Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 309 | Wednesday, April 19, 2023

COURT MARTIAL

PH Army approves administrative charges against Durante, cohorts

By MAYA M. PADILLO

The Philippine Army has approved the administrative charges filed against former Brigadier General Jesus Durante III and his subordinates Colonel Michael Licayo, and five enlisted personnel on their alleged involvement in the murder case of model Yvonette Chua Plaza.

Chua was shot by assailants on December 29, 2022, outside her residence at Purok 18, Buttercup Street of Green Meadows Subdivision in Barangay Sto. Nino, Tugbok district, Davao City.

Durante and other military officials and enlisted personnel

a nature to bring discredit upon the military service.”

In a press statement, army commanding officer Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner expressed approval of the administrative case and subsequently referred it to the General Court Martial, which is chaired by the Court President, 10th Infantry Division commanding officer MGen. Jose Eriel M. Niembra.

TF Davao turns 20

The Task Force Davao (TFD) on Tuesday held its 20th founding anniversary celebration at its headquarters at the Sta. Ana Wharf in Barangay Leon Garcia.

The TFD was established on April 16, 2003 after the terror attacks on the Sasa Airport and Sasa Wharf earlier that same year.

Tuesday’s celebration was attended by Vice Mayor J Melchor Quitain Jr, TFD Commmander Col Darren Comia, TFD Executive Officer LtC Jonathan Escopalao, Davao City Police Office Director PCol Alberto Lupaz, Public Safety and Security Office Head Angel Sumagaysay, city government department heads, and other stakeholders.

biggest accomplishments in the past two decades. The TFD also launched its own hymn. Comia, in his speech, said the TFD remains committed to its mandate of ensuring security and safety in the city. He said the TFD is determined to strengthen partnerships with both public and private sectors.

“We would like to renew our commitment to the security and safety of the city,” the TF Commander said.

Quitain, meanwhile, thanked the TFD for “20 years of excellent service,” adding that he is confident peace in Davao City will be sustained even as it continues to grow and develop.

The Davao City Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO), in coordination with the Tribal Council and barangays, conducted a coordination meeting last April 11 at Paradise Embac for additional Bantay Bukid Volunteers from the Ata tribe.

PSSO head Angel Sumagaysay, in an interview with the City Information Office on Monday, said that the Ata Tribal Councilthrough a resolution - requested

were charged with violation of Article of War 96, which refers to the “conduct unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman”, and Article of War 97, which refers “to all disorders and neglects to the prejudice of good order and military discipline and all conduct of FCOURT, P10

Durante and Licayco were immediately transferred and detained in the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) head-

The event was aimed at recognizing and thanking all partner agencies and stakeholders who continue to support the TFD in its mission to secure and maintain order in Davao City.

During the celebration, the TFD awarded nine outstanding TFD personnel and showcased its

Reading a message from city mayor Sebastian Duterte, Quitain said the City Government of Davao is grateful for how the TFD “has continued to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to duty in protecting the city from threats, criminality, and other forms of lawlessness” over the years. CIO

PSSO eyes additional 40 Bantay Bukid volunteers from Ata Tribe

additional volunteers from their tribe.

“Naghimo sila’g tribal resolution requesting for additional 40 para maging 60, so gi-umpisahan na namo siya gi-istorya namo ang barangay ug ang Ata Tribal Council. Ginahulat nalang nato tung 40 nila nga ihatag subject, for vetting gihapon na, at least physically, mentally-ready siya sa tasking niya. (They crafted a tribal resolution requesting for an

additional 40, to make it 60. We have already started coordination meetings with the barangay and the Ata Tribal Council. We are only waiting for the 40 that they will name, subject for vetting that the applicant must be physically, and mentally-ready for the tasks),” Sumagaysay said.

He added that currently there are 20 Bantay Bukid volunteers, and 60 is the ideal number to be met because of the wide expanse

of the land area of Paquibato.

Sumagaysay said that the presence of Bantay Bukid is really helpful as the volunteers are stationed in areas where few law enforcers are.

He said that the Bantay Bukid checks the illegal cutting of trees, kaingin, and they also look out after the watershed.

He said that initially Bantay Bukid forest rangers are under an NGO but were later absorbed by

the city as volunteers with honorarium.

The Bantay Bukid is currently under the supervision of the Watershed Management Council and the PSSO.

Sumagaysay said that apart from Paquibato, there are also Bantay Bukid Volunteers located in Calinan, Baguio, and Tawantawan. Bantay Bukid volunteers in the city total to more than 200. CIO

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte visits the seven public schools in Masbate affected by the clashes between the government forces and the New People’s Army. FB page of Inday Sara Duterte

Apo Agua pushes back Davao City bulk water project timeline

By MAYA M. PADILLO

DSWD-EPAHP

seeks to expand feeding program

The Department of Social Welfare and Development Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) seeks to expand the community participation in feeding program to 18 municipalities in Davao Region.

The EPAHP last year piloted the modality of community participation through procurement under Republic Act 9184 Sec. 53.12 in five community-based organizations,

Of the five organizations, five are Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations and two are irrigator associations.

“This year gino-groom ngayon na 18 peoples organizations in Davao Region across the Davao Region,” says Angelie Rodriguez-Darilay Regional Coordinator of EPAHP.

These five organizations with their agricultural produce would supply the child minding centers located within the same community. These organizations are located in Davao Occidental, Davao

ApoAgua Infrastructura, Inc. pushed back the start of operation of the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) of the Davao City Water District (DCWD) due to external factors.

del Norte, and Davao de Oro.

In Davao Occidental the members had a 13% increase in income, in Davao de Oro they recorded an increase of 13-20% in income.

Darilay said the success of the community organizations in the pilot project would mean an expansion of the program.

“Kasi nakikita natin na may increase of income and nakaka-augment sa pangangailangan ng ating poor local farmers,” Darilay said.

The EPAHP is an inter-agency program that is designed as one of the key strategies of the government in addressing concerns on hunger mitigation, food and nutrition insecurity and poverty reduction.

The original program in 2016 had the convergence of the DSWD, the Department of Agrarian Reform, and the Department of Agriculture. In 2019 the program was enhanced adding new partners, roles, and responsibilities. (PIA/RG Alama)

The “first drop of water” from the much-anticipated DCWD’s bulk water supply was expected in the first quarter of this year but is now moved to April 2023.

In her presentation before the City Council on Tuesday, Anna Victoria Lu, president of Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc, showed the updates and factors that affected

the project’s timeline of operations and among them is the poor weather conditions.

She said leaks were encountered during the flushing. There were damaged pipelines where leaks were discovered during the flushing activities due to the buried pipeline in Los Amigos that was punctured, most likely by a

fiber-optics contractor, requiring additional time for rectification.

She said because of this, flushing activities had to be restarted.

She mentioned that there are extraordinary raw water conditions due to back-to-back heavy flash floods in the Tamugan River that prevented Apo Agua from filling up the reservoir and conducting final flushing and disinfection activities of the Treated Water Pipeline.

Lu explained that highly turbid

FAPO, P10

Military assures tipster to receive P5.4M

reward money for Casilao

An official of the 10th Infantry Division assured on Tuesday that the person who provided leads for the apprehension of the alleged top leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPPNPA) Eric “Jun” Casilao will receive the P5.4 million reward.

“Sa karon dili nako matubag pa kung kinsa ang makadawat gyud. Rest assured na kani nga

reward mahatag ni just like what happened atong naa ta’y tipster sa pag-neutralize kay Menandro Villanueva nga P5.6 million. Just the same dili nako maingon kung kinsa ang makadawat ani pero among isiguro nga mahatag ni sa nagtip sa atoang government force,” said Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson of 10ID, over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Tuesday. 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 Group (CTG), was apprehended at Jeti Point International Clearance Gate, Langkawi, Malaysia on April 1, 2023 through a joint law enforcement operation of the

FMILITARY, P10

Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division of the Phils. Army, assures the public that the tipster for the arrest of the alleged top leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Eric “Jun” Casilao will receive the P5.4 million reward. Lean Daval Jr.

Airline fuel surcharges to descend in May ‘23

Airline

tickets may get cheaper in May as the Civil Aeronautics Board announced on Monday it was lowering the level of airline fuel surcharges next month.

CAB said the fuel surcharge level in May will go down to Level 5 from 6.

Many airlines impose fuel surcharges to recoup costs when fuel prices rise.

CAB’s announcement means that fuel surcharge for domestic flights in May may range from P151 to P542, depending on the distance.

The fuel surcharges for

international flights meanwhile may range from P498 to P3,703.

The agency had earlier reduced the fuel surcharge level for April to Level 6 from 5 in March.

Several airlines have said that air travel demand has recovered to pre-pandemic levels following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions.

Pinoy, Czech firms ink deal to develop smart city in PH

Czech company TESLA Smart Technologies and Filipino firm Smart Citi Teknologi (SCT) on Monday signed a memorandum of agreement to develop a smart city in the Philippines.

The deal was forged between TESLA Technologies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Peter Matejcek and SCT CEO Mario Marcos. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala also witnessed the MoA signing in Makati City.

Philippine firm Smart Citi Teknologi and Czech companies

signed Memoranda of Agreement for the development of a smart city in Manila and a cyanide-free technology for mining industry on Monday.

Under the agreement, the two companies will develop a “smart green citi” in Manila where the lifestyle is technology-based and infrastructures are disaster-proof.

Based on the TESLA and SCT reports, the advantages of developing carbon-neutral and green smart cities thru its own software

and hardware are:

a) it increases extraction by at least 15%;

b) it will have low extraction costs and expenses;

c) it will not harm the ecosystem since it will use green, clean, and carbon-neutral technology.

According to SCT CEO Marcos, they will maximize the use of Filipino Information technology experts in developing the project.

“Integration of the internet of things, robotics, artificial intel-

GCG:

Landbank-DBP merger can move forward without legislation

The proposed merger of state-owned lenders Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) can proceed without legislation, according to the Governance Commission for Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GCG).

Citing its study submitted to the Office of the President, the GCG said it “has the power to merge GOCCs which the Supreme Court affirms in its ruling in Lagman v. Executive Secretary” through the Republic Act No. 10149 or the GOCC Governance Act of 2011.

Late in March, the GCG announced it would evaluate the proposed merger of Landbank and DBP amid concerns raised by the latter that the merger would require legislation since both banks were created by different enabling laws or charters.

The GCG, in its study, found that it has the power to ascertain the manner of the merger, either De Jure Merger or De Facto Merg-

er, pursuant to Memorandum Circular 2015-13 —which covers the the guidelines for merger or abolition/dissolution of GOCCs.

The GCG said its study aims to resolve the legal issues raised by DBP and the Department of Finance (DOF).

The agency said the DBP posited that both banks were statutorily created and must therefore be merged through legislation while the DOF was of contrary legal position.

“In order to resolve the issue, GCG sought answers through the provisions of statutes and applicable jurisprudence on the matter. Legal frameworks were an important point of reference such as Section 5(a) of Republic Act No. 10149 (R.A. 10149) ; Lagman v. Executive Secretary; Section 17, Article VII, 1987 Constitution; and Section 2, Chapter 2, Book III, Administrative Code of 1987,” said GCG chairperson Alex Quiroz.

The Section 5 (a) of RA 10149

A porter unloads a block of ice from a vehicle at Agdao Public Market in Davao City. The demand for the product is currently high due to the very warm weather in the city. Lean Daval Jr.

PH ‘on track’ in some sustainable dev’t goals, behind on others: PSA

Economist still positive on remittance inflows to PH

An economist remains optimistic about the path of overseas Filipino workers’ (OFWs) remittances amidst the elevated inflation rate and concerns about the possible United States recession.

Data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Monday showed a 2.4 percent year-on-year increase in cash remittances to USD2.569 billion in February this year.

The Philippines is on track to achieving a number of goals in the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, but is falling behind on others, the state statistics bureau said on Monday.

Although the cash inflows last February were lower than the previous month’s USD2.76 billion, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said the latest inflows are “still a good signal for the economy.”

“The slowdown in OFW remittances data may also have to do with the relatively higher prices/inflation/cost of liv-

FECONOMIST, P10

US trade envoy visits PH, holds talks with labor, trade officials

United States Trade Representative (USTR) Katherine Tai on Monday met with Labor Secretary Bienvenido “Benny” Laguesma, where they discussed ways to strengthen the economic partnership between the US and the Philippines.

In a statement, Tai noted that she and Laguesma also tackled enhancing labor standards in the global economy. This includes the Philippines’ “constructive engagement” in the development

of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), which includes “high-standard labor provisions that support workers across the region.”

“[Tai] noted the importance of protecting workers and organizers against violence and the importance of freedom of association and exercising the right to collectively bargain,” the USTR statement also read.

The two officials also dis-

Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) assistant National Statistician Wilma Guillen said the country has made progress in eight out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs.

She said the Philippines is on track on achieving the target to “reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women & children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions.”

The country is also on track to achieving World Health Orga-

nization’s Framework on Tobacco Control and improving water quality, Guillen also told a Senate hearing on the Philippines’ progress on SDGs.

However, she also noted that the country was “regressing” when it came to sustaining “at least 7 percent GDP growth per annum” which is recommended for the “least developed countries”.

The Philippines is also losing ground when it came to achieving full and productive employment

and decent work for all, including young people and persons with disabilities, as well as equal pay for work of equal value.

The country was also regressing on substantially reducing the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.

“For youth NEET (not in employment, education or training), it has been made steady for 2019 (18.4 percent) and 2020 (18.4 percent), but it went up in 2021 (30 percent) And our target here for 2030 is 10 percent,” Guillen explained.

Another area where the Philippines was regressing was reducing the number of people affected by disasters as well as deaths from calamities.

Czechia encouraged to explore more biz opportunities in PH

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has urged businesses from the Czechia Republic to look into more opportunities in the country.

At the Czech Industry forum in Makati City Monday, PCCI president George Barcelon said economic ties between the Philippines and Czechia could be further expanded by exploring business

opportunities in various sectors.

“There are various opportunities for us to continue building on this momentum. To expand twoway trade, we can explore various sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, construction, mining, and renewable energy, among other sectors,” he said.

Barcelon said these sectors will help the two countries continue to

emerge from the adverse impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

In 2021, bilateral trade between the two countries stood at USD700 million.

Around USD500 million of Philippine exports to Czechia were machines, including integrated circuits, electrical equipment, transformers and other products

Clients gather at the automated teller machine (ATM) area of Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) branch along San Pedro Street in Davao City. The Governance Commission for Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GCG) bares that based on its study, the proposed merger of state-owned lenders LBP and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) can proceed without legislation. Lean Daval Jr.

Senior Reporter

GREGORIO GARAY DELIGERO Editorial Consultant

BILLACURA Sports Editor

President

BACSAL General Manager / VP Operations JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

In asking members of the national and regional peace and order councils to address cases of political violence as well as those stemming from the illegal drug trade:

“They happened just after the election and they just... almost consecutively. So it became very prominent in the minds of the people that it had really become too bad... And of course, that is true because even one is too much. But nonetheless, in terms of the political violence, I think, I hope, and we must continue to look out for, and watch out for this is that the experience that we have been having.”

PRESIDENT FERDINAND R. MARCOS JR.

The 3,992 law graduates who successfully passed the 2022 Bar exams will be the first batch to be sworn under the new Lawyer’s Oath .

The results of the November 2022 Bar Exams were released last April 14, 2023 where successful examinees comprise 43.47% of 9,183 takers.

Last year’s Bar exams were the second to be held digitally and across multiple testing sites across the country.

Of the top 30, eleven were from University of the Philippines (UP), eight from the Ateneo de Manila University , three from University of San Carlos and one each from San Beda College Alabang, Mariano Marcos State University , Ateneo de Zamboanga, Saint Louis University, University of Santo Tomas, Arellano University, Manuel L Quezon University, Angeles University Foundation, and Ateneo de Davao.

The five top-notchers came from UP led by its valedictorian Czar Matthew Dayday with a score of 88.8083 percent. UP is also one of the top 3 performing school with an overall passing rate of 94.27 percent, and a 95.02 percent passing rate among first-

ATTY. DENNIS R. GORECHO KUWENTONG PEYUPS

2022 BAR EXAM PASSERS FIRST BATCH TO BE SWORN UNDER THE NEW LAWYER’S OATH

time takers.

Among the group of biggest schools or those with over 100 takers, ADMU had the highest passing rate at 96.74 percent, followed by San Beda at 96.67 percent, UP at 94.27 percent, USC at 91.43 percent, and the University of Santo Tomas at 78.09 percent.

The previous batch 20202021 yielded 8,241 out of 11,402 (72.28%) aspiring lawyers who passed.

The highest passing rate was the 1954 Bar, where 75.17% passed.

The lowest was in 1999 with 16.59% with a total number of 660 successful examinees. My bar buddy and former solicitor general Florin Hilbay was the topnotcher.

The bar exam is a yearly spectacle on the performance of law schools measured in the most number of topnotchers or those scoring the highest passing rates.

The bar exams is considered one of the toughest and most difficult among the professional board exams, having one of the highest mortality rates. Passing is obviously not that easy.

I was among the lucky 1,465

examinees who passed, or 39.63 percent out of the 3,697 examinees of the 1998 bar exams held in DLSU.

I belong to the working student program of UP Law as a reporter for the TODAY broadsheet and other international news agencies. I do my coverage during the day then attend my evening classes. I read my cases in the bus on the way home to Las Piñas from Diliman, always looking for the seat with the strongest headlight.

Traversing the path of legal education was hard to the exponential power, as we immersed ourselves in law books and cases, faced terror professors, pore through volumes and pages of SCRAs, lined up for photocopying at the law library, hurried through classes, reviewed and crammed through lessons, and survived recitations.

The successful examinees will be sworn using the new lawyer’s oath as part of the new Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA).

The new oath states: “I (name) do solemnly swear that I accept the honor, privilege, duty, and responsibility of practicing

law in the Philippines as an officer of the court, in the interest of our people. I declare fealty to the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines. In so doing, I shall work towards promoting the rule of law in a regime of truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace. I shall conscientiously and courageously work for justice as well as safeguard the rights and meaningful freedoms of all persons, identities, and communities. I shall ensure greater and equitable access to justice. I shall do no falsehood nor shall I pervert the law to unjustly favor or prejudice anyone. I shall faithfully discharge these duties and responsibilities to the best of my ability, with integrity and utmost civility.”

The new code revises the 34-year-old Code of Professional Responsibility that was promulgated in 1988.

It consolidates regulations on the discipline of lawyers, abbreviates administrative proceedings, and addresses the punitive aspect of unethical legal practice.

My UP Law professor and Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen said that the revision of

LET’S CURTAIL HIV/AIDS NOW!

Infectious diseases are here to stay. No one is safe from them. Most likely to be infected are those whose immune systems are compromised, who lack exercise and sleep, malnourished (too skinny or fat), and whose stress levels are too high.

Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been lowered already, people seem to be at ease already. But there’s another infectious disease that’s lurking in the dark. If this is not curtailed soon, it may become a big problem in the near future.

“HIV cases projected to reach 364,00 by 2030,” said the headline of a news report published in EDGE Davao recently. The source of information was the Department of Health (DOH).

“The estimated number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the Philippines could reach 364,000 by 2030 if the rapid increase in new infections is sustained,” the news item said.

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the microorganisms that causes the

dreaded Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Right now, there’s still no vaccine against HIV and treatment for AIDS is still out of reach.

What is frightening is that most of the recent individuals infected with the virus are getting younger and younger. Of the 1,454 HIV cases reported in January this year, the Department of Health (DOH) said 79 of these were children, aged 10 to 19 years old. Seven cases were children below 10 years old.

“Nearly half of the new infections will be among the youth aged 15-24,” predicted Noel Palaypayon of the National HIV & STI Surveillance and Strategic Information Unit of the DOH’s Epidemiology Bureau.

That’s disturbing, indeed.

“It’s alarming and sad to think that those who should be given double care because of their young age and weakness are the ones who are still suffering,” said Senator Sherwin Gatchalian in a news release.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the statistics. It was reported that there were 4,699 HIV

cases reported among young people (aged 10-19) since January 2005. In February this year, 54 adolescents were diagnosed with HIV.

Of the 54 cases, 96% were males and 20% were classified as AIDS or having advanced HIV infection. All cases were transmitted through sex.

“The practice of risky behavior starts early while protective behaviors start late among key populations such as males having sex with males (MSM) and transgender women (TGW),” Palaypayon was quoted as saying during an online forum.

Because of this recent development, Anakalusugan Party-list Representative Ray Florence Reyes urged the inclusion of “comprehensive age-specific sexuality education” in the primary school curriculums.

“We would like to emphasize the urgent need to address the HIV epidemic in the Philippines, particularly among our youth,” Reyes stressed. “We need to educate our youth on the importance of HIV prevention, safe sex practices and the need for

regular HIV testing.”

A 2021 study conducted by the University of the Philippines Population Institute showed that fewer than 20% of Filipino youth aged 15-25 years had a comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS.

For his part, Palaypayon said awareness on the availability of HIV services was lowest among young males having sex with males (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). In addition, protective behavior and access to HIV services among MSM and TGW remain low.

Not only that, Palaypayon contended that MSM and TGW also engage in risky behaviors such as multiple sex partners and using alcohol and drugs, all of which are precursors of HIV infection.

But it’s not only the youth who should be educated. In fact, it’s the whole Filipinos that should be informed about HIV/ AIDS. Despite the fact that the first case was reported in 1982 yet, many Filipinos are still not aware of the disease.

Medical experts contend

the current oath is imperative as it did not mention a lawyer’s most important duty “to do justice or even to ensure access to justice.”

Leonen reminded lawyers of the importance of civility, especially in adversarial conflict, as parties to cases “are deserving of better treatment always as human beings.”

Ultimately, being a good lawyer is a different thing. Passing the bar is not enough. It is never the measure of the decency, honesty, integrity and intelligence of a lawyer.

The lawyer’s oath “binds all lawyers as a source of obligations such that its violation is a ground for suspension, disbarment, or disciplinary action.”

Lawyers, as professionals, are expected to uphold the ethical and moral values that are said to be essential to the fabric that holds society together.

(Peyups is the moniker of University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 09175025808 or 09088665786.)

that “Filipinos have low awareness about HIV, making them at risk of getting – and spreading –the disease.”

One of those who agree with this observation is Manoj Sihag, Philippine country head of Camber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. “There are many patients who don’t know they are carrying HIV,” he told a national daily.

Most of those who are unaware of HIV/AIDS are those from the provinces. “A lot of awareness is already done at the Metro Manila level, but it needs to be expanded further to the provincial areas,” Sihag said. This could be done actually as there are “enough” funds in the national budget for effective interventions, according to Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who chairs the Senate committee on health.

Last March, he urged the government to “come up with a strategic plan to address the gaps in the implementation of the HIV law. “There are enough funds to fight the spread of AIDS,” the Senator from Davao said.

Musical Dancing Fountain: Mati’s latest tourist attraction

It may not be as huge as the Dubai Fountain, nevertheless it draws ohhhs and ahhs from spectators as the first ever Musical Dancing Fountain (MDF) in the City of Mati was inaugurated last Sunday, April 9.

City of Mati Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat led the opening of the MDF right at the heart of the Mayor FGR Park and Baywalk along with hundreds of Matinians who trooped to the area despite an earlier heavy downpour.

The MDF took months of planning and constructing. It was during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic that Mayor Michelle decided to renovate the MFGR Park and Baywalk just as mass gatherings are not encouraged by the health authorities.

After the renovation in 2021, people saw a bare Olympic-size pool-like structure at the middle of the park.

Unknown to many, the city

mayor had already envisioned a modern musical dancing fountain in the area even before the renovation of the MFGR Park and Baywalk started.

“It would be like a mini-version of the dancing fountain in Dubai that we all see in the social media. That is how I envisioned that structure in baywalk that most people see as but a simple reflection pool before,” Mayor Michelle said.

True indeed, after months of construction, the MFGR Park and Baywalk’s Musical Dancing Fountain was finally revealed to the public.

Excitement filled the air as hundreds of Matinians gathered around the 11.3x33 meter structure fronting the I LOVE MATI installation inside baywalk park.

As the lights and sound show started, people are clapping with their mouths agape to every sway of the water as it dances to the accompanying music and lights.

Mayor Michelle said that watching how Matinians enjoyed the more than 15-minute show was all worth it.

“As the mother of the city, there is no amount of money that could compare to the joy of seeing the faces of Matinians in awe and

wonderment as they watched the musical dancing fountain show. I was in tears, tears of joy. I hope that we would all appreciate this little offering so that we can have a respite from all the problems each of us are facing, personally. Aside from that, we just might draw more visitors to our city with this dancing fountain,” Mayor Michelle said.

The City of Mati LGU has tapped Buildibility Construction Corporation for the construction of the MDF.

The MDF shows will be held every Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7PM and 8PM. (CIO MATI)

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Don’t worry about the essentials needed for spontaneous summer trips for GrabMart has everything that you can possibly need – from sunscreen to slippers. GrabMart hosts a broad selection of products that are ready for on-demand delivery. These include packaged food, fresh produce, healthcare essentials, personal care items, household products, and even pet supplies. Have these essentials delivered to you instantly or at a time more convenient for you. With GrabMart, there is no more lining up at the grocery store or rushing to the mall for Summer vacay shopping.

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Mobility with GrabCarAn All Out Summer means that you have to be up and about. Do not fuss over the trip to the airport or the roadtrip from one destination to another –just travel worry-free with GrabCar. Being present in Metro Manila and major cities across the Philippines like Cebu, Bacolod and Iloilo; GrabCar offers safe, reliable and convenient transportation for every Summer adventurer exploring the country.

And since you are back on the road, make sure to visit the Grab All Out Summer Hangout Spots for exclusive treats and deals. Play games and win challenges in these interactive Summer Hangout Spots. The four spots are located in Market, Market in BGC, Festive Walk Mall in Iloilo, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, and SM

CDO Downtown Premier in Cagayan de Oro!

Grab Philippines Country Head Grace Vera Cruz shares:

“The pandemic has discouraged many of our kababayans from fully celebrating and experiencing summer. This 2023, Grab is here as your reliable partner in creating an exciting Summer experience, and as we continue to widen our geographic footprint and expand our available services in cities and communities across the country, Grab will be every Filipino’s partner towards bespoke and meaningfully curated seasonal experiences. With our on-demand delivery, fun activities, and convenient mobility service, there is no doubt you can go all out this Summer.”

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Gather all your artsy friends and schedule a photo walk in the city or backyard photoshoot with the #TheAuraPortraitMaster vivo V27, the latest premium smartphone from vivo.

Arm yourself with vivo’s latest offering as you dive into the magical world of smartphone photography!

Have the power of a studio-quality camera for professionally looking photoshoots any time of the day plus all the benefits of an efficient and reliable digital and life tool for PHP 24,999! Starting April 11, the vivo V27 5G may now be purchased in vivo’s online and offline stores nationwide!

Let the Aura Light match your vibe Pose as the model or be the creative director and let your imagination run wild as vivo takes the

usual camera flash and turns it into the innovative ring light powered by the Aura Portrait Algorithm and the SONY IMX766V sensor. Now, every photograph taken during the day and at night will look like they have been done in a professional studio.

AURA LIGHT OFF

AURA LIGHT ON

Celebrate life in all of its forms and don’t forget to document them as you go along! Maximize the power of the vivo V27’s EIS+OIS Dual Stabilization, and make sure that all of last night’s memories are intact, no matter how carefree or impromptu they may be.

Turn your random ideas into cinematic or meme-worthy content pieces using the vivo V27’s 50MP Eye Auto Focus (AF) vlogging camera. Casually zoom in and out for a dramatic effect, and worry not about pixelated

footage. Just let your imagination and this phone’s wide range of enhancement tools guide you. Sleek and reliable – that sure sounds like you!

For those who want to be perceived as understated yet commanding, the vivo V27 is the perfect digital tool and accessory for you. As most brands go bigger, vivo is going the other way with its slim and smooth 3D curved design which is just 7.36mm thin. That’s a silky-smooth feel at the palm of your hand without display and screen edges compromised.

Your eyes are not fooling you, the vivo V27 is actually changing its colors when placed under the sun. Seamlessly witness as your light green phone turns into the precious emerald green color powered by another vivo-exclusive, the Photochro-

mic technology.

Personal entertainment system however YOU like it

Yes, your vivo V27 is also a personal entertainment system. It’s a cinema, gaming and music streaming tool wrapped in one stylish build.

At 120Hz refresh rate, watching films becomes an event on its own instead of a background activity as you eat your lunch or dinner. With its Game Boost Mode, who can’t say you’re not running away from the fire with battle-wretched soldiers or fighting brain-hungry zombies?

Powered by Extended RAM 3.0, you get up to 12GB RAM with 8GB Extended RAM and 256GB ROM for a continuous session with no lags to

interrupt your immersive experience.

Power through long hours of intensive game or movie marathon and trust that the vivo V27 can keep up! Equipped with 66W FastCharge technology with doubled battery lifespan of 4600mAh, you can go from 1 to 50 percent of power in just 19 minutes, so you can continue your movie or games session with ease.

Don’t pass up on this amazing offering! Be #TheAuraPortraitmaster and experience the difference yourself. Visit any of vivo’s offline stores or vivo’s official website, Shopee, Lazada and TikTok shops to get yours.

It’s here! Flaunt your best aura with #TheAuraPortraitMaster vivo V27 5G

COURT... FROM 2 APO... FROM 3

quarters, Camp Panacan in Davao City on April 17, 2023, for the administrative military proceeding which is expected to convene anytime this week.

The Philippine Army vowed to uphold the highest form of discipline among its personnel in the discipline performance of its mandate of serving the people and securing the land.

“The army does not tolerate wrongdoings and criminal acts of any soldier, be they officers or enlisted personnel,” it said.

Durante was an ex-Presidential Security Group (PSG) chief of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

GCG... FROM 4

states that the GCG can evaluate the performance and determine the relevance of the GOCC, to ascertain whether such GOCC should be reorganized, merged, streamlined, abolished or privatized, in consultation with the department or agency to which a GOCC is attached.

Section 17, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution also reads that “the President shall have control of all the executive departments, bureaus, and offices.”

Meanwhile, Book III, Title I, Chapter II, Section 2 of Administrative Code of 1987, refer to the “Acts of the President providing for rules of a general or permanent character in implementation or execution of constitutional or statutory powers.”

“The foregoing legal anchors empower President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to implement the merger of the state-owned bank without waiting for Congress to file and pass related bills,” said Quiroz.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had given the thumbs up for the merger of the two state-owned banks, which he said would result in P5.2 billion per year worth of savings for the government.

Landbank is the Philippines’ second-largest universal bank with P2.76 trillion in assets, next to BDO Unibank with P3.73 trillion in assets.

The DBP ranked eighth with P1.035 trillion worth of assets.

The GCG said the merger, should it proceed, must not result in the abandonment of any of the mandates of the two banks.

Landbank serves the agriculture sector, while the DBP takes care of the needs of industrial enterprises.

The planned merger of Landbank and DBP was first pushed by then-President Benigno Aquino III in 2016 but was abandoned by the Duterte administration due to concerns that this would not serve the public interest because the banks were created for different purposes.

PSC... FROM 11

rations of the different national teams since January.

Aside from the SEA Games, Bachmann also encouraged each National Sports Association (NSA) to look at the bigger picture, especially at other major events that are also set this year like the Asian Games, World Championships, and qualifying events for the Paris Olympics.

“I’m not putting down the Southeast Asian Games, I’m just saying that, we should win that all the time. We have many events this year, suportahan natin ang atletang Pilipino,” Bachmann said.

water cannot be accepted into the system to protect the filtration and water distribution system.

She said more flushing and disinfection activities are required as additional debris, sediments, and dirt were found in the pipeline that requires more time and higher pressure to flush out, to ensure effective disinfection.

Meanwhile, Lu also presented the progress of the construction of the project.

For civil works, water treatment plant facilities critical for partial operations are tested and commissioned and the installation of the three remaining segments of pipelines in the Davao River Bridge crossing is successful.

The supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system needed for the full automation of operations functionality test is ongoing.

The chemical and microbiology laboratory is completed and audited by the Department of Health (DOH) for accreditation.

The preparation of hydro testing of pipelines to DCWD’s off-take points (OTPs) in Dumoy, Mandug, Cabantian, Indangan, and Panacan is also ongoing.

Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. is taking the lead role in the construction of DCBWSP which will provide 300 million liters of safe water daily to over one million Dabawenyos.

The DCBWSP is the first of its kind in the country. It is designed to follow the water-energy nexus concept, where renewable energy will be generated through an integrated hydroelectric power plant. With this state-of-the-art landmark project, Davao City will now have access to both surface water from the Tamugan River, and its current ground well sources.

ECONOMIST...

FROM 5

ing in major host countries for OFWs that fundamentally reduced the remittances sent back to the Philippines,” he said.

Ricafort said the weakening of the peso against the US dollar is also a factor for the lower remittances last February.

The peso weakness, he added, “also partly reduced the need to send more OFW remittances due to higher conversion rate for the US dollar vs. the Philippine peso.”

Ricafort said the risk of recession for the world’s largest economy may likely dampen OFW remittances due to slower global trade/exports, investments/FDIs (foreign direct investments), and other business/ economic activities.

He also attributed the sustained year-on-year rise in remittances to the faster recovery of OFW-host countries.

Remittances from OFWs are among the growth drivers of the domestic economy as these boost consumer spending, which accounts for at least 75 percent of the economy.

“For the coming months, single-digit/modest growth in OFW remittances could continue as OFW families/dependents still need to cope up with relatively higher prices/inflation locally that would require the sending of more remittances, as well as some normalization of spending by consumers/households for both essential and non-essential as the economy reopened towards greater normalcy,” he added. (PNA)

PINOY... FROM 4 MILITARY... FROM 3

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

“Ang atoang ginapangita na top most wanted NPA leader in Southern Mindanao nadakpan na gyud. Nadakpan nila si Casilao kay naggamit ug fake identity maong nakagawas siya sa nasud. Kay naggamit siya ug fake identity na find out sa atong Malaysian counterpart ug nabutang siya sa Malaysian Red Notice for falsification of passport,” Tito explained.

Casilao was apprehended while boarding a ferry bound for Koh Lipe, Thailand.

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

He also has existing warrants of arrest for crimes of murder, kidnapping, serious illegal detention, and attempted murder.

Tito said with the arrest of Casilao is a success not only for the forces in Davao Region, Southern Mindanao but in the entire Philippines as allegedly several families were victimized by him.

Tito also said Casilao was the one who orchestrated the activities of the NPA in the entire Southern Mindanao.

Tito assured that no matter how notorious Casilao was as an NPA leader, he was given humane treatment and due process by the government.

“Siya ang utok sa mga activities na gibuhat sa NPA. Pero maskin ingon ana pa man siya bisan unsa siya ka notorious nga NPA leader pero gihatagan siya ug humane treatment, due process sa atong gobyerno. Makita gani ninyo sa TV ug social media nga wala gyud tatsa si Eric para atubangon ang iyahang mga kaso,” he said. By Maya M. Padillo

US... FROM 5

cussed the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) trade ministers meeting in Detroit, Michigan slated in May.

The scheduled meeting is expected to provide an “ opportunity to develop trade policies that unlock inclusive and sustainable economic prosperity for all of the people in the Asia-Pacific region,” the USTR said.

“Ambassador Tai and Secretary Laguesma also highlighted the importance of the US– Philippines Trade and Investment Framework (TIFA), the first TIFA in Southeast Asia. They agreed to remain in contact in the future,” the USTR’s statement further read.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson was also present in the meeting.

“I had a productive meeting with [Laguesma] earlier today. We share a commitment to supporting workers through trade policy and strengthening the U.S.-Philippines relationship,” Tai said of the meeting in a tweet Monday.

In her visit to Manila, Tai also met with her Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual and Finance Undersecretary Mark Joven to discuss various topics also relating to the trade and economic partnership between the US and the Philippines

ligence (AI), internet of blockchains, meta verse and quantum computing are effective in improving the economy of the country and the lives of every citizen. Now, we cannot stop the fast-growing smart city development in every country—- so the Philippines can be a competitive country. We have the best quality ITs and developers of software that can exceed other countries,” Marcos added.

Another agreement between SCT and Czech mining company Draslovka was signed to focus on safer mining and extraction of nickel and gold in the Philippines.

The companies highlighted that they will eradicate the use of cyanide and will only use environment-friendly machinery in mining.

A study by environmental group Earthworks cited that a sodium cyanide solution is commonly used to leach gold from ore.

PALAWAN’S SUPER SMART ISLAND

The SCT is also embarking on a mega project in Roxas, Palawan. It is still in the process of acquiring a privately-owned island that is more than 500 hectares.

‘We already prepared the necessary documents to start this project. Our target day for the inauguration is this September,’ Marcos stressed.

The super smart island in Palawan is a seven-year mega project, with an initial investment of $1 billion.

KINGS... FROM 11

rebound, we fell on each other, stuff happens, it’s basketball. We’ve got to move on to the next play,” Sabonis said.

Green pinned the blame on Sabonis. “I’ve got to land my foot somewhere,” Green said. “I can only step so far when I’m pulling my leg away. It is what it is.”

Steph Curry led the Warriors scoring with 28 points while Andrew Wiggins finished with 22 and Klay Thompson 21.

However the Warriors were left ruing a litany of 20 turnovers that gave up cheap points to Sacramento, who led from early in the second quarter.

Golden State clawed their way back from a 14-point third-quarter deficit to tie it at 93-93 midway through the fourth.

But Sacramento responded to pull clear down the stretch and close out a gutsy win.

TROPHY... FROM 12

Yukien Andrada and Damie Cuntapay each added 14 markers with Andrada also grabbing 11 caroms for the double-double.

Box Scores:

First Game (Battle for Third)

Harimau Malaysia 93 – Y. Wong 26, Ting 16, Mahadevan 13, J. Wong 9, Lee 7, Liew 6, Teo 5, Kuek 3, Ong 3, Lim 3, Dee 2, Heng 0

CSB 84 – Carlos 21, Nayve 19, Corteza 13, Liwag 10, Turco 7, Oczon 6, Sumabat 3, Serrano 2, Marcos 2, Marasigan 1, Cajucom 0, Mara 0

Quarterscores: 31-9, 48-31, 72-58, 93-84

Second Game (Final)

Kuala Lumpur 83 – Robinson 31, Wee 23, Sangalang 10, Tan Goh 9, J. Gan 6, Soong 2, Yap 2, Kwan 0, Tan 0

San Beda-Machateam 72 –Cortez 19, Cuntapay 14, Andrada 14, Alfaro 11, Gallego 6, Puno 2, Tagle 2, Visser 2, Jopia 2, Llarena 0, Cometa 0, Royo 0

Quarterscores: 10-32, 36-46, 58-82, 83-72

CZECHIA... FROM 5

that are treated with zero duty under the European Union Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+).

The remaining USD200 million were the country’s imports from the Czechia Republic, which majority is composed of imports in the arms and defense sector.

“By leveraging our respective strengths, I am certain that we can create a more mutually beneficial partnership but promotes innovation, investment, and job creation,” Barcelon added.

Aside from boosting the bilateral trade, Barcelon also encouraged Czech businesses to invest in the Philippines as the government continues to implement policy reforms to improve the investment climate in the country.

“New measures to draw investments in our country include the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) law, which has lowered the country’s corporate income tax to a level on par with our neighboring countries,” he said.

Other legislations that aim to improve the business environment in the country include the amendments to the Foreign Investment Act, Public Service Act and the Retail Trade Liberalization Act.

“As we emerge from the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important that we remain consistent in pursuing new opportunities for trade and investment,” Barcelon said.

PSC: Full support for Team PHI in Cambodia SEAG 2023

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) vowed to provide complete support to all members of Team Philippines when they compete in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games scheduled May 5 to May 17 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This support includes funding preparation, supplies, manpower and logistics.

Asked to project Team Philippines’ finish in the biennial meet, PSC chairman Richard Bachmann

were fourth place last year, then hopefully we can improve this year,’ said Bachmann during his guesting at the weekly Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum held Tuesday, April 18 at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila.

tisport event in the region.

Boxing, one of the country’s medal-rich sports, will be bannered by 2020 Tokyo Olympics silver medalists Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam. Olympian and world gymnastics champion Carlos Yulo and world No. 3 pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena are also strong gold medal contenders in the Cambodia meet.

Vanessa Sarno will spearhead the national weightlifting squad in the absence of the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz who is deep in training to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Kings leave Warriors in hole

LOS ANGELES -- The Sacramento Kings defeated the Golden State Warriors 114106 to take a 2-0 lead over the NBA champions after a bruising Game 2 in their best-of-seven Western Conference playoff series on Monday.

After edging a thrilling game one on Saturday, the Kings once again proved too much for the Warriors in another pulsating postseason battle between the two Northern Californian rivals in Sacramento.

De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis led the Sacramento scoring with 24 points apiece in a stormy encounter that saw Warriors stalwart Draymond Green ejected after stamping on the chest of Sabonis in the fourth quarter.

The victory leaves the Kings

on pole position as the series heads to San Francisco for game three on Thursday.

“We came out here tonight and everyone fought, we were locked in,” Sabonis told TNT television.

“It’s playoff basketball. We’re here to fight. Every time we step on the floor we’re going to give everything for our team-mates and our franchise.”

Sabonis was reluctant to be drawn on the explosive fourth-quarter tangle with Green that led to the Warriors veteran being tossed.

Green was ejected after appearing to aim a stamp on Sabonis’s chest as the Kings player held on to his ankle as he lay on the court.

“We were both fighting for the

Team Philippines will be banking on the 840-strong Philippine delegation that will carry the country’s tricolors in 38 disciplines in the biggest biennial mul-

“Our national athletes have been working hard and hopefully, all their hard work will pay off,” added Bachmann who has been visiting the training and prepa-

was quick to say that he does not want to project a finish. “I just want to support them. If we FPSC, P10

Weightlifting Olympian Elreen Ando and Asian champion

Current and former PSC Chairmen respectively, Richard Bachmann and Dr. Philip “Popoy” Juico both guested in the Philippine Sportswriters Association forum today, 18 April 2023. Chairman Bachmann shared updates regarding government and PSC support to the upcoming Cambodia Southeast Asian Games this May, 2023. He also shared plans of the sports agency which will be finalized during the agency’s Strategic Planning session next week.

Sacramento Kings guard Davion Mitchell (R) is greeted by forward Domantas Sabonis (C) after dunking against the Golden State Warriors in the first quarter of Game 2of the NBA Western Conference first round at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California, USA, April 17, 2023. John G. Mabanglo, EPA-EFE.

FKINGS, P10

San Beda bows to KL in AsiaBasket finals TROPHY STAYS HOME

KUALA LUMPUR —The Sportsclick AsiaBasket International Championship trophy stays home as the Kuala Lum

pur Aseel took down the San Beda-Machateam Red Lions, 83-72, in the final on Tuesday night at the MABA Stadium here.

The Aseel bounced back from a lethargic first quarter to repeat over the Red Lions, who could not finish the job after lighting it up from 22 feet and beyond at the get-go. San Beda-Machateam made an early statement and buried seven triples en route to a 32-10 lead at the end of the first quarter.

KL, however, picked up the pace from thereon especially defensively as the Malaysian squad held the former National Collegiate Athletic Association champion to only 14 points in the second quarter and six in the third to take a 58-52 lead entering the fourth.

The Aseel threatened to pull away after opening the final quarter on a 10-2 run for a 68-54 lead with 7:23 to go.

The Red Lions, however, mounted a comeback attempt especially when coach Kris Reyes gave Jalen Robinson a momentary breather, cutting the lead down to just seven, 70-63, with four and a half minutes to play.

KL eventually pulled away after going on another 10-2 run capped by dagger triples from

Robinson and Louie Sangalang for an 80-65 cushion with 1:30 remaining.

Robinson led the Aseel with 31 points, 21 rebounds, four assists, and four steals, capping a dominating performance all tournament long worthy of the Most Valuable Player award.

The American import finished the event with averages of 28.3 points, 17.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 0.7 blocks a night.

Robinson headlines the All-AsiaBasket Tournament First Team that also has Sangalang in it.

Sangalang had a quiet 10 points in the final, but he made up for his offensive struggles with his tremendous defense on the Red Lions, initiating a block party with five rejections on top of eight rebounds and one steal.

Wee Yong Gan contributed 23 points, one rebound, three assists, and one block for KL.

Jacob Cortez, who was also named to the First Team, led San Beda-Machateam with 19 points on five triples, five rebounds, six assists, and two steals.

The San Beda-Machateam Red Lions bowed to host Kuala Lumpur Aseel 83-72 in the finals on Tuesday night at the MABA Stadium.