Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 74 | Saturday, July 9, 2022

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VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

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NBI 11 vows to dig deeper into Mangacop’s killing

The parents of Amierkhan Mangacop, the 19-year old that was shot and killed by a non-uniformed personnel of the Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) last July 2, 2022, can’t contain their emotion as they face the media during a presser at the residence of the victim’s uncle in Eymard Subdivision, El Rio Vista, Davao City on Friday. Edge Davao

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VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

National Bureau of Investigation 11 (NBI 11) personnel present the motorcycle helmet that Amierkhan Mangacop was wearing when he was shot and killed by a non-uniformed personnel of the Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) last July 2, 2022 at a bar in Davao City. Edge Davao

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Barangay councilman in SoCot removed as 4Ps beneficiary

NBI 11 vows to dig deeper into Mangacop’s killing

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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fficials of the National Bureau of Investigation 11 (NBI 11) vowed to dig deeper and conduct a thorough parallel investigation in the case of Amierkhan Mangacop after the City Prosecutor’s Office issued an order requiring all investigative units to submit additional pieces of evidence.

This developed after the request of the victim’s family that the investigation and case files including those in the possession of the PNP Davao Cybercrime Unit for Forensic be transferred to NBI 11.

Mangacop, a 19-yearold Grade 9 student, was shot seven times outside Lugar Bar in J. Camus Ex-

tension, Brgy. 9-A, Davao City in Davao City on July 2, 2022. Tagged as a suspect in the killing is Dr. Marvin Rey Andrew Roflo Pepino, PNP Non-Uniformed Personnel of PRO 11 and son of the late Police BGen Marvin Manuel Pepino.

Juhary Guro, investigative agent of NBI 11, told the media that the inves-

tigating team will be conducting a reenactment this coming Monday at the site of the crime to determine the trajectory of the bullets and other matters that will help the investigation.

“The reenactment should be done where the incident happened. I don’t think ang may ari ng bar will not cooperate,” Guro said in a press conference on Friday at the NBI Regional Office.

“The process of reenactment for us is not that really complex because the incident happened outside. We are clear on that sa labas nangyari sa parking lot. The owner would really cooperate otherwise they would

be facing another charge which is obstruction of justice,” added Ely Leano, also an investigative agent and spokesperson of NBI 11.

Vic Caño, also an investigative agent, said NBI 11 is still verifying the identity of the owner of the bar.

Guro is appealing and requesting all those present in the incident to voluntarily cooperate with NBI 11 and also to those who uploaded the video clips on social media to voluntarily cooperate and submit to NBI 11 the video that they have taken during the shooting incident.

“All persons who are present in the incident are

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barangay councilman who was reported to have been receiving a monthly cash aid from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) has already been delisted, an official of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said.

Barangay Kagawad Dexter Donasco of San Vicente in Banga town in South Cotabato, reportedly remained a 4Ps beneficiary for eight years despite his being a government official.

DSWD Region 12 director Restituto Macuto said they have been updating and delisting unqualified beneficiaries like Donasco of the monthly cash grant for identified poorest of the poor households.

There are now only 174,705 household beneficiaries in the region, Macuto said on Wednesday.

He said they have so far removed 1,231 names

from their list of beneficiaries for various reasons, including death and economic status, like when a beneficiary is already earning well and no longer needs cash assistance from the government.

But Macuto clarified that Donasco became a beneficiary when he was not yet a barangay official.

“He was already delisted,” the DSWD director said of Donasco.

On June 29, the Banga municipal council suspended Donasco for two months and slapped him with administrative charges for stealthily benefiting from 4Ps despite his being a government official.

San Vicente barangay chairperson Elpedio Patarata said Donasco refused to waive the 4Ps benefits despite having been told by DSWD personnel.

Patarata said Donasco was suspended for overt-

town of Maguindanao,” he said.

Aron ran and lost in the vice mayoral race of Barira town during the May 9 elections.

Two of the rifles confiscated from Aron were registered with the Baguio City police based on the data from the Philippine National Police, Cabalona said.

Aside from the loose firearms, police also recovered three fragmenta-

also dismantled the ‘Latip Criminal Gang’ in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao, and accepted firearms from Dawlah Islamiya terrorists who surrendered in Lanao del Sur,” Cabalona said.

The offenders were charged with the violation of Republic Act 10591, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. (PNA)

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PH Covid-19 vaccination plateaus, 118 loose firearms seized in BARMM 118 assorted Usop Sanggacala Aron, tion grenades from civilgov’t to ramp up booster program ome firearms were con- chairman of Barangay ians. fiscated across the Rumirimbang in Barira “Our police operatives

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he Philippines’ COVID-19 vaccination has “plateaued” to 200,000 daily jabs since March, the Department of Health said Friday.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos has instructed the DOH to ramp up COVID booster uptake as virus cases rise and immunity wanes, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said.

All regions have yet to administer booster shots

to 50 percent of their target population, said the DOH spokesperson and interim chairperson of the National Vaccination Operations Center.

Metro Manila is the closest to reaching the target, having vaccinated 43 percent of its target population, Vergeire added.

“Ilalapit po natin sa mga komunidad ang mga bakuna. Kasama po dito ang paggawa ng pagsusuyod sa mga lugar na malayo.

We will go house-to-house for our senior citizens,” she said in a televised briefing.

(We will offer vaccination closer to the communities. This will include going to far-flung areas.)

“We will be mobilizing and asking help from the DOH, Department of Labor and Employment, DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) at sa iba pang ahensya ng gobyerno para maging

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Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) since last week, a police official here said Friday.

Brig. Gen. Arthur Cabalona, the BARMM police director, said the firearms were confiscated during a series of law enforcement operations in the region from June 27 to July 7.

“Among the firearms recovered by the police were seven rifles from

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

NEWS

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Angie Lina Dela Cruz, information officer II of the Office of Civil Defense 11, says during Kapihan at NCCC VP in Davao City on Friday that flooding is still the leading disaster that is being experienced in Davao Region. Edge Davao

We thought he has a future in Davao City: Amier’s uncle Dela Rosa: Spare NAIA from Marcos-Aquino ‘tug of war’

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or Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, it is better to rename the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) back to Manila International Airport (MIA) than to pass a law naming it after late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. The lawmaker said the country’s major airport should be spared from the political row between the Aquinos and the Marcoses.

“I don’t want this facility to be dragged into a...tug of war between Aquino and Marcos,” Dela Rosa said.

“To be fair about it, to be neutral about it, ibalik na lang natin sa dating pangalan na Manila International Airport. Hindi na ‘yung gawing Marcos, gawing Aquino. Para mawala ang politics, balik natin sa Manila International Airport para tapos ang usapan,” the senator added.

(To be neutral about it, we should just bring back its original name, the Manila International Airport.

We should not name it after Marcos or Aquino so there will be no politics involved.)

The lawmaker was reacting to a bill proposed by Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves Jr. In filing his bill, Teves

said it is more appropriate to name NAIA to Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., the father of newly-installed President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., as the former “contributed to the idea and execution of the said noble project.”

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, who ran under the banner of Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte in the 2022 polls, gave the same position as Dela Rosa, saying renaming NAIA after the president’s father will just spark quarrel between the “yellows” and “reds.”

Meanwhile, lone opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros sees no need to change the name of NAIA, explaining that it was named after Ninoy Aquino to remind the Filipinos of the People Power Revolution.

Apart from Teves’ bill, Duterte Youth Party-List Representative Drixie Mae Cardema also filed House Bill 1253 which seeks to rename NAIA to MIA. The party-list representative argued that “the name of the international gateway of the country should have not been politicized in the first place.”

In 1987, the Manila In-

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

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rief and anger poured in during an emotional press conference with Amierkhan Mangacop’s parents and his uncle Anwar Mangacop along with their legal counsel Atty. Andrew Cabahug on Friday.

N i n e t e e n - ye a r - o l d Mangacop was shot seven times on July 2, 2022, at the parking area of Lugar Bar in J. Camus Extension, Brgy.

9-A, Davao City in Davao City. Tagged as suspect in the killing is Dr. Marvin Rey Andrew Roflo Pepino, PNP Non-Uniformed Personnel

of PRO 11 and son of the late Police BGen Marvin Manuel Pepino.

His uncle told media that Amierkhan, who was separated from his parents at an early age, wanted to be a seaman to help his family, especially his parents who are both farmers.

“Si Amierkhan sa akin nakatira since bata pa dahil sa murang edad nawalay na siya sa magulang niya dahil sa hirap ng buhay. Ang kuya ko (Amier’s father) farmer pati asawa niya. Magulang lang sa isang kahig, isang tuka ang ilang kinabuhi, dili nila kaya pa eskwelahon ang ilang anak mao na ako’y nagpa eskwela kay nagtuo gyud mi nga naay future si Amier diri sa Davao City,” he said.

He added that his nephew has a promising future.

Si Amier nahimo ko niyang idol kay ako nagsugod

ko as messenger, janitor, ang akong kinabuhi. Karon ang nagging hanapbuhay namin ay landscaper po kami. Tumutulong yan si Amier, self-supporting din yan, nag-iipon na para matulungan niya ang papa at mama niya,” he said.

He said that doctors like Pepino are supposed to be saving lives not taking them.

“Very promising pa ang kinabuhi sa akoang pag umangkon, unya gipusil ra , doctor pa gyud na instead na mu save ug lives

said street was targeted to start by mid-June, however, was not pushed through.

“For Ramon Magsaysay, we mentioned na mag-commence or groundbreaking or masugdan mid of June however, naa’y delay sa pagkuha sa ubang necessary documents and but nakuha na ang permits for excavation and expect

by July 16 magsugod na ug excavation ug i-open na ang mga naay markers,” said Fermin Edillon, DLPC

Reputation Enhancement Department head.

Meanwhile, Edillon reported that underground cabling along San Pedro Street is 70 percent complete.

“Nagsugod nata ug butang ug wires sa primary line, ang primary line mao ning mga linya ibutang nato ilalom sa dalan, main road.

Kaning main road nato na cover na ug na restore na nato,” he said.

He said ongoing works

are restoring the sidewalk along San Pedro St.

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Excavation works for Magsaysay Ave underground cabling to start July 16

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avao Light and Power Company (DLPC) is set to commence the excavation works in Ramon Magsaysay Avenue for the underground cabling on July 16, 2022.

Last month, road markings along the street of Ramon Magsaysay Ave. became viral as it signals the next implementation of the underground cabling project of the city government of Davao. The actual construction work along the

“Sa sidewalk nato ibutang ang secondary lines.

Ang primary ibutang nato sa dalan and secondary lines ibutang nato sa sidewalk. Sa sidewalk walay excavation restored na tanan, however, kung naa moy makita na opening sa sidewalk dili na under sa DLPC,” he said.

Edillon said DLPC is

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VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

Marcos eyes cooperation with private sector to help farmers P

resident Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has sought the cooperation of the private sector to provide support to the farmers.

In a Facebook post, Marcos shared photos of his meeting with members of the Private Sector Advisory Council at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Thursday.

Marcos, who concurrently serves as the agriculture czar, said he was “excited” to partner with the private sector in improving the agricultural sector.

“I thank the members of the Private Sector Advisory Council for joining us in a meeting to discuss and exchange ideas about scaling up our agricultural sector,” he said. “It is refreshing to hear ideas from them, and I’m excited to establish programs with the cooperation of the private sector to help our farmers.”

Marcos, however, did not elaborate on the specific programs that he intends to implement to boost the agriculture industry.

In a press briefing on July 5, Marcos vowed to look for long-term solutions to address the problems plaguing the country’s agriculture sector.

He made the commitment as he stressed that having “robust” agriculture is key to building a stronger economy.

Marcos also emphasized the need to boost the production of staples such as rice and corn, as well as livestock and fisheries.

He said one of the short-term solutions is to increase food production for the rest of 2022.

He also vowed to look for ways to address the food price crisis.

“We still have to feed our people and so, we still have to find strategies to make sure that those who are in need are supported by the government as best as we can do,” Marcos said. (PNA)

DA-10 forges deal with Bukidnon farmer’s group after ‘viral’ post

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he Department of Agriculture in Northern Mindanao (DA-10) signed a marketing agreement with a farmer organization in the Bukidnon town of Lantapan after images of dumped tomatoes went “viral” on Facebook.

In a statement Thursday, DA-10 Director Carlene Collado said it has partnered with the Lantapan Vegetable Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative to assist its members for a market tie-up with a bulk buyer, AgriGlobal Ventures Inc. Earlier reports said Lod Guinayon, of Barangay AlaPresident Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. seeks the cooperation of the private sector to provide support to the farmers. Office of the Presi- nib in Lantapan, transportdent ed 56 boxes of tomatoes or 1,400 kilos to be sold to the dealers and vendors at the Westbound Public Market in Barangay Bulua here on July 5. A box contained 25 kilos of tomatoes.

Guinayon should have earned PHP16,800 from the 56 boxes as each box sells for PHP300.

Collado said based on an investigation by the epartment of Trade ship meeting, Pascual said “Digitizing merchant digitalization of processes agency’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Diand Industry (DTI) he envisions the adoption payments is of utmost im- of retailers,” he said.

Secretary Alfre- of digital transformation portance and that will be Amid rising com- vision, the buying price for do Pascual on Thursday down to micro, small, an important instrument modity prices, Pascual “unripe and of good qualiurged retailers to acceler- and medium enterprises for facilitating transac- enjoined retailers to co- ty” tomatoes was PHP300 ate the adoption of digital (MSMEs) to help them im- tions between consumers operate with the DTI for per box.

“His (Guinayon) protechnology in their oper- prove their productivity, and retailers. I urge PRA consumer protection and duce ripened and was ofations for them to thrive enhance efficiency, reduce to recalibrate and acceler- empowerment. on the challenging path to costs, and earn more prof- ate digital transformation, “We aim to ensure the fered to be bought at only recovery. it. especially of micro, small, availability of basic neces- PHP100 to PHP150 per During the Philippine The new DTI chief also and medium enterprises, sities and prime commod- box, which prompted him Retailers Association encouraged retailers to by the promotion of dig- ities to our fellow Filipinos to back load his produce (PRA) general member- promote digital payment. ital payments, as well as FDTI, P10 and be dumped in their

DTI asks retailers to speed up digital transformation

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area,” Collado said.

Collado said DA-10 continuously provides logistics support and facilities through its “Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita” program, which aims to assist local government units, farmer cooperatives, and livelihood associations.

“The undersigned is encouraging farmer cooperatives and associations to coordinate with their respective municipal agriculture office and the DA-10 and participate in its program and projects that will capacitate and link them to proper market linkages,” he said.

In an interview, Neptali Ambos, Lantapan municipal agriculture officer, said Guinayon was not able to dispose of his produce right away, causing it to ripen.

He said Guinayon could have availed of government programs such as the free transport service being offered by the DA. To ensure Guinayon and other farmers would not experience the same situation, Ambos said the farmers would also need trading posts and processing centers.

A request has been made, but it remains pending before the DA, he added.

Ambos noted that for the April-July planting season, local farmers are expected to harvest 50 tons of tomatoes. (PNA)

VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

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ECONOMY

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Mall goers check the Davao-made chocolate products and other items on display in the ongoing Chocolate Fair at Abreeza mall in Davao City on Friday. Edge Davao

Fitch Solutions expects further weakening of peso in ‘22, ‘23

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xpectations for the further widening of the Philippines’ current account (CA) deficit made Fitch Solutions Country Risk and Industry Research forecast for the continued weakening of the local currency for this and next year.

In a commentary released to journalists on Thursday, Fitch Solutions projects the peso to average at PHP54.30 to a US dollar this year and at PHP56.40 next year.

Previously, its 2022 average peso-US dollar forecast is PHP52.30 and the 2023, PHP53.00.

To date, the local unit is trading at the 55-level against the greenback.

“The widening of the Philippines’s current account deficit coupled with tightening global monetary conditions will likely exert further downward pressure on the peso,” the commentary said.

Fitch Solutions now eyes the country’s CA deficit to increase to around 4.3 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) from 2.4 percent previously.

Citing Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data, it said the country’s CA deficit as of the first quarter of 2022 stands at around 5 percent of the domestic output, higher than the 3.5 percent of the GDP in the last quarter of 2021.

It traced this development to the 27.8-percent year-on-year growth in imports in the first three

months this year, higher than the 5.9-percent growth of exports during the same period.

“Over the coming quarters, we expect the current account balance to remain in a deficit due to elevated commodity prices and strong import demand, especially after the government implemented a slew of tariff cuts in an attempt to tame rising prices,” it said.

These tariff reduction measures include the extension until end-2022 of the lower tariff rate for rice imported outside South East Asia, from 40-50 percent to 35 percent; corn, from 35-50 percent to 5-15 percent; pork, from 30-40 percent to 15-25 percent; and the temporary removal of the 7-percent duty on coal.

Relatively, it said tightening the monetary conditions also contributes to the widening of the country’s CA deficit since it weighs on risk sentiments.

“As major central banks around the world turn increasingly hawkish and continue hiking rates aggressively, capital will likely be diverted away from emerging economies such as the Philippines, and into fixed income assets in developed countries which are considered less risky,” it said.

Interest rate differentials will also come to play, it said, citing that investors’

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PH gross int’l reserves shrink to $102 in June T he country’s foreign currency reserves declined as of end-May this year as the national government settled its external obligations, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported Friday.

Preliminary BSP data showed that the Philippines’ gross international reserves (GIR)—a measure of a country’s ability to settle import payments and service foreign debt— stood at $101.98 billion as of end-June, from $103.65 billion as of end-May. GIR or foreign exchange reserves are assets held by a central bank, which in-

clude gold and foreign currencies, to back liabilities.

In particular, the BSP reserve assets consist of foreign investments, gold, foreign exchange, reserve position in the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and special drawing rights.

“The month-on-month decrease in the GIR level reflected mainly the national government’s payments of

its foreign currency debt obligations and downward adjustment in the value of the BSP’s gold holdings due to the decrease in the price of gold in the international market,” the central bank said.

The latest GIR level represents a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 8.5 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income, according to the BSP. By convention, GIR is viewed to be adequate if it can finance at least three months’ worth of the coun-

universal bank was the only financial institution that tapped the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) peso rediscount facility in the first half of 2022 and availed a total of PHP11.6 billion worth of loans.

BSP, in a press release on Thursday, said the

loans were secured by the bank, which it did not identify, using credit instruments that qualified under the Commercial and Other Credits.

It said 97.72 percent of the loan was under Other Credits and was for capital asset expenditures while the balance of 2.28 per-

cent was under Commercial Credits that funded importation activities.

The BSP, meanwhile, said there is still no availment under the Exporters’ Dollar and Yen Rediscount Facility so far this year “The last availment (USD rediscounting loan) under the said facility was

try’s imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

Moreover, the end-June GIR is also about 7.3 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 4.6 times based on residual maturity.

Short-term debt based on residual maturity refers to outstanding external debt with an original maturity of one year or less, plus principal payments on medium- and long-term loans of the public and private sectors falling due within

in 2016,” it added.

The central bank’s rediscounting facility allows financial institutions to borrow from the BSP to address their temporary liquidity needs by using promissory notes and other loan papers of its borrowers as collateral.

(PNA)

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Bank taps BSP for rediscounting loans amounting to P11.6 billion A

6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

On his thoughts of slain nephew Amierkhan Mangacop:

Si Amierkhan sa akin nakatira since bata pa dahil sa murang edad nawalay na siya sa magulang niya dahil sa hirap ng buhay. Ang kuya ko (Amier’s father) farmer pati asawa niya. Magulang lang sa isang kahig, isang tuka ang ilang kinabuhi, dili nila kaya pa eskwelahon ang ilang anak mao na ako’y nagpa eskwela kay nagtuo gyud mi nga naay future si Amier diri sa Davao City.”

ANWAR MANGACOP Victim’s uncle

EDGEDAVAO

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VANTAGE POINTS

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HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

THE FARM: KIBLAWAN’S “JEWEL” Foreigners usually think of the Philippines as a place of dreamy golden beaches, shimmering azure waters, blue skies and gently swaying palms. But being a tropical country, it has added farm tourism in its menu.

The Republic Act No. 10816, otherwise known as the Farm Tourism Development Act, defines farm tourism as “the practice of attracting visitors and tourists to farm areas for production, educational and recreational purposes.” As a reason to visit, it is becoming increasingly popular in the country.

Any agriculture or fishery-based activity that brings people to be educated or trained on farming and related activities, or just provides a venue for outdoor recreation and family outings can be called farm tourism. “It ranges from very (sophisticated) tourist farms to very simple… farms,”

said Senator Cynthia Villar, author of Act No. 10816. “They are the same thing; it’s about being creative.”

The Philippines is an agricultural country. So much so that what you put into your mouth comes from the farm: from the morning coffee to extra rice during meals, from banana cue for snacks to tilapia crackers as pulutan, from pinakbet for breakfast to chicken inasal for dinner.

Davao del Sur is noted for its farm tourism spots. You may add THE FARM in the list. About 11 kilometers from the national highway via Padada Road, it is located in barangay Sibonga in Kiblawan.

If you are looking for a place where you, your family and/or your friends can relax and have fun, this THE FARM is the best place to be.

If you are getting married, the place is also worth it. Its famous landmark is the best

area to say “I do’s.” Or, even before tying the nuptial knot, THE FARM is also good for pre-nup photos.

According to Benjamen J. Banzon, Jr., the proprietor, a building will be constructed to be the venue of meetings, conferences, training or team building. The building can accommodate about 60-80 people.

If the guests and visitors want to stay, they can do so.

There are types of rooms available: suites, family, and deluxe.

Food is not a problem since there’s a restaurant.

The center of attraction, however, is its beautiful swimming located at the center of the resort.

Although THE FARM is open 24/7, booking is still needed for those who want to stay for the night. Walk-ins, who are interested in a day tour, can come anytime of the day, Banzon said.

Entrance fee is P150 on week-

days and P200 for weekends.

What is interesting about THE FARM is that guests and visitors can do harvesting of crops and fishing. “They can harvest vegetables from the nearby farm and those harvested vegetables can be cooked,” Banzon said.

Only 1.2 hectares of the 15 hectare-farm is developed for THE FARM. The surrounding farm is planted to rice and coconuts but some portions may be planted to vegetables like okra, string beans, squash, cucumber, and eggplant. Tilapia are also raised in ponds.

THE FARM used to be known as Lorenza Armando Farm. It is a family corporation called New Sibonga Kiblawan Agriculture and Aquatic Venture.

“Our parents started this resort,” admitted Michelle Jean Armilla, corporation auditor and representative of the family during the re-opening of the resort, now called THE FARM.

Now, let’s talk about Kiblawan, a second-class municipality. In 1970, there were only 25,549 people occupying the place. As of the 2020 census by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Kiblawan is now home to 49,381 people (0.94% of the overall population of Davao Region).

Previously, it was part of the town of Sulop. Then President Ferdinand E. Marcos, when he signed Republic Act No. 4748, it established Kiblawan by getting the following barangays from Sulop: Bagumbayan, Paitan, Kiblawan (from which the name of the town came from), Kibungbung, Manual, New Sibonga, Maraga-a, Ihan, Bunot, Latian, Balasiao, and Dapok.

It was created as a municipality on July 18, 1966 with a total land area of 35,740.40 hectares. Today, Kiblawan has 30 barangays. Its major products are banana, sugarcane, and mango

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

WARTIME SAGA OF TWO CATHOLICS (1) A little-known historical fact is that Davao City, during the war, nearly became the graveyard of two Philippine presidents. Jose P. Laurel’s boat, while crossing Davao River on a boat with two Kempe-tai officers who acted as escorts, capsized. Fortunately, he was saved by the guards from being swallowed by the churning eddy near the smashed-up Bankerohan Bridge. Gen. Manuel Roxas, meanwhile, was spared from execution by Lt. Col. Nobuhiko Jimbo, head of the Japanese military in Davao, who defied the order of Gen. Masaharu Homma, leader of the Japanese invasion in the Philippines, until its rescission.

To secure Roxas’ life from being executed by the Kempe-tai, the officer spirited him out of the Japanese concentration camp at Camp Leonor and hid him in Daliao, Toril District, at the Furuka-

wa Plantation.

But the ties that bind Gen. Roxas and Lt. Col. Jimbo have become more than just a stuff of wartime legends. Their friendship has ascended beyond respect to the point that when the memorial to the Philippine president’s death was held in Tokyo on April 25, 1948, Lt. Col. Jimbo and his wife were invited to the rites and were listed as among the deceased’s “relatives.”

The duo’s life story commenced after Gen. Roxas was captured in Malaybalay,’ while headed to a clandestine pickup point where a submarine would fetch him for Australia.

Gen. Yoshihide Hayashi ordered Lt. Col. Jimbo to quiz Roxas in Malaybalay but the general refused to cooperate.

Later, on November 17, 1942, Gen. Roxas was brought

to Japanese warplane for further interrogation before he was driven by car to Davao where he was incarcerated at the old Philippine Constabulary barracks. It was during this regular face-to-face contact that a bond of mutual admiration and thereafter friendship was established. This would thrive even more after both shared the same faith as Catholics.

But the Davao Kempe-tai under a certain Lt. Okura wanted also to take part in the interrogation and wanted the general put to death. Soon, an order from Gen. Hayashi ordering Gen. Roxas, the country’s prewar Senate president, was issued. In defiance, Lt. Col. Jimbo asked an underling to forge the signature of Gen. Homma in an order that supposedly stayed the general’s execution.

To secure Gen. Roxas from

the Kempe-tai, Lt. Col. Jimbo hid the Filipino general at the Furukawa Plantation in Daliao, Toril District, where he was temporarily safe. In another account, he was brought to Piso, in Banaybanay, Davao Oriental, where the Japanese maintained a command for the suicide boats. Gen. Takazi Wachi, Gen. Hayashi’s successor, later rescinded the execution order after it was found that it did not carry the imprimatur of Gen. Homma.

Lt. Col. Jimbo flew to Manila to contest the execution order but in his absence the Kempe-tai was given the chance to interrogate Gen. Roxas. Marcial Lichauco, in ‘Roxas: The Story of a Great Filipino and of the Political Era in Which he Lived' (1952), wrote in detail this humbling incident: “While Jimbo was in Manila however, the dreaded Japanese

military police, or Kempei, in Davao decided to take a hand.

They seized Roxas and took him to their headquarters where he was locked up in a small cell.

There he was forced to sleep on the cement floor without a mat, a blanket, or even a mosquito net. It was very clear that the Kempei operatives were first trying to break his spirit. There followed harrowing experiences with the Kempei and, after the ordeal was over, Roxas had lost 30 pounds in weight.”

On November 22, 1942, Gen. Roxas was flown in a Japanese warplane to Manila accompanied by Lt. Col. Jimbo, and was taken directly to his residence at Taft Avenue. Under house arrest, efforts were still made to rescue and bring Roxas to the U.S. where President Manuel L. Quezon was handling the Philippine affairs in exile.

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COMPETITIVE EDGE

AirAsia Philippines strengthens ties with Sabah Tourism Board

The world’s best lowcost airline underscores the importance of the resumption of international travel for the benefit of tourists and Overseas Filipino Workers Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, 6 July 2022 – AirAsia Philippines has reinforced its partnership with the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) as it doubles up on the promotions of Kota Kinabalu as a preferred tourist destination among Filipinos.

The strengthened collaboration with STB is also one

of the many efforts of the airline in accelerating the restart of its operations in Asean, and the eventual expansion of its international route network.

AirAsia Philippines reiterated the pivotal role of attainable air transport for leisure tourists on revenge travel abroad, such as in Sabah, Malaysia.

The Sabah Tourism Board and the world’s best low-cost airline, in celebration of their renewed partnership, held a media briefing and cultural event

at The Pacific Sutera Hotel in Kota Kinabalu on July 5.

The event was attended by AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ricky Isla, airasia Super App Managing Director Ray Berja, AirAsia PH Spokesperson and Communications and Public Affairs Head Steve Dailisan, and 39 transport and lifestyle media from the Philippines and Sabah. The Philippine delegation was graciously welcomed by Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Honorable Datuk Jafry Ariffin, As-

sistant Tourism Minister YB Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, Sabah Culture and Environment Secretary Datuk Sr. Hj Mohd Yusrie Abdullah and Sabah Tourism Board CEO Puan Noredah Othman.

Culminating the night is a cultural presentation which featured traditional ethnic dances, a three piece ensemble and small group of singers. The cultural presentation was produced and performed by the esteemed Sabah Cultural Board.

AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla said, “The

From left to right: Datuk Dr Jelani Hamdan - Deputy Chairman, Sabah Tourism Board, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai - Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah and Chairman of Sabah Tourism Board, AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla, Datuk Jafry Ariffin - Minister of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Datuk Surveyor Haji Mohamad Yusrie Abdullah - Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, airasia Super App Managing Director and Ms Noredah Othman - Chief Executive Officer Sabah Tourism Board

resumption of our Kota Kinabalu flight last month has reopened this important border not only for Filipino traders and travelers, but also for Malaysians here in Sabah who would like to visit their friends and relatives in Manila. This also opens the opportunity for tourism for the two sides to prosper, as both destinations have an array of exciting offerings for first-time and seasoned travellers.”

“In line with the transition to an endemic phase, I believe that this resumption of international flights comes at the right time for both tourists and locals in Sabah, who have been excitedly anticipating and planning their travels” said the Hon. YB Datuk Jafry Ariffin, the Minister of Tourism Culture and Environment.

“I believe with the support and cooperation of AirAsia, we can re-establish collaborations on new access into Sabah. I am looking forward to more connections AirAsia may bring from the island nation of the Philippines“ he added.

Home to cultural sites, white sand beaches offering many eco-adventure activities, Kota Kinabalu is Malaysia’s answer to travellers who are more into extreme outdoor experience. However, the highlight of each trip to the island is its first UNESCO World Heritage site - Kinabalu Park which is also home to Mount Kinaba-

lu - the world’s third highest peak in an island and the 20th most prominent mountain in the world in terms of topography.

“We invite everyone to include Kota Kinabalu in their list of must-visits, especially now that international borders have relaxed for foreign travelers. We also encourage our guests to download airasia Super App to experience our exclusive offerings in Kota Kinabalu as well as other Asean destinations,” Mr. Isla added.

AirAsia Philippines flies to Kota Kinabalu weekly every Tuesday and Saturday. Manila - Kota Kinabalu leaves NAIA Terminal 3 at 12:10am and arrives at Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 2:10am. Its return flight leaves Kota Kinabalu at 2:50am and arrives Manila at 4:50am.

Guests visiting Kota Kinabalu are required to download the MySejahtera app and fill-out the pre-departure form and verify their digital COVID-19 vaccine certificate via the ‘Traveller’ icon.

For more information about flight schedules and travel requirements, please visit airasia flysafe page.

Philippine quad-media’s visit to Kota Kinabalu was also powered by Tune Talk Traveller SIM from Tune Talk Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s fastest growing digital lifestyle and telecommunications company.

Gretchen Ho, Ninong Ry headline Power Mac Center’s Crossroad Convos Premier Apple partner Power Mac Center (PMC) has taken the latest Apple devices to the streets in a new video feature that brings viewers to places and conversations with people.

Dubbed “Crossroad Convos,” the video stars TV host Gretchen Ho and celebrity chef Ninong Ry traversing the streets of culture-rich Binondo to sample the food, swap stories, and capture the memories.

Crossroad Convos is part of the umbrella campaign “iPhone for All,” which showcases the iPhone as a powerhouse device that can keep up with one’s busy lifestyle—whether it’s going the extra mile at work or just having a blast during leisure time.

“In this video feature, we learn that celebrities are just people like us whose jobs are made easier with technology. We are taking our followers to an extraordinary yet utterly familiar location

to show how this device has become an extension of the lives we live. Power Mac Center is inviting smartphone users to upgrade or finally make the switch to iPhone and experience the best we have to offer,” said Joey Alvarez, PMC Director of Product Management and Marketing.

Those who follow the life story and comedic culinary chops of viral content creator Ryan Reyes, more commonly known as Ninong Ry, may already know that he started shooting his cooking videos on an iPhone at the height of the pandemic lockdowns. He used to be an Android user but found switching to iOS a breeze.

For Gretchen’s part, covering stories on the go requires a dependable device that can shoot and edit photos and videos in high quality to pass TV standards. The latest series, including the iPhone 13 Pro Max, has the biggest Pro camera system upgrade ever. She also pairs

it with her Apple Watch to keep up with her active lifestyle.

Find out Gretchen’s and Ninong Ry’s favorite things about the iPhone and the best dishes they ate in Binondo. Subscribe to Power Mac Center on YouTube and watch the full video of Crossroad Convos at <https:// bit.ly/3NNdxHc>.

Switch to iPhone today with Power Mac Center’s offers As part of its mission to bring the Apple technology closer to more Filipinos, Power Mac Center is offering the iPhone 13 and iPhone 11 in different capacities at up to P15,000 off. Until July 31, 2022, customers can upgrade to the iPhone 13 Pro Max (128GB) for only P69,490 for cash transactions from an original price of P75,990. The iPhone 11 (64GB), on the other hand, is available for P27,990 from its initial price of P34,490 (cash transactions). Other iPhone models covered un-

der this offer are the iPhone 13 Pro and the iPhone 13. To know more, go to Power Mac Center’s Viber Store or visit any Power Mac Center or

The Loop branch and ask a Mac Expert. To browse more Apple products, visit Power Mac Center’s Web Store at <https://bit.ly/3P-

8PKCt>. To be updated on news and promotions, follow Power Mac Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

“Nung naka-Android ako before tapos nag-transition ako to iPhone, akala ko sobrang hirap ng migration. Hindi pala (When I was using Android before and then transitioned to iPhone, I thought migration will be difficult. It wasn’t),” viral content creator Ninong Ry said, adding that while moving from Android to iPhone is easy, upgrading from iPhone to a newer iPhone model is even easier as transferring files can be done within minutes. “P’wede ka nang gumamit lang ng iPhone to shoot, to edit, tapos ipasa mo na kaagad. ‘Yung quality ng iPhone, pang-TV na (You can already use an iPhone to shoot,

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GAME CHANGER

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ing months,” Xynthesize said. His next release, with Small Tok from Israel, entitled “Back to Reality,” will be out on Storm Music Group this coming out on July, 22.

XYTHESIZE indeed has come a long, long way. He is the second son of Philip Roy C. Dedeles and Shella E. Tecson (now deceased).

Before him, there’s Xerxes. He was born in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur, where grew up living with his grandparents (Rodolfo and Erlinda Dedeles).

Right now, he is still a first-year student at the Liceo de Cagayan University, where he is taking up Bachelor of Music in Music Management in the university’s Conservatory of Music, Theater and Dance.

The good thing is that his family fully supports him. “Since they know I love music so much and that I like to expand my

lately, which relate to love mostly.”

XYTHESIZE tunes in on OPM songs. Among his favorites are December Avenue, Ben&Ben, Moira Dela Torre, The Juans, among others. “Their songs are just great,” he said. “Well-written and full of passion.”

He also loves to sing – but not in front of a crowd.

“I’m still not confident with my voice, but I would like it to improve,” he admitted. “I used to sing in the church when my mother was still alive. She used to always encourage me.”

One of the songs he sang before a crowd was “God Will Make Me a Way”

by Don Moen. “After my mother passed away, I didn’t have enough courage to sing again. But now that I’m studying in the conservatory, I hope I can improve my voice since we have singing classes

knowledge about it, they gave their consent,” he said. “In fact, they are very excited about it.”

His flair for music comes up naturally. “I started writing songs late as a follow-up to producing music because, as possible, I wanted to bring more originality to my works,” he said. “Since I like randomly coming up with poems, I make up melodies for them.”

When asked where he gets his inspiration for coming up with various songs, he replied, “What inspires me are my past experiences in life and the songs I’m listening to

there.”

XYTHESIZE doesn’t only compose lyrics but provide melodies to them as well. “By doing so, you are able to express the emotions and thoughts within you through harmonies and melodies and the combined sounds of synths, drums and effects.

It’s like a painter doing their crafts and arts with a profound meaning,” he said.

He was in 8th grade when he discovered electronic dance music (EDM), listened to songs from Hardwell, Martin Garrix, Vinai, and more. “I was

XYNTHESIZE: SYNTHESIS

WITH HUMAN TOUCH

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO courtesy of Xavier Yates T. Dedeles

I

magine a world without music. That’s next to impossible, indeed. The world will be drab, void, and boring without music. “Where words fail, music speaks,” wrote Hans Christian Andersen.

“Music is the language of the spirit,” said Kahlil Gibran. “It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.” To Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “music is the universal language of mankind.”

Now, you get the importance of music? “The strongest form of magic,” said Marilyn Manson. It is “the great uniter” and “an incredible force,” pointed out Sarah Dessen in Just Listen. And Robert Fripp described music as “the wine that fills the cup of silence.”

The sound of music can stand alone. But sometimes, lyrics should accompany these songs in order for people to remember them, to sing them to their heart’s content, and to make them part of people’s lives.

Xavier Yates T. Dedeles readily agrees with that.

He may be only 19, but he

has already accomplished what most of his contemporaries haven’t done yet.

So far, he has released ten tracks (both originals and unofficial remixes); more works are in the offing.

One of his songs entitled “Timeless Smile” is already being played on different radio stations around the world. It was played on FReSH FM (in the Philippines, through Sora Radio’s House Party) and Record Dance Show Radio (in Russia, through Chester Young’s “Young Nation Show”).

His remix of Shadowkey’s “Yours Tonight” with AlmOss received massive support from Slovakia’s hit radio station Europa 2.

Some of the songs he produced have already caught the attention of some noted personalities.

There’s Nicky Romero.

“Last year, he played my

track on the first episode of his ‘demo:drop’ series, which was live on Twitch,” he said, adding that there was some positive feedback after the track was played.

Even before his single “Timeless Smile” was out, Chester Young supported his song early on his radio show live from Russia. Jenil, together with Ian Sndrz – two of the top disc jockeys in the country today – also caught their attention of his recent works and even provided feedback on his demos.

Among the songs XYTHESIZE – that’s his screen name – has composed, “Timeless Smile” seems to be the most popular. “It’s a song about remembering someone you used to love and trying to win that person back,” he explained.

He described the song as “a fusion of progressive and future styles.”

He produced and wrote it with Kelvin from Davao and Danielle, who’s from Los Angeles. “Kelvin and I started working on a project in 2020,” he recalled.

“After months of forming the foundation, we sent over the project to Danielle for her to finish what I initially wrote and for her to record the vocals.”

After finishing the whole song as a demo, they sent it to different record labels until it got accepted and signed on Seal Network, a Germany-based dance music record label. It was released on June 11, 2021.

When it was released in The Netherlands, the song charted at No. 27 on the Amsterdam dance chart on iTunes. “I didn’t expect that much support at all,” he quipped. “I was super happy that it had the potential to peak on that chart, particularly in Amsterdam.”

On why it became popular, XYTHESIZE opined, “I can say that the song was well-promoted and many people from my age group also appreciated it.

DJs from around the globe supported it, too.”

The success of the said song inspired him to write more. “I have new music to be released in the com-

FXYNTHESIZE, P10

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subject to interviews. We already conferred with the lawyers of the complainant and we already have the witnesses and we have now reduced their experiences and statements have already been reduced into writing,” Leano said.

He said some individuals are trying to intervene in the case, however, did not give more details about it.

“We cannot disclose their names. They have nothing to do with the case as long as our findings would say that so and so have really committed a crime, then so be it,” he said.

He assured that NBI 11 will present the two sides of the story.

“To the aggrieved families we assured that we will get to the two sides of the story. We will dig deeper in such a manner that we will arrive and come up with a well-supported and well-founded conclusion. To the respondent, Dr. Pepino, and his family, we assure you that we will be conducting our investigation based on thoroughness and legality. We will get to the two sides of the story and dig deeper into the case,” he said.

Ten days to submit findings The NBI 11 has 10 days to conduct its own investigation and submit findings and additional evidence.

The complaint for murder against Pepino was filed by police authorities on July 4, 2022, and the Prosecutor has 15 days to resolve the investigation.

Guro said they will work hard to finish their in-

vestigation within 10 days.

“We will try our best.

We have requested, in addition to our team here, we requested a team from NBI Manila. They will arrive on Sunday because we are planning to conduct a reenactment based on the testimonies that we got,” he said.

Leano said this is just a typical shooting incident but highly sensationalized as there have been a lot of downloaded video clips by some individuals who happened to get that portion of the incident.

He said the findings of their investigation will be submitted within the period in which a counter-affidavit will be submitted.

“I understand we have 10 days to submit our findings and conclusions.

To remind the media that NBI is mandated to investigate all forms of cases at its own initiative or with public interest is required. In this particular case no less than the family of the victim through their lawyers have requested this office to intervene,” he said.

Leano also said at the end of the investigation all the units of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and NBI will be subject to the examination and close evaluation of the Office of the City Prosecutor.

“That is how the case is being conducted. Ang sa amin dito is we wanted to get to the depth of this case and we make it sure that justice is done and avoid biases or miscarriage of justice,” he said.

ternational Airport was renamed to Ninoy Aquino International Airport through Republic Act No. 6639 during the term of the late President Cory Aquino.

It was named after late senator and opposition leader Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. who was assassinated in the airport when he returned to the country on August 21, 1983.

According to the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) website, the country’s premiere airport was originally a US Air Force base until 1948, when it was turned over to the Philippine government’s National Airport Corporation. The fledgling civil aviation airport’s facilities were nothing more than the current domestic

runway and a small building as its only passenger terminal.

It added that the first 13 years of the airport were marked by the building of infrastructure dedicated to international flights.

The international runway and associated taxiway were built in 1953, and 1961 saw the completion of a control tower and a terminal building for the exclusive use of international passengers at the southwest intersection of the runways. This system came to be officially known as the Manila International Airport.

In 1972, Marcos Sr. promulgated Executive Order No. 381, authorizing the development of MIA to meet the needs of the coming decades, MIAA said.

sentiments will favor US assets.

Fitch Solutions forecasts the BSP to hike its key rates by additional 75 basis points until end-2022 to 3.25 percent but the Federal Reserve is seen to announce a more aggressive hike, at around 150 basis points to bring the Fed Funds rate to 3.25 percent.

To date, the BSP’s key rates have been hiked by a total of 50 basis points, 25 basis points each last May and June.

Similarly, Fed rates have

jumped by 150 basis points -- 25 basis points last March, 50 basis points last May, and 75 basis points last June.

Both central banks are seen to remain hawkish and announce more rate increases as inflation in their respective countries continues to accelerate.

Fitch Solutions forecasts the domestic rate of price increases to average at 5.1 percent this year while average inflation in the US is seen to be around 6.5 percent.

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ly committing gross dishonesty contrary to the provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act 7160).

Patrata said he also filed an administrative case before the Office of the Ombudsman for violation of Republic Act 6713 or Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Donasco became a 4Ps beneficiary in 2009 and won a seat in the barangay council in 2012, which entitled him to a monthly honorarium of P11,000.

But instead of giving up the 4Ps monthly P2,500 aid, he continued to claim the money despite being told not to by colleagues.

Patarata said Donasco has been claiming the 4Ps aid for more than eight years even as he was getting a monthly honorarium being a barangay councilman.

On two occasions, in

2014 and 2020, Donasco was approached by DSWD personnel telling him to give up and return his 4Ps cash card which he apparently did not heed.

The barangay chair said Donasco told him that he cannot yet yield the 4Ps aid because he needs the money to help support his kids’ schooling.

As a rule, a government personnel can only qualify as 4Ps beneficiary and claim the cash aid if he or she is receiving only 5,000 pesos or less in stipend or honorarium from the government.

The 4Ps program aims to improve the health, nutrition, and the education of children aged 0-18 years.

The government patterned the 4Ps cash grant after family cash aid schemes in poor African countries, where it helped millions of people hurdle poverty. (Rommel Rebollido/MindaNews)

ug mu save ug kinabuhi dili kay mupatay. Hustisya ang among kinahanglan para kay Amierkhan. Unsa lang mi kumpara kay doctor na nakapusil sa akong pag umangkon, ang amahan ana general, judge pa gyud ang iyahang auntie.

Unsa man ang kapasidad sa akong kuya?” he said.

He also reacted to the reports and some netizens illustrating Amierkhan as troublesome and high on drugs.

“Una nigawas sa report or social media, which is ingon ana na gyud kadautan ang akoang pag-umangkon, siga, high, tanan na dayo diri sa Davao? Ang caused sa iyahang death is binaril ni Dr. Marvin Rey Pepino ug seven times. Asa man ang self-defense ato?

Ang among ginapangayo is hustisya, justice. Kay bisan kinsa na atoa puwede man

mahitabo,” he said.

He said the family was silent about the death of Amierkhan as they were preparing his body.

“Sa Islam we really respect the body of the dead person. Naa gyud ko pagligo sa iyaha bago binalot ng puti, pito gyud ang tama ng baril. Naa tay mga pictures ana. Ug pito pud ka putok,” he said.

He said the family is hoping that the investigation would be fair and just.

“Dako mi ug pagsalig sa mga involve sa kaso na unta patas lang ang ug ang among ginapangayo justice for Amierkhan na patas lang unta kay nagsalig mi sa tanan naa’y alam ani na balaod ug unsa ang tama ani,” he said.

The parents of Amierkhan gave a short message in Muslim dialect.

eyeing to finish their part of the project by the first or second quarter of next year.

“Kung walay mga additional na problema kay there are some factors to consider like the road right of way and weather condition,” he said.

The transfer of utility cables underground is mandated under a Davao City ordinance passed in 2017, but DLPC rolled out pilot work earlier in partnership with the local government and other utility firms. By Maya M. Padillo

at affordable prices, and we will do so by closely monitoring prices so that there is no manipulation, there is no profiteering, there is no hoarding, and there is no cartelization, and when needed, negotiating with manufacturers and producers,” he added.

Pascual also encouraged retailers to take advantage of the Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RTLA) by partnering with foreign companies.

He said with the enactment of the RTLA, the new law will usher in some PHP54 billion in foreign investments within five years.

Pascual also urged PRA to collaborate with

DTI to initiate the Philippine Skills Framework for Retailers (PSF-Retailers).

“The proposal is to adopt the Singapore Skills Framework for Retail, with the proposed PSF seeking to help persons who wish to join and advance in the retail sector analyze their career interests, locate relevant training programs to enhance their skills, and prepare for the desired job roles,” he said.

He assured retailers that the DTI will continue to push for policies that will foster the growth of the retail sector across the country. (PNA)

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then curious about how they made their tunes, so I started exploring music production when I was in 9th grade,” he said.

When he was in 10th grade, Xynthesize started sharing his first works on YouTube and then released signed music on leading streaming platforms like Spotify.

“By 2020, I thought of taking it seriously and not just a hobby,” he said.

“After all, music has been a part of my life. It’s been with me through highs and lows, and I can express my feelings through music.”

Aside from being an artist and a student, XYTHESIZE also works with people in the music industry – as a sideline. “I gradually build myself up there and gather new connections as well,” he reasoned.

“I closely connect with record label managers and radio personnel.”

Currently, he is working as a graphic designer and social media manager of Sora Music Group, the EDM sub-label of Warner

Music Philippines. With FReSH FM, he works as one of its sales managers nationwide and a talent manager and scout. Likewise, he is connected with the Djooky Music Awards as a seasonal ambassador for the platform.

Still young, XYTHESIZE doesn’t think of the future yet after graduating from college. “I’m not sure about it yet,” he says, “and I don’t want to expect, as I don’t know what the future holds, but I’ll continue to progress in the present and let God make His way for me. But if God-willing, I would like to pursue a career as DJ, raise a foundation to support potential rising artists and unprivileged children for education, or become a music teacher at an institution.”

On why he selects XYTHESIZE as his screen name, he explained: “Synthesize means ‘to combine or produce something,’ which relates to me as an artist. But I changed the ‘s’ to ‘x’ to symbolize my nickname, which is Xy. So, it’s XYTHESIZE.”

I inside the ring. We’re ready to put on a show.

“I know that someone like Freddie Roach will think they know what our strategy will be. I have an ace up my sleeve, and when that happens, I’m tearing his head off. His confidence may be in the clouds, but the fall is going to hurt.

“I showcased my fighting skill in November coming off a long layoff.

There was no ring rust then and there will be no ring rust now.

“I was prepared to fight Gary Russell Jr, but now we’re giving Magsayo a chance. I’m fully capable and ready to go.

“Magsayo says that I haven’t faced anyone like him before, but in reality, he has actually never faced anyone like me.

“Magsayo may want to exchange blows so badly because that may be the only thing he knows how to do. He doesn’t know how to fight otherwise. We will dominate him and take the belt.

Bozovic saved two break points and held serve, 6-5, then broke Eala’s serve once more to close things out, 7-5, in 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Eala, a junior grand slam girls’ doubles winner at the 2020 Australian Open and 2021 Roland Garros, teamed up with Lizette Cabrera of Australia for the doubles draw.

After receiving a walkover in the first round, Eala and Cabrera faltered in the quarterfinals against No. 1 seeds Justina Mikulskyte of Lithuania and Hong Yi Cody Wong of Hong Kong, 5-7, 4-6.

Eala and Cabrera, who is of Filipino descent, were broken in the fifth game to

trail at 2-3.

They leveled at 4-4 but were broken in the 11th game, causing Mikulskyte and Wong to serve for the set and win it, 7-5.

Eala and Cabrera immediately secured a 3-0 edge in the second set, but Mikulskyte and Wong caught up and advanced to 5-3.

Serving for the match at 5-4, Mikulskyte and Wong saved three break points to clinch victory, 6-4, after 1 hour and 23 minutes.

The W25 Corroios-Seixal, also known as the Seixal Ladies Open, is a $25,000 tilt on the International Tennis Federation Women’s World Tennis Tour.

the next 12 months.

The level of GIR, as of a particular period, is considered adequate, if it provides at least 100% cover for the payment of the country’s foreign liabilities, public and private, falling due within the immediate twelvemonth period, according to the BSP. Likewise, the net inter-

national reserves (NIR), which refers to the difference between the BSP’s reserve assets (GIR) and reserve liabilities - shortterm foreign debt and credit and loans from the International Monetary Fund - decreased by $1.65 billion to $101.98 billion as of end-June from the end-May level of $103.63 billion.

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

Almond Vosotros gunned 5 long-range jumpers to lift Gilas to a 21-15 victory over Indonesia.

Vosotros lifts Gilas past Indons to enter Asia Cup main draw

G

ilas Pilipinas 3X3 team leaned on Almond Vosotros’ hot shooting to bring down Indonesia and barge to the main draw of the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup on Thursday night in Singapore.

Vosotros gunned 5 long-range jumpers to lift Gilas to a 21-15 victory over Indonesia.

Vosotros finished with 11 points while

Alex Eala of the Philippines at the 2022 W60 Madrid tournament. Photo courtesy of Alex Eala on Facebook

helping Gilas top Group C via a 2-game sweep.

The victory was a follow-up to their 2119 win over Jordan.

“We’re playing for

the country so we really tried to do our best,” said Vosotros after the game.

Purefoods’ Joseph Eriobu scored 8 points for Gilas, even as Sam-

boy de Leon and Lervin Flores chipped in 1 point each.

Gilas will join host team Singapore and Group G ruler China in the main draw.

Eala bundled out of Portugal tourney

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he Philippines’ Alex Eala was sent to the exits of both singles and doubles draw in the W25 Corroios-Seixal tournament in Portugal on Thursday, missing the chance to reach the singles quarterfinals and doubles semifinals.

In the singles second round on Court 3 of Clube Recreativo e Desportivo Brasileiro Rouxinol, Australian wildcard Alexandra Bozovic edged out the 17-year-old Eala with a 1-6, 6-4, 7-5 comeback win.

WTA World No. 337 Eala won the 8-minute opening game after three deuces, and proceeded to take a 5-1 lead following a break of serve.

At 40-30 on serve, the 2021 W15 Manacor and 2022 W25 Chiang Rai

champion claimed the first set, 6-1, on her second set point.

WTA World No. 466 Bozovic recovered in the second set, where she broke for a 3-1 lead courtesy of an Eala double fault, and broke again to be at 5-3.

As the Australian was serving for the set, Eala broke serve on her third opportunity. The 23-yearold Bozovic replied with a break, 6-4, to force a deciding set.

The third set was neckand-neck until Eala broke, 4-3, after Bozovic served a double fault.

The Filipino teen, who overcame Spanish Eva Guerrero Alvarez in three sets in the first round, served for the match at 5-4 but was broken to love.

FEALA, P10

12 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 74 • SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

Filipino world champion Mark Magsayo will be making the first defense of the world title he won by majority decision against Gary Russell Jr 31-2 (18) in an upset in January.

MARK ON A MISSION

Magsayo wants to prove he is best in his class

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he Philippines’ WBC featherweight champion Mark ‘Magnifico’ Magsayo is out to prove he is the best boxer in he 126-pound weight class when he takes on former WBC super bantamweight champion Rey Vargas at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday night.

The 27-year-old Filipino (24-0 16 KOs) will be making the first defense of the world title he won by majority decision against Gary Russell Jr 31-2 (18) in an upset in January.

Vargas is undefeated with 35-0 (22).

“I hope Rey Vargas doesn’t run too much, so we can give a good fight to the people,” Magsayo said.

“I’m not worried about Vargas. I’ve already beat the best in the division, so my confidence is very high heading into this fight.

“This is very special for me.

I watched Manny Pacquiao fight Marco Antonio Barrera in San Antonio at the Alamodome and that was the day that I decided to start training in the gym. I’m so thankful to have this fight – which is a dream come true – happen here in San Antonio.

“This is a very important fight for me. I already beat Russell, but I just want to keep proving myself. We’re both going to go in there very confident in ourselves and that’s going to make it a great fight.

“I’ve worked on a lot of different things with Freddie Roach to make sure that we’re ready for anything Vargas brings. If he wants to come toe-to-toe like he said, then I’m ready to end this fight with a knockout.

“I guarantee that this is going to be a big night for me.

We’re ready to show who the best in the division is.

“He’s never fought a guy like me. You’re going to see that on Saturday night.”

Mexican Vargas, 31, insisted he wasn’t going to shy away from a firefight.

“If you want to exchange blows, I’m more than happy to do that. I see it as a compliment that he’s added a lot of people to his team. He’s taking me seriously, but I think it’s an advantage for me, because I feel like he’s worried,” Vargas said.

“We certainly have great trainers in each corner. Freddie is a great trainer and I’ve had the pleasure of sharing the ring against him before. In the end, it’s going to be just Mark and

FMARK, P10