Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 308 | Tuesday, April 18, 2023

CAPTURED

CPP-NPA leader Casilao deported after arrest in Malaysia, turned over to CIDG in Davao City

Suspected top-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader Eric John Casilao is being read with his warrant of arrest upon arrival at the Davao International Airport from Manila on Monday. Contributed photo

CAPTURED

CPP-NPA leader Casilao deported after arrest in Malaysia, turned over to CIDG in Davao City

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Eric John Casilao, touted as the most wanted New People’s Army (NPA) leader from Mindanao, was arrested in Malaysia on April 1 and brought to Davao City on Monday afternoon where he was turned over to police custody.

Casilao a.k.a. Elian/Wally/ Chan/Kuya, alleged secretary of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) and Central Committee member of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), Communist Terrorist

(PNP), National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), Bureau of Immigration, and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) with the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) and Malaysian Immigration.

In a press statement shared to the media, Major Mark Anthony S. Tito of the public affairs office of the 10th Infantry Division, bared that Casilao was apprehended while boarding a ferry bound for Koh Lipe, Thailand.

Group (CTG), was apprehended at Jeti Point International Clearance Gate, Langkawi, Malaysia on April 1, 2023 through a joint law enforcement operation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police FCAPTURED, P10

6 wounded in Sultan Kudarat bus bombing

At least six persons were wounded after a suspected improvised explosive device exploded inside a passenger bus parked at the public terminal in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat Monday noon, a police official said.

Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, spokes-

person of the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Police Office, said a new double-decker bus of Husky Tours was damaged in the middle portion by the explosion at around 12:20 p.m.

“The explosion hit the lower deck of the bus. Six individuals

CDRRMO warns residents vs extreme weather patterns

After Sunday night’s heavy downpour, which caused the water levels of several tributaries and creeks in the city to rise, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) reminded citizens to be more cautious and always be on alert to risks brought by inclement weather.

CDRRMO Head Alfredo Baloran, in an interview with the media on Monday, said weather disturbances such as thunderstorms are to be expected in the latter hours of the day and at night in the coming weeks despite it being the dry season.

“According to the PAG-ASA, na even though El Niño na ta, makasinati gihapon ta og localized thunderstorms. And ang atoang weather system naa tay easterlies. Ang kanang easterlies magdala pud gihapon na siya og weather disturbances like thunderstorms. (According to PAG-ASA, even though it is already El Niño season, we will still experience localized thunderstorms. And we have the easterlies. The easterlies will also bring weather disturbances like thunderstorms),” said Baloran.

na River, meanwhile, rose to critical level which prompted the CDRRMO to pre-emptively evacuate 15 families living in Arroyo Compound, Matina.

Baloran said the residents themselves volunteered to be evacuated to the Barangay Hall the moment the CDRRMO informed them of the danger. The families returned to their homes shortly after the river ebbed to normal level around 3 a.m.

The downpour also flooded several streets in the city which caused heavy traffic and increased the risk of vehicular accidents. Baloran said the City Engineer’s Office and the Ancillary Services Unit will be sending teams to look into possible clogging in the drainage system in the areas affected, particularly in McArthur Highway.

Due to the extreme weather, the CDRRMO chief reiterated that citizens must be wary of both the extreme heat index during the day and the possibility of localized thunderstorms in the afternoon and nighttime.

suffered injuries but are now in safe condition in the hospital,” he said in a phone interview.

Capellan said the police intelligence community had received information that some quarters are allegedly planning to carry

“So dapat iwasan nato ang overexposure sa adlaw kay kana siya pud may cause heat stroke. And ‘pag naulanan ka sa gabii andiyan ang cough and cold so dapat mag-amping ta. And karon na mga panahon dapat prepared ta, naa ta’y payong na dala para pwede na siya gamiton sa ulan og pwede pud sa init (So we should avoid overexposure during the day because that can cause heat stroke. And if you get rained on at night you might get the cold so we have to be careful. This season we have F

“Kagabii, ang atong area diri sa Davao City nakasinati ta og heavy downpour hangtod naabot siya og ganinang kadlawon. Og naay mga tributaries nato and creeks naay nag-overflow (Last night, our are here in Davao City experienced heavy downpour until dawn. And some of our tributaries and creeks overflowed),” he added.

Last night’s rain caused the Talomo River to rise to the orange alert level. The Mati-

City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) head Alfredo Baloran reminds Dabawenyos to be more cautious and always be on alert to risks brought about by inclement weather. Lean Daval Jr.

Rep. Pulong lights up Bucana’s dark alleys

By MAYA M. PADILLO

El Niño in July likely to occur: PAGASA-Davao

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration-Davao Region (PAGASA-Davao Region) revealed on Monday there is high probability of El Niño to run over six months beginning in July this year.

PAGASA-Davao Station chief meteorological officer Lolita Vinalay said during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao on Monday that there is a 55 percent possibility of a six-month dry season starting July this year.

“We are now in the neutral condition starting March 24 wherein PAGASA issued the final advisory of La Niña. Ngayon nasa neutral condition na tayo wala nang La Niña at wala ding El Niño and based sa forecast models na pinalabas ng DOST-PAGASA there is a possi-

FirstCongressional District Representative Paolo Z. Duterte provided solar-powered street lamps over the weekend to light up the dark alley of Barangay 76-A Bucana.

bility for the development of El Niño ngayong July, August, and September,” Vinalay said.

Based on the PAGASA: El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) neutral conditions are expected to continue until June-July-August (JJA) 2023 season; however, an increased likelihood of a transition to El Niño in July-August-September (JAS) 2023 season and may persist until 2024. (updated 23 MARCH)

It also stated that El Niño increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall conditions, which could bring negative impacts (such as dry spells and droughts) in some areas of the country. However, over the western part of the country, above-normal rainfall conditions during the Southwest monsoon season (Habagat) may also be expected.

By Maya M. Padillo

The donation was presided by his son Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, who handed over 10 solar lamps to Barangay 76-A chief Rolando Trajera at S.I.R. Phase 1 Covered Court.

The said solar streetlights will be mounted mainly on alleys.

“Para ni makahayag sa mga

eskenita ug makatabang sa pagpugong sa mga krimen (The solar lights will be mounted on dark alleys to prevent untoward incidents and crimes),” Rigo said.

Meanwhile, Trajera thanked the First Congressional District Office and Rigo for granting their request and said these street-

lights would greatly help the barangay and the residents prevent untoward incidents and curb conceivable crimes

“Our barangay law enforcers are very active; they roam around every night. The crime rate in our barangay is also under control. Naa lang usahay man gud musalisi labi na sa mga ngitngit na dalan or eskenita. Para malikayan na, mao nag-request ta ug light posts,” Trajera said.

Success of Mindanao peace process due to stakeholders

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Monday attributed the success of the Mindanao peace process to the support provided by local and international stakeholders.

“The success of the Mindanao peace process has a vibrant support from the stakeholders as well as the international community,” it said in a statement.

OPAPRU bared this after Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian compared the situation of China with Taiwan to those in Mindanao.

“We took note about the statement of Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian comparing the internal tension in China with Taiwan to the Mindanao peace process,” the body said.

OPAPRU said the Bangsamoro

peace process ever since has been facilitated by a third-party country to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the peace negotiations.

“Now in its implementation phase, the role of the international community in the southern peace process is very crucial to help deliver the peace dividends,” it added.

OPAPRU also noted that Pres-

P10

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Davao chief meteorological officer Lolit Vinalay shares during this week’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao the current weather condition in the city wherein it will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers and thunderstorms due to the easterlies. Lean Daval Jr.

Cotabato-Basilan RoRo ops OK’d

Economic activities between Maguindanao del Norte and Basilan are expected to increase after the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) transportation ministry approved its Roll On/Roll Off (RoRo) operation, officials said Monday.

Minister Paisalin Tago of the BARMM Ministry of Transportation and Communication said the operation of MV Island Paradise RoRo vessel will start on April 25, which will be serving the Polloc Port in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte and Lamitan City Port in Basilan.

“The Polloc Port-Lamitan route will be daily,” Tago said in a statement.

He said the Bangsamoro Maritime Industry Authority (BMARINA) approved the opening of RoRo operation between the Polloc and Lamitan ports during a board meeting over the weekend.

MV Island Paradise, owned by lawyer Pherham S. Saiddi of Saiddi Agri-Farm and Trading, Inc. (SAFTI), also received its Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) for the route.

Lawyer Abubakar A. Katambak, BMARINA office-in-charge, said the opening of the RoRo operation would spur economic activities in the region.

Before its initial voyage and upon compliance with all necessary documents, BMARINA and the Philippine Coast Guard will inspect the vessel to ensure its seaworthiness. (PNA)

NTC still ‘studying’ SIM registration extension

Regulators and stakeholders are still studying the possible extension of the SIM registration deadline on April 26, National Telecommunications Commission Deputy Commis-

sioner Jon Paulo Salvahan said on Monday, less than 10 days before the law-mandated time limit.

All the country’s major telco players have urged the government to extend the deadline,

Key PLDT executives exit following budget overrun

PLDT Inc said on Monday some of its key executives, including its Chief Financial Officer, had opted for “voluntary separation” from the company through resignation or early retirement.

The announcement follows a months-long controversy over the telco giant’s P48-billion budget overrun from 2019 to 2022 for capital expenditures.

Vice President Mary Rose Dela Paz, meanwhile, opted for voluntary resignation while Senior Vice President and Network Head Mario Tamayo also filed for early retirement, PLDT said.

PLDT Vice President Alexander Kibanoff, meanwhile, availed of the company’s manpower reduction program, it said.

citing the lack of IDs and digital capabilities as roadblocks to SIM registration.

“This week, may series of meetings kami (with telcos) to

PLDT disclosed to the stock exchange that its Chief Financial Officer, Chief Risk Management Officer and Senior Vice President Anabelle Chua filed for early retirement last April 16.

The company’s Chief Procurement Officer and Senior

The telco earlier said the capex overrun had no impact on its 2022 income, and that internal investigations found no fraud.

As of this posting, PLDT’s stock has risen 1.2 percent to P1275 per share.

An attendant waits for customers at a gasoline pump station in Matina, Davao City. Prices of gasoline and kerosene will be increased for the third straight consecutive week starting today following the surprise production cut by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), while those of diesel will be rolled back. Lean Daval Jr.

Remittances slip to ninemonth low in February

Digital banks can offer ‘better’ remittance pricing: UnionDigital

Digital banks can help cut remittance fees paid by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), which can reach as high as 16 percent, UnionDigital Bank President and CEO Henry Aguda said on Monday.

UnionDigital recently made its services available in Israel to help Filipinos send their money home with less fees.

Aguda said the goal is to make remittance fees cheaper in every corner of the globe where there are Filipinos.

“Digital banks will be able to cut the friction cost and just do account-to-account transfers. That’s what we’ve been working on, not just in Israel,” he said.

Remittance inflows from overseas Filipinos continued to decline in February to mark the lowest level in nine months, albeit still higher than the same month last year, data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Monday showed.

were up 3.0% to $5.331 billion, while personal remittances were up 3.0% to $5.931 billion.

“The remittance space is huge and the market that it’s servicing, the OFWs, really require better pricing in that area,” he added.

Aguda said the digital bank’s main bread and butter remains to be lending, and this segment would help them offer more competitive remittance rates.

Digital banks are banks without physical branches wherein all transactions are done electronically. Aside from cheaper remittance rates, most digital banks also offer higher interest rates on savings accounts compared to universal and commercial banks.

UnionDigital is among the 6 digital banks granted with a license to operate by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Cash remittances or money transfers coursed through banks or formal channels stood at $2.569 billion, down from $2.762 billion recorded in January and the lowest since the $2.455 billion in May 2022.

This is, however, 2.4% higher than the $2.509 billion in February 2022 which the BSP attributed to higher receipts from land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more, and sea- and landbased workers with work contracts of less than a year.

“The expansion in cash remittances in February 2023 was due to the growth in receipts from land- and sea-based workers,” the central bank said in an accompanying statement.

Likewise, personal remittances — the sum of transfers sent in cash or in-kind via informal channels — were recorded at $2.860 billion, down from $3.071 billion in January but 2.4% higher than the $2.793 billion in February 2022.

Year-to-date cash remittances

“The growth in cash remittances from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Qatar contributed mainly to the increase in remittances in January-February 2023,” the BSP said.

The United States accounted for 41.6% of the total year-to-date total remittances, followed by Singapore with 7.3%, Saudi Arabia with 5.5%, Japan with 5.3%, and the United Kingdom with 4.7%.

These were followed by the United Arab Emirates with 3.7%, Canada with 3.2%, Taiwan with 2.8%, Qatar with 2.7%, Malaysia with 2.5%, and other countries with 20.6%.

CebPac offers 3-day P1 sale for domestic, int’l flights

Cebu Pacific said on Monday it is bringing back its P1 sale to allow Filipinos to plan their dream vacations.

From April 17 to 19, travelers can book their flights to domestic and international destinations for as low as P1 for a one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges, the airline

said.

Cebu Pacific said the travel period is from Aug. 1 to March 31, 2024.

“With CEB’s low fares now made more affordable by P1SO sale, every Juan will have more chances to go on a sandboarding adventure in Laoag, swim in Davao’s white-sand beaches,

and satisfy their cravings for authentic Bacolod and Iloilo cuisine,” it said.

Passengers with existing travel funds may use these to pay for flights and other addons.

Cebu Pacific flies to 35 domestic and 25 international destinations.

Taxpayers queue outside a Land Bank of the Philippines branch along San Pedro Street in Davao City on Monday, the deadline of filling of the annual income tax return. Lean Daval Jr.

On

leader Eric John Casilao in

on April 1 and turned over to the

Investigation Division (CIDG) in Davao City on Monday:

“The government is determined to capture CTG leaders and terrorists wherever they are.”

Throughout March 2023, in celebration of the 86th year that Davao has become a city, a cornucopia of activities has defined the month-long festivity. From indigenous exhibits to sporting events, the party is nothing like in the past; it was as grandiose as it was extensive.

Lost in the organizer’s tickler, though, is that 2023 is the 175th anniversary of Davao’s conquest and founding by Jose Oyanguren y Cruz, a Spaniard who was once judge of Tondo, Manila. How this significant historical event has been overlooked is pure disregard. The lapse, intentional or not, sadly reflects what many have already observed as the inordinate preference by activity coordinators for fun proceedings instead of introducing events that in-spire people about history.

The oversight, if you may,

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

175 YEARS SINCE 1848

was cited by Davao-born Dr. Patricia Dacudao, an assistant professor of history at the Ateneo de Manila University, during the recent launch of her book, ‘Abaca Frontier,’ at the Ateneo de Davao University.

Davao’s precolonial period started early in 1847 after Oyanguren sought the govern-ment’s support to subdue Moro chief Datu Bago, ruler of the Davao River. It took almost a year, however, for the Spaniard to get his wishes approved, and when it was finally sanc-tioned, the high court known as the Audiencia had already watered down his conditions. With the issues attendant to the expedition satisfied, the journey to the gulf of Davao, which took months, commenced.

Davao’s conquest, under scrutiny in the last four decades, remains a battlefield of views, especially June 29,

supposedly the date when Datu Bago fled or when his enclave was over-taken. Dr. Dacudao explained that the date coincides with the surrounding of the forces of the Moro chief in Tagum. Our take of this episode, however, is a bit off-tangent.

June 29 is actually the feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul according to the Roman Catholic calendar. Based on documents and other accounts, the date is likely the day the victory over Davao—achieved in March 1848—was dedicated to San Pedro who, coincidentally, is also the patron saint of the parish where Oyanguren was baptized. (Dacudao correctly points out that Saint Paul is often dissociated from the shared feast.)

Historically, the Spanish-led expedition continued to hunt down Datu Bago after the fall of his campsite on an elevated area near

Madapo Hills (then known as Tagum). Fortuitously, he eluded his pursuers who chased him using steamers sent by the colonial government.

Most likely, the institutionalization of June 29 as an important date in the conquest has al-so led to other engagements, such as the holding of the first Mass in town, the first fiesta in honor of San Pedro, and the informal naming of the street that links the Church (now Metro-politan Catedral of Saint Peter) to the old cemetery in memory of the first Roman Catholic pontiff.

To rectify the omission, the Church, come June 29, should not forget to highlight the feast in conjunction with its significance to the 175th conquest of Davao, which is also about the time when Catholicism was introduced in town by the Recollects.

(In contrast, Christianity reached the towns of Baganga, Cateel, and Caraga in 1622 when they were made visitas or small missions under the care of the parish of Bislig, Surigao del Sur. Historically, 2022 should have been celebrated as the 400th anniversary of Catholi-cism in Davao.)

On the part of the city, making 2023 an important event during the Kadayawan festival should be an apt rectification. Not only are we allowed to be awed and inspired by the length of time the city has survived since it was founded in 1848 but also affords Davao residents a look back to the past when most of the gulf of Davao, particularly the waterways that lead to the interior regions, were almost completely controlled by Moro settlements. Again, Davao celebrates this year as its 175th anniversary.

FARM LIFE

I have been staying in my farm for a number of years and am astounded with the swirl of stories around me which also includes my own experiences…..

Manong Ilag was among the first farm workers of my Papa. He married Mosay who has a daughter from a previous liaison with a Japanese.

We used to have a number of Japanese tenants . The abaca plantations nearby employed Japanese who transformed themselves to competent

soldiers when World War 11 was declared. They served as guides to the incoming Japanese forces who landed and eventually conquered Davao and the whole of Mindanao.

Anyways, Manong Ilag and Manang Musay lived in the less populated area of the farm which later became part of the property I have inherited from my parents. They enjoyed the serenity. Nearby is an old native durian tree where, oftentimes, you can hear voices with not a single

soul around.

Manong Ilag is known to speak only when spoken too. Whenever Papa visited their abode, he would always have baskets of fruits ready while Manang Musay would brew some coffee or tsokwate.

One day, Manong Ilag disappeared without a trace. His son in law organized a search party. Neighbors came with large empty tin cans and started pounding them while shouting his name. They later found him seat-

ed up on a coconut tree, with feet dangling precariously on the palm. They had to borrow the rope tied to a carabao to bring him down .

According to Manong Ilag, he woke up at dawn and went down the house to pee fronting the old durian tree. Suddenly out of nowhere a man who resembled my Papa appeared and asked him to go on a ride in his car. Without hesitation, he agreed. They arrived in a big mansion where my papa claimed he

was staying. He was served food a number of times and repeatedly declined because it looked unpalatable. Papa then decided to drive him back and that’s when the search party found him perched on a coconut tree.

Manong Ilag and Manang Musay are now long gone. Their house has been torn down. The century old durian was struck by a lightning and eventually died but we still hear the voices now and then….

SUSAN PALAD STORIES FROM THE BOONDOCKS

WHEN LIGHTNING STRIKES

BY HENRYLITO D. TACIO PHOTOS FROM WIKIPEDIA

Lightning, a natural phenomenon, occurs naturally in many parts of the country especially during a rain. The cause of so much fear (particularly among children), awe, and wonder, lightning has been responsible for the death of many and the destruction of homes and other buildings.

The chances of getting hit by lightning are one in 600,000, but in recent years, people have died and more have been hurt in separate lightning strike incidents in different parts of the country.

It happened at Camp Madigger in barangay Binaton in Digos City last Easter Sunday. Six teenagers were having fun at the picturesque view of camp when heavy rains suddenly poured.

In order not to get wet, they took shelter in a makeshift hut which was near a tall tree. All of a sudden, lightning struck the area. Three women and one man died instantly. Another man died as he was brought to the hospital. The lone survivor was slightly injured.

Some years back, six men were given their second lives after they survived a lightning strike. According to one of the survivors, they decided to harvest shells on the nearby shore in barangay Coronon in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur after the tide ebbed around 8:30 p.m.

But there was a sudden downpour of rain followed by strong winds so they decided to seek shelter under the coconut trees. A lightning struck a tree beside where they stood and some of the victims were electrocuted. Some of the victims fainted and sustained wounds all over the body.

All the victims were thrown in different directions due to the explosion. “We were thrown three meters away,” a survivor was quoted as saying. “The explosion was so strong that it felt like it was a bomb.”

“About 2,000 people are killed worldwide by lightning each year,” reports the National Geographic. “Hundreds more survive strikes but suffer from a variety of lasting symptoms, including memory loss, dizziness,

weakness, numbness, and other life-altering ailments.”

Meteorologists claim there are more lightnings that occur during summer than during the rainy season. On land, lightning is more frequent at dusk than at dawn. On water, the reverse is true.

Actually, lightning is a massive electrostatic discharge between electrically charged regions within clouds, or between a cloud and the Earth’s surface. The charged regions within the atmosphere temporarily equalize themselves through a lightning flash, commonly referred to as a strike if it hits an object on the ground.

Experts say the electricity a lightning generates can power a 100-watt bulb for three months. Lightning can heat up the air around it to up to 30,000 degrees Celsius.

Lightning occurs approximately 40–50 times a second worldwide, resulting in nearly 1.4 billion flashes per year, according to John E. Oliver in an article which appeared in Encyclopedia of World Climatology.

In a seminar workshop held in Davao City some years back, senior weather specialist Niño A. Relos of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), said that lightnings are classified into three types: forked lightning, sheeting lightning, and ball lightning.

Forked lightning is a common form of lightning, in a cloudto-ground discharge, which exhibits downward-directed branches from the main lightning channel. Sheeting lightning appears merely as a general illumination over a broad area, usually because the path of the flash is obscured by clouds.

Ball lightning is a rare form

of lightning, consisting of a bright, luminous ball that moves rapidly along objects or floats in the air. A classic example is Saint Elmo’s fire, which Filipinos call santelmo.

The expression “Lightning never strikes twice (in the same place)” is similar to “Opportunity never knocks twice” in the vein of a “once in a lifetime” opportunity, that is, something that is generally considered improbable. But lightning occurs frequently and more so in specific areas.

In the book, Beyond Coincidence: Amazing Stories of Coincidence and the Mystery and Mathematics Behind Them, authors Martin Plimmer and Brian King related the story of a British calvary officer.

In the last year of World War I, he was knocked off his horse by a flash of lightning. He was paralyzed from the waist down as a result. He moved to Vancouver, Canada where, six years later, while fishing in a river, lightning struck him again, paralyzing his right side.

Two years later, he was sufficiently recovered to take walks in a local park when lightning sought him out again, this time permanently paralyzing him. He died soon after. Four years later, lightning hit his gravestone.

“You can protect yourself and your loved ones if you know what to do when you hear thunder as a warning,” the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states in its website. “The risk of being struck by lightning is low, but the consequences of lightning strike injuries are serious.”

• If you are caught outdoors when lightning is close by, the CDC suggests the following:

• If the weather forecast calls

That stunning flash and loud bang. Temperatures hotter than the surface of the sun. These are some descriptions of lightning. (Wikipedia)

You are most likely to be hit by lightning if you are under an isolated tree or if one tree is taller than the others. (Wikipedia)

Mang Inasal customers celebrate National Halo-Halo Blowout

Mang Inasal Extra Creamy Halo-Halo was enjoyed by customers across the Philippines during the celebration of Mang Inasal National Halo-Halo Blowout last April 16.

“We thank all our beloved customers nationwide for making the Mang Inasal National Halo-Halo Blowout a success,” said Mang Inasal Business Unit Head Mike V. Cas-

tro. “It is a heartwarming sight to witness families and barkadas getting together for our special oneday event. We’ve seen happy faces in our stores while they enjoy their favorite dessert and it’s a great validation for us to keep on giving our customers the best halo-halo they deserve, especially this summer season.”

As part of its year-long 20th anniversary celebration, the Mang Inasal National Halo-Halo Blowout gave customers a ₱20 discount for its Mang Inasal Extra Creamy Halo-Halo Small (12oz).

Mang Inasal brand ambassadors, Coco Martin and Jane de Leon also joined the celebration by visiting Mang Inasal branches in SM Fairview

Filipinos consider health longevity with growing concern: Manulife

Health longevity, or the length of a time people think they will remain in good health, is an emerging concern among Filipinos surveyed, especially as they consider the financial costs of critical illnesses amid a backdrop of economic uncertainties, according to a new study by Manulife.

The new Manulife Asia Care Survey 2023 shows that while the surveyed Filipinos on average expect to retire at 59 years of age, they anticipate only remaining healthy for three years post-retirement. Of those surveyed, Filipino millennials aged 25 to 34 are the most pessimistic, believing they will only remain healthy until they are 55, below the average perceived health longevity.

“Filipinos are realizing that personal health issues cannot be isolated from the financial implications of critical illness, along with wider economic uncertainties,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “While it is inevitable that our bodies change as we age and that the state of the global economy may be beyond our control, Filipinos can take proactive steps to strengthen their health and finances and have a more financially secure future.”

Improving health to reduce risks associated with healthcare costs

The Manulife study noted that the financial risk posed by poor health lies in the cost of medical treatment, a significant concern for many Filipinos. Nearly half (49%) of those surveyed said that the expense of treatment was their number one health management worry. Other concerns of those surveyed include loss of income or job because of illness (37%) and not knowing who will take care of them in the event of illness (26%). Almost all of those surveyed are worried about at least one illness, with heart disease, diabetes and cancer being their top

three main fears.

The Manulife study also found that around a third of Filipinos surveyed believe they currently enjoy excellent physical and mental health. With concerns about both their current health and health longevity, nearly all Filipinos surveyed claim that they are taking actions to manage their well-being through exercise (65%), better diet (62%), regular body checks (52%), and closer self-monitoring (50%).

Filipinos are the most worried about inflation in the region

Despite their concerns about the future, especially with regard to health, most of those surveyed (57%) feel confident about their current finances, with more than three quarters (77%) expecting their finances to improve in the coming 12 months. Almost three-quarters expressed confidence in being able to achieve their financial goals (72%), such as saving for retirement (55%), paying for healthcare and medical treatment costs (43%), and emergencies (36%).

This optimism, which may be reflective of a post-COVID euphoria and, to an extent, the mobility of the workforce, is tempered by the threat of inflation (75%), which emerged as the most prominent financial concern among Filipinos surveyed, more than in any of the other markets surveyed in the region. The other main threats cited are an economic slowdown (56%) and rising healthcare costs (36%).

These concerns may have merit given that 81% of Filipinos surveyed said that cash and bank deposits are the primary ways they believe will help achieve their goals.

“Cash is particularly exposed to inflation, which can see it quickly depreciate in real terms in a way that can be very costly to savers,” added Hora.

Filipinos value retirement plan-

ning, but majority have no plan

The Manulife study showed that the majority of Filipinos surveyed (80%) view positively the idea of retirement planning, well above the regional average (68%) and, for many, it is their top personal finance goal (55%). Yet, despite that, only a third of them (30%) have such a plan in place. However, including those with plans already in place, 70% said they will have plans set up within three years.

Most are looking at relying on their cash savings or deposits (46%), potential inheritance from family members (18%), government or state subsidy (18%), or support from their children (17%).

“While these sources of financial support may be available to some, they are not guaranteed and can only go so far. They may exact a heavy toll on relationships, as expectations and burdens placed on supporting parties, especially if they are family members or loved ones, are often causes of conflict,” Hora added.

Interest in health insurance on the rise

With their interwoven concerns about their health, finances and the economy, the Filipinos surveyed are clearly interested in insurance (80%), the highest in the region (average 68%), mainly because of the protection it offers against financial risk (54%). However, their current ownership of insurance (59%) is the lowest in the region (average 70%). During the coming 12 months, however, 87% of those surveyed said they intend to buy insurance, with health (36%), life (34%), and hospitalization (33%) insurance topping the list.

“It’s reassuring that Filipinos recognize the value and protection that insurance offers. After all, the insurance premiums will be far less than the cost of critical illness treatment,” Hora said. “The best first step

and Ever Gotesco Commonwealth, respectively.

“Salamat, Mang Inasal para sa National Halo-Halo Blowout. Marami sa atin ang na-miss ang ganitong bonding moments, kasama pa ang ating paboritong pampalamig ‘pag summer – ang Mang Inasal Extra Creamy Halo-Halo. (Thank you, Mang Inasal for the National Halo-Halo Blowout. We surely miss bonding moments like this where we also get to enjoy our summer favorite – the Mang Inasal Extra Creamy Halo-Halo),“ said Martin.

De Leon, on the other hand, shared how long she has been an

avid Mang Inasal fan. “Mang Inasal Extra Creamy Halo-Halo has always been my guilty pleasure, especially during summer! Its creaminess is like no other! Mas macrema talaga!”

After Mang Inasal National Halo-Halo Blowout, customers can expect more Unli-Saya activities and promos as part of the year-long celebration of Mang Inasal’s 20th anniversary. Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal. com for the latest updates, https:// manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media!

Manulife ambassador Hidilyn Diaz. for those unsure how to purchase the right insurance plan for their needs and budget would be to talk to their trusted financial advisor, who would lay out and explain the various options without any obligation.”

To address the heightened need for health protection, Manulife Philippines and Manulife China Bank Life offer HealthFlex, an affordable and customizable health insurance plan that allows customers to choose their critical illness coverage

depending on their needs and budget. Customers may choose which types of illness will be covered by their insurance: cancer only; cancer, heart attack, and stroke (the top three critical illnesses); cancer plus other elderly and critical illnesses; or the top three illnesses, plus other elderly and critical illnesses. It also provides guaranteed coverage until the age of 100 for more than 112 critical illnesses, and may be further upgraded through protection riders.

FROM 2 6 WOUNDED...

The statement also stated that Casilao was put on the Malaysian Red Notice List for falsification of passport by assuming fake identity and after his arrest, he was detained for violating Malaysian Immigration laws and deported to the Philippines on April 17, 2023.

Casilao is labeled by the military as the top-ranking NPA leader of the Southern Mindanao Regional (SMR) Committee. He is accused of allegedly killing and burying a fellow rebel fighter in a remote village in New Bataan, Davao de Oro in April 2022.

Tito mentioned that Casilao has existing warrants of arrest for the crimes of murder, kidnapping, serious illegal detention, and attempted murder.

Casilao arrived in Davao City at around 2 p.m. and was directly brought to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) office at the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) for processing.

“We make sure na ang process ay nagawa natin like reading of the warrants of arrest. Initially nagkaroon na ng medical check-up sa kanya to make sure na okay ang kanyang condition at walang mangyaring masama sa kanya,” said Lt. Col. Michael John Mangahis, officer-in-charge of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group 11 (CIDG 11) in an interview.

Meanwhile, Major General Jose Eriel Niembra, 10ID commander, vowed that CTG leaders have no safe place to stay and hide, even outside the country.

“The government is determined to capture CTG leaders and terrorists wherever they are,” MGen Niembra said in his message.

REP. ... FROM 3

WHEN... FROM 8

out a bomb attack in the province.

In November last year, a unit of Yellow Bus Line, Inc. was also bombed in neighboring Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat, resulting in the death of one person and the wounding of about a dozen other individuals.

The Regional Police Office-12 said the Yellow Bus management received extortion demands allegedly from the Islamic State-inspired Dawlah Islamiyah.

Capellan said that authorities were still investigating if the management of Husky Tours also received extortion demands prior to the bombing of its unit.

The double-decker Husky Tours bus came from Cotabato en route to General Santos City, he added.

Prior to the latest bus bombing, Capellan said they have intensified security measures in the area. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)

discuss possible extension...

Pinag-aaralan na po namin yan ng DICT kasama po ang mga telcos kung kinakailangan po natin mag-extend sa April 26,” Salvahan said.

(We’re still studying with the DICT and telcos if there’s a need to extend the April 26 deadline.)

According to the SIM registration law, failure to register mobile numbers will result in deactivation.

Under the law, a maximum of 120-day extension can be granted by regulators if necessary.

Last month, Rep. Pulong together with businessman Glenn Escandor turned over six sets of solar lights to Jesus J. Soriano National High School in Catalunan Grande, Davao City.

The ceremonial turnover was also witnessed by some school officials and students.

Apart from educational assistance, providing lighting and access to power are also among the programs of Rep. Duterte.

SUCCESS ... FROM 3

ident Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., during the UN General Assembly, has earlier showcased the positive experience in the Bangsamoro peace process to which other countries with internal conflicts can replicate.

“We encourage countries with similar situations such as ours to follow the same path in resolving conflicts peacefully and not resort to unnecessary threat of force, intimidation, and/or violence,” it added.

OPAPRU also believes that the success of the Bangsamoro peace process can be replicated no matter how difficult it is.

“We believe that to address the Taiwan Strait Crisis, we need genuine and inclusive dialogue, respect, and good faith by all parties,” it noted. (PNA)

FROM 2 NTC... FROM 4 CDRRMO... FROM 2

to be prepared, we should always carry an umbrella which can be used as shade from the sun and cover from the rain),” he said.

Citizens are also urged to pay attention to weather advisories issued by the CDRRMO. CIO

for thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity.

• Remember: When thunder roars, go indoors. Find a safe, enclosed shelter. Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.

• If you are caught in an open area, act quickly to find adequate shelter. The most important action is to remove yourself from danger. Crouching or getting low to the ground can reduce your chances of being struck but does not remove you from danger.

• If you are caught outside with no safe shelter nearby, the following actions may reduce your risk: Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges, or peaks. Never lie flat on the ground. Crouch down in a ball-like position with your head tucked and hands over your ears so that you are down low with minimal contact with the ground.

• Never shelter under an isolated tree. Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter. Immediately get out of and away from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water. Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (such as barbed wire fences, power lines, or windmills).

• If you are in a group during a thunderstorm, separate from each other. This will reduce the number of injuries if lightning strikes the ground.

• If you are out in the open water and a storm rolls in, return to shore immediately.

• Avoid open vehicles such as convertibles, motorcycles, and golf carts.

• Avoid open structures such as porches, gazebos, baseball dugouts, and sports arenas. These structures won’t protect

you from lightning.

• Stay away from open spaces such as golf courses, parks, playgrounds, ponds, lakes, swimming pools, and beaches. Seek shelter immediately.

• Stay away from tall structures, such as telephone poles and trees; lightning tends to strike the tallest object around.

Being indoors does not automatically protect you from lightning. In fact, about one-third of lightning-strike injuries occur indoors. Here are some tips to keep safe and reduce your risk of being struck by lightning while indoors.

• Avoid contact with water during a thunderstorm. Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through plumbing.

• Avoid using electronic equipment of all types. Do not use anything connected to an electrical outlet, such as computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, or stoves. Lightning can travel through electrical systems and radio and television reception systems.

• Avoid using corded phones. Corded phones are not safe to use during a thunderstorm. However, cordless or cellular phones are safe to use during a storm.

• Do not lie on concrete floors or lean on concrete walls during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

“Lightning strikes may be rare, but they still happen, and the risk of serious injury or death is severe,” the CDC reminds. “Take thunderstorms seriously. Learn and follow the above safety rules to keep yourself safe from lightning.”

Lakers forward Rui Hachimura scored a playoff career-best 29 points, including 21 in the second half.

Lakers take Game 1 over Grizzlies

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — Rui Hachimura, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers made an early statement in the wide-open Western Conference playoffs.

Hachimura scored a playoff career-best 29 points, including 21 in the second half, and James added 21 points and 11 rebounds as the seventh-seeded Lakers beat the No. 2 seed

Memphis Grizzlies, 128-112, on Sunday (Monday, Manila time) in the opening game of their series.

See Early shock: Heat overpower Bucks as Giannis exits

early in Game One

Memphis had the NBA’s best home record at 35-6 but no longer has home-court advantage against LA. Game Two is Wednesday at FedExForum, and the Grizzlies have major concerns about star Ja Morant, who aggravated a right hand injury.

“We didn’t execute the priorities of the game plan,” Mem-

FRED C. LUMBA SPORTS KEN

He richly deserves the Govs Cup Best Import Award.

RHJ’s superb performance in Game 4 (36 pts., 10 rebounds, 3 of 6 triples) drew superlatives from basketball fans for a 116-104 TNT conquest of Brgy. Ginebra that leveled the best-of-seven final series at two-all Sunday.

With an import as explosive as RHJ, coach Jolas may have removed any doubts that his Tropang Giga has as much chance as their respected foes at the championship trophy.

It was a rout actually (not an ordinary win) as RHJ and company established a large lead as many as 23 points which the Gin Kings, try as they did feverishly, could not overhaul.

phis coach Taylor Jenkins said. “Get back. Execute half-court defense and get rebounds.”

Austin Reaves added 23 points, including nine straight in the closing minutes as the Lakers pulled away. Anthony Davis had 22 points and 12 rebounds, and D’Angelo Russell, who scored only two points in the Lakers’ play-in win over the Minne -

sota Timberwolves, finished with 19 points.

Hachimura missed only one of his nine shots in the second half, including making all five of his 3-point attempts.

“The second half, we were in a good rhythm,” Hachimura said. “We were sharing the ball and all the shots just came to me.”

DID CONE GIVE HIS BOYS A DRESSING DOWN?

Even the guard sub Kit Montalbo peppered the Kings’ defense with a couple of treys, so what do you expect when the main gunners like Mikey Williams, Calvin Oftana, Jason Castro and Glen Khobuntin catch fire?

It was raining cats and dogs.

Cone rued that his boys did not play decent defense as TNT’s 21 long shots from the arc eclipsed the Gins’ 18 in Game 3.

But of course, basketball has come a long way.

The better the defense, the better the chances that team has in beating its opponent.

(This reminds me of the 1967 ABC championship game between the Philippines and South Korea. The tight defense of Ed

Ocampo on the legendary shooter Shin Dong Pa enabled the nationals to bring home the bacon.)

Cone may have to summon the big bodied Raymond Aguilar, a namesake of the better and taller one, who, at one time helped saved the day for the Gins, and Von Pessumal for extra outside shooting.

The pivotal Game 5 on Wednesday will give PBA fanatics a sneak peak as to which team Lady Luck will likely bless.

(My crystal ball intimated a 4-2 result for Brgy. Ginebra. Of course, I could be wrong.)

TNT did the job without shooter RR Pogoy (fractured finger) while BGSM missed anew the full services of main man Japhet

Aguilar.

I can tell you, Game 4 of the Govs Cup was by far the most exciting non-stop basketball duel I have watched in many years.

RHJ is just super duper. Marvelous RHJ.

The new developments in officiating and the recruitment of capable and academically qualified refs are positive proofs that there is more in store for the Pinoy basketball fans.

For now, the greater responsibility rests on Brownlee’s shoulders. He produced 28 markers (11 of 22 FGs) but endured foul woes after getting slapped with his fifth with still 8 minutes in the fourth quarter.

He cannot allow RHJ to impose

his will again as the ex-Brooklyn Net mightily did in Game 4.

Very obviously, the latter’s herculean skills greatly motivated his TNT teammates to give their all or go home.

Did Cone give his boys a dressing down inside the dug-out?

The scores: TNT - RHJ 36, Castro 17. M. Williams 16, Oftana 16, Montalbo 16, Khobuntin 8, K. Williams, Ganuelas Rosser 2, Varilla 1, Tungcab, Marcelo 0. Brgy. Ginebra - Brownlee 28. Thompson 22, Malonzo 17, Pringle 10, Pessumal 10, Standhardinger 10, Mariano 3, David 2, J. Aguila 2, Gray, Pinto, Onwubere, R. Aguilar 0. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

Tans lead RPVGCC Monthly Medal winners APRIL’S BEST

Jing and Herwin Tan led the winners in the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club Monthly Medal tournament held April 13-15 at the all-weather layout by the hills of Mandug.

The golfing Tans emerged as overall gross and net champions for the month of April.

Jing scored 76 to take the overall gross trophy while Herwin fired a net 67 to claim the overall net hardware.

The winners in Class A are Karlo Mercado 76 (gross champion via countback), Vincent Gumapac 76 (gross runner-up), Kim IL Yu 72 (net champion via countback), Peter Baruis 72 (net runner-up). In Class B they are – Steve Tan 83 (gross champion via countback), Michael Lim 83 (gross runner-up), Philip Idulsa 71 (net champion), Robert Lim 73 (net runner-up).

Class C winners were led by Leonard Cartagena 89 (gross champion), Ed Gonzaga 91 (runner up), Richard Angeles 71 (net champion), Eloy Lasaca 73 ( runner upp) while in Class D are Jong Magat 97 (gross champion), Donald Ogahayon 103 ( runner up), Rene Maranan 76 (net champion) and Ruben Beltran 79 ( runner up).

Rounding up the winners cir-

cle are Super Seniors Division: Vic Gonzales 89 (gross champion), Lito Dublan 93 ( runner up), Hironori Koso 76 (net champion), Toshio Sugiyama 81 ( runner up); Seniors Division: Monchit Mackay 79 (gross champion), Boy Tan 80 (runner up), Marlon Tabanao 71 (net champion), Sam Satoh 73 (runner up); Ladies Division: Milou Babol 91 (gross champion via countback), Joy Espino 91 (runner up), Kat Aviles 67 (net champion), Ko Duri 70 (runner up); Guest Division 1: Elly Villarosa 82 (gross champion), Brian Davila 88 ( runner up), Manfred Lawas 75 (net champion), Ariel Roca 80 ( runner upp); Guest Division 2: Bill Cartin 84 (gross champion), Dan Juson 94 ( runner up), Felix Batucan 71 (net champion), Jumil Gencianeo 74 ( runner up); Jungolf Division: Ethan Lago 43 (8 years-old and below champion), Rasheed Espino 47 ( 8 years-old and below runner-up); Joseph Tangtatco 115 (911 years-old champion), Jane Kim 136 (9-11 years-old runner-up) and Misha Lim 114 (12-17 yearsold champion).