Edge Davao 10 Issue 19

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017 MAKING DO. Teenagers spend their summer break working as coconut meat scraper at a makeshift store selling fresh ‘buko’ juice and meat along Jacinto Extension in Davao City, a popular stopover for thirsty public utility vehicle drivers. Lean Daval Jr.

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

DISCLAIMED DavOr says an army unit, not Aliwagwag falls, was attacked T

HE provincial government of Davao Oriental, in an official statement, took exception to reports that elements of the rebel New People’s Army attacked or laid siege to the world-famous Aliwagwag Falls in the municipality of Cateel last week.

“To set the records straight, it was not the Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park that was attacked,” the statement circulated to media outlets explained. “The target of the rebel attack was a group of government troops stationed (a distance) away from the park.”

“The rebels did not attack the Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park which is always teeming with hundreds of tourists daily, both local and foreign. However, the

military, who are our most indispensable partners in our efforts to win the peace, have succeeded in thwarting the rebel attack on their forces that resulted in casualties on the rebel side,” the statement added.

In Davao City, Capt.

Ryan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division told the PNP-AFP press con on Wednesday the skirmish between the NPAs and a detachment of army troops occurred some 300 meters away from tourist spot itself.

Previous reports said the NPAs incurred one casualty in the attack while the army unit was virtually unscathed.

“Tourists can now visit unmolested the Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel, Davao Ori-

ental.

He said the military has reinforced its men after to discourage a repeat of the attack from the NPAs. “The advisory as of today is that tourists can go visit the place,” he said. “It has been fully secured to ensure nothing untoward happens to visitors.”

He said he was issuing the clarification in the light of a clarification issued by the provincial government.

The provincial government said it was issuing the clarification to correct the reports regarding the province’ top tourism attraction. “Such reports on Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park, if not corrected, could potentially deal a big blow to the province’s tourism image,” it added. (JKL)

City rice supply in critical level

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

T

HE National Food Authority and the City Agriculture’s Office of Davao city revealed that the city is on its critical level in terms of rice production.

NFA Provincial Manager Edegary H. Roncal said that

Davao City is not self-sufficient in rice supply. She revealed that with the present rice consumption of the people in the city, rice production has not been able to cope with demand.

“Hindi self-sufficient ang

BATTLE OF SPORTS P15 BRISBANE

Davao sa rice supply. May deficit talaga ang ating supply,” said Roncal on Thursday during the Ispeak conference.

“It cannot support itself with its level of consumption every day. Basing on the pres-

F CITY, 10

Penalosa picks Melindo over Japanese foe

Abreeza Mall shines spotlight on homegrown artistry

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

Brunei Darussalam Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is accorded full military honors upon his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City on April 26, 2017 for his State Visit to the Philippines and his attendance to the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit. Accompanying the Brunei Darussalam Sultan is Philippine Air Force (PAF) Commander Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina. ACE MORANDANTE/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

Extend voters’registration for barangay, SK polls--lawmaker

A

Senator on Thursday called for an extension of the voters’ registration for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections which is set to end this Saturday (April 29).

“Importante na ang mamamayan ang pipili ng kanilang mga pinuno sa barangay at Sangguniang Kabataan (It is important for Filipinos to select their leaders in the village and youth),” Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino IV said.

Aquino pointed out that government should investigate and prosecute barangay officials involved in the illegal drug trade and launch an information drive to help the people make an informed

choice.

Meanwhile, he said that while the government is open to issuing a hold-over status for previously elected barangay officials, he urged them to also make sure that SK elections push through.

He further said that reforms under Republic Act No. 10742 or the SK Reform Act will go for naught if the SK elections will be postponed again.

It was Aquino who pushed for the law’s passage as co-author and co-sponsor in the 16th Congress during his time as chairman of the Committee on Youth.

The SK Reform Act is the

New Carmen landfill needs rehabilitation

By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

F EXTEND, 10

The City Environment and Natural Resources Office said that the city needs to rehabilitate its existing landfill in New Carmen for it to be usable for two to three years more.

“Ang status gyud karon sa landfill sa New Carmen is filled up na siya. Sa karon, nangita mi ug remedy na still magamit siya. Murag pwede pa i-compact ang cell, naa

pay portion sa cell nga pwede pa butangan ug up to two to three years. What we need is the rehabilitation,” said CENRO Head Engr. Elisa Madrazo.

Last February, Engr.

Madrazo said that there would be two landfills to replace the New Carmen landfill which will be located in Marilog District and Paquibato District, each spanning five to

10 hectares of land.

Engr. Madrazo said that The City Planning Office and CENRO team has identified an area in Marilog where another landfill might be situated.

“We have identified an area in Marilog but sa Paquibato, dili pa mi sure kung okay ba ang Malabog. It would still undergo assessment sa zoning. Kung viable ba siya, dili ba

duol sa water source,” Madrazo stated.

The city has already allocated P500 million for the realization of the landfills. The site in Marilog is expected to be used in the middle of the year.

The current landfill in New Carmen was built on a 3.8 hectare area and started operation in 2009.

Included in the training is a half-day lecture and discussion on various city ordinances and regulations on safety and security.

Public Safety and Security Command Center chief Benito de Leon earlier said they saw the need for additional SCAA to further enhance the security of the city and to ensure that the city center is safe from any disturbance.

“Despite the low threat level, our security elements has maintained a high threat level of security to maintain good posture in the City,” he said. CIO

HE criminal complaint filed against Pres. Rodrigo Duterte and 11 senior government officials before the International Criminal Court (ICC) is dustbin bound, Sen. Paniflo Lacson said Tuesday describing the witnesses as “perjured.”

“ICC case vs. PRRD, et al is dustbin bound if two perjured witnesses, Lascañas and Matobato are the only ones testifying,” Lacson said in his official Twitter account.

Retired cop Arturo Lascañas and self-confessed hitman Edgar Matobato have both claimed in previous Senate hearings that the so-called vigilante group Davao Death Squad (DDS) was real and that it was led by Pres. Dute-

rte himself.

Lacson, chair of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, said that two requirements should first be met before the complaint is filed.

The first requirement is that national courts are unwilling or unable to prosecute Pres. Duterte and the others accused or when the UN Security Council or individual states refers the case to the ICC. Otherwise, Lacson said the case was as good as without merit because they came from “polluted sources and perjured witnesses.”

Moreover, he said that it seemed like the goal of filing the case was to embarrass the president which Lacson

said was “one of the most unpatriotic acts” and “the worst disservice that one can do to his country.”

He said people who would want to see the ICC to take jurisdiction over the case would most likely be disappointed.

To recall, a 77-page complaint was filed by the lawyer of Matobato against Pres.

Duterte and 11 senior government officials before the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague, Netherlands on Monday (April 14).

Matobato’s lawyer, Jude Sabio, filed a criminal case for crimes against humanity noting that Pres. Duterte allegedly violated the Articles of the Rome Statute through commission of mass murder

or extrajudicial executions during his term as Davao City mayor and now President of the Philippines through his aggressive campaign against illegal drugs.

Reports showed thousands of drug suspects in Davao City and nationwide have been killed in the administration’s drug campaign.

“A number of local and international human rights groups and other international bodies have called the attention of our government to stop the bloody killings in the country in the name of war against drugs. However, President Duterte has completely ignored these calls, while his government officials and al-

Davao City SCAA members ICC case vs Pres. Duterte,11 others‘dustbin-bound’ to undergo 45-day training T

S

OME 76 newly-recruited members of the Special CAFGU Active Auxiliaries for the city will be undergoing a 45-day Basic Military Training before they are deployed to help boost the city’s security, an official bared Tuesday.

Col. Erwin Bernard Neri, the Task Force Davao commander, said that the training also “aims to improve (their) skills, knowledge and attitude in urban security operations necessary in the performance of their duties and responsibilities as urban security operator.”

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

Mayor Inday: ‘The challenge is to mark Group nixes Palace years of Davao living peacefully, freely’ Labor Day invitation A M AYOR Inday Sara Duterte thanked and praised the men behind Task Force Davao for their sacrifices to ensure that the city is peaceful and safe.

Speaking during the TF Davao’s 14th founding anniversary, Mayor Inday took note of the anti-terror unit’s vital role in maintaining the city’s peace and order.

“The ultimate challenge

is to mark years of living peacefully and freely and that is something that we should always strive to attain,” Mayor Inday said.

Speaking with the media, the mayor noted that she expected only the best from the anti-terror group.

“Keep Davao City peaceful and terror-free,” she said, referring to her order to TF Davao. “We do not seek per-

HEALTHY EXCHANGE. Philippine National Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa and Western Mindanao Commander Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez exchange updates on security matters in Mindanao during the peace forum in Davao City on Wednesday, April 26, 2017. The peace forum with the Office

fection, but we do expect them to do their best.”

TF Davao was created on April 16, 2003 in response to the series of bombings in the city.

“I’d like to personally extend my gratitude to the men on the ground, kanang mga naga-painit, naga-paulan, all-weather naa mo dinha alang-alang sa pag bantay sa atoang siyudad ug

katawhan nga malinawon ang ilahang pagpuyo dinhi sa atong siyudad,” Mayor Inday said.

She said her trust with the TF Davao remained and she always expected it to perform its task -- to maintain peace in the city by preventing terrorists from coming in.

She also distributed gift certificates to TF Davao

F MAYOR, 10

of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process aims to iron out things in law enforcement operations without compromising the peace efforts in Mindanao. Photo courtesy of Keith Bacongco

LABOR leader announced their group’s decision to turn down the invitation of President Rodrigo Duterte for labor leaders to attend an assembly organized by the Labor department to commemorate Labor Day in Davao City.

“It is pointless to attend their assembly on the only day in the entire year dedicated to the working class, especially if the issues and concerns that gravely affect us will not even be tackled and addressed,” said Leody de Guzman, leader of the socialist Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino.

He complained that, “Workers are not even part of the Labor day program of Malacanang. They only intend us to be ornaments, a mere backdrop to the president as he addresses the crowd. It will seem that it is not even Labor Day if we will not be even be given the chance to raise our points on contractualization, dirt wages and unemployment. There will not even be an open forum after Duterte’s speech”.

The assembly intended for labor leaders and other sectors to be able to witness as the president is expected to make a “surprise” announcement for workers on Labor Day “Matatag na Kabuhayan tungo sa Progresibong Pagbabago,” is reported to be the assembly’s theme.

“Malacanang cannot expect us to be eager- if his

very promise remains to be meaningless. What we need and what was promised us was the end of all forms of contractual employment and not the explanation why he succumbed to the interests of capitalists,“ De Guzman added.

It has been over a year has passed when Duterte promised in the Luzon leg of the 2016 Presidential Debate in Pangasinan that he will prohibit contractualization upon assuming the presidency.

In a related story, De Guzman announced in a press conference Thursday with other labor leaders the formation of an PAGGAWA or Pagkakaisa ng Paggawa (Unity of Labor), an alliance of groups that were once affiliated Kilusang Mayo Uno. Aside from BMP, the composition of PAGGAWA included the National Federation of Labor Unions, Alliance of Genuine Labor Organizations, National Confederation of Labor ) and the National Federation of Labor .

The groups united to demand the revocation of Department Order 174 that legalized contractual employment, the firing of Silvestre Bello as Secretary of the DoLE, the issuance of an Executive Order prohibiting all forms of contractualization and the holding of a joint march and program on Monday, Labor Day at Mendiola bridge. (BMP press release)

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

Cusi pushes integrated energy-water programs

D

EPARTMENT of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi on Tuesday said integrated energy-water-food projects like hydro-electric dams is among the key strategies of the Duterte Administration in achieving its sustainable development goals.

“The Department of Energy is encouraging the integration of programs to develop renewable energy, water and food production,” Cusi said in a speech at the 10th anniversary celebration of the privatization of the 360 megawatt (MW) Magat Hydroelectric Power Plant (Magat HEPP) here.

“I want this hydropower plant to serve as an example of this energy, water and food undertaking. This plant serves as a peaking power plant that is capable of providing ancillary services for the stability of the Luzon grid, and also irrigates 80,000 hectares of land to feed millions of Filipinos,” Cusi said.

The Energy Chief conducted an aerial and technical inspection of the Magat HEPP and the ongoing construction of the National Irrigation Admin-

istration’s 6 MW Magat River Integrated Irrigation System (MARIIS), which is targeted to be complete by December this year.

“I am certain that it will benefit not only the 10 municipalities across three provinces: Isabela, Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya, but the entire country,” Cusi said of the two power plants.

He also said a strong partnership with the private sector is needed to produce 17,300 MW of additional power to support the country’s development by 2030 under Dutertenomics or President Duterte’s 10-point economic agenda During the event, the DOE Secretary invited Norway, through its ambassador, Erik Forner, to invest more in the Philippines.

“More investments are needed. DOE will provide that environment conducive to business by ensuring reliable and sufficient power and more importantly, we need to protect the interest of the public. That is the cornerstone of the Presidency of Mayor Duterte,” Cusi concluded.

BEEFING UP SUPPLY. National Food Authority provincial manager Edegary Roncal bares that the status of rice inventory in Davao City is in critical level as the supply is only good for seven days and needs immediate augmentation. Roncal made the statement during I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday.

Lean Daval Jr.

BIMP-EAGA to focus on 4 initiatives this week PRRD to host ASEAN T Summit gala dinner T HE Heads of States of the Association of South East Asian Nations and their spouses will be feted on Saturday, April 29, to a night of best Filipino cuisine and entertainment at the ASEAN Summit Gala Dinner at the Grand Ballroom of Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila.

Hosted by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the gala dinner, themed “ASEAN Fiesta,” will showcase the Filipinos’ innate warmth and hospitality as a people.

“ASEAN Fiesta,” a post-Summit event, aims to celebrate the Philippines’ cultural diversity and commonality with its ASEAN neighbors.

It will display the Philippines’ unique brand of hospitality, art and culture, and outstanding local talents; and will also showcase the commonalities of Filipino heritage with their ASEAN brothers.

An estimated 800 guests composed of the ASEAN heads of states, their spouses, their respective delegations, members of the diplomatic corps, government officials and business leaders are expected to attend the festive occasion, depicting a sense of community, harmony and togetherness.

The ASEAN leaders will wear Mindanao-inspired barong Tagalog by Rajo Laurel, featuring fabric from different Philippine ethno-linguistic tribes.

Their spouses, meanwhile, will be resplendent in their respective Rhett Eala formal wear made from gazar or mikado fabric for the top

and crepe fabric for the bottom.

While a sumptuous dinner is being served, guests will be serenaded by a string octet from the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

A cultural presentation will follow. Dubbed as “Golden Weave,” it will consist of four parts beginning with the ASEAN Gold Overture, featuring instrumental solos of indigenous instruments from different ASEAN countries; followed by Post Cards and Songs, introducing worldclass Filipino artists singing a mash-up of ASEAN pop hits, well-known standards and current chart-toppers.

The third part will be the Dances, Gongs, and Strings, a graceful cavalcade of Philippine dances from the Cordillera’s dance of the banga to Pangasinan’s wasiwas dance up to the ‘pandanggo sa ilaw’ of the South.

Finally, the Fiesta to cap the event, which will highlight the irresistible beats of the Buganda Drumbeaters, driving home the message of a nation famed for artistry, for its unending fiestas, and for beauty.

Before dinner Filipinos celebrate milestones through various cultural festivities. Staging a fiesta is one way to honor their important guests.

ASEAN leaders, together with their spouses and delegates, will be treated to various fanfares from start to finish. The program will in-

F PRES. DUTERTE, 10

HE Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines — East ASEAN Growth Area will push for four initiatives during its meeting this week.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) International Relations Division Development Manager Officer Jonathan Miral told the Philippine News Agency that the 12th BIMP-EAGA Summit aims to discuss how the sub-region will enhance transport connectivity, generate more private investments, enhance trade, and increase local government engagement.

Under the initiative of enhancing transport connectivity in the region, BIMP-EAGA will launch on Sunday the Davao-GenSan-Bitung roll-on roll-off (RoRo) ferry service to be led by President Rodrigo Duterte and Indonesian Presi-

dent Joko Widodo.

The Davao-GenSan-Bitung RoRo route will provide faster and cheaper shipping services to facilitate trade in goods in the BIMP area -- cutting sailing time to one-and-a-half day and savings of up to USD1,500 (P74,000) per 100 twenty-foot equivalent unit.

The current route of Davao-GenSan-Manila-Manado takes sailing time of three to five weeks and costs USD2,200 (P109,098) per TEU. The BIMP-EAGA is also discussing with airline companies plans to service three priority air routes that will improve linkages in the sub-region.

Miral mentioned that BIMP-EAGA wants to have direct flights between Davao and Manado, Indonesia; Zamboanga and Sandakan, Malaysia; and Puerto Princesa and

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

Aside from transport connectivity, the sub-region has the ongoing BIMP-EAGA Submarine Terrestrial (BEST) Cable System project, which involves the laying of fiber optics cable within the area for better and cheaper internet access.

The BEST Cable Corp. Pte. Ltd., a joint venture of Brunei International Gateway Sdn. Bhd., Sabah Economic Development Corp. Communication Sdn. Bhd., and Mindanao’s EA Trilink Corp., is undertaking the project.

Moreover, the official said the BIMP-EAGA targets to increase the participation of local governments in the sub-region to support, promote, and roll out the initiatives for the BIMP area.

Miral also noted that policy support coming from

local government units can enhance the business environment in the region and entice the private sector to invest in the area.

He added that BIMP-EAGA wants to provide an incentive package to investors to boost economic activities in the sub-region.

These initiatives will contribute in improving trade in the BIMP-EAGA, Miral stressed.

Asian Development Bank data show that total trade in the EAGA in 2013 reached USD166 billion, up from USD97 billion in 2009; while foreign direct investments climbed to USD10.2 billion from USD4 billion in the same period.

The BIMP-EAGA is holding its Senior Officials’ Preparatory Meeting here ahead of the 12th BIMP-EAGA Summit on Saturday. (PNA)

ordered the closure of more than half the country’s operating mines and has previously described open pit mines as “madness”, said it was within her prerogative to ban the practice, which is allowed under Philippines mining law.

“Each open pit is a financial liability for government for life,” she told a media briefing. “It kills the economic potential of the place.”

The ban will take effect immediately but will not cover existing mines, she said.

Mining is a contentious issue in the largely underex-

plored Southeast Asian country after past examples of environmental mismanagement.

Lopez in February ordered the permanent closure of 22 of 41 operating mines in the world’s top nickel ore supplier and later canceled dozens of contracts for undeveloped mines to protect water resources.

Miners have argued her actions are illegal and no mine has yet been closed as companies pursue an appeals process that can only be settled

by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Chamber of Mines of

the Philippines described her latest move as “absurd.”

“With this open-pit ban, she is essentially banning the mining of shallow ore deposits that can only be extracted using open-pit mining,” said Chamber spokesman Ronald Recidoro.

Philippines bans open-pit mining as minister toughens crackdown P

hilippine Environment Secretary Regina Lopez said on Thursday she will ban open-pit mining in the country, toughening a months-long crackdown on the sector she blames for extensive environmental damage.

The ban comes just days before the outspoken environmentalist-turned-regulator faces a confirmation hearing in Congress that could lead to her removal as minister after a storm of complaints from pro-mining groups.

Lopez, who has already

WANTS DUTERTE AS SUCCESSOR The ban would halt the $5.9 billion Tampakan copper-gold project in South Cotabato province in Mindanao island, the nation’s biggest

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

ECONOMY 5

CHEERS! Top executives of First Metro Securities led by president Gonzalo Ordoñez, together with fund managers from Davao City, propose a toast during the Davao City launch of the company’s latest investment products - the Mobile App 2.0 FundsMart Mutual Fund Platform and the Margin Financing- on Wednesday evening. Lean Daval Jr.

holds investments Mindanao ‘catching up’ with new ARMM roadshow in Cotabato City shipping route to Indonesia I

S

OUNDING optimistic over the economic opportunities that could be unlocked with the launch on April 30 of a new shipping route between Mindanao and Indonesia, an official declared that the island “is now catching up” with the rest of the country.

Mindanao Development Authority Chair Abul Khayr Alonto told “Wednesdays at Habi at Kape” that Mindanao is now being poised as the gateway of the Philippines to the world.

On Sunday President Rodrigo Duterte and Indonesian President Joko Widodo will arrive in Davao for the launch of the Davao-General Santos-Bitung, Indonesia roll on/ roll off shipping service.

The two leaders are attending the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit on April 26-29 in Manila.

Nineteen Indonesian business leaders will accompany Widodo.

Alonto said these businessmen will come from the Indo-

nesian Chamber of Commerce and may even extend their stay in the city to explore opportunities with their local counterparts on how they can work together to sustain the new shipping route.

“This will be an opportunity to already work it out with their counterparts coming from Indonesia. We have Indonesian companies already based in the country who will also participate,” he said.

The Indonesian businessmen will meet with potential business partners from the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. to explore ways to improve trade and economic relations as well as to secure the load factor of the new route.

The new route takes 1.5 days, the shortest and cheapest means to exchange goods with Indonesia.

Under the current Davao-Manila-Jakarta-Bitung shipping route, the shipment of goods takes about three to five weeks.

Alonto said the new route will encourage small and medium businesses to produce products that will cater to both the domestic and ASEAN markets.

The goods to be traded will include animal feeds, aqua products, charcoal, coffee beans, construction materials, copra, feed ingredients, fertilizers, food and beverages, fresh fruits, ice cream products, meats, peanuts, poultry (halal), soya, sugar, and synthetics.

“This will encourage us to produce more than what we can sell. In fact, this will encourage people to work further in enhancing cultural and economic means in their communities because we will be exporting what we can produce down here,” Alonto said.

The opportunities will benefit the Bangsamoro people in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and even those who are in the underdeveloped parts of Mindanao, he said.

The new route will strengthen cooperation and col-

laboration not only in the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) but also in the entire ASEAN. The route will be served by M/V Super Shuttle RORO 12, owned by Asian Marine Transport Corporation, with a capacity of 500 20-foot equivalent unity.

Alonto said the Davao-Gensan-Bitung route will facilitate not only the exchange of goods but also the movement of people, ideas, languages, and cultures.

He said he believes the new route will be sustained and is just the “beginning and opening” of a more strengthened partnership.

Alonto said he was elated the Duterte administration pushed for the opening of this route as it institutionalizes the historical trading routes practiced in the pre-Spanish era from Mindanao to Sulawesi, Indonesia and other locations in the BIMP-EAGA. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

Department of Finance said.

According to Dominguez, “Dutertenomics” is anchored on an unprecedented infrastructure buildup that will let the Philippines finally catch up with—and even outpace—its neighbors in Southeast Asia, which is moving closer to a single economic community under a highly competitive global market.”

Dominguez said that

unless the government closes soon enough the country’s infrastructure gap and matches the infra networks of other member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Philippines will never become an investment-driven economy that can create enough jobs for its young work force and achieve true economic inclusion for its people.

“Weak infrastructure is the main reason our tourism sector lags way behind powerhouses such as Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia,” he said. “At the rate they are investing in their tourism infrastructure, Vietnam and Cambodia could overtake us soon in tourist arrivals. That will be a sorely missed opportunity. “ But an inclusive growth

Cambodia, Vietnam seen to overtake RP in tourism without infra buildup O

THER emerging economies such as Cambodia and Vietnam could soon outpace the Philippines, especially in the tourism sector, unless the Duterte administration pushes through with its unprecedented public investment program that aims primarily to close the country’s massive infrastructure backlog, Secretary Carlos Dominguez III of the

FCAMBODIA, 10

N a bid to improve investment opportunities, the Regional Board of Investments of the Autonomous Region in Muslim in Mindanao held a consultation forum with stakeholders in Cotabato City.

Investors and representatives from the business community, government agencies, banks, and the academe attended the event, which covers presentations of the economic activities of the ARMM, shares insights and concerns about investments generation in the region, and reviews the 2017 ARMM Investment Priorities Plan (IPP).

Lawyer Ishak Mastura, RBOI-ARMM chairperson, said the plan is focused on the theme “Scaling Up and Dispersing Opportunities”, which will serve as the blueprint in guiding investors in matching their business capacities with opportunities identified in the region’s IPP to steer economic growth.

“The reason for the conduct of regional IPP roadshows is to inform the participants about the salient features and implementing guidelines of the new IPP,” Atty. Mastura said.

The 2017-2019 ARMM Investment Priorities Plan is formulated based on the updated Philippine Development Plan 2017-2019 and ARMM’s Regional Development Plan. Anchored on the Duterte administration’s zero + 10-point Socio-Economic Agenda and Ambisyon Natin 2040, the 2017-2019 ARMM Investment Priorities Plan promotes investments in preferred economic activities and sectors that will have a direct and positive impact on the lives of ARMM’s constituents.

IPP consultations in the

region were organized as early as mid-2015 starting in Lamitan City in Basilan followed by multisectoral public consultations in Cotabato City, Parang and Upi in Maguindanao; Bongao in Tawi-Tawi; and Marawi City in Lanao del Sur. A total of six multisectoral consultations were conducted region-wide to craft ARMM’s new list of investment priorities.

ARMM’s list has the following priority investment areas: · export industry; · agriculture and aquaculture; · basic industries; · infrastructure; · industrial service facilities; · engineering industries; · logistics; · Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA)-related investment enterprises; · tourism; · health and education services and facilities; · Halal industry; · bank and non-bank financial institutions including Islamic banking and finance; and · energy.

Discussed in the forum held here are investment opportunities in the region and the fiscal and non-fiscal incentives the government is providing to qualified investors as well as the process for registration under the RBOI to avail of the incentives.

Atty. Mastura reiterated that ARMM seeks to attract more financing, or financial institutions, since the region remains severely under-serviced by banks. Access to basic financial services in ARMM is practically non-ex-

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6 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

149 households benefit from potable water project of DILG I

Maguindanao mayor offers reward to tipsters of illegal drug activities

n support of President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, the local government of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao has set aside monetary incentives to anyone who can provide information leading to the arrest of persons involved in illegal drugs.

Mayor Shameen Mastura said the cash incentives will help the police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-ARMM) eliminate the drug menace.

An informant of successful anti-drug operations will receive between PHP10,000 to PHP30,000, depending on the

P

ANABO CITY, Davao del Norte - Mayor James Gamao led the Inaugural Blessing and Turn-over ceremony of the newly constructed Potable Water System (PWS) level II on April 21, 2017 at Barangay Lower Panaga. At least 149 households will soon benefit from the PWS. The Php 3.9 million PWS project is funded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) under the Bottoms-Up-Budgeting (BUB) program dubbed as Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat (SALINTUBIG) which aims to provide safe and quality potable water to residents living in far-flung areas.

Mayor Gamao reminded residents of the Barangay to practice safety measures on the patubig project and to pay monthly bills as stated in the Barangay Ordinance intended to sustain the maintenance of PWS. “Importante ang tubig sa atong panimalay, ato ning

2 Abu Sayyaf bandits surrender in Sulu as military offensive continues

ampingan og atong paningkamutan na mabayaran ang na konsumo nga tubig,” he said.

Barangay Captain Letecia Cabactulan expressed her gratitude to the Local Government through DILG for providing water supply for their daily needs. “Dugay na namo ning pangandoy ang matagaan mig

Phoenix takes you to adventures in Dahican

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AHICAN Beach in Mati, Davao Oriental is one of the most popular white sand beaches in this side of the country.

Just four hours away from Davao City, Dahican offers tourists the experience of a seven-kilometer coast line that faces the Pacific Ocean – perfect for swimming, skim boarding, and sunbathing.

Dahican is also home to the pawikan or marine turtles.

magnitude of the illegal activities.

“The informants will remain confidential to ensure their safety,” Mastura told DXMS-AM Radyo Bida here.

Mastura has been pushing for programs that will help the town’s 82,080 population do away with illegal drugs. His platform of governance includes massive sports program, livelihood and skills training for the unemployed and education.

Mastura believed that the young generation needs to be guided by the local government for them not to be swayed to illegal activities that earn them quick money. (EOF/PNA)

dekalidad na patubig sa among Barangay,” she added.

Lower Panaga is the farthest Barangay in the Northern cluster of the city.

DILG Provincial Director Alex Roldan represented by Engr. Jeanette Palmera said that the SALINTUBIG project is for those who have low wa-

ter service in the city and this is also a call for unity, cooperation to promote discipline among the residents in the Barangay.

Local Government Operation Officer Danilo Hernandez, Councilor Gregorio Dujali, III and Barangay Officials also graced the program.

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wo members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) have surrendered on Thursday due to the continuous military operations in the island province of Sulu.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana Jr., commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, identified the ASG surrenderees as Husain Nasirin, 22, and Hasir Asara, 24, of Barangays Buhanginan and Danag, respectively, in the town of Patikul.

Sobejana said Nasirin and Asara surrendered to the 501st headquarters in Sulu at around

1:45 p.m. Thursday. Intelligence operatives facilitated the surrender of the two bandits.

He said the two are followers of the late ASG sub-leader Hairulla Asbang, who died while undergoing medication at a hospital in Davao City. Lawmen arrested Asbang on December 26, 2016 at a private hospital in this city where he was admitted for a gunshot wound he sustained in a clash with government troops in Sulu.

He was later transferred to Davao City for further treatment. (Teofilo P. Garcia Jr./PNA)

True to its brand’s promise of creating memorable trips, Phoenix Petroleum recently opened its station along National Highway, Dahican, Mati City, Davao Oriental. Gas up as you arrive in Dahican or before heading back to the city. Make your Dahican adventure memorable with Phoenix as your indispensable partner in road trips and fun trips.

The newly opened Phoenix Petroleum station, along National Highway, Dahican, Mati City, Davao Oriental.

VILLAGE CLASSROOMS. [from left, first row] Barangay Manual Chair Ricardo C. Saplagio, Kiblawan Mayor Carl Jason Rama, DSWD Undersecretary Mae Fe Ancheta-Templa, Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Program Coordinator Ma. Elena S. Labrador, and Kalahi-CIDSS Area Coordinator Robert Kenly A. Sta. Maria lead the ceremonial ribbon cutting and unveiling of brass marker of

NGCP willing to support government’s broadband program

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Dr. Edito B.Sumile (center), told to Tribal Clan Leader Sarx Lanos (left) that he will prioritize Lumads who are mostly poor to be enrolled in Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology (DOSCST) starting August 2017 to be given free tution fees. DOSCST will be converted soon to be Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU). Also in photo (right) is Dr. Bernadette J. Nanual, director for Research and Development of DOSCST. (Photo by Roy Decir)

One Unit Building with Three Classrooms which was completed through Kalahi-CIDSS of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The brand new classrooms will be a most welcome treat to some 219 high school students expected to enrol in Manual High School in June. (DSWD)

fficials of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) have been in close coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Energy (DOE) for a possible partnership to bring high-speed internet nationwide.

Mae Roselle L. Curiano, NGCP regional communications and public affairs officer, said Thursday the NGCP started coordinating with the previous administration, since 2012, about the potential of NGCP facilities in putting up a high-speed internet network nationwide.

She said that under

President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, talks have been going on for the past six months, wherein the NGCP supplied the DICT and the DOE with all necessary information to move the project forward.

“The NGCP informed the DICT and the DOE on the capability and the viability of the NGCP’s current transmission facility to support the broadband network as envisioned by the government,”Curiano said.

She said that the NGCP’s wide fiber optic network and related resources are sufficient to support a broadband network, a priority program under the Duterte adminis-

tration.

Curiano said that Henry Sy, Jr., NGCP president and chief executive officer, has been waiting for the “details about the project from our government partners.”

She said the NGCP’s concession agreement specifically allows the NGCP to develop the transmission facility and engage in any business which maximizes the utilization of the transmission assets.

Curiano said that as the sole operator of the country’s power transmission network, the NGCP has thousands of existing fiber optic facilities that run from Luzon to Mindanao for internal communication purposes.

NGCP is ready to lease these fiber optic lines to be utilized by the government in its efforts to upgrade the country’s internet speed to shorten the amount of time needed to complete the project, Curiano said.

Curiano said that the Akamai Fourth Quarter Report cited the Philippines as the laggard on internet connection speed in the Asia-Pacific region. The NGCP, through its fiber optic transmission lines, could effectively address the problem of slow internet-connection speed in the country, Curiano said, noting that a stable internet connection is now a very important productivity tool. (Cris Diaz/PNA)

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

PLDT group pilots digital solutions to augment fleet management

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Lates of Pawikan hatchlings released in Cleanergy Park D

AVAO Light and Power Co., Inc welcomed another batch of pawikan hatchlings and released them to the open waters of the turtle sanctuary, known as the Cleanergy Park, last April 18, 2017 in Sitio Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City.

The pawikan hatchlings came out to witness the world exactly during the anticipated week of its hatchday from its

commonly used delivery routes, thereby supplying data that can help in maximizing these trips.

“Apart from efficiency, this can also translate to savings for the company, because instead of buying additional vehicles and spending for their fuel, maintenance, insurance and parking fees, we are simply outsourcing transportation services whenever the need arises,” Alberto said.

“Uber is excited to offer solutions to companies like the PLDT group and allow us to work together not only to solve traffic, but also to save on costs of buying brand new cars. By using technologies like Uber for Business, companies are able to unlock new ways to meet employee transportation needs whenever they want, at the push of a button. We are helping shape the future of travel and simplify processes,” said Uber Philippines General Manager Laurence Cua. Uber for Business is currently on a pilot test-run among PLDT, Smart and Voyager employees, and will later be rolled out to a larger base in the future.

In addition to cost savings, the partnership also aims to reduce the company’s carbon footprint and ease traffic congestion by facilitating carpooling among employees. (PR)

discovery lastFebruary 21.

Out of the 172 eggs, 141 baby turtles hatched. A day after, another two hatchlings joined the family. These were also immediately released to the sea.

Present to witness the releasing of the hatchlings were the employees from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources XI, Rotary Club of East Davao Pres-

ident-elect Alvin Orteza, Apo Agua Infrastructura General Manager Ones Almario, Matina Aplaya barangay officials and some of its residents.

The Davao Light team as represented by AVP for Reputation Enhancement Rossano Luga and Procurement and Logistics Department Head Adriano Po Jr. also witnessed the event.

“We will continue to en-

HE Department of Tourism Region XI will feature Compostela Valley in Visit Davao Fun Sale on 2018.

DOT XI Regional Director Roberto Alabado III reiterated its support to the tourism industry in Compostela Valley during the briefing of the province’s Tourism Development Plan on Saturday at Lubi Plantation, Kopiat Island in Mabini town.

“For this year, we bring the Visit Davao Fun Sale in

Davao Oriental. Next year, the whole package will be in Compostela Valley,” Director Alabado stressed.

During the briefing, Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy said that with the initial consultation of the DOT, the province has two unique experiences that will create curiosity among travellers.

Governor Uy identified that the two experiences are the wellness loop and the Gold Museum.

From amakan to concrete classrooms

OR the convenience of its customers, the collection centers of Davao City Water District will be open on May 1 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM despite that this date is declared a holiday for the celebration of Labor Day. DCWD’s collection centers in SM Lanang Premier and Felcris Centrale accept water bill payment while DCWD’s Victoria Plaza collection center caters to payment and other customer service request transactions.

However, DCWD Bajada, Matina, and Toril offices will be closed on May 1. Regular working hours on these offices will resume on May 2.

The DCWD management assures the general public that the technical and Central

Information Unit (CIU)/Call Center operations will not be disrupted during the holiday to ensure continuous water service and offsite customer service support.

Customers may contact the CIU/Call Center through the 24-hour hotlines 297-DCWD (3293), 0927-7988966, 09255113293, and 0908-4410653 for queries and updates on matters related to DCWD services and operation. In addition, DCWD customers may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/davaowater). They may also course water service concerns especially leak reports to the CIU through the chat feature of DCWD website.

(Jamae G. Dela Cruz)

DOT reiterates support to ComVal tourism

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FDOT, 10

DCWD collection centers open on May 1

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OR high school students of Barangay Manual here, nothing could inspire more than sitting in a brand new concrete classroom this coming school year, a far cry from the amakan structure they’ve been used to.

Thanks to Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), one of the core programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which has formally turned over a newly built One Unit High School Building with Three Classrooms worth Php 2,750,635.00 in Barangay Manual.

A ceremony attended by parents, students, and school officials was held to formalize

courage the people to help in preserving and saving these endangered pawikans. We will not stop in taking worthy initiatives to save them from extinction even after releasing them.” Davao Light Community Relations Manager Fermin Edillon said.

For this year, a total of 498 pawikan hatchlings were already released back to the sea at the Cleanergy Park.

EADING telecoms and digital service provider PLDT is going digital in its fleet management by tapping ridesharing company Uber to supply transportation services to its employees.

Under Uber for Business, for example, sales personnel of PLDT and its subsidiaries Smart Communications and Voyager Innovations Inc. are given an Uber for Business account which is linked to a central payment account where their fares are automatically charged. This means the employees do not need to shell out personal money and ask for reimbursement later on.

“Through this, the PLDT group takes its digital pivot further by becoming the country’s first and biggest conglomerate to use digital solutions to augment its fleet management,” said Eric R. Alberto, PLDT Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer.

“Through progressive and digital fleet management, we enable our employees to really focus only on delivering awesome customer experiences when they go about their day-to-day duties, without worrying about transportation and parking issues, this via paperless transactions and analytics,” he added.

In this partnership, the PLDT group can also access a dashboard which indicates

the turnover of the new school building to the school administration.

The ceremonial cutting of ribbon was led by Hon. Mayor Carl Jason Rama, DSWD Undersecretary Mae Fe Ancheta-Templa, and Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Program Coordinator Ma. Elena S. Labrador.

“We’ve been using our previous classrooms since 2013. The structure does not have solid walls as it is made of amakan or bamboo matting.

The teachers have to somehow speak way beyond the normal to the point of almost shouting just for students to hear them. And with several classes going at that rate at the same time, just imagine how hard it is for everyone,” said Rosalita A. Estropia, principal.

The new school one unit building with three class-

rooms comes with brand new armchairs and blackboards. It has concrete walls and painted inside out.

“The additional rooms will improve on former classroom conditions,” noted Estropia, who further stressed that the rooms will no longer be overcrowded, making it more conducive to learning.

“These new classrooms are slated to be used by 219 students from the high school level,” shared Robert Kenly A. Sta. Maria, Kalahi-CIDSS Area Coordinator in Kiblawan.

Mae Fe Ancheta-Templa, Undersecretary of DSWD, expressed her heartfelt acknowledgment to teachers, parents, Local Government Unit (LGU), and community volunteers for their unwavering endeavor in prioritizing education for the students.

“I am thankful because the community chose to prioritize a social production project such as a school building. Students have a significant role in the community.

The classroom is our mirror in seeing a student’s potential.

The classrooms are the factories where a student’s ideals and ideas are formed, after all.”

Templa’s remarks and statements emphasized DSWD’s commitment of Maagap at Mapagkalingang Serbisyo to communities, further reinforcing that providing better facilities to students towards quality education is one of the best ways to achieve this.

She also underlined the agency’s advocacy of continued support to education.

FFROM AMAKAN, 10

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

EDITORIAL Education is key

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HERE was a time when the Philippines was the number one country in terms of literacy rate in all of Southeast Asia. Times have changed and we had to radically overhaul our education system to shift to the K to 12 program.

The K to 12 program has since been in place for two years thereby increasing the number of academic years for students to earn a bacheor’s degree.

There has been some concerns the increase in academic years will cause a drop in college graduation rate. These concerns are even more significant now after a recent survey conducted by one of the country’s leading insurance firms showed that “only 23 percent of Filipinos were able to finish college due to financial constraints.”

A survey by insurance firm Philamlife revealed this alarming fact. The survey was conducted by the company to establish a reference point whether Filipinos have financial

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protection for their future. The survey was divided into three parts: education, health and retirement.

The cost of collegiate education is the major factor for the failure of parents to send their children to higher education.

With more Filipins living below the poverty threshold, the stark reality will continue to confront every family. In a country where education is regarded as the most precious legacy parents can give their children, the cultural norms are vastly tweaked. Poverty, unemployment coupled with the additional academic instruction pull down the college rate dramatically.

Unless the government make for free higher education to reach more poor but deserving students, the nosediving rate will accelerate further in the coming years. In addition, it is likewise important that courses that address the demands of the current market trends are given priority.

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EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

and react accordingly.

This has been the nature of humans as they were created by Allah, the Almighty. The creator of Heaven and Earth. The Lord of the creations who created humans, animals and all that exists. The one true god who sent the prophets and messengers including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Jesus and Muhammad. As humans, we have this unique level of understanding the world around us compared to plants, animals or even the most powerful computers and artificial intelligence of our time.

Adam, the first human created by Allah and also the first prophet, was created by Allah with the cognitive ability to understand things. Allah said in Chapter 2 verses 31-33 of the Quran: And He taught Adam the names - all of them. Then He showed them to the angels and said, “Inform Me of the names of these, if you are truthful.”

The angels said, “Exalted are You O Allah; we have no knowledge except what You have taught us. Indeed, it is You who is the Knowing, the Wise.”

Allah said, “O Adam, inform them of their names.” And when he had informed them of their names, He said to the angels, “Did I not tell you that I know the unseen [aspects] of the heavens and the earth? And I know what you reveal and what you have concealed.”

As we can see here, Humans have been given the ability to understand things through knowledge that even the

“Many may not be aware of the importance of corals in our existence and the direct effect of coral reef degradation in our daily lives and so we have to educate our people. Beyond aesthetics, corals serve a greater purpose in our marine ecosystems, because without them, marine species would practically be homeless.”

– Senator Loren Legarda

from Lubang Island in Mimaropa region.”

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9

We were born to understand

F all the species of living beings on earth, humans are considered as one of the most successful not only in remaining in existence but in developing ourselves as well. We did not go the way of the Dodo so to speak. We did not become extinct or endangered because of our ability to improvise, adapt and overcome.

Setting aside the human adverse effect on the environment and on each other, humans have populated most parts of the planet and prospered by developing shelter, clothing, and methods of mobility. Humans developed medicine to heal its sick and to keep itself healthy. Humans have cultivated food and livestock to feed its ever growing population and sustain it. Humans have invented machines to facilitate ease of daily tasks.

But none of this could ever be possible without the human’s ability to communicate with each other. Much more, all these could never be possible without the human’s ability to understand and make itself understood. Humans, of all the living creatures in this vast Earth, have a clearer sense of understanding of the things around him. Not only in understanding his fellow humans but also his surroundings and other species as well. Humans have developed Mathematics, Science, Humanities and other bodies of knowledge to their advantage.

Humans have survived because of their ability to understand his surroundings

was dismayed (although the right term should be mad but it is too harsh to use) when I read the recent news that the joint team of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) were able to stop the illegal sale of assorted corals in Cartimar, Pasay City.

No, I wasn’t dismayed over the halting of the sale but rather the selling of ecologically-fragile coral reefs. So, illegal harvesting of this natural heritage is still going on – despite the many laws we have?

“A total of 3,788 pieces of both hard and soft corals, coral stones and pebbles were seized by the NBI-Environmental Crime Division and BFAR’s law-enforcement group last week,” the news report said.

Jasper Y. Arcalas, author of the report which appeared in Business Mirror, wrote: “Five stalls were caught selling corals during a buy-bust operation, while two other stores were apprehended through ‘plain view doctrine.’ The law enforcers found corals and juvenile clam species on the stores’ shelves for selling. Based on the initial investigation, the corals were gathered

VANTAGE POINTS

UNDERSTANDING ISLAM

Mujahid Navarra

angels do not have.

In other verses of the Quran, Allah said in Chapter 96 verses 3-5: Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous Who taught by the pen Taught man that which he knew not.

It is clear here that this ability is a blessing from Allah and is something to thank Allah for.

In fact, these revelations from Allah have inspired many Muslim scientists during the Middle Ages to contribute to the modern sciences we have today. Scientists such as Muhammad Al Khwarizmi and Omar Khayyam have contributed much to the development

of Algebra, Ismail Al Jazari in Physics, Abul Qasim Az Zahrawi in Surgery, Muhammad Al Razi in Chemistry and many others.

Even today, Muslims are open minded and prolific athletes, businessmen, politicians, scientists, writers and experts in many other different fields thanks to their knowledge and understanding that Allah have blessed them with. In fact, Allah has praised the believers often and addressed them as people of understanding.

This, my friend, is contrary to the stereotype of how Muslims are seen these days, at least by some of us. When Muslims are being seen and portrayed as counter-progress, antisocial or just plain evil. The way some news, movies and video games have typified the Muslims. When bigotry, racism and religious fanaticism have overtaken our ability and will to understand and be reasonable. This is sad because there are about 1.7 Billion Muslims in the world or 25% of the total population and yet we understand less of the Muslims than how we understand or pretend to understand aliens or other cosmic mysteries of the universe.

This is sad when actions are made against a people because of their religion or race and not because of what they did. And what makes this sadder is that we are not born this way. We were born neither to be bigots nor racist. We were born to understand and cherish

reason.

So join me in understanding this great religion and its real teachings in this new column. Join me in understanding the real message of Islam. Neither the Islam that is portrayed by bandits or terrorist groups nor the Islam as portrayed by Hollywood and some media outlets. Let us use the blessing of Allah of knowledge, understanding, and reasoning for a common good.

Join me in learning about Muslim values and virtues that you will find surprising that propelled Muslims into superseding western countries in the development of human rights, even women’s, children’s and animal rights.

How Muslims have developed urban planning, robotics and modern methods of surgery long before the Industrial Revolution or the Modern Era. How Islam have upheld current advocacies such as Environmentalism, Pacifism and others long before Greenpeace, Red Cross or Mahatma Gandhi.

And above all, join me in shedding light upon many of the misunderstandings that people have regarding this religion. See you next week in our new column, UNDERSTANDING ISLAM. Watch Mensahe TV via Cignal channel 184. You may send to us your questions, comments and suggestions to mensahetv@gmail.com.

Mensahe TV is the first Islamic TV Channel in the Philippines and our message is Mercy to Mankind.

whole, Philippine coral reefs contribute at least US$1.4 billion annually to the economy,” states the report,From Ridge to Reef: Sustaining Nature for Life.

The Philippines has 27,000 square kilometers of coral reef area within a 15to 30-meter depth, one of the largest in the world. Two-thirds of these are in Palawan and the Sulu Archipelago. There are about 400 species of reef-forming corals in the country, comparable with those found in Great Barrier Reef of Australia.

Nowhere else in the world are coral reefs abused as much as the reefs in the Philippines. In 2002, some of the top leading marine scientists ranked the country as the number one (according to the degree of threat) among the world’s top ten coral reef hotspots. The identified hotspots contain just 24 per cent of the world’s coral reefs, or 0.017 percent of the oceans.

The World Atlas of Coral Reefs, compiled by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), reported that 97 percent of reefs in the Philippines are under threat from destructive fishing techniques, including cyanide poisoning, over-fishing, or from deforestation and urbanization that result in harmful sediment spilling into the sea.

Corals are also illegally gathered and sold as part of the international trade of reef products. The Fisheries Code of 1998, which bans gathering and selling corals, punishes violators with imprisonment from six months to two years and a fine from P2,000 to P20,000.

A survey released by Reef Check,

an international organization assessing the health of reefs in 82 countries, confirmed the UNEP report. “Despite its high biodiversity, the Philippines’ reefs are very badly damaged. It’s one of the worst damaged in the world, on the average,” says George Hodgson, founder of the California-based organization.

Rapid population growth and the increasing human pressure on coastal resources have resulted in the massive degradation of the coral reefs. “If asked what the major problem of coral reefs is, my reply would be, ‘The pressure of human populations,’” said marine scientist Dr. Edgardo D. Gomez.

“Life in the Philippines is never far from the sea,” wrote Joan Castro and Leona D’Agnes in a new report. “Every Filipino lives within 45 miles of the coast, and every day, more than 4,500 new residents are born.”

The Philippine government has made and introduced many laws in an attempt to protect the natural environment on the islands and in the national territorial waters. But the government cannot do it alone; help from individuals are also needed to save the reefs from total annihilation.

“We are the stewards of our nation’s resources,” said Rafael D. Guerrero III, former executive director of the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development, “we should take care of our national heritage so that future generations can enjoy them. Let’s do our best to save our coral reefs. Our children’s children will thank us for the effort.”

Rape of the ocean

Another incident came to my mind.

“The rape of the ocean” was the statement used to describe the crime that decimated an entire “reef complex” — almost twice as big as Manila – off the coast of Cotabato province when poachers harvested 134 bundles, or 21,169 pieces, of “sea fan” black corals and 15 bundles, or 196 kilograms, of “sea whip” black corals.

According to the report, which appeared in Philippine Daily Inquirer, the Moro Gulf and the Sulu Sea off Cotabato are supposed to be unexplored reef areas. “But with this collection, we can see that they have also been disturbed,” Ludivina Labe, a senior marine biologist of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), was quoted as saying.

“It’s like a forest that has been cut down.”

It must also be recalled that in 2013, the MV Unicorn Lodger ran aground in the area of Sambauan Island, Maripipi, Biliran. About 270 square meters of coral reef in the area was destroyed. A year before that, the Tubbataha Reef, a World Heritage Site, was damaged after the USS Guardian of the US Navy and a Chinese fishing vessel ran aground.

On land the ecosystem that supports the greatest number of plant and animal species is the tropical rainforest. In the sea, it’s the coral reefs. But unlike their counterparts, coral reefs have not been given much importance by people since they could not be seen.

“When trees are cut and human be-

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

ings are affected as a result of flashfloods, people rallied against deforestation,” explained Dr. Bernhard Riegel, associate director of the National Coral Reef Institute in the United States. “But like forests, coral reefs are also suffering the same magnitude of destruction.”

“One of the greatest natural treasures, (coral reefs) are habitats for rare species, including some 488 species of corals, 971 species of benthic algae, and 2,000 species of fish,” explains Dr. Miguel D. Fortes, a professor at the Marine Science Institute of the University of the Philippines. “A single reef may contain 3,000 species of corals, fish, and shellfish.”

One square kilometer of healthy coral reef can generate about US$50,000 annually from fishing and tourism. “As a

10 NEWS City... FROM 1

ent consumption of the city, we need 920 metric tons per day,” he added.

Part of the reason why Davao City is incapable of supplying enough rice to its people is the fact that very minimal area of the city is dedicated to rice planting.

“Out of its 150-160,000 hectares of land for agriculture, only less than 2,000 ha is the rice cultivation,” Jovencio Umaging, Operations Head of the City Agriculture Office said. “Basing on total annual production sa rice areas sa Davao, that is good only for 22-25 days. 22-25 days lang pwede pakaunon sa production sa Davao city ang mga tao nga naga consume ug rice. The

rest of the year, naga depende ta sa production sa neighboring provinces.”

Roncal and Umaging agreed that Davao Region greatly needs help from neighboring provinces that are self-sufficient like Region 12 and the rice exports coming from other countries. They said that the region needs to augment and to import from other towns and countries to make up for the deficit in rice consumption.

Last January to March, more than 800,000 bags of rice were imported from Vietnam and Thailand for Davao City. Also this May, the region is expecting rice augmentation coming from Iloilo region.

first legislation in the country with an anti-dynasty provision. It prohibits relatives of elected officials up to second civil degree of consanguinity or affinity from seeking SK posts.

The law adjusts age limit of SK officials from 15 to 17 to 18 to 24 years old, making them legally capable of entering into contracts and be held accountable and liable for their actions.

It also requires SK officials to undergo leadership training programs to expose them to the best practices in governance and guide their

development as leaders.

The Commission on Elections earlier said that voters who have not yet registered for the polls scheduled to be held in October 2017 only have until April 29 (Saturday) to do so.

Comelec chair Andres Bautista encouraged voters not to wait until the last day and file applications earlier.

He said that offices will still be open on April 27 and 28 despite some offices suspending work for the hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit. (PNA)

members as a simple token of the city government for their hard work for the city.

Task Force Davao Commander Col. Erwin Bernard Neri also thanked Mayor Inday for her continued support

and trust to the anti-terror unit.

“Everything that is happening right now, the peace and order that we have is because of the support of our city mayor,” Neri said. CIO

stalled mining venture.

Tampakan failed to take off after the province where it is located banned open-pit mining in 2010, prompting commodities giant Glencore Plc to quit the project in 2015.

Lopez has said the project would cover an area the size of 700 football fields in what otherwise would be agricultural land.

There are currently 14 open pits in the country, 10 of them abandoned, said Lopez, who flew to several mining sites in recent weeks to inspect them.

Lawmakers will resume hearings on Lopez’s appointment on May 2 after sessions in March when pro-mining groups assailed her capacity as minister.

Lopez said she was imposing the ban now because she was unsure of the outcome of the hearings.

If lawmakers reject her appointment, Lopez said she wants Duterte to succeed her.

“That’s the kind of person you really need at DENR,” she said, referring to her agency.

“Brave, cannot be bought, everyone will be scared.”

istent, he said. Other than conventional banking and finance, the list also includes Islamic Banking and Finance.

Similar consultation forums will be conducted in the

five provinces and two cities in the region to bring investment concerns and services to the public, especially the investors. (Bureau of Public Information)

Considered to be the first in the country, the P175-million Gold Museum will feature the history of gold and other minerals, and stories on the mining industry in the province. It had its groundbreaking ceremony last March 8 during the cel-

ebration of 10th Bulawan Festival.

According to Provincial Tourism Officer Christine Dompor, the wellness loop will cover hot springs, craters, lakes and cold springs from Mawab to Maragusan.

(PIA11, Michael Uy

Extend... FROM 2

Mayor... FROM 3

Philippines... FROM 4

ARMM... FROM 5 DOT... FROM 7

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

STRESSING THE OBVIOUS. Davao City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) head Engr. Elisa Madrazo says during this week’s edition of I-Speak media forum at City Hall that majority of the trash collected during the Earth Day coastal cleanup campaign in the city were items with plastic component.

Lean Daval Jr.

ICC... FROM 3

lies have become instruments in covering up the issue in the media and Senate investigations conducted,” Sabio said in filing the complaint.

“It is for these reasons that I have referred this case to the ICC to make President Duterte accountable for his crimes in the name of international criminal justice, and to once and for all end this dark, obscene, murderous and evil era in the Philippines,” he added.

Sabio, in his complaint, cited the similarities in the drug war when Duterte was mayor and now as president including police participation, element of hitman, reward system for killing, reward in cash, a kill list, among others.

“The basic material hallmarks or elements in the extra-judicial executions in the Davao Death Squad in Davao City and in the continued extra-judicial executions after President Duterte became the President are too numerous and too obvious to escape scant attention: First, there is the element of police participation and command; Second, there is the element of a hitman or an unknown armed assailant; Third, there is a reward system for every killing; Fourth, there is a reward in cash; Fifth, there is a kill watch list; Sixth, there is collaboration between barangay and police officials; Seventh, there is the cardboard sign and the face/body wrapped in packing tape; Eighth, there is the use of “riding in tandem” motorcycle-riding assail-

ants; Ninth, there is the use of hooded or masked assailants; Tenth, there is the planting of a gun and drugs,” Sabio said in his complaint.

Sabio said that with the case filed, the Office of the Prosecutor is set to determine whether the case is within the jurisdiction of the ICC and if it is proper to file criminal charges against the accused, before investigating the case and issuing Warrant of Arrest against them.

Aside from Duterte, also charged for violating different provisions of the Rome Statute, to wit: Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre; Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa; Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez of the House of Representatives; Former Interior and Local Government Secretary Ismael Sueno; Police Superintendent Edilberto Leonardo; Senior Police Officer 4 Sanson “Sonny” Buenaventura; Police Supt. Royina Garma; National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Dante Gierran; Solicitor General Jose Calida; Senator Richard Gordon and Senator Alan Peter S. Cayetano.

The Rome Statute is the treaty that established the ICC, the first permanent international court that is capable of trying perpetrators of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression, the Statute’s four core international crimes. The Philippines is a state party to the Rome Statute, together with other 123 state parties, after ratifying it in August 2011. (PNA)

“Importante sa DSWD ang kalambuan sa katawhan, ug magsugod kini sa mga kabatan-onan. Maayo gyud nga giduso sa komunidad nga mao kini ang ilang priority (DSWD recognizes the importance of people development which begins with the youth.

It is good that the community pushed this).

To date, Kiblawan has nine completed sub-projects and three on-going construc-

tion, covering the first cycle of implementation with a total grant allocation of Php P17,847,200.00.

Kalahi-CIDSS is a community-driven development (CDD) program of the Philippine Government aiming to empower people through sustainable development, enhanced participation in local governance, and management of poverty alleviation projects. (DSWD PR)

From amakan... FROM 7

Pres. Duterte... FROM 4 clude native dance and music performances akin in origin and style from other ASEAN cultures.

As the guests arrive at Sofitel, they will be greeted by locals wearing various indigenous garbs and a welcoming music to be rendered by the Citizen’s Brigade Band of Dasmariñas, Cavite. A singkaban arch and festival banners will welcome guests at the hotel driveway.

While they continue to promenade to the cocktail area at Le Bar, the sights and sounds of the Philippines continue to envelop them this time with a rondalla background music.

The mood and texture will change from upbeat to majestic as the guests proceed to the hotel’s grand ballroom where its lobby is adorned with Mindanaoan decor, jewel tones, and intricate detail.

Inside the ballroom, the concept of Philippine fiesta will continue with colorful decor complemented by the merry sounds of the gongs and kulintang ensemble.

Meanwhile, the Romblon

Room, served as the holding room for the ASEAN leaders, will showcase the furniture pieces of world-renowned designer Ito Kish.

A photo opportunity with the ASEAN leaders and their spouses donning Mindanao-inspired attire will take place prior to the gala dinner.

The ASEAN Heads of States will be presented with wood trays made of Philippine Mahogany with brass etching.

Three design motifs are prepared, featuring Philippine art and culture: one is the singkil, a folk dance from Maranao; another is a pattern copied from the traditional tapestry called T’nalak of T’bolis from South Cotabato; and the Sarimanok, a legendary bird with colorful feathers said to be a symbol of good fortune.

For their spouses, they will be presented with clear tempered glass cheese plates as tokens.

The tokens come with two design accents: brass kulintang, an ancient instrumental form of music, in nickel plate; and brass Sarimanok in nickel plate. (PNA)

strategy moored to a “build, build, build” agenda requires an expansionary fiscal posture, said Dominguez, hence the need for the DOF to push in the Congress a progressive comprehensive tax reform program that will guarantee a robust revenue stream for the planned massive infrastructure investments under the Duterte presidency.

President Duterte’s «Build, Build, Build» agenda was presented to the public recently through the «Dutertenomics” forum organized by Malacanang, the Department of Finance and the Center for Strategy, Enterprise and Intelligence (CenSEI).

The tycoons of Philippine business, among them Jaime Zobel de Ayala of the Ayala Group, Tessie Sy Coson of SM Investments

Corp., Danel and Sandro Aboitiz of Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Edgar Injap Sia II of Double Dragon Properties Corp.; Kevin Tan of Megaworld Corp.; and Michael Tan of the LT Group Inc. were among those who attended the forum’s second series.

“Dutertenomics,” is President Duterte’s economic strategy to dramatically raise funds--in large part through his proposed tax reform program--and spend big on infrastructure, human capital formation and social protection to sustain the growth momentum, attract investments and create jobs, achieve economic inclusion and transform the Philippines into a high middle-income country by 2022, by which time poverty incidence will have been reduced to 14 percent. (PNA)

Cambodia... FROM 5

INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

EDGEDAVAO EVENT

Abreeza Mall shines spotlight on homegrown artistry

PROVING ITSELF TO BE A COMPANY THAT SUPPORTS LOCAL ARTISTRY AND VALUES CREATIVITY, Abreeza Mall introduced a slew of summer offerings that showcase the immense talents of Davao’s prolific artists, provide a space for the city’s arts and crafts entrepreneurs, and offer even its customers a chance to express themselves through photography.

As part of the city-wide celebration of the Visit Davao Fun Sale from April 16 to May 31, Abreeza Mall hosts Art Mindanao, Art Mindanao features paintings and sculptures by Mindanaoan talents.

Photo by Zion Makarunggala. an exhibit organized by the over Abreeza Mall’s halls.

Tabula Rasa art group featur- On April 21 at the Activing the works of Mindanaoan ity Center, a live painting sesartists, at the Restaurant Row sion dubbed Dabawenya Alla from April 21 to May 1. Grac- Prima saw Tabula Rasa artists ing the exhibit opening were immortalizing the beauty of Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, Hiyas ng Kadayawan 2014 Edmund Mayormita of the Susan Butawan. Also part of Visit Davao Fun Sale Com- the official lineup of activimittee, Jean Rose Tecson of ties for the Visit Davao Fun the City Tourism Opera- Sale was Daba-Daba Davao, tions Office, Dinky Munda which entertained shopof Tabula Rasa, and General pers with amazing theatrical Manager Luigi Escano and numbers by local performers Marketing Manager Ruby from April 21 to 22 at the AcOchoa of Abreeza Mall. A tivity Center. collaborative painting activAbreeza Mall also recently ity participated in by the es- launched ARTbp., a twoteemed guests kicked off the weekend fair at the Ground celebration.

Floor Supermarket Hallway The weekend of April 21 that peddles, art, crafts, and to 22 was an art-filled one, everything in between by as more Visit Davao Fun ARTISTRY A3 Sale component events took

The #AbreezaSummer photo exhibit amps up the summer vibes at the Roof Garden.

Art Mindanao photo exhibit is unveiled to guests and shoppers. Photo

by Zion Makarunggala.

EDGEDAVAO

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EVENT

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

Philippines holds first

RECORD STORE DAY THE PHILIPPINES’ FA S T- GROW I NG VINYL RECORD MARKET got a major boost on April 22 when Manila celebrated Record Store Day (RSD) for the first time. Audio Pilipinas, a Facebook-based homegrown group of music lovers and audiophiles, is the local host of RSD 2017 Pilipinas.

The celebration was be held at Buddha Bar Manila, in Makati, last April 22, with 25 independent record stores and online vendors taking part.

Major and emerging bands -- as well as Filipino musical legends -- performed in a concert at Buddha Bar Manila to mark RSD 2017 Pilipinas. They include The Late Isabel, Hoochie Coochie Mikkie, The Black Vomits, Itchyworms and Apartel.

Apart from bringing together like-minded individuals with a passion for records, music reproduction and attending live per-

formances, Audio Pilipinas also upholds corporate social responsibility through projects like providing free musical instruments to lower-income youth.

“This year, we hope to use RSD to promote the small and independent record stores in the Philippines and tie that in to our advocacy of helping underprivileged children through corporate sponsorships and donations,” said Reggie Halili, one of the administrators of Audio Pilipinas (www.audiopilipinas.com).

Audio Pilipinas has a closed group of more than 6,000 members on Facebook, including Filipino expatriates living across Asia, North America, Europe and the Middle East.

They share their record collections, exchange tips on how to improve music playback, host rotating listening sessions at private homes and hold regular gatherings to promote knowledge and camaraderie.

Among the celebrities who attended the event

were Ely Buendia with Aparltel, Itchyworms, Tge Late Isabel, Noel Cabangon, Johnny Alegre, and Philippine rock and roll legend Ramon RJ Jacinto.

Audio Pilipinas also has a trading platform on Facebook called The APStore, also a members-only group.

Record Store Day was conceived in 2007 at a gathering of independent record store owners and employees as a way to celebrate and spread the word about the unique culture surrounding nearly 1400 independently owned record stores in the US and thousands of similar stores internationally. The first Record Store Day took place on April 19, 2008. Today, there are Record Store Day participating stores on every continent except Antarctica.

Record Store Day Pilipinas 2017 was made possible with the support of Buddha Bar Manila, Canvas Boutique Hotel, Beach Montemar, November HiFi Show, Offshore Music and 105.1 Crossover.

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

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Davao’s young entrepreneurs.

Held from April 21 to 23, ARTbp.’s first weekend boasted a vibrant mix of artworks, art supplies, accessories, organic products, and beauty finds from a diverse mix of sellers. Live art sessions and workshops on-site prompted visiting shoppers not just to purchase the pieces on display, but to appreciate homegrown talent, too. Customers can expect even more booths and gimmicks at the second weekend of ARTbp., which is set to take place on April 28 to 30.

Even customers don’t get left out in Abreeza Mall’s series of summer spectacles!

From April 22 to May 31, Abreeza Mall presents the #AbreezaSummer photo exhibit, a collection of 20 photos taken by the mall’s Instagram followers. Displayed at the Roof Garden, the exhibit depicts summer scenes at the mall captured by Instagram users who had previously won a photo contest held on Instagram.

For inquiries and updates on Abreeza Mall news and events, please visit the Main Concierge at the ground floor or call (082) 321-9332. Stay updated by liking www.facebook. com/AbreezaMall and following @abreezatweets on Twitter and @iloveabreezamall on Instagram.

Dabawenya Alla Prima live painting session featuring Hiyas ng Kadayawan 2014 Susan Butawan. Photo by Zion Makarunggala.

Live calligraphy at ARTbp. Photo by Zion Makarunggala.

Art, crarts, accessories, and more at ARTbp. Photo by Zion Makarunggala.

Local artists and esteemed guests at the Art Mindanao launch. Photo by Zion Makarunggala.

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

11 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

Farmers adopt innovations if they benefit from them

by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

T

HE adoption of sustainable land management (SLM) practices depends upon whether the farmers are aware or not aware of the problems they are facing with land degradation.

Such was the assessment of the new study, “Economics of Land Degradation and Sustainable Land Management Practices,” authored by Orapan Nabangchang and Rawadee Jarungrattanapong.

The study was part of a collaborative effort of the ELD (Economics of Land Degradation) Initiative and Economy and Environment Program for Southeast Asia (EEPSEA) in evaluating the land degradation neutrality strategy in the region, particularly Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

“Our findings showed that majority of farmers did not assess their land to be of ‘poor’ quality nor did they perceive that changes in the topsoil’s color and depth are indicators of deteriorating quality,” wrote the two au-

thors, who are with the school of economics at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in Bangkok.

The SLM has been identified by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) as one way to mitigate environmental damage caused by land degradation. SLM practices “help close yield gaps and enhance resilience of land resources and communities that directly depend on them while avoiding further degradation.”

The two authors said that sustainability of SLM adoption depends on perceived benefits.

“Some farmers we interviewed recognize that SLM adoption is not a choice because without it, their land will no longer be productive,” the two authors wrote. “Some noticed yield improvement after SLM adoption while others observed a reduction in the need to use chemical fertilizers and pesticides.”

But for most farmers in Thailand, it is a challenge

to identify and quantify the benefits of SLM adoption.

“It could be this inability to pinpoint precisely what are the benefits of SLM adoption and to quantitatively demonstrate them that discourage new potential adopters,” the two authors explained.

“The benefits of initial investment in SLM can be further enhanced if additional measures can be added,” they wrote.

Over 600 households in three provinces – Chiang Rai in the north, Khon Kaen in the northeast and Suphanburi in the central region – were surveyed for the study.

These three provinces were selected due to various land degradation problems.

In Chiang Rai, the problem was due to soil erosion. Khon Kaen was facing the problem of saline soil. In

the case of Suphanburi, low nutrient soil and soil contamination due to excess use of chemicals have been identified.

To solve these land degradation problems, government agencies have set up several development projects and schemes.

In Chiang Rai, the SLM techniques promoted include terrace farming on very steep slopes, hillside ditches on medium slopes, and contour farming in the lower elevation areas where the slopes are not so steep.

For Khon Kaen’s saline soils, farmers were encouraged to plant acacia to reduce salinity, followed by planting of green manure and the use

of compost to increase soil organic matter. In addition, some farmers invested in land leveling and farm ponds.

In Suphanburi, farmers were urged to reduce the use of chemical inputs. Most farmers adopted good agricultural practices, which entails using lesser chemicals thus less harm to farmers and less health risk among consumers.

In the study they conducted, the authors also found that households with large farmlands were most likely to adopt SLM practices compared to those owning smaller farms. “Households who own large farmlands with sufficient water resources also tend to adopt SLM practices,” they added.

In like manner, farmlands situated on steep or medium slopes have a greater tendency to adopt soil conservation measures. “This is consistent with the earlier findings that adoption is really not a choice for some farmers but is dictated by the physical setting of their land parcels,” the two authors pointed out.

Since SLM practices are key to combat land degradation, the two authors provided some recommendations so

more far mers will adopt those sustainable practices in their farms.

Since labor and materials have been identified as problems in SLM adoption, they suggested that “a system of labor-pooling and materials bank be put in place.”

“It might be worthwhile to look into a system wherein local labor (or labor supply within the community) can be pooled and rotated among farms,” the two authors explained.

The two researchers also believed that promotion of SLM should be promoted to specific target groups.

In addition, the two suggested that financial support should be limited only to those that provide incentives for investment in SLM. Likewise, both urged to address the credit shortages for investment in SLM adoption.

Finally, the two authors also reiterated the principle of cost-sharing which should be applied to all types of SLM practices and to all provinces.

“To reduce the feeling of dependency and to encourage farmers to take some responsibilities in taking care of the quality of their own lands, the system of cost-sharing should be introduced,” they suggested. (Photos courtesy of Orapan Nabangchang)

12 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

Aeon Towers construction updates out

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

over the units in December this year. Only a few remaining units are on sale,” Cruz, FTC’s CEO and president, said.

FTC Group of Companies recently signed a landmark transaction with Altus Hospitality South, Inc., a joint venture hospitality investment company between Altus Capital Corporation and Private Equity capital, via a fund from Singapore.

The investment company is managed by Altus Capital Partners, an affiliate of the World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation.

The deal involves the bulk purchase by the com-

njb@edgedavao.net

C

ONSTRUCTION is going round-the-clock for the next iconic structure in Davao’s landscape—Aeon Towers.

Passing through the busy JP Laurel Avenue, one will never miss the towering structure—33 levels to be exact--that’s touted as the next tallest building in Mindanao Things are really looking up.

The signature project of homegrown developer FTC Group of Companies is now more than 70 percent com-

plete.

New images released by the construction team revealed the works done in the building after it topped off officially last February 28.

Aside from the construction developments on site, Aeon Towers has likewise sealed a deal with a global investment firm that had bought in bulk 288 units in the 33-level high-rise development to operate apartment units and a hotel.

T h e building is being eyed to be fully finished by December this year or January next year.

“We are targeting to turn

pany of units at Aeon Towers, a new mixed-used residential and commercial tower, which at 33 floors is set to become the tallest skyscraper in Mindanao. Designed by Syndicated Architects Far East Associates with Ian Campbell and Associates as project and construction manager, Aeon Towers will boast a 144-key Hotel and 144- Residence serviced apartment (both operated

by Altus Hospitality) coupled with a 197-room high-end residential condominium; over 2,000 sqm of prime retail space, and at over 1,000 sqm, the largest grand ballroom in Davao.

The investment is a sign of confidence by the international investment community in FTC Group of Companies,

a Davao-grown firm with diverse business interests.

Aeon Towers is a mix-use 33 storey building development of F.T.C Group of Companies with a total project cost of P3.1 Billion. Aeon Towers will also house world-class amenities and it’s strategically located at the Central Business District (CBD) of Davao City.

With a total land area is 4,574 square meters, Aeon Towers will house 473 units parking slots of 300 and commercial spaces will be located in the ground floor to 5th floor. The seventh floor to 10th floor will be allocated for the hotel component while the sky deck is at the 33rd floor.

Campbell said the building boasts of earthquake resistant features.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO

Chinese fugitive nabbed in NAIA T

HE Bureau of Immigration arrested a Chinese fugitive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.

BI port operations division chief Marc Red Mariñas

identified the foreigner as Weng Wenmin, 51, who was intercepted at the immigration departure area of the NAIA 3 on Tuesday.

Based on his report to Immigration Commissioner

Jaime Morente, he said that the Chinese was supposed to board a Cebu Pacific flight to Hongkong.

He was apprehended after the duty immigration officer who noticed in her computer

that the passenger’s personal details exactly matched those of a Chinese national who was included in a watchlist order issued by the BI chief last April 20 based on information that the latter is a fugitive and an

undesirable alien.

Weng was immediately turned over to members of the BI’s border monitoring and security unit at the NAIA and was later brought to the agency’s detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City where he is now confined pending deportation proceedings.

Last April 19, the BI legal division filed immigration violation charges against the foreigner for being an undocumented alien and for posing a risk to public interest.

After two days, the Chinese embassy’s police attaché

informed the bureau that Weng is a fugitive wanted for economic crimes in China and that his passport had been canceled by the Chinese government.

But, the Chinese embassy did not elaborate or provide additional details about the crimes that Weng committed and for which he will stand trial when he is deported to his country.

The BI added that due to the cancellation of his passport, Weng’s working visa issued by the bureau is deemed revoked as he had become an undocumented alien. (PNA)

NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN ISSUED TO THE FOLLOWING PLANHOLDERS, TO WIT: PH NAME

TRIBAL HALL. Municipal Mayor Rhodora S. Alcoran [in red shirt] leads the ground breaking ceremony to mark the construction of Togan Center, a tribal center in Barangay Suawon, New Corella, Davao del Norte. Some 249 IP (indigenous peoples) households will benefit from this community project worth Php 363,236.00.

On the same day, a concrete 100 Linear-Meter Barangay Road with Single Barrel Box Culvert project was inaugurated and handed over to the barangay.

The projects were intiated by DSWD Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) under the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) modality.

PAMANA, one of the modalities of Kalahi-CIDSS, aims at strengthening people’s capacities in order to address issues of vulnerability and peace through activities that promote social cohesion. (DSWD/ Photos by: Susita Sheen Precillo)

EDGEDAVAO

CFP NO.

CONTRACT NO.

1. DELMAR C. SERVAÑEZ

21081534

NNN430001392

3. RONALDO S. GO

21089724 MRO50331030005

2. FILOMENO P. MICABALO

21044126

NNN 130006219

were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

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Accounting Clerks (2) Qualifications: • BS Accountancy Graduate • Female • Can work with minimum supervision • Experience of at least one year

Account Executive Qualifications: • BS Marketing Graduate • Male/Female • With pleasing personality Send your application letter and resume to: Ella P. Tingzon HR/Admin Supervisor Edge Davao Review Publishing Inc. Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., E. Quirino Avenue, Davao City Or email at edgedavao@gmail.com or ella_tingzon@yahoo.com

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SALES MANAGER • Must be a graduate of Bachelor’s/College Degree in Marketing, Mass Communications, Hospitality/Tourism/ Hotel Management or any relevant business course • At least 3 years experience in related field • Experience in hotel and tourism industry is an advantage • Able to implement all sales activities in his/her area of responsibility and maximize business opportunities from new accounts and repeat clients • Capable of developing sales strategies and setting sales targets • Knowledgeable in Events Management • Willing to travel around and nearby cities and provinces Send comprehensive resume, Transcript of Records, & other pertinent documents to: Human Resources Department SMX Convention Center Davao 3L, SM Lanang Premier, JP Laurel Ave., Davao City (082) 285 – 1045 loc 109 Email: kareen.lacorte@smxcc.com.ph smxcc.davao@gmail.com

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EDGEDAVAO Sports 15

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017

BATTLE OF BRISBANE Pacquiao-Horn gaining ground from US fans B

OB Arum believes skeptical US boxing fans are warming to the idea of Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Horn’s ‘Battle of Brisbane’.

The fight, set for July 2 at Suncorp Stadium, will be one of the biggest ever held in Australia but was widely panned by overseas watchers when first floated, mainly because Horn was a complete unknown.

The 29-year-old former schoolteacher is aiming to catapult into the sport’s elite bracket with an upset win in his WBO welterweight championship match against Pacquiao, who has won world titles in eight divisions and boasts a 59-6-2 record.

With ticket sales tracking well, a capacity crowd of 55,000 could be on the cards which would represent the largest live audience the Filipino legend has ever front-

ed. Arum, the CEO of Top Rank promotions, is the man who made it all possible and said the magnitude of the occasion was starting to dawn on Americans.”It’s changing.

Obviously, they see Manny fighting a guy who’s never fought in the United States and that’s why they say, ‘who is Jeff Horn?’,” he said.

“But some great writers now are coming around, that Jeff has the style to make it a real competitive fight. They just didn’t know who Horn was.”

Arum said a win would be “life-changing” for the 2012 London Olympian, who first took up boxing to protect himself from schoolyard bullies.

And he believes he is in with a real shot because of his cou nt er-pu nch i ng

ability, which could generate opportunities against the 38-year-old Pacquiao.

“Manny can use his speed and (agility) to avoid punches and hit, that gives Manny a big advantage. But because Manny tends to be very aggressive offensively, he leaves himself open for a counter,” Arum said.

“Jeff, when I watched him, is a terrific counter-pu nc her.

That’s going to be his strength.

“When Manny at-

feated Merry Joy Tero of Davao, who settled for silver (1:08.75) and Rezen Albano of Western Visayas, who took the bronze (1:10.91).

Eugenio’s sterling and record-breaking performance made her the fourth athlete to establish a new meet record in athletics.

The other record-breakers are Kate Julienne Martinez of Negros Island with a heave of 35.56 meters; Sylvian Faith Abunda of Nothern Mindanao in the secondary girls’ javelin throw (42.85 meters); and James Lozanes of Western Visayas in the secondary boys’ javelin throw

(59.46 meters).

In other events in athletics, Shiela Talja and Elvy Villagoniza, both from Western Visayas, bagged the gold and bronze in the secondary girls’ triple jump registering, 12.18 meters and 11.72 meters, respectively, while Gioneli Gatinga of the National Capital Region (NCR) took the silver (11.91 meters).

Rona Bacus of Northern Mindanao won the gold in the elementary girls’ triple jump (10.75 meters), while Sharlane Gonzales and Mary Rose Billones, both of Western Visayas, took the silver (10.45 meters) and bronze (10.36

tacks, will Jeff be able to stand there, face Manny’s punch and hit Manny with a counter right?

“If he does, with what strength can he hit him and what effect will it have?

“That, to me, is the fight.

Everything else is baloney.”

IT’S ON. Manny Pacquiao (left) and Jeff Horn (right) pose before photographers in Brisbane.

Reyes tips of 9 Gilas shoo-ins

T

C

REATORS of the Palarong Pambansa during the DECS era in the early 70s visualized a great athletic institution that they appropriately tailored fit for the Filipino in-school youths.

Today, as the Palaro brings its curtains down in Antique, there seems to be some odd thoughts lingering over the future of the now DepEd-organized athletic meet.

Despite some favorable media commentaries, we hear some discouraging remarks from delegations who begrudge the perpetual winning ways of athletes from the National Capital Region.

Every regional delegation, it appears, is only fighting for second honors as NCR players dominate every sports event there is in the Palaro calendar. Only

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meters), respectively.

NCR grabbed the gold-silver in the secondary girls’ discus throw, courtesy of Kasandra Alcantara (34.69 meters) and Daniella Daytona (34.11 meters), while Franz Gela Bintad of the Negros Island region took the bronze (33.56 meters).

Still in discus throw, Con Prince David of Calabarzon captured the gold in the elementary girls’ level (29.33 meters) while Duncan Maverick Rivera of Central Luzon took the silver (29.32 meters) and Tericho Monje of Bicol region the bronze (28.85 meters). (PNA)

HE Final 12 is almost complete for the Gilas Pilipinas team set for battle in the 2017 Seaba Championship from May 12 to 18 at the Araneta Coliseum.

According to Philippine Star’s Nelson Beltran, Gilas coach Chot Reyes already has in mind nine players who will easily made the cut and is only contemplating on the last three to complete the 12man roster.

“It’s easy to decide on the first nine,” said Reyes on Wednesday as Beltran pointed to naturalized player Andray Blatche, June Mar Fajardo, Calvin Abueva, Jayson Castro, Terrence Romeo, Japeth Aguilar, Troy Rosario, Raymond Almazan and Allein Maliksi.

“The hard part is picking the players to complete the cast. It’s because all these players are dedicated,” he added before Gilas faced its first battle against the PBA All-Stars in Cagayan de Oro’s Xavier University Gym on Wednesday.

Reyes is using the first two All-Star games, in CDO on Wednesday then the Lucena game on Friday, to assess who will make the Final 12, which will debut on the third All-

about?

Usually, recruiters and scouting coaches from NCR schools train their binoculars on elementary grade athletes who immediately display their alacrity in such events as athletics, swimming, chess, tennis, Little League (children’s) baseball, softball, volleyball, table tennis, etc. We know that athletes with strong potentials usually display their prowess as early as their formative years.

Palaro brains should ideally roll out new rules about this sad situation so that the original concept of making the student games the genuine spawning ground of outstanding young players may be achieved. Regional participation must be strengthened by strengthening their composition.

The rotational hosting of the national student games is already well-established. However, transport problems among regional delegations are sometimes cropping up.

In Region 12 last year, parents of athletes taking part in the Palaro hosted by Albay protested why small vans, instead of big buses, were used by Reg. 12 DepEd bosses. Parents claimed that buses were steadier and more stable for a long drive than the vans which did not carry insurance packages for the passengers. It was good nobody got injured in an accident. (The Caranglan, Nueva Ecija bus accident where 33 passengers died comes to mind.)

Parents were silently whispering that somebody might have gone laughing all the way to

Farmer’s daughter rips Palaro hurdles mark HE daughter of a farmer from the Ilocos region who had to walk for kilometers to get to her elementary school, won the gold and established a new meet record in the 400-meter hurdles after Day 4 of the athletics competition in the 60th edition of the Palarong Pambansa being held at the Binirayan Sports Complex here.

Ana Marie Eugenio clocked 1 minute 8.03 seconds, erasing the 19-year-old mark of 1:08.6 set by Junelou Cabal of Northern Mindanao in the 1998 Palaro.

The Ilocana runner de-

SHOO IN. Terrence Romeo (left), shown here guarding Dabawenyo All-Star PJ Simon, is reportedly a shoo-in for the Gilas squad to the SEABA tournament in Manila next month.

Palarong Pambansa – a continuing dream

Southern Tagalog and Western Visayas have come close to bringing down NCR’s strangle-hold on the Palaro diadem annually. How and why this has become to be a “tradition’ of sorts, DepEd officials must explain satisfactorily.

We know for a fact that recruitment is the trade secret, if not the culprit.

Many schools in Metro Manila offer athletic scholarships to regional players who display national potential and exploit their sporting talents in the prestigious NCAA or UAAP wars.

Parents, who are not financially equipped and zealous about their children’s academic future, seize the opportunity to make sure their son or daughter gets to finish his/her schooling and move on to clinch a college degree by way of sports.

SPORTS KEN

By RED C. LUMBA

Based on my decades-long of Palaro coverage, DepEd officials just cannot come up with the right answers. They are not helpless nor downright ignorant.

They merely look the other way.

Shouldn’t they be making appropriate rules about recruitment in a bid to level the playing field which is reasonably what sports competitions are all

Star battle in Cebu on Sunday.

He will announce his choices on Friday.

For the last three slots, Reyes will pick from the remaining Gilas hopefuls like Matthew Wright, Jio Jalalon, Kevin Ferrer, RR Pogoy, Ed Daquioag, Bradwyn Guinto, Fonso Gotladera, Norbert Torres, Arnold Van Opstal, LA Revilla, Jonathan Grey, Mike Tolomia, Von Pessumal, Carl Bryan Cruz and Almond Vosotros.

Out of consideration due to injuries are fellow Gilas pool members Mac Belo, Art Dela Cruz and Russell Escoto.

Tolomia, Pogoy, Wright, Ferrer, Cruz, Torres, Gotladera, Pessumal, Revilla and Guinto joined shoo-ins Romeo and Fajardo in facing off the Mindanao All-Stars on Wednesday.

Daquioag, Grey, Vosotros, Van Opstal will make their case in Lucena, joining Wright, Guinto, Cruz, Ferrer, Tolomia and Torres along with sure bets Maliksi and Almazan in facing the Luzon All-Stars.

Fajardo and Romeo were set to play for the Visayas AllStars but may have to switch sides with Reyes’ plan to field his final lineup in Cebu. the bank.

Be that as it may, Palaro policy-makers should henceforth issue a uniformed official circular that student-athlete participants must be comfortably bused and ably protected when travelling to and from the Palaro venue.

We raise our hats off to Antiquenos who warmly received the more than 5,000 athletes, coaches and parents in San Jose de Buenavista, site of the sports festival.

Despite a relatively light experience in hosting national events of this magnitude, Antique officials and the citizenry were united in ensuring the visitors would not be disappointed with their innate hospitality. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 28 - 29, 2017