’ awareness on Bank lending grows an energy saving increases annual 8.9% in March

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he aggressive promotion of energy efficiency and conservation during the Duterte administration has increased the awareness of Filipinos to save energy, the Department of Energy (DOE) said.

To further raise their awareness on energy saving, the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), DOE, and SM

Supermalls kicked off its energy efficiency and conservation information campaign at SM BF Parañaque Wednesday.

Energy Utilization Management Bureau director Patrick Aquino has urged Filipino households to observe efficient use of energy to mitigate the increasing demand by acquiring energy efficient appliances,

practicing energy conservation, and integrating renewable energy.

“Our goal is to have sustainable, secure, sufficient, accessible, and reasonably priced energy,” Aquino said.

“You are part of ensuring that energy efficiency and conservation will become a way of life for all Filipinos.”

The DOE official added

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B

ank lending grew 8.9 percent year-on-year in March, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said on Wednesday, slightly quicker than the 8.8 percent expansion seen in February.

On a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of RRPs [reverse repurchase agreements] went up

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ECONOMY

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Bikers can now park their bicycles and dine at the same time at the Fitness Zone fronting Annex entrance of SM City Davao. The dining tables are installed with bike rack for cyclists who wants to take a quick rest. Photo courtesy of SM City Davao

New ARTA office assures ease of doing biz in Eastern Mindanao 40M more faced acute W hunger in 2021 —UN

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he number of people facing hunger rose to 193 million last year as conflict, climate change and economic crises ravaged people’s livelihoods, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization said Wednesday.

While experts have warned that Russia’s war in Ukraine could cause famine, the FAO said in an annual report that nearly 40 million more people were pushed into “acute food insecurity” in 2021.

Among 53 countries facing the problem, the most affected include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Yemen and Afghanistan where millions face hunger after the country plunged into financial crisis following the Taliban takeover in 2021.

The United Nations defines “acute food insecurity” as when a person’s inability to consume adequate food puts their lives or livelihoods in immediate danger.

“This is hunger that threatens to slide into famine and cause widespread death,” the FAO said.

The number has risen constantly since the first report was published by the FAO, the World Food Programme and the European Union in 2016.

The increase in 2021 has been “driven by a toxic triple combination of conflict, weather extremes and economic shocks,” with people affected in 53 countries, the FAO said.

Although the report does not take into account the conflict in Ukraine, the FAO said the war “stands to have the most devastating impacts on food crisis countries and on those on the brink of famine.”

Russia and Ukraine are major exporters of essential agricultural products, ranging from wheat and sunflower oil to fertilizer, and the FAO has previously said the conflict sent world food prices to an all-time high in March.

“The war has already highlighted the interconnected nature and fragility of global food systems,” the FAO said.

Outlook ‘not good’ The agency noted that

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ith the launch of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Office in this city on Wednesday, officials assured seamless government service and ease of doing business in Eastern Mindanao.

The newly-opened ARTA office here is the first in Mindanao, and the first to be established outside Luzon.

“We are fully supporting the vision of ARTA for the benefit of our constituents.

We hope that your presence here can help stream-

line government processes for the business sector and strict implementation of anti-red tape,” Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte, acting city chief executive, said during the office’s launching here.

ARTA Director-General Jeremiah Belgica thanked

Davao City officials for their warm welcome and encouraged the public to study and take advantage of RA 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018.

“I realized that we have this wonderful, magnificent law… ang batas ay maganda lamang kung ating mai-implement (The law is good if implemented),” Belgica said.

For his part, Undersecretary Carlos Quita said

he bid to promote Islamic banking and finance in the Philippines got another boost following the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the establishment of the Shari’ah Supervisory Board (SSB).

The inter-agency Board in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was formally established last April through the issuance of a joint circular by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

(BSP), the Department of Finance (DOF), the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), and the Bangsamoro government.

“Upon its signing, we published the joint circular to convey to the domestic and global markets that the Philippines is continuously building the necessary infrastructure to accommodate an expanded Islamic banking and finance ecosystem,” said BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno in his speech during the MOA

signing on Wednesday.

Aside from Diokno, other signatories to the MOA are DOF Undersecretary Bayani Agabin, BARMM Minister Mohammad Yacob, and NCMF Commissioner Yusoph Mando.

Diokno said the tie-up among the founding government agencies does not end after the signing of the joint circular and the MOA. “The government agencies and private sector must continue to collaborate until our vision on an Islamic

ARTA requires the help of both the public and private sectors to mitigate it.

“This is our commitment to perform our mandate of empowerment and enforcement. And we believe that only through our collaboration, our partnership with the public and private sector, that we can eliminate red tape,” Quita said during his speech.

Earlier on Wednesday, ARTA officials paid a courtesy visit to Davao City

banking and finance ecosystem that viably operates alongside the conventional system, is realized,” he said.

Diokno said the SSB will serve as a “strong arm” in reinforcing BSP’s commitment to financial stability grounded on sound corporate governance in the delivery of financial products and services in the country.

“By issuing Shari’ah opinions on Islamic banking products and services, the SSB will play a key role

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Shari’ah Supervisory Board to promote Islamic banking T

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In encouraging the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) to quit the Work-From-Home (WFH) scheme and go back to their offices and adopt the in-person operations:

Because all of us and the industries are called on-site and one of the reasons of this is for faster economic recovery. If you report on site it will boost our transport and other related industries and this will also increase the productivity of the employees as well as increase in the output.”

Rosendo Aya-ay Chief Economic Specialist, National Economic and Development Authority 11 (NEDA 11)

EDITORIAL Better health care system One thing good going in our country today is the mushrooming of government and privately-owned-and-operated hospitals.

OFW Hospital in Pampanga demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the country’s health care system and promoting the welfare of Filipino migrant workers and their families.

Observant Dabawenyos might also notice that in Davao City where the iconic Southern Philippine Medical Center is located, many new hospitals are rising. These include the two newly-opened private hospitals near the SM Malls in Ecoland and Lanang. Other hospitals are located in Tibungco, Matina and in the third congressional district. In addition, the Davao City Council has recently approved a city hospital inside the premises of the University of the Philippines-Mindanao in Mintal.

Secretary Silvestre Bello III of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), one of the initiators of the hospital in Pampanga, said he hopes the administration to follow the Duterte government will also endeavor to establish OFW hospitals in the Visayas and Mindanao.

One such hospital was inspected by President Rodrigo Duterte in San Fernando Pampanga, days ago. The hospital, which is the first of its kind is for overseas Filipino workers and members of their families. Clearly, this can be considered another legacy of the Duterte administration.

Senator Cristopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, himself the author of more than 150 Malasakit Centers all over the country said that the

EDGEDAVAO

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This is a challenge that can easily be accepted by Senator Go, who has authored the Malasakit Center Act which establishes a one-stopshop in all hospitals run by the Department of Health where poor and indigent patients can conveniently avail themselves of medical assistance from the government.

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

Go, chairman of the Senate committee on health and demography, said that “with the help of the OFW hospital we can compensate for the OFW’s sacrifices by means of better service for them and their dependents.”

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!

9TH GLOBE MEDIA EXCELLENCE AWARDS Winners of the 9th Globe Media Excellence Awards (GMEA) will be known this coming May 6 via virtual reality. The award, given annually to media practitioners and content creators from Visayas and Mindanao, has become more competitive each year.

Of over 500 entries from Visayas and Mindanao, a total of 92 stories have made it to the roster of finalists, “showing exemplary work in telling compelling, rich stories that influence this challenging period,” said the press release.

“Of the submitted works, 49 were chosen as finalists for Visayas and 43 for Mindanao,” the press release said. “Initially open to select major cities in the region, GMEA has since expanded its reach to more areas with finalists coming from Tacloban, Dipolog, and Bukidnon.”

Yoly Crisanto, SVP Group Corporate Communications and Chief Sustainability Officer at Globe, was quoted as saying, “GMEA has gone through many changes in the past 8 years. In our 9th year, we are proud to have received entries from more media practitioners and content creators.

“This shows how much the

news and its delivery have also evolved,” she continued. “As we look forward to the 10th year milestone, we hope many more storytellers will join us in advocating for impactful storytelling.”

A total of fourteen awards will be given away: nine for digital and print, two for broadcast, and three special awards.

The nine awards for digital and print are: investigative/explanatory story, news report, column, investigative/explanatory video for digital, photo for digital, breaking news for digital, social media advocacy for digital, and digital storytelling (best blog post and best social media video).

For broadcast, the two awards are: news report for radio and news report for television. The three special awards are: #KwentoNgTagumpay: Uplifting Lives Through Digital Technology (community and individual), newsmaker, and editor.

In the investigative/explanatory for print, three from Sunstar Davao made it to the list of finalists: Reuel John Lumawag. Ace June Rell Perez, and Marianne Abalayan. There was a lone finalist from Cagayan de Oro: Lina Reyes.

In the news report, 6 finalists

were named: Lina Reyes again, Jennie Arado of Davao, Angelo Lorenzo of Cagayan de Oro, Grace Cantal-Abalsin of Bukidnon, Rey Garcia of Dipolog, and Ma. Liza Abubakar-Jocson of Zamboanga.

In the explanatory/investigative video for digital, two news reporters were named: Big Jay Lagang of PTV News Mindanao and Jennie Arado of Sunstar Davao.

The lone Davao finalist of the three-listed for photo for digital was Mark Anthony Perandos of Sunstar Davao. Butuan’s Erwin Mascarinas was nominated twice in the same category.

Two Davao newsmen also made it to the three finalists for breaking news for digital: Perez and Ralph Lawrence Llemit, both from Sunstar Davao. Mascarinas was also nominated in this category.

Interestingly, I had been nominated for column of the year. There were three stories that made it to the list of finalists: “Sea level rise: Forthcoming danger for Davao City,” “Natural resources destruction,” and “The rape of our forests.”

All three were written by me and were published in Edge Davao.

Here’s what Globe said of the category: “This award recognizes

print or digital social commentaries, reviews and critiques related to the theme and anchored on any of the identified sustainability pillars. The story should demonstrate resourceful and purposeful reporting and be written for the benefit of the common good.”

The sustainability pillars are in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals: digital nation, care for people, care for environment, and positive societal impact.

The 9th awards season has the theme, “#PadayonDigital: Uplifting Lives Through Digital Technology.” Through this, the Globe wants to recognize “the importance of digital platforms in delivering relevant news and content to the public.”

In like manner, Globe through the awards can celebrate “the dedication of the media, considered as modern-day heroes that inspire positive change, make a difference, and carry the country to a more hopeful tomorrow.”

The 9th GMEA screeners include esteemed members of the academe and communications Specialists. Let’s name them one by one: Henry Abellanosa, Dr. Mary Shieldred Angeles, Dr. Maria

Teresa Asistido, Sylvie Agravante, Dr. Josyl Aquilam, Mila Mae Caballero, Rhoda Campillan, Dr. Lito Diones, and Jon Joaquin, Dr. Manuelito Dabalos, Kenth Jaype, Atty.

Ian Vincent Manticajon, Mia Embalzado Mateo, John David Moncado, Kirk Rocensvalles, Bernadette Parco, Mary Rose Ofianga, Ashley Uy, Merle Dawn Comidoy-Acol, Dr. Zoilo Andrada Jr., and Prof. Jason Baguia, Vanessa Almeda.

The others who also involved in screening were: Zsa Sa Bacaling, Rechelle Ann Barraquias, Publio Briones, Ena Marie Dizon, Dr. Sheryl Satorre-Estella, Shad Roi dela Cruz, Dr. Ian Espada, Lyra Ko, Gerthrode Charlotte Mabilog, Liberty Pinili, Cris Evert Lato-Ruffolo, Dr. Ramir Philip Jones Sonsona, Joeven Tansi, Dr. Joseph Elvir Tubilan, and Nicole Macarasig Padin.

The roster of judges were digital marketing executives and sustainability advocates and officers: Auke Idzenga, Ahmed Cuizon, Quark Henares, Fayette Riñen, Atty. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, Marivir Montebon, Janella Mae Soberano, Charlito Kaloy Manlupig, Dr. Rhodora Bucoy, Dave Overton, Edicio dela Torre, Marriz Agbon, and Miko David.

DENNIS R. GORECHO KUWENTONG PEYUPS

POLITICAL ECONOMICS 101 It is always interesting to analyze political economy especially during election time.

Political economy is about how politics affects the economy and the economy affects politics.

Economic conditions have a powerful impact on elections.

Voters on different sides of every economic issue fight their battles in the political arena.

All countries around the world were exposed to the same virus but countries had different responses and policies.

The current administration in the Philippines failed to “flatten the curve” of Covid cases and instead succeeded in flattening the economy.

The Philippines had a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contraction of -9.6% in 2020, the worst in Asia that year and the worst in Philippine economic history since post World War 2, according to a manifesto recently issued by ) alumni and students of the University of the Philippines School of Economics (UPSE) Aside from flattening the economy, the current administration also raised big time the public debt, from P8.22 trillion

(actual and guaranteed) in 2019 to P10.25 trillion in 2020, and P12.15 trillion in 2021.

High public debt will require high and multiple taxes. The Philippines should avoid this situation of more taxes.

The manifesto briefly outlined their proposed pathway for hope and economic recovery for a better Philippines.

The manifesto was signed by more than UPSE 400 alumni and some 150+ students expressing support for the candidacy of Leni Robredo and Kiko Pangilinan in the coming May 9 elections.

The manifesto stressed that Robredo has shown that having big agency budgets via big taxes and huge borrowings is not a guarantee for real public service and for improving the ordinary Filipinos’ lives.

The budget for six years (2017-2022) of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) was only P0.6 to P0.9 billion a year, always below P1B/year.

The 2022 total budget is P5 trillion, while the OVP budget is only P0.7 billion, or 0.0001 or 1% of 1%. So for every P100 in total budget, the OVP budget is only

P0.01 -- not even P1 but only 1 centavo.

Compare that to the budget of the Office of the President amounting to P8.24 billion plus discretionary and intelligence funds of P65.10 billion.

And yet Robredo was able to inspire confidence and transparency and attracted many private donations during the pandemic that enabled her office to deliver PPEs to many frontline health workers and Covid treatment kits to poor households.

Economics was not my first choice when I took the entrance exam at the (UP) in mid 1980s but another quota course, accounting.

I ended up cherishing my course, BS Economics, which is a four-year undergraduate degree in economic theory, econometrics and applied economics, involving a deluge of formulas and graphs.

It is definitely not an easy course as it requires a high level of mathematical and statistical skills and the ability to apply economic principles and models to problems in business, finance and the public sector.

In general, economics is the study of scarcity and its implications for the use of resources, production of goods and services, growth of production and welfare over time, and a great variety of other complex issues of vital concern to society.

Economics is derived from the Greek word oikonomia, which in turn is composed of two words: oikos, which is usually translated as “household”; and nemein, which is best translated as “management and dispensation.”

We read the book “ The Wealth of Nations” by Adam Smith (1723–1790), one of the most influential economists in history, wherein he argued for free trade, market competition and the morality of private enterprise.

One of the basic principles that I recall is the law of supply and demand which defines the relationship between the price of a given good or product and the willingness of people to either buy or sell it: as price increases, people are willing to supply more and demand less and vice versa when the price falls.

We dealt with relationships

between variables. formulas, and graphs. A variable is simply a quantity whose value can change.

A graph is a pictorial representation of the relationship between two or more variables.

The UPSE was established in 1965 , and is known for graduates who have been vigorously trained and prepared to become leaders in various fields.

Many of the prime movers in government, business, civil society and academe obtained their formal training in economics from UPSE. One of them is Vice President Leni Robredo from batch 1986.

I finished my BS Economics in 1991 then proceeded to UP College of Law. Robredo was our guest speaker during the silver jubilee homecoming of my batch in 2016.

We need a leader who considers economics as a vital branch of knowledge and essential to good governance.

(Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, email info@sapalovelez.com, or call 09175025808 or 09088665786)

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VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

COMPETITIVE EDGE

LANDBANK’s agri support reaps ‘Gawad Lingap’ award State-run Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) was honored at the 2nd Gawad sa Paglingap sa Magsasaka at Mangingisda (Gawad Lingap) Awards of the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC), for the Bank’s outstanding support to the agriculture sector and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

LANDBANK received a special award as one of the partner lending conduits (PLCs) of DA-ACPC for agri-fishery credit programs for small farmers and fishers and other agri-players.

“While we take on an expanded role of serving various development sectors, providing intensified support to agriculture is a continuing commitment for LANDBANK. Together with the DA and ACPC, we remain focused on extending financial access to farmers and fishers nationwide under our whole-of-government approach,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo.

LANDBANK Lending

Program Management Group Head, Vice President Esperanza N. Martinez received the award on behalf of the Bank on 28 April 2022 during the award ceremonies held at Novotel Manila Araneta in Cubao, Quezon City.

In partnership with the agriculture department, LANDBANK offers various lending programs directed at supporting the recovery and growth of small farmers, fishers and MSMEs. These loan programs include the Expanded Credit Assistance under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ERCA-RCEF), Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF), LBP-SRA Socialized Credit Program under Sugarcane Industry Development Act (SCP-SIDA), and the Survival and Recovery Assistance (SURE Aid) Program.

LANDBANK also implements the SURE COVID-19 loan program together with DA-ACPC to assist small farmers and fishers affected by the economic impact of the global health crisis.

Under the programs

LANDBANK Lending Program Management Group Head, Vice President Esperanza N. Martinez (center) receives the Gawad Lingap 2021 Special Award for LANDBANK from DAACPC Executive Director Jocelyn Badiola (2nd from left), Ag-

riculture Undersecretary Evelyn Laviña (3rd from left), and BSP Monetary Board Member, Dr. Bruce Tolentino V (rightmost), together with LANDBANK and DA-ACPC officials.

being administered by LANDBANK for DA-ACPC, cumulative loan releases have reached a total of

P12.51 billion benefitting small farmers and fishers and micro- and small enterprises nationwide, as

of 31 March 2022.

LANDBANK remains fully committed to serving the requirements of

pleted 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 100-

step 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 Hak-

farmers and fishers, towards building a stronger and more resilient agriculture sector.

Over 1,000 participants of SKY’s virtual run raise more than P500K in donations

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 100-step chal-

lenge, 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 com-

bang Sa Pagtutulungan: Kapamilya Virtual Run” was organized by SKY, in partnership with HBO and History, to support ABSCBN and ABS-CBN Foundation’s “Tulong-Tulong sa Pag-ahon: 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, ABSCBN 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 families 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.

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BIGGER PICTURE

9

Counting vote: After writing all you have voted for, it’s time for it to be counted.

“P

ick a leader who will make their citizens proud. One who will stir the hearts of the people, so that the sons and daughters of a given nation strive to emulate their leader’s greatness.

Only then will a nation be truly great, when a leader inspires and produces citizens worthy of becoming future leaders, honorable decision makers and peacemakers.

And in these times, a great leader must be extremely brave. Their leadership must be steered only by their conscience, not a bribe.” ― From Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem THIS coming May 9, we will be electing a new president. There are several aspirants but only five are known: Bongbong Marcos, Leni Robredo, Isko Moreno, Manny Pacquaio and Ping Lacson. Who among these will win, no one knows yet.

In addition, we will be voting for a new vice president, twelve sets of senators, a congressman, a governor, vice-governor, 8 provincial board members, mayor, vice-mayor, and 8 municipal councilors. All in all, we will be writing 35 names!

“A person running for political office is seeking

power,” American newscaster David Brinkley once said. “Power as we know it corrupts.”

But on second thought, “politics is funny.” That’s according to F. G. Kernan.

“When a man leaves your party and goes over to the other side, he’s a traitor,” he explained. “When he leaves the other party and comes over to your side, he’s a convert.”

At one time, I saw this sign in the car window: “If Con is the opposite of Pro, what is the opposite of Progress?” Well, your answer is as good as mine!

Looking for names: You need to find your name and corresponding number before going inside the voting area.

ELECTION: CHOOSING NEW SET OF OFFICIALS Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

It’s high time for a campaign now. Television, radio and newspapers are fully loaded with advertisements of those who are running.

Social media, particularly Facebook and Twitter, are burning with posts, shares, and ads.

Let’s not be too serious about the campaign, though.

So, allow me to share a story sent to me by a friend via electronic mail.

So, it came to pass that a powerful senator dies after a prolonged illness. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by Saint Peter at the entrance. “Welcome to Heaven,” says Saint Peter. “Before you settle in, it seems there

is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we’re not sure what to do with you.”

“No problem, just let me in,” says the senator.

“Well, I’d like to but I have orders from higher up,” Saint Peter explains.

“What we’ll do is have you spend one day in Hell and one in Heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity.”

“Really, I’ve made up my mind. I want to be in Heaven,” the senator says.

“I’m sorry but we have our rules,” replies St. Peter.

And with that, Saint Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down,

Queue: Once finding your name and number, now is the time to join the queue.

Vote: Every Filipino has the right to vote whoever he or she thinks can lead them.

down, down to Hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. Nearby are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him. Everyone is in evening attire and very happy to see him. They run to greet him, hug him, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the

expense of the people. They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster and caviar.

Also present is the Devil, who really is a very friendly guy and who has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that the time flies, and before he realizes

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picious activities involving the Department’s programs and services to the Grievance Redress System text hotline: 0918-912-2813 or email 4psassistance@ dswd.gov.ph. The public

may also send a message to the Official Facebook Page of 4Ps: https://www. facebook.com/DSWDPantawidPamilya. (PR/DSWD – Social Marketing Unit FO11)

steadfast in your noble task of promoting our people’s health and saving lives. Your efforts, especially in the past two years, have truly been heroic,” he said.

The onset of the Covid-19, Duterte said, has prompted his administration to ensure that the country’s healthcare system is “functional and responsive.”

“You have the full support and the eternal gratitude of the Filipino people. Ako man. Salamat.

Before I forget, salamat sa tulong ninyo sa gobyerno.

Tayo, nagtulungan to fight Covid-19 (I also thank you for assisting the government. We help each other to fight Covid-19),” Duterte told the health workers.

“Let us take heed of those lessons so that we can serve our people better.”

During the event, Duterte unveiled the project marker that symbolizes the completion of the project.

Duterte was accompanied by DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III, DJFMH

Medical Center Chief II Dr. Esmeraldo Ilem, and Senator Christopher Lawrence Go. The DJFMH, previously on Lope de Vega Street along Sta. Cruz in the City of Manila, is now transferred to the San Lazaro Compound adjacent to the DOH Building.

The new hospital is an 800-bed capacity building ready to provide out-patient services such as molecular laboratory, X-ray, mammography, blood donation services, and consultations.

It is also expected to provide more services such as MRI, CT scan, dialysis, minimally invasive surgery, and a number of laboratory tests in the future.

The hospital, which is known to offer maternal, neonatal, and child health services to the public, will also serve as the Apex Center in Reproductive Health in the Healthcare Providers Network (HCPN) by virtue of the Republic Act (RA) 11223 or the Universal Health Care Act.

also hear about MSME development. All of them are supporting these kinds of programs and policies, and these will create more jobs.

That is why we see continuity in our priority agenda whoever wins in the elections),” the DTI chief said.

(PNA)

that both public and private sectors have been pursuing initiatives to promote energy efficiency and conservation.

Aquino said for the part of the government, it targets to reduce 10 percent of its electricity use.

“The goal is for the government to shift to more energy efficient light emitting diodes (LED) as well

as inverter type for air cooling systems not later than 2027,” he said.

For the country’s largest mall operator, SM Supermalls Corporate Compliance vice president Liza Liserio said SM is committed to continue implementation of programs that will conserve energy and tapping clean energy suppliers for SM malls’ energy needs.

Administrator Zuleika Lopez, where the officials discussed the pilot run of the e-ARTA Complaints Management System (CMS) in the city.

Belgica said Davao City could also be a model city for the adoption of national policies, particularly the Philippine

Good Regulatory Principles (PGRP), Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) for local ordinances, and Whole-of-Government (WOG) Reengineering Manual, at the local level.

In return, Lopez offered ARTA the chance to open a satellite desk at the city hall.

(PNA)

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in driving the business model of Islamic financial institutions and the sustainability of the Islamic banking products or services that will be made available to all Filipinos,” he said.

Diokno said the establishment of the Board “can also boost trading activities, participatory financing schemes and entrepreneurial undertakings with financial institutions that are committed to providing end-to-end Shari’ah-com-

pliant products and services.”

“Clearly, the SSB can shape the Shari’ah governance oversight on Islamic banking and finance and complement existing conventional governance frameworks,” he said.

He added that “while the tasks ahead are new and numerous, these are birth pains which I am optimistic of overcoming, given the strong commitments of the founding agencies.” (PNA)

VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

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families.

Gallo said the center’s creation is an offshoot of a city ordinance that mandated the protection of rights, interests, welfare, and development of the families of the Dabawenyos who left abroad for work.

The OFW center can be

reached through their official mobile and landline numbers and also their e-mail address: ofwcenter. davaocity@gmail.com.

The public can also drop their messages on their official Facebook Page: OFW Families’ Welfare and Crisis Center Davao City. (PNA)

and we are also exposing our children yan ang dakong problema, social effect sa mga bata,” Roldan said on Wednesday.

He added that many including children are involved in the betting. One can bet through GCash.

Roldan said the decision of the President was right as it’s not just about revenue generation but it is about stabilizing the society.

“Gawas atong nahimo na siyang (e-sabong) controversial because of disappearances but there are

already indications of social problems that emerging from e-sabong. We did a quick survey nationwide and ang desisyon sa President is not just a simple decision because it is a guided decision based on the results of the survey,” he said.

The e-sabong franchise is with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

“I’m sure PAGCOR has already implemented the order of the President for the immediate cancelation of all e-sabong,” Roldan said.

(NEDA 11), told the media that it is the recommendation of NEDA chief Karl Kendrick Chua for all the BPO employees to be back on-site.

“Because all of us and the industries are called onsite and one of the reasons of this is for faster economic recovery. If you report on site it will boost our transport and other related industries and this will also increase the productivity of the employees as well as increase in the output,” Aya-ay said.

In March this year, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has called on all registered information technology-business process outsourcing (IT-BPO) firms to comply with the government’s return-to-office order starting April 1, 2022.

In a statement, PEZA cited the concerns raised by investors and workers who will be affected by the Fiscal Incentives Review Board

(FIRB) order for 100 percent on-site work for registered IT-BPO firms that they should follow or they will lose their tax incentives.

Under Republic Act No. 7916 or PEZA law, all registered companies should operate within the ecozones to be entitled to tax incentives.

PEZA Director General Charito ‘Ching’ Plaza reportedly announced that the WFH set-up was just a temporary measure during the pandemic and now that the country is reopening the economy, BPO firms should be back to the regular ratio required of registered business enterprises (RBEs) inside the ecozones.

Meanwhile, Samuel Matunog, president of ICT Davao, said most BPOs in Davao City are willing to follow the order but since these companies are investing in WFH arrangements, they are also requesting for a little more time to comply.

By Maya M. Padillo

throughout the Philippines.

A senatorial bet of the Nationalist People’s Coalition, Legarda is running on a platform that includes her long-time advocacies on environmental protection and climate change adaption; employment and livelihood creation; health; education; and many others.

A champion of the envi-

ronment, she promised to push legislative measures to strengthen the nation’s disaster and calamity preparedness to prevent the extent of damages seen during Typhoons Ondoy, Yolanda and Odette.

Legarda is the representative of Antique and is a current Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The central bank has kept its benchmark rate at a historic low of 2 percent since November 2020 to help the country’s pandem-

ic-battered economy recover.

Analysts however expect the BSP to raise interest rates within the year to tame rising inflation.

several countries battling major food crises obtained almost all of their wheat imports from Russia and Ukraine last year, including Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Madagascar.

The FAO warned that the “outlook moving forward is not good.”

“Today, if more is not done to support rural communities, the scale of the devastation in terms of hunger and lost livelihoods will be appalling,” the report said.

“Urgent humanitarian action is needed on a massive scale to prevent that from happening,” it said.

In 2021, conflict and insecurity was the main driver of acute hunger in 24 countries, affecting 139 million people.

Economic “shocks,” worsened by the impact of COVID-19, hit 30.2 million people in 21 countries.

Extreme weather was the main driver of acute food insecurity for 23.5 million people in eight African countries.

The FAO said it needs $1.5 billion to stabilize and increase local food production in at-risk regions where planting season is starting.

“There is no time to waste,” it said as it meets on the issue on Wednesday.

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it, the senator has to go. Everyone gives him a big hug and waves while the elevator rises.

The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens in Heaven where Saint Peter is waiting for him. “Now it’s time to visit Heaven,” he says.

The next 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and Saint Peter returns.

“Well then, you’ve spent a day in Hell and another in Heaven. Now choose your eternity,” Saint Peter tells the lawmaker. The senator reflects for a minute, then answers, “Well, I would never have said it, I mean Heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in Hell.”

So Saint Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to Hell. Now the doors of the elevator open and he is in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags. The Devil comes over to him and lays his arm on his neck.

“I don’t understand,” stammers the senator. “Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and a beautiful club and we ate lobster and caviar and danced and had a great time. Now there is only a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable.

The Devil looks at him, smiles and says, “Yesterday we were campaigning. Today you voted for us!”

As politicians cam-

paign these days, be sure to listen and try to weigh things. Are they telling the truth or just spreading lies?

“When widely followed public figures feel free to say anything, without any fact-checking, it becomes impossible for a democracy to think intelligently about big issues,” three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning American journalist Thomas L. Friedman pointed out.

“Elections belong to the people,” American president Abraham Lincoln once reminded. “It’s their decision.

If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.” He also said: “The ballot is stronger than the bullet.”

American veteran newspaper editor and syndicated columnist Carl Riblet, Jr. reminds us of what a politician is: “In these days of the closest scrutiny of the politician, it is fitting that we list what he needs to succeed. Such a creature of the animal kingdom, besides having the ability to butt like a goat and turn like a worm, must have the eyes of a vulture, the memory of an elephant, rocks in the seat of his pants to break the feet of those who kick him, and the reactions of a skunk.”

So, on the 9th of May, choose wisely who you would vote for. Just a reminder from Suzy Kassem, the woman behind Rise Up and Salute The Sun: “To vastly improve your country and truly make it great again, start by choosing a better leader. Do not let the media or the establishment make you pick from the people they choose, but instead choose from those they do not pick.”

straight game with a left hamstring strain, but Butler said the depth of the Heat, and the injuries they dealt with during the season, meant plenty of players were ready to step up.

“When guys are in and out of the lineup year long and guys fill in, it’s like nobody’s gone,” he said.

“They’re so comfortable, so confident -- they know they belong in this league.

“This is the brightest lights, the biggest stage, and they’re ready for it.”

But Butler knows the real test will come when the Heat travel to Philadelphia for games three and four starting on Friday.

“It’s going to be crazy,” he said. “They’ve got

some of the best fans in the league, but we’ve got a job to do.

“We did what we were supposed to do at home.

The series really starts when you take it to the road,” Butler added.

The Sixers will need more than fan support in Philadelphia, but it’s not clear when Embiid might return. He must complete the incremental concussion protocol, gradually increasing physical activity and training, to be cleared to play.

“He’s got so many steps to go through,” Sixers coach Doc Rivers said. “I don’t think he’s cleared any of them right now. So we just have to wait and see.”

record at the Caja Magica.

Fourth seed Tsitsipas beat French wildcard Lucas Pouille 6-3, 6-4, while Jannik Sinner and Felix Auger-Aliassime both won in straight sets.

British ninth seed Cameron Norrie edged past John Isner 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-4 to advance to a last-16 clash with teenage star Alcaraz, but fifth seed Casper Ruud lost in three sets to Dusan Lajovic.

- Jabeur reaches semi-fi-

nals Earlier on centre court, Ons Jabeur marched into the women’s semi-finals with a crushing 6-3, 6-2 win over former world number one Simona Halep.

After avenging her Charleston final defeat to Belinda Bencic in the previous round, the Tunisian world number 10 reversed her result against Halep from Dubai three months ago, sweeping the Romanian aside in just 67 minutes.

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VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS

11

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (L) dunks around Philadelphia 76ers forward Tobias Harris (R) during the second half of game one of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals series between the Miami Heat and the Philadelphia 76ers at FTX Arena in Miami, Florida, USA, 02 May 2022.

Top-seeded Heat burn Sixers again

L

OS ANGELES -- The top-seeded Miami Heat overpowered the undermanned Philadelphia 76ers 119-103 on Wednesday to take a commanding 2-0 lead in their best-of-seven NBA Eastern Conference playoff series.

Bam Adebayo scored 23 points and pulled down nine rebounds and Jimmy Butler added 22 and 12 assists as the Heat again proved too much for a Sixers team missing star center Joel Embiid, who suffered a concussion and orbital fracture in Philadelphia’s series-clinching win

over the Toronto Raptors.

Tyrese Maxey scored a game-high 34 points for Philadelphia, Tobias Harris added 21 and James Harden had 20.

But three-time scoring champion Harden was held to just four points in the second half, as the Heat, who trailed briefly in the

first quarter but led 60-52 at halftime, cruised to victory.

Tyler Herro, the league’s sixth man of the year, scored 16 of his 18 points in the first half off the bench and made three of his five threepoint attempts for Miami.

Victor Oladipo came off the bench to score 19 points

and was an even more efficient three-of-four from beyond the arc as the Heat made 14 three-pointers.

The Sixers, meanwhile, struggled from three-point range, connecting on just eight of their 30 attempts.

Miami point guard Kyle Lowry missed a fourth

these last months, so a really good victory, a lot of value to it,” said the 35-year-old Mallorcan.

“It helps me a lot to reach my final goal, which is to recover my previous health and previous fitness.

I’m very excited about it.”

The 22-year-old Kecmanovic entered the match carrying the second-highest tally of wins on tour this season –- his 23 victories placing him just one behind Andrey Rublev, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Carlos Alcaraz.

Nadal, a three-time title winner in 2022, improved to 21-1 for the year and now plays Belgian qualifier David Goffin.

After a fairly routine opening set and a brief rain delay, Nadal faced significant resistance from the world number 32, who was broken in game five of the

second set but struck back immediately as he started to find his range from the baseline.

Nadal found an opening at 5-5 and broke on his first opportunity, thanks to a long backhand from Kecmanovic. The number three seed could not serve out the win though, dropping serve as Kecmanovic forced a tiebreak.

The pair were neck and neck, gifting each other mini-breaks before Nadal finally secured the win in just under two hours with an ace.

Second-seeded Alexander Zverev began his title defence with a hard-fought 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 win over former US Open champion Marin Cilic.

The German is a twotime Madrid champion and now owns a 16-2 win-loss

FTOP-SEEDED, P10

Nadal wins on return from injury in Madrid

Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates winning his men’s singles round of 32 match against Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia at the Mutua Madrid Open tennis tournament at the Caja Magica in Madrid, Spain, 04 May 2022.

M

ADRID, Spain -- Rafael Nadal enjoyed a winning return after a six-week injury break, opening his Madrid campaign with a 6-1, 7-6(7/4) success over Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic on Wednesday.

The Spanish star had been sidelined with a rib injury since his Indian Wells final defeat in March but showed little sign of rust as he skipped into the third round.

Nadal said his preparation for the tournament was “non-existent” due to his rib problem limiting his ability to train and was thrilled by how well he played against one of the most in-form players of the season.

“Today I was able to play one hour, 55 minutes against an opponent that was playing really well in

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VOL.15 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

LA Tenorio sails through the lane. PBA

BOUNCING BACK With pandemic over, PBA eyes for expansion

T

he Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) might open its doors for expansion as revealed by Board of Governors chairman Ricky Vargas.

In an online press conference on Wednesday, the TNT governor, who has been reelected as chairman, said he proposed the idea as the PBA looks to better from its earnings last season, bouncing back financially from the losses it had at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“When it was reported to us that there is some interest of new teams coming in to join the PBA—and we saw one of them showing strong interest to come in—we said, ‘Why don’t we start looking at expanding to 14?’” Vargas said, adding that the board approved the plan for a 14-team league as it is easier to manage than

only 13.

The interest was apparent aftermath of the sale of the Alaska Aces franchise that saw at least five companies looking to buy the team.

Converge eventually won the Alaska sweepstakes, and the team will be known as the FiberXers starting this upcoming season, which will open on June 5.

The PBA’s last expansion came in 2014 when it welcomed Blackwater and Terrafirma to the league prior to the 2015 season.

A third team, NLEX, also came in after buying the franchise relinquished by Air21, making the league a 12-team field.