Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 245 | Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023

IN THE INTEREST OF JUSTICE

FPRRD on Durante case: I trust the military would do its part

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Former President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday night that he has full faith and confidence in the military in handling the murder case filed against Brigadier General Jesus Durante III, the alleged mastermind behind the killing of Yvonette “Yvonne” Chua Plaza.

Durante has served as the Presidential Security Group (PSG) commander during FPRRD’s administration.

“I supposed we are all

interested in the justice system and I have full faith and confidence, kung gusto nilang court martial, a civil court, alin diyan sa dalawa, wala akong masabi. I trust

the military would do its part for the interest of justice and if it’s filed in civil court, okay lang,” Duterte said during the program “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa.”

Army chief Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner Jr. in a statement last Wednesday vowed that there will be no special treatment against the high-ranking official. It is also forming a general court marshall to possibly try Durante and

PBBM eyes creation of P1-B housing subsidy

other army personnel.

Based on the report of the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Plaza, Durante allegedly tapped the services of his six subordinates, which include Pfc. Romart Longakit and Pfc. Rolly Cabal, and three John Does for the killing of Plaza.

Other soldiers identified for their alleged involvement in the murder are Col. Michael Licyayo, FIN, P10

Davao City water supply project targets full operation in June 2023: DCWD exec

Apo Agua Insfrastructura, Inc. targets the full operation of the P12-billion Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) on June 1 this year after it incurred delays in the completion of the project for two years, an official from the Davao City Water

District (DCWD) said on Monday.

JC Duhaylungsod, DCWD spokesperson, told MindaNews that Apo Agua hopes to operate the DCBWSP by June 1 based on their “adjusted timeline.”

The target completion of the project was origi-

nally planned for 2021 but it encountered setbacks when the coronavirus pandemic emerged, forcing the company to postpone it to 2022.

However, the project’s target completion was further postponed to 2023 allegedly due to the “inter-

nal issues” with J.V. Angeles Construction Corporation (JVACC), the former engineering, procurement and construction contractor of Apo Agua. Duhaylungsod said there are talks on the “early use” prior to the full operaFDAVAO, P10

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday bared that he is eyeing a PHP1 billion housing subsidy fund for the recipients of the government’s low-cost housing units.

Marcos made the pronouncement during the groundbreaking ceremony of the housing project under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program and walkthrough of the Batasan Development Renewal Plan at the Batasan Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Association (BaTODA) Terminal in Batasan Hills, Quezon City.

He said he and Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar are studying the creation of the subsidy fund to help beneficiaries who could not afford the monthly amortization of the housing units.

“We are still left with a fact that many of our beneficiaries will still not be able to afford the monthly amortization of these units,” Marcos said, reiterating his vow to provide “decent and affordable

housing for every Filipino family.”

“Pinag-aaralan namin ni Secretary Acuzar ang pagtatayo ng subsidy fund para dito sa ating housing program. Siguro, maglalagay tayo diyan, ‘pag nakahanap tayo ng pera, mga PHP1 billion to start with para meron tayong subsidy na ibibigay para sa ating magiging tenant (Secretary Acuzar and I are studying the possibility of establishing a subsidy fund for our housing program. Perhaps, if we find a funding source, we will allot PHP1 billion to start with the distribution of subsidies for our future tenants),” he added.

Marcos thanked the DHSUD for leading the national government’s flagship housing program, as well as the Quezon City local government for its support and allocation of land and financial resources for the housing project.

He expressed hope that Congress would heed his call to make the housing interest support as part of the regular appropriations for the coming years.

“The government is

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte announces during the Basic Education Report (BER) 2023 that the Department of Education (DepEd) will revise the K to 12 curriculum for employable graduates. FB page of Inday Sara Duterte

VP Sara says K to 12 to be revised to produce employable graduates

Davao City equip drivers with demo simulation in preparation for HPBS

The city government of Davao is making sure Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) drivers and operators are ready for the implementation of the High Priority Bus System (HPBS) in Davao City.

PUJ drivers and operators who expressed their intentions to apply as bus drivers will undergo the E-Driver Demo Simulation in preparation for the HPBS.

Tristan Dwight Domingo, project manager of the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project, said on Tuesday that the simulation, which started on January 31 until February 3, 2023, is being held at the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory BoardDavao (LTFRB-Davao). It aims to evaluate drivers’ competency as a requirement for HPBS.

He also said that this technology will be used to train drivers in the future for HPBS if proven effective.

“Kini nga event diri nato makita ang posible na mga mekanismo, kaning mga gamiton nato

puhon sa pagtrain sa mga drivers nato sa HPBS. Naay mga ekipo didto nga makita nato unsaon pagtuon sa mga future drivers nato kay taas ang atoang requirement sa competency sa atoang mga drivers para sa buses nato. Naa didto ang mga sample training nga ilahang agian puhon,” he said over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Tuesday.

The drivers were also selected to see if the city can effectively use the equipment/technology.

“Initial preparations pa lang ni ug katong mga drivers nga nagpaabot na sa ilahang intentions nga mahimong driver puhon including operators kung gusto sila musulay nga mahimo silang driver puhon, gipili lang sa nato to sila karon aron matestingan nato kung epektibo ba ning atong gamiton nga mga equipment,” he said.

He said the city is eyeing to employ 2,000 drivers for the bus system.

“So daghan tang training na pagabuhaton aron

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte announced on Monday that the Department of Education (DepEd) will revise the K to 12 curriculum to produce more employable graduates.

In her presentation of the Basic Education Report 2023 at the Sofitel Hotel Philippine Plaza Manila on Monday, the Vice President said the ongoing review of the K-12 curriculum has revealed that “the curriculum content is congested, that some prerequisites of identified

essential learning competencies are missing or misplaced, and that a significant number of learning competencies cater to high cognitive demands.”

Duterte said DepEd will make the K to 12 curriculum relevant and promises graduates that are employable.

“We will revise the K to 12 curriculum to make them more responsive to our aspiration as a nation, to develop lifelong learners who are imbued with 21st-century skills, discipline, and patriotism,” Duterte said in a statement

Meanwhile, in the employment for basic education graduates, Duterte said the department is reviewing the K to 10 and Grades 11 to 12 curriculum to ensure that graduates are immediately em-

ployable by sectors and industries, which was the sole purpose for the K to 12 program.

Duterte added that DepEd also aims to intensify the values formation of learners in curriculum and teaching, particularly through the Good Manners and Right Conduct and Values Education, in adherence to Republic Act 11476 or the mandates for the creation of a separate subject for Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC).

Agri, infra damage due to rains, floods across PH reach P1.5B

The cost of damage to agriculture and infrastructure due to heavy rains and floods caused by the low pressure area, shear line and northeast monsoon that battered the country since Jan. 2 had exceeded PHP1.5 billion, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said Tuesday.

The OCD, in its latest disaster bulletin, said the losses included PHP1.05 billion in agriculture and PHP521.91 million in infrastructure in Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mind-

anao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, Caraga and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region In Muslim Mindanao.

Some 1,888 houses were damaged while 497,273 families or over 2 million persons were affected.

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the

Philippines announced that BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) had arrived at the Iligan Pier, Lanao Del Norte carrying some 358 tons of relief goods for flood victims in Eastern Mindanao on Monday. The ship left Subic Port, Zambales last Jan. 28.

Dozens of registrants from the Second District of Davao City troop at a Commission on Elections (Comelec) - Davao satellite registration center at SM Lanang Premier during the final day of voters registration for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on Tuesday. Lean Daval Jr.

PBBM meets with US, Chinese biz leaders

President

Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday met with business leaders from China and the United States to discuss investments and other partnerships.

In a news release, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said officials of China Communications Construction Co. Ltd (CCCC), a Chinese stateowned enterprise, paid courtesy call on Marcos at Malacañan Palace and committed to more investments following the President’s state visit earlier this month.

“…Officials of the China Communications Construction Co. Ltd proposed the construction of the 270km Laoag City-Rosario City Highway Project and the introduction of China’s Juncao technology to the Philippines,” the PCO said.

The CCCC proposed to build a Juncao Technology Demonstration Center and a Juncao Industrial Park

for Juncao grass cultivation and processing.

Juncao is a hybrid of the Giant Napier Grass developed by the Fujian Agriculture and Forest University from eight different types of grass through tissue culture.

The proposed Juncao technology project, once approved, will be funded through Chinese foreign aid.

CCCC officials also updated Marcos on their ongoing infrastructure projects in the Philippines, including the Samal Island-Davao City Connector

Project and North & South Harbor Bridge, among others.

Marcos, meanwhile, reiterated the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) as a “central part” of his government’s economic policy.

“It can be of any nature – commercial venture or joint venture with a local partner. Of course, the PPP, where you have partnership with government, even G2G -- government-to-government arrangements -- are also something that we have

BOC logs nearly P7-billion collection surplus in Jan.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported that it surpassed its revenue collection target for January.

Based on the preliminary report released Monday night, the BOC has collected PHP65.801 billion from Jan. 1 to 27

alone. The initial collection for the year was higher by 11.9 percent or PHP6.98 billion.

The BOC said this month’s target revenue collection is PHP58.822 billion.

The amount is also

higher by 13.1 percent, or PHP7.627 billion, compared to the PHP58.174 billion collection during the same period in 2022.

Under Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz’s watch, the BOC continues to implement stringent measures to counter il-

Bank lending expands by 13.4% in December 2022

Bank lending expanded by 13.4 percent in December 2022 compared to the same month in 2021, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said on Tuesday citing preliminary data.

The BSP said the amount of outstanding loans of universal and commercial banks, net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements with the BSP, was slightly slower than the growth rate of 13.9 percent (revised) in November.

licit trade and Customs fraud.

Ruiza said the improvement of trade facilitation and increasing lawful revenue collection is also in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (PNA)

“On a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of RRPs, also decreased marginally by 0.04 percent,” the BSP said.

Loans for production activities expanded by 12.1 percent in December driven largely by borrowing for real estate activities, manufacturing, electricity, gas, steam and airconditioning supply, wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehi-

cles and motorcycles, and information and communication.

Consumer loans also rose by 24.8 percent in December from 24.2 percent (revised) in the previous month, reflecting the faster year-on-year growth in motor vehicle loans.

“The sustained growth in credit activity and ample liquidity will continue to support the recovery of economic activity and domestic demand. Looking ahead, the BSP will ensure that liquidity and credit conditions are in line with its primary mandate of promoting price and financial stability,” the central bank said.

Last year, the BSP began tightening monetary policy, raising its benchmark rate from a record low of 2 percent to a 14-year high of 5.5 percent, as it tried to tame inflation.

The BSP is expected to raise interest rates again in its next policy-setting meeting next month.

People queue to withdraw cash from automated teller machines (ATMs) in front of a bank along San Pedro Street in Davao City on Tuesday. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has bared that bank lending expanded by 13.4 percent in December 2022 compared to the same month in 2021. Lean Daval Jr.

FMEETS, P10

Inflation likely within 7.5-8.3% range in January 2023: BSP

Bank lending expands by 13.4% in December 2022

Bank lending expanded by 13.4 percent in December 2022 compared to the same month in 2021, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said on Tuesday citing preliminary data.

The BSP said the amount of outstanding loans of universal and commercial banks, net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements with the BSP, was slightly slower than the growth rate of 13.9 percent (revised) in November.

“On a month-onmonth seasonally-adjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of RRPs, also decreased marginally by 0.04 percent,” the BSP said.

Loans for production activities expanded by 12.1 percent in December driven largely by borrowing for real estate activities, manufacturing, electricity, gas, steam and airconditioning supply, wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor ve-

Inflation is expected to remain elevated this month despite the projected deceleration from the 14-month high in December due to the higher prices of utilities and commodities, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported Tuesday.

hicles and motorcycles, and information and communication.

Consumer loans also rose by 24.8 percent in December from 24.2 percent (revised) in the previous month, reflecting the faster year-on-year growth in motor vehicle loans.

“The sustained growth in credit activity and ample liquidity will continue to support the recovery of economic activity and domestic demand. Looking ahead, the BSP will ensure that liquidity and credit conditions are in line with its primary mandate of promoting price and financial stability,” the central bank said.

Last year, the BSP began tightening monetary policy, raising its benchmark rate from a record low of 2 percent to a 14year high of 5.5 percent, as it tried to tame inflation.

The BSP is expected to raise interest rates again in its next policy-setting meeting next month.

The central bank said it projects inflation to fall within 7.5% to 8.3%, following the 8.1% recorded in December which was the fastest since the 9.1% recorded in November 2008.

The latest forecast range is higher than the 2% to 4% target of the government.

“Upward price pressures for the month are expected to emanate from higher electricity rates, ap-

proved water rate rebasing, higher domestic petroleum prices, uptick in the prices of key food items, and the annual increase in sin taxes,” the BSP said in an emailed statement.

The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) hiked its overall rates for typical household customers by 62.32 centavos per kilowatt-hour (/kWh) to P10.9001/kWh this month,

translating to an increase of around P125 in the total bill of a residential customer consuming 200 kWh.

Pump prices have also been hiked in four of the five weeks of January, with year-to-date net increases at P5.90 per liter for gasoline, P2.05 per liter for diesel, and P3.20 per liter for kerosene as of January 24, 2023.

The BSP noted, however, that the increases could be offset by the reduction in the prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as firms rolled back prices by as much as P4.20 per kilogram during the month.

It also cited the appreciation of the Philippine peso,

which has returned to the P54:$1 level after hitting an all-time low of P59:$1 last year. BSP Governor Felipe Medalla in December said he expects inflation to start normalizing this month after peaking in December, and return to “normal” by the third or fourth quarter of the year.

“The BSP will continue to adjust its monetary policy stance at the necessary pace to prevent the further broadening of price pressures and monitor emerging price developments closely in accordance with the BSP’s price stability mandate,” the central bank said Tuesday.

Oil declines as uncertainty floods markets ahead

Oil prices fell on Monday over uncertainty ahead of an expected meeting of major oil producing countries of the OPEC+ group and US Federal Reserve (Fed).

International benchmark Brent crude traded at USD85.93 per barrel at 09.56 a.m. local time (0656 GMT), a 0.54 percent decrease from the closing

of OPEC+ meeting

price of USD86.40 a barrel in the previous trading session. The American benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) traded at USD79.19 per barrel at the same time, a 0.61 percent loss after the previous session closed at USD79.68 a barrel.

On Wednesday, the 23-member group of the

Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, known as OPEC+, will meet for the first time after they agreed on Oct. 5 to cut production by 2 million barrels per day (bpd) as of November 2022.

Although the group is not expected to change their production policy, the uncertainty increased the

downward pressure on oil prices.

Also, upcoming rate hike decisions by the Fed and several EU banks further blurred the market.

While the Fed is expected to slow the pace of interest rate hikes on Wednesday, the European Central Bank and Bank of England are both expected to hike

Tagum City Tourism, Arts and Culture Council, Inc. president Alma Uy, together with Tagum City Tourism, Arts and Culture Council, Inc. vice president Nelly Gentugaya, promotes the upcoming 20th Musikahan Sa Tagum Festival 2023 slated on February 16 to 19, 2023 in Tagum City, Davao del Norte during this week’s PEP Talks media forum at SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

On the murder case filed against Brigadier General Jesus Durante III who was identified as the alleged mastermind behind the killing of Yvonette “Yvonne” Chua Plaza:

GARAY DELIGERO Editorial Consultant

BILLACURA Sports Editor

Senior Reporter

“I supposed we are all interested in the justice system and I have full faith and confidence, kung gusto nilang court martial, a civil court, alin diyan sa dalawa, wala akong masabi. I trust the military would do its part for the interest of justice and if it’s filed in civil court, okay lang.”

Former

President RODRIGO DUTERTE

In the municipality of Gov. Generoso, Davao Oriental, between the villages of Tibanban and Sampaguita, there exists a barangay called Don Aurelio Chicote. Its significance is not just about the contribution the owner of the name has given to the growth of the place; it is also about the enduring subject of Spanish migration to the Philippines, particularly the dis-trict of Davao.

Unlike the Matutes, Rabats, and Sainzes from Santander, Spain, who also left their own contributions, the Chicotes of Davao, whose patriarch was Don Sandalio Fernández y Chicote, were from Osa de La Vega, Cuenca Province.

Davao’s link to the Chicotes is through Sandalio’s children. Adolfo Beltran y Chicote was a Spanish army man dispatched to the Phil-

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST

THE CHICOTE CLAN OF DAVAO

ippines between 1874 and 1899. One of his as-signments was as first sergeant of the guardia civil in Polloc (now part of Parang, Maguinda-nao del Norte) before he was transferred to Jolo. He was the eldest in the brood. He was later moved to Manila in 1887 as part of the Guardia Civil Veterana, a police contingent imbued with the task of apprehending civilian offenders and petty criminals.

His three siblings, meanwhile, namely Prudencio, Aurelio, and Angel had settled in Da-vao even before he had decided to follow them and work in the national capital. Alfredo, an-other sibling, chose Manila as his home. In 1898, less than a month before the Americans de-feated the Spaniards in the mock Battle of Manila Bay, Adolfo was repatriated but was

later involved in the Spanish-American War.

Two of Don Sandalio’s daughter also had links with the Philippines. Eloisa resided briefly in Manila where her spouse, Lt. Col. Manuel Diaz y Luque, was an infantry commander. Carolina, on the other hand, wedded Col. Rodriguez y De la Rivera, an infantry officer. All her children were born in the Philippines, one in Cotabato where his husband was briefly as-signed.

As a Manila resident, Alfredo studied Law at the University of Santo Tomas. After be-coming a lawyer, he was installed as the justice of the peace of Quiapo, Manila. After Spain lost the Philippines to the U.S., he applied for American citizenship to protect his assets and thriving business in the country. He married a Catalan with whom he had thirteen children.

On the other hand, Angel finished a degree in topography from the same university. Re-maining single, he lived in Davao where he applied his knowledge in farming; he was also reported to have engaged in the survey and appraisal of lands.

War was not kind to the Chicote clan. Fifteen of its members, including Alfredo were massacred by the Japanese prior to the liberation of Manila. Some surviving descendants moved to Davao where they gained prominence in Gov. Generoso, Davao Oriental, and San-ta Cruz, Davao del Sur, the mother municipality of Digos, Padada, Hagonoy, Matanao and Bansalan.

Prudencio, meanwhile, married Maria Villa Abrille and permanently established resi-dence in Santa

Cruz where they acquired a sprawling estate at Patulangon, an erstwhile Ba-gobo domain. He also partnered with Manuel Sanchez Ruiz, another Spaniard, in logging business. As a respected settler, he was appointed justice of the peace of his adopted town. The couple did not have children and died intestate. At the time and until the American oc-cupation, Santa Cruz was home to full-blooded Spaniards who made good in agriculture and commerce. They were also known for their thriving cattle industry. Aurelio, who married Guadalupe Bangoy and resided in Sigaboy, was also childless. They left numerous properties. For his contributions to the development of the place where they lived, a barangay and an elementary school were named in his honor.

“All of humanity’s problems stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone.”BLAISE PASCAL.

(Nosy, the dictionary says, is an adjective describing excessive curiosity about other peoples’ affairs;” and “to pry into something.” It is like a neighbor who looks into your window to see what you and your wife are doing.)

I loved and enjoyed what former Senate President and now Presidential legal counsel Juan Ponce Enrile said about the ICC (International Criminal Court) guys who insist on entering our country to further investigate the socalled Duterte drug war.

He said in so many words: “I will have them arrested if they interfere with our justice system…”

Contrary to Enrile’s views, the minority members in the Senate - Sens. Risa Hontiveros

and Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel - are willing to give up our sovereignty and accede to the ICC demand to probe the “human rights” violations committed during the intensified illegal drugs campaign of the previous administration.

I raise this question: If the ICC is so deathly righteous about its job of probing all human rights violations, why does it not go to Iran and demand from the Khameini government to allow the ICC to investigate the summary execution of four Iranian youths who were arrested and swiftly tried at the height of the country-wide protests and militant awakening arising out of the brutal death of Masha Amini?

If the ICC is so deathly righteous about performing its job, why does it not enter Afghanistan and probe the Taliban’s execution of officials of the previous government and the cruel treatment and public flogging of women

they find “disobeying” basic Islamic laws?

Why? Is the Philippine judicial system not functioning adequately that Sens. Pimentel and Hontiveros find our citizens helpless to seek redress and justice that we need outside help to maintain law and order, justice and equality?

Good that DOJ Sec. Jesus Crispin Remulla has slammed the door against the precocious intervention of the ICC, disguising its human rights protectionism work as a “decent and subtle” cover to undermine the integrity of Third World nations like the Philippines.

What about the inhumane treatment suffered by many of our OFWs stationed in many parts of the globe?

Will the ICC take the initiative to look into the recent barbaric slaying of domestic Juliebee Ranara in Kuwait, the third such killing of OFWs in that Muslim country?

It is unpatriotic for anyone to even lend a hand in allowing a foreign entity to interfere in our internal affairs, much more in our judicial system which has been in operation since the Americans colonized us and introduced democracy.

It is even more unpatriotic for a senator or lawmaker to agree to a foreign entity like the ICC to intervene in our judicial functions as if the Philippine government does not know what it is doing.

It is good (even providential) that former president Rodrigo Duterte withdrew the Philippine membership from the ICC. The machiavellian strategy with which the political opposition - losers in several election battles and now helplessly desiring to get back to power - is employing to put down the duly constituted government is downright treasonous in nature.

This is absurd and ridiculous even.

Filipinos should be wary about electing into office - the Senate and Congress specifically - pseudo-lawmakers who masquerade as a Quezon, Osmena or Bonifacio but then sell the country down the river when their personal political interests are at stake.

Why should the ICC matter in our lives?

Filipinos have survived 400 hundred years of foreign colonization - the Spaniards, the Amricans, the Japanese and the corrupt traitors among us have realized and recognized the herculean resiliency of the indomitable Filipino spirit.

The Filipino of today is no longer the same Pinoy subdued by foreign powers yesterday.

We are no longer stooges of foreign power and foreign influencers.

We are a sovereign nation. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com. (GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!).

NOSY ICC

FRED C. LUMBA SPECKS OF LIFE

NUCLEAR ENERGY: POSSIBLE SOLUTION TO ENERGY CRISIS

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO PHOTOS COURTESY OF PNRI

“Ourshortage of electricity is a real, serious problem that we cannot downplay. But if we focus exclusively on it, we run the risk of seeing just the trees and not the forest.” That was what Rufino Bomasang, then energy undersecretary, told community journalists who attended a media briefing on business and economics reporting at Los Baños, Laguna.

More than three decades later, the same scenario is happening. As the Philippines continues to pursue a path of global competitiveness, it is becoming evident that securing an adequate energy supply will be ever more critical to its growing in-

dustries.

About 50% of the country’s power generation comes from coal, with natural gas and renewables accounting for just more than 20%. The remaining comes from oil-fired boilers.

“The biggest issue in the Philippines is that we

have one of the most expensive power (costs) in the world,” Dr. Carlo Arcilla, the director of the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, was once quoted as saying. “Ask anyone who has relatives abroad, and they will tell you the stark difference between their electricity rates and ours.”

The country’s electricity consumption is expected to triple by 2040 – from the 90.2 TWh (Terawatt-hour) in 2018 – due to its rapidly growing economy.

But the disturbing news is that Indonesia will soon stop exporting coal – from which 90% of the country’s coal-fired plants come from

– because they need to use it. In addition, the Malampaya natural gas fields in the West Philippine Sea are expected to be depleted by 2024. To address the forthcoming energy crisis, the country must transition away from its heavy reliance on coal. The adoption of nuclear power is the fastest option and would make electricity costs more affordable, according to PNRI, a line agency of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

Dr. Arcilla said that including nuclear power in the country’s energy mix would be beneficial to consumers as it would bring down the “expensive” electricity rates and provide a stable electricity source of power.

The Philippines commenced construction of a nuclear power plant following the 1973 oil crisis. The Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) was completed in 1984 but never went into operation. It was mothballed by then President Corazon C. Aquino on the fear of reactor meltdown after the Chernobyl Disaster as well as the increase of the price of the plant.

But during the time of the presidency of Rodrigo R. Duterte, Executive Order 164 was signed, thus including nuclear power in the country’s energy mix. Under the new policy, it stated that the country “shall ensure the peaceful

use of nuclear technology anchored on critical tenets of public safety, national security, energy self-sufficiency, and environmental sustainability.”

“The secret here is a mix,” pointed out Dr. Arcilla in a conversation with Asian Power. “We need the mix of the coal that is being phased out and renewables, but we need a stable source and nuclear has to be considered. Nuclear is very clear, there are no emissions. Its waste disposal can be done safely.

The biggest problem with nuclear power, however, is misconceptions and bad rap. “But 10% of the world’s energy is coming from nuclear power and in America, it is 20%, they have nearly 100 nuclear power plants operating for 60 years,” Dr. Arcilla said. “We badly need nuclear as a baseload source of power, but it can only come maybe in the next four or five years, the shortest time the

Bataan Nuclear Plant gets started.”

One of the benefits from the inclusion of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix is price. “The cost of electricity from nuclear power is one of the cheapest,” Dr. Arcilla explained to Asian Power. “If you increase the share of nuclear in the energy mix, that will bring the average down.

We don’t want to replace everything with nuclear energy, only in the baseload. If we don’t include nuclear power and rely only on imported liquid natural gas, electricity, which is now expensive, will even go higher. This is one of the only ways we can bring it down.”

Nuclear power is one of the two major alternatives to fossil fuels; the other one is renewable energy (whose sources include solar power, wind power, hydroelectric, geothermal energy, and biomass energy).

Nuclear power is the

With the looming energy crisis, there would be more brownouts soon (Tacio)

The mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (PNRI)

Dr. Carlos Arcilla, the director of Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI)

Mining employees find extra income post Odette

A group of employees from Cagdianao Mining Corp. (CMC) harvested hundreds of kilos of bangus as the Province of Dinagat Islands marked the devastation wrought by typhoon Odette exactly a year ago.

A people’s organization – Valencia Regular-Seasonal Workers Association (VARSWA) – composed of employees of CMC, a subsidiary of Nickel Asia Corp. (NAC), collaborated with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to embark on a fish farming project for extra income for employees.

BFAR provided the trainings, DOLE provided the farm inputs and CMC provided other logistical and operational funds including the cover for the cost of the Norwegian cage, estimated at P800,000.00 including accessories, which was sourced through the mining company’s yearly Social Development

and Management Program (SDMP) budget.

“This project was stalled, first because of the pandemic, and then when Odette destroyed the cage and the fish nets, so this is our first partial harvest since and interestingly on the anniversary of Odette,” shares Lorenzo “Jojo” Cuares, Jr., President of VARSWA.

VARSWA has about 50 members, all regular-seasonal employees of CMC. The mining company assisted in forming this people’s organization and provided seed capital.

For VARSWA members, bangus farming is a natural choice since the inland coastal waterway provides the best condition for cage culture and, according to BFAR, suitable for bangus farming as to water quality and that there are no strong waves because of the surrounding mountains.

Cuares says they are expecting to account at least 3,000 kilos of bangus in this particular harvest from just

one cage. He explains that the members of VARSWA will get a 70% dividend share out of their net income which they will divide equally. The bangus sell between P180 to P220 per kilo depending on size.

“We will each earn a little from this harvest after all the expenses are accounted for, this kind of income is not enough as a main source of livelihood but a very good and a welcome extra income,” he adds.

Sherrie Ann Cardoniga, Enterprise Development and Livelihood Coordinator, Community Relations Department, explains that the role of CMC is to guide the members of VARSWA in order that they efficiently manage the project until it becomes sustainable that they run it themselves without intervention from the mining company, which is the essence of the SDMP programs.

“There are factors and principles the members have to learn including effi-

cient business management and, most importantly, protection of the environment for sustainability as they take advantage of the natural resources available to

NAC subsidiary inaugurates first-ever safety, skills training center in Palawan

on community development programs; 15 percent on mining technology and geosciences advancement programs; and 10 percent on information, education, and communication programs.

Reynaldo “Bong” dela Rosa, NAC Community Relations Group Manager, said the new Center is a show of commitment to the mining communities – an instrument that will foster integral human transformation, contribute to poverty alleviation, and help develop entrepreneurial skills that can guide people to a sustainable future.

them,” Cardoniga says.

“We know that to earn bigger we need to expand our production like add the quantity of our fingerlings, but we are consulting the

technical experts on how to do so without adversely impacting the environment and to ensure that this livelihood becomes truly sustainable,” Cuares ends.

Pru Life UK President & CEO appointed as FinTech Alliance PH’s InsurTech Committee Chairman

Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer Eng Teng Wong is FinTech Alliance Philippines’ InsurTech Committee Chairman.

Wong will lead the organization’s role in engaging, building and expanding a sustainable digital finance ecosystem. His leadership also aims to push online and digital platforms as a tool to raise awareness about insurance protection and make it more accessible to Filipinos.

“As the current InsurTech Committee Chairman of the FinTech Alliance Philippines, I am excited to spearhead discussions and concerted initiatives that leverage mobile and online apps and platforms to drive up financial/insurance awareness, literacy and inclusion in the country. Across the Philippines, we are digitally empowering over 33,000 Pru Life UK financial advisors to reach and bless more Filipino families,” shares Pru Life UK President & CEO Eng Teng Wong.

Listed natural resources development firm Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC), through its subsidiaries Rio Tuba Nickel Mining (RTN) and Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC), recently inaugurated a P42-million Safety and Skill Training Center in Barangay Rio Tuba, Bataraza, Palawan – the first of its kind in the province and in the entire local mining industry.

The Center, financed through the combined Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds of RTN and CBNC, is part of the company’s commitment to creating a sustainable future for its mining communities.

The newly-minted Safety and Skills Training Center is also a response to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDGs) of “ensuring health and safety in the workplace” (#12); and to “ensure inclusive and equitable education and lifelong op-

portunities for all” (#4).

“Safety is a way of life,” said Engr. Glenn N. Noble, regional director for the Mines and Geosciences Bureau-MIMAROPA, during the inauguration.

Noble lauded the opening of the Center, underscoring RTN and CBNC’s responsibilities to make the communities sustainable and self-reliant through their respective SD-

MPs – a five-year plan used as a tool for the implementation of development programs in the mining communities that MGB approves, endorses, and monitors.

Under the SDMP, at least 1.5 percent of a company’s total mining and milling costs must be monetized for the development of the mining communities. Of the amount, 75 percent must be spent

Dela Rosa also emphasized that “essentially, safety and skills development and the fundamentals of the concept of sustainability are of the same objective – protecting and managing resources, our human workforce.”

“We cannot claim to be a sustainable organization if we do not take to heart the protection of the health and safety of our employees,” he added.

Engr. Ronel Suguitan, Resident Mine Manager for RTN, shared that the town of Bataraza is set to forge a partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for the job-preparatory skills training that will be offered at the Center.

Suguitan explained that the Center will also be maximized for manpower pooling, regularly training residents to be highly-qualified for local, domestic, and overseas employment.

Pru Life UK released a commissioned independent policy paper in 2022 called “InsurTech: Driving Broader Insurance Access,” which aims to give a better understanding of how insurtech such as online shopping platforms can be maximized to broaden Filipinos’ access to life and health protection products. The paper was authored by leading law firm Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & de los Angeles. Link to the copy of the paper is here.

Pru Life UK has been recognized as the number one life insurer by the Insurance Commission in terms of New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) for 2020 and 2021 and led in the renewal premium income from variable life insurance products ranking in 2021.

FinTech Alliance Philippines is the country’s leading and largest digital trade organization generating over 90% of digital-initiated transactions in the Philippines today.

Good size. Jojo Cuares shows off the newly harvested bangus from the Norwegian fish cage in the background provided by Cagdianao Mining Corp.

Officials of RTN and CBNC with MGB Regional Director Glenn Noble (center, in white shirt)

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charged with murder and violation of PD 1829 (obstruction of justice); Staff Sergeant Gilbert Plaza (murder and violation of PD 1829); Sgt Delfin L Sialsa, Jr (murder and theft); Corporal Adrian Cachero (murder and theft); a civilian Noel Japitan, and John Doe alias “Jr” (murder); and John Doe alias “master sergeant” (violation of PD 1829). Staff Sergeant Plaza, Cachero, and Sialsa are already in the custody of 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.

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tion of the bulk water supply project, which will benefit the Tugbok Water Supply system, servicing portions of Tugbok Proper, Catalunan Grande, Bago Oshiro, Bago Aplaya, Bago Gallera and Matina Pangi, and the entire Mintal and Catalunan Pequeño.

She said the Apo Agua has yet to release the specific details regarding the early use of the bulk water supply project.

“We do not really high-

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rates by 50 basis points each.

Investors are also watching Chinese financial markets as the trading will return to normal after the week-long Lunar New Year holidays.

use of sustained nuclear fission to generate heat and electricity. “A nuclear reactor controls nuclear fission and uses the energy it releases to generate electricity,” H. Steven Dashefsky explained in his book, Environmental Literacy: Everything You Need to Know About Saving Our Planet. “Nuclear reactors allow a chain of reaction of nuclear fission to occur in which one atom is split and the particles released are used to split other atoms, etc.”

A supply of radioactive elements such as uranium-234 – the last of three uranium isotopes that still occurs in nature – is placed in a reactor in the form of fuel rods. “A slow-moving neutron from another element strikes the uranium, initiating the chain reaction,” Dashefsky wrote. “The energy released from the chain reaction superheats surrounding water, which is removed from the reactor and used to drive turbines and generate electricity. (The water also acts as a coolant in the system, keeping it from having a meltdown in which the fuel rods melt from overheating.) The speed of the chain reaction is controlled by control rods containing cadmium and boron which absorb the nuclei.”

The idea of nuclear power started in the 1930s, when physicist Enrico Fermi first showed that neutrons could split atoms. The Italian physicist led a team that in 1942 achieved the first nuclear chain reaction, under a stadium at the University of Chicago.

Today, nuclear power plants provide 5.7% of the

Captain Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson of the 10ID, said they are searching for Pfc. Romart Longakit, who according to reports was abducted, and Pfc. Rolly Cabal, who went absent without official leave (AWOL).

Plaza was gunned down by two men on board a motorcycle on December 28, 2022 in front of her rented residence at Purok 18, Buttercup Street of Green Meadows Subdivision in Barangay Sto. Niño, Tugbok district.

light the early use plan pending any specific timeline from Apo Agua so we don’t set premature expectations,” she said.

Apo Agua is expected to supply around 300 million liters of treated water to DCWD.

Based on the joint venture agreement, Apo Agua will take charge of water extraction and treatment and DCWD the water distribution. (Antonio Colina IV / MindaNews)

According to state media reports, holiday travel inside China surged 74% from last year after authorities eased Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) restrictions. (Anadolu)

world’s energy and 13 of the world’s electricity, according to Nobel Prize winner Al Gore. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported there are 439 nuclear power reactors in operation around the world, operating in 31 countries.

“If you think about all the nuclear plant operating hours, and the number of accidents and casualties over those total operating hours, the deaths coming from nuclear are smaller than from coal, natural gas, and hydro,” Dr. Arcilla told Asian Power.

“The problem is that many Hollywood movies give a bad rap on nuclear power,” he continued. “For example, in Three Mile Island, they never considered the fact that in America, almost 100 nuclear power plants are operating safely for 60 years and are being given another 20-year license.

“You’ve never heard of the electricity resource that’s being given an 80year license. Coal plants only last over 20 years. Solar and wind are only available 30% of the time as the sun doesn’t shine at night and the wind doesn’t blow all the time. It means 70% of the time, you have to have a backup and that backup now is coal. Why can’t we use nuclear energy to back up renewables? They’re not incompatible. They help each other as a mix.”

In his first State of the Nation Address, current president Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. also mentioned the mix. He said the country must not neglect nuclear power, because it is low-cost and because it’s the largest source

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mapun-an nato ng mga drivers sa bus system. Isa sa atoang gitan-aw ang posibilidad gamit aning bag-ong teknolohiya pero mas on driver competency ang tan awon. Gipili nato tung initial gyud drivers nato existing PUJ drivers nato nga ganahan or nagplano ug nagpahibalo nga gusto nila mahimong bus drivers pa-testingan nato nila,” he said.

Domingo said the result of the demo simulation will be evaluated by the consultants under Asean Australian Smart Cities Trust Fund.

“Kung epektibo ni nga teknolohiya nga gamiton nato sa pag-train or balik ta atong

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classroom setting then actual driving or puwede ra sad ning mga information technology aided nga equipment. Hopeful ang city government of Davao kay dako kaayo ang demand for drivers so basin mga piling mga drivers katong makat-on gyud sa pagdrive sa pamaagi aning nga mga equipment puwede nato to sila i-consider,” he said.

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“Unang-una naman yung acceptance. And then, move on, and then back to work. Yun lang ang ginawa ko,” said Bulanadi. He is hoping the stay at San Miguel will be a perma-

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nent one

“Extra motivated lang ako,” said Bulanadi. “Hindi pa ako contented. Gusto ko pang dagdagan yung performance ko para sa next game.”

2

committed to secure the needed housing interest support for 2023,” Marcos said. “I now call on Congress for your support, including housing interest support as part of the regular appropriations for the succeeding years.”

He emphasized that the development of sustainable human settlements would help his administration realize its bid to build “better, more resilient, and more equitable communities.”

The Batasan Development Urban Renewal Master Plan, spearheaded by the DHSUD, will see the completion of three main sites at the Batasan Road Development, NGC-West Controlled Economic Zone, and the Manotoc Property.

The first phase of the Batasan area’s redevelopment will include the construction of two 33-story buildings with a total of 2,160 housing units planned to become both commercial and residen-

of clean energy. The cons are overridden by the good things, the only problem and the big challenge is changing the mindset of people.

In fact, recent public acceptance of the use of nuclear power seems to be shifting. Duterte’s executive order cited a 2019 public perception survey which indicated that 79% of Filipinos supported the rehabilitation of the shelved BNPP. In addition, 65% approved the building of new nuclear power plants.

“We have met the enemy; and he is us,” so goes a popular statement from Walt Kelly. This is particularly true in the case of climate change. There is “95 percent likelihood” that human activity is the cause of climate change, according to the findings of the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

The 5th IPCC Report said that human activity released 545 gigatons of carbon dioxide – the main greenhouse gas – from 1750 to 2011.

It is projected that if 1,000 gigatons of carbon dioxide is emitted, which at current rates will likely occur between 2040 and 2050, there is a one-in-three possibility that the 2 degrees Celsius limit above the pre-industrial level will be exceeded.

The World Nuclear As-

Targeted to start the implementation in 2024, HPBS aims to improve the infrastructure program of the city to provide basic social services to the people. The proposed project would also replace the existing jeepney network in the city. By Maya

Sports Federation, Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation Inc., Philippine Wheelchair Basketball Federation and the Philippine Paralympic Committee.

Bachmann shared that some athletes who are not part of the national training pool roster will be allowed to attend international games to gain experience.

M. Padillo

tial. The plans include the use of the lot’s ground floor for the improved BaTODA terminal, the biggest Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association in the Philippines. The BaTODA members will be among the priority beneficiaries of the project. Marcos said the groundbreaking of the first phase of the Batasan Development Urban Renewal Plan is “only the beginning of the one of the largest projects” under the government’s flagship housing program.

“Slowly but surely, we will be able to achieve our greatest aspirations for the nation, including the dream for a decent and affordable housing for every Filipino family,” he said.

“Those living here in the surrounding areas will have complete access to markets, to schools, to hospitals and various means of making income so they will prosper and get to see their goals and dreams come to life.” (PNA)

sociation, the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Environmentalists for Nuclear Energy contend that nuclear power is a sustainable energy source that reduces carbon emissions.

Nuclear power is the “cleanest energy, with zero ash and zero carbon dioxide emissions,” said former Representative Mark Cojuangco. He cited a study conducted by IPCC stating nuclear energy as a “strong option to decarbonize by 2030” and that it “could help limit global temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius.”

Meanwhile, four respected climate scientists – Dr. James Hansen, a former top scientist at the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Dr. Ken Caldeira of the Carnegie Institution, Dr. Kerry Emanuel of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; and Dr. Tom Wigley of the University of Adelaide in Australia – acknowledged that there are risks of using nuclear power, but say those are far smaller than the risk posed by extreme climate change.

“We understand that today’s nuclear plants are far from perfect,” they wrote in a letter asking environmentalists to support the development of safer nuclear power as one way to cut fossil fuel pollution. –

He also assured that the PSC board will continue to provide support and enhance the training conditions of all national teams in the coming months with support from partners like PAGCOR, PCSO, Pocari Sweat Otsuka Solar Philippines and Pioneer Insurance.

CAMBODIA SEAG

Asked to predict how the Philippine delegation will fare at the Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, the PSC chief commented that the sports agency’s focus is to be able to ensure that their (national athletes) needs are all taken care of to help them perform well.

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Also on Saturday, the BRP Tarlac (LD-601) transported 276 tons of relief goods which are now being prepared by the Department of Social Welfare and Development and OCD for delivery

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been doing for a long time and again that we wish to further,” he said.

He said the government has changed the regulations and rules for the establishment of PPPs to make it more attractive for private, but added that his administration will not limit these partnerships to just PPPs.

He also hoped the CCCC could help the Philippines in carrying out projects that ensure environmental sustainability amid threats posed by climate change.

The CCCC is a Chinese state-owned enterprise mainly engaged in transportation infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges and railways.

To date, the CCCC has more than 60 wholly owned subsidiaries and has operated in more than 150 countries and regions.

Aside from government projects, the CCCC is also involved in ongoing private-led reclamation projects in Metro Manila, such as the Pasay Harbor City Reclamation Project and Manila Waterfront City Development Project.

Stronger PH-US ties

Meanwhile, Marcos also welcomed at the Palace members of the US-Philippines Society, a non-profit organization that aims build on historical ties between the two nations.

During their meeting, the President underscored the importance of forging strong ties with the country’s friends and partners in the US, Southeast Asia and the entire Asia Pacific amid present geopolitical challenges.

“And that is when we once again look to our friends and partners in

He also assured that the budget appropriated by the government will be available and that he has actively taken steps to ensure its correct and judicious use.

Bachmann, who has worked all his life with athletes being a former athlete himself, shared that doing one’s work well is what is important whether one is in private or government service.

“It is not about me, not only me. For us to succeed, I need the support of everyone. As long as we all work together, for the athlete, for sports, wala tayong problema,” concluded Bachmann.

to the affected families in the Zamboanga area. A total of 634 tons of goods were transported to the affected areas by naval ships over the weekend. (PNA)

the United States to be our treaty partner, and of course, our neighbors in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and the entire Asia Pacific extending up to the Indo-Pacific,” Marcos said.

“These partnerships have become as important as they have ever been in our entire joint history. And that is why I am very happy to see that the US-Philippines Society is so active, ‘’ he added.

He also welcomed the growing US-Philippines relationship and thanked the organization for strengthening the ties that he described as an “evolving relationship” amid the current changes.

The US-Philippines Society is a private sector initiative organized to broaden and expand interaction and understanding through basic research and/or applied research in the areas of security, trade, investments, tourism, the environment, history, education and culture between the US and the Philippines which would benefit the American public and the people of the Philippines.

New appointments

Meanwhile, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin led the oath-taking of eight new members of the Marawi Compensation Board – Dalomabi Lao Bula, Mustapha Dimaampao, Moslemen Macarambon Sr., Nasser Macapado Tabao, Mabandes Sumndad Diron Jr., Jamaica Lamping Dimaporo, Sittie Aliyyah Lomondot Adiong and Romaisa Lomantong Mamutuk. Bersamin also swore in Romulo Victoria Arugay as chair of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas. (PNA)

Davao cager Bulanadi hopes to do good at SMB

The former Gilas Pilipinas standout from Holy Child Learning Center in Davao City played his very first game for San Miguel on Sunday night in the Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center opposite Phoenix.

The son of a popular commercial cager in the local basketball scene made the transition look easy as he fired away 16 points in the team’s 114-93 demolition of Phoenix, including 3-of-7 from three-point range.

He had 13 points in the first half when the Beermen jumped off to a 33-point lead and never looked back.

But while his numbers were good, the 6-foot-2 product of San Sebastian said he’s still trying to find his way with San Miguel, which acquired him in a trade with NorthPort for Paul Zamar just before the season-ending confer-

ence. “Extra motivated lang ako kasi ang daming teams na rin,” Bulanadi said.

Bulanadi was picked by Alaska at No. 4 in the 2019 special Gilas draft, but didn’t play in the league until last year’s Governors Cup.

When the Alaska franchise was sold, he was part of the roster retained by Converge FiberXers and played for the new team for two conferences, before being dealt to NorthPort as part of the Jerrick Balanza trade.

The Batang Pier proved to be just a pit stop for him as Bulanadi found himself on the move again, eventually landing a spot at San Miguel.

“Hindi ko ini-expect yun,” he said of the series of trades that happened to him at the start of the year.

CHITO MALABANAN

JABONG!

Golf as with other sports have this term we commonly call as home court. Golfers must have a home course to establish a handicap and where they can play frequent the most. A course where they can establish rapport among peers and gain knowledge about its character.

Knowledge of the terrain, the greens and the hazards is an edge for golfers especially if you plan to compete and take your golf seriously.

Golf courses attract members because of golfers search for a home course that suits their needs and match their character . Living near a golf course does not translate always as an automatic qualifier in selecting a home course. It’s more of the golfer’s choice of character of players they want to play with , the people around they are most comfortable with.

In the olden days , Davao City have four golf courses with varying characters and identity. The Lanang Golf, the Rancho Palos Verdes, the Apo golf and the Davao city or commonly called Matina golf.

Lanang golf

Because of its location and proximity to the city enter, Lanang is the home of the doctors, engineers and contractors and golfers coming from the North. It is only about 5 minutes away from

the Davao Medical Center and 15 minutes away from the DPWH offices in Uyanguren Ave where engineers and contractors transact their daily business . Lanang is a relatively flat golf course but abundant with Jabong and OBS at the fairways along its boundaries. Lanang is also popular for tourist golfers who reside in hotels nearby and doesn’t like the chaos of city traffic.

Rancho Palos Verdes

Palos as commonly called, is the home of the miners, the Diwalwal group and the Chinese businessmen. This group use golf carts when they play . Mind you golfers ,in the olden days, we don’t use golf carts,we walk. Golf cart is a luxury unlike today where it is common and mandatory .

Palos is known for its all weather fairways and undulating fairways where stance is a primary issue since it can affect your shot and club selection. Palos is also the home for the rich kids and the Korean tourists who arrived in droves, in bus loads and occupy most of the dining area of the clubhouse.

Apo Golf

Originally coined as the house of Conyo where the elites and the scion of rich families play. Most of its board members were top executives of companies and local big time businessmen .The preferred

course of corporate world’s guests coming from Manila But on the technical side, Apo is the home and training ground of serious competitive golfers who want to pursue golf as a career.

Apo is known for its tight and long fairways, fast greens but the most endearing part is the presence of old Narra and Mahogany trees in its layout where you can enjoy the sound of its swaying leaves while playing underneath its shade.

Apo is the breeding ground of future national team members and have produced the top professional golfers in the country. The Casas,Bayrons ,Lascunas or Ababas all came from the Apo

Golf.

Davao City or Matina

Known in the golf community as the House of Commons. City hall officials, government workers, lawyers, politicians, and businessmen who want to have an early morning round before coming to office made this course as their home. Matina is known for its elevated greens, blinding fairways with lots of OBs and ravines. Matina is known for its unpredictable finishing holes where games are won or lost, where bets are adjusted and losses can be doubled.

But the character that made it known as the house of common is

the camaraderie inside the clubhouse where anyone is a friend to everyone . And if you know how to play your cards, the pain of losing in the golf course can be eased up upon sitting on the table inside the clubhouse. Ya know what I mean.

But the funny thing is when tournament time comes. Golfers from different home courses converged and play the game disregarding their status as guest or home players.

Golf is a game, but it’s also a way of life. It’s a ritual that connects us to ourselves, our friends and the world around us. FOOOOOOORE.

Allyn Bulanadi exploded in his first outing with SMB. PBA Images

Suiting up for four teams in a year’s span is definitely not an easy thing, but Dabawenyo pro cager Allyn Bulanadi understands it is part of the process.

FDAVAO, P10

NEW HEROES

Bachmann lays out plans as PSC chief

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)

Chairman Richard Bachmann laid out a four-point plan for the agency’s focused actions in the coming months during his guesting at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) forum held at the PSC offices in Manila this Monday.

“I’m here to serve the athletes and serve sports, nothing else” Bachmann stressed in his opening message.

4-POINT PLAN

His immediate plans consist of four focus-interests: have a better system for timely release of athletes’ allowances, improvement of facilities, provision of meals for athletes, and take care of the PSC back-of-house.

“For me, to serve the athletes well, kailangan ko silang makilala. So I told myself that I need to go around and meet these athletes. I don’t want to be that chairman who’s stuck in the office. I want to go and meet them. That’s what I have been doing for the past weeks,” remarked the sports agency chief.

Bachmann has been making the rounds, visiting and having discussions with athletes, coaches and officials of different na-

tional sports associations. Since his appointment and assumption of duties in December, the PSC Chief has visited training venues of gymnastics, water polo, squash, soft tennis, table tennis, swimming, para-athletics, boxing, muay, wushu, athletics and weightlifting.

The PSC chief also inspected PSC-managed facilities, paying special attention to sports equipment regularly used by the members of the national team.

Aside from the athletes, Bachmann also commented that taking care of the PSC back of house - the employees- is equally important “because I won’t be able to serve without their help.”

Assisting Bachmann, Commissioners Olivia “Bong” Coo, Walter Torres and Edward Hayco also visited several national teams such as Pilipinas Obstacle

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Richard Bachmann explains his four-point plan.