EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society
VOL.15 ISSUE 49 • FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2022
President Rodrigo Duterte, on a Can-Am on-road motorcycle, gets ready to depart near his home in Davao City for an out of town ride to Tagum City, Davao del Norte on Wednesday afternoon. On May 28, the President also made an out of town ride to Digos City. Edge Davao
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CASUALTIES New deaths recorded involve unvaccinated child, adult
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EDGEDAVAO
VOL.15 ISSUE 49 • FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2022
A passenger bus enters the premises Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT). DCOTT launched its Land Transportation Security Plan, which covers security and safety contingency procedures in case of major security incidences, evacuation schemes in times of natural emergencies and police assistance for passengers in distress, after receiving approval from the Office for Transportation Security (OTS). Edge Davao
CASUALTIES
New deaths recorded involve unvaccinated child, adult By MAYA M. PADILLO
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“We have another two deaths recorded from May 29, 2022 to June 4, 2022 and both of which are unvaccinated. Parents should be alarmed kay ang isa sa mga deaths nato is bata aged less than 12 years old.
The other death is naa sa 50 to 59 years old ang iyahang age bracket. As you can see dili necessarily ang mga nangamatay ay senior citizens, there are kids and there are also adult age nga namatay pud na unvaccinated,” Schlosser said over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR). Schlosser urged the parents particularly in this age group (pediatric) to make
themselves aware of the benefits and safety of the Covid-19 vaccine. “Gina-awhag nato ang mga parents kay this age group dili sila ang mudecide kundi mga parents man. Kung naa ta’y apprehension ug kakulba, make yourself aware of the benefit and safety of the COVID-19 vaccine. Look for a platform nga ma-educate mo, not
atong case zero or one case lang so very low ang atoang positivity rate. However as of June 8, 2022 we have 11 cases,” said Dr. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson of Davao City Covid-19 Task Force in an interview with Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Wednesday. Schlosser said the cases
could be attributed to the overseas filipino workers (OFWs) and returning Filipinos who arrived in the country. “We have to attribute these cases sa katong mga OFWs, returning filipinos particularly gikan US and other countries na niabot sa Pilipinas and tested pos-
itive. Isa seguro ni sa mga rason ngano nagtaas ang atoang cases kasi like I said its a matter of time na manuktok sa atong mga kabalayan,” she said. Schlosser added that the 11 cases place the city at approximately 2.6 percent positivity rate, which is still
ice President-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio spent more than P216 million for her campaign during the May 9 local and national elections.
Davao City Covid-19 Task Force spokesperson Dr. Michelle Schlosser reported that Davao City logged new deaths of Covid-19, an adult and a kid, who are both unvaccinated.
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Davao City logs double digit case of Covid-19
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or the first time since the May 9 national and local elections, Davao City has logged double-digit Covid-19 cases. “For two weeks since election wala ta’y nakita na elevation sa atong cases. As of June 5, 2022 naa ta’y zero positivity rate kasi consistent ang mga days nga ang
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City prohibits buses loading passengers outside DCOTT
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n official of the Davao City Transportation and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) reiterated that provincial buses are prohibited to load passengers in any areas outside the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) if the trip is going out from the city. The reminder was made to protect passengers after a bombing incident of a bus unit in Koronadal, South Cotabato last month. “Nagmiting ang atong security cluster kauban ang DCOTT and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) nga i-suspend usa tong pag loading ug unloading sa mga provincial buses especially kung going out sa atong syudad to protect sa mga pasahero nga gikan sa atong terminal,” said CTTMO Head Dionisio Abude over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Wednesday. Abude said CTTMO will continue to deploy personnel to advise passengers to go directly to DCOTT as stopping and loading provincial buses at any areas can no longer be tolerated. “Since gi-suspend nato na ang pagawas dunay identified nga mga area na didto lang dapat sila muhunong. Kung pasulod sila sa Davao city na sanitize naman sila didto sa Lasang, Calinan, ug diri sa Toril puwede na sila mudrop ug pasahero didto sa mga previous na bus stops kung naa na sila sa sulod sa Davao City padulong sa DCOTT terminal
since na inspection na ang mga pasahero ug mga bus sa Task Force Davao sa Sirawan ug sa may Calinan, Lacson ug sa Lasang,” he explained. The CTTMO in coordination with the security cluster will set up checkpoints in the soon-to-be-designated bus stops, potentially in only three areas in Toril, Calinan, and Lasang where provincial buses can pick up or load provincial bound passengers outside of the Ecoland bus terminal. “Unang-una ang Toril kining sa Gmall kay medyo luag-luag ang area. Pero ang sa Calinan and going North is subject for inspection pa kung asa siya ibutang kay magbutang man gud ta.. pareha sa Task Force Davao mo-set up man gud ta ug tent kay para naay tao nga mag-inspection kung mohunong ang bus. Ang mga pasahero inspectionon siya mao na safety siya,” Abude said. Abude requested drivers to continue observing the policy of loading passengers only in DCOTT because this is for the safety and security of the passengers. “Pareha anang sa Magsaysay Park, pareha sa Buhangin kana siya gi-suspend gyud nako na. Naa ta’y mga tao didto nga dili gyud nato pahunongon ang mga buses,” Abude added. CTTMO will set up put signages to guide the riding public to go to DCOTT or the soon-to-be-identified bus stops. By Maya M. Padillo
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On Davao City logging double-digit Covid-19 cases as of June 8, 2022:
We have to attribute these cases sa katong mga OFWs, returning filipinos particularly gikan US and other countries na niabot sa Pilipinas and tested positive. Isa seguro ni sa mga rason ngano nagtaas ang atoang cases kasi like I said its a matter of time na manuktok sa atong mga kabalayan.” Dr. Michelle Schlosser
Spokesperson, Davao City Covid-19 Task Force
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EDGEDAVAO
VOL.14 ISSUE 47 • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022
CHAPTER FOUR: WASTE DISPOSAL AND CREATION OF COMPOST SITES SECTION 27. PURPOSE - The City Government of Davao encourages those doing business in the organic agriculture sector to build and promote responsible disposal of organic waste in order to protect the environment, public health, safety, comfort, convenience, and the general welfare of the locals. SECTION 28. COMPOST SITE - The composting site shall be located within the owner’s property and designed so that seepage from the compost will not run into public or private streets, drainage ditches, water retention basins, and streams. SECTION 29. WASTE PROCESSING CENTER – A waste processing center shall be established for the processing of organic waste materials.
CHAPTER SIX: PROHIBITED ACTS, MONITORING, ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES SECTION 30. PROHIBITED ACTS. The following acts shall be prohibited: (n) a. To sell or charge to the consumers any amount manifestly greater than that of the current selling price of the organic products based on the suggested retail price determined by appropriate Government Offices; b. Willfully obstructing, delaying or committing any other acts that violates the implementation of this Ordinance and the development of organic agriculture in the City, including misuse, diversion, or material misrepresentation involving support extended by the government and or the NGO and; c. Any other acts that are prohibited under Republic Act No. 11511 Amending Republic Act No. 10068, or the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010. SECTION 31. PENALTIES - Any person, whether natural or juridical who shall violate this Ordinance shall be penalized as follows:: Those prohibited acts under Republic Act No. 11511 Amending Republic Act No. 10068, shall be penalized under the same law. Those prohibited acts which are not covered by Republic Act No. 11511 Amending Republic Act No. 10068 shall be covered by the following graduated penalties; First offense, payment of Fine amounting to Php 1,000; Second offense, payment of Fine amounting to Php 3,000; Third offense, payment of Fine amounting to Php 5,000. SECTION 32. ENFORCEMENT/MONITORING TEAMS (EMT) -The Regional Post Market Surveillance Team (RPMST) shall conduct regular proactive and reactive rounds to ensure compliance with the applicable Organic Philippine National Standards, conduct assessment of market outlets on the awareness of the Organic Agriculture Act and apprehend violators of this Ordinance.
CHAPTER FIVE: FINAL PROVISIONS SECTION 33. IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS - The City Mayor is hereby authorized to create a joint executive-legislative committee to formulate the Implementing Rules and Regulations of this Ordinance upon its effectivity. SECTION 34. APPROPRIATION CLAUSE - The City Government of Davao shall appropriate substantial budget of at least two percent (2%) of the ADF budget of the City Government of Davao for the implementation of the Organic Agriculture Program including incentives and to ensure the implementation of this Ordinance and to support the organic agriculture activities of the City. (n) SECTION 35. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE - If any part of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional, the remaining parts unaffected thereby shall continue to remain valid and in effect. SECTION 36. REPEALING CLAUSE - All ordinances,, executive orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. SECTION 37. EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE - This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after the completion of its publication in a newspaper of local circulation. ENACTED, February 22, 2022, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian present, there being a quorum.
CERTIFIED CORRECT: For in the absence of the Secretary:
ATTESTED:
MA. THERESA A. REYES Acting Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (Local Legislative Staff Officer IV)
EDGAR P. IBUYAN JR. President Pro Tempore Temporary Presiding Officer cns/ray
APR 8 APPROVED : ________________, 2022
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE 0384-10, SERIES OF 2010, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “ORGANIC AGRICULTURE ORDINANCE OF DAVAO CITY 2010”.
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JTF-Sulu, MNLF vow to end ASG terrorism The Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu and the Sulu island-based Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) have vowed to work together in ending the Abu Sayyaf Group terror activities in the province. Col. Allaric Avelino Delos Santos, JTF-Sulu civil-military office chief, said the agreement was reached when Sulu-based MNLF leader, Commander Abraham Joel, and JTF-Sulu commander, Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, met at Camp Gen. Teodulfo Bautista in the island’s capital town of Jolo. The meeting took place when Joel, along with his field commanders, recently visited Patrimonio in Camp Bautista, Delos Santos said. “I came here together
with my field commanders to convey our support to Maj. Gen. Patrimonio, who we treat as our brother, in fighting the ASG terrorists,” Joel was quoted by Delos Santos as saying. Patrimonio also thanked Joel for the assurance to support the peace and development campaign to end terrorism in Sulu. “It is assuring to know that we have come into understanding on our one purpose and one mission to totally end terrorism in the province of Sulu,” said Patrimonio, who is also the 11th Infantry Division (ID) commander. President Rodrigo Duterte led the activation of the 11ID during his visit at Camp Bautista in Barangay
Bus-Bus, Jolo, Sulu, in December 2018. The 11ID is dedicated to fighting the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-affiliated terrorist groups in Sulu. “Let us continue to collaborate in attaining our collective vision of lasting peace and sustainable development in Sulu,” Patrimonio said. Meanwhile, troops of the newly-organized 101st Infantry Battalion has undergone evaluation in the field weapons familiarization, marksmanship, signal operations, immediate action drills, military decision-making process, fire, and maneuvers. “The battalion is now combat ready,” Delos Santos said. (PNA)
The Bureau of Customs (BOC), Port of Davao hosted the BOC’s June 2022 Collectors’ Conference on June 4, 2022, in Davao City. Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero and the Bureau’s Deputy Commissioners, Directors, Division Chiefs, and District Collectors attended the said event. During the meeting, District Collectors discussed various accomplishments and concerns of their re-
spective collection districts. BOC’s collection performance including updates of its ICT systems and strategies to support the programs of BOC was also presented. Commissioner Guerrero commended their efforts and hard work for consistently exceeding the assigned revenue collection target for BOC while continuously improving the enforcement and trade fa-
cilitation capabilities of the Bureau. Also, Ports that were able to exceed the May 2022 assigned targets were awarded certificates of commendations such as Ports of San Fernando, Manila, Manila International Container Port, Batangas, Legaspi, Iloilo, Cebu, Tacloban, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga, Davao, Subic, Clark, Aparri, and Limay.
enough ang social media. Find and search for a reliable source like the Center for Disease Control ug WHO para makakuha mo og accurate information ug klaro,” she said. She reminded that children aged five to 11 are prone to contracting the virus as they are the ones not keen on wearing face masks all the time. She said seeing children running around in the malls without their face masks remains a great concern today. “If we can’t protect them sa transmission, protect them against the severity of the disease through vaccination. I’m afraid na mubalik na ang face-to-face classes nga wala’y layer of protection ang mga bata
kay dili biya gyud 100 percent ang mapa-wear og face masks. Dili assurance nga di ka matakdan kung magpabakuna, ang assurance is dili ka mamatay kung matakdan ka,” she said. It can be recalled that the city government of Davao is intensifying the vaccination rollout among the pediatric population by partnering with educational institutions that are now implementing face-to-face classes. The Vaccination Cluster and the regional office of the Department of Education (DepEd 11) for the school-based vaccination rollout in public and private schools in Davao City. On May 27, 2022, at least 60 to 70 children were inoculated at the San Roque
Elementary School during the pilot rollout. The mobile vaccination in public schools will resume tomorrow, June 10, at the Doña Soledad Dolor Elementary School in the First District, Buhisan Elementary School in the Second District, and Ramon F. Magsaysay Elementary School in the Third District. Parents and family members of children from these three schools are also encouraged to join the vaccination rollout. Meanwhile, as of June 3, 2022, of the 242,209 target vaccinees in the five to 11 age bracket, only 19,639 (8.11 percent) received their first doses and 15,990 (6.60 percent) got their second doses.
below the acceptable five percent positivity rate. “Kung ato gihapon basehan ang atoang acceptable positivity rate na 5 percent, it is still low pero sa nilabay na mga weeks ang atong positivy rate is less than one percent. This is the very first time na for a long time na nagkaroon ta ug 2.6 percent na positivity rate. Atong mga nilabay na mga adlaw isa lang atong case, in fact, naa halos wala ta’y cases,” she said. Meanwhile, based on the Regional Situation
Update on Covid-19 in Davao Region as of June 6, 2022, the Department of Health-Davao Region (DOHDavao Region) reported that healthcare utilization showed the regional hospital capacity at 24 percent for non-ICU bed use and 21.8 percent for ICU bed use. Only 38 admissions of 365 Covid-19 admissions were severe and critical. Out of the 38, only 2 (0.55% of the total admissions) were confirmed cases, while 36 were probable suspects. There were 29 new cases were recorded in
the past week which was 6.5 percent lower than cases reported the week before while two actual death cases were recorded in the past seven days and two cases are newly verified deaths recorded in the database. DOH-Davao Region reminded the public to continue practicing minimum public health standards: wear the best-fitted mask, isolate when sick, double up protection with vaccination and boosters, and ensure good airflow. By Maya M. Padillo
Port of Davao hosts June Collectors’ Conference
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DAVAO... FROM2
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Lorraine Grace Ugsang, employment focal person of the Department of Labor and Employment 11 (DOLE 11)-Davao City Field Office, discusses the details of the upcoming Kalayaan 2022 Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan (TNK) Job & Business Fair from June 10 to 12, at the NCCC Mall Buhangin, Davao City during this week’s Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall. Edge Davao
PH, Israel sign investment promotion, protection deal
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tion and compensation, and investor-state dispute settlement under the IPPA. Among the industries prioritized under the IPPA include agro-tech, life sciences and healthcare, water technologies, high-technology and semiconductors, cybersecurity, financial technology, defense industry, smart transportation, clean
technology, smart manufacturing, and the diamond industry. Lopez said the IPPA aims to encourage more Israeli businesses to look into investment opportunities in the Philippines. “The Philippines eyes Israel’s expertise on innovation, especially in new and smart technologies that will bring about more competitive and efficient products. On the other hand, Israeli investors expressed interest in investing in the infrastructure, agriculture and water, and business process outsourcing (BPO) sectors
in the Philippines,” he added. Aside from the IPPA, the Philippines and Israel also launched their Joint Economic Commission (JEC) and the cooperation agreement with Israel Innovation Authority. Lopez is in Israel this week to reaffirm trade and investment ties between the two countries even with the change in administration by the end of the month, and to invite Israeli businesses to invest in the country. “Israeli investors can certainly look forward to maximizing the gains from
May 26, 2022, total duties and taxes collected by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and excise tax collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on fuel imports amounted to P439.396 billion. Broken down, the BOC’s revenue stood at P409.58 billion while those from the BIR totaled P29.81 billion. The said revenue was collected from 42.104 bil-
lion liters of marked fuel. The fuel marking program is pursuant to the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN). The said program aims to curb oil smuggling. Imported fuel marked by the government using a special ink means that necessary import duties have been paid. The government has been firm in its stance
against proposals to suspend the collection of excise tax and VAT on petroleum products as it would result in billions worth of foregone revenues for the government. On Tuesday, the Malacañang reiterated that the collection of excise tax on oil cannot be suspended despite rising oil prices as the tax will fund government
he Philippines and Israel have vowed to strengthen bilateral economic relations by signing the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA). The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Secretary Ramon Lopez and Israel Finance Minister Avigdor Lieberman signed the IPPA in Jerusalem on June 7. The two countries agreed to cover national treatment, most favored nation treatment, free transfers, rules-based expropria-
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Gov’t collected P440B from import duties on fuel, excise tax as of late May: DOF
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he government has so far collected around P440 billion in excise tax and import duties, including value added tax (VAT), from petroleum products as of late May 2022 since the fuel marking scheme was implemented three years ago, data from the Department of Finance (DOF) showed. Based on DOF figures from September 4, 2019 to
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Mezzanine investor raising P1.5B for PH medium firms
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RQCapital Partners, a pioneer mezzanine investor in the Philippines, is raising PHP1.5 billion to fund the capital of 50 high-growth medium enterprises over the next two years. In a virtual press conference Wednesday, ARQ founding partner and chief executive officer Edmund Solilapsi said there are still few “smart capital” investors in the country, and the opportunity for the company remains huge in this untapped market. According to Investopedia, a mezzanine investor provides financing mostly to expanding established companies, which allows converting the debt to an equity interest in the company. Solilapsi said the country’s financing market is dominated by banks and non-bank financial institutions that seldom meet the capital requirements of enterprises in the growth phase. He said businesses in the start-up and early
stages are being funded by FFF (friends, families, and fools), business angels, and venture capital; while large enterprises can tap private equity or enter an initial public offering (IPO) for additional funding. The current structure of the market has left growing businesses, usually medium enterprises, with few institutions that can fund their expansion. “We typically support entrepreneurs requiring more than PHP25 million during their companies’ high-growth phase, especially those with revenues hitting between PHP100 million to PHP500 million,” ARQ co-founder and managing partner Abigail Tan said. Tan added that the current market size for “smart investors” could be around PHP25 billion, which is equivalent to 20 percent of 4,800 medium enterprises in the country. For this year alone, ARQ is funding 10 medium enterprises to support their
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ECONOMY A2
A vendor selling miniature Philippine flags waits for buyers along Tionko Avenue in Davao City on Wednesday (June 8, 2022). The country celebrates its 124th Independence Day on Sunday (June 12, 2022). MindaNews photo by GREGORIO BUENO
PRRD okays ‘Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan’ P
Fiscal consolidation needed vs hikes in debt-to-GDP ratio
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he increase of the Philippines’ debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio above the 60 percent international acceptable threshold during the pandemic remains acceptable as long as fiscal consolidation will be pursued. According to the study titled “Fiscal effects of the Covid-19 pandemic: Assessing public debt sustainability in the Philippines” made by a team from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), the country’s debt remains sustainable since the government continues to have cash buffers and because the uptick in the proportion of debt to the domestic output was mainly due to the pandemic. In a briefing before Department of Finance (DOF) officials on Wednesday, PIDS research fellow Margarita Debuque-Gonzales, the study’s lead author, said decline of the liabilities is feasible but this should not be the immediate goal. Instead, what should be focused on is to have a sound medium and longterm fiscal consolidation
plan, she said. In an interview with journalists, Debuque-Gonzales said there is a need for the economic team to have a fiscal consolidation plan that will support the continued recovery of the economy, which posted another expansion in the first quarter of 2022 to 8.3 percent from quarter-ago’s 7.8 percent and year-ago’s -3.8 percent. She said the government is on the right track because it is focused on sustaining the economic recovery. “In terms of fiscal consolidation, the emphasis will be on administration. Meaning, being able to collect more, improve collections so administrative efficiency. That’s going to be the focus,” she said. During the pandemic, the government’s fiscal deficit as a share of domestic output rose to 7.6 percent after posting its record-low of 3.4 percent in 2019. This was mainly due to higher borrowings that allowed the government to provide pandemic-related relief programs and ensure
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resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte has issued an executive order (EO) approving the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) aimed at boosting the competitiveness of the coconut farmers in the country. Under EO 172 inked on June 2, Duterte emphasized the significance of having a plan for the development of the coconut industry. “There is a need to approve the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan to increase overall productivity and income of coconut farmers, alleviate poverty, and achieve the twin objectives of rehabilitating and modernizing the coconut industry to attain social equity,” Duterte said
in the EO. EO 172 mandates the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), along with other concerned government agencies, to implement the CFIDP. “The CFIDP shall be reviewed annually to ensure its effective implementation, taking into consideration the absorptive capacity and performance of implementing agencies, as well as the outputs and outcomes of programs based
on key performance indicators,” the order read. The funds needed for the programs under the CFIDP will be taken from the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund under Republic Act (RA) 11524 or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act, as well as from the regular appropriations of implementing agencies. Consistent with RA 11524, the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund shall be “separate and distinct from the regular funds appropriated to the PCA,” the EO said. “In this regard, the PCA, together with other implementing agencies, shall continue to pursue their
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el tax services system or OTTSS platform on June 18. “The OTTSS will become the central online hub for all travel tax services,” TIEZA said in a statement. The tourism agency said the service was developed in partnership
with MyEG Philippines Incorporated, a provider of e-government solutions and payment services. “On behalf of TIEZA, It is with great pleasure that we welcome MyEG as our partner in continuous innovation to provide better service to our taxpayers.”
mandates of implementing programs and projects for the development of the coconut industry, from their respective regular appropriations and from funds under the Trust Fund,” the order said. The PCA, in consultation with concerned agencies and stakeholders, is also tasked to revisit and update the CFIDP every five years, subject to the President’s approval, to ensure that strategies and programs are “responsive to evolving industry needs,” according to the EO. The PCA and other implementing agencies may issue guidelines and advisory opinions or adopt
said TIEZA Chief Operating Officer, Mark Lapid. MyEG already provides online payment and logistics services for government agencies such as NBI clearance Application and Renewal, PhilHealth Voluntary Members Payment and BIR Tax Payment.
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Tourism agency to launch travel tax payment system
ourists will soon be able to pay their travel taxes online, an attached agency of the Department of Tourism said on Wednesday. The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) said it will launch its online trav-
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COMPETITIVE EDGE
4 things to expect at the #PMC2MillionStrong celebration
Power Mac Center (PMC) recently hit another milestone after its online community on Facebook reached two million followers. To celebrate, the premier Apple partner is hosting a fun shopping weekend in gratitude to its patrons and loyal Apple enthusiasts in the country. “The community we’ve built on Facebook has been instrumental in helping Power Mac Center grow into what it is today. With every engagement and interaction that we get on our social media pages, we are inspired to push harder in our mission of bringing world-class technology to Filipinos. This celebration is also our way of letting our patrons know how we’re thankful for our online community, as they help us improve how we serve their Apple needs. We look forward to more years of touching lives, sharing joy, and connecting with more people through technology and innovation,” said Joey Alvarez, PMC Director of Product Management, Marketing, and Space Planning. PMC’s Facebook community serves as an avenue to inspire Apple users to showcase their creativity, simply have fun, and also work together for worthy causes. To celebrate its monumental growth, PMC prepared special surprises for customers and lucky fans. …but first, a trip down memory lane PMC joined Facebook on January 4, 2009. Back
For many Filipinos, online shopping has become an integral part of their daily lives, as they continue to enjoy the numerous benefits of e-commerce. Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, recently launched a slew of initiatives with the aim of bringing a fun and seamless online shopping experience to even more Filipinos across the country. Part of Shopee’s efforts
then, it was cool to “poke” your friends and status updates can only begin with “is.” Over the years, it has built a lot of moments that led to the 2-million-strong PMC online community today. Among the most notable memories are the 20th anniversary celebration, which also coincided with the launch of 1 Infinite Access (then 1 Infinite Card) – PMC’s loyalty program; the successful blasting off into cyberspace of the Power Mac Center Web Store in 2019; and the much-anticipated annual launch of the latest iPhone series, particularly the “Journey to iPhone 13” livestream last year – PMC’s first-ever full online iPhone launch event. In all of these initiatives, fans generously shared their thoughts and their time to connect with fellow Apple lovers. See some of PMC’s monumental Facebook memories at Power Mac Center’s official Facebook page. Let’s take 5 (percent off) Now, this is the fun part! As a simple treat to all customers and Facebook followers, ALL devices and accessories can be purchased at any Power Mac Center store nationwide at 5% off from May 27 to 29, 2022. Take home the latest iPhone 13 in 256GB for only P56,990.50 from the original price of P59,990, or get as much as P10,000 off on the 16-inch MacBook Pro Apple M1 max chip 1TB Space Gray.
The promotion is valid for cash and straight transactions, including straight credit card, debit card, bank transfer, check, HomeCredit, GCash, GrabPay, WeChat, AliPay, PayMaya, Hello Money, UnionPay, BDO Pay, ShopeePay, QRPH, Power Mac Center gift certificate, and trade-in value. No vaccination card or 1 Infinite Access membership required, but other terms and conditions will apply. That shipping has sailed Should you prefer to do your shopping online, PMC is also offering FREE shipping nationwide for a
minimum purchase worth P2,500 on its official Web Store and Viber Store from May 27 to 29, 2022. Choose from a wide variety of devices and accessories, including iPhone, iPad, Watch, and Mac in a few clicks or taps on your device. Join the fun online! Stay updated on the latest announcements on deals, discounts, promos, and keep on visiting Power Mac Center’s Facebook page for more surprises in the coming weeks! Invite your family and friends to also like and follow PMC on Facebook so they can join
the #PMC2MillionStrong celebration. Established in 1994, PMC was born at a time when people didn’t think it was wise to invest in the Apple business. PMC’s founders embraced Steve Jobs’ “Think Different” mentality and built today’s largest network of Apple authorized retail stores, repair and service centers, and education resellers in the Philippines. It carries the entire Apple line in its stores, as well as a variety of premium products from partner brands. Even better, PMC allows
payments via installments with zero interest and no down payment to partner major banks and non-credit card installment options such as Home Credit to cater to all customers and enable them to invest in the quality of Apple devices that are easy on the pocket. Join the growing community and be updated on the latest announcements, deals, and discounts! Follow Power Mac Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-143655 Series of 2022
includes the continued expansion of its Shopee Xpress hubs across the Visayas region. By establishing more hubs in Cebu City, Bogo, Moalboal, and other areas in Visayas, Shopee has expanded its serviceable areas, allowing Visayan shoppers to enjoy a wider product assortment, as well as faster and cheaper delivery. Through this expansion, Shopee was also able to introduce Visayas Bara-
to Deals—special offers, shipping discounts, and more promos exclusively for Bisaya shoppers, in line with the launch of its 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale. “We have always believed in the transformative power of technology to connect buyers and sellers within the community, no matter where they are. By expanding our serviceable areas within the Visayas region, we aim to give our Visayan shoppers a seamless online shopping experience at Shopee, as we go through every step of this exciting e-commerce journey together,” shared Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines. In line with these efforts to improve the overall online shopping experience for Filipinos across the country, four Cebuano shoppers shared about the benefits they’ve enjoyed throughout their e-commerce journey with Shopee.
A rewarding shopping experience that offers great value for money Grashelle, 35, became an online shopper when she found out she was pregnant. As an expectant mother, online shopping made things more convenient, and with Shopee, she was able to get the best deals. “Cebuanos like myself generally look for products that offer the best value for money. With its lower shipping fees, cheaper prices, and wide variety of products, Shopee has become my e-commerce platform of choice. Compared to when I first started shopping on Shopee, I noticed that shipping in Cebu has gotten faster, and that makes everything even more convenient.” Online shopping made easy and fun With his tight schedule as a physical therapist, Vincent, 27, needed an easier way to shop, and
that’s when he discovered Shopee. “Once I got the hang of using the Shopee app, everything else followed. Apart from shopping, I got hooked on the games, especially Shopee Bubble and Shopee Candy. Shopee not only gives me a convenient way to shop, it’s also a fun in-app experience with all the games, flash deals, and more.” Patricia, 26, started shopping online in 2017 after hearing about all its benefits from her friends, and she has been a Shopee user ever since. From pet care needs to fashion finds, she always has a great time shopping on Shopee. “My favorite part about Shopee is the excitement you get when you’re waiting for your parcel. I check the status of my order every day because I love the feeling of anticipation when waiting for my Shopee parcel to arrive. It’s also fun to window shop online, and
add items to my cart that I can’t wait to check out.” Bigger discounts and better deals on Double Day sales As an enthusiast of custom PC building, Ernest, 19, purchases all his PC parts and tech needs on Shopee. Since most of his orders are electronics, he often shops during the Double Day sales so he can get bigger discounts and exclusive vouchers. “With the upcoming 7.7 Mid-Year Sale, I’m looking forward to the lower shipping fees in Visayas, since it used to be more expensive in Cebu. I’ve always been a big Shopee fan and with my experience through the years, I’ve been able to find everything I need and save more with Shopee’s deals and offers.” Don’t miss exclusive shipping discounts, 10% off vouchers, ₱66 and ₱77 deals, and more at Shopee’s 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale!
Shopee expands hubs in Visayas to deliver a better shopping experience to Filipinos
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DavOr to establish AM radio station PH Eagle exhibit opens
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n official of the Philippine Eagle Foundation bared that this week they celebrate the “Agilaya, Lasting freedom for the Philippine Eagle,” highlighting the threats faced by the Philippine Eagle in the country today. Andi Baldonato, development program manager of the Philippine Eagle Foundation said twelve eagles have been received by the foundation, since the pandemic. She revealed one of the three eagles had been shot, or trapped. They also want to highlight the threat of the Avian Influenza. Baldonato said that 34 eagles at the center are threatened to be contaminated by the Avian Influ-
enza, especially with the contamination happening in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, less than a hundred kilometers from the PEF. “If there’s one case detected in Davao City, we have no choice but to lock down the center,” she said as one case near spreads like wild fire and contaminates the Philippine Eagle. She also revealed they also celebrate the 35 years of the Philippine Eagle Foundation where the pictorials at the SM Lanang Atrium feature the milestones of the foundation which rears the Philippine Eagle in captivity. Badonato said the PEF recalls the existence of PAG-ASA, the first Phil-
ippine Eagle which was bred and hatched in the center. She said the preserved specimen of PAG-ASA is present in their exhibit at the SM Lanang-Lanang Premiere. Baldonato disclosed that they also feature the offspring of Pag-asa, called Mabuhay, the female eagle which was the first in the second generation of eagles, hatched at the Philippine Eagle Center. She bared that on Monday, June 13, they will be releasing another Philippine Eagle in Sarangani Province, calling it with the same name of the province called Sarangani. (PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)
programs. The Department of Budget and Management earlier said the government will lose P117 billion in revenues or 0.5% of the country’s gross domestic product if the government suspends the collection of excise tax on petroleum products. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, likewise, said that the projected P147 billion to be collected from excise tax and VAT on oil imports this year is already allocated in the 2022 national budget, which means such revenues have been allotted for spending on government projects and programs. As it ruled out suspending the collection of fuel taxes, the Duterte administration opted to release cash subsidies for the public transport and the agriculture sectors amounting to P5 billion and P1.1 billion, respectively. The Finance Department has argued that proposals aimed at suspending fuel taxes would result in a wider fiscal gap which would compel the government to borrow more.
The DOF said that the government’s running debt stock would have ballooned to P15.4 trillion or P2.2 trillion more than the projected P13.2 trillion by the end of 2022 had the Duterte administration yielded to legislators’ pressure to pass all pandemic relief measures and suspend the fuel excise tax. The current rates for the major petroleum products are as follows: P10 per liter for gasoline, P6 per liter for diesel, P5 per liter for kerosene, and P3 per liter for LPG. Due to increased demand and supply challenges aggravated by the Russia-Ukraine war, global prices have been increasing. Locally, pump prices have so far been on an uptrend for most of the year, with only eight weekly rollbacks implemented in 2022. Latest data available from the Department of Energy (DOE) show that yearto-date adjustments stand at a net increase of P23.85 per liter for gasoline, P30.30 per liter for diesel, and P27.65 per liter for kerosene as of May 31, 2022.
growth as they recover from the pandemic. Tan said the company aims to support “building
blocks of transformation” assisting the country’s economic recovery. These sectors include
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o serve the information needs of its constituents particularly those in far-flung barangays the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental will be building an AM radio station that will be operated and run by its Provincial Information Office.
information officer said during her message. The establishment of a radio station will have a P10-million budget and taken from a Landbank loan undertaken by the province. “Ito ay proyekto ng provincial government, isa ito sa nilagyan natin ng pondo dahil nakita natin na kelangan na ng provincial government ang isang radio station,” Governor Dayanghirang said. With the AM radio station, the province will have unlimited time in broadcasting its programs as compared to paying blocktime to private radio stations. Deloso however stressed that the radio station will not be competing with private broadcasting entities. (PIA/RG Alama)
During the groundbreaking of the radio tower at a 1,000 square meter property in Barangay Dahican, Mati City, Governor Nelson Dayanghirang of Davao Oriental said that the radio station will bring to the people the programs of the government through information. “Ang mga programa sa gobyerno dapat mapaabot jud nato sa pinaka-tumoy nga lugar sa atong probinsiya, (Our programs in the government should reach the farthest locality in our province),” the
outgoing Governor and incoming First District Congressman said. The local government run radio station will have a 5-kilowatt radio tower that can reach distant areas in the province. It will be using a Studio Transmitter Link (STL) technology where the remote studio is located at the Provincial Capitol Complex. “This radio station will answer our communication gaps. The Governor gave attention to our needs in disseminating information,” Karen Lou Deloso, provincial
specific policy recommendations and actions relative to the full implementation of the CFIDP, sans the need for further approval of the President. “It is understood, however, that all policies or courses of action to be adopted shall be consistent with RA No. 11524 and the CFIDP, and that the same are properly coordinated with and endorsed by the PCA Board,” EO 172 said. All departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the government are directed to provide full assistance to and cooperation with the PCA and other implementing agencies of the CFIDP, to mobilize the necessary resources for the implementation of the plan. The directive covers state universities and colleges, government-owned or -controlled corporations, and government financial institutions. The EO also enjoins local government units to help the PCA and other implementing agencies of the CFIDP.
Section 4 of RA 11524 directs the PCA to develop the CFIDP that will implement programs for the establishment of community-based enterprises, as well as for the provision of social protection for coconut farmers, farm workers, and their families. The plan also seeks projects that will focus on the organization and development of coconut farmers; the conduct of innovative research for the development of the domestic coconut industry; and the integrated processing of coconut and downstream products. On February 28, the PCA Board adopted and endorsed the proposed CFIDP after a series of consultations with concerned government agencies, coconut farmers and other stakeholders. EO 172, which was made public on Wednesday, takes effect immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. (PNA)
the continued implementation of the infrastructure program. The study said the national government’s debtto-GDP ratio will peak in 2023 at 66.8 percent before it gradually declines in the succeeding years. “It is assumed that the country will make efforts toward fiscal consolidation, maintaining the 1.7 percent of GDP primary deficit from 2024 to 2027,” it said. Primary deficit is defined as the amount of liabilities less interest payments. The government’s pandemic-related borrowings reached PHP3.2 trillion.
Debuque-Gonzales said the rise of the country’s debt-to-GDP level, which stood 60.5 percent as of 2021, “doesn’t really mean anything”. “So, it’s really the job of the government and the economic managers to show the credit raters that we’re still fine even in that rate and we’ll slowly cut it down and you can depend on us. So, that will sort of calm the market,” she said. “The message we are leaving is… you cannot really go back to pre-pandemic debt (level) that easily. And you don’t need to insist on going back,” she added. (PNA)
the game-changing legislative amendments, such as the liberalization of the public services act, retail trade liberalization law, and the foreign investments act and now is the most opportune time to do so,” he said. Israel ranked 34th as the Philippines’ trading partner, being the 39th export mar-
ket and 31st import source. The outgoing DTI chief has been active in the past six years in expanding trade and investment relations of the country, especially with non-traditional markets. Aside from Israel, Lopez will be signing the IPPA with the United Arab Emirates this week. (PNA)
technology, telecommunications, financial services, digitization and digital payments, renewable en-
ergy, food and agriculture, healthcare, and affordable housing. To date, ARQ has de-
ployed PHP1.17 billion. Some 17 companies have exited through the help of the mezzanine
funder, which means these firms have successfully graduated to the next level. (PNA)
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SPORTS
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Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (L), drives by Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (R), during the first half of Game 3 of the NBA Finals at TD Garden, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, 08 June 2022. CJ Gunther, EPA-EFE.
Tatum, Brown spark Celtics over Warriors for NBA Finals 2-1 lead B OSTON -- Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined for 53 points as the Boston Celtics outmuscled the Golden State Warriors 116-100 to take a 2-1 lead in the NBA Finals on Wednesday.
Boston, bullied by the Warriors in a game two blowout in San Francisco on Sunday, bounced back with a dominant physical performance to regain the initiative in the best-ofseven series in a pulsating clash at the Celtics’ TD Garden. Brown led Boston scoring with 27 points, while Tatum had 26 points and Marcus Smart 24 as the Celtics moved to within two wins of a record 18th NBA crown. Robert Williams III was the star of a rejuvenated Boston defensive performance, hauling in 10 rebounds, blocking four shots and pilfering three steals to
frustrate the Warriors. Stephen Curry led Golden State with 31 points while Klay Thompson rediscovered his scoring touch with 25, but it was not enough for Steve Kerr’s side. Celtics coach Ime Udoka pinpointed the rugged physical displays of Williams and Al Horford as a key to the win. “We want to try to impose our will and size in this series,” Udoka said. “It’s going to be a back-andforth battle as far as that, but when we get nights like this from (Williams and Horford), obviously it pays dividends for us.” Warriors coach Kerr
meanwhile said his team had been “plugging holes” throughout. “They did a good job. They earned the win. They put a lot of pressure on us and felt like we were kind of swimming upstream most of the night,” Kerr said. It looked as if a Warriors comeback was on the cards after a Curry three-pointer late in the third quarter gave Golden State their first lead since the opening seconds of the game at 83-82. But Boston refused to buckle and regained the initiative to lead by four points heading into the final quarter. The Celtics then surged clear with a 9-2 run at the start of the fourth to jump out to an 11-point lead before closing out a deserved victory. A miserable night for Golden State was capped by defensive talisman Dray-
mond Green fouling out in the fourth quarter to a cacophony of jeers from the Boston crowd. “He had a tough game, but I trust Draymond as much as I trust anybody,” Kerr said. “He always bounces back from losses and from tough nights individually. He’ll be back on Friday.” - Fast start Earlier, the Celtics had jumped on the Warriors in the first quarter, racing into a 10-4 lead. With Boston’s defense swarming all over Golden State, the Warriors were never able to generate any scoring momentum. Instead it was Boston who kept the scoreline ticking over with Brown leading the way as the Celtics moved into a 15-point lead before finishing the first 11 points clear. The Warriors improved
share kid-friendly wholebody warm-ups and stretches. “Proper warm-ups and stretches will increase blood flow in the muscles and loosen joints a bit to prevent tears or bad twists when we exercise. This is especially needed in kids because they are
still learning how to do proper form when exercising.” PSC Women in Sports Commissioner oversight Celia H. Kiram said. “While kids will not likely associate play with exercise, playing is a physical activity that allows them to move and use their muscles, and there
their shooting markedly in the second quarter but a determined Boston maintained their double-digit advantage, outscoring the Warriors 35-34. There were signs of a Warriors revival after the Celtics had stretched into an 18-point lead midway through the quarter, with Thompson and Curry both knocking down threes to help reduce the deficit to seven points at 56-49. But whenever the Warriors seemed poised to close the gap further, Boston responded with a big play. Al Horford’s steal set up a dunk for Brown, who finished the half with 22 points as the Celtics took a 68-56 half-time lead. Boston started the third quarter in the same manner, managing to re-establish a double-digit cushion whenever Golden State made a dent in the Celtics
lead. Eventually, though, the Warriors’ offensive pressure told and the momentum shifted in a matter of seconds when Curry’s three-pointer cut the Boston lead to six points at 82-76 with just over five minutes in the period remaining. A flagrant foul by Horford turned it into a fourpoint play and Otto Porter Jr’s three-pointer from 26ft made it a two-point game. But Boston powered back with Grant Williams draining a three-pointer to put the Celtics seven points clear at 93-86 before Thompson hit back from beyond the arc to make it a four-point game heading into the fourth. Any hopes of a Warriors recovery were snuffed out in the Celtics decisive burst of scoring in the final period. (Agence France-Presse)
PSC’s web series promotes injury prevention in sports
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hile the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) encourages people of all ages to take up sports and be active, the agency highly encourages everyone to ensure that no injuries will be sustained in the process. In line with this, PSC’s
web series ‘Rise Up! Shape Up!’ will demonstrate some basic warm-up exercises in a special webisode on Saturday, June 11 featuring Professors Emman Papa and Michaela Angela Sales, both from the University of the Philippines-College of Human Kinetics. The two will
is still a risk of injury. Since play is significant in a child’s growth, we want them to enjoy playing as a physical activity but free from injury,” added Kiram who will also talk about play and playground in the “K-Isport” segment. Joining the program is Cagayan State University
College of Human Kinetics Professor Darwin Robin Tuliao who will share some safety gears for kids that can help prevent injuries. PSC’s Rise Up Shape Up is streaming live on Facebook and YouTube on Saturdays and Sundays at 7 PM
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VOL.15 ISSUE 49 • FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2022
FORE THE LOVE
Fore-Ever-Golf tournament set July 30 at RPV course BY NEIL BRAVO
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t’s back to the fairways for Davao City’s golfing community as the Forefathers Golf Association Inc. host the Fore-Ever-Golf tournament at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club on July 30.
Golfing lawyer Ed Batacan in file photo after an eagle miss at Rancho Palos Verdes.
The 18-hole golfest which will be played under System 36 format, tees off at 6:00 am and 11:00 am on both shotgun starts. At stake are titles in the men’s division Class A (0-9 handicap), Class B (10-19), Class C (20 and up with max 27 hcp) and the ladies division. Class net and gross champions, net and gross runners up and the overall net and gross champions will receive trophies and prizes.
Proceeds of the tournament will go to the Animal Rescue Rehabilitation and Fostering-Davao Inc. (ARRF-Davao). Registration fee is pegged at P3,000 with free mulligan. Hole-in-one prizes include a brand new car, motorcycle, television and air-condition set. For inquiries, contact Atty. Ed Batacan 09171147322, Bob Lacaya 09688564270 and Jan Barraqias 09998849047.