Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 310 | Thursday, April 20, 2023

LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT

Nograles vows to push approval of DLPC franchise expansion

The civil and architectural works at the Davao International Airport (DIA), which include the improvements of the checking area, replacement of escalators and elavators, are currently at 80 percent complete, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Davao (CAAP-Davao). Lean Daval Jr.

LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT

Nograles vows to push approval of DLPC franchise expansion

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist

Representative Margarita Ignacia B. Nograles vowed to aggressively push for the approval of House Bill 6740 that seeks to expand the franchise area of Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC).

“Hopefully, hindi ito ma-veto.

Ipaglalaban ko bilang sponsor ng HB dahil maraming nang kumausap dahil nahihirapan na sila. I-cha-champion ko at ipaglalaban ko ito and hopefully mapasa na

dahil umakyat na hanggang sa Presidente,” Nograles said.

Polaris space program donates Starlink to SPMC House of Hope

Tagum City, Island Garden City of Samal, and the municipalities of Asuncion, Kapalong, New Corella, San Isidro, and Talaingod in Davao del Norte under the franchise area of DLPC.

The North Davao Electric Cooperative Inc. (Nordeco) currently provides service for the majority of areas in Davao del Norte until 2028 and Samal until 2033.

The commercial space program ‘Polaris’ and non-government organization St. Jude Global, delivered two Starlink internet broadband by SpaceX to the House of Hope Foundation for Kids with Cancer at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) on Tuesday.

links to the foundation.

House of Hope founding director Dr. Mae Dolendo and other SPMC doctors welcomed the donors and presided the turnover. St. Jude Global affiliates and patrons to the House of Hope foundation were also present during the event.

Nograles authored HB 6740

She filed this in January this year after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vetoed HB 10554, which would supposedly place FLEGISLATIVE, P10

LTO reviewing more policies to make processes easier

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is reviewing more of its policies to make processes and renewals more convenient to the public, its head said on Wednesday.

LTO chief Jay Art Tugade said a technical working group is look-

ing into how medical exams, driving exams, and policies on insurance could be further improved in line with the agency’s plans to fully digitalize transactions.

“Marami pa, kami sa LTO ay walang batid sa pag-aaral ng mga hakbang na makakatulong

sa pagpapabilis ng transaction at sa convenience ng publiko. Asahan ng ating mga kababayan na may susunod pang pagbabago sa umiiral ngayon na polisiya sa LTO,” Tugade said.

“Masusi nilang pinag-aaralan

The SPMC is the first of five chosen St. Jude Global partners from all over the world (namely Brazil, Chile, Mozambique and Peru) to receive the Starlink broadband from the Polaris Program.

The turnover of high-speed broadband internet is geared at providing “greater access to online medical conferencing, case and image sharing, and diagnostic assistance” for the SPMC.

The entire crew of the Polaris Dawn mission (including Mission Commander Jared Isaacman, Mission Pilot Scott Poteet, Mission Specialist Sarah Poteet, Mission Specialist and Medical Officer Anna Menon), scheduled to launch this July, personally delivered the Star-

Two Starlinks are now installed at the SPMC; one for the House of Hope foundation and the other for the rest of the SPMC medical compound.

Lingap program head Patrick Celis said the local government is grateful for the donation as good internet access will indubitably improve the efficiency of the operations of the SPMC, especially in information sharing and medical research.

“We are very happy na isa sa napili ang SPMC, especially sa House of Hope gyud kay daghan og bata na matabangan (We are very happy that the SPMC was chosen, especially the House of Hope because a lot of children will surely benefit),” Celis said.

Representative Margarita Ignacia B. Nograles of Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist vows to push for the approval of House Bill 6740 that seeks to include Tagum City, Island Garden City of Samal, and the municipalities of Asuncion, Kapalong, New Corella, San Isidro, and Talaingod in Davao del Norte and Maco, Davao de Oro in the franchise area of Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC). Lean Daval Jr.

CAAP-Davao eyeing to entice int’l airlines, increase passengers to more than 5 million

AdDU’s aerospace program provides internet connectivity to communities

The Aerospace Program of the Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) has provided internet connectivity to some communities in Mindanao.

The program, which AdDU started offering in 2018, has partnered with communities and schools by connecting them to the internet.

“One of our work is to demystify space because for Filipinos, sometimes when you talk about space, it’s literally out of this world. But when we talk about space or aerospace engineering we focus more on the different techniques such as space crafts, satellites, and aircraft that can provide a lot of benefits here on earth. With the single communication satellite, you can reach any part of the earth so any part of the Philippines can be connected for example the internet using the communication satellite and this is what we have been doing in the Access Mindanao Program since 2020,” said Dr. Rogel Sese, chair of the Aerospace Engineering Department of ADDU, during Wednesdays at Habi at Kape media forum.

In 2020, AdDU, in partnership with other academic institutions, government agencies, and private institutions, launched AdDU Community Connectivity

By MAYA M. PADILLO

Empowered by Satellite Service for Mindanao (ACCESS Mindanao) to provide alternative solutions using satellite technology to address the problem of online connectivity, democratize access to the internet, and improve the quality of life for people in Mindanao.

“Amid the pandemic when we shifted to online we know that here in Mindanao we have a lot of communities and areas that are isolated and are not connected to the internet mainly due to the lack of infrastructure like cell towers or fiber optic network but these communities also need connectivity so that they can continue their day-to-day operation when we shifted to online activities. So instead of waiting for months or years for them to be connected, we utilized satellite technology to connect schools, communities, hospitals all over Mindanao,” Sese said.

AdDU has sites all over Mindanao from Dinagat Island down to Basilan and Tawi Tawi.

“Wherein in a matter of one or two days we connected a school to the internet and this enable them to continue their education thru online means and enabled administrators also to submit reports to DepEd and teachers to

An official of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Davao (CAAP-Davao) said on Wednesday that CAAP-Davao is looking to lure more international airlines and increase passenger

“Maka-add ta ug passenger capacity, improved facilities, we hope to be able to entice more international stakeholders and airlines to come in and consider Davao as a key destination. We are very hopeful and positive about this one. This will be the start of much more improved DIA,” Engineer Rex Obcena, area manager of CAAP-Davao, said during the AFP PNP Press Corps media forum on Wednesday at The Royal Mandaya Hotel.

He said 2019 is the banner year as CAAP-Davao has able to accommodate the travel of around 4.2 million passengers.

Currently, the daily average traffic movement is at about 9,500 to 10,000 depending on the season, which would translate roughly around 3.6 million annually.

He said CAAP-Davao is hopeful to sustain the 9,500 to 10,000 passengers daily towards the end of the year.

“Kung naa ta sa average na 9,500 that would translate to roughly around 3.6 million per year so wala pa gyud siya sa 2019 pre-pandemic nga level but with the improvements nato karon and revitalize the civil aviation sector, air transport, we are anticipating a very rosy 2024 and beyond. But right now although dili pa ingon ana kadaghan ang atong flights visa-vis sa level sa 2019 that would be a very big improvement,” he said.

Currently, there are eight destinations and an average of 35 flights per day at DIA.

Obcena said CAAP-Davao is

Dawlah Islamiyah possibly behind Isulan bus explosion, military says

The perpetrators behind the explosion that hit a passenger bus in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat on Monday could be members of Dawlah Islamiyah, the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division said Wednesday.

Colonel Dennis Almorato, spokesperson of the 6th Infantry Division, said the bomb attack was a “signature of the Dawlah Islamiyah.”

According to the Police Regional Office (PRO) 12, the bus was at Isulan Public Terminal when the explosion happened.

Seven people were injured, including three minors.

Other victims were identified as Edgar Cochoco, 56 years old; Ramsiya Alilayah, 60; Analia Bagundang, 57; and Nur Fatima Maca-antao, 25.

The victims were brought to

Sultan Kudarat Provincial Hospital for medical treatment.

PNP personnel and the Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit of the province rushed to the area to process the scene and determine the responsible group behind the explosion.

A provincial-level Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) has been created to work on the case.

FCAAP-, P10 FDAWLAH, P10 FAdDU’s, P10

Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Davao (CAAP-Davao) area manager Engr. Rex Obcena says during this week’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel that CAAP-Davao is eyeing to entice more international airlines and increase passenger capacity to more than five million with the expansion of the passenger terminal building of the Davao International Airport (DIA). Lean Daval Jr.

DICT: No extension of SIM registration ‘at this point’

TheDepartment of Information and Communications Technology said that as of Wednesday, there is no extension of the April 26 SIM registration deadline.

In a statement, the DICT said it has received the requests of telcos to extend the SIM registration period as provided in the SIM Registration Act.

“However, at this point, there is no extension of SIM registration,” the DICT said.

But the agency reiterated its call to registration since the measure is seen to help eradicate SMS-linked related scams.

“We encourage everyone to register to promote the necessary tools to crack down on perpetrators who use SIMs for their

crimes,” it said.

Failure to register will result in the deactivation of SIMs, which will also prevent them from receiving and sending calls and text messages and accessing crucial mobile applications such as digital wallets, the agency added.

DITO Telecommunity, Globe Telecom and Smart Communications have urged regulators to extend the deadline. The telcos attributed the low turnout to the lack of valid IDs as well as digital literacy.

DITO CME Holdings eyes fundraising, cost-cutting this year

Dennis Uy’s DITO CME Holdings, parent of DITO Telecommunity, said it is looking at fund-raising activities, capital infusions as well as various cost-cutting measures this year as its losses piled up to P11.4 billion in 2022.

In its audited financial statement, DITO outlined its capital deficiency, which hit P27.9 billion at the end of last year.

“The Group has plans to do various fund-raising activities within 2023, which include a

follow-on offering at the Parent Company level, wherein proceeds will be used to fund the Group’s telecommunications and digital businesses funding requirements,” the company said in a disclosure last Monday.

In addition, Udenna and the minority shareholders of DITO Tel are also committed to provide additional capital,” it added.

In January 2022 DITO CME attempted to raise funds through the sale of 1.64 billion common shares priced at P4.88 each. The share

PH office demand shows resilience despite global, domestic headwinds, says Leechiu

The Philippine office demand hit new highs in the first quarter of 2023, which could boost growth to exceed pre-pandemic levels for the entire year despite global and domestic challenges, a consulting firm said on Wednesday.

Leasing demand could potentially reach close to 1 million square meters in 2023, the company announced in a briefing.

world,” he added.

Leechiu said the economic reopening and the new jobs generated by the business process outsourcing gave office demand a boost.

The IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) is eyeing to hire over 1 million workers in the next 5 to 6 years, he said.

sale, however, was deferred due to “less than ideal market conditions and other perceived risks.”

The company said it secured commitments from creditors for a loan facility of up to $3.9 billion which is expected to be closed in 2023, subject to conditions and regulatory approvals. In February 2023, it also entered into a shareholder loan agreement worth CNY 650.0 million (P5.2 billion), which can be drawn any time to address operating expenses and maturing obligations, it added.

In the first quarter of 2023, office demand reached 264,000 sqm compared to 124,000 in the same period, despite headwinds such as COVID-19, remote work and offshore gaming exit, Leechiu data showed.

“First quarter, which historically has been the slowest quarter of the year, [but] we seem to hit new-highs for the first quarter,” Leechiu Property Consultants CEO David Leechiu said.

For the entire year, “it could be at par with 2022 numbers, if not better, and that’s despite all the things that’s going on in the

When asked if the company is betting on the revival of POGOs, Leechiu said “yes.”

The condo market, meanwhile, jumped 108 percent in Q1 compared to the same period last year with a 12,037 takeup, data showed.

However, the company noted that some segments of the market are hit by the higher interest rates and higher inflation in the residential sector.

First quarter residential condominium sales in Metro Manila for the lower middle segment dropped 39 percent, Leechiu data said, adding that there is upward movement for all other segments.

Junior Chamber International Phils. - Region 11 regional vice president lawyer Alpha Faith Macailing shares during this week’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel the programs and activities for this year’s JCI Week slated on April 23 to 29. Lean Daval Jr.

US investments in PH hailed for creating BPO, other industries

PH gets US trade representative backing for GSP reauthorization

United States Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai has assured her support for the Philippines for the renewal of the US Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which expired in December 2020.

“I have expressed my support to the Congress for the Congress to reauthorize, but that action must be taken by the US Congress,” Tai told the local press in a media briefing in Makati City on Tuesday.

The Philippines benefits from the US GSP as the trade preference program provides zero duty for 3,500 tariff lines.

The Philippines is also among the top five beneficiary countries of the US GSP.

The US Congress’ reauthorization of the GSP benefits for the Philippines is vital for the country, as the US is one of the top two destinations for Philippine exports.

In the Asia Pacific bulletin published by the East-West Center, it said American firms importing from the Philippines paid USD121 million in extra tariff on USD1.9 billion goods eligible under the US GSP since it expired in 2020.

Investments by US firms in the Philippines over the years were crucial in generating quality jobs and in developing key sectors such as business process outsourcing and manufacturing, a study on the US-Philippines’ economic relations released on Tuesday showed.

It said the US GSP is a “valuable tool in strengthening Philippine-US trade” and it should be renewed.

Among the issues that the US Congress is considering in the reauthorization of the GSP for the Philippines are human rights and labor issues.

The visiting US trade representative in Manila said the US Congress is also looking into adding the environmental criterion to the trade preference program.

Moreover, Tai said the Biden administration wants a labor-centered trade, which will help improve the lives of workers.

“And we have to think about advancing a trade policy that is going to be good for not just consumers, but workers because people have many facets. So in our engagements with all of our trade partners, I will often visit not just my trade counterpart, but also my labor counterpart. I will visit with not just business leaders but also with labor leaders to try to advance this project of connecting the trade and the labor conversations with all of our partners,” she added.

From 2003 to 2021, some 395 US-based firms invested a total of $22.4 billion in 692 greenfield or new investment deals in the Philippines, according to the Ateneo School of Government’s Ateneo Policy Center.

The US-Philippines Impact Study by Ateneo showed that at least 35 percent of these investments or $7.8 billion was channeled to the Information Technology-Business Process

Management (IT-BPM) and Finance.

Ateneo School of Government Senior Research Fellow Dr. Nadia Doytch said 233 US-based firms were responsible for the $7.8 billion investments in the IT-BPM sector.

Of the total investments, 29 percent went to manufacturing, followed by 21 percent in services and 10 percent in the energy sector, data showed.

The study also showed that mergers and acquisitions by USbased firms in the Philippines had reached 117 deals as of 2021.

“What difference have they made? The top sector, the one that received 35 percent of the investment--the IT-BPM sector. We believe that the American currency has actually had a great influence on the development of this sector. Currently, the country is being ranked number one as a destination for voice-related services and contact-related services,” Doytch said.

“Many of these companies are known actually for providing technical and managerial training and with which they manage to

Biz group asks PBBM to review

tax-free importation of palm oil

The Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) has urged President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who is also the Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary, to revisit the agency’s policy on taxand duty-free importation of palm olein to be used as ingredient for animal feeds.

FPI chair Jesus Arranza told reporters Tuesday that some of the imported palm olein that are

tax- and duty-free were allegedly used for other purposes other than compounding of animal feeds.

“The DA should also revisit this policy of allowing zero VAT (value-added tax) and duty-free importations of palm olein as this is clearly hurting the local coconut and palm oil farmers and producers,” he said.

Arranza said the DA should have effective monitoring on

where these palm olein imports were actually utilized.

“We need a reportorial requirement and checking to see if the volume that they import were actually used for animal feeds,” he added.

Arranza said that even with the past incidents of African swine fever, imports of palm olein for compounding of animal feeds still F

Muslim women check on a variety of traditional dresses sold in a local shop in Davao City on Tuesday (18 April 2023). Muslims across the country are now preparing for Eid’l Fitr, or end of Ramadhan, on Friday (21 April). MindaNews photo

In pushing for the approval of House Bill 6740 that seeks to expand the franchise area of Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC):

Representative

MARGARITA IGNACIA B. NOGRALES Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist

“Hopefully, hindi ito ma-veto. Ipaglalaban ko bilang sponsor ng HB dahil maraming nang kumausap dahil nahihirapan na sila. I-cha-champion ko at ipaglalaban ko ito and hopefully mapasa na dahil umakyat na hanggang sa Presidente.”

It blows hot. It blows slowly. It brings fire and rain, feast and famine. It affects weather around the world. It is called El Niño.

Early this year, as the country experienced cold weather and flooding, there were talks that El Niño will be back again!

“There is a high probability of El Niño to run over six months beginning in July this year,” wrote our roving reporter, Maya Padillo.

Her source of information is the country’s weather bureau, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). It is a line agency of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

During the recent Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City, Lolita Vinalay told the attending media that “a 55% possibility of a sixmonth dry season” will happen. It will start three months from now.

“We are now in the neutral condition starting March 24 wherein PAGASA issued the final advisory of La Niña,” Vinalay, who is the Davao station chief meteorological officer of PAGASA, was quoted as saying.

HENRYLITO D. TACIO THINK ON THESE!

THE COMING OF WEATHER’S BAD BOY

“Right now, we are in neutral condition as there’s no La Niña and there’s no El Niño, too. Based on the forecast models that DOST/PAGASA issued, there is a possibility for the development of El Niño this coming July, August, and September,” she added.

Why there is so much ado when El Niño comes?

“This weather disturbance is considered an enemy that could cause damage to the environment, agriculture, and marine life. As such, it has destructive consequences to human life,” points out the Laguna-based Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).

Why El Niño happen?

It was the fishers of the far west shores of South America that first noticed the dramatic climate change and had given it a name. Usually, the currents in the waters where they fished were cold and flowed from east to west.

But, in certain years, the currents flowed in the opposite direction and became very warm. The air became more humid, and large thunderstorms de-

veloped. These years were bad for fishing, and it was difficult for the fishers to survive and feed their families. They noticed that this odd weather usually occurred in December, so they called it “El Niño” meaning “the child.”

El Niño actually referred to Child Jesus, who was assumed to be born on December 25.

Around the same time, other areas of the world had unusual floods, hurricanes, or drought. Scientists who studied the weather started to see a pattern in these changes. They found that every three to seven years, the Earth experienced a change in the weather. This change always began in the tropical Pacific Ocean, near the equator.

Scientists also believe that this event has been happening for hundreds of years. Historians are dating the phenomenon at least as far back as the early 1500s, when the Spanish conquistadores entered South America amid raging storms.

The El Niño cycle may be simple, yet the energy reserves it carries is vast, almost unbelievable. Most reports say “it contains more energy than has been procured from all the fos-

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

The list of Davao profiles that have earned fame as silver screen actors continue to grow each year, often shuttling between cinema and television, performing dances or rendering songs. Here are ten (10) of them that have a connection to the ‘city of durians and eagles.’

Born in Padada, Davao del Sur, on March 16, 1982, RUBEN GONZAGA, winner of the reality show Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition 2, is a comedian, dancer, and host. His popu-larity rose after being associated with the Badjao dance known as “Budots.” He used to host “Agri Tayo Dito,” an agri-based show on produced by the defunct ABS-CBN regional net-work group.

Known Aileen Quimapo Iwamoto in real life, half-Filipino, half-Japanese IWA MOTO, born on August 28, 1988, in Las Piñas City, grew up and studied in Davao, where her moth-er

Percy is based. She became a household name after winning as ‘first princess’ of the third edition GMA’s Starstruck. Her filmography includes “Super Twins,” “Darna,” and “Marimar.”

Born in Davao City on July 12, 1985, JULIANA PALERMO (nee Alvi July Juanico) left for the U.S. as a young girl. In 2002, she won Davao’s annual pageant, Hiyas Sa Kadayawan. She is an actress, TV, model, cover girl, and writer. As an actress, she starred in movies like Pa-naghoy Sa Suba: The Call of the River (2004), Xerox (2006), and Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo (2006).

Formerly a Nursing student at Ateneo de Davao University, VALERIE ‘BANGS’ GARCIA was a contestant of the talent search, Campus Idols, co-host of ABSCBN Davao’s variety show, KSP: Kapamilya Sabado Party, and runner-up in ABS-CBN’s Close-Up To Fame talent search. As an actress,

sil fuels burned in the United States since the beginning of the century – that’s all the gasoline in all the cars, the coal in all the power plants, the natural gas in all the furnaces. It would take more than a million large power plants, at 1,000 megawatts each, running full tilt for a year, to heat the ocean that much.”

During the El Niño phenomenon, people are more likely to experience a hotter and longer summer. Normally, temperatures during the dry season range from 30 to 37 degrees Celsius.

“But during El Niño, the temperature is three degrees higher than the normal, with temperatures reaching as high as 38 degrees Celsius,” said Filipino meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz.

Scientists rank El Niño as the number one force disturbing world climate patterns. It has caused damage worth billions of dollars around the world in droughts, floods, and other livelihood revenues.

“El Niño events occur on average every four or five years, but irregularly – they can be two years apart, or as many as 10 years,” said an official of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmo-

spheric Administration.

Forewarned is forearmed, so goes a familiar saying. This must be the reason why the Laguna-based PCAARRD has come up with a compendium of materials on the abnormal weather entitled, The Fiery Fury of El Niño.

Since drought is equated with drought in the Philippines, PCAARRD advised farmers to plant drought-tolerant crops in time of El Niño. Examples of such crops are sorghum, sweet peppers, asparagus, ube, tugue, alugbati, winged beans, cowpea, cucumber, kadios, camote, cassava, peanut, ginger, mung beans, and black peppers.

The following fruit trees are also drought-tolerant: cashew, mango, citrus, tamarind, avocado, jackfruit, guava, and grapes.

Since water is a precious commodity during the El Niño, people are urged to help mitigate the water crunch. Leaking faucets and pipes must be fixed. While taking a bath, running tap water must be avoided; instead, bathers are advised to use a pail. The water used in shampooing is advised to be stored in the pail as the water can be used to flush the toilet.

DAVAO’S 10 SILVER SCREEN ICONS

she has appeared in Shake Rattle and Roll XI, Cinco, The Reun-ion, Lauriana, and Dukot.

Born as Sharmila Velasco Prihibas-Shahani on November 1, 1974, in Davao City, Fil-Indian SHARMAINE ARNAIZ, sister of actress Bunny Paras, was part of That’s Entertain-ment Friday Group (1986-96). Among here movie credits are Espadang Patpat (1990), Wherever Your Are (1993), Pandoy: Alalay ng Panday (1993), Milagros (1997), and Redeem Her Honor (1995).

ERICH GONZALES (nee Erika Chryselle Gonzales Gancayco), was born on September 20, 1990, in Cebu City but raised in Davao City. At age 14 she joined the reality talent search Star Circle Quest. An alumna of Trinity College of Asia where she earned a Mass Communica-tion degree, her movie credits include Corazon: Ang Unang Aswang and Once A Princess,

among others.

Born on September 22, 1997, in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, MARIS RACAL (nee Mar-iestella Cañedo Racal) debuted in ABS-CBN’s Pinoy Big Brother in 2014. She won runner-up honor in the ABS-CBN’s Pinoy Big Brother, a mainstay of the show ASA, and starred in films and TV shows. As a singer, she recorded “Tanong Mo Sa Bituin” and “Langit,” with Stellar as her debut album.

Born on June 25, 1970, in Davao City, CHOKOLEIT (nee Jonathan Aguilar Garcia) was a stand-up comedian and actor in a long list of TV programs and films. He earned national fame in the ABS-CBN TV series “Marina, and starred in movies like Kakampi Ko Ang Diyos (1990), Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat (2008), Etiquette for Mistresses (2015), and Fantastica (2018).

Born and raised in Jose

Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, LOURDES MEDEL won as best supporting actress in the Third Manila Filmfest for “Salamisim.” She was introduced in “Wala Kang Paki,” starring Nida and Nestor de Villa, in 1958 and played the title role in “Linda Mora” the following year. She has a son by actor Bernard Bonnin, father of Char-lene Gonzales-Muhlach.

Born on June 23, 1978, in Davao City, GLADYS REYES, the lead villainess in the ABC-CBN hit series “Mara Clara,” (the 1990s), received the PMPC Star Awards for Best Drama Actress for the TV series “Saan Ka Man Naroroon.” She also collected a Urian Award for best supporting actress in “Magkakabaung” and was a member of the Movie and Television Board and Classification Board (MTRCB). She also starred in the blockbuster film “Felix Manalo” (2015).

A toast to a decade of feel-good hospitality

Staying relevant in the hospitality industry for 10 years is no ordinary feat.

It’s something worthy of recognition and this is exactly what Park Inn by Radisson Davao has achieved.

Glass clinked and good times rolled as Park Inn by Radisson Davao celebrated its 10 glorious years of feel-good service last month.

The event, which carried the theme “Sparkling at 10,” was graced by dignified guests from SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation led by president Elizabeth Sy; Peggy Angeles, executive vice president; Walid Wafik, CEO; and Neil Rumbaoa, director of marketing and development.

The list of stakeholders in the tourism industry and hotel guests who did not miss the memorable affair and felt at home at the hotel includes Generose Tecson, representing the Office of the Vice Pres-

ident-Davao satellite office; Vice Mayor J. Melchor Quitain Jr, city councilors; Department of Tourism (DOT) regional director Tanya Rabat-Tan; foreign consuls; SM Mall Group executives; business guests and media friends from Manila and Davao City.

A celebratory five-course wine pairing dinner was served with the premiere entrée, tuna grilled, to perfection wrapped in papillote and pan-seared blue marlin, seated on a bed of ratatouille and served alongside sweet potato and corn puree.

While having dinner, guests

were serenaded by Mindanao’s local talent Davao Female Vocal and String Ensembles with a symphony of classic and contemporary musicals including Les Misérables, The Greatest Showman, and Sing.

The evening was capped with EMD tunes by Davao’s in-demand

DJ Torch.

Opened on March 22, 2013, it is a 202-room hotel that is conveniently close to SM Lanang Premier and SMX Convention Center. All rooms and suites are featured with vibrant colors and thoughtful design that will give guests a feelgood vibe.

The hotel also features a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and meeting rooms.

It is the perfect choice for a relaxing holiday with luxury if you choose to do so in the city, but also an ideal escape from the whirlwind of everyday events.

This property has been a preferred destination and an excellent venue for corporate and casual events and has become a local community favorite over the years.

The team of Park Inn by Radisson is looking forward to many more years of serving Davao City with its amazing offerings.

Angels Walk spotlights Autism Acceptance Month

DAVAO, Philippines — Cabantian, Davao City is set to experience an elevated lifestyle as Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) launches its first mixed-use development in the area, Northtown Center.

Northtown Center, located along the Cabantian side of the Northtown township, represents Alsons Dev’s expansion of its commercial developments—diversifying its portfolio while continuing its legacy of delivering high-quality suburban havens to Dabawenyos.

A nine-hectare mixed-use development that will combine residential offerings with leisure, convenience, reliable institutions, and emergency support all in one address, Northtown Center aims to offer residents of Northtown and nearby communities a vibrant, balanced, and complete lifestyle by combining the natural beauty of the countryside with the conveniences of the bustling city.

Designed to be nature and people-centered, Northtown Center is envisioned to be a lush, breathable space for Cabantian residents, where they can shop, dine, stroll, or even bike around. “Our goal is to create a vibrant and integrated hub that combines the best of nature and modern comforts in one location,” said Rosie Dominguez, Alsons Dev’s Executive Vice President.

To ensure the safety and security of the neighborhood, Northtown Center also houses the Public Safety and Security Complex (PSSC), a facility donated by Alsons Dev to the Davao City Government in 2016. It is the country’s first integrated safety and rescue facility that combines police, fire, and Central 911 stations in one address.

The PSSC is strategically located at the forefront of the development to be able to respond quickly to emergencies within the Cabantian community.

Alsons Dev is also partnering with industry leaders to provide Cabantian

residents and neighboring communities a variety of conveniences, starting with DoubleDragon Properties Corp. Through DoubleDragon, Northtown Center will house Davao City’s first-ever branch of CityMall, which offers a diverse range of retail and food options. This includes Davao’s first MerryMart branch and FoodWorld, a one-stop shop where you can mix and match all your favorites from the Jollibee Foods Corporation. More lifestyle brands, such as Free Life, FunNation, and Sugar Munch, are coming soon.

“Our partnership with CityMall and DoubleDragon Properties allows us to bring exceptional services to Cabantian residents,” said Miguel Dominguez, Director of Alsons Dev. “Through these partnerships, we aim to enhance the living experience of Dabawenyos by bringing everyday conveniences and ease of access right by their doorstep.”

Ferdinand Sia, President of DoubleDragon Properties Corp., expressed excitement about the company’s partnership with Alsons Dev. “We are proud to open CityMall’s first branch in Davao City at Northtown Center, and we are looking forward to working with Alsons Dev for more developments in Mindanao,” he said.

Indeed, Northtown Center’s opening marks a significant milestone for Davao City as well as Alsons Dev, which has been providing high-quality developments of increasing value to Dabawenyos for over 60 years. “We are committed to prioritizing the ever-changing needs of Dabawenyos and with Northtown Center, we continue our mission of building projects in Mindanao that will help them grow and thrive,” concluded Dominguez. Visit Northtown Center and discover Cabantian’s newest lifestyle destination! For more information, visit Alsons Properties’ Facebook page or website.

Pasay, 16 April 2023 -- The Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP), together with SM Cares and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), commemorates Autism Acceptance Month with a bang, with the ASP Angels Walk for Autism annual tradition at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay. The walk has been done online over the pandemic, but has been acknowledged as the largest autism advocacy event in Asia with 26,000 participants in 11 cities in 2020.

“The Autism Society Philippines, leveraged digital channels, to reach our members who needed support and encouragement during the pandemic,” said Dang Koe, ASP Chair Emerita and 2019 ASEAN Prize Laureate. “But face-to-face ASP Angels Walk for Autism has become this annual celebration of how far Filipinos have come in appreciating human diversity, and how the international,

public, and private sectors are heeding our call for acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation of persons on the spectrum through relevant, tangible programs. We are happy to be together again.”

This year’s celebration is proudly supported by the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia, ASEAN Secretariat, ASEAN Autism Network, Miss Universe Philippines, Tiktok, Pancake House, and other groups and individuals who have worked with ASP over the years towards transformative innovation.

SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES

The US Center for Disease Control released a study in April 2023 that autism affects 1:36 children under 8 years old. “Autism is a complex and lifelong developmental exceptionality, challenging an individual’s ability to communicate, socialize and adapt to the world around him. This spectrum condition manifests

uniquely in different persons. It is a variation of the human condition affecting approximately 1.2 million Filipinos,” said Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National Spokesperson. “The ASP is at the forefront of creating institutional mechanisms to support those on the autism spectrum and the Engr. Bien Mateo, SVP for Mall Operations and Program Director of SM Cares Program on PWDs shared, “SM Supermalls strives to make every SM a destination that is welcoming to everyone. We believe in a society that is inclusive of every Filipino. That is the reason behind our continued support for advocacies that call for acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation of all -- including individuals on the autism spectrum.” This year, SM also hosted smaller Angels Walks for Autism in other malls all over the country –Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao.

Catch the PH’s first ever budget Android with a Mini Capsule only on realme TikTok Shop

Manila, Philippines - realme Philippines, the two-year consecutive champion according to Canalys and IDC sell-in reports published 2021 & 2022, launches the much-awaited realme C55. Cementing a number of firsts for the realme brand, the realme C55 Stylish Champion was unveiled via interactive livestream, aired simultaneously on Facebook and TikTok.

The realme C55 is the first budget Android smartphone in the country to utilize the Mini Capsule feature, and the first model in the realme C-Series to support a massive 8GB+256GB storage option, alongside a 6.72-inch 90Hz FHD+ screen and 33W SUPERVOOC Charging: a leap from its previous iterations that only had up to 60Hz refresh rate and 18W Quick Charging.

“We’re thrilled to propel the entry-level smartphone experience to greater heights with the realme C55,” says Jane Yan, realme’s new Vice President for Marketing.

“As a budget segment disruptor, this Stylish Champion does not settle for basic—we packed in powerful specs and unique features that are never before seen in the 10k segment. This year, realme is focused on providing our young customers with value: we want them to always get more than what they’re paying for.”

A Champion in Online Offers

Starting April 18 - 7:30PM, fans can catch the first wave of selling on realme’s TikTok Shop, where

they can get the realme C55 with an exclusive P1,000 OFF, making the early bird prices only P7,999 for the 6GB+128GB variant, and P9,999 for the 8GB+256GB variant. Aside from the discount, fans can also get freebies worth up to P690 when they purchase on TikTok Shop by April 18 - 11:30PM.

Similarly, the realme C55 will also be available on realme’s Lazada Flagship Store starting April 19, with FREE Shipping and a Flash Sale discount of P1,000 OFF for both variants in limited quantities only, until April 21.

Fans can also buy the realme C55 through the realme e-store, with a 5% upfront discount and a FREE TechLife Power Bank worth P799 for both variants, when they purchase from April 19 to 25. Get Champion Freebies in realme Offline Stores

Starting April 19 to 30, walk-in customers on all realme stores and kiosks nationwide will get a TechLife

Power Bank worth P799 for the 6GB+128GB variant; and a TechLife Power Bank plus a TechLife Buds Classic worth P1,298 for the 8GB+256GB variant.

Additionally, the first ten customers of realme’s 30 Concept Stores will have a FREE realme Power Bank 2 (10000mAh) worth P899 when they purchase any realme C55 variant.

The realme C55 truly goes all out on offline freebies, because on top of the said giveaways, fans who partake in #TheStylishChampion Activity on over 100 select realme stores from April 19 to 23 get a chance to win exclusive prizes such as DIZO Star 500, TechLife Buds Classic, and realme Mobile Game Finger Sleeves worth P1,299!

The realme C55 marks the first time that technologies and features present in the flagship GT Series and midrange Number Series are brought down to the entry-level C Series.

Manulife ambassador Hidilyn Diaz.

Northtown Center: Cabantian’s newest lifestyle hub from Alsons Dev is finally here

FROM 2 LTO... FROM 2

which seeks to expand the franchise of DLPC by including those same areas in the vetoed bill, and added the municipality of Maco in the Davao de Oro.

“Nasa committee level na ang bill for the expansion ng Davao Light and Power Company for the area of their expansion. Hopefully, by May we will have the second hearing. Pinagaaralan natin intong clamor ng mga tao sa mga areas na gusto nilang pumasok na ang DLPC as far as I know maraming mga LGUs and business groups supporting the expansion dahil sa mataas na presyo ng kuryente at nahihirapan na ang mga tao,” Nograles said.

Last month, consumer group and the business sector in parts of Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro provinces held a motorcade and protest to push for the passage of a law that will transfer their areas’ electricity distribution to DLPC, citing the continued inefficient service and high rates of Nordeco.

Davao del Norte Governor Edwin I. Jubahib supported the protest rally.

US... FROM 5

elevate the level of the workforce and the competency productivity of the workers,” she added.

Concentrix has the biggest investment in the sector amounting to $1.1 billion while employing 24,000 workers, according to the study.

Investments also boosted employment in the manufacturing sector, Doycth said.

Semiconductor manufacturing services, which make up 70 percent of electronics exports, are dominated by US companies, according to the Semiconductors and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation Inc

“The US plays a very major role in the Philippine electronics industry,” said SEIPI President Danilo Lachica.

In 2019 alone, local affiliates of US-based firms created 367,000 jobs for Filipino workers, the study showed, citing data from the US Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Also in 2019, US investments in information technology and business services, agriculture processing and semiconductor manufacturing contributed $7.3 billion in export revenues, equivalent to 1.9 percent of the country’s GDP.

“So, it’s the quality of investments that we receive from other countries that have an impact on economic growth and job generation,” Ateneo School of Government Dean Philip Arnold Tuaño said.

Tuaño said aside from jobs and economic gains, US investments also contributed to tax revenues for the government that fund social services and infrastructure.

With the renewed bilateral agreement and joint exercises, the Philippines also benefits from enhanced capabilities to conduct counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, the study showed.

The US and the Philippines are currently holding joint military exercises called Balikatan. The 2 countries have also recently announced that select military bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation

kung ano pa ang puwede nating baguhin at ano pa ang ating puwedeng i-compress at i-improve sa existing policies at sistema natin upang mas mapadali, mas mapabilis, at mas mapagaan ang buhay ng ating mga kababayan,” he added.

LTO recently removed the necessity of periodic medical exams for license holders. Before this, the agency imposed a ceiling for driving school fees amid criticisms these were “anti-poor.”

Meanwhile, the LTO chief said his agency is ramping up efforts to eradicate fixers in the agency, adding that they already sought the help of the national police and the investigation bureau regarding this.

He noted that making their processes easier for motorists will make it harder for such fixers to do their schemes.

“Hindi naman magkakaroon ng fixer kung mapapadali natin ang proseso sa LTO kaya sinusulong namin, tinutulak namin ang digitalization, pinapadali namin ang proseso sa LTO nang sa ganoon ay talagang ang mga kababayan natin, hindi na hahanap... ng fixer na tutulong sa kanila,” he said.

PRO12 chief Police Brigadier General Jimili Macaraeg said they will intensify their efforts with the help of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to identify the perpetrators.

“PRO 12 strongly condemns this dastardly act that affected seven innocent civilians,” he said.

“While PRO 12 is already on top of the situation, we will intensify our efforts together with the AFP and other law enforcement agencies to identify the personalities behind this atrocity and deliver justice to the victims,” he added.

Agreement (EDCA) may be used by Washington.

Washington and Manila have renewed friendlier ties under the administration of President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr, in contrast to the hostility shown by his predecessor former President Rodrigo Duterte.

When asked how this intensified alliance between the US and the Philippines could boost the economic gains for the country, Tuaño said one of the advantages is that it could attract more investments.

“The perception of American allies is that the Philippines is a safe place to invest so that will spur investments. The question is by how much because there are still other issues,” he said.

Philippine economic managers have been promoting the recent amendments to investment laws that liberalize foreign ownership of companies in several industries.

The amended public service act (PSA) opens several sectors to 100 percent foreign ownerships including telcos, airports, tolls, roads and shipping, among others.

Other “game-changing reforms” were also passed into law to attract foreign investors such as the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE) and the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, and Foreign Investments Act.

CAAP-... FROM 3 A BREATH... FROM 12

hopeful to see the commencement of the expansion project, which has an allocation of P700 million, by July of this year.

He also announced that the bidding for the second procurement process for the expansion of the passenger terminal building of the DIA was opened on April 11, 2023.

“As we speak katong P700 million expansion of the passenger terminal building, which will be intended for the use of our international operations. I was informed nag opening of bids na for the second procurement process on April 11, 2023. Give or take within the month towards early May we hope na naa nay mu-qualify nga bidder,” Obcena said.

If all goes well, Obcena is hopeful that the expansion project will start within the year or probably by July.

Meanwhile, CAAP-Davao is accelerating improvements in the DIA wherein civil and architectural works are currently at 80 percent complete.

“That is a very minor improvement specifically in the checking area but the project includes the replacement of the brand new units sa atong mga three units each escalator and elevators and so far ang civil and architectural works sa atubangan probably 80 percent and it’s about to finish na. Gamay na lang na mga architectural aesthetics that is part of the project,” he said.

Obcena said improvements are expected to be finished on or before May 15, 2023.

Installation of the remaining escalators continues but CAAPDavao already opened for the public use escalator at the checking area and is hopeful that by next week the escalator can also be used for domestic arrivals.

“Those are very crucial to our operation. As we speak nagsugod na pud ug demolish katong elevator sa may check-in and ang isa ka elevator is already installed months back dinhi sa domestic arrival. We will soon commission and we hope na subsequent didto sa pag open sa domestic arrival escalator we will also be able to open for public use katong elevator didto. The last remaining will be the elevator didto sa employees’ entrance nga ginagamit pud sa VIP entrance mao to probably will cause a delay but by and large medyo okay naman ang project,” he said.

AdDU’s... FROM 3

receive trainings. We provided that level of connectivity to very important communities,” Sese said.

This was very evident also in AdDU’s Dinagat Island site wherein when Super Typhoon Odette struck the island, all the network telecommunication infrastructures were devastated except its lone site in the town of Tubajon wherein they were able to maintain their connectivity because it is independent of the local and ground-based telcos.

“Even if the ground base telcos are down, using satellite internet or satellite connectivity they can still have that level of access. So, this serves as a lifeline to them,” Sese said.

Sese said whenever they go to a community to bring the satellite to a particular school or area, they install the satellite antenna and leave it at that.

“We take time in what we are doing social preparation because we want to be inclusive in terms of the development. We take time into explaining to them what is this technology, how can they use it, what would they gain or what would they benefit from it so that they will have a sense of ownership. We do this in all the communities including the IP communities and the Islamic communities we partnered with. Even up to now, we have these communities that continue because they feel that it is their own,” he said.

AdDU is the only major university in the country that is offering a complete aerospace engineering program. It covers both the aeronautical side, which is more on aviation and the astronautical side that is more on space.

Sese said in the past four or five years since the program has been in existence, AdDU has had a very good number of students enrolling in the program. Currently, there are 135 enrolled students from the first year to the fourth year.

It has the first batch of graduates last year consist of six students and this year the expected second batch of graduates is 15.

“The students will be exposed not only to the academic side but also to the industry side. They have subjects focusing on aircraft design, spacecraft design, materials development, and rocket development,” Sese said. By Maya

M. Padillo

ing roll from 39-all count.

At the half, Standhardinger had had 18 points and seven rebounds, Brownlee 14 markers and four boards, and Pinto 10 points, two rebounds and the same number of assists and steals.

But Hollis-Jefferson and his teammates showed their own no-quit attitude, starting the third with a mighty 14-2 run to pull even at 63-all.

Nursing a slim lead at 96-95 in the last four minutes, Erram, Hollis-Jefferson and Castro teamed up for the killer bomb, sending TNT to the brink of the crown.(PBA. PH)

The Scores:

TNT 104 - Hollis-Jefferson 32, Oftana 20, M.Williams 15, Khobuntin 10, Castro 10, Erram 10, K.Williams 5, Montalbo 2, Marcelo 0.

Ginebra 95 - Standhardinger 29, Pinto 18, Brownlee 14, Thompson 12, Gray 10, Malonzo 6, Pringle 6, J.Aguilar 0, Mariano 0. Quarters: 28-26, 49-61, 81-79, 104-95.

increased.

He said the Bureau of Animal Industry, which issues the certification for tax- and duty-free palm olein for animal feeds, should also be responsible for monitoring where these imported products were utilized.

Arranza said that since FPI brought up this issue, imports of palm olein have slowed down which caused local prices to increase and even higher than the price of coconut oil.

“There is no closure yet on this issue. We opened it and we have to close it fairly, expeditiously, and ferret out all illicit acts attendant to this issue otherwise, there’ll be room for other interpretations, and I thank the President for giving importance to my plea,” he added. (PNA)

PH... FROM 5

Tai is in Manila for an official visit from April 16 to 18. She will also be traveling to Tokyo after visiting Manila.

Her visit to Asia aims to emphasize the importance of the USled Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, wherein the Philippines and Japan are signatories. (PNA)

DAWLAH... FROM 3

Suns rise from double digits down to beat Clippers and even series

PHOENIX — Devin Booker scored 38 points, Kevin Durant had 25 and the Phoenix Suns beat the Los Angeles Clippers, 123-109, on Tuesday night (Wednesday, Manila time) in Game Two to tie the Western Conference first-round series.

The Suns put together a gritty effort after a disappointing loss in Game One. Their shots weren’t falling for much of the first half and they fell into a 12-point hole midway through the second quarter.

But led by Booker, they never

panicked.

The three-time All-Star drilled a 3-pointer just before the halftime buzzer to tie it and scored 18 points in the third quarter on 7-of-8 shooting, helping the Suns push to a 92-87 advantage entering the fourth.

Phoenix never trailed in the final quarter, slowly pulling away. The series moves to Los Angeles for Game Three on Thursday night.

Booker had a stellar shooting night, connecting on 14 of 22 shots, including 4 of 7 on 3s. He added nine assists. Deandre Ayton added 14 points — on 7-of10 shooting— and 13 rebounds. Torrey Craig hit 5 of 8 3s and had 17 points, and Chris Paul had 16 points and eight assists.

Kawhi Leonard led Los Ange-

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.

les with 31 points after he scored 38 in Game One. Russell Westbrook added 28 points on 9-of-16 shooting.

Paul’s archnemesis was carrying a whistle Tuesday, not dribbling a basketball.

The point guard had his personal 13-game playoff losing streak snapped when referee Scott Foster is on the floor. The long-running feud has lasted years with Paul criticizing Foster multiple times.

TIP-INS

Clippers: Eight-time All-Star Paul George (sprained knee) hasn’t played since March 21. ... L.A.’s bench outscored Phoenix’s 30-13.

Suns: G Cam Payne (low back soreness) hasn’t played yet in the series. Said coach Monty Williams “He’s just not ready. He’s done a lot more on the floor, but there’s certain movements he can’t do yet without pain.” ... Hosted a 76th consecutive sellout, combining regular season and playoff games.

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!

Kevin Durant had 25 as the Phoenix Suns beat the Los Angeles Clippers, 123-109, on Tuesday night (Wednesday, Manila time) in Game Two to tie the Western Conference first-round series.

TNT cashes in on Brownlee injury, wins Game 5 A BREATH AWAY

The TNT Tropang Giga made the most of six-time Barangay Ginebra champion import Justin Brownlee’s early exit, essaying a 104-95 victory for the pivotal 3-2 lead in the race-to-four-games series Wednesday night before a crowd of over 10,000 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

With Brownlee gone, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and his teammates kept their feet on the pedal and didn’t let the opportunity slip away, clinching the crucial win on an 8-0 closing punch.

Brownlee headed to the dugout ahead of the rest late in the third quarter with a towel over his head. He never came back to play after getting hurt.

Hollis-Jefferson piled up triple-double numbers with 32 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists, Calvin Oftana contributed 20 markers, including four treys plus eight boards with four other TNT players contributing double-digit output as the Tropa snapped the back-and-forth sequence in the series.

With back-to-back wins, coach Jojo Lastimosa and the TNT gang finally grabbed the series upper hand with a chance to win it in Game 6 Friday or in Game 7, if necessary, Sunday.

But Lastimosa braces for a

tough, tough fight Friday, believing Brownlee will be back in action. “He’s a warrior,” said Lastimosa of “Kabayan JB.” Brownlee was limited to a little over 25 minutes of action in Game 5, putting in 14 markers on 6-of-11 field clip.

Brownlee joined forces with Christian Standhardinger and Nards Pinto as the Kings had a sudden roll in the second quarter, seizing control at 61-49 going to the halftime break.

The Tropa, however, recovered from that Ginebra jolt, fighting back from a deficit as big as 15 to get back into the fight at 61-63 before racing ahead, 81-79, going to the final canto.

And there’s no stopping the Tropang Giga in the fourth with Brownlee being attended by their staff in the dugout.

Standhardinger, Brownlee and Pinto starred in a second-quarter surge highlighted by a 15-to-noth-

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson piled up triple-double numbers with 32 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists. PBA photo