Edge Davao 10 Issue 2 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PERSISTENT PROBLEM. A resident watches while a worker of a company supplying potable water in their community fills up his water containers in Deca Homes, Cabantian, Davao City. Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang has urged concern agencies to fast track the surface bulk water project which is seen as the solution to the water shortage problem in Cabantian and other areas in the city’s second District. Lean Daval Jr.

UNFIT YET NGOs say Mt. Apo needs 3 years to recover PCL backs Rody fully T T By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

HE Interface Development Interventions Inc. and the Ecoteneo Division of the Ateneo de Davao University have joined forces in calling for the suspension of the re-opening of Mt. Apo to tourism. At theKapehan saDabaw on Monday, IDIS acting Executive Director Chinkie Peliño-Golle called on other groups to support the rehabilitation of the mountain as well as the continued banning of trekkers and climbers from scaling it. Golle said the mountain needs more time to recover from the 200-hectare forest fire that destroyed its forest cover in March last year. “It even takes a minimum of UNITED FRONT. Mylai Santos (right) of Ateneo de Davao University’s Ecoteneo and Interface Development Interventions Inc. (IDIS) executive director three years for a tree to grow. Mt. Chinkie Peliño-Golle have joined forces in calling for the suspension of the re-opening of Mt. Apo to tourism to continue the rehabilitation of the mountain a year after it was hit by fire. Santos and Golle graced the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

FUNFIT, 10

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE officers and members of the Philippine Councilors’ League is fully supportive of President Duterte and his administration. This was the assurance made by newly-elected PCL chairman of the board Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang. FPCL, 10

Koronadal opens quest for 3 Guinness’ world records

SPORTS

P15

s more to just being THESE GIRLS There’ fun-loving girls for these GOT GAME! bunch of Dabawenyas

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

FROM ABRA TO DAVAO. Senior Supt. Alexander Tagum, the acting Davao City Police Office chief, speaks to reporters inside his office on Monday. Tagum, who was previously assigned as provincial commander of Abra, is expected to formally assume his post in a turn over ceremony at DCPO grounds on Tuesday. KEITH BACONGCO

4 DOSCST execs suspended 6 months for bid anomalies

For purchase of school supplies without public bidding

HE Office of the Ombudsman has suspended for six months without pay the president of the Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology (DOSCST) for conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service. The Office of the Ombudsman found DOSCST president Jonathan Bayogan, together with Airma Ladera (Chairman, Bids and Awards Committee), Vivian Labasano (OIC-Director for Administrative Services) and Erlinda Patosa (BAC member) administratively liable for failing to comply with Republic Act No. 9184, or the “Government Procurement Reform Act”, for a project undertaken

in 2006. The Ombudsman-Mindanao Field Investigation Unit found that in March 2006, the DOSCST procured supplies and equipment for its Funda Laboratory without public bidding and sans any approved budget for the Contract. Procurement documents show that the respondents obtained quotations from three suppliers and opened their bids. However, after the opening of quotations, the respondents allowed another bidder, Multilab, to submit its offer and eventually awarded the project to the latter thru the alterna-

F4 DOSCST, 10

Scholarships for victims of Sasa bombing still on BY FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA

HE educational assistance of the City Government for the children of the victims of the 2003 Sasa Wharf bombing has not been stopped and is continuing, according to City Social Services Development Office head Maria Luisa Bermudo. Bermudo said that 14 years after the incident that killed 15 civilians and injured 46 others, the city has sponsored over 500 scholars in the different colleges and universities in the city.

Bermudo said that for so long as the student shows willingness to study, the city will continue to provide educational assistance. This is for so long as the student does not stop or change course or school without even informing the CSSDO. “The beneficiaries of our educational assistance can choose their own school whether it’s a public or a private school, they can even choose their own course we won’t impose them any course

that they do not want,” she said. “They just need to follow the rules set by the city government like the when they change course they should immediately inform us, the family should continue monitoring their children and they should not stop their studies,” Bermudo added. Over the years, the city has spend around P5,000,000 for the educational assistance of the victims of the bombing in Sasa Wharf alone whether

they are severely or moderately injured. On Sunday, the families and victims of the Sasa Wharf bombing gathered at the blast site to commemorate the 14th year of the incident that claimed the life of 15 civilians and injured 46 others. Joel Torrevillas, 30, a resident of Tibungco this city was just 17 years old at that time, he was a porter at that time when the explosion occurred. “I was having a snack at

According to the councilor, there are 11 major projects that needed infrastructure development and traffic signalization that have a total cost of P 46 billion. Three of these are already on-going. He said also part of the infrastructure development project is the construction of the four-lane road from Milan going to Cabantian area. Councilor Dayanghirang who is also the city council Chairman of Finance and Ways

and Means Committee said that this year, the budget allocated for the traffic signalization project is P 36M. “Last year, we had a budget of P 56M but there is still unspent budget in 2016 that is why we requested a lower budget for 2017. Expenditures for maintenance and operation are good for two years, hence a continuing appropriation unlike salaries and wages that have zero appropriations every year,” Dayanghirang said.

FSCHOLARSHIPS, 10

Davao keen on expanding traffic signalization scheme By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

FULL SUPPORT. Newly-elected Philippine Councilors’ League chairman of the board Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang gives his assurance that the officers and members of the organization is fully supportive of President Duterte and his administration. Dayanghirang made the statement during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

ITH the continuing problem of Davao’s traffic situation, newly elected National Chairman of the Board of Philippine Councilor’s League Danilo Dayanghirang announced that the city will be having a series of traffic signalization project. “We need to give emphasis on fixing our traffic signalization project especially with the advent of the infrastructure program in the city,” Dayanghirang said.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

BTC meets April 3-5 to work on BBL draft T

PLATEFUL. SM Supermalls Mindanao Region assistant vice president for marketing Russel Alaba welcomes guests and participants during the opening ceremony of Davao on a Plate at SM Lanang Premier over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr.

ALLOUT OFFENSIVE Army to continue ops vs NPA in Davao region By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

LL out military offensives will proceed in areas in Davao region after a series of armed confrontations between government forces and New People’s Army rebels took place late last week, top officers of the Philippine Army said in a statement

on Monday. In a statement, Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia, commander of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division also lauded the efforts of 25th Infantry Battalion and 28th Infantry Battalion in defending civilians and their communities from the attacks of NPAs

during the weekend. “Our military offensives will continue to hit the NPA harder until they sooner realize to finally abandon the armed struggle,” Valencia said. On the other hand, Brig. Gen. Macairog Alberto, commander of 1001st Infantry Bri-

gade also called on the remaining members of NPAs in the region to avail of the government’s integration program. Alberto said government troopers will intensify its military operations against the rebels in Compostela Valley

er Pantaleon Alvarez’s request for legal opinion on the matter. The panel will be composed of both technical and legal committees, Aguirre said. ”Natanggap lang namin kanina yung sulat ni Speaker Alvarez, humihingi ng opinion tungkol sa tunay na legal status of more than 5,300 hectares ng

Dapecol sabi namin kay Speaker, magco-constitute ako ng parang panel rito composed of the technical as well as the legal status,” Aguirre told reporters on Monday. Earlier, Alvarez filed a graft complaint against Davao del Norte Rep. Antonio “Tonyboy” Floirendo Jr. before the Office

of the Ombudsman over his alleged unconstitutional “business interest” over his banana firm Tadeco. Alvarez accused Floirendo of violating Section 3 (h) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act for having “a direct financial or pecuniary interest”

FALLOUT, 10

DOJ form fact-finding team to probe DPC, TADECO deal HE Department of Justice will create a fact-finding team to probe the land lease agreement between the Davao Penal Colony (Dapecol) and the Tagum Agricultural Development Corp. (Tadeco). Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday said this is in response to House Speak-

Nationwide forest conservation pushed against climate change

OLLOWING the concurrence of the Senate of the Philippines to the ratification of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change on March 14, the Forest Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources , in cooperation with the German Government’s Environment Ministry, is pushing for the nationwide implementation of the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) strategy to help reduce impacts of climate change by protecting and sustainably managing the country’s forests. The DENR-FMB and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the German government’s international development cooperation agency, have been working together for the sustainable manage-

ment of forests through the joint project “Preparation of a National REDD+ Mechanism for Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Conservation of Biodiversity in the Philippines” (National REDD+ System Philippines). The project helped create a national framework for REDD+, considering ecological, social and governance safeguards. The REDD+ strategy contributes to the conservation of forests to meet 40 percent of the 70 percent carbon emission reductions that the Philippines committed to shortly after the Paris UN climate conference in 2015. Forest conservation also ensures the sustainable provisions of other ecosystem services such as food and water. Trees sequester carbon from the atmosphere, which

FNATIONWIDE, 11

FDOJ, 10

UPBEAT. Koronadal City information officer Judith Amido, together with South Cotabato Motorcycle Clubs, Inc. and T’nalak Riders, Inc. public information officer Apollo Moreno III, announces the upcoming 23rd National Federation of Motorcycle Clubs Annual Convention slated on April 29 in Koronadal City.

HE Bangsamoro Transition Commission will convene in Cotabato City on April 3-5 to adopt its internal rules and set up the committees that will pave the way for crafting of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). The 21-member Commission will also decide what working draft it will adopt although several commissioners MindaNews spoke with said they prefer the draft submitted to Congress by the previous BTC on September 10, 2014 — the “agreed version” adopted by the Office of the President and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) — to be the working draft. Government has proposed a May 18 target to submit the draft to President Rodrigo Duterte for him to study it before it its submission to

Congress in time for Duterte’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 24. Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the MILF Peace Implementing Panel and a member of the BTC, told a press conference here last week that May 18 is “too ambitious” but the former BTC chair said they will exert “best efforts” There are only 45 days between April 3 and May 18 and 112 days to July 24. On March 11, Duterte surprised those keenly monitoring the Bangsamoro peace process, when, addressing the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) during the inauguration of the People’s Television (PTV) Cordillera Hub in Baguio City, he said, “you’re about to complete the Bangsamoro Transition draft. I will study

FBTC, 10

32 soldiers injured as military pursues Abu Sayyaf terrorists

TOTAL of 32 army soldier suffered various injuries as the military operation against a sub-leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group entered its second day on Monday in Sulu province, officials said. Elements of the Joint Task Force Sulu launched an assault against the group of ASG sub-leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan in Talipao town on Sunday. “Firefight is still ongoing,” Col. Cirilito Sobejana, JTFS commander told the Philippines News Agency on Monday, noting that the wounded soldiers were given medical treatment. Sobejana could not determine the exact number of casualties on the side of the ASG, saying “reports are still trickling in.” “We will provide the data later,” Sobejana added. The group of Sawadjaan

has been tagged for the strings of abductions in nearby Malaysia in recent years. The elusive Abu Sayyaf sub-leader had been the target of the military’s manhunt operations against high value individuals in Sulu after Sawadjaan emerged as the new sub-leader of the bandit group. Sawadjaan leads at least 150 bandits based on military estimate. The Abu Sayyaf bandits are still holding captives 28 people, mostly foreigners, and it was not immediately clear if the group of Sawadjaan is holding any of the victims. The JTFS has beefed up its operations against the ASG, which splintered into several groups, following President Rodrigo Durterte’s order to finish the bandits in six months. The deadline will lapse on June 30.

F32 SOLDIERS, 10

Amido added during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday that three records of Guinness World Records will be attempted to break - largest parade of motorcycles, most engines started simultaneously and most motorcycle horns sounded simultaneously. Lean Daval Jr.

4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

DOH backs DOF drive vs cigarette tax cheats

T RENEWED DRIVE. Bureau of Internal Revenue OIC assistant commissioner Teresita M. Angeles speaks during the blessing and launching of BIR Large Taxpayer Division-Davao along Cabaguio Avenue in Davao City on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

Trade deal eyed for entry of halal products to USA Deal to pave way for halal food to American market

OP officials of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority , Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the Unites States Halal Chamber of Commerce are eyeing to sign a trade deal within the year for local halal food producers to penetrate the American market. In a statement sent to the Philippine News Agency on Monday, ARMM-Economic Zone Authority chief Aleem Siddiqui Guiapal said the initiative was made following their meeting with the head of the U.S. Halal Chamber of Commerce during a trade visit in Washington last week. Guiapal said it was proposed that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) be signed among PEZA, ARMM and the U.S. Halal Chamber

of Commerce in order to formalize cooperation and assistance. The signing of the MOU may take place at a planned International Halal Ecozones Summit to be held in Davao City in October. Guiapal, who was part of the Philippine delegation, said the agreement would address four key areas. These are the consensus on certification requirements that avoid confusing, contradictory and costly requirements; protect the integrity of halal certification in order to avoid loss of confidence by consumers; ensure that claims regarding health and safety are based on science and not on shariah alone; and, address the relative lack of information on halal markets.

12th ASEAN investors forum for finance ministers in Cebu

HE island of Mactan in the province of Cebu is hosting this week the 12thASEAN Finance Ministers Investors Seminar (AFMIS), which aims to tackle ways of further harnessing investment opportunities within the 10-member regional bloc that has emerged as a key driver of global growth amid the current risks to the world economy. The whole-day event will commence in Lapu-Lapu City on Thursday (April 6) with Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III of the Philippines, this year’s ASEAN host, and ASEAN Deputy Secretary General Lim Hong Hin delivering their respective welcome remarks. Finance Ministers Pehin Dato Abdul Rahman Ibrahim of Brunei Darussalam; Sri Mulyani

Indrawati of Indonesia; Johari Abdul Ghani of Malaysia; Apisak Tantivorawong of Thailand; and Secretary of State Sokha Nguon of Cambodia are expected to attend the AFMIS and the series of high-level meetings at the Shangrila Mactan Hotel. The 2017 AFMIS will also focus on updates on regional connectivity and the progress of the ASEAN Economic Community, which is designed to create a single market and production base within ASEAN through the free flow of goods, skilled labor, services and investments among its 10 member-states. A plenary session of the ASEAN finance ministers will be held on Thursday morning, followed by a networking lunch with global financial institutions

F12TH ASEAN, 11

ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman was quoted in the statement as saying the development is in line with their promotion to make the Polloc Freeport and Ecozone in the town of Parang, Maguindanao province as the “halal hub” of the country. Hataman also underlined the needed market for halal producers in ARMM. “The ARMM government is continually working to open the possibilities of the halal market in the region as well as the country (to our local producers),” he said. Habib Ghanim, chief executive officer of the U.S. Halal Chamber of Commerce, led a group of experts in briefing the Philippine delegation on business opportunities, as well as challenges, in the U.S.

halal trade, the statement said. For his part, PEZA Director-General Charito Plaza said the initiatives will help economic zones (ecozones) in Mindanao to position themselves in the halal market. “I believe that this will go a long way towards ensuring the empowerment of ecozones of Mindanao,” she said. Under Muslim customs and traditions, consumers must be assured that the food they consume meets halal requirements from “farm to plate.” The use of pork or its derivatives are “haram (forbidden) in Islam. Estimates showed that there are currently 1.8 billion Muslim individuals worldwide. (PNA)

INVESTMENT CONFERENCE. Different sub-committees helping in the preparations for the July 21-22 holding of the 4th Investment Conference (ICon) in Davao City held yesterday another meeting to finalize various aspects of the gathering aimed at inviting more investments to Davao. The annual project is an initiative of the Davao City of Commerce and Industry Inc. and the Davao City government under Mayor Sara Duterte

HE Department of Health (DOH) is backing the Department of Finance (DOF)’s campaign to expose, and run after, tax cheats in the cigarette industry, in which just an additional P1 billion in unpaid taxes could have been spent to procure medicines and pay for the medical treatment of some 5.7 million indigent Filipinos afflicted with hypertension and diabetes. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III welcomed the DOH’s expression of support, and assured Health Secretary Paulynn Ubial that Mighty Corp., which the government has vowed to haul into court for using fake cigarette tax stamps, would get no special treatment from the DOF or the Bureaus of Internal Revenue (BIR) and of Customs (BOC). “The rule of law must be applied equally. All kinds of crime must face swift and sure justice, and Mighty Corp. is no exception. These fraudulent tax stamps represent billions of pesos worth of theft from the Filipino people,” Dominguez said. The DOF has been at the forefront of the government’s campaign against tax dodgers in the cigarette industry.

Last March 22, the BIR filed a P9.6 billion criminal complaint against Mighty Corp. before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for unlawful possession of articles subject to excise tax without payment of the tax, and for possession of false, counterfeit, restored or altered stamps. The use of fake tax stamps was uncovered during a series of surprise inspections that the BOC had conducted on warehouses housing Mighty Corp. cigarettes. “The current sin tax law was passed to help devote more resources to health care. It is alleged that Mighty has evaded P9 billion worth of taxes, if not more. Imagine how many hospitals, how many surgeries, how many vaccines, how many prescriptions could have been administered with that money and how many lives could have been saved,” Dominguez said. “Rest assured, we are pursuing this case in consideration of the magnitude of what has been deprived from the Filipino people,” he said. Mighty Corp. executives will have their constitutional opportunity to prove their innocence “but the evidence

FDOH, 11

E-powers bill to hurdle interpellation in Senate

EN. Grace Poe on Monday expressed optimism that her proposed emergency powers bill will hurdle interpellation when the Senate resumes its sessions in May. “Ending the daily agony and sufferings of our commuters is long overdue. Any further delay in solving the traffic crisis is denying them the basic rights and due service they deserve to get from government,” Poe said. Poe, principal sponsor of Senate Bill No. 1284 or the proposed Traffic and Congestion Crisis Act (emergency powers

bill), was hopeful that the chamber will eventually pass the measure during the 14 calendar days prior to adjournment of session in June. The senator, who is also Chair of the Senate Committee on Public Services, meanwhile assured that her measure will be compliant to the freedom of information (FOI) executive order, fiscally responsible and adhering to deadlines. She further said that massive transportation projects will be up for public scrutiny.

FE-POWERS, 10

Carpio. Presiding is DCCCII trustee Arturo Milan (center) who heads the ICon committee this year. One of those discussed in yesterday’s meeting at the DCCCII board room was the schedule of a series of roadshows that the Milan committee will hold to promote the conference to embassies and foreign chambers of commerce in Manila, April 17-18. AMA

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

EDGEDAVAO

ECONOMY 5

Skybiz launched in Davao City By JECIA ANNE OPIANA

O address the growing demand on online and data connectivity, Sky Cable Corporation launched SkyBiz Davao City fiber network to business owners during the Empire Night held at Park Inn by Radisson on March 29.

“We invited 100 prime companies in Davao City from different industries like BPO, retail, schools and universities as well. Some are current customers and anyone we want to meet,” said John Arayata, Skybiz head. “We wanted them to know

OMEGROWN fast food giant Jollibee Foods Corp. (JFC) will open its first Jollibee store in Italy as it expands its global footprint. JFC told the local bourse its wholly owned subsidiary Golden Plate Pte. Ltd. (GPPL) and Blackbird Holdings Pte. Ltd. (Blackbird) will form a Singapore joint venture (JV) company, of which 75 percent is owned by the former and 25 percent by the Blackbird. The JV will incorporate a wholly-owned Italian subsidiary to own and operate the first Jollibee store in Italy. “The JV will facilitate Jollibee’s entry in Italy and is an excellent opportunity to introduce the Jollibee brand to the European market,” said JFC. GPPL and Blackbird have committed to invest up to EUR 1 million (around over PHP53 million) to the JV, of which up to EUR750,000 will be contribut-

ed by GPPL in proportion to its ownership in the business. GPPL shall have full management control of the JV and the operations of the first store. Blackbird is a Singapore company incorporated in 2014 and currently holds various investments both in Singapore and in the Philippines in the food and beverage, human resource, agriculture and biotechnology sectors. JFC operates the largest food service network in the Philippines. As of February 28, 2017, it was operating 2,670 restaurant outlets in the country: Jollibee brand 989, Chowking 489, Greenwich 251, Red Ribbon 396, Mang Inasal 469 and Burger King 76. Abroad, it was operating 620 stores in China, United States, Vietnam, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Singapore,

Jollibee to open first Italy branch

FJOLLIBEE, 10

that Skybiz is here to help them build their businesses better.” With an annual basis investment of P 300M to 400M and continues to grow double of the industry rate by 24% year on year. “The goal is to be the

best alternative to the current Telco providers. We have built a technology that allows us to be able to compete, not to be at par with our competition but to be better. More importantly to service them well and provide not only high grade service but

quality over all,” said Dicky U. Liwanag, Skybiz Head of Corporate Sales. Skybiz is a member of the Lopez Group of Companies which offers digital cable packages and high-speed broadband connections for businesses. They are tied up

with StarHub, Singapore’s fully-integrated info-communications company, and CISCO and UTSTARCOM for enterprise broadband solutions. For more information on how to avail their services, visit www.skybiz.com. ph.

Mr. Dicky U. Liwanag, Skybiz Head of Corporate Sales welcomes guest entrepreneurs during the Empire Night at Park Inn By Radisson. Photo by Jecia Anne Opiana

6 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

Koronadal City, PCC join forces to promote dairy production

HREE farmers in Koronadal City recently received dairy buffaloes from the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) in Kabacan, North Cotabato. A report from the City Information Office identified the three beneficiary farmers as Darlene Bacongco of Barangay San Isidro, Cherrie Almasan of Barangay San Jose and Noel Jacinto of Barangay Mabini. Almasan and Jacinto received three carabaos each while Bacongco received four, which they will use for production of carabao milk as a source of income. The animal dispersal is an upshot of memorandum of agreement that Koronadal City Mayor Peter Miguel signed with PCC-Kabacan Center Director Benjamin John Basilio signed on March 20 for the promotion of ca-

rabao dairy production in the area. In his message at the MOA signing, Basilio expressed hope that the animal dispersal project would result in increased supply of inexpensive carabao milk in the area. The dairy buffaloes that cost P45,000 each were sourced from the Philippine Carabao Center’s dairy buffalo multiplier farm in Javier, Leyte province, Basilio said. As their obligation in the collaboration, farmers Bacongco, Almasan and Jacinto are responsible for rearing the animals and providing farm lot where they should grow the food for the buffaloes. Also, the beneficiaries are obliged to hand over to PCC the first offspring of the dairy buffaloes for dispersal to other farmers who would like to venture into dairy production. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

NorCot town cops hunt down men in bombing that hurt boy

OLICE in Midsayap town in North Cotabato are hunting down two men on motorbike suspected to have planted an improvised bomb along a major highway here that went off at 4:30 a.m. and injured a 16-year-old pedicab driver. ”Pursuit operation is going on against the two, we are following up a lead,” Supt. Bernard Tayong, Midsayap town police chief, said. The blast that occurred near a branch of nationwide drug store and a famous restaurant, injured the pedicab driver, a resident of nearby Aleosan town.

No one has claimed responsibility for the bomb attack. The victim was rushed to the hospital by responding cops. Tayong, who withheld the victim’s name, said the motive of the IED could be extortion as it was planted near a famous restaurant along Quezon Avenue. Tayong said investigators are looking at other possible motives and groups who could have set off the IED. He said the BIFF is in the radar of investigators. Police and military forces are placed on heightened alert following the bombing. (PNA)

S part of its commitment to preserving the environment and building a better and stronger community, Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) organized the first ever “Green Wedding,” in Maa-

sim, Sarangani Province for more than 30 couples Thursday, March 30th. The mass wedding or “Kasalan sa Barangay sa Luntiang Maasim” (community wedding in green Maasim) was

VISIT AT RELOCATION SITE. General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera recently graces the blessing and induction of officers of Rural Waterworks and Sanitation Association (RWSA) and distribution of certificates in Purok Bualan, Barangay Tambler. Mayor Rivera also explained to the people in the

community the importance of water in their daily chores. Purok Bualan is a 7-hectare government property use as a relocation site. (GENSAN INFO OFFICE/Russell Delvo)

Authorities in NorCot seize P1-million worth of shabu J

oint elements of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-12), military and police seized suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” worth P1 million and nabbed 21 persons during a raid at Purok Krislam in Barangay Poblacion, Kabacan town. Senior Insp. Ronnie Cordero, Kabacan police chief, said that government forces were to serve nine search warrants Thursday last week

when the confiscation of shabu and arrest of suspects took place. The raiding team seized 125 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated value of P1 million, Cordero said. Authorities also confiscated 12 undocumented motorcycles, some were “choppedchopped” and believed to be carnapped. ”The 4 a.m. raid surprised the suspects. Some tried but failed to escape as the safe

organized by the SEC as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in partnership with the local government unit of Maasim, The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Municipal Civil Registrar (LCR)

and the Conrado Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc. (CLAFI). “The family is the basic unit of society, it is important for SEC to help strengthen that unit and use that as the foundation for a better Maasim,” said Joel E. Aton, Human Resource and Project Assurance Head of SEC. Aside from the standard solemnization, exchange of marriage vows, ring, and treasure the newly wed couples also took a less-traditional approach in sanctifying their marriage by planting Mahogany trees along the front yard of the SEC power plant. They also released bangus (milkfish) fingerlings to help restock the natural population of the popular fish in Sarangani Bay. “The mahogany tree that they (married couples) planted was chosen specifically to symbolize the strength, growth and nurturing that SEC wants to impart to the couple and their family,” Aton explained. “We want people to pass by the power plant in the future and point at the huge mahog-

house has been surrounded by police operatives,” he said. Kabacan Mayor Herlo Guzman and Senior Supt. Emmanuel Peralta, North Cotabato police provincial director, presented the suspects to the media. “I want to commend our law enforcers for this very successful operation against these people who continuously destroy our society,” the mayor said. Guzman said the group

belonged to a well-organized carnapping and illegal drug syndicate operating in North Cotabato and nearby Maguindanao. Purok Krislam is a known drug haven in Kabacan town where huge volume of illegal drugs emanate before these are distributed to other towns in the province. In 2014, police also raided Purok Krislam where arrests were made and illegal drugs were seized. (PNA)

Maasim, energy group host‘Green Wedding’ Young rebel from DavOr abandons NPA A

GREEN WEDDING. As part of its commitment to preserving the environment and building a better and stronger community, Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) organized the first ever “Green Wedding,” in Maasim, Sarangani Province for more than 30 couples Thursday, March 30th. The mass wedding dubbed as “Green Wedding

sa Luntiang Maasim (Green Maasim) was organized by SEC as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in partnership with the local government unit of Maasim, The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Municipal Civil Registrar (LCR) and the Conrado Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc. (CLAFI). (Maasim Information Photo)

FMAASIM, 11

14-YEAR-OLD girl abandoned the New People’s Army (NPA) two months after she was recruited by the revolutionary group in January. The Davao Oriental Provincial Information Office revealed on Friday that Shena (not her real name) of So Casunugan, Barangay Buso, Mati City, Davao Oriental sought the help of a barangay councilman of Buso to facilitate her surrender to the Army on Thursday. Shena is a grade six student of Serafin Vizconde Elem School in Buso when she was recruited by an alias Kara in January. Shena reportedly became a Medic of Squad 3, Baking Platoon of Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) 7. Shena’s surrender followed an encounter between government troops and NPA rebels that left a member of the NPA dead and two soldiers wounded. The latest armed encounter between the communist insurgents and Army troops happened noon Thursday in Barangay Tagbinonga, Mati City,

Davao Oriental. Buso and Tagbinonga are adjacent barangays. Capt. Andrew Linao, of the Civil Military Operations (CMO) of the 701st Infantry Brigade, reported that the troops of 28th Infantry Battalion and 66th Infantry Battalion encountered the NPA’s Pulang Bagani Command 6 in Tagbinonga while the soldiers were conducting patrol operations. Linao said the body of the dead rebel was recovered. The two wounded soldiers were immediately given medical attention, he added. Linao said the Army pounded the NPA position with 105 artillery to support the ground troops. Linao said the Philippine Army will continue the military operation against lawless groups that undermine the people’s democratic way of life and institutions. “These terrorists will not be tolerated and will face the full force of the government to maintain law and order,” he said. (PNA)

7 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

NEDA underscores importance of natural capital accounting W

VIBRANT PH-US TRADE RELATIONS. Trade ties between the Philippines and the United States pushes towards a more dynamic relationship as Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez (right) recently met with US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim (left) to discuss the trade and industry development between the Philippines and the United States. While the Philippines continues the momentum to diversify its International relations to new countries such as China and Russia, Secretary Lopez assured the Ambassador that establishing new ties to new countries does not diminish the existing PH-US trade relationship which has a strong track record being the country’s 3rd largest trading partner. Ambassador Kim, on the other hand, assured continuous support of the US to the country, citing USAID support in the Mindanao as a manifestation of the firm commitment of the US to the Philippines. The Ambassador also invited DTI for the upcoming SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington D.C. on June 18-20, where multinationals, small or mediumsized enterprises and high-growth start-ups would come together to showcase investment opportunities around the world. Secretary Lopez, on the other hand, is enthusiastic that there are Filipino companies who are ready to expand and diversify their market in the US. “The Philippines continue to diversify its market and liberalize its priority sectors to spur competitive industry developments such as hospitals, low-cost housing, and schools,” Secretary Lopez concluded. (DTI Photo Release)

Dual selfie camera now available in PH A LWAYS struggling to take a perfect “groufie” -- group selfie photo -with your friends? Quit worrying as a dual selfie camera is now available in the Philippine market. Just in time for the summer when people take a break with their families and friends, and companies conduct their team building activities, a camera which could include everyone in the photo has become available since Saturday, April 1. Technology brand Oppo recently launched the F3 Plus camera phone at the City of Dreams Manila. It was equipped with a wide-angle dual front camera to easily accommodate “groupies” in a single shot, thus taking selfies to the next level even without the need for a selfie stick. Recognizing that photos preserve memories, the company said the F3 Plus was designed for both the selfie lovers and photography buffs. Furthermore, the F3 Plus has the state-of-the-art hardware and software in a sleek body to deliver outstanding performance and style, fit for the urban lifestyle. This model sports a 16-megapixel (MP) selfie camera with a 1/3-inch sensor for clear image results even in low light, and an f/2.0 aperture for depth-of-field aesthetic. The secondary camera -- the 8MP camera, has a wide 120-degree angle, which the company claims to be 105 percent larger than the regular

80-degree lens field of view. This allows more people to fit in the frame. The wide-angle shot is also complemented by a 6P lens to minimize distortion. There is a built-in Smart Facial Recognition, which can enable users to switch to “Groufie” mode when more than three people are detected. Like the other Oppo products, the F3 Plus comes with the brand’s pioneering image editing software, the Beautify 4.0, which can make one look rosy, fair-skinned, or even close to being flawless. The 16 MP rear-facing camera, on the other hand, was co-developed with Sony. It has a customized 1/2.8-inch IMX398 sensor for fast focusing speed, outstanding noise reduction, and advanced lowlight performance. According to Oppo, the camera sensor has been developed using dual-phase autofocus technology to double the pixel array area, which is composed of photodiodes that determine the camera’s point of focus. “This increases focusing speeds by 40 percent even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Together with a large f/1.7 aperture, the sensor enables the rear camera to capture clear and breathtaking photos,” the company explained. Meanwhile, the product’s octa-core processor is backed by a 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM to ensure speed.

FDUAL, 11

ITH the government aiming for sustained economic growth of 7 to 8 percent in the medium term, there is a need to pay attention to the country’s natural resources and how they are used and managed, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). “We want to ensure that our pursuit of economic growth will not compromise our future,” said Socioeconomic Planning and NEDA Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia. “While numerous laws and regulations have been passed to protect, conserve and sustain our natural resources, their enforcement have been weak and inadequate. This is why we [NEDA] have been continuously supporting natural capital accounting or val-

uation to help Filipinos understand the true economic value of these resources and change the way we regard them,” he said. “Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) widens our horizons beyond GDP in terms of measuring our country’s economic performance and its sustainability,” said Pernia. Pernia made the remarks during the National Conference on NCA with the theme “Accounting nature: capitalizing partnerships for the future” on March 30-31, 2017 at the Marco Polo Hotel, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. The two-day conference served as a platform to showcase work on NCA and exchange information and experiences on various related efforts from the both local and international arena.

It was also a venue for planners, policy makers, scientists, practitioners, and advocates to further present how natural resource accounting and valuation can provide a more holistic view of the country’s economic performance. The institution of the NCA in the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 and the AmBisyon Natin 2040 recognizes the importance of sustaining and preserving the ecosystem. This supports the growth and performance of the economy, strengthens the resiliency of communities from climate change and disasters, and improves the welfare of the poor and marginalized members of society. Other officials who attended the conference include National Statistician Lisa Bersales (PSA), and Undersec-

retary Jonas Leones (DENR). In addition, an estimated number of 200 participants from various agencies and institutions, including the Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Climate Change Commission (CCC), legislative offices, academe, civil society organizations and private sector attended the event. The conference was organized in collaboration with the World Bank and in coordination with the PSA, DENR, Laguna Lake Development Authority, and Palawan Council for Sustainable Development. For more information about the event, you may refer to the following websites: www.neda.gov.ph or www. wavespartnership.org. (PR)

Coalition’s Project Protect. “Some forms of lead hazard assessment is necessary to ensure a lead-safe play environment for the children,” he added. “With frequent use, the lead-containing paints in some playground equipment may chip or peel and gets into the soil, which can be ingested by children as a result of their usual hand-to-mouth behavior,” he explained. “As many of the public playgrounds are not well-maintained, it is possible that the paint in some painted play equipment has already deteriorated,” he pointed out. Dizon noted that high concentrations of lead up to over 100,000 ppm were detected by the EcoWaste Coalition

during the group’s screening of paints in public playgrounds in Metro Manila in the last five years. “While some lead-containing playground equipment in Manila and Quezon Cities have been recoated or replaced, we are not sure if other LGUs have undertaken essential remediation measures,” he said. Dizon warned that some play things may still be coated with paints containing lead, a toxic substance that is banned in children’s toys as per Department of Environment and Natural Resources Administrative Order 2013-24, or the Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds. As clarified by Memorandum Circular 10, Series of 2016, issued by the Environ-

mental Management Bureau, “the manufacture, processing, sale, distribution and use of paints with more than 90 parts per million (ppm) of lead and lead compounds in the production of toys and related products shall be prohibited after December 31, 2016.” “Children’s products,” according to the said directive, include, among other things, “indoor/outdoor playground equipment (such as) slides, swings, seesaws, play pens, play houses.” According to the World Health Organization, “children are particularly vulnerable to the neurotoxic effects of lead, and even relatively low levels of exposure can cause serious and in some cases irreversible neurological damage.” (PR)

LGUs told: Check if playgrounds are safe from toxic lead

HE EcoWaste Coalition, a watch group on toxic chemicals, urged local government units (LGUs) to ensure a lead-free play environment for children this summer. The group specifically asked the municipal or city officials in charge of park maintenance and development, in collaboration with the health and environment offices, to conduct a lead hazard assessment in all public playgrounds. “The onset of summer provides a good opportunity for our LGUs to check not only on the physical state of our public playgrounds, but also on the potential chemical risk posed by some leaded play equipment,” stated Thony Dizon, Coordinator of the EcoWaste

SKILLS TRAINING. Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries of barangays Manambulan, Talandang, Manuel Guianga, Biao Joaquin, Angalan, Los Amigos and Wines of District 3 Davao City undergo training in dressmaking and tailoring, a partnership between Holy Cross College of Calinan and

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Skills acquired will aid transition of these Pantawid grantees upon graduation from the program. To date, Davao Region has over 260,000 families involved in Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. (DSWD Photo)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

EDITORIAL

No dent but more work required

ND so it can be told--more efforts and, yes, resources, need to be spent to hit the Duterte administration where it is weakest. The latest international economic outlook rating showed the firebombs by the opposition and its allies did not put a dent to the positive outlook given to the Philippines by a reputed organization like Fitch Ratings. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III was happy to announce the latest positive outlook of Fitch Ratings on the Philippines which he interprets as “proof enough that the political noise has failed to adversely affect the country’s growth story resulting from its strong macroeconomic performance and continued political stability.” Dominguez thinks that the political chatter emanating from certain quarters is a dismally failed in sullying the country’s sustained-growth narrative resulting from its strong economic performance, continued political stability and aggressive infrastructure and human capital investments under the Duterte presidency.

EDGEDAVAO

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Fitch is one of the world’s three major international credit-rating agencies. It gave the Philippines an investment grade sovereign credit rating of ‘BBB-’ along with a positive outlook on this rating. It has projected the domestic economy to grow by 6.8 percent this year and 6.7 percent in 2018, or within the government’s growth target range for the next two years. Fitch noted that “macroeconomic performance has remained strong” and “domestic political stability has been maintained” even as the Duterte administration has pursued its campaign against the illegal drug trade. Given this recent development, the government cannot rest on its laurels nor think that this latest positive results will ultimately obliterate the negative chatter. One thing is sure, it will continue. However, aside from confronting these attacks squarely head on, the administration must continue to assert its thrust on bringing about positive change especially in the economy -- addressing poverty and jobs generation -- other than its usual subjects of illegal drugs and corruption.

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ORLD War II, more than anything else, produced exceptional achievements under pressure. Many of those who shone against the backdrop of threat were women whose medical professions underscored their importance in times of injury and near-death trauma. They are what some writers call as ‘special patriots.’ John D. Lukacs, in Escape from Davao (2010), poignantly wrote a nurse whose heroic contributions to prisoners of war at the Davao Penal Colony was more than just a story of courage, but also a haunting passion to save lives even at the expense of her security. She was given the moniker of ‘Florence Nightingale of Dapecol.’ “Not long after the Campo clan [headed by patriarch Lt. Col. Anastacio] evacuated to Dapecol. The nineteen-year-old nursing school graduate was called by the Japanese to work at the Filipino hospital. When the Americans arrived, the ye-catching raven-tressed [Fely] Campo responded to her own orders. She threw quinine pills into the wire stockade and smuggled needles to doctors by sewing them in the hemlines of her skirts. She conspired with a chaplain to clothe the prisoners, giving the priest shirts, which he layered beneath his cassock and distrib-

ARRIAGE is one of the greatest institutions created by God in the Garden of Eden. The first marriage was initiated by God between Adam and Eve. “For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). But despite its being sacred, marriage has not been spared by people from poking fun on it. The great Leonardo Da Vinci, for instance, said, “Marriage is like putting your hand into a bag of snakes in the hope of pulling out an eel.” G.K. Chesterton has a similar view: “Marriage is an adventure, like going to war.” After all, “marriage is an alliance entered into by a man who can’t sleep with the window shut, and a woman who can’t sleep with the window open.” If we have to believe what British playwright George Bernard Shaw said. If “I am” is the shortest sentence in the English language, then what is the longest sentence then? “I do,” said George Carlin. Marriage is not a word – it is a sentence. Women have so many ideas about men and getting married. Here’s one from Jean Kerr: “Marrying a man is like buying something you’ve been admiring for a long time in a shop

VANTAGE POINTS

Davao’s forgotten war heroines

uted during services. Few prisoners learned her real name, but Campo’s sobriquet—the ‘Florence Nightingale of Dapecol’—proved that her daring efforts were greatly appreciated.” After the war, Fely married Dr. Jose Yap, a physician and surgeon who served the Special Intelligence Detachment, Tenth Military District, at Gatungan, Davao City, under Captain Adolph Ernest Sternberg Jr., the commanding officer. Meanwhile, in Davao City, another petite woman similarly braved the odds, defied the Japanese, linked with the American prisoners of war, clandestinely distributed medicines, and treated Filipinos hunted by the Imperial Army. Her courage earned her the name ‘Angel of Mercy’ from many postwar articles written about his courage, heroism, and steadfastness. Born in Santa Ana, Manila, Dr. Sexon (nee Baldomera Raymundo Esteban) earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of the Philippines on April 4, 1917, one of 22 graduates that year. She later joined the American Red Cross, where she worked until 1926; she was also a member of the Women’s Medical Association. The following year she moved to Davao to join the DMH. On the side,

FAST BACKWARD Antonio V. Figueroa the Centro de Puericultura de Davao took her as attending physician, along with two other doctors, Socorro C. Belisario and Pedro Santos, who was also connected with the hospital. Official documents showed she served the center until 1931 before deciding to transfer to the DMH. She was also connected with the Centro de Puericultura de Daliaon where she was succeeded by Dr. Irineo B. Bringas as attending physician in 1930. It was at the DMH that the lady doctor earned her spurs as a respected physician-surgeon. Her official biography when she received the Datu Bago Awards in 1970 concisely

depicted her humanitarian efforts: “For someone her size, scarcity over four feet tall, with a delicate frame, she took a lot on her frail shoulders during the first years with the hospital, working long hours, sometimes round the clock, catching catnaps during lulls between patients.” Before the war broke out, she married Leocadio Sexon, a dentist, but the union was childless. The couple adopted a boy but he was later found to have a disability. When the spouse died from stroke, she decided to leave the DMH and devoted herself to other endeavors, including the founding of Brokenshire School of Nursing. In her honor, the school’s auditorium was named in her memory. She was tragically killed by a burglar in her residence in April 1980. To her credit, she received a string of distinguished honors from various prestigious institutions, namely: ‘Most Outstanding Physician’ (1966) from the Davao Medical Society; UP Alumni Award (1967); ‘Golden Service Award’ (1971 & 1977) from the Philippine Mental Health Association; and a ‘Plaque of Appreciation’ (1976) from the Rotary Club of South Davao. But heroism was not exclusive to the Filipino women. Born in Australia, Masue Masuda, the daughter of migrants Umejiro

Masuda and Moyo Facumori, who arrived in Manila in 1916 but decided later to join an elder sister in Davao who was married to a Japanese photographer. In Davao, Masue, who was an alumna of the Tokyo Higher Normal School diploma, taught Nihingo to plantation kids. She was later joined by mother and two siblings migrated in Davao after her father died. During the war, Masue, who later married a Filipino, acted as interpreter of the Kempetai, the wicked Japanese police, saving hundreds of civilians from brutality. Heroism was not confined merely to having survived the perils of war. The conflict that ravaged Davao City also took a toll on the reputation and lives of other women harmed with enemy impunity. Some nuns even became victims of sexual abuse in the same way that wives of prominent Davao residents were forced into slavery as ‘comfort women.’ Unlike Fely Campo and Baldomera Esteban who were spared from the trauma of being brutalized amid dangers of being executed by bayonet if discovered, the ordeal, pain, and torment the nameless Davao maidens suffered in enemy hands was double-barreled. They were humiliated without recourse while undergoing physical violation!

he said. “And by then it was too late.” Socrates learned his lessons well: “By all means marry; if you get a good wife, you’ll be happy. If you get a bad one, you’ll become a philosopher.” Now, you know why he became a philosopher? The husband is usually at losing end when it comes to marriage. Film actor Woody Allen states, “In my house I’m the boss, my wife is just the decision maker.” Joey Adams thundered, “Marriage is give and take. You’d better give it to her or she’ll take it anyway.” A husband’s last words should always be, “Okay, buy it!” Each person has different view about his or her mate. “Women hope men will change after marriage but they don’t; men hope women won’t change but they do,” said Bettina Arndt in Private Lives. Even a beauty like Marilyn Monroe can’t get hold of her man. “Before marriage, a girl has to make love to a man to hold him,” she commented. “After marriage, she has to hold him to make love to him.” No wonder, she married several times and went to bed with several men. There are some formulas for a happy marriage. S.T. Coleridge contends, “The happiest marriage I can imagine to myself would be the

union of a deaf man to a blind woman.” That is why Rodney Dangerfield has said this: “I haven’t spoken to my wife in years. I didn’t want to interrupt her.” To either husband or wife, Benjamin Franklin suggests, “Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, and half-shut afterwards.” Anne Taylor Fleming believes that “a long marriage is two people trying to dance a duet and two solos at the same time.” Henry Youngman is often asked about the secret of their long marriage. His reply: “We take time to go to a restaurant two times a week: a little candlelight, dinner, soft music and dancing. She goes Tuesdays, I go Fridays.” Another one from Youngman: “I take my wife everywhere, but she keeps finding her way back.” Love and marriage are two different things. “Love is one long sweet dream, and marriage is the alarm clock,” someone quipped. Marriage also changes passion — suddenly you’re in bed with a relative. On second thought, marriage – according to Alan King – is nature’s way of keeping us from fighting with strangers. Estelle Getty has this view: “If love means never having to say you’re sorry, then marriage means always having to say everything twice.” By now, you get it the message!

The other side of marriage

window. You may love it when you get it home, but it doesn’t always go with everything in the house.” A man’s reply: “Getting married is very much like going to a restaurant with friends. You order what you want, then when you see what the other fellow has, you wish you had ordered that.” Humorist Helen Rowland shares, “Before marriage, a man declares that he would lay down his life to serve you; after marriage, he won’t even lay down his newspaper to talk to you.” Do you know what it means to come home at night to a woman who’ll give you a little love, a little affection, a little tenderness? Yes, you’re right. It means you’re in the wrong house. Film actor George Burns said this in one of his hit movies. Here’s a one-liner from Milton Berle. Your marriage is in trouble if your wife says, “You’re only interested in one thing,” and you can’t remember what it is. Marriage is like television. Twenty is when you watch the TV after. Forty is when you watch the TV during. Sixty is when you watch the TV instead. Don’t get mad at me, okay? Remember what Helen Rowland said? “When you see a married

THINK ON THESE!

Henrylito D. Tacio

couple walking down the street, the one that’s a few steps ahead is the one that’s mad.” “A man who says his wife can’t take a joke, forgets that she took him,” Oscar Wilde pointed out. That was what Kathy Lette also thinks of. “Why can’t women tell jokes?” she asked. “Because we marry them!” Hollywood sex goddess Zsa Zsa Gabor seemed to agree, “ A man is incomplete until he is married. After that, he is finished.” Max Kauffmann, however, never heard that statement. “I never knew what real happiness was until I got married,”

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

UNFIT... FROM 1

SUMMER TREAT. An exhibitor fixes her display of gelato during the promotion of the upcoming Flavor Fusion, a taste of Davao summer, at the Annex of SM City Davao on Monday. Lean Daval Jr.

PDEA-ARMM arrests wife of Maguindanao’s ‘top’ drug trafficker

NTI-NARCOTICS operatives arrested the wife of a wanted illegal drug pusher and seized high-powered firearms in Maguindanao province, officials said Thursday. Bryan Babang, regional director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEAARMM), said anti-narcotics operatives were to serve warrant of arrest against suspected large-scale drug trafficker Madatu Buisan in Talitay, Ma-

guindanao. But Buisan managed to elude arrest. His wife, Arbaya, who has been allegedly helping him distribute illegal drugs, was arrested while in possession of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu.” Babang told reporters the raid was conducted after concerned citizens of Talitay, including the couple’s neighbors, tipped off the PDEA of the suspects’ alleged illegal activities. Talitay has been public

identified by President Rodrigo Duterte as haven for illegal drugs with its mayor, Montasir Sabal, as among the “narcopoliticians.” Sabal denied the charges and went into hiding after Pres. Duterte named him a “narcopolitician.” Aside from suspected shabu, seized from Buisan’s home were a customized Bush Master 5.56 caliber assault rifle and an M203 rifle fitted with a launcher for 40 millimeter grenade projectiles and 11 shoulder-fired grenades and 21 ammunition magazines.

Also seized were more than P20,000 worth of cash proceeds from supposed drug deals and bank receipts showing more than P100,000 of remittances to an unnamed shabu supplier. Aside from Buisan, two of his followers also eluded arrest. Buisan’s wife is now detained at the PDEA-ARMM lock up cell in Cotabato City while awaiting charges for violations of RA 9165 and illegal possession of firearms and explosives. (PNA)

one food stall at that time,” Torrevillas said in vernacular. “A kid was playing behind me, and then I heard an explosion, I woke up a month after because of complications.” Torrevillas was just a few meters away from the bomb when the explosion took place; he was saved by the kid behind him who died during the incident. On 2014, he underwent another surgery because a splinter was left in his lungs. He can barely use his right arm

after the incident. On 2015, joint operatives of Police Regional Office 12, Military Intelligence Group 12, Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Central Mindanao apprehended the suspect of the bombing, Abdul Manap Mentang. Mentang was allegedly the man behind the Sasa Wharf blast and the 2005 Valentine’s Day bombing at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal.

tive method of shopping. A reading of the quotations show that the offers ranged from PHP225,000 to PHP300,000, which are beyond the procurement thresholds prevailing at that time. Applicable procurement regulations in 2006 require that for projects with ABCs exceeding PHP250,000, a procuring entity must conduct competitive bidding.

“Without conducting public bidding, the government was denied of other reasonable prices and quality goods from other suppliers. In fact, the defibrillator supplied by Multilab was defective,” the Ombudsman decision said. The Ombudsman ordered the Regional Director XI of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to implement the suspension order. (PNA)

it before we submit it to Congress and pray that it would sail on still waters.” The BTC, however, has yet to start working on the draft. In fact, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has yet to release the BTC’s budget. BTC Executive Director Mike Pasigan told MindaNews that he was informed the Deputy Executive Secretary for Finance and Administration had endorsed the documents to the DBM. “We are now waiting for DBM to assign funds,” he said. BTC chair Ghazali Jaafar, the MILF’s 1st Vice Chair, had earlier said that if the government side agrees to adopt as working draft, the draft bill that the BTC submitted in 2014 — or what became HB 4994 and SB 2408 — “hindi

na kami masyadong mahirapan.” “The BBL produced by the previous BTC is a better BBL. Maganda na yan eh, maganda na, so maybe we can reach out an agreement with the government that this previous BBL would become (the) working paper for the BTC. Now … if that will be the case, hindi naman kami masyadong mahirapan,” Jaafar told MindaNews on February 18. He said they can focus work on the provisions in the working draft that were objected to by the previous Congress. “Yung provisions na walang objection, hindi na kailangang pagtuunan yun ng pansin” (The provisions without objects, we do not need to focus on that), Jaafar added. (CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS, MindaNews)

with the renewal of the consolidated joint venture agreement (JVA) between Tadeco and Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), the agency supervising the Dapecol. Section 3 (h) of the anti-graft law classifies as among the corrupt practices by public officers those who have “financing or pecuniary interest in any business, contract or transaction in connection with which he intervenes or takes part in his official capacity, or in which he is prohibited by

the Constitution or by any law from having any interest.” Under the 2003 contract, both parties renewed for another 25 years BuCor’s lease to Tadeco of 5,308.36 hectares in the Dapecol at an annual PHP26.54 million, with an increase of 10-percent every five years. In his complaint-affidavit, Alvarez said Floirendo was a stockholder of Tadeco in 2003 while on his second term as first-district representative of Davao del Norte. (PNA)

Hong Kong, Bahrain, Canada, Oman and Saudi Arabia. The JFC Group has a total of 3,290 stores worldwide. JFC also has a 50-percent interest in joint ventures for the following stores: Highlands Coffee (Vietnam, Philippines) 177, Pho 24 (Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, Korea and Austra-

lia) 33, others 8; a 48-percent interest in joint venture for 12 Hotpot (China) 16 and a 40-percent interest in Smashburger with 372 outlets, mostly in the US. These joint ventures have a total of 606 stores worldwide, which are not included in JFC’s consolidated store count. (PNA)

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Apo is not ready yet. It needs more time to heal. It was only a year ago when the fire happened,” stressed Ms. PeliñoGolle. On March 23, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Protective Area Management Board approved the lifting of the ban through Resolution No. 01 series of 2017. The resolution paved the way for the re-opening of the Mt. Apo Park trails to trekking or climbing activities on April 2017, subject to the strict implementation of the unified trekking policy of 2015, camp management of 2015 and master plan of 2016. “That unified trekking policy said that only 50 trekkers

per trail langang allowed pero we have four trails, that’s still 200 people and it’s a lot,” she said. Peliño-Golle also added that up to date, there was no 2016 rehabilitation master plan being presented by the DENR. On April 5, IDIS will be sitting down with the DENR stockholder’s meeting and will be raising their reasons for opposing the re-opening of Mt. Apo. IDIS has also reached out to their other partner environmental organizations like the Philippine Eagle Foundation and the Kapwa Uplift Foundation to join hands in opposing the lifting of the ban to open Mt. Apo for the public.

“The 16,500-strong members of PCL coming from 1,400 towns and cities in the country have signified support to the continuing campaigns of the Duterte administration against corruption, crime and violence,” Dayanghirang told reporters during the regular Kapehan sa Dabaw in SM City on Monday, April 3. He added that the PCL already passed a resolution last week signifying support to the priorities and advocacies of the President, including the current efforts for federalism. “PCL’s support is vital in order to gain achievements in the programs and projects of the present administration,” Dayanghirang said, adding that a big group, like PCL can influence political decisions of the national leadership and at

the same time, can do changes through legislations. He said PCL can also advocate and gather support to the major programs and projects of the government. “PCL will rally behind President Duterte, his administration and its priority programs and projects,” Dayanghirang reiterated. When asked about the organization’s stand on the postponement of the conduct of barangay elections, Dayanghirang said they are set to conduct consultations on the issue to their members. Newly-elected officers of PCL took their oath of office before President Duterte on April 1 in Pasig City. Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Councilor Luis “Chavit” Singson was newly-elected national chairperson of PCL.

province, one of the areas of operations of 1001st brigade. He also assured the people in the province of “unhampered development of” as the brigade “will ensure that communities will be peaceful and conflict free.” Series of encounters occurred in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental late last week, Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of 10th ID said. On Sunday, elements of 25th IB recovered four high-powered firearms left by fleeing and wounded NPA rebels in Montevista, Compostela Valley. “Recovered firearms in-

clude an AK-47 rifle, two M653 baby armalite rifles and an M203 grenade launcher,” Batchar said. Troopers of 28th IB also recovered backpacks, a handheld radio and shirts marked with BHB after an encounter in Don Salvador, Mati City, Davao Oriental last Saturday, April 1. Batchar also reported that two soldiers were wounded when hit by improvised explosive devise attack by NPA rebels in Barangay Tagbinunga, Mati City late last week. The wounded soldiers were identified as PFC Jouie Oliveros and PFC Anatoly Lechoncito.

“Our troops on the ground continue to intensify the conduct of focused military operations in Sulu and adhere to the rules of engagement to contain lawless groups and preempt the conduct of atrocities in the province,” said Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindan-

ao Command (Westmincom) chief. “We will continue to support the PNP’s (Philippine National Police) efforts against criminality and lawlessness. The entire Westmincom will be ready to move and react when needed,” Galvez added. (PNA)

Recently, Malacañang and Congress officials met to list 10 priority measures which included the emergency powers to solve transport problems particularly traffic congestion, in Met-

ro Manila and other urban areas. Poe consistently pushed for the passage of her measure noting that it would be “pointless” if it would not be passed immediately. (PNA)

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THEY WERE SO RIGHT when they said Lanuza had quality waves. From my surf trip a few months ago, I was finally able to visit after hearing so much about the waves here. Lanuza is about 240 kilometers from Davao City, a fourth class municipality in the province of Surigao del Sur. Known as a surfing destination, hosting a surf competition every November where surfers from all over the country flock to this often-times sleepy coastal town. My surf trip companions Karen Garces from Cebu and Lisa Caldini who have called Lanuza’s breaks their second home took us to their one of their favorite spots in Lanuza. This was the first spot we tried surfing in Lanuza which I’ll be calling B Bridge for the purpose of sharing this story. B Bridge seemed daunting at first glance. You had to trek down a river under the bridge. It was steep. You had to find steady footing amongst

the jagged rocks. At that time, the weather was crazy in Mindanao the past weeks and the river showed signs of not being spared from the raging floods and hard rain. There were fallen logs and branches everywhere. It was muddy and slippery. Clad in our bikinis and carrying our surfboards, we followed the river to the shoreline. What awaited me was a beautiful stretch of clear,

“

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

TRAVEL

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Love at First Ride

Lanuza is about 240 kilometers from Davao City, a fourth class municipality in the province of Surigao del Sur.

ABOVE: Waxing my surfboard by the roadside. Photo by Sandy Santos.

BOTTOM: The mandatory group picture of the whole surf crew in Lanuza. Seated L-R: Lisa Caldini, Bhrett Baker, Joven Sambade Jr. Standing: Karen Garces, Alejandro Solitaria, this mermaid and Sandy Santos.

glassy waves breaking out in the distance with nobody out. Lining the shore were jagged rocks for miles. It was a gloomy morning and there was a certain stillness and allure to this spot. Paddling out posed the first problem. The jagged rocks were slipper and had all the sharp edges in the world. After an arduous tiptoe in the shallow water, it was deep enough to paddle on our boards. Lisa was such a sweetheart giving me an orientation about the spot.

MERMAID A2

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A2 INdulge! TRAVEL MERMAID A1 Telling me where the breaks and channels were. She even offered to accompany me to the lineup which made the whole experience less scary. Paddling out wasn’t that hard during the first two hours because the big glassy waves (that everyone loved) took quite a while to break giving me enough time to paddle back to the lineup after catching a wave. Iit was the first hour of the day so I still had all the energy in the world to catch waves. Once we got to the lineup, Lisa pointed to the green Talisay trees back on the shore. These served was our marker to know where the breaks and peaks of the waves were. I was astounded by the view

looking back at the shore. It felt like I was at some secluded Fijian Island where waves were breaking left and right. Best of all, we were the only surfers out. The mountains behind us were full of healthy colored coconut trees and the morning fog started covering the top of the mountain. Feeling like surf paradise just opened it gates for me, the beauty of this place made me just stop and sigh with a mixture fascination and respect. It was a wonderful feeling knowing that (and that I felt like) I stumbled upon a surf gem. This simple sleepy town with the friendliest locals was home to 7 known surf spots. I just can’t wait to try them all. It definitely was love at first ride.

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

While waiting for the rest of crew to finish setting up their surfboards, I took the chance to take photos with the freshly painted bridge as a memento of this place. Photo by Karen Garces.

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

EVENT

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

An extra special Watson’s summer By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO At Watsons, not only do you look good; you also feel great from the inside, out. This summer is no exception. At Watsons, you create the perfect summer according to your rules. Watsons Make Your Summer campaign wants you to stop hiding from the sun and start celebrating its glorious rays. With endless rows and shelves of products available, Watsons surely has something for you. Watsons. Asia’s leading health and beauty retailer is currently operating over 4,800 stores and more than 1,400 pharmacies all over Asia and Europe. Awarded Asia’s No. 1 Pharmacy Retail Brand

based on Campaign Asia Pacific Survey 2013. This summer, don’t let the sun stop you from having a great time. Plan for that weekend getaway with your family or that much awaited road trip with your peers. Outdoor fun? Go to the beach and get that healthy tan. In Davao, you’ll never run out of fun-under-the-sun activities. Kick starting the summer heat, Watsons at the SM Lanang Premier gave

Watsons Team with Alex Del Fiero, Group Manager for Belo; Carl Olage, Customer Development Manager for Belo; and Jeaune Padua, Belo Sun Brand Manager.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Guest trying out the VR featuring five local summer destinations. Cherry Poblete and Sheena Labor of Kojiesan. Watsons Make Your Summer featured products.

Defend your skin from burning and sun damage with amazing sunscreens from Belo, Kojie San, Nivea, Vaseline, Banana Boat, Beach Hut, Solstice, Biore, Sunplay, Neutrogena, Cetaphil, Celeteque, Hawaiian Tropic, Dermplus, and Olay to name a few. Don’t forget to really

us a sneak peek of the many products they have for all our summer body needs. Watsons representatives welcomed everyone to an afternoon of summer talks and sun activities. Representatives from PONDS, KOJIE SAN and BELO made sure everyone knew the importance of hydrating the skin before any sun exposure. Media friends, both from traditional and new media, were all ears and gamely participated in Watsons take-a-snap and win promo (Instagram post with the most number of likes won an Instax Camera from FujiFilm). Summer sexy bikini body? Go ahead and Make Your Summer with Watsons healthy slimming products to help you achieve that ideal body for you to be proud of. Sun-proof and confident even under the mighty rays of the sun? Watsons Make Your Summer has tons of UVA and UVB ready products that you’ll surely love.

read the label for optimum coverage. The event was not just about the products and our upcoming time under the sun. Watsons Make Your Summer campaign is made even more exciting with their super exclusive treat for all SM Advantage Card Mem-

bers. Get a chance to win and explore the majestic Philippines with four of your friends for some getway fun. Win a trip to either of the following perfect getaway destinations, such as Batanes, Boracay, Cebu, Palawan and of course, Davao. Joining is easy. Just buy any of their participating products and get 1 e-raffle entry for every P500.00 single receipt purchase. Hurry! Contest runs from now until 26 April 2017.

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A4 INdulge!

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 â&#x20AC;¢ TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

‘SCUBASUREROS’ SUPPORT ALSONS’ CLEANUP DRIVE. Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC), a subsidiary of the Alsons Power Group, partnered with the Philippine Coast Guard, the local government of the municipality of Maasim and divers from Sarangani Province and General Santos City to collect garbage and clean up the waters of Sarangani Bay. Dubbed as “scubasureros,” 14 volunteer divers took on the work of garbage collectors in an effort to keep the waters free from trash. A total of 28 sacks of garbage – mostly plastic – were pulled from the deep waters and shoreline of the bay. According to Ruben Tungpalan, Corporate Affairs and Community Relations head of SEC, the cleanup effort is a key focus of the company to keep the marine

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greatly contributes to reducing the global temperature. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) identified the global forestry sector in 2007 as the second leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, after the energy sector, and as responsible for approximately 17 percent of emissions, largely due to deforestation. Through their joint work, GIZ and FMB generated a reduction and removal of approximately 467,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emission in the three project sites in Albay, Eastern Samar and Davao Oriental through co-management and tenure arrangements with local communities and indigenous people groups for long-term forest conservation which are integrated in forest land use plan (FLUP) covering 366,407

hectares of forest areas. Some PHP24.3 million were awarded through 18 contracts with local partners such as local government units, academe and the Philippine Eagle Foundation to support forest conservation activities. FMB and GIZ are organizing the REDD+ project closing event on April 7 in Pasig City to stimulate support for sustaining the project’s achievements and for the issuance of appropriate laws and policies for the country’s full REDD+ implementation. The National REDD+ System Philippines Project is part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB). The project started in November 2012 and runs until April 2017. (PNA)

seems overwhelmingly to point to their guilt,” he said. According to the DOH, its initial calculations show that P1 billion can be used to pay for daily maintenance medicines, laboratory work and medical care for deadly diseases caused by tobacco use. With an augmentation of a mere P1 billion to the program, the DOH would be able to treat 3,975,421 patients with hypertension, and 1,705,030 with diabetes, Ubial has said. The DOH secretary has pointed out that “although the cigarette company had already earned staggering amounts of money over the past few years by distributing products that support unhealthy habits, Mighty Corporation has also hurt the Filipino people by failing to pay the legally prescribed taxes that are meant to support efforts to promote the health of the least privileged in society.” “It’s really a double whammy,” Ubial has said. Ubial has congratulated the BIR, the BOC and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for running after big players in the cigarette industry suspected of depriving the government of billions of pesos in tax revenues through the use of fake

cigarette stamps. “The excise taxes they owe the government are meant to pay for medicines, commodities and services that can be used to prevent and control the diseases they cause,” Ubial said. “There are still more than 15 million smokers in the country, who smoke at home or in public places and more than half of all women and children are regularly exposed to deadly second hand smoke,” Ubial said. “One out of four Filipinos has high blood pressure and half of them do not know it. We need to invest on prevention, early detection of hypertension, maintenance medications and enabling patients to live healthier. The money we get from tobacco taxes can be put to good use to prevent conditions caused by tobacco among the poorest 70,000 adult Filipinos who are at risk,” she added. Ubial said the DOH is currently designing a program of care for patients at risk for heart attacks and strokes using electronic medical records for the poorest 20 million Filipinos who are the priority of the Duterte administration. “We intend to provide more for those who have the less in life,” she said. (PR)

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environment clean and encourage biodiversity in the area, and this has been ongoing in the last seven years in coordination with the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc. (CLAFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of the Alcantara Group. “We want the impact of these activities to be felt immediately, and we are also focused on the long-term effect to the fishing communities. By doing these activities, we want the residents to realize the importance of cleaning up the bay and shorelines and keeping the marine environment healthy to make it viable for future generations,”Tungpalan said. The cleanup drive was also part of the activities held to celebrate SEC’s milestone

event that marked the ceremonial switch-on for the first 105-megawatt section of the power company’s 210-megawatt baseload plant located in Maasim, Sarangani that started operating in April last year, and the start of civil works for the second 105-megawatt section of the baseload plant. The Alsons Power Group is the first and most experienced independent power producer in Mindanao, committed to the economic development of the region by providing a reliable and stable supply of electricity that helped end the power shortage through SEC and other power subsidiaries, namely the Southern Philippine Power Corporation, Western Mindanao Power Corporation and the Mapalad Power Corporation.

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Top NPA commander in Caraga surrenders

and multilateral companies that have a strong presence in the region. The afternoon will be devoted to AFMIS breakout sessions to discuss, among others, prospects for e-commerce as a new business frontier for ASEAN and infrastructure investments as a vehicle for sustainable growth in the region amid current global market volatilities. Founded 50 years ago, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam into one regional bloc. ASEAN established the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), which officially commenced on Dec. 31, 2015, comprising a combined market of 600 million people or about eight percent of the world’s population. ASEAN is the seventh largest economy in the world with a combined GDP of US$ 2.4 trillion US$ 2.5 trillion as of 2015. It also has the third largest labor pool and is the world’s fourth largest exporting region. This year marks a milestone for the ASEAN, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary with the Philippines as host. The 2017 ASEAN theme is “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.” The ASEAN finance ministers and central bank governors are set to discuss ways to strengthen ASEAN’s commitments to financial integration and cooperation against the backdrop of a new wave of pro-

tectionism and other uncertainties in the global economy when they meet this week in Cebu. To be hosted by Dominguez and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando Tetangco Jr., the conferences will include separate meetings of the ASEAN finance ministers and the central bank governors and the third Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Joint Meeting on Friday (April 7). Agreements on the ASEAN Banking Integration Framework are expected to be signed on the sidelines of the ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ meetings. A joint press conference by the finance ministers of the immediate past (Lao Republic), present (Philippines) and future (Singapore) ASEAN chairs will be held after the April 7 Joint Meeting. The official gatherings of the ASEAN finance ministers and central bank governors was preceded by this week’s series of meetings and forums among the ASEAN finance deputies and central bank deputies. An ASEAN + 3 Finance and Central Deputies Meeting with China, Japan and Korea and a separate ASEAN-US Treasury Deputies Meeting is set on April 5. Before the ASEAN finance and central bank chiefs buckle down to work, Tetangco is set to host a dinner reception on April 5, followed by a gala dinner hosted by Dominguez on April 6 for them, their deputies and other delegates. (PR)

A built-in 4000mAh battery is said to provide more than 284 hours of standby time for whole-day use. “A VOOC Charging Solution also cuts charging duration by four times compared with standard units; even five minutes on the plug is enough for a continuous two-hour call,” a representative from Oppo said during the launch. The F3 Plus can be unlocked in just 0.2 seconds. A scanning technology allows users to assign fingerprints to quickly launch phone numbers and apps, while an Avast-based virus scanner further adds

protection to keep phone data secure. Customers can look forward to a sleek metal unibody that gives the F3 Plus an elegant look either in black or opulent gold color. The back shell also comes with an innovative ultra-fine six-string antenna to exude a more upscale appearance. It was also sculpted for proper hand grip so users can take selfies with comfort. The six-inch display screen is made of 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass 5 to resist damage. A pre-applied protective coating further makes the screen scratch-proof. (PNA)

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TOP commander of the New People’s Army surrendered to the Army’s 401st Infantry Brigade (IB) in Agusan Del Sur on Sunday, a belated Army report here said Monday. Capt. Jasper T. Gacayan, 401st IB spokesperson, identified the top rebel leader as Estelito Camino, Jr. alias “Ka Puma,” commander of the Sub-Region Sentro De Grabidad of the NPA’s North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee. Camino and his sub-commanders operate in the tri-boundaries of Surigao Del Sur, Agusan Del Norte and Agusan De Sur, Gacayan said. He said that Camino, an active NPA leader for the past 14 years, decided to surrender due to hardship and “disillusionment” with the NPA and wanted to live a normal life with his family.

Gacayan said that Camino also disclosed that “most of his comrades are already thinking of laying down their arms at an opportune time” because they believed that the “Duterte administration is their best chance to have a peaceful life.” As a top NPA commander, Camino also accused the NPA leadership of corruption for allegedly pocketing the money extorted from businesses and farmers, the official said. Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, commander of the 4th Infantry Division here, congratulated the 401st IB and the Philippine National Police in Caraga region for the surrender of the Camino. Madrigal also instructed the military to prepare for the “influx of surrenderees as Camino or “Ka Puma” has a following in the Caraga region.” (PNA)

any trees and tell their children that they planted those trees during their wedding day,” Joel Aton added. Most of the more than 30 couples who got married during the Green Wedding are from fishing communities in Maasim, that’s why bangus (milkfish) fingerlings restocking was also incorporated in the wedding ceremony. Although mainly a landbased agricultural community, fish products sourced from the pristine waters of Sarangani Bay is one of Maasim’s main economic contribution to the province of Sarangani. Municipal Mayor Aniceto Lopez Jr. thanked SEC for their “Green Wedding” initiative because he personally wants couples living together for years to enjoy the benefits of a solemnized marriage. “A lot of couples here in Maasim are not documented properly by the local civil registry because they do not officially marry mainly because of monetary issues. This can cause future legal and documentary problems for them and their children, and we don’t want

that,” according to Maasim Mayor Aniceto Lopez. One those couples are Roel and Aivy Grace Segapo who have been living together for more than five years and has twin daughters. “We have been saving for a long time so that we can afford a formal marriage. But because of SEC’s ‘Green Wedding,’ instead of spending our savings on a wedding, we will just use it to finance a small store and perhaps buy a new boat and fishing supplies,” Roel said in vernacular. His wife Aivy also, thank SEC for shouldering official marriage requirements and the transportation along with the food after the ceremony. “This mass wedding and the tree planting really helped us and taught us a lot,” she added in Visayan. “Because of this initiative by SEC, I want everybody in Maasim to plant a tree before they will be allowed to get married,” Lopez added. As far as Lopez can recall he has officiated the wedding of more than 3,000 couples in Maasim alone during his stint as the mayor. (PR)

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VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

When bleeding is not normal By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

N April 9, the Philippines will observe the World Hemophilia Day. The organizer wants Filipinos all over the country to know something about this inherited bleeding disorder. According to the World Hemophilia Federation, about 10,000 Filipinos have hemophilia but most don’t know they have it. As it is a rare disorder, no one seems to pay attention to it. Unknowingly, another one million people in the country are possibly affected with von Willebrand’s Disease and other bleeding disorders. All in all, only around 1,200 have been identified to have this lifelong condition that prevent blood from clotting properly. And many of those who had been diagnosed are suffering because they cannot afford the high cost of treatment. Very expensive disease “A mild bleed in the joints can cost P30,000 to P50,000 per treatment. Severe bleeds like those in internal organs such as the gastrointestinal tract or the brain can cost hundreds of thousands, if not millions,” said Ric Felipe, president of the Hemophilia Association of the Philippines for Love and Service (Haplos), the national organization of Filipinos with hemophilia. The disease is indeed very expensive. “If it’s just us, we can’t provide patients adequate treatment. We need some help from the government,” urged Dr. Flerida Hernandez, Haplos vice president. An adult person has more than a gallon of blood in his body. According to The Merck Manual of Medical Information, blood is a complex mixture of plasma (the liquid component), white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. Plasma constitutes more than half of the blood’s volume and consists mostly of water containing dissolved salts (called electrolytes) and proteins. Red blood cells (also called erythrocytes) make up about 40% of the blood’s volume. White blood cells (leukocytes) are fewer in number than red blood cells, with a ratio of about 1 white blood cells to every 660 red blood cells. Platelets (also known as thrombocytes) are cell-like particles smaller than red or white cells, with a ratio of about a platelet to every 20 red blood cells. When a person bleeds, his body normally pools blood cells together to form a clot to stop the bleeding. The clotting

process is encouraged by certain blood particles (platelets and plasma proteins). Hemophilia occurs when a person has a deficiency in one of these clotting factors. “Small cuts usually aren’t much of a problem,” the Mayo Clinic says. “The greater health concern is deep bleeding inside your body, especially in your knees, ankles and elbows. That internal bleeding can damage your organs and tissues, and may be life-threatening.” Actually, there are sev-

Andrea and some hemophilia leaders met with Health Sec. Paulyn Ubial to ask for support for the Hemophilia community.

Andrea and 18-year-old daughter Star, who inherited the bleeding disorder. eral types of hemophilia and they are classified according to which clotting factor is deficient. Hemophilia A, the most common type, is caused by insufficient clotting factor VIII. Hemophilia B, the next common type, is caused by insufficient clotting factor IX. Hemophilia C, in which signs and symptoms are often mild, is caused by insufficient clotting factor XI.

Signs and symptoms In like manner, signs and symptoms of hemophilia vary, depending on the level of clotting factors. If the clotting-factor level is mildly reduced, a person may bleed only after surgery or trauma. If the deficiency is severe, he may experience spontaneous bleeding. The Mayo Clinic says the signs and symptoms of spontaneous bleeding include: unexplained and excessive bleeding from cuts or injuries, or after surgery or dental work; many large or deep bruises; unusual bleeding after vaccinations; pain, swelling or tightness in your joints; blood in your urine or stool; and nosebleeds without a known cause. In infants, unexplained irritability is a sign. On the other hand, emergency signs and symptoms of hemophilia include: sudden pain, swelling and warmth in large joints, such as knees, elbows, hips and shoulders, and in your arm and leg muscles; bleeding from an injury,

especially if you have a severe form of hemophilia; painful, prolonged headache; repeated vomiting; extreme fatigue; neck pain; and double vision. Hemophilia may be diagnosed at between age of 9 months and two years old, sources claim. In some cases, a person may not be aware that he has mild hemophilia until he undergoes surgery or experiences an injury. As hemophilia is a sexlinked disorder, it occurs more often in men than in women. But there are bleeding disorders that are not sex-linked but still can be inherited. The von Willebrand’s Disease is one of them. It is a hereditary deficiency or abnormality of the von Willebrand factor in the blood, a protein that affects platelet function.

A mother’s fight Andrea Echavez, a former Philippine Daily Inquirer reporter and a Haplos member, has such kind of bleeding disorder. “My mother died of excessive blood loss in 1988 during a biopsy operation,” she recalled in her blog. “Even though she insisted that she had bleeding tendencies, doctors refused to believe. Bleeding disorders only happen in boys and men, they said.” In 2006, Andrea’s daughter, Star, had been bleeding profusely in her nose daily for a month in a row. When she was born in 1998, the mother observed bruises all over her

body. She was only three weeks old when the mother rushed her daughter to the emergency room after she had a nosebleed. “That was the first,” Andrea wrote. “I suggested to her attending doctors that she could have inherited my mother’s bleeding problem. But they said it could not be possible. She’s a girl.” But her mother instinct told her there was something wrong. “So, when her nosebleeds became more frequent in 2006, we decided to go abroad to have her tested one more time. Because of my family history, the doctor tested me as well,” she wrote. Three months later, the results came out: both the mother and daughter have von Willebrand’s Disease. “Suddenly, we were thrust into the unknown,” Andrea wrote. “Bleeding disorders are rare. But bleeding disorders in girls and women are even more rare. Back in the Philippines, there were hardly any girls and women diagnosed with it at that time.” With a young daughter affected by a disorder that caused her mother’s death, Andrea is now determined to fight it. “I would not allow bleeding to

consume us,” she said. “Never again. It deprived me and my siblings of a mother’s love in our teenage years. I would not allow it to deprive my daughter of living a normal life.” No cure yet There’s no cure yet for hemophilia, the Mayo Clinic claims. “But with proper treatment and self-care, most people with hemophilia can maintain an active, productive lifestyle,” the Minnesota-based health organization states. According to the US National Health, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the main treatment for hemophilia is called replacement therapy. Concentrates of clotting factor VIII (for hemophilia A) or clotting factor IX (for hemophilia B) are slowly dripped or injected into a vein. These infusions help replace the clotting factor that’s missing or low. Replacement therapy, however, has some complications, which include: developing antibodies (proteins) that attack the clotting factor; developing viral infections from human clotting factors; and damage to joints, muscles, or other parts of the body resulting from delays in treatment. Lifestyle and home

remedies Meanwhile, to avoid excessive bleeding and protect the joints of those with hemophilia, the Mayo Clinic suggests the following: Exercise regularly. Activities such as swimming, bicycle riding and walking can build up muscles while protecting joints. Contact sports – such as football or wrestling – are not safe for people with hemophilia. Avoid certain pain medications. Drugs that can aggravate bleeding include aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others). Instead, use acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), which is a safe alternative for mild pain relief. Avoid blood-thinning medications. Medications that prevent blood from clotting include heparin, warfarin, clopidogrel and prasugrel. Practice good dental hygiene. The goal is to prevent tooth extraction, which can lead to excessive bleeding. Protect your child from injuries that could cause bleeding. Kneepads, elbow pads, helmets and safety belts all may help prevent injuries from falls and other accidents. Keep your home free of furniture with sharp corners. Photos courtesy of Andrea Echavez.

Andrea and fellow women “bleeders” -- Moline Odwar of Nigeria, Chloe Christos of Australia and Michelle Cecille of the USA, along with hematologist Dr. Robert Sidonio of the USA.

13 MOTORING

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

2017 Mitsubishi ASX now in PH

T may not have made it to the Manila International Auto Show last weekend, but Mitsubishi Motors Philippines (MMPC) is wasting no time in introducing to the market the refreshed ASX. The “Active Sport Crossover” sees an array of exterior and interior upgrades for both the GLS and GSR variants. The 2017 ASX is immediately distinguishable with its Dynamic Shield Concept frontend. The new face expresses power and protection while also evoking more sophistication. Apart from the new design, the ASX also has new wheel arch moldings, new 18inch two-tone alloy wheels, and a shark fin type antenna. The range-topping GSR flaunts a panoramic glass roof with LED illumination and Super Wide Range HID headlamps with retractable headlamp washers. Completely built-up (CBU) from Japan, the ASX is loaded to provide comfort and convenience for everyone aboard. It has a white-lit contrast meters with a LCD-type multi-information display, leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, a 6.75-inch Multimedia Entertainment System, and dial-type

automatic climate control. The GLS variant has high-grade black fabric seats with red stitching, while the GSR ups that with black leather seats with red stitching. The GSR also has aluminum pedals. Mechanically, the 2017 ASX remains unchanged. It’s powered by Mitsubishi’s tried and tested 2.0-liter 4B11 engine generating 150 horsepower and 197 Nm of torque. Equipped with MIVEC, it provides ample performance without any detriment to fuel economy. Mated to the engine is a single type of transmission: a 6-speed CVT unit. Apart from paddle shifters, the 2017 ASX also gains the comfort of cruise control across the lineup. Finally, the 2017 ASX also boasts of good safety features. It’s equipped with dual SRS airbags, anti-lock brakes with EBD, and three-point ELR seatbelts with pre-tensioners. Backed up by a 3-year or 100,000-kilometer warranty, the 2017 ASX comes in 6 shades: Sapporo Silver, Sonic Blue, Amazon Red, Virgil Gray, Biscuit White, and Carbon Black. Pricing starts at P 1,195,000 for the GLS and tops out at P 1,295,000 for the GSR.

HMP President Mr. Hiroshi Aoki with DARBC executives in the turnover ceremony

Hino offers transport solutions in Southern Mindanao

OUTH Cotabato, Philippines (February 28, 2017) – Hino Motors Philippines (HMP), the exclusive distributor of Hino trucks and buses in the Philippines, recently turned over twelve (12) new Hino FG8J medium-duty trucks to Dolefil Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (DARBC), the fruit grower behind natural food provider Dole Philippines, Inc. “Hino Davao enhances the logistics capabilities of Southern Mindanao-based firms such as DARBC by offering quality Hino trucks and fleet maintenance support.

Committed toward total support, Hino Motors Philippines works hand in hand with dealerships to ensure customer satisfaction,” shared HMP President Mr. Hiroshi Aoki. HMP, together with Motormall Davao Corporation, delivered the trucks and chassis to the DARBC at the DOLE Complex in Polomolok, South Cotabato. The ceremony was graced by Manila-based HMP President, Mr. Hiroshi Aoki together with Business & Product Planning Advisor Tomohiro Oshita and Sales Operations & Planning Advisor Kazuki Shimizu, who presented the symbolic key during the

turnover. Also present at the turnover were DARBC Chairman Vincent E. Palma, DARBC Vice Chairman Leo P. Berrandoy, DARBC Directors Jaime S. Arana, Reynaldo A. Mabanua, Jr., Editha S. Dacea and Andres G. De Leon together with Motormall Davao Corporation management group representatives, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer (EVP/COO) Felipe S. Barroga, AVP/General Manager Valentino L. Dionisio and Marketing Manager Joel J. Romero. The HINO FG8J is powered by a 4-stroke, 6-cylinder vertical in-line JO8E-UG-type

diesel engine, making it a reliable business partner ready to meet all the demands of the logistics and shipment of goods. The truck also features turbo charging, intercooling and overhead cam with 24 valves. It supports 6-speed, direct-drive transmission. HMP has been engaged in the assembly and exclusive distribution of quality Hino trucks and buses in the Philippines for more than 40 years. Known for providing safe, durable and reliable trucks, HMP complements the transport needs of businesses ranging from small and medium enterprises to big corporations.

14 COMMUNITY SENSE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

YMCA-Davao okays 36 projects T

HE Davao City chapter of the the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) under the leadership of Assistant Secretary Mariano Alquiza of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) approved a total 36 projects of different natures for the rest of the year 2017. According to Alquiza, who until lately was the regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways of Region 11 (DPWH 11) and president of the Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies (ARENA 11), the projects approved by the YMCA-Davao’s board of directors (BOD) during a special meeting last Saturday, are in line with five program focus areas.

As outlined by Alquiza when he was inducted last January, the focus areas are program development, membership development, human resource development, governance and development of properties and upgrading of facilities. Under development of properties and upgrading of facilities, the 15-man YMCA Davao board is now awaiting the design, plan and cost estimates of the major renovation of the association’s building and headquarters along Villamor Street near HSBC and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, he said. The BOD also gave the go-signal for an inventory of the real estate property in ba-

rangay Tuban, Sta Cruz town and in Kapatagan, Digos City, all in Davao del Sur with the end in view of developing them into youth training center, work camp if not tourist destination. In the month of April alone, the association will conduct for its youth club members summer lessons in voice, piano, guitar, theater and the arts, swimming, balloon design and art workshop aimed at taking away the idle youth from the streets, while learning some valuable skills, Alquiza said. The annual “Operation Tuli” which is done in cooperation with medical and non-medical civil society groups is likewise scheduled in April, he said. AMA

management conflicts, government and political pressures, and other fortuitous events, Tagum Cooperative survived and has now been recognized internationally as the icon of trust and excellence in social and financial services. After which, the Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Juris D. Perez, CPA, MBA proudly reported Tagum Cooperative’s 2016 Operational Highlights. Total assets has increased by 27.67% from P 3.424B in December 2015 to P 4.372B in December 2016. Loan portfolio improved by 20.43% from P 2.696B in December 2015 to P 3.246B in December 2016. Deposits and Share Capital have also shown a significant increase as these reached P 2.059B and P1.416B in December 2016. To top it all, a P 326.05M Net Surplus was attained thru the utmost dedication of TC Officers, hardworking Management & Staff, and the continued patronage of the members. The official candidates were introduced by Mr. Vicente P. Binag, Chairperson of the Election Committee. Each candidate was given 2 minutes for their campaign speech to earn members vote. The Board of Directors led by Chairperson Salido together with the Key Management Officers and Committees commenced the Business Assembly Proper which turned out to be very well-participated by members. There was an amicable consideration and approval of the minutes of the 49th Annual General Assembly, BOD and Management Report, Committee Reports, External Auditors

Report and Budget Allocation for 2017. Proposed amendments to the TC Bylaws and Articles of Cooperation and Bylaws were also lengthily discussed and considered, all for the benefit of Tagum Cooperative. Recognitions and Special Awards were also given to the members, officials, and officers. Outstanding members who have genuine patronage to the services and products of Tagum Cooperative were given distinguished recognition. Likewise, officials, officers and management staff were lauded for their exceptional performance and tenure in Cooperative. To wit, Bajada Branch was declared as the Most Outstanding Branch. Consequently, Mr. Jerry D. Cabanisas, MM, MBA, manager of Bajada Branch was hailed Most Outstanding Branch Manager. Members were then mesmerized by the special song rendition of TC’s Theme Song “Side by Side, Hand in Hand” as performed by Ms. Leslie Canuto, Gender Equality (GE) Specialist, Ms. Emezvem Lazarte, Legal Clerk (Tagum Only) and Mr. Loetcher Li C. Idul, Grand Champion of Tawag ng Tanghalan sa Tagum Cooperative. The bar was raised to a higher level as TC Officers, Employees and Members paraded 50 symbolic golden cakes to pay tribute to Tagum Cooperative’s journey to its golden era. A wine toasting followed led by Ms. Norma R. Pereyras, Immediate Past Chairperson, (Tagum) and Dir. Miriam R. Baloyo (Davao). Three (3) dynamic cooperative women expressed solidarity messages for Tagum Cooperative, namely: Ms. Admarie Marce-

YMCA PROJECTS. Assistant Secretary Mariano Alquiza of the Department of Labor and Employment.

TC @ 50: A force to be reckoned with

AGUM Cooperative once again made history as it successfully conducted its 50th Annual General Assembly at Pedro B. San Jose Gymnasium, University of Mindanao (UM) Tagum Campus, Tagum City and SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premiere, Davao City on March 19 and 26, 2017, respectively. This year’s annual assembly is themed as, “Tagum Cooperative: Golden Era of Success and Excellence” duly attended by 31,430 registered Members In Good Standing (MIGS). Assembly 1 is composed of TC Main, Market, Carmen, Sto. Tomas, Panabo, Nabunturan, and San Francisco branch members and Assembly 2 is attended by members from TC Bajada, Matina, Mintal and Digos Branches. Most Reverend George Rimando, Auxiliary Bishop, officiated the Eucharistic Mass at Tagum City while simultaneous mass offerings were made at selected parishes in Davao City. The program preliminaries commenced at 8:00 am which highlights the Acknowledgment of Guests, Members and Officers and intermission numbers from Tagum City National High School Dance Theater Guild (Tagum) and the Kindred Dance Troupe (Davao). BOD Chairperson Monica L. Salido, M.M. gave a heartfelt message as she reminisced her experiences – struggles and triumphs along Tagum Cooperative’s colorful journey. She quoted that “pure gold is tested by fire,” referring that even with the challenges of economic reverses, members and

lo, former General Manager of Tagum Cooperative and now Chief Finance Officer of CLIMBS, Ms. Evelia R. Sator, Ed. D, member of the Board of Directors and MASSSPECC Chairperson, and Ms. Lalaine Gepaya, General Manager of Panabo Cooperative representing Ms. Sylvia O. Paraguya, Chairperson of NATCCO Network. Members have also witnessed a breakthrough for Tagum Cooperative – the back to back launching of the TC Mobile Application and TC Commemorative Book. The Mobile App enables members to conveniently view and manage their TC accounts, and even apply for minor loan renewals. ‘Cincuenta’ is a Coffee Table Book which depicts Tagum Cooperative’s beginnings, struggles, transformation and sustainable development. Ms. Maria Cecilia Abis, Editorial Consultant, and Mr. Reymond Pepito, Over-all Consultant, were given plaques and tokens for their vital commitment in the production of the said book. Members screamed with excitement and gladness and did thunderous rounds of applause as Chairperson Salido declared the 12.69% Patronage Refund and 12.07% Interest on Share Capital which will be released on April 3, 2017. Successful program. Satisfied members. Fulfilled officers. All in all, Tagum Cooperative’s 50th Annual General Assembly is surely a hit. In its “Golden Era of Success and Excellence”, Tagum Cooperative will surely transcend to years ahead and remain the icon of trust and excellence in social and financial services.

HAPPY YIPEE YEHEY. Tagum Cooperative Officials for C.Y. 2016 - 2017 and members pose with Rep. Sabiniano S. Canama, Coop NATCCO Partylist Representative at SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier, Davao City

NGO backs move to protect children left behind by OFWS

HE Mindanao Migrants Center for Empowering Actions, Inc. (MMCEAI) is grateful that actions have been taken after years of effort to create space for the children and families left behind by parents or relatives of migrants when they work overseas. The non-government organization was referring to the joint effort of the Department of Justice (DOJ), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to push the issues and concerns of left behind children. The joint move was firmed up during the inter-agency meeting in the Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases in Barrio Obrero, Davao City last March 30 wherein representatives from the three government agencies and invited stakeholders from the civil society and community vowed to work and plan for the actions to be taken in response to the growing problems encountered by children of OFWs. “It is well known that many cases have been reported where in children, especially minors, experience abuse, and hundreds of cases in Davao City alone go unreported and continue without intervention from the government agencies.” MMCEAI said in a statement, adding that last year, in November, John Earl Cagalitan, a two-year old boy died due to physical abuse in the hands of his guardian while his mother worked overseas. The child suffered physical trauma that caused his early demise, it said. “We suffer from many hardships while our parents work abroad to support us, and this is a good action from the government that we are given attention, finally.” Jhun Mark Cagalitan, brother of J.E. said in his speech that day. He recalled the painful plight of his brother

and hopes no children will suffer the same fate as his brother did. “Left behind children encounter sexual abuses such as incest, rape by their guardians, physical abuse such as battering, non-remittance of allowances sent by their migrant parents, abandonment among others,” the NGO statement continued. “Teen-age pregnancy is also another pressing issue,” it said. “Many children also suffer loss of motivation due to separation anxiety and the lack of physical parenting from their mothers or fathers,” it added. During the workshop, suggested actions were considered immediate. Creation and implementation of the tracking and monitoring mechanism for families of OFWs and their children is eyed as a priority action to help in easily identifying distressed children. Inorisa Elento Sialana, executive director of MMCEAI said “these children are not well represented in society while they are the first people who are gravely affected of their parents’ decisions to grab opportunities and go overseas to provide for their family. Ms Sialana said the children should be provided spaces for them to voice their sentiments.” She also added that the organization will support these steps towards a stronger and firmer establishment of support and protection of left behind children by mobilizing resources and translating them into solid actions from the barangay level, city government and into the national level. Mindanao Migrants Center for Empowering Action, Inc. for years organized the children of OFWs under the name Anak OFW. Distressed children are provided direct services, and the organization also conducts activities for all its young members.

SPORTS15

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

Kobe Shinwa, Cignal co-champs

BASKETBALL CLINIC. PBA players led by Doug Kramer take part in a free basketball clinic for children at the Davao City Recreation Center on Friday prior to the PBA out-of-town matchup at the USEP Gym. Lean Daval Jr.

Koronadal opens quest for 3 Guinness’ world records By JIMMY K. LAKING

OOD weather is expected to hold on April 29 when the city of Koronadal puts its search on the block for three Guinness world records in motorcycling. “It’s not summer yet so the weather is just about suited to hold the activities,” said city information officer Judith L. Amdo evenas she expressed confidence of the city’s chances to erase three world records listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Amdo and Apollo C. Moreno III, South Cotabato motorcycle club information officer appeared at the Kapehan sa Dabaw to drum up support for the activities. The city of Koronodal is seeking to be the first local governmentunit to topple the existing records in the largest

S practical wisdom traditionally dictates, excellence in sports endeavors is achieved because of physically-fit bodies and brawn. The Greeks, where from the idea of the Olympics arose, had almost perfectly chiseled bodies and vied in several contests that reflected the might and strength of men in those days of yore. Such were the ideas that came to pass and handed down from generation to generation. Modern day sports festivals, however, evolved scientifically-based concepts that help disproved the old belief. Today, not only do internationally-competitive athletes take the best vitamins the body needed and follow strict regimens that make champions out of them, they also take time to

parade of motorcycles, most engines started simultaneously and most motorcycle horns sounded simultaneously. The activities are geared to draw attention to safety advocacy in the light of vehicular accidents involving motorcycles nationwide. The activities will highlight the city’s hosting of the 23rd annual convention of national federation of motorcycle clubs, to last from April 22 to April 30. “It happens just about anywhere so the activity is meant to increase awareness on safety not only on handling motorcycles, in driving them but also in troubleshooting them,” said Amdo. India holds the current world record for the largest parade of motorcycles with 1,700 participants. Amdo said

Koronodal is expected to gather more than 2,000 participants to erase the record. Yamaha held the record for assembling 1,446 motorcycles for the most engines started simultaneously. The same entity assembled 1,432 motorcycles to establish the record for the mosthorns sounded simultaneously. Amdo said the city of Koronadal can easily wipe out both records. An adjudicator from the Guinness Book of Records will make sure the activities will be strictly conducted following guidelines. As an added come-on, authorities will be conducting an eight-day skills training for 60 participants in motorcycle driving, proper handling and trouble-shooting. The first 60 graduates will be issued cer-

tificates of completion.Amdo said invitations have been sent to the leading 369 registered motorcycling clubs nationwide to participate. Moreno said one club from Aparri in Cagayan province has expressed interest to join the Koronadal staging. “We have a standing invitation for President Duterte to attend but we were informed somebody would be coming in his behalf,” she said. The President as a city mayor of Davao had participated in motorcycling caravan to as far as the Ilocos. Other activities included a motorcycle trade fair and exhibits andthe much-awaited Kasadyang Motorista: Acoustic, Food and Music from April 22 to April 29. The theme of this year’s convention is “Ride for Culture, Ride for Peace.”

OBE Shinwa Women’s University recovered from a third-set meltdown to register a 25-17, 2519, 21-25, 25-18 victory over Petron and conquer the title of the 2017 Belo Philippine Superliga (PSL) Invitational Conference last night at the FilOil Flying V Center in San Juan. On the same note, Cignal emerged as co-champion following an emphatic 25-20, 25-18, 25-22 win over Foton while Generika-Ayala crushed Cocolife, 25-18, 26-24, 26-24, to settle for the fourth place of this prestigious women’s club tourney bankrolled by Asics, Mikasa, Mueller and Senoh with TV5 as official broadcast partner. Petron, which waxed hot with an unbeaten streak in the classification phase, came up with a third-place finish after it surrendered a four-set decision to Cignal in the opening match of the final round Thursday. Jovelyn Gonzaga of Cignal defended her Most Valuable Player title while Frances Molina of Petron and Rachel Anne Daquis of Cignal were the Best Outside Hitters; Chichiro Fujiwara of Kobe Shinwa and Maica Morada of Cignal were the Best Middle Blockers; Mary Grace Berte of Foton was the Best Opposite Spiker; Chie Saet of Cignal was the Best Setter; Jheck Dionela of Cignal was the Best Libero in this season-opening tourney that also has UCPB Gen as official insurance provider and Gold’s Gym as official fitness partner. Mariko Fujiwara delivered 13 kills to finish with 14 points while Kana Edamatsu had 13 hits for the Japanese squad, which melted under

pressure from the gallant home squad before engineering a fierce fightback in the fourth set. “We had fun facing your team,” said Japanese coach Kiyokazu Yamamoto. “We hope you learned something from us the same way we learned something from you.” Earlier, Patty Orendain fired 13 attacks to finish with 15 points while Gen Casugod had 13 markers laced with three aces to underscore the Lifesavers’ dominance at the attack zone, 43-29, and service box, 6-2. Despite the impressive showing, Generika-Ayala coach Francis Vicente said the season-opening tourney served as an eye-opener on what they need to work on and improve by the time the major battles – the All-Filipino Conference and the Grand Prix – unfurl later in the year. “Actually, we need to train more,” said Vicente, who is all set to guide the national women’s team to the AVC Asian Senior Women’s Club Championship and the 29th Southeast Asian Games this August. “Our performance in this tournament was on and off. There were times that we’re playing good, there were times that we’re playing sluggish. That’s what we need to develop. We need to have a killer instinct. But the team itself is already strong.” Vicente added that the vast improvement of Casugod, his team captain who erupted for career-high 25 points in their classification round battle against Sta. Lucia, is a major development as well as their blocking and floor defense.

Jaldon described the core team as a “team of women (mostly) and men from diverse backgrounds, but are all involved in sports or appreciate using it as a medium to teach life lessons.” GGP recently held its first camp last Aprl 1-2 in Barangay Mintal at the Mintal Elementary School with 40 girls

aged 10-12 years old taking part. The next camp will be in Los Amigos, Tugbok on May 13-14. GGP may have just taken off but at the rate things are going and with the team’s passion and energy, a new trail in sports volunteerism has been blazed.

tive college scholarships and amenities such as housing and pocket money. Sadly, while we can only moan and groan, our sports leaders have resorted to invite and court Fil-Ams or Fil-foreigners who have drops of Filipino blood in their veins. Instead of identifying native, homegrown talents and earmarking a grassroots base from where potential worldclass can be developed into competitive sportsmen and women, there are those who follow the practice of ultra-rich and prosperous countries who proceed to naturalize extra-talented foreign players and claim them like they were natural citizens. The truth is that the International Olympic Committee has itself tolerated this “im-

portation” to ensure that the Olympic Games would gather the “crème de la crème” and so attract world-wide spectatorship. And successfully the IOC achieved its goals and the Olympics now stand as the icon of all sports festivals. From a pure amateur beginning, the IOC opened the doors to the entry of professionals in tennis, baseball, basketball, football etc., and had the world audience in the palm of its hands. With this as a backdrop, it makes sense that the country’s future flag-bearers and uniform wearers be measured not only by their physical gifts and talents but also what is stored in their cranial faculty. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo. com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!

THESE GIRLS... FROM 16

Athletes must have smart IQs too

pursue a college course to develop and obtain a respectable intelligence quotient. (IQ is the average or minimum percentage required of a person’s ability to learn, understand and to deal with new and trying situations. It is somewhat synonymous to common sense.) Until this minute, the adage that “what the mind conceives, the body achieves” has not fallen short of expectation. In our set-up, there is somehow a puny attempt to establish this practice although in a somewhat small, almost negligible pace. Many Olympic and world champions and record-holders did hold academic degrees. They were not college dropouts nor academic failures. Some even had master’s degrees to

SPORTS KEN

By RED C. LUMBA their names. An NBA player even was elected US senator. Right now, I can tag a few locals (like Asian Games double gold medal winner Lydia dela Vega, SEAG standouts Renato Unso, Elma Muros, some PBA cagers) who pursued higher academic norms and others more whose names escape me but who I have covered in my more than 30 years of sports writing.

It is vital that an athlete possesses a functioning grey matter in between his/her ears. Long gone is the theory that muscle and strength can make an athlete achieve greatness in his/her chosen sport. Sports in many advanced and progressive countries that have produced world champions and record -holders are supported by associations, alliances, business and even their governments with subsidies that even outsize our national budget. Kenya, a small African nation that has been ruling middle and long distance races, is quite a contradiction, though. Kenyan runners, from the sixties to this age, are now being imported by the US, UK, oil-rich Middle East nations and other interested federations that dangle attrac-

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 10 ISSUE 2 • TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

PBA IN DAVAO. Presidential Assistant for Sports and Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP) BBoard of Trustee member Glenn Escandor (left) and Secretary Christopher “Bong” Go of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) preside over the ceremonial jump during the PBA out-of-town game on Saturday between Ginebra San Miguel and Phoenix Fuelmasters at the USEP Gym. Photos by Jimmy Javier/SCOOP Davao

THESE GIRLS GOT GAME! There’s more to just being fun-loving girls for these bunch of Dabawenyas By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

njb@edgedavao.net

ODAY’S culture tells us that girls have some pretty big shoes to fill. The style or the “size” that fits their role in society and the direction of their lives are but a few things girls of today deal with. Just when you think today’s generation of girls have got a radical definition to being “in the right direction”, think again. Meet a bunch of Dabawenyas who are in the shoes cut out for themselves. They’re not just the adventurous, night owl, outgoing types. They got heart. And yes, they got game. Let’s meet Girls Got Game Philippines, a non-profit organization doing their own share of free community service. GGG Philippines is composed of a bunch of twentyish girls who now devote their time conducting free roving sports camps around the country. Founded in 2015, GGP has two branches by far—one in Manila which is the Luzon Branch and another in Davao City which was commenced in January this year. Heading the GGP Mindanao branch is 23-year old managing

One of the energy-filled drills.

director Celina Jaldon who was a former member of te Ateneo de Manila University women’s football team. It was Jaldon and another Atenean Paola Salvador who convened the Davao branch of GGP. The team is composed of girls with diverse backgrounds including Kai del Corro, who was a finalist—Sinag ng Davao to be exact--in the 2016 Mutya ng Davao pageant. “It’s very fulfilling to be a part of this team,” Del Corro, one of the non-athletes, told Edge Davao. “Ako naman not an athlete but I’m the link to Gawad Kalinga. That’s my contribution,” said Del Corro, a former apprentice-reporter of Edge Davao. Her role with GGP is the team’s Athletes Manager. The GGG camps usually run for two days and are for girls 1012 years old. The participants are from marginalized low-income communities that or areas that do not have much access to sports. “We teach four sports: Basketball, Football, Volleyball, and Rugby. The camp usually runs for 2 days and within those days we make it a point that the girls

have fun learning these different sports while integrating our key values when coaching: discipline, respect, teamwork, perseverance, and integrity,” said Jaldon. “GGG Philippines aims to empower young women through sports--fostering an environment of friendship where they can have fun and learn something they may have never experienced firsthand before or to entice them to redirect their energies into activities that could provide them with positive opportunities,” Jaldon added. Aside from Jaldon and Del Corro, the team is also composed of Paola Salvador, Karina Salvador, Karilla Mozar, Hiromi Takeda, Rica Andico, Ann Monroid, Vina Ansaldo, Daphne Sy, Blessie Delos Santos, Bea Reyes, Darlene Lallen, Anna Santos, Miguel Herrera,

Philippe Manalaysay, and Marice Magdolot. Not all members are girls, though. There are also male members who act as coaches.

FTHESE GIRLS, 15

Teaching girls how to spike.

Futsal camp Volleyball camp

MINTAL CAMP. The GGG Philippines team with 40 participants in their first camp in Barangay Mintal.