Edge Davao 5 Issue 19

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VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

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P50 new taxi flag down rate mulled

By Jade C. Zaldivar

Game Changer Page 7

Sports Page 16

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WO major taxi operators associations in the city are mulling to submit a petition for a P10.00 increase in taximeter flag down rate.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulation Board (LTFRB) 11 chief admin-

istrative officer Edgar Violan said two associations of taxi operators have spoken to him about thepossibility of increasing the current flag down rate of P40 to P50.00.

“They have manifested their desire to submit a petition to the LTFRB which will formalize their request for a P10.00 hike,” Violan said yesterday during Club 888 fo-

CLARK-DAVAO CONNECTIVITY. Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Director General Ramon Gutierrez, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, USAID Mission Director Gloria Steele and Clark International Airport Corporation President Victor Jose Lucianio (from left to right) sign on

rum at The Marco Polo Davao.

Violan was referring to the Metro Davao Taxi Operators and Drivers Association (Medatoa) and the Durian City Transport Service Cooperative (DCTSC).

“Ang chair ng Medatoa, si Willy Vascones, is also the president of the Davao City Taxi Operators Association so it is as-

FTAXI, 13

Wednesday the Clark-Davao Sister Airport Agreement. The agreement was showcased by the maiden flight of AirAsia’s direct Clark-Davao route. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

Sara, Rody achieve 100% trust, popularity ratings in 2nd district C

ITY Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte garnered perfect scores in a survey conducted in the city’s 2nd District.

Both Dutertes got 100% in popularity and trust ratings according to the respondents of

the 2nd District.

The results of the 2nd district survey show the Dutertes garnering slightly higher ratings compared to the earlier first district survey wherein the Dutertes tied with 98.8 percent in their trust rating and 99.4 on popu-

larity rating.

Survey results from the 2nd district were released yesterday while those from the 3rd district will be released next week, said Dr. Maria Linda Arquiza, director of the recently established IPO of the Unitversity of Mind-

FSARA, 3

2

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

PUJ group files for P2 hike

By Lorie A. Cascaro

T

HE South Eastern Mindanao Diversified Driver’s Operators Cooperative (SEMDDOC) filed a petition last Friday with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board 11 (LTFRB 11) for a P2 fare increase for the first four kilometers.

It also is asking for an additional P.35 to the existing P1.40 per succeeding kilometer.

Guesting at Club 888 Forum at The Marco Polo Davao last Wednesday, Manuel Duran, SEMDDOC president, said that the Davao region needs such a fare increase.

A provisional fare increase of P.50 for PUJs was approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board

(LTFRB) last March 20.

However, the order on fare adjustment does not include region 11 along with regions 12, 13 and Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.

In Mindanao, only the regions of Zamboanga (R9) and Cagayan De Oro (R10) are authorized to increase fare by P.50 for the first four kilometers, but no increase in the succeeding kilometer/s.

The order states that all other regions which have no pending Petition for Fare Increase and Prayer for Provisional Increase have no fare adjustment.

No petition for fare increase was received by the LTFRB 11 until last Friday which was filed by SEMDDOC. First time Not including Davao

region in the latest LTFRB order of provisional P.50 fare increase in PUJ fares is the “first time” in history, according to chief admin administrative officer Edgar Violan, also at the Club 888 Forum.

“Experience -wise kung ano ang naaprubahan sa national office, nationwide ang application,” he added.

Duran said his group was surprised about it because during the public hearing with LTFRB, it was region 10 (CDO) which should not be included due to the recent calamity there.

Duran said there must have been problems in making the order.

“Natingala mi kay nabaliktad man hinuon. Naa man mi didto paghearing,” he told reporters.

Thus, the group,

and Country Club, where some 200 Muslim families reside.

“Gamay na lang pagkubkob niining mga quarry, malagmit matagamtam na gayod namo ang kabangis sa kinaiyahan!” they said.

Based on the terrain configuration conducted by the CENRO, the petitioners said the largest volume of water from the mountain of Danaw will gush through Mandug and not through Indangan and Acacia.

They also mentioned the two flooding incidents in Mandug last year which were caused by the effects of quarrying, mostly affecting the Muslim community in Danaw.

Parkopil Montera, Barangay Kagawad of Mandug and one of the petitioners, said he hopes that the quarry operations will be stopped as he had experienced the

flood in May 2011.

Last week, a barangay resolution requesting for assessment and evaluation of existing quarry operators in Mandug and Indangan was submitted to the CENRO. CENRO officer in charge Joseph Felizarta told Edge Davao that the report on the evaluation will be finalized today.

Montera said CENRO’s evaluation did not involve community participation when the residents can exactly describe the situation in their area.

“Dili participatory ang evaluation which is not a good practice na may stake ang mga taga komunidad,” he added.

The quarry operators were identified by the petitioners as Mc Pjay San Pedro, Ambao Magulintang, Platinum Corporation, Robert Uy, and Baguhin. [LORIE A. CASCARO]

power industry stakeholders in Mindanao, including key local leaders in the island, to firm up parallel tracks of immediate and medium to long term solutions to the Mindanao power problem.

In a statement, Antonino said the President wanted to personally convey specific

measures taken by the government and the proposed steps needed to secure a reliable and sustainable Mindanao power generation.

Antonino said MinDA, in collaboration with the Department of Energy (DOE), is making the necessary preparations for the conduct of a dialogue with Mindanao

Mandug residents want mayor to stop quarrying

A

little bit more quarrying and, perhaps, people shall experience nature’s cruelty.

This is the fear expressed by residents of Barangay Mandug, Davao City,who are with dislocation should the quarry operations.

Yesterday, they petitioned the city mayor’s o ffice asking for a stop to the earthfill quarrying operations on the boundary between Brgy. Indangan (Sitio Salvacion) and Brgy.

Acacia.

The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), saying that the quarrying work is has a permit, told the petitioners to ask Mayor Sara Duterte to act on the matter.

They requested for a team to be sent to their area for ocular inspection, particularly the upper part of Sitio Danaw near the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf

Summit set to tackle Mindanao power woes

T

HE Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Wednesday said that President Benigno Aquino III has taken decisive action on the Mindanao power problem.

The first step, according to MinDA chair Luwalhati Antonino, was that President Aquino was set to meet with

FSUMMIT, 13

which is affiliated with 1Utak, decided to file a petition in Region 11 to justify the need for fare increase.

“Para sa amo ang kinaon sa Manila nga drayber ug diri pareho lang. Mas mahal pa gani ang gasolina diri, ang Diesel diri,” he said.

The LTFRB order was based on the petition filed

by Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP), Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (ALTODAP), Liga ng mga Tsuper at Operator sa Pilipinas, Inc. (LTOP), Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization (ACTO) and Pangkalahatang Sangguniang Metro Manila and Suburb Association (PASANG-MASDA).

PETITION. Edgar Violan, LTFRB Chief Administrative Officer, said on Wednesday that the LTFRB is currently looking on the petition of a local transport group for a P2 fare hike. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

Davao-Clark sister agreement, a new beginning for tourism

A

n initiative of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., the Davao-Clark sister airport agreement ushers in a new beginning for the tourism sector.

So said DCCCII president, Maria Lourdes G. Monteverde, during yesterday’s ceremonial signing of the said document at the Marco Polo Davao.

The bond, she said, is the beginning of the “promotion of interconnectedness among the islands in the Philippines from North to South.”

“The need to integrate is a challenge being posed to us in order to foster greater competitiveness,” she said.

The agreement was signed by Ramon Gutierrez, director of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and Victor Jose Luciano, president of Clark International Airport Corporation.

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, together with Mayor Marino Morales of Mabalacat, Pampanga, and Gloria Steele, mission director of USAID, witnessed the ceremonial signing.

Yesterday’s arrival was also the maiden flight of the low rate Philippines’ Air Asia from Clark to Davao.

Art Boncato, regional director of DOT 11 said the sister agreement connects Davao and Clark, Pampanga, which is now a major airway hub.

Enrico L Basilio, president of Research, Education and Institutional Development (REID) Foundation, said the agreement exemplifies the concept of public and private partnership in the tourism industy.

REID Foundation is a private research and advisory institute that assists the Convergence Program of the Depart-

ment of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) supported by the USAID. It is at the stage of finalizing the list of tourism infrastructure projects covering all regions to be included in the 2013 budget.

In the 2013 budget appropriation, the priority tourism infrastructure projects led by the Department of Transportation and Communication, DOT and DPWH will get P12B. This is part of the entire 2013-2016 Convergence Program with almost P50 B budget.

Congress appropriated P6B in the 2012 budget for the priority list of tourism infrastructure projects.

Basilio noted the close working relationship of the DOT and DPWH, and institutionalization of the program in the DOT. [LORIE A. CASCARO]

ing group (TWG) of the House Committee on National Cultural Communities is now fine tuning a proposed law, authored

by Rep. Nancy A. Catamco (2nd District, North Cotabato), to consider amendments introduced by resource persons during the series of public hearings on the measure.

The 1987 Constitu-

tion has “very wisely given the highest priority to the protection and promotion of the rights of indigenous cultural communities to ensure their economic, social, and cultural well-being,” Catamco stressed.

“It is therefore the intent of my proposal to recognize the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IPs)

Gov’t, private groups supports draft IP bill

T

HE Philippine Medical Association (PMA) and the Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP) have thrown their full support behind HB 5479, maximizing the contribution of Indigenous Peoples to nation building, granting benefits and special privileges.

A technical work-

FGOV’T, 13

EDGEDAVAO

Sara...

FFROM 1

anao under its Research and Publication Center.

Arquiza said that based on the results, the city mayor and the vice mayor are trusted mist by the younger generation aged 18-29 years as well as adults aged 36-42 years.

She added that those who belong to the low income groups, especially the unemployed, “have faith in the leadership of the fatherdaughter tandem.”

“Survey results revealed that district 2 respondents gave their absolute trust to the Dutertes. They are those who either finished high school or have reached some level of college education,” she said.

Both the mayor and vicemayor are most popular and trusted by married females than married males, the IPO director said, adding that the self-employed and business people also manifest high trust in the two.

Arquiza also noted that the Dutertes received a ‘relatively strong support’, specifically in Agdao district.

“This is expected as this was the place of the controversial and famous ‘Davao Punch’ episode during a demolition incident,” she said.

Arquiza was referring to Mayor Duterte-Carpio’s heated reaction to a court sheriff Abe Andres’s denial to delay demolition in Barangay Soliman in Agdao while she was still attending to flood victims July of last year.

As for the trust rating of second district representative, Mylene Garcia, she did not receive ratings as high the two Dutertes’.

However, she enjoys high popularity at 91% with a slightly lower trust rating of 88.1 percent.

Arquiza said the profile of the people who give their trust to Garcia ‘is no different from the people who trust the Dutertes.’

“This is implicative that those who trust the mayor and the vice mayor will also trust those who are attached to these leaders,” she said.

“This has a beneficial effect for the Congresswoman.

Also, the long experience of her relatives in politics may have given positive impression to the people in district 2,” Arquiza added.

Methodology Data analyst specializing

Abella

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

on politics and governance, Adrian Tamayo of the same university, said the respondents were given questions which would reveal the trust and popularity of public officials.

“We asked respondents if they know the public officials and whether they trust the public officials based on five categorical questions,” Tamayo said.

“Our questions are no different from the questions used in conducting trust ratings. Our questions are tailor-fit for those of the Pulse Asia and other SWS (social weather stations)” he added.

A city-wide survey was conducted last February 4 to 13 on a total of 1,007 respondents aged 18 and above.

Tamayo said a proportionate sampling size was determined for each of the three districts ‘to establish respresentativeness with the population.’

Dr. Cuizon Reynaldo, research coordinator, said they cannot reveal their questionnaire to the public as this is against their ethics.

“The questionnaire is available for viewing, but we cannot disseminate it to the public. This is part of our ethics,” Reynaldo said.

District 2 comprises the sub-districts of Agdao, Buhangin, Bunawan, and Paquibato. It has 46 barangays with an estimated population of about half a million.

District 2 councilors Councilors from the 2nd district received high popularity ratings as well.

Garnering the highest popularity rate is Councilor John Louie Bonguyan with 91.8%, followed by Tomas Monteverde 89.0% and in third place with 88.6% each are Councilors Dante Apostol and Jimmy Dureza.

“These high ratings of the top three councilors are not surprising. For one, Bonguyan is the son of Lius Bonguyan who served Davao City as vice mayor for 12 years,” Arquiza said.

Following with 87.8% is Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, Arnolfo Cabling with 85.7%, April Marie Dayap with 84.5, and Marissa Salvador-Abella with 80.4 percent.

As to the trust ratings, Bonguyan topped with 89.8, followed by Monteverde with 86.1, Dureza with 85.3.

Councilors Apostol and

Alejandre each received with 84.1, followed by Cabling with 82.8, Dayap with 79.6 and Abella with 78 percent.

City department heads Landing as the two top most trusted and popular department heads are Leonardo Avila, officer in charge of the City Agriculture Office, and Dr. Josephine Villafuerte who heads the City Health Office.

Avila received a popularity rating of 42.9% while Villafuerte received 40.8. As to their trust rating, Avila received 33.1% while Villafuerte garnered 29.0 percent.

In 3rd spot on popularity rating is former City Information Office head Rizal Giovanni ‘Bong’ Aportadera with 37.6%, followed by City Social Services and Development Office head Ma. Luisa Bermudo with 34.3 percent.

Assistant City Administrator Erwin Alparaque, who also heads the Human Resources Management Office, followed with 25.7 percent.

On the department head’s trusted rating, in the third spot is Bermudo with 24.5%, followed by Aportadera with 24.1%, and Acting City Administrator Zuleika Lopez with 17.2 percent.

Popular programs, projects The IPO also conducted a survey on the city’s programs and projects, in seeking whether the populace perceives such projects serve their welfare.

The projects of traffic signalization, the city’s emergency response unit Central 911, and the People’s Parks sit on the top three positions, according to the popularity and welfare ranking.

Fourth most popular city project is the Traffic Eagle Squad, followed by the Solid Waste Management, the Drainage Program, the Shelter Program, the Sanitary Landfill, and the Food for Work Program.

Taking the fourth spot on the welfare rating is the Shelter Program, while on fifth spot are both the Drainage Program and the Traffic Eagle Squad.

Still on the welfare rating are the Solid Waste Management program, the Sanitary Landfill, and the Food for Work program.[JADE C. ZALDIVAR]

Popularity Rating

Trust Rating

Mayor Sara Duterte

100

100

V-Mayor Rodrigo Duterte

100

100

Cong. Mylene Garcia

91.0

88.1

Sara

Garcia

Rody Popularity Rank Rating

Trust Rating

Rank

Abella, M. S.

80.4

7

78.0

7

Alejandre, A. R.

87.8

4

84.1

4

Apostol, D.

88.6

3

84.1

4

Bonguyan, J. L.

91.8

1

89.8

1

Cabling, A.

85.7

5

82.8

5

Dayap, A.M.

84.5

6

79.6

6

Dureza, J.

88.6

3

85.3

3

Monteverde, T.

89.0

2

86.1

2

Survey not geared to 2013 polls

By Lorie A. Cascaro

T

HE Institute of Popular Opinion (IPO) launched by the University of Mindanao (UM) this month said their maiden survey on trust in public officials in Davao City is not a preconditioning to the 2013 local elections.

Presenting the survey results in city’s District Two , IPO director Maria Linda Arquiza said political topic was chosen for their first survey to facilitate easy conduct in the future.

“We want IPO to be known by the public nga importante diay ilang opinion. Naa diay way nga mapadayag nila ang ilang opinion, then we will be

serving our purpose,” she said during the Club 888 Forum at The Marco Polo Davao last Wednesday.

IPO presented the survey results in District One last March 20, showing the Dutertes being the top among public officials in the trust survey, which are also evident in the District Two results.

“Leading towards an election survey is far different from what we are doing,” Prof. Adrian Tamayo, IPO research coordinator.

He said the IPO survey was about defining how people trust their leaders because governance should be at the forefront of real development.

“It’s another thing when we talk about popu-

larity. There goes the preconditioning,” he added.

Dr. Reynaldo Cuizon, also a research coordinator for Zone 2, said the survey is not only beneficial to the officials but also to the people.

“Sa atong pagsalig sa atong opisyal duna ni siya kalambigitan sa atong partisipasyon,” he said.

Tamayo also mentioned that reminding the officials that they are accountable to their performance is already one of the most important results of the survey.

Also the vice president for research of the UM, Arquiza said the IPO is fully funded by the university under its research center, and that it is not being funded by any individual.

Avila

Villafuerte

Aportadera

Bermudo

Alejandre Apostol

Bonguyan Cabling

Lopez

Dayap

Alparaque

Dureza

3

Monteverde

4 THE BIG NEWS Davao cops hunt killer of Sino businessman P

OLICE authorities here are hunting for killer the of a Chinese businessman whose body was found with multiple stab wounds inside his grocery store in Toril, this city Monday morning.

City police director Sr. Supt. Ronald dela Rosa identified the suspect as Ingracio Madangga, a native of Malungon, Sarangani province, and a transient boarder of a house in Toril.

Madangga was tagged in the murder of Henry Lu

Ong, 55, owner of the Universal Grocery.

Ong’s body was discovered at around 8:30 a.m. by his wife, Ana Azarias Ong, at the third floor of their establishment.

Dela Rosa said several circumstantial evidence point to Madangga, including a bloodied T-shirt taken from his boarding house and a pair of slippers found at the crime scene.

The pair of slippers is owned by the suspect’s boardmate, who also con-

firmed to police investigators that his slippers were borrowed by Madangga.

Further police investigation revealed that Ong had caused the imprisonment of Madangga for theft last year.

Dela Rosa theorized that Madangga might have wanted to avenge his fate last year.

However, dela Rosa revealed that the suspect had already sent surrender feelers and negotiations are underway for his surrender. [PNA]

The Davao City Water District is hoping to start its P8.5 billion Tamugan surface water project in 2013 so it can be operational by 2017 because of demand for water of the city is growing by 3.24% annually.

The water district is already considering which among the feasibility studies it will use to make the project, whose costing is based on the 2009 prices, more viable.

In a briefing conducted at its office Tuesday, Ariel L. Noble, Corporate Planning Department manager, said the the water utility will choose between the feasibility studies conducted by

Woodfields Consultants Inc. and the Poyry IDP Consult Inc. Noble said the Poyry study, which is part of the Urban Water and Sanitation ProjectProject Preparatory Technical Assistance, is set to be submitted by the end of the month.

The water district shouldered the fund for the Woodfields study, which was already completed last 2010, at about P8 million, while the Poyry study was part of the package funded by the Asian Development Bank for the study of two water districts, the one in Cebu costing about $2.2 million.

Imelda T. Magsuci, spokes-

person of the water district, said the project is necessary to address the growing demand for potable water considering that the city has become a fast-growing economic center in Mindanao.

“We need this project to address the increasing demand for water by the city,” Magsuci said, adding that without the project, there is the danger that not only will it be unable to expand its services to all the 180 barangays, those that it is servicing will not also enjoy 24-hour service.

At present, the water district is servicing 106 barangays with its eight water systems, but a few

For the first time in its history and in celebration of its 25th year since reactivation, the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) will have President Benigno S. Aquino III and Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales as keynote speakers during its 2-day by-invitation only 16th National Press Forum on April 2324 at the Traders Hotel Manila.

This also marks the 48th founding year of the Institute since 1964. It was rendered moribund during martial law, reactivated after the People Power Revolution, and incorporated in 1987.

President Aquino will be the first head of state to address the only annual gathering of owners, publishers and editors from Luzon, Visayas and

Mindanao, representing 72 publications. The President is expected to deliver a message on the “protection and preservation of press freedom and democracy” in the opening ceremonies on April 23. Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales will keynote the Community Press Awards, honoring the best civic journalism reportage of the previous year.

Justice Carpio-Morales administered the oath of office to President Aquino on June 30, 2010, the first female magistrate to do so. The PPI Board was inducted by the President on October 3, 2011 in Malacañan.

The National Press Forum is the only conference of its kind when the collective leadership of

the nation’s influential publications convene in Manila to discuss matters concerning the industry and issues affecting the professional and ethical practice of journalism.

This year’s conference theme “Media Accountability and Public Engagement” will serve as opportunity for the media to assess itself since the restoration of democracy over 25 years ago. Attendant issues to be discussed will be the Asian Media Barometer: The Philippine Study, media self-regulation and the safety and welfare of journalists.

Since 2009, the annual National Press Forum, one of the most-anticipated print media events, is being consistently supported by The Coca-Cola

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

DCWD wants to start Tamugan water project

Aquino, Morales PPI press forum speakers

FDCWD, 13

FAQUINO, 13

DAVAO PUNCH. To welcome the guests of Davao, the Marco Polo Hotel offers a unique concoction that named as “Davao Punch” that was inspired by the incident when Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte punched a sheriff who refused to heed her request. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

Davao airport to expand terminal The Davao International Airport terminal is expected to be expanded in 2014 as traffic is expected to increase to 2.8 million passengers by the end of the year.

Jose Emmanuel L. Saddam, airport assistant geeneral manager, said the project, which is based on the plan of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, the agency that runs the airport, is to be funded internally with about P60 million appropriated for it, including the setting up of another taxiway to facilitate the faster exit of arriving passengers.

“Right now we only have two carousels,” Saddam said at a briefing conducted in his office.

Last year, there were about 2.5 million passengers, or about 17.5% higher than the previous year. Of this number of people, 1.284 million were in-bound passengers.

“Actually the number (of passengers last year) was already big,” said Saddam, pointing out that based on the estimates of the airport authority, the number of passengers would only be about 1.2 million annually.

Although Tiger Airways was reported to have planned to stop its DavaoSingapore service by next month, Air Asia Philippines, a local subsidiary of the budget airline Air Asia, is scheduled to start its Davao-Clark daily flight on March 28.

The airport can already accommodate wide-bodied aircraft, like the Boeing 747 and the A-330 after the Asian Development Bank funded its expansion as nine aircraft can park at any given time compared with just four before the expansion.

Antonio T. dela Cruz, Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry vice president for trade and commerce, welcomed this development, saying it would boost tourism in the city. “We hope the entry of Air Asia will result in the

Quips

growth of the city’s economy,” he said.

With the entry of the new airline, the airport will serve seven airlines with about 60% of the flights aircraft of the Cebu Pacific Air, the Gokongwei-led company also known for its budget fares.

Early this month, Mid-Sea Express started its Sunday Manado-Davao-Bohol service with the hope of sustaining the Manado-Davao route which was abandoned by several airlines.

With the increase in the number of passengers, the airport is also expected to increase its incomne to about P513 million by the end of the year from about P466 million at the end of last year, its data pointed out. Saddam said about 60% of its revenues was derived from the P200 terminal fee collected from passengers.

[AD]

‘THE Philippines, being a helpless observer, may be better off staying that way. Our efforts are limited to using our diplomatic channels with our neighboring countries, to speak as one voice with them.’

--Senator Panfilo Lacson, Senate defense committee chair, on North Korea’s plan to blast a satellite into space

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

COMMUNITY SENSE

5

Barangay Bucana celebrates success!

“W

e’re growing fast! Life is here too!”

This is how Barangay 76-A Bucana Barangay captain Robert Olanolan describes the gain that the barangay has achieved and experienced.

Celebrating its 24th Foundation Day which culminates on April 8, the barangay features activities that highlight the divergence of its residents.

The activities include the community visit of ABC 5’s popular show Face To Face, the holding of the Kasalan ng Bayan, Hiyas ng Ginoong Barangay, Fun Run, Fluvial Float Parade, Bangka Competition, Singing and Dance Contest, Isda Festival and Live Band Concert and Culinary Day. T h e 466-hectare village, popularly called Bucana has two

barangay halls: one in in the SIR and the other at Seawall.

Bucana is home to 108,000 people, 86,000 of whom are registered voters. With its huge population and vast area, it has a whopping P32-million share in the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA).

The village has crafted its own development plan, outlined by the barangay development council to address the economic, social and h e a l t h concerns of the residents by establishing their own system of Lingap Para sa Barangay, to answer the urg e n t medical needs of its constituents, and the a c -

Captain Robert Olanolan and Indonesian Consul General Ito during the Fun Run held to support the development of the Coastal Park

Barangay Council in session

Olanolan presides over the session

creditation of a funeral home for indigent families.

For social and medical services, P1.2million has been allotted for this year; while another P2-million will go to the establishment drainage facilities in five identified flood prone areas in the barangay.

“The focal program of our barangay services is centered on women and children alongside with our economic and infrastructure development,” says Olanolan.

Barangay secretary Marc Gerald Sescon said the declaration of the coastline as Coastal Park generated active support of the community to protect the environment as their level of awareness increased.

Fishing and the flourishing underground economic activities help pump prime the local economy.

The strong leadership of Olanolan and the barangay council promotes the maintenance of peace and order in the city’s most populous barangay.

Amy Perez and the entire Face To Face family join Brgy. Capt.Robert Olanolan and his constiuents in one of the Araw ng Bucana activities.

6

THE ECONOMY

Stat Watch

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

3.5% 4th Qtr 2011

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

3.7% 4th Qtr 2011 USD 3,342 Million Nov 2011 USD 4,985 Million Nov 2011 USD -1,643 Million Nov 2011 USD -114 Million Dec 2011 P4,442,355 Million Nov 2011

3. Exports 1/ 4. Imports 1/ 5. Trade Balance 6. Balance of Payments 2/ 7. Broad Money Liabilities 8. Interest Rates 4/

4.71% Oct 2011 P128,745 Million Nov 2011 P 4,898 Billion Oct 2011

9. National Government Revenues 10. National government outstanding debt

P 43.65 Dec 2011

11. Peso per US $ 5/ 12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

3,999.7 Sept 2011

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

128.1 Jan 2012

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.9 Jan 2012

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.4 Dec 2011

16. Visitor Arrivals

284,040 Sept 2011

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

19.1% Oct 2011

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

6.4% Oct 2011

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2009 - December 2011) Month

2011

2010

2009

Average December November October September August July June May April March

43.31 43.64 43.27 43.45 43.02 42.42 42.81 43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52

45.11 43.95 43.49 43.44 44.31 45.18 46.32 46.30 45.60 44.63 45.74

47.637 46.421

February

43.70

46.31

January

44.17

46.03

47.032 46.851 48.139

48.161 48.146 47.905 47.524 48.217

48.458 47.585 47.207

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

DA forms group to address crop-shifting problem “

THERE is a need to address the problem on crop shifting, especially for irrigated rice areas.”

This was stressed by the new Officer-In-Charge (OIC) Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture-XI Constancio C. Maghanoy, Jr. during the Area-wide Public Consultations on the Draft Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Plan (AFMP) for 2011-2017, held recently at the Insular Hotel, Lanang, Davao City.

Maghanoy, in his Davao Region agricultural situation report, said based on Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) data, of the total irrigable areas in Region XI, around 60 percent is fully irrigated, and these are located mostly in major rice areas However, due to economic considerations, some of these irrigated rice areas have been shifted to other crops such as banana, Maghanoy said.

Maghanoy added there is no law preventing farmers from shifting to other more profitable crops, but the local government can exert their efforts to deter farmers from doing so, such as increasing taxes on investments on new

crops, among other measures.

Other issues tackled during the consultation include the proposal for inclusion of cacao in the value chain analysis; the problem on incursion of commercial fishing vessels on municipal waters; constructing water catchment areas in the uplands to prevent flooding in the lowlands; and strengthening research development and extension, among others.

On the same occasion, OIC for the Office of the DA Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, Research and Regulation, Agnes Catherine T. Miranda said the goals of the AFMP are to raise rural incomes, ensure food security and enhance global competitiveness, and increase sustainability and resilience, especially in the midst of the real threats posed by climatic change and global warming.

She added that some of the guiding principles in formulating the plan are modernization of the sector through gendered value chain approach, mainstreaming of climate change concerns, and inter-agency convergence to reduce sector-wide transaction costs for delivering pub-

Soccsksargen breaks tax targets in Jan-Feb

I

F revenue collection in the first two months of the year were a proof of the year-round performance, 2012 would be another fruitful year for the Bureau of Internal Revenue-Revenue Region No. 18 (BIR-RR 18) or BIR-Soccsksargen.

Atty. Rozil Lozares, BIR RR-18 regional director, today announced cumulative collection from their five districts surpassed the January – February target by 12.11 percent.

Data showed that BIR -Soccsksargen was able to collect P 794,225,483.09, which was P85,762,483.09 higher than its two-month target of P708,463,000.

Collection chief Lilia Basa revealed that compared to revenues in the same period last year, this present collection was 30.59 percent higher.

Basa added that of the five revenue districts only Sultan

Kudarat/Tacurong City (Revenue District No. 109) failed its target. It only collected P96,299,213.93 against its target of P113,314,000 Percentage wise, Cotabato Province led all RDOs by exceeding targets by 34.38 percent by collecting P115,554,826.21 against its goal of P 85,992,000.

Maguindanao Province-Cotabato District (RDO No, 107) collected P 212,529,062.41, which was 23.86 percent higher than its P171,585,000 target.

South Cotabato-Koronadal District (RDO No. 111) and Sarangani Province-Gensan District (RDO No. 110) collected P167,666,866.14 and P202,175,514.40, respectively.

Considering this trend, Lozares is hopeful that the revenue region will succeed in attaining its 2012 collection target amounting to P5,126,213,000.00.

AGRICULTURE MODERNIZATION PLAN. OIC-Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture –XI Constancio C. Maghanoy, Jr. (extreme left) addresses the participants of the Area-wide Public Consultations on the Draft Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Plan (AFMP) for 2011-2017, held recently at the Insular Hotel, Lanang, Davao City. Seated at the presidential table are (R-L): NAFC Executive Director Ariel T. Cayanan; OIC for the Office of the DA Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, Research and Regulation, Agnes Catherine T. Miranda and OIC, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Division (PMED) Eva Natural.

planning and formulation process, then you automatically become supportive of the program,” Cayanan said.

Also present during the activity was Regional Development Council-XII Chairperson, Darlene Antonino-Custodio, along with key representatives of the different public and people’s organizations and the academe of Regions X, XI and XII. [AGGIE MEDIA SERVICE]

lic goods, among others.

Ariel T. Cayanan, Executive Director of the National Agriculture and Fisheries Council (NAFC), stressed the importance of consulting the public in the process of formulating the plan to promote the feeling of co-ownership of the program.

“When you feel that you are co-owners of the program because you are part of the

Cebu Pacific aims to fill up over 200 vacancies

R

ECRUITMENT FAIR on March 30-31 The Philippines’ largest national flag carrier, Cebu Pacific (PSE:CEB) seeks over 200 pilots, cabin crew, and technical and non-technical support crew in a recruitment fair from March 30 to 31, 2012, from 9am to 3pm at Ballroom A of Dusit Thani Manila, Ayala Center, Makati City.

“We are expanding in the Asia-Pacific region, and we need fun and dynamic individuals who can be part of the Cebu Pacific family. This year, CEB offers even more highpaying jobs to key positions, especially with the scheduled delivery of 52 more aircraft until 2021,” said CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

“Aside from unlimited travel benefits, competitive compensation packages, annu-

al performance bonuses and a fun working environment, our employees also enjoy career opportunities that keep them close to their families. We encourage everyone to join us in providing high-quality service across the Asia-Pacific region,” Iyog added.

She said only cabin crew applicants will be accommodated during the one-day processing on March 30, 2012 (Friday). Requirements for being a CEB cabin crew include a dynamic personality, at least 5’3” in height, weight that is proportional to height, clear complexion and good eyesight, and a Philippine passport, among others.

Meanwhile, interested applicants for pilots and technical and non-technical support crew can attend the recruitment fair on March 31, 2012 (Saturday).

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 de Oro 18:20 Cebu Pacific Daily Cebu Pacific Tue/Sat/Sun Cebu Pacific Daily Airphil Express Daily Philippine Airlines Daily except Sunday

MI566 / MI566 5J507 / 5J598 15:55 Z2524 / Z2525 5J967 / 5J600 PR813 / PR814 5J215 / 5J216

18:55 15:00 Mani2Mani 16:05 16:35 16:55 18:00

Davao-Singapore Cebu-Davao-Cebu 16:50 Cebu-Davao-Cebu Manila-DavaoManila-DavaoCagayandeOro-Davao-

15:20 15:30 16:45 Cebu17:05 Manila 17:45 Cagayan

5971 / 5J970 5J973 / 5J974 5J969 / 5J972 2P987 / 2P988 PR821 / PR822

18:40 20:00 20:30 20:30 21:20

Manila-DavaoManila-DavaoManila-DavaoManila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila

Manila 19:10 Manila 20:30 Manila 21:00 21:00 21:50

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

GAME CHANGERS

7

Setting the benchmark Text by Carlo P. Mallo Photo by Marjorie Osorio, M.D.

T

here are entrepreneurs who change the way people live and there are entrepreneurs who change people’s lives. For Joji Ilagan-Bian, the vocational schools that she started changed more lives than she could have ever imagined.

Even with her international franchise of Tumble Tots, Ilagan-Bian set the benchmark for what kind of preschools the toddlers of today deserve.

Who would have thought of bringing a three-month old baby to an educational facility before Tumble Tots?

“It is very easy to follow, but it is more profitable to be the trailblazer as you will be the one who will set the benchmark. Unlike if you come in second or third, the first one has already set a benchmark.

Chances are, you will have to set your prices lower or extremely high,” Ilagan-Bian said. “It challenges me to be able to set the benchmark.”

Now, there are about three preschools in the city that offer similar curriculums, the same level of exclusivity, and caters to the same market, when ten years ago there was nothing of that sort in the consciousness of Dabawenyos.

“When I start something new, its always 60 percent gut feel and 40 percent is based on my knowledge of the market,” Ilagan-Bian said. “It is very important to make the market understand why you are changing the rules of the game, people should be able to appreciate your innovations.

Otherwise, you will just lose the game. At the end of the day your goal is to win the game.”

“Understanding your market is also a key. You cannot have a product that will appeal to all markets and that is one thing that you have to understand.

But changing the rules of the game is not as easy as just changing the rules of the game. “You have to know the stakeholders who will be affected, directly or indirectly, when you change the games. “ But what made her enter the vocational school business, her primary business, which changed the system of education in the city and the rest of Mindanao.

It all started when she heard complaints from her friends in the business industry that their secretaries were only good in one thing and not in all aspects. “One complained that her secretary was only good in answering the telephone but does not know how to use the typewriter, while another one complained that his secretary was good in answering phones and the typewriter but doesn’t know how to deal with people,” says Ilagan-Bian.

Then fresh out of college,

Ilagan-Bian decided to put up a vocational school that will give holistic training that was capable of meeting the demand of the market at that time.

Starting with four classrooms along Anda St., in Davao City, Ilagan-Bian opened her Joji Ilagan-Bian Career Center in the early 1980’s. “What set us apart immediately from all other vocational schools at that time was that we made sure that we had the best facilities, our classrooms were air conditioned, and our students wore nice uniforms. We showed them that even if it is a vocational school, we can still look good, even better,” says Ilagan-Bian, who finished Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of the Philippines.

One of the things that must aspiring school owners must understand is that schools – pre schools, tutorial centers, vocational schools, high schools, colleges, and even review centers – are not the same as any other product that you can just sell. “In our case, the products are different. The products are our graduates,” says Ilagan-Bian.

She is now working on her recently opened culinary school in General Santos City. “It’s still the same drill as if we were sill starting with our very first school 20 years ago. Although we are more familiar with the process, it is still the same feeling every time we open a new school,” says Ilagan-Bian, who personally inspects the location, the classrooms, the equipment, and even the curriculum.

Her hands-on approach is the only thing that has not changed over time. While she has school administrators assigned to oversee the daily operations of the different schools, Ilagan-Bian remains to be on top of things, having the final say in the decisionmaking.

While her schools may not be what is traditionally considered like universities are, Ilagan-Bian has definitely changed the rules of the game in education. Not only with tertiary education but even

with pre-school.

“There are many people who try to introduce new rules in this game, but only those who can make the market appreciate and understand the new rules eventually win,” Ilagan-Bian said.

Considering herself a market leader in the education sector, Ilagan-Bian is already busy thinking of another business she plans to put up in her newly acquired property in the city.

“It’s more profitable to be a trailblazer than being a follower.”

8 VANTAGE POINTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

Mother and soldier (Conclusion)

I

EDITORIAL

Did the BIR pick the right fight?

E

MBATTLED world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao is in the worst stage of preparations for an upcoming world title fight. He was reported to have been coddling a fugitive carnapper, and now, is facing a tax contempt case with the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

Last Monday, Manny finally cried enough is enough. He admits this is not the best time to face this tax case and prepare for a big fight. Manny says he is being singled out.

Manny’s tax woes stems from his alleged failure to submit tax documents to the regional office of the BIR. These documents include his recent endorsement contracts, pay per view earnings and other incomes a prizefighter. To be clear about it, this case is not a tax evasion case. This is a contempt case for failure to submit documents.

Did the BIR pick on a big catch like Manny?

Some sectors believe that picking on Pacquiao is the shortest way to gain publicity, and for an agency that has been lumped in the ‘least popular’ basket, this could well be a shot in the arm in terms of public confidence and trust. True enough, this issue has risen to the top of the trending department on social media and discussion rooms.

However, the agency has clarified that they are not picking on the big names list in order to improve its image. They maintain they are just doing their work.

EDGEDAVAO Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

ALBERTO DALILAN Managing

Door 14 ALCREJ Building, Quirino Avenue, 8000, Davao City, Philippines Tel: (082) 301-6235 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 www.edgedavao.net editorial@edgedavao.net marketing@edgedavao.net

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Manny is not a tax evader. In fact, he ranks among the top individual taxpayers. In 2009, Manny paid Php 50 Million in tax remittances to the BIR. The following year, the amount dropped dramatically to only Php 7 Million. The sudden drop had the BIR raising its colletive eyebrows.

While Manny’s earnings went up in his latest fights in the past two years against Cotto, Clottey, Margarito, Moseley and Marquez, and his endorsements multiplied as his market value soared in the global sports scene, Manny’s earnings overseas were nonetheless presumably taxed under the laws of the United States. Meaning, taxing Manny again for his earnings overseas which he brought into the country could be a case of double taxation.

The BIR should have first diligently looked into this angle. It could have also considered the timing and its effect on a national treasure like Manny. Not that we afford him special treatment.

If our laws can extend tax credits as incentive, why not extend due respect, prudence and diligence in ascertaining taxable incomes, especially those which are already taxed at source.

It is hoped that this latest aggravation in the life of our “national treasure”—Manny the Pacman—is merely another tempest-in-a-teapot.

Wala yan! Bring on Timothy Bradley and let’s get reeady to rumb-l-l-l-l-e!

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO CARLO P. MALLO Associate Features and Lifestyle KENNETH IRVING K. ONG KARLOS C. MANLUPIG • JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR., Creative Solutions Photography LORIE ANN A. CASCARO • JADE C. ZALDIVAR • MOSES C. BILLACURA Staff Writers

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

JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

RICHARD C. EBONA IMELDA P. LEE Advertising Specialists

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Cagayan de Oro City Tel: (088) 852-4894

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ANGELICA R. GARCIA | Marketing Manager Blk. 1, Lot 10, La Mar Townhomes, Apitong St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 942-1503

T was only expected that Rose became a CAT officer in high school, and dreamed of joining the PMA when she entered college. So it was a dream come true for her when congress passed a bill that allowed PMA to accept female cadets.

Her hopes were dashed when she failed to pass the height requirement and was not allowed to take the exam. Teary-eyed, she went home with a promise to herself - that she would become a soldier even without the PMA. After a few years of working for a government agency and as a computer instructor in a college, Rose was convinced these were not her calling.

A chance meeting with a former ROTC batch mate who had just graduated from military training paved the way for her to join the military, much to the misgiving of her mother.

“She cried when I told her I was joining the army. She thought I had forgotten my desire to be a soldier. I told her this is what I want in life,” Rose said.

While serving the military is her dream, she does not discount the danger that goes with the job. Her courage was built over time in missions she was sent to. Despite the anxiety of potentially engaging in an armed encounter, Rose was resolute to answer the call of duty.

She shared a particularly tense situation in one mission that fortunately turned out to be a false alarm. After that, Rose’s troops joked to her about it, saying “Ang bilis mo palang tumakbo, Ma’am.” She laughed along with them.

But the danger is real. While pregnant in 2006, Rose was dissuaded by some well-meaning members of her troop to join a 3-day Peace and Development Seminar in a suspected rebelinfested area in Samar. Although she wanted to go, two female soldiers (an Officer and an Enlisted Woman) that she trusted convinced her to stay, and went in her stead. They were ambushed and the female officer was killed.

“I believe everything happens for a reason, and if it’s God’s will, so be it.

Now, having two children, my commitment towards work hasn’t changed but I am more determined to make a difference.,” Rose bravely declared.

It is her love for what she does that makes Rose stay, despite the challenges she might face as a woman in a largely male-dominated field. “When you love what you’re doing, kahit mahirap na bagay magiging madali na lang. I am also lucky that most of my bosses are really good mentors and easy to work with,” she said.

Still, it must be daunting because as a former commander of an Artillery Battery and the Special Operations Company, she has a total of 251 personnel under her. But for Rose, challenges are not barriers but opportunities to improve herself.

“As the most senior female officer of the 10th ID, being a woman is not an issue for me because I know myself and what I can do. Instead of expecting too much from the organization, I think more of what I can do for the organization because it’s where I chose to be,” she said.

So where does she get the courage to pursue a military career, and what keeps her going during challenging or stressful times? “My family, because I am also doing this for them. I go home, hug my kids and I’m okay,” she said with a smile.

EDGEDAVAO

I

T TOOK me nearly 12 years before I found out what happened to a friend of mine, a furniture manufacturer and distributor whose factory, I thought, went belly up at the height of the global financial crisis that hit the Philippines sometime in 2008.

Although the country’s financial sector was in a better shape and better prepared to shield itself against the ripple effects of that crisis, weaker companies with heavy loans from banks went bankrupt when they could no longer come up with checks to pay back their loans.

That friend of mine---let’s call him Mario---was saddled with bank loans he used to import factory machinery and equipment that make parts of wood furniture which are assembled into sala sets, dining sets, kitchen sets, etc. It was easy meeting the schedule of loan payments at first in early 2000, but the cash flow slowed to a trickle when sales of furniture for Davao home subdivisions declined during the years 2007-2008 at the height of the crisis.

That was devastating, of course, to Mario who had payrolls to meet, rentals, office bills and bank loans to pay. What made it worse, was when people close to him, including his in-laws, were allowed to manage the fast-rising company, but were overwhelmed by the huge demand for low-cost furniture popular among lower to middle-class families in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Mario wasn’t prepared to admit that the global crisis itself had something to do with his downfall because the market demand for low-cost furniture in fact, was still rising at the time and they couldn’t keep up with the demand.

Orders for his cheap furniture were in the millions of pesos which his company couldn’t meet, he admitted, because

S

OMETIME last week the paramilitary group New Indigenous People’s Army Reform (Nipar) issued a statement owning up to the murder of Jimmy Liguyon, barangay chair of Dao, San Fernando town in Bukidnon and leader of another Lumad group.

On Monday, March 26, Nipar’s acknowledged founder and rebel turncoat Aldy “Butsoy” Salusad declared over dxDB-Malaybalay that he indeed killed Liguyon.

That Salusad admitted to the crime is not the story but the fact that he did it publicly and on record. Such effrontery can only mean two things: either he is unaware of its implications on him as a suspect or he is confident he is beyond the reach of the law. The second leads to another scenario: he has powerful patrons who are pulling the strings in Dao, where illegal gold panning activities have thrived for decades.

Liguyon had refused to endorse the application of the San Fernando Matigsalug Tribal Datus (Sanmatrida) for a small-scale mining permit in Dao, a plan that would enable the group to control gold mining activities in the area. Arguably, he was worried that allowing Sanmatrida to enter Dao – with

Monkey Business

9 No such thing as never‘Don›t quit when everything is falling apart’ ending economic boom the family group that was running his recovered fast, operating an entirely new VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

company wasn’t familiar with the nuances of the business, thus missing production timetables and deliveries. In short, they were losing grip on a fast-growing company that was running faster than they were.

In certain ways, my friend allowed the company to finally collapse and default on payments of its loans the banks, so he could take over again and regain full control of the company he had started from scratch in Davao. His total losses came to about P60 million.

I can only surmise that when this was happening, I was working in Cebu then as a forex trader, soliciting clients to trade their US dollars in the global forex market, without knowing what I was doing, admittedly a very lousy job.

Now, more than 12 years later since I last saw him, snippets of conversations from my encounters with friends in government and business here in Davao slowly formed a hazy picture of Mario slowly rising from the ashes of a totally devastated firm.

Even as many of his friends avoided him, he dusted the ashes away from that devastation and stood up entirely on his own, without any help from anyone because he wanted his dignity intact to prove to the world he could survive, that he could make it back to the top where he had fallen from. Some of his friends offered him new capital, a couple of millions, but he politely turned them down, thanking them for caring, telling them he could make it on his own.

Someone from Jollibee, a franchise manager who was once Mario’s associate, tipped me off on how he was and where he could be found, and what he was doing this time. Years ago, when Jollibee started its first store in Davaoon the corner of Bolton and Rizal streets, Mario’s office was used by the first Jollibee operations staff as their temporary office.

This Jollibee manager told me he was deeply impressed how Mario had

Butsoy’s law

SOMEONE ELSE’S WINDOWS

BY MARCOS C. MORDENO/MINDANEWS Salusad’s Nipar as its de facto armed force – will displace individual gold panners.

At the moment, nobody can say with certainty whether Salusad acted upon the prodding of his invisible patrons or on his own. What is clear for now is that Liguyon was a major stumbling block to whoever wishes to control the mining industry in Dao, if not the whole of San Fernando. If local residents evacuate due to fear, getting things done would be a lot easier.

Salusad is trying to obscure the real reason for the murder of Liguyon by harping on the victim’s alleged connection with the New People’s Army and Alamara, another Lumad armed group.

But this is where Salusad – or whoever coached him – contradicted himself. Alamara, just like Nipar, is a paramilitary group operating in San Fernando and neighboring areas and has been accused of harassing suspected NPA supporters. How can a person support two conflicting parties at the same time?

business--- running a transport terminal and other smaller businesses--- all without borrowing a single centavo from a bank.

This time, Mario told me, after we finally met and reunited after 12 years, he won’t deal with banks or lenders anymore who are unforgiving when you miss on your loan payments. “This time, I’ll try to do everything on cash, no more bank loans for me. Never again will I depend on banks to run my business,” he said A more revitalized entrepreneur today, Mario revealed that he kept all his factory machinery and equipment safe somewhere at a bigger site, where one day, he plans to revive his furniture factory in the midst of a fast-growing Davao housing market--- which needs low-cost house furniture.

This is a dream Mario had kept to himself all these years since his furniture business collapsed, defaulted and disappeared from Davao at the height of the global crisis.

He recalled the day he collapsed while all alone at home with wrenching chest pains, half his body paralyzed. “I won’t allow myself to die,” he told himself as he crawled out the front door of his house to take a taxi to a hospital. “I will not die! I won’t allow myself to die! There are still so many things I need to do!”

Fortunately for him, the doctor found him only suffering from stress, tension and anxiety which caused vital parts of his body to temporarily stop functioning.

After minor treatment and medication, Mario was back in action at his terminal office, pursuing his dream of reviving his furniture business.

“Don’t quit when everything is falling all around you. If you fail a hundred times, stand up and try again a hundred times,” my friend told me by way of advice--- at a time when I really need it most….

(Comments? Email: tradingpost_ davao@yahoo.com)

More disturbing is the fact that the authorities appear reluctant to go after Salusad and prosecute him. The March 21 dialogue facilitated by Vice Gov. Jose Ma. R. Zubiri Jr. failed to assure the residents of Dao that they can return safely to their homes. There has been no categorical statement from the military that they will protect the people being harassed by Nipar much less exert efforts to disarm the group.

The military’s relative silence on the issue is “understandable”. Benjamin “Nonong” Salusad, father of Aldy and also a former NPA rebel, has become a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit after his surrender last year. It would not want to displease the elder Salusad and his followers. And since Nipar is anti-communist too, its existence is not a problem for the military.

The people of Dao therefore will have to endure living under constant threat from Nipar, whose members can enjoy virtual immunity from prosecution based on how authorities have treated the younger Salusad.

After Liguyon, Butsoy has become the law in Dao. [H. Marcos C. Mordeno can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail. com.]

C

(First of 2 Parts)

A N D I D SHOTS – We, as a people, have all too often been fragmented into factions, each chasing after its self-interest without regard for the common good. Perhaps, this is the reason we are confronted with life-and-death threats – a magnitude of complex and interlocking problems, arrogance and neglect that have allowed political grievances to remain unredressed and utterly lack a sense of unity.

If we do not pull this off, we risk turning the Philippines into a country torn apart by endemic political conflict. oooOooo DAVAO CITY SPEEDING UP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT – Modern malls, retail chains, restaurants and entertainment centers are proliferating in the busy residential areas and activity-filled streets in the city.

Since early last year, when a mammoth, glitzy mall opened its doors here cramped with a collection of stores dealing in signature apparels, shoes, jewelry, bags, watches, sportswear, cameras, cellphones, electronic gadgets and accessories and many more.

It seems Davao City is rapidly developing into an entertainment and mallrat haven. The tangible proof is that two more huge shopping malls are in the works while another existing one located in the southern part of the city has recently completed its multi-million expansion project.

Well, I really have no idea if this sign of growth has been a godsend for Dabawenyos like me. Do major corporate players strongly believe that people in the city today belong to the high-spending crowd that they, the major players, have been enticed to invest billions of pesos in the city?

Has there been a fundamental economic change happening that the “artificial” consumer boom is on full display, or is there a new breed of consumers in Davao City? Actually, in the not-sodistant past, such shopping destinations which deal mainly in expensive signature brands were off limits to all but a fortunate middle-class.

But big investors according to noted economic experts are optimistic that a rapidly changing economy is making the medium to higher life available to more and more of the city’s million-strong population. These well-established entrepreneurs who are pushing their way into the city probably find it a more sizable market for their businesses than in other bustling cities in Mindanao.

How did Davao City become host to many of the country’s leading investors, it might be asked? The simple truth: a sign of growing interest among prospective investors are strategic business location, abundant supply of raw materials, cheap labor, ample water supply and power sources. And there’s more – a multiplying number of privileges, such as a lower tax come-on, healthy elements of a vibrant and robust business atmosphere, environment-friendly surroundings, livable community and most importantly the well-sustained peace and order and security measures.

What we have in the city today is a flourishing economic development.

But we cannot talk about development without thinking of the big businesses that keep pouring into the city. The city government, as a matter of fact, provides prospective investors investment space and has decided to speed up development, encourage investments from other regions, Manila-based capitalists and foreign investors.

10

COMMUNITY SENSE

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

DCWD updates employees on plans and programs T

San Remigio Beach Club ideal Holy Week retreat

T

HE Davao City Water District management updated employees of its 2011 and 2012 operations during the annual employees’ forum held in ten batches from February 2 to March 14, 2012. Highlighted were DCWD’s 2011 performance report and the plans and programs for 2012 as guided by its NICER agenda which stands

for Non-revenue water reduction, Infrastructure development, Customer satisfaction, Environmental protection and Resource management.

In his message, acting general manager Edwin V. Regalado expects everybody to deliver exemplary performance in their respective fields to help the water utility attain its goals for 2012. He also

reminded everyone that each one is important because it takes all the members of an organization to achieve a common good. “Lahi-lahi man ang atong trabaho, makighiusa ta sa pagkabot sa atong tumong busa magpadayon ta sa atong matinudanon na serbisyo (We may have different tasks but we need to be united in order for us to achieve

our goals, thus we need to continue giving sincere service.),” he said.

A workshop on effective communication strategies in the workplace was given by renowned resource speaker Rene Gerardo A. Lizada. He gave insights on how employees can improve communication with their superiors and workmates to better improve their professional relationships among one another.

There was also another workshop on how to integrate the water utility’s TIES (Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence and Stewardship) core values in the workplace to guide employees in accomplishing their everyday tasks.

The forum was an ideal venue to get feedback from employees regarding DCWD’s operations in 2011. It has also been a proven means for management and labor to exchange ideas, clarify concerns, and agree to pursue goals of public water service and environmental care. [JOVANA T. DUHAYLUNGSOD]

HE Lenten season is just around the corner. For most people, it is the time to pray for the forgiveness of our sins, to reflect, and to commemorate the passion and death of Jesus Christ.

But if you feel like taking a break or a quiet retreat, San Remigio Beach Club (SRBC) is an ideal place to spend the Holy Week.

San Remigio Beach Club – located in Barangay Tambongon, San Remigio, Cebu, is not a huge resort but it makes guests comfortable with its abundant coconut trees, lush greens, and colourful flowers that make for a beautiful and peaceful environment. The resort’s serene atmosphere is perfect for meditation.

From April 5 to 8, the SRBC is offering affordable Holy Week rates for people seeking an out-oftown hideaway with complete tranquillity in this season of Lent.

For a minimum of two nights stay, SRBC accommodation rates per night are pegged at: P3,550 for Premium rooms, P4,200 – Deluxe, P5,500 – Family, P6,200 – Executive,

P7,200 – Ambassador, and P9,750 for Dormitory Room. Extra person will be charged P600 per head with free breakfast.

Entrance fee for day use is P360 per head with a choice of buffet lunch or dinner. Day guests will be entertained by the Seranaders while having their lunch or dinner.

Holy Week guests will be treated to live performances by Fire Dancers, who will also be doing tutorials on fire dancing as well. Live ethnic and pop music will be likewise provided by tribal band “Lupon Anduyo” and allfemale Femme Aura, respectively.

Guests at the SRBC can also do lots of activities including swimming on the pool or beach, running on the white sands, snorkelling, scuba diving, basketball, volleyball, badminton, billiards, and island hopping.

San Remigio Beach Club, 2-3 hours north from Cebu City, is definitely a haven away from home where guests can do just about everything – from relaxing and frolicking on the beach to enjoying water recreation and active sports.

host the event in the city where tribal dances and candle lighting will also be featured.

She said that SM City Davao has asked dance troupes in the city to develop the Davao Dance Craze which could be viewed at the mall’s official Facebook fun page for Davaoenos to learn and master before the event.

SM City Davao mall manager Lynette Lopez said they have invited schools and other establishments in Davao City to join the whole country and other parts of the world in this year’s one-hour switching-off of lights.

Lopez said teachers and students from Enrico T. Nograles National High School and Sta. Ana National High School will also participate in the parade and street party.

“We’re inviting all Davaoenos to come and join us in this gathering for the environment conservation. There will be many surprises,” she urged. [PIA-11/

Aside from Davao, the Earth Hour ceremonies will also be held at Ayala Triangle in Makati City as central hub for Luzon and at Plaza Independencia in Cebu as the official site for Visayas.

Activities in the WWFled switch-off points will be live streamed where the speech of Earth Hour founder and executive director Andy Ridley of Australia could be heard.

Ridley is expected to celebrate Earth Hour 2012 in the Philippines which has been rewarded for being number one in terms of town and city participation level for three straight years.

WWF-Phils.

Earth Hour communication head Gregg Yan hoped that the country could still make it to the top this year.

The country was the first Asian nation to pledge full support to Earth Hour in 2008.

Yan said the Philippines has set a recordbreaking in 2011 as 1,661 cities and municipalities switched off their lights, making the country a three-time Earth Hour champion and official Earth Hour ‘Hero Country.’

Dance craze to mark local Davao City to host Mindanao Earth Hour celebration environment summit DCWD employee’s forum. OIC assistant general manager for administration Midlred G. Aviles enjoins employees to be more active in helping the water utility achieve its plans and programs for 2012.

T

HE first Mindanao Environment Summit will be hosted

by Davao City this coming April 20-22.

The summit, is a gathering of various stakeholders and concerned citizens with the aim of finding a common ground on answering the current problems brought about by climate change particularly in Mindanao.

“The impact of climate change is very clear to us; one example is Sendong which hit Cagayan de Oro and Iligan.” Says Ibno Hajar Turabin, chairperson of EarthSoul Solutions, a Mindanaobased environmental advocacy non-government organization; EarthSoul is spearheading the summit and the related event Green Caravan.

Turabin says that with divergent approaches in solving the climate change problems, they would want to find a common ground.

The summit will also highlight best environment-friendly practices in the fields of agricul-

ture, forestry and solid waste management.

Among these ideas which will be highlighted in the summit is a flowerbased biological control method for agri-pests, a do-nothing, spend nothing reforestation strategy and organic natural farming.

Turabin says he will refrain discussing in detail the ideas to be presented so that people will be more curious in going to the summit.

Also various ideas in the summit will be combined into a Mindanao Environment Protocol, which will also be signed during the event.

Apart from the summit, the Green Caravan slated April 17 to 19 will gather various environmental and natural farming advocates from the cities of Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Surigao, Cotabato and Davao at Peoples Park in this City.

The caravan will distribute educational materials on environmental protection and organic farming with the aim

of raising awareness among Mindanaoans on serious environmental issues and the need to take resolute action.

Meanwhile City Agriculture Office OIC head Leo Avila said that the City Government of Davao is fully supportive of the event in line with its mandate of promoting sustainable organic agriculture.

He bared that the City Mayor Sara Duterte herself immediately acted on the request of the Summit and Caravan organizers for the City to host the event which replied by offering the sprawling People’s Park as the venue for the caravan.

In return Turabin said that the group is fully supportive of the City’s leanings on organic agriculture, particularly in sharing technical assistance to organic farmers. He said that the local government is the first LGU in the country to have an Organic Agriculture ordinance. [PIA 11/RG ALAMA]

O

VER a thousand Davaoenos are expected to groove into a dance craze once the world goes into a sixtyminute voluntary blackout from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm in observance of Earth Hour 2012 on March 31.

A choreographed dance moves called the Davao Dance Craze together with black-light and fire dancing will mark the ceremonial switching-off of lights in the country’s 5th Earth Hour celebration aimed to save power and the environment.

Davao City is set to be in festive and street party mood during the event at SM City Davao which is chosen by the World Wide Fund for Nature-Philippines (WWF) to be the official switch-off site for Mindanao.

Maia Melencio, WWF marketing services manager, said the Earth Hour celebration in Davao will highlight a Kadayawanthemed parade around SM City Davao to start at the mall’s annex building at 6:00 pm.

Melencio told the media in a press conference on March 23 that WWFPhilippines National Ambassador Marc Nelson will

CARINA L. CAYON]

WWF-Philippines has partnered with SM City Davao and Green Alliance for Davao in staging the Earth Hour activities in Davao City.

[PIA-11/CARINA L. CAYON]

EDGEDAVAO

SUBURBIA

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11

DOE urges Davao Region households, schools to save electricity

T

LET THERE BE FISH. A vendor weighs newly harvested bangus (milkfish) from the nearby aquaculture farm at the mega market of Alabel, Sarangani’s capital town. The province is the home of the largest exporter and best tasting bangus in the country. Fish in land ponds are farmed in a careful mix of fresh water and salt water of Sarangani Bay to prevent them from developing an unpleasant muddy flavor and odor. Sarangani Bay’s biodiversity is twice richer than Carigara Bay in Northern Leyte, Sogod Bay in Southern Leyte, Bais Bay in Negros and Illana Bay in Northwestern Mindanao.

HE Department of Energy (DOE) has called on constituents in Davao Region to practice proper power saving measures in an aim to contribute to the nation’s energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) efforts.

Marlon Romulo Domingo, DOE senior science research specialist, urged every household in the region to embrace the EE&C measures during yesterday’s “Seminar on Electricity Conservation in Households and Schools.”

Domingo raised DOE’s call through the mothers, school heads, students and representatives from the local and natonal government agencies who attended said seminar held at the Abreeza Mall this city.

Domingo provided tips on energy conservation, starting with a pointer on the importance of basic energy audits such as knowing how many appliances and how much energy the appliances use.

Part also of the audit is to identify proper EE&C measures, he stated during the seminar spearheaded by DOE in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) as a preliminary activity for the worldwide celebra-

tion of the Earth Hour 2012 on March 31.

Domingo advised the participants to buy more efficient appliances citing a tip on buying air conditioning units, which consume the most electricity.

In his cooling tips, he recommended air conditioning unit with higher Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), adding that units should be installed in coolest and shady part of the room.

He said that air conditioning unit should only be used during warm days like in summer season, and advised to use electric fans in conjunction with the air condition units.

Thermostat of air conditioning unit must be set at comfortable temperature, and the electric fan setting must be set at comfortable level, he said.

Domingo also advised regular cleaning for both aircon and electric fan units, and that cooling system of the aircon should be checked annually.

In heating water, the DOE official recommended the following tips: lower thermostat; repair faucet leaks; reduce the amount of water use; insulate water heater and pipes; install aerating, low-flow faucets and showerheads; and con-

duct regular inspection.

Domingo gave out cooking tips emphasizing the suggestion of not using the stove as heating device; using pressurized cooker; and avoiding the use of microwaves to heat foods.

He reminded households and office employees as well as the students to always turn off lights when not in use in any room, and recommended to use Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) instead of the Incandescent Bulbs (IBs).

For the drivers, Domingo provided tips such as monitoring fuel consumption; planning travels; driving sensibly and to gas up wisely.

He also emphasized to get rid of all extra weights from the vehicle; to turn off engine while waiting; observe proper maintenance and to keep tires properly inflated, among others.

He told the participants to always remember that every liter of gasoline that a car burns puts 2.4 kilograms of carbon dioxide into the air which causes air pollution and brings harm to humans and to the environment.

Domingo concluded his talk underscoring DOE’s slogan dubbed as “Do Right. Be Bright.

Bright Now!” [PIA-11/CARINA L. CAYON]

TRANSPARENT GOVERNANCE. Provincial Administrator Vicente Camacho III (right) and Board Member Virgilio Clark Tobias (center) receive the plague of recognition given to the provincial government of Sarangani under the leadership of Gov. Migs Dominguez in recognition of his commitment and dedication to engage in the “Budget Tracking for Transparent Accountable Governance in Mindanao” (BTTAG) during the flag raising ceremony at Capitol Monday morning, March 26. The award was given to Sarangani budget office recently on the occasion of the BTTAG 2nd Policy Dialogue in Davao City.

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WORLD/NATION

NATION BRIEFS INTEGRATE

T

HE government is exhausting all means to be part of the region’s capital market to enable companies to be at level playing field vis-à-vis their counterparts overseas, said Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima on Tuesday.

He explained that there are huge funds sloshing in the global economy but local companies are being hindered by the size of the domestic economy along with some regulations in tapping these prospective investments.

T

ON ALERT

HE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday has placed all its units on alert footing as large numbers of people are going home to their respective provinces for the Holy Week holidays.

“The alert status of the entire PNP is placed at full alert status effective 5 p.m. today,” PNP spokesperson Chief Supt.

Agrimero Cruz Jr., said, adding that the alert order was issued to prevent the possibility of occurrence of accidents, crimes, and terror attack during Lenten season.

JOINT TRAINING

T

HE Philippine Navy (PN) plans to send a contingent of Filipino sailors to the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN)’s Naval Shipyard X46 for training on the art of modern warship construction.

Naval Shipyard X46, also known as Hai Long Shipbuilding, is equipped with state-of-the-art shipbuilding equipment and is capable of constructing modern, highspeed warships weighing up to 500 tons. This proposal came up during PN flag-officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Alexander Pama’s visit to Vietnam early this month.

NO DECISION

P

RESIDENT Benigno S. Aquino III is leaving the decision whether or not to annul the voter’s registration list of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to the Commission on Elections en banc.

In an interview during a lull in a meeting he presided over to discuss and get updates on said list, the President said the COMELEC en banc would know “how to exactly proceed” in addressing the issue.

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EDGEDAVAO

WORLD TODAY

Myanmar military says it’s F acting in national interest M

YA N M A R’ S commander-inchief defended the army’s political role and vowed to protect the junta-drafted constitution Tuesday at the first armed forces day parade since military rule ended.

General Min Aung Hlaing said unelected military representatives sitting in parliament were acting “in the national interest” and “just performing a national political duty.”

“I would like to say that the Tatmadaw (military) is just participating in the leading role of national politics of the country with its true national spirit as well as the union spirit,” he said.

The general was speaking to about 13,000 troops at a relatively lowkey parade for armed forces day, which marks the day Burmese troops rose up against the Japanese in 1945 towards the end of World War II. It was the first armed forces day celebration since a nominally civilian government took power on March 30 last year, ending nearly five decades of outright military rule.

The armed forces retain much of their power, however, with 25 percent

SALUTE. Myanmar’s army chief General Min Aung Hlaing (C) salutes military officers and attaches during a ceremony marking the 67th anniversary of the Armed Forces Day in Naypyidaw

of seats in parliament reserved for the military under the 2008 constitution enacted by the then ruling junta.

“Our Tatmadaw has to respect and obey as well as preserve the state constitution, which is the same as our country’s life, together with all nationals,” Min Aung Hlaing said.

“I would like to say that our Tatmadaw will protect and maintain the constitution as its main duty while building a new modern and developed democratic nation,” he said.

President Thein Sein, a former general, was not

present at what was a purely military affair, with just 400 guests, including officials, veterans and media.

Also absent was former junta chief Than Shwe, who ruled with an iron fist for almost two decades and retired as head of the military days after handing power to the new government last year.

Unlike Than Shwe, who used to inspect troops from an open topped car, General Min Aung Hlaing reviewed the soldiers on foot.

The 2010 elections which swept the army’s political allies to power

were marred by widespread complaints of cheating and by the absence of Aung San Suu Kyi, who was again in detention and released a few days afterwards.

But the new regime has since surprised even critics by implementing sweeping changes, including welcoming Suu Kyi’s party back into mainstream politics and releasing hundreds of political prisoners.

Suu Kyi is standing in April 1 by-elections which could see her win a seat in a parliament dominated by the military and its allies.

ernor Mujiv S. Hataman said that the initiative is “the regional government’s commitment to deliver development projects to its constituency.”

“The people should feel that there is indeed true good governance in ARMM and we are here to do that for you. This road project is among the many things we want to deliver in the region for all of you to benefit from,” Hataman said. The groundbreaking coincided with the “Kanduli” (Muslim feast).

Deputy Gov. Samsudin Dimaukom, on the other hand, said that “the project is an important avenue for boosting the town’s economy because it will facilitate the transport of goods and products from and to the market.”

Also present during the “Kanduli” ceremony were 6th Infantry Division Commander Major General Rey C Ardo AFP, 6th Infantry Division

commander of the Philippine Army, members of the Nonviolent Peace Force, and various local executives of Maguindanao, namely Mayor Zahara Ampatuan of Shariff Aguak, Mayor Zajid Mangudadatu of Pandag and Mayor Ibrahim Ibay of Parang.

Meanwhile, the joint Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) has been instrumental to Mindanao development efforts by securing conflict-affected areas where infrastructure projects are being implemented.

Apart from their duty of keeping a watchful eye the truce between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation (MILF), the CCCH is also helping bring development in the region.

The GPH-CCCH, the joint ceasefire mechanism irons out security issues that concern the

implementation of farmto-market roads and other infrastructure projects in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao, specifically the Makar-Midsayap National Highway at the section of Barangay Pagatin, Datu Salibo; Brgys.

Libutan, and Tukanalipao in Mamasapano in Maguindanao.

Government and MILF members who were present during the conference manifested cordial relationship, which is a strong indication that the ceasefire is holding very well. The CCCH is composed of members from the GPH and the MILF, as well as neutral parties.

Established in 2003, it has been tasked to monitor the implementation of the GPH-MILF Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities and resolve complaints over ceasefire violations so that small skirmishes do not intensify. [PNA]

Road to peace in Mindanao pushed

W

ITH the peace talks between the government and Muslim rebel ongoing and the ceasefire mechanism in place – the road to peace is brighter than ever with the infusion of P8 billion by the government as stimulus fund for various projects in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Its initial project is the development of the multimillion pesos Makar-Midsayap national highway in Central Mindanao dubbed as the “Road to Peace,” the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said.

Initiated by the provincial government of Maguindanao under Gov. Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu, the road project was funded under the P8billion stimulus fund earmarked by the ARMM. During the groundbreaking ceremony early this week, ARMM Officerin-Charge Regional Gov-

SEIZED

IJI’S military regime said it had seized control of national carrier Air Pacific from Australia’s Qantas Wednesday because it did not want foreigners to own or control Fijian airlines.

The South Pacific nation’s government, which took power in a 2006 coup, denied the move amounted to nationalisation, saying it fixed an anomaly that gave Qantas control of the carrier while having only a 46.3 percent stake.

T

REBUKED

HE Japanese government on Wednesday approved three new high school textbooks that claim Dokdo as Japanese territory, sparking protests from the Korean government.

Dokdo still remains a thorny issue between Korea and Japan. Located in the East Sea, the small islets are administered by Korea, which has its Coast Guard stationed there.

SPY

F

ACEBOOK is turning out to be a spy’s best friend, after it was used in the theft of private data of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) officials. Senior British military officers and Ministry of Defence officials were among those who fell for the scam, according to a report on UK’s The Telegraph.

The report said the officials accepted “friend requests” from a bogus account for American Admiral James Stavridis, NATO’s supreme Allied commander.

RECORDED

T

HE man who went on a shooting spree in a French Jewish school may have recorded his crime with an extreme sports video camera strapped to his chest, Interior Minister Claude Gueant said Tuesday.

The unidentified man thought to have been behind three recent shootings, including Monday’s killing of three children and a teacher at the school in southwestern city Toulouse, may want to post his footage on the Internet.

EDGEDAVAO

Taxi... Summit...

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sumed that this is the general opinion of other taxi associations,” Violan said.

The LTFRB officer said that out of the 3,500 approved taxicabs in the city, Medatoa has 2,500 units while the DCTSC has about 50 taxis.

Violan said taxi operators have long manifested their desire for a fare hike.

“It was supposed to be before the Araw ng Davao pa nga eh, pero naabutan sila ng Araw ng Davao so na-delay,” he said.

“Perhaps after ng Semana Santa, they will file their petition for a P10.00 flag down rate hike,” Violan added.

Meanwhile, Violan said the LTFRB 11 has pending approval for hundreds of new taxi units in addition to the 3,500 registered taxis in the city.

“We have upcoming 700 new taxis in the city but these are still pending,” he said.

The LTFRB national board’s en banc decision increasing the flag down rate from P30 to P40 was implemented starting January of last year.

The P2.50 rate for every 300 meters following the first 500 meters was also increased to P3.50.

power stakeholders slated in Davao City after the Holy Week.

“The President understands the full account of the Mindanao power situation and has taken quick steps to address the power shortage problem with great resolve,” she said.

Antonino also said that “the President wanted that solutions be discussed as shared consensus of the Mindanao stakeholders.”

She said MinDA had been doing initial rounds of consultations with Mindanao power stakeholders, industry players, local chief executives and lawmakers to generate common understanding of the power issue and draw out collective recommended measures.

“The President’s objective is for everyone to be part of the effort to stabilize power supply situation in the short term with lesser impact possible on power rates, and ensure sustainable long term energy secu-

DCWD...

rity in Mindanao,” she said.

Without giving further details as these would form part of the discussion during the scheduled Mindanao dialogue, Antonino said the identified immediate measures so far were projected to generate an indicative aggregate capacity of 219 megawatts (MW), which is enough to address current 150170-MW power deficit.

Meanwhile, the Association Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperatives (AMRECO) noted that electric cooperatives and distribution utilities have responded positively to the recent circular of DOE which ordered compliance to certain directives aimed at addressing the power situation in Mindanao.

Clint Pacana, AMRECO executive director, said the DOE circular restored confidence and trust in the power system and that voluntary adherence and compliance by those concerned could be very well expected. [PNA]

Aquino...

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barangays, especially in the hinterlands, “are only partially served.”

Magsuci said that if the water district does cannot get a loan from the Local Water Utilities Authority, there “are many banks that have already expressed interest to fund it.”

The fund for the project is part of the P11 billion that the water district is proposing for its 20112018 Medium Term Development Plan.

The project, which will be in three phases, with the last phase getting on board by 2026, is expected to provide water services to 11 new barangays and improve its water delivery in about 20 barangays which are partly served, said Engr.

Jonalei E. Bermudez of the engineering department.

This year, the water district is spending about P1.3 billion, with about P300 million intended for capital expenditures, including the start of the repiping of its transmission system within the downtown area.

The repiping of the transmission system in the downtown area needs about P624 millon, said Magsuci, adding that the water district is slowly

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implementing the project by phase.

Based on data from the water district, the government-owned water utility will producec about 320,830 cubic meters by the end of this year to serve its 180,305 consumers, with about 59,198 cubic meters in capacity excess. Last year, the supply rated capacity was at 305,493 cubic meters with a demand of 257,511 cubic meters.

The water district is adding about 600 connections a month, or about 7,000 connections a year.

The water district is also anticipating a spike in the demand because of the continuing growth in real property developments, like the establishment of malls. One of these malls, the SM Lanang, is expected to open in August.

The water utility decided to include in its plan surface water development based on the recommendation of the National Water Resources Board.

Earlier, the water district tried to block the entry of the Hedcor Inc., a subsidiary of the Aboitiz Power Corp., which was planning to also use the Tamugan River for its hydroelectric plant. The two utilities eventually agreed to co-exist in the area.[AD]

Export Corporation (TCCEC) under its long-term project on “Building Better Communities Through Civic Journalism” which started in 2002 with training programs.

This year, St. Luke’s Medical Center stands as the exclusive forum partner. Other major sponsors are Chevron Philippines, Inc., First Philippine Holdings Corporation, Liwayway Marketing Corporation, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, Anflo Management Investment Corporation, United Laboratories, Land Bank of the Philippines, Pilipinas Shell, McDonald’s Philippines, Smart Communications, Inc., and Petron Philippines. The United Print Media Group (UPMG) is the print media partner.

Tv5 agreed to give full coverage of the event.

The Philippine Press Institute is the national association of newspapers.

Its principal mandate is to protect press freedom and continuously professionalize newspapers via seminars, workshop, forums and strategic partnerships with other media organizations. It also collaborates with corporate supporters for the conduct of these activities.

NPAs in Mindanao up 20 percent

T

HE communist-led New People’s Army (NPA) in Mindanao has grown in numbers over the last two years, according to rebel spokesman Jorge Madlos, a.k.a. Ka Oris.

“We have formed additional platoons and increased our armed strength by almost 20 percent,” Madlos said in a statement sent to reporters on the eve of the 43rd founding anniversary of the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

He claimed the guerilla fronts of the NPA have increased to 42, up from 32 fronts three years ago.

“We have maintained 42 guerrilla fronts islandwide and increased the number of company-sized fronts,” Madlos said.

The communist rebels claim they have five regional party committees inmainland Mindanao.

Each regional party committee is reportedly maintaining at least a company-sized main regional guerrilla unit (MRGU) apart from sev-

Gov’t...

eral platoons of front guerrilla units (FGUs) distributed throughout the island.

The CPP-NPA rebellion is Asia’s longest running insurgency movement.

The NPA was founded on March 29, 1969 in Sta. Rita, Pampanga from remnants of the Hukbong Mapagpalaya ng Bayan (HMB), the armed wing of the old Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP).

From an undersized platoon of poorly equipped fighters with less than 25 rifles and handguns, the NPA has expanded throughout the archipelago and became a major threat to national security during the Marcos dictatorship.

It is believed that more than half of the total armed regulars of the NPA today are in Mindanao, also the seat of the Moro secessionist movement.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has placed the total strength of the NPA nationwide at a little over 4,000 fully

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to take their proper place in society and for government to give full support to the improvement of their well-being and their full participation in the community and to nation building considering that they are an integral and vital part of Philippine society,” she explained.

However, during the latest committee hearing, presided over by Rep. Maximo Dalog (Lone District, Mt. Province) in lieu of Chairman Teddy Brawner Baguilat, Jr., although appreciative of the need to provide privileges for the IPs, the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippine s argued that for healthcare services, the bill may no longer be necessary if Congress amends the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) Law. Atty Edsel Manuel of Mercury Drug Corporation lauded the noble purpose of the bill but urged the committee to recommend that the 20% discount given to qualified IPs be treated as a tax credit, which was what they enjoyed under the first senior citizens law but later changed to tax deductible income when the law was amended.

“The discount percentage and other provisions are subject to further determination and review by the TWG before a final version is approved by the committee,” a committee spot report revealed.

A Qualified Indigenous Person is a bona fide

member of the Indigenous Cultural Communicties/Indigenous Peoples, who is at least eighteen (18) years old and has an income of not more than P60,000,00 per annum subject to review by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) every three (3) years.

Catamco’s bill also grants exemption from the value-added tax purchases of medicines and other essential medical supplies; professional fees of attending physician/s in all private hospitals, medical facilities, outpatient clinic and homecare services; medical and dental services, diagnostic and laboratory fees including medical supplies in all private hospital and similar institutions.

The proposed discount privileges would also cover actual fare for land transportation travel in public utilities, light rail transit, air and sea vessels, and services of hotels and similar lodging establishments, theaters and other places of cultural leisure and amusement, restaurants, and funeral and burial services.

The Catamco bill also grants a minimum of 5% discount on, among other services, the utilization of water and electricity supplied by public utilities, provided that their monthly consumption does not exceed 100 KWH and the meters are in the name of the qualified IPs. (30) dpt

armed regulars.

Early this year, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Jessie Dellosa said the military is tightening its grip “against the NPA bandits with our focused combat operations.”

The AFP has been claiming that it has reduced the number of NPA regulars to its current strength from a high of 24,000 armed guerrillas during the height of the Marcos dictatorship.

Some estimates however said the armed strength of the NPAs in Mindanao has already equaled its 1980s level when the underground movement was at its peak.

The communist rebels shocked the military and the national government when they launched simultaneous attacks against three mining companies in Surigao del Norte in October last year.[EDWIN ESPEJO / MINDANEWS] Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao city Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a FILCAB Ordinary Regular Service.

JOVELYN P. TESTA, Petitioner Case No.2000-XI-01403 x- - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - x NOTICE HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a FILCAB Ordinary Regular service on the route: TIGATTO ROUTE with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on December 31, 2012. In the petition filed on January 31, 2012, petitioner requests authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on APRIL 4, 2012 at 09:40 a. m. at this office at the above address.

At least, FIVE (5) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 31st day of January 2012 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transport Development Officer /hoc Copy furnished: Petitioner, Jovelyn P. Testa, Prk. 2 Km. 8, Tigatto, Davao City Counsel, Atty. Napoleon F. Sango, Rm 204, Caritas Bldg., CM Recto St., Davao City NOTE: Affidavit of Publication and newspaper where notice was published must be submitted three (3) days before the scheduled hearing.

14 SPORTS

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CHAMPS. Members of the Montana Pawnshop celebrate after winning the Araw ng Dabaw Invitational Basketball Tournament over Phoenix Vega at the Davao City Recreation Center. (Boy Lim)

2 Davao woodpushers qualify for Asean tilt T

WO Davao chess players bagged individual titles and another finished third in the recent 2012 Gov. Moreno Natinal Age Group Chess Championship in Cagayan de Oro City.

Pocketing titles for Team Davao City are Ella Grace Moulic who bagged the Under-14 firls title and Austin Jacob Literatus who claimed the Under-16 boys title. Mary Israel Palero finished third in the Under-20 girls.

Moulic and Literatus will automatically earn the right to represent Philippine Team in the 13th ASEAN Age Grou Championship to be held in Hue, Vietnam on June 10-30.

Palero will join others in 2nd-5th places in an eliminator to determine the last 3 slots to qualify.

James Infiesto, NCFP regional vice president, congratulated the three woodpushers for their feat. “Their effort paid off in the tournament. I know they really prepared hard and they deserve their victory,” Infiesto said.

Freddy Adu’s Olympic dreams came to a heartbreaking end with a 3-3 draw to El Salvador in CONCACAF qualifying.

EDGEDAVAO Back to the old basketball formula

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

VANTAGE RUN. Edgar Ponce (right), Area Business Manager of Castrol Philippines, discuss the details of their sponsorship of the forthcoming Vantage Sports Run with the Masters on

April 15 at the Davao Crocodile Park during the weekly Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Sports Forum at the Tower Inn. With him are Vantage Sports’ Honey Sai and Kenneth Sai.

FTER a successful program that restored the respect, if not total glory, to the Philippines in Asian basketball, the Philippines is going back to its old formula.

It is retaining the brand, however.

Thus, the next Smart Gilas will be composed again of mostly PBA stars loaned out to the national team. It has dumped Rajko Toroman, the man which restored that respect and reinstated an old hand in Chot Reyes.

Not that I have less faith in our home-grown mentors, I believe Chot deserves the post too.

And I believe too that we owe Toroman our new-found respect.

So we are dumping the old formula of investing on amateur talents and keeping them together for a long time while honing their potentials as a team by giving them the much-needed international exposure.

Smart Gilas I has proven that formula works. The result was a semifinals finish in the recent FIBA Asia, our first stint in the Final Four in 16 years.

In place is an old system of picking up players from the PBA, train for a few weeks while keeping the PBA schedule on hold, and then hope that their individual skills will compensate for lack of teamwork.

In international play, there is too much impetus on teamwork and it boils down to familiarity. Unlike talent, familiarity is not acquired nor inborn.

It is honed in practice, in the sweaty gyms behind all the screaming fans.

Shaquille O’Neal, a

member of the Dream Team II, said that he believes European countries will catch up on the United States in no time despite playing with NBA superstars.

Reason? Individual talent is not what international play is all about.

It is back-to-the-basics basketball. Touch passing, a lot of running and premium on perimeter shooting, most specially the three.

This is not to lay premature judgment on the Smart Gilas II but I am simply confused why we have to go back to the old formula when this new one has been proven to work. Why do we always have to go back to square one and destroy an emerging working design?

How many times do we have to be taught the painful lesson that our basketball pros are not made for the international game? Sonny Jaworski, Jong Uichico, Tim Cone, Chot Reyes—they all tried that before. Never worked.

The Smart Gilas I was close to making it and it took them three years of playing together to reach the quality of play in the Asian level, until it was disbanded. Three years were not even enough.

Much less three months or so.

I hope I am wrong here. Maybe Chot has something up his sleeves.

Costly error ends Banal ready for world title fight USA’s Olympic hopes C

N

ASHVILLE, Tenn.

– On a night of swings and dips and controversy and drama – and one catastrophic error – the United States’ Olympic dreams were washed away amid a flood of tears.

The most rudimentary of follies from substitute goalkeeper Sean Johnson in the final seconds of injury time eliminated USA from the CONCACAF qualifying tournament in the cruelest fashion possible, as El Salvador snatched a 3-3 draw at LP Field.

The suddenness of it all, the end of an adventure that was supposed to span several more months and cross the Atlantic to London, was too much for

many players and head coach Caleb Porter to bear.

Porter bravely fought back tears in his press conference, nerves still raw and shredded, scarcely able to believe the hand fate had dealt him and his young team. Olympic soccer is played by squads of players in the Under-23 age bracket and, for some, Monday may have been their final night in a USA shirt.

Porter and Johnson had embraced in the locker room; the coach tried desperately to find some words of solace to offer a young man whose world collapsed with a mistimed dive that he would normally complete without a second thought.

EBU CITY– AJ “Bazooka” Banal said he is ready for a world title fight after his abbreviated fight with Mexican Raul Hidalgo Saturday night in the main event of Pinoy Pride 13-Road to Glory at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Cebu City. ”I’m ready for a world title fight. I’m ready for anyone they place in front of me,” Banal said.

Banal (27-1-1, 20 KOs) unloaded a devastating left hook to the head that knocked the senses out of Hidalgo (16-6, 12 KOs).

After receiving the vicious blow, the 23-yearold Mexican continued to punch but his legs wobbled awkwardly and his head was facing down.

To save Hidalgo, referee Danrex Tapdasan quickly intervened and waived the fight off in 2:29 of the first round.

The referee’s deci-

sion had mixed reactions from the crowd, and some thought it came too early.

However, Tapdasan firmly stood his ground that he did the right call. ”The fight shouldn’t continue because his legs were wobbling and shaking. I’m not a doctor but he was in a convulsion and it’s a dangerous situation. He wasn’t himself and he was punching me and the punches were really weak. One more strong punch and it could lead to a coma. The safety of the boxer should come first before entertainment,” Tapdasan said.

Hidalgo, who was for a moment disoriented by the debilitating haymaker, felt that the referee stepped in too soon. ”The referee should have counted. I’m mad because it was stopped.

Banal doesn’t hit hard,” said the young Mexican prospect.

ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer felt that the stoppage was the discretion of the referee. ”I don’t know if it was the right call. He (Hidalgo) looked a bit weird. It’s a judgment call,” he said.

Aldeguer said that it’s likely that Banal will be challenging for the World Boxing Organization bantamweight crown this year.

But Banal’s title fight depends on the decision of current titleholder Jorge Arce.

If Arce, who is slated to see action in the undercard of the Manny Pacquiao vs. Timothy Bradley fight, decides to move up a different weight division and leave the bantamweight title vacant, then No. 1-rated Banal and No. 2-ranked Thai Pungluang Sor Singyu will face off for the belt. [PNA]

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VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Out for lunch Gambas al ajillo

Paella de Mariscos

By Carlo P. Mallo

O

NE of the greatest luxuries in life is having the time to take long lunches. If you think that an hour of lunch is long enough, then you are eating too fast.

Bacalao ala vizcaina

Croquettas de Quezo Azul

Callos con garbanzos

Salpicao de Vaca

I have always believed, or it must have been the influence of Spain on me, that lunch should be two to three hours long, filled with good food, flowing conversations, and a bottomless jug of sangria. Yes, I’m feeling espagñole that way.

Last Sunday, while the sun was scorching and beating down on Davao City like there was no tomorrow, I traveled halfway across the city to the Pearl Farm Marina in Lanang to partake of the newest Spanish restaurant in town, Dos Mestizos.

Originally from the island of Boracay, Dos Mestizos offers a concoction of dishes that have origins traced from Spain but are actually recipes passed on from generation to generation of mestizo families in the country.

Owner Binggoy Remedios, who grew up in Davao City, decided to bring in his restaurant to the city upon the invitation of his good friend and frequent diner, Tonyboy Floirendo, another mestizo.

Paella Negra

If you think that there are already too many mestizos in Dos Mestizos, wait until you see the menu.

We started lunch with a glass of sangria, perfect for the hot, sunny weather of Davao City. “Our sangria is made with fresh fruits fermented for three to seven days,” Binggoy said while I was taking my second glass even before the tapas were served.

As with any Spanish restaurant, baskets of bread were served with pesto, and olive oil and balsamic vinegar, to signal the start of lunch. This was followed

by Bacalao ala Vizcaina or dried salted codfish in tomato sauce, which I should say had the perfect level of saltiness to it.

Callos con grabanzos, chorizo hecho por Dos Mestizos, salpicao de vaca, gambas al ajillo, and the mind-blowing croquettas de quezo azul came in one after the other, keeping our mouths busy munching and talking to each other in between gaps.

If there were two dishes that I will have to recom-

Chorizo hecho por Dos Mestizos

mend, it would have to be the croquettas de quezo azul, or blue cheese and béchamel croquettes, and the chorizo hecho por Dos Mestizos, or homemade Spanish sausage.

The main course was of course paella, paella negra and paella de mariscos.

While it may seem like a

Sangria

carbohydrate overload, you’ll forget about the world and all its problems with the wonderful burst of flavors that the two kinds of paella will give your palate.

As lunch was about to come to a close, I realized that one more thing that made Dos Mestizos the ideal place for lunches – it

was near the beach and the view offered greenery, the sea, and of ships passing through the Davao Gulf – could a view be more ideal than that? And of course, there’s no better way to enjoy the view when you have just finished lunch at half past two and a fresh jug of sangria to finish.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

EVENTS

Angeles City Mayor Edgardo “Ed” Pamintuan with Claude and Mary Ann Tayag

Davao’s famous cheesemaker Olive Puentespina (middle), rubber consultant Jack Sandique (right) and wife Joanne (left) receive their copy of Linamnam from Claude and Mary Ann Tayag

Linamnam Author Claude Tayag with former Philippine Ambassador to the United States of America Willy Gaa and wife Linda; and members of the author’s family Carmen Tayag-McTavish, Our Tribe‘s Mario Tayag, Lito Tayag, and Uppercrust’s Doren Tayag.

Claude Tayag’s ‘Linamnam’ launched at The Podium, SM Clark and SM Davao

I

F there is anything that can bring together government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, businessmen, corporate executives, members of the academe, artists, restaurant owners and chefs, it is good food. And this is exactly what happened when inveterate traveler, writer, and chef extraordinaire Claude Tayag recently launched Linamnam: Eating One’s Way Around the Philippines at The Podium’s Atrium in Ortigas Center.

Architect and biodynamic farmer Reimon Gutierrez, artist Impy Pilapil, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for Middle East and African Linamnam Author Claude Tayag, Doren Tayag, and Silverworks’ Lou Gutierrez Affairs Amb. Oscar Valenzuela and Mrs. Valenzuela

Carmen Tayag-McTavish, National Artist for Visual Arts BenCab and Linamnam author Claude Tayag and Mary Ann Tayag with Cabalen’s Ian Annie Sarthou and Dianne Tiongson

Chateau 1771 and Sentro owner Ricky Gutierrez, Linamnam Author Claude Tayag, Chateau 1771 and Sentro Executive Chef Vicky Rose Pacheco

SM Vice President for Marketing and Communications Millie Dizon and Regional Ambassador to the United Nations Philip Mabilangan Operations Manager Christian Mathay receive their copy of the Linamnam from Claude and the iconic cookbook author Nora Daza with Claude and Mary Ann Tayag Tayag

UNESCO Commissioner Felice Sta. Maria, Anvil Publishing Assistant Former Makati Representative Teodoro Locsin, Jr. with wife Louie General Manager Karina Bolasco, and former National Historical and Claude Tayag Commission Head Serafin Quiazon

Published by Anvil Publishing, Inc. the book is cowritten by his wife Mary Ann Quioc-Tayag. It is a food and travel guide that documents the couple’s adventures as they journey around the country in search of native specialties in each region.

Filled with reviews about places the couple has dined in, the book features cuisines that are arranged geographically from north to south— ranging from the empanada and bagnet of Ilocos Norte to the paksiw na bangus of Nueva Ecija; from Iloilo’s batchoy to Zamboanga City’s curacha. The pages of the food guide are regaled with photos of the scrumptious authentic dishes as they are served in their respective establishments. Entries also come with complete contact information, to help foodies and interested parties get in touch with the establishments. Readers are also in for a special treat, as the couple features food they consider as “house specialties,” like pancit, longganisa, tamales, okoy, as well as bottled goodies.

The featured essays received much praise from both local and international foodies and personalities.

Sunday Inquirer Magazine food columnist Margaux Salcedo calls Claude and Mary Ann the “it” couple of the foodie scene in Manila, while author Ada Mabilan-

gan says that they are the perfect team, melding creativity and practicality to come up with the most fantastic creations. Tom Parker Bowles, food editor at Esquire magazine, U.K., claims that the couple opened his “eyes (and belly) to the wonders of Filipino food,” while Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos encourages everyone to “discover the thrill” of the dishes featured in the book, capping it off with an invitation “Mangan tayo!”

During the event, The Podium’s Atrium was filled with foodies and food lovers who had come to congratulate Claude on his new book. These included Philippine cuisine icons Glenda Barretto and Nora Daza, former Congressman Teddyboy Locsin and wife Louie, UNESCO Commissioner Felice Sta. Maria, writer Mickey Fenix, as well as owners of the restaurants featured in the book.

Members of the diplomatic corps also graced the book launch – HE Former Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy Gaa and wife Linda, HE Ambassador to the United Nations Philip Mabilangan, and DFA Assistant Secretary for the Middle East and African Affairs Oscar Valenzuela. It was also a gathering of artists – National Artist BenCab, Impy Pilapil, Reimon Gutierrez, and photographers Neal

Oshima and Wyg Tysmans.

Claude’s fellow Kapampangans also came in full force with his family members taking the lead. SM executives led by Vice President for Marketing Millie Dizon, Regional Operations Manager Christian Mathay, and The Podium Mall Manager Michael Ong welcomed them.

Linamnam was also launched in SM malls – at SM City Clark in Claude’s hometown oin Pampanga, and in SM City Davao. Angeles City Mayor Edgardo “Ed” Pamintuan and Angeles City Vice Mayor Vicky VegaCabigting led the guests in Clark, which included many members of Claude’s family. More recently, Linamnam was launched last February 16 with restaurant owners such as Mr. Philip Ang of Ahfat Seafoods Plaza, and Mr. and Mrs. Vermil Sato of Palovince Restaurant, as well as Olive Puentespina, Davao’s famous cheesemaker.

Linamnam’s partner establishments include the Department of Tourism, the Pampanga Tourism Office, Clark International Airport Corporation, Manila North Tollways Corporation, ACCU Maps, Unilever, PLDT, Bank of the Philippine Islands, San Miguel Pure Foods, National Bookstores, and SM. The book launch of Linamnam: Eating One’s Way Around the Philippines is one of the many exciting events at The Podium, SM City Clark, and SM City Davao.

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

Ian Somerhalder to haunt Davao

By Carlo P. Mallo

BY far the hottest vampire on television, Ian Somerhalder, who plays the role of the dashing Damon on hit TV series Vampire Diaries, is going to haunt Davao City on April 29.

The actor will be at Abreeza Mall here in Davao, part of his Ayala Malls hopping during that weekend.

Aside from his bold blue eyes, here are more facts about Ian Somerhalder that will explain what the fuss is all about: *Began modeling at age 10, modeled for Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabanna, Gucci, Versace and Guess. *Was the face of Guess? for two consecutive Fall seasons. *He doesn’t like to talk about his modeling career because of the impressions people might get of him as being just another pretty face. *Played varsity football and baseball. *The first actor to be cast as one of the survivors in “Lost” (2004). *In 2005, he bulked up, adding about 20 to 30 pounds of muscle to his slim frame, so he would be considered for more leading-man-type roles. *Has said in an interview he was planning to buy a home in Hawaii

“I have a million acquaintances but just two or three true friends. I can’t hide anything from them.” when filming the hit show “Lost” but couldn’t after his character was killed off in the show. *He has a brother, Robert (Bob), and a sister, Robyn. Their parents divorced when he was thirteen. *His father, Robert Somerhalder, was a building contractor of French and English descent, and his mother, Edna, who is of Irish and Choctaw descent, grew up on a pig farm in Mississippi. *Grew up with his mother, whom he has described as being “very spiritual”. *Attended Catholic school. (Trivia compiled by iMDB)

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EDGEDAVAO

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VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

FOOD

Pofta Buna: The start of something delicious I

cringe whenever someone invites me to an eat-all-you-can meal.

Not only does it set me back weeks in my diet, but to remember each and every calorie and how much effort I need to do to burn them off makes me avoid such meals like the plague.

This means that I try and make every calorie count and that only great tasting food makes its way onto my plate. This philosophy of mine though often leads me to problems especially when almost everything tastes good. One such time was during the recently held Pofta Buna food festival last March 16 to 17 at the Pryce Business Park.

Pofta Buna gathered a mouth-gathering array of restauranteurs, caterers, chefs, and even food hobbyists together, giving Davao’s urbanites a small sampling of what these food establishments offer. And boy were the offers diverse!

From grilled burgers, to Ilocano favorites; tasty kebabs, to scrumptious paella, the food festival was like a virtual tour of the Philippines and beyond.

One of my personal favorites from Pofta Buna are Ilocano bibingkas from Vigan Delicacies with texture as soft as Japanese mochi but served with a little salty cheese on top. I actually went and tasted this even before I went about tasting other offerings.

I admit I am an appetizer, dessert person, so entrees usually take the back seat whenever I eat about. Thus another favorite from the festival would be the egg tarts and asian style breads (think BreadTalk) by Homemade Joy. I know I am a sticker when it comes to egg tarts yet their egg tarts somehow bring me back to Hong Kong, maybe. Is it because of the

pastry chef’s training in Hong Kong?

There were of course other shining stars on the side of the entrees too, like Belito’s Paella Negra, Café Aseya’s Pad Thai and Satay, and of course Gino’s oh so juicy burgers (which were served an hour late but which I also ate nonetheless, no sense in wasting good food).

I wanted to try the many other offerings but sadly, I can only consume SO much. Maybe, I should leave more space for the next Pofta Buna food festival? [Follow me on twitter @kennethkingong for more foodie and travel finds.]

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

MCGEE-LAS...

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FFROM 16

firmed that McGee has signified his desire.

“Just heard from Coach Chot [Reyes] that the Philippine national team is about to be formed. Would love to represent the Philippines if given the chance,” wrote McGee on his Twitter account.

According to reports, the Smart Gilas organization has already made representations with a congressman for the sponsorship of the naturalization bill. Naturalization is a process of vesting citizenship to a non-citizen and bestowing upon the naturalized individual all the rights

of a citizen as if he is a natural-born citizen.

If McGee acquires Filipino citizenship, he will be among the active NBA players playing for national teams in Asia.

The others are Hamed Hadidi of the Houston Rockets who plays for Iran and Yi Jianlian who plays for China.

On the other hand, New York sensation Jeremy Lin is half Taiwanese and could be eligible for Chinese-Taipei if he elects to pick ChineseTaipei as his citizenship without need for naturalization.

McGee is a first round pick of the Wash-

ington Wizards in 2008 and was traded midway through this season to the Denver Nuggets. He averages 11.9 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game in the 2012 NBA season.

Only last Tuesday, MacGee moved into the starting line-up for the Nuggets and quickly made an impact. Making his first start as a Nugget, he had 10 points, eight rebounds and two blocks in the win over the Chicago Bulls.

Will the naturalization of McGee prosper?

This many basketball fans hope is no longer rumor.

centers Enrico Villanueva and Sonny Thoss.

The list includes six players from two-time defending Philippine Cup champions Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters, which Reyes is scheduled to leave at the end of the season to take over SMART-Gilas duties full time. Two players each from the Alaska Aces, BMEG Llamados, Petron Blaze Boosters, and Powerade Tigers were named to the pool, while one player each was selected

from the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

No players were chosen from the Air 21 Express, Meralco Bolts, and Barako Bull Energy.

Notably absent from the list are standouts from the original SMART-Gilas Pilipinas program such as JV Casio, Chris Lutz, and Japeth Aguilar. Lassiter, Williams, De Ocampo, and Alapag all suited up for the national team in the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship.

This is not yet the final

lineup, as it is still subject to approval by the PBA and the individual teams.

But PBA chairman Mamerto Mondragon said the league is open to expanding the list.

“We wanted to give Chot nga up to 20 players to be enlisted in the pool, then bahala na sya kung anong plano niya for the players,” Mondragon said.

Apart from PBA players, the new SMART-Gilas program will also include top amateur and collegiate standouts.

16 PBA stars named to Gilas II

GILAS II. (Clockwise) James Yap, Gary David, Arwind Santos, Alex Cabagnot and Jason Castro, and Marcio Lassiter.

N JIMMY IN, JV OUT. Jimmy Alapag (left) will take over the starting role as point guard for Team Pilipinas replacing JV Casio (right) who was snubbed in the Chot Reyes list.

Wozniacki drops Serena 6-4 6-4 K

EY BISCAYNE, Fl orida—Serena Williams’ bid for a record sixth Key Biscayne title ended Tuesday night when she lost in the quarterfinals of the Sony Ericsson Open to former No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki, 6-4, 6-4.

“I made her run,” Wozniacki said.

Wozniacki served well and was content to keep the ball in play from the baseline, using her retrieving skills to extend rallies until Williams would make a mistake. Williams hit 34 winners to 12 for Wozniacki, but also committed 36 unforced errors to the Dane’s 13.

“Everyone I play always plays the match of the year,” Williams said.

Williams, seeded 10th, was playing in her first tournament since January after being sidelined by a left ankle injury. She hasn’t won a title since August.

“I probably played about 20 percent,” Wil-

liams said. “I just made a tremendous amount of errors. There’s no reason for that. I’m older and I shouldn’t do that. There’s no excuse. I’ve just got to stop that. It’s silly.”

Rafael Nadal swept five consecutive games midway through his match, propelling him to a 6-4, 6-4 win over Kei Nishikori to reach the quarterfinals.

The victory was by far Nadal’s most taxing of the tournament, and he took a medical timeout late in the opening set for treatment of his troublesome left knee. Even so, he’s one round closer to his first Key Biscayne title.

“I am not probably in perfect condition today with the left knee,” he said. “But the important thing is to try to win as many matches as possible. For me this is an important tournament, and every victory has very, very big value for me, especially without being perfect.”

Nadal, a three-time

E W LY- i n s t a l l e d SMART-Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes has named his initial 16-man PBA pool for the national program.

Named to the elite 16 pool were guards Jimmy Alapag, Alex Cabagnot, Jayson Castro, LA Tenorio, Gary David, and Ryan Reyes, swingmen James Yap, Larry Fonacier, Gabe Norwood, and Marcio Lassiter, forwards Arwind Santos, Ranidel de Ocampo, Marc Pingris, and Kelly Williams, and

STRETCHED. Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark reaches out for the ball during her match against Serena Williams of the USA on day 9 of the Sony Ericsson Open at Crandon Park Tennis Center in Key Biscayne, Florida.

runner-up at Key Biscayne, lost the final last year toNovak Djokovic, and they could meet again Sunday. The top-ranked Djokovic reached the final eight by beating No.

17-seeded Richard Gasquet7-5, 6-3.

No. 2 Maria Sharapova became the first semifinalist when she drubbed reigning French Open champion Li Na

6-3, 6-0. Sharapova had lost their previous four meetings.

“I just really wanted to change that,” she said, “so I was extremely focused and, you know,

looking forward to the match.”

Like Nadal, Sharapova seeks her first Key Biscayne title. She lost the final in 2005, 2006 and last year.

16

SPORTS

MCGEE-LAS! Yes, he can dunk with two balls, but will Javale McGee slam it for both NBA and Smart Gilas?

By Neil Bravo

PROSPECT. Javale McGee of the Denver Nuggets (shown here in the 2011 NBA Slam Dunk contest) could be the next naturalized player for the Smart Gilas.

VOL.5 ISSUE 19 • MARCH 29, 2012

J

EDGEDAVAO

avale McGee, the slamdunking forward of the Denver Nuggets will be the next naturalized player for the Philippines.

That’s the rumor.

Sixteen PBA players were named to the pool of players to make up the Smart Gilas II. That’s the news.

Shortly after newly-designated national basketball coach Chot Reyes named his 16-man pool from the PBA ranks, reports also broke out of the possible naturalization for the NBA star who has himself declared a desire to play for the country.

T h e

7-foot McGee, a University of Nevada-Reno alum, is reportedly interested to play for the country after playing in the Smart Ultimate AllStars Games here last year in the height of the NBA lockout. He came back to sign as endorser for Smart making appearances in the country including Davao.

Smart Gilas operations manager Butch Antonio revealed in a news report that they are already working on the naturalization papers of McGee to make him eligible to play as a naturalized player.

Last year, Marcus Douthit was formally given naturalization by virtue of House Bill 2307 which allowed the 6-11 former-Lakers draftee to play for the Gilas in the FIBA championships where the country finished fourth, its best finish in 16 years.

Reyes himself con-

FMCGEE-LAS, 15