Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 174 | Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL.15 ISSUE 174 • SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022

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NO LET UP

DCPO assures ceaseless war against all forms of criminality in Davao City STORY ON PAGE 2

Delivery men push wooden carts carrying water containers while crossing a very busy street in front of a public market in Tibungco, Davao City on Friday.

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 174 • SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022

NO LET UP

The city government of Davao sends another batch of welfare goods to Cotabato City and Maguindanao, Province on Friday morning, November 4. 16 trucks were deployed carrying around 8,000 boxes of welfare goods, medicines, sleeping kits, and hygiene kits coming from the city government, Philippine Coast Guard, and private donors. CIO

DCPO assures ceaseless war against all forms of criminality in Davao City

By MAYA M. PADILLO

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he Davao City Police Office (DCPO) vowed an incessant battle against all forms of criminality in Davao City with its aim to position the city as the safest city in the country not only for the Dabawenyos but for the investors as well.

DCPO reported its accomplishments manifested in the conduct of Simultaneous Anti-Criminality and Law Enforcement Operations (SA-

CLEO).

In a statement, DCPO shared that for October 1 to 31, 2022, it conducted 116 operations in the campaign against illegal

drugs with 134 persons arrested and confiscated P20,555,021 worth of illegal drugs.

In the campaign against wanted persons, DCPO arrested 277 personalities with warrant of arrest. For the anti-illegal gambling operations, DCPO successfully conducted 117 operations with 254 arrested violators and a

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Philippine Military Academy “Sambisig” Class of 1991, is now the PNP’s fourth-highest official. He replaces Maj. Gen. Arthur Bisnar who was transferred to the Office of the PNP chief.

Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Patrick Villacorte, outgoing

chief of the Area Police Command (APC) in Eastern Mindanao, succeeded Dubria as head of the APC Visayas.

The latest revamp of officials in the police force took effect on Friday.

Dubria’s latest designation is just less than a

total of P25,560.00 confiscated bet money.

In the campaign against illegal possession of firearms, there were eight personalities arrested and 18 confiscated small arms and light weapons.

For the campaign against illegal logging, DCPO has one positive operation and confiscat-

month after he was designated as chief of the APC Visayas in October, replacing Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, who in the same month was designated as deputy chief for administration, the police force’s second-highest post. (PNA)

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Ex-DCPO chief Dubria named police’s No. 4 in latest revamp

hilippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. has named Maj. Gen. Michael John Dubria to the police force’s command group as the new chief of the Directorial Staff.

Dubria, a member of the

PSSO: City has protocols to ensure events’ safety

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avao City Public Safety and Security Office Head Angel Sumagaysay, in an interview over Davao City Disaster Radio Wednesday, said that the city ensures submission of security and safety plans from organizers before they can hold events that gather a large number of people.

Sumagaysay said that the PSSO is in close coordination with event organizers for meetings incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) and the Business Bureau for the issuance of special permits related to events.

“Ang sistema nato diri before maka-avail og special mayor’s permit gina-require nato ang organizer ug security and safety plan.

Nasulod didto unsa nga klase ang event, kanus-a, ang layout, entrance, and multiple exits as possible (Our system here is that before the special mayor’s permit is issued, we require the organizer to submit a security and safety plan. The details include the kind of event, when it will be held, the layout: the entrance and multiple exits as possible),” he said.

The organizers are required to present this to the Safety and Safety Assessment Team composed of the Davao City Police Office, Bureau of Fire, City Health Office, City Sports, and Development Division, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), City Transport

and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), and Task Force Davao.

He said that the agencies concerned vary depending on the type of activity or event.

He added that it is during the assessment that they will check for marshals, medical personnel, and equipment to be provided by the organizer.

“Kung kulang wala nato ginahikawan nga idayon, idayon na siya, pero kining atong city assets diha nato isulod (If it is not enough we will not deprive the organizer and let them conduct the event, it will still be pursued this time our city assets will be added),” he said, adding that events have a significant impact in the city’s economic development. ”[Mag] Augment ta kay panginabuhi mani, kaning event organizing part ni siya sa atong economic development (We make augmentations because it is a form of livelihood, event organizing is part of our economic development),” he said.

Sumagaysay said that having enough personnel for events is the measure they do to avoid things such as what happened in South Korea, where many died due to stampede.

“If there is a need for the security cluster to stop an event then himoon na nila in coordination with the event organizer if makita nila nga delikado ang

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 174 • SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022

NEWS

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Davao City Public Safety and Security Office head Angel Sumagaysay says the city ensures submission of security and safety plans from organizers before they can hold events that gather a large number of people. Edge Davao

Aid pours in for flood-hit areas in the Province of Cotabato DA-11 turns over fish processing innovation center to SPAMAST

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he Department of Agriculture XI recently turned over a P40-million fish processing and innovation hub facility to the Malita-based Southern Philippines Agribusiness and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST).

The Sustainable Agriculture and Fishery Enterprise (SAFE) Fish Processing and Innovation Hub is under DA’s General Appropriations Act of 2021, which aims at improving the quality of life in the province of Davao Occidental.

From the total budget of the SAFE project, the allocation comprised of the following: P20 million for the fish processing building and cold storage; P8 million for the machinery, equipment and reefer van; and P3 million for the fish processing supplies and material.

A P4-million allocation was also set for fish production equipment, supplies, materials and maintenance and operating expenses.

In addition, another P1 million was also included for the professional services and the remaining expenses is for the information, communication technology (ICT) equipment and utility expenses.

The facility, which is the first in Davao Region, was established to promote agri-industrialization programs, create linkages on community-based fish production and provide employment to the local farmers and fisherfolks in the communities of Davao Occidental.

DA-XI Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Andres Alemania said that DA-XI will bank on the capability of SPAMAST officials to see to it that the project will be implemented to its fullest.

Alemania hoped that the project will serve its purpose to serve small scale fish processors and entrepreneurs, and ultimately, to catalyze sustainable growth of product processing enterprises

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By MAYA M. PADILLO

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overnor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza of the Province of Cotabato expressed her gratitude to individuals, agencies, and organizations who extended help to Typhoon Paeng victims in the province.

Mendoza is grateful for the relief sent to Cotabateños in need.

She thanked the local government officials and also the responders for their prompt response in times of need and also to

the Department of Social Welfare and Development 12 (DSWD 12), Department of Health 12 (DOH 12), Department of Interior and Local Government 12 (DILG 12), General Santos Police Station, Office of Sen-

ator Bong Go, Office of the President, and other police stations of the province, organizations, and individuals in extending relief assistance to the affected residents.

Based on Situational Report No. 13 issued by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), as of November 2, 2022, there are 9,890 families from the towns of Alamada, Aleosa, Midsayap, Pigcawayan and

Kabacan, Cotabato affected

by Typhoon Paeng.

The damage to agriculture is estimated at P53 million wherein 2,685 hectares of land of 1,886 rice and corn farmers in the province were also damaged.

A total of 69 houses were recorded totally damaged and 262 others partially damaged in the town of Pigcawayan.

Meanwhile, Go’s office

es of welfare goods, medicines, sleeping kits, and hygiene kits coming from the city government, Philippine Coast Guard, and private donors.

“Today, we have deployed the second batch of welfare goods to Cotabato City and Maguindanao Province. The city is looking at sending welfare goods

as well next week in Sultan Kudarat,” said Harvey Lanticse, city information officer.

The Davao City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) also sent psychologists and social workers to assist in the psychosocial intervention of the affected individuals.

Personnel from the

Davao City Police Office (DCPO) and Task Force Davao were also deployed to help in the distribution of goods.

On October 29, 2022, the city extended food packs, bottled water, and hygiene kits to the local government units of Cotabato City and Buluan, Ma-

FAID, P10

Davao City continues assistance to flood-hit Cotabato City, Maguindanao

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he city government of Davao continues to send assistance to Typhoon Paeng victims in Cotabato City and Maguindanao Province.

On Friday, the city sent another shipment of welfare goods to Cotabato City and Maguindanao wherein 16 trucks were deployed carrying around 8,000 box-

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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 174 • SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022

Administrators of the country’s major malls say they have already started allowing the voluntary use of face masks in their malls, following the order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Edge Davao

DavOcc entries win big in Reg’l Consumer Welfare Competition T he Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded employers to provide proper wages to workers who report for work during November’s declared holidays.

The Department of Trade and Industry – Davao Occidental has congratulated the winning entries from the province, who bagged the major awards during the regional awarding ceremony for the Consumer Welfare Month 2022 held at The Ritz Hotel in Davao City.

The Mariano Peralta National High School

(MPNHS) was declared as the Grand Champion 2022 in the music video contest, while the Fishing Village Comprehensive National High School placed third in the same category.

The MPNHS has once again emerged a winner being in the top 10 in the mural painting contest, while the Heracleo Casco Memorial High School

won the info material contest.

For the business category, Neil John A. Agawin was declared winner of the labeling and fair packaging, while Kein Jay L. Plaza got the Price Act award.

Bea M. Maneja of Lacaron National High School, grabbed the prize for the product and service warranty contest, and Bon Jovi F. Escabillas won the product standards contest.

This year’s theme, “Sustainable Consumerism in the Digital Age,”

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Total outstanding debt reached P13.52 trillion as of September, which was P495.54 billion higher compared to August’s P13.02 trillion, Treasury said in a statement.

“NG’s total debt increased by P495.54 billion

or 3.8% primarily due to peso depreciation against the US dollar and the net issuance of government securities to support the budget,” the agency said.

Out of the total debt stock, 31.2 percent or P4.22 trillion were

aims to strengthen consumer awareness on the basic consumer rights and responsibilities, and to educate consumers on online transactions or “Securitips” using digital technology.

Present during the awarding were DTI-Davao Occidental Program Director Ma. Joycelyn F. Banlasan and Trade and Industry Analyst Jaypee A. Lascuña of Consumer Protection Division who extended their appreciation to the declared winners. (PIA-XI/Franchette Delfin)

sourced externally while 68.6 percent or P9.30 trillion were domestic borrowings, government data showed.

“The increment in the level of external debt was due to the P179.69 billion

PH debt grows to P13.52T in Sept. amid peso weakness he Philippine national government’s outstanding debt rose by 3.8 percent as of the end of September partly due to the peso depreciation against the US dollar, the Bureau of Treasury said on Thursday.

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New fiscal measures vs. rise in debt needed: economist

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ew fiscal reform measures are needed to help address the rise in government liabilities, the recent of which are mostly due to pandemic-related financing, an economist said.

On Thursday, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) reported the rise in the national government’s outstanding debt to record-high PHP13.517 trillion as of September 2022.

In a report, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort attributed the jump in government debt partly to the issuance of around PHP118 billion worth of United States dollar-denominated bonds and the impact of weakening of the local currency against the greenback.

Ricafort said with the rise in government debt since 2020 due mainly to the pandemic, the current government “may still need to further intensify

tax revenue collections based on existing tax laws, come up with new taxes/tax reform measures, increase tax rates, among others, to further boost structural sources of government revenues.”

He said new taxes such as those for digital transactions “are based on principles of fairness.”

“New taxes and higher tax rates need to be fair, equitable, and progressive, especially targeted to those that can afford them or those from the higher income brackets or at least prevent adding burden to the poor, most vulnerable sectors, and/ or those hit hard by the pandemic,” he added.

Aside from new measures that are targeted to increase government revenues, Ricafort said the administration also needs to “adopt more disciplined spending through fiscal reform measures such as right-sizing the government, anti-cor-

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 174 • SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022

ECONOMY

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The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) says inflation in October further accelerated to 7.7 percent on the back of higher food prices including vegetables and meat. Edge Davao

1st national coconut industry dev’t plan rolls out in DavOr Inflation hits 7.7% in October, highest in nearly 14 years

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nflation in October further accelerated on the back of higher food prices including vegetables and meat, the Philippine Statistics Authority said on Friday.

The consumer price index rose 7.7 percent, from 6.9 percent in September.

This is the highest in nearly 14 years or since December 2008 during the global financial crisis, when it hit 7.8 percent.

October’s figure is within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ projected 7.1 to 7.9 percent expectation.

Inflation for food and non-alcoholic beverages rose to 9.4 percent in October from 7.4 percent the previous month, largely influenced by increased prices for vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas and other parts of slaughtered animals, PSA data showed.

Faster annual increases were also noted for rice, corn, flour, fish and milk, among others.

“Medyo wide, di lang

siya sa vegetables. Mataas din sa meat... fish. May iba pa tayong mga items, sugar, confectionary desserts.

(It’s wide not just on vegetables. Meat is high, fish and other items like sugar, confectionary, desserts) You will notice for NCR in particular, double digit na almost all sub-groups. That is our concern,” National Statistician Dennis Mapa said.

Inflation in the National Capital Region also increased further to 7.7 percent for the month from 6.5 percent in September, also due to the faster price movements of foods and non-alcoholic beverages, according to data.

Average inflation from January to October is now at 5.4 percent.

Inflation is likely to remain elevated and above the government target of 2 to 4 percent for the rest of the year, government estimates showed.

Mapa said rising inflation has knocked the Phil-

FINFLATION, P10

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“This time around is the actual implementation of Year 1. We just started today because half of the fund was given in July,” Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) administrator Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said in an interview.

After the enactment of Republic Act 11524, or the “Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act”, the PCA as the government

agency primarily tasked to develop the coconut industry, led the crafting of the CFIDP in collaboration with the Development Academy of the Philippines.

Madrigal said the CFIDP serves as the basis for the use of the coco levy fund through various programs and projects that would consolidate the benefits and ensure increased income for coconut farmers

and farm workers, alleviate them from poverty, and achieve social equality and competitiveness.

“This is actually the coco levy fund. The law said that a minimum of PHP5 billion should be given to the coconut farmers through the implementing agencies identified,” he explained.

Under the law, the plan includes national programs for the social protection of coconut farmers, farm workers, and their families, farmers’ organization and development, innovative research projects and their practical application, com-

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on Thursday said they have already informed their merchants and service providers about the new policy.

“Ang ginawa po natin sa Ayala Malls, ay nagrelease po tayo ng memo sa ating mga merchants reiterating po kung ano po ang ni-re-

lease ng EO No. 7…We also spoke [to] and briefed our service providers regarding EO No. 7,” Pivi Diaz of Ayala Malls said.

“Kami po sa Robinsons Malls ay sumunod sa ipinagutos ng ating presidente na gawing boluntaryo ang pagsusuot ng face masks

he first-ever rollout of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program (CFIDP) commenced here on Thursday.

munity-based enterprises and integrated processing of coconut and downstream products.

Madrigal said the framework also provides directions for pre-implementation, coordination, implementation structures and mechanisms, financial and risk management, and monitoring and evaluation.

He noted that as the kickoff area, Davao Oriental is one of the biggest producers of coconut in the country.

Records from the PCA show that this province

even indoors, sa loob po ng mall,” Joel Lumanlan of Robinsons Malls also said.

While the wearing of face masks is optional, mall administrators said they are still encouraging both their employees and their customers to contin-

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Face masks now optional in SM, Ayala, Robinsons malls dministrators of the country’s major malls said they have already started allowing the voluntary use of face masks in their malls, following the order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. SM Supermalls, Ayala Malls and Robinsons Malls

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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 174 • SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022

On the Davao City Police Office’s campaign to make Davao City as the safest city in the country:

“We assure that DCPO will ceaselessly war against all forms of criminality with our goal of making Davao City the safest city in the country.

DCPO will strive more to make this city a most livable to work and business.”

CATHERINE DELA REY Spokesperson, DCPO

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL.15 ISSUE 174 • SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022

VANTAGE POINTS

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HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

NO TO VIOLENCE IN SCHOOLS A son had been telling his mother that there was this boy who kept bothering him for quite some time. Because she didn’t want any trouble, she told her son not to mind him or fight back. If possible, she asked him to avoid him.

Then, one day, the son went home with his nose bleeding. He had bruises all over his body. She could not believe what she saw. When she asked him who did it to him, he replied that it was the boy whom he had been telling her. And the boy had some companions, all of whom attacked him.

A school is a student’s second home and is assumed to be one of the safest places for children. It is supposed to be a place where learners are both nurtured and protected.

But in some instances, a school becomes a place of torture. As the United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF) puts it: “Schools become the settings that expose children to violence, not just from their peers but also from teachers and school personnel.”

Is this really true? I tried to do a little sleuthing on

the subject and I unearthed a 2009 study by Plan International and UNICEF on Violence Against Children in Public Schools in the country.

In the said study, it was found that four out of 10 children in Grades 1 to 3, and seven out of 10 in both Grades 4 to 6 and high school had experienced some kind of violence in school.

“Results of the survey show that peers perpetrate most forms of violence experienced by children,” commented Michael Diamond, who was described in the study as the Plan Philippine country director. “Ridicule and teasing by peers are the most common experiences.”

Unfortunately, parents don’t know that such incidents are taking place in schools.

Let me quote the words of Dr. Richard B. Goldbloom who wrote a piece on it in Reader’s Digest: “Many parents are unaware that it is happening because they never discuss it with their kids and because bullying is often a kind of underground activity that many children won’t report.”

Unlike in the United States

and other industrialized countries, violence against children by their peers, in particular bullying, has received little attention in our country. I think this is due to the perception that bullying and fighting among children is part of school culture. “Away bata” is the common excuse for it – it’s “normal” or “a rite of passage” for children.

If you are a parent, how will you know that your child is being bullied? A book on psychology gives us these manifestations: frightened of going to school and is difficult to wake in the morning; doesn’t want to ride the school bus; begs to be driven to school; becomes withdrawn, anxious, or lacking in confidence; cries him/herself to sleep at night or has nightmares; feels sick in the morning; and comes home with clothes torn or books damaged.

A child is also being bullied if he or she has possessions (like pens or pencils) that end up “missing”; asks for money or starts stealing money (to pay the bully); comes home starving (money/lunch has been stolen); stops eating;

and is frightened to say what’s wrong.

A major red flag is when he or she attempts or threatens suicide or runs away from home.

“Bullying is a symptom of a deeper problem,” observed Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara when he was still alive.

“It should never be tolerated.

Quality education and a safe and positive learning environment go hand in hand.”

During the time of President Benigno S. Aquino III, Republic Act 10627 or The Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, was signed. The law seeks to address a hostile environment at school that disrupts the education process which, in turn, is not conducive to the total development of a child at school.

The law requires elementary and secondary schools to adopt policies to prevent and address bullying. All those found to be engaged in the act of bullying – regardless of age and discernment – have to comply with civil liabilities, including a penalty that ranges from P50,000 to P100,000.

But despite this law, bul-

lying continues unabated.

Dr. Ma. Lourdes “Honey” Carandang, a national scientist and noted clinical psychologist, has often expressed her disappointment over the seeming lack of concern that school authorities have shown towards bullying incidents that take place right under their noses.

“It’s really sad how, instead of being helped, the bullied child is sometimes even blamed for the bullying that has taken place,” Dr. Carandang deplored, adding that there should be more programs put in place to further educate teachers and administrators about the dangers of bullying and to teach them to be more sensitive.

“There are three persons who need to be helped and empowered here – the bully, the bullied, and the bystander,” Dr. Carandang. She further said that everyone needs to be part of the solution and that if a teacher or student is in a class or is a witness to a bullying incident elsewhere on campus and does nothing, then that person is as much a part of the problem as the bully.

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

CARNAGE AT TUGBOK The atrocities committed, many of these buried in archives and libraries, are important narratives deserving of public dissemination.

Though many of the war reports are gruesome and emotionally distressing, their historic value and the lessons learned from them should afford us a better appreciation of why any form of armed conflict can ruin a civilized world.

In Document 2747 filed in the legal section of the GHQ of the Supreme Commander for Allied Forces in Manila, an atrocity carried out in Tugbok is possibly the most ghastly among the Japanese abuses done in Davao during the war.

The incident took place after the city was liberated.

On May 11, 1945, eight days after the Allied troops retook the city, the fleeing Japanese soldiers, angry, hungry, and desperate after the U.S.

troops cornered them thru the Sayre Highway west of Davao, rounded up around 100 men, women, and children, all residents of Tugbok.

Under the pretext of taking them to a safe place, the civilians, cowering in fear, were brought to sitio Balengaeng where they were joined by another group, consequently bringing their number to approximately 200. The next day, the Japanese divided the residents into two groups, 40 in one and around 160 in the other. Clustered and standing against the early morning sun, the captors separated the smaller group and, without warning, arbitrarily strafed them to death. Pandemonium broke loose but the civilians, frozen in distress and hor-ror, became sitting ducks.

Menacing and hollering, the murderers turned their guns on the other group. A few, luck-ily, managed to flee

for their lives, but nearly a majority did not escape certain death. Those who bolted lived to tell authorities of the horrid incident committed on non-combatants.

On May 13, Sunday, three survivors returned to the massacre site and counted 89 dead bodies. Only twenty-two were identified. A 14-year-old girl, seriously injured by a bullet and bayonet thrusts, survived the ordeal. Sadly, the perpetrators were never brought to justice to be tried.

Under the same file (Document 2747), dozens of abuses were also recorded. The files show a pattern of mayhems savagely committed by the Japanese since 1941. But the greatest number of murders took place as retaliatory enemy actions after the liberation of Davao City.

Among the incidents on record are the murder and rape at Bacaca, May 2-5, 1945;

mur-der of civilians at Bacaca, May 3; murder of sixteen civilians at Wangan. May 4 (Case No. P-65); massacre at Mulig, May 5 (Case No. 0-63); murder and attempted murder of 30 Filipino civilians at Biao, Calinan, May 5 (Case No. L-97); murders of Perez and Miyegas, May 13-14; murder of three Filipinos near Manuel Plantation at Tagakpan, May 18; murder of two Filipi-nos at Gatungan, May 19 (Case No. P-58); and murder of nine civilians in Davao City, May 21 (Case No. P-79).

There were also reports of Chinese killings in Davao in May 1945 (Case No. P-77); mur-der of five Chinese at Tungkalan on May 18 (Case No. M-14); Chinese murders in Davao City in May 1945 (Case No. J-46); and the murder of Chinese and Bagobos in Catalunan Grande, May 5, 145.

Rounding up the roster are the murders at Ilang and

Tibungko, May 14 & June 15, 1945; the murder of four Filipinos at Ilang; torture of civilians in Davao City by Kempei-Tai, March-April 1944; the execution of an American and seven Filipinos in Magugpo (Tagum), July 1942; the murder of Filipinos at Daliao (Case No. P-67); the murder of five Filipinos in Digos (Case No. P-51);: Lapoy plantation murders (Case No. P-63); atrocities at Calinan, De-cember 1941; murder of a Filipino, Dec. 29, 1941 (Case No. 0-63); the murder of Filipino and American prisoners in Mintal and nearby areas, Sept. 10, 1944 (Case No. M-89); Bunawan murders, May 1945 (Case No. 0-98); the murders near Tigatto (Case No. M-15); the murder of four Filipinos in Manay, Davao Oriental, Nov. 2, 1942 (Case No. P-82); and the torture and killing of Emilio Rafols in Davao City.

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EVENT

Sambuokan returns with a bang After two-year break due to Covid-19 pandemic, Mati City’s festival of oneness, the Sambuokan Festival, returned to the streets of the “City of Beautiful Bays.”

Derived from the Mandaya term “buok” meaning one, Sambuokan is a yearly celebration of unity among ethnic groups whose dream is to have a progressive and highly-developed society.

This year’s celebration is special because finally, Matinians were able to celebrate Sambuokan in person once again. One can feel the festive mood

as they strolled the streets or watched the festival activities.

Among the much anticipated events was the street dancing competition, Indak Sayaw (their version of Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan) on October 29, 2022. Revelers braved the scorching heat as they packed the Baywalk area where the street dancing competition was held.

Participating contingents in the colorful and highly-anticipated competition were the Immaculate Heart of Mary Academy (IHMA), Matiao National High School, Mati Doctors Academy Inc., City of Mati National High School, and Mati National Comprehensive High School.

Based on the creativity of their costumes and props, and rhythmic performances that made spectators high with the beat of the drums, the participating schools were there with a mission to impress and entertain.

IHMA emerged as this year’s grand champion and took home a cash prize worth P100,000 and a trophy; Matiao National High

School came in second and received a cash prize worth P75,000 and a trophy; Mati National Comprehensive High School was third and awarded a cash prize worth P60,000; City of Mati National High School settled for fourth and received a cash prize of P50,000; and Mati Doctors Academy Inc. was fifth placer and pocketed a cash prize worth P50,000.

IHMA was also awarded Best in Costume while Matiao National High School was awarded Best in Musicality.

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COMMUNITY SENSE

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DavNor acquires new vehicles, heavy equipment to boost services, infra

By NOEL BAGUIO The provincial government of Davao del Norte intends to boost service delivery and build vital infrastructures to maximize growth potential with the acquisition of P265-million worth of brand-new vehicles and heavy equipment this year.

Governor Edwin Jubahib said the province is set to bring more services to the barangays, accelerate infrastructure development and enhance disaster preparedness for effective response.

“We aim to deliver more services, build more infrastructures and improve disaster response to satisfy the basic needs of our people,” he said, during the inauguration of 21 service and rescue vehicles and heavy machineries, amounting to P207 million on Thursday, November 3, 2022.

The new fleet of vehicles and heavy equipment include two heavy-duty rescue vehicles with crane; five Ural Next heavy-duty rescue vehicles; one crawler hydraulic excavator; one crawler long-arm excavator; two wheel-type excavators; two bulldozers; two dump trucks; two 16-ft fuel tankers; and two 4-wheel drive pick-up trucks.

The governor said the vehicles and heavy equipment will be used to open up more roads and infrastructures to spur investments and economic growth, as he bared his aim of delivering at least 95% of basic ser-

vices to the people during his second term.

Hailed as the Banana Capital of the Philippines, Davao del Norte was awarded as among the 2022 Most Sustainable and Liveable Provinces in the Philippines.

Jubahib added the excavators will also assist the dredging machines in the on-going desilting operation of major rivers and tributaries to address perennial flooding in the province.

The new pick-up trucks were given to the board members and various offices of the Provincial Capitol to facilitate delivery of more services to the barangays.

“Walay nay rason nganong dili maka-deliver og maayong serbisyo ang atong mga opisina sa Kapitolyo (There is no reason why we cannot deliver better services),” Jubahib said.

Early last June, the province received the delivery of seven 19-seater van-type lightweight trucks and 27 4x4 rescue pick-up trucks, where some were distributed to improve the response capabilities of the local government units (LGUs) of the province.

The province purchased the equipment through a bank loan and some funds coming from the Local Government Empowerment Program (LGEP) of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), which was facilitated by 1st District Congressman Pantaleon Alvarez.

Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib says the provincial government aims to deliver more services, build more infrastructures and improve disaster response with the acquisition of new vehicles and heavy equipment worth P265million. Nobags

Rev. Fr. Bobby Castillo bestows blessings and holy water on the brand-new vehicles and heavy equipment of Davao del Norte, during the inauguration ceremony that was led by Governor Edwin Jubahib and graced by provincial officials and executives. Nobags

DAR employees undergo strategic thinking training

Dr. Edgardo Pangilinan, Deputy Secretary at the House of Representatives, during a lecture on “Raising the Quality of Public Service through Strategic Thinking.”

Selected officers and staff of the Public Assistance and Media Relations Service, the Clientele Relations Service, and the Legislative Liaison External Affairs Service of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) attended a two-day seminar-workshop on strategic thinking to upgrade their capacities for strategic planning and make the services of the agency more responsive to the needs of the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).

Atty. Marilyn Barua-Yap, DAR Undersecretary for Special Concerns Office and External Affairs and Communications Operations Office, said the seminar cum workshop is designed

to raise the quality of public service through strategic thinking and planning.

“This is one strategy organized by my office to address the call made by Secretary Conrado Estrella III to improve and elevate the value of public service that we give to our stakeholders,” Yap said.

With the theme “Raising the Quality of Public Service through Strategic Thinking,” the seminar-workshop will provide officers and staff of the bureaucracy with the needed competencies for thinking strategically.

“This is an essential prelude to crafting strategic plans. We believe that one should know how to think

strategically for strategic plans to be effective. And if plans are effective and successfully implemented then quality public service is guaranteed,” Yap said.

The participants were taught the principles, concepts, values, tools, and techniques for developing strategic thinking in the context of public organizations.

The seminar was conducted by Dr. Edgardo Pangilinan, Deputy Secretary General at the House of Representatives, a strategic thinking and management expert who teaches strategic management at the University of the Philippines, and the Development Academy of the Philippines, among others.

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ed P6,000 worth of lumber.

DCPO stated that these accomplishments speak well of its incessant conduct of the core-focused operations that bring about a safe and secure Davao City.

“We assure that DCPO will ceaselessly war against all forms of criminality with our goal of making Davao City the safest city in the country. DCPO will strive more to make this city a most livable to work and business,” said Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson

of DCPO, in a text message.

Meanwhile, city director Police Colonel Alberto Lupaz lauded and gave his utmost recognition to all performing DCPO personnel in maintaining the peace and order in Davao City and safeguarding its populace in partnership with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders.

He also encouraged all police officers under his command to persevere in performing the mandated tasks, if not to excel in them.

event (If there is a need for the security cluster to stop an event, they will do so in coordination with the event organizer, this if they will see that the event poses danger),” he added.

Sumagaysay said that it is only when the safety and security plan is ap-

proved that they will issue a certification that will be forwarded to the Business Bureau for the issuance of the permit.

The Safety and Security Team meets every Wednesday weekly at the Public Security and Safety Office to discuss and assess security and safety plans. CIO

impact of local currency depreciation against the USD. This was partially offset by the P30.62 billion effect of third-currency depreciation against the USD and net repayment amounting to P10.8 billion,” it said.

As of the end of August, the peso stood at P56.171 to $1 and P58.646 in September.

The peso dipped to a record low of P59 in October before easing to

around the P58 to $1 level in recent weeks.

Analysts expect the inflow of remittances and business process outsourcing (BPO) receipts in the fourth quarter to temporarily support the peso.

However, the US Federal Reserve’s 75-basis point interest rate hike on Nov. 2 is seen to fuel the dollar rally that could result in further depreciation of other currencies including the peso.

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provided more than 2,000 food packs containing rice, canned goods, and noodles to those affected by the flood in the Province of Cotabato on November 3, 2022.

The assistance was sent to the office of Mendoza and was immediately distributed to residents and various evacuation sites in the municipalities of Pig-

cawayan and Aleosan.

Apart from this, the senator’s office also distributed umbrellas, basketballs for children, and clothes to help them recover after the disaster.

Other food packs are scheduled to be distributed to residents who were flooded in the municipalities of Libungan and Midsayap in the next few days.

in Davao Occidental.

SPAMAST President Dr. Ruth Lucero expressed her gratitude to DA-XI, stating, “This is another milestone for SPAMAST and will surely enhance the institution’s capacity to provide venue for our entrepreneurs, SMEs, youth, researchers, retirees to explore and incubate to develop technology in adherent to global

standards.”

Moreover, Agriculture and Fishery Industrialization Program Director Jerome Bunyi raised the need to have high-impact investments and economic opportunities in rural areas, thus, the purpose of establishing the SAFE project. (PIA-XI/Franchette Delfin/Agri Info Davao/SPAMAST)

ruption/anti-leakage/ anti-wastage measures” to help lessen the government’s budget gap and address its liabilities.

He said the intensified tax collections from existing tax laws may not be enough and would inevitably require new tax/ fiscal reform measures to curb additional borrowings by the government.

“Thus, tax reform and other fiscal reform measures, alongside faster economic growth, for the coming months/years would help ease the national government’s debt-

to-GDP (gross domestic product) ratio to below the international threshold of 60 percent in the coming years and would help maintain/support the country’s relatively favorable credit ratings of 1-3 notched above the minimum investment grade rating,” he said.

The share of the government’s debt to total output of the country is around 62.1 percent as of end-June this year, already lower after hitting a 17-year high of 63.5 percent in the previous quarter. (PNA)

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guindanao.

Alfredo Baloran, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) led the send-off ceremony of the personnel from Davao City’s medical and rescue teams who will stay in Maguindanao Province to help and assist in the ongoing rescue and retrieval operations in the area.

Meanwhile, the city government of Davao continues

to accept in-kind donations at the designated drop-off points in Rizal Park (beside City Hall) and Task Force Davao Headquarters in Sta. Ana, Wharf until November 5 for Typhoon Paeng-affected communities.

Among severely floodhit areas are Pigcawayan, Province of Cotabato, and the entire Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

By Maya M. Padillo

has about 112,767 coconut farmers and 144,620 hectares of coconut plantation.

About 68.2 percent of the coconut farmers owned less than two hectares of land.

In a video message, Senator Cynthia Villar said more than PHP75 billion from the coco levy would be rightfully given to an estimated 2.5 million coconut farmers in the country.

“Every year, there is a PHP5 billion or more budget will be allocated if the implementing agencies will follow their mandate as stipulated in the CFIDP,” said Villar, the primary author of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act (CFITF).

She described the CFITF as a historic “game changer” that would change the country’s coconut industry.

Villar also urged the coconut farmers to enroll in the National Coconut Farmers Registry System, which will be assisted by the PCA. On the other hand, Basilio Adlawan Jr., federation president of the Small Coconut Farmers of Governor Generoso, said the launch of the CFIDP in the province was “a great milestone” that their forefathers had long been waiting for.

“More or less, four decades and finally the coco levy fund is here and within grasp,” he said.

Adlawan said the enactment of the law would pave the way for the efficient use of the multi-billion-peso coconut levy to uplift the livelihood of millions of farmers and sustain the development of the country’s coconut industry. (PNA)

ue wearing face masks and following minimum health protocols.

“We encourage also ‘yung mga customers natin to follow our safety protocols kasi it’s a shared responsibility naman po,” Diaz said.

“While it has become voluntary the use of face masks both indoor and outdoor in our mall, talagang ‘yung minimum health safety protocols ano, still

going to be in place and we will encourage all our frontliners na magsuot pa rin ng face masks dahil ito ay para sa safety nila, safety ng customers,” Jon Jon San Agustin of SM Supermalls also said.

Marcos last week the voluntary use of face masks in both indoor and outdoor areas, except in health care facilities, medical transport vehicles and all forms of public transportation.

ippine peso’s purchasing power to 0.87 year-to-date.

It was 0.85 for October.

That means, for every P1 a Filipino spends, only P0.85 worth of goods and services was purchased.

Meanwhile, recent weather disturbances are also likely to push supply-side inflation in the coming months after crops were damaged, an analyst said.

“I don’t think we’re at the peak yet because we just encountered a major typhoon that affected the country,” Ateneo Department of Economics Chairman Alvin Ang said.

ING Bank Manila Senior Economist Nicholas Mapa said the Bango Sentral ng Pilipinas is likely to remain hawkish due to rising inflation “even after 75-bps hike pledge.”

BSP Gov. Felipe Medalla said on Thursday the monetary board would match the US Federal Reserve’s 75-bps interest rate hike in its Nov. 17 meeting.

The BSP has raised its

benchmark rate by a cumulative 225 basis points to 4.25 percent this year to cool down inflation.

The National Economic and Development Authority for its part underscored the need to support vulnerable families and the production sector.

“It’s high time that we boost support for the agriculture sector not only in post-disaster recovery but more importantly through preemptive measures,” NEDA Director General Arsenio M. Balisacan said.

“We would like to assure the public that the Philippine government is closely monitoring the inflation and possible inflation pressures. We continue to prioritize and proactively manage these issues by providing immediate assistance and enabling timely imports to augment domestic food production, while building the resilience of families, communities and the economy,” Balisacan added.

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SPORTS 11

LRWC President Andy Tsui, AB Leisure Exponent Inc. (ABLE) President Jasper Vicencio, PVL Tournament Director Tonyboy Liao, and Sports Vision Management Group Inc., President Ricky Palou during the signing ceremony on October 27 held at the PhilSports Arena.

BingoPlus inks sponsorship deal with Premiere Volleyball League B ingoPlus, the newest entertainment offering of Leisure & Resorts World Corporation (LRWC) entered a sponsorship deal with the Premiere Volleyball League (PVL) to be its Official Gaming Partner.

The signing ceremony last October 27, was attended by LRWC

President Andy Tsui, AB Leisure Exponent Inc. (ABLE) President Jasper

Vicencio, PVL Tournament Director Tonyboy Liao, and Sports Vision Management Group Inc., President Ricky Palou, which was held at the PhilSports Arena.

In his speech, LRWC President Tsui highlighted that the management was anticipating this

event for quite some time. “The partnership between BingoPlus and PVL is one of our highlights this year. We are looking forward to reaching more supporters through PVL and we hope that this partnership would spark more opportunities for both parties”

Tsui said. Moreover, ABLE President Vicencio stated that BingoPlus is actively partnering with other organizations that have the same interest as the brand. Vicencio in addition highlighted that BingoPlus can be accessed through www.bingoplus. com and can be visited at

150 BingoPlus branches nationwide.

BingoPlus is the first and only live-streaming bingo in the Philippines that has secured a license from the PAGCOR. To date, BingoPlus has more than 900 jackpot and bingo winners since January.

FRED C. LUMBA SPORTS KEN

MIKEY WILLIAMS A PRIMA DONNA? TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa, one of PBA’s 40 greatest, was a disciplined cager during his active playing years whether in the amateurs or in the pros.

(I say this with authority because I covered his outstanding playing days in the PABL and PBA.) Such that the recent delinquent actuations of Fil-Am hotshot Mikey Williams have pierced his patience, thus mincing no words in revealing the negative attitude a player of William’s caliber has been displaying recently.

The Californian-born 31 year old shooting guard is reportedly one of the highest paid in the TNT

line-up but his demeanor as a professional remains something to be desired.

In behalf of management, Lastimosa has suspended Williams without pay and until this writing, the latter has not called to apologize nor physically approached TNT management to explain his absences from team practices.

His relationship with teammates, Lastimosa disclosed, is not harmonious as it should ideally be and does not speak much of William’s character.

On one occasion, Lastimosa said, Williams did not come to practice despite being fetched by a company driver from where he

was staying.

True or not, there are naughty rumors surfacing that the high scoring guard has been receiving feelers from some agents that have close connection with Japan B. League ball clubs.

The perception among basketball observers - even PBA fans alike - could be that Williams might have received irresistible offers and that he is inclined to accept.

This may be the reason that (I hope it is not true) some are speculating for the recent “delinquent” scenario.

Williams might be inducing TNT to suspend him indefinitely so he could make a “reasonable”

exit to jump over to the other league that has been continuously poaching PBA waters for some time now.

Quite naturally, as Williams is already 31 and very well been thinking that he has only 5 more good years left, the fellow is forced to seek the best remuneration and compensation for whatever remains of his playing years.

Is it true that Williams receives P1.2M from TNT (monthly salary, perks, bonuses, etc.)?

We can’t blame people for seeking greener pastures but in William’s case, he has to respect the contract he signed with TNT before jumping over to another

league.

TNT is on the losing side here even if disciplinary actions (fines and suspensions without pay) are meted on Williams because the guy might be just too willing and ready to sever his contractual ties with management.

In sum, I think PBA compensation rates must be promptly recalibrated to make them competitively at par with foreign counterparts and thus prevent (underpaid) PBA stars and talented Pinoy cagers from getting pirated overseas.

The bottom line is all about money. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

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TO THE BIG LEAGUE Davao City’s golf phenom Alessandra Nagayo during the recent USGA Championships.

Ella Nagayo signs up with US collegiate team

“S

wingderElla” is moving up to the big league.

Davao City’s golf phenom Alessandra Nagayo has signed with the Kennesaw State women’s golf team, the Owls’ head coach Erin Thorne announced Wednesday.

Nagayo graduated from Marshall McLuhan Catholic Secondary school earlier this year.

She won the Rowville Sports Academy Student-Athlete of the Year award in 2017 and 2018 while earning academic awards at Marshall McLuhan in 201920 and 2020-21.

It has been a long glorious journey for Nagayo who started 10 years ago at the Apo Golf and Country Club in Davao City.

She moved to Australia on a golf scholarship in 2016 before moving to Canada when her mother former Davao City councilor Rachel Zozobrado-Nagayo was assigned as labor attache by former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Nagayo is eligible to compete for the Owls this spring.

“Very excited to announce that I have officially signed to play Division 1 golf and further my academic career at

Kennesaw State University!

Huge thanks to all my coaches, teammates, friends, and family (especially my mother Rachel and father Danny who helped get to where I am today. Also, thank you so much to Coach Thorne for giving me this opportunity! Can’t wait to move to Georgia this coming January!! #KSUowls,” Nagayo wrote on her Facebook page.

Born in the Philippines and a native of Ontario, Canada, Nagayo plans to major in Psychology at Kennesaw State.

“Coach Thorne is very kind, understanding and a competitive coach,” Nagayo said. “I believe her and the team can help me improve my golf game. Kennesaw State is such a nice campus and the people were very kind,” she said.

Nagayo’s brother, Daniel, is also a junior golf standout .