EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society
VOL.15 ISSUE 42 • THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2022
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FIRST SHOT FIRED Incoming DepEd Secretary Sara warns vs extortion in DepEd projects STORY ON PAGE 2
A couple tries to catch fish near a coastal community in Brgy. Badas, Mati City. An advocacy group said fishermen are still among the poorest people in the country today as they catch fewer fish due to factors like overfishing. Edge Davao
2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO
VOL.15 ISSUE 42 • THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2022
President Rodrigo Duterte poses for a photo opportunity with the 31st SEA Games medalists during the recognition ceremony at the Malacañan Palace on May 31, 2022. Joining them are Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Philippine Sports Commission chairman William Ramirez, and Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino. PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
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DavSur LGU assists more brgys, groups with livelihood support
Incoming DepEd Secretary Sara warns vs extortion in DepEd projects By MAYA M. PADILLO
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he Office of Vice President-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio warned suppliers and contractors of the Department of Education (DepEd) against people presenting themselves as her representatives and allegedly collecting advance payments for DepEd projects. Liloan Mayor Christina Garcia Frasco, spokesperson of Duterte-Carpio and incoming Tourism Secretary, stressed in a
statement that the incoming Secretary of Education has not nor will never designate anyone to talk to or negotiate with
contractors and suppliers to engage in corrupt activities. “Smearing her reputation and tarnishing the image of the entire DepEd and the thousands of people working hard under the organization,” she said. Frasco added that contractors, suppliers, and the general public are strongly urged to exercise prudence when dealing
were delivered to the provincial capitol on Monday evening. Deloso said the remaining 31 vehicles are set for delivery soon, adding the units are included in Governor Nelson Dayanghirang’s list of big-ticket projects. “These vehicles are also part of the provincial government’s efforts under the Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) to ensure sustainability and presence of government services in the communi-
ties,” she said. Each rescue vehicle is equipped with a 4x4 wheel drivetrain, mid-ship mounted searchlight, fire extinguisher, and medical supplies. “The turn-over ceremony is slated in June before Governor Dayanghirang steps down as local chief executive of the province,” Deloso said. The beneficiary barangays are those identified by the NTF-ELCAC, she added. (PNA)
with individuals and/or groups claiming to represent the Office of Vice President and DepEd. She urged them to report these suspicious activities to the authorities. This is not the first time that Duterte-Carpio’s name has been used by people doing scheming activities. In January this year, Duterte-Carpio warned
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he provincial government of Davao del Sur has assisted more barangays and peoples organizations as it continues to provide livelihood support and projects across the province. In the convocation program of the employees at the provincial capitol in Digos City on Monday (May 30, 2022), Governor Marc Cagas has turned over a total of P3.1 million worth of financial assistance to a barangay council and various POs. From the total financial assistance, the Barangay Buas in Matanao town received P2 million to fund its relocation site with a land area of 20,000 square meters. According to the Davao del Sur Provincial Information Office, the aid under the Relocation Site Development Pro-
gram (RSDP) will benefit 149 qualified residents. For the livelihood assistance, the Punta Biao Fish Vendors Association of Barangay Cogon in Digos City is a recipient of P112,000.00 to be used as additional capital for their micro-enterprise projects. Among those that received financial assistance worth P200,000.00 each from the provincial government are Purok San Francisco Livelihood Association of Barangay San Miguel in Digos City, and Barangay Leling United Farmers Association of Barangay Leling, municipality of Hagonoy. The Samahang Mananagat ng San Isidro of Barangay San Isidro, Padada; New Shrine Bulacan Association of Barangay Bulacan, Malalag; Tam-
residents. He said this operation plan has brought more accomplishments by the city police already, aside from the four focused implementation plan set by the Chief PNP. Lupaz said Davao City remains number one in the number of accomplishments in all of Davao Region as far as policing is concerned. He also disclosed that they are currently responding to the four
focused areas set by the PNP chief namely illegal drugs, loose firearms, wanted persons and illegal gambling. Lupaz said the simultaneous anti-crime and law enforcement operation continues in the city, being pursued by 20 police stations in the city. “We are trying to focus more on these four objectives to ensure the low turn-out of criminal inci-
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DavOr ramps up disaster Davao City top cop bares response in remote villages plan against petty crimes
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he Davao Oriental provincial government has acquired new rescue vehicles to boost the disaster response of its 50 barangay disaster risk reduction and management committees (BDRRMCs) in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), an official said Tuesday. In an interview, provincial information officer Karen Lou Deloso said 19 out of the 50 custom-built barangay rescue vehicles
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he city’s top cop revealed the action plan to reduce the occurrence of petty crimes in the city. Colonel Alberto Lupaz, acting director of the Davao City Police Office said they have launched OPLAN: Rats Tugis, an anti-crime task force plan that is intended to respond to petty crimes like robbery, akyat-bahay, theft and salise which have been the subject of complaints by the city
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EDGEDAVAO
VOL.15 ISSUE 42 • THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2022
NEWS
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Philippine Airlines (PAL) area head for Mindanao Sales and Services Reyani Romano confirms that the airpline will commence servicing Cotabato City and Tawi-Tawi route on June 9, 2022. Edge Davao
PAL’s Cotabato-Tawi-Tawi route to bolster BARMM tourism, economy By MAYA M. PADILLO
DSWD turns over IP bldg in New Corella
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he Department of Social Welfare and Development recently turned over the P1,072,690.00 worth of indigenous people’s building called Tog’gan Center for the IPs in barangay Carcor in the municipality of New Corella. Done in just 72 construction days, the Tog’gan Center was funded through the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan (KALAHI) - Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) subay sa Indigenous Peoples Community Driven Development (IP-CDD). In a recently held turn-over rites, Datu Jolito Manabogan, barangay Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) expressed his happiness saying, the Tog’gan Center “is a valuable” facility of the IP community. During the same occasion, Punong Barangay (Barangay Captain) Fil-
bert Dawal of Brgy. Carcor vowed to support the IP community and help its members take care of the facility, and to organize events and activities for the IPs. “Sa ingon mapreserba ug mapasundayag nato ang ilang kultura. (This will also preserve as well as showcase their culture.),” Dawal said. Through DSWD Regional Infrastructure Officer III Daniel Castor, DSWD Regional Director, Atty. Vanessa Goc-Ong lauded the municipal government for its support to the IP sector while throwing her challenge to the stakeholders to draw up their respective ways and means of helping sustain the project as part of their responsibility . The DSWD XI recently recognized the municipality of New Corella as a model municipality of implementing KALAHI PAMANA IP CDD projects..
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of premium economy and economy seating. PAL area head for Mindanao Sales and Services Reyani Romano told the media that the opening of the said route is in coordination with the BARMM
Tourism Office. “The route will help introduce BARMM, especially since not many people even myself not familiar with the BARMM region. So the air route can be an opportunity for people to see the touristic opportunities vis-àvis these places. I have seen pictures of tourist spots and attractions of Tawi-Tawi. We promote the touristic attractions in a destination in regions that we fly to. This will be
an opportunity for us to help promote the attractions in Tawi-Tawi and Cotabato,” Romano said during Wednesdays Habi at Kape media forum at Abreeza Mall. Romano added that the people of BARMM were clamoring for the opening of the route for economic opportunities. “It is the clamor from BARMM and they asked us to open the route so for an easier commute and
lar No. 2022-0002 for the release of P1.08 billion for the sickness and death compensation of eligible personnel assigned in all public or private health facilities involved in Covid-19 response, who were infected by the virus and/or died while fighting the COVID-19 pandemic while in the line of duty. “For the whole Davao
Region, we released na yung benefits and compensation who got mild disease as well as yung nagkaroon ng severe, yung nag-succumb to death due to Covid. We were able to release also mga budget and also provided allocated funds for those individuals and this is based on the law and guidelines na kailangan silang mabigyan,” said Dr.
Gerna Manatad, assistant regional director of DOH 11. Manatad said based on the data there are 1,677 individuals, who were diagnosed with mild and moderate Covid-19 who received their compensation and 11 individuals who were severe and critical. DOH 11 also compensated two cases who
he Philippine Airline’s (PAL’s) direct flight between Cotabato City and Tawi-Tawi is expected to bolster the tourism and economic opportunities of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). PAL will commence servicing the Cotabato-Tawi-Tawi-Cotabato air route with the inaugural flight scheduled on June 9, 2022 and will be deploying Airbus A320 aircraft offering a choice
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DOH 11 releases compensation to Covid-hit healthcare workers
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he Department of Health 11 (DOH 11) announced that the regional office has already released the benefits and compensation for the health care workers in Davao Region who were infected and died due to Covid-19. This is in line with the DOH and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Joint Circu-
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4 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO
VOL.15 ISSUE 42 • THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2022
In stressing that the incoming Secretary of Education has not nor will designate anyone to talk to or negotiate with contractors and suppliers to engage in corrupt activities:
Smearing her reputation and tarnishing the image of the entire DepEd and the thousands of people working hard under the organization.” Liloan Mayor Christina Garcia Spokesperson of VP-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio and incoming Tourism Secretary
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EDGEDAVAO
VOL.15 ISSUE 42 • THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2022
VANTAGE POINTS
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HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!
ENDING POSSIBLE APOCALYPSE I am sure you have watched those post-apocalyptic movies from Hollywood, where human beings can only survive in underground bunkers (do we have such kind of structures in the country?) or having to leave earth in space shuttles as our planet becomes uninhabitable. Those may happen in the near future if we continue to ignore the effects of climate change. It’s June now and from this month up to September, respected scientists claim those are the most active months for typhoons in the Philippines. August is the most active individual month and May is the least active. Normally, the Philippines experiences typhoons of up to 20 a year, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the country’s weather bureau. In recent years, these typhoons have become stronger and more frequent. “The Philippines has long been particularly vulnerable to extreme weather,” reports the Climate Reality Project. “But in recent years, the nation has suffered from even more violent storms… And over the past decade, these tropical storms have struck the nation more often and more se-
verely, scientists believe, because of climate change.” Government officials contend that a destructive typhoon season costs the country two percent of its gross domestic product (GDP). In addition, another two percent is needed to rebuild the infrastructure lost. That’s not all, especially if agriculture is included. As an archipelagic country, agriculture plays a vital role in providing around 30% of employment. In 2013 alone, agriculture contributed 10% of the country’s total GDP, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) reported. “Recent natural disasters significantly affected crops and livestock resulting in severe loss in agricultural production including human lives,” NEDA said in its website. “Climate change worsens the economic situation and food security among the Filipinos.” These days, climate change is already a daily problem most Filipinos have to contend with. “Climate change is not a typhoon that visits your country once or twice a year,” President Rodrigo R. Duterte said in his speech during the Asia-Pacific Healthy Islands Conference held in Davao City. “Climate change is a day-to-day problem.” During the virtual leaders’ summit at the Climate Vulnerable
Forum, Duterte urged industrialized nations to help developing countries to fight climate change. “Climate action and ambition must be shared and demonstrated by all nations,” he said in a statement released to the media. “I call on industrialized nations to significantly reduce their carbon emissions and provide assistance to developing nations in terms of finance, capacity building and technology transfers, as urged by the Paris Agreement,” he said. The Paris Agreement, often referred to as the Paris Accords or the Paris Climate Accords, is an international treaty on climate change, adopted in 2015. It covers climate change mitigation, adaptation, and finance. Climate change is for real. It is not in the distant future but it’s already happening. Bill Becker, an American veteran journalist who’s a senior official at the US Department of Energy, wrote: “Scientists and ‘alarmists’ have warned us about this for decades, but most of us were deniers to some degree, dismissing climate change as something far away, like dark clouds on the horizon. “Now people are calling this the ‘new normal,’ which proves they still don’t get it. There is no more “normal”. The climate will continue to change, often in un-
expected ways, because of carbon pollution from decades ago. It will continue getting more violent because we are still putting that pollution in the atmosphere. We don’t know exactly how bad it will be. We are not experiencing a new normal; we are experiencing the end of normalcy.” The Philippines, with more than 7,000 islands, is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world when it comes to sudden shifting of weather. “Climate change is one of the most fundamental challenges ever to confront humanity,” reminds the weather bureau. “Its adverse impacts are already being seen and may intensify exponentially over time if nothing is done to reduce further emissions of greenhouse gases. “Decisively dealing now with climate change is key to ensuring sustainable development, poverty eradication and safeguarding economic growth,” said PAGASA, a line agency of the Department of Science and Technology. “Scientific assessments indicate that the cost of inaction now will be more costly in the future.” According to the fact sheet published by the Climate Change Commission (which was created under Republic Act 9729), there are two main approaches to ad-
dress climate change: adaptation and mitigation. On adaptation, the fact sheet explains: “In human systems, the process of adjustment to actual or expected climate and its effects, in order to moderate harm or exploit beneficial opportunities. In natural systems, the process of adjustment to actual climate and its effects; human intervention may facilitate adjustment to expected climate.” On mitigation, the fact sheet gives this explanation: “Technological change and change in activities that reduce resource inputs and emissions per unit of output and implementing policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance sinks.” Something must be done now before it is too late. As Katherine Richardson, a climate scientist at the University of Copenhagen, puts it: “We have to act and we have to act now. We need to realize what a risk it is they are taking on behalf of their own constituents, the world’s societies and, even more importantly, future generations.” “Without effective action, climate change is going to be larger and more difficult to deal with than we thought,” warned Chris Field, coordinating lead author of the IPCC report.
DENNIS R. GORECHO PINOY MARINO RIGHTS
ABSENCE OF RECEIPTS IN ILLEGAL RECRUITMENT CASE The absence of receipts issued by the accused in an illegal recruitment case is not fatal to their conviction if the prosecution establishes, through credible evidence, that the accused has engaged in illegal recruitment. The Supreme Court reiterated this ruling in People vs Valdez (G.R. No. 251876 March 21, 2022) where the accused were charged with several counts of illegal recruitment committed in large scale under Section 6 of Republic Act No.8042 or the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995, as amended by Republic Act No. 10022, and estafa under Article 315, paragraph 2(a) of the Revised Penal Code. The accused promised overseas employment to more than 30 individuals in 2014 who allegedly collected more than One million pesos in the guise of using the money to process their documents for deployment. Under RA 8042, a non-licensee or non-holder of authority is liable for illegal recruitment when the following elements concur: (1) the offender has no valid li-
cense or authority required by law to enable him to lawfully engage in recruitment and placement of workers; and (2) the offender undertakes any of the activities within the meaning of “recruitment and placement”, or any of the enumerated prohibited practices. In the case of illegal recruitment in large scale, a third element is added: that the offender commits any of the acts of recruitment and placement against three or more persons, individually or as a group. To prove illegal recruitment, it must be shown that the accused gave the complainants the distinct impression that he had the power or ability to deploy the complainants abroad in such a manner that they were convinced to part with their money for that end. In the instant case, accused admitted collecting fees for medical requirements and Department of Foreign Affairs documents (such as birth certificates and marriage contracts), preparatory to the supposed deployment of complainants.
The accused had no license or authority to recruit and deploy workers abroad. Accused’s acts gave the impression that they could deploy complainants overseas. They also recruited more than three individuals. The absence of receipts in a case for illegal recruitment is not fatal, as long as the prosecution is able to establish through credible testimonial evidence that accused has engaged in illegal recruitment. Such case is made, not by the issuance or the signing of receipts for placement fees, but by engagement in recruitment activities without the necessary license or authority. Neither in the Statute of Frauds nor in the rules of evidence is the presentation of receipts required in order to prove the existence of a recruitment agreement and the procurement of fees in illegal recruitment cases. Such proof may come from the testimonies of witnesses. The absence of receipts for the amounts delivered to the accused did not mean that they did not ac-
cept or receive such payments. While the other complainants did not present receipts, they testified why they believed accused could deploy them after the latter either presented job orders or told them that they would be hired directly. Even if accused received sums of money from complainants, they were never deployed yet accused did not return the money received. The act of non - reimbursement is included in the definition of illegal recruitment. Elements of estafa were also proven. Complainants were made to believe that accused could legally deploy them overseas based on the job orders presented by the accused. Accused’s false pretenses led private complainants to part with various amounts of money, hoping for a better life abroad. Unfortunately, they were never deployed and were never reimbursed. Thus, they suffered damage. Any person found guilty of illegal recruitment shall suffer the
penalty of imprisonment of not less than 12 years and one day but not more than 20 years and a fine of not less than P1,000,000.00 nor more than P2,000,000.00. The persons criminally liable for the said offense are the principals, accomplices and accessories. In case of juridical persons, the officers having ownership, control, management or direction of their business and the responsible for the commission of the offense and the responsible employees/ agents thereof shall be liable. In every case, conviction shall cause and carry the automatic revocation of the license or registration of the recruitment/manning agency There are only 17 criminal cases for illegal recruitment and estafa which accounted for 7.62 percent of the total number of OFW cases decided by the Supreme Court from 2015- 2019. (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 0908-8665786.)
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VOL.14VOL.15 ISSUE 2985 ISSUE • WEDNESDAY, 42 • THURSDAY, MARCH JUNE 2, 9, 2022
CERTIFIED CORRECT:
Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod
19th City Council 6th Regular Session Series of 2022
ATTESTED:
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 Councilor
APR 8
APPROVED : ________________, 2022
Temporary Presiding Officer cns/kjtq
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. Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod Pamela A.Librado-Morata Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Rodolfo M. Mande 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 Councilor Bonifacio E. Militar
- OB-Acting City Mayor -
ORDINANCE NO. 0877-22 Series of 2022 AN ORDINANCE GRANTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE CITY PRICING COMMITTEE UNDER RESOLUTION NO. 4, SERIES OF 2018, FOR THE PRICING ADJUSTMENT SCHEME OF MINTAL RELOCATION AREA AND BO. OBRERO RELOCATION AREA, AS THE MOST APPROPRIATE AND RESPONSIVE TO THE QUALIFIED BENEFICIARIES Be it ordained by the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City in session assembled that: SECTION 1. TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known and cited as “AN ORDINANCE GRANTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE CITY PRICING COMMITTEE UNDER RESOLUTION NO. 4, SERIES OF 2018, FOR THE PRICING ADJUSTMENT SCHEME OF MINTAL RELOCATION AREA AND BO. OBRERO RELOCATION AREA AS THE MOST APPROPRIATE AND RESPONSIVE TO THE QUALIFIED BENEFICIARIES”. SECTION 2. DECLARATION OF POLICY – Pursuant to the City Pricing Committee Resolution No. 4, Series of 2018, Price Adjustment for Mintal Relocation and Bo. Obrero Relocation. SECTION 3. COVERAGE – This shall apply to the actual possession of qualified housing program beneficiaries from Mintal Relocation Area and Bo. Obrero Relocation Area. SECTION 4. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE – If for any reason, any section or provision of this Ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid, no other section or provision shall be affected thereby. SECTION 5. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval. ENACTED, on February 8, 2022, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum.
ATTESTED:
AN ORDINANCE GRANTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE CITY PRICING COMMITTEE UNDER RESOLUTION NO. 4, SERIES OF 2018, FOR THE PRICING ADJUSTMENT SCHEME OF MINTAL RELOCATION AREA AND BO. OBRERO RELOCATION AREA, AS THE MOST APPROPRIATE AND
Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod
19th City Council 6th Regular Session Series of 2022 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 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. Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod Pamela A. Librado-Morata Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus Rodolfo M. Mande 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 Councilor Bonifacio E. Militar
- OB-Acting City Mayor
ORDINANCE NO. 0876-22 Series of 2022 AN ORDINANCE GRANTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE CITY PRICING COMMITTEE UNDER RESOLUTION NO. 1, SERIES OF 2017, ON THE RECOGNITION OF QUALIFIED TRANSFEREES AS BENEFICIARIES OF THE HOUSING PROJECTS OF THE CITY UNDER THE SLUM IMPROVEMENT AND RESETTLEMENT AND URBAN LAND REFORM PROGRAM, IMPOSING FEES AND CHARGES, AND PRICING SCHEME
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Be it ordained by the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City in session assembled that: SECTION 1. TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known and cited as “AN ORDINANCE GRANTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE CITY PRICING COMMITTEE UNDER RESOLUTION NO. 1, SERIES OF 2017, ON THE RECOGNITION OF QUALIFIED TRANSFEREES AS BENEFICIARIES OF THE HOUSING PROJECTS OF THE CITY UNDER THE SLUM IMPROVEMENT AND RESETTLEMENT AND URBAN LAND REFORM PROGRAM, IMPOSING FEES AND CHARGES AND PRICING SCHEME”. SECTION 2. DECLARATION OF POLICY – Pursuant to the encumbrance annotated on the land titles prohibiting the sale or disposal of housing lots without the consent of the City of Davao, which commences after the date of entry of land title issued in favor of the awardee. SECTION 3. COVERAGE – This shall apply to a Qualified Transferee who is in actual possession of the housing program under the Slum Improvement Project in Matina and Piapi of the City of Davao. SECTION 4. AUTHORITY – CREATION OF HOUSING APPRAISAL COMMITTEE, its functions and composition – This committee shall be created under the Office of the City Mayor that will determine the Settlement Fee to be paid by the Transferee and the validity of the claims and documents presented by the Transferee, to be composed of the following: -
City Assessor’s Office City Housing Office City Treasurer’s Office City Administrator’s Office City Mayor’s Office Sangguniang Panlungsod City Legal Office
FUNCTION OF THE CITY HOUSING OFFICE - This office is tasked to determine the qualification of the Transferee and to issue the Order of Payment after the Housing Appraisal Committee submits its report on the appropriate Settlement Fee. SECTION 5. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE – If for any reason, any section or provision of this Ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid, no other section or provision shall be affected thereby. SECTION 6. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval. ENACTED, on February 8, 2022 by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum. CERTIFIED CORRECT:
ATTESTED:
APR 8, 2022 APPROVED : _______________ Temporary Presiding Officer cns/kjtq ATTESTED:
FIRST... FROMP2
Dabawenyos against political scams using the Duterte family name for soliciting money or business proposals. In August last year, she reminded her supporters not to use her name in
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langon Womens Workers Association of Barangay Tamlangon, Matanao are also recipients of the P200,000.00 livelihood aid. Earlier in May this year, the provincial government has provided the barangay local government of Igpit in Digos City and Kanapolo in Magsaysay town with rescue vehicles. Each rescue vehicle costs P533,000.00 which will serve the residents in time of emergencies and calamities. Meanwhile, the De-
DAVAO... FROMP2
dents,” Lupaz said. He also bared those two new buildings have been inaugurated at the DCPO headquarters and are now being used as
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Mayor Jorjan “Monet” Federiso in return extended her gratitude for DSWD for its partnership in establishing community projects for community development.
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also for commerce to help them in economics and commerce because I understand in Tawi-Tawi its more on marine products that they can help sell or extend to other regions or in the mainland,” she said. In a statement, Secretary Maria Belen Acosta, chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said with this flight, more Mindanawons will be able to see and experience the beauty of Tawi-Tawi and will make air travel faster,
DOH... FROMP3
AN ORDINANCE GRANTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE CITY PRICING COMMITTEE UNDER RESOLUTION NO. 1, SERIES OF 2017, ON THE RECOGNITION OF QUALIFIED TRANSFEREES AS BENEFICIARIES OF THE HOUSING PROJECTS OF THE CITY UNDER THE SLUM IMPROVEMENT AND RESETTLEMENT AND URBAN LAND REFORM PROGRAM, IMPOSING FEES AND CHARGES AND PRICING SCHEME
their transactions and issued a stern warning after a video circulated on social media, showing three men at the Davao International Airport (DIA) talking about a meeting with the mayor
succumbed to death. “This is a cumulative data from all those filed claims in the DOH Davao Region,” she said. Meanwhile, the said circular includes both medical and health allied personnel who provide direct health care to patients, and also technical, administrative, and support staff within the
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and the use of an airplane for campaign materials. Meanwhile, the vice president-elect’s camp had reached out to DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.
partment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has officially turned over on Thursday (May 26), the Mt. Apo Agri-Eco Tourism Park to the provincial government of Davao del Sur. The newly-completed agri-eco tourism park, which is an initiative of Congresswoman Mercedes Cagas, is located in Barangay Kapatagan, Digos City. According to DPWH-XI, the park consisting of eight infrastructure projects has a total cost of ₱116.904 million.
The DPWH-XI has also completed and turned over on May 24, 2022, high-quality municipal hall and gymnasium projects to the local government of Hagonoy. Hagonoy Mayor Franco Magno Calida accepted the municipal hall which amounted to P20 million and municipal gymnasium which also has a cost of P20 million. The infrastructures were repaired due to the damage caused by the strong earthquake in 2019. (PIA-XI/Carina L. Cayon/Franchette Delfin)
quarters for non-commissioned and non-uniform personnel and the investigation division, respectively. Lupaz also said the
Ecoland Police Headquarters’ Building had been turned over to the police personnel in the area for their use. (PIA XI-Joey Sem Dalumpines)
The Mayor considered KALAHI PAMANA as a priority development agenda in her SERVICES platform of governance standing for “V” referring to the “Vulnerable
ang marginalized sectors empowerment” (with reports from the Municipal Information Office of New Corella/ PIA XI JMDAbangan)
cheaper, and easier within the Bangsamoro Development Corridor. “We commend the BARMM Government and Philippine Airlines for this connectivity development, which will boost tourism and economic exchanges within and outside of BARMM, the country’s 2nd fastest-growing region in 2021,” Acosta stated. The new service connects BARMM’s mainland areas to its island region, with Cotabato’s Awang
Airport and Tawi-Tawi’s Sanga-Sanga Airport as gateways. “PAL is more on connecting people making it more accessible to them and also the produce and tourism. It is more on tourism and economic progress. This is to serve the BARMM region,” Romano said. PAL is also expanding flight services to, from, and within Mindanao, as befits the island’s status as a prime economic center of the Philippines.
health facilities. Personnel may be occupying a regular, temporary, coterminous, contractual or casual position, on full-time or part-time basis. Clinical consultants, resident physicians, and fellows in training are included. Also included are duly accredited volunteer workers, including but not limited to swab-
bers, vaccinators, encoders, bar coders, contact tracers, and ambulance drivers, as well as Barangay Health Emergency Response Team (BHERT) members and barangay health workers (BHWs) provided they are assigned to health facilities or health-related establishments. By Maya M. Padillo
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Delivery men unload cylinder of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at an establishment along Lapu-Lapu Street in Davao City. Oil firms slashed the retail prices of LPG by P5.20. Edge Davao
Inflation will likely reach 5 to 5.8% in May - BSP
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nflation will likely hit a new three-year high this month given the continued increase in domestic petroleum prices, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Tuesday. According to BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno, inflation is likely to have settled within the 5.0% to 5.8% range this month, faster than the 4.9% recorded in April, which was the highest since December 2018. “The continued increase in domestic petroleum prices, higher prices of key food items, and
peso depreciation are the primary sources of inflationary pressures during the month,” Diokno told reporters in a text message. Year-to-date adjustments show a net increase of P25.55 per liter for gasoline, P29.10 per liter for diesel, and P25.20 per liter for kerosene as of May 24, 2022, according to the
Department of Energy. Meanwhile, the Philippine peso closed Tuesday at P52.37: $1, weaker than Monday’s finish of P52.31: $1. Diokno noted, however, that these could be partly offset by cheaper electricity rates of the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), reduced prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and lower rice prices. “Looking ahead, the BSP will continue to monitor closely emerging price developments to enable timely interven-
tion to arrest emergence of further second-round effects, consistent with BSP’s mandate of price and financial stability,” he said. The BSP this month hiked key policy rates by 25 basis points, marking the first tightening since 2018. The central bank expects the full-year inflation print at 4.6%, which is within the 3.7% to 4.7% target set by the Development Budget Coordination Committee last week, before slowing down to 3.9% in 2023.
per kg. The new price rollback translates to a decrease of PHP56.98 to PHP57.31 for a regular 11-kg. LPG tank, which is mostly used by households. For Auto LPG products, price cuts were pegged at PHP2.86 per liter for Phoenix LPG
and PHP3.30 per liter for Petron LPG. The price adjustments took effect at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday. The lower LPG prices for June reflected the contract prices in the world market for this month. Data from the Department of Energy show
that the LPG contract price in May decreased by USD97 per metric ton to USD857 per metric ton from USD954 per metric ton. According to the department, an 11-kg. cylinder of LPG in Metro Manila cost from PHP915.75 to PHP1,135.75 in May. (PNA)
LPG prices down for 2 straight months
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he retail prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have decreased for two consecutive months as firms announced price rollbacks for this month. Phoenix LPG said it slashed LPG prices by PHP5.18 per kg.; Petron, by PHP5.20 per kg.; and Solane LPG, by PHP5.21
Tax reform laws nets P576-B for gov’t coffers in 4 years
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he implementation of the initial packages of President Duterte’s Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) designed to significantly lower the personal income tax (PIT), provide amnesty to delinquent taxpayers, and impose higher taxes on so-called ‘sin’ products has brought in a total of P575.8 billion in additional revenues from 2018 to 2021, according to preliminary data gathered by the Department of Finance (DOF). In a report to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, the DOF’s Domestic Finance Group (DFG) said that for 2021 alone, the tax take from the Tax Reform Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, the Tax Amnesty Act, and the Sin Tax Reform laws reached P228.6 billion, or 13.7 percent above the target for the year. TRAIN (Republic Act or RA No. 10963) provided 99 percent of taxpayers with significant tax savings
resulting from lower PIT rates; the Tax Amnesty Act (RA 11213) allowed errant taxpayers to settle their outstanding tax liabilities; and the Sin Tax Reform laws (RAs 11346 and 11467 along with certain TRAIN provisions) imposed higher excise taxes on cigarettes, heated tobacco products, vapor products, and alcoholic beverages. Dominguez said the passage and implementation of these tax reform laws, along with the subsequent Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act, make President Duterte’s CTRP almost 90-percent complete. DOF OIC Undersecretary Valery Brion of the DFG said that in 2021, TRAIN contributed P171.1 billion in additional revenues, which is 8.3 percent above the target of P157.9 billion; the sin tax laws hauled in P52.9 billion, or 22.7 percent higher than the target of P43.1 billion; and tax amnesty provided an additional P4.6 billion.
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ECONOMY A2
Municipal Investment Promotions and Tourism Officer of Sta. Cruz Julius Paner bares that most of their visitors these days are seeking more of the outdoor sites and mountain-based adventures such as mountain climbing. Edge Davao
DavSur town tourists mostly seek outdoor, adventure sites EZA, DENR sign MOU to convert idle lands to develop into ecozones
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he Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will help the former to identify idle lands across the country that can be developed into economic zones. In her speech during the signing ceremony, PEZA Director General Charito Plaza said the partnership with the DENR aims to identify viable timberlands, agricultural lands, mining lands, and natural tourism sites that can be utilized as ecozones such as agro-industrial, agro-forestry, mineral processing ecozones, oil depots, and eco-tourism special economic zones nationwide. “Creating different types of ecozone is the program of PEZA so we can protect the environment and locate the appropriate industries and enhance the responsible use of the land and its natural resources. This is PEZA’s way of fully industrializing the country yet protecting, not destroying, our environment,” Plaza said.
Plaza added that converting idle lands into ecozones is aligned with the goal of Administrative Order 18 issued by the Malacañang Palace in 2019, which supports rural progress through ecozone development in the countryside. “This MOU signing will serve as an initial and broad framework of understanding between PEZA and the DENR towards the goal of identifying public lands nationwide that can be harnessed in a sustainable and environmentally-compliant manner, to spread ecozones because they are drivers of economic growth outside the National Capital Region (NCR),” she added. The PEZA and DENR identified the Caraga Region as the pilot area of their partnership. “As the country transition to the Presidency of President-elect Bongbong Marcos Jr., we in PEZA are positive about the economic outlook under the new President and we continue with our mandate of attracting investments and generating exports and jobs,” Plaza said.
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he municipality of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur has opened new tourist attractions during the pandemic, featuring Mt. Loay, Sinoron Eco Park and Bamboo Peak which set the trend of outdoor and adventure tourism. Julius Paner, the Municipal Investment Promotions and Tourism Officer of Sta. Cruz, has bared that most of their visitors these days are seeking more of the outdoor sites and mountain-based adventures such as mountain climbing. The bulk of tourist arrivals in the municipality is mostly from the millennial age group who prefer to spend their leisure time in adventurous activities,
Paner said during his guesting in the One Davao on COVID-19, a virtual presser of the Philippine Information Agency Region XI at the Aeon Towers. With a lot of offerings of the municipality’s ecotourism landscape such as the Mt. Apo peak, trails, caves, forests, rivers and waterfalls combined with its cultural attributes, tourists would likely need more than two weeks to explore the whole
municipality of Sta. Cruz for a rest and recreation. “We would as much as possible like you guys to stay in our place, kasi if you want to explore all attractions in Sta. Cruz, kulangin yung dalawang lingo,” Paner suggested for anyone planning to visit the municipality. He also emphasized that while the local government has been robust in developing its ecotourism industry, it is also steadfast in ensuring the protection and conservation of the natural resources, especially within Mt. Apo being a natural park and protected area. “We have to indeed protect the environment because we are making the en-
vironment the capital to our tourism development. And the good thing is we have been doing this every year with appropriations from the local government unit,” he stated. A recent example of the protection of the environment is the banning of pork menu within the vicinity of Mt. Apo Park to avoid the contagious spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) on the Philippine warty pigs. “These species are vulnerable. Its population is decreasing, and we have seen frequently the presence of one Philippine warty pig in the summit of Mt. Apo,” Paner said. (PIA-XI/Franchette Delfin)
The Chinese pharmaceutical firm is engaged in the development and commercialization of biotherapeutics for cancers and infectious diseases through its novel PIKA immunomodulation technology. The firm is operating in China, Singapore, and the United States. “In the meeting, Chairman Yi and the Yisheng team
shared that the company is preparing to initiate Phase III [of its] global multi-center clinical trial for its PIKA rabies vaccine, and Phase II-III combined trials for its PIKA COV-19 vaccine,” BOI said in a statement. BOI Executive Director for Investment Promotions Evariste Cagatan said Yisheng’s investment plans in the Philippines are very
timely as the BOI is collaborating with the Department of Health and the Department of Science and Technology for a vaccine self-reliance program by building the country’s vaccine production capability. The government is also eyeing to start the vaccine self-reliance program with the manufacturing of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines.
Chinese vaccination maker eyes investments in PH
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he Board of Investments (BOI) said Tuesday the agency met with Chinese global pharmaceutical firm Yisheng Biopharma Co. Ltd. to discuss the company’s investment plans in the Philippines. Yisheng chairman Zhang Yi led the business delegation to Manila as the group also met with possible local partners here.
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COMPETITIVE EDGE
InLife Net Income soars 168%, revenues up 43% Insular Life (InLife), the country’s largest Filipino-owned life insurer, more than doubled its net income in 2021 at the back of strong operational results, the Company disclosed during its Annual Members’ Meeting held online recently. InLife’s net income of ₱4.7 billion is 168% higher than the ₱1.8 billion it achieved in 2020 while its total revenues of ₱23.1 billion is up by 43% from ₱16.2 billion in 2020. “We are grateful that our operations had a healthy rebound from the slowdown we experienced in 2020 due to the massive lockdowns at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our operational results last year reflected our concerted effort to serve better our policyholders,” said InLife Executive Chairperson Nina D. Aguas. Aguas noted that several factors can be attributed to this successful year, including the eas-
ing up of the pandemic restrictions, the digital adaptation of financial advisers, and the various technology innovations implemented by the Company, and several key personnel hiring and movements. “At the backend of our operations are a very robust digital systems that helped us navigate through the pandemic. These efforts were initiated as early as 2016 and fortunately, the acceleration of our digital efforts was coming to bear in 2021. We did well in 2021 in terms of financial performance because our agents were able to regain their confidence and overcome their fear,” Aguas said. The Company’s strong financial results helped it maintain its high industry rank as among the top 5 life insurer, the only Filipino-owned company to do so. In a report released by the Insurance Commission recently, InLife’s
net income of ₱4.7B is 3rd best, and its net worth of ₱47.8B is 2nd overall, while its assets of ₱154B, is 4th among 31 life insurers. “We will continue to improve our operations to help us deliver results that are backed by a clear path to reach our ambition to provide our policyholders a lifetime for good so that they can enjoy a longer, healthier, and happier lives,” said Aguas. IHC breaks record HMO subsidiary Insular Health Care (IHC) breached the Php1-billion mark in membership fee revenue for 2021, 35% more than the previous year’s, and significantly higher than the HMO Industry’s revenue growth of 1.9% for the same period. “We are happy to report that the strong showing of IHC continued through 2021, riding the momentum of its own great performance in 2020,” said Aguas.
When asked how she maintains her youthful looks, 65-year-old Nilda Lotino from Pilar, Sorsogon simply explained, “I don’t let problems drag me down. I always believe that there is a solution to every problem.” Abaca is commonly found in Pilar Sorsogon. At a young age, Nilda already learned how to weave abaca together with her older siblings. Determined to keep this tradition and business alive in her own family, she passed on the technique and process of weaving to her seven children. Now, it has become part of their livelihood. Her business produces bags, baskets, and placemats. As much as she enjoys weaving like a hobby, Nilda acknowledges that the people she employs also relies on her business for financial stability. This gives her the perseverance to continue developing her craft. She also gets the financial support she needs from an institution that empowers her business. She has been a CARD Bank client for 18 years. CARD Bank is a microfinance-oriented rural bank that provides a wide range of loan products intended to fit clients’ busi-
nesses and family needs at an affordable interest rate and flexible payment terms. Through CARD Bank, she was able to sustain their basic needs and expand her source of in-
come. She is also an owner of a small sari-sari store. From her PhP3,000 starting loan in CARD Bank, she currently has an existing loan of PhP40,000. Nilda’s positivity in life shines abundantly
InLife Executive Chairperson Nina D. Aguas
The beating of a cheerful heart not only to her family but also to her community. With her optimistic mindset, she continues to journey through life creating impactful meaning to the people surrounding her.
LANDBANK taps USB branches as Agent Banking Partners The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) is tapping branches of UCPB Savings Bank (USB) nationwide to serve as Agent Banking Partners in remote and underserved areas, as part of its mandate to advance greater financial inclusion in the country. A total of 57 USB branches are set to be onboarded as LANDBANK Agent Banking Partners by June 2022, of which 20 USB branches are operating in communities without any LANDBANK branch. As LANDBANK Agent Banking Partners, USB Branches will offer card sale, cash-in, cash-out, fund transfer, and bills payment services, allowing customers to enjoy lower transaction costs, improved access to financial services, greater convenience, and potentially lower travel expenses. Beneficiaries of the National Government’s Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) and Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) Programs can also withdraw their cash grants through the LANDBANK Agent Banking Partners. “Through the Agent Banking Program, LANDBANK is able to better
serve its mandated sectors, particularly those in unbanked and underserved communities where financial services are scarce. We are bringing more Filipinos into the financial mainstream to foster greater financial inclusion across the nation,” LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo said. As of 31 March 2022, LANDBANK has a total of 907 Agent Banking Partners nationwide. These include client cooperatives, associations, rural banks, local government units, small and medium enterprises, gasoline stations, and private entities. From January to March 2022, a total of 1.3 million transactions amounting to P4.6 million were facilitated by LANDBANK Agent Banking Partners. The LANDBANK Agent Banking Program is in compliance with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Circular No. 940 series of 2017, wherein banks are allowed to serve customers through cash agents contracted to perform selected banking services on its behalf in order to exponentially expand its reach and serve customers more efficiently.
VOL.15 ISSUE 42 • THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2022
SPORTS A4
EDGEDAVAO
Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates winning against Novak Djokovic of Serbia in their men’s quarterfinal match during the French Open tennis tournament at Roland G arros in Paris, France, 01 June 2022. Mohammed Badra, EPA-EFE
Nadal downs Djokovic in late-night epic
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ARIS, France -- Rafael Nadal edged a late-night classic against old rival Novak Djokovic in the early hours of Wednesday in four sets to reach his 15th French Open semi-final.
The 13-time Roland Garros champion won the pair’s 59th career meeting 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) after a four-hour-and-12-minute quarter-final on a raucous Court Philippe Chatrier.
Nadal sealed his eighth victory in 10 French Open matches against last year’s winner Djokovic at 1:16 am local time (2316 GMT Tuesday) to set up a last-four
clash with third seed Alexander Zverev on Friday. “I’m very emotional. For me it’s incredible to play here,” said Nadal. “Playing against him is always an amazing challenge... To win against Novak, there is only one way, to play your best from the first point until the last.” The 35-year-old has lost just three of his 113 matches on the Paris clay
the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks before sending the top-seeded Heat home in another series that went the distance. It might be impressive stuff, but the 44-year-old Udoka knows the Celtics franchise, whose 17 NBA titles are tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most in history, demands more. “Guys were quick to celebrate but quick to flip the page and say, we’ve got four more,” Udoka said. “We don’t hang or celebrate Eastern Conference championships in the Celtic organization. “So we all fall in line and appreciate that standard of excellence.” Udoka, like his Golden State counterpart Steve Kerr, once played for Gregg Popovich at the San Antonio Spurs and he was an assistant coach under Popovich when the Spurs
won the NBA title in 2014. But his first season as a head coach didn’t appear to be heading for a title tilt when the Celtics were under .500 at the midpoint of the season and Udoka’s public criticism of his young stars didn’t appear to be helping the situation. “There were definitely some tough moments throughout the season where (you don’t) doubt yourself but maybe question, can we do it?” Tatum said. “You start to realize how hard it is to win. You start to question yourself -are you good enough to be that guy?” Smart said Udoka’s hard-nosed approach did, indeed, motivate the Celtics, who have used a powerhouse defense to overcome other shortcomings. “(He) embodies everything that we embody,” Smart said. “He kind of puts it on you to let you
since his 2005 title-winning debut and now only trails Djokovic 30-29 in their career head-to-head. The Spaniard, seeded fifth, remains on course for a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title after lifting this year’s Australian Open, which Djokovic missed after being deported from the country over his Covid vaccination status. Djokovic overturned a
double-break deficit to take an 88-minute second set and missed two set points when serving for the fourth to force a decider. The world number one will rue those missed chances while he waits until Wimbledon for his next opportunity to take his Slam tally to 21. “Congratulations to Rafa, he was better in the important moments,” said
Djokovic. “He showed why he was a great champion. Well done to him and his team, he deserves it.” Nadal was a slight underdog heading into the match after being taken to five sets in the previous round by Felix Auger-Aliassime and he had even hinted it could be his last appearance in Paris due to a persistent foot injury.
Rookie coach Udoka has Celtics vying for record 18th NBA title
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AN FRANCISCO -Boston Celtics first-year coach Ime Udoka knows a gritty run through the Eastern Conference playoffs isn’t enough to cement his young team’s place in the history of a storied NBA franchise. “Yeah, it would all be for naught if we go lay an egg in the Finals, and we understand that,” Udoka said after the Celtics edged the Miami Heat 100-96 in game seven of the East finals to line up a championship clash with the Golden State Warriors. Sparked by young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown and anchored by veterans Marcus Smart and Al Horford, the Celtics opened the playoffs with a fourgame sweep of a star-studded Brooklyn Nets team led by two-time NBA Finals MVP Kevin Durant. They followed up with a seven-game win over Giannis Antetokounmpo and
Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka greets his players in the final seconds of Game 4 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, 23 May 2022. CJ Gunther, EPA-EFE.
know that, hey, I’m not taking no slack. And if you don’t like it, you can get up out of here.” Udoka said he never doubted the Celtics would
respond, despite the injuries and the lingering uncertainties of the Covid pandemic that dogged all teams early in the season. “To get to this point we
had to flip the switch and turn around in a lot of ways, and guys were always receptive to being coached hard, to being pushed, to being asked to do more,” he said.
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WELL DONE, ATHLETES PRRD to Filipino SEA Games participants: ‘You did a good job’
National tennis team member and bronze medalist Shaira Hope Rivera who hails from Island Garden City of Samal, receives her award from President Rodrigo Duterte.
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resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday lauded the Filipino athletes and coaches who participated in the 31st Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Hanoi, Vietnam from May 12 to 23. The results of the Philippine contingent’s participation in the SEA Games, be it “with or without medals,” elated Duterte. In a speech delivered at Malacañan Palace’s Rizal Hall, Duterte thanked them for doing a “good job” in bringing pride and honor to the country. Duterte said he is “very proud” of the Filipino athletes for their tedious preparations and dedication to excel in the regional sports competition. “No other time that I feel so proud for my country because you are here. You did a good job, and I’m very happy with the result. It is not really winning but going there just to give the country an image. Maligaya ako na maraming medalya ang nakuha natin (I’m happy that we bagged many medals),” Duterte said in a speech delivered before the Filipino athletes. The Philippines finished fourth in the medals race with 11 nations after bagging a total of 226 medals in the 31st SEA Games. Filipino athletes were able to bring home around 52 gold, 70 silver and 105 bronze medals. Duterte expressed apprecia-
tion for all the Filipino medalists and athletes’ “record-breaking feats.” He said the athletes have proved that the limitations in training because of the Covid-19 pandemic are not a hindrance to showcasing their talents and giving their best. “I deeply thank you for representing the country with resiliency, excellence, and sportsmanship and for bringing pride and honor to the Filipino amidst the challenges you had to face in this uncertain time,” Duterte said. During the event, Duterte awarded the athletes with cash bonanza. Republic Act 10699 grants cash incentives worth PHP300,000, PHP150,000, and PHP60,000 for SEA Games’ gold, silver, and bronze medalists, respectively. Duterte also conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kamagi on SEA Games medalists. The Order of Lapu-Lapu, particularly the Rank of Kamagi, is conferred by the Philippine president in recognition of the exemplary service rendered by government officials and person-
nel of the government, as well as private individuals. The recognition is given to individuals who actively participated in and contributed to an activity relating to a campaign or advocacy of the President and the Philippine government. Meanwhile, Duterte also acknowledged the role of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the coaches in the success of the Filipino athletes at the 31st SEA Games. “While we celebrate our accomplishments in this much-awaited sports event, let us also recognize the Philippine Sports Commission and all of the coaches for their unwavering support in ensuring the athletes were in their prime condition to compete at the 31st SEA Games. Your involvement in this feat is truly significant and worthy of commendation,” he said. Duterte urged the PSC and other sports bodies to continue extending full assistance to Filipino athletes to keep them motivated in “aiming for more victories in the future.” “As we unite our efforts to achieve real and lasting change in our society, it is my hope that even beyond my term, our athletes will continue to uphold the competence, discipline and commitment that we Filipinos are known all over the world,” he said. (PNA)