Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 264 | Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023

Sara calls on local chief execs not to use schools, teachers in their activities

A lay minister marks an elderly devotee’s forehead with ashes in the shape of a cross during Ash Wednesday Holy Mass at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish - Redemptorist Church along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

KEEP SCHOOLS FROM POLITICS

Sara calls on local chief execs not to use schools, teachers in their activities

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte called on local chief executives (LCEs) on Tuesday not to use schools and the teachers in activities organized by the local government units (LGUs).

at The Manila Hotel on February 21, 2023, Duterte reminded the teachers that they must be teaching and

not doing anything else, especially outside of our schools.

“Isisingit ko po dito yung pakikiusap namin sa ating mga local chief executives na kung pwede ay wag po nating gamitin ang ating mga paaralan at ang ating mga teachers sa ating mga aktibidad ng ating mga local government unit,” she said.

Suspect in Gov. Adiong ambush killed: police

Duterte also ordered the teachers, principals, division superintendents, including assistant regional directors (ARDs) and regional directors in the Department of Education (DepEd) to be professional in their work.

“Dito po kami nakikiusap sa ating mga kaibigan na mga local chief

Davao de Oro quake victims receive cash aid from DSWD S

ecretary Rex Gatchalian of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) personally handed over on Monday afternoon the financial assistance to 490 families affected by a strong earthquake in Davao de Oro province.

The 6.0 magnitude earthquake last Feb. 1 affected at least 229,674 families or around 779,918 individuals in the province.

Each family received PHP3,000 under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program of the agency.

In his speech during the distribution of financial assistance in Monkayo town, Gatchalian announced the start of the payout in other Davao de Oro towns “in the coming days.”

“I personally came here to monitor the payout. The instruction of our

President is to ensure that whenever the Filipinos need help with or without a disaster, the DSWD’s help should be within reach,” he said.

Gatchalian pointed out that the government should be the one to reach out for people who need

An armed man believed to be among the suspects in the assassination attempt on Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. was killed in a police operation.

Speaking to reporters in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Wednesday, Philippine National Police-Public Information Office (PNPPIO) chief, Col. Redrico Maranan, identified the suspect as alias “Otin”, the son of an alias “Fighter” who is among the five main suspects in the ambush.

Maranan said this was based on the report of Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PROBAR).

“Noong Feb. 18 ay nagkaroon ng resulta yung hot pursuit operation na ginagawa ng ating kapulisan saPRO BAR sa pangunguna ng ating regional director na si (Brig.) Gen. John Guyguyon at sa hot pursuit operation na ito ay nakasagupa ng mga elemento ng ating pambansang pulisya ang isang kinilala na isang alias Otin at ito ay base sa pagkilala ng mga testigo ay isa sa mga

responsible sa pag-ambush kayGovernor Adiong (Last Feb. 18, a hot pursuit operation was conducted by the PRO BAR led by regional director, Gen. John Guyguyon. And in this operation, the cops encountered a person identified as an alias Otin and it is based on the identification of the witnesses that he is one of those responsible for the ambush of Governor Adiong),” Maranan said.

Seized from the suspect was a Colt MK IV .45-caliber pistol with serial number 79234, loaded with six live ammunition.

PNP chief, Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., said an investigation is underway to determine the motive for the ambush, which includes a possible retaliation against the governor’s crackdown on marijuana plantations in the province.

“We will continue investigating and determine the real motive of the ambush of Governor Adiong. But we are very careful in investigating and looking at the possible persons of interest in order to ensure that we get the right persons,” said Azurin in a separate statement.

F

Catholic faithful have their foreheads mark with ashes during Ash Wednesday Holy Mass at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish - Redemptorist Church along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

FDAVAO, P8

13th Mega Travel Sale eyes to generate P12M of sales

City exec: Do not transact with fixers

The newly-appointed city building chief has a reminder to all building permit applicants: never deal with fixers.

Architect Khash Toghyani, officer-in-charge of the Office of the City Building Official (OCBO), told applicants not to transact with fixers in processing building permit applications.

“One of the policies I made when I assumed office bawal ang fixers. In fact, in the application form naay nakabutang na no fixers. I’m very vocal about it kay bawal gyud ang fixers. Okay ra man unta kung nanginabuhi ni sila ug tarong, ang kasagaran ani sa ilaha, kabalo na sila na bawal, magbuhat gyud ug binuang ug pag naa kay problema dili na nimo makit-an. Wala man na silay mga Professional Regulation Commission card ug permit. So maglisod ta ug gukod ana nila,” he said

over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Wednesday.

He advised the applicants to go through the process regardless of who it is or what the application is.

He also assured that OCBO is more efficient now.

“I know there is room for improvement but I am saying it is better. I believe the professionals mas nakasabot sila kung unsa ang ginapangayo sa opisina,” he said.

He also urged applicants to send employees with technical know-how when transacting in OCBO. He said the majority of the people transacting in their office do not understand the policy.

“Wala sila usahay kasabot sa balaod. You have to understand na ang trabaho sa OCBO dili kami ang maghimo sa inyong mga plano we just check your compliance accordFCITY, P8

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Organizers of the 13th Mega Travel Sale are eyeing to generate P12 million of sales from the fair slated on February 24 to 26, 2023 at the activity center of Abreeza Mall.

Pia Lourdes P. Montano, founding chairperson of the Davao Mega Travel Sale, said on Wednesday that the P12M is lower compared to

the revenue of P15 million generated in 2019.

“If we can go higher than the P15M it would be great. Let’s put it muna at

conservative figure,” Montano said.

This year’s Mega Travel Sale will be participated by 28 exhibitors, which include restaurants, airlines and travel agencies from the Davao Region and Manila, offering discounted airfares and booking services for accommodation and other tourism products.

Montano said 80 percent of the sellers would be outbound.

This is also the first travel sale after three years of hiatus due to pandemic.

“Revenge travel has started last year at ano pa ang kasunod ng revenge travel. We are expecting more travelers to come and avail of the discounts,” Montano said.

CTTMO prepares for Ironman road closures on March 26

The City Transport and Traffic Management Office said that the flyers to be distributed to affected establishments, churches, and subdivision is now being prepared to ensure wider dissemination of the road closures for Alveo Ironman.

CTTMO Head Dionisio

Abude said that their office will enforce a strict “no parking” zone along F. Torres St. to Lasang on March 26, 2023.

“Ma-close nato ang gikan J.P Laurel-F. Torres paingon didto sa Lasang all the way to Tagum (We will close (The road from J.P Laurel- F. Torres going to

Lasang to Tagum),” he said.

He also said that they have coordinated with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and informed the agency that as early as 3 am on March 26, the race course along Daang Maharlika Highway will be closed. It will reopen at 3 pm on the same day.

“So kadtong mga clients nato sa PPA, dapat makabalo sila ingon anang orasa siyempre mga barko nga mag-anchor diha dapat kabalo ang ilahang clients (To our clients at PPA they should know that it will be at that time, and also the clients of boats that will FCTTMO,

Davao de Oro Provincial Veterinary Office department head Dr. Rolando Simene, together with Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (PAGRO) department head Dr. Jaime Anter, shares the agriculture programs and projects of the province during this week’s Wednesdays at Habi at Kape at Abreeza mall. They also

promoted the upcoming 25th founding anniversary of the province and the Bulawan Festival on March 6 to 8. Lean Daval Jr.

Report: PH seen to weather possible global recession

ThePhilippine government’s push to increase its infrastructure spending and the recovery of the manufacturing sector, among others, are expected to buoy the domestic economy from the impact of the possible recession in the United States.

According to February 2023 issue of The Market Call, the joint monthly publication of the First Metro Investment Corporation (FIMC) and the University of Asia and the Pacific

(UA&P), “most recent economic data suggest that the Philippine economy may weather the global recession relatively unscathed.”

It said while employment may grow slower

in the near term, with the December 2022 level up by 4.3 percent from the previous month’s 4.2 percent, “total man-hours (MH) of work slightly increased to 1.98 billion MH from 1.97B MH in November.”

“This gain offset the 704,000 drop in total employment to 49 million, a close second to the all-time record level of 49.7 million achieved a month ago,” it added.

The report cited the

decline in unemployment rate last December to 12.6 percent from the previous month’s 14.4 percent.

The manufacturing sector grew faster last January, with the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) up at 53.5 from 53.1 in the previous month.

The report cited the drop in the level of the government’s total liabilities by the end of 2022 to PHP13.4 trillion, lower by

Starlink now available in PH, Elon Musk says

previous administration in order to offer its services here in the country.

No talks on inflation aid for poor, gov’t workers, Balisacan says

The distribution of inflation assistance to poor families and government workers has not been discussed in the executive branch, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said Tuesday.

Balisacan made the remarks a day after Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said Senate employees are set to receive a onetime P50,000 financial aid amid the record-high inflation.

However, the NEDA chief said the government would prioritize indigent families if such assistance is implemented.

reached by traditional connectivity such as fiber.

Starlink collaborated with regulators and the government during the

It has received the backing of former Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, the National Telecommunications Commission as well as the Department of

Information and Communications Technology.

SpaceX made the announcement in the local vernacular Tweeting the words “Available na ngayon ang Starlink sa Pilipinas (SpaceX is now available in the Philippines),” it said.

“‘Yung very poor and vulnerable groups, ‘yun ang talagang pagbuhusan natin ng assistance. Hindi feasible na lahat naman ay pare-pareho yung treatment as you know our fiscal space is very, very limited,” he said.

(We will prioritize poor

and vulnerable groups if this will be implemented. It is not feasible to provide the assistance to everyone because our fiscal space is very, very limited.)

The Philippines recorded 8.7% inflation or the rate of increase in the prices of goods and services in January 2023, the fastest in 14 years.

Balisacan said the NEDA is expecting inflation to gradually ease as the harvest season starts.

To address the high inflation rate, the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is eyeing to lure in more investments and create more jobs.

Balisacan said the ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) will help in opening more investment opportunities in the country as he refuted claims the mega trade deal will hurt the local agriculture sector.

Kaamulan Festival formally opens on March 23. But as early as Tuesday (21 February 2023), workers are already busy putting up huts for exhibitors and vendors around the Capitol grounds in Malaybalay City. Some stalls selling decorative plants are already open. MindaNews photo by H. MARCOS C. MORDENO

FREPORT, P8

Sun Life to strengthen presence in VisMin

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc., the first and longest standing life insurance company in the Philippines, is eyeing an expanded presence in Visayas and Mindanao in the next three to five years.

The company plans to open additional offices in various regions as well as grow its number of financial advisors.

“Acquiring new clients while also deepening our relationship with the ones we are currently serving both lead towards our vision of a brighter future for more Filipinos,” Sun Life President Alex Narciso said. “And with a stronger presence in Visayas and Mindanao, we will

be in a better position to make this happen.”

To acquire new clients, Sun Life will bolster its recruitment of more financial advisors. “Not only will this ensure that there will be more champions of the company’s purpose, this will also provide career and business options for those who may have been displaced by the economic impact of the pandemic,” Narciso said.

Sun Life has been seeing a “younging” of its agency force in Visayas and Mindanao in recent years, with 75% of advisors now millennials and Gen Zs. “This has allowed us to reach out to the younger generation

FSUN, P8

Senate approves RCEP ratification

TheSenate on Tuesday approved the ratification of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a free trade agreement among the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

Present in the Senate session were Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Finance Sec. Benjamin Diokno, Budget Sec. Amenah Pangandaman, NEDA Sec. Arsenio Balisacan, DTI Sec. Alfredo Pascual and other

officials backing RCEP.

Twenty senators voted in favor of ratifying RCEP, Sen. Risa Hontiveros voted no, while Sen. Imee Marcos abstained.

Co-sponsors of the measure, Senate President

Juan Miguel Zubiri and Sen. Loren Legarda, defended RCEP and its supposed benefits for the country.

Zubiri claimed that the agreement would create 1.4 million jobs in 2031.

Marcos meanwhile feared that RCEP would have the same negative effect of the controversial Rice Tariffication Law.

“Ito ang kinatatakutan natin, meron tayong Senate resolution on RCEP… Ito nga ang problema, nakita natin sa Rice Tariffi-

cation Law, may funds na sinasabi yet study showed that the income of farmers fell by 40 percent.

How do we ensure that the measure indicated will protect the vulnerable sectors?” Marcos said.

The National Economic and Development Authority earlier allayed concerns that ratifying the RCEP will hurt the agriculture sector.

NEDA said Philippine agriculture even stands to benefit from the free trade deal.

19 projects worth P115M approved by innovation council: NEDA chief

The National Innovation Council (NIC) has approved 19 project proposals which will be funded through grants under the P200-million Innovation Fund, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said Tuesday.

“Thus far, the Council has approved 19 project proposals amounting to P115 million under the Innovation Grants—majority of which sought to address

the pre-commercialization and commercialization requirements of innovative products or services, the enhancement of innovation facilities and services, and the conduct of capacity-building activities,” Balisacan said during a Palace briefing, following the first NIC meeting under the Marcos administration.

The NIC, chaired by the President and the NEDA chief as vice-chairperson, is 25-member body tasked to develop the country’s

innovation goals, priorities and long-term national strategy.

Meanwhile, Balisacan said the Innovation Fund is a revolving fund that aims to strengthen entrepreneurship and enterprises engaged in developing innovative solutions.

“Along with the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document, the establishment of the Innovation Fund signifies one of the other major outputs of the Council,” he said.

The NEDA issued a separate list of the 19 approved projects under the Innovation Fund grants

1. Project title: Project SciNing - Cultivating Ingenuity, Creativity and Awareness through Experiential Learning, Innovations and Promotions

Agency: DOST Technology Application and Promotions Institute

Amount: P3,800,000.00

2. Project title: Establishment of PCHRD Health

Research and Technology Innovation Hubs (HeaRTNovation Hubs): Expanding the TEKI in Health Program among Health Institutions

Agency: DOST Philippine Council for Health Research and Development

Amount: P2,621,828.00

3. Project title: Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND): Bringing Science and Technology (S&T) closer to the Margins

Agency: DOST Regional Office XI

Amount:

P15,000,000.00

4. Project title: Pilot Testing and Commercialization of Micro Impeller Rice Mill

Agency: DA Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization

Amount:

P6,033,952.40

5. Project title: Vizcaya Optimization of Incubation

Davao Travel Agencies Association (DTAA) vice president for travel and tours sector Pia Lourdes Montano (left), together with DTAA president Michelle Yian, promotes the activities for the Davao Mega Travel Sale slated from February 24 to 26 during this week’s Wednesdays at Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

In

calling out local chief executives (LCEs) on Tuesday not to use schools and the teachers in activities organized by the local government units (LGUs):

“Isisingit ko po dito yung pakikiusap namin sa ating mga local chief executives na kung pwede ay wag po nating gamitin ang ating mga paaralan at ang ating mga teachers sa ating mga aktibidad ng ating mga local government unit.”

DUTERTE Vice President and Education Secretary

To understand a person, you must learn about the social and political context that he is from. No person exists in a vacuum. His character traits and attitude in life are defined by his family upbringing, cultural background, and the ideals with which his mind is formed. As individuals, we have aspirations and ideals that shape our frame of consciousness. As a society, people are influenced by religious and moral values that determine how we act in the greater scheme of things through the various facets of our human existence.

Davao City Mayor Sebastian Baste Duterte is a young man in whose hands depend the future of a highly urbanized city that is facing tremendous challenges as the economy opens and tries to recover from the Covid-19 Pandemic. Davao City is the heart of Mindanao. After President Rodrigo Duterte

FUTURES THINKING AND THE YOUNG MAYOR

was elected as the county’s 16th president, the attention shifted from then imperial Manila to this bustling metropolis of 1.78 million.

The key to urban development is the concept of sustainability. This is about the balance between economic progress and environmental protection. The basic point is to continue that type of growth trajectory that sustains the daily life of the people in the midst of a peaceful society that is open to diversity, provides equal opportunities to people, and empowers all members of the community.

The young mayor is aware of the importance of sustainable progress and believes that the culture of security in the city is critical to maintain its growth path. To achieve this, he knows and values of the contributions of various stakeholders. An important aspect is in the field of education. In one conversation, I

encouraged him to expand the role of the newly established Davao City College, redirect it into becoming a university, and make it oriented towards the future.

While we are aware that local colleges and universities are meant to serve the poor, it must also become a catalyst for the economic advancement of the metropolis. Davao City has a thriving business process outsourcing industry and for this reason, the locally funded college can offer courses that will not only produce professionals, but also entrepreneurs who will be drivers of growth and business expansion. It should also be global in terms of linkages and programs. The young mayor agreed.

Futures Thinking advocate Dr. Rec Eguia of the University of Southeastern Philippines, in many of his lectures and talks, has zeroed in on the impact of good governance in helping

achieve the Millennium Development Goals. The young mayor can take advantage of his expertise and realize a Futures Thinking-oriented direction for the city. As the city advances, it must be able to meet the vast demands of a growing population. Cities are drivers of economic growth, but managing the same also requires huge resources and improved government services.

Developed cities have efficient mass transport systems. Mayor Baste is aware of the present mass transport woes in the city, something that I pointed out in our conversation. This is especially so since the city is a center of education and commerce in the region. He said that his administration is working on the High Priority Bus System (HPBS), which is meant to provide the people with a modern means of mobility. The National Economic Development Authority has endorsed the project.

ATTY. GILBERTO LAUENGCO, J.D. OBLIQUE OBSERVATIONS

THRIVING UNDER THE RCEP

On Feb. 21, the Philippine Senate ratified the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) with 20 senators (more than the required two-thirds vote), voting in favor of the Senate resolution regarding the same.

The RCEP is a free trade agreement among the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and five other countries namely Australia, China, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand. Simply put, RCEP creates an integrated market among the member countries making it easier for products and services of each of the members to be available across the region.

The RCEP agreement integrates other Free Trade Agreements already in existence. With the lowering of tariffs as its primary feature, it also includes support for micro, small and medium enterprises, simplification of rules of origins and other features consistent with the aim of free trade with safety nets.

RCEP and free trade, in general, has been the topic of hot debate in our country for the past years.

Opponents of RCEP and any form of trade liberalization claim that it would pose dangers to our small businesses, farmers and fisherfolk as cheap imported products enter our country. They have demanded that the government must first implement programs to boost the competitiveness and profitability of these sectors. They argue that farmers in particular are not prepared for a more liberalized trade environment.

Proponents of RCEP have always stressed that delaying the ratification of RCEP or worse rejecting it would leave the Philippines out of the free trade bubble. Neighboring countries would take over certain markets. For example, the textile industry alone would continue to be left behind as other countries continue to have access to cheaper materials. Investors from other countries would

hesitate locating in the Philippines as access to cheaper imported materials would be unavailable. Without the RCEP, we will not have access to the member country markets. In essence proponents point out that business and the ordinary consumer will benefit from access to cheaper goods and services.

Proponents of RCEP have also clarified that sensitive agricultural products like rice, swine and poultry meat, potatoes, onions, garlic, cabbages, sugar and carrots will remain protected under the agreement.

Insofar as this debate is concerned, it is respectfully submitted that our country must join the RCEP community. With due respect to our friends in the agricultural sector, we cannot and should not maintain a strategy of trade protection and isolationism. The cost of becoming an economic loner in a region that is fast becoming an integrated market is something we cannot afford. Rath-

er than protection, we must therefore seek to strengthen our agricultural sector.

The RCEP like many trade agreements and mechanism is a tool that can create opportunities when used properly. The trick then is to adapt and use RCEP.

There are several goods and services which our country’s business sector can compete regionally. There are several government initiatives now in place that business can avail of to strengthen competitiveness.

Even with free trade, foreign corporations will still need local partners to properly peddle and distribute goods here. These partnerships will allow local partners to learn and eventually grow.

Our country can encourage non-RCEP member countries like Taiwan to invest in the Philippines to avail of the benefits of the lower trade barriers

Insofar as protecting our agricultural and other vul-

One of the notable assets of the young mayor is his youth and dynamism. Being a political science graduate, he understands the systemic problems in the country. Mayor Baste possesses the idealism of youth, like many of his young constituents. He knows, however, that there is a mission that needs to be accomplished and that the youth must have good and intelligent leaders to guide them in the future.

The ascent to Malacanang of President Duterte was historic. Under this legacy, Mayor Baste is out there to do his job. The young mayor is a politician who is part of the present generation - diverse in terms of values, outgoing, tech-savvy, socially aware, and quite uncomfortable with our historical past. He is committed to his mandate and knows what needs to be transformed as we move forward into the future.

nerable sectors is concerned, private sector must join hands with the government in taking advantage of the opportunities of free trade while assisting agriculture and other vulnerable sectors.

Entering into social enterprise partnerships with farmers and fisherfolk can help these sectors gain the needed funds and expertise to grow. There are government programs designed to assist farmers. Private know how can help farmers avail of these programs properly. The benefits of entering joint ventures with farmer cooperatives is largely underutilized by private sector.

For our country to fully take advantage of RCEP while protecting agriculture, we must take the “whole of village approach”. Every sector must now pitch in to help our farmers and fisherfolk. RCEP will create a new world. We must all help each other to survive and thrive.

This is my oblique observation.

CHRISTOPHER RYAN MABOLOC, Ph.D THEORY AND PRACTICE

KEEP... FROM 2

executives na kailangan po namin na iexplain sa inyo na ang kalidad ng edukasyon ay mayroon pong connection sa kalidad ng teachers na hina-hire ng Department of Education. Unang-una po kapag hindi natin sinusunod ang ranking ng ating mga teachers dahil po merong pinipili ang ating mga politicians at pine-pursue natin sa sa loob ng Department of Education, hindi po natin talaga mababago ang kalidad ng edukasyon ng ating bayan. Kaya po kami ay nakikiusap na sundin po natin ang ranking sa ating pagpili sa mga teachers at hindi po dapat nating pinipilit kung sino yung kakilala, kaibigan, kamag-anak natin sa pagpapasok o hiring ng ating mga teachers sa Department of Education,” she said.

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19 PROJECTS... FROM 5

directors, and assistant regional directors to be professional in their work and not side with any politicians and reminded elected public officials, that it is not the teachers and principals who can win them in the election.

“Ang makakapagpanalo po sa inyo sa eleksyon ay ang trabaho ninyo at ang sinseridad ninyo na maipakita sa taumbayan ng inyong mga munisipalidad na gusto nyo ng pagbabago o transformative change in your respective localities — yan po ang magpapanalo sa inyo sa susunod na eleksyon,” she said.

ing to the National Building Code. Every structure nga imong itindog naa gyud nay engineer or architect,” he explained.

Toghyani emphasized that applying for a building permit is the work of engineers and architects.

“Kung magpadala mo ug tao sa opisina hilabi na kung ang inyong mga pangutana is regarding the

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anchor in the area should know about it),” he said.

He added that those going to or exiting from the Davao-Samal Ferryboat terminal will also be affected.

technicalities of the project, kinahanglan ang inyuhang ipadala na mga tao sa opisina kana pud mga technical people,” he added. He also said that OCBO is in the process of going digital.

“Hopefully, pag malaunch na namo ang website it is going to be easier for everybody,” he said. By Maya M.

Padillo

Centers for Economic Sustainability (VOICES)

Agency: Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya

Amount: P5,575,200.00

6. Project title: Water Collection System with Treatment Facility in Barangay Yabawon and TanAg

Agency: Municipality of Banton, Romblon

Amount: P5,730,000.00

7. Project title: Farmers Information and Technology Service Center (FITS) Innovation Program

Row Push-type Plot Seeder with Mechatronic Seed Feeding Device for Corn (Zea Mays L.) Field Breeding Experiment

Agency: South Cotabato State College

Amount: P281,650.00

15. Project title: Implementation of Innovation, Science and Technology for Accelerating Regional Technology-based Development (iSTART) Program with Indoor Farming Technology

Agency: DOST Regional Office VIII

She reiterated that teachers, principals, superintendents, regional

DAVAO... FROM 2

She urged LCEs to remain true to the call of public service, foster lasting progress within the communities, and carry on with the crucial task of nation-building with the utmost integrity and democratic accountability. assistance.

“We will make sure that if you need help, DSWD will be there for you. As far as we can, we will coordinate with your local officials so that we will know what is needed in your locality,” he said.

Data from the Provin-

SUSPECT...

cial Disaster Risk Reduction Management (PDRRMO) showed the tremor left PHP107 million worth of damage on infrastructures in the province, and around PHP73 million worth of damage to various provincial hospitals and other health facilities. (PNA)

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He also said PNP investigators are constantly monitoring and coordinating with the victims and their families to obtain their statements regarding the incident for the filing of appropriate criminal complaints.

“We condemn this senseless act of violence against our public servants. We assure the public that the PNP will exhaust all efforts to bring

SUN... FROM 5

of Filipinos and build the foundation of a lifetime partnership with them,” Narciso said. “We’re excited to further expand this demographic.”

Those who wish to learn more about how to become an advisor can drop by a Sun Life office near them or visit www. sunlife.co/BecomeAnAdvisor.

Serving generations, focusing on segments

Meanwhile, to deepen its relationships with existing clients, Sun Life has designed a client journey anchored on the four pillars of financial security: liquidity, health and protection, wealth accumulation, and wealth transfer.

Priority segments have also been identified, and these include Business Owners, Employees and Professionals, High Net Worth clients, and

the perpetrators to justice. We stand in solidarity with the families of the victims, and we will not rest until those responsible are held accountable for their actions,” said Azurin.

Adiong and one of his staff members were wounded while three of his security personnel were killed in the attack that took place in Maguing town, Lanao del Sur on Feb. 17. (PNA)

Overseas Filipinos who are currently in the Philippines. The company has developed specialized programs and solutions to meet their goals and specific needs.

These efforts are complemented by the company’s digital transformation, which has not only made transactions more convenient but has also resulted in more opportunities for engagement.

“We are committed to offering our clients the best experience possible, so we can earn the privilege of being their partner for life. A foremost example of this is the Sy Family of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, which has been a Sun Life client for six generations now,” Narciso said.

“We wish to have the same lifetime relationship with more Filipino families.”

To connect with a Sun

“Kadtong pud atong Davao Samal ferryboat kabalo sila nga ingon anang orasa close ang atong Maharlika so walay sakyanan nga makaagi (For our Davao-Samal Ferry Boat they should also know that the Maharlika Highway will

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around PHP2 billion compared to the November 2022 level.

The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) traced the decline to the appreciation of the peso against the US dollar and the net redemption of domestic government securities.

“While NG (national government) financials for December will come out only by the last week of February, the minor

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“There’s no truth to that… Yung mga problema ngayon ng agriculture has nothing to do with RCEP. (Our problems in the agriculture sector have nothing to do with RCEP.) The problems were outcomes of past neglect of the sector. By ratifying RCEP, the country will be even more forced to pay attention to agriculture because only then can you fully max-

Life advisor, one may visit www.sunlife.co/TalkToAnAdvisor.

Now on its 128th year, Sun Life is the Number 1 life insurance company in the Philippines for the past 11 years in terms of total premium income. The company has also been recognized in the Trusted Brand Awards, where it was honored with the Platinum Award for being voted by consumers as a brand that demonstrates trustworthines s and credibility, quality, value, understanding of customer needs, innovation, and social responsibility.

Got this, thanks!Got this, thanks.Thank you!

be closed during that time so no vehicle can pass),” he said. Abude said that the closure of the northbound and southbound lanes from Azuela or R. Castillo going to Tagum should be expected similar to what was implemented during the Ironman races in 2018 and 2019.

The race course of the Alveo Ironman 70.3 is posted on their official Facebook Page. CIO

increase in debt-to-GDP (gross domestic product) ratio to 60.9 percent in 2022 from 60.4 percent a year earlier enables us to infer that the total deficit for the year fell below NG (national government) targets. The decline of domestic debt by PHP219.6 billion in December from the previous month would tend to support this logic,” it added. (PNA)

imize the benefits that RCEP can give to us,” he added.

Meanwhile, Marcos led a meeting of the National Innovation Council — a 25-member body tasked to develop the country’s innovation goals, priorities, and long-term national strategy. The President sits as its chairperson while the NEDA chief serves as vice chairperson.

Agency: Provincial Government of Camiguin

Amount: P7,500,000.00

8. Project title: Naga City Startup Ecosystem Development Program

Agency: Naga City Startup Ecosystem Development Program

Amount: P7,449,600.00

9. Project title: Industrial Designing and Finalization of Production Drawings for the Commercialization of BUHAWI

Agency: DOST Metals Industry R&D Center

Amount: P2,289,450.00

10. Project title: Information System on Transport Operation in Puerto Princesa (ISTOPP)

Agency: City Government of Puerto Princesa

Amount: P7,500,000.00

11. Project title: Establishment and Operationalization of Ilocos Norte MSME Incubation Center (IN-MIC)

Agency: Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte

Amount: P4,275,500.00

12. Project title: Enhancing the Capacity of the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Technologies (ReSET) Center using Local Innovation for Smarter and More Resilient Community-based Renewable Energy Microgrids

Agency: DOST Regional Office XI

Amount: P6,761,115.00

13. Project title: BARACO - Batangas Animal Movement Reporting Approach to Control Diseases

Agency: Provincial Government of Batangas

Amount: P7,051,668.00

14. Project title: Improvement of the Single

Amount: P3,049,098.00

16. Project title: Building Roadmaps for Resilient Philippine Creative Cities

Agency: DTI Competitiveness and Innovation

Group

Amount: P7,500,000.00

17. Project title: Exploring and Mainstreaming the Use of Natural Water Treatment Methods to Improve Drinking Water Quality

Agency: DILG Central Office

Amount: P7,500,000.00

18. Project title: Cavite Product Innovation Program for MSMEs

Agency: Provincial Government of Cavite

Amount: P7,490,000.00

19. Project title: i-LINK: Integration of Localized Maritime Information Systems for a Comprehensive Nautical Knowledge Base

Agency: University of the Philippines Diliman

Amount: P7,468,700.00

“To be very clear, innovation plays a critical role in our pursuit for sustained and accelerated economic growth and development, as it serves as a catalyst for raising overall productivity and elevating the quality of our goods and services,” Balisacan said.

“Only through a collective national effort can we truly pursue and attain these goals for our future. The Marcos administration reaffirms its commitment and determination to turn these visions and plans into a reality, and build a strong economic foundation for the future generations of Filipinos,” he added.

CSC, PSC revisit plans on gov’t eligibility grant to nat’l athletes

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) have agreed to revisit plans on the possible granting of government service eligibility to national athletes who won medals in various international games.

“As the CSC welcomes the chairmanship of PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann, we also want to reiterate our support to

our national athletes who achieved podium finishes for the country,” said CSC Commissioner Atty. Aileen Lizada in her courtesy visit

at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex last Tuesday.

Lizada added that “the current examinations for eligibility would not totally capture the skill set of our national athletes. That is why we are pushing for this special grant so that they may still be in government service after their careers and help them ensure their future.”

“We thank the CSC for this initiative in support-

FRED C. LUMBA SPORTS KEN

You can’t please everybody.

Many fans - on social media - are bashing the selection of several Ginebra players to the All-Star cast that will see action in Passi City, iloilo this weekend.

These folks don’t realize that the mandate to vote for the All-Star composition is in the hands of PBA fans.

The legions (hundreds of thousands and more) are definitely a reflection of the fan base support rooting for Brgy. Ginebra and its roster of players.

That is why Japeth Aguilar, Scottie Thompson were one, two in the voting and Tim Cone was

ing the PSC’s vision of changing the lives of our national athletes for the better, whether at their current or post-sports careers,” said PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann.

The sports agency chief believes that it is good to have athletes in corporate and government institutions because of their undivided dedication and commitment to serve.

In February 2020, the CSC initially proposed this plan to the PSC, noting that the crafting of terms of this future agreement shall be derived from the existing policies of the Republic Act No. 6847 – the Philippine Sports Commission Act, and Republic Act No. 2260, also known as Civil Service Act of 1959.

Under the Civil Service Act, Sub-Profession-

ALL-STAR COMPOSITION A FAN PRIVILEGE

voted the number one coach.

(Equitably speaking, San Mig’s JunMar Fajardo should have been voted number one or two, at the least.)

It is undeniably a popularity contest. That’s the (painful) truth.

If, let’s say, TNT or Magnolia or San Miguel had the most fan base support, it should be obvious that more of those selected for the All Star would come from their ranks.

Fans don’t mind if the player they choose don’t have the highest performance rating in shooting, steals, assists, blocks, rebounds or other departments.

To them, what simply matters is that the fellow that has suited up for the All Star is the apple of their eyes.

Ideally, someone, at least the top performer from the other teams below the leader board, should have been picked out.

I won’t name names but there are standouts from the other ballclubs.

A wise suggestion from coach Yeng Guiao is that a certain percentage of the vote (say 80%) could come from the fans and the remaining 20% could come from the media and the players themselves.

Or that the PBA Com’s office could formulate a new method that is acceptable to the basketball community, in a manner of speaking.

Regardless, the present formula gives the fans the blanket authority to pick who they want to see play in the All Star. Com. Marcial does not want to alienate the fans because the PBA owes its many decades of successcommercial and otherwise - to the basketball fanatics.

Because Ginebra alone was able to comparatively build the strongest fan base through the years, Marcial might find it dis-

al Eligibility qualifies applicants for first level positions such as clerical, trade, and custodial service positions which require less than four years of college education.

On the other hand, Professional Eligibility, qualifies one for first and second level positions such as professional, technical, and scientific positions that require four years of college education.

comforting to break the cycle even if future actions will lead to balance the current situation.

But, in the end, PBA fans in general want to watch not only a thrilling contest among the PBA’s best but also a tight duel that would put them on the edge of their seats for 48 minutes.

Not all of the 24 players chosen were of All Star quality. Some are newbies and some have average performance rating and have yet to achieve milestones.

I guess the “All Star” phrase has been just re-defined. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.)

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Richard Bachmann met with Civil Service Commission (CSC) Commissioner Atty. Aileen Lizada in a courtesy visit at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila on Tuesday.

HEADSTART

Davao golfers in 3rd place after first round, Sugar Barons zoom to nine-point lead

By NEIL BRAVO

with a report from CHITO MALABANAN

Davao City Golf Club emerged as the best performing Davao entry in the 74th Philippine Airlines Interclub Seniors championship.

The Matina golfers kept the club’s name existent at least in this prestigious tournament when they churned up 99 points in the first round to be in third place of the Friendship division leaderboard.

Lawyer Robert de Leon paced DCGC with 35 points while veteran Roy Quemada added 34 and Ben Bonador and Soc Cadayona’s 30 counted in the four-toplay-three-to-count format. Menilio Narciso and Erwin Alzate will play in the next round.

Rancho Palos Verdes is at 8th spot in the Sportswriter division with 105 points, 28 points behind leader Club Filipino de Cebu with 133. Dirab of Saudi Arabia is in second place with 114 riding high on the 40-point burst by Edge

Davao columnist Chito Malabanan.

Club Filipino de Cebu bannered by Teodoro Almario (50), Ramon Durano (43) and Dabiel Alforte (40) for a total of 133 points took the early in the Sporstwriter Division. Supporting Malabanan on Team Dirab were Geepoy Florida (38) and Abner Macapagal (36) points, respectively. Team Guam Seniors 111 points followed behind at third position.

Lanang finished 11th after 18 holes in the Aviator division with Iloilo on top with 123.

Drawing a brilliant twounder-par 70 worth 56 points from Abe Rosal and 52 from Damasus Wong yesterday, defending champion Canlubang zoomed to a nine-point lead over Lu-

isita after the first 18 holes of the Philippine Airlines Interclub Seniors championship at well-manicured Alta Vista here.

With the seasoned Rolly Viray accounting for 47 points, the Sugar Barons were so impressive that they had to discard the 46 of Mari Hechanova in grabbing momentum going into the second round that will be played at unpredictable Club Filipino in Danao.

“That was a super round,” Luisita non-playing skipper Jeric Hechanova said, when asked of Cangolf’s sterling opening 18. “I thought we did pretty well shooting 146. That was quite a special round that they came up with.”

Another squad that also put together a super effort was Cebu Country Club, which is campaigning in the lower Founders division but trails the overall pace by just five points after a 150 also at Alta Vista.

Edge Davao columnist Chito Malabanan (second from right) fired 40 points in the first round for Team Dirab.