Edge Davao 5 Issue 206

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VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

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Sara: bomber better if alive I

Daghan pa unta makuha nga info!

f Mayor Sara Duterte would have it, the slain suspected Jemaah Islamiyah terrorist would have been more useful alive than dead.

Duterte pointed out the evidential value of a possible testimony from the slain bomber than simply

Police on double full alert status

stop him dead on his track but nevertheless lauded the police for be-

ing able to prevent what could have been another December bombing incident in Davao City.

The suspected Jemaah Islamiyah member identified as Mohd fikrie bin Abdul Kahar was killed by po-

FSARA, 11

Page 14

Follow Us On SONATA-INSPIRED. People gather to witness the much awaited lighting of Mana Davao’s Sonata-inspired Christmas decoration along J.P. Laurel Ave. Sunday night. The establishment’s Christmas decoration and display is already part of the city’s Yuletide season tradition. LEAN DAVAL JR.

Search for fishers missing after ‘Pablo’ continues

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eArCherS are focusing on the northeastern seas of Indonesia for over 300 fishermen from General Santos City and nearby Sarangani province who have remained missing in the wake of Typhoon “Pablo” the past two weeks.

Marfenio Tan, former president of the Socsksargen federation of fishing and Allied Industries Inc. (SffAII), said more rescue vessels proceeded on Monday to the seas off North Sulawesi province in Indonesia to search for missing crew members of the close to 50 fishing vessels that have gone unaccounted for following the weather disturbance.

“These are the areas towards which most fishermen who encounter offshore

accidents usually drift,” he said in a radio interview.

Tan said three rescue vessels from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and two others from the Philippine Navy and the Bureau of fisheries and Aquatic resources are presently leading the search and rescue operations.

Several fishing vessels commissioned

by SffAII also joined the operations, which are being coordinated by Task force Maritime Search and rescue SarGen (Sarangani/General Santos City).

Two Islander planes from the Philippine Air force and a P-3C Orion maritime surveillance aircraft from the United States Navy have also been scouring the

FSEARCH, 11

2 THE BIG NEWS

Peace nego on Annexes ends, tasks unfinished

T

he government and Moro Islamic Liberation front (MILf) peace panels ended this week’s talks on the Annexes to the framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (fAB) with no joint statement on what transpired during the four-day negotiations in Kuala Lumpur and no date set for the next meeting. MindaNews sources in Kuala Lumpur said the two panels, which are supposed to finish before yearend the Annexes on Power-Sharing, Wealth-Sharing, Normalization and on Transitional Arrangements and Modalities, extended by one day their December 12 to

After Pablo

14 schedule and ended at around 7:15 p.m. Saturday, December 15, with none of the Annexes finished.

Signed on October 15 in Malacanang in the presence of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohammad hajib Bin Tun Abdul razak, MILf chair Al haj Murad ebrahim, the diplomatic corps, civil society, the Aquino Cabinet, the MILf Central Committee and commanders, the fAB provides for the creation of a new autonomous political entity that would replace the Autonomous region in Mus-

FPEACE, 11

Education under tents

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

New Bataan village chief: ‘We are luckier than they’

By Anthony S. Allada

N

eWS reports on a television set powered by a generator in a village of New Bataan, Compostela Valley has made residents there realize they were luckier than typhoon victims elsewhere.

“We also lost property, sources of living, potable water supply and other basic needs, but as we were glued to television in the past days watching the extent of devasta-

tion in other parts of the province, we can say that we are luckier than they,” Alex Luga, barangay captain of Magangit, said in the vernacular.

Luga said that since power supply has yet to be restored in their place, he initiated to borrow a generator unit so that residents could at least monitor news on a television set in the barangay hall.

“We gather at the ba-

rangay hall to monitor the latest news. This really helps us to know what has been happening elsewhere,” he said. he said they had received relief goods twice from the DSWD, but since it was still not enough, “I have to use the barangay’s calamity fund for the basic needs of the residents.”

Most of the residents in the barangay had been dependent on farming,

but with their crops devastated by the typhoon they have to look to the government and other donors for financial support.

“But we are still happy that we had no fatalities here,” Luga said.

Other barangays, especially Andap, suffered the most number of deaths in New Bataan with the latest count of over 500 and 237 still missing.

S

TUDeNTS in elementary and high school whose classrooms were destroyed

by Typhoon Pablo on December 4 will soon be holding classes in tents, Deped assistant regional director Nenita Lumaad, said. Lumaad told MindaNews that the UNICef has donated 56 “learning space tents” which will be distributed to the worst hit areas in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental.

The tents come with blackboards but do not include chairs, she said, adding that the Deped will be purchasing 200 tents to serve as temporary classrooms by January. except for the worst hit towns in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental, classes resumed on December 10 in certain towns of the two provinces and other affected areas in Davao del Norte.

But the classes are only for three to four hours. Students in the worst hit towns will return to school – or the “learning space tents” -by January. [Carolyn O. Arguillas/MindaNews]

DETAILS. P/SSupt. Ronald dela Rosa, Davao City Police Office chief (right), shares the details of the incident involving an alleged Malaysian suicide bomber and believed to be a member of Jemaah Islamiyah who allegedly attempted to detonate an improvised explosive device late Friday night while Mayor Sara Duterte

Carpio listens during the City Peace and Order Council special meeting at the City Hall yesterday. LEAN DAVA L JR.

Villar foundation helps typhoon Pablo victims

T

he Villar foundation has been helping the government in the ongoing relief operations after super typhoon Pablo unleashed its fury in the Visayas and Mindanao.

The Villar foundation, through its managing director, former Las Pinas rep. Cynthia Villar, has sent thousands of food packs to typhoon victims in Misamis Oriental, Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental, and Compostela Valley, which are among the provinces slammed by typhoon Pablo, one of the hardest to hit the country this year.

Thousands of bottled water,

also coming from the foundation, were likewise distributed to the typhoon victims in Davao Oriental.

At the same time, hundreds of blankets were given to the victims, particularly those in the evacuation centers across Mindanao, which was ravaged by the typhoon that packed 175-kilometers per hour wind.

Due to the huge number of people that were affected by the super typhoon, Villar noted that the government cannot do it alone in attending to their needs.

“So this is one of those trying times when we need the help and

coordinated efforts of everyone to ease the burden of the typhoon victims who had to go through physical and emotion sufferings due to this tragedy. Let us do our share to lessen their difficulties by giving donations, or anything that could help them,” said Villar. “for instance, we can give them old clothes, blankets, mats, mosquito nets and other materials that could at least make comfortable their stay in evacuation centers,” said Villar who pointed out that the foundation established by her husband, Senator Manny Villar, does not only attend

to the needs of Overseas filipino Workers.

She said the Villar foundation provides other assistance especially during times of natural calamities.

“We also express our sincerest condolences to those who lost their loved ones in this,” said Villar.

This extreme weather condition, Villar said, is the reason why we need heightened disaster preparedness to mitigate the damage, She said our local government units should always be ready to address the concerns of all the victims.

Soldiers welcome suspension For Pablo’s victims of military ops in the holidays Muslim doctors’ medical

M

eMBerS of the 10th Infantry Division welcomed the declaration of the Suspension of Military Operation (SOMO) from midnight of December 16 to 1:00 am on January 3.

Lt. Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division said the SOMO is a big reprieve to residents, especially in areas hard hit by Typhoon Pablo but having a presence of communist rebels.

he said protecting civilian communities will continue to be a top priority even with the Yuletide ceasefire.

“We will continue to employ tighter security measures to ensure the safety and security of residents within our areas of responsibility,” Paniza said. he said that the soldiers are exerting more effort to look for missing victims and to reach out to far-flung barangays which need more assistance in

the ongoing relief operations.

Captain Severino David, spokesperson of the eastern Mindanao Command, confirmed receiving an order from higher headquarters about the declaration of SOMO nationwide. he said the SOMO will give more elbow room to the conduct of search, rescue, and retrieval and relief operations in areas hard hit by Typhoon Pablo.

David said soldiers in

FSOLDIERS, 11

mission set on Christmas

D

OCTOrS and nurses assigned in the typhoon-hit towns in Davao Oriental can spend Christmas home with their families as Muslim doctors and nurses from Maguindanao have volunteered to take over on December 18 to 25. “They said they don’t celebrate Christmas anyway, so they chose those dates so that doctors and nurses in these areas can

take a break and spend Christmas with their families,” nurse Mary Divene hilario, Information Officer of the Department of health regional office here told MindaNews friday afternoon.

The doctors will be coming from the Integrated Provincial health Office in Maguindanao and Buluan, the hometown of Maguindanao Goveror esmael

Mangudadatu. hilario said several medical teams from local government units outside the region have come to provide health services to the typhoon survivors such as Team Cagayan de Oro, Team Zamboanga, Team Albay and Team Cebu.

Teams from private groups have been doing their own medical missions, as

FFOR, 11

SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 206 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

3

Cops donate P2-M for shelters of `Pablo’ victims P hILIPPINe National Police (PNP) Chief Nicanor A. Bartolome yesterday turned over P2 million to Social Welfare and Development Acting regional Director Priscilla N. razon as help for the reconstruction of houses of typhoon Pablo victims.

In a simple turnover ceremony, Bartolome, set to retire Wednesday, said the amount is the contribution of all members of the police forces in the country.

In accepting the donation, razon said the amount will be used in building 28 permanent houses for victims of the typhoon.

“Ilalaan natin ito sa pagtatayo ng mga permanenteng tahanan (We will

set aside this amount for the construction of their homes,” razon said.

The Core Shelter Assistance Program of the agency provides homes to victims of disasters and one of its features is that houses are built so they could withstand strong winds of up to 185 kilometers an hour, earthquakes, floods and other calamities.

As of Sunday, assistance to about 200,000 families, or 837,550 individuals who suffered from the disaster already reached P47 million, with P27.4 coming from the agency, P13.8 from local government units and about P6 million from non-government-organizations and other government agencies.

[DSWD/Leslie Lao-francisco’

CONTRIBUTION. Police Director General Nicanor A. Bartolome turns over a replica of a P2 million check to Department of Social Welfare and Development OIC Regional Director Priscilla N. Razon as contribution of members of the Philippine National

Police for victims of typhoon Pablo. The money will be used in building permanent houses of the victims. Looking on are General Jaime H. Morente of Police Regional Office (PRO) XI (left) and DSWD Assistant Secretary Vilma B. Cabrera (right).

ARMM passes Health Care Act Kidapawan City bishop to faithful: Pray against RH Bill

W

hILe Congress has yet to approve on third and final reading the controversial reproductive health bill, legislators of the Autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao (ArMM) passed on Thursday its reproductive health Care Act of 2012.

OIC Assemblywoman Irene Tillah of the ArMM’s regional Legislative Assembly (rLA) representing the 2nd district of Sulu and principal author of the law said it “recognizes the universal basic rights of every individual in the region in terms of reproductive health.”

She stressed that these rights, including the right

to their religious convictions, are also guaranteed under the Act. Tillah said the law is a product of the series of consultations and dialogues the rLA conducted the past months with several sectors, including the Darul Ifta, highest group of Islamic religious leaders.

During the consultations, she said, ArMM legislators gathered feedback, opinions, views, and comments while addressing issues and concerns raised on reproductive healthcare and natural family planning.

The regional law “fully ensures the promotion of natural family planning,” she said.

Under the law, the

ArMM regional government is tasked to provide reproductive healthcare and family planning services and information to the entire Bangsamoro people.

“It will open the doors to make several reproductive health programs available, hospital-based family planning in all health facilities, and provision of mobile health care service in every province and district. It also encourages public-private partnerships in accessing information, education and healthcare in the promotion of the natural family planning and responsible parenthood,” Tillah said.

[Malu Cadelina-Manar/ MindaNews]

K

IDAPAWAN City bishop to faithful: Pray against rh Bill Kidapawan Bishop romulo dela Cruz has reiterated his calls to Catholic believers to pray “without ceasing” so that the controversial reproductive health bill may not be approved on its scheduled voting today at the Senate.

Dela Cruz made the call during the first day of misa de gallo on Sunday at the Our Lady Mediatrix of all Grace Cathedral, one of the biggest Catholic churches in North Cotabato. he also urged Catholics to ask for the intercession of the Our Lady of Mediatrix, the patron saint of Kidapawan City in overcoming the “evil” called rh Bill by praying the holy rosary daily.

“We need your support. We need your fervent prayers. We must not

stop praying so that this bill would not be passed into law,” dela Cruz told the churchgoers.

The bishop went to Congress to personally witness the voting on the controversial bill on its second reading on Tuesday last week.

The bill was approved with 113 affirmative votes and 104 negative votes.

North Cotabato representatives Jesus Sacdalan (first district) and Nancy Catamco (second district) voted “yes” to the bill.

Trade Union Congress of the Philippines rep. raymond Mendoza and Agham party-list rep. Angelo Palmones, who both hail from the province, also voted in favor of the bill. fourteen years after it was first filed in Congress, the rh bill may finally become a law should it be approved by the house

of representatives on its third and final reading, as well as by the Senate.

Passage of the bill has been blocked by the strong opposition of the Catholic Church for supposedly allowing abortion. But human rights Watch said in a statement today that the bill does not amend the penal code prohibition on abortion, but addresses post-abortion care standards.

Citing the Bill will have “profound implications for improving the health and lives of women throughout the country,” human rights Watch said “the Aquino administration should be credited for having the political will to muster support for the bill in Congress despite the threat of a political backlash.” [Malu Manar, with a report from h. Marcos C. Mordeno/ MindaNews]

es the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong Kidapawan and Cotabato.

Sulaik said the program, which is being implemented by the DILG, Department of health and the National Anti-Poverty Commission, mainly intends to provide water supply systems for the identified “waterless” municipalities, barangays and rural health units in the region.

he said the Salintubig program covers two thematic areas: poorest/waterless barangays with high incidence of water-borne diseases and rural health centers without access to safe water.

In region 12, Sulaik said the identified beneficiaries were the municipalities of Banisilan, Aleosan, Alamada, Arakan, President roxas and Mlang in North Cotabato; Alabel and Mapalatan in Sarangani; and, Lake Sebu in South Cotabato. [Allen V. estabillo/MindaNews]

R 12 gets P45M for water systems

T FOOD AID. Internally-displaced families of New Bataan, Compostela Valley receive food assistance from World Food Programme (WFP) Country Director Stephen Anderson, WFP

Ambassador KC Concepcion, DSWD Director Priscilla N. Razon and ComVal Rep. Ma. Carmen Zamora (partly hidden).[DSWD]

he national government has allocated some P45 million for the expansion and development of potable water systems in nine municipalities in region 12 or the Soccsksargen region.

Buagas Sulaik, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) region 12 director, said the initiative is part of the continuing implementation of the P1.5-billion Salintubig (Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat) Program in the region. region 12 compris-

4

SCIENCE / ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Hedcor reaches tree-planting milestone: 600,000 trees

TREE NURSERY. This is one of Hedcor’s tree nurseries. With an area of more than 500 square meters, it is capable of growing about 80,000 seedlings. Such facilities contributed to the company planting more than 600,000 trees to date with an average survival rate of 90%.

r

un-of-river hydropower developer hedcor has planted more than 600,000 trees to date. The milestone was reached during this year’s reforestation activities in Benguet, Ilocos Sur, Davao City and Davao del Sur. This year alone, the company planted close to 300,000 trees.

S

Over the years, hedcor has consistently planted trees to contribute to the protection and conservation of watersheds. every employee takes part in the environmental effort. each team member is committed to plant at least 20 seedlings every year.

The company’s vice president for Business

Development Gregorio Jabonillo said, “our commitment is to plant more trees and allow them the best chances of survival.

This is pursuant to our watershed management plan.” he added, “our reforestation efforts contribute to retaining water and prevent flooding and erosion.” hedcor’s watershed

management plan includes programs like reforestation, riverbank stabilization, agro-forestry, and roadside rehabilitation.

The hydro developer partners with its host communities to ensure the protection and survival of planted trees. for trees planted by the company, the survival rate

is at 90%. This is above the target survival rate of 80% set by the Department of environment and Natural resources (DeNr).

The hydro company’s practices and compliance with environmental policies earned another Seal of Approval from the DeNr pursuant to the latter’s Philippine envi-

ronment Partnership Program or PePP. The company is also ISO-certified for its environment Management System. hedcor is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower. It has 19 hydropower plants in Benguet, Ilocos Sur, Davao City and Davao del Sur with a total capacity of 155 megawatts.

tant to deeply cut their greenhouse gas emissions and set new aid targets in light of their own financial difficulties, even as global temperature rises.

The World Bank has already warned that we are nearing a crisis—that of a 4 Degrees Celsius global temperature—which if not responded to proactively, will continue to endanger the survival of this and the next generations,” she said.

Legarda, the UN regional Champion for Disaster risk reduction and Climate Change Adaptation for Asia-Pacific, not-

ed that the Doha Climate Talks, which was held from November 26 to December 8, 2012, left many disappointed because of the lack of commitment to address the threats of climate change even as a lot of nations, even those who refuse to commit to the climate agreements, are already experiencing the threats of extreme weather events.

“We have just recently experienced the results of the international community’s continued lack of meaningful action to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Nearly a thousand

lives have been lost, and hundreds are missing. Industrialized countries, like the United States, have had their share of losses resulting from climate-induced disasters. And yet, when countries are given a chance to collectively agree on measures to correct the situation, nothing is done,” Legarda said.

“No nation is safe from climate change unless we do something now. The feared 4-degree Celsius rise in global temperature is likely to happen if nations do not commit to meaningful reduction levels of greenhouse

gas emissions,” Legarda stressed.

The Senator cited the World Bank report in giving a fair warning that a 4-degree Celsius global temperature will cause sea level rise by up to 3 feet. It would also cause flooding in many coastal cities; dry regions are expected to become drier while wet regions will be wetter; there will be extreme heat waves, water scarcity, stronger tropical cyclones, and loss of biodiversity.

If global mean temperatures exceed 1.5 to 2.5 degrees Celsius above

pre-industrial levels, 30% of all species will face high risk of extinction.

Moreover, a 2 to 4-degree Celsius rise in global temperature will also result in a 3% decline in global GDP. “even as the result of the Doha Climate Talks is far from being encouraging, there is no reason to stop or waver. We are still hopeful that we can gain, even outside of these conferences, the needed commitment to deep cuts in emissions and support for poor countries in coping with the impacts of climate change,” Legarda concluded.

Loren expresses concern over lack of consensus in Doha climate talks

eNATOr Loren Legarda has expressed deep concern over the lack of concrete result in the 18th Session of the Conference of Parties of the UN framework Convention on Climate Change in Doha, Qatar as some industrialized countries refused to participate to a second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty that legally binds developed nations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

“We are saddened by the fact that many developed nations were reluc-

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 206 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

Fearless forecast

THE ECONOMY

5

Banana industry expected to rebound in 8-10 months T

he Typhoon Pablo-ravaged banana industry is expected to bounce back after an eight- to ten-month rehabilitation period, according to Alexander Valoria, retired ANfLOCOr president and CeO who guested in the hermes Club affair at the Waterfront Insular hotel last December 14. he described the rehab work in some plantations that were totally wiped as “not just a matter of replanting, of cleaning up and replant, but we have to go back and rebuild the canals, the drainage, the packing stations and the like.”

The extent of damage to the banana farms is about 14,700 hectares or 20% of the total number of banana hectarage, with among those heavily damaged being in the provinces of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley. The cost of reha-

bilitating those plantations will be P7.5 billion, Valoria said.

Philippine Banana Growers Association executive director Stephen A. Antig estimates the potential profit loss at around $14,000 per hectare. Both Valoria and Autig say the government is doing its part to help them in the rehabilitation. Antig added that the government can create solutions to help make up for their financial losses, like the monetization of VAT taxes, loans for the independent banana growers from Landbank, waiving off the wharfage, real estate tax, quarantine fees, farm loan interest, duty free on imports and adjustment of the minimum wage.

Currently, the plantations are being cleaned up starting from the ground up [rob Magnaye, PIA 11 Intern,]

DECORATIONS. Two women still shop for Christmas decorations even though Christmas day is only days away at the atrium of one of the malls along J.P. Laurel Ave. yesterday.

LEAN DAVAL JR.

6 THE ECONOMY 5.8% 1st Qtr 2012

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

6.4 % 1st Qtr 2012

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

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

8. Interest Rates 4/

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

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

P 42.78 Jun 2012

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

5,091.2 May 2012

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

130.1 Jun 2012

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.8 Jun 2012

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.7 Jun 2012

16. Visitor Arrivals

349,779 Apr 2012

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

18.8 % Jan 2012

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.2 % Jan 2012

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

2012

2011

2010

42.85 42.70 42.86 42.66 43.62

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

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

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/Sat Cebu Pacific Thu Cebu Pacific Tue/Wed//Sat

EDGEDAVAO

East-West Seed awards two vegetable ‘farmer-heroes’

Stat Watch

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

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

B

ONIfACIO Montilla of Tagum City, Davao del Norte, and Vicente Gualberto of Compostella Valley, were among thirty vegetable farmers awarded at the east-West Seed Awards Night held December 12 at The Greenery in Baliuag, Bulacan.

The Awarding of the “National Champs” capped a 4-month search for 30 farmer-heroes who have achieved success, shown innovativeness in adopting improved technologies, contributed significantly to their community’s development, and improved consumer welfare with the help of east-West Seed varieties. each winner received cash prizes, vegetable seeds, plaques of recognition and travel packages. each “National Champ’s” success story is unique and praiseworthy. Bonifacio Montilla ventured into vegetable farming with a capital of only P1,500, which he invested in planting high-yielding varieties from east-West Seed. Looking back, he shares that farming has given him a better source of livelihood that previous employment, pointing out that he has purchased a motorcycle from the proceeds of his Banate King eggplant harvest. Vegetable growing has also enriched his knowledge of new farming

T

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

in the weekly Kapehan sa Dabaw media forum at SM City Davao yesterday.

LEAN DAVAL JR.

technologies, like proper crop protection and nutrition – information he gladly shares with his community and anyone interested in vegetable farming.

Vicente Gualberto started farming in 1997 after visiting and being inspired by a successful vegetable farm owned by a former work colleague. he began

his own farming venture on a quarter of a hectare of land planted with Jade Star ampalaya, and another quarter hectare planted with Galaxy ampalaya. from east-West Seed technicians, he continues to learn how he can keep improving his yield through technology such as plastic mulch to retain soil moisture, keep

weeds away and retain nutrients for the plants; and the use of botanical insecticides like garlic juice to keep insects away safely. he is proud to say that vegetable farming has improved his livelihood significantly, yielding proceeds significant enough to build a nice house for his family. he is a model farmer for his community.

food outlets and cafe chains in the area.

During the Doing Business in free Trade Areas (DBfTA) information seminar conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) last week, exporters cite the benefits of trading with India amid slowdown in key markets like the United States and europe.

DBfTA, a nationwide series of business information sessions, aims to increase exporter awareness of the country’s preferential trade agreements. Since its launch in 2010, the program has become a venue for exporters to understand how to navigate the complex requirements needed to avail of preferential tariffs in partner economies and get updates on current market intelligence. The Philippines has signed free trade agreements

(fTAs) with Japan, ASeAN-member countries, and through ASeAN with China, Korea, India, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. rashmi Singh, Chief executive Officer of Lightworks resources, Inc., a local furniture company said that India exhibited resilience and adaptability even if the global macroeconomic scenario remained uncertain.

In 2011, India was the Philippines’ 18th top trading partner, 17th top export destination, and 15th top import source.

BeTP Director Senen Perlada said, “engaging in fTA markets such as India will help maintain the country’s competitiveness, promote cross-border complementation, and sustain the inflow of investments. fTAs also help establish mutual support on issues of common inter-

est and benefit the consumers in the end.”

All 10 ASeAN-member states are currently implementing the ASeAN-India Trade in Goods. Under the agreement, exports such as live fish, cut flowers, black tea, spices, vegetable saps and extracts, olive oil, breads and pastries, fruit juices, kitchenware, construction materials, essential oils, soap, and polymers, among others, will enjoy zero tariffs by 2019.

These products currently have reduced tariff from 7 to 24% in the Indian market.

Meantime, the DBfTA seminar which was held at the Ateneo de Manila University also strengthened the DTI’S partnership with the academe. DTI has partnered with some 17 universities nationwide for the conduct of the DBfTA program. [PNA]

More business opportunities open up for PHL exporters

he ASeAN India trade agreement opens market opportunities for filipino exporters engaged in furniture, food and beverage, personal care products, and information technology (IT).

ASeAN India trade has steadily grown over the past five years from 21.2 billion US dollars in 2007 to 43.9 billion US dollars in 2011, data from the Bureau of export Trade Promotion (BeTP) showed.

According to industry data, the growing affluence of Indian consumers at 37,500 US dollars GDP per capita as well as its increasing food and beverage consumption of 366.8 billion US dollars in 2011 signal prospects for filipino exporters.

India’s changing lifestyle and consumer habits also resulted in the rapid expansion of branded

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as of august 2010

6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 09:05 13:25 14:05

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

MI588 / MI588 MI566 / MI566 MI551 / MI551 5J507 / 5J598 15:55 Z2524 / Z2525 5J967 / 5J600 PR813 / PR814 5J215 / 5J216 5971 / 5J970 5J973 / 5J974 5J969 / 5J972 2P987 / 2P988 PR821 / PR822 PR821 / PR822

18:55 18:55 15:45 15:00 Mani2Mani 16:05 16:35 16:55 18:00 18:40 20:00 20:30 20:30 21:20 22:20

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

13:35 15:20 12:05 15:30 16:45 17:05 17:45 18:20 19:10 20:30 21:00 21:00 21:50 22:50

PROPERTY

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 206 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

What to look for in a condo for a great investment W

heTher you’re an expert investor or a newbie in real estate investment, here are six important points to consider when scouting for a condo property to invest on.

A great location. Living in a location strategically close to all daily work and personal activities significantly cuts down travel time to and from the home to the desired destinations.

That gives people more time to do what they love doing most.

Those living in Camella Northpoint are closer to all public utilities, such as markets, banks, churches, schools, hospitals, terminals, airport, seaport, as well as malls, restaurants, supermarkets, cinemas, entertainment centers, and department stores. That means less travel time and big savings on fuel.

Time is valuable in these modern times. The less time spent driving or riding public transport to get to where people need to be, the more time they have for more meaningful pursuits, such as their hobbies, passions, and family and loved ones.

A majestic view. Camella Northpoint’s fourth tower, Liverpool, is 15-storeys high, with just the right elevation to afford its unit

owners a majestic view of the azure waters of Davao Gulf and its white sand beaches, and an expansive cityscape of north Davao.

Condo investors can rely on Liverpool’s view as an attractive selling point to renters who put a premium on what they can see outside their windows.

Security. A wise investor looks at safety as an important factor in condo investment. After all, who would want to rent out a condo unit in an unsafe neighbourhood where homeowners feel insecure once they step out of their condo community?

Camella Northpoint’s security system is on 24/7, with a gatehouse equipped with CCTV that catches everything and everyone that comes in and out of the condo premises, and manned by well-trained and well-mannered security personnel who also do their rounds around the property.

Deluxe amenities.

Investors know condo renters will want to have access to all modern conveniences when looking to rent in a condo community. With Camella Northpoint’s world-class facilities and amenities, condo renters will not be wanting for anything more.

What’s great for the

condo investor is that they don’t have to foot the bill when they want to offer their renters modern conveniences they look for in a rented home. Camella Northpoint is equipped with a wellness pool, fitness gym, cabanas, grill pits, playground, pocket gardens, natural park, and a well-appoint multi-purpose hall for the condo renter’s use.

A mid-rise advantage.

With the continuing rise of a number of condo projects in the city, a condo investor would be wiser to choose one that will give its tenant the convenience and comfort of a mid-rise building. high-rise condos,

UK construction activity shrinks in November

B

rITISh construction activity shrank last month and confidence about the next 12 months fell to its lowest in almost four years, a survey showed on Tuesday, dealing a blow to the government the day before a budget statement.

The Markit/CIPS Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 49.3 last month from 50.9 in October.

It was the lowest headline figure since August and below the 50 mark that separates growth from contraction for the third time in four months.

It was also below even the weakest forecast in a reuters poll and well short of the median 50.5 prediction.

“November’s PMI survey suggests that construction output has yet to hit rock bottom,” said Tim Moore, senior economist at Markit.

“A protracted decline in workloads, the dou-

ble-dip UK recession and shrinking investment spending has made 2012 a year to forget for the construction sector.”

Official data suggests construction output is more than 10% lower than a year ago.

The deteriorating conditions during November led to a marked drop in confidence, Markit said, adding that positive sentiment was at its weakest since the near-record low seen in December 2008 when Britain was deep in recession. finance minister George Osborne was due to deliver a half-yearly budget statement to parliament on Wednesday.

Mr. Osborne had said last Sunday that closing Britain’s budget gap was taking longer than planned, but insisted he would stick with the deficit-reduction program. having suffered two recessions in four years, Britain bounced back to

growth last quarter after receiving a massive boost from extra working days and London’s hosting of the Olympic Games.

But it is seen expanding at a far more tepid 0.1% in the current period, with little pick up seen in the year ahead.

That view was supported by the Markit survey which showed new orders seeing their steepest decline in just over 3 years last month, pushing firms to shed jobs at the fastest pace since December 2010 as they fear a prolonged period of depressed demand.

Data released on Monday showed manufacturing activity shrank less than expected in November, though the sector remained fragile.

But figures due to have been released on Wednesday were expected to show that growth in Britain’s dominant services sector picked up pace last month. [reuters]

those over 20 storeys high, have a much denser population. That means jostling for elevator time and space, and longer waits for the elevator to come to your floor and to get to your floor.

As a mid-rise condo, Camella Northpoint’s 15-storey Liverpool is comfortable to navigate, whether by elevators or its wide, airy stairwell.

With a less dense population, there are less people using the elevators to get to their floors, making for an easier and faster trip up and down the condo building. Those opting to take the stairs will have a comfortable climb, allowing them to get a bit of exercise

7

at the same time.

A unique living proposition. Camella Northpoint is built around the natural contours of its landscape, naturally tucked away within the sloping, elevated land at the junction of Buhangin road and JP Laurel Avenue in Bajada.

Its ancient trees and much of its plant life have been preserved and enhanced with imported Caribbean pine trees, giving Northpoint a beautifully green environment, making it a naturally lush haven within the urban growth area of north Davao.

As a green and refreshingly pine-filled condo community, Northpoint gives its residents a respite

from the stresses of a modern life—a unique living proposition only this British colonial themed condo community can offer to its residents.

As the lustre of condo living grows stronger in the region, so does condo investment become more attractive to expert investors and new investors looking for the wisest option in the condo rental market.

Camella welcomes all inquiries of condo investors at their offices at 2/f Delgar Building, JP Laurel Ave., Bajada, Davao City, telephone numbers (082) 222-0963 and (082) 2225221, vismin@camella. com.ph, and www.camella. com.ph

the IMf said in its annual review of hong Kong’s economy.

“A sharp price correction would lead to falling collateral values and negative wealth effects, which could trigger an adverse feedback loop between economy activity, bank lending, and the property market.

“The property sector is the main source of domestic economic risk,” the Washington-based organization said. however, it said the chances of a price correction that is large enough to generate a major mac-

roeconomic and financial consequences is “fairly low in the near term.”

It also said the city’s government recent bid to slap new taxes on residential properties “should help dampen housing demand” but urged hong Kong to ensure sufficient supply in order to boost home affordability. hong Kong announced a 15% stamp duty on non-permanent residents and corporate buyers as well as a higher stamp duty on the resale of property within three years in late October in an attempt to rein in soaring prices. [AfP]

the potential risks stemming from a very elevated level of private sector debt in combination with high house prices,” the eC said in a statement.

The eC monitors all euro zone economies each year to see if there are any macroeconomic imbalances that require further investigation.

The Netherlands has one of the highest per capita mortgage debt ratios in the eU, at more than 110% of gross domestic product in 2011. A fall of more than 15% in housing prices since 2008 is cutting into household spending and economic growth. [reuters]

IMF warns Hong Kong property sector faces price correction

T

he International Monetary fund (IMf) on Wednesday warned that hong Kong could see an abrupt fall in property prices after years of dramatic increases in one of the world’s most expensive housing markets. home prices in the Asian financial hub have skyrocketed 90% since 2009 due to an influx of wealthy mainland Chinese buyers, pushing home-ownership beyond the reach of many of its seven million people.

“The sharp run-up in house prices raises the risk of an abrupt correction,”

Dutch housing risks probed

T

he european Commission (eC) is launching an indepth investigation into the Dutch economy to assess the risks of a housing bubble in the country, the executive arm of the european Union (eU) said late last month.

“There is a need to investigate more in-depth

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

The significance of ‘Simbang Gabi’ in PHL ( Conclusion )

SPECIAl FEATURE

By Honor Blanco caBie

W EDITORIAL

N

Restoring Pinoy pride

ONITO “The filipino flash” Donaire has restored the pricked Pinoy pride in the realm of professional boxing with his methodical and crushing demolition of Mexican boxing legend, Jorge Arce.

Last Sunday, first day of the traditional misa de gallo of the Catholic faithful, Donaire gifted his countrymen with an early Christmas treat—a third round stoppage of the four-time world champion from Mexico in houston, Texas.

That win was all that this nation needed after its national boxing treasure, Manny Pacquiao, succumbed to a shocking upset at the hands of Mexican rival Juan Manuel Marquez in Las Vegas exactly a week ago.

It is no secret that filipinos have clung on to their boxing heroes to keep national pride afloat on the global stage.

When Pacquiao lost to Marquez, it hit us in a manner so devastating like it was the second coming of super storm Pablo.

We have been used to Manny’s victories in November or December to kick off a frenzied celebration starting with the boxing superstar’s birthday which falls a week before Christmas day. But

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with Manny losing to Marquez, we were on our way to a sad Christmas. Add to that the loss by another filipino treasure, the Philippine Azkals to Singapore in the Suzuki Cup football semifinals earlier.

Then, along came Donaire’s fourth victory in the ring this year after having won his third only last October. And it came a week after Pacquiao’s debacle.

So, Donaire’s win came as redemption of sorts and immediate relief to the pain of a Pacquiao loss. Nonito the flash has earned a place in The Avenger’s team. More importantly, it lines him up for another battle royale against another Mexican--Marquez himself. Not in the ring, but in the voting by the world’s renowned boxing experts for the rare distinction of being named fighter of the Year for 2012.

Should Donaire beat Marquez for the award, then we can forget the Pacquiao loss and rejoice over the emergence of a new boxing hero. After all, Donaire has redeemed Pinoy pride in the sport of professional boxing. he deserves our love and respect, not just as a mere second fiddle to Manny, but as the one and only flash, a.k.a. The Avenger.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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

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

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hILe filipinos start feeling the air of Yuletide as early as September with radio stations dishing out Christmas carols, the holiday fever begins to peak with the dawn Masses and filipinos, described as feasibly celebrating the longest Christmas season throughout the Christian world, begin what religionists say is a spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus.

Some theologians say the “simbang gabi” is also one way of requesting blessings from the Lord, some of the faithful convinced that if one completes the whole nine dawn masses, wishes will be granted.

With the canonization in 2012 of San Pedro Calungsod of Cebu, Tai Ching Kate recede of Minglanilla believes there will be more Catholic faithful flocking to hear dawn Masses this season, braving the icy winds from the Mongolian steppes.

Overseas, filipinos in different areas will be hearing the dawn Mass at different real times as their families back home in the Philippines, which received the Catholic Cross in 1521.

Time observers note that Manila is 18 hours ahead of hawaii, where filipinos comprise a hefty majority among immigrants; 16 hours ahead of California, where many filipinos work in the medical field and immigration services; 14 hours ahead of Texas where many filipino nurses and bankers work; 12 hours ahead of Toronto where filipinos –- doctors, pharmacists and caregivers, among others -– hack out a living; four hours ahead of Dubai where skilled workers including flight stewardesses work; and two hours later than Guam where filipinos work on and off the American base. filipinos in these areas continue the tradition by scheduling their own Christmas Masses in the evenings, given the punctuality demands and schedules of their respective offices.

In some towns up north, bands play Christmas tunes before and after the dawn Mass –- a scenario that has become embedded in the religious culture of the communities.

The “simbang gabi” has its roots in the “Misa de Aguinaldo” which started in Mexico.

In 1587, fray Diego de Soria, head monk of the Convent of San Agustin Acolman, asked permission from the Pope to hold Christmas Masses outdoors because the church could not have room for everyone who went to the services.

According to theologians, Pope Sixtus V eventually ruled that in the Philippines, pre-Christmas dawn Masses would be held starting Dec. 16, the decree in keeping with the nine-day festival of filipinos to celebrate special occasions.

The Masses coincide with the first rice harvest season in the Philippines, and the farmers had to be in the fields before sunrise, which meant the Masses had to be moved up to 4 a.m. as an accommodation for the hardy and legendary industrious filipino farmers.

After the Mass, filipinos buy –- at very affordable prices -– “sinuman,” “patupat,” “bibingka,” “linapet,” “puto bumbong,” “suman sa ibos,” “binagkal,” “impaltaw,” “empanada,” “puto,” “kalasukos,” “bitsobitso,” “sumallatik,” hot pan de sal or breakfast roll, “karioka,” and limitless steaming cups of ground rice or barako coffee, tea and chocolate.

The Christmas celebration is highlighted by what filipinos call the “noche buena” feast following the midnight Mass, where close relations and friends are hosted to sumptuous plates of often high cholesterol-inducing food items.

[PNA]

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

PHL history replete with instances of factionalism ( Conclusion )

f

LAShBACK to 1898. Bernardino Nozaleda, the last Spanish Archbishop of Manila, asked filipino Catholic priest Gregorio Aglipay to talk with the leaders of the revolutionaries and offer them a level of autonomy for the Philippines.

But Aglipay, who set up his Sandataan guerrilla headquarters in Pinili, Ilocos Norte at the turn of the 20th century, was overtaken by the Philippine-American war. he joined the revolution and was appointed Military Vicar General of the revolutionaries.

In this capacity, Aglipay sent a letter to various clergy enjoining them to ask the Pope to appoint filipino priests in all local church positions. Because of this, Nozaleda excommunicated Aglipay. This would lead to the establishment of the Philippine Independent Church in 1902.

More than a decade later, felix Y. Manalo founded the Iglesia ni Cristo on July 27, 1914. During this period, too, the Americans had introduced to the natives the Protestant religion.

In the early 80s, few observers perceived that many Catholics dissociated themselves from the Church and turned born-again Christians because of the meddling of then Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jaime Sin in government affairs.

To oppose one another in terms of ethnicity, religion and political beliefs are not a monopoly of filipinos. There

SPECIAl FEATURE

By Virgilio c. Sagun is, for instance, the decades-old feud between the Protestants and Catholics in Ireland; the war in the Middle east between and among members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (formerly Conference); the sporadic fighting between South and North Korea; and the intransigence of Taiwan towards Mainland China.

The filipino, according to anthropologist eric Casiño, has a multi-layered identity. from being a plain tao, a filipino is first identified through his place of origin. hence, he is a Visayan, Ilokano, Kampampangan, Tagalog, Bicolano, etc.

The archipelagic configuration of the Philippines made this so.

This is also the reason why filipinos are clannish and regionalistic; and could be the reason filipinos were easily subjugated by foreigners. They easily fell prey to the so-called “divide and conquer rule.”

Next to ethnicity, a filipino has a religious identity which makes him a Catholic, Muslim, Iglesia ni Cristo, a Baptist, Adventist, or a born-again Christian. A filipino is further categorized through his ideological orientation or inclination, hence, the leftist and rightist tags.

In Malacañang today, there is a so-

called Samar group composed of people identified with vice President Jejomar Binay and the Balay Group identified with Secretary Mar roxas. There is also a division from the ranks of workers, farmers and transport groups, e.g. the Kilusang Mayo Uno vs the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas vs National farmers Supreme Union, and the PISTON vs the Pasang Masda, respectively.

Just recently, the two militant party-lists representing the “underprivileged and underrepresented” sought each other’s delisting from the roster of the Comelec. In showbiz during the 60s, movie fans were either a Susan roces diehard or an Amalia fuentes fanatic; in the 70s, it was Vilmanians vs Noranians.

In sports, well-known rivalries in basketball are the Blue eagles vs Green Archers; Crispa vs Toyota, etc. Other identities may be based upon a person’s affiliation.

A joke is oft repeated, with a boy asking his mother: “Mama, how do lions make love?” After a brief pause, she answered: “I don’t know, son, your father is a rotarian.”

To achieve national unity, Dr. Casiño said, filipinos have to transcend their individual, ethnic, religious and other identities and think as a filipino. he did not elaborate. (PNA)

Politics makes a comeback

T

he United States: In Toronto, there was a lot of discussion of the “fiscal cliff ” and how it has politicized the U.S. economic outlook – one of the American visitors, a leading financier, devoted most of his presentation on the U.S. economy to the politics of the Beltway. * The Global Balance of Power: As Bremmer put it, “We are living in a time of geopolitical creative destruction. Geopolitics are suddenly in play in a way that for the last half-century they haven’t been.” We are moving from the brief, post-Cold War Pax Americana to a new age of Metternich, and the economic implications are vast, fast changing and hard to figure out. * The Old economic Tools Don’t Work Anymore: This was the argument of another smart and influential American speaker in Toronto. he believes the world economy operates in 60-year cycles, and that we are entering a new one, which is why the old rules no longer apply. roubini makes a similar point. he argues that the familiar macroeconomic toolkit isn’t working anymore. That means we need to create one, an inevitably po*

( Conclusion )

ANAlYSIS By cHryStia Freeland litical process. * return of the regulators: A dominant theme – or, more accurately, lament – in Toronto was that financial regulation is back. That is true – although perhaps both less than the bankers fear and than liberals would like – and it is another reason politics matters. * Inequality: Income inequality is rising in most of the world and is being talked about everywhere, from China to europe to the United States.

But both Bremmer and roubini question how real the political response will be – and hence how much true economic impact it will have. “This is an issue that is coming, but it is not there yet,” he said. “It is clear in the U.S. we are talking about inequality. It is not clear we will do anything about it.”

Now is a tough time to be a political scientist. Academia is suffering from the same fiscal squeeze plaguing all public institutions, and students of the humanities are being hardest hit

as education wakes up to the triumph of the quants that business figured out long ago. The irony is that, in the meantime, business is rediscovering politics – so don’t drop out of that doctoral program in political science just yet.

QUIPS

“I don’t think the President has anything to do with it. Even if he does, I will respect his decision.”

---Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile on the possibility that President Aquino is involved in the reported ouster plot allegedly led by Senators Miriam

9

Tax hikes conservatives can love ( Conclusion )

COMMENTARY By reiHan Salam

A

S Peter Schweizer of the right-leaning Government Accountability Institute recently suggested, curbing the tax-exempt status of municipal-bond interest, an idea that White house officials and congressional republicans are coming to embrace, would discourage local governments from accumulating debt for boondoggles like sports stadiums, convention centers, and shopping malls. The Joint Committee on Taxation estimates that this measure would yield $124.4 billion over the next decade. even if we were to shrink that number considerably, the benefit of putting the brakes on wasteful projects nationwide would be well worth making a change.

And then there is the charitable tax deduction, which in its current form does little to benefit the large majority of lowto middle-income workers who do not itemize their taxes. The Committee for a responsible federal Budget crunched the numbers on what would happen if the charitable deduction were replaced with a 15 percent nonrefundable tax credit for all donations above 2 percent of income. Over the 2012-2021 budget window, this reform would yield $340 billion in new tax revenues. At the same time, as Mina Kimes observed in a recent article in fortune, this new credit would prove enormously beneficial to religious organizations, as 67 percent of the donations made by households earning less than $100,000 are to churches, synagogues, mosques and affiliated charities.

One can easily imagine religious donors, a crucial part of the conservative coalition, seeing the virtue of this approach.

Many on the center-left have attacked the idea of raising the Medicare eligibility age, and understandably so. This measure is not likely to save much money, and it arguably rests on the assumption that the president’s Affordable Care Act will remain in place to meet the health insurance needs of 65- to 67-year-olds left without access to affordable coverage. Yet conservatives could take a page from Yuval Levin, editor of the conservative policy journalNational Affairs, and call for a graduated eligibility age.

One of the more striking demographic facts about modern America is that, while longevity is increasing dramatically for the well-educated, it isn’t increasing at all for those with less education.

If anything, we’re seeing backsliding.

To raise the Medicare eligibility age for all Americans would be to ignore this inequality. But by linking the eligibility age to lifetime earnings, we could guarantee that the Warren Buffetts of the world will put less of a burden on our old-age social insurance systems, while people with low lifetime earnings will be shielded from any change. The beauty of this approach is that it would capture virtually all of the net savings of raising the eligibility age, as poor workers over 65 would likely need public subsidies if they no longer had access to the Medicare program. More attractive still is the fact that graduated eligibility has been championed by ezekiel emanuel, a former adviser to the Obama White house on health reform.

None of this is to say that conservatives should cheer the fact that congressional republicans have their backs against the wall, or that raising revenue is necessarily a good thing. But these reform measures will tilt America in a direction that is more fair and more free-market at the same time.

10 NATION/WORlD EDGEDAVAO NATION BRIEFS Disputes over small islands WORLD TODAY pose big conundrum for U.S. N T VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

Cancelled

Pregnant

he house of representatives will no longer throw Christmas party for congressmen and their staff to sympathize with the victims of Typhoon “Pablo” this year.

Speaker feliciano “Sonny” Belmonte Jr. made the instruction this week, taking the cue from various government agencies that wanted to help local government units in affected places in Mindanao.

orth Korea may soon witness the birth of the fourth generation of its hereditary dictatorship as television pictures showed that the wife of the country’s leader appeared to be heavily pregnant.

North Korean state television showed a pudgy Kim Jong-un and his wife paying homage on Monday at a national memorial service for Kim’s father, former leader Kim Jong-il, who died a year ago.

M

Cheap

etro Manila remains a relatively cheap Southeast Asian urban center to live in, a new survey of expatriates showed.

The Philippines’ capital region placed 187th in a global ranking based on the latest Cost of Living survey by employer consultant eCA International.

The study, which eCA said may help employers determine appropriate salary levels for expatriates, compares a standard basket of goods commonly purchased by expatriates in more than 400 locations worldwide.

Not close

M

anila Mayor Alfredo “Dirty harry” Lim is not “that close” to the late fernando “Da King” Poe Jr. This was how former President Joseph “erap” estrada described the relationship between Poe, who used to be his best friend, and Lim, his only nemesis for the mayoral race in Manila next year. estrada claimed that Poe’s family was already considering him as part of their family even before the two of them befriend Lim, who was a mid-ranked police officer in Manila.

P

Hero

resident Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III is a hero, at least for Senator Miriam Santiago. This, as the Senator expressed her gratitude towards the chief executive for certifying the 14year old legislation on responsible Parenthood as urgent friday. Santiago, known for her witty statements, praised President Aquino for ending the “time-wasting prevarication of the last 13 years over rh bill” with just one stroke.

“President Aquino is my hero! he has cut the Gordian knot! I am very enthused with him.

This is manifest proof of executive leadership,” Santiago said.

T

Corrupt

he bill on the responsible Parenthood, popularly known as rh bill, will corrupt this country’s soul.

Thus warned the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) should the house of representatives approve the controversial measure on third and final reading this week.

A handout photograph taken on a marine surveillance plane B-3837 shows the disputed islets, known as Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China, December 13, 2012.

[REUTERS]

f

Ar away from the United States and usually far down the list of things Washington worries about, the obscure islets at the center of bitter spats between China and its neighbors have become a flashpoint that could get hotter and embroil America.

This week served up fresh evidence that 2013 likely will bring no pause in tensions rippling the seas around China. Japan on Thursday scrambled fighter jets after a Chinese government plane entered what Japan considers its airspace over disputed islets in the east China Sea, just one of many contested sites. even as conflicts in the Middle east dominate the U.S. government’s foreign policy concerns, the State Department believes that the multilateral territorial dispute in the South China Sea is one of the most

difficult issues globally.

But it has been relying largely on private diplomacy and broad statements of principle rather than public arm-twisting to try to head off potentially violent miscalculations over the disputes.

Underscoring this concern is the so-called pivot of U.S. attention to Asia, which has involved more rhetoric and consultations than deployment of American military force. however, hardly a week passes without incidents over fishing rights or oil exploration activities, and Washington’s approach, while it may have helped avoid outright conflict, does not appear to be dissuading an increasingly assertive China. recent moves by Beijing “in part mean China has not been deterred by the increased U.S. commitment,” said M. Taylor frav-

el, a scholar at the MIT Security Studies Program.

China has taken de facto control of the Scarborough Shoal, a reef that falls inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, and now frequently challenges Japan’s control of islands it calls the Senkakus.

Many analysts say intensifying Chinese pressure over the islands issue since 2010 helped fuel the election victory on Sunday of hawkish Japanese ex-premier Shinzo Abe. Abe’s campaign included calls for a tougher stance toward China.

The United States is officially neutral on the sovereignty issues and has urged diplomatic talks.

It insists that all parties refrain from force and do nothing to impede sea lanes that carry $5 trillion in annual trade.

“These are among the most difficult issues on the

global scene and we believe that we have played an appropriate role, oft times behind the scenes, to encourage calm and the maintenance of peace and stability,” said Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, the U.S. point man on the issue.

Some observers say they worry that Asian friends in Manila and Tokyo might not get the full-throated support they have had from Secretary of State hillary Clinton and Campbell after those forceful figures in Asia diplomacy leave their posts next year.

Another lingering concern for 2013 is the deep U.S. defense cuts that could kick in if the “fiscal cliff” tax and spending debate fails to get sorted out. That could dent Asian allies’ confidence in American staying power or feed Chinese over-confidence. [reuters]

Lawmakers push for Bieber ban in PH

f

ILIPINO boxing icon Manny Pacquiao said he has already forgiven Canadian pop idol Justin Bieber for the singer’s posts that mocked his loss on photo-sharing service Instagram last week But the Sarangani lawmaker’s colleagues in the house of representatives still won’t get over the incident until Bieber say he’s sorry for the “distasteful comments” he made after Pacquiao-Marquez IV. In house resolution No. 2962, YACAP party-list rep. Carol Jane Lopez even asked the house leadership to declare Bieber “persona non grata” should he refuse to issue a public apology to filipinos.

“As his colleagues in this august body, it is incumbent upon us to demand an apology from Mr. Justin Bieber lest, we declare him persona non grata in this country,” the resolution stated.

Manila rep. Amado Bagatsing, Palawan rep.

Antonio Alvarez, and Zamboanga del Norte rep. Seth frederick Jalosjos co-authored the resolution, which was filed on Monday morning.

Pwersa ng Bayaning Atleta party-list rep. Mark Aeron Sambar, Ako Bicol

S

Grieving

hattered families and grieving residents struggled to grasp the news that most of the 27 people shot dead by a US school gunman were children aged just six and seven.

President Barack Obama was due to join the vigils in the small Connecticut community of Newtown on Sunday, to lead national mourning after this latest massacre that has revived calls for a debate on gun control.

J

Prepared

apan’s next Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, buoyed by a landslide election victory, piled pressure on the central bank on Monday as it prepared for a policy meeting, saying voters had overwhelmingly backed his call for more aggressive monetary stimulus.

Abe said once he formed his cabinet on December 26, he would instruct ministers to produce a joint statement with the Bank of Japan that will give it a 2 percent inflation target, double the current goal.

S

Arrested

outh African police have arrested four right-wing extremists, suspected of having weapons and planning attacks on undisclosed targets, a spokesman said Monday.

After a nearly two-year investigation, police arrested four men, “believed to be right-wing extremists, suspected of acts of terrorism,” according to police spokesman Brigadier Billy Jones.

Singer Justin Bieber performs during the Z100 Jingle Ball at Madison Square Gardens in New York, December 7, 2012. [REUTERS]

party-list rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr., and Ating Koop party-list rep. Isidro Lico also signed to support the piece of legislation.

They said Bieber should have been more circumspect and prudent in the expression of his views “more particularly because just like the hon.

Pacquiao, he is supposedly also being idolized by the youth.”

The lawmakers also demanded the apology on behalf of the people of Sarangani province, whom

the singer “has indirectly hurt and insulted when he made his distasteful posts.”

Lopez, a close friend of Pacquiao in Lower Congress, admitted being insulted when Bieber said American boxing sensation floyd Mayweather Jr. had nothing to gain in fighting Pacquiao. “floyd has never in his professional career lost a fight and Pacquiao lost his last two fights… If floyd wins, it’s not that big of a deal (because) it would be

his third loss in a row,” Bieber said earlier.

“And if he (Mayweather) loses, he’s gonna ruin his legacy. either way, there’s no big win for Mayweather... Mayweather is boxing,” he added.

The resolution came a few days after Pacquiao said he has already forgiven critics like Bieber.

“Sabi nga sa kautusan ng Panginoon, pray for those who persecute you.

So we will pray for them.

Patawarin natin sila,” Pacquiao told reporters.

f

Funeral

amily and friends of the nurse who was found hanged after taking a hoax call to the hospital treating Prince William’s wife gathered for her funeral in a small town in southwest India.

Indian-born Jacintha Saldanha, 46, apparently committed suicide after answering the telephone call from Australian radio DJs to the hospital where the pregnant Duchess of Cambridge was admitted with acute morning sickness.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 206 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

Sara...

For...

edly contained an improvised bomb fashioned out of a 60mm mortar attached to a mobile phone and was “ready to explode”.

Dela rosa said fikrie raised a mobile phone believed to be a triggering device before police could get near him, and threatened them to explode a bomb if he would be shot.

The police official said he gave the order to shoot, but the sniper could not do it as there were several people around. he added fikrie took his wife out of the hotel and grabbed her backpack before running towards nearby People’s Park while being pursued by the police. fikrie attempted to enter the park, but the guard was quick to padlock the gate, Dela rosa said, adding the suspect then turned right in front of the Toryano’s restaurant along Camus Street where he was shot dead.

Duterte commented: “What we did with the information, mabilis, pero sa sobrang bilis meron ng nakalimutang gawin (quick, but because of too much haste some things were forgotten.) But overall we are just very relieved, wala nibuto ang bomba (the bomb did not explode). The only person who died was the terrorist.”

She advised Dela rosa to make a list of all the positive and negative things that happened during the operation as well as identify areas for improvements.

Citing the “good intelligence information,” she said “it could have been better.”

“Ma-highlight ang mga mali man gud kung naay nibuto nga bomba (Mistakes are highlighted when a bomb would explode). But sa pagkakaron, buti nabigyan sila ng second chance na i-assess ang ginawa nila ngayon (for now, they were given a second chance to assess their action) so that next time that it happens, they would have improved response and know what they should do,” she added.

Double full alert Dela rosa said the police are on double full alert status, but he stressed the people may continue with their holiday routine. he added that city police personnel will be augmented by the Police regional Office-11 until December 31. however, Duterte told him to continue implementing the security integrated plan beyond Dec. 31.

The Task force Davao (TfD) also has additional troops for the Christmas season, Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, TfD executive officer and spokesperson said.

Besana said they will also have additional two or four active canine units deployed in checkpoints at the city’s gateways.

Dela rosa said the improvised explosive device was made in North Cotabato and entered the city by land, passing a TfD checkpoint.

“Let them (police and TfD) do their job and they will do their best to protect Davao City,” the mayor told members of the CPOC. [Lorie Ann Cascaro/MindaNews]

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well,she said. hilario clarified there is no outbreak of diseases but acknowledged there were three suspected cases of measles in New Bataan, Compostela Valley province. She said vaccination teams from the regional office were deployed to area Thursday and to Compostela Valley town on friday.

Medicines are not a problem, she said. “We have more than enough,” she said, but added, “we still need doctors.” hilario said they have enough medicines for cough, colds, as well as antibiotics and pain relievers, and medicines not only for those who were injured by Pablo when it made landfall on Decem-

Search...

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lice at daybreak on friday.

“Mas useful sa atoa ang terrorist nga buhi kaysa patay (An alive terrorist is more useful for us than a dead one) because we cannot ask a dead person questions,” the mayor said during the regular meting of the City Peace and Order Council on Monday.

After Senior Supt. ronald Dela rosa, city police office chief, admitted that it was his command to kill fikrie, the mayor pointed out some issues for him to consider.

She said the safety of the people at the hotel lobby where the commotion with the couple happened should have been ensured by the police.

Duterte said that while fikrie’s wife can provide useful information, it would have been better to have the information come from him.

Dela rosa told the council that a military intelligence unit gave the information on the suspected bomber. fikrie, a Malaysian national, checked in at Sampaguita Inn about 7:00 p.m. on friday with his filipina wife, Annabelle Nieva Lee. After verifying the identity of fikrie, they (police) decided not to arrest the couple in their room but asked the hotel manager to personally request the couple to vacate the room by invoking the right of management to refuse “undesirable” persons.

Dela rosa said they waited for the couple to go down the hotel lobby.

There he grappled with Lee, who was bringing a backpack which report-

ClASSIFIEDS ADS11

ber 4 but also for those who were injured while repairing their houses or building makeshift dwellings.

The hardest hit towns in Compostela Valley are Compostela town, Monkayo and New Bataan while the hardest hit in Davao Oriental are Baganga, Boston and Cateel.

Out of these six towns, only one has a hospital -Cateel – which has been listed “damaged” in the regional health Office’s initial monitoring.

Based on the list hilario showed MindaNews, two rural health units were “completely damaged” and these are in Baganga and Cateel. The rhUs in Boston, Compostela, Monkayo and

New Bataan are “partially damaged/operational.”

A total of 72 barangay health stations were damaged in the two provinces: 18 in Baganga, eight in Boston and 18 in Cateel; eight in Compostela and 20 in New Bataan. In Monkayo, 23 BhS were “partially damaged/operational.” [Carolyn O. Arguillas/MindaNews]

area for possible sightings of survivors.

Tan said the task force is not inclined to call off the ongoing search and rescue operations anytime soon as it remains hopeful of finding survivors. he said President Benigno Aquino himself has been closely monitoring the progress of the search and rescue operations through task force chair GenSan City Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio.

“So far, there have been no orders (from the President) to stop the operations,” Tan said.

Peace...

As of Monday, the task force said at least 311 crew members of fishing boats from the area were still missing after being battered by huge waves and strong winds while on their way towards the mainland of Surigao del Sur last Dec. 3.

The PCG station here earlier said that most of the missing fishing vessels, which were maintaining payaos or fish aggregating devices located around 115 nautical miles off the eastern seaboard of Mindanao, were already on their way to the

nearest ports when the storm caught up with them.

The task force cited that around 30 other “undocumented” fishermen from the area are also missing.

It described the “undocumented” fishermen as those who ventured out into the seas without documents from the PCG and operated unregistered fishing boats.

Navy Commander Lued Lincuna, task force spokesperson, said they have not set a timetable for the search and rescue operations. [Allen V. estabillo/ MindaNews]

respective principals on the unresolved issues. In the December talks, they agreed to extend the talks by one more day but while “considerable progress” was made according to ferrer and while they “moved forward with substantial gains” according to Iqbal, not one of the Annexes was completed.

The sources added that the Annex on Transitional Arrangements and Modalities was “99% complete” but the parties were deadlocked on a major issue that the for the MILf is ‘non-negotiable:’ the leadership of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), the body that will take over the ArMM as soon as the Bangsamoro Basic Law is ratified.

The same sources said the MILf, which will

lead the 15-person Transition Commission based on the fAB formula of an all-Bangsamoro commission composed of seven from the GPh and eight from the MILf including the TransCom chair, is not amenable to the GPh proposal for a Bangamoro-led BTA instead of an MILf-led BTA. The GPh, according to sources, is pushing for a two-track convergence of the MILf and Moro National Liberation front (MNLf) peace processes through the BTA. An MILf source told MindaNews: “parang kami ang nagsaing, iba ang kakain” (it’s like we did the cooking but not the eating). “It’s not a formula for convergence but a formula for chaos,” the source said.

[Carolyn O. Arguillas/MindaNews]

els.

January 3, 2012 to give way to unhampered delivery of relief assistance to typhoon affected areas.

[PIA 11/ Joey Sem G. Dalumpines]

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lim Mindanao (ArMM) by 2016.

The fAB also provides that the parties would “work further on the details of the framework Agreement “ and “complete a comprehensive agreement by the end of the year.”

MILf peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal told MindaNews in a text message early friday that the four technical working groups on the Annexes “moved forward with substantial gains. But as a whole, there is a technical impasse. No closing program, no joint statement, no date for next talks.”

In November, at the first talks on the annexes scheduled November 12 to 18, both panels agreed to end the negotiations a day earlier to consult their

Soldiers...

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areas not affected by the storm will have more time with their families because of the Yuletide ceasefire.

Colonel Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., spokesperson of the Armed forces of the Philippines said that the 18-day unilateral ceasefire is a privilege given even to rebels to come down and visit their families. he clarified that the SOMO does not restrict the military from doing its security routines, except the conduct of offensive operation against the reb-

NOTICE OF LOSS

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he recalled that the National Democratic front of the Philippines (NDfP) declared a 29-day truce starting December 5 to

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VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

Realty

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EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 206 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

COMPETITIVE EDGE13

DCWD repairs collapsed transmission line

D

AVAO City Water District has already restored water supply in the south area of the city served by Line 1 of Dumoy Water Supply System (WSS) at 2:00 PM, December 16 specifically in Bago Aplaya, Ulas, Talomo, Bangkal, Matina, Matina Aplaya, Matina Crossing, Matina Pangi, Ma-a (from McArthur to Metroville Subd.), ecoland, SIr Sandawa and Gravahan in Matina.

The following areas may experience intermittent water supply and low pressure to no water especially during peak hours: Poblacion, Boulevard, Bajada, Agdao, Obrero, Lanang, Pampanga and Sasa (right side portion until DPWh Panacan).

These latter areas experienced no water last December 16 due to the collapse of DCWD’s transmission line along Bankerohan Bridge after it was hit by a big lumber brought by the strong currents of Bankerohan river.

DCWD had to temporarily turn off water supply to allow its crews to repair the damaged pipes.

DCWD projects that it would take several months before it can reconstruct pipes along Ban-

kerohan Bridge and fully restore operations of Line 1 of Dumoy WSS. Acting general manager edwin V. regalado explained that DCWD has already done temporary measures to alleviate the massive water supply problems that the damaged pipes caused.

Currently, only the south areas are being served by Line 1. Connections in Poblacion, Boulevard, Bajada, Agdao, Obrero, Lanang, Pampanga and Sasa (right side portion until DPWh Panacan),are currently being supplied by Line 2 of Dumoy WSS along with Marfori, some areas in Bankerohan, Diversion, Buhangin, Lanang, Pampanga and Sasa (left portion along Old Airport).

Thus, aside from those customers living in the mentioned affected areas, customers in elevated and farther areas may also experience water supply problems during peak hours. regalado appeals to the continued understanding and cooperation of affected customers and strongly advises them to store enough water in clean and covered containers for their daily use whenever water supply is

A DCWD crew welds a steel plate at what remains of the collapsed transmission line.

available. he also discourages customers living in areas not affected by this water supply problem from panic-storing as not to further affect our water supply distribution.

The general public may call the DCWD trunk line at 221-9400 and press “1” on their phone dial to listen to the latest daily water updates, or contact its call center

through the 24-hour hotline 221-9412 or 09277988966 for updates, complaints, queries and other matters pertaining to DCWD services. Customers are also advised

to remain patient when having difficulties getting through congested DCWD telephone lines. rest assured, however, their calls will be accommodated.

[Jovana T. Duhaylungsod]

14 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

Fighter of the Year

EDGEDAVAO

Donaire vs. Marquez N

ow, it’s going to be Nonito Donaire versus Juan Manuel Marquez.

Not so quick though.

Not in the ring but on paper for the fighter of the Year award.

So Nonito

as such would be an honor for him, the 30-year-old filipino who now lives in San Leandro, California said it’s all up to the proper body to make the choice.

“I will leave it to the sportswriters and I will leave it to the people,” said Donaire, who is expected to make a case for the honor against junior welterweight champion Danny Garcia, middleweight title holder Sergio Martinez, and Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez.

“It would be a great honor, and it

Donaire just ended 2012 the way he started it – with a bang—a week after Marquez shocked the world with an upset knockout win over highly-favored Manny Pacquiao.

What does Nonito have to deserve the award?

Let’s look at his 2012 record.

After escaping with a split decision over Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. of Puerto rico to win the World Boxing Organization version of the 122-lbs belt early in March, the highly-skillful boxer from the Philippines closed out his campaign by destroying and bloodying a game Jorge Arce of Mexico in three quick rounds to retain his super-bantamweight title almost a week before Christmas.

Vazquez and Arce are just two of four marquee fighters Donaire exposed in a 10-month span, making him almost a cinch for the fighter of the Year award.

Although being named

would be an amazing Christmas gift to me,” he said of the coveted award thrice bestowed on filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao.

Donaire, who once tried out for the US Olympic boxing team but never made it, also took on Jeffrey Mathebula of South Africa and Toshiaki Nishioka of Japan this year and blew both former champions away.

The 30-year-old filipino (31-1, 20 KOs), knocked down and broke the jaw of Methabula before scoring a lopsided decision in unifying the WBO and International Boxing federation super-bantamweight titles last July.

Then prior to the Arce fight, Donaire dismantled Nishioka, the former World Boxing Council champion, by scoring two knockdowns on the way to a remarkable ninthround stoppage in October.(www.spin.ph)

It’s going to be Nonito Donaire (left), the WBO superbantaweight champion from the Philippines, against Juan Manuel Marquez (right), Manny Pacquiao’s conqueror, for the Fighter of the Year Award of Ring Magazine.

The Avenger C

ALL him “The Avenger.”

Donaire put Philippine boxing back on its feet exactly a week after it got blown away by a marauding Mexican like a typhoon-hit town.

“He’s very good. I am proud to have lost to the best. It fills me with honor,” Mexican Jorge Arce says in tribute to conqueror Nonito Donaire who has restored Pinoy boxing pride after Manny Pacquiao lost to Juan Manuel Marquez last week.

And it took Nonito Donaire Jr. just three rounds and less than nine minutes to get the job done.

Boxing analyst Atty. ed Tolentino, in a television interview on Monday, has given Nonito Donaire that

moniker as he has so restored the boxing pride in the Philippines.

Donaire is better known as “The filipino flash” but Tolentino said Donaire himself has paved the way for some new nicknames.

“The Avenger because he avenged the defeat of Manny Pacquiao from the hands of a Mexican (Jorge Arce),” Tolentino said.

Donaire dealt Mexican Jorge Arce one of the worst losses of his career, knocking out the veteran challenger with a crushing left hook in the third round to retain his World Boxing Organization super-bantamweight title in houston, Texas.

Another Tolentino spin to Donaire’s exploits as a follow-up to Pacquiao’s crushing defeat was taken from the latter’s sponsor himself. “Instant relief,” said Tolentino, alluding the same phrase to one of Pacquiao’s sponsor—a pain reliever.

Like a pill, Donaire relieved the pain of Pacquiao’s loss to Marquez last week.

“It was like instant relief,” quipped Tolentino a day after Donaire forced Arce into retirement and silenced the Mexican fans in Texas.

“My left hook was the damaging punch. I worked perfectly,” said Donaire, 30, who improved to 31-1, with 20 KOs. “I felt strong. I felt good inside the ring.”

By Neil Bravo Donaire earlier caught the challenger with a short right that sent him to the canvas a minute into the second round. One round after, the champion dropped Arce again with a right and a left uppercut, from where it appeared Arce wouldn’t be able to survive.

But the gritty Mexican came back from the blow, prompting Donaire to finish him off with a solid left hook that finally sent the Mexican staggering around the ring on wobbly legs before crashing flat on his back with only a second left before the bell ending the third.

So devastating was the ending that the game Arce didn’t even bother to get back on his feet, spitting out his mouthpiece even before the referee could start his count. After Arce was counted out, Pinoy boxing fans rejoiced in the thought that another hero has come along to save Philippine boxing.

Donaire’s win eased the pain of Pacquiao’s shocking loss against Marquez last week. The filipino was knocked out cold by a Marquez smashing right hand with 2:59 left in the sixth round of their welterweight title fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“I hope I made the Philippines proud tonight,” said Donaire, who earlier guaranteed the fight will not go the distance.

Now ranked No. 6 by

The ring in its pound-forpound list, Donaire won all of his four fights this year, scoring a pair of decisions against Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. and Jeffrey Mathebula, while coming through with knockout wins over Toshiaki Nishioka and Arce. he retained his WBO title belt for the third time.

Donaire smelled blood and vengeance was on his mind. he made clear his intention of restoring the pricked Pinoy pride and silenced the raucous Mexicans by repeatedly connecting on his left jabs. he ended the opening round

by rocking the challenger with two cracking lefts that reverberated to the stands.

In the second round, Donaire made his move and dropped Arce down with a short right. Arce got up as quickly but it was obviously just a matter of time before the sorry end for the Mexican legend.

The fight headlined hBO’s “World Championship Boxing” season finale, and the broadcast marked Larry Merchant’s last after 35 years as a ringside boxing commentator for the network. (with reports from the wires)

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

One year of discoveries and adventures with great company As we approach the end of 2012, I look back at the places I was able to visit in the past twelve months and frankly, it has been a whirlwind of an adventure and the memories from the adventure would not have been complete without the presence of great company, and this page is a tribute to the friends and colleagues who made my travels abroad extra memorable.

I started the year with a quick singapore romp together with fellow traveller Jinggoy upon the invitation of sharon of Tiger Airways.

Just in time for the celebration of the Chinese New Year, it was a unique experience to observe and get reacquainted to my own heritage. Talking about getting reacquainted, it was also nice to get to meet up with fellow Dabawenyo Karyn with boyfriend in tow for some catching up.

From the tropical heat to the cold, I was able to visit Hong Kong and Macau during the winter months right

after Chinese New Year many thanks to the meticulous planning of Anavi, the trip was made more enjoyable with the presence of Booboo and husband Alex, plus shella and Jovie.

Of course since its a given that the sale items are more on winter clothing, food tripping was the plan for the trip and boy did we eat a lot! summer this year in Hong Kong was much like the first time I visited the former British Crown Colony as it was just me, Otoi and Erwin who were out roaming the streets of Tsim sha Tsui for things to buy and places to eat. This time though, we had windows in our hotel room, much different from the time we stayed at a guest house at the infamous Chungking Mansions.

While my earlier trips were leaning more towards modern cities, my trip to siem Reap, Cambodia was like going on a trip back in time while not sacrific-

ing the comfort of modern accommodations many thanks to the Cebu Pacific team and the dynamic people of Cambodia Airports. Add in photographer extraordinaire Jojie and M

Magazine’s Ian, and you get a barrel of laughs plus memories on an sD card.

And as 2012 ends and 2013 starts, I wonder what other adventures and discoveries await me.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

CEB pushes for more self check-in, web check-in during travel peak ThE Philippines’ largest national flag carrier, Cebu Pacific (PSE:CEB) encourages passengers traveling on Airbus flights during the Christmas and New Year holidays to check in online or through self-service kiosks at the airport.

These would cut down on guests’ waiting time. Domestic passengers with no check-in bags may already proceed to the boarding gate at least 30 minutes before the flight, while those with check-in bags should proceed to the bag drop counter at least 45 minutes before the flight.

International passengers with or without check-in bags should proceed to the bag drop counter for verification of travel documents at least 45 minutes before the flight.

“12% of CEB passengers availed of web and self checkin services in the 1st week of December. We want to make everyone aware that this very convenient option is available for guests on Airbus flights, free of charge, so they can breeze through the check-in process especially during peak travel period,” said CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

Web check-in may be done through the Manage Bookings section in www.cebupacificair.com from 48 to four hours before the flight.

Self check-in kiosks are available at all Philippine airports with Airbus flights, except Tawi-Tawi and Laoag.

Starting December 17, 2012, self check-in may be done from four hours to one hour before the flight.

Seat assignments are automatically assigned to web check-in guests for free. Those who wish to select seats may do so for a minimal fee of P100-P200. Meanwhile, those checking in through the self check-in kiosks at the airport may select their seats for free.

These services are not available for CEB passengers on ATR turbo-prop flights, unaccompanied minors, expectant mothers, guests with infants or requiring special assistance, and groups of 10 or more under one booking record.

CEB was the first Philippine carrier to offer self checkin last December 22, 2011, using computer terminals in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. It also pioneered web check-in in the Philippines.

For more information on CEB’s travel services, visit www.cebupacificair.com .

In its 16th year of operations, CEB has flown over 70 million passengers. It provides access to the most extensive network in the Philippines with 32 destinations and hubs in Manila, Cebu, Clark, Kalibo, Iloilo and Davao. It flies to 20 key international destinations: Bali, Bangkok, Beijing, Brunei, Busan, Guangzhou, hanoi, ho Chi Minh, hong Kong, Incheon, Jakarta, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Osaka, Shanghai, Siem Reap, Singapore, Taipei or Xiamen.

Parfois on sale from Dec 14 to Jan 31, 2013 ThE holidays are a b o u t looking fabulous and the best way to do this is to accessorize y o u r s e l f.

So glam up for the holidays with Parfois as Parfois stores go on sale from December 14 to January 31, 2013.

Take your pick from fabulous bags, scarves, bracelets, rings, necklaces, and watches. Mix and match the latest styles to create your own signature look.

Parfois stores are located at the ground floors of SM City Davao and Abreeza Mall.

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

My Mindanao: Photographs For Hope exhibit on Dec 18 MulTI-AWARDED photojournalists Rhonson Ng and Jojie Alcantara cordially invite you to grace their oneday event entitled MY MINDANAO: PHOTOGRAPHs FOR HOPE which will be open today, December 18, at the sulawesi Function Room, ground floor of Marco Polo Davao.

This special exhibit is for a cause. In their years of experience as photojournalists they have been lucky to be traveling around the islands to document wonderful places, people and culture, and publish them. Jojie and Rhonson have collected many images that depict the beauty of the Philippine islands and truly believe that Mindanao is blessed with people who care for its natural resources and preservation. last year after Typhoon sendong, through the help of friends and a workshop (“shoot for Hope”), the

duo was able to raise money and deliver relief goods to Cagayan de Oro and Iligan during the Christmas

season. This year Rhonson and Jojie are trying to help raise awareness of the need to reach out more to re-

mote, stricken areas hit by Typhoon Pablo.

For the exhibit they decided to donate forty of their images for the exhibit. some will be of lumad portraits as well as landscapes, both familiar and unknown. The selection is a mix of published and unpublished photos.

The function room is open for receiving any donations and relief goods.

Jojie and Rhonson are tying up with NGOs who are reaching out to the lumads, and Canon, which recently delivered a truckload of goods to areas in Compostela Valley.

Canon also generously printed the images which will be up for sale. They will also open a blowup printing service for photographers and interested parties. Whatever funds that are raised will be donated to the families who lost their homes and hopes for a good Christmas.

The MY MINDANAO: PHOTOGRAPHs FOR HOPE exhibit is open from 9am until 10 in the evening.

Sow kindness, gather love

AMIDST all the natural calamities and divisive issues bringing an atmosphere of gloom even in this merriest of times, small acts of kindness can truly make someone’s day.

That is how Abreeza customers felt as they were pleasantly surprised to get a random treats during the past days. This is in line with Ayala Malls’ Wrapped in Love -12 Days of Kindness campaign, where unsuspecting shoppers and diners get surprise gifts at certain times of the day and in key areas of the mall. For 12 days leading to Christmas from December 10 - 21, random treats await shoppers in the mall, hoping to spread cheer and inspire others to do the same. As part of Abreeza Mall’s Christmas celebration, this campaign is meant to instill the spirit of kindness in everyone and create a chain of loving and nurturing relationships throughout the season.

Just recently, Gifts of

WARM WELCOME. A free Greenwich pizza welcomed customers at the parking lot and basement entrances, as youth volunteers of the AFS Intercultural Programs handed out “gifts of love” to everyone in Abreeza Mall’s 3rd day of kindness.

WHAT A SWEET SURPRISE! Diners at the Resto Row got a 6-pack of Gonuts Donuts in Thursday’s kindness treat.

Love, a charity bazaar, was also held at the mall, in partnership with local charitable institutions.

Products handcrafted by the T’boli of South Cotabato and Mindanao Inspires were sold to raise funds to support their worthwhile projects.

These gifts would not

only give joy to the one who receives it, but more importantly, bring happiness to the less fortunate.

In keeping with the holiday tradition, Santa Claus will once again visit Abreeza Mall from December 16 to 25. Kids can meet and greet Santa and share a magical mo-

ment with him. Don’t forget the camera as this is a great photo opportunity to make this childhood memory last.

Abreeza Mall will also celebrate Christmas with kids from its own Brgy.

20-B community, during the Barangay Kids Day on December 28. Shows, games and surprise gifts are in store for the less fortunate kids around the block.

As another gesture of kindness, Abreeza Mall has lent a helping hand for the victims of Typhoon Pablo, with its donation of food and medicine to the displaced families. Donations in kind or in cash are still accepted at the Concierge counter. What little we can share, means a lot when given with care!

Before we get caught up in the last few days of the holidays, let us make time to ponder on how best we can share the spirit of Christmas to those that we love and more so, to those who need our love. Be a part of Abreeza’s Kindness campaign and start wrapping everyone in love.

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

Morgan Freeman blames media for recent shootings? Not so fast...

MANY people— including celebrities—have spoken out on the horrific tragedy that struck Newtown, Conn., on Friday, when a 20-year-old gunman opened fire and killed at least 26 people, including 20 children, at Sandy hook Elementary School. however, Morgan Freeman is not one of those people. The actor has not released a comment on the incident that took place a few days ago, despite numerous stories reporting otherwise.

The lengthy quote attributed to Morgan is indeed an hoax.

“Morgan neither made statements or posted those statements. We are trying to find out who did, but they did not originate from him,” the actor’s rep tells E! News.

So what did the Oscar winner allegedly say?

The remark floating around online that was said to be from Freeman stated the following, “You want to know why. This may sound cynical, but here’s why. It’s because of the way the media reports it. Flip on the news and watch how we treat the Batman theater shooter and the Oregon mall shooter like celebrities. Dylan Klebold and

Eric harris are household names, but do you know the name of a single victim of Columbine? Disturbed people who would otherwise just off themselves in their basements see the news and want to top it by doing something worse, and going out in a memorable way.

Why a grade school? Why children? Because he’ll be remembered as a horrible monster, instead of a sad nobody.”

The falsely-attributed quote continued, “CNN’s article says that if the body count ‘holds up,’ this will rank as the second deadliest shooting behind Virginia Tech, as if statistics somehow make one shooting worse than another. Then they post a video interview of third-

graders for all the details of what they saw and heard while the shootings were happening. Fox News has plastered the killer’s face on all their reports for hours. Any articles or news stories yet that focus on the victims and ignore the killer’s identity?

None that I’ve seen yet.

Because they don’t sell.

So congratulations, sensationalist media, you’ve just lit the fire for someone to top this and knock off a day care center or a maternity ward next. You can help by forgetting you ever read this man’s name, and remembering the name of at least one victim. You can help by donating to mental health research instead of pointing to gun control as the problem.”

Kelly Clarkson’s massive engagement ring KELLY Clarkson not only took to Twitter to reveal she’s engaged to beau Brandon Blackstock—but also revealed the massive rock he proposed to her with!

The 30-year-old American Idol alum tweeted a whosay pic of her bling, along with all the deets, including: “It’s a yellow canary diamond with diamonds around it and Brandon designed it with Johnathon Arndt!

They did an amazing job!

I can’t wait to make Brandon‘s ring with Johnathon as well!”

As for whether Kelly will have a big wedding to go with that big ring?

Not so fast...or at least that’s not what Kelly

thinks as of now!

Kelly told Ellen DeGeneres on Ellen back in November, “I’ve never been the girl to plan a wedding.

We...will probably elope.”

This will be the first wedding for the singer.

INdulge! A3

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

EVENTS

Wines and cheeses for the holiday at Swiss Deli Matina

By Kenneth Irving Ong

WHAT would Christmas be without some beautiful wines and delicious food? This was the main reason swiss Deli Matina held a wine and cheese tasting last December 5.

The well attended event featured the latest wines in stock for the season as well as artisan cheeses from all over Europe that were chosen to compliment the wines as well as give Dabawenyos a taste of unique flavors.

The wine tasting also served as a sale of sorts as special offers and discounts were given on the wines being tasted, giving Dabawenyo wine loves a chance to stock up on the vintage they love to keep for themselves or would love to give as gifts for the holidays.

The event also served as a thanksgiving treat for The swiss Deli’s loyal patrons.

Those who missed the event can still visit the swiss Deli Matina or The swiss Deli at lanang to find that perfect bottle of wine paired with that savory wheel of cheese for the holidays. The swiss Deli also offers special Holiday baskets that feature home-made sausages, hams, and deli items to make your holiday giftgiving easy.

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 206 •TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

VMO one win away from 3-peat V

ICe Mayor’s Office capitalized on a scorching first half to subdue Davao City Police Police, 115 – 94,in Game One of the best of three finals of the Mayor Sara Duterte and Vice Mayor rody Duterte – 10th AfP-PNP Basketball Tournament over the weekend at the Davao City recreation Center.

VMO came out with guns blazing late in the first half, outscoring DCPO, 28 – 14, to close out with a 20-point lead, 50 – 30, as the SP-based dribblers move within the threshold of winning an unprecedented three straight championship.

Christopher “Bong” Go, who led eight VMO double digit scorers, scored 7 of his game-high 25 points on that pivotal attack that put the Policemen at bay.

Greggy Delica contributed solidly for VMO, pouring in 16 points on top of essential rebounds and interior presence on the defensive end.

rodel Bantilan and ryan Lomotos had 15 baskets for VMO which never allowed the wards of Senior Superintendent ronald Dela rosa to come tantalizingly close.

DCPO tried hard to repossess in the final half but to no avail as VMO managed to respond in every Policemen rally.

Alexis Alcano finished the game with 20 points for DCPO, whose key players were defended well by the VMO five. estong Uganap had 12 baskets but robinson Palomares, playing official Anthony Padua and Janwed Cagape, key elements of DCPO’s course to the finals, had limited numbers.

A Go three pointer late in the third period gave the SP-based dribblers the biggest lead of the game, 75 – 49, and the Policemen visibly started to yield.

The Police clawed back desperately but the closest they got was 17, 65 -82.

he final four teams in the 2013 PBA Philippine Cup have been set, with six other squads falling by the wayside.

With this development, SMArT-Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot reyes has started inviting players to the national pool to be ready in time for two tuneup tournaments next year.

The league earlier allowed players from eliminated teams to join SMArT-Gilas early for tournaments in Dubai and hong Kong. This is apart from the 2013 fIBA Asia Championship, for which the league has earlier made its commitment.

On his Twitter account, reyes said he has invited players from the Petron Blaze Boosters.

The coach earlier expressed interest in tapping veterans Arwind Santos, Alex Cabagnot,

and Marcio Lassiter, as well as top rookie pick June Mar fajardo. he also confirmed his invitation for Air 21′s KG Canaleta to join the team.

Also expected to join the pool is Barangay Ginebra San Miguel point guard LA Tenorio, who won Most Valuable Player honors in this year’s William Jones Cup after leading SMArT-Gilas to the title.

But reyes noted there’s still uncertainty over the Petron players’ participation in the pool.

“We invited them but we will only know if they’re joining if they show up for practice on Dec 21,” reyes wrote on his feed.

The coach earlier said he will use the two tournaments to gauge players who could be part of the final lineup for the fIBA Asia Championship, which serves as the qualifier for the 2014 fIBA World Cup.

OrONTO (AP) -- Add tight defense to a triple-double, and it was quite a game for Jose Calderon.

Calderon had 18 points, 14 assists, and 10 rebounds to lead short-handed Toronto over the houston rockets 103-96 Sunday, giving the raptors consecutive wins for the first time in eight long months.

Calderon started for the third straight game in place of the injured Kyle Lowry, who has a tear in his right triceps.

The 31-year-old Spanish guard, who’s the longest serving raptor, has

been a perennial backup in Toronto. ‘’I made up my mind, I want to be the most professional player in the NBA. I don’t know if I’m going to be on the court or not but I want this team to win,’’ he said. ‘’This is my team, this is what I’ve been doing for eight years now, and that’s what I do. I know my teammates know that, there’s the trust behind it, it’s really comfortable to play with these guys,’’ he said.

Calderon also held rockets guard Jeremy Lin to just seven points and two assists.

Reyes eyes vets for Gilas

T

John Lacorte (7) goes up for a follow up during the battle for third place between Lacorte’s team Cyclomax Titan-Talomo against Accelerate Supreme-Duterte. The Supremes won 91-81. (Phoenix photo)

Lakers post 2 straight win P nd

hILADeLPhIA — Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers are winning again. It’s just a two-game streak, but it’s still a turnaround from their abysmal play of late.

Bryant scored 34 points, Metta World Peace added 19 points and a career-high 16 rebounds and the Lakers won consecu-

tive games for the first time in nearly a month with a 111-98 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday (Monday, Manila time).

Dwight howard had 17 points and 11 rebounds for the Lakers, who led 60-50 at halftime. Darius Morris had a career-high 15 points, all in the first half, and Chris Duhon scored

14. It was World Peace’s first double-double since Jan. 13, 2010, at Dallas.

The Lakers (11-14), who beat Washington 102-96 on friday night, won two in a row for the first time since a threegame streak from Nov. 1620.

“It’s guys playing with confidence and guys trust-

ing each other,” said Bryant, who was 12 for 21 from the field and 8 for 9 from the free-throw line.

“We played well, communicated well, kept attacking and good things happened. I know the questions have been coming because we hadn’t been winning, but our time will come.”

Calderon keys Raptors win

T

Kyrie Irving of the Cleveland Cavaliers wears a super-hero shaped protective mask.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Darius Morris (1) drives past Philadelphia 76ers’ Lavoy Allen (50) and Spencer Hawes during the first half in Philadelphia. AP

16 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 206 • TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

CHAMPION. The 2T Max-Barangay Bucana coached by Ramon Adriano pose after receiving the championship trophy and the cash prize from sponsoring Phoenix Petroleum represented by marketing supervisor Neb Bulaclac, tournament director Goldie Delvo and assistant Cadel Mosqueda. (Phoenix photo)

2TMax-Bucana wins Phoenix 5

By Neil Bravo

C

OACh ramon Adriano stared at the scoreboard in the fourth period, his team down by a dozen and badly needing some sort of lube to get its running game going. he knew they needed one spark to fuel a last rally.

The 2T Max-Barangay Bucana coach then told his boys: “Let’s run and gun.” from 12 poins down, the 2TMax-Bucana boys went into turbo-mode to wipe out the deficit, then watched quarterback Vico Magbanua calmly sink two free throws with a second remaining for a pulsating 75-73 win over Cyclomax 4T force-Barangay Sasa in the finals of the Trip Ko Phoenix fuels Basketball Cup on Sunday at the Davao City recreation Center.

The Bucana Boys entered the fourth period with a 46-57 deficit. The lead grew to a dozen two minutes later as Jasper SPARKPLUG. Cainan Amoguis of 2T Max-Bucana drives against AJ harvey Mesiona and AJ Damag of Cyclomax 4T Force during their championship match Damag conspired to keep for the 5th Conference of the Trip Ko Phoenix Fuels Basketball Cup. 2T Max at bay.

Amoguis fired a game-high 20 points to key a come-from-behind Coach Adriano then win by 2T Max, 75-73. (Phoenix photo) mapped out his last ditch strategy and like a newly-oiled machine, 2T Max came charging back and slowly chopped off the lead. Caisan Amoguis keyed the amazing comeback as he sliced through the crowded lane several times while Magbanua got his guns blazing from the perimeter.

In no time, the score was tied at 63-all after Amoguis drove for a twinner underneath. Magbanua then hit a 10-footer from the wings and 2T Max took the upperhand 65-63 for the first time.

Cyclomax 4T force re- Runner-up Cyclomax 4T Force-Barangay Sasa with coach Roel Josol. grouped and regained the lead, 67- 65 with Damag fense and Magbanua was “halos imposible na, John Lacorte of Cyclomax and Mesiona on the firing fouled on the other end pero may mga nangyayari Titan. resty Inoc of 2T end. with a second remaining. pa rin sa laro na di mo in- Max was named Most ImWith less than two Magbanua showed nerves aasahan. Nagpapasalamat proved Player and Nichol minutes remaining, Cyclo- of steel with the game on ako sa pasensya ng mga Barrera of Zoelo extreme max looked headed for the the line, sinking both free bata. Di sila sumuko,” said won the Sportsmanship win with a 73-69 lead but throws to complete the Adriano who praised his Award.

2T Max had other things turnaround and give Bu- wards for playing with a In the battle for third, in mind. Kenneth John cana the Season 5 title of big heart.

Accelerate Supreme-Bgy. Gudes blocked Damag on this tournament for boys Gudes, with his tow- Duterte beat Cyclomax Tithe drive and Amoguis, aged 16 years and below. ering presence at the tan-Talomo 91-81. who fired a game-high 20 Magbanua added 11 slot, was named the tourIn the side event Playpoints, scored on another points and Gudes had 8 for nament’s Most Valuable er-Coach Three-Point stab and two free throws the new champions. Me- Player while Magbanua Shootout, the father-son to forge the final deadlock siona led Cyclomax with and Amoguis were named tadem of player Kitch Carl 73-all.

15, Gian franco Yaco had to the Mythical five along Conda and coach roderick Gudes forced a turn- 8 and Ian Claros chipped with Damag and Claros Conda of Cyclomax Titan over on the Cyclomax of- in 7. of Cyclomax 4T force and emerged champions.