Edge Davao 5 Issue 177 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

EDGEDAVAO P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

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Lawmen closing in on ‘Baktin’ Serving a seamless society

Indulge

Page A1

Ayoha gyud mga ondo!

Science/ Environment

Page 4

By Anthony S. Allada

The Economy Page 6

Sports

he CRACK team composed of several law enforcement agencies here and abroad tasked to find elusive carnap gang leader Ryan Cain “Baktin” Yu has reportedly

Baktin gang member yields a lead on his whereabouts and is only waiting for the right time

to effect his arrest. “We already have a lead whose details we cannot yet divulge so as not to jeopardize our manhunt operation,” said Sr. Supt. Greg Pimentel, regional

chief of the Philippine National Police-highway Patrol Group 11 here. Pimentel said that they are very extra-careful with “our

FLAWMEN, 11

Page 15

SURRENDERED. Mark Zapanta Daquiado, alias “Amak” is being escorted by a police officer out of the cell at the Davao City Police Office yesterday. Amak, believed to be one of the trusted men of Baktin carnap group leader Ryan Yu, voluntarily surrendered and confessed to his participation in the series of carnapping incident within Davao City. LEAN DAVAL JR.

NPA killed fish vendor

Army:

he military blamed the death of a fish vendor in the remote Paquibato district of Davao City to members of the New People’s Army. Lt. Col. Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the

10th Infantry Division, said that 29-year-old Rannel Parilla was executed by four men believed to be members of the sparrow unit of the communist group reportedly led by Commander Ryan Pitao.

Paniza said Parilla was only selling fish Wednesday afternoon outside their house in Barangay Malabog, Paquibato along with his wife edgiely when the suspects without a word shot him several times,

causing his instantaneous death. Joint elements of the Philippine National Police and Philippine Army are tracking down

FARMY, 11

2 THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Decriminalize, not legalize, flesh trade - militant women

oMeN’S groups have dismissed a recommendation by the United Nations to legalize prostitution and pushed instead for its decriminalization. The UN recently released a report titled “Sex Work and the Law in Asia and the Pacific.” The report said that “the legal recognition of sex work as an occupation enables workers to claim benefits, to form or join unions and to access work related banking, insurance, transport and pension schemes.” But Gabriela Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan said she does not agree with the UN proposal. “Prostitution is a human rights violation. It is among the recognized forms of violence committed against women and children. It is not work or occupation that women undertake

by choice,” she said in a statement. She added: “Viewed in the Philippine setting, it is a situation, most often characterized by physical abuse, exploitation and discrimination which women and children endure when they are forced by circumstances to become prostituted.” Ilagan cited Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines that prohibits prostitution, saying this provision has been repeatedly used to arrest women, children as well as men forced by poverty into the flesh trade. The Gabriela Women’s Party has proposed instead legislation that will remedy the situation where women engaged in prostitution are penalized, Ilagan said. [Lorie Ann Cascaro/MindaNews]

NOT FOR USE. Personnel of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) purposely tumble down garbage bins to prevent residents from disposing their garbage during unspecified times along San Pedro Ext. yesterday. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

AustralianAid awards grants to 11 NGOs in dev’t projects

he Philippines-Australia Community Assistance Program (PACAP), an Australian Aid initiative managed by The Asia Foundation, awarded yesterday, Tuesday, grants to 11 organizations for projects that will help expand opportunities for development in different communities across the Philippines. The award ceremony, held at the Grand Regal hotel in Davao City, was attended by representatives from the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), The Asia Foundation, civil society, government, and media. The ceremony coincided with the grants management seminar provided by The Asia Foundation to project and finance officers of the NGo recipients of the PACAP program.

Geoff King, AusAID Counsellor in the Philippines, formally awarded the grants to the selected organisations. one of Australia’s longest-running programs in the Philippines, PACAP has been providing direct assistance to Filipino communities for over 20 years and has already benefited millions of Filipinos. PACAP supports community-initiated, economically sustainable, ecologically sound and gender-responsive development projects. In its current phase from 2011, PACAP has provided support to 62 organisations. “By providing small grants that respond to priority development needs in poor and/or disadvantaged Filipino communities, PACAP helps build beneficia-

ry communities’ capacity to meet their own needs. This scheme also makes it possible for Australian aid to directly reach the poor communities throughout the Philippines,” King said. PACAP’s priority themes for this year focus on community development initiatives related to basic education; disaster risk reduction and management/climate change; subnational governance; peace building in Mindanao; and gender equality and persons with disabilities. Australia is a long-standing development partner of the Philippines and one of the country’s largest bilateral grant aid donors. In 2012-13, Australia will provide Php5.5 billion in development assistance to the Philippines.

cy to gradually transform them was the reason he became the recipient of coveted award, thereby disputing the negative stereotyping of policemen in general. he said that aside from teaching them good values while under police guardianship, they were also sent to school for free, taking up vocational and technical courses at the emar human and environment College, formerly emar Learning Center, accredited by the Technical education and

IGoS city Mayor Joseph Peñas has challenged political rival Governor Douglas Cagas to name politicians allegedly employing private armies or Partisan Armed Groups (PAGs) in order to win the May 13, 2013 mid-term elections through violence. “If he is brave enough to come out in the open, he should name names,” Peñas told edge Davao in an interview Tuesday morning in his residence at estrada I in Digos City. Peñas, who is seeking reelection against

BOC-Davao posts highest revenue surplus in October By Anthony S. Allada

he Bureau of Customs (BoC) Davao posted an all-time high revenue surplus for the month of october, registering a whopping P88,847,919. BoC-Davao district collector lawyer Martiniano Bangcoy said that its assigned target for october was only P458,850,000 but their actual revenue collection reached to as high as P547,697,919. “This is the highest revenue surplus so far this year with only two more months before the year ends,” Bangcoy said. With this, the monthly revenue collection of the Bureau of Customs (BoC) Davao has contin-

ued to impress Customs Commissioner Rozzano Rufino Biazon after it has consistently exceeded its assigned quotas. Bangcoy said Biazon described the Davao port as the saving grace of the bureau with most of the 17 ports in the country missing their monthly target revenue collections. Biazon was recently here to lead the recognition for the second time Phoenix Petroleum Philippines Inc. as the Top 1 Importer in Davao City that contributed P1.2 billion in duties and taxes to the over-all collection of BoCDavao. The recognition was given even as the year has

yet to end. The first awarding happened on February 2012 in Metro Manila, citing Phoenix’s big contribution to BoC’s 2011 coffers. Bangcoy said more than 20 percent of the total collection of the Davao port come from Phoenix importation of petroleum products. Phoenix, a leading independent oil company with an expanding network of operations nationwide, maintains a depot in Lanang here. Bangcoy said their annual target may be met after its November 2012 collection, and that its December collection will become the annual surplus.

Cagas, said the latter is probably referring to him and and vice governor and first district congressional aspirant Arsenio Latasa as the ones with private problems. During the Regional Peace and order Council (RPoC) meeting last week in Davao City, Cagas asked the Police Regional office 11 to focus on the existence of PAGs in his province employed by incumbent officials, especially mentioning Digos City, Jose Abad Santos and Malita. he predicted the com-

ing polls in the province to be bloody due to the presence of the so-called PAGs. But Peñas, a lawyer and certified public accountant, said that since he joined politics in the late 1980s he never engaged in hiring armed, adding the he moves around accompanied only by his driver-bodyguard who is a policeman. he said Cagas has been very vocal about the existence of PAGs when he himself had been hiring bodyguards known to be involved in gun-for-

hire operations. “Look, who ls talking?” Peñas asked. This is the first time Peñas and Cagas are contesting the mayoral post after the latter opted not to seek reelection for governor and instead fielded his son, Marc Douglas Cagas IV, who is the incumbent first district congressman, against former second district Rep. Claude Bautista. Latasa is running against third termer first district board member Mercedes Cagas, the governor’s wife, for congress.

Shelter for troubled Peñas dares Cagas: youths constructed Expose politicians with private armies

S Supt. Dionisio Abude promised after receiving his P100,000 cash prize when he was chosen the Cobra Pinoy hero Awardee last August 29, a shelter stands today at the back of the Talomo police station. Abude said he spent the amount to make decent beds, lockers, pails, laundry and personal materials and utensils for the over 30 in-house youths who once were involved in crime but have turned into productive citizens. his personal advoca-

FSHELTER, 11

SUBURBIA 3

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 177 •WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

ICT expo set next week in GenSan I

NFoRMATIoN and Communication Technology (ICT) players in General Santos City and the neighboring areas will gather here next week for a two-day exposition on the latest technology trends, products and solutions. Percival Pasuelo, executive assistant for ICT of the city mayor’s office, said the local government has tied up with ICT stakeholders in Region 12 as well as other government agencies for the hosting of the ICT expo 2012 on Nov. 1415. “(We) joined forces to promote the use of ICT for economic development,” the official said. Pasuelo said the expo, which will be held at the events center of the SM City General Santos, will feature technology or tech-talks on virtual assistance, call center, digital caricature and the development of business blogs for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMes). he said they will also showcase the initiatives undertaken by the city government’s enhanced SheeP-Computer Literacy

Program. SheeP stands for Social Transformation, human empowerment, economic Diversification, environment Security and Regeneration and Participatory Governance and Transparency, which are the city’s main development thrusts. The city government earlier launched the CLP as a major component of the SheeP program’s education-related initiatives. Pasuelo said they will gather anew students of 26 public and 16 private secondary schools that have availed of SheeP-CLP’s robotics training program for the 2nd Robotics Mini-olympics. he said the activity will gauge the technical and applied programming skills on automating mobile robots that were acquired by their trainees. “This is to promote awareness among our youths the advancements in science and information technology through friendly competition,” he said. Pasuelo said elementary school students from various SheeP-CLP recipient-schools will complete in the “elec-

TRADE SHOW. After cutting the ribbon at the ORO BEST EXPO 2012 in Cagayan de Oro City, U.S. Ambassador Harry K. Thomas Jr. (center) views the exhibits with Cagayan de Oro Chamber President Maria Teresa Alegrio (right); Expo Chairperson Jeffrey Ang (in background), and Chamber Communications Committee Chair Elmer Francisco (far left). Cagayan de Oro was selected as one of the three pilot cities under the Cities Development Initiative of the U.S. Agency for International Development

tronic Battle of the Brains” contest. The event is a quizbee type of competition where the top 10 pupils who were pre-selected earlier by the SheeP-CLP team will take part in a computerized question and answer contest, he said.

(USAID). Through its Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program, USAID has assisted and collaborated with the Oro Chamber and other selected business support organizations to help catalyze Mindanao economic development and improve the region’s competitiveness. ORO BEST was held back to back with the 1st Cagayan de Oro Business Conference.

DavSur LGU renovates Bansalan daycare center

AYCARe pupils at Barangay Alegre in Bansalan town, Davao del Sur have benefited from a more conducive learning environment with the recent renovation of their Daycare Center courtesy of the provincial government unit. Nilda S. Aniñon, Davao del Sur provincial information officer, said the newly renovated center was turned over in october this year to the Barangay Council headed by Barangay Captain Reynante Cagape. She said the local gov-

ernment unit of Davao del Sur province spent some P300,000 to provide favorable learning setting for the Daycare pupils in said barangay. In the turn-over and blessing rites, Governor Douglas Cagas has urged the parents to send their children to school to gain valuable knowledge while at a primary age, Aniñon said. Cagas further asked the parents to take good care of the center to benefit more pupils of the generations to come. Aniñon said the governor was also grateful

for the cooperation and support of the residents of Barangay Alegre in the municipality of Bansalan, saying that this made him more eager to pour in assistance in the barangay. Aside from renovating the Daycare Center, the provincial LGU has also handed over some P104,000 for a goat dispersal project in Barangay Alegria, Aniñon bared. Said barangay was also a recent recipient of new gym and barangay hall projects from the provincial government of Davao del Sur, she added. [PIA 11/Carina L. Cayon]

Gina Floren, wife of a fisherman in Panabo City, used to pray that her husband get a good catch for the day to make ends meet. Today, she still prays for a good catch but no longer to add to the family income. After all, she and 18 other members of the Cagangohan Women’s Association (CWA) have their own fish to catch and to bottle. “Mga asawa mi sa mga fishermen na nag training sa fish processing unya kami na karon ang naga debone ug naga process sa bangus (We are a group of fishermen’s wives who after being trained in fish processing now have a business deboning, bottling and drying bangus),”

Floren said. The CWA’s bottled bangus, which sells for P53 per bottle, is just one of the many products from Davao del Norte now on display at the Pasalubong Center located at the Department of Trade Davao del Norte Field office at the Provincial Government Center in Tagum City. For those who crave natural juices from Guyabano and Passion Fruit, there is always Lucille’s Food Products. A variety of food products from peanut butter, durian jams, empanada and cassava chips are also being sold at the Center. Cecil dela Serna, owner of Jian’s Pearls and

Gems, has been in the jewelry business for 14 years and her products are now being sold at the Pasalubong Center. “The goal of the Pasalubong Center is to provide market exposure to our local producers,” Roldan Torreon, officer-in-charge, Davao del Norte Investment Promotion Center (DNIPC) said. Torreon said producers who want to display their products at the Pasalubong Center have to get accreditation from the DNIPC. “We need to certify that the product is a Davao del Norte product and not from other areas before we display them at the Center,” he added.

Pasalubong Center: Placing DavNor products within reach

FPASALUBONG, 11

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Donsol, the town whale sharks built W

Tourists prepare to meet a whale shark. [Gregg Yan]

DA to launch pilot biological control program vs rat infestation

he Department of Agriculture (DA) will implement a pilot biological control program to address the increasing rodent infestation in the country. Dante Delima, DA assistant secretary and National Rice Program coordinator, said that they would first implement the program in Region 6 covering the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros occidental; and Region 7 covering the province of Negros oriental. “We will conduct the pilot program in Iloilo and Negros occidental by first quarter of 2013. It will be an island-wide implementation since rat infestation in these provinces is at its worst,” Delima said. The DA official said that they would use pellet-type feeds, which will be embedded with live microorganisms and biological rat control agent that was developed in Cuba. he also assured that the program will utilize biological rodenticides that are highly effective in control of rats, harmless towards other animal species and humans,

environmentally friendly and highly biodegradable and long time span effectiveness. on Nov. 13 to 20, Cuban agriculture officials and representatives from the company that developed the rat control agents will visit the country to determine the extent of the infestation. “Based on our estimates, rat infestation now accounts to more than 5 percent of the total agricultural losses in the country,” Delima said. earlier, DA regional field units in Western Visayas launched a yearround pest control program, focusing on the rat infestation because of the increasing farm damage and illnesses. The RFUs also implemented a massive rat baiting campaign in affected municipalities, as well as information campaign among farmers and other ruralfolk on how to effectively control rats and prevent similar occurrences. Meanwhile, Undersecretary emerson Palad has ordered the creation of special task force for the implementation of the biological rat control program in Western Visayas.

The DA official said that the task force will oversee the development and implementation of the program in participating provinces, with possible replication in other provinces. With continuous round of cropping and adequate water supply, rat infestation has hounded farm lands across the country. To prevent rat infestation, experts from the DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) recommend to gather excess grains from the field to prevent rats from inhabiting. Rodents multiply rapidly when food sources are aplenty. PhilRice also urged farmers to adopt synchronous planting, keep irrigation banks and paddies less than 20 centimeters wide to hinder rats from burrowing and build their habitat. “Stay vigilant during periods when rats reproduce, at one month before seeding and during rice plants’ reproductive stage. Rats also surface after heavy rains and floods. hunt and exterminate them using baits, sticks or flame thrower,” PhilRice said. [PNA]

hAT a big difference conservation makes. Barely 15 years ago, the coastal town of Donsol in Sorsogon was a 5th class rural municipality - where weathered vehicles spurred swirling clouds on dusty, unpaved roads. Sitting 540 kilometers southeast of Manila, the Donsol of the early 1990s was a relaxed and reticent town of fisherfolk and farmers. Donsol finally embraced destiny in 1998 - when an amateur home-video brought to Manila by diver David Duran revealed whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) earth’s largest fish species - swimming and feeding right in the Bay. Back then, the world’s most popular whale shark tour was still in Ningaloo Reef, off the western coast of Australia. Aside from being rather pricey ($350 to $500) per head), interactions were not guaranteed. Though occasionally gathering in other spots such as Australia, Mexico and parts of Africa, Donsol’s whale sharks mostly keep within a kilometer from shore, perfect for gutsy tourists bearing snorkels and masks. With strong government leadership and the support of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the townsfolk of Donsol took the plunge – and entered the history books. Since 1998, WWF-Philippines has been spearheading a holistic con-

servation program which ranges from satellite tagging and photo-identification to the effective management of tourism impacts. Current efforts are supported by WWF-Denmark, eCoCeAN, the hubbs Sea World Research Institute (hSWRI), CeRTINA and Banco de oro Unibank (BDo) and include vigorous environmental education drives to transform public school children into ecological champions. Today Donsol receives an average of 25,000 visitors each summer - a sharp contrast to the 867 recorded in 2002. Sailing on the influx of tourists, boat trips rose from barely 340 in 2002 to over 5300 per season. For the Philippines, Donsol has indeed become whale shark central. “Prior to 1998, Donsol’s yearly boat rental revenues totaled about P14,000. Now they annually breach P14M,” reveals WWF-Philippines Donsol Project Manager Raul Burce. “economic benefits are permeating throughout all levels.” From barely P4000 in 1998, municipal earnings from seasonal registration fees and taxes are breaching P4.6M per year. Combined, the town’s renowned Butanding Interaction officers (BIoS) are logging in over 3.1 Million per season, exclusive of tips. When asked what benefits ecotourism brought

to his family, Alan Amanse, one of the original Donsol BIos, said, “I sent my four children to college.” Lambert Avisado, head of the Boat owner’s Association (BoA), said, “When this started, I owned one small fishing boat. Today, I own three tourism and fishing boats. I even paid for the newest one with my own money.” Total revenues from Donsol’s whale shark interaction program rose from barely P18,000 in 2002 to more than P22 Million ten years later. These figures exclude revenues generated by resorts, restaurants, dive gear rentals, souvenir stores and rental vans. Year on year, tourist arrivals have showed upward trends. New income, investment and employment opportunities have popped up. Side by side with their traditional livelihood of fishing, ecotourism has become Donsol’s second engine of economic growth. Because of the way stakeholders ‘democratized’ Donsol’s system, the people of Donsol had every chance to ‘share the joy’ of ecotourism and feel its positive impacts both on their dining tables and in their wallets. “Tourism gave us a big boost,” says Jasmine Yanson, a boatman’s wife and mother of seven. “We were able to buy an outrigger boat and household appliances - plus my children were able to finish school.”

to attend the weekend gathering. Also by the end of the year, countries are to adopt banking regulation, known as the Basel III accords, but many nations and banks have said they need more time. A final statement Monday is expected to express members’ concerns over these delays, but include no new decisions. The G20 meeting did, however, make some headway in the area of disaster risk management, a timely topic in the immediate wake of Superstorm Sandy, the most devastating storm to have hit the U.S. eastern coast in at least a century. At a conference Sunday, led by World Bank President Jim Yong Kim and the Secretary General of the organization for economic Coopera-

tion and Development (oeCD), Jose Angel Gurria, officials unveiled a “manual of best practices” to “increase financial resilience” to natural and manmade disasters. The document, prepared by the oeCD and supported by the World Bank and the United Nations, “is designed to help finance ministers and other authorities develop financial strategies for disaster risk management,” said Gurria. Stressing the importance of the disaster policy framework, Yong Kim said “once-in-a-lifetime extreme weather events are now expected to occur annually.” The weekend meeting marks Mexico’s last as president of the G20, with Russia taking over the rotating presidency at the end of the year. [PNA/Xinhua]

G20 spotlights risks of disasters F

INANCe and central bank chiefs from G20 member countries are expected to wrap up their two days of meetings in Mexico City with no new agreements, but more mechanisms for reducing risks. Participants and observers said the U.S. financial cliff and europe’s debt crisis continued to dominate the talks, with countries concerned that the United States and the european Union are not acting with the urgency needed to spur growth and minimize risks. Tuesday’s U.S. presidential elections were given as the main reason lawmakers there have yet to decide on how to tackle a series of spending cuts and tax increases set to take effect at the beginning of 2013. In fact, U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner failed

THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 177 •WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

OPENING. Mayor Sara Duterte Carpio (2nd from left) leads the ceremonial ribbon cutting during the opening of IBM Davao City branch at Topaz Tower, Damosa IT Park in Lanang yesterday. With her are Mariels Almeda Winhoffer, president and

country general manager of IBM Philippines (2nd from right), Christine Llanto, IBM Phils. geo expansion leader (rightmost) and Major Magno Adalin, Davao City’s Public Safety and Command Center (PSCC) chief. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

Banana research center, industry dev’t council up in congress talks

he eSTABLIShMeNT of a national banana research center will be one of the many interesting matters that stakeholders will discuss during the Mindanao Banana Congress set at the huge SMX Convention Center at the newly-inaugurated SM Lanang Premier in Davao City on

November 7 and 8. The Pilipino Banana Growers and exporters Association (PBGeA) has continued to advocate for the establishment of the research center not for its members but for small banana growers who cannot afford to organize and maintain their own research and development

divisions. Stephen A. Antig, PBGeA executive director, earlier told business beat reporters the research institute is a must to address the concerns of small banana growers who have difficulty grappling with problems that big growers and export-

FBANANA, 11

THE ECONOMY

Stat Watch

1. Gross National Income Growth Rate (At Constant 2000 Prices)

5.8% 1st Qtr 2012

2. Gross Domestic Product Growth Rate (At Constant 2000 Prices)

6.4 % 1st Qtr 2012

3. Exports 1/ 4. Imports 1/ 5. Trade Balance 6. Balance of Payments 2/ 7. Broad Money Liabilities

USD 4,931 million May 2012 USD 4,770 million Apr 2012 USD -135 million Apr 2012 USD -209 million Mar 2012 P 4,580,674 million Apr 2012

8. Interest Rates 4/

4.1 % May 2012 P131,403 million May 2012 P 5,075 billion Apr 2012

9. National Government Revenues 10. National government outstanding debt 11. Peso per US $ 5/

P 42.78 Jun 2012

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

5,091.2 May 2012

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

130.1 Jun 2012

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.8 Jun 2012

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.7 Jun 2012

16. Visitor Arrivals

349,779 Apr 2012

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

18.8 % Jan 2012

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.2 % Jan 2012

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2009 - December 2011) Month Average December November October September August July June May April March February January

2012

2011

2010

42.85 42.70 42.86 42.66 43.62

43.31 43.64 43.27 43.45 43.02 42.42 42.81 43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52 43.70 44.17

45.11 43.95 43.49 43.44 44.31 45.18 46.32 46.30 45.60 44.63 45.74 46.31 46.03

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Investments up power demand in Davao Light franchise areas T

he CURReNT surge of new investments in Davao City and adjacent areas will lead to the increased demand for power by the middle of 2015 to the tune of at least 70.4 megawatts. This prompted the Davao Light and Power Co., the Aboitiz-owned power distributor, to sign up for additional power of 100 megawatts, according to Arturo M. Milan, DLPC executive vice president and chief operations officer. Milan said the new demand will start in the last quarter of this year until the end of 2015, adding that at present the city’s power requirement is growing by 6.5% annually. Davao Light signed two weeks ago a supply contract agreement with sister company Therma South Inc. so it could buy one-third of the 300 megawatts that the Therma South’s coal-fired power plant in Davao City will start producing by the middle of 2015.

Milan also said that by the end of 2015, his company will only be able to buy 195 megawatts of power from the National Power Corp. which operates the big hydroelectric plants in Mindanao. Currently NPC sells 260 megawatts of power to Davao Light, although the actual power sold has been fluctuating due to the problems encountered by its hydroelectric power plants in the Pulangi and Agus power complexes. Milan said the power demand growth will be massive because of capitalists’ continued interest in pouring modest and huge investments into the city and neighboring Davao del Norte communities still covered by the Davao Light franchise. “We have a good business climate, so we expect that the demand will even get bigger,” he added. By the fourth quarter of this year alone, DLPC will need an

additional power of 6.5 megawatts with the opening of a mall, an ice plant, a food processing plant, a hotel and a call center. The bulk of the demand will be next year when a steel factory with 17 megawatts of power demand will start operations. The demand for next year, Milan said, will reach to 33.5 megawatts with four smaller malls, two commercial centers, and a high-end hotel will open. The additional demand will come from the Ateneo de Davao University which will need 2.5 megawatts of for its expansion. In 2014, the power distributor will need an additional 7.5 megawatts of power when three malls will start operations. Milan pointed out that by 2015, the remainder in the power requirement will be used in the operations of a cold storage and wharf in Panabo City, a city in Davao del Norte which is within the franchised

area of the utility. The project, the San Vicente Terminal and Brokerage Services Inc., a modern wharf facility will need 8.5 megawatts of power when it starts operations by the third quarter of 2015, the projection from the power distributor pointed out. This was confirmed by Alexander N. Valoria, president of the Floirendo-owned Anflo Investment and Management Corp., the mother company. Milan said the demand that was included in the projection did not even include property development projects that have been taking place both in the city and the other areas within the franchised area of the power company. Roberto P. Alabado III, acting city planning and development officer, earlier said that property developers have continued to implement their projects even when the city government decided to lift the incentives for these projects.

The Mindanao Banana Congress is a gathering of at least 500 banana industry stakeholders slated on November 7 and 8 at SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier, Davao City. It is spearheaded by the Philippine

exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) Davao Chapter. on the first day, the aggie chief will be the keynote speaker who is expected to give his response to the four resolutions crafted by the local industry

players and stakeholders. Philexport-Davao press relations officer and Davao Industry Cluster Capacity enhancement Project (DICCeP) banana industry cluster chair Rene Dalayon said the resolutions are aimed at spurring growth in the entire industry. “There’s really a need for the banana industry to get more assistance especially from the government,” he said. The first resolution is the organization of the Philippine Banana Industry Council which shall take a closer look into the plight of the industry, just like the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) that specializes on implementing coconut industry development-related initiatives. Second is the introduction of Cavendish banana as a “hunger mitigating measure” for schoolchildren in the country. This shall be incorporated in the feeding program of the local government units (LGUs). Dalayon cited that by feeding the 21 million elementary and high school students in the Philippines, a total of 600,000 boxes of Cavendish bananas shall be needed for this purpose. each box contains 13.5 kilograms.

Mindanao Banana Congress optimistic about DA’s response to its resolutions

he Mindanao Banana Congress is optimistic about getting positive feedbacks from Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala in the resolutions that it will submit on November 7.

ROLL BACK. A motorist is seen gassing up at a gasoline station along R. Castillo Ave. yesterday. Petroleum companies roll back fuel prices by P0.35 midnight of Monday. [LEAN DAVAL JR.] as of august 2010

Cebu Pacific Daily Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri/Sun Philippine Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Silk Air Mon/Wed/Sat Cebu Pacific Thu Cebu Pacific Tue/Wed//Sat

5J961 / 5J962 Z2390 / Z2390 5J593 / 5J348 PR809 / PR810 PR819 / PR820 5J394 / 5J393 5J599 / 5J594 5J347 / 5J596 5J963 / 5J964 PR811 / PR812 5J595 / 5J966 MI588 / MI588 5J965 / 5J968 5J965 / 5J968

5:45 5:45 6:00 6:10 7:50 7:50 8:00 9:10 9:40 11:30 12:00 18:55 12:55 13:35

Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Cebu-Davao-Iloilo Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Zamboanga-Davao-Zamboanga Cebu-Davao-Cebu Iloilo-Davao-Cebu Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Cebu-Davao-Manila Davao-Cebu-Singapore Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila

6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 13:35 13:25 14:05

Silk Air Thu/Sun Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri Philippine Airlines August Zest Air Daily Cebu Pacific Daily Philippines Airlines Daily Cebu Pacific Mon/Tue/Thu/Sat Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Tue/Sat/Sun Cebu Pacific Daily Airphil Express Daily Philippine Airlines Daily except Sunday Philippine Airlines Sunday

MI566 / MI566 5J507 / 5J598 15:55 Z2524 / Z2525 5J967 / 5J600 PR813 / PR814 5J215 / 5J216 5971 / 5J970 5J973 / 5J974 5J969 / 5J972 2P987 / 2P988 PR821 / PR822 PR821 / PR822

18:55 15:00 Mani2Mani 16:05 16:35 16:55 18:00 18:40 20:00 20:30 20:30 21:20 22:20

Davao-Singapore Cebu-Davao-Cebu 16:50 Cebu-Davao-Cebu Manila-Davao-Cebu Manila-Davao-Manila Cagayan de Oro-Davao-Cagayan de Oro Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila

15:20 15:30 16:45 17:05 17:45 18:20 19:10 20:30 21:00 21:00 21:50 22:50

7 PHL’s AirAsia ups Clark to Hong Kong frequency EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 177 •WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

hILIPPINeS’ AirAsia, the country’s newest low cost carrier, is increasing its flight frequency from Clark International Airport to hong Kong from daily or 7x weekly to 10x weekly. To celebrate the additional frequency, AirAsia is offering an all-in promo fare for the newest Clarkhong Kong route from as low as P799 only starting November 5. The Clark-hK promo will be available for booking on AirAsia’s websitewww.airasia.com from 5 - 11 November 2012, and the travel period will be from 15 December – 30 September 2013. Guests are also able to book their flights via AirAsia’s new and improved mobile apps as well which are available for download at Apple’s App Store for iPhone, Google’s Play Store for Android phones, or at mobile.airasia.com for WAP enabled phones. “Since we launched Clark to hong Kong in July, demand has been overwhelming, the added frequency provides guests better travel and flight options as we will now add evening flights to hong Kong instead of the usual early morning flights daily,”Freddy herrera, AirAsia Inc. Commercial head, said. Starting December 15, AirAsia will service the additional Clark-hong Kong evening route with brand new Airbus A320 operated

by well-trained and experienced flight and cabin crew with the following schedule daily and new evening flights every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. “The additional frequencies provide yet another opportunity for Filipinos to have access to hong Kong’s tourist attractions but more important for our oFWs from Central and Northern Luzon who are working in hong Kong to have access to AirAsia’s low fare, high value travel experience,” herrera added. Staying true to its commitment to transparency, efficiency, high value service and affordable fares, AirAsia has included base fare, fuel surcharge, processing fee and aviation security fee (government mandated fee) in all its promo fares. Philippines’ AirAsia call center also accepts booking of regular fares via +632 588 9999 from Monday to Sunday at 0800hrs to 2100hrs (GMT +8). Guests from Metro Manila may also purchase seats through AirAsia Travel & Service Centers (ATSC) located in SM North eDSA in Quezon City and in Mall of Asia in Pasay City. Pampanga and nearby provinces in Central Luzon may visit our newest ATSC in Barangay Malabanias, Angeles City, Pampanga. Davao guests may visit our ATSC in Gaisano Mall.

COMPETITIVE EDGE

LAUNCHING. Hazel Grace Juson, JobStreet.com Philippines territory manager, presents the company history and background of JobStreet.com during its Davao Trade Launch at the Ritz Hotel & Garden Oases yesterday. [LEAN DAVAL JR.]

Air connectivity expansion in Davao

he heightened accessibility of a certain location when coupled with sound economic policies and business-friendly practices can greatly improve an area’s viability for investment. This is an ideal that the Davao City local government alongside the

business community has continually strived for as joint efforts have been made to establish an easily accessible and pro-business Davao. These endeavours being undertaken by public and private stakeholders to promote Davao’s aviation linkages are already bearing fruit with the

establishment of direct routes to Puerto Princesa and Kalibo as well as the recent entry of Air Asia to Davao. optimism for future developments in Davao City’s aviation routes remains high as foreign airlines Air Busan and Maswings are eyeing direct routes to Davao.

The expansion of Davao’s air connectivity, among other pertinent topics will be discussed by experts during this year’s Davao Investment Conference to be held at the SMX Convention Center Davao, SM Lanang Premier Davao City, on 16-17 November 2012.

projects like a shuttle service and other amenities. Although he did not provide more details on the project, Calicas said it will be the first big investment for the company in the northern part of the city aside from its first condominium project, the Northpoint. he explained the project will answer the call of the city government for property developers that will have all the components necessary for a township. Roberto P. Alabado III, acting city development planning officer, earlier said that property developers must come up with projects that are like commercial business districts where there are not only housing units but other components that will allow residents to stay in their districts. Alabado explained that there is a need to spread the developments so as to decongest the center of the city by putting up these townships. The planning officer

also commended the developers for continuing to implement their projects even when the city government already imposed a moratorium on the granting of incentives to new projects. Camella Communities have been expanding in the city because its mother company, Vista Land Co., has identified the city as among the four cities in the Visayas and Mindanao where it wants to concentrate its presence because of massive developments. other cities were Cebu, Iloilo and Cagayan de oro. “The company has already established its reputation here as a good developer,” said escalicas, adding that the company wanted to dominate the local market by coming up with new projects that will answer its needs. Although it is also massively expanding in other areas including those in Metro Manila, escalicas said the mother company thought investing in the city has been a good proposition.

Camella’s new township up soon in northern part of city

illar-led Camella Communities is launching before the end of the year another 20-hectare township in the northern part of Davao City where there’s a boom property development projects. Although he did not give the exact date for the launching of the project, Marlon Nino B. escalicas, manager of the company said the project will have components like low-cost housing, housing units with mid-range prices and those high-end units. escalicas said the project can be expanded as “it can go as high as 50 hectares” as the company is still finalizing its negotiations with the owners of the land. “In the middle of this development is a commercial center primarily servicing the needs of the residents,” he said, pointing out that the project is “typical of Camella Communities development.” The project will become a gated community and will have those usual Camella communities

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Keeping tabs on the Red Cross COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Dampener and incompetents

NeGATIVe event in the Aquino administration’s efforts to cash in on travel and tourism is the failure of Philippine aviation authorities to convince the International Civil Aviation organization (Icao) to raise the status of Philippine airports from Category 2. That this major dampener had to happen despite the much publicized Malacanang statements that everything is being done to improve the country’s airports so we can move up Category 1 . our being retained in Category 2 could only mean that concerned government agencies and the men and women behind them did not do their job or did not do enough. Philippine aviation authorities, for instance, are reportedly under fire for failing to purchase materials and equipment for the upgrading of the VoR (very high frequency, omni-directional range) and DMe ( distance monitoring equipment). A news account said that the breakdown of the VoR and DMe came at a time when ICAo inspectors were in the country on a coordinated validation mission. It was the time that ICAo was subjecting the Civil Aviation Au-

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thority of the Philippines (Caap) to a 10-day evaluation. This recurring sad chapter makes Dabawenyos truly worry about the future of their own Davao International Airport. If government is not able to reverse the fortunes of our major airport facilities by making them safe and secure for travel again, how capable and willing is our government to improve airports of lesser importance like the DIA? The P-Noy administration should prioritize airport improvement if it is serious about travel and tourism, undoubtedly the cash cow of most if not all developing countries in our neighborhood. Indeed, if the Davao airport continues to be decrepit on account of some functionaries’ ineptitude and incompetence, it is even useless to think about increase in tourist arrivals. It is a wonder though why P-Noy with his “daang matuwid” still allows the same incompetent people to call the shots at the DIA in particular, or in Philippine aviation in general, for that matter. or maybe, we ought not to wonder anymore!

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEy Consultant kENNETH IRVING k. ONG Creative Solutions

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO CARLO P. MALLO Associate Special Project Consultant LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. • JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Photography

JADE C. ZALDIVAR • VICky BERDINA M. DE GuZMAN ANTHONy S. ALLADA • AQuILES Z. ZONIO Staff Writers

Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEñA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. BORBON • MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

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By Steven Brill

hope we soon see a lot of coverage of how the Red Cross is using its hurricane Sandy contributions. For everyone from Mitt Romney to President obama to the good-hearted people who raised $23 million through NBC’s telethon last Friday, the Red Cross has become the charity of choice for victims of Sandy – just as it was the default charity after 9/11. But if New York’s last mass disaster is any indication, how the Red Cross uses the money is worth a lot of reporters’ attention. In the months after 9/11, the Red Cross demonstrated that it was great at providing immediate relief such as blankets, food and short-term shelter, but it really wasn’t in the business of providing costlier long-term aid, such as help for people to rebuild homes and businesses. Thus, after $850 million in 9/11 contributions had poured into the organization, far surpassing what it could spend handing out blankets and sandwiches and setting up shelters, a mini-scandal unfolded when it was revealed that much of the money people thought they were donating to victims of the terror attacks was in fact being socked away to provide that same kind of short-term relief for victims of future fires or floods. At the time, Red Cross officials defended themselves by explaining, correctly, that all of their 9/11 appeals included language somewhere on all printed solicitations or in television ads saying that “the funds raised will be used for this and other disasters.” That subtle disclaimer (accompanied by images of the Twin Towers and Pentagon rubble) was widely criticized. It was initially defended by Red Cross officials because many of the locally-based board members consider it an article of faith that funds be spread across the country for the benefit of all disaster victims. eleven year later, on the Red Cross webpage soliciting donations with the headline “hURRICANe SANDY: heLP ThoSe IN NeeD,” there is a fulsome description of all the help being provided to the storm’s victims. however, the last sentence says: Financial donations help the Red Cross provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to those affected by disasters like Hurricane Sandy, as well as countless crises at home and around the world.” (Italics are mine). If you click the “donate” button and then click further for the “cause description,” it says: “You can help people affected by disasters like Superstorm Sandy by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief.” (Italics again are mine). I don’t mean to sound like Chris hitchens attacking Mother Teresa. The Red Cross is a great organization, and I’ve heard, though not done the requisite reporting, that after several management shuffles, the organization has cleaned up its act considerably since 2001. Then again, as this New York Times article from last Saturday reports, the Red Cross has not received good reviews so far for its post-Sandy relief work. even assuming that the Red Cross can recover from these early missteps, unlike the 9/11 aftermath this time there may not be such a large surplus of donations in light of what needs to be spent on immediate shelter and recovery. After the September 11 attacks, the families of the dead and injured were compensated by a federal victims compensation fund, and there were far fewer people left in need of shelter than what we’ve seen across New Jersey and New York following Sandy. Nonetheless, all of the hundreds of millions that is now likely to pour into the Red Cross isn’t likely to be spent on shelter and other immediate relief efforts for this storm alone. So that disclaimer language certainly suggests a story.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

Immediate health risks

NReCoGNIZeD CheMICALLY-SPIKeD FooDS PRoMISe MoRe PRoFIT BUT NoT BeTTeR heALTh – Many foreign food companies are taking advantage of consumer eagerness stressing that their products are safe and come just as normally manufactured. But it looked as if neither was correct. Like the other underdeveloped and developing countries including the Philippines, it has become a dumping ground for unsafe imported food products – chemically-fortified or genetically-engineered food items. Lately health authorities, food experts and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the lead government agency task to monitor and regulate locally produced and imported foodstuffs acknowledge there are some causes for concern. Considering an immediate health risks, the FDA warned the consuming public about the proliferation of chemically-mixed noodles imported from South Korea. It recently ruled that six brands of popular Korean noodles contained parts of benzophyrene, an arsenic industrial mix believe to cause cancer. health officials and food experts immediately ordered distributors and retailers to pull out the noodle products from their shelves. Well, tastier but unrecognized chemically-laced and genetically reengineered foods promise more profits but not a better health to the unknowing consum-

ers. The different brands of well-liked Korean noodles are now the subject to inventory check and validation laboratory test. Consumers now raise this query: “Are these foodstuffs being foisted on unsuspecting end-user without proper warning?” They should have a right to know and the right to choose to buy it or not. early this year, the FDA likewise found evidence that some food manufacturers in China dealing in instant milk, baby foods, dairy products, health and energy drinks churn out limitless variations of unhealthy food items and distributed these to different countries including the Philippines. Many question the wisdom and need to adulterate basic food items because the layers on increased health risks are passed on to unsuspecting consumers. All of this contributes to a growing and gnawing sense of wariness among Filipino consumers. health authorities, food specialists and the FDA noted that the thought of eating chemically-enriched or genetically created food products doesn’t feel right. It’s something definitely different – health wise from the normal processes people

were used to. Unfortunately, unaware consumers are hopelessly unprepared for the health risks posed by imported foods notably those from China and recently S. Korea. They have little choice in the matter of selecting or buying food items most particularly the import-conscious consumers and for as long as the products are imported, it doesn’t matter whether it’s unsafe to eat or not – a case of wrongness. It’s been quite some time that many imported food staples such as milk, baby foods, health and energy drinks, and canned goods and, lately noodles have already been laced with substances or contained altered ingredients. Consumer groups and health buffs think there should be a moratorium on any new imported food products until government has laid out rules and regulations for laboratory test and inventory check and had been put in place. Research and studies show that unregulated imported foodstuffs pose a number of health problems. Sad to lament, though, food and health authorities have been too slow to monitor and regulate these imported food items, which are considered unsafe for human consumption. Most often concerned government agencies and law enforcement units are all looking at the opposite direction – for obvious reasons. The word inefficiency, of course, is the catch, isn’t it gentlemen and ladies?

The difficulty of beating a sitting president in U.S. elections

N a neck-and-neck election that is anybody’s game, Barack obama has an advantage: he is the U.S. president, and Americans are historically reluctant to kick out their commander-in-chief. Voters will rarely take a chance on a challenger, and persuading them to do so has been a hardfought battle for Republican candidate Mitt Romney, who continues to fight hard against a president who remains popular in spite of the floundering U.S. economy. Indeed, voters booted out only three sitting presidents since the end of WWII -- Gerald Ford in 1976, Jimmy Carter in 1980 and George h.W. Bush in 1992. Moreover, two had no real support base. Ford, who had been vice president under President Richard Nixon and stepped in after his boss resigned, never built up a support base because he never had to campaign for the presidency. Some historians believe he would never have been nominated on his own. Former Vice President George h.W. Bush relied on the supporters of his former boss, President Ronald Reagan, and he had the misfortune of facing the charismatic Bill Clinton at a historical turning point when the Cold War had just ended and the tech-sector had ushered in a new economy. Amid an economic downturn, many Americans perceived a need

SPECIAl FEATURE By Matthew ruSling for new blood in the White house after 12 years of the Reagan dynasty. That leaves Carter, the only one of the three with a real support base. While he was ultimately unseated, it was by Ronald Reagan, perhaps the most charismatic postwar president. obama is no Jimmy Carter, neither is he a George h.W. Bush or Gerald Ford. The president was never elected on the coat tails of a former boss, is a charismatic and inspirational orator and remains likeable in the eyes of many Americans. Beating him is no easy task. But there are chinks in his armor, the most obvious being the weak economy and a high unemployment rate that stayed above 8 percent for nearly four years until September, when it dipped to 7.8 percent but edged back up to 7.9 percent on Friday. Many Americans do not buy his “hang in there” approach, as he has urged patience in the face of an economy that does not seem to be getting better. obama’s supporters will not come out to vote for him in droves like they did in 2008, analysts predict. Many who voted for hope and change in 2008 are disappointed in

the president’s perceived partisanship and negative campaigning, and others see no change in the flagging economy despite myriad promises from the White house. Millions are jobless and millions more are working part-time jobs and struggle to make ends meet. In an era of hyper-partisanship in Congress -- something most Americans dislike -- many who voted for obama in 2008 resent how he rammed his health care overhaul through Congress, and many now favor Romney. While Romney has flip flopped on some issues, some Americans view his change of heart on various issues as moving to the center in a pragmatic move. Republican strategist Ford o’Connell said incumbents tend not to lose, and if they do, it has more to do with the incumbent than anything else. John Fortier, director of the democracy project at the Bipartisan Policy Center, however, said those hurdles that stand in the way of unseating an incumbent have already passed, adding that the most difficult time for a challenger is when he is just recovering from the primaries while the incumbent is able to use that time for fundraising. Still, polls have obama ahead in the electoral college 201 to 191, according to Real Clear Politics. [PNA/ Xinhua]

VANTAGE POINTS

Voters: Fire our partisan, failed Congress ANAlYSIS By DaviD rohDe

hoeVeR wins the presidency, his ability to address our country’s daunting problems depends on a functioning Congress. And by multiple measures, our current Congress is one of the most partisan, deadlocked and unpopular in American history. A surge in state legislatures’ politically-driven redrawing of congressional districts has created a Congress that is more partisan than the American electorate, according to a study by the non-partisan Center for Voting and Democracy. And I believe that the dominance of blatantly partisan news coverage – led by Fox and MSNBC – has poisoned the broader dynamics that affect the U.S. Senate. Moderate senators are vanishing from the American political landscape, according to the Washington-based National Journal magazine. In 1982, there were 60 seats for moderate senators. In 1994, the number shrunk to 36. In 2002, there were nine. And in the current Senate, zero. Unless moderate voters begin supporting candidates - particularly Senators – who cross party lines, our national deadlock will continue. Senate rules should be amended to end the destructive power of filibusters. Politicians who ease the bitter tenor of our debate should be rewarded. America’s political culture is dominated by a self-reinforcing, partisan-media fueled bubble, where viewers hear only denigration of the other side. on balance, I believe the extreme positions of Tea Party-backed conservatives are the core source of the problem. But Democrats have also played partisan games as well, particularly Senate Majority Leader harry Reid. Moderate Republicans must regain control of their party. They can do that only if moderate Democrats support them. Instead of indiscriminately dismissing all Republicans, moderate Democrats should respectfully consider mainstream Republicans arguments, and recognize the challenge moderate Republicans face inside their party. Before casting your vote in house and Senate races tomorrow, check this constructive analysis of legislators’ partisanship 2011 compiled by National Journal. here are our most centrist Senators and members of Congress. And here are our biggest liberals and conservatives. obviously, multiple factors determine any voter’s decisions, from a candidate’s policy proposals, to their philosophy to their background. But an ability to work with members of the other party is more vital than ever in Washington. The problem goes beyond this Congress’ historically-low number of laws passed, as noted by The Washington Post. It is that Congress’ growing weakness is leading to an alarming rise in the power of the President and the Supreme Court. In a sweeping indictment last week, Bloomberg View correctly warned of the long term dangers a weak national legislature creates. “As polarization and legislative gridlock have worsened in recent years, the nation’s great legislative body has withered, losing not only popular support but the ability to exercise its constitutional powers,” it noted. “The result has been a troubling expansion of executive and judicial power.” Whether you cast your ballot for Romney or obama tomorrow, voters should consider if they want a country that is increasingly ruled by executive and judicial fiat. We need a healthier legislature and a stronger national debate.

10 AGRITRENDS

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Camote, in PHL since 16th century, rich in vitamin A, other nutrients o

N a shaded stretch of Quezon City’s elliptical Road fronting the National housing Authority Bldg. mid-afternoon during weekdays, vendors hawk seasonal fruits and vegetables -– heaps of bundled top camote leaves occupying a major area of their temporary stalls. elsewhere in vegetable markets in the metropolis, thick bundles of green or purple camote -– “kamote” among the Tagalogs and “kaong” among Ilocanos -- top leaves make an inviting sight for vegetarian customers looking for nutritious leaves and still af-

fordable in these times of rising commodity prices. old hands often recall how Filipino guerrillas and their Japanese wartime enemies relished the leaves and also its roots which were, researches eventually validated, rich sources of Vitamin A, a key nutrient for keeping human eyes healthy and vision keen. Camote –- from the Spanish American term -- was introduced to this Southeast Asian archipelago from Latin America during the Spanish colonial period which began in 1521. Vitamin A, according to documented studies,

Farmers urged:

Embrace organic farming

he Department of Agriculture (DA) in Central Mindanao is asking farmers to embrace the organic Agriculture Program to increase productivity and help protect environment. Through Farmers’ Field School-Integrated Pest Management (FFSIPM) on Palay Check System with emphasis on organic Agriculture, 26 farmers in Brgy. Rotunda in Koronadal City were confirmed graduates last week. Soraida Bangoan, DA12 regional techno-demo coordinator, said the farmers underwent training on the eight keys of “Palay Check System” incorporating the promotion of organic farming practices. “These newly-confirmed graduates were introduced to the primary and key checks toward greater rice productivity,” Bangon said. “Palay Check” is a dynamic rice crop management system that presents the best key technology and management practices that include eight key checks as follows: Seed Quality, Land Preparation, Synchronous Planting, Sufficient Number of healthy Seedling, Nutrient Management,

Water Management, Pest Management and harvest Management. emelita Miguel, city agriculturist, said advancing organic agriculture is part of the three-year executive development plans of the city local government unit of Koronadal led by Mayor Peter Miguel. Miguel said the city LGU has allotted bigger budget for 2013 to promote organic agriculture in the 27 barangays of the city. “A bigger portion of the said amount will be intended for the trainings that would equip our farmers in this farming practice,” he added. Miguel also announced that the city LGU is fast tracking the documents to avail of the P1.5 million worth organic trading post that would serve as food depot for organically-grown products in the locality. Besides Palay Check, DA 12 Regional IPM Coordinator Diosdado Miro said these farmers were also taught in the identification of beneficial insects (kaibigang peste) from harmful insects as one of the cultural pest management practices pushed by the agency.

also helps promote bone growth, keeps the immune system strong, fights disease as a powerful antioxidant -- and maintains a vigorous reproductive system, with the Recommended Daily Allowance for adult men 900 mg and 700 mg for adult women. Many vegetarian Filipinos, passing by the stalls near the National housing Authority Bldg. or going to markets early in the morning, almost always have in their baskets a couple of days’ supply of camote top leaves and, at times, its roots for snacks. The root crops can be boiled or mashed and fed to infants or -– the Filipino kitchen innovation -- fried in brown sugar and made like fries for afternoon snacks. Nutritionists say sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, beta carotene (a vitamin A equivalent nutrient), vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Pink, yellow and green varieties are high in carotene, the precursor of vitamin A. early in the 1990s, the Center for Science in the

Public Interest compared the nutritional value of sweet potatoes to other vegetables and considered fiber content, complex carbohydrates, protein, vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. The comparison suggested the sweet potato ranked highest in nutritional value. According to these criteria, sweet potatoes earned 184 points, 100 points over the next on the list, the common potato. Nutritionists also say

that despite the name “sweet,” camote may be a beneficial food for even the diabetics, as preliminary studies on animals have revealed it helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and to lower insulin resistance. Nutritionists also say sweet potato varieties with dark orange flesh have more beta carotene than those with light-colored flesh, and their increased cultivation is being encouraged in several areas of the Philippines, particularly in some towns of the Ilocos re-

gion, which stretches from Ilocos Norte to Pangasinan. Some say that while sweet potato provides less edible energy and protein per unit weight than cereals, it is a higher nutrient density source of certain vitamins and minerals than cereals. Camote or “kamote” or “kaong” is a cultivar of sweet potato that has somewhat dry, bland, yellowish to white flesh, a dicotyledonous plant having the scientific name “Ipomoea batatas.”

initial development works for the bamboo hub, which was seen to further enhance the province’s thriving bamboo industry. he said the development of the bamboo hub is being assisted by the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) Region 12. “We’re promoting the (commercial production

of) engineered bamboo through the DoST,” Jimenea said. Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. earlier said he has approved the purchase of several machines and equipment for the provincial bamboo hub. he said they initially comprise a thickness planer, joint planer, laminating table, air compressor, single spindle molder, wide belt

sander, circular saw sliding table, band saw, bench drill, grinder planer knives, and sharpening circular saw. once operational, the hub is capable of manufacturing of tiles, planks and other products that may be used for the construction of engineered bamboo products such as chairs, tables, panels, and many others.

that the technology is being offered free to farmers. PCC makes use of the genes coming from the Bulgarian Murrah buffalo, which produces superior species when cross-bred with the native carabaos, according to Alcazar. Aside from being superior the cross-bred also produces more milk compared with the native carabaos. As of this year, the PCC has conducted 3,000 services all over its service

areas and the demand continues to increase. For its identified regional impact zone, which are LGUs located within the 50-kilometer radius of the PCC office in Calinog, Iloilo around 80 percent of carabao are already adopting the AI. These are found in the regional impact zone covering the towns of Calinog, Lambunao, Bingawan, Passi and part of Dueñas. outside the impact zone, around 40-60 percent of carabao owners

are embracing the technology. While the breeding through AI is quite successful, the goal of the PCC to make use of the buffalo as source of milk is yet to be achieved. Janice Cuaresma, carabao-based enterprise development coordinator, said that currently, the PCC has only 12 suppliers that can produce a minimum of 24 liters a day. The PCC farm production also could not reach 20 liters daily. [PNA]

So. Cot eyes promoting local bamboo industry T

he provincial government of South Cotabato plans to open by early next year the province’s first production hub for engineered bamboo products in nearby Koronadal City. Rudy Jimenea, executive assistant at the office of the Provincial Governor, said the local government is presently working on the

Philippine Carabao Center goes massive in using AI technology

he Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) in Iloilo City has gone massive with the promotion of artificial insemination (AI) technology in Panay and Guimaras Island. Teams are being sent to municipalities and villages to train village-based technicians to be able to cope with the demand for the technology. Myrtel C. Alcazar, PCC genetic improvement program coordinator, said

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 177 •WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

LAWMEN... FFROM 1

operational plans” in pursuit of Yu who carries a P5-million reward on his head offered by Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. “Actually we are busy right now. Although we are the lead agency running after Yu, we are also moving double time to act on the documents to be filed in court against the carnapping suspects,” he said, and appealed to owners of recovered vehicles to be patient in claiming for their vehicles which have to undergo due process to avoid technicalities. It seems that some owners of recovered have been pressuring for their immediate return to them. The PNP-hPG 11 headquarters today looks like a motorpool with more than 30 recovered vehicles occupying the small parking area. “We have no other area to use and have to bear the burden of using this as a holding area,” Pimentel said.

ARMY...

Meanwhile, the pressure mounted by authorities against the Baktin carnap syndicate the past two weeks since two weeks ago has forced one of its alleged members to surrender to authorities Monday afternoon in Davao oriental. Mark “Amak” Daquiado, who claims to be an expert in faking a vehicle’s certificate of registration (CR) and official receipt (oR), personally yielded to Police Insp. Al Gumba of the Banaybanay police station in Banaybanay, Davao oriental. Daquiado was then turned over to Davao City Police office (DCPo) chief Sr. Supt. Ronald dela Rosa and Vice Mayor Duterte at the DCPo headquarters Monday night. he admitted to be part of the carnapping group led by Yu. Pimentel immediately discounted the possibility that Daquiado would turn state witness against Yu and his cohorts.

Pimentel said the suspect is already facing multiple carnapping cases and it is impossible for him to testify against Yu. “he has his own LTo (Land Transportation office) office in Baktin’s house where he faked oRs and CRs. he is so good at it. Besides, he was also involved in personally stealing luxury vehicles,” he said. Pimentel said Daquiado’s brother Albert, alias “Ali”, is also the object of a police manhunt for having acted as a fixer at the LTo. As of Tuesday, more carnapping charges had been filed against the Daquiado brothers before the city prosecutor’s office (CPo), he said. Daquiado is the fifth member of the Baktin carnap group in the hands of authorities. earlier, four others were arrested following the recovery of a Toyota Innova at a checkpoint in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur on october 16.

an Law (CARhRIhL) Part 4, article 4, Paragraph 4 which clearly states that ‘civilian population shall be treated and protected as such and shall be distinguished from combatants, together with their

property, shall not be the object of attack’. human Rights watchdogs turn blind whenever these atrocities happen to be perpetrated by the criminal group New People’s Army.”

eyeing another partner group which could help with medical assistance should the children get sick. Aside from Abude, the other two awardees were Mark “Rubberman” Cerezo of Marikina City and Leonilo Beltran of

Baler, Aurora. organizers behind the Cobra Pinoy hero Awards sifted through some 2,000 entries, narrowed it down to 9, and finally selected the top 3.

FFROM 1

the four suspects. Paniza said that “they should be penalized for this violation as cited in the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for human Rights and International humanitari-

SHELTER... FFROM 2

Skills Development Authority (Tesda). Abude said that he has to be resourceful to feed them his wards with the help of non-government organizations and civil-society groups like the Soroptomist International even as he is also

PASALUBONG... FFROM 3

he assured local producers that they can display their products at the Center without rental for the space or even a registration fee. A total of 20 companies have their products ranging from fashion accessories, gift items, and handicrafts on display at the Pasalubong Center. Governor Rodolfo del Rosario earlier encouraged the local produc-

ers to keep developing new products and maintaining their quality in preparation for the influx of domestic tourists. he stressed that with at least ten flights at the Davao City International Airport a day, the province can get their fill of visitors who will definitely look for destinations near Davao City. With the increasing coordination between

the private sector, the national government agencies and the provincial government, Davao del Norte’ s micro, small and medium entrepreneurs now have more reasons to improve the quality of their products to make them more competitive. And as del Rosario said, this could mean growth in the countryside. [PIA 11]

CHR wants autopsy on slain B’laans T

he Commission on human Rights (ChR) wants to exhume the bodies of the mother and her two sons who were killed in the mines development site of foreign-backed Sagittarius Mines Inc. last month. Atty. Christina h. Jovero, ChR-Region 12 director, told reporters Monday afternoon the agency has started investigating the incident involving the family of a tribal leader waging an armed resistance against the mining company. “We are seeking permission from the family of the victims to exhume their bodies for autopsy,” she said. on october 18, Juvy Capion and her sons Jordan 13, and John Mark, 8, were killed in an alleged encounter in a village in Kiblawis, Kiblawan town in Davao del Sur between soldiers and the group of Juvy’s husband, Daguel Capion, who is facing murder and grave coercion charges. The military claimed there was exchange of gunfire between the soldiers and Capion’s group that led to the death of the civilians. environment and militant

BANANA...

groups condemned the incident and described it as a “massacre.” Jovero said that ChR investigators have already inspected the scene of the incident but she declined to give additional details to avoid preempting results of their investigation. She also did not give a deadline when the findings of ChR, an independent body, would be completed. Jovero noted the ChR, depending on the results of its probe, would either initiate or recommend the filing of criminal and administrative cases even if they involve state actors, referring to the soldiers. The 13 soldiers, headed by 1Lt. Dante Jimenez, have been recommended by the Board of Inquiry (BoI) formed by the 10th Infantry Division to be subjected to a General Court Martial. Maj. Gen. Ariel Bernardo, 10th ID commander, citing the findings of the BoI, said the soldiers may have violated some provisions of the Articles of War and the Rules of engagement. Bernardo also said that “based on the presump-

tion of the regularity in the performance of official duties of the Kiblawan police, there indeed was a firefight.” The mines development site straddles the towns of Tampakan in South Cotabato, Columbio in Sultan Kudarat and Kiblawan. It was reportedly the Kiblawan police that immediately responded and investigated the october 18 incident. Bernardo added that “the result of the laboratory and ballistic examinations of the Philippine National Police (PNP) will further validate the result of the local PNP investigation.” The 13 soldiers, all under the 27th Infantry Battalion, are currently restricted to the 10th ID headquarters in Compostela Valley. The 27th IB commander, Lt. Col. Alexis Noel Bravo, relinquished his post Monday to Lt. Col. Shalimar Imperial. Bravo said he resigned from his post “with my conscience crystal clear.” (Bong S. Sarmiento/MindaNews)

the facility is necessary as this will help sustain the industry, considered among the biggest export earners in the region. Marizon S. Loreto, regional director of the Department of Trade and Industry, the agency spearheading the banana conference, said the event will allow the participants to discuss the establishment of the research facility as well as other concerns of the industry. This is an event that shows how important convergence is between the government and private sector especially in achieving industry growth and development,” Ms. Loreto said in a press statement. other major issues to be discussed is the formulation of the banana industry roadmap, improving access to government support programs, establishment of supplier-buyer linkages, and the contribution of the industry in solving malnutrition. Also to be discussed during the conference are issues on phytosanitary standards protocols, good agricultural practices and product traceability, integrated management and control of major banana diseases. The event will also become a venue for business

matching, banana food showcase and other side events like the exhibition of various banana recipes for commercialization. Another activity awaited by congress participants is the formation of a banana industry development council. The council is being proposed by Dr. Rolando T. Dy, a Dabawenyo who is the executive director of the Center for Food and Agribusiness of the University of Asia and the Pacific. Dr. Dy himself will present the proposal following by the organizational meeting. The banana congress with the theme “Facing Global Challenges, Maximizing opportunities is jointly organized by the Davao City-based chapter of the Philippine exporters Confederation (Philexport) 11 headed by Ferdinand Maranon of Sagrex Corporation and the Regional Field Unit 11 of the Department of Agriculture under Constancio C. Maghanoy Jr., regional executive director, in collaboration with various private and government institutions known for their advocacy for the advancement of the banana industry in Mindanao. ANToNIo M. AJeRo

FFROM 5

ers are able to solve. “These small stakeholders need the help of government and putting a research institute is among the facilities necessary for them to develop their farming methods.” Antig said . Rep. Antonio F. Lagdameo Jr. of Davao del Norte’s second legislative district will discuss his bill seeking the creation of the Philippine National Banana Research Center during the second day of the banana congress. When banana farms in the region were devastated by the fusarium wilt, more popularly known as the Panama disease, the small farmers suffered the most, said Antig, pointing out that big farms were able to immediately isolate those portions affected by the disease. In Davao del Norte, the provincial government had to come up with an ordinance ordering small banana farmers to follow quarantine protocols so that banana farmers could be shielded from this and other problems. Among the government agencies pushing for the establishment of the research facility was then Agriculture regional director Carlos B. Mendoza who, about two years ago, said

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VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

Realty

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EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 177 •WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

COMMUNITY SENSE 13

Smart, Zuellig partner on ICT for health W

I R e L e S S leader Smart

Communications, Inc. (Smart) has partnered with Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) in promoting the use of information and communication technology (ICT) tools to help improve health outcome and the delivery of services. In a Memorandum of Agreement signed recently, Smart and ZFF will work together in using ICT for health projects to benefit more municipalities all over the country which include, among others, award-winning ShINe. Short for Secured health Information Network and exchange, ShINe is Smart’s flagship mhealth project that promotes the use of ICT for electronic recording of medical records and referral of patients among health-care facilities. Because it’s Webbased, it can be accessed anytime, anywhere using the Internet via computer and mobile devices. ShINe’s four primary features of Record, Remind, Refer and Report all contribute to a more efficient, complete and timely access to information across different health facilities.

The only telco that has ventured into mhealth, Smart has been harnessing mobile and Internet technologies to improve the delivery of healthcare in the country. “We hope that this partnership with ZFF can help serve as a catalyst for achieving better health outcomes,” said Smart Public Affairs head Ramon Isberto. “Through this collaboration, we hope to

use technology for health in enabling local governments, health workers and patients.” Under the partnership, ZFF has committed to promote ShINe to its partner local government units (LGUs) to ensure that health information is accurate and readily available to the stakeholders. ZFF, the foundation of the pharmaceutical firm, Zuellig Group, is currently

working with 46 municipalities under its Community health Partnership Program (ChPP). It is looking at expanding the number of partner municipalities in 2013 and onwards. Smart, in turn, will provide the technical platform, utilizing Internet and mobile technologies for ShINe and other ICT for health projects. “Technological inno-

vation is the key for every LGU to have timely and accurate health data, which will be the basis for immediate action,” said ZFF president ernesto Garilao. “This partnership with Smart, utilizing ShINe, will make this happen in ZFF partner LGUs.” Smart and ZFF will jointly select project sites and participants for the deployment of ShINe and other ICT for health proj-

ects, scale up and replicate these projects in other parts of the country, as well as provide training and other resources to support these initiatives. “This partnership could go beyond ShINe. It is a collaboration anchored on the strength of the two partners—mobile technology for Smart and healthcare for ZFF,” said Smart consultant Ramon Duremdes. [END]

14 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

WMNCAA Mindanao set Nov. 24 T

he Women’s-Men’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (WMNCAA) Mindanao opens on November 24 at Brokenshire College. WMNCAA Mindanao director Arlene DeVera bared during the weekly Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at the Tower Inn the start of the new season of the two-year old association. The second season will be highlighted with the staging of the cheerdance competitions for secondary and collegiate categories. The cheerdance competition will have two competitions for members and for the open categories. DeVera also said that the athletic competitions will be held on weekends after the cheerdance competitons. The events are athletics, basketball, badminton, volleyball, taekwondo, dancesport, and football. The WMNCAA is composed of schools, colleges and universities in Davao City and some from other parts of Mindanao.

Phil explodes with 5 goals

Phil Younghusband (right) gets a high five from a teammate after knocking in five goals in the Meralco Sparks’ 12-0 win over Mendiola FC in the UFL.

he Loyola Meralco Sparks and Pachanga FC booked their tickets to the quarterfinals after registering victories in the United Football Cup Monday night at the University of Makati football field. Star striker Phil Younghusband dropped five goals to help the Sparks clobber Mendiola FC, 12-0. Korean import Jeong Byeong Yeol chipped in two goals, while Chad Gould and four other players hit the net once for Loyola, which topped Group C and will face

Group D runner-up Philippine Army FC in the knockout stages. In the second match, Pachanga needed a late goal from defender Yves Ashime to escape Laos FC, 3-2. Pachanga initially controlled the match after grabbing a 2-nil lead courtesy of goals by Robert Cañedo late in the first half and hector Zaghi at the 47th minute. But Laos clawed back moments after, scoring two goal at the 55th and the 63rd minute to tie the match at 2-2.

Doniare-Arce sealed

COULDN’T GET MORE FUN THAN THIS. The events at the recently-concluded 14th Davao horse Show & Competition did not only satisfy horse lovers and horse sport enthusiasts in the excitement, drama and show of riding skills that the Competition gave, it was also a feast for the photo journalists who had a field day taking the winning shots. Right, Davao rider Kobi Troy Tan does the ultimate Gangnam Style dance (what could

be more original than this?) on top of his horse at the opening Ceremony while an unidentified rider dives head first from his horse (as many others did in what became literally their “waterloo”) in the rain-made lake that became part of the tough obstacle Course. Mr. hermie esguerra, the country’s foremost horse breeder, was the special guest of honor and speaker at the successful event. GWMisa. [Photos courtesy of Brenda P. Milan]

XPeCTS verbal fireworks Thursday (Friday in Manila) when Nonito Donaire and Jorge Arce face off when Top Rank chief Bob Arum formally announces their mouth-watering December 15 showdown at the Toyota Center in houston, Texas. The 18,000-capacity arena, the home of the houston Rockets of the NBA, will be the venue of the press conference and Arum is sure to hype the event to high heavens as if it’ll be a fight for the world heavyweight championship. Donaire, one of the world’s best fighters pound-

for-pound, will be putting his WBo super-bantamweight crown on the line against Arce, the Mexican banger who doesn’t know how to take a backward step. Arce is so pumped up for Donaire that he has been working out the last few weeks under the watch of Nacho Beristain at the Romanza Gym in Mexico City. Donaire, meanwhile, just got back to the US after vacationing in the Philippines and Japan. Although the Fil-Am puncher hasn’t been to the gym, he is making sure that his weight remains in check.

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

WOMEN

Sweet Love

I’M the type who hardly ever talks about food. This so-called disassociation is what I call “tiis ganda” --- nonchalantly trying to ignore the chocolate coated romance for the sake of vanity and fashion. Try, being the operative word, I seldom fail to stick to my low-carb diet, especially when faced with tempting desserts from Lachi’s. The quaint little patisserie cum restaurant has successfully grown its following over the years, thanks to the originality and creativity of the twin brothers Mel and Mike Aviles. The bubbly duo are the only appointed bak-

ers in this family owned (and run) business, offering sweet temptations and saccharine delights to discerning palates in Davao City. I have seen the humble beginnings of this restaurant since I moved to

Davao in 2005. Even back then, it was already difficult to book a table at the 10-seater bakeshop. It used to be known for their desserts and cakes alone. Their signature sans rival, mudpie, choco pie, carrot cake, and innovative adaptations of cheesecake recipes brings in love and bliss with every bite. Soon, they added their family’s most cherished recipes to the menu. It didn’t take long before their family tradition became part of every

family’s dining traditions. Now, with the growing demand for more space and tables, Lachi’s expanded their restaurant to accommodate 30 seats. Mind you, Lachi’s is still packed for several waves during lunch and dinner, despite the increase in seating capacity. To this day, I still order my favorite Orien-

tal Fried Chicken while my friends and colleagues keep going back for more of their favorite, the Unforgettable Spareribs. Just recently, they’ve added a couple more dishes and pastries to their menu. I’ve just included their Asian Spicy Chicken in the list of dining must-try’s, as well as the Crème Brulee cake

and French macarons. Sharing kitchen duties, Mel and Mike are genius when it comes to perfecting creative confections. Each has their own 4-hour shift in the kitchen, even on Saturdays. Chancing on them together in one lunch eatcapade and on several parties where they

FSWEET, A4

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VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

HEALTH

How to quit smoking without the weight gain THERE are many women who complain that the decision to quit smoking caused them to gain unwanted pounds. Typically, it’s not a huge amount of weight gain— it’s maybe 5 or 10 pounds. But the frustration is obvious and understandable: they feel they’ve replaced one negative habit with another—excessive consumption of calories. The cause of hunger and weight gain after quitting smoking is related to a few different factors. For one, the nicotine in tobacco can slightly raise metabolism, enabling you to burn more calories than you typically would on a daily basis. When you kick the habit, you experience a slight decline in metabolism, which increases your susceptibil-

ity to weight gain. Another theory suggests that when you quit smoking, levels of serotonin—the neurotransmitter responsible for calm, relaxed feelings— are low, and this can lead to irritability and carbohydrate cravings. Consuming sweet and starchy foods increases serotonin levels and enables you to feel more at ease. Aside from these biological factors, your smoking habit probably consumed some amount of time during your day. Whether it was during a work break, or once you got home, taking time out for a cigarette was probably a regular part of your routine. As a result, it’s not uncommon to find other activities to occupy the time you previously spent smoking. I’m talking about walking to the nearest vending machine and treating yourself to M&Ms or a Snickers, or head-

UP AND ABOUT

ing down to the company cafeteria to grab a bag of chips. Rest assured, by quitting smoking, you’ve made a smart decision that will improve your overall health and physical fitness. I understand that watching the scale go up is not exactly what you would call a reward for your behavior, though. To help you avoid packing on pounds after you’ve kicked the habit, follow the suggestions below: Plan activities for times when you have the urge to grab a cigarette. go for a coffee break, call a friend, take a walk, or do some errands. Keep your hands busy at all times. This is key for the evening hours. Take up knitting, catch up on emails, or indulge your nails: give yourself a manicure or plan for a daily polish change.

1 2

Carry a water bottle with you whenever you can. This will occupy your hands, and sipping calorie-free water throughout the day will help you avoid weight gain. Bring healthy snacks with you, in portion controlled Ziploc bags. Dried fruit and nuts, string cheese, and low-calorie energy bars are good choices. Keep sugarless gum, mints, or a travel-size mouthwash in your pocketbook. It’s great for cleansing your palate when you’re craving sweets. At night, brush your teeth right after dinner. get moving! If you haven’t been exercising, now is a good time to start. Exercise will minimize your hunger, boost your metabolism, help you burn calories, and improve your mood.

4 5 6

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EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

ENTErTAINMENT

Katie Holmes takes NYC subway home after Broadway performance

BrOADWAy and public transportation are back in action in stormravaged New york City—and so is Katie Holmes!

spotted on the subway, it is kinda surprising that she didn’t opt for a private car or at least a cab ride. But perhaps, having been one of the millions of Manhattanites who found herself without power last week in the wake of Hurricane Sandy,

The actress took the subway home following the first preview performance of Dead Accounts at the Music Box Theatre, in which she stars as a single mom in Ohio whose brother unexpectedly returns home under mysterious circumstances. While Holmes certainly isn’t the first celeb we’ve

Bikini shot of the day:

Mother Monster flaunts her figure in Puerto Rico

WOrK those curves, Lady Gaga!

The “Born This Way” singer enjoyed some welldeserved relaxation as she lounged poolside Friday in San Juan, Puerto rico with pals DJ White Shadow and her make-up artist, Tara Savelo. The singer showed off her fuller figure as she shined in a metallic Miller Lite two-piece that she accessorized with gold hoops and a navy bandana. The 26-year-old star has been taking a lot of heat for her weight as of late, and Gaga hasn’t been shy admitting that she’s put on a few pounds. “Well, I don’t really care if they think I’m fat,’ because, quite honestly, I did gain about 30 pounds,”

she confessed Friday in an interview with Stylist UK. Back in September, the pop star also addressed the criticism on her LittleMonsters website, posting revealing photos of herself in a bra and underwear while asking fans

to join a body revolution and celebrate their “perceived flaws.” She also admitted to struggling with bulemia and anorexia since she was 15. Way to stick up for a healthy body image, Lady G!

doorman twice and spoken to him using profane language. The doorman proceeded to pepper spray Worthington and handcuff him until police arrived, the report states.

Authorities subsequently took Worthington into custody, and he was charged with disorderly conduct. On Monday, though, the City of Atlanta Municipal Court confirmed to E! News that the charges against Worthington were dismissed. However, it could not confirm that the charges were dismissed because the doorman failed to appear in court. A manager at Vortex had “no comment” when E! News reached out for a statement on the matter.

Avatar’s Sam Worthington arrested for assault in Atlanta

CLASH of the Titans star Sam Worthington apparently clashed with a doorman at a restaurant in Atlanta on Saturday. As a result, he wound up getting arrested, E! News confirms. The 36-year-old actor was supposedly not allowed to enter Vortex because he appeared highly intoxicated, according to the police report obtained by E! News. Worthington is said to have then pushed the

she was enjoying a moment of solidarity with her fellow New yorkers. She and her bodyguard were spotted cutting through Times Square and then he accompanied her on the train. Josh Hamilton (who, because he’s a man who’s

working closely with her is already rumored to be crushing on Holmes), Judy Greer and multiple Tony winner Norbert Leo Butz costar with Holmes in Dead Accounts, a brand-new dark comedy from Smash scribe Theresa rebeck.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

EVENTS ENTErTAINMENT

SWEET... FFROM A1 catered for dessert buffet, I realized that these great minds not only look alike, but also share the same passion for happiness and eating. “Happiness is the main ingredient in making desserts. Think happy thoughts all

the time. If you’re angry, don’t bake. Make breads instead,” Mike explains. In effect, no one has ever left Lachi’s with an unhappy tummy and we always go back for more “happy thoughts” served in plates.

SPORTS15

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 177 •WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

PERFECT Carmelo keeps Knick on beaten

hILADeLPhIA (AP) -- For all the cracks made about New York’s aging roster, those old-timers sure know how to win. Carmelo Anthony scored 21 points and JR Smith had 17 to help keep the Knicks perfect in a 110-88 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. Raymond Felton scored 16 points and Tyson Chandler had 14 to lead the Knicks to their first 3-0 start since the 1999-2000 season. The Knicks beat the Sixers 100-84 on Sunday in the opener of the home-and-home series. ‘’We’re just playing good ball right now,’’ Anthony said. ‘’We really locked in what we need to lock in on.’’ Few teams are as locked in as the Knicks. They thumped Miami in the opener before routing

the Sixers in consecutive games. heck, they were even perfect from the freethrow line, a 19 of 19 night, the most attempts without a miss since 2006. The Knicks busted the game open in the third quarter, stretching the lead to 21 points. They got a surprising third from 38-yearold Rasheed Wallace, who scored eight points and hit a couple of 3-pointers, including a 26-footer at the buzzer to end the quarter. After a solid first, the Sixers fell apart, and got nothing going with their set offense. Jrue holiday led them with 17 points. Wallace was wooed out of retirement by coach Mike Woodson following two years off spent in quiet in North Carolina. he gave the Knicks a nice, unexpected boost in the quarter from long range. Several thousand Knicks fans came out to the Wells Fargo Cen-

ter and they went wild when Wallace, a Philadelphia native, unleashed his 3-point attempts. In his 5 minutes in the third, Wallace’s eight points outscored every Sixers bench player overall except Nick Young. Wallace finished with 10 points and wore a button-down ‘’Philla’’ shirt in the locker room. ‘’It’s nice to be here, always,’’ Wallace said. ‘’I’ve never really left Philly, and I’ve been here a few times, attending Sixers games, since I last played. everyone here has always shown me love, and I have for them.’’ Young led the way of cold-shooting Sixers, missing 11 of 15 attempts. Known as a shoot-first player, Young almost never looked for another option, and hoisted up misfire after misfire. one fan heckled him, ‘’That’s why you got a one-year deal, man!’’

Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks shoots against Dorell Wright and Thaddeus Young of the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center.

Heat melts Suns M

IAMI (AP) -- offensive numbers to savor were everywhere for the Miami heat on Monday night. They thanked an upgraded defensive effort for that. LeBron James had 23 points and 11 rebounds, Dwyane Wadescored 22 points and the heat beat the Phoenix Suns 124-99 on Monday night. Chris Bosh finished with 18 points, Ray Allen had 15 and Mario Chalmers finished with his second 11-assist, one-turnover game of the young season for Miami (3-1), which is aver-

aging 111.8 points in the early going. ‘’It’s all geared to our defense,’’ James said. ‘’When we defend, we can do whatever we want offensively.’’ Which is why, when he took his first look at the stat sheet, heat coach erik Spoelstra quickly focused on two numbers Phoenix shooting 39.8 percent, and Miami holding a 4938 rebounding edge. After struggling in those areas over the first three games, Spoelstra demanded change, and his team listened. ‘’I’ll take those two things,’’ Spoelstra said.

The heat had eight different players make at least one 3-pointer, a franchise record according to STATS LLC. Shannon Brown led Phoenix with 18 points off the bench. Luis Scola had 15 points, Goran Dragic finished with 13 points and nine assists, and Marcin Gortat scored 12 for the Suns (1-3). ‘’For us, it didn’t go too well,’’ the Suns’ Jared Dudley said. ‘’For them, it went well.’’ Allen became the 24th player in NBA history to eclipse the 23,000-point mark when he made a free throw with 1:01 left in the third quarter.

AN ANToNIo (AP) -- The San Antonio Spurs have won four NBA championships, made 32 playoff appearances and captured 18 division titles in their 40-year history. Yet for all their success, they had never opened a season with four straight victories. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and the Spurs finally did so Monday night, rolling past the Indiana Pacers 101-79 to remain unbeaten. ‘’I’m surprised we’re still doing records,’’ Parker said. ‘’It seems like we did everything, but that’s another one. That’s great.’’

It’s an unprecedented start for San Antonio, albeit one that left players scratching their heads. ‘’It’s just a stat, not that important in the longterm,’’ Manu Ginobilisaid. ‘’(But) at this point we are enjoying it. It’s curious that a team this successful hasn’t started that well before.’’ The Spurs upended the Pacers (2-2) with what has become a familiar formula in recent years - a little Parker, a little Duncan and a lot off the bench. Gary Neal scored 17 points, DeJuan Blair 14 and Stephen Jackson12 to pace San Antonio’s reserves. The Spurs outscored the Pacers’ bench

57-35. ‘’That’s kind of been our motto,’’ Neal said. ‘’With Manu coming off and Stephen Jackson, those guys could be starting on any team in the NBA. We are a deep team. We’ve just got to maintain effort when the bench comes in.’’ Duncan added 14 points and 11 rebounds, and Parker finished with six points, seven assists and only one turnover. Former Spurs guard George hill led Indiana with 15 points. Paul George added 14 points and David West had 10. The Spurs needed a boost from their bench after a sluggish start.

Spurs roll to 4-0 start S

Lebron James kicks the ball out away from a double team Phoenix defense. The Heat won this one against the Suns.

16 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Ateneo out to defend Alaska titles By Neil Bravo

fully-loaded Ateneo de Davao University delegation is looking to defend two

titles in the much-anticipated Alaska Cup which gets going on Nov. 10-11 at the Alabang Country

Club. Ateneo will be fielding teams in the following categories: under-6,

under-8, under-10, under-12 boys and girls, under-14 boys ad girls, under-16 boys and girls

DSA FORUM. Ateneo de Davao football team’s (l-r) Ryan Lim and Melchor Anzures, WMNCAA Mindanao director Arlene De Vera, and coach Reynalyn Ravanes of Ateneo in Tuesday’s DSA Sports Forum at the Tower Inn.

and women’s open. Ateneo will be headed by a powerful coaching staff composed of former La Salle University women’s coach Ryan “Abing” Lim, former national mainstay Melchor Anzures, Toto Garfin, Reynalyn Ravanes, and Analou Ingles. Ateneo will be defending their titles in the under-8 and under-12 divisions—that task of bringing back the title belongs to Garfin and Ravanes. “Kaya namo madepensahan pero halos puro bago ang mga players naming ngayon. Nag-graduate na ang iba. Undersized kami ngayon pero lalaban pa rin,” said Ravanes. Lim said the teams are fully supported by the parents, some of them will also be joining in the Manila trip for the 2-day tournament. In 1995, Alaska Power Camp partnered with former professional international football player Tomas Lozano to create the 1st Alaska Football Cup. Through the Football Cup, Alaska leads the growth of amateur football in the

country. Since then, the Alaska Football Cup is held every November at the Ayala Alabang Country Club fields. It consistently gathers over 200 teams and 3,000 boys and girls, ages 7-17 years old, from different parts of the country. These young football enthusiasts come together to compete in various age divisions, even traveling from Cebu, Baguio and other parts of the country. To date, we believe that it is the biggest amateur football tournament in the country. Now on its 12th year, the Alaska Football Cup has become even more exciting as the winning girls team gets the chance to participate in the most illustrious youth football event in the world — the Gothia Cup in Sweden. The Alaska Football Cup is one sports tournament that young players look forward to during the year. It is part of the Alaska Football Power Camp, which also holds training programs during the summer months in Alabang, Fort Bonifacio and various schools in the country.

Croc FC sends 3 teams to Alaska Cup

AVAo Crocodile FC is sending three squads to the forthcoming Alaska Cup on Nov. 10-11 at the Alabang Country Club. The Alaska Cup is considered as the premier national football tournament for age group players. Davao Crocodile FC, one of the winningest age group clubs in Davao City, will be fielding entries in the under-6, under-8 and under 12 categories. “We are ready and the kids as well as their parents are excited to see action in the Alaska Cup. We are optimistic of some positive results,” said head coach Christian ea who will be joined by the rest of the coaching staff composed of Sandro Balderas, and Jose Mari Cabalfin.

The under-6 squad will be composed of Breindel Medina, Josh Agulo, Roi Calicdan, Robert espejon, Francisco Mijares and Victor Lagundi. The under-8 team meantime will have Christian osog, Alessandro Romero ea, Lei Paciente, Julian Lacuesta, Jose Clavinci Gloriani, Jose Miguel Fabello, Louis Isaac Mercader, Kouki Azares, Joeff Sasin and Vanney Lagundi. The under-12 squad will be bannered by Prince Atis, Carl Chavez, Miguel Fusliero, JC Agulo, Dave Agulo, Charles Marundan, Dan Pereira, James Ubas, Novel Balahay and Miguel Diaz. “We are thankful for the support of the parents who are the moving force behind the participation of our teams,” ea added. (NJB)