Edge Davao 5 Issue 188

EDGEDAVAO SP attendance has improved P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

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Quitain says

A

city councilor has seen an improvement in the attendance among members of the city council following a privileged speech in which he urged colleagues

Says coming to sessions on time entails proper time management

to observe proper time during sessions.

FQUITAIN, 11

Page 16

KAKAO KONEK. Christopher Justiniani, representative of Chokolate de San Isidro, center, entertains guests and participants of the three-day Kakao Konek Convention that started yesterday at The Apo View Hotel. Kakao Konek is the first international convention to gather stakeholders in the cocoa

UP prof calls lawyer’s defense of Sen. Sotto ‘disingenuous’

E

Councilor Melchor Quitain, chair of the committee on eth-

ics, said improved attendance in council sessions following his speech has resulted to no more backlog as far as pending measures are concerned

LECTION lawyer Romeo Macalintal’s stand that Sen. Vicente Sotto III did not commit plagiarism when he copied the ideas of other people in his speeches without attribution is “disingenuous,” according to a lady professor of the University of the Philippines, one of citizens who filed a complaint against Sotto before the Senate committee on ethics and privileges.

Prof. Sylvia Estrada-Claudio, a doctor of medicine and doctor of philosophy, and several others have charged Sotto with plagiarism before the Senate committee for using in his series of speeches against the

Re p ro d u c tive Health Bill lines or ideas not his without mentioning their original authors.

However, lawyer Macalintal wrote the committee Sen. Vicente Sotto III asking that the complaint be dismissed, argu-

FUP, 11

industry. It features five major activities: the cacao conference, cacao farm tours, Kacao Kulinarya, buyers-sellers night and the Sikwatehan sa Barrio. The convention also holds a B2B Matching Mini Event where buyers and sellers of cacao can meet. LEAN DAVAL JR.

FDAVAO’S, 11

2 THE BIG NEWS

Ikalawang Yugto film festival to be held on November 22-25

T

HE Film Development Council of the Philippines will stage the Ikalawang Yugto of the Sineng Pambansa National Film Festival from November 22 to 25, 2012 exclusively at the SM Lanang Premier, SM’s second and largest mall in dynamic Davao City. Highlight of the festival opening night on November 22 at SM Cinema is the Sineng Pambansa premiere of the restored 1950 film Genghis Khan by Manuel Conde.

With the same mission of developing and empowering filmmakers in the regions, the Ikalawang Yugto, a follow-up to the successful staging of the first leg of the festival last June, will feature finished films from the second batch of scriptwriting finalists from the

National Film Competition FDCP first conducted.

Six full length features and three documentaries topbill the official selection of the festival -- each presenting unique stories and the distinct vision of the participating filmmakers.

The full –length feature films are: Anac ti pating writer/director, Martin Masadao; Asin writer/ director, Maria Ena Aimee Lourdes Apostol- Escasa; Huling byahe by writer/director Racquel Zaballero-Sanchez, director: Sigfried Barros-Sanchez; Kapitan basura writer/ director, Dominic Lim; Limang dipang tao writer/ director, Moises Anthony Cruz ; Malan writer, Agustin Pagusara, director, Benjie Garcia; The documentaries

Lagdameo, Mendoza in int’l banana confab

H

OUSE leaders behind a bill seeking to establish a national banana research institute flew to the city of Kaohsiung in Taiwan to attend an international banana symposium, Nov. 19-22.

TUCP Party-list Rep. Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza, chairman of the House Committee on Poverty Alleviation, and Rep. Anton F. Lagdameo, (Second District, Davao del Norte) were accom-

panied by Stephen Antig, executive director of the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA) to the international event with the theme “Banana Health Management, Use Diversification and Adaptation to Climate Change.” The symposium is organized by the Taiwan Banana Research Institute, Council of Agriculture (COA) – Taiwan, Bioversity International, and Banana

Ten years since her killing by alleged elements of the military in Arakan, North Cotabato, Beng Hernandez’ colleagues from Atenews, the official student publication of Ateneo de Davao University, continue to cry for justice. On the occasion of her birthday, a candle-lighting ceremony will be held inside the university. Members of the staff of Atenews lament the snail-paced

turn of the wheels of justice for Hernandez and all other victims of political killings.

“Today, Nov.21, Ate Beng would have been 33 years old. Justice is still denied for the family, friends and fellow writers of our student martyr, Ate Beng. We are very disappointed that under the three years of President Benigno Aquino III not one of the killers has been prosecuted, ”

FLAGDAMEO, 11

On Ate Beng’s 33rd birthday

are: Ang babae sa likod ng mambabatok, writer/ director, Lauren Marie Sevilla Faustino; Ang pagbabalik ng bituin, director, Sherbien Dacalanio writer, Sheryl Manalastas; Chasing fireflies, writer/director, Sheron Dayoc.

The nine films will all vie for festival top prizes to be awarded during formal ceremonies on November 24 as chosen by main international jury composed of Dr. Rolando Tolentino, Dean of the UP College of Mass Communication, Christian Merer, Cultural Counselor Embassy of France Manila, Jose Maria Fons Guardiola, Deputy for Cultural Affairs , Instituto Cervantes and Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala, reknowned broadcast journalist and documentarian.

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

FILM FESTIVAL. Teodoro Granados, Film Development Council of the Philippines executive director (right), says that the Ikalawang Yugto of the Sineng Pambansa National Film Festival which will start today until November 25, 2012 at SM Lanang

EDGEDAVAO

Premier’s SM Cinema aims to develop and empower filmmakers in the regions in the weekly Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo Davao yesterday. At left is James Infiesto who promotes The Magic of Christmas. LEAN DAVAL JR.

P-Noy signs Maricar law for 2 more RTC branches “T

HE long wait is over!”

Thus exclaimed Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora after learning that President Benigno Aquino III had signed Republic Act No. 10252, creating two additional Regional Trial Court branches for Compostela Valley Province.

The law was authored

by Zamora in 2010, with Rep. Rommel Amatong of the second district as co-author.

The new RTC salas will be set up in the municipalities of Compostela and Mabini.

“For many years now, the lone RTC branch in the capital town of Nabuntur-

said Almira Jane Villegas, Deputy Secretary General for Mindanao of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines.

Benjaline “Beng” Hernandez was the previous Features Editor of Atenews, Vice-President for Mindanao of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines, and later Deputy Secretary General of the human rights group Karapatan-Southern Mindanao. On April

5, 2002, Hernandez was gunned down along with three other companions by alleged members of the Citizens Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) under Master Sergeant Antonio Torilla of the 7th Airborne Battalion of the 12th Special Forces Company of the Philippine Army in Arakan Valley, North Cotabato. Hernandez was in the area to follow up

an has been plagued by operational and administrative problems. With the new salas to help ease the burden, it is expected that the docket of the Nabunturan court will be de-clogged and the resolution of cases speeded up,” the ComVal lawmaker said.

“This new law will also

positively impact on our people’s trust and confidence in the judicial system by providing accessible venues in filing and pursuing their legal cases,” Zamora said, adding that the ability of the State to expeditiously dispense justice is one of the hallmarks of democracy.”

Against high electricity rates

Atenews staffers lament slow justice Nat’l Day of Protest

OPPOSING VIEWS. Senatorial candidate Risa Hontiveros (right photo) welcomes the decision made by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) that allows Akbayan party-list to participate in the forthcoming 2013 elections in a press conference at Shakey’s

FATE BENG’S, 11

by FDC on Nov. 22

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HE Freedom from Debt Coalition, together with other people’s organizations will hold a National Day of Protest on November 22, 2012 to show the people’s resistance to (a) skyrocketing electricity rates and (b) the privatization of the power industry under the EPIRA law or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act. Salvador H. Feranil,

Freedom from Debt Coalition-Southern Mindanao (FDC-SM) president, said that more than 50 cities and municipalities have expressed their support for the National Day of Action Against High Electricity Rates.

According to Feranil, there are, at least, 10 reasons why the people should join the National

FAGAINST, 11

Pizza Restaurant in Gov. Duterte Street yesterday. At left, members of the progressive group Anakbayan stage a protest rally outside the venue to express their grievance against rival and fellow left-leaning group Akbayan. LEAN DAVAL JR.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 188 •THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

8 injured in CDO blast T A

grenade explosion in front of a lending firm at Barangay Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City yesterday morning injured eight people, including two employees of the firm and a security guard, reports said.

Chief Supt. Gil Hitosis, police regional director, told reporters at the crime scene that an MK2 grenade was used to booby trap the accordion door of the Golden Sun Finance Corporation.

“We are still investigating but very visible in the evidence that it was booby trapped. They hung the grenade on the door and tied the pin.

So when they opened the door, the pin was re-

moved,” said Hitosis.

He added that they are looking at the angle that a disgruntled lender of Golden Sun may have planted the grenade the night before. He also said they have yet to talk to the owner of the lending firm.

“By proximity rule, this is a finance corporation, probably they have filed a case against a lender who has failed to pay. That is one of the probable motives that we are investigating,” he said.

Injured by the blast are cashier Fritzie Tiyos, employee Evanceliza Salamanca and the building’s security guard, RJ Palma. They were rushed to the Capitol University Medical Cen-

ter (CUMC) in barangay Gusa, the nearest hospital from the crime scene.

Hitosis said Palma absorbed most of the impact of the grenade since he was the one who opened the door. The grenade blast lacerated Palma’s abdomen and wounded his right leg. As of this writing, Palma is still in critical condition at the CUMC. The five others injured are SPO2 Rogelio Mendiola, who was passing by Golden Sun en route to Camp Vicente Alagar; PUJ driver Fernando Biernes, 50, who happened to pass by the place; Roderick Cabihin was critically wounded when

caravan of services in Barangay Sampao, Kapalong, this province.

Despite the pouring rain, hundreds of residents turned out to avail of the free social, medical, surgical, dental, legal, and agricultural, among other services.

Barangay officials and residents also cheered when Gov. del Rosario pledged to facilitate their request for a box culvert, water system, classroom and school fence, as well as, covered court through the office of 1st District Congressman Anthony del Rosario.

Pascual expressed satisfaction that the province has taken the lead in bringing the government closer to the people by bringing

vital services right at their doorsteps.

“Ito po talaga ang dapat na yung mga serbisyo ay pupunta sa mga barangay para maramdaman ng mga mamamayan na ang gobyerno ay totoong kumakalinga sa kanila (This is how it should be done so the people will feel that the government truly cares for them),” said the former commander of Task Force Zamboanga.

The Provincial Government of Davao del Norte and the army, through the 1003rd “Raptor” Brigade, along with the Provincial Police Office and other agencies, banded and put their resources together to haul various services to farflung and depressed barangays.

SUBURBIA

3

Mati City approves scholarship of 100 state college enrolees

a shrapnel hit his head; Danny Ragrag; and retired police officer Rodolfo Gebutad. All victims were rushed to the CUMC. Lt. Col. Julio Eugenio Osias IV, 4th Infantry Division spokesperson, told media at the crime scene that they were able to deploy their Explosives and Ordnance Division about 15 minutes after the explosion.

“Only government security forces can access an MK2 grenade. This type of grenade explodes 60 degrees upwards and has a killing radius of five meters. This grenade uses a TNT (trinitrotoluene) flex explosive,” said Osias.

[Cong B. Corrales / MindaNews]

HE Mati City Scholarship Board announced the completion of the evaluation of the scholarship renewal application of 100 students of the Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology (DOSCST). Rey Oliveros, a member of the scholarship board, said that the evaluation results yielded a 100% passing rate.

“We follow strictly the grant requirements especially in the aspect of grades”, Oliveros explained. “ The scholarship guidelines is strict when it comes to the weighted average that each grantee maintains during the semester.

Thus, there is a need for renewal of the grant every after semester”.

The grant package is equivalent to an amount of P15,000.00 per grantee for every semester .It is inclusive of tuition, monthly stipend, and uniform/book allowance. This year, the City will spend 3 million to sustain the program.

Known as the ASENSO SA EDUKASYON program, it is targeted to produce a 500 college graduates from low-income earning families. On the other hand, it maintains a high standard for entry as well as for renewal.

“We wanted to empower poor families by allowing them to have someone finish college and eventually find a good-paying job. This is a social program aimed at helping reduce poverty”, Mayor Michelle Rabat said in an interview.

from 15,000 people in Visayas and Mindanao, has allegedly victimized 400 people in T’boli through a local conduit.

“We’re proceeding to T’boli today (Wednesday) to interview the victims and gather the necessary evidences for the filing of charges against those behind the illegal activity,” he said in a radio interview.

Rejano said their investigation will focus on determining how Aman Group started its operations in the area, identity its local contacts or representatives and establish the extent of its activities.

Citing initial complaints received by NBI-12 against the Aman Group,

he said its operations were allegedly facilitated by local residents identified as couple Pastor Rolando and Daisy Lilio.

He said some residents were reportedly lured to invest as much as P200,000 to the company due to the huge interest paybacks that it promised.

“Because of that, many of the investors have become bankrupt and could not even afford to go to our office to file their complaints because of their sorry state,” the official said.

Aside from getting statements from the victims, Rejano said they will summon the Lilio couple to answer the complaints

Officer assures commitment NBI watching out for Aman to Davao Norte convergence operations in SoCotabato

By Noel Baguio

D

AVAO del Norte - The new commander of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade headquartered in Sto. Tomas town reaffirmed the army’s continued allout support and commitment to the convergence program of the province.

Col. Buenaventura Pascual reassured Governor Rodolfo del Rosario, and other provincial officials, that his command will sustain the strong partnership started by his predecessor in buoying up the Davao del Norte Convergence for Peace and Development program.

“On behalf of the 1003rd brigade, I assure you the army’s continued commitment to the convergence initiative,” he said, during the program’s 27th

T

HE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has launched an investigation over the reported operations in nearby South Cotabato province of pyramiding investment firm Aman Futures Group Philippines, Inc. Timmy Rejano, supervising agent of the NBI Region 12, said Wednesday they received a directive from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to specifically look into the company’s activities in T’boli town in South Cotabato in the past several months.

He said the Aman Group, which reportedly amassed around P12 billion in Ponzi-type investments

Women, IPs benefit from Ugmad livelihood trainings, starter kits

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INFORMATION CAMPAIGN. Maranao women listen as MILF commander Abdurahman Macapaar, aka Kumander Bravo, asks fellow Maranaos to support the GPH-MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangasmoro during an information campaign rally in

Barangay Delabayen, Kauswagan town in Lanao del Norte on Nov. 17, 2012. [MindaNews/ Froilan Gallardo]

FNBI, 11

OMEN and tribal folks were given opportunity to start their own businesses through the livelihood trainings and income starter kits given out by the Ugmad Komunidad (UK) program of Davao del Norte province.

Governor Rodolfo del Rosario led the distribution of the livelihood starter kits to 12 people’s organizations in the province during the Monday morning convocation program at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan.

He said the facilities will help the UK beneficiary-associations go about the actual production of gainful products after undergoing a series of livelihood techno-trainings since the program started in February this year.

“This is a good sign of our communities’ willingness to participate in the local economy other than through their main source of income,” he affirmed.

The Ugmad program brought together the special programs of the Provincial Government in tourism, sports, and livelihood, under the governor’s P.E.O.P.L.E. development agenda.

The biz trainings and equipment provided under the UK’s Learn & Earn component aim to take advantage of the increasing tourism potential of the province by making available indigenous products for the tourists.

Yet, beneficiaries raved how the program has empowered women to help increase the income of their families.

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Group warns of toxic chemicals in toys M

AJORITY of toys sold in public markets in the country contain “elevated levels of lead,” an environmental watchdog claimed.

The Eco Waste Coalition also warned parents that high amount of toxic chemicals in toys pose danger to the children’s health.

“In Divisoria, the percentage of toys positive on lead content is higher than 50 to 70 percent of lead-containing toys in public markets,” the group’s “Project Protect” coordinator Thony Dizon said.

“High amount of lead is usually used on very glossy and colorful toys,” he explained.

Dizon reminded parents to look out for such items and avoid buying toys with high lead content when shopping for the holidays.

Aside from lead, heavy metals above “allowable limits” have also been

found in almost half of a sample of 150 toys from Divisoria retailers.

The group in July also detected toxic metals above levels of concern in 32 percent of 171 toy samples bought from stores outside 18 public elementary schools in Metro Manila.

It also revealed 60 percent of 100 sample toys bought in Baclaran public market and nearby areas contained lead and other toxic metals “above levels of concern” last month.

Manufacturer invformation, particularly license to operate numbers, are also absent in 148 of 150 toy samples in Divisoria, the group said.

Commenting on the group’s findings, Senator Manuel “Manny” Villar stressed the importance of ramping up policies on toy labels.

This, as he vowed to schedule an act providing for toy safety labeling in the bicameral conference starting next week.

A Toy Labeling Safety Act can soon provide protection to children by informing consumers of risks when purchasing toys in markets and malls,

Biocapacity-sensitive development urged

A

UTHORITIES released Tuesday a report that can help generate informed choices on management and use of Philippine natural assets to truly promote sustainable development amidst climate change.

The report “A Measure for Resilience” acknowledges the Philippines’ development gains over time but warns these can be reversed if gap between the country’s ecological footprint and biocapacity continues widening.

“We can’t afford to have a footprint larger than our biocapacity,” Climate Change Commission Commissioner Naderev Saño said at launching of the report his agency collaborated with the Global Footprint Network and Agence Francaise de Developpement.

Ecological footprint represents the “area of biologicallyproductive land and water a population requires to provide resources it consumes and to absorb its waste using prevailing technology,” the Global Footprint Network noted.

“Such footprint measures humanity’s demand on nature,” it said.

Experts reported that an average Philippine resident’s ecological footprint in 2008 was 1.3 global hectares (gha).

The report noted that biocapacity represents

the biosphere’s ability to produce crops, livestock, timber products and fish as well as to uptake carbon dioxide in forests.

“It measures ability of available terrestrial and aquatic areas to provide ecological resources and services,” it said.

Biocapacity available per person in the Philippines in 2008 was only 0.6 gha, it said.

Citing available data, Saño noted the Philippines already breached its biocapacity as early as the 1960s.

“Our country’s been in ecological deficit since then,” he said, adding that such deficit has been increasing ever since.

“That’s over-spending,” he said.

However, Saño clarified that such over-spending can only go on for so long until signs of collapse become undeniably clear.

“We can’t live beyond ecological limits,” he said.

‘A Measure for Resilience’ noted over-spending prevailed to such extent that by 2008, people nationwide were already using over two times the country’s capacity to provide biological resources and to absorb CO2 emissions.

“The nation demanded more than twice what it had in available capacity,” the report said.

Such situation compounded climate change

threats and other challenges to the country’s bid for sustainable development, it added.

Experts noted that sustainable development is human development that is within the biosphere’s ecological limits.

The report explores three future scenarios for the Philippines.

Under the business-as-usual scenario, which assumes high economic growth and population increase in line with UN estimates, average Philippine footprint is projected to grow from 1.3 to 1.7 gha per capita by 2050 when available global biocapacity is estimated at 1.3 gha.

For the slower economic growth scenario, the country’s average ecological footprint is projected to grow at least 1.5 gha per capita.

A scenario of high economic growth but reduced population increase suggests a possible footprint of 1.7 gha per capita but without additional pressure on domestic ecosystems.

“All three scenarios show an ecological deficit continuing in the Philippines for decades to come,” the report concluded.

Saño believes that such trend can be changed if the country truly pursues sustainable development and not progress at the expense of natural assets nationwide.

Villar said.

“This is important because every Christmas, many people buy toys without knowing if such items are safe for their

children or not,” he added after inspecting toys sold in SM Mall of Asia on Tuesday.

“There have been many incidents in the past

of toys coming from various countries, some made in the country that have high lead content that parents are not aware of,” Villar said.

gram’ is a big boost to the NGP’s objective to improve the water-yield capacity of the country’s watersheds with an end view of enhancing agricultural productivity, and also to protect and improve the remaining forest cover as natural habitat for our wildlife,” Paje said.

The MOA calls for the rehabilitation of 40 hectares of open and degraded watershed areas in Bugallon, Pangasinan (10 hectares); San Jose del Monte, Bulacan (10 has.); Sapang Dako, Cebu City (5 has.); Sitio Canlusong in EB Magalona, Negros Occidental (5 has.); Paquibato District in Davao City (5 has.); and in Polomok, South Cotabato (5 has.). The reha-

bilitation effort will start next year up to 2015.

Paje explained that under the agreement, the LBP will sponsor the cost of the project’s implementation, estimated to cost around P200,000 per 10 hectares or at least around a total of P0.8 million throughout the threeyear duration, from 20132015. It will also provide funds for the development of the nurseries and maintenance of the planted seedlings.

The DENR, on the other hand, will identify the area for plantation. It will also provide technical assistance, through its Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs).

Risk Integration in Sovereign Credit Analysis.

“It represents a first start at mapping out the connections between natural resource risks, the broader environmental implications and the economic and financial materiality for sovereign credit risk,” said Achim Steiner, UN Under-Secretary-General and UNEP Executive Director, in the foreword of the report.

He praised the report as it “provides a first attempt on how such natural resource criteria can be factored in sovereign credit risk models and thus in the selection and weighting of

sovereign bonds and sovereign credit ratings.”

The report takes five countries - Brazil, France, India, Japan and Turkey as a sample for analysis, and reached two major conclusions.

Firstly, countries that depend heavily on natural resources and services from other regions may find that their resource supply becomes unreliable or costly, and this has economic implications. For example, a ten percent variation in commodity prices could lead to changes in a country’s trade balance equivalent to 0.5 percent of a nation’s GDP.

DENR, LandBank renew deal on watershed rehab

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HE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has recently renewed its greening partnership with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) to rehabilitate some 40 hectares of degraded areas in six critical watersheds in the country.

DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje, who signed the memorandum of agreement with LBP president and CEO Gilda Pico, expressed his gratitude to the bank’s continuing support to the National Greening Program (NGP), saying the effort would further boost the water-yield capacity of watersheds.

“The Landbank’s ‘Adopt-a-Watershed Pro-

UN report: Environmental problems should be considered as risks to sovereign credit

A

report published in London on Monday

by UN Environment Programme (UNEP), Global Footprint Network and a number of financial institutions, called on countries to view their financial stability in a different angle - environment.

The report, named “E-RISC: A New Angle on Sovereign Credit Risk, “ is the first of its kind to highlight the link between environmental problems such as degradation of natural resources, and the economic stability of countries including their ability to repay sovereign debt. E-RISC stands for Environmental

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 188 •THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

THE ECONOMY

5

Proposed law banning junk foods in Davao schools gaining ground A

proposed ordinance prohibiting the selling of junk foods within school premises in this Davao City may be approved this year as the city council’s committee on education eyed to submit reports in December for second reading.

The proposed ordinance aims to ensure that food products sold within school premises and up to 100 meters outside are in accordance with the nutritional needs of the elementary and secondary students.

It was authored by Councilor Rachel Zozobrado, the former chairperson of the committee on education, which is now chaired by Councilor Leah Librado-Yap. Although it was endorsed in 2010, the committee members had just finalized Monday the definition for “junk food”.

In the draft ordinance, junk food is defined as “a slang word for prepackaged snack food high in calories but low in essential nutrients and high in salt, refined carbohydrates

or saturated fats such as salted snack foods, candy, gum, sweet desserts, fried fast food and carbonated drink.”

They also agreed to emphasize that only products in native preparation should be sold in school canteens and vendors within 100 meters from schools.

The City Health Office committed to submit to the committee a list of junk foods on or before November 26.

Attending the committee hearing, Anna Liza L. Rivamonte, president of Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) in the Emar Learning Center, said she supports the ban of junk foods because she wants her daughter to be healthy always and to eat only nutritious food.

“She is precious to me.

That’s why I don’t want her to eat junk food. It’s bad for her health,” she added.

Also supporting the proposed ordinance, Lani A. Lee, board member of the Ateneo de Davao Parents Teachers Community,

AWED. Christmas is definitely not only for children as a boy and his grandfather are seen awed by the Christmas decorations on display at the atrium of one of the malls along J.P. Laurel Ave. yesterday. LEAN DAVAL JR.

Inc., said that as a mother, she promotes healthy diet to her family and wants to regulate the food intake of her child.

“Since the school is the second place where they spend the longest

Real Bank appoints ex-PDIC president director

F

ORMER President of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) Jose C. Nograles recently joined The Real Bank’s Board of Directors after his appointment as one of its independent directors. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in both investment banking and finance as well as his stellar experience as one of the Philippines’ financial regulators.

During his stint as PDIC President, Nograles shepherded the passage of amendments to the PDIC’s charter, at the height of the 2008 financial crisis, allowing the agency to have a more proactive co-regulatory role along with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) by providing institutional and financial strengthening measures to safeguard the interests of the depositing public.

The amended charter also raised the deposit insurance coverage from P 250,000 to P 500,000.

Nograles also led the agency in attaining ISO certification through the development of new Business Operations on key processes and services to

Jose C. Nograles speed up deposit claims processing enabling small depositors to be paid without need for undergoing tedious claims processing. It was also during his tenure that, together with the BSP, the Strengthening Program for Rural Banks (SPRB) was crafted and launched.

PDIC was nominated as Deposit Insurer of the Year by the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI) in 2009.

Prior to his appointment as PDIC President, Mr. Nograles was Senior Executive Vice-Presi-

dent of Landbank of the Philippines where he also served as Treasurer and Head of Investment Banking. Mr. Nograles holds a Bachelor Degree in Economics, cum laude, from the Ateneo de Manila University and an MBA from the Asian Institute of Management.

He is a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), a non-governmental organization that conducts training and advocacy work for corporate governance and corporate social responsibility.

time aside from home, so it is just right to regulate the food being sold in the school,” she said.

Other participants in the hearing include PTA members, administrators and canteen managers of

the Holy Cross College of Sasa, Stella Maris Academy, University of Mindanao and Assumption College of Davao.

Members of the Mothers for Peace Movement in Mindanao (M4P) earlier

expressed support for the proposed ordinance and initiated a “food revolution” campaign or the fight against junk foods in city schools starting last July.

[Lorie Ann A. Cascaro / MindaNews]

6

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 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Asia-Pacific nations launch trade pacts amid tensions A

sia-Pacific nations launched negotiations on Tuesday for two giant free trade pacts that diplomats said may foster warmer ties at a time of deep tensions over multiple territorial rows.

China, Japan and South Korea, embroiled in maritime disputes that have frayed diplomatic ties, began talks for a free trade agreement when their trade ministers met on the sidelines of an Asian summit in Cambodia.

Talks will start in earnest early next year, the three said in a joint statement announcing the start of the negotiations.

Negotiations for a separate Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) involving the three Asian economic powerhouses and 13 other nations were also launched almost simultaneously at the East Asia Summit.

China is locked in a series of territorial disputes with four

planned members of the RCEP -- the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei -- and tensions over those rival claims flared yet again at the Cambodia talks.

But Surin Pitsuwan, head of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) which hosts the annual summit, said all parties understood that they could not afford to let the disputes hold back lucrative trade agreements.

“The effort is to try to isolate the two issues. Economic integration will have to go forward... because everybody is going to benefit from this new architecture,” he told AFP. The launch of talks for both trade pacts came amid a particularly deep strain in ties between China and Japan, Asia’s two biggest economies, over competing claims to islands in the East China Sea. Their trade relationship, which is worth well over $300 billion a year, has suffered as the

escalation in tensions fanned nationalist flames.

Anti-Tokyo riots shook Chinese cities in September, with the violence leaving some Japanese businesses in ruins.

A Chinese consumer boycott of Japan-brand goods also left the likes of the Japanese auto giant Nissan forecasting a large drop in sales in the world’s largest car market.

Meanwhile, Japan and South Korea are locked in another row over islands in waters between their countries.

Tensions boiled over in August after a surprise visit by South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak to the Dokdo islands, known as Takeshima in Japan.

But, if successful, the threeway talks would create one of the world’s biggest free-trade zones. Trade between the three countries already totalled $514.9 billion in 2011, according to the Japanese government.

The Chinese government, which has eschewed top-level talks with Japan amid the rise in tensions, nevertheless sees the advantage of pursuing the free trade agreement.

“We have to take the FTA of Japan, China and South Korea in a broader context, that is East Asia cooperation,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Qin Gang told reporters in Phnom Penh.

“We believe that the FTA will be a very important vehicle in forging a broader trade arrangement in this region.”

The RCEP offers potentially even greater riches, with the 16 nations involved currently accounting for half of the world’s population and a third of global economic output.

It would cover all 10 ASEAN members, as well as China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand, and would be the world’s biggeset free trade deal if realised.

ly’s future.

“PLDT’s online store is the first comprehensive eCommerce portal of the PLDT group of companies that caters to Filipinos abroad. It was recently renamed Smart Pinoy Store to make its products and services available not only to consumers but to dealers and retailers as well. I am happy to announce that franchising of various Filipino firms will also soon be available in the Smart Pinoy Store.” said PLDT

& Smart Head of Int’l & Carrier Business and PLDT Global Corp.

President Alejandro O. Caeg.

“Apart from making it possible for our OFWs to virtually participate in the activities of their families in the Philippines, the Smart Pinoy Store also enables them to plan their children’s education, make investments or engage in business, and purchase products with good value and on installment basis. The negosyo packages may be availed on in-

stallment, so payment terms are light on the OFW’s pocket,” Caeg said.

He added that, “Smart Pinoy Store is also the fastest and easiest way for Filipinos abroad to send gifts to their families in the Philippines anytime, without worrying about delivery delays since our merchant partners reliably deliver on time.”

Through the online store, OFWs can buy goods, services, educational plans, pangkabuhayan packages, and cell phone load for friends and family back home. It also allows them to pay their utility bills, such as those from PLDT & Smart, and soon Meralco, Maynilad and other service companies as well.

To buy from the online store, OFWs simply have to access any of the distribution channels, such as PLDT Global’s website, chain accounts, and agents of dealers.

They then choose from a range of available products and services viewed online, which include gift items, telecommunications products, educational/financial/ medical services, and utilities, and pay for their selected product or service, using cash, credit card and Smart Money. PLDT’s merchant partners deliver the goods or fulfill the transaction in the Philippines after confirming the payment.

In expanded online store for OFWs

PLDT Global includes investment packages

P

LDT Global launched its expanded online store recently to include affordable investment packages in order to provide more innovative services to over 10 million Overseas Filipino Workers and their families in the Philippines.

Serving Filipinos worldwide, the PLDT Online store, has added various negosyo packages such as Sari-sari store and Tricycle, to its list of products and services to enable OFWs to plan their fami-

BAZAAR. Patricia De Jesus, organizer of The Marco Polo Davao’s 2012 Christmas Bazaar, promotes the November 23 event during the Club 888

media forum at The Marco Polo Davao yesterday. De Jesus promised a bigger and better bazaar this year. 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

ICT HUB

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 188 •THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

7

Kaspersky offers tips on recognizing and defeating malware in websites T

HE Internet is already a general service in the Philippines, benefiting nearly 30 million Filipinos for everything from looking for a place, reading news, shopping and connecting with others through social networks.

Lately, however, virus authors have been creating malicious software that is specifically targeted to infect websites. The idea is to infect a website and let the infection spread by infecting the PCs of the site’s visitors. Unfortunately, website administrators might not know their sites are infected.

Marta Janus, Security Researcher at Kaspersky Lab, a leading developer of secure content and threat management solutions, said in a report there were incidences of website owners complaining that a Kaspersky Lab product incorrectly blocks access to their portal and it must be a false alarm as they do not host any malicious content.

“Unfortunately, in most cases they are wrong and malicious scripts can indeed be found within their websites, injected into their sites’ original code,” said Janus “These scripts redirect visitors to malicious websites. In most cases, the execution of malware is completely invisible to the user, who sees the website appearing to operate as usual,” she said.

This is a result of driveby download where the computer becomes infected just by visiting a website which contains malicious code.

Malicious code exploits vulnerabilities in software

MALICIOUS CODE

running on the user’s computer (like Java, Flash, PDF viewers, browser plugins, etc.) to silently install itself on an attacked machine.

Janus said that the cybercriminals who created the codes have different evil goals. These include widening their targets for spamming and phishing, stealing content and passwords, hijacking Internet traffic, promoting illegal activities, among others.

“Generally speaking, there’s nothing new here.

It’s indirect financial gain that drives cybercriminals to infect websites,” said Janus.

Identifying the culprit There are ways for website administrators to identify if their website has been infected. Among the

Photo shows Marta Janus, Kaspersky Lab’s Security Researcher

most obvious ones are: 1. users complain that the website is blocked by the browser or security software 2. website is blacklisted by Google or added to some other database of malicious URLs 3. significant change in traffic and/or drop in search engine rankings 4. website doesn’t work properly, displays errors and warnings; and 5. after visiting the website, computers show strange behavior.

The infections usually remain unnoticed for a long time, often because of the level of sophistication of the malware. Some of these malware’s codes are usually obfuscated or obscured, thus mislead-

ing the administrator that their website is still clean.

“If you do not notice any of the above mentioned symptoms it’s a good indication that your server is clean, but always be on alert for any suspicious activities,” Janus warned.

Cleaning tools When an infection is indeed found, there are still ways to remove it. Janus said if there are any symptoms of possible infection, the website has to be deactivated until the problem has been resolved. This is really essential, as every moment of delay acts in favor of the cybercriminals, exposing more potential victims to the problem and spreading the infection over the Internet. The administrator also needs to check the server logs to see if there are any suspicious activities, like strange requests from IP addresses located in unusual countries, and so on.

Other methods of fighting malware in an infected site include backing up content, website scanning using online or installed security applications, and manually removing them.

The latter method is one where the website administrator needs to be very careful with. This means having to look at all the codes in their website and finding out codes that look obscure and unreadable.

“Code obfuscation is a common technique for malware writers and it’s relatively unusual for any other website-related software. If you haven’t obfuscated the code yourself, you have every reason to

be suspicious about it. Do be careful, though – not all obfuscated code will prove malicious!” Janus said.

Website security basics Nothing beats having all the preventive measures than just the cure for malware attacks. Janus emphasized on a number of basics that website administrators must have if they are to ensure the safety and security of their websites and their visitors: * Use of strong passwords However trivial it may sound, this really is the foundation of server security. Passwords should not only be changed after any malware incident and/or attack on the server – you should change them on a regular basis - say, once a month. A good password should meet specific criteria, which you can read about on our website [http://www.kaspersky. com/passwords ] * Being up-to-date The next thing to remember is to perform regular updates. Cybercriminals tend to exploit vulnerabilities in software, no matter whether the malware is aimed at PC users or at websites and web servers.

All the software that you manage from your server account should be the newest possible versions and every single security patch should be applied as soon as they are released.

Keeping all software fully patched and up-to-date will decrease the risk of an exploit-based attack. A regularly updated list of known vulnerabilities can be found on http://cve.mi-

tre.org/ * Creating frequent backups Having a clean copy of server content will certainly save you a great deal of time and effort – not to mention that a fairly recent backup may prove very useful when dealing with other problems, as well as infection. * Regular file scanning Even if there are no visible infection symptoms, it’s good practice to scan all server files once in a while. * Taking care of PC security As a great deal of website malware is spread with the use of infected PCs, the security of the desktop computer used to manage your website is one of the most important aspects of website security. Keeping your computer clean and safe at all times will significantly improve the chances of your website staying safe and clean as well. * Server hardening If you own the server, you should pay attention to configuring it as securely as possible. Such activity may include, but is not limited to: 1. removing all unused software 2. disabling all unnecessary services and modules 3. setting appropriate policies for users and groups 4. setting secure permissions / restricting access to certain files and directories 5. disabling directory browsing 6. collecting log files, which are checked for suspicious activity on a regular basis, and 7. using encryption and secure protocols.

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Getting away from the ‘Arab Street’ ( 1st of two parts ) ANAlYSIS

T

EDITORIAL

VFA

P

EOPLE who had opposed the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) since it was signed by the Philippine government and the United States 13 years ago must either be laughing inside or smiling from ear to ear now that the agreement is under public scrutiny once again.

The current controversy which stems from alleged dumping of toxic waste into Philippine waters by a US contractor seems to lend credence to the continuing claims of mostly Filipino activists that the VFA is disadvantageous to the country. Of course Filipinos who believe otherwise are as aggressive about their espousal of the VFA, which they view to be beneficial to our country.

Now come Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello filing a joint resolution

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last Monday seeking the abrogation of the VFA following the dumping of untreated waste by a US contractor into the country’s waters.

While at first blush we are jolted by the Santiago-Bello resolution which appears bold and divisive, we submit that its filing presents an opportunity for the issues to be joined giving way to another round of debate. It is a debate that will once again put the VFA under intense scrutiny in a public forum to be participated no less than by both houses of Congress.

However, like it or not, there is a surfeit of big issues currently competing for the time and attention of Congress. These will include the long pending Reproductive Health Bill, the Freedom of Information Bill, and of course the fast-approaching midterm elections.

Ah, too little time for too many issues!

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

ALBERTO DALILAN Managing NEILWIN L. BRAVO Sports and Motoring ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEy Consultant

kENNETH IRVING k. ONG Creative Solutions

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LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. • JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Photography

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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 John LLoyd

HE Tunisian Foreign Minister, Rafik Abdesslem, visited Gaza last week to give a speech. Abdesslem, who spent many years in exile studying international relations at the University of Westminster in London, is an intellectual with little adult experience of the rougher side of the Middle East.

His speech condemned Israel, of course, while not mentioning that the Gazans had launched many rockets over the past few days – a few of them, for the first time, hitting the major centers of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. As foreign policy intellectuals do, he sought to put events into a geopolitical framework. He pointed to what he believes is the underlying truth of the time: “Israel should understand,” he said, “that many things have changed and that lots of water has run in the Arab river.”

In the two pioneer countries of the Arab Spring, Islamists have been elected as the major political force, and provide the government. As Rami G. Khouri pointed out in his column in Lebanon’s Daily Star, these new governments “more accurately reflect the sentiments of their citizens vis-à-vis the Palestine issue… which will increase the political pressure on Israel.” Egypt’s President Mohamed Mursi and Tunisia’s President Moncef Marzouki are Islamists, with (especially in the first case) a well-documented detestation of the Jewish state.

They are constrained to be cautious, but their decision to send high-level emissaries to Gaza – more are scheduled to go – gives the Hamas government there both a shield and an encouragement.

Were an Egyptian killed in a bombing raid, the resulting outrage could mean, writes Eric Trager in The Atlantic, a breaking of Egyptian diplomatic relations with Israel, even a renunciation of the peace treaty. The “Arab Street” would be roused.

The “Arab Street” is a phrase still much used in news bulletins everywhere: yet a conversation in London this past week made me question its usefulness. Olivier Roy is one of the world’s most feted observers of the Middle East, a habitué of the most prestigious foreign policy centers and an advisor to French governments. In a talk at the European Council on Foreign Relations, he presented a view of the Arab world that went beyond the crudely assumed predictability of Arab Street militancy. Instead he talked about a series of movements in Arab societies that do not immediately inspire optimism, but give some hope of better.

He questioned the view that sees the major movement in these societies as that of Islamization. If this were the case, he asked, why were the revolts of 2011 led by secularists – with the Islamists of the Muslim Brotherhood and others so lagging in their response? “The first demonstrators didn’t want power,” Roy said. “They wanted elections. They wanted democracy of some sort.”

The Islamists, not secular liberals, were the winners: yet the governments they formed were, he said, deeply uncertain about how to rule. The leaders of Egypt and Tunisia tended to fall back on the belief that “the answer is Islam” to all problems: but that formula is a mantra for opposition, not for government.

The Spring brought forth no charismatic figure, no Gamal Abdul Nasser, with a vision of a united Arab nation: the Arab young show no interest in such millennial visions.

EDGEDAVAO

T

Sotto the red-faced solon

ITO Sotto copied thoughts and ideas from a speech of the late US Sen. Robert Kennedy, and used these to highlight his speech and made these appear as his own.

That’s plagiarism! Cried the guardians of intellectual property rights.

No, Sotto countered. It’s flattery. He perorated: “Copying or imitation is the highest form of flattery.” (it was an obvious attempt at pacifying the Kennedy children who demanded a public apology from Sotto.

Sotto’s convoluted defense of unprofessional and unethical conduct has created for him more enemies than defenders. He insists that he has done no wrong and therefore, find no reason to apologize.

Sotto is not just firm and stubborn about his position, but is arrogant as well.

He even called his critics or accusers as having a hole in the head.

How copying be plagiarism when the two words are spelled differently? He fumed.

What kind of brain rests in Sotto’s head? Is it similar to that of a parrot, or to that of a chimpanzee?

Is Tito Sotto a bird-brain? Or a hare-

O

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

brained homo sapien?

--OO-It’s more scam in the Philippines!

My apologies to the author of that catchy Department of Tourism slogan.

But I can’t help but use that phrase on the heels of the latest super investment scam that victimized thousands of gullible investors (soldiers, politicians, teachers, businessmen) in some Mindanao provinces and cities.

Some 12 billion pesos were reportedly raked in by a pyramid style investment company called Aman Futures, Inc. It’s owned by Malaysian named Amalilio who has slipped out of the country before he could be arrested.

Aman Futures promised investors a bountiful future offering profit interest ten times higher than what the banks offer to depositors.

Now the investors are facing not only a bleak Christmas, but an uncertain future, what with all their lifetime savings

gone with Malaysian scam king.

Why do people still fall for dubious money-making schemes?

Two defining factors come to mind: People are suckers for “get rich quick” gimmicks.

Greed – that insatiating urge to have more than what one already has.

Take the case of the mayor of Pagadian who already had five million pesos to his name. But he wanted more. So he joined the investment bandwagon. And lost all his money.

Ours has become a nation of scams.

We may not like this new status. But that’s the reality we have to live with.

When will all these come to pass?

Will there be more scams to come? Not in the near future, for sure. Those swindlers will lie low for a while, regroup, do more brainstorming and concoct new ways to hoodwink future gullible people. Then they will strike again bringing good news to the people.

Be ready when they come. Watch them carefully. Ask questions till they run short of answers. Employ Socratic method to extract the truth. Remember, swindlers don’t like too many questions.

--OO--

Health benefits from acacia leaf infusion

N stretches along MacArthur Highway that meanders through Tarlac and the Ilocos Region, rows of this centuries-old tree underline a countryside character, given its umbrella-shaped crown which provides shelters for motorists.

These large umbraculiform trees, growing to a height of 20 to 25 meters, belong to the rain tree species (Samanea saman), much like the hardy acacia barks in old Balara in Quezon City, easily recognized in a breathing metropolis dotted by glass walled high rise structures that glisten in the sun.

Grown in the open, as those in Cebu in central Philippines, the trees make good shelters on both sides of the roads, particularly south of the provincial capital city, as do the tall acacia trees along the MacArthur Highway that snakes up to Ilocos Norte’s Pagudpud town on the coastal border with Cagayan.

Road travelers may hardly notice the acacia bark is rough and furrowed, its branches widespread, its leaves evenly bipinnate and hairy underneath. Pinnae are 8 to 12 and 15 cms long or less.

Leaflets are 12 to 16 cms in the upper pinnae, 6 to 10 cms in the lower ones, decreasing in size downward, hairy beneath, with the mid-nerve diagonal, and oblong-rhomboid, 1.5 to 4 cms long.

Flowers are pink, borne in dense, peduncled, axillary, solitary, fascicled heads. Fruits are pods, straight, somewhat fleshy, indehiscent, 15 to 20 cms long, 2 cms wide, with a pulpy sweet mesocarp.

But more than providers of outspread highway shelters for bone-tired travelers, the acacia tree, also called in English as cow tamarind, rain tree or monkey pod, the tree, which can have a canopy diameter wider than its height, also has folkloric health benefits.

For instance, Filipino herb doctors say a decoction of the inner bark or fresh cambium and leaves is used to treat

SPECIAl FEATURE By honor BLanco caBie acute bacillary dysentery, enteritis, and diarrhea.

A decoction of fresh material may be applied as external wash, its latex used as gum arabic for gluing.

Others prescribe leaf infusion –- as those in Pakistan and in Jamaica -– as a laxative and to treat high blood pressure, while the seeds are chewed –- as they do in tropical Africa -– to treat gum and throat inflammation.

Other herb doctors suggest this as a folk remedy for colds, diarrhea, headache, intestinal ailments and stomach ache as well as prevention of tuberculosis.

The leaf alcoholic extract is said to be effective in inhibiting Mycobacterium tuberculosis while fruit decoction is used as central nervous system sedative.

Some say acacia can be a good nonmeat protein source, pointing to a fallen ripe pod as having 12-18 percent protein content.

Rain tree is most important in the Pacific as a shade tree on small farms, along roads, in parks and pastures.

Tree experts say the acacia wood has limited use for carved bowls in domestic markets, adding this could be developed more widely as a commercial timber, suggesting it can well compete with the black walnut (Juglans nigra), also called eastern black walnut and American walnut, which is one of the scarcest and most coveted throughout the central and eastern parts of the United States.

For those with ruminants in their backyards, the fruits can be used as feeds, which can also be a staple for cows and carabaos.

The fiber or sap of the acacia tree, according to arborists and health care

sources, may also be used to help raise HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels in the human body.

According to the “Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine,” acacia sap can effectively treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome and is also a good source of prebiotics, which promote the good bacteria in a person’s intestines, thereby promoting healthy digestion.

At the same time, acacia fiber can reduce gas and bloating.

The “Therapeutic Herb Manual” itself says acacia fiber can stimulate cholecystokinin, a hormone in the human body responsible for stimulating the digestion of protein and fat.

Acacia fiber is also known to help remove harmful toxins that accrue in the digestive system, the fiber absorbing these toxins which are then removed through the digestive process.

There have also been claims that acacia sap, taken regularly, can minimize the risks of colon cancer.

Acacia bark can also be ground into a fine powder, which can be used as an astringent, a soothing remedy for skin rashes and as an anti-inflammatory.

Herb doctors also prescribe this to relieve hemorrhoids and bed sores as well. The powder can be taken orally to treat respiratory, urinary and digestive infections and to treat sore throats and infections of the mouth.

Honey from acacia, according to exponents, can be an excellent sweetener, being a light honey with a mild taste and delicate floral scent.

Acacia honey, which does not crystallize over time, has a very high fructose content and, as with other acacia products, contains excellent health benefits.

Proponents say honey from the acacia is known to kill germs, aid in digestion, relieve diarrhea and can be used as a salve to help wounds heal faster.

[PNA]

9

No overcharging STATEMENT

S

MART Communications, Inc. (Smart) will seek a reconsideration of the decision of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) finding that mobile operators have failed to comply with the provisions of memorandum circular (MC) 11-24-2011 lowering interconnection rates and requiring mobile operators to refund subscribers for the alleged excess charge for text messages.

First, our position is there is no basis for finding that Smart has violated the NTC memorandum circular and overcharged its subscribers.

The said circular, which was issued on October 24, 2011, required mobile phone operators to reduce interconnection charges from P0.35 to P0.15 per SMS.

These interconnection charges pertain to rates that mobile phone operators charge each other in order to deliver text messages from other networks to their own subscribers.

Smart has already complied with this circular.

These interconnection charges pertain to rates that mobile phone operators charge each other in order to deliver text messages from other networks to their own subscribers. Smart has already complied with this circular.

The said circular DID NOT order mobile phone operators to reduce retail rates that are charged to customers.

Second, under the law and existing NTC regulations, SMS is a deregulated service. The rate-fixing power of the NTC is residual in nature and may be exercised only under specific circumstances.

Republic Act No. 7925 states that such residual powers can be exercised only when ruinous competition results or when a monopoly or a cartel or combination in restraint of free competition exists and the rates or tariffs are distorted or unable to function freely and the public is adversely affected.

None of these conditions exists. In fact, the Public Telecommunications Policy Act (Republic Act No. 7925) clearly states that the NTC “shall exempt any specific telecommunications service from its rate or tariff regulations if the service has sufficient competition to ensure fair and reasonable rates or tariffs.”

Competition in the Philippine telecommunications industry remains very keen. Mobile operators are offering a wide range of competing service offers -- including bucket and unlimited packages -- in their drive to attract and retain subscribers. As a result, Filipino consumers are enjoying SMS services that are among the most affordable in the world.

10 NATION/WORlD

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

WORLD TODAy

NATION BRIEFS Foreign women

T I

Emotional

A

Prevented

I

Increasing

t has been dubbed as a “bright spot” amid a global slowdown and a”rising tiger” in Southeast Asia, and now the Philippines is also deemed the best in a criteria money can’t buy: emotions.

This, as the Philippines is named “most emotional society” in over 140 countries surveyed by U.S. pollster Gallup, a Businessweek report Wednesday said.

s tension flared anew between Israel and Gaza’s Hamas militants, some 120 Filipinos in Gaza are reportedly being prevented by the Islamist militants from leaving the area, the Israeli Embassy in Manila said Wednesday.

“Concerned, Israel has an open crossing for those who wish leave Gaza – but is blocked

by Hamas,” the embassy said in a statement.

“Hamas is also holding hostage a number of foreigners that would like to leave Gaza, amid the ongoing events. Even the 120 Filipinos in Gaza have difficulty in leaving,” it said.

n a world where the cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections continue to drop, the Philippines remains one of the nine countries which have failed to prevent the spread of the virus, a United Nations (UN) study revealed.

The UN Programme on HIV/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (UNAIDS) report said new incidents of HIV infections dropped worldwide by 50 percent from 2001 to 2011. But nine countries, including the Philippines, have defied this global trend by posting an increasing incidence rate of HIV infections among adults 15 to 49 years old during the past decade, according to the study.

Acquisition deal

T

he Ayala Group and the Lucio Tan Group on Wednesday asked the Philippine Stock Exchange for a voluntary trading suspension of their respective shares of stock, confirming speculations they were indeed in talks for Ayala’s Bank of the Philippine Islands to buy a majority of Lucio Tan’s Philippine National Bank.

The deal would make the surviving entity the biggest bank in the Philippines with consolidated assets of more than P1.2 trillion, according to estimates by First Metro Securities Brokerage Corp. in its daily Trading Signals.

Executed

I

he Philippine military is investigating the alleged role of three foreign women in a communist guerrilla ambush that left seven soldiers dead last weekend, an army spokesman said Tuesday.

Three white women were seen in the company of a New People’s Army (NPA) guerrilla unit that clashed with soldiers in the northern province of Isabela on Saturday, said regional military spokesman Colonel Loreto Magundayao.

Gaza shakes, Israelis killed as Sec. Clinton seeks truce Smoke rises after an Israeli air strike in Gaza City November 20, 2012. REUTERS

I

SRAELI air strikes shook the Gaza Strip and Palestinian rockets struck across the border as U.S.Secretary of State Hillary Clinton held talks in Jerusalem in the early hours of Wednesday, seeking a truce that can hold back Israel’s ground troops.

Egypt’s new Islamist government is mediating talks and had floated hopes for a ceasefire by late Tuesday between Israel and Hamas, the Islamist movement controlling Gaza. However, by the time Clinton met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,

it was clear there would be more argument, and more violence, first.

Hamas leaders in Cairo accused the Jewish state of failing to respond to proposals and said an announcement on holding fire would not come before daylight on Wednesday. Israel Radio quoted an Israeli official saying a truce was held up due to “a last-minute delay in the understandings between Hamas and Israel.”

An initial halt to attacks may, however, not see the sides stand their forces down from battle stations immediately.

Clinton, who flies to Cairo

to see Egyptian President Mohamed Mursi later on Wednesday, spoke of a deal “in the days ahead.”

Like most Western powers, Washington shuns Hamas as an obstacle to peace and has blamed it for the Gaza conflagration. A U.N. Security Council statement condemning the conflict was blocked on Tuesday by the United States, which complained that it “failed to address the root cause,” the Palestinian rockets.

As Clinton arrived in Israel after nightfall, Israel was stepping up its bombardment from

air and sea. At one point munitions slammed into Gaza at a rate of one every 10 minutes.

Gazan rocket fire waned overnight but resumed before dawn on Wednesday with six launches, Israel said. No one was hurt.

After seven days of hostilities that have killed over 130 Palestinians and five Israelis, both sides are looking for more than a return to the sporadic calm that has prevailed across the blockaded enclave since Israel ended a much more devastating air and ground offensive four years ago.

Higher taxes on tobacco, alcohol OK’d in Senate T HE bill seeking to raise taxes on tobacco and alcohol products has moved closer to becoming a law with the Senate’s approval late Tuesday.

Voting 15-2, senators

endorsed reforms to the existing “sin tax” law in a bid to generate P40 billion worth of revenues on the first year of implementation to be used to expand healthcare services in the country.

Senators Francis “Chiz” Escudero and Joker Arroyo were the only ones among 17 legislators who voted against the most recent version of the bill certified as urgent by President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.

More than 170 countries Monday adopted what World Health Organisation chief Margaret Chan called a “game-changing” global pact to combat the illegal tobacco trade.

The Palace, meanwhile, hailed the approval as “a vital step forward in improving and expanding public health safety nets for all Filipinos.”

“This complements the Aquino administration’s relentless pursuit of Universal Health Care which underscores the belief that healthcare should be a right and not a privilege in our country,” Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement.

Lacierda also thanked the senators who voted in favor of the measure, especially lauding the bill’s sponsor Senator Franklin Drilon who he said “saw the important piece of legislation through this long, drawn out process...”

Lawmakers from the Senate and House of Representatives are now expected to reconcile their versions of the sin tax revamp through a bicameral conference committee.

ndia executed Mohammad Ajmal Kasab, the lone survivor of a militant squad that killed 166 people in a rampage through the financial capital Mumbai in 2008, hanging him on Wednesday just days before the fourth anniversary of the attack.

Kasab, a Pakistan national, was the enduring image of the bloody assault, which traumatized India and raised fears of copycat attacks on foreign cities. Pictures of the young gunman wearing a black T-shirt and toting an AK-47 rifle as he strode through Mumbai’s train station were published around the world.

A

Crashed

Yemeni military transport plane crashed nearSanaa airport on Wednesday, killing ten of its crew members, an airport official said.

The plane came down in the Hasba district near the Yemeni capitalafter experiencing a technical error, the official said.

“The plane tried to land in an empty space in Hasba, but because of a technical problem it crashed and ten of the crew died,” the official said.

Powerbrokers

R

etired leaders in China’s Communist Party used a last-minute straw poll to block two pro-reform candidates from joining the policymaking standing committee, including one who had alienated party elders, sources with ties to the leadership said.

Two sources said the influential retirees flexed their muscles in landmark informal polls taken before last week’s 18th party congress, where the seven--member standing committee, the apex of China’s power structure, was unveiled.

A

Killed

top security official in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi was killed in front of his home overnight on Wednesday, security officials said, in the latest violence to plague the cradle of the North African country’s revolt.

Faraj al-Deirsy, head of Benghazi police, died from multiple gunshot wounds, police and interior ministry sources said. “This happened in front of his house when unknown attackers opened fire and hit him before fleeing,” a police source.

World powers

O

fficials from six world powers meet in Brussels on Wednesday to plan for a possible new round of talks with Iran, the latest effort to resolve a decade-long stand-off over its nuclear program and avert the threat of a military conflict.

The re-election of U.S. President Barack Obama this month has cleared the way for new talks andWestern diplomats are eager to start soon as signs grow that Iran is still building up its nuclear capacity.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 188 •THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

Quitain...

Lagdameo...

FFROM 1

because the problem of lack of quorum has been solved.

“In fact we were able to finish the agenda for last Tuesday and they remained inside the session until all deliberations were over,” he said.

Quitain said councilors have different reasons for leaving the session without returning.

He recalled one colleague had to rush himself to the hospital when his blood pressure shot up.

Quitain also brushed aside the observation that election matters have had something to do with the tardiness

UP...

FFROM 2 of some councilors or their abrupt leaving the session hall.

“As far as I am concerned, whether it is election time or election fever, I am always here in the office. Every day of the week, I am here,” he said.

Quitain stressed that coming to sessions on time entails proper time management.

He said it is okay if the city councilors go out to answer the call of nature.

Quitain said that even if councilors do not return immediately amid situations when a measure needs to be voted

on, they can be fetched by the sergeant-at-arms as long as they are within the SP building.

Charito Santos, acting SP secretary, said there has been no trend in the alleged tardiness and cutting of sessions by the SP members.

“On Nov. 6, 25 councilors were present, 20 on November 9, 24 on November 13 when the attendance issue was raised, and 19 on November 16,” she said.

There are 28 city council members, including Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte as presiding officer. [PIA 11/JSG Dalumpines]

Asia-Pacific Network (BAPNET).

Rep. Mendoza said that the gathering is an opportunity to establish partnership arrangements for technical assistance and scientific support in helping save the banana industry in the Philippines.

“Urgent measures are needed to save the banana industry mostly based in Mindanao,” according to Mendoza.

He said “Mindanao is no longer typhoon-free and even a 40-kph steady wind has the potential to bring down hectares of banana trees. Potentially, 300,000 jobs are at risk of being lost.”

On the other hand, Rep. Lagdameo said the banana industry contrib-

support an anti-RH position she herself opposes, several other bloggers have also protested. In the case of these bloggers who were plagiarized, there can be no question as to the issue of whether their words were used in a manner that were against their intentions,” Claudio said in a statement emailed to the media.

“As a final point, I wish to use the standard of Atty. Macalintal and Sotto in my next remarks.

I shall say at the outset that some of the words below are not mine: “Sa aking palagay nararapat na ito’y ipagpatuloy pa ng Senate committee. Ang bagay na ito ay di bugso lamang ng damdamin ng mga nagco-complain.

“Malinaw na hindi pag-aaksaya lang ito ng ating resources. Kasing halaga ito ng marami pang ibang mahalagang isyu: isyu ng kagutuman, isyu ng hanapbuhay, isyu ng kalikasan, at isyu ng kalusugan,” she said.

Claudio said that “Robert F. Kennedy would probably not be appreciative of the fact that his words were appropriated by a certain lawmaker from another nation. Knowing the human rights advocate that he was, Senator Robert Kennedy would be appalled that his works are being used in fighting against the right of women to life.”

“In fact, Article 6, Section 11 of the Constitution is correctly stated by Atty. Macalintal because it shows that the proper place for us to lodge our complaint is with the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges,” she continued.

“I trust that under Mr. Macalintal’s reasoning he would not begrudge me any similarity to the words he and the group Cyber Rise might have used recently. After all, under his and Sen. Sotto’s reasoning, I have made the necessary ethical anti-plagiarism disclaimer,” Professor Claudio said.

FFROM 2

tional Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in January 1986..

UNHRC found the Philippine government guilty of violating Article 6 of the Covenant which states: “Every human being has the inherent right to life. This right shall be protected by law. No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his life.”

Villegas, the current News Editor of ATENEWS

said that so long as the perpetrators of political killings remain scot-free the culture of impunity in the country will remain.“ Villegas also said that they are proud to be part of ATENEWS which was able to produce a brave writer.

“Ate Beng, will always be an inspiration to us and we vow to search for genuine social justice,” Villegas said.

FFROM 1 ing among other reasons that Sotto did not commit plagiarism because he stated at the outset that the ideas in his talk were not his.

“This defense which is also that of Sen. Sotto, is disingenuous because without proper attribution, we do not know which of the ideas and sentences in his speeches are his and which are those of others,” Dr. Claudio said, adding that the Intellectual Property Code clearly states that the author must be named. (According to the Oxford dictionary, disingenuous [ dis-in-jenyoo-uhs] means “lacking in frankness, candor, or sincerity; falsely or hypocritically ingenuous; insincere.”)

“That his or her words must not be twisted to support an argument that the author had not intended,” she added.

“We wish to call attention to the fact that other than Kerry Kennedy who has protested the use of the words of her father to

Ate Beng’s...

FFROM 2

the documentation of a massacre that happened the previous year, also in Arakan Valley.

The government, particularly the Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo administration, was found accountable for the death of Hernandez and colleagues by the United Nations Human Rights Committee. The Philippine government was a signatory to the Interna-

11

Against...

Day of Protest.

First, the people should call for the repeal of the EPIRA. Since its enactment, the EPIRA has not done anything to lower electricity rates.

Second, the National Day of Protest is part of the struggle against the continuing increase of electricity rates. In Luzon, people pay around P11/kWh, a far cry from the pre-EPIRA rates of P5/kWh. Third, the Senate Bill 3250, which was filed by Sen. Serge Osmeña, to extend the life of the Power Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM) Corp. for another 10 years. The question is what has the PSALM done since its creation? Before PSALM Corp., the debt of the National Power Corporation (Napocor) stood at US$16, after the creation of the PSALM and subsequent sale of 80% of Napocor’s assets, the present Napocor debt stands at US$17B. With callous gall, PSALM intends to borrow P60B next year for its operations and maturing obligations.

Fourth, PSALM Corp.

NBI...

utes around P1.5 billion in tax revenues annually.

Its downstream benefits include the flourishing trade in boom towns such as Panabo City, Tagum City and Davao City.

“We are talking about critical investments in the poorest provinces in Mindanao. We need the help of international institutions and partners such as the Taiwan Banana Research Institute, Council of Agriculture (COA) – Taiwan, Bioversity International, and Banana Asia-Pacific Network (BAPNET) among other agencies to establish soonest a Banana Research Institute in Mindanao. We need their technical expertise to help make this happen,” explained Lagdameo.

Representatives Lagdameo and Mendoza are the author and co-author of House Bill No. 5478 which seeks to establish the National Banana Research Center in the Philippines. The lawmakers who are strong and active supporters of the banana industry said that there is a pressing need to put up a banana research institute that will take scientific research, analysis and development to further develop the banana industry in the Philippines. The industry has suffered from the recent economic embargo of the US over Iran, the China issue, El Niño phenomenon and the recurrence of the uncontrollable spread of Panama disease also known as fusarium wilt.

has been pushing the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to approve its application to pass on the “stranded debt,” amounting to P140 billion, to the consumers. Fifth, the open access or electricity market under the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) which is prone to price manipulation. The truth of the matter is that five big players of the power industry can easily dictate the outcome of the market.

Sixth, the recent Supreme Court decision to privatize the Angat Dam hydro-electric power plant (HEPP). The Angat HEPP is now 100% owned by Korea Water Resources Corporation, a foreign company. This goes against our Constitution’s provisions on sovereignty.

Seventh, the use of the Performance Based Rate (PBR) methodology to determine rate increases. The ERC has allowed excessive rate increases this year which ranges from 15% to 21% returns for the private utilities.

These increases goes beyond the 12% ceiling for returns as stipulated in

the Return on Rate Base provided for by the Public Utilities Act. Eight, the recent updating of the Bill Deposit Charge, which serves as an insurance for Meralco against residents who are not capable to pay for their electricity.

Ninth, in the Visayas, PSALM Corp. is pushing for the privatization of the independent power producer administration (IPPA) supply contract of the Unified Leyte Geothermal Power Plant (ULGPP). If the privatization of the IPPA pushes through, this may translate into a 100% increase in rates quite similar to what happened in Negros Occidental.

Tenth, the continued push to privatize the Agus-Pulangi hydro plants in Mindanao.

Agus-Pulangi continues to be the source of affordable electricity for the Mindanaoans, which roughly provides for more than 50 percent of the island’s electricity needs. If the privatization of the said plant pushes through, the possibility of rate increases will be inevitable.

Several top officials of the Aman Group led by its fugitive founder Manuel Amalilio, who has reportedly fled to Malaysia, are presently facing charges of syndicated estafa based on the initial complaints filed by some of their victims in Pagadian.

Justice Secretary Leila Delima ordered last week the convening of a special panel that

will handle the complaints and the filing of charges against the company and its leaders.

“This case is a top priority based on the instructions we received from Secretary Delima,” Rejano said.

Meantime, T’boli Mayor Ernesto Manuel said he was not aware of Aman Group’s operations in his area and its illegal investment scheme.

FFROM 3

against them.

He said they are also planning to meet with local officials of T’boli to help shed more light on the matter and in the filing of charges against those involved in the Ponzi scheme.

Rejano said all charges in connection with the case will be filed at the DOJ in Manila and not at the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

Realty

EDGE DAVAO is in need of an editor and three staffwriters/reporters for its expansion program.

The reporters will be assigned to the business, science/environment and political beats.

On the other hand, the editor will supervise the reporters and do gate-keeping tasks.

Applicant must be a graduate of a fouryear college course. For reporters, experience is not needed although preferable.

The editor should have at least one-year experience in editing.

Interested parties may send their application letter to Mr. Antonio M. Ajero, Edge Davao editor, thru email address ajero_antonio@yahoo.com. For inquiries, please call Mr. Ajero thru mobile phone 09052422686 or landline 221-3601.

Health and Wellness

FOR SALE:

1) 1-hectare commercial lot at P10,000/sq m, along national highway, facing east, beside nccc Panacan, davao city. 2) 17,940sq m commercial lot at P2,500/sq m, along Matina diversion road.

3) 3,831 sq m lot along Matina diversion road. 4) 41,408 sq m commercial/industrial lot at P800/sq m along the national highway, Bunawan. 5) 7,056 sq m at P1,200/sq m commercial/residential lot along indangan road, Buhangin district. 6) 27,411 sq m commercial/industrial lot along the national highway in Bincungan, Tagum city. 7) 116.15 to 245.92 sq meters , at P5.5M to P12.3M commercial/ office condo units in Bajada, davao city. 8) 699 to 1,117 sq m at P4,100/sq m commercial lots at Josefina Town center, along the national highway, dumoy, Toril. 9) ready-for-occupancy residential Properties: 4Br/3T&B in a 240 sq m lot with 177.31sqm floor area (2-storey) at P4.8M in an exclusive beachfront community in dumoy, Toril.; 3Br 2-storey in a 71.25 sq m 2-storey in a 143sq m lot in an exclusive flower village in Maa, davao city; 180 sq m lots with 71.25sqm to 126.42 sq m floor areas, priced at P3.751M to P5.773M in an exclusive mountain resort community along Matina, diversion road. 10) 1Br/2Br residential condo units located in Bolton, Maa, obrero, davao city. 11) For aSSUMe (rUSh): 1Br res’l condo unit in Palmetto, Maa. P600K negotiable. note: items 1-9 can be paid in cash, in-house or bank financing. if interested, please call Jay (Prc reB Lic. 8237) at 0922-851-5337 (Sun), 0908-8838832 (Smart) or send email to propertiesindavao@ yahoo.com.

deadline for submission of materials is 12:00 NN. deadline for Friday and Saturday issues is 5:00 PM. deadline for Sunday and Monday issues is Saturday 12:00 NN. For more information, please call our advertising office 2213601; 301-6235 and ask for Jane or chay.

Edge Davao hiring editor, 3 reporters

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EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 188 •THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT-SHERIFF DAVAO CITY

HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND, (HDMF) or Pag-ibig Fund, Mortgagee -versus-

EJF-REM CASE NO. 13, 737-12

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT-SHERIFF DAVAO CITY

HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND, (HDMF) or Pag-ibig Fund, Mortgagee -versus-

EJF-REM CASE NO. 13, 736-12

EUGENIO V. BAYLOSIS married to Carmen O. Baylosis Mortgagor/s. x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE Upon extra-judicial petition for foreclosure and sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the mortgagee Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-ibig Fund against EUGENIO V. BAYLOSIS married to Carmen O. Baylosis with postal address at LOT 05 B05 Sto. Niño Hillside Subd. Km.o4 JP Laurel Ave. , Davao City to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of September 7, 2012 amounting to ( Php 30,945.79) Philippine Currency, inclusive of interest, penalty charges, plus attorney’s fees equivalent to TEN ( 10%) of the total indebtedness plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale; the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on January 10, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, Ecoland,Davao City to the highest bidder for Cash or MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency, the following real property together with all the improvements thereon, to wit: Transfer Certificate of Title No. T- 354959 “ A parcel of land (Lot 5, Blk. 5 xxx) situated in Barrio of Bajada, City of Davao, Island of Mindanao.xxx Containing an area of NINETY SEVEN (97) SQUARE METERS, more or less”

GINA G. APATAN married to Rey G. Apatan Mortgagor/s. x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE Upon extra-judicial petition for foreclosure and sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the mortgagee Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-ibig Fund against GINA G. APATAN married to Rey G. Apatan with postal address at Lot 5 Blk. 7 Elenita Garden Villas, Catalunan Grande, Davao City to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of September 14, 2012 amounts to ( Php 596,412.32) Philippine Currency, inclusive of interest, penalty charges, plus attorney’s fees equivalent to TEN ( 10%) of the total indebtedness plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale; the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on January 10, 2012 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, Ecoland,Davao City to the highest bidder for Cash or MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency, the following real property together with all the improvements thereon, to wit: Transfer Certificate of Title No. T- 428657 “ A parcel of land xxx (Lot 5, Blk. 7,xxx) , situated in Barangay Catalunan Grande, City of Davao, Island of Mindanao.xxx Containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY (150) SQUARE METERS, more or less”

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date,it shall be held on February 07, 2013 without further notice.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date,it shall be held on February 07, 2013 without further notice.

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the titles herein described real property/ies and the encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

Davao City, Philippines, OCTOBER 31, 2012

FOR THE EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF:

Noted by:

(SGD.) REYNALDO O. GIRADO Sheriff IV

(SGD) ATTY. EDIPOLO P. SARABIA, JR. Clerk of Court VI & Ex-Officio Provincial Sheriff (edge 11/22,29,12/6)

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the titles herein described real property/ies and the encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

Davao City, Philippines, October 31, 2012

FOR THE EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF:

Noted by:

(SGD.) ROBERT M. MEDIALDEA Sheriff IV

(SGD) ATTY. EDIPOLO P. SARABIA, JR. Clerk of Court VI & Ex-Officio Provincial Sheriff (edge 11/15,22,29)

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT-SHERIFF DAVAO CITY

HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND, (HDMF) or Pag-ibig Fund, Mortgagee -versus-

EJF-REM CASE NO. 13, 758-12

SULAIMAN I. PINGAY, married to Norma L. Pingay Mortgagor/s. x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE Upon extra-judicial petition for foreclosure and sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the mortgagee Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-ibig Fund against SULAIMAN I. PINGAY married to Norma L. Pingay with postal address at LOT 46, Blk. 20 SAMANTHA HOMES –Catalunan Pequeño, Davao City to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of October 24, 2012 amounting to ( Php 345,399.83) Philippine Currency, inclusive of interest, penalty charges, plus attorney’s fees equivalent to TEN ( 10%) of the total indebtedness plus other legal expenses incident of foreclosure and sale; the undersigned Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Davao City, will sell at public auction on January 10, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter, at the main entrance of Hall of Justice, Ecoland,Davao City to the highest bidder for Cash or MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency, the following real property together with all the improvements thereon, to wit: Transfer Certificate of Title No. T- 435476 “ A parcel of land of the subdivision project (Lot 46, Blk. 20 of the subdivision plan Psd-11-078815 being a portion of lot 1144-0, Psd-31674), situated in Barangay Catalunan Pequeño, City of Davao, Island of Mindanao.xxx Containing an area of EIGHTY (80) SQUARE METERS, more or less” All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated time and date.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date,it shall be held on February 07, 2013 without further notice.

Prospective buyers are hereby enjoined to investigate for themselves the titles herein described real property/ies and the encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

Davao City, Philippines, November 5, 2012

FOR THE EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF:

Noted by:

(SGD.) SERGIO LEONARDO J. TUPAS Sheriff IV

(SGD) ATTY. EDIPOLO P. SARABIA, JR. Clerk of Court VI & Ex-Officio Provincial Sheriff (edge 11/15,22,29)

14 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO

Group of Death VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

Azkals out to prove 2010 not a fluke

T

HERE could just as well be a banner in the changing rooms at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium proclaiming “Welcome to the Group of Death”, such is the relative strength and current form of Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and Myanmar who will contest Group A of the AFF Suzuki Cup. All four teams have had good results in the build-up to the biennial tournament with coaches, pundits and fans alike

Neil Etheridge has been released for Azkals duty by his England club Bristol Rovers.

Neil on duty for Suzuki Cup

T

OP goalkeeper Neil Etheridge will join the Philippine national men’s football team in Thailand this week to play in the ASEAN Football Federation Suzuki Cup. The news was confirmed on the official Twitter account of the Bristol Rovers, the English fourth-division side with whom the Azkals keeper is on loan from his Premier League club Fulham FC. Rovers have fixtures on November 24 and December 1. That would leave Etheridge available to play for the Azkals in the group stages of the Suzuki Cup. The Philippines faces the host team on Novem-

ber 24, Vietnam on November 27, and Myanmar on November 30 in Group A of the competition. The top two teams from each group will advance to the two-leg, home-and-away crossover semifinals.

Etheridge had earlier been feared to be unavailable for the tournament after a news report quoting Rovers manager Mark McGhee said the Filipino-British had chosen not to play for the national team.

But Azkals team manager Dan Palami bared that Etheridge had been lobbying both Rovers and Fulham for his release for the Suzuki Cup.

declaring the group “too close to call”, with just two sides progressing to the knock-out stage.

The race to be crowned the kings of Asean football starts on Saturday, November 24 with a juicy Group A double header featuring 2008 champions Vietnam against qualifiers Myanmar followed by threetime winners Thailand taking on an ambitious Philippines team keen to show that their run to the

semi-finals in 2010 was no fluke.

Former powerhouses Thailand last won the title in 2002, which seems a lifetime ago for their success-starved supporters who suffered the ignominy of seeing their heroes slump out of the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup at the group stage.

The Thais are hoping that a combination of home advantage in Group A, a powerful squad featuring a mix of experi-

enced campaigners and exciting youngsters and a savvy tactician in former Cameroon coach Winfried Schafer will spark a glory run.

“The AFF Suzuki Cup is very important for this region and I hope we can at least reach the final although it will not be easy,” said Schafer, who has restored some pride to the national team since taking over the reins from former England captain Bryan Robson.

goalkeeping errors but Thailand’s third had class written all over it.

Phichitpong found Teerasil with a lovely ball over the defence and his club teammate guided a left-footed half volley over the keeper’s head and into the net.

In-form Teerasil, the top scorer in the Thai Premier League with 24 goals last season, completed his hat-trick early in the second half when he headed home a beautiful out-swinging cross from wing-back Theerathon Bunmathan.

Weiss picks 22 A

ZKALS coach Hans Michael Weiss is considering three criteria and has three days to decide which three to scratch from the list and finalize his lineup for the Asean Football Federation Suzuki Cup kicking off on Saturday.

The Philippine men’s football team arrived in Bangkok on Tuesday, and from 25, the team will be trimmed to 22 a day before the tournament kickoff.

The German mentor said he is considering three factors in choosing the players, who will try to at least replicate the Azkals’ unprecedented semifinal finish in the 2010 edition of

the meet.

“The criteria are what have they contributed to the success of the team in the past and social interaction, and of course, who’s currently in the best shape.”

“There are good players, but they don’t fit in the group sometimes. Sometimes even the not-soskilled players can do wonders,” added Weiss, who started with a pool of 35.

Filipino-foreign standouts Dennis Cagara, Jerry Lucena, and Paul Mulders, who have all been cleared to play by their club teams at the last minute, are considered shoo-ins for the squad.

AFF SUZUKI CUP ROUNDUP

T

Thailand fires warning shot

HAILAND fired a warning to their AFF Suzuki Cup rivals on Saturday with a 5-0 demolition of Bangladesh in their final warm-up match before Asean’s leading tournament kicks off on November 24.

A Teerasil Dangda hattrick, two of them from

the top drawer, and a goal apiece from Phichitpong Choeichiu and Naphat Thamrongsupakorn sunk Bangladesh, who sit just 19 places below Thailand in the FIFA rankings.

Thailand coach Winfried Schafer has been critical of the lack of build up games for his side but they

have won all five matches played and scored 19 goals with just two conceded.

They beat TPL AllStars 5-1, scraped past Laos 2-1, defeated reigning AFF Suzuki Cup champions Malaysia 2-0 and hit five goals past both Bhutan and Bangladesh.

Schafer was not happy with the second half performance against Bhutan but the return of the Muang Thong United trio of Teerasil, Phichitpong and Datsakorn Thonglao sparked Thailand into life.

The opener from Phichitpong and Teerasil’s first goal were down to

INdulge!

FOOD

Thanksgiving Day at SM Lanang Premier Cochon is one of the highlights of the New Orleans Restaurant. It’s a suckling pig seasoned with authentic ingredients slowly roasted to satisfy every customer’s palate. It is served with dirty rice and a homemade Cochon sauce. Ground Level Fountain Court

BoCa Angus Steak is a must-try at Cellar de Boca. And try the Shrimp Ceviche, a modern take on an old favorite “kinilaw” (fresh fish salad with vinegar and spices). 2nd Level Fountain Court

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 •THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

EDGEDAVAO Thanksgiving Day is a holiday tradition widely celebrated in North American countries. Today, this tradition is also being celebrated by modern Filipinos as a special occasion to show gratefulness for all the blessings and accomplishments they achieved. Filipinos simply love to eat and they celebrate every occasion by dining with their family and friends.

That is why Thanksgiving Day can almost be every day for Filipinos, and the best way to celebrate it is to bond with their loved ones and satisfy their palate and experience a sumptuous meal.

SM Lanang Premier takes part in this tradition with delectable holiday offers from its participating restaurants from November 22 to 25, featuring a smorgasbord of well-loved Filipino dishes and exquisite international cuisines.

Crispy Pata is one of the most famous dishes at Hukad.

A whole pig’s leg or “pata” is made tender by simmering it in water along with other spices. It is then rubbed with seasonings and deep-fried to perfection . 2nd Level Fountain Court

Crunchy Sizzling Sisig is one of the mouth-watering dishes that Giligan’s Restaurant and Bar is known for.

Deep-fried crispy pork is served sizzling in a hot plate and garnished with spices. Skygarden 2nd Level

Bistro Selera’s Bacon-wrapped Bagaybay (male tuna milt) is one of Davao City’s famous exotic “pulutan” made more modern. This dish matches perfectly with beer or wine. 2nd Level Fountain Court

Mangosteen Ice Cream with Biko is Bistro Selera’s version of a Filipino dessert. This original Davao-made dessert is a must-try! 2nd Level Fountain Court

For those who cannot resist chicken, it is Chicken-AllYou-Can day at Max’s Restaurant exclusive at SM Lanang Premier. Visit the restaurant from 6:00pm -9:00 PM and feast on as many fried chicken you can eat for only P209 until November 30.

Clawdaddy’s “Boiling bag” is a choice selection of baby shrimp and fresh water prawns, South Pacific clams , giant white mussels, fresh water crabs with Andouille sausage, corn and potatoes. Added for bolder flavor are garlic butter, Creole Cajun and the special blend of Clawdaddy’s spice. Ground Level Fountain Court

Tuna Panga (jaw) is one of the staple delicacies of the city’s famous tourist dining spot Marina Tuna. Its grilling process, which takes one to wait for at least 25 minutes, is pretty simple, but the secret lies on the freshness of the tuna. Skygarden 2nd Level

There’s really so much to be thankful for, so let’s count our blessings and join a Thanksgiving Eucharistic mass on November 22 at 10:00 AM, the Atrium, SM Lanang Premier.

And, after experiencing the featured dishes and dining at the restaurants and bars here, claim your treat of free cupcake from Jonathan’s Cupcakery for a minimum single receipt worth P1,000 from any of our dining tenants on November 22-25.

While we pay tribute for all our accomplishments and blessings, most of all, let’s be grateful that we are surrounded by good people who never get tired of inspiring us to live each day happily. And, we thank the Creator for every single day that we are given to celebrate life. happy Thanksgiving!

A2 INdulge! uP aND aBOut

Sun Life Centre achieves historic LEED Gold certification for sustainable design SuN liFe Financial-Philippines (SlFP), the country’s first and longest-standing life insurance company, sealed yet another milestone when its new headquarters in the Philippines, the Sun life Centre, achieved a leeD Gold certification for Core and Shell. the Sun life Centre is the first in the country to receive the leeD Gold certification in the said category. leeD (leadership in energy and environmental Design) is an internationally recognized green rating system for sustainable design and structures, and is given by the u.S. Green Building Council (uSGBC). leeD the way Situated in the bustling Bonifacio Global City hub, the Sun life Centre prides itself as one of the pioneers of green building design in the country. “in the same way that we introduced life insurance to Filipinos, we are again investing in a brighter future by adopting a greener lifestyle. and the Sun life Centre is one of our efforts towards this initiative,” espoused SlFP president and chief executive officer riza Mantaring. the Sun life Centre is a P2-billion investment that showcases the advantages of sustainable design.

“Features of the Sun life Centre such as rainwater harvesting and motion-sensors to regulate electricity consumption lead to valuable energy s a v i n g s ,” says armand apuya, Head of administration Services which spearheaded the building project.

“Double glazed windows block heat but not sunlight, while the use of zero CFCs prevents further ozone depletion.

CO2 sensors flush out pollutants inside the building, improving the distribution of fresh air. and its unique Green roof provides relief and a refreshing view of the BGC skyline for cubiclestuck employees,” apuya added. leeD for sustainability at the heart of the Sun life Centre is a culture of sustainability, which includes reducing carbon footprint while investing in clean and renewable energy. in fact, 61% of Sun life’s global commercial real estate have been accredited by systems like leeD as being optimal for the environment.

“Sun life’s leeD Gold certification demonstrates tremendous green building leadership,” said rick Fedrizzi, President, CeO & Founding Chair, u.S. Green Building Council. “the urgency of uSGBC’s mission has challenged the industry to move faster and reach further than ever before, and the Sun life Centre serves as a prime example with just how much we can accomplish.”

But Sun life’s green crusade goes beyond its office walls.

For instance, proper waste segregation and recycling are part of building ordinances. in fact, a green lifestyle change has been advocated since Sun lifers moved in to their new home.

“Our value of sustainability is not just a mere claim, because we believe that it is most effective when it’s practiced. the Sun life Centre reaffirms our commitment to Filipinos, for a more secure future, and a life that is brighter under the Sun,” attested Mantaring.

For more information about Sun life and its commitment to sustainability, visit www.sunlife.com.ph and like us on Facebook at sunlifeph.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

Of crocodiles and kangaroo steaks at Cafe Marco KANGAROOS may be cute and cuddly and crocodiles may be toothy and gnarly but these erstwhile exotic meats are common fare when it comes to Australian cuisine as Cafe Marco at The Marco Polo Hotel recently held the opening of their Australian Food Festival.

Now I have tasted crocodile, ostrich, and other exotic meats before but kangaroo is a totally new experience for me which made me all the more excited to take my first bite of the beautifully cooked kangaroo steak. To describe kangaroo, I would have to say that it is gamey, more gamey than lamb or goat, and the texture of the meat is similar to that of beef.

I loved the crocodile meat that was served similar to chicken a la king, creamy fatty bits of crocodile served in a puff pastry.

I swear if I had not known it was crocodile, I would have said it was just your run of

the mill chicken dish but with extra fatty goodness.

But the star of the evening though was Laming-

ton which is Australia’s de facto national dessert. The layered sponge cake with chocolate and desiccated

coconut was sweet yet not overpowering.

Catch the Cafe Marco Australian Food Festival now at The Marco Polo Davao.

Thy Womb holds Philippine Premiere at SM Lanang, Friday

Multi-awarDeD Director Brillante Mendoza’s thy womb (ang Sinapupunan) will have its Philippine Premiere at SM lanang Cinema 3 on November 23, 7PM. the critically acclaimed film earned the italian Critic’s Choice from the recently concluded Venice Film festival. it is also is currently competing in other international film festivals like Dubai, Brisbane and Busan. the film top bills Nora aunor and tackles the story of a Badjao childless couple set in tawi-tawi. the beautiful sceneries and the poignant story of the couple, played by aunor and Bembol roco,

breathe life to the characters which represents the peace loving people of tawitawi. “thy womb” was given an r13 rating of the MtrCB and is noted as a good vehicle for communicating interfaith and ecumenical spirit of understanding and respect for other people’s beliefs. it is also one of the official entries in the Metro Manila Film fest this year and will be exhibited in cinemas nationwide on Dec. 25, 2012.

SM lanang Premiere also hosts the Sineng Pambansa: ang ikalawang Yugto from November 22 to November 24 at its Cinema, and the international Film expo at SMX on November 23-24.

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

eNtertaiNMeNt

Lindsay Lohan talks Barbara Walters cancellation, adopting Honey Boo Boo and pregnancy rumor(?!) liNDSaY lohan says that, “when it’s right,” Barbara walters will be the first person she sits down with.

Of course, she said this during a sit-down with Jay leno on the tonight Show that came after she sat down for chats with Good Morning america and us weekly ahead of the premiere of liz & Dick tonight in Hollywood.

But, whatever. “it’s all good,” lohan insisted. “i spoke to the people that she works with and everything, so...”

Memo to Jay: end of subject. “i feel like that’s the question every time i come here, it’s always the same!” she said in response to leno’s comment that he always seemed to be reading a new lindsay lohan story every day. “that’s why we have you here all the time,” he cracked. asked about Michael lohan’s recent bombshell— that lindsay has a halfsister—the actress said she had some advice for the girl, who she’s never met: “Good luck with my dad.” then leno held up a series of increasingly fakelooking tabloid covers boasting headlines about

one, “never” regrets getting into showbiz at the age of 3. “i think that there was a point in my life when—it was more recent than earlier on—but i’m kind of still a kid, like, in a way. i’m 26,”

lindsay being pregnant, tim tebow “losing it” to lindsay and, finally, lindsay looking to adopt Honey Boo Boo. “all my friends always talk about Honey Boo Boo and i’ve never actually seen the show,” she said, giggling. “i just know what i heart, but that is just so funny! what is that picture from?!” “well, that was when you

were going to adopt her,” leno explained.

“Oh, that’s true, that’s right. i forgot about the adoption, too,” she said, hand to her head. and, for the record, she found it “kind of interesting” to see what she would look like with a baby bump and has never met tim tebow. lohan says that she, for

Jessica Biel flaunts major side boob at L.A. Hitchcock premiere NO bra, no problem.

the ever-so-stunning Jessica Biel graced the red carpet tonight for the l.a. premiere of Hitchcock, and although her black Gucci gown was amazing, we got distracted by a little something you might have heard of before: side boob. and by a little, we mean a lot. while posing for the shutterbugs, it was evident that the newlywed had decided to strut the new trend that has become the slightly classier, much sexier version of regular bustin’ out cleavage.

Her outfit choice was definitely a more glamorous look than her two-piece Oscar de la renta ensemble at the New York premiere, and for that we say two things... thank you and keep it coming.

she said when leno asked if she ever had a time when she wished to take a break from acting. “i think i had to step back and kind of take myself out of everything and kind of

get my head straight and kind of focus on what it is i wanted to do...You know, you get caught up in everything. it’s important to kind of find yourself and keep yourself through that.”

A4 INdulge!

FOOD eNtertaiNMeNt

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

My Bacolod feast!

BEFORE I set foot in Bacolod, I have been hearing good reviews about their food.

More than their infamous Chicken Inasal, Bacolod boasts of more good food than we can ask for. From delectable viands with a Bacolodian twist and pastries of shapes, flavors and sizes, Bacolod is definitely a hotspot for affordable and good food.

Yes, I expected to shell out more than I have estimated but I was wrong.

The prices were relatively friendly but the servings were more than friendly.

My good friend Siao and his friend MinMin hooked me and my friends with some of Bacolod’s best food restos. Not to mention, the people I have met in the hotel gave me tips on where to eat and how to get there.

Because we were only there for a few days, the trip turned into a gastronomical adventure from morning til night. So, let me introduce you to some of Bacolod’s best food places and the next time you plan to visit the place, try to visit these places and be treated to a palate adventure.

Dinner was at PENDY’s at 25th Street cor Lacson Street, Bacolod City. It was a quaint restaurant that speaks of history as the interior is craftily decorated with an ancient feel. The crowd was a mixture of yuppies and families that come together to enjoy a sumptuous feast. We had their Kare-Kare that was simply sweet and creamy.

Their Beef Caldereta was yummy up to the last bite and their Blue Marlin Steak was oozing with freshness and garlic explosion in the mouth. Over all the restaurant and the food was a perfect way to start our Bacolod trip.

The same night we opted to settle and blend in with the Masskara crowd at Pepe’s Bar and Resto at 2/F Plaza Sorrento, Lacson Street, Bacolod City.

Though located at the 2nd floor, it was still packed

with local and foreign party goers hoping to have a good time. The owner of the Bar, Rico, made us feel like one of the locals. They serve opulent pasta dishes and a wide array of cocktails and drinks for everyone. Indeed, a good place to chill and drink the night away.

Third was Bob’s Restaurant at La Salle Avenue, Bacolod City. Friends of mine were bragging of its service and good food. With years under its belt, operation stated in the 60s, it is one of the most crowded places to be in Bacolod. Their Batchoy and other soup favorites (Creamy Mushroom soup, Cream of Corn Soup and Molo soup) filled our empty stomachs as we start the second day of our Masskara trip. More so, they serve one of the best Chicken Satey with Peanut Sauce and Beef Salpicao in

all of Bacolod. Here’s a tip, next time you seek for a heavenly place to be, go to Bob’s and be satisfied.

Fourth was Café Bob’s at 21st Street cor Lacson Street, Bacolod City. If you want a deli and a pastry shop in one, visit Café Bob’s and your cravings would all be satisfied. Try their Brick Oven Pizza that we had in the streets and be delighted with every bite. They also serve a wide array of yogurts and gelato (I got to taste their Dark Chocolate and Mint flavored gelato all in one day) that are pleasingly smooth to the palate.

Another addition is their colorful French Macaroons that lined their pastry counter alongside with a delectable array of cakes of shapes, sizes and flavors.

I love their Sylvanna’s and was munching on them until I set foot in Cebu.

For your pasalubong and sweet tooth consumption, visit Café Bob’s and enjoy a sweet feast.

Your Bacolod trip won’t be complete without a visit to their infamous Manokan Country over at Rizal Street, Reclamation Area, Bacolod City. This is where you get down and dirty. We let the waiter order for us and he got us their Chicken Inasal and Grilled Atay. Though they serve oysters, we opted not to order some for we were to join the parade after eating. We were taught that the best way to enjoy the chicken was to pour the inasal oil in your rice, add some salt and eat away with the chicken – and eat we did. It was so nice to see everybody in the restaurant do what the locals do.

If you want to enjoy Bacolod, eat with the locals.

Be where the people are.

Party down like there is no tomorrow and do not forget to pack your most comfortable slippers as there would be a lot of walking to do. But most of all, do not forget to bring your appetite with you! See you Bacolod next year for your Masskara Festival!

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to my good buddy Michael Siao, Minin, Jason, Gabriel and Pay for the help. See you soon Happy birthday to my Daddy, Samel G. Ambolodto. Thank you for being so patient and understanding with me and for supporting me with what I want to do. I love you Daddy and Happy birthday!

Do you want to be a part of Davao’s Thursday habit? Send me your recipes, questions, suggestions and comments and be featured.

If you are interested, then email me at iamtheroyalchef@gmail.com. Happy Cooking!

SPORTS15

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 188 •THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

High-octane Lakers

Big win in coach’s debut

L

G

RINNELL, Iowa — Jack Taylor scored 138 points to shatter the NCAA scoring record in Division III Grinnell’s 179-104 victory over Faith Baptist Bible on Tuesday night.

Taylor made 27 of 71 3-point attempts, was 52 of 108 overall from the field and added seven free throws on 10 attempts in 36 minutes.

“It felt like anything I tossed up was going in,” said Taylor, a 5-foot-10 sophomore guard from Black River Falls, Wis.

Rio Grande’s Bevo Francis held the NCAA scoring record with 113 points against Hillsdale in 1954. In 1953, Francis had 116 against Ashland Junior College. Frank Selvy is the only other player to reach triple figures, scoring 100 points for Division I Furman against Newberry in 1954.

The previous Grinnell record was 89 by Griffin Lentsch last Nov. 19 against Principia.

Taylor averaged 23.5 points in Grinnell’s first two games this season.

College Division III player Jack Taylor scored 138 points playing for Grinell.

Williams had 22 for the Nets, who missed five of their last six shots in their ninth consecutive loss to the Lakers.

In Philadelphia, Jason Richardson scored six of his 21 points late in the fourth quarter, Nick Young had 23 off the bench and the Philadelphia 76ers rallied to beat the Toronto Raptors 10698 on Tuesday night.

Jrue Holiday had 19 points and 12 assists and Thad Young scored 18 to help the Sixers win their third straight game.

DeMar DeRozan had 24 and Andrea Bargnani scored 22 for the Raptors, who are off to a 3-8 start. Jose Calderon, who had a season-high 18 assists in Toronto’s win over Orlando on Sunday night, got 12 more to go with 13 points.

Knicks move up 8-1

Deron Williams (8) of the Brooklyn Nets goes for a loose ball against Kobe Bryant (24) of the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center. The Lakers won 95-90.

College player scores 138

OS ANGELES (AP)—Kobe Bryant scored six of his 25 points in the final two minutes, and the Los Angeles Lakers hung on for a 95-90 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night in coach Mike D’Antoni’s sideline debut.

Dwight Howard had 23 points and 15 rebounds despite a horrific 7-for-19 performance at the free-throw line for the Lakers, who have won five of six and moved above .500 since firing Mike Brown.

Although D’Antoni is still unsteady on his surgically replaced knee, he coached Los Angeles to a narrow victory that snapped Brooklyn’s fivegame winning streak.

Brook Lopez scored 23 points and Deron

N

EW ORLEANS — Carmelo Anthony scored 29 points and the New York Knicks extended the undermanned New Orleans Hornets’ losing streak to four games with a 102-80 victory Tuesday night (Wednesday, Manila time).

Raymond Felton and J.R. Smith each added 15 points. Felton scored all of his points on five 3-pointers as New York

hit 14 3s as a team.

Tyson Chandler grabbed 12 rebounds for the Knicks, who’ve won two straight since their first loss of the season and are 8-1 for only the third time in franchise history. The other two times, the 1969-70 and 1972-73 seasons, they won championships.

Ryan Anderson, starting in place of Anthony Davis, led the Hornets with 15 points. Da-

vis was ruled out shortly before tip-off because tenderness in his left ankle.

Rookie Austin Rivers added a career-high 14 points and Brian Roberts 13 for New Orleans.

It might not have mattered much if the Hornets had Davis’ shot blocking ability at their disposal. The Knicksscored only 20 points in the paint, but still shot 44.6 percent (37 of 83) thanks to stellar

jump shooting. They finished 14 of 36 (38.9 percent) from 3-point range.

The Knicks came in attempting just more than 26 3s a game this season and seem to have figured out the art of positioning themselves for long rebounds off of missed perimeter shots.

New York had 13 offensive rebounds, 17 second-chance points and badly outrebounded New Orleans overall, 49-36.

P

ry with a goal in the final minute.

Shakhtar showed it is a force to be reckoned with after a crushing 5-2 win over FC Nordsjaelland, with Luiz Adriano scoring a hat trick and Willian grabbing two goals.

Chelsea has to beat Nordsjaelland and for Shakhtar to defeat Juventus to go through at Juve’s expense.

Barcelona advanced for the ninth straight season after defeating Spartak Moscow 3-0 in Group

G with Lionel Messi scoring another two goals to close to within five of Gerd Mueller’s single-year record of 85.

“Messi is a perfect player, maybe the best player in the world right now,” Spartak coach Unai Emery said.

Barca advances, Chelsea on the brink ARIS — Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Shakhtar Donetsk and Valencia reached the knockout stage of the Champions League on Tuesday, while Chelsea is on the verge of becoming the first titleholder to fail to make it out of the group stage.

Already under pressure in the Premier League after a fourgame winless run, Chelsea lost 3-0 at Juventus to drop to third in Group E behind Shakhtar and Juve and place manager Roberto di Matteo under increasing pressure.

Fabio Quagliarella and Arturo Vidal — both on target for Juventus in the 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge — again scored against a Chelsea team without the dropped Fernando Torres and injured John Terry.

Substitute Sebastian Giovinco capped the victo-

FC Barcelona’s Lionel Messi boldly dribbles and scores in front of Spartak Moscow’s Andriy Dykan. AP

16 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 188 • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Hooligans FC picked to win

By Neil Bravo

S

OUTHERN Mindanao champion Hooligans FC is picked to win the PFF-Smart Club Championship Mindanao Finals which gets going on November 23-25.

There are a few good reasons to believe they will win the title.

One, they’re a solid team both on paper and on the field. Second, they will be playing on home ground.

Hooligans FC representing Davao Football Association beat Philippine National Police FC of Davao del Norte FA recently by an aggregate score of 7 – 6 to qualify for the Mindanao Finals. At the firing end of the Hooligans are the prolific duo of Marlon Dimapanag and Ruelfred Napuran.

Veteran Jason Mortillero provides the leadership of this young and promising squad built around the core of University of Mindanao and Rizal Memorial Colleges squads.

Davao Football Association secretary-general Erwin Protacio, announced the staging of the Mindanao Finals during the Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at the Tower Inn. “Hooligans FC has a

very good chance of making it. They are the best team out there right now,” said Protacio.

Out to provide the toughest challenge for the Davao club is Romgarjal FC of Dipolog City, the Western Mindanao champions.

“Romgarjal is young and very athletic,” Protacio said.

Completing the cast of Mindanao champions are Mlang FC, the Central Mindanao titlist and Advocates FC of Iligan City, the Northern Mindanao winner.

The top two squads of the Mindanao Finals advance to the Round of 16 scheduled next year. The next phase will also involve the top two qualifiers from Luzon and Visayas and the top 10 clubs in the ongoing UFL Cup tournament.

Hooligans FC is composed of Angelo John Adana, Patrock Asoque, Mark Anthony Bugay, Marlon Dimapanag, Allan Rey Fernandez, Kuizumi Yoshihoru, Kristian Hager, Roeder Ignacio, Francisco Iligan Jr., Clemens Lademora, Jason Mortillero, Ruelfred Napuran, Renell Pino, Junard Pinonggan, Imardino Polo, Ronald Manalo, Joven Benitez, and Arman Valencia.

Members of the Ateneo Under-12 girls football team pay a courtesy call to Mayor Inday Sara Duterte after coming home with their sixth straight Alaska Cup championship.

The team is coached by Reynalyn Ravanes.

RPSB clobbers PAF, wrests 4th spot

R

EGIONAL Public Safety Batallion (RPSB) leaned on its fast plays to repulse the lowly Philippine Air Force, 143 – 89, in the 2012 Mayor Sara Duterte and Vice Mayor Rody Duterte-10th AFP-PNP Basketball Tournament on Tuesday.

Despite the biting cold inside the Davao City Recreation Center Almendras Gym caused by the contin-

uous rainfall, RPSB came out waxing hot right from the opening buzzer and was never threatened all along.

RPSB took a 42-21 lead at the end of the first canto en route to its fourth win that put them at solo fourth spot with 4-2 winloss card.

Rommel Cameros lead RPSB’s eight double digit scorers as the lefty shoot-

ing guard scattered 31 big points. Playing official Kristopher Sabsal chipped in 17 baskets as bullstrong forward Mark Innocentes scored 17 points.

The prolific backcourt tandem of Rygian Delgra and Chok Gacayan continue to perform well but the Airmen still fails to post a win in five tries.

Delgra paced PAF with 37 points, including

six triples in the first half alone. Gacayan had 25 baskets which battles next league-leader Vice Mayor’s Office, which notched its seventh straight win at the expense of PNP-National Support Unit, on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Police Regional Office-XI kept its hopes alive to make it to the final four by besting 10th Infantry Agila Division, 115-92.