Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 272 | Saturday, March 4, 2023

WAITING GAME

WTE project still pending with NEDA board

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Davao City’s proposed waste-to-energy (WTE) project is still pending with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board.

“Naa na karon sa NEDA board. We are waiting for that and how many months na naa pa sa NEDA board para sa approval ana ug kung ma aprubahan na siya DENR will help us fund the project. We are hoping na mugawas ang ilang decision,” said Councilor Temujin “Tek” B. Ocampo, chair of the city council’s environment committee, over

Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Thursday.

Ocampo said the project is already in its implementation stage.

“Ang WTE is on implementing stage na siya. Kaning WTE is a technology gikan sa government of Japan and ang purpose niini is mutabang sa pag manage sa atoang basura or solid waste management

kung asa instead of crudo o fossil fuel ang atong itubil sa power generator basura ang atong ibutang. Ug mu-generate ni sya ug 10 to 11 megawatts of power,” he said.

The city government of Davao has previously purchased a 10-hectare property in Barangay Biao Eskwela, Tugbok District.

Based on the original plan, the WTE can process up to 12 megawatts of energy and hold up to 600 metric tons of garbage.

Earlier, several local organizations wrote an

VP Sara lauds Davao’s floral artists’ creativity, artistry

Kicking off the Women’s Month celebration, Vice President Sara Duterte lauded Davao’s floral artists’ creativity and artistry.

open letter to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) expressing their concerns over the agency’s integrity and lack of accountability concerning waste management in Davao City.

In the letter shared to Edge Davao, environmentalists and youth groups expressed deeply concerned about the integrity of the statements recently released by JICA regarding the Waste-to-Energy (WTE) project and for its lack of accountability on

BOC-Dist. 12 explains privilege of Customs bonded warehouses

Customs explains the procedures and rules for customs bonded warehouses with Profood, a food manufacturer which plans to put up a warehouse that may avail of the Customs privilege provided by law for bonded warehouses.

Officers of the Collection District XII discussed the requirements need-

ed to set up their facility. They were also informed of the measures they need to implement and of the regular audits they need to comply with if their planned warehouse is finally registered.

Companies that register their facility as a customs bonded warehouse may import goods without paying duties and taxes

provided that, after processing raw materials into products, the items are eventually exported out of the country and that the company complies with customs regulations.

This encourages businesses to do the processing, manufacturing, and assembly of their products in the country as they do not have to pay duties

and taxes on the import of their raw materials or parts, while at the same time opening job opportunities for Filipinos and contributing to the overall economic growth.

“We acknowledge our stakeholders’ role to the nation’s revenue production, which enables the government to carry out

The Vice President was guest of honor at the Floral Artists of Davao Association, Inc exhibit dubbed as “Gamhanang Buwak: Flower Power” which features Davao artists who have flowers as subjects of their art pieces.

Duterte, in her message, said the event “underlines the commitment of the Floral Artists of Davao to promote the contributions of Dabawenya artists to contemporary Philippine art and culture.”

“Gamhanang Buwak, which means a powerful flower, demonstrates that Mindanawon women artistry has come of age, bearing prominence and great influence,” she said.

The Vice President, who hails from Davao, said the “floral artists have made our homeland proud with the unique mastery of their artistic disciplines,” and depict the strength of women as counterparts in building communities.

“This exhibit reflects women artists’ courage, ingenuity, and vision to serve as inspiration and initiators of socio-cultural changeparticularly relevant as we advocate unity, reconciliation, and love of country as tools for community building and rebuilding,” she said.

The Vice President also thanked women floral artists for making

their talents as platform to express their perspectives and visions.

“Thank you for using your creative work to elevate the feminine voice boldly breaking the status quo and paving a more vibrant, intricate, and interwoven society,” she said.

“Your courage serves as an inspiration for us to continue looking for unorthodox ways of understanding contemporary issues. It is the same courage that allows us to engage more women as voices and leaders of social transformation,” she added.

The Vice President also called on women to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ 8-point socio-economic agenda to advance sustainable and holistic development for the country and the Filipinos.

“As women, we can work together to transcend differences, and provide great inspiration to others to be more involved in building a society that is inclusive, supportive, and constantly yearning for a more humane expression,” she said.

“Let this occasion strengthen our solidarity as women who empower fellow women, and as artists who use art to enlighten, women’s inherent capacities for nation-building, especially in our environmental protection and conservation efforts and in eliminating violence against women and girls,” she added.

The exhibit is at the Estancia Mall, and will run until the end of March.

The city government of Davao led by Mayor Sebastian Duterte and the families of the victims commemorate the bombing of the old Davao airport on Thursday. Flowers were offered and candles were lit at the bombing site in Sasa. CIO

FWAITING, P10

CTTMO urges riding public to report erring taxi drivers

DepEd-Region 12 addresses teachers, curriculum issues

The Department of Education (DepEd) said Thursday its executive committee has addressed concerns on teachers’ welfare and learners’ curriculum, catering to almost 200 concerns in schools in Soccsksargen.

In a statement, the DepEd said it has conducted a regional consultation to address the challenges on the ground.

“The recent high-level consultation activity garnered a total of 180 issues and concerns from the field, which were clarified or addressed immediately by the Execom members,” it said.

Meanwhile, DepEd-Soccsksargen thanked the central office’s move, noting it was the first time it happened.

“We are beyond grateful actually for this day. It is the very first time in the history of the Department of Education (regional office) that all members of the executive committee united to join us as we consult the field offices, such as our schools, for the betterment of our services,” Deped-Soccsksargen Director Carlito

Rocafort said. “We are positive that this would help in making decisions to be able to address the pressing issues and concerns that impact our learners and teachers.”

Among the strands that received concerns were Human Resource and Organizational Development, Curriculum and Teaching, Operations, Finance, Administration, School Infrastructure and Facility, Legal and Legislative, and Procurement.

“The Human Resource, and Organizational Development strand garnered questions about the career development and progression of teaching and non-teaching personnel,” the DepEd said.

“The Curriculum and Teaching strand received queries related to the K-12 curriculum, literacy of learners, usage of technology in education delivery, and other modes of learners, which includes the Alternative Learning System and Special Education Program,” it added.

To date, the DepEd-SocFDEPED, P10

By MAYA M. PADILLO

An official of the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) encouraged the riding public to report unscrupulous taxi drivers to the agency and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board 11 (LTFRB 11).

CTTMO head Dionisio Abude issued the advisory after receiving complaints from passengers from the Davao International Airport (DIA) that some taxi drivers don’t give change and refuse to give a ride if the trip is short.

“Niabot na sa atong mayor (Sebastian Duterte)

ang reklamo mahitungod aning mga drivers gikan sa airport dili na muhatag ug kambyo. Dili lang sa airport basta dunay reklamo sa atong mayor, naay ubang drivers dili muhatag ug kambyo. Gi-inform ang atong opisina sa city administrator immediately nakig-alayon ko sa LTFRB

11 para mahibal-an sa tanan,” Abude said over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Thursday.

Abude added that this kind of behavior among taxi drivers is not acceptable as it will hurt the image of the city.

“Para mahibal-an sa tanan kung unsa buhaton sa atong mga pasahero nga sumasakay sa taxi, bisan dili lang sa dili muhatag ug kambyo, tanan, kay naa pud personal na miabot sa ako bahin aning masuko kung duol lang kaayo ang biyahe, naay isa ka reklamo

nga gikan sa musakay unta gikan sa airport paingon sa Buhangin nasuko ang driver kay duol ra daw kaayo so gibundak ang pultahan, niabot na ni siya sa LTFRB bahin aning behaviors sa mga taxi drivers,” he said. Abude said passengers must remember the driver’s name and the plate number. It is also best to take a picture of the plate and the body numbers as well as the name of the company of the taxi and send it to CTTMO and LTFRB.

Homeowners, establishments given notice on Ironman 70.3 race routes

Homeowners and establishments that will be affected by the much-awaited Ironman 70.3 race routes were already given advanced notice by the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO).

CTTMO head Dionisio Abude said on Thursday

that this is to avoid confusion and problems. “Naghimo gyud ta ug initiative nga ma-inform ang tanan kay kung dili ma- inform magka problema gyud ta. Mao nang sayo pa lang daan mag-inform nata. Gipangtagaan namo ug schedule ug nagprepare nata ug sulat na iha-

tag sa mga homeowners ug establishments para makahibalo na sila karong semana pa lang daan ug para mahinay-hinay nila (establishments) ug inform ang mga clients nila sa mahimong sitwasyon sa Ironman on March 26,” he said over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR).

Slated on March 26, 2023, the Ironman 70.3 in 2023 will follow the same template as 2018 and 2019, which is composed of a 1.9-kilometer swim at the Davao Gulf, a 90-kilometer bike ride from J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City to Tagum City and

City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) head Dionisio Abude issues an advisory to passengers to report unscrupulous taxi drivers to the CTTMO and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board 11 (LTFRB 11). Lean Daval Jr.

FCTTMO, P10

Marcos promises to improve, modernize transport system

Thecurrent administration is working hard to improve and modernize the country’s transportation system, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Friday, noting that “important” infrastructure projects are being pursued to reinvigorate the Philippine economy.

Marcos made the remark, as he expressed delight over the signing of the Contract Package NS-01 (CP NS-01) for the NorthSouth Commuter Railway (NSCR) System at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacañan

Palace in Manila.

“As we sign this contract package, we do not only write a new chapter in realizing important infrastructure projects that will foster growth and revitalize the economy. With it,

we also fulfill a promise to achieve our shared dreams and aspirations that will be the foundation of a more comfortable, a more dignified life for every Filipino,” he said.

“So, I assure the Filipino people that the government will strive to modernize and improve the country’s transportation system. This will be one of the cornerstones of our progress as we move full speed ahead into a brighter tomorrow,” Marcos added.

Marcos said having an efficient transportation system would have a “multiplier effect” on employment and economy.

He also stressed that improving the transport sector would strengthen the country’s weaknesses in the supply chain and would make the economy “stronger and more sustainable.”

“So, truly, we cannot fall short on this aspect,” Marcos said. “So, let us work

BOC exceeds February ‘23 collection goal by P1.188B

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has surpassed its revenue target for February amid sustained collection efficiency efforts.

Citing its preliminary report, the BOC said it collected P63.015 billion last month, exceeding its collection target of P61.827

Fuel prices decrease with global demand uncertainty

Oil prices decreased on Thursday due to global demand uncertainty and inflationary concerns.

International benchmark Brent crude traded at USD84.13 per barrel at 09.48 a.m. local time (0648 GMT), down 0.21 percent from the closing price of USD84.31 a barrel in the previous trading session.

At the same time, American benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) traded at USD77.48 per barrel, a 0.27 percent fall after the previous session closed at USD77.69 a barrel.

billion by P1.88 billion.

The Customs’ February revenue performance also surpassed the P59.433 billion collected in the same month last year by P3.583 billion.

Year-to-date, the BOC said its total revenues amounted to P133.380 billion, up by P8.641 bil-

lion from its target of P124.738 billion for the first two months of 2023.

“We will continue to innovate and implement sustainable reforms to boost the Bureau’s collection efficiency, which will contribute to the expansion and recovery of our national economy,” said Customs Commis-

sioner Bienvenido Rubio.

“For this to be possible, we will also prioritize fostering a healthier trade environment through enhanced and modernized mechanisms for efficient trade facilitation and improved Customs operations for all our stakeholders,” added Rubio.

Given the uncertainty surrounding the continuation of central banks imposing interest rate increases, global recession concerns linger alongside the resurgence of inflationary concerns.

With expectations that the European Central Bank will continue to raise interest rates in 2024, the possibility of the US Federal Reserve raising rates again in July gained traction.

US commercial crude oil inventories rose by 1.2 million barrels to 480.2 million barrels during the week ending Feb. 24, according to data released by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) late Wednesday.

This inventory increase exceeded market expectations of a 440,000-barrel increase and marked the tenth week of inventory increases, indicating a drop in demand and pushing prices lower.

Russia to lower output in retaliation to EU price cap

The EU ban on Russian seaborne oil products, as well as a price cap of USD100 per barrel on premium Russian oil products such as diesel, and a price cap of USD45 per barrel on discounted products such as fuel oil, went into effect on Feb. 5.

Nearly a month into the ban, Russia will now start to enact plans to cut crude oil production by 500,000 barrels per day.

Russian Deputy Prime

FMARCOS, P10

Samsung regional group manager for Visayas and Mindanao Tom Dignos shares some updates to the mobile phone’s dealers during the unveiling of new products at Acacia Hotel Davao in Davao City on Wednesday evening. Lean Daval Jr.

Agri dept expects lower sugar prices after clearing imports

Lazada optimistic on continues growth despite rising inflation

E-commerce platform

Lazada is optimistic that it will continue growing despite rising inflation, its CEO Carlos Barrera said on Thursday.

More Filipinos are tightening their belts as inflation reached a fresh 14-year high in January at 8.7 percent, but Lazada is also offering more deals for consumers who are becoming “wiser” with how they spend money, Barrera said.

He said that volume doubled as consumers sought affordable items on the platform using deals that are not available elsewhere.

“We allow them to stack different vouchers and to bundle all these promotions because cash back, free shipping, wallet discount, we want people to use this as a way to always know that they get a better deal online,” he said.

“People are now trying to save a bit more on their day-to-day purchases, we’re fully aligned with that. What we have seen is that the market has evolved

An official of the Department of Agriculture said the price of sugar is expected to go down following the clearing of imports.

However, these imports need to be reclassified from ‘reserve’ to ‘domestic use’ sugar before being sold in markets.

volume if two separate programs and then jf that happens, magiging kawawa ang farmers,” SRA Board Member Pablo Azcona said.

a lot. So the average tickets are slightly lower, also they have that value-seeking, people know that they can buy it cheaper and they can find good deals… We’re seeing strong buyer behavior this year, where people turn to online to find high quality items. It’s about being mindful,” he added.

E-commerce, he said, is somewhat insulated from challenges since online sellers are more “nimble” in costs since the costs of operations are also smaller for micro-entrepreneurs who operate from home.

PRO-POLICY DEVELOPMENT

Barrera said Lazada is supportive of government policies that aim to develop the industry as well as scale up small sellers.

He said they have been collaborating with the government in terms of sharing best global practices in other countries, among others. He said the platform also supports small businesses since legitimizing their ventures allow them to scale up.

FLAZADA, P10

Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban estimates that the retail price of refined sugar will slightly go down to P80-85 per kilo in two weeks’ time.

This was after he ordered the Sugar Regulatory Administration to issue clearances to the imported sugar, which was earlier flagged for being smuggled.

Sugar prices currently range from P87-110 per kilo, based on monitoring

from the Department of Agriculture.

“Binigyan na ng clearance ng SRA eh. The sugar will lower the price of the commercial sugar in the Philippines. It will be 8085 pesos per kilo in two weeks,” Panganiban said.

The memorandum clears the imported sugar to be transported from ports to warehouses of three handpicked importers.

SRA clarified that the volume of sugar authorized by Panganiban in January, or a month before the sugar order was finalized, will now fall under Sugar Order No. 6.

This is to ensure that the volume of imports will not be doubled.

“Yung idea po ni Senior Usec actually, and yung hinihiling ng farmers natin to have only one program, we will have too much

Senator Risa Hontiveros, who first exposed the issue, criticized Panganiban’s move.

“Ika nga, ang isda ay sa bibig nahuhuli. Totoo iyan, kahit sa smuggling ng asukal. Sa mismong memo ng DA lumalabas ang katotohanan - na matataas na opisyal ang nasa likod ng binubuong cartel at smuggling ring sa suplay ng asukal sa bansa. We should not

Cebu Pacific says nearly 13.5 million domestic passengers flown in 2022

Cebu Pacific said on Friday it flew close to 13.5 million domestic passengers in 2022, up 312 percent compared to the previous year, indicating a recovery in traffic and capacity.

Its domestic market share reached 57 percent in 2022, it said in a disclosure to the stock exchange, citing data from the Civil

Aeronautics Board (CAB). Combined with international operations, Cebu Pacific flew over 14.8 million passengers for the year, the Gokongwei-led airline said.

“Higher travel demand both domestically and internationally, coupled with the easing of various travel regulations, drove the steep recovery for CEB

in 2022,” it said.

In the fourth quarter, it flew 4.4 million passengers as key destinations such as Japan, South Korea and Taiwan eased travel restrictions, the airline said.

Hong Kong, one of its largest markets, lifted the mandatory quarantine requirements in December.

Long haul destina-

tions, including Dubai and Sydney, rose 14 percent in terms of passenger volume, the airline said.

Cebu Pacific said it flew around 108,300 flights and 19.7 million seats as it ended 2022, reaching 92 percent of its pre-pandemic capacity.

Airlines were among the hardest hit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Davao Light and Power Company president and chief operating officer Rodger Velasco says during the switching on ceremony of the Davao City Underground Cabling Project on Thursday afternoon that the project wouldn’t have been possible if not for the initiative of the city government to create an internationally competitive image of the city, opening doors to sustainable development and progress, as well as enhancing safety within the Central Business District. Lean Daval Jr.

On the status of Davao City’s proposed waste-to-energy (WTE) project:

“Naa na karon sa NEDA board. We are waiting for that and how many months na naa pa sa NEDA board para sa approval ana ug kung ma aprubahan na siya DENR will help us fund the project. We are hoping na mugawas ang ilang decision.”

GARAY DELIGERO Editorial Consultant

Editor

GREGORIO

Councilor

TEMUJIN “TEK” B. OCAMPO Chairman, Environment Committee

According to Max Weber, the state is the “political institution that has the monopoly in the legitimate use of coercion or force within a clearly defined territory.” The state, in return for the surrender of our individual wills to it, must render to the people the public good through rules embedded in the constitution. Politics is about interests, not personal, but collective, which determine for us the vision and meaning of the public good. Individuals have personal interests, but these must be reconciled with the collective will. Government officials must hold themselves accountable to the people. This is the essence of legal and rational nature of the state, the hallmark of modern-day democracy.

No two people have identical moral preferences. But they must agree on the meaning of the public good. This is why we have to reach a con-

MAX WEBER AND THE RATIONAL NATURE OF THE STATE

sensus, a process in which we either vote, discuss, or choose as a body the good we have to share, e.g. social security, health care, etc. We have distinct wants, desires and even disagree on how much we must spend on something. To arrest any impasse, the democratic process must determine how people are to make priorities. The problem arises when one party has a more dominant voice than others and when the powerful manipulates the democratic process. The rule of the majority hides the prevalence of structural and systemic injustices inherent in pragmatic approach to statecraft.

The political process is about how good citizens must choose an ethical decision meant to promote the welfare of the public. Democracy in this respect is about just or fair procedures. Even with our diversity, we must respect

each other on the basis of our diverse values and character. The task of government is the enforcement of the unequivocal respect for the dignity of each person, equally and without any preferential treatment. The law must apply to all or else, it can be said that any government loses its legitimacy. We have no moral obligation to follow laws that are unjust or against our person. This is the essence of any type of civil disobedience.

The moral propriety of state action is something that is grounded in the equality of each before the law. Any insinuation of collusion between the judiciary and the other branches of government necessarily diminishes the legitimacy of any decision. For this reason, the principle of co-equality is fundamental. Precisely, the power in common in which people come to agree on primary state inter-

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

Deployment of troops is part of the art of war. While numbers play a crucial part in defin-ing victory or defeat, knowing the military officers assigned to handle vital assignments also provides a perspective on why conflicts are won or lost. In the case of Davao’s involvement in World War II, it is interesting, even for information only, the commanders who kept Allied forces in check on their way to liberating Davao region from the Japanese juggernaut.

The Southern Task Force, part of the South Western Area Fleet, was led by Vice Admiral Denshichi Okochi. Under him was the 32nd Japanese Naval Force, commanded by Rear Ad-miral Naoji Doi, with a total strength of 3,500 men. The naval contingent was divided into three, namely the Headquarters Forces, the First Battalion, and the

Second Battalion.

Adm. Okochi, along with General Yamashita Tomoyuki, dubbed the ‘Tiger of Malaya,’ surrendered their forces to the U.S. Army at Camp John Hay, Baguio City, after the latter’s capture by Filipino the guerillas of the USAFIP-NL at Kiangan, Ifugao, in 1945.

The HQ Forces was headed by Staff Officer Capt. Katsuji Shimamura, along with Cmdr. Shinji Saji as acting officer-in-charge of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Marine Battalions. The other offic-ers were Lt. Cmdr. Ki Kawai, as a staff officer; Lt. Senior Grade Koshi Ishiwara, as a staff of-ficer with 300 men under his command.

The HQ Forces had about 300 men positioned at Mandug, about 10 kilometers north of Davao City. They stayed in that assignment until June 3, 1945, before mov-

ests must be guaranteed by the respect for the equal rights of each. Equality is not something nominal. It is a principle that lies at the core of our political existence. The violation of our individual liberties is an assault against our equal dignity as persons.

Due process, in this way, is non-negotiable. The power of the law is the soul that unites us as one people. The principle is enshrined in democratic institutions because of the tendency of the powerful to take advantage of the weak. The only protection that the people can expect from the basic structure is that laws and rules must be above the whim or caprice of any person. This is the danger that comes from charismatic authority. Populism substitutes the legitimacy of will-formation in the public sphere. The authority that emanates from the law is ultimately founded in the will

of the people, which translates into the power of sovereignty, thereby giving every public official the legal mandate and authority.

But while any revolution appears tempting to those who have felt disadvantaged by the state, our true problem, however, is about meaningful representation. Governance is not just about how we are supposed to be ruled. Rather, it is rooted in the ability of citizens to contribute meaningfully in the analysis, discussion, and understanding of issues. The responsible citizen, in this way, is one who participates in the will-formation of the state. Political decisions may be unpopular because they are not faithful to the sentiments of the people. But good governance is not just about satisfying what the constituents of a public official wants. It is about foresight in one’s course of action.

JAPANESE TROOPS IN DAVAO

ing deeper to a mountainous area double the distance from the city proper but still in the same area. They defended the place from Allied incursion but eventually surrendered when the mission be-came untenable.

On the other hand, the 1st Battalion was under Cmdr. Saji with Lt. Junior Grade Suekishi Morimoto as a company officer. The unit had about 800 men and were holed up in the vicini-ty of Sasa Air Field from October 8, 1944, to June 1, 1945, before moving to the mountains. At the start, the contingent was led by Maj. Gen. Muraji Kawazoe.

Also under the leadership of Cmdr. Saji is the 2nd Battalion with Lt. Junior Grade Kijiro Saito as a company officer. Like the first battalion, the contingent had 800 servicemen. They were located east of Davao River

and north of Davao City until June 1, 1945, a month after Davao City was liberated by the Americans. The contingent, at the start, was also under Maj. Gen. Kawazoe.

Maj. Gen. Kawazoe, born on November 1892, had an illustrious career in the Japanese Imperial Army. He earned the ranked of colonel in 1939, became the commanding officer of the 3rd Infantry Regiment three years later, then attached that same year to the Taiwan Ar-my Headquarters. In 1944, he became the chief of staff of the 16th Division and the following year as commanding officer of the 75th Infantry Brigade in the Philippines. He died on Janu-ary 4, 1959.

Another notable Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) officer who figured in the defense of Da-vao during the 1945 liberation of the city was Lt. Gen.

Jiro Harada (born November 10, 1894; died December 20, 1989). He commanded the 100th Division and at one time took charge of most of Mindanao’s defenses along with Lt. Gen. Gyosaku Morozumi and Rear Admi-ral Naoji Doi.

Allied troop concentration that swarmed the city as the liberation neared forced Lt. Gen. Harada, despite his vaunted valor, to retreat with the troops and sought shelter at Kibangay. Due to the lack of food supply and depleting munitions, he ordered his men to disperse, effec-tively dissolving his division. When the Japanese eventually yielded to the US Forces in Lu-zon, he did the same, conscious that his scattered contingent was only a shell of what it was when they resisted the entry of the Allied Forces in the last days of April 1945.

CHRISTOPHER RYAN MABOLOC, Ph.D THEORY AND PRACTICE

Traveloka, Philippine Airlines strengthen strategic cooperation

strategic partnerships and collaborations with various partners in the tourism industry to provide the best service for consumers. One of these strategic partnerships is with Philippine Airlines.

The initiative with Philippine Airlines, the Philippines’ flag carrier and sole full-service network airline, is aligned with Traveloka’s commitment to strengthening tourism growth in the Philippines and in the Southeast Asia Region. This strategic cooperation is formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Traveloka and Philippine Airlines that was signed in Manila on Tuesday, 28 February 2023. The MoU was signed by Iko Putera, CEO of Transport Traveloka and Captain Stanley K. Ng, President & COO of Philippine Airlines.

Based on the data from the Philippines Department of Tourism, around 83 thousand tourists visited the Philippines from the Southeast Asian region during the early pandemic of 2020, a dramatic drop from the over 526 thousand in 2019 due to global border restrictions. However, by the end of 2022, in line with efforts to recover the economy and tourism sector, the number of Southeast Asian visitors heading to the Philippines reached 188 thousand, increasing by more than double.

Iko said that during the post-pandemic period, people’s enthusiasm for business and tourism travel has increased along with

the return of consumers’ confidence in traveling. The surge is mainly driven by the high rate of vaccinations and the re-opening of international borders.

Travel recovery in the Philippines is also seen in Traveloka’s internal data from 2021 to 2022. The number of visitors coming to the Philippines from Southeast Asian countries where Traveloka is operating increased by eight times. Meanwhile, the number of passengers using the flight network of Philippine Airlines to various international destinations has almost doubled.

“Since 2015, Traveloka has expanded to 6 countries in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. Our presence in the market shows our commitment to offering services that focus on increasingly dynamic consumer needs. Also, providing easy access through the adoption of technology to fulfill consumers’ travel aspirations in Southeast Asia,” said Iko.

Traveloka understands that consumers have diverse needs and aspirations, including when it comes to planning for their trips. Hence, Traveloka has constantly innovated through its offerings of relevant products while also being open to fostering

As the most prominent international airline in the Philippines with the largest network of flights to Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East, Philippine Airlines is always committed to its mission of providing convenience and comfort to consumers, which is constantly a top priority.

Captain Stanley K. Ng, President & COO of Philippine Airlines said, “We are pleased to forge this new partnership with Traveloka, which will help us fortify our connections with the global market. Philippine Airlines has always made it a top concern to build, sustain and develop the direct air links to countries in the region and beyond, which means reaching out to travellers living all over the world. Our intent is for the partnership to unlock new travel options for our customers to fly with Philippine Airlines to various wonderful destinations all around the Philippines, and to diverse international destinations as well.”

The Philippines is one of the tourist destinations in Southeast Asia that has opened its borders to foreign tourists. This archipelagic country famous for its natural beauty has become an increasingly popular tourist destination worth exploring, from its metropolitan capital city of Manila and longtime popular desti-

nations such as Boracay and Cebu, to various tourist destinations on the rise, such as Siargao, El Nido, Coron, and Balabac Islands.

Recently, Siargao Island has emerged as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. Foreign and domestic tourists mingle to surf and enjoy the beauty of the island, making Siargao one of the surfing capitals of the Philippines. El Nido is famous for its spectacular beaches and stunning views of lush tropical islands. A beautiful mix of hidden lagoons, white beaches, and mountains covered by green forest, shading the crystal clear waters. In Coron, tourists are greeted with spectacular underwater views.

There are colorful coral gardens, crystal clear water and wrecks of Japanese warships in these waters. In Balabac islands, located at the Southern tip of the Palawan archipelago, tourists are invited to enjoy beaches and small islands that travelers rarely visit.

“The Philippines is a beautiful country known for its white sandy beaches and amazing natural scenery. Philippine Airlines serves 32 domestic and 39 overseas destinations, a network that makes it convenient for travellers to come to the Philippines and discover the delights of our nation and its warm and friendly people. We look forward to strengthened cooperation with Traveloka

that will make it easier for domestic and foreign tourists to visit favorite destinations in the Philippines,” explained Captain Ng.

In line with the commitment, Iko added, “Collaboration between Traveloka and the Philippine Airlines provides a variety of choices and flexibility for travelers to be able to enjoy and explore destinations in the Philippines in a more personalized, and unique way. Our platform offers various travel solutions and services, from accommodation options to local activities through Traveloka Xperience. We hope this partnership will positively contribute to tourism recovery in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.”

PAL President and COO Captain Stanley K. Ng and Mr. Iko Putera/ CEO- Transport, Traveloka during the ceremonial signing at PAL Head Office in Manila. Joining them are Mr. Bryan Sansolis (PAL Regional Head -Philippines) , Ms. Shiela Yuliong (PAL Regional Head- EMEA & Oceania/ AVP- Sales Planning & Channel Strategy), Ms. Sylvia Elvira Domingo (PAL VP- Marketing), Mr. Salvador Britanico Jr. (PAL VP- Sales), Capt. Stanley Ng (PAL President & COO), Mr. Iko Putera (CEO – Transport; Traveloka), Mr. Pintoko Rama Susanto (VP- Supply Management; Traveloka), Ms. Christy Hang Tuah (Market Manager; Traveloka) and Ms. Carmina Aliwalas (PAL Product Manager- OTA Sales)

PAL President and COO Captain Stanley K. Ng in a symbolic turnover of a PAL aircraft to Mr. Iko Putera/ CEO- Transport, Traveloka

Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform, is emphasizing its strategic collaboration with Philippine Airlines to provide services to meet travelers’ needs.

Those words came from the mouth of a man who was named by his parents, Rico A. Mag-usara and Erlene T. Bustaliño, Cristian Eric – perhaps after the Son of God only without an “h.” He was born eight days before the supposed birthday of Jesus Christ – on December 17, 1988 in Bislig, Surigao del Sur.

Tantan – as he is known among his family and friends – has gone a long, long way since his childhood days in Surigao who dreamed of becoming a commercial pilot. Although he wasn’t able to fulfil his wish, he is now one of the most successful business unit managers of Manulife Philippines. But it was a long struggle, perseverance, and a lot of prayer that brought him to where he is now. He attended three colleges. His first year was spent in Cagayan de Oro City at Lourdes College. For his second and third years, he went to St. Mary’s College in Tagum City. He finally got his nursing degree at Arriesgado College Foundation, Inc. in 2011.

“I took up nursing because of the inspiration of my grandfather, whom I took care of when he was hospitalized at San Pedro Hospital in Davao City for almost two months in 2005,” he recalled.

It was at that time when

CHANGER

A CHALLENGING CAREER IN INSURANCE

a lot of students were taking nursing. At the hospital where his grandfather was confined, he saw the beauty of these nurses in taking care of the ill patients aside from being captivated by the white uniform and white shoes these nurses were wearing.

After graduation, he took the board exam but didn’t pass. “When I took the exam, my sister would be in college and I had to support her in sending to college. In addition, I had to help my parents as well,” he said.

Tantan had to do something to make both ends meet. He was up to the challenge. After all, he had been selling kakanins that were made by his mother and grandmother when he was still young. “I loved doing it – going to our neighborhoods and offering it. I love the idea of selling and gaining profit from it,” he said.

He started his career by joining the BDO Life Assurance Company, where he worked for five years.

“I had the best training in BDO Life,” he admitted. “It was tough but it was worth it as I was being mentored by my bosses. I attended a lot of seminars and training that the company provided. Being in the insurance business was very hard. It was a tough job because it was not easy to convince people about the value of having

BY HENRYLITO D. TACIO

Together with his wife and three children insurance.”

Later on, he joined the Maxicare Healthcare Corporation only to transfer to Manulife Philippines in the same year. He is now in his sixth year in Manulife as a business unit manager.

It was Roy Cervantes who invited him for a new opportunity; he was recruited by him to join Manulife. When he accepted the offer, he was assigned as

a unit manager in Tagum City. “With my experience in sales in my previous company as an insurance sales advisor, it was easy for me then to have the job,” he said, adding that the only challenge he encountered was to create a new team and how to manage these people as well.

The task was herculean.

“It was so hard for me when I started because I have to

recruit people to join in the industry and at the same time I have to sell as well because I have a rank retention to maintain,” he said.

“Recruiting people was very hard because it’s a commission-based program and most of the people I invited are not into it because they have that employee mindset that is comfortable in 15-30 payroll,” he continued.

What most people don’t know is that a career in insurance is very self-fulfilling. “On top of the earnings that you have, you are entitled and privileged to enjoy perks in an all-expense paid luxury trip if you hit the sales parameters,” he said.

Tantan is one of the chosen few who had that opportunity. He was 28 when he got his passport because

“Ialways believe that the smartness of a man is nothing without God’s guidance. Acknowledging the Lord God, Jesus Christ who gives us the skills, knowledge and talent is what makes us become successful in anyways.”

The man who insured a lot of people.

Cristian Eric Mag-usara, a successful insurance man.

WAITING...

FROM 2 CTTMO... FROM 3

past and present efforts in promoting and investing in false solutions to waste management and climate in Davao City.

“In the articles, it has disclaimed its support for the WTE incinerator project as it impedes the rights of affected communities to receive adequate informa-

BOC... FROM 2

development initiatives and enhance the quality of life for Filipinos,” Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said. The Collection District XII engages with its stakeholders to explain and demystify customs processes. By helping businesses comply with the agency’s policies, the agency can

tion, to be heard, to seek redress and file complaints to accountable institutions,” it said.

The groups are referring to the statement issued recently by JICA reported by some local media outlets stating that it has not been supporting the WTE project in Davao City.

help encourage lawful trade and ultimately help boost the Philippine economy.

“In order to accomplish our goals, Customs promises to continuously engage its stakeholders, and make Customs processes and rules transparent,” Commissioner Rubio added.

MARCOS... FROM 4

together, in unity, in cooperation, so that we can all build a future filled with opportunities, where all Filipinos can thrive and realize their dreams for themselves, for their families, and for their country.”

‘New era of prosperity’

Marcos expressed elation over the signing of the CP NS-01, saying the landmark initiative would make the country “more connected than ever.”

The signing, he said, would also mark a “new era of prosperity” for the Philippines in the so-called “new normal.”

“Indeed, this is a milestone towards the realization of the full North-South Commuter Railway line, which will significantly reduce the travel time between Clark International Airport and Calamba City, Laguna, once completed,” Marcos said. “Beyond improving our transportation system, the implementation of civil works for the CP NS-01 will also generate thousands of jobs for Filipinos during construction.”

Marcos lauded the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Mitsubishi Corporation for their commitment to finish CP NS-01 by 2028.

He also thanked the government of Japan and the Japan International Coopera-

UP... FROM 12

“Any score below 130 is unacceptable,” said Escano who gave his players a piece of his mind. “This is not the score that we trained hard for. It seemed the players were just contented beating their flight mates.”

Escano said he wanted his players to excel and become successful pros someday like Tom Kim and Yuto Katsuragawa.

“How can we achieve that if we score poorly?” he asked.

Setting aside his disappointment, Escano said he can now sleep soundly after staving off the initial challenge posed by Eastridge.

The Binangonan-based squad posted 120 points, drawing 31 from Tonton

“Kung ang pasahero nakasakay na ug nakalingkod na, i-capture nila ang PUV ID from CTTMO sa atubangan ug sa likod sa pasahero through QR code scanner ug kung na-capture na nila i-send sa Facebook Page sa LTFRB and CTTMO,” he added.

He said drivers will be penalized with P5,000 fine for the first offense, P10,000 and impounding of unit for the second offense, and revocation or cancelation of the franchise for the third offense.

In December last year, digital creator TG vented his disappointment at a taxi driver who did not give his P4.00 change.

“Hindi ko alam kung sa

DEPED... FROM 3

csksargen has more than 44,000 personnel in eight school divisions.

INSURANCE... FROM 9

Davao ko lang ma experience ito o buong Pilipinas talaga. Yung nandito ako sa Davao na realize ko na ang mga taxi drivers dito sa Davao, hindi naman lahat, o halos sa mga nasasakyan ko, naniniwala ako na hindi lisensya ang pinakauna na kukunin nila. Sa na experience ko ang mga taxi drivers dito (hindi lahat), ang pinakaunang gagawin nila mag-aral ng mathematics lalo na ang plus at minus. Kasi hindi sila marunong magbigay ng tamang barya, pag ang pamasahe mo P96, hindi na sila magbarya ng P4,” he said. He also mentioned in his vlog that he repeatedly experienced this in Davao City.

he has to travel in other countries. “So far, I have been to six countries since I joined Manulife,” he said.

The first country he visited was Taipei, Taiwan. “It was very memorable to me as it was my first time to be out of the country. This was in 2018 when I attended the GAMA Lamp Asia. It was an Asian Conference for Managers across Asia in the Insurance Industry. Another reason why Taiwan was memorable was the fact that I discovered the use of Google Map. I got lost and with the help of Google Maps, I was able to be reunited with my colleagues.”

the day is, going home and seeing my kids that are so happy and hearing them yelling as they saw me coming, the heavy feelings on that day are being wiped out. Family is everything. The smiles of my kids and their sweet hugs remind me always that everything is okay because you have someone waiting for you.”

tion Agency for the financial support in the implementation of CP NS-01, as well as for being “active partners” in the country’s infrastructure development.

“We are glad to have you with us as we continue to strengthen our relations built on mutual confidence and cooperation, a relationship that has gone on for many, many decades and I can say without fear of contradiction that the development of the Philippines, especially in terms of infrastructure has shown that Japan has taken a very, very important part in that,” Marcos said.

The contract package was signed by DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista and Mitsubishi Corp. executive vice president Koji Ota.

The CP NS-01 includes the procurement of railway infrastructure projects for the Malolos-Clark Railway Project and the North-South Railway Project - South Line (Commuter), known as the NSCR Extension Project.

The contract package includes railway tracks, turnouts, track sleepers, power supply and distribution systems, signalling systems, automated fare collection, computerized management maintenance, and platform screen doors, among other essentials for railway safety and operations.

Asistio, the 30s from Timothy Clark Co and Ronel Tagaan, and 29 from Loyd Labrador.

On 382, Eastridge leads CCC by six points.

Carl Almario and Jacob Cajita each scored 34 points to lead CCC which matched Eastridge’s output. Bayani Garcia and Jufil Sato counted with 28 and 24, respectively.

Del Monte also struggled with 119 to bring its total to 359. Scoring for the team were Raul Minoza 31, Mark Ivan Parilla 30, Julius Langamin 30 and Enzo Fregil 28.

In the hotly-contested Founders division, the Orchard took a two-point lead over Riviera and Alabang after tallying 115 points.

Tae Won Kim and

It also serves about 1 million learners in the region.

The DepEd executive committee has already conducted consultations to address concerns in Davao City, Aklan, and Tacloban. (PNA)

HOMEOWNERS... FROM 3

back, and 21-kilometer half-marathon run from NCCC-VPlaza to Azuela Cove and back.

“On March 26 mao na ni ang apektado ang F. Torres-J.P Laurel hangtod sa boundary sa Lasang. Importante na makig-alayon ta ug magpahibalo sa mga homeowners, sa mga barangays, sa mga establishments, churches, nga apektado labi na nga domingo ug daghan na manimba,” Abude said.

On March 24 at 5 p.m. will be the IronGirl with R. Castillo-Jerome-Azuela Cove as race route.

“Ang northbound ang

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Minister Alexander Novak also said earlier in February that his country plans to sell 80 percent of its crude oil and condensate and 75 percent of its refined products to “friendly” countries.

Meanwhile, the likelihood of an oil demand uptick from China, the world’s largest oil-importing country, whose econo-

Young Sook Kim posted 31 and 30, respectively as the Orchard hiked its total to 340.

Riviera was led by Patrick Gene Tambalque who turned in 33 points while Alabang leaned on a pair of 29s from Justin Tambunting and Wan Soo Kim.

A tight battle also shaped up in the Aviator class with CCC Team 2 erecting a two-point lead over Alta Vista.

Marco Mendoza sparkled for CCC Team 2 with 38 points while Alta Vista drew 32 from Yap Gabriel Jr.

Club Filipino de Cebu leads the Sportswriters division with 288 points while Alta Vista Team 2 held sway in the Friendship with 255.

The annual event, held

In 2019, he had the opportunity of travelling to five countries: Shanghai, China; Singapore; Johor Bahru, Malaysia; Sydney, Australia; and Osaka and Tokyo in Japan. “I visited these countries as my travel incentives for hitting targets,” he said. He may visit Japan and Australia again.

gamiton pero ang southbound sa R. Castillo himoong two-way traffic,” Abude said.

Early morning of March 25 will be the Ironkids that will use the same route, R. Castillo-Jerome-Azuela Cove.

For the transport sector, Abude said F. Torres to Lasang. From R. Castillo to Lasang to Panabo City, Carmen, and Tagum City will be closed (both lanes) on March 26.

Abude said ferry boats and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) were also informed about the routes.

By Maya M. Padillo

my is recovering from strict Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) restrictions, is limiting price declines.

This week, China released positive data indicating an economic recovery.

China’s National Bureau of Statistics revealed that Chinese industry activity increased significantly in February. (Anadolu)

with the theme “Back to Ignite,” is supported by platinum sponsors ABS-CBN Global, Asian Journal, Airbus, and NUSTAR Resort and Casino.

Gold sponsors include Radio Mindanao Network, Mastercard, Memories FM 89.9 Cebu, University of Mindanao Broadcasting Network, PLDT/Smart, and Konsulta MD.

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

Now, looking back, Tantan considered himself a successful insurance adviser “because being in this career is very tough,” he said. “The pressure that it gives in hitting targets is frustrating. Sometimes, talking to a lot of prospects where you get rejections and objections is a common thing but in every yes to your proposal from a client who trusted you is what really makes this career so great. I have several clients under my portfolio who were insured as high as 100 million coverage in protection.”

According to him, the challenges he is meeting as a unit manager are the recruitment and getting new business sales representatives. “Every year, we need to recruit new people and get new business sales representatives. If we stop recruiting people to join in the industry, that is also the time we kill our business. Or it may die eventually because every year is always a new beginning. Even if you did so well the previous year, that is already in the past,” he said.

A career in insurance is no bed of roses. “The qualities that you need to have in this kind of job is to have a very long patience,” he pointed out. “Patience is a virtue in this career. You must be teachable. Above all, be honest and truthful to all your clients.”

Like other jobs, a career in insurance also means a lot of stress. But his coping mechanism against stress is his family. As he puts it: “Even how hard and tough

AGRI... FROM

When asked about his future plans, he replied: “To expand my business and recruit more people to be part of my organization, to educate more Filipinos. and to help every family about the beauty and purpose of insurance.”

Tantan is now settled in Tagum City, with his wife, Jenny Ann. They have three children: Stanley, Margaux and Stingray.

“Every day is a challenge,” he said of being a father. “A challenge to face again thinking what lies ahead for today but being prayerful is what keeps me going that everything will be alright.”

When asked what success means to him, Tantan replied: “Success for me is having the sense of contentment. Being content with the things that were the product or results of your success or hard work. Contentment is a level of hard work. If you want something more then you have to work hard and do it smartly.”

5

ignore this ‘smoking gun’ proof of government-sponsored sugar smuggling being coordinated at the highest levels of bureaucracy,” her statement read.

Rafael Coscolluela, a former administrator of SRA, meanwhile said Panganiban’s move was irregular.

LAZADA... FROM 5

“Our objective is always to help the development of e-commerce and digitalization, when you look at the main priorities that we’re seeing now there’s a big push towards digitalization really reigniting the economy, so it’s really actually great that there are digitally minded people because ultimately the digital economy has so much potential,” he said.

The SIM registration act, for one, is good for the industry since it’s a step towards eliminating fraud and challenges faced by on-

“You cannot help but question the possibility of a secret deal made with those 3 traders. There’s a possibility a case of violation of RA3019 can be brought against Usec Panganiban because he granted undue benefits to only a few favored traders,” he said.

line sellers.

So far, Barrera said there’s growth in beauty, fashion, and in most categories especially the lower-priced items. While premium items are “growing less” there’s still healthy growth as Filipinos are now buying larger ticket items such as appliances.

As the platform celebrated its 11th year, Barrera said they aim to become faster in terms of deliveries by expanding their hubs across the country and strengthening its payment systems.

PSC eyes consolidated sports calendar, seeks more world-class homegrown talents

Afterdoing the rounds of different national teams, sports associations and training venues and meeting stakeholders over the past weeks, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) board led by Chairman Richard Bachmann bared that plans for a consolidated national sports calendar and efforts to create more comprehensive grassroots sports programs to produce worldclass athletes are in the works.

“We have to continue to cultivate the grassroots in order to feed the elite level with fresh talents,” said Bachmann, who is also

batting for a consolidated national sports calendar.

“We do not have a lot of resources so a consolidated calendar would help us all

avoid duplications, overlaps and allow us to prepare better.”

This week, Bachmann, together with his PSC Commissioners Edward Hayco, Olivia “Bong’’ Coo and Walter Torres visited Cebu and sat down with the Cebu City Sports Commission (CCSC), Cebu City Local School Board in Labangon Elementary School and Cebu City Sports Center, observing different local sports which trace their roots in the country’s oldest city.

The PSC officials also

took part in the launching of the Guinness world attempt for the largest rhythmic gymnastics hula hoop workout. They also graced the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the PSC Regional Training Center for weightlifting, which was also attended by Tokyo Olympian and Southeast Asian Games medalist Elreen Ando.

The Carreta, Cebu City native is a current member of the Philippine weightlifting team and a product of Batang Pinoy (Philippine Youth Games), one of the

MOSES BILLACURA

It is heartwarming to know recently that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s Sports Commission headed by Arsalan Dimaoden took the courage to present a 12-point agenda to the new officials of the Philippine Sports Commission.

I exactly wrote “took the courage” because I do not normally hear from Mindanaoans taking the courage to present a sports program to officials in Manila. Normally, local sports officials would wait for an announcement of a sports program or project that would be implemented in

PSC’s long-time centerpiece grassroots programs.

The PSC is also set to establish satellite offices all over the country to make sure the national sports agency has point persons to oversee the grassroots program in their respective areas.

“This is a good way to have more Elreen Andos, and Hidilyn Diazes in Philippine sports. I hope we can develop more homegrown talent and strengthen our national team, and to nourish our chances of winning more Olympic gold medals in the

future,” said the PSC chief.

Aside from checking on the sports facilities and training centers, the PSC board also paid a courtesy visit to the Office of Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Undersecretary Terence Calatrava in Mandaue City, Cebu, where the latter pledged his support to the PSC on future collaborations in grassroots sports development in the region.

The PSC Board will wrap up the week in Zamboanga where a number of Philippine team members are based

EXCITING SPORTS DEVELOPMENT WORK BY BSC, PSC

the country. It has always been a waiting game.

The PSC, being the only government sports agency, would normally partner with the Department of the Interior and Local Government for the preparation and conduct of national games. LGUs would then receive a Memo and off they start working.

But the Bangsamoro Sports Commission did something that is worth emulating.

Sports facilities development, health and wellness, grassroots and youth sports, sports education, human resource develop-

ment, continuation of the Sports for All program through PSC’s Laro’t Saya sa Parke, elite sports identification and support, traditional sports and games preservation, ensuring gender and equality in sports, sports linkages and collaboration, sports tourism and competitions.

Boy oh boy, these are very serious stuff!

Who could be the “brains” behind all these sports development stuff?

It took a lot of meetings, preparation, information gathering and consultations for the BARMM Sports Commission to

come up with this brilliant presentation to the new PSC chairman Richard Bachmann and commissioners Bong Coo and Walter Torres in Manila.

I would love to see a vibrant sports community in the BARMM.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, I have read reports of Mindanao-based sports officials and coaches going to Muslim Mindanao cities and provinces to implement sports activities.

With the recent presentation to the PSC, this is a clear indication that Muslim Mindanao sports development has a very bright future with the help of the

national sports agency.

I would love to see our Moro brothers and sisters get the needed support and you will just never know, in the next few years, there will be national athletes coming from Muslim Mindanao. And that would happen, thanks to the Bangsamoro Sports Commission and the PSC!

“I’m so excited, and I just can’t hide it”. Yes, that’s the lyrics coupled with some dance moves. * * *

For comments, kindly email mpb_sports@yahoo.com.

PSC board led by chairman Richard Bachmann graced the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the PSC Regional Training Center for Weightlifting, together with Olympian and SEA Games medalist Elreen Ando held in Cebu City last March 2, 2023.

UP AND DOWN

Apo cimbs to 3rd, Davao golfers sink to 5th as Southwoods extends lead

BY NEIL BRAVO

Apo Golf and Country Club Orogold made a bold move on Friday moving up to third place in the Founders division but a horrendous day for the entire squad of Davao City Golf Club dropped them to fifth place in the penultimate round in the 74th Philippine Airlines Men’s Interclub golf championships in Cebu dampening its chance for the Sportswriter division title.

First the bright side, Apo Golf and Country Club Orogold jumped to 3rd in the Friendship division after scoring 74 points in the third round for a 54-hole 225 total.

Hilario Baluso led Apo with 28 points while Regino Capa had 20 points, Verne dela Cruz finished with 14 while Carlo Senase had 12. The Apo golfers trail home team Alta Vista with 255 points. Davao City Golf Club-B was at fifth with 217.

On the sad note, the Matina-based parbusters of DCGC can only muster 73 points for the day and its best score was an anemic 21 from Felix Dagatan. The other scorers were Rommel Lee (20), Ryan James Guiamg (18) and Elizer Villarosa (14).

Rancho Palos Verdes also came through with a big round and moved two notches up from 9th to 7th in the Aviator division.

Manila Southwoods showed

the depth of its talents on Friday, posting 127 points at Club Filipino de Cebu in the penultimate round of the 74th Philippine Amateur Men’s Interclub golf team championships.

Three players scored in the thirties, led by Masaichi Otake’s 34, as Southwoods pulled away with 401 points going into the final day at the Cebu Country Club on Saturday.

Otake, bouncing back from a pedestrian 29 on Friday, bucked three pickups with an eagle and four birdies to fuel Southwoods’ assault.

Ryan Monsalve and Shinichi Suzuki added 33 and 32, respectively. One of the 28 of Kristoffer Arevalo and Lanz William Uy counted.

Despite the 19-point lead over Eastridge, Southwoods captain Thirdy Escano was disappointed over his team’s lackluster score.

Masaichi Otake watches his tee shot at the Club Filipino de Cebu during the third round of the 74th Philippine Airlines Men’s Interclub golf team championships in Cebu City on Friday. (Photo by Alan Tangcawan)