Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 259 | Friday, Feb. 17, 2023

HARNESSING TALENTS

Pulong pushes for the creation of PH High School for Creative Arts System

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Davao City First Congressional District Representative Paolo Duterte has urged for the immediate approval of a bill creating a nationwide network of secondary schools with a specialization in developing the creative abilities and talents of young Filipinos.

Duterte introduced House Bill (HB) 5075, which calls for the formation of the Philippine High School for Creative Arts (PHSCA) System, along with Rep. Eric Yap of Benguet and Rep. Edvic Yap and Jeffrey Soriano of the ACT-CIS Partylist.

In a statement, Duterte said it is only appropriate that the House should pass this legislation quickly in light of the observance of National Arts Month in February.

He also said this will help to ensure the development of the talents of artistically gifted children who will, in the future, take the lead in promoting and preserving Philippine

arts and culture. The House Committee on Basic Education and Culture has already approved the substitute bill consolidating HB 5075 with other similar measures.

“We thank the committee for approving the measure last November and hope that Congress will pass it soon. The special programs for the arts in schools usually suffer from neglect and shrinking budgets. It’s about time that we recognize the importance of developing and sustaining a pool of artistically talented young Filipinos who will keep our culture and creative industries alive,” Duterte

said.

Moreover, the authors stated that “learning about the arts can help students understand the diversity and complexities of different cultures and societies.”

“Given that culture and the arts are essential to the holistic development of society, it is imperative to work towards more inclusive opportunities for children to engage in the creative arts, for such measures will provide the foundation for their success in the future,” the statement also said.

According to Duterte, the committee-approved legislation would not create new high schools, but will instead create a creative arts system by modifying the arts curriculum and creating specialized programs in already-existing schools under the Department of Education’s supervision (DepEd).

The substitute legislation includes the portion

Arroyo, other solons rally behind Duterte amid ICC drug war probe

of HB 5075 that addresses providing scholarships to worthy students who have exceptional potential in the performing arts, creative writing, visual arts, and applied arts.

Under the substitute bill, the DepEd will craft the curriculum that will deal with functional literacy. The curriculum on arts and design will be drawn up by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in coordination with other cultural agencies.

“National artists and experts in the various fields of the creative arts who have taken the non-Licensure Examination for Teachers would be qualified to teach under the PHSCA system. Governed by a board of trustees, the PHSCA System under the measure shall be administratively attached to the DepEd in consultation with the NCCA,” it said.

Agroup of House members led by former President and Senior Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Thursday filed a resolution defending former President Rodrigo Duterte against any probe by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Through House Resolution No. 780, the lawmakers said Duterte’s presidency “has ushered remarkable accomplishments brought about by his relentless campaign against illegal drugs, insurgency, separatism and terrorism, corruption in government and criminality thus making the life of every Filipino better, comfortable and peaceful.”

They also said the Philippines’ peace and order situation has improved due to the Duterte administration’s holistic and whole nation approach in curbing insurgency and eradicating the country’s drug menace which, according to them, resulted in unprecedented growth in exports and investment.

“Now, therefore, be it resolved as it is hereby resolved, that the House of Representatives declares unequivocal defense of Former President Rodrigo Roa

Duterte, the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines, in any investigation and/or prosecution by the ICC,” the resolution read.

Duterte’s drug war has been blamed for thousands of deaths, with government figures pegging it around 6,000 but human rights groups saying it could reach as high as 30,000.

Aside from Macapagal-Arroyo, those who also introduced the resolution include Representatives Carmelo Lazatin II, Aurelio Gonzales, Anna York Bondoc-Sagum, Jose Alvarez, Mary Mitzi Cajayon-Uy, Richard Gomez, Wilton Kho, Loreto Amante, Edward Hagedorn, Edwin Olivarez, Eric Martinez, Eduardo Rama Jr., Dale Corvera, Zaldy Villa, Ma. Rene Ann Lourdes Matibag, Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo, Johnny Pimentel, and Marlyn Primicias-Agabas.

The ICC in January announced that it is reopening its investigation into the killings that happened purportedly as a result of Duterte’s bloody war on drugs, saying it “is not satisfied that the Philippines is undertaking relevant investigations that would warrant a deferral of the court’s investigations.”

Davao City First Congressional District Representative Paolo Duterte urges the House of Representatives for the quick approval of House Bill (HB) 5075 that would establish a nationwide network of high schools with a specialization in developing the creative abilities and talents of young Filipinos. Lean Daval Jr.

Enrile cautions Sara of ‘turbulent times ahead’

We are ready for the big events: PSSO

Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) head Angel Sumagaysay confirmed on Thursday that they are ready for the big events in Davao City this coming March.

March will be filled with major events for Davao City starting with the 86th Araw ng Davao, the MiceCon, and the Ironman 70.3 Davao.

“Ang mga nakalinya nga dagkong activities sa March gi-preparahan na sa security cluster. On the part of the security cluster ang PSSO nga maoy coordinative office sa city government of Davao dali lang ta maka adjust ug plastar kay naka template ni siya. Kung naay mga bag-o madali lang siya plastar. Ang nakamaayo ani kay na practice na nato tanan labi na ang core group ng PSSO,” Sumagaysay said over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR).

Sumagaysay said in a scale of 1 to 10, PSSO is at 8 rating in terms of preparation and that it is just waiting for the additional activities in the accredited

events of Araw ng Davao.

“Pero for the official activities ng Araw ng Davao, humana nami. May mga dedicated personnel nata nga gipatutok dinha pati ning mga accredited events. Integrated ni siya ug naka submit nako the other day ng final number of personnel para masuportahan ang local government unit. Naka ready nami ug gamay na lang kung naa pa silay idugang,” he said.

Sumagaysay said PSSO already finished the preparation stage and the only thing left is the implementation.

“Mao ni ang oportunidad na aside sa maipakita nato ang Davao City sa mga investors makapa boost pud ni sa atong ekonomiya. Matud pa nila all roads lead to Davao City. Dili na imposible na kung makita nila ang Davao City basin magka interest sila to invest in Davao City. Dako na ug impact kay maka generate na ug employment ug income sa Davao City,” he said.

By Maya M. Padillo

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte shared on Thursday that chief presidential legal counsel Juan Ponce Enrile has warned her of “turbulent times” during his 99th birthday celebration on February 14, 2023.

“You have to be prepared because turbulent times are coming. I said, sorry sir did I hear it right? You said turbulent? And he said yes. The world is changing and you are the vice president and you have to be prepared. And I was thinking, oo nga no 99 years old at naabutan pa niya yung mga dinosaurs. I appreciated the warning kumbaga turbulent,” Duterte extemporized in her message during the Association of Registrars of Schools, Colleges and Universities — Technical Vocational Training Institution (TVTI), Region XI Annual Convention and 22nd Mindanao-wide Invitational at the Grand Men Seng Hotel in Davao City on Thursday.

The vice president did not elaborate any more details of her conversation with Enrile.

Duterte lauded the Association of Registrars of Schools, Colleges and Universities — TVTI Region 11 for initiating the gathering which, according to her, “devotes primary attention to the advancement of all school registrars in both our basic and higher education institutions in Mindanao.”

“The result of your hard work is a beautiful tapestry of lessons learned, knowledge stored, technical and life skills developed, and emotional intelligence sharpened because you are there and will always be there, from beginning

to end, for the student and the student’s future,” Duterte said.

Duterte also said that nowadays, registrars need to go around the classrooms and introduce themselves as the registrar, and should not just be confined to their cubicles.

She also shared her personal experience with the registrar during her studies in the Philippine Women’s College-Davao, San Pedro College-Davao and San Sebastian College-Recoletos

“And I have to say na hindi ko nakita ang mga paa ng aming registrar. Seguro in your time ngayon and with the type of students that you have, kayo ang umikot sa mga classroom at magpakilala na kayo ang registrar, I will help you with this and I will help you with that because I remembered na lahat ng registrar behind sa glass, hindi ko pa marinig, ano po yun mam? Hindi ko agad

marinig kasi butas lang na ganyan, and of course dahil hindi mo narinig, magalit (registrar). That is why I appreciate yung may speaker at mic sa registrar para mas madali ang communication,” she said.

Meanwhile, Duterte also cited the recently launched program of the Department of Education, the “MATATAG: Bansang Makabata, Batang Makabansa,” to set the new direction of the agency and stakeholders in resolving basic education challenges.

She stated that the project seeks new avenues to address the sector’s difficulties in providing basic education to students following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The MATATAG agenda was launched on January 30, where Duterte delivered her Basic Education Report (BER) and laid down the challenges and recent accomplishments of DepEd.

Dozens flock to the Rizal Park in Malaybalay City on Wednesday night (15 Feb 2023), when it was reopened more than a year after it was closed for renovation.

MindaNews

photo by H. MARCOS C. MORDENO

On House Bill (HB) 5075, which calls for the formation of the Philippine High School for Creative Arts (PHSCA) System:

GREGORIO GARAY DELIGERO Editorial Consultant

MOSES BILLACURA Sports Editor

M. PADILLO Senior Reporter

OLIVIA D. VELASCO President SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

JASPER V. BACSAL General Manager / VP Operations

S. PANES Director of Sales

“The special programs for the arts in schools usually suffer from neglect and shrinking budgets. It’s about time that we recognize the importance of developing and sustaining a pool of artistically talented young Filipinos who will keep our culture and creative industries alive. Given that culture and the arts are essential to the holistic development of society, it is imperative to work towards more inclusive opportunities for children to engage in the creative arts, for such measures will provide the foundation for their success in the future.”

PAOLO DUTERTE

Davao City First Congressional District Representative

Republic of the Philippines City of Davao Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

20th City Council

16th Regular Session

Series of 2022

PRESENT:

Vice Mayor J. Melchor B. Quitain Jr. - Presiding Officer

Councilor Marissa S. Abella

Councilor Nilo M. Abellera Jr.

Councilor Luna Maria Dominique S. Acosta

Councilor Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique N. Advincula

Councilor Bernard E. Al-ag

Councilor Wilberto E. Al-ag

Councilor Al Ryan S. Alejandre

Councilor Dante L. Apostol Sr.

Councilor Conrado C. Baluran

Councilor Jessica M. Bonguyan

Councilor Louie John J. Bonguyan

Councilor Pilar C. Braga

Councilor Augusto Javier G. Campos III

Councilor Jonard C. Dayap

Councilor Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr.

Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr.

Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod

Councilor Diosdado Angelo Junior R. Mahipus

Councilor Rodolfo M. Mande

Councilor Jaffar U. Marohomsalic

Councilor Bonz Andre A. Militar

Councilor Temujin B. Ocampo

Councilor Myrna G. L’Dalodo-Ortiz

Councilor Alberto T. Ungab

Councilor Lorenzo Benjamin D. Villafuerte

Councilor Trisha Ann J. Villafuerte

Councilor Jesus Joseph P. Zozobrado III

ORDINANCE NO. 048-22

Series of 2022

AN ORDINANCE INSTITUTIONALIZING THE ENHANCED SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES AND REGULATIONS IN SPECIFIED AREAS AND DURING BIG EVENTS IN DAVAO CITY

Be it ordained by the Honorable Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao City, in session assembled, that:

SECTION 1. TITLE – This Ordinance shall be known as “ENHANCED SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES AND REGULATIONS IN SPECIFIED AREAS AND DURING BIG EVENTS IN DAVAO CITY”.

SECTION 2. DECLARATION OF POLICY – It is hereby declared the policy of the City of Davao to promote the welfare and safety of all Davao City residents and visitors. Towards this end, enhanced safety and security protocols shall be established in order to regulate and control the areas of convergence for the general welfare and safety of Davaoeños.

SECTION 3. DEFINITION OF TERMS - As used in this Ordinance, the following terms shall mean:

a. Big Event – is an event, public in nature, that:

i. Requires a Special Mayor’s Permit under existing regulations,

ii. Is attended by diplomats, dignitaries, or other persons whose safety and security is a public matter;

iii. Is requested by the organizers to be covered as a “big event” for the purpose of this Ordinance;

iv. Is determined to be an event that requires strict security measures by the City Government of Davao, through the Public Safety and Security Office.

b. Culture of Security – is a concept that entails commitment on the part of all Davao City residents and visitors to support the anti-terrorism effort which will in turn help create a physically and psychologically secured community. These acts include:

i. Volunteering on any security protocols, propagation of city security measures, or the conduct of investigation especially as a witness to a crime;

ii. Reporting all suspicious persons and activities in the community;

iii. Reminding family and friends of all security regulations in Davao City; and

iv. Participating in various peace initiatives in the workplace, school, purok, subdivision, and integrated community defense systems.

c. Security Forces – government agencies whose primary functions include the maintenance of peace and order including, but not limited to, the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO), Task Force Davao (TFD), Davao City Police Office (DCPO), and other authorized security offices and personnel.

d. Security Measures – refer to various efforts and strategies to minimize potential threats to the peace and order in specified areas, including, but not limited to, the:

i. Establishment of a limited entry and exit point;

ii. Regular monitoring by security forces;

iii. Establishment of physical and human barriers;

iv. Installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras;

v. Conduct of various security trainings and forums;

vi. All other security measures under this Ordinance;

e. Weighted Vest – a vest with weights sewn into it or with pockets which allow weights to be inserted;

f. Hydration Vest – vests that are principally designed to transport water and make drinking convenient and efficient, as well as other essential items;

g. Vendors – any person who sells goods as covered by the City Economic and Enterprise Office (CEEO) allowed within specified areas under Section 4 of this Ordinance.

SECTION 4. SPECIFIED AREAS – This Ordinance requires enhanced safety and security measures to be followed in the following areas:

o Government Buildings

• City Hall

• Sangguniang Panlungsod

• Hall of Justice

o Major Parks

• People’s Park

• Magsaysay Park

o Air Transport Terminals

• Davao International Airport

• Old Sasa Airport Terminal

o Water or Port Transport Terminals

• Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)

• DAVSAM Wharf

• MaeWess Wharf

• Sta. Ana Wharf

• Sasa Mini Pier (Km. 11)

• Davao Fishport Complex, commonly known as Toril Fish Port

o Land Transport Terminals

• Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT)

o Existing Control Checkpoints

• Lasang

• Sirawan

• Lacson

• Eden

• Malagos

o All other parks, centers, hotels, malls, and other event venues when a big event occurs, such as, but not limited to:

• San Pedro Square (from San Pedro St. to corner Iñigo St.)

• Roxas Avenue (from Aldevinco to Paternos Street)

o For purposes of this Ordinance, all government established night markets shall be deemed as a covered area with a big event during its operating hours and the established security measures and regulations shall be complied with.

SECTION 5. MONITORING AND IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES – The following agencies shall coordinate with the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO), as the lead agency, in the management, monitoring and implementation of the provisions of this Ordinance:

1. Task Force Davao (TFD)

2. Davao City Police Office (DCPO)

3. Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)- Davao City

4. City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)

5. Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District – Southeastern Mindanao

6. Coast Guard Station Davao (CGS)

7. Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Maritime Unit (RMU) XI

8. City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO)

9. Davao City Fire District

10. Davao City Central 911

11. Tactical Operations Wing-Eastern Mindanao (TOWEASTMIN)

12. PNP Aviation Security Unit XI

13. Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) – Port Management Office (PMO) Davao

14. Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA)

15. Maritime Industry Authority XI

SECTION 6. SECURITY MEASURES IN SPECIFIED AREAS - The following security measures shall be established and implemented by concerned agencies:

a) All government offices and employees within specified areas shall adopt and practice the “Culture of Security” at all times;

b) Regular conduct of security meetings, visitations, workshops, and simulation exercises organized by PSSO, in coordination with other security forces and the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO) of the City Government of Davao;

c) Conduct of Anti-terrorism Forums for residents, with the participation of the barangay, and vendors, with the support of the City Economic Enterprise, within and surrounding the specified areas, to encourage them to be active partners in protecting the area;

PH wants to regain market share of banana in Japan

ThePhilippine government is asking Japan to set the next general review of its free trade agreement (FTA) as the country has offensive interests in agriculture.

In an interview with trade reporters, Special Trade Representative Dita Angara-Mathay said tropical fruit growers in Mindanao are batting for the removal of seasonal tariffs for Philippine bananas and pineapple entering Japan. According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), imported

bananas from the Philippines are slapped with an 18 percent tariff during the winter season and an 8 percent tariff during summer in Japan under the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (PJEPA).

Angara-Mathay said Philippine bananas are losing market share in Japan to bananas from Ecuador

and Peru, as bananas from these countries have zero tariff in Japan.

“At one point, we are at the high 90s (percent) share of our bananas. Right now, I think we’re on the 70s. The landed cost coming from Ecuador is high but we are losing share, and this is something we need to look into,” she said partly in Filipino.

DTI Assistant Secretary Glenn Peñaranda added that the market share of the Philippines for all imported bananas to Japan was at 76

percent or about 844 million tons.

“We want to maintain this number or at least increase it with our policy shift,” Peñaranda said.

Both trade officials said amending the tariffs for tropical fruits can be done through the general review of PJEPA.

“You know we have a dominant position. To say, I think our bananas really taste better. And then, our proximity to Japan. It gives us an advantage,” Peñaranda said. (PNA)

DA boosts cooperation with FAO to increase agri yield

The Department of Ag-

riculture on Wednesday said it will intensify its longstanding collaboration with the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to help the administration achieve its target of increasing local production and providing affordable food prices.

In a statement, the DA said the two parties discussed pressing issues that should be addressed to make the food security target feasible.

“Among the issues discussed were major concerns on transboundary animal diseases affecting the country’s livestock and poultry industries, intensification of the production and supply of rice and corn, production and mobilization of food through the DA–Bureau of Plant Industry and the Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita Program, and programs to stabilize the prices of agricultural commodities,” it said.

The UN FAO made the

discussion with the department as it welcomed its new representative to the Philippines, Lionel Henri Valentin Dabbadie.

“Senior Undersecretary (Domingo Panganiban) thanked FAO for its ongoing assistance to developing countries in facilitating the development and promoting sustainability to make food security possible,” the DA said.

Alongside DA’s discussion of the country’s current status in the agriculture sector, the two officials

PH gas outlook bullish but RE policies pose downside risks

Fitch Solutions said the Philippines’ gas consumption outlook remains bullish but the administration’s aggressive push for renewable energy (RE) poses downside risks to natural gas consumption in the power sector.

In a commentary released to the media on Wednesday, Fitch Solutions said the country’s gas consumption between 2010 and 2021 averaged 3.5 billion cubic feet (bcf) to 4.4 bcf.

“The outlook for gas consumption remains bullish both reference and clean energy scenarios (CES),” it said.

also recognized the need for “constant coordination,” especially for more programs in sync with the food security goal.

The DA said it has also included areas of cooperation to hone the sector into resilience and inclusivity.

“Undersecretary Panganiban welcomed the expertise and support of Mr. Dabbadie in these fields and urged the new FAO Philippines head to work closely with the DA on policy and technical support,” it added.

Under the Philippine Energy Plan 2022-2040, the government aims to expand the gas-fired power-generating capacity to 24.3 gigawatts (GW) in the reference scenario and to 18.9 GW in CES from the current capacity of 3.45 GW.

It added that with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) approval of seven gas-fired power plants with a combined capacity of 7.1 GW, the country’s demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the power sector could go up to 6 million

tons per year. The demand excludes requirements from the existing five power plants that source gas from the Malampaya gas field project.

Also, 10 proposed gasfired power projects have yet to be approved. They have a total capacity of 8.8 GW.

With the expected depletion of the Malampaya gas field next year, Fitch Solutions said the Philippines will become reliant on LNG imports for power generation starting in 2025. This year, some LNG import terminals will start their operation to supply the gas demand.

However, Fitch Solutions said the administration’s ongoing energy policy that favors renewable sources could pose significant downside risks to natural gas consumption in the power sector.

“Overall, the outlook for LNG imports remains bullish, but the future role of LNG in the power sector could be at risk if the incumbent Marcos government, which views natural gas as a transition fuel, invokes a change in current energy plans,” it said.

A worker prepares the newly harvested bananas at a plant in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte. The Philippine bananas are losing market share in Japan to bananas from Ecuador and Peru, as bananas from these countries have zero tariff in Japan. Lean Daval Jr.

Reopening of more economies boosts OFWs remittance growth

PAL to ramp up China routes

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) will continue to ramp up its services to and from various China routes, reopening destinations this February until March.

PAL will relaunch Beijing flights on Feb. 21, and Quanzhou (Jinjiang) and Macau on March 19 and 26, respectively. Direct services to Shanghai was reopened on Feb. 14.

“We are forging ahead with the restoration of PAL’s Greater China flight network, an investment that will strengthen our connections to the economic hubs in the mainland and help boost bilateral relations between the Filipino and Chinese people,” said PAL president Stanley Ng in a statement on Wednesday.

He added that PAL is hoping that the relaunch of Beijing and Shanghai services will help fuel a rebound in tourist and business travel. “Our goal is to once again operate the largest network of flights on multiple routes between mainland China and the Philippines,” he said.

PAL currently flies to Xiamen and Guangzhou (Canton). From Feb. 25,

Total inflows from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) posted a fresh monthly record-high of USD3.49 billion in December 2022, bringing the fullyear figure to an all-time high of USD36.14 billion, up by 3.6 percent.

Remittances account for around 9 percent of the country’s annual output for several decades now and these are among the structural sources of the country’s foreign reserves.

flights between Manila and Xiamen will increase to thrice weekly from once weekly. The current once weekly Manila-Guangzhou flight will also increase to twice weekly starting Feb. 16, and daily services are being eyed beginning March 26.

The Manila-Jinjiang-Manila flights are scheduled on March 19, 22 and 24, and daily flights will begin on March 26.

Twice weekly flights between Manila and Macau are scheduled starting March 26. On the same day, the thrice weekly operations to Shanghai will be increased to daily operations.

Airlines have been waiting to resume services to China as these were halted due to pandemic-related border restrictions.

Pre-pandemic, PAL had a total of 34 weekly services to Beijing, Guangzhou, Jinjiang, and Xiamen.

The carrier said it is working closely with Chinese and Philippine health and aviation authorities to ensure the highest level of health safety protections for travelers. (PNA)

Data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Wednesday showed that cash remittances last December registered an annual jump of 5.8 percent to USD3.16 billion, up from year-ago’s USD2.99 billion.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort expects further improvement in remittances, citing more opening and recovery of economies hosting OFWs.

He said these developments open more opportunities for job creation that benefits the OFWs, among others.

“OFW remittances at new record highs on a monthly basis, a bright spot for the Philippine economy in terms of spurring/supporting consumer spending, which accounts for at least 75 percent of the economy, and in turn, support faster GDP (gross domestic product)/economic growth,” he added.

Ricafort said sustained rise of remittances as of last December “may be attributed to the relatively higher prices/inflation that may have required the sending of more remittances to cope up with higher prices of goods and services for OFWs and their families/dependents in the Philippines.”

The rate of domestic price increases posted a new 14-year high of 8.7 percent last December due largely to the faster rise in the housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels index.

Amidst the growth in remittances, Ricafort said risks remain and among these include the possible recession in the United States, the economic impact of discovery of new and more contagious coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) variants, as well as increased infection cases in China following its reopening in late 2022.

He said the elevated inflation in countries hosting OFWs “could potentially reduce OFWs’ disposable income and in turn, the amount of remittances sent to the Philippines.”

He added Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is another risk as could slow down global economic recovery prospects. (PNA)

DOT-13 to hone hospitality skills of 7K tourism players

The Department of Tourism in the Caraga Region (DOT-13) will train some 7,000 tourism frontline workers and students from the region on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE).

DOT-13 Regional Director Ivonnie Dumadag said the FBSE is

a program initiated by the agency to equip the tourism front-liners in the country with ways of delivering customer services founded on Filipino values.

“The FBSE is a flagship program of DOT Secretary Maria Christina Frasco. The program seeks to revive the Filipino values

of respect, love, warmth, and hospitality for our visitors and to everyone,” Dumadag said in an interview Wednesday.

Frasco, she added, wants to embed the Filipino core values in all frontline tourism workers in the country.

Dumadag led the opening of the FBSE train-

ing for 50 students who are taking hospitality, management, and tourism courses in Surigao City on Wednesday. In a separate interview Wednesday, Richard Amores, a DOT-13 accredited trainer, described the FBSE as a core program with a focus on human capital.

PLDT, IdeaSpace Foundation champion local startup community

Fully committed to strengthening its support to the Philippine startup community and aiming to collaborate with the next tech unicorn—the country’s largest fully integrated telecommunications company, PLDT, through Innovation Laboratory (Innolab), signed a partnership with IdeaSpace Foundation, a non-profit organization that runs founder-focused programs for early-stage tech startup founders solving emerging market issues.

Since 2003, PLDT and its wireless unit, Smart Communications, Inc., have been

supporting the local startups with Innolab– a worldclass facility established to create opportunities with startup partners focusing on research, new generation product development, and innovation.

“We recognize the limitless potential our startup communities have in shaping the next generation technologies,” shares Melvin Jeffrey Chan, Vice President and Head of PLDT Enterprise Innovations, Business Development, Consulting and Presales. “That is why we continue to support startup communities from

co-marketing, co-innovating, mentoring, prototyping, sandboxing, to other forms of technology support like cloud, API or the connectivity they need to scale up.”

Through this partnership, PLDT and IdeaSpace can support and collaborate with local startups through accelerator programs, as well as specialized workshops, networking events and awareness roadshows on innovation, and technopreneurship.

“Partnering with local startups allows us to empower more Filipino entrepreneurs,” says Kristine Dara Ever Juan, Head at PLDT

MICECON 2023 highlights Davao as key MICE destination

Located in the southern part of the Philippines and the center for development in Mindanao, Davao City is hosting this year’s MICECON once again after 10 years. The conference is deemed as an effective way to restart and boost economic and tourism activities, not only in the Davao region but also the rest of the Philippines and the world.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) and the City Government of Davao spearheads the M.I.C.E Conference (MICECON), the largest gathering of Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) professionals in the country to be held on March 1 to 3 at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier.

“Davao’s hosting of the MICECON will provide a tremendous boost to the city’s tourism industry and a huge step towards its own vision of making Davao a preferred MICE destination not only in the Philippines but in Asia”, said TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

With the theme,

“MICEConverge: Blaze New Trails,” the three-day conference will serve as a gateway to provide more business opportunities and strengthen ties with domestic and international stakeholders. It is a hybrid event expected to bring in 500 in-person delegates and up to 2,000 online participants from here and abroad.

Highlights of the event include the MICE Youth Challenge, Power Dressing and Glam Makeup Sessions and Workshops where Davao’s finest tourism and product services will be on full display with the subthemes, “Celebrating Nature”, “Celebrating Diversity” and “Celebrating Travel and Technology.”

First MICE Youth Challenge in Davao

The first and much awaited Philippine MICE Youth Challenge will take place on March 1 during MICECON 2023. It is a national contest for students who are enrolled or have recently completed the MICE Management or Business Events Class in a Philippine-based university. This activity gives contestants the opportunity to conceptualize and present an event business

plan that will be reviewed by a select panel of MICE experts to deepen their knowledge about industry practices.

This initiative aims to foster a culture of creativity and excellence among the participants and serve as a learning platform to better equip them to become MICE professionals. It was conceptualized by the Philippine MICE powerhouses who are members of the Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers, Inc. (PACEOS) and the Philippine MICE Academy.

The participants of this challenge will be judged by esteemed representatives from the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA), and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

The winners of the challenge will win up to PhP 15,000 plus tokens and the chance to compete at the Asian Federation of Exhibition and Convention Associations (AFECA) Asia MICE Youth Challenge.

For more information about the event, visit www. micecon.ph.

Innolab. “Our goal is simple and that is to inspire them to be fearless in taking risks and turn ideas into innovative solutions through collaboration.”

Empowering Micro, Small, and Medium-Enterprises (MSMEs), including local startups, has been one of the key drivers of PLDT’s enterprise business group. PLDT has long supported MSMEs enable them with solutions and innovations to meet their business needs and help them grow and thrive in this challenging landscape. Together, PLDT Enterprise and MSMEs aim to create a positive impact and experience breakthroughs as they move further with their businesses.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to cement the partnership between these two sister entities. PLDT and IdeaSpace Foundation

in fact share common goals, that of enabling businesses, specifically startups, so they can help generate jobs and wealth,” says Rene “Butch” Meily, President, IdeaSpace Foundation. “Our motto is ‘Startups Changing the World’ and if we work together, we can do that.”

Enabling local startups to transform

In 2022, PLDT Enterprise partnered with Twala, a blockchain technology startup introduced through IdeaSpace. It has been among the startups that the Group has been collaborating with over the years, to expand its influence in the community. Twala aims to reduce document fraud with blockchain smart contracts, further strengthening PLDT’s information and communications technology portfolio and building digital trust, security, and compli-

ance for its several ecosystems.

Since 2012, IdeaSpace has been helping technology entrepreneurs develop and scale tech or tech-enabled innovations, and transform these into stable, scalable, and sustainable businesses. To date, the foundation has supported 107 startups, mentored more than 300 entrepreneurs, and deployed P180M for community and ecosystem support activities.

“We are thankful for our growing partnership with PLDT, and are confident that through this, we will be able to empower more founders and unlock opportunities that will continue to shape the future of the industry, community, and our society,” says Katrina Rausa Chan, Executive Director at IdeaSpace. For more information, visit https://pldtenterprise.com/.

Extreme demand compels HONOR X9a 5G restock

After taking the internet by storm since the start of the year, the demand for HONOR X9a 5G will not be fading away anytime soon!

HONOR Philippines has just announced the second restock following its first one that was supposedly good for six weeks but got sold out in just 2 days!

“Meeting the massive demand for HONOR X9a 5G is a challenge that we, at HONOR, would gladly take! This kind of support is what keeps us dedicated to our goal of making quality smartphones accessible to Filipinos. This is just the beginning and HONOR fans should definitely expect more from us throughout the year, because I assure you, we are more than ready,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines VP for Marketing.

Where can you get HONOR X9a 5G?

Good for six weeks that The second restock has hit the market starting February 15, 2023 and buyers can get a FREE Premium HONOR Speaker worth Php 3,999 for

every purchase at any HONOR kiosks and partner online stores – Lazada (http:// bit.ly/3XHFPIC), Shopee (http://bit.ly/3XzEfrS), Tiktok Shop (http://bit.ly/3kfHhTS), and Home Credit.

HONOR fans can still get the HONOR X9a 5G via Home Credit, for as low as Php 661 per month without insurance, Php 765 with insurance, and on a 0% interest installment payment.

HONOR X9a 5G comes in stunning Titanium Silver and Emerald Green, sporting an ultra tough OLED curved screen and a 5,100mAh bat-

tery that can last you up to 2 days! You can capture more moments as well with its 64MP Super Triple Camera, inheriting the same iconic circular camera layout as HONOR’s flagship Magic Series line-up, For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/ HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/ honorphilippines/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@ honorphilippines)

From Left to Right: Kristine Dara Ever Juan, PLDT Enterprise Head of Innovations Lab & Ecosystem Partnerships (Innolab); Melvin Jeffrey Chan, PLDT Enterprise Vice President & Head of Innovations, Business Development, Consulting & Presales; Rene “Butch” Meily, IdeaSpace President; Katrina Rausa Chan, Executive Director IdeaSpace

New-look Lakers score big win over Pelicans

LOS

ANGELES — LeBron James had 21 points in his first game since becoming the NBA’s career scoring leader, and Anthony Davis had 28 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in the new-look Los Angeles Lakers’ 120-102 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night (Thursday, Manila time).

D’Angelo Russell had 21 points and seven assists during his warm welcome home to the Lakers, who won for just the second time in six games. Los Angeles’ five new players all made their home debuts after the club’s busy trade

deadline, and the Lakers never trailed.

James took three games off to rest his perpetually sore left ankle and foot immediately after he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record Feb. 7.

He returned for the final

game before the All-Star weekend in another season that’s threatening to get away from the Lakers, who hit the break in 13th place in the 15-team Western Conference at 27-32.

But the season isn’t over yet, and the Lakers got promising reinforcements. Jarred Vanderbilt and Malik Beasley joined James and Davis in the starting lineup, while Mo Bamba fouled out in 16 minutes as the backup center in his Lakers debut.

Russell’s debut was actually a homecoming,

Filipinas fall in Pinatar Cup debut

Alate first-half penalty broke the Philippine women’s football team’s heart after falling to Wales, 0-1, in its debut at the Pinatar Cup early Thursday (Philippine Time) at the Pinatar Arena in San Pedro Del Pinatar, Spain.

Kayleigh Green’s spot kick just before halftime decided the outcome, but

apart from that, the Filipinas’ defense held forth for the other parts of the match.

The difference came at the first-half stoppage time when Dominique Randle tripped Rhiannon Roberts inside the penalty spot while trying to get the ball back.

Green sent Olivia McDaniels in the wrong direc-

tion and slotted the penalty at the left side of the goal just before Lucie Sulcova called it a half.

The Filipinas exerted a better effort in the second half, but the Welsh ladies still escaped with a win.

The Filipinas will next face Scotland, a 0-2 loser to Iceland on Saturday night.

(PNA)

because he played his first two NBA seasons in Los Angeles before getting traded four times and eventually returning to the Lakers last week. Russell was clearly thrilled to be back in Hollywood, putting on an impressive playmaking performance while also repeatedly exhorting the crowd to standing ovations for the Lakers.

Brandon Ingram scored 25 points and C.J. McCollum had 22 points and nine assists in his return from a one-game absence with a sprained right ankle for

the Pelicans, who lost for only the second time in six games.

Russell, Beasley and Vanderbilt — teammates for the previous two seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves — reteamed in the Lakers’ 30th starting lineup of the 59-game season.

Davis, who went 13 for 17, scored nine points early in the fourth quarter while Los Angeles pulled away in a solid all-around defensive performance. Dennis Schröder added 10 points.

New Orleans’ Josh Rich-

ardson was ejected with 10:52 left in the fourth quarter after arguing vociferously for a foul on James. Richardson had eight points.

TIP-INS

Pelicans: Zion Williamson attended the game and greeted James during a timeout. He has missed 22 straight games with a strained hamstring, and he is expected to be out for several weeks after the break. ... Former Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. sat out with left groin soreness.

Mo Bamba plays 16 minutes, going 2 for 7 in his Lakers debut.

(L-R) City of Passi Vice Mayor Hon. Elyzer Chavez , PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, Passi City Mayor Atty. Stephen Palmares and Passi City Councilor Hon. Jinky Palmares during the signing ceremony of the PBA All Star Game 2023 hosting. PBA

d) Employees and establishments in the private sector shall be encouraged to attend trainings and forum organized by PSSO, in coordination with other security forces, related to the Culture of Security;

e) Security forces shall be organized for complementary efforts within the specified areas;

f) Security forces, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, shall inspect all vehicles and designate separate parking areas for motorcycles and four (4)-wheeled vehicles away from vital installations;

g) Security forces, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, shall maintain appropriate personnel and platforms in the specified areas;

h) Security forces shall maintain Mobile Patrol Units along the streets within the specified areas;

i) Private establishments along the specified areas shall maintain and establish CCTVs in accordance with the CCTV Ordinance and other laws;

j) The local government shall also install and maintain CCTVs in the specified areas, which shall be coordinated with the PSSO City-wide CCTV coverage;

k) The use of drones and the operation of General Aviation Aircrafts in the specified areas shall be coordinated with CAAP Davao City and PSSO under the Davao City Drone Ordinance;

l) All specified areas shall provide information signages in coordination with the TFD, DCPO, and City Information Office (CIO) for public information and dissemination purposes;

m) Plant shrubs should be well-trimmed at all times. See-through plant shrubs are highly encouraged;

n) For security and sanitation purposes, CENRO-Davao City shall ensure that transparent garbage bins are being used within the specified areas, without prejudice to those that are inside and are covered by garbage bin protective walls; and

o) CENRO-Davao City shall prioritize the collection of garbage bins within the specified areas.

SECTION 7. SECURITY MEASURES DURING BIG EVENTS – The following security measures shall be established and implemented by the monitoring and implementing agencies headed by the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO):

a. During big events, organizers shall submit to PSSO their security plan for the duration of the event;

b. If found to be necessary by the monitoring and implementing agencies in the interest of public safety and security, a National Police Clearance from the PNP and/or clearance from NBI shall also be complied with and submitted by identified employees, vendors or concessionaires;

c. Security forces shall deploy its K-9 and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Teams during big events;

d. The security cluster shall maintain a joint security command post during big events;

e. During big events, Davao City 911 and the Davao City Fire District shall conduct fire and emergency safety inspections before, during, and after the event. They shall be colocated with the Safety and Security Command Post, and have standby personnel, equipment, and ambulances in case of emergency;

f. All big events prior to their openings, shall provide adequate public information to participants regarding the security measures to be practiced during their event, either through social media posting, inclusion of a pamphlet or info-sheet of security measures in their event kits, or other methods to disseminate such information.

g. All big events shall provide signages in their entrances and around the venue, as well as constant reminders to the event participants of the security regulations for the event, in coordination with TFD, DCPO, and City Information Office (CIO), for public information and dissemination purposes;

h. For security and sanitation purposes, CENRO-Davao City shall ensure that transparent garbage bins are being used, without prejudice to those that are inside and are covered by garbage bin protective walls; and

i. CENRO-Davao City shall prioritize the collection of garbage bins during big events.

SECTION 8. REGULATIONS IN SPECIFIED AREAS – The following regulations shall be observed by all persons within the specified areas:

A. All bags, backpacks, parcels, and items of similar nature shall be strictly inspected prior to entry or passage through the specified areas.

B. Areas designated as “Restricted Areas”, “Employees Only”, “Authorized Personnel Only” and the like, shall be established as such in the interest of public safety and security. Any person who enters the same without the proper authority shall be penalized under this Ordinance and other applicable laws.

SECTION 9. REGULATIONS DURING BIG EVENTS – During big events, the following regulations shall be reasonably established and the public properly informed of the same at least two weeks prior to the big event and may include, but will not be limited to:

A. Carrying of bags, backpacks, and boxes may be strictly regulated within the event area. The following regulations may be set:

a. Transparency regulations (such as only transparent bags will be allowed)

b. Size restrictions (such as only small bags and pouches shall be allowed)

c. Quantity restrictions (such as only one bag shall be allowed per person)

B. Bringing or carrying of non-transparent water bottles, non-transparent food containers, or non-transparent plastic wares may be strictly regulated within the event area during big events, when the security forces deem the need for such restriction. All should be reminded to comply with the City’s “No To Single Use Plastic Ordinance and Policies”.

C. The use of jackets, weighted vests, and hydration vests may also be strictly regulated or prohibited within the event area during big events.

D. Other restrictions deemed appropriate by the organizers and security forces, and approved by PSSO.

SECTION 10. EXEMPTIONS TO THE REGULATIONS – During big events, the carrying of bags, boxes, parcels and others of similar nature, the wearing of jackets, vests and the like, as well as the bringing of non-transparent food containers, food containers and plastic wares belonging to registered vendors, those of the media, designated event organizers, coordinators and participants, security forces and other authorized civilian partners may be exempted from the established regulations, but shall be subjected to inspection before they can be allowed inside.

SECTION 11. REFUSAL TO COMPLY WITH REGULATIONS

1. Any person unwilling to comply with the established regulations before entering the specified areas or during big events shall not be allowed to enter the same.

2. Any person, who, after due notice, willfully disregards or contravenes the regulations within the specified areas or during big events shall be penalized under this Ordinance, and other applicable laws.

SECTION 12. INFORMATION AND EDUCATION CAMPAIGN – There shall be a Public Information Drive regarding the implementation of this Ordinance and it shall be headed by the City Information Office (CIO) with close coordination with PSSO and other security forces.

Information dissemination through signages, flyers, audio-visual presentations, and other forms of public information dissemination shall be established and placed in the specified areas, within areas where the big event shall take place, or other areas of convergence.

Event organizers, with the assistance of the City Information Office, shall be responsible in informing all participants and the general public of the security regulations for their events, which shall be done at least two (2) weeks prior to the date of the event.

SECTION 13. PENALTY CLAUSE - Any violation of the regulations under this Ordinance shall be penalized with a fine of Two Thousand Pesos (P2,000.00) and/or one (1) month of imprisonment, upon the discretion of the court, and shall be required to participate in an orientation or awareness lecture regarding the Culture of Security by PSSO, in coordination with other security forces, without prejudice to the prosecution of other criminal actions.

SECTION 14. ORDINANCE VIOLATION RECEIPT/CITATION TICKET - An ORDINANCE VIOLATION RECEIPT, otherwise known as a CITATION TICKET, shall be issued to violators of this Ordinance. The citation ticket shall state the name and address of the violator, the specific violation committed, and the provisions of the succeeding section, “No Contest Provision.”

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and such other appropriate enforcers as may be commissioned by the City Mayor shall have the power to apprehend violators of this Ordinance and issue citation tickets.

The City Mayor may deputize Barangay Officials or representatives in the strict implementation of this Ordinance, as the need arises.

SECTION 15. NO CONTEST PROVISION – Any person cited for violation of this

EDGEDAVAO 4

Ordinance who does not wish to contest the same and is willing to pay One Thousand Pesos (P1,000) voluntarily within three (3) days the penalty imposed under this Ordinance prior to the filing of a complaint before the Office of the City Prosecutor shall be allowed to do so, and shall pay the corresponding penalty of One Thousand Pesos (P1,000) at the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO) or before the CTO’s authorized representatives in the barangays. The person cited, may in the alternative, render a maximum of 16 hours of voluntary community service, if the fee cannot be produced.

Such persons, whether paying the fine or rendering service, shall likewise be required to undergo a mandatory orientation or awareness lecture regarding the Culture of Security by PSSO, in coordination with other security forces, without prejudice to the prosecution of other criminal actions.

The City Legal Office (CLO) and the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO) shall provide for the procedure for the availment of the “No Contest Provision” and establish a case inventory and recording system of all violators of this Ordinance.

SECTION 16. CREATION OF THE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP (TWG)

Chairperson : City Mayor’s Office (CMO) Secretariat : Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO)

1. Task Force Davao (TFD)

2. Davao City Police Office (DCPO)

3. Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)- Davao City

4. City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)

5. Coast Guard Station Davao (CGS)

6. City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO)

7. Davao City Fire District

8. Davao City Central 911

9. Tactical Operations Wing-Eastern Mindanao (TOWEASTMIN)

10. Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) –Port Management Office (PMO) Davao

11. City Legal Office (CLO)

12. City Prosecutor’s Office (CPDO)

13. Chairperson of the Committee on Peace and Public Safety of the City Council

14. Chairperson of the Committee on Anti-Terrorism of the City Council

SECTION 17. GENERAL FUNCTIONS OF THE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP

– The aforementioned group is responsible for the creation of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of this Ordinance.

SECTION 18. IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS (IRR) – The Technical Working Group shall, within thirty (30) days after the Ordinance has been approved, draft the necessary Implementing Rules and Regulations for the approval of the City Mayor of Davao.

SECTION 19. REPEALING CLAUSE – Any Ordinance, local issuances or rules inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed or modified, accordingly.

SECTION 20. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE – If, for any reason, any section of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional or invalid, other sections or provisions hereof which are not affected thereby, shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SECTION 21. EFFECTIVITY – This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval, posting and publication in a newpaper of local circulation.

ENACTED, on the 24th day of October 2022, by a unanimous vote of all the Members of the Sanggunian, there being a quorum.

CERTIFIED CORRECT:

CHARITO N. SANTOS Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Government Department Head II)

ATTESTED:

J. MELCHOR B. QUITAIN JR. APPROVED: ______________, 2022

Vice Mayor Presiding Officer cns/ray

ATTESTED:

ATTY. FRANCIS MARK H. LAYOG Acting City Administrator

SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE City Mayor

BIG FIELD

Canlubang starts its defense of its Seniors’ crown on Tuesday, Feb. 22 against a host of challengers led by rival Luisita.

The Seniors’ event has drawn a total of 100 teams, nearly half coming from the United States, Canada, the Middle East, and Malaysia, among others.

Alta Vista and Club Filipino de Cebu will play host to the fourround event that uses the Molave scoring system that awards 3 points for par. A regulation round is equivalent to 54 points.

Each team is allowed to field a maximum of four players per round with only the top three scores counted. Each player is limited to two rounds.

After a three-day break, the regular Men’s Division tournament kicks off on 1 March with defending champion Manila Southwoods gunning for its seventh crown.

Twenty-one international teams are among 75 clubs entered in the tournament that is

adopting the PAL scoring system. A par is worth 2 points with 36 points awarded to a regulation round.

Hosting the regular Men’s event are Cebu Country Club and Club Filipino de Cebu.

A maximum of five players can be fielded by each team but only the top four scores count. A player is also limited to two rounds.

Cebu City last hosted the Interclub in 2019.

The annual PAL Interclub, considered the country’s unofficial national team championship, was shelved for two years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The 74th staging of the event is supported by platinum sponsors ABS-CBN Global, Asian Journal, Airbus, and NuStar Resort and Casino.

Gold sponsors include Radio Mindanao Network, Mastercard, Primax, University of Mindanao Broadcasting Network, PLDT/ Smart, and Konsulta MD.

1,500 see action in PAL Interclub

Joining the event as silver sponsors are Philippine National Bank (PNB), Biocostech, and VISA.

Minor sponsors are Bollore Logistics, Manila Standard, Tanduay Brands International, and Asia Brewery while donors are

Department of Tourism, Ogawa, Newport World Resorts, Rolls Royce, and Boeing.

More than 1,500 players representing 178 squads will converge next week for the 74th Philippine Airlines Interclub golf team championships in Cebu City.

The annual PAL Interclub, considered the country’s unofficial national team championship, was shelved for two years due to the coronavirus pandemic.