VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017 WAITING FOR TOURISTS. A boat worker does his morning routine of cleaning up the vessel while waiting for Davao City-bound passengers at Babak wharf in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) on Thursday. Passenger boats and other means of transportation to the tourism destinations around the region need to be augmented as tourist arrivals increased, according to secretary Wanda Teo. Lean Daval Jr.
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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society
LOSING LARRY Fish vendor hit in NPA Mandug attack dies, Sara expresses grief
By JECIA ANNE OPIANA
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HE fish vendor who got hit by an improvised explosive device (IED) during the attack by the New People’s Army of a Lapanday Food Corporation plant in Mandug on April 29 died yesterday. Doctors at the Southern
BOLD PREDICTION SPORTS, P.16
Philippines Medical Center confirmed that Larry Timbal Buenafe, the fish vendor, expired at 5:00 o’clock in the morning of Thursday, after five days in coma, due to his head injury when an IED exploded while traversing Barangay Tigatto in his motorcycle last
April 29. On Thursday afternoon, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio expressed her grief in an official statement released by the Office of the City Information. “It is a sad day for Davao City. I am sorry we lost Larry,
a victim of delusional people living in an alternate universe who are now celebrating their so-called victory against oppression,” she wrote. In her statement, she said that the people behind Buenafe’s death were the
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Aussie legend says Horn has no chance to beat Pacquiao
2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
THE CRIME SCENE. Fish scattered at the area where fish seller Larry Buenafe was hit by shrapnel from an improvised explosive device which was set off by the blocking force of the New People’s Army (NPA) after setting the Lapanday plants on fire last Saturday in Mandug, Davao City. Buenafe, who fell into a coma after the incident, died on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr.
Candle-lighting slated on World AIDS Vaccine Day Davao City still No. 5 in HIV-AIDS infection
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AVAO City, through the City Health Office, will hold the 34th AIDS Candle-Lighting Memorial in celebration of the World AIDS Day on May 19. With a theme “Ending AIDS together 2017,” this annual event will serve as a mass campaign to prevent Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS). “We know it’s far from ending because of the increasing number of cases and so we really have to involve everyone. Expand awareness through these activities, hopefully makahatag
ug gamay nga dent towards informing other people about this sickness. This is not just an activity that we do to remember. This is still an awareness campaign to end HIV and AIDS,” said Dr. Jordana Ramiterre, Action Officer of the Davao City AIDS Council. According to Dr. Ramiterre, this year, Davao Region ranked top five in the whole Philippines to have the most HIV/AIDS cases, with the National Capital Region ranking first. In January to February 2017, there have been 79 recorded cases of HIV/AIDS, 11 were confirmed positive
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House panel readying to tackle Rody impeach rap next week
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HE process for the impeachment complaint filed against President Duterte may start next week, with the House justice committee eyeing to resolve it at their level by the end of the month. Oriental Mindoro Rep. Rey Umali, the justice committee chair, said they “need to act on it fast,” considering that there are other concerns that need to be dealt with by his panel. “Kilala n’yo naman ako, I try to dispose of matters in my committee at the earliest
opportunity,” he said. “It will be referred to my committee my next week. We will set the hearings immediately thereafter.” Noting the declarations of non-support for the impeachment bid, Umali said the complaint may be settled in his committee “in one or two hearings.” “The justice committee will vote on it before the month ends,” he said. The impeachment complaint against Duterte, filed by Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary
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Davao region has 107 new lawyers By JECIA ANNE OPIANA
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HE five law schools in Davao City, Davao del Norte and Davao del Sur produced a total of 107 new lawyers, results of the 2016 bar examinations released Wednesday revealed. This is the biggest number of new lawyers ever produced by the region. Leading the pack is the Ateneo de Davao University law school which produced 24 brand new members of the legal professionals, including a topnotcher who ranked 5th in the test. All 24 takers from the
AdDU law school headed by Dean Manuel Quibod hurdled the test for an unprecedented 100 percent passing rate of first-time takers, breaking its own record. (For the list of Ateneo de Davao passers, please accompanying story on this same page.) Advincula, Reta, Ortonio, Pinol among 36 UM exam passers Actually, the pioneering Davao law school of the University of Mindanao (UM) has the most number of exam passers in the Davao area, 36
all in all, combining first-time takers and repeaters. The UM college of legal education is headed by Dean Jess Zachael Espejo. UM is followed by the relatively new law school of Cor Jesu College in Digos City, Davao del Sur with a total of 34. Sources close to Dr. Guillermo “Willie” P. Torres Jr., UM president, told Edge Davao the passers comprise 63.2 per cent of all those who took the examination. Among the UM passers were Emmanuel G. Ortonio,
brother of Lemuel, City investment promotion officer; Marionne Josephas M. Reta, daughter of former Sasa barangay captain Mario Reta; and Efren Pinol Jr., son of former Magpet, North Cotabato Efren Sr. and nephew of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Pinol and Bai Hundra Cassandra D. Advincula, a granddaughter of a former city councilor, the late veteran lawyer Victorio S. Avincula Sr., whose son, Victorio Jr. is an incumbent city councilor. Actually, Secretary Pinol
clothes. One of the men was identified as suspected ASG member Saad Samad Kiram, 36, who is now detained in the Bohol Provincial Police Office. Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 7 Deputy Chief Hector Amancia said Kiram and his companion were fed in one of the houses in Tan-awan. While the two were eating, the owner of the house
called the attention of troops from the 41st Infantry Brigade to apprehend them. The two did not resist arrest. Amancia said the authorities seized a loaded handgun and a hand grenade from the suspects. Police said they were still verifying the identity of the other suspected ASG member. Tubigon is a town next to Clarin, where the second clash between the ASG and
government troops took place on April 22, which led to the death of sub-leader Joselito Melloria, an Inabanga, Bohol native who joined the bandit group and three others. The first clash between suspected ASG members and government troops in Sitio Ilaya, Barangay Napo, Inabanga, Bohol on April 11 resulted in the death of five suspected ASG members, three soldiers and a policeman. (EB/PNA)
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2 suspected Abu Sayyaf members nabbed in Bohol
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WO men suspected to be the remnants of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members who entered Bohol were arrested on Thursday morning in Barangay Tan-awan in Tubigon town, Bohol. PO2 Ronald Manlangit, desk officer of Tubigon Police Station, said the two armed men were sighted at 5:00 a.m. on Thursday in Barangay Tan-awan asking for food and
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NEWS 3
EDGEDAVAO
Dean bares ‘secrets’ of Ateneo law school By JECIA ANNE OPIANA
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GRADUATE of Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) College of Law ranked fifth in the 2016 Bar Exams held on four Sundays of November last year at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila. Garnering an average of 88.40 per cent, Atty. Justin Ryan Morilla, 25, passed the exam along with 23 other first time takers which made AdDU attain an outstanding 100 per cent passing rate for first time takers. What the secret behind the success of the AdDU college of law in producing lawyers, many of them bar examination topnotchers like Morilla? According to Atty. Manuel Quibod, Dean of AdDU College of Law, the law school’s faculty and facilities have made Ateneo different from other law schools in Mindanao. “We have a good mix and combination of the faculty. Insofar as the subject covers, not necessarily the bar subjects, we have good professors for these subjects. It is not important na marami kang bright na students. Well, that counts but that
is not that crucial and very important because there are some late bloomers, bloom later on. Medyo slow learner yan sila at first pero may drive yan sila later on sa start ng law school. It’s really with the faculty,” he said. “Perhaps the school has good facilities. Nowadays, hindi na nag-aagawan doon sa Supreme Court Reports Annotated (SCRA) because when a decision comes out, aantayin pa yung volume na yun na makarating sa atin sa Davao. Dati, sa Metro Manila yung unang nakaka-access pero ngayon, as long as may internet, okay na. Ngayon, the information is received real time.” Atty. Melissa Suarez
also added that the excellent teaching style and standards of former deans Atty. Epifanio Estrellado and Atty. Hidegardo Iñigo became the edge of the law school to prosper because these were carried over by present faculty members. Out of 32 aspiring lawyers who took the bar, among those who passed were 24 first-time takers and five repeaters, making Ateneo achieve an overall passing rate of 90.63 per cent. Aside from Morilla, the other AdDU bar test passers arer Rhoda Alvar, Christian Arias, Alexis Barrera, James Bernal, Alain Brigoli, Celeste
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4 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
FREEZING FISH. A young fisherman pulls a sack of ice block onto a fishing boat docked at Sta. Ana Port in Davao City on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr.
Chinese business delegation P arrive for invest exploration
BSP’s policy stance remains steady despite unchanged Fed rates
By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ
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ATIONAL Economic Development Authority (NEDA) XI Director Maria Lourdes D. Lim bared on Thursday that a 29-person Chinese delegation is in Davao City for a two-day exploratory mission of the city’s economic prospects. “This is the result of the commitment of Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang,” said Lim. Wang Yang declared on March during his visit to Davao City that representatives of the Chinese government plan to return to the city for the next month for another round of meetings and inspection.
Lim said the group is headed by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and accompanied by representatives of state corporations. Lim bared the Chinese delegation has already committed to conduct the feasibility study of the expressway project. “Hopefully we can expand the loan package,” said the NEDA XI director. Lim said that the delegation is also eyeing to bid on the PPP for the Davao International Airport as well as five other projects in the pipeline. Meanwhile, a separate Mindanao railway feasibility study is being scheduled
for presentation to the NEDA board investment committee by the third quarter of the year. During the 2016 Report on the Economic Performance of Davao Region at Royal Mandaya Hotel, Davao CIty, Lim said that at the moment, the coastal road project is being implemented by the DPWH with an initial funding of P2 billion that will be utilized for the purchase of road rights of way. On March 17, Wang met with President Rodrigo Duterte reaffirming the strong bilateral ties between the Philippines and China. The next day, Wang inked
a six-year development program to work together on trade and investment, part of Duterte’s strategy to engage China as a buyer of local farm and fisheries produce and a builder and financier of its much-needed infrastructure. This after the vice premier, accompanied by officials from the Davao City government and the National Economic Development Authority, conducted rounds at the Sta. Ana Wharf and other sites such as the Davao City expressway project, coastal road, coastline and port development project, the Mindanao railway project, and the Francisco Bangoy International Airport.
HE chairman of the House committee on good government and public accountability has rejected calls for Congress to pass a new amnesty law for the benefit of corporations and individuals with unpaid tax obligations in prior years. “Strong enforcement is the best strategy to ensure full compliance with our tax laws, and the grant of amnesties every now and then is totally inconsistent with tough application,” said Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel. A tax amnesty provides an opportunity for a specified group of taxpayers to pay a defined amount, in exchange for forgiveness of a larger tax
liability, including interest and penalties, incurred in prior years without fear of criminal prosecution. “There should be no mixed signals from government. We cannot tell everybody to dutifully pay their taxes on one hand, and tell them don’t bother to pay your taxes now because we’ll absolve you later, on the other hand,” Pimentel said. Pimentel made the statement not long after the Bureau of Internal Revenue filed a P9.5-billion tax-dodging case against homegrown cigarette manufacturer Mighty Corp. Mighty was found using counterfeit cigarette tax
stamps on its products to avoid payment of excise taxes. The case against Mighty is consistent with robust enforcement, according to Pimentel. In August last year, President Rodrigo Duterte warned tax evaders that they may be next in his shame campaign. “I hope you guys who have not been paying your taxes, especially the rich, the oligarchs, kindly settle your tax cases. I would hate to read your names in public and maybe authorize your arrest,” he said in Davao City. Duterte lambasted bigtime tax evaders for feeding on public services without paying their fair share.
“Your debts to the government have piled up and you expect me to give you security? You expect me to [let you] use the roads, the ports, the airports and everything the government produces for the people? Nakikihalo kayo (You’re benefiting),” he added. Several members of Congress have filed bills proposing a new tax amnesty on all unpaid internal revenue taxes imposed by the national government in previous years. Pimentel warned, however, that an amnesty would only benefit a few wealthy individuals and large corporations, at the expense of tax compliance.
House panel chief rejects new tax amnesty T
HILIPPINE monetary officials on Thursday said there is no need to change policy stance after the Federal Reserve kept rates steady and noted the slower growth activity in the first quarter of the year. After the two-day meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) on May 3, the Fed, in a statement, said key rates were maintained between 0.75 percent to one percent after labor market continued to strengthen amid slowdown of economic activity, and inflation has been “running close” to the Committee’s two percent objective. The Fed considered the slower economic activity in the first three months of the year as “likely to be transitory” and expects improvements in the coming months. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr., in a text message to reporters, said Fed’s decision to downplay economic developments in the first quarter of the year “bodes well” for US’ trading partners in the medium term. “In the near term, that the Fed is seen to remain on track for gradual tightening should be generally good for financial market volatility as markets have already pricedin the two rate hikes,” he said. Tetangco , on the other hand, said the Fed’s statement regarding future rate increases may “lead to some small depreciation pressure on EME (emerging market economies) currencies as the dollar strengthens.” “Nevertheless we will continue to be watchful of shifts in market sentiment,
changes in global growth prospects (should the US weakness turn out to be non-transitory),” he stressed. The central bank chief assured the public that “domestic inflation outlook is seen as manageable.” He explained that “of itself, the Fed action is not sufficient to tilt balance of risks to our baseline scenario.” He said the BSP would continue to monitor developments on oil prices, demand and supply factors on basic commodities like rice and utility rate hike petitions. “We will take all these into consideration during our meeting next week,” he said referring to the third rate setting meet of the BSP’s policy-making Monetary Board (MB) for the year on May 11. Similarly, BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo said the BSP considered rate decisions in the US and other advanced economies vis-à-vis its own policy rate decisions but pointed out that “the major driver of policy is our idiosynchratic factors.” One of these factors is inflation, which, he said, was forecast to remain within-target for both 2017 and 2018. Inflation expectations also remain well-anchored on both the two to four percent target until 2020 and the forecasts, he said. During the MB’s policy meeting last March 23, the Board cut the BSP’s inflation forecast for 2017 to 3.4 percent from 3.5 percent set during the MB meeting last February, and the 2018 figure to three percent from 3.1 percent as domestic liquidity growth remained strong while oil prices went down.
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UNIQLO EXPANDS New stores set to open in Mindanao starting May
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WATER RATIONING. Delivery men fix the water hose while serving a resident at Deca Homes in Cabantian, Davao City on Thursday. Residents in Cabantian still rely on the water delivery companies and the rations from the Davao City Water District as water supply shortage in the area continue. Lean Daval Jr.
Advocates push for Davao to be‘pet-friendly’place
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ERE’S one title which can be added to Davao City’s growing accomplishments--”Pet-loving City.” Pet advocates are pushing for this distinction with the staging of the Mindanao Pet Congress as part of the 4th Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDFS) on May 26 to 27, 2017 at Abreeza, Ayala Mall. This year’s Mindanao Pet Congress will highlight dogs as the main attraction of the event. Guesting during Wednesday’s Habi at Kape at Abreeza, Dr. Criselda Lao representing University of the Philippines Medical Veterinary Students Society and The Ark Veterinary Clinic said the event aims to promote Davao City as a pet-friendly city as well as to increase awareness on responsible pet ownership. Highlighting the pet
congress will be the fashion show where dogs and their owners will take the ramp wearing their ‘Rock & Roll’themed outfit, following this year’s VDFS theme ‘Rock Your Summer’. The event will also feature a pet mission where pet owners could bring their dogs for free check up, vaccination, deworming, and castration. “Owners must take note of the importance of spay and neuter because it controls the overpopulation of dogs,” said Lao. Lao also noted on the growing interest of the public for pet-ownership as she recalled that during the early 2000’s, there were only three to four veterinary clinics in the city. “Now there are already
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DA designates reg’l agri-fishery council chairs as farmer-directors
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WO heads are better than one. The Department of Agriculture has designated a farmer-director that will complement the work of a regional executive director among 18 regional field offices of the DA nationwide. A memorandum order was signed by agriculture secretary Manny Piñol approving the request of the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) designating the chairperson of the Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council (RAFC) of each region as farmer-director every Farmers’ and Fisherfolks’ Month celebration which is observed annually. “Through this endeavor, we may be able to re-strengthen the collaboration and partnership of the DA and the agriculture and fishery councils (AFCs),” PCAF offi-
cer-in-charge Sarah Cayona said in a letter. During the regular weekly convocation of DA 12 employees on Tuesday, May 2, DA 12 regional executive director Milagros Casis led the installation of current RAFC chairman Dionisio Bautista Jr. as the farmer-director for the whole month of May, starting May 1 to 31. He assumes some of the tasks and responsibilities of a regular regional executive director. As further stipulated in the memorandum order, the authority of the farmer-director is only limited to non-policy determining activities which should not affect the government accounting rules and procedures as well as the civil service rules and regulations governing regular government employees. Under customary func-
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APANESE global apparel retail brand, UNIQLO, announced it will open new stores in Mindanao beginning May. The first round of store openings will add over 3,000sqm of new shopping space in three locations, bringing the UNIQLO LifeWear shopping experience to Davaeonos and Kagay-anons. Following a period of sustained success since first commencing operations in the Philippines in 2012, this milestone marks the growing commitment and strengthening position for UNIQLO across the country. “We at UNIQLO are thrilled to open our first three stores in Mindanao at
SM Lanang Premier, SM City Davao and SM Cagayan de Oro Downtown Premier,” said Katsumi Kubota, Chief Operating Officer, UNIQLO Philippines. “We are committed to growing our business in Mindanao, and look forward to delighting our customers in this region for years to come. We aim to make the lives of Filipinos better through our innovative and high-quality UNIQLO LifeWear pieces.” The first new store will open in SM Lanang Premier, Davao City on May 26. The store will be situated in the fashion zone on the upper ground floor and boasts a strategic location very near the main mall entrance, po-
44.5 percent in 2016; while construction grew from 10.2 percent in 2015 to 25.8 percent in 2016. Meanwhile, mining and quarrying decelerated to 15.7 percent from 25.6 percent in 2015. “The slowdown is due to the low production on gold,” said National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Director Maria Lourdes D. Lim, adding that the gold production is controlled by the local government units. Despite the slowdown on manufacturing industry by 11.2 percent from 12.4 percent in 2015, Lim noted that the figures remain positive.
estry and fishing (AHFF) also declined from 1.4 percent in 2015 to 1.3 percent in 2016 “due to the drastic effects of El Niño in the second quarter of 2015”.
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Davao region posts 9.4% growth in 2016 By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ
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AVAO Region’s gross domestic national product (GRDP) grew by 9.4 percent in 2016, the highest among Mindanao’s six regions and the third highest in the country. Eastern Visayas (12.4 percent) and Central Luzon (9.5 percent) leads the country in GRDP. Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Region XI on Thursday OIC-Regional Director Ruben D. Abaro, Jr. bared that the 2016 GRDP of P333,022.026 surpassed its 2015 record of 8.2 percent or P304,412,137 “due to the faster growth of the industry sector”. In a press conference at the Royal Mandaya Hotel, Davao City, Abaro reported
that the industry sector posted the highest growth of 16.5 percent among the major sectors in Davao Region, accelerating from its 2015 record of 12.2 percent. The service sector continued to account for the biggest share to the region’s economic output at 51.1 percent followed by the industry sector with 36.7 percent share, and agriculture, hunting forestry and fishing (AHFF) with 12.2 percent share.
NILEVER Philippines is ready to supply both the domestic and offshore markets with halal-certified products, the firm’s new chairman and chief executive officer Benjie Yap said. In a briefing Thursday, Yap said the company acquired halal certification for Unilever Cavite Foods Factory last February. Unilever invested Php 1.7 billion for the manufacturing plant in Cavite, which is eyed to be the halal hub for markets of Southeast Asia and Australia. “We’re looking at exporting to Malaysia, which requires some halal products, specifically. And we’re looking to expanding in some Muslim
population, at least in Southeast Asia countries,” Yap said, noting that the company is already exporting non-halal products to Malaysia. The executive noted that this would be the first time for Unilever to export halal products from the Philippines. “We cater to a wide variety of consumers even in Muslim Mindanao. There are fellow Filipinos who are Muslim who will look for halal-certified products, so we want to make sure to provide products for them, and then same for other Muslim citizens in other countries as well,” Yap added. “So basically, we want to provide variety of choices for different individuals across the region,” he stressed.
Industry sector Abaro noted that the growth of industry sector could be attributed to the improved performance of electricity, gas, and water supply (EGWS) which grew from 16.1 percent in 2015 to
AHFF Agriculture, hunting, for-
Service sector PSA reported that service sector managed to sustain its 7.5 percent growth, with three of its six subsectors posting accelerated growths. The biggest acceleration was observed in financial intermediation which grew by 10.2 percent from 5.5 percent in 2015. Trade accelerated to 7.5 percent from 7.4 percent, while public administration and defense (PAD) grew by 5.1 percent from 2.6 percent. Meanwhile, transportation,
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Unilever PHL ready to export halal products U Yap noted that even the manufacturing facility is in Luzon, Unilever’s logistic network makes sure that its products have penetrated all regions in the country. “We want to make sure we cater to all Filipinos in Mindanao or other regions elsewhere. The sourcing side is less of you need to be there because we have a whole logistics network to make sure we ship wherever in the Philippines,” he said. Unilever food and drink brands include Knorr, Lipton, Lady’s Choice, Best Foods, and Selecta. It also manufactures home care brands such as Surf, Domex, Cif, Sunlight, and PureIt, as well as personal care brands like Axe, Closeup, Dove,
Master, Pepsodent, Pond’s, Rexona, TRESemme, Vaseline, Clear, Cream Silk, Eskinol, and Block and White. Meanwhile, Yap is the first home-grown chairman for Unilever Philippines in the last 30 years. The top position for its local operation here was held by foreign nationals for the past three decades. The first Filipino chairman for the Unilever Philippines was the late trade secretary and envoy Ambassador Cesar Bautista. Unilever Philippines is celebrating its 90th year this 2017. It transferred its country office from Paco, Manila to Bonifacio Corporate Center in Taguig City. (PNA)
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Drug suspects initiate clash that left 4 dead in Maguindanao: officials T T
TESDA-12 readies new training assistance for surfacing drug personalities
HE suspects in a big time illegal drug trade here initiated the shootout that left four people dead, including two children, officials said today. Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao police provincial director, said the three suspects, who belonged to the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), initiated the shooting while government forces were serving the search warrants against them in Barangay Panadtaban, Raja Buayan, Maguindanao on Tuesday afternoon. “The suspects fired the
first shot,” Tello said, citing reports from police units involved in the anti-drug operation. This was corroborated by Army Capt. John Arvin Encinas, spokesperson of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division. Citing reports from military units accompanying the police, Encinas said the soldiers surrounded the suspected drug den in Barangay Panadtaban while the police were serving the warrants against Wally “Akung” Akil Utto, Ruben Balintutik and Kandaw Utto. Utto was found dead a few meters from the suspected drug den.
Encinas said the suspects, sensing that government forces were surrounding the suspected drug den, lobbed hand grenades and opened fire using an Uzi submachine gun at the raiding team. “That triggered the brief firefight,” Encinas told reporters. Raja Buayan Mayor Zamsamin Ampatuan condemned the act of the suspects “for disregarding the safety of children” when they resisted arrest. Killed in the shootout were Minah Baluntintic and her children Hassan, 5, and
Maharba, 3. Minah is the wife of Ruben Baluntintic, one of the subjects of the search warrant. Police said he escaped with injuries and is now hiding. Ampatuan said Baluntintic is known in the village as a big time drug pusher and operates a drug den with civilians, lawless elements and even minors as his clients. Ampatuan said he already sent feelers to the suspect long before the bloody encounter to convince him to surrender and mend ways. His efforts fell on deaf ears. (EOF/PNA)
A total of 408 youth volunteer teachers from the 11 towns in the province were already deployed to cater a total of 3,075 learners for the “Summer Big Brother (SBB) Reading is Fun! Season 4.” The SBB is part of the “Bayanihan para sa Karunungan” (BPSK) program.(ids comval)
“Summer Big Bro, reading is fun”continues in Comval
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TOTAL of 408 youth volunteer teachers from the 11 towns in the province were already deployed to cater a total of 3,075 learners for the “Summer Big Brother (SBB) Reading is Fun! Season 4.” The SBB is part of the “Bayanihan para sa Karunungan” (BPSK) program. The series of launching in different schools kicked-off on April 21, 2017 for the 101 implementing public elementary school-beneficiaries of the BPSK program in the province for the incoming Grade 3 and 4 pupils identified as “non-readers.” Tessie Peligrino, one of the parent-beneficiaries from Banagbanag Elementary School (ES) in Montevista, ex-
pressed her gratitude to the provincial government for implementing the free reading comprehension program. “Nalipay gyud ko ug dako ani nga programa kay dako kaayo ni ug tabang labi na sa akong anak nga maglugos pa intawon ug basa labi na sa English. Dako kaayo akong pasalamat nga niabot ni nga programa kay aron ma andam na akong anak sa sunod abri sa klase kaysa wala lang magsige lang ug dula basin pa unya ug madasmagan ug motor, kay dili man nako maatiman pag-ayo kay busy man pud ta sa trabaho sa uma,” said Peligrino. Peligrino added that aside from the remedial classes, the children were also given free meals and snacks and most importantly, reading materials
to aid their learning. Crispin Jawa, School Principal of Banagbanag ES, also expressed his strong support and thanked Gov. Jayvee Tyron Uy for spearheading the SBB program. “Nagpasalamat gyud ko ug dako niini nga project kay matabangan ang mga kabataan sa ilang pagtuon. This program of the provincial government in collaboration with the Department of Education will help our non-readers in preparation for the opening of classes this coming June,” Jawa added. Meanwhile, Jenilyn Lansang- BPSK coordinator said that under the program, each school identifies 30 non-readers from the Grades 2 and 3 pupils. She emphasized that the selected students to join
the reading camp are not special children since the materials being prepared are designed for non-readers from regular classes. She added that each school will receive free trained teachers and youth volunteers, teachers’ module, SBB workbooks as well as Php13,500 intended for the daily snacks and lunch of the pupils with 1 sack of rice per school beneficiary. The BPSK is part of the education program under the leadership of Gov. Tyron Uy to constantly seek for new strategies to further improve the province’s current education system and live up to the province’s motto, “One ComVal, One Vision” in providing an inclusive education for all. (Rey Antibo, IDS Comval)
He said the measure will immediately be transmitted to the Senate for the passage of a counterpart measure. Acharon earlier said Senator Juan Edgardo Angara has committed to sponsor its Senate version. “We’re hoping for its approval by the Senate before the end of the year,” he said in a radio interview. Once approved this year, he said the measure can still catch up with the scheduled local and national mid-term
elections in 2019 and for the city to vote for its own congressional representative. HB 5162 mainly provides for the separation of the city from the first legislative district of South Cotabato to constitute a lone legislative district. It substituted HB 4678, which was filed by Acharon on Dec. 13 last year and immediately referred to by the House committee on rules to the committee on local government.
The bill was endorsed by the committee on local government, which is chaired by Acharon, on Feb. 28 and was approved at the House plenary on second reading on March 8. Classified as a first class chartered locality, the city had long been qualified to have its own congressional district. Based on the 2015 census, it had a population of around 594,000 and posted an annual average population growth rate of 1.91 percent since 2010. (AVE/PNA)
House approves bill creating separate district for GenSan
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HE city’s bid to become a lone congressional or legislative district has gained a step further, with the approval by the House of Representatives of a bill seeking its creation. South Cotabato (1st District) Rep. Pedro Acharon Jr. confirmed on Thursday that the House plenary unanimously approved House Bill (HB) 5162 on third and final reading at the resumption of their sessions on Tuesday night.
HE Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) in Region 12 is set to roll out a new skills training program that would benefit surfacing drug personalities in the region. Rolando Palencia, TESDA-12 information officer-designate, said Thursday the initiative is under the agency’s newly-adopted Emergency Skills Training Program. He said the program will be launched on May 31 based on Memorandum No. 83, series of 2017, issued last week by TESDA Director General Guiling Mamondiong. “We are allotting scholarships slots to identified drug dependents for free skills trainings with our accredited institutions,” he said in a press conference. Palencia said that aside from drug personalities, he said the program will also cater to returning Overseas Filipino Workers, beneficiaries of military and police personnel who were killed in action, dependents of traffic enforcers and other marginalized residents. The training scholarships will be offered under its Training for Work Scholarship Program and the Special Training for Employment Program, he said. He said they are currently finalizing the scholarships slots that would be opened for the target beneficiaries. Palencia said the slots will be made available to all qual-
ified residents within the region’s four provinces and five cities. Also known as Soccsksargen, Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. He said they already started accepting applications for the program through their field offices, training centers and technology institutions. “Our offices were mandated to assign personnel who would accept applicants for this,” he said. Aside from the program, TESDA-12 has an ongoing initiative for surfacing drug personalities in coordination with the Police Regional Office-12 and concerned local government units in the region. In this city, the agency had assisted the training of 45 former drug pushers and users in partnership with the city government, city police and the Goldenstate College. The beneficiaries were trained and eventually received national certifications on agricultural crops production, hollow block-making, food processing, baking, electrical installation, welding, electronics and cellphone repair, dressmaking, carpentry, hairdressing and beauty care. Fifteen of the graduates were immediately employed by Goldenstate as trainers and for other work assignments. (AVE/PNA)
S. Cotabato patrol group creates tracker teams vs carnappers
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HE police created tracker teams in parts of South Cotabato to spearhead operations against carnappers and suspects in related crimes in the area. Chief Insp. Arnold Carino, chief of the South Cotabato-Highway Patrol Group (HPG), said Thursday the move is in line with their efforts to effectively address cases of carnapping or vehicle theft within the province’s 10 towns and lone city. He said their operations are currently focused on organized carnapping groups operating in parts of the province. The official said they received intelligence reports that several syndicates were behind some of the recent carnapping incidents, especially those in Koronadal City and other key localities. These cases mainly involved motorcycle theft, he said. Carino said the tracker teams are led by HPG operatives and assisted by personnel
from local police units. Citing their records, he said 33 motorcycle theft incidents occurred in the province from January to April this year. Koronadal City reported the most number of cases with 23, he said. But Carino said 24 of the involved motorcycles were recovered by their operatives in coordination with other police units. “Some of these motorcycles were brought to nearby provinces and sold at much cheaper prices,” he said. The police official urged residents, especially motorcycle owners, to avoid parking their vehicles in unsecured places. He noted that about 75 percent of the carnapping cases in the area were due to such problem. “They should not also leave their gadgets like cellphones and mobile tablets in their vehicles as they could attract these thieves,” he added. (AVE/AMS/PNA)
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VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
Kaspersky Index in H2 2016: People are becoming more cyber savvy Kaspersky Lab has updated its Kaspersky Cybersecurity Index, a set of indicators that allow the evaluation of the level of risk for Internet users worldwide. The Index for the second half of 2016 demonstrates a positive trend: the number of people who are concerned about their security, and are ready to protect themselves against cyberthreats, is constantly growing.
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HE Index is based on an online survey of Internet users around the world, conducted by Kaspersky Lab twice a year. In the second half of 2016, 17,377 respondents from 28 countries were surveyed including the Philippines. This year the Index has undergone a slight change: the main indicators have been revised to more accurately reflect the digital life of users in different countries. Currently, Kaspersky Cybersecurity Index includes three main indicators: ● Unconcerned – the share of users who do not believe they can become targets for cybercrime ● Unprotected – the number of users who have not installed a security solution on their computers, tablets and smartphones ● Affected – the percentage of users who have fallen victim to cybercrime. In H2 2016, the list of incidents included in this indicator was expanded
Kaspersky Cybersecurity Index users can now view the statistics on the specific financial losses that have occurred as a result of cybercriminal activity, as well as compare the data for different groups of users (for example, the use of smartphones between senior citizens in the US and young people in Sweden). The global Index for the second half of the year (Unconcerned–Unprotected–Affected) was 74-39-29. That is, 74% of users did not believe that they could become cybercriminal targets, 39% of respondents did not use protection solutions on all their connected devices, and 29% of those surveyed have been affected by cyberthreats in the last few months. The previous Index accounted for 79-40-29, which means that six months ago more people believed in their invulnerability and preferred to remain unprotected. The percentage of cybercrime victims remained at the same level (29%) only because this indicator in the current Index update has been changed. To make the picture more complete, the list of cyberthreats now includes “financial fraud” and “device was used for cyberattacks”, without which
the average indicator of those “affected” around the world would have been 27% rather than 29%. In fact, this means that the number of victims in H2 of 2016 decreased simultaneously with the growth of users’ responsibility for their own safety. For example, the number of users that encountered malware dropped from 22% to 20%; the costs for eliminating the consequences of infection declined from $121 to $92. However, the percentage of those that have fallen victim to other types of threats increased. For example, the number of users affected by ransomware, phishing, data theft and data leaks grew. At the same time, the average amount of money stolen by online scammers rose from $472 to $482. “The Kaspersky Cybersecurity Index for the second half of 2016 shows positive dynamics which, we hope, will continue. At Kaspersky Lab we are doing everything we can to tell as many people as possible about cyberthreats and the ways to combat them. Our goal is to make the cyberworld safe for everybody. We are working towards a world in which people do not lose their data, their digital identity and their money because of cybercriminals’ machinations. The Kaspersky Cybersecurity Index is just one of our steps towards this goal,” comments Andrei Mochola, Head of Consumer Business at Kaspersky Lab. In addition to the Index itself and financial losses, the site contains additional information that creates a picture of the modern Internet user. For example, the statistics on the site show that the number of Internet-connected devices in an average family continues to grow: in the first half of the year, there were 5.9 devices per family, while in the second half this figure reached 6.3. It is also evident that more and more people are using online banking (59% in H1 vs. 77% in H2), making online purchases (73% vs. 90%) and utilizing digital payment systems (44% vs. 65%). To find out about the Kaspersky Cybersecurity Index and the behavior of users online for different countries, ages and genders, please visit http://index.kaspersky.com.
Franchising opportunities at Davao Franchise Show W
ITH the opportunities abound in Davao, “Franchising Negosyo Para sa Davao” is back on its 2nd run to promote different franchise business opportunities and to cultivate entrepreneurship in the region through franchising. Organized by the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA), “Franchising Negosyo Para sa Davao” will provide visitors with exciting opportunities and holistic view on franchising at the Business Matching, Expo, and Seminars from May 12 to 14, 2017 at the Abreeza Mall Davao. The three-day expo will showcase successful and established franchise investment opportunities in the food, retail, and
service with various investment levels under one roof. Exhibitors include 2GO Express, 7-Eleven, Bayad Center, Beanleaf Coffee & Tea, Bentesilog, Bibingkinitan, Calata Corp., Canadian Tourism & Hospitality Institute, Crystal Clear, CT Concepts, Cycle House, DS.DianaStalder, Famous Belgian Waffles, Francorp, Gamot Publiko, Kambal Pandesal, Living Water System, Inc., Mares, Magic Melt, Minute Burger, Mlhuillier, Mont Albo Massage Hut, Motech, Phoenix Petroleum, Quicklean, Seaoil Phils., Sitsirya Sari-sari, U-franchise Sales & Management, Xcess Salon, PLDT SME Nation, and BPI Ka-Negosyo. Gracing the expo opening on May 12 are Department of
PH EYES HEIGHTENED ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP WITH RUSSIA. The Philippines, through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), recently (27 April) held a Philippines-Russia Business Forum at the Makati Diamond Residences aimed at involving the private sector from both countries in the program of activities lined up for the PH-RF Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation (JCTEC). The JCTEC serves as the primary platform to discuss means of enhancing trade and economic cooperation, to provide mechanisms in organizing consultations and official visits, and to serve as an avenue to conclude other economic agreements. DTI Trade and Investments Promotion Group (TIPG) Undersecretary Nora K. Terrado highlighted the importance of the business forum in the blooming trade and economic relations between the two countries. The forum included business-to-business (B2B) sessions which allowed PH companies to discuss trade and investment opportunities with the 17-man Russian business delegation that attended the forum. DTI noted that Russian companies have keen interests in transport and infrastructure, aviation, mining, maritime zone control, export of engineering products and light master planning and energy efficiency consulting. Meanwhile, PH
A
Trade and Industry (DTI) Region XI Director Ma. Belenda Q. Ambi who will give an inspirational message and PFA President Dr. Alan Escalona who will give the opening remarks. The expo will also serve as the venue for business matching opportunities for both the business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs/would-be franchisees to meet their potential partners. Meanwhile, the educational seminars will feature two topics targeting existing business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs and franchise enthusiasts alike. PFA Vice Chairman and Francorp CEO Bing Sibal Limjoco will provide the current trends and opportunities in the Philippine
franchising industry at the “How to Franchise your Business Seminar” on May 12. The said seminar is intended for both established and startup business owners who want to explore franchising as a growth and business expansion tool. On the other hand, the “How to Invest in the Right Franchise” on May 13 is intended to educating the public on wise franchise investments by presenting key franchise concepts and presenting various packages up for franchise. Franchising Negosyo Para sa Davao is part of PFA’s advocacy to promote franchising as a tool for nation-building and economic development through
F FRANCHISING, 10
companies seek to pursue and promote opportunities for trade in food, high-value agricultural products, design-driven products, and IT-BPM; and for investments, infrastructure through public-private partnership (PPP), energy/oil and gas, manufacturing, and tourism. With PH-RF JCTEC, the Philippines hopes to increase economic opportunities with Russia. The business forum led by DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC), and Board of Investments’ International Investment Promotions Service (BOI-IIPS) received immense support from business organizations such as the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), PH-Russia Business Council, and PH-Russia Business Assembly. Government representatives from the Russian Federation were also present during the forum. In photo (from left to right): DTI EMB Assistant Director Agnes Perpetua Legaspi, BOI-IIPS Director Angelica Cayas, Russian Ambassador Igor Khovaev, DTI Undersecretary Nora K. Terrado, Far East Investment and Export Agency Director Maxim Shakirov, and Embassy of Russian Federation First Secretary for Trade and Economic Cooperation Vladislav Mongush. (END)
A Life of Travel at the 1st TLEX Davao
highly-urbanized city located along the northwestern coast of Davao Gulf, Davao offers an idyllic manner of living; one that strikes a perfect balance between the vibrant and spirited energy of city living with that of the nature’s calm and magnificence. Hailed as one of the safest cities in the world, the Davao City government could not have chosen an even better tagline than its current slogan, “Life is Here”. Seeking to add another exciting dimension to the multi-faceted life in Davao, Worldbex Services International, the country’s leading events and expositions organizer is more than thrilled to present the first-ever Travel and Leisure Expo Davao on May 11 to 14, from 11am to 7pm at SM
Lanang Premier. Open to all and offering free admissions, TLEX Davao will be co-located with the 3rd PHILBEX Davao, the biggest construction and design expo in the region. Embodying the theme of “Excite. Explore. Experience,” TLEX Davao primarily aims to empower the region’s tourism and hospitality sector by way of addressing the demand for accessible, hassle-free, and premium travel and leisure products amid a fun, hip, and exciting trade expo environment. Featuring WSI’s signature trademark of delivering highgrade shows, the much-awaited travel expo positions itself as the ultimate venue to score the best travel and vacation deals – easily making it an ideal event for adventurous and fun-loving millennials.
Set to take up a total of 1,263 sqm of exhibition space as it gathers over 40 exhibitors from all over the country, attendees can expect to find not only a diverse exhibitor profile – which includes premium and accredited travel agencies and tour operators, national tourist offices and organizations, airline companies, cruise liners and shipping firms, as well as hotels and resorts – but also a delightful array of event highlights. Presented in partnership with the Davao Bloggers Society, a premier community of Davao-based new media writers, a panel discussion will headline TLEX Davao as one among the many pocket events to be held throughout the fourday travel expo. Expected to take part in the event are some
of Davao’s most influential bloggers with the likes of Chito de Castro, Klyde Jarabelo, Naprey Almario, Claudine Chua, and Miel Laquindanum. As the travel and leisure industry continues to grow in the country, both TLEX Davao and the Davao Bloggers Society believe in the importance of knowledge and information-sharing as well as promoting responsible and smart travel practices. As such, the panel discussion will ultimately focus on opening a dialogue among Davao’s travel community with regards to travel etiquette and other relevant issues that one may encounter when going on a trip. Among the topics to be discussed during the event include travel hacks when travelling lo-
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EDITORIAL There goes a good one
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IXED Environment Secretary Gina Lopez is a good one. Unfortunately in government service, when you are good, you are bad. That is if you accidentally step on big toes. Lopez was turned down by a powerful Commission on Appointments on Wednesday and finally knocked her out of the cabinet. She has been a staunch supporter of environment concerns and angered the mining industry after ordering the closure of 22 of the Philippines’ 41 mines in February to protect water resources in the world’s top nickel ore exporter. Under her watch, dozens of contracts for undeveloped mines were cancelled and
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future open-pit mining projects banned as she tightened her crackdown of a sector she blames for extensive environmental damage. For this, she was sentenced to being undeserving of the cabinet position. There are suspicions that mining funds and political influence were mobilized to stop her from staying in office. If that were true, it’s too unlucky not for Lopez but for this country to be deprived of people with the passion displayed by the ditched secretary. In the final analysis, the big loser here is not Lopez but the country.
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OR this week’s column, I had another topic in mind but the recent events have forced me to discuss an age-old issue. There are too many questions to answer with a few words. My answers may not please everybody. But this should be something to begin with nonetheless. I have to tell you to read this article with open heart and mind. Read it like a normal human being who wants the truth and not what he wants to hear or believe in. I will not answer the questions such as why are Muslims terrorists because you already know they’re not and terrorism is never a Muslim monopoly. These are the top four questions that will make you understand Islam and Muslims better.
DOES ISLAM TEACH KILLING AND VIOLENCE? NO. Allah said in the Quran, “Allah does not prohibit you from dealing kindly and justly with those who neither fight you on account of your religion nor drive you out of your homes.” Quran 60:8 “Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.” Quran 5:32 Simply put, Allah has explicitly allowed the Muslims to be at peace with others including those from other faiths and has prohibited injustice even in times of war. Prophet Muhammad clearly
“T
HE degradation of our marine ecosystems has always been a gut issue as it pushes poverty deeper in the coastal communities through loss of livelihood, vulnerability to natural hazards, hunger and even health problems. We must all work together to bring back our coral reefs and the whole marine ecosystem to excellent condition so that our seas can benefit us in a sustainable manner,” – Senator Loren Legarda *** “From afar, aliens might see the obvious: the sea is Earth’s life-support system,” wrote marine biologist Sylvia A. Earle, former chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration. “The services provided are so fundamental that most of us who live here tend to take them for granted.” “The earth’s great sea is the heart of the hydrological cycle – nature’s solar-driven water pump,” explains Don Hinrichsen, an award-winning environmental journalist and author of Coastal Waters of the World. About 430,000 cubic kilometers of water evaporate from the oceans every year. “Of this amount, around 110,000 cubic kilometers fall as freshwater precipitation over land, replenishing surface and ground waters and eventually completing the cycle by returning to the sea,” Hinrichsen reports. “Once thought to be so vast and resilient that no level of human insult could damage them, the oceans are now crying out for attention,” noted
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VANTAGE POINTS
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Islam, religion of terrorism?!!! stressed upon his soldiers to be humane even to the enemy soldier. He has forbidden the mutilation of dead bodies or punishing them by fire. He even made sure that shelter, food and medical aid are given to the captives. He ordered them not to kill, women, children, elderly or non-combatants such as monks and others. He has forbidden all unnecessary destruction of natural resources and property especially the churches. Even animals are safe as Muslim soldiers are not allowed to even disturb a dog and her puppies. All these have been ordered to the Muslim Military since the beginning long before the Geneva Convention, Magna Carta or any human rights advocacies or standardization of the rules of engagement. Islam has made it a point that a Muslim should be courteous to others that he should not disturb their peace or privacy. Thus, Islam prohibits, kidnapping, bombing and every kind of damage to life, property, honor and intellect of others including non-Muslims even more.
ARE MUSLIMS INTOLERANT OF OTHER RELIGIONS? NO. In fact, Allah said in the Quran. “You will find the nearest of them in affection to the believers those who say, ‘We are Christians.’ That is because among them are priests and monks and because they are not arrogant.” Quran 5:82. Islam has protected the rights of Non-Muslims who are under their au-
a report released by the Washingtonbased Worldwatch Institute. “While the public eye is periodically turned to large disasters, it is routine assaults that most threaten the marine environment.” Every year, since 1999, the Philippines celebrates May as the Month of the Ocean by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 57. This year’s celebration focuses on the significance as well as the conservation and protection of coral reefs hence the theme, “Ang bahura ay kagubatan sa karagatan, ating pangalagaan!” (The coral reefs are the forests in the seas, let’s protect them!). The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) spearhead the celebration in collaboration with the different sectors of society. “The significance of the ocean to human well-being is undeniable, as millions of Filipinos depend on coral reefs and their associated ecosystems, providing food and livelihood to small-scale artisanal and subsistence fishers as well as commercial fishers,” the BMB wrote in its website. “Given that the Philippines is an archipelagic country composed of 7,597 islands, the development of the coastal areas is crucial, as 78% of the country’s 80 provinces and 56% of its 1,634 cities and municipalities, are located along its coasts. These
UNDERSTANDING ISLAM
Mujahid Navarra
thority in so many ways than one could imagine. Muslim lands have been models of religious tolerance since the beginning. Moorish Spain tolerated their Jewish citizens while the Ottoman Empire rescued and sheltered Jews during the Inquisition. Christians were also free to remain as Christians in Damascus and Palestine during the Muslim rule. There’s only one exception in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States where the open and public practice of other religions is prohibited as a form of respect for it being the land where Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, is located. There aren’t any mosques in Rome, right? Other than this, they are safe there as Christians nonetheless.
In deep trouble
THINK ON THESE!
Henrylito D. Tacio
ecosystems provide diverse and valuable functions and services, such as coastal protection, fisheries production, and regulation services as well as recreational, educational and aesthetic values,” the BMB noted. Human populations have a tremendous impact on the quality of coastal and oceanic environments. A full two-thirds of the world’s population live within 400 kilometers of a seacoast. Just over half the world’s population occupy a coastal strip 200 kilometers wide, representing only 10 per cent of the earth’s land surface. This is true in the case of the Philippines, which has about 7, 107 islands. “Every Filipino lives within 45 miles of the coast, and every day, more than 4,500 new residents are
ARE TERRORISTS TARGETING OTHER RELIGIONS ONLY? NO. It only looks like that the terrorists only kidnap, bomb and behead Christians or Americans because this is what you will find sensationalized on the news, movies and video games but the truth is far stranger than all these. According to the Global Terrorism Database, almost 97% of all the victims of terrorists from 2004-2013 are in fact Muslims. Do you remember Staff Sergeant Anni Siraji? He came from the same tribe, spoke the same language and practiced the same religion as his murderers. He’s a Muslim who was a victim of terrorism. Terrorism has no religion, race or creed. WAS ISLAM SPREAD BY THE SWORD? NO. Undeniably, there were lands conquered by Muslims and the people embraced Islam as a result. This is what happened to most of the Middle East, Mesopotamia, North Africa and the Indian Sub-continent. Historically also, many Muslim countries especially our ASEAN neighbors like Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and some folks there in Thailand, Myanmar and here in Mindanao became Muslims without seeing a single Muslim soldier entering their lands brandishing his sword and forcing people to become Muslims. As we all know, Mindanao was Islamized by Arab traders and Malay migrants from the South. Islam was spread as well to the Visayas and Luzon
by these traders. There was no Muslim military unit who came and conquered the Moro lands. They did not even bother militarizing their colonies too much when they came to Visayas and Luzon which was the reason why early Muslims including the late Rajah Sulayman, the Muslim king of Manila did not stand much chance to resist the invasion of the Spaniards. Going back to those lands that were conquered and became Muslims; if the people were forced to become Muslims, they should have abandoned Islam upon the collapse of their Muslim rulers. They would have seen their colonizers from England, Germany, France, etc. as liberators who will free them from the shackles of an oppressive religion. But the opposite happened. All these Muslim lands stood against colonization not only to protect their freedom but to protect their religion most of all. Also, until now, there is a huge population of Arab Christians in many Muslim countries. If they were forced to become Muslims, there would be no one left from the Christians today whose Christian lineage goes back to the time of Prophet Muhammad. This means that Islam was never spread by the sword. I hope that this column made your day. If you need clarifications you may send your questions, comments, and suggestions to mensahetv@gmail.com. For more information about Islam, watch Mensahe TV via Cignal channel 184. Mensahe TV, our message is Mercy to Mankind.
born,” wrote Joan Castro and Leona D’Agnes in a report circulated by the Washington, D.C.-based Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Rapid population growth and the increasing human pressure on coastal resources have resulted in the massive degradation of the coral reefs, touted to be the tropical rainforest of the sea. Dr. Edgardo D. Gomez, director of the Marine Science Institute of the University of the Philippines at Diliman, agrees. “If asked what the major problem of coral reefs is, my reply would be ‘The pressure of human populations’,” he asserted. Daily chemical and biological pollution – again caused by human activities – is likewise damaging the oceans at a frightening rate, while ongoing coastal development – driven by tourism and economic boom – hamper their ability to recuperate. “Accidents at sea such as oil spills, chemical spills or operational discharges from ships are only a small percentage, and affect only limited areas,” noted marine biologist Stjepan Keckes. “They are far less serious than slow insidious pollution which people get used to because it is progressive. In warm waters, oil evaporates or degrades and is broken up very quickly by bacteria to harmless substances – carbon dioxide and water.” In recent years, growing amounts of litter have been found in the marine environment. Natural materials
disintegrate quickly, but plastics are relatively non-biodegradable. “Plastics persist for up to 50 years and, because they are usually buoyant, they are widely distributed by ocean currents and wind,” reports the World Resources Institute. The oceans must be saved – now! In a feature which appeared in Philippine Daily Inquirer, Alexandra Cousteau, shares some ideas: “We need to get away from the idea that conservation is just about not touching the oceans. Conservation is about restoring abundance and diversity that will feed more people, feed more marine life, and create resilience against climate change and ocean acidification that will the Philippines really hard.” The ocean explorer, filmmaker and conservation advocate suggested that Filipinos must work together. “Getting the right people engaged is a huge part of it,” Cousteau said. “We have to make sure small-scale fisherfolk are represented; they’re not the ones plundering the ocean. We have to stop illegal commercial fishing; we have to source the fish responsibly. It’s been done before, it’s not a magic formula. Increase the marine protected areas, stop bycatch, stop illegal fishing – et voila!” “Life originated in the ocean millions of years ago,” Federico Mayor, former director-general of the United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organization reiterated. “Today, life depends on the oceans. They were the roots of life. Now, they are its wings.”
10 NEWS LOSING... FROM 1 people “who think that it will make a difference if they punish the Lorenzos by burning their factories,” in relation to the burning of the Lapanday Foods Corporation plant on the same day Larry got hit by the IED. “It did make a difference, but definitely not to the Lorenzos because their wealth is still there, tucked safety somewhere. Of course, their business issues do not in any way affect their lives.” She also said that their socalled fight for social justice only victimized Larry, who is a father and the sole breadwinner of their family, and affected the plant employees who are now jobless. “The attacks on Saturday and the death of Larry today
should always remind us of the twistedness of an ideology and the monsters behind it, how they employ fear and terror in their attempt to cloak their insignficance and the absolencence of their political belief,” the mayor said. The mayor also in her statement that on Saturday morning, she called Ruth, Buenafe’s wife and informed her that he was in the hospital. “The couple never had a chance to talk because Larry fell into a coma. Earlier that day, one of the last text messages that Larry received from Ruth was a one-liner ‘I love you.’ The message was unread. Ruth never received any reply.” Buenafe’s remains are currently in St. Peter Funeral Homes in Panacan, Davao City.
also has a niece who passed the exam –Atty. Bernice Pinol, a daughter of a brother. Bernice is a graduate of the Cor Jesu law school. Others who passed from UM are Siena Katrina K. Adolfo, Aimee May D. Agbayani, Jovito Arquit, Rachel Mernil Maratas Bacera, Rabmor T. Bartolome, Mel Federico D. Bernardino, Pedro A. Bongas Jr., Arsenio E. Caballero Jr., Hasnia P. Casan, Lisa Jane D. Cenona, Ahamedsiddique B. Dalam. Aiza D. Fahad, Umar M. Genita, Mohajiroe Lauban, Hazel Ivory R. Laud, Mary Lorraine A. Macasa, Rendel C. Mangliwan, Ludy Rose D. Marcelo, Fely Maiz Morata, Emmanuel G. Ortonio, Herman Jae C. Padernal II, Donna Mae H. Padua, Jocel G. Paquera, Mark T. Penalver, Efren L. Pinol Jr., Marionne Josephas M. Reta, Rino Geronimo J. Sagaral, Luchie G. Sasing, Dennis C. Sayco, Hedee Ezza T. Sinel, Israelito V. Taclob, Darryl June Luigi P. Tape, Leah Bianca S. Togonon, Jonathan P. Uy and Iryshell P. Villegas.
Gestuveo, Jarissa Guiani, Renan Lasala, Ancisse Juris Leak, Carlo Martel, Lyndon Monday, Shermin Monteza, Irving Occena, Denise Alexandra Olaguer, Ma. Cecilia Oliva, Alfie Omega, Jann Roby Otero, Bernel Padawag, Haj Pernes, Bernice Pinol, Ryan Reyes, Myrie Ellennel Rosete, Joebuena Rosilio, Jose Leon Vencer, and Mario Raymond Yap.
Davao... FROM 2
Cor Jesu produces 34 new lawyers The college of law of Cor Jesu College in Digos City, Davao del Sur produced 34 new lawyers in the 2016 bar examinations. The Cor Jesu law school is headed by Dean Genevieve Brandares-Paulino. The new lawyers from Cor Jesu are: Katrina Joy Angelo, Ma. Angela Baquiran, Melissa Camille Basa, Lou Bertini Benjamin, Ryonel Cabardo, Erick John Cabuslay, Nancy Jermae Cajes, Lady Jade Canada, Pearl Angeli Canada, Nikkolo Cortez, Euangeli Doromal, Alexis Enriquez, Randolf Esparagoza, Charlotte Gallego, Camille
St. Thomas More and St. Mary’s The St. Thomas More college of law in Tagum City under Dean Rodolfo Rapista also produced six new lawyers. The six are Melissa Nikolai Mesias Ansaldo, Don Nico Gustilo Sanchez, Lourdes Angelie Opena Edig, Geoffrey Pantojan Navarra Jr., Carla Blanca Soterol Maiso and Tirso Salomon Lasay Jr. Two out of four examinees from SMCT-College of Law under Dean Armand Seras also passed the 2016 bar exams. They are Daniel D. Besina Jr. and Nylor Jay T. Astronomo.
6 law schools now in Davao region The number of lawyers is expected to increase more dramatically in the near future as the Davao Region now has a total of six colleges of law – Ateneo, UM and Jose Maria College (JMC) in Davao City, Cor Jesu in Digos and St. Thomas More and St. Mary’s Academy in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. The youngest law school is that of JMC headed by Dean Israelito Torreon, who was formerly law dean of Cor Jesu. Successful lawyers will be taking oath on May 22 at the Mall of Asia Arena. (Many of the names of the passers were supplied by Dean Israelito Torreon of the JMC Law School. - Editor)
Advocates... FROM 5 49, and we have not yet included the Toril area on the counting,” said Lao. The veterinary practitioner expressed optimism on the expansion of the pet congress in the years to come. “Hopefully, next year we can include cats on the congress,” said Lao. Registration for the fashion show is still ongoing. Deadline of the registration is
on May 25, 2017. For more details, visit Mindanao Pet Congress Facebook page at www. facebook.com/MindanaoPetCongress. The Mindanao Pet Congress is a project of Visit Davao Fun Sale, The Ark Veterinary Clinic, UP Medical Veterinary Students Society, andsupported by Davao Dog Lovers Community. Jermaine L. Dela Cruz
EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
HIV/AIDS UPDATES. Davao City AIDS Council action officer Dr. Jordana Ramiterre discusses the update on the status of HIV/AIDS cases in Davao City while she promotes the 34th AIDs Candle Lighting activity in line with the World AIDS Day set on May 19. Remiterre graced this week’s I-Speak media forum at City Hall on Thursday. Lean Daval Jr.
Candle... FROM 2 with the virus and 68 were asymptomatic or producing no symptoms. Aside from the upcoming candle-lighting activity, AIDS Council has been creating outlets in order to raise awareness regarding HIV/AIDS virus. “Currently, we have a satellite treatment hub at the Southern Philippines Medical Center. Patients have been increasing. We also have ‘sundown’ clinics, a sort of experimental clinic supported by the Department of Health, meaning to say some people who cannot get tested during daytime may go to us every 3rd
and 4th Friday of the month, open from 6:00 o’clock in the evening until 12:00 midnight,” Dr. Ramiterre said. Dr. Ramiterre expressed that if the patronage of the said clinics will increase, they might increase the number of days when the clinics will be open. The activity will start with a mass at Ateneo de Davao University Chapel at 12:00 noon and later on, at 4:00 in the afternoon the formal program at the Rizal Park will follow. Expected participants of the said event are HIV/AIDS advocate groups from different parts of Mindanao. Jecia Anne Opiana
Alejano, will first have to pass through the House justice committee to determine if it is sufficient in form and substance, before getting its shot at plenary. Umali admitted that this will put priority legislation handled by his committee at the “backburner,” among them the bill seeking to lower the age of criminal liability, as well as the measure he plans to file to impose capital punishment on other heinous crimes like rape—a seeming addendum to the controversial death penalty bill the House passed before the break. The current Congress is ruled by a supermajority allied with Duterte, with some already turning down Alejano’s complaint.
Franchising... FROM 7 enterprise creation and job generation, hence, fostering inclusive growth and prosperity for Filipino people. “We invite everyone to attend the ‘Franchising Negosyo Para Sa Davao’ and seize this opportunity to discover huge opportunities in franchising, meet face-to-face with franchise executives and ‘Be Your Own Boss’ by finding the right franchise for you in this 3-in-1 event,” said Escalona. “Franchising Negosyo Para Sa Davao” is co-presented by BPI Family Ka-Negosyo and PLDT SME Nation, in partnership with the Department of Trade & Industry-Region XI, Davao
City Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Davao City Investment Promotion Center, Negosyo Center Davao City, Go Negosyo, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Region XI, Abreeza Mall, Ayala Malls, Mlhuillier, Calata Corp., Phoenix Petroleum, and Chase Technologies Corporation. Media Partners are The Edge Davao, Mindanao Times, and Sun Star Davao. For inquiries, please contact PFA Davao at 09253214282 and email pfa@davao.org.ph or the PFA Manila Office at (02) 6870365 to 67 and email at seminars@pfa.org.ph. You may also visit www.pfa.org.ph/franchisemindanao for more information.
‘Against any impeachment’ Others, meanwhile, have said they will not support any
impeachment bid, whether it’s against Duterte or Vice President Leni Robredo, herself the subject of two impeachment complaints seeking endorsement from lawmakers. Some lawmakers, including Robredo’s allies from the Liberal Party, have noted that complaints against either officials distract from the bulk of work they deal with in Congress. Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Rodel Batocabe, a member of the House supermajority, joins in this opinion. “I think the support is against the impeachment. Ang dami naming gagawin sa House. Against the impeachment of the President, against the impeachment of the Vice President,” he said. While he did not provide specifics, Batocabe claimed: “Marami po kami. Marami kami, ‘di lang nagsasalita, pero marami kaming against
the impeachment.” The lawmaker noted that impeachment proceedings are “a politics game,” and noted that both Duterte and Robredo are popular in their own right, which may make it difficult to proceed with such complaints. “Nakikinig rin kami sa public opinion. It’s not only about legal basis. It’s more about the will of the people,” he said. Batocabe, however, urged his colleagues to do away with making impeachment raps “appear formless,” and objectively look into any of the complaints. “Based on my experience before, ‘yung mga impeachment proceedings na ‘di talaga supported ng majority, most likely [shot down na sa form pa lang]. Kahit may form, ginagawang formless ‘yan,” he said. “Pero I do think that we
should have a lively debate on this, just so we can strengthen the impeachment proceeding as an institution. If we are blinded by the numbers game, we will weaken the institution,” he added. COOP-NATCCO party-list Rep. Anthony Bravo, another supermajority member, echoed the opposition against impeaching the top elected officials. “We will not be supporting any impeachment on either officials. That’s very unproductive. There are more pressing issues. There are priority bills that need to be prioritized. Kung may impeachment made-derail ‘yung mga activities, ‘di natin makukuha ‘yung ating target,” he said. He noted, however, his belief that members of the House justice committee “are objective,” and may deem the complaints compliant, at least in form.
Camello, Christian Centina, Venus Cuabo, Annalene Dacumos, Rizaida Diesto, Joahna Domingo, Kyrie Genolos-Montemayor, Marnelli Jamison, Queenie Leguin, Antonette Lim, Ralph Mendoza, Sigrid Kim Mier, Ralph Palmera, AmelouPelonio, Gavino Quibo, Jesse Mari Santos, Renie Jay Soriano, William Uy Jr., Guillermo Villamil Jr., and Reina Rea Zozobrado.
This year, 3,747 out of 6,254 examinees successfully passed the bar exam announced on May 3 by the Supreme Court of the Philippines. The top 10 in the bar are Karen Mae Calam, from the University of San Carlos with a passing rate of 89.05 percent; Alanna Gayle Ashley Khio, Silliman University (88.95 percent); Fiona Cristy Lao, Uni-
versity of San Carlos (88.80 percent) and Athalia Liong, Andres Bonifacio College (88.80 percent) who both tied in the third place; Allana Mae Babayen-On, University of San Agustin (88.75 percent); Justin Ryan Morilla, Ateneo de Davao University (88.40 percent); Mark Dave Camarao, Northwestern University (88.10 percent); Anne Margaret Momongan, University
of San Carlos (87.80 percent); Jefferson Gomez, University of San Carlos (87.70 percent); Nia Rachelle Gonzales, University of Batangas and Marie Chielo Ybio, Silliman University (87.50 percent), both tied in the ninth place; and Andrew Stephen Liu, Silliman University (87.45 percent). Successful lawyers will be taking oath on May 22 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
House... FROM 2
Dean... FROM 3
INdulge! SUBLIMED SUFFERING VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
EDGEDAVAO
ARTS AND CULTURE
IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF VISUAL ART, it is commonplace to criticize depictions of suffering as a numbing spectacle. Like in the famous works of Romantic artist, Eugene Delacroix: Liberty Leading The People, Massacre At Chios, The Braque of Dante, and Death of Sardanapalus, wherein, contortioned bodies and desperately blank or moaning human faces are made more dramatic by its light and shadow technique, is utterly magnificent in spite the fact that what the audiences are witnessing are grotesque and macabre scenes. Now, Professor Teody Boylie “Bong” Perez, is far from the stereotypical “tortured artist” personality type, though one can draw some common ground in terms of his works as communicating suffering as art through the transitional power of aesthetics. A new DATU Bago-awardee and internationally award-winning artist, with numerous group and solo exhibits under his belt, Prof. Perez’s mostly colored pencil artworks depict the every-
The artist at work.
Badjao Siblings
day-raw Filipino life and culture—that are both in the urban and provincial setting. “What is important for me is a real understand-
“
Barong-barong
More than the category of “realism”, Prof. Bong Perez’s works arouse a kind of Emotional Realism that is similar to Hegel’s concept of “Beauty of Inwardness”
Bridle on Post ing of the fundamental conditions pertaining to my country and then my relation to these conditions. I believe that what is necessary for art is first an appreciation of the great ideas applicable to my country and then the
achievement of a masterly freedom in expressing them. Studying in Japan has developed my mind and soul and heart to the fullest through diligent work, and then finding
THEKATCLOSET A2
A2 INdulge! ARTS AND CULTURE
EDGEDAVAO
THEKATCLOSET A1
through this training the utmost freedom of expression—a fluid technique that will respond to every inspiration and enthusiasm that thrills me. Without question, my art will be characteristically Filipino, whatever the subject and wherever I paint,” beautifully shared by Prof. Perez. One of his favorite artists is Johannes Vermeer, a Dutch painter who specialized in creating scenes drawn from domestic and middle-class life (Girl With The Pearl Earring, The Milkmaid). And like those classic artworks, Professor Bong Perez’s colored pencil “Urban Walk”, which was sold in Fine Art America, represents the modern Filipino streets. Albeit its vivid use of colors, it conceptualizes the relationship between “suffering in art” within the broader framework of social,
Bangkerohan Settlers cultural, and political thought. “Ever since the beginning, even during my long stay in Japan, I have never deviated from my favorite subjects regarding the life
of ordinary people and cultural communities. From time to time there may be little variations if I join art competitions, but I believe my works evoke a sense
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
of anguish to what our brethren might feel when they are marginalized. I have committed many mistakes, but in ever y trial that I overcame it made me stronger and wise. And because I never gave up, I have improved my technique,” the artist shares. More than the category of “realism”, Prof. Bong Perez’s works arouse a kind of Emotional Re-
alism that is similar to Hegel’s concept of “Beauty of Inwardness”—artworks portraying some type of outright or subliminal suffering become more profound than they seem because there is a reconciliation happening between spiritual freedom and sorrow. People look at paintings in order to become happy and fulfill their needs—which is an emotional contrast to most of Prof. Perez’s artwork themes of a developing people/country. Art has evolved the way people look at “suffering” and the artist’s works fulfill the aim of visual communication—having creativity/beauty and a statement. One can take the concept: “Beauty is pain. Art is suffering.” and apply it to different contexts, but there is always that universal truth of a “silver lining”—that no matter how much the pain and suffering, there will always be beauty and positivity that will come out of it sooner or later.
EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS Serving a seamless society
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EVENT
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INdulge! A3
Love the second time around By HENRYLITO D. TACIO TO TWO PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT RELATED TO EACH OTHER, LOVE COMES FROM UNEXPECTED PLACES, so goes a line of a song. And even if they are poles apart, they come together, no matter what. It ends up in marriage – some in a few spans of time while others take longer.
Renewal of commitment.
NOW SHOWING
May 3 – 9, 2017
GIFTED Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only
PG
12:45 | 3:00 | 5:15 | 7:30 | 9:45 LFS
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana Guaranteed Seating & One Time View ing Only
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1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 | 10:00 LFS
LUCK AT FIRST SIGHT Jericho Rosales, Bela Padilla Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only
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THE CIRCLE/ *FAST & FURIOUS 8
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Emma Watson, Tom Hanks/ *Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson 12:10 | 2:25 | 4:40 LFS/ *6:55 | 9:45 LFS
If that union is made in heaven, there’s nothing can hinder them from taking the vow the second time around. After all, love is lovelier the second time around! That was what Reggie and Roxan Obregon did recently. After being married with each other for 25 years now, they decided to tie the knot again. Since the bride is the general manager of the Big 8 Corporate Hotel, the venue of some of the big events in Tagum City and a home away from home, the silver wedding anniversary was held at grand ballroom of the hotel. The lovely couple selected 24 principal sponsors. The male sponsors were composed of Alexander D. Divinagracia, Benjamen J. Banzon, Romeo A. Bartolome, Reynaldo S. Tagle, Nelson S. Tan, Ralph V. Servande, Patrick C. Gregorio, Leandro A. Conti, Billy M. Quibod, Alexander S. Buyco, Allan L. Rellon and Efren F. Elbanbuena. The female sponsors were as follows: Jenny R. Romero, Brenda R. Maceda, Susan B. Palad, Mary Ann M. Bantayan, Susabel C. Reta, Leilani C Hernandez, Lenie C. Palacio, Mildred R. Andolana, Vilma A. Quibod, Emelyn C. Buyco, Melanie S. Encarnacion and Bing B. delos Reyes. Dimmer O. Nacilla was Reggie’s best man while Kim Frances M. Obregon was the maid of honor. The groom’s men were Dan Rafael O. Garces, Lenard Angelo R. Romero, Patrick John O. Garces, Clyde Edward P. Price, Lord Kenneth O. Silvosa and Jose Joaquin M. Lago. Kate Ashley M. Obregon, Janica Paula S. Sacay, Ma. Rikka M. Ona, Carmela Angela Irene M. Lago, Diane Roxanne M. Cajes and Jacqueline N. Casiller were the bride’s maids. There were also senior groom’s men: Loreto Gamalong, Ferdinand Bernadas, Mario Campaner, Felipe Pabelic, Barry Sollano, Edgar Gorospe, Noli Alconera and Sonny
The Obregon family.
The couple with their principal sponsors.
With the secondary sponsors. Babao. The senior bride’s maids were Erly Sacay, Judy Ramirez, Mary Ann Delig, Koche Mori Ang, Lutz Cabañero, Angela Ferrer, May Aranda and Dulce Salinas. Armando P. Garces and Elvie O. Garces lighted the couple’s path, while Bejamin M. Cajes and Tessie M. Cajes binded them together. Lito S. Castillones and Dahlia M. Lago clothed them as one. The flower girls were Kassandra Annika O. Misa, Shasmeen M. Cajes, Ma. Azaliah A. Aranda, Ma. Azaniah A. Aranda and Brianna Kate A. Di-
zon. Kurt Lester M. Obregon was the Bible bearer, Louis Elijah S. Genon as ring bearer, and Deore R. Nacilla as coin bearer. The usherettes were composed of Kathy Namuag, Sybil Angala, Elvie Dan, Janice Chuan, Leah Puyod, Charmaine Domingo, Chim Zurita and Kathy Dizon. Since it was a silver wedding anniversary, there were also 25 treasures: Rodrigo Flormata, Dj Caballero, Edgie Villaver, Mercy Guirigay, Cirilo Casuay, Evelyn Baula, Ferdi Sisneros, Leomabell Velandria,
Dave Domingo, Alma Balbero, Nelson Chiong, Rose Brillantes and Susan Cañedo. The remaining treasures were: Rachel Guinan, Allan Rufila, Gina Santos, Darius Joves, Nelfa Palomo, Melinda Villaflor, Ronaldo Gomez, Keen Competente, Ed Gomez, Rachel Jucom, Matet Santos and Helen Nuñez. Nestor Solis did a wedding toast for the couple while Pastor Roy Oliveros officiated the wedding. Miss Alice was the emcee of the affair while music was provided by Music Authority.
A4 INdulge! ENTERTAINMENT
EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
2017 Cinema One Originals Finalists named EXPECT A BROADER CINEMA ONE ORIGINALS FILM FESTIVAL THIS 2017 with seven feature films selected as this year’s competition finalists -- “Nay,” “Nervous Translation,” Throwback Thursday,” “Changing Partners,” “Historiographika Errata,” “Paki” and “Si Chedeng, Si Apple, Si Louis Vuitton” -- all chosen to deliver fresh stories with poignant, hilarious and extraordinary accounts that will touch the lives of more diverse audiences and make the festival more enjoyable than ever.
Brilliant young Filipino directors are bringing in neverbefore-seen chronicles in the much-awaited Cinema One Originals full-length film competition. Director Kip Oebanda goes for the supernatural as he makes a film about a rich, sheltered youth who gets to be transformed into an aswang by his yaya, Nay Luisa, in “Nay.” Shireen Seno’s “Nervous Translation” is about a shy eight-year old Yaelm who lives in her own private world. One day, she discovers a pen that can translate the thoughts and feelings of nervous people.
In “Throwback Thursday,” director Joseph Teoxon and writer Pertee Brinas will highlight the misadventures of Primo, a gifted production designer who was unprepared for the harsh realities of the real world. While trying to make ends meet at the peak of his misfortunes, he experiences a technical glitch with his old desktop computer and gets a chance to rewrite his life. From fantasy to reality, this year’s Cinema One Originals entries also include “Changing Partners.” Here, Director Dan Villegas makes a round robin, gender-switching falling out of love story of a GenXer to a millennial. Written by Erlito Reyes and Vincent de Jesus, it is an adaptation of the play by Vincent de Jesus, and a realistic take on why relationships do not last. Historical mosaics will be the highlight of Richard Somes’ “Historiographika Errata.” This film has characters depicting the Philippines’ damaged culture such as a disillusioned and suicidal Rizal, a cross-dressing Bonifacio, an ex-Katipunero who joins the US army to save his own neck, and a widow whose sex-forfood errands lead her to become the first ever Makapili. There will also be two narrative films to tackle fascinat-
Joseph Teoxon ing and shocking adventures of women in their twilight years. Giancarlo Abrahan’s “Paki” tells the tale of an 80 year-old woman who decides to be an old maid and tries to face her children who forbid her to separate from her husband. In “Si Chedeng, Si Apple, Si Louis Vuitton,” directors Fatrick Tabada and Rae Red will bring to light two women in their 60’s who are off to a hilarious adventure. In the wake of her husband’s death, Chedeng decides to come out of the closet. Her best friend, Apple, beheads her live-in partner in a fit of rage. Bound by friendship, the two women, together with the severed head placed in a bag, set off to find Chedeng’s ex-girlfriend. Meanwhile, three finalists have been chosen for the Cinema One Originals documentary film category, and they will be taking viewers to
bygone, revered and enigmatic places. Phyllis Grande’s “Horror House” features a closer look at Bulacan’s Bahay na Pula, one of the garrisons used by the Japanese during World War II. Here, a group of youth pays their last visit to one of the most haunted places in the country. Dempster Samarista will explore what could be a bazaar peddling bizarre mysteries on “Bundok Banahaw, Sacred and Profane (for the benefit of the doubt).” This docu will see how Mt. Banahaw, with its
Phyllis Grande
Rae Red
array of spiritual and superstitious perspectives, might be the perfect microcosm of Philippine society. In “Architecture of Belief,” Jet Leyco and Camille Aragona will make a fantastic docu on the death of a scientist named Tiffany. Her former boyfriend, John, believes a sinister reason is behind the murder. Launching his own investigation, he uncovers a network of rampant government corruption, global conspiracy and the mysterious world of the illuminati. Watch out for these interesting films and their amazing characters at the Cinema One Originals Film Festival happening on November 12-21, 2017. Cinema One Originals is produced by Cinema One, the number one cable channel in the country. Cinema One aims to support the movie industry especially Filipino filmmaking. Its programming includes a line-up of mainstream and independent local and foreign films, film related programming, and original content for television. Cinema One is available on Skycable. For more information, like Cinema One (@ Cinema1channel) and Cinema One Originals (@CinemaOneOriginals) on Facebook.
11 ENVIRONMENT
EDGEDAVAO VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
Where have all our marine turtles gone? Hatching area
By HENRYLITO D. TACIO and TRUMAN PHILLIP CALIPES
I
T’S just another day in barangay Daliao in Toril, Davao City. People are no longer surprised to see marine turtles, locally known as pawikan, being sold in the public market. Although local fishermen are very much aware that selling the endangered sea creatures is illegal and prohibited by the government, they are still doing it. “These fishermen would walk around our purok, selling the pawikans that they caught from one house to another,” a local resident disclosed. According to her, most of these fishermen caught these marine turtles by accident. When they are pulling out their fishnets out of the water, there are instances where pawikans are included together with the fishes. But instead of returning these back into the water, the fishermen would just put them in a different barrel and hide them in their fishing boats to elude detection from the local authorities when they arrive at the fishport for inspection.
“The place where they usually catch fishes might probably be a suitable habitat for the pawikans,” the local resident surmised. “Perhaps it is where they swim to after they are released to the ocean from a pawikan sanctuary in a coastal area in the city, which is more or less 10 kilometers from here.” She’s referring to the island of Punta Dumalag, nesting ground for marine turtles, in Matina Aplaya. The 2-kilometer stretch of white sand peninsula is part of the 37-hectare Marine Protected Area (MPA) that was established through Council Resolution No. 0250403. Swimming is not allowed in the area. The Aboitiz Group, which owns eight hectares in the southeastern portion of the island; the total land area is about 37 hectares. As its corporate
responsibility, they decided to convert the place into a biodiversity learning center, which would be managed by its subsidiary, the Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC). They called it Cleanergy Park. One of its main objectives is to save the critically-endangered pawikan. “They are on the verge of extinction because of habitat loss due to coastal development and human settlement,” said Fermin Edillon, the community relations officer of DLPC. Last month, the DPLC together with the regional office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) released 186 hatchlings of marine turtles to the open sea. The hatchlings were from pawikan eggs found at the park early this year. So far, the figure is “the largest number of hatchlings released at the Cleanergy Park since 2014,” said a press statement. A few weeks earlier, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio led the release of 169 pawikan hatchlings to the sea at the
same place. “With high hopes, Davao Light wishes that these pawikan hatchlings will grow to the fullness of their potential as they enter their home – the Geo-tagging of olive ridley
blue waters of the ocean, and that their number will multiply for the next generations to see,” Edillon said. Marine turtles belong to the order Chelonia, an order of reptiles that has existed and flourished since prehistory with very little change in their basic structure. Of the eight species of marine turtles known to man, five of them can be found in the Philippines. These are the Green Sea turtle (known in the science world as Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate), Loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), and Leatherback turtle (Dermocheyls coriacea). The three others are the Kemp’s Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempi), Flatback turtle (Chelonia depressa), and Black
Released marine turtle
“With high hopes, Davao Light wishes that these pawikan hatchlings will grow to the fullness of their potential as they enter their home – the blue waters of the ocean, and that their number will multiply for the next generations to see”
Sea turtle (Chelonia agassizi). Unfortunately, all eight species are listed under the Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, which means the trade of these species and subspecies is strictly “prohibited except for educational, scientific or research and study purposes.” The Conservation of Na-
ture and Natural Resources has also classified the eight species as endangered. This is so because “their populations are in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue to operate.” The Philippines is a signatory of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and implements the Pawikan Conservation Project nationwide through the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Since 2001, hunting, sale and killing of marine turtles have been banned in the country. But despite sincere efforts by the government and some environmentalist groups to save marine turtles from extinction, the decimation of the endangered species continues unabated. “All of the species found in our country are endangered except for the Hawksbill which is critically endangered,” said Dr. Arnel “AA” Yaptinchay, founder and director of the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines. “The only sure thing is that marine turtle populations are under tremendous threats and if these are not stopped, extinction is imminent.” Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources believes so, too. “Unless we, Filipinos, seriously take on the task of protecting the much-endangered marine turtles, these ancient creatures will soon be gone (from our waters),” Haribon, which is regarded as a pioneer of the environmental movement in the Philippines, said in a statement. Unknowingly, most Filipinos don’t know that tour-
ism may also play a big part in making marine turtles extinct. “Tourism in natural places that does not take into account the effect they have to the environment is the threat,” explained Dr. Yaptinchay. “In the Philippines, where it seems that every inch of our beaches will soon be developed for tourism, this will become a big threat for marine turtles.” According to Dr. Yaptinchay, development of the coast where buildings are to be constructed will displace marine turtles from one of their most important life cycle habitats, referring to the nesting beach. “Lights, infrastructure, noise, domestic animals, and pollution will not only disturb those nesting females but also their hatchlings,” he said. “Marine turtles will not nest when disturbed.” Studies have shown that marine turtles spend most of their life in the sea and get all the things they need there. They even mate in the sea. But when the time comes to lay their eggs, the females return to shore, usually in the same place where they were hatched. “If you imagine a first-time nester approaching its place of birth, how much do you think of its birth place or nesting beach remains over the last 35-50 years?” Dr. Yaptinchay asked. “I would guess there would be very little space left for it to nest and enough disturbance developed to shoo it away. We are preventing them from fulfilling their life purpose. For me this is very tragic.” In some instances, some tourism facilities view marine turtles as attractions. “This is fine if you view marine tur-
F ENVIRONMENT, 12
12 NEWS UNIQLO... FROM 5 sitioned right in front of the main drop-off point. This will be followed by the opening of the second store on June 2, in SM City Davao. The store will be located on the first floor of the Annex building where the world’s premier global brands are situated, right beside the mall entrance. In addition to these two stores, UNIQLO will also open its doors to customers in Cagayan de Oro by the end of June. The stores in Mindanao will all showcase a full and colourful line-up of UNIQLO LifeWear: innovative, high-quality clothing that is universal in design and comfort and made
for everyone, everywhere. The stores will carry ranges for men, women, kids and babies, with product offerings that include UNIQLO shirts, pants, jeans, denims, dresses and UNIQLO Sport items. Also available will be the full range of world-renowned UNIQLO proprietary technology clothing lines, such as AIRism and HEATTECH. For more updates, customers can visit UNIQLO Philippines’ website at www. uniqlo.com/ph and social media accounts, Facebook (facebook.com/uniqlo.ph), Twitter (twitter.com/uniqloph) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ uniqlophofficial).
tions, the farmer-director, upon commencement of its one-month tenure, is granted with the authority to represent RED Casis during opening/closing and program launching activities; conduct lectures/briefing on the implementation of DA programs; and act as Presiding Officer during regional management committee (RMC) meeting. Farmer-director Bautista should also attend to office callers, visitors; conduct visitation to various DA facilities and projects; and sign memoranda specific to the creation of working committees for various activities to be held in the month of May. Aside from these tasks,
the farmer-director can also execute the following semi-policy determining activities but with the approval from the regular RED. He can affix his initial to purchase request; regional accomplishment reports for submission to DA central, NEDA, and other agencies; Travel Orders; conduct dialogues with government units; and even recommend seeds, seedlings, as well as poultry/livestock dispersal. Meantime, the farmer-director doesn’t have a hand on policy-determining activities which would remain solely to the discretion of the regular RED. Director Casis has the full authority for the issuance/ap-
DA... FROM 5
EDGEDAVAO
Davao... FROM 5
storage, and communication (TSC) decelerated to 6.4 percent from 9.4 percent in 2015. On the deceleration of real estate, renting and business activities (RERBA) to 6.9 percent from 8.2 percent in 2015, Lim noted that the slowdown was due to the LGUs’ adjustment in construction activities as they are now assuring market analysis before giving the green light to construction. “The city is also shifting to socialized housing,” said Lim. The industry sector contributed the biggest share to the region’s economic growth in 2016 at 5.7 percent percentage points followed by the service sector at 3.9 percentage points, and AHFF at 0.9 percentage points. The GRDP measures the
proval of Purchase Order/Job Orders; signing of Contractsof-Services; financial reports; approval for Applications for Leave; communications responding to Audit Memorandum Orders; enforcement of disciplinary actions to erring employees; approval of Purchase Requests (PRs); recommendation of candidates for scholarship; approval of Disbursement Vouchers, payrolls; and approval of Travel Orders. The farmer-director shall sit in the office of the regular RED and shall be provided logistics for mobility such as service vehicle, transportation allowance, communication ex-
goods and services produced in each of the geo-political regions in the country. The NEDA chief noted that this year’s GRDP report was released almost three months earlier than its annual release. “We want to synchronize the GRDP release to the GDP so that the government and the private sector could utilize it for planning,” said Lim. “The reason for its early release is due to the clamor of the private sector,” commented Abaro who said PSA has achieved its earliest record of releasing the GRDP data by exactly 86 days. With 9.4 percent GRDP growth, Lim is also expecting double digit growth rate due to the big ticket projects set to be developed in the region for the next five years of Duterte administration.
pense, and secretarial staff. In his acceptance speech, farmer-director Bautista said he felt elated with the new task given to him and his colleagues by the agency which would give them the opportunity to experience the work of a regional topmost DA official. Director Mila Casis, meantime asked DA 12 employees to give their 100% support to farmer-director Bautista so that he will have a fruitful and successful term of office. “Farmer-director Bautista needs each and everyone’s contribution. Let us all support him,” she added. (LMSalvo/DA RAFIS 12)
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
ENVIRONMENT... FROM 11
tles from a distance, but most (beach owners) are greedy and would take a turtle and put it in a tank for secured viewing for their guests,” Dr. Yaptinchay said. But what he considered as worrisome is when beach owners would tie the turtle to a tree. “This has happened and is still happening,” deplored Dr. Yaptinchay. Under sections 27 and 28 of Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Act, penalty will be imposed by the DENR to people who is pictured riding, sitting, and tying pawikan in the post. Some resorts located in some islands sometimes think they are helping marine turtles by keeping hatchlings in containers and allow them to grow for a few months before releasing them into the open sea. “What they do not realize is that they have just disrupted the whole life cycle of the turtles,” Dr. Yaptinchay said. “Hatchlings are supposed to be in open pelagic waters for the first decade of their lives. Again, an important phase in their lives is affected.” For its part, the environment department is intensifying its efforts in protecting the endangered marine turtles under the Pawikan Conservation Project. Mere possession and killing of this species under Wildlife Act is punishable under the law.
But despite government laws which aim to preserve and protect marine turtles, hunting and poaching of pawikans is still ongoing. In some parts of Davao, fishermen who would accidentally catch pawikan are still selling these endangered species as they command a high price, thus earning extra money aside from the fish they caught. This is true in barangay Daliao. And although the fishermen justified that they just accidentally caught the pawikans in their fishnets, the mere act of keeping the pawikans instead of setting it free back to the ocean and selling it is still considered illegal and against the laws that protect the welfare of endangered species. That’s according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) which regulate fishing in the country and enforce laws that protect the marine species found in the country. The BFAR urges Filipinos, especially the Davaoeños, to help and support marine wildlife sanctuaries in the country in preserving and protecting the endangered living treasures found underneath the Philippine waters “so that the future generations can still witness the existence of pawikans and to sustain the balance in the ecosystem.”
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
A Life... FROM 7
cally and abroad which will basically tackle tips that can help make one’s travel experience a lot easier, safer, and practical; essentials that one must always have when travelling; style tips to ace that #OOTD post; beauty must-haves; and gadgets that are perfect for travelling. As Davao City continues to prosper, the first-ever TLEX Davao endeavors to boost the
region’s tourism and hospitality industry. By bringing within reach a wide range of travel and leisure products alongside bridging the gap between businesses in the tourism sector, TLEX Davao is a testament that life is truly here in Davao. For more information, visit www.worldbex.com or follow @tlex.ph on Facebook and Instagram.
Erratum
Due to inadvertence the publication of Notice of Hearing of Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in the issue April 6, 2017 is inadvertently published Acacia route instead of MaaAgdao under the name of Cresencio C. Plariza Jr. with Case No. R11-EV-PJ2017-C-1367
13
NEWS EDGEDAVAO DCWD explains intermittent water supply in most city parts
D
AVAO City Water District apologizes for the emergency water service interruptions affecting customers served by its Dumoy Water Supply System (WSS) which started evening of May 3, 2017. The emergency water service outages were caused by the emergency transmission line leak repair in Bago Aplaya Road from 7:30 PM of May 3, 2017 until 3:00 AM of May 4, 2017 and the emergency power interruption affecting DCWD’s pumping station in Talomo on May 3, 2017 from 8:15 PM to 11:30 PM which affected the operation of Dumoy WSS’ Lines 1 and 2, respective-
ly.
Although the leak has already been repaired and power supply has been restored in the Talomo pumping station, DCWD’s facilities need more time to recover to restore normal water supply. Thus, some of the affected areas may still experience low water pressure to no water especially in elevated and far north portions of the city that already experience intermittent water supply during peak hours even in normal operation. Since both the leak and the power interruption are emergency in nature, DCWD was not able to give any advance
advisory. Instead, affected customers were informed through announcements posted in DCWD’s website and Facebook page and notices sent to radio and television stations. Greatly affected are the service connections under Line 2 of Dumoy WSS whose water supply has just recovered after the extended scheduled water service interruption last April 29. Water supply distribution would have already normalized as DCWD’s facilities have finally recovered on May 3, 2017. Unfortunately, with the aforementioned emergency water service interruptions, these service connections may again
experience low water pressure to no water. The DCWD management asks for the understanding and cooperation of all affected customers while its facilities are still recovering. Further, the general public is advised to visit DCWD’s website (www.davao-water. gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/davaowater) or contact its Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293), 09277988966, 0925-5113293, and 0908-4410653 for any water service concerns and queries. (Winston C. Ajero)
NOTICE OF LOSS Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN ISSUED TO THE FOLLOWING PLANHOLDERS, TO WIT: PH NAME
CFP NO.
CONTRACT NO.
1. DELMAR C. SERVAÑEZ
21081534
NNN430001392
3. RONALDO S. GO
21089724 MRO50331030005
2. FILOMENO P. MICABALO
21044126
NNN 130006219
were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void. 4/28,5/5,12
DAVAO FLOOD. Good Samaritans push a stalled jeepney along a flooded JP Laurel Avenue in Davao City Wednesday night (3 May 2017). MindaNews photo by Manman Dejeto
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Be part of our dynamic team! SALES MANAGER • Must be a graduate of Bachelor’s/College Degree in Marketing, Mass Communications, Hospitality/Tourism/ Hotel Management or any relevant business course • At least 3 years experience in related field • Experience in hotel and tourism industry is an advantage • Able to implement all sales activities in his/her area of responsibility and maximize business opportunities from new accounts and repeat clients • Capable of developing sales strategies and setting sales targets • Knowledgeable in Events Management • Willing to travel around and nearby cities and provinces Send comprehensive resume, Transcript of Records, & other pertinent documents to: Human Resources Department SMX Convention Center Davao 3L, SM Lanang Premier, JP Laurel Ave., Davao City (082) 285 – 1045 loc 109 Email: kareen.lacorte@smxcc.com.ph smxcc.davao@gmail.com
14
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VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
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VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
SPORTS15
POMELO TEE WINNERS. Winners of the 12th Pomelo Tee receive their prizes during the awarding ceremonies at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club clubhouse on Sunday. Boy Lim
Palawan sends 3 teams to ‘Football for Peace’ T
HREE teams composed of 30 young boys between the ages of 11-14 years old left here Wednesday via C-130 plane to Manila to participate in the Philippine Marines Corps (PMC)-initiated “Football for Peace 2017.” The said friendly football game is a program started in 2011 that is aimed at getting children in conflicted areas to engage in a game of friendly football. At the send-off ceremony held at the Admin Building
of the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBDE) Headquarters in Barangay Tiniguiban, Brigadier General Nathaniel Casem wished the three teams luck as they embark on a journey that will unite them with young boys from other provinces “to understand sportsmanship, friendship, solidarity, and peace; and how they can all contribute in advocating for a harmonious relationship with other children.” “Aside from nurturing these young boys’ love for
Manny: Torn between boxing and public service
T
ORN between his being a public servant and his profession as a prizefighter, Senator Manny Pacquiao, the World Boxing Organization welterweight champion, chose the former. Pacquiao, who is scheduled to defend his 147-pound belt against Australian title pretender Jeff Horn on July 2, would have started the gym phase of his preparation for that fight Tuesday but had dispensed with the plan. The Kibawe, Bukidnon-born eight-division titleholder instead attended the senate session, which resumed that afternoon following a one-month Holy Week recess. “Session had just started at kilala mo naman si Boss, basta puwede, ayaw niyang mag-absent,” closed in security Choy Garcia said by way of explaining the change of schedule. “Besides, he’s been telling us there’s a lot to do vis-a-vis his duties and responsibilities sa Senado. We just arrived from Austrailia at maraming trabahong naiwan na kailangang balikan,” Garcia said. “Siguro naisip ni Boss, matagal pa naman ang laban at marami pang araw
para mag-ensayo,” Garcia said. “First week pa lamang naman ng Mayo so may 10 weeks pa before the fight.” “Then there’s, too, the potential problems brought about by the recent earthquake that struck Sarangani Province that need to be addressed. He’s still awaiting for the official report on the extent of its damage to his constituents,” Garcia added. One other reason that caused the delay in training, according to assistant trainer Roger “Haplas” Fernandez, was the absence of his elder brother and fellow assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez, who was yet to arrive Tuesday night from Bicol where he is now based being a town councilor. “Kelangan kasi mag-miting pa kami para maplantsa ang training regimen, so, kapag nagsimula na, tuloy-tuloy,” the younger Fernandez explained. “Yung roadwork aspect naman ng preparasyon tuloy at naputol lang noong nasa Australia kami. Pagdating na pagdating namin ni-resume pagtakbo sa Forbes Park the very next day,” he assured.
ball games, or football, it is also our goal to achieve their trust… that soldiers are not enemies; we are friends, who can help enlighten them on the importance of values like sportsmanship, discipline, and peace… that they can be advocates of peace,” Casem said. The teams are accompanied by their civilian and military coaches, said 3MBDE Civil Military Operations Officer Capt. Jordan Mijares. “We give special credit to
U
the coaches, who helped us send the three teams from Palawan to participate in the Football for Peace in Fort Bonifacio. They are the ones, who have been guiding the players since we started the football game here in March,” said Mijares. The civilian coaches are Antonio Austria, Ariel Recoco, and Jerome Javarez. They are joined by their military counterparts, who are TSgt. Samuel Fortunato, Cpl. Julius Haveria, and Cpl. Marjun Battelier.
The three football teams represent the 12th Marine Battalion Landing Team in northern Palawan, 4th Marine Battalion Landing Team in the south, and the 3MBDE. The friendly football game will run for over a week until May 8, said Mijares, at the PMC headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. The young players will be hosted there by sponsors like 1 Meralco Foundation, which has been a long-time supporter of the football program.
“What is nice about this is there are even four young players who are from the Tagbanua indigenous peoples (IP) group,” he said. Mijares also added that to bond with their counterparts from other provinces such as Tawi-Tawi and Sulu, they will be taken to special tours of Intramuros, the AFP museums, and other important destinations in Manila, where they can learn about Philippine history and patriotism. (PNA)
Toronto was blown out for the fifth straight time in Cleveland in the playoffs, losing each by an average of 24.2 points. Game 3 is Friday night at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre, where the Raptors will have the crowd on their side. However, they won’t have James, who has won a road game in 27 consecutive series and appears determined to toss Toronto aside. He finished 10 of 14 from the field, dropped four 3-pointers and 15 free throws. ‘’He did miss six free throws,’’ cracked Toronto’s Kyle Lowry. ‘’He’s playing unbelievable. He’s playing like LeBron James.’’ In Cleveland’s last nine
playoff wins, James is averaging 34.9 points, 10 rebounds and 8.1 assists. Kyrie Irving had 22 points and 11 assists and Channing Frye scored 18 points for the reigning champions, who are 6-0 so far defending their title. Cleveland is 9-0 since losing Game 4 of last year’s NBA Finals. The Raptors didn’t start Jonas Valanciunas, but he led them with 23 points. Toronto only got five points from All-Star DeMar DeRozan, who didn’t make his first field goal until the first minute of the fourth quarter. Of bigger concern might be the status of Lowry, who sprained his left ankle in the third quarter. Lowry scored
20 points but spent the fourth quarter in the locker room icing his ankle. ‘’It’s pretty sore,’’ Lowry said after limping onto the postgame podium. ‘’I’m going to get treatment and get ready for Game 3.’’ James came in needing 25 points to pass Abdul-Jabbar, and he overtook the Hall of Fame center with a 3-pointer in the third quarter, when he scored 17 points and helped the Cavs open a 26-point lead. James (5,777 points) now only trails Michael Jordan (5,987), the player to whom he has been compared since he was a teenager, for the most points in postseason history.
Cavs rout Raptors in Game 2
NSTOPPABLE. Untouchable. Undefeated. Back on the playoff stage, where he’s starred so many times before, LeBron James is making things look easy. James scored 39 points, hopped Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on the career playoff scoring list and pushed the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 125-103 blowout over the Toronto Raptors in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series on Wednesday night. Just like a year ago in the conference finals, the Cavs are up 2-0 on the Raptors, who had better figure some things out or this series will be over quickly.
STOPPED. Dabawenyo pro cager Baser Amer of Meralco Bolts runs smack into a phalanx of defenders from Phoenix Fuelmasters in this bit of action on Wednesday night between the Bolts and the Fuelmasters at the Smart Araneta Center. PBA Images
16 EDGEDAVAO Sports
VOL. 10 ISSUE 19 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, MAY 5 - 6, 2017
BOLD PREDICTION
Aussie legend says Horn has no chance to beat Pacquiao A
MANNY IN OZ. Filipino boxing legend Senator Manny Pacquiao cuddles a koala in Brisbane.
NTHONY Mundine doesn’t give fellow Australian Jeff Horn much chance of beating boxing great Manny Pacquiao in Brisbane on July 2. Three-time world champion Mundine says an upset is possible, but he backed the 38-year-old Pacquiao to prove he is not a spent force with victory at Suncorp Stadium. “Even though he is at his end and past his prime, I believe he is still a dangerous fighter,” Mundine told AAP. Anthony Mundine after his loss against Danny
Green at the Adelaide Oval in February. Mundine said former Brisbane schoolteacher Horn, 29, would be a difficult prospect, but hadn’t proven he can fight at 11time world champion Pacquiao’s level. He said welterweight Horn lacked the polish to stop the Filipino. “I have watched him a couple of times. He is just a young, enthusiastic and confident kid,” Mundine said. “He is an awkward fighter. He has got some power but I don’t really go much on his skill. “On paper, you would think Manny has it all day. But anything can happen in boxing.” Pacquiao (59-6-2, 38
knockouts) is an overwhelming favourite against Horn (16-0-1 record, 11 knockouts) in what is being dubbed the biggest fight in Australian boxing history. Mundine expressed surprise the “Battle of Brisbane” was set to go ahead after Pacquiao’s camp reneged on an original agreement to fight in April. Despite claiming to train daily ahead of a possible third bout with Danny Green this year, Mundine wasn’t keen to spar with either Pacquiao or Horn in the lead- up to July 2. “I like Manny as fighter and if by chance I bumped into him, I would meet him out of respect for what he has done in the ring,” he said.