Edge Davao 5 Issue 225 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

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Latest situation report:

‘Pablo’ damage reaches P31.2 B By EJ Dominic Fernandez

Suburbia

Sports

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total of P31.2 billion worth of infrastructure, schools, crops, livestock and fishery is the latest overview of the damage that Pablo wrought in the Davao region, according to the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) 11 based in Davao City. This was bared in a situational report on the

1,022 people dead; 2.701 injured; 465 missing

Ana kadako?!

effects of Typhoon Pablo in Region 11 presented before members of the Rotary Club of East Davao headed by banker Florante Santiago yesterday by

FLATEST, 12

Page 15

BUSY DOING SOMETHING ELSE. These traffic enforcers just chat among themselves and watch as a large buildup of public utility vehicles slows down traffic flow in front of a mall along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Davao City late afternoon of Saturday. Lean Daval Jr.

Roofing for 700 classrooms

Launch Project RAC in DavOr

DAVAO-based group of private sector leaders started this week rehabilitation work called “Roof a Classroom” Project (Project RAC) in typhoon Pablo-ravaged areas in the province of Davao Oriental. Taking off from what businessman Sammy Afdal had started in the typhoon-devas-

Initiative of private group led by Msgr. Capalla Gawad Kalinga joins project tated areas, the group headed by Msgr. Fernando Capalla, retired archbishop of Davao,

has joined forces with Gawad Kalinga to initially provide roofings to more than 700 classrooms in the towns of Boston, Baganga and Cateel in Davao Oriental. The group’s plan of action was finalized during a breakfast meeting hosted by

FROOFING, 11

2 THE BIG NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

DOLE wants barangays declared child labor-free

hE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Region 12 is pushing for the declaration within the year of five more barangays as child labor-free as it moves to eliminate cases of child labor in the region. Chona Mantilla, DOLE Region 12 director, said they are currently working with various stakeholders for the implementation of convergence initiatives that would help cleanse the region’s barangays of child laborers, especially those employed in hazardous situations. Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. The official said this year’s campaign against child labor will mainly focus in barangay Lagao (Gensan) and in Malire and Cadungon in Antipas,

Saguing in Makilala and Presbitero in Pigkawayan, all in North Cotabato. The five barangays were among the 80 identified by the DOLE central office last year as priority areas of its flagship Child Labor-Free Barangay Program. In Gensan, DOLE identified barangays San Isidro and City heights as among the areas that have high cases of child labor. Last year, DOLE initially declared barangays Kematu in T’boli, South Cotabato and Bula (Gensan) as child labor-free. The declaration came after the signing of agreements among concerned agencies and stakeholders for stricter enforcement of child labor laws, strengthening of advocacy campaigns against child labor and exploitation as well as the provision of alternative employment for the families of the area’s child workers. [Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews]

Starting today

HOLY INFANT JESUS. Devotees of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague queue so they can offer short prayers and wipe the miraculous icon with handkerchiefs and towels during its 45th anniversary at the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague in Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

IBP convention to tackle cross-border lawyering

hE issue on cross-border lawyering will be one of the significant legal topics highlighting the 14th National Convention of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) and its 40th founding anniversary celebration at the SMX Convention Center which opens here today, Wednesday and ends Friday, Jan. 18. Lawyer Carlos Zarate, IBP-Davao Chapter former president, said cross-border lawyering refers to allowing foreign lawyers to practice their profession in the Philippines.

Zarate said there are now over 50,000 lawyers in the country and about a half of them are actively practicing their profession. At present, only Filipino lawyers are allowed to practice in the Philippines. But Zarate said there are some big law firms which are strongly lobbying for cross-border lawyering. Majority of these law firms are those which have multinational clients. he said cross-border lawyering, if allowed in the country, is a big disadvantage to Filipino lawyers as foreign lawyers have more

resources compared to Filipino lawyers. Other issues that will be discussed in the gathering include the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and amendments to the Rules of Court. Zarate said some changes in the rules of court affect lawyers, like requiring them to file judicial affidavits which is currently suspended due to a petition filed by the National Prosecutors League before the Supreme Court. he said requiring a lawyer to file a judicial affidavit is detrimental to

FSTARTING, 12

Cayetano questions Enrile’s cash gifts

By Che Palicte and EJ Dominic Fernandez ENATE Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano questioned the act of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile in doling out millions of pesos to members of the Senate in the guise of additional “maintenance and other operating ex-

penses (MOOE).” Cayetano said he welcomes the audit of the MOOE saying the Senate is not yet off the hook in this issue. he said he favors suggestions that the audit be conducted by a private firm considering that the object of the au-

dit is the Senate. In a press conference at the Probinsya restaurant yesterday, Cayetano said, “It’s not about the money, it’s about integrity,” when asked about the cash gifts that Enrile gave out, P1.6 million

Ranging (Lidar) of the Nationwide Operational Assessment of hazards (NOAh). Dr. Elsie Mae Solidum, assistant regional director for technical services of the Department of Science and Technolo-

gy (DOST) 11, said in an interview yesterday at Dream Path, SM Annex, that the scientists arrived in Davao City to study the land formation with focus on areas from New Bataan to Monkayo.

cessation is an important step a smoker’s struggle to stop the vice and enhance the length and quality of his life. he said that initial interview, medication and strict implementation of the Sin Tax Law will contribute a lot to the effort to make people quit smoking. Dr. Ybiernas believes that when a person strives

hard to quit smoking it would be more effective than having medication itself. “Abstinence is better than medication,” he added. The Department of health (DOh) is expecting a massive decrease in the number of smokers from 17 million to 2 million by

High-tech gadgetry

Scientists to study land in Pablo affected areas

FHIGH-TECH, 12

Cessation counseling can help people stop smoking: Ybiernas

CANCER CONSCIOUSNESS. Dr. Gay Martinez- Lapus, one of Davao City’s oncologists (left), explains why smoking is the leading cause of cancer for adults , while Dra. Mae Dolendo, pediatric oncologist (center), bares updates on the battle against that children’s cancer which she describes as multi factorial during their appearance in the Kapehan sa Dabaw

to promote the National Cancer Consciousness Week on January 13-20. With them is Dr. Chita Matunog, oncologist at the Southern Philippines Medical Center, who announced the much-improved financial coverage of PhiliHealth of cancer patients. Lean Daval Jr.

foreign-trained physician of Davao Citybased Central Lab, said that smoking cessation counseling would be of great help in convincing smokers to quit the vice. Dr. Antonio Ybiernas, who recently trained in the Mayo Clinic in the United States of America, told newsmen that smoking

FCESSATION, 12

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 225 •WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

4 SUBURBIA

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Debris flow in New Bataan, a phenomenal event--MGB

N a geo-hazard mapping presentation conducted on January 10, 2013 at the Provincial Capitol, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical & Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) made it clear that what happened in New Bataan on December 4, 2012 during the occurrence of Typhoon Pablo was a debris flow or a moving mass of loose mud, sand, soil, rock, water and air. It is based on the geomorphology (landform) of the area according to MGB-XI supervising science research specialist Beverly Mae M. Brebante as they saw it during their ocular visit. Brebante who often visits New Bataan added that Brgy. Andap, known

with beautiful inland resorts and being a Forest Protected Area, is negative of any logging and mining activities. Project NOAh (Nationwide Operational Assessment of hazards) Executive Director Dr. Majar Lagmay also said that the heavy debris flow is regarded by the geologists as a world class phenomenal event which could aid in their continued disaster mitigation studies. With the geo-hazard mapping, the province could determine those high risk areas particularly within those hardly hit municipalities of the typhoon. It would also be easier to identify safe areas for habitation where the victims at the evacuation centers can be relocated. [GRACE ALMEDILLA/ GILBERT CABAhUG, IDS-COMVAL]

PABLO AT 40 DAYS. Reconciliation with nature, prayer for the victims and thanksgiving for the survivors. With attendees of about 2,000, the Municipal Tribal Council of New Bataan spearheads a commemoration ceremony and offering of prayer for the

victims, and the expression of gratitude and prayer of strength for the survivors. [ALBERT DAYAO/ IDS COMVAL]

Bounty up for killers ‘Dialogue Bukidnon’ of Kabacan vice mayor set up for 2013 polls

OCAL officials in Kabacan, North Cotabato have offered a cash reward for the capture of the killers of Vice Mayor Pol Dulay. In a resolution, members of the municipal council approved on Monday the release of P200 thousand as reward for any information that could lead to the arrest of the gunmen. Meantime, Kabacan police chief, Supt. Leo Ajero, said a task group was created to look into the killing of Dulay, whose death was believed to be election-re-

lated. Dulay was seeking re-election for a third term as vice mayor under the Liberal Party. The Task Force Dulay will be led by the regional offices of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the National Bureau of Investigation. Ajero said the task group met with Kabacan Mayor George Tan around Monday noon to discuss the conduct of the investigation. Around 3pm on Friday, Dulay was about to board

his motorcycle parked just outside a department store when a still unidentified gunman pumped bullets into his chest. he was declared dead upon arrival at the Kabacan Medical Specialist hospital. Noel Dulay, the victim’s son, eyed politics as a possible motive in his father’s killing. But Ajero said they are also also looking at other angles, and that they are leaving the investigation to the task force. [Malu Cadelina Manar/MindaNews]

community-based news outfit, Bukidnon News, has initiated a documentation and research project concerning voters’ education in the province for the May 2013 elections. Dubbed “Dialogue Bukidnon: Piliay 2013,” the project aims to help voters know the candidates more and influence the agenda to be tackled in the campaign. The project seeks to provide an opportunity for both voters and candidates to listen to each

other. It will conduct focused group discussions (FGDs) among different sectors to identify issues that candidates should address in their platforms of governance. During the FGDs voters from select areas in Bukidnon will be asked to answer questions concerning the qualities of candidates and the local issues that they must address. The project proponents noted that usually it is the candidates alone

who determine the topics discussed during campaigns. The voters, who are supposed to be the “employers” hiring their local officials as public servants, are forced to react only and toe the line, they added. The results of the FGDs will be used as basis for the preparation of research guide in the conduct of key informant interviews among the candidates in relation to their positions on certain issues. (Walter I. Balane/MindaNews)

N a bid to keep pace with the area’s development, the local government of nearby Koronadal City is set to release 4,230 new tricycle franchises or Motorized Tricycle Operator’s Permit (MTOP) to local operators this year. City Councilor Floro Calixton, chair of the council’s committee on transportation, said Monday such move was based on the recent approval by the city council of a resolution that authorized the issuance of new tricycle franchises to help enhance public transport services within the city. he said that since 1993, the local government had issued a total of 7,770 tricycle franchises but about half of such number is so far

inactive. Most of the issued franchises were either cancelled due to some violations or had expired because of the failure of the owners to renew them, he said. Citing data from the city’s franchising office, Calixton said at least 3,791 MTOPs in the area are presently considered active. “Since our population is presently at 161,662, only one tricycle is available for every 43 passengers here,” he said. Koronadal City, which is a component city and capital of South Cotabato province, is the regional seat and center of Region 12 or the Soccsksargen Region. [PNA]

City issues Gun ban in South Cot, Sultan Koronadal 4,230 tricycle franchises Kudarat nets 2 persons, 3 guns I

hE first day of implementation of the election gun ban in Sultan Kudarat province netted two persons and the recovery of three firearms, police said. Armed with a search warrant, elements of the Isulan Police Station raided the house of hamsa family in Barangay Kalawag Dos Sunday afternoon. Senior Supt. Rolen Balquin, Sultan Kudarat police provincial director, said the search and arrest was made following a tip from concern citizens about the firearms being kept in the

house of Jun Talipasan and his brother Emy Guindal. Seized from them were two home-made cal. 45 pistol and an M-16 Armalite rifle, all unlicensed and have been considered loose firearms after December 31. Charges of illegal possession of firearms have been filed against the suspects who are now detained at the Isulan police detention cell. Balquin appealed to licensed gun owners in Sultan Kudarat province to go to the nearest police office and renew their license with corre-

sponding penalties. The PNP set December 31, 2012 as the last day of renewing licenses to own while permits to carry firearms outside residence have been suspended started Sunday. According to Balquin, the police headquarters in Camp Crame has ordered all police offices nationwide to conduct house to house search of loose firearms for gun owners who failed to renew their licenses. The PNP has estimated about 600,000 to 800,000 loose firearms nationwide, excluding those in the hands of

rebel groups. In Koronadal City, a farmer showed up at the city PNP office to surrender a powerful improvised explosive device and a hand grenade. Larry Abuan went to the police station with two 60-mm mortars complete with booster point detonating gadget and a hand grenade. he told police officials that the explosive was owned by his brother, Sgt. Mario Abuan who died due to sickness a few months back. A police bomb disposal team is now in custody of the explosives. [PNA]

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 225 •WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013 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

CBAs at plant level boosts industrial peace-- Baldoz

Stat Watch

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

THE ECONOMY

ABOR and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz Tuesday said the number of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) concluded at the plant level continues to rise, saying this is good for industrial peace that the country enjoys at present. “In 2012, some 168 companies concluded their CBAs with their respective unions without the intervention of the DOLE’s National Conciliation and Mediation Board. This means 168 fewer cases that would have entered the dockets of NCMB,” she said. Records of the NCMB shows some 436 CBAs expired in 2012 and only 114 needed the intervention of the NCMB through notices of strike/lockout (NSL) and preventive mediation (PM) cases, 88 of which were successfully concluded. Some 26 CBA negotiations subject of NSL and PM cases are still pending. The rising number of CBAs concluded without government intervention under the present administration has been palpa- LIVELIHOOD OUT OF BAMBOO. A man fashions furniture out of cut bamboo near the Davao River bank along Quimpo Blvd. Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr. ble, which Baldoz credits to laLabor-management coun- existing nationwide as of 30 bor and management’s growing level of mutual trust and respect maturity and their high level of likewise mirrors the effective- cils/committees and grievance November 2012, according to trust and respect for each other. ness of the government alter- machinery are aimed to facili- NCMB data. These mechanisms contin“This also manifests their native dispute resolution (ADR) tate communication, build mubelief on the system of collective mechanisms, like labor-man- tual trust, foster cordial rela- ue to benefit workers and embargaining as a state policy of agement councils/committees tions, encourage cooperation ployers in terms of best manregulating labor-management (LMCs) and grievance machin- and joint problem-solving pro- agement practices, improved relations, specifically in the set- ery (GM) which the NCMB con- cesses, and minimize the occur- communication lines, improved productivity, corporate social ting of disputes and other terms tinues to promote in both orga- rence of disputes. nized and unorganized estabThere are some 2,092 LMCs responsibility and reduced inciand conditions of work. and 2,284 grievance machinery dence or labor disputes. [PNA] Baldoz added that the high lishments.

Globe posts strong gains in 4Q 2012 NTC test

hE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) disclosed the 4th quarter 2012 results of the Quality of Service (QoS) Benchmarking Tests on the telco industry networks within sixteen cities and one municipality of the NCR. “Both Smart and Globe got passing marks in these tests conducted last December, involving postpaid subscribers” NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba said. “The gains of our network modernization are now being felt more than ever by our customers – this is paramount for us and we are happy with this development,” Globe Telecom CEO

Ernest Cu observed. Through the last three quarters of the NTC-initiated tests, Globe has demonstrated enhanced performance resulting in progressively improving scores. Citing the rapid advancement of the telco’s modernization program, now close to completion of the first phase at 84%, the Globe CEO sees “that full equipment replacement and systems overhaul will increasingly bring about greater and better-than-standards performance and along with it, a differentiating customer experience”. The latest results already show that Globe is surpassing

NTC benchmarks such as its 2% rating for Blocked Calls or Grade of Service, which more than met the less-than-4%-performancestandard. In other categories, the dropped call rate of Globe at 1.2% is much better versus the lower-than-2%-standard. While its Average Receive Signal Level, referring to signal strength, at -71.78dBm, is better than the -85dBm standard, its Average Signal Quality, on the other hand, improved to 0.94, now much closer to the optimal 0 standard. Call Set-Up Time of Globe at 11.98 is better than the 14

second-standard for a called number to ring from the time a subscriber finished dialing the number. “Key cities nationwide are now enjoying our enhanced network with 3G and 4G hSPA+; but over and beyond NTC’s quarterly benchmarking, we at Globe keep personally checking and validating our network performance all over the country, do speed tests and get feedback from our customers,” Cu emphasizes, “after all, committing to ensuring the quality of our service to the public as NTC exhorts the industry to do so, is our core mission in the first place.”

as of august 2010

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

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

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

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

6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 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

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

ARMM targets P700-M investments for 2013 A

SIN TAX AFTERMATH. To get around the newly approved Sin Tax Law which is expected to cause increase in the prices of liquor and tobacco products, this lady vendor sells cheaper cigarette brands which also require smaller capital. Lean Daval Jr.

N estimated P700-million worth of investments is set to kick off in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) this year. Regional Board of Investments (RBOI) specialist Jun Macalawan said topping the investment plan for the province is the continuing P569-million investment poured in by the Dilinanas Development Corporation (DDC), a subsidiary of fruit-producing giant corporation Del Monte Philippines. In November last year, Acting ARMM Governor Mujiv hataman, together with Dilinanas executives, led the inauguration of a 500-hectare banana planation in Datu Abdullah Sangki town in Maguindanao. The Datu Sangki plantation forms part of the 1,300-hectare banana estate that DDC plans to set up across the province. The plantation would include parcels of land in Ampatuan town, the site of the infamous 2009 Maguindanao massacre site that killed 57 people, including 33 local journalists.

More so, Unifrutti Group Philippines, another fruit conglomerate, is also pursuing plans to expand its banana and pineapple farms in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur. The multi-national, which has laid out a comprehensive US 20-million dollar investment for the region, is currently maintaining a 1,000-hectare banana plantation in Maguindanao but plans to venture into pineapple production in Lanao del Sur. Complimenting such development, Macalawan said that a P300-M housing investment from Bombaran Development Corporation would be opened for workers later this month in Barangay Sarmiento, Parang, Maguindanao. The project, comprising some 1,500 housing units and the first in the region, is expected to benefit 1,500 workers in the Parang area alone. “The Bombaran firm is keen on expanding its housing development endeavor to areas tapped by DDC and UniFrutti for its plantations this year,” he said. [PNA]

Gov’t elated over success of DOLE in enhancing services

hE Aquino administration expressed elation over the reported success of the Dept. of Labor and Employment in enhancing the services extended by Phil-Job Net in providing at least 100,000 job vacancies at any given time, a Palace official said Tuesday. Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang the administration is looking forward to the continuing development of the Phil-Job Net website to be able to give assistance to the job seekers. “We are pleased to share the report of Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz to the President regarding Phil-Job Net (www.phil-job.net), the official job portal of the Philippine Government,” Valte said. “For the first time in its history, the number of vacancies on the website has outpaced the number of applicants. As of today,

there have been more than 264,000 vacancies posted by employers compared to a little over 117,000 applicants. The number of vacancies is also at an all-time high compared to only an average of 40,000 a month as of July 2010,” Valte said. Since Baldoz took over the helm of the DOLE, Valte said she enhanced the services provided by Phil-Job Net to include job postings from skilled workers as well as legitimate employers. Under Baldoz’s stewardship, Valte said the DOLE has also expanded the website’s coverage to provide at least 100,000 job vacancies at any given time. “We look forward to their continuing development of the PhilJob Net website into an even more responsive and inclusive tool for both job seekers and job matching, which redounds to the benefit of our countrymen,” she said. [PNA]

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 225 •WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

To preserve watersheds

ENEWABLE energy developer hedcor reaffirmed its bid to preserve and protect watersheds by planting thousands of trees. Recently, the company attained a milestone of over 600,000 trees planted in watersheds across the country. “This year our target is to plant at least 200 thousand trees in our watersheds,” Jabonillo said. “We will also strive to maintain a survival rate of 90% or more,” he added. hedcor has long recognized the importance

ISASTER experts will gather in Bangkok in May for the 2013 Asean Regional Forum on disaster relief exercise, aimed at enhancing civilian-military cooperation on disaster relief in the Asia-Pacific, Thai News Agency report-

UThORITIES will pilot, in South Cotabato province, strategies aimed at effectively managing the ‘buyo-buyo’ plant (scientific name: Piper aduncum) which they describe as a highly aggressive invasive alien specie linked to degradation and suppressed regeneration of natural forests. Such piloting will be conducted in the province’s Allah Valley Wa-

of watersheds on its business of hydroelectric power generation. The company has been operating run-of-river hydropower plants since 1972, and started building its own since 1990. Throughout this history, the company has always done its part in the preservation and protection of watersheds. Other than watershed management, the environmental initiatives of the company also include river bank stabilization, reforestation, agroforestry and road side rehabilita-

ed.

Director-general of Thailand’s Asean Affairs Department Arthayuth Srisamoot said the conference from May 7-11 will be held in Cha-um district of Thailand’s seaside province of Phetchaburi.

tershed Forest Reserve, a protected area where they said ‘buyo-buyo’ is becoming the dominant plant specie. AVWFR is the pilot activity’s Philippine site under the 2011-2015 regional project called ‘Removing Barriers to Invasive Species Management in Production & Protection Forests in Southeast Asia.’ “We hope the pilot site will serve as model for the

tion. On top of this, hedcor encourages its employees to each plant at least 20 trees every year. The company also partners with residents of its host communities in the implementation and sustainability of its ecological mission. The hydro company also ensures that it does not contribute in any way to water pollution. Further, the company even works as a whole to mitigate its carbon emissions during its operations. “The good thing about being a part of hedcor

To be co-hosted by Thailand and South Korea, the international conference will set the stage for exchanges in disaster relief and management knowhow among the dialogue partners and international agencies. [PNA/ Bernama]

country’s other national parks in management of forest IAS,” said environment undersecretary Ernesto Adobo Jr. Experts said IAS are plant and animal species intentionally or unintentionally introduced into areas where these don’t naturally occur. Such species are dreaded for being threats to the environment, human well-being and the economy. The Department of

TREES FOR WATERSHED. Hedcor employees, together with residents of the host community, plant trees near the Tudaya Falls in Davao del Sur, to help preserve and protect the area.

is the chance to be involved in environmental projects,” said Ronald Tabunares who is a Forester with the company. “We exercise a responsibility

hE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recently designated Taguibo River in Agusan del Norte as a water quality management area (WQMA) pursuant to the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004. Regional Executive

Environment and Natural Resources earlier identified the common carp fish, golden apple snail, Asiatic painted frog, Asian house rat as well as water hyacinth and ‘makahiya’ plants as among IAS that are already widespread in the Philippines. IAS found in the country also include the janitor fish, clown knife fish, Jaguar guapote fish, Polynesian rat, Chinese softshelled turtle and the lantana plant, DENR noted. For AVWFR, Adobo said authorities concerned will develop an IAS management plan and implement it within the project’s duration. “IAS inside the natural park will be managed through a variety of methods to determine the most cost-effective method,” he said. Adobo also said there’ll be activities to help restore AVWFR’s environment. “Restoration of the site will follow with help of the community and other stakeholders there,” he noted. Authorities reported AVWFR is home to some 97 plant species. [PNA]

to take care of watersheds and the environment.” A wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower, hedcor has 19 run-ofriver hydropower plants

in the Philippines. The company is ISO certified for Environment Management Systems as a direct result of the company’s green practices.

Director Joselin Marcus E. Fragada said Taguibo River is the third river in Mindanao designated as WQMA. The other two are Silway River in General Santos City and the Sarangani Bay. Fragada said DENR is designating WQMAs to ensure clean, safe and

sustainable water quality in the country. he said DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje recently signed the administrative order designating Taguibo River as WQMA. Taguibo River is a source of water for Butuan City and nearby towns. [PNA]

T may be too much to expect Philippine politics to rid itself of the infamous 3Gs or guns, goons and gold now. But an environment group has asked that politicians should at least campaign without a fourth “G” – garbage. “This early, we appeal to politicians across the political spectrum to restrain from engaging in dirty campaigning and to strive for an ecological ‘zero basura’ outreach to the electorate. We will call the attention of candidates who will campaign dirty,” Edwin Alejo, coordinator of EcoWaste Coalition, said in a statement Monday. “Through ‘zero basura,’ we hope to prevent and reduce waste and pollution from the vigorous campaign operations and activities during the next three months and avert the further degradation of our fragile environment,” he said. “We also hope that candidates will come up with meaningful platforms integrating sustainable solutions to the chronic garbage, toxic, disaster and livelihood woes facing many of our communities, and not only shake hands, hug babies, or sing and

dance to amuse voters,” he added. The call came a day after the start of the election gun ban and ahead of the official start of the campaign period, which is Feb. 12 for senatorial and party-list candidates, and March 29 for congressional and elective regional, provincial, city and municipal posts. The election in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will be synchronized with the midterm polls. EcoWaste Coalition urged candidates to minimize the use of campaign materials such as leaflets, pamphlets, posters, stickers, decals, and plastic and tarpaulin streamers. It said propaganda materials should be in post-consumer recycled paper and carry a reminder that says “para sa ating kalusugan at kalikasan, huwag pong ikalat, itambak o sunugin (for our health and environment, don’t litter, dump or burn)” or its equivalent in local languages. The group urged not to use confetti, buntings and balloons, which often get burned or discarded in waterways, seas and dumpsites. [MindaNews]

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

‘Poet and Peasant’ now on a fade-out ( Conclusion )

SPECIAl FEATURE By Honor Blanco caBie

EDITORIAL

A matter of education

NCOLOGISTS in Davao are one in saying that people’s hesitance to seek medical assistance or simply consult their neighborhood doctor is one of the major stumbling blocks in the fight against all forms of cancer.This, as medical professionals specializing in cancer commemorate National Cancer Awareness Week as part of their effort to raise awareness of laymen about a top killer disease in the country and elsewhere in the world. Patients, including those who only suspect they have cancer, do not seek medical checkups for a variety of reasons. Many of them are afraid to confirm that they are indeed sick with cancer and grapple with its implications to the patient’s and his family’s financial well-being. This does not include the emotional devastation one suffers from knowing he’s facing a life-threatening disease. Call it fatalistic, if not downright crazy, but some people do think that cancer will just go away without them doing anything about it.

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Clearly, there is a need to put across the idea that it is best for one to confirm the disease early as it raises tremendously the chances of being cured. It is a fact that fewer people are dying from cancer in the United States. According to a study, mortality rates have been falling since the early 1990s. Cancer death rates decreased by 1.8 percent per year among men and by 1.4 percent among women during the period from 2000 to 2009. Dr. Gay Matinez-Lapus, a veteran Davao oncologist, told media practitioners last Monday that 30 percent of cancers are curable if detected early. In the same media forum, Dr. Chita Matunog, a cancer specialist at the Southern Philippines Medical Center, said another bright spot in the fight against cancer in our country is the financial subsidy that the Philippine health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) extends to cancer patients. Indeed, cancer patients need not be totally helpless or hopeless. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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hE small town bands’ supply of soothing music for their captive listeners included Rafael hernandez’s “El Cumbanchero,” Lara’s “Solamente Una Vez,” and “Quien Sera” by Ruiz and Gimbel, where a listener can easily be won by the sighing reeds and the hugging trombones. There was also Serradel’s “La Golondrina,” “Csárdás,” a traditional hungarian folk dance — the name derived from csárda (old hungarian term for tavern), and was popularized by Roma music (Cigány) bands in hungary and neighboring lands of Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Burgenland, Croatia, Ukraine, Poland, Transylvania and Moravia, as well as among the Banat Bulgarians, including those in Bulgaria. ”Csardas,” like “Poet and Peasant,” and “La Virgen de la Macarena were very popular in that generation, who danced to the beat of Glenn Miller’s “In The Mood” and Tommy Dorsey’s “Song of India” as well as harry James’ “Ciribiribin” during town fiestas. In Manila, the Philippine capital, bands in colorful uniforms of red and white, blue and white, or the original khaki outfit, played “Stars and Stripes,” a patriotic American march widely considered to be the magnum opus of composer John Philip Sousa. They also played Sousa’s “National Emblem,” “Under the Double Eagle,” “The Washington Post,” which has remained as one of the composer’s most popular marches throughout the United States and foreign countries, including the Philippines. Or they would play Sousa’s “El Capitan” or the locally composed “Dalagang Naic” or the “El Palikero.” Or the bands would play ballroom beats like “La Cumparsita” as interpreted by the country’s trumpet king Anastasio Mamaril of Pangasinan, or “Cerezo Rosa” by Perez Prado as interpreted by Amy Galinato of the Jolly Boys of Ilocos Norte, the notes on his trumpet frolicking like some ice cubes falling on the pavement, doing one better than the own version of Cuba’s mambo king. But Prado’s nearly eight-minute “Mosaico Cubano” was always a winner, punctuated by healthy and vibrant applause from the audience, sitting on kind summer’s green grass. Concerts at the Rizal Park had members of the audience feeling more comfortable as they – young men and women and their grand children – enjoyed the two-hour gift of sights and sounds on benches while the sun was reluctantly setting on the placid Manila Bay. The concerts, now with other brands of cultural performances, are provided for free to the general public by the National Parks Development Committee. Many old hands are agreed the performances in the metropolis, and notably in the country, have started fading out. The weekend serenatas in the countryside have likewise gone to a moderately slow pace – and are on the last tied note of the last bar, no thanks to the lack of funds and local government support. The string ensemble’s interpretation of “Poet and Peasant” before the local and foreign tourists here that weekend was literally, as one musician described it, a full bar to the now almost forgotten overture. [PNA]

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

Politics likely to doom idea honoring tuna fishermen

N the wake of super typhoon Pablo, where 358 tuna fishermen are still missing in addition to the eight confirmed dead 40 days after it unleashed its full wrath, I tried to coax General Santos City Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio into looking at the possibility of honoring all the missing and dead victims with a memorial wall or monument where their names will be inscribed. I got a positive feedback from her via a text message. “That’s a great suggestion. Will have CEMCDO see how we can develop this,” she said. I know it would be premature, may be even insensitive, to have a monument built now and the names of the Pablo victims inscribed when hopes that they are still alive still run deep in the hearts of their families. But somewhere down the road, everybody will have to agree that we should give paean to our fishermen – both living and the dead. Even members of the Socsksargen Federation of Fishing and Allied Industries (SFFAI) are supportive of the idea and are willing to donate an area where to erect this monument honoring the faceless and nameless fisherman who made the supreme sacrifice to make General

Santos City the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. Councilor Ronel Rivera was also enthusiastic but was reluctant to sponsor a resolution that will get the ball rolling. he nevertheless pursued the initiative even as he warned that it may not go beyond sponsorship. Rivera happens to be one of the two opposition lawmakers in the city council even though its presiding officer, Vice Mayor Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles, is also an opposition. True enough, Councilor Eduardo Leyson IV immediately shot down the proposal saying it would be illegal to donate a portion of the Plaza heneral Santos without violating the city charter and the law that created it. Which reminds me, how come the city council and the city government have been mum over the tragedy? Why aren’t they asking why the missing fishermen were not adequately covered by insurance, SSS, Pag-IBIG and Philhealth?

Why, despite hosting all the National Tuna Congresses and knowing all too well that all Philippine tuna fishing vessels are to be equipped with vessel monitoring system (VMS) as required by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, they are not investigating why this happened? Or even still, why are business permits granted to these companies if they have been violating national laws as well as international treaties and agreements? Are they too beholden to these companies they are speaking, hearing and seeing no evil? This piece is not an indictment of the fishing industry, without which this city would not have grown as it is today. This is a wakeup call for everybody. We have to get our acts together and ensure that our fishermen get all the protection they deserved. In the meantime, why not a monument wall for them, indeed? If the city can give a hundred thousand peso or so as reward to a deserving tuna fisherman every Tuna Festival, why can’t we give tribute to those who died and went missing in the high seas for us to be where we are today? [Edwin G. Espejo writes for MindaNews and www.asiancorrespondent.com]

Cops Shoot Cops: Echo Clear

RESIDENT Aquino III cannot ignore the resounding message: Look into your promise to fight corruption. The shootout clearly says you are failing. In his platform, “A Social Contract with the Filipino People”, Aquino III, the candidate, highlighted eleven effects of corruption that “A people [are] crying out for change”. The shootout does not reflect well on the performance of Aquino III, the President. One effect, the 10th enumerated, states: “Our moral faculties as a people have been paralyzed.” The police on both sides of the shootout and the alleged crime syndicate members involved are (and were) within the context of the term “a people”. have their “moral faculties” been rid of the “paralysis” from corruption or any sign of “change”? The NBI probe into the jueteng angle as well as criminal and illegal association angles behind the shootout

( Conclusion ) MINDA NEWS By Patricio P. Diaz will verify allegations of police protection enjoyed by criminal syndicates that are in legal business as fronts of their more lucrative illegal operations from the police on both sides of the shootout. however, to quote a popular saying: “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Similar probes in the past – long past, in fact – including those in Congress had traced “smokes” to the “fire”. The daughter of the slain top police official, Supt. Alfredo P. Consemino, an accounting clerk in the security agency of the alleged top jueteng operator, slain Victor R. Siman, told media the fact that her father and Siman were partners in a legal security agency business (Philippine Daily Inquirer, January 10, 2013: Aquino

doubts Quezon …) In two Inquirer reports, five minutes apart on January 8 (Killed in shootout: 3 cops, 3 soldiers and ‘Jueteng’ eyed in Quezon shootout), Siman was identified by police and military sources as operating a “gun-for-hire” group and illegal numbers games. Was Consemino, top Regional PNP official, not aware of this? Even if the NBI would find Siman clean, Consemino’s business partnership with him in any capacity was a case of “conflict of interest” on the part of the latter – a form of moral corruption. This essentially is part of protection racket – well known in confidence, never proven in the open – thriving from the long past. Like many presidents, is Aquino III also impotent against this moral corruption? In its other forms, moral corruption is staring at President Aquino III but appears unnoticed. – [Patricio P. Diaz/MindaNews]

Economic optimism in 2013 ( Conclusion )

COMMENTARY By anatole KaletSKy

YCLICAL upswings are now evident in every region of the world apart from Europe. American growth accelerated notably in mid2012, from 1.6 percent annualized in the first half to 3.1 percent in the third quarter, and although a slowdown in the fourth quarter is likely, the reasons are strictly temporary: hurricane Sandy and the November election. Now that big tax hikes or public spending cuts have been avoided by the “fiscal cliff” deal and the very high probability that further fiscal measures resulting from the debt ceiling showdown will not occur until 2014 or beyond – there are three reasons to expect the cyclical upswing to accelerate. housing construction, instead of being the country’s biggest obstacle to recovery, is rising strongly and resuming its normal role as the main driver of U.S. cyclical upswings. Financial conditions are normalizing, with banks increasingly able and willing to lend. And government employment cutbacks, another big headwind to recovery, are starting to be reversed at the state and local levels. In Asia, meanwhile, growth is rebounding after a year-long slowdown caused by the Arab Spring’s soaring oil prices, aggravated by fears of a European financial meltdown and then the surprisingly chaotic leadership transition in China. Europe is the one region possibly still condemned to another year of recession, but its troubles will have limited global impact provided a financial meltdown is avoided, which is now a good bet. how, then, could expectations about 2013 be as gloomy as they were about 2012? The obvious answer is the uncertainty that prevailed until very recently about economic policies all over the world – about the euro, about the role of central banking, about the Chinese leadership, about the U.S. election and most recently about the fiscal cliff. The fact is, however, that these political uncertainties are largely resolved. The euro has survived because Germany has abandoned central banking taboos left over from the monetarist 1980s. President Barack Obama has been re-elected, allowing the Federal Reserve to continue its unprecedented monetary expansion. Now that the policy questions have been largely settled, investors, businesspeople and consumers, even if they dislike some of the political outcomes, will be forced to shift their attention back to economics and business conditions. And as they do this, they will notice that economic fundamentals are actually rather better than they thought. This greater confidence will initially be inspired by short-term cyclical improvements, but as time goes on the structural changes in the world economy will again come to the fore. Pessimists like El-Erian maintain that long-term structural changes are precisely the problem. The “New Normal” of excess debt and the failures of economic policy revealed in 2008 make weak growth inevitable for years to come. I believe, by contrast, that the trends created by the end of communism will again drive the world economy, and that new models of economic management are evolving to mitigate the failures of the old version of capitalism, which died in 2008. Against the enormous opportunities created by the reinvention of global capitalism, the deleveraging emphasised by proponents of the New Normal will probably remain a powerful countertrend. But when the history of the 21st century is written, deleveraging will not be more than a footnote to the dominant narrative: the end of communism, the rise of Asia, the power of the Internet and the reinvention of economic management.

10 NATION/WORlD NATION BRIEFS Argument

mid protests outside the Supreme Court, the first ever oral argument to be led by Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno on the controversial Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 started, with petitioners insisting the law violated the constitutional rights of the public. The argument was opened by petitioner and Sen. Teofisto “TG” Guingona III who branded the law as a “Cyberdracula... with fangs that instill fear in the hearts of people.”

Cancelled

t least four domestic flights between Manila and Mindanao were canceled Tuesday due to bad weather conditions, the Department of Transportation and Communications said. In a series of posts on its Twitter account, the DOTC said the affected flights were those of Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific. PAGASA said Samar and Leyte provinces, Central Visayas and Mindanao will have cloudy skies with occasional light to moderate rain showers or thunderstorms. Expect leaner and sexier health officials in six months.

Weight loss

orried about the expanding bellies and waistlines of its executives, the Philippines’ Department of health (DOh) has launched a weight loss programme dubbed “Belly Gud for health” to help the executives fight off stress and binge-eating that often come with management work. The six-month “light and enjoyable” challenge will see undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, directors, division chiefs and programme managers of the DOh undergoing aerobic and isometric exercises, nutrition counselling and stress management for a healthy waistline, said health Secretary Enrique Ona.

No assurance

college degree may not necessarily mean greater chances of landing a job, the chief state statistician said, noting that Pinoys with higher educational attainments tend to be “choosy” with work. Nearly one of every five unemployed Pinoys is a college graduate, National Statistical Coordination Board Secretary-General Jose Ramon Albert.

Pakistan protesters defiant after clashes

Pakistani cleric Tuesday urged thousands of protesters massed in Islamabad to camp out for another day, defiant after police fired tear gas and the government ignored his ultimatum to disband parliament. Muslim preacher Tahir-ul Qadri delivered a frenzied address to an estimated 25,000 people waving flags and chanting near the parliament building, blaming a corrupt government for the ills of a country beset by a fragile economy and Islamist violence. he led his followers into the heavily fortified capital overnight, the climax of a 38-hour journey through towns and villages from the eastern city of Lahore, where they were showered with rose petals by supporters who lined the streets. One intelligence official told AFP that there were around 25,000 people in the crowd, which would make it the largest political protest in Islamabad since the main ruling Pakistan Peoples Party took office after elections in 2008. “I want to ask you to

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

Supporters of Tahir-ul Qadri protest in Islamabad on January 15, 2013. The Pakistani cleric told thousands of people to carry on their protest in the city until Wednesday, after the govern-

ment ignored his ultimatum to disband parliament immediately. [AFP]

stay until tomorrow. I’m going to stay,” Qadri declared in his second address to the crowd since the early hours, speaking from inside a bullet-proof box. Police earlier clashed with stone throwers and protesters brandishing sticks, shooting into the air and firing tear gas. Demonstrators smashed vehicle windows as they continued their march and reached the edge of the heavily fortified

“Red Zone”, which houses parliament and Western embassies that closed on Tuesday. Eight police were hurt in the clashes, doctor Tanvir Afsar Malik, a spokesman for the Federal Government Services hospital, told AFP. Organisers of the rally accused police of opening fire, of attempting to arrest the cleric and of trying to provoke them into violence. “They opened fire on

Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri’s car and tried to smash the windows,” said Qadri spokesman Shahid Mursaleen. But Interior Minister Rehman Malik said the protesters were carrying weapons and had opened fire on police. he accused Qadri of “bulldozing” an agreement with the authorities for a peaceful rally. Military helicopters circled overhead as the protesters gathered near parliament. [AFP]

or simply “the Camillians.” In February, however, followers can get a glimpse of St. Camillus’ blessed remains: his preserved heart. St. Camillus’ relic will arrive in the Philippines February 18, said Camillian priest Dan Cancino of the Episcopal Commssion on healthcare of the Cath-

olic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. The saint’s blessed remains will have a series of pilgrimages in the country before being flown back to Rome March 11, he added. A mass and veneration rites will be held 6 p.m. upon the relic’s arrival at the Our Lady of La Paz Parish in Makati, where St.

Camillus heart will be displayed until Feb. 19. Masses for the sick will meanwhile be held on Feb. 23 at the San Fernando de Dilao Parish in Paco, Manila (8:30 a.m.) and the St. Camillus College Seminary Chapel in Marikina City (5 p.m.). On March 10, closing ceremonies will be held 4 p.m. at St. Camillus and San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel in Quezon City. The pilgrimage is “a special moment for the sick to deepen their devotion and relationship with St. Camillus especially in experiencing the ever-present love of Christ to them,” Cancino said further. Although noting that relics “do not possess magical or miraculous powers,” the priest nonetheless encouraged praying before them “because they strengthen our faith in Christ.” A primer emailed to Yahoo! Southeast Asia explained that a relic is a “part of the body of a saint or a venerated person, else another type of ancient religious object” preserved for veneration. [Yahoo!]

Saint’s preserved heart to arrive in PHL

OR devout Catholics, Camillus de Lellis is a familiar name whose intercession is implored in times of illness. Even those not familiar with the patron saint of the sick, hospitals and health workers see his work in the hands of priests in his order, known as the Ministers of the Sick

Overworked

onger hours but among the world’s lowest wages. This is the working condition of “kasambahays” in the Philippines, new United Nations labor data show. A domestic worker in the Philippines works 52 hours a week in 2010, the 7th longest work hours among the 39 countries with available data in the International Labor Organization (ILO). This is also higher than the globally accepted statutory limits on working time of 40 and 48 hours a week, said the report dubbed “Domestic workers across the world.”

EDGEDAVAO

The preserved heart of St. Camillus, patron saint of the sick, hospitals and health workers, is set to arrive in the Philippines Feb. 18, 2013.

WORLD TODAY

Gun control

resident Barack Obama pledged to vigorously pursue “sensible” gun control but, a month after a school massacre traumatized America, questioned whether tough new laws could pass Congress. Obama said that Vice President Joe Biden had delivered “common sense” reform recommendations after meeting gun control advocates, firearms lobby groups, mental health experts and software and movie industry officials.

Air strikes

rance kept up its air strikes against Islamist rebels in Mali as plans to deploy African troops gathered pace on Tuesday amid concerns that delays could endanger a wider mission to dislodge al Qaeda and its allies. France has already poured hundreds of troops into Mali and carried out days of air strikes since Friday in a vast desert area seized last year by an Islamist alliance that combines al Qaeda’s north African wing AQIM with Mali’s home-grown MUJWA and Ansar Dine rebel groups.

Pollution

hares in a Chinese facemask manufacturer soared on Tuesday as investors looked for opportunities to profit from the severe air pollution that has blanketed large swathes of China. The smog has been classed as hazardous to health but facemask maker Shanghai Dragon surged by its 10 percent limit for a second day to end at a fivemonth high, and pollution control equipment maker Fujian Longking also closed up 10 percent.

Dope

hamed cyclist Lance Armstrong has admitted that he used performance-enhancing drugs, US media reported on Tuesday, as the sport braced for revelations in his first interview since being banned for life for doping. Armstrong, who has consistently denied drug-taking, on Monday recorded a two-and-a-half hour interview with chat show host Oprah Winfrey at his home in Austin, Texas, where a media scrum gathered hoping for a glimpse of the fallen icon.

Killed

train carrying military conscripts derailed southwest of Cairo on Tuesday, killing 19 people and wounding 107, the health ministry said, highlighting the country’s chronic transport problems. The train was taking young recruits from south Egypt to a military camp in Cairo when two carriages went off the rails shortly after midnight in the Giza neighbourhood of Badrasheen, officials said.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 225 •WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

COMMUNITY SENSE 11

DCWD gears for septage management project D

AVAO City Water District entered into a memorandum of understanding with the Development Alternatives Incorporated (DAI) through its contract with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for the Philippine Water Revolving Fund Follow-on Program (PWRFFP) to help the water utility prepare a feasibility study on the proposed septage management project. The study is due April this year. The MOU was signed by DCWD acting general manager Edwin V. Regalado and DAI / PWRF-FP chief of party Alma D. Porciuncula last January 11 at the DCWD Matina office. Witnesses were Pollution Control and Safety (PCS) officer John F. Baynosa and staff and the DCWD study team in charge of the preparation of the feasibility study of the septage project composed of Ricardo P. Corcino (Production Department), Jade C. Veloso (Corporate Planning Department) and Christine S. Guarde (Engineering and Construction Department). Other members of the study team not present during the signing were Jeoffrey C. Butanas (Commercial Department) and John Christian M. Palo (PCS Office). The MOU states that DAI / PWRF-FP will provide technical assistance

to the study team in establishing the demand for a septage program and sewerage systems, evaluate various septage collection and treatment system options, identify priority septage management systems, develop technical designs and prepare the project financial analysis and related business plan. To do so, DAI / PWRF-FP will provide a specialist who will conduct mentoring workshops, give advice on the tasks specified in the agreed terms of reference (TOR), monitor progress of the project and provide inputs to the analysis of the septage treatment process, technology options and sizing of facilities. DAI / PWRF-FP will also act as liason between the water utility and lenders for the credit financing of the project. DCWD, on the other hand, will designate a study team and assign a team leader in-charge of the feasibility study; carry out the preparation of the feasibility study outlined in the TOR; monitor progress of the project; provide assistance to DAI / PWRFFP advisory team during workshops and field visits; furnish hard and electronic copies of outputs under the study; facilitate and arrange meetings with local government units (LGUs), non-government organi-

SEPTAGE MANAGEMENT PLAN. Development Alternatives Incorporated - Philippine Water Revolving Fund Follow-on Program (DAI / PWRF-FP) chief of party Alma D. Porciuncula and DCWD acting general manager Edwin V. Regalado sign the memorandum of understanding for DAI / PWRF-FP’s technical support to the preparation of DCWD’s feasibility study of its proposed septage management project.

zations and other stakeholders; and participate in the advocacy, training and other related activities of DAI / PWRF-FP with other LGUs and water service providers to invest on sanitation projects or to adopt the septage management model. It was also agreed that both parties should extend mutual cooperation to ensure timely perfor-

mance and successful conclusion of the various implementations of tasks, regularly convene to conduct project monitoring meetings composed of duly designated representatives from both parties and collaborate and contribute to the promotion of sanitation investments. With the growing population and fast economic development of Davao

Make energy saving part of your 2013 new year’s resolution - DLPC

ISTING down personal resolutions has been a fun practice every start of the year. This new year, make your list more meaningful by

Consider air-drying clothes on clothes line.

adding a commitment to a more energy-efficient lifestyle. however, keeping with those resolutions you pledge every year is not

that easy. hence, Davao Light and Power Co. suggests very simple measures which would help reduce your home energy consumption all year long.

Turn it off: Make a conscious effort to turn off all electronics or appliances when they are not in use. If no one is watching TV— turn it off. Once you develop this simple habit, you’ll achieve savings the rest of the year. Give up the clothes dryer: The second biggest household energy user, after the refrigerator, is the clothes dryer. Over drying your clothes can end up costing you money as well. Thus, hang your clothing outside in the sun and air to dry as it is the most energy-efficient method. Lower the temp of your fridge: Get your fridge in tip-top shape by setting its thermostat to between 38 and 42 degrees (F). This temperature will protect your food from spoiling while saving electricity. Twice a year, clean the condenser coil at the back of your fridge. Condenser coils tend to get dusty, making them less efficient. Give up 2 degrees: During a hot weather, set your air conditioning thermostat to 78 degrees F (26° C) or more. Or better yet, try to enjoy the breeze from a fan in the height of a hot weather instead of turning up the air conditioning.

City, DCWD intends to undertake a septage management program that would address the growing concerns in urban pollution especially its effect on the water bodies and resources of the city. Thus, it sought the help of DAI / PWRF-FP which has developed a business model and tool kit for septage management for water district to guide water ser-

vice providers in septage systems development and encourage actual investments in urban sanitations. In fact, DAI / PWRFFP has already provided technical advisory services to other LGU’s and water service providers that helped them develop / complete their feasibility studies to a level acceptable to lenders. [Jovana T. Duhaylungsod]

CCT institutionalization supported by RDC 11

hE Regional Development Council (RDC) 11 approved Resolution No. 101 Series of 2012, which supports the institutionalization of the Conditional Cash Transfer Program otherwise known as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Signed on October 9, 2012, the said resolution was inspired by Senate Bill No. 3412 or the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Act Of 2009 (An Act To Reduce Poverty And Promote human Capital Development Through The Creation Of A National Conditional Fund Transfer Program) filed on August 25, 2009 by Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Pantawid Pamilya Set 1 started in Davao Region in October 2008. Since its onset, the RDC 11 through the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) 11 has been receiving positive feedbacks about the program, with the beneficiaries manifesting perceptible changes in their lives,

such as increased health awareness for children and pregnant women, increased attendance rate of school children, as well as improved understanding and awareness on Family Development and Responsible Parenting. The RDC XI, through the recommendation of the RPMC 11, supports the institutionalization of the conditional cash transfer program as it shall contribute to achieving the human development outcomes of Davao Region, particularly in decreasing infant and maternal mortality rates, as well as increasing school participation and completion rates especially among the economically disadvantaged households. To date, Pantawid Pamilya has 193,114 family beneficiaries in 44 municipalities and 6 cities in Davao Region. Pantawid Pamilya is a poverty-alleviation strategy of the national government which provides cash assistance and social development to identified poor households in the country. [DSWD/Sheryll Jane B. Sanico]

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jured and 443 missing; Davao del Norte had one dead and six injured, and Davao Oriental, with 403 dead, 2,271 injured and 22 missing. Mazo said, the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA), “is yet to come up with a figure on how much will the national and local governments need to recover” the damage. “We don’t stop here, we know we will recover because we are resilient people,” she said. “With the DRRM concept of building back better, we don’t simply want to go back to the pre-Pablo state, we want to go back better prepared,” the OCD official added. “By now we are thinking of rezonification, better urban planning and better land use.” Meanwhile, the recovery stage for areas devastated by “Pablo” in Region 11 has started. Antonio Cloma Jr., OCD 11 operations officer, said recovery efforts have begun in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental. Cloma told reporters at Camp Panacan in Davao City that relief operations are ongo-

ing along with debris clearing supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). he added that they don’t have an estimate on when the recovery program would end, although he made sure that the team which is currently working on it would double its effort to finish the job in order to move to the rehabilitation stage. “At this time, take note that we implemented the so-called cluster approach and the office of Civil Defense is in charge of logistics, so whatever problems with support to relief and recovery operations arise, we are always ready to coordinate with different stakeholders in the delivery of relief goods and construction materials,” Cloma explained. he added that they supported the Tambayayong program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) because they knew that the intention is the immediate repair of damaged houses, which is also one of the concerns of the office of Civil Defense. [With a report by Che Palicte]

Cayetano...

SMX Convention Center which opens here today, Wednesday and ends Friday, Jan. 18. Lawyer Carlos Zarate, IBP-Davao Chapter former president, said cross-border lawyering refers to allowing foreign lawyers to practice their profession

in the Philippines. Zarate said there are now over 50,000 lawyers in the country and about a half of them are actively practicing their profession. At present, only Filipino lawyers are allowed to practice in the Philippines.

but only P250,000 each to senators Santiago, the two Cayetanos (Alan Peter and Pia) and Trillanes with no explanation for the huge discrepancy. Cayetano said Enrile did not vote for the Reproductive health Bill and the Sin Tax Bill, “but Malacanang did not cut off his (Enrile’s) funds, so I said to myself, this Martial Law, GMA and Enrile type of tactics is not good for the system.” Cayetano viewed the gift-giving act of Enrile as a defense mechanism because he was worried that the approval of the Rh Bill and Sin Tax Bill pushed by Malacanang but which he opposed would lead to his replacement as Senate president, athough Malacanang has shown no signs of replacing him. “It is a shame that we are facing this issue (En-

rile’s gift giving) amid all the turmoil that the country is facing, like calamities, the on-going peace and order process, the Atimonan (Quezon) massacre and crimes in highly urbanized cities,” Cayetano said. he mentioned a text message he received from a military man who aired his disappointment saying, “they deducted from our salaries to donate to ‘Pablo’ victims, but here we have senators talking of millions as Christmas gifts.” Cayetano welcomes an audit by the Commission on Audit (COA) with regards to the MOOE that Enrile gave to senators, “because COA chairperson Ma. Gracia M. Pulido Tan has a good reputation, so I’m hoping it will be a no nonsense audit, although she had said on

this technology, we will be able to have a clearer vision of the flow of water, mud formation, and fault lines in certain areas so that we can save more lives (in any future calamity).” Disaster Risk Exposure Assessment for Mitigation – LiDAR (DREAM-LIDAR) is a flagship program of the Aquino Administration for disaster mitigation that was launched only on November 22, 2012. DREAM-LiDAR is a program under NOAh of DOST that is composed of 50 personnel, mostly scientists and engineers mainly from the University of the Philippines-Diliman, which will warn communities of possible deadly floods in certain

areas. The DREAM LiDAR technology is implemented using two Cessna 206 aircraft leased by UP that carry the LiDAR system, and which are stationed at the DiosdadoMacapagal International Airport inside Clark. The program is supposed to include 500 days of flight from Luzon down to Mindanao beginning last November 12. however, when typhoon “Pablo” hit, according to Solidum, “the DREAM-LiDAR program was given 10 days of flight from New Bataan to Monkayo, because the unprecedented events that happened in that area during the typhoon, especially in Andap, brought high interest to these scientists.”

the Mayo Clinic in the United States of America, told newsmen that smoking cessation is an important step a smoker’s struggle to stop the vice and enhance the length and quality of his life. he said that initial interview, medication and

strict implementation of the Sin Tax Law will contribute a lot to the effort to make people quit smoking. Dr. Ybiernas believes that when a person strives hard to quit smoking it would be more effective than having medication

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ENATE Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano questioned the act of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile in doling out millions of pesos to members of the Senate in the guise of additional “maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE).” Cayetano said he welcomes the audit of the MOOE saying the Senate is not yet off the hook in this issue. he said he favors suggestions that the audit be conducted by a private firm considering that the object of the audit is the Senate. In a press conference at the Probinsya restaurant yesterday, Cayetano said, “It’s not about the money, it’s about integrity,” when asked about the cash gifts that Enrile gave out, P1.6 million each to his favored ones,

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businessman Joey Mempin. The concept was discussed by Jesus G. Dureza, former presidential adviser for Mindanao, who likewise formally introduced Afdal to the group. The discussion was joined by Gawad Kalinga executive director Luis Oquenana who flew in from Manila just for the project. Others in the group are Manuel “Bobby” Orig of AboitizPower, Art Milan of Davao Light and Power Company, Inc., Anthony B. Sasin of the Anflo Group of Companies, Leonilo G. Claudio of the International Visitors Program (IVP), GK focal persons Rene Rieta and Mempin, Alex Buenaventura of One Network Bank and Antonio M. Ajero of Edge Davao. Aside from marshaling the forces of more than a dozen foundations, the effort will also employ the voluntary services of organized coconut farmers in Davao Oriental, according to Msgr. Capalla who’s been working with the sector for decades now. The group intends to provide galvanized iron sheets, umbrella nails and other roofing materials worth P20,000 per class-

Starting...

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Office of Civil Defense (OCD) regional director Liza R. Mazo, RDRRMC 11 chairperson. Mazo said the freak typhoon destroyed irrigation systems worth P812,500,000, infrastructure valued at P602,700,000, P502,990,000 to Davao Oriental schools, P78,435,000 to Compostela Valley schools, P28,831,447,100 to crops, P326,784,320 to livestock, and P49,834,330 to fisheries. “We talked about facing calamities two years ago and said Davao is very prepared, but when Pablo hit us, I don’t know where it (our preparedness) went,” Mazo said. “As far as the criteria for preparedness is concerned, everything was checked, but no amount of preparedness could withstand the 185- kilometer per hour wind,” she said. Mazo’s report included a summary stating that 1,022 people died, while 2,701 were injured and 465 persons were listed as missing. The breakdown shows that Compostela Valley had 618 dead, 424 in-

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

room blown away by typhoon Pablo on December 4. This will quickly provide shelters to classrooms and facilitate the early resumption of classes in the destroyed schools. Donations in checks to the projects may be made payable to GawadKalinga/ Roof A Classroom Project. A party composed of Afdal, Dureza and Rieta is scheduled to fly to Davao Oriental sometime next week to inspect the progress of the projects already started by Afdal and assess the actual needs on the ground that should be addressed. During the meeting, Bishop Capalla also pointed out the need of addressing psycho-social problems brought about by the traumatic experience of typhoon victims specially children, many of whom have shown signs of phobia for rain, strong winds and water. he said the University of Sto. Tomas is one of the groups willing to involve themselves in this project, but there is still need to identify local point persons to coordinate the efforts. Under the partnership with Kawad Kalinga, those

who wish to donate for the “ROOF A CLASSROOM” (RAC) PROJECT can do any of the following: a) Issue a check payable to GAWAD KALINGA/ RAC and send the check to JESUS G. DUREZA c/o Advocacy Mindanow Foundation, Inc., Door 2, LDL Bldg, Roxas Street, Davao City 8000. It will be deposited under the GK account opened for the purpose. b) Deposit your donation directly to the Account number to be specially opened by Gawad Kalinga and devoted to the RAC project. After depositing, inform by email jessdureza@gmail.com or text to +639178995377 informing the group about the deposit made. All donations will be published and each donor will get an official receipt and the corresponding tax deduction document for the amount. Other information as to updates of the project, etc. will be sent periodically to each donor. A FaceBook account under the name “Typhoon Pablo” “ROOF A CLASSROOM” (RAC) PROJECT will also be opened and maintained for the purpose.

group of 17 scientists arrived in Davao City yesterday to conduct a study on the land formation of “Pablo”-affected-areas with the use of optical remote sensing technology called Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar) of the Nationwide Operational Assessment of hazards (NOAh). Dr. Elsie Mae Solidum, assistant regional director for technical services of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 11, said in an interview yesterday at Dream Path, SM Annex, that the scientists arrived in Davao City to study the land formation with focus on areas from New Bataan to Monkayo. Solidum said, “With

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EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 225 •WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

PBA PHILIPPINE CUP GAME 4

TNT goes for 3-peat tonight T

ALK ‘N Text goes for their third straight Philippine Cup title tonight against a Rain Or Shine side that itself wants to get out of a 0-3 hole. The Tropang Texters has history and momentum on their side. They are up 3-0 in the best-of-seven series with Game 4 set tonight at the SMART Araneta Coliseum starting at 6:00 p.m. Meantime, TNT sparkplug Jason Castro has earned the vote even of his closest rivals for the Best Player of the Conference award. Castro’s teammate, Ranidel de Ocampo, and Meralco Bolts star Solomon Mercado – both in the running for the honor after finishing inside the Top Five of the tournament’s statistical race - admitted on Tuesday that they have cast their votes for the catquick guard from Pampanga. Another contender, statistical topnotcher Arwind Santos of Petron, did not even bother to cast his vote in the poll that ended on Monday afternoon. Mercado believes a best player citation is long overdue for Castro, who for so long has played second fiddle to Texters star Jimmy Alapag. “he’s never been Best Player of the Conference, he’s always done great and his team has always been good and finally, he should get the recognition,” said Mercado. The Bolts star said the choice for him came down to Castro and Alaska rookie

Calvin Abueva. “Calvin had a great conference, but to me I feel Jason deserves it a little more,” he added. De Ocampo, meantime, said he voted for Castro because he felt his teammate deserves the award more than him. “Mas may pagasa siya kaysa sa akin. Mas deserving siya sa boto ko, kaysa sa sarili ko,” said de Ocampo. “Championship ang gusto namin lagi kasi pang lahat yun, kung tutuusin nga ang individual honor na gusto lang namin yung Finals MVP, kasi ibig sabihin nun champion kami,” de Ocampo stressed. The sweet-shooting big man from Tanza Cavite, likewise, is conceding the Finals MVP to Castro, assuming their team wraps up the series with Rain or Shine soon. The best player award will be handed out before Game Four of the Finals on Wednesday night. Both de Ocampo and Mercado also have words of wisdom for fan favorite Abueva. “Kung hindi makuha ni Calvin yung BPC, huwag niya dibdibin yun. Ituloy niya lang yung sipag niya sa laro, I’m sure balang araw makukuha niya yun,” said de Ocampo, adding that he, too, believes Abueva has what it takes to be rookie-MVP. Mercado said: “Calvin has the opportunity to win it this year, he just have to keep his head up. he had a great conference especially for a rookie and he has a lot of time to win that award.”

Kenyans rule Cebu marathon

EBU CITY, Jan. 15 (PNA) -- The Kenyans wiped out the locals in the 42K and 21K event in the 2013 Cebu Marathon over the weekend. Cebu’s hope for a title, Mary Grace delos Santos, gave up her crown in the women’s 21K, but to a worthy opponent at the Cebu IT Park. ”She is really fast,” said delos Santos after learning of 21K winner Jackline Nzivo’s time of 1:18:28 minutes. Delos Santos, who was still on a recovery run after her grueling Milo Marathon last month, came in second but improved her time. ”It was a non-pressured run. I know I was the defending champion, but I had to take it because

I was still recovering from Milo. So I was really surprised to surpass my personal best in the 21K,” said delos Santos, the over-all champion in the women’s 42K of the Milo Marathon. Delos Santos improved her time Sunday by a minute to 1:20. Coming in third was Mary Joy Tabal, who, despite losing, was still ecstatic about her first performance in the 21K. She finished in 1:21:44, a huge improvement from her old record of 1:23 for three years. Nzivo, who has been winning titles all over the country in just the short six months that she’s been here, said she was watching out for delos Santos. “I know she will be my toughest opponent,” said Nzivo. (PNA)

Roach rules out tune-up fight h Talk N’ Text will go for their third straight Philippine Cup title in the PBA tonight. But will Rain Or Shine go down without a fight? (PBA photo)

ALL OF Fame trainer Freddie Roach has ruled out a tune up fight for Filipino Manny Pacquiao before meeting Juan Manuel Marquez for the fifth time. But he looks forward to vaulting back from what was a bad 2012 to a better 2013. The five-time ‘trainer of the year’ honoree of the Boxing Writers Association of America has, in fact, recalled all his men from their respective vacation, including Filipino assistant trainer Marvin Somodio, for duty, precisely, for that purpose. Somodio, who left Saturday after receiving a telephone call from Roach to cut short his leave, is, in fact, expected to join the Wild Card staff Monday morning (Tuesday in Manila) to start his tour of duty at the Roach-owned sweat shop along Vine St.

in downtown hollywood, Los Angeles. Roach, in a report by Boxing Scene, objected to a suggestion that Pacquiao, who lost twice last year, including an emphatic knockout loss to Marquez, fight this April 15 or 20 against a lighter opponent before plunging into action again against the Mexican legend. Four possible opponents – current WBO welterweight champion Timothy Bradley, who dethroned him from his 147-pount crown in June, Brandon Rios, Robert Guerrero and even Jessie Vargas and Vyacheslav Senchenko – are being mentioned to face the Filipino superstar this summer. “They’re talking about a tune up fight in Macau (or Singapore, and Abu Dhabi), with him and Marquez on the show together against different oppo-

nents and then a rematch in September. That’s being negotited right now,” Roach told Boxing Scene. “The thing is, I don’t really want a tune up fight. I would rather just go straight into the fifth fight,” he stressed.

“I don’t think a guy of Pacquiao’s level needs a tune up fight. Thing is, he’s going to get right back on the horse. The first thing he said to me (after the loss to Marquez), we need to do it one more time.” (PNA)

17 at the South Cotabato Sports Complex in Koronadal City. he said several institutions and local governments have already signified their support to the activity, which coincides with the celebration of the agency’s 18th anniversary. Among the early signees for the activity was the provincial government of South Cotabato that pledged to sponsor at least 200 slots for its employees and officials, he said.

With the registration for each slot set at P250, South Cotabato’s initial contribution to the event is valued at P50,000. South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. said they allowed Philhealth-12 to put-up a registration kiosk inside the provincial capitol compound to allow other interested employees and clients to register and join the activity. “We’re very supportive of this activity because of the positive impact of the

cause that it has been promoting,” said South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. Philhealth Run 2013 mainly intends to highlight mother and child protection in the country. Organizes said the proceeds of the run’s Region 12 or Koronadal City leg will go to the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Region 12.

ROACH. No fight in April.

KORONADAL LEG

5,000 runners seen in PhilHealth Run

ENERAL SANTOS CITY, Jan. 14 (PNA) -- The Philippine health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth)-Region 12 is optimistic of meeting its targeted 5,000 runners for the Koronadal City leg of the nationwide Philhealth Run 2013 next month. Ramon Aristoza Jr., Philhealth’s acting area vice president for Mindanao, said they have launched a massive registration drive for the event, which is slated on Feb.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

Realty

EDGEDAVAO

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FOR SALE:

1) 1-hectare commercial lot at P10,000/sq m, along national Highway, facing east, beside nccc Panacan, Davao city. 2) 17,940sq m commercial lot at P2,500/sq m, along Matina Diversion road. 3) 3,831 sq m lot along Matina Diversion road. 4) 41,408 sq m commercial/ industrial lot at P800/sq m along the national Highway, Bunawan. 5) 7,056 sq m at P1,200/sq m commercial/residential lot along indangan road, Buhangin District. 6) 27,411 sq m commercial/ industrial lot along the national Highway in Bincungan, tagum city. 7) 116.15 to 245.92 sq meters , at P5.5M to P12.3M commercial/ office condo units in Bajada, Davao city. 8) 699 to 1,117 sq m at P4,100/sq m commercial lots at Josefina town center, along the national Highway, Dumoy, toril. 9) ready-for-occupancy residential Properties: 4Br/3t&B in a 240 sq m lot with 177.31sqm floor area (2-storey) at P4.8M in an exclusive beachfront community in Dumoy, toril.; 3Br 2-storey in a 71.25 sq m 2-storey in a 143sq m lot in an exclusive flower village in Maa, Davao city; 180 sq m lots with 71.25sqm to 126.42 sq m floor areas, priced at P3.751M to P5.773M in an exclusive mountain resort community along Matina, Diversion road. 10) 1Br/2Br residential condo units located in Bolton, Maa, obrero, Davao city. 11) For aSSUMe (rUSH): 1Br res’l condo unit in Palmetto, Maa. P600K negotiable. note: items 1-9 can be paid in cash, in-house or bank financing. if interested, please call Jay (Prc reB lic. 8237) at 0922-851-5337 (Sun), 0908-883-8832 (Smart) or send email to propertiesindavao@yahoo.com.

LOT FOR SALE 180 sq. meter, Farland Subd., Dumoy, Toril, P 350,000 only Contact: 0927-706-2510

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Account Executives (2) - Male / Female, not more than 30 years old - Candidate must posses a Bachelor/ College Degree in any Business field. - Willing to work under pressure, flexible, persuasive, can speak fluently and computer literate - A team player - With Basic Salary, Transportation, Communication, allowance + Commission For interested applicants, you may send your resume to: HR Department EDGEDavao Doors 13 & 14 Alcrej B;dg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com

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VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

WOMEN

Manquilleuse Tiny Pinili TIny PInIlI is fast becoming Davao City’s preferred manquilleuse (makeup woman / artist in layman’s terms). In a span of 5 years, this beauty maven has made a name for herself with her magic wand of a brush, prettifying brides and models all over the region. With a continuing drive to excel in her profession, she has become known for her dedication, attention to details, natural sense of style, and diverse creativity. Tiny’s passion for beauty and art began in her early childhood when she started playing with her mom’s makeup kit. “I remember being scolded by my mom for making a mess of our bedroom walls with my drawings. I used to draw faces on walls using my mom’s makeup.” Tiny has always been fascinated with colors. In high school, she learned about makeup application by browsing through fashion magazines and going online to check out tips and techniques. After high school, Tiny

surrounded herself with friends and colleagues who shared similar interests in hairstyling, makeup, and photography. She was captivated by the beauty she discovered in portrai-

FMANQUILLEUSE, A4

Tiny’s approach to hair and makeup is “less is more” especially with brides and bridesmaids. She pays close attention to her client’s personality and best features. She also loves to explore her creativity, break the rules, and just play with colors.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

HEALTH

Ovarian cancer facts Pediatricians say kids need recess during school

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A group of American pediatricians is telling school districts that children need recess and free time during the school day, and it should not even be taken away as punishment.

“We consider it essentially the child’s personal time and don’t feel it should be taken away for academic or punitive reasons,” said Dr. Robert Murray, who coauthored the new policy statement for the American Academy of Pediatrics. The statement, published Monday in the journal Pediatrics, says recess is a “crucial and necessary component of a child’s development.” Recess helps students develop communication skills, such as cooperation and sharing, and helps counteract the time they spend sitting in class, according to the statement. “The cognitive literature indicates that children are exactly as we are as adults. Whenever they’re performing a complicated or complex task, they need time to process the information,” said Murray, a professor at Ohio State University in Columbus. “Kids have to have that time scheduled. They’re not given the opportunity to just get up and walk around for a few minutes,” he added. Previous research, according to the statement’s authors, found children pay closer attention and perform better mentally after recess. Last January, a review of 14 studies found kids who get more exercise from - among other things - recess and playing on sports teams tend to do better in school. But a 2011 survey of 1,800 elementary schools found about a third were not offering recess to their third grade classes. Murray told Reuters Health that schools in Japan offer children about 10 minutes of free time after every 50 minutes of class, which he said makes sense. “I think you can feel it if you go to a lecture that after 40 to 50 minutes of a concentrated activity you need to take a break,” he said. Currently, the American Heart Association calls for at least 20 minutes of recess every day, but Murray said recess needs depend on the child. “Most schools - on average - are working on the framework of 15 to 30 minute bursts of recess once or twice a day,” he said. There is, however, consensus on when in the day children’s recess should take place. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Agriculture both recommend schools schedule recess before lunch. Previous studies have found that children waste less food and behave better for the rest of the day when their recess is before their scheduled lunch, the pediatricians’ statement notes. The statement also says schools should not substitute physical education classes for recess. “Those are completely different things and they offer completely different outcomes,” said Murray. “(Physical education teachers are) trying to teach motor skills and the ability of those children to use those skills in a bunch of different scenarios. Recess is a child’s free time.” The pediatricians also warn against a recess that is too structured, such as having games led by adults. “I think it becomes structured to the point where you lose some of those developmental and social emotion benefits of free play,” said Murray. “This is a very important and overlooked time of day for the child and we should not lose sight of the fact that it has very important benefits,” he added.

OvArIAn cancer (malignancy of the ovaries) is the fifth most common female cancer. In the United States, there will be an estimated 22,280 women that will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2012, according to statistics from the national Cancer Institute.

In the U.K., the number of women affected by ovarian cancer in 2008 was around 6,500, according to the charity Ovarian Cancer Action. This amounts to an average of 18 British women being diagnosed every day. These figures translate to a 1 in 54 chance of getting ovarian cancer in a woman’s lifetime. The majority of cases occur in those over 50. Types of ovarian cancer are: Epithelial Tumors – These are on the surface of the ovaries. This is the most common type and accounts for 90 percent of cases. Borderline Tumors – These are “low malignancy” tumors also found on the surface of the ovaries. Because they are low malignancy, this type of cancer can be treated with surgery alone. Germ Cell Tumors – This is cancer of the germ cells that would have become eggs. This accounts for 5-10 percent of ovarian cancer cases. Sex Cord Stromal Cell Tumors – This is cancer of the connective tissue that holds the ovaries together and also produces female sex hormones. This type of cancer is very rare and accounts for less than 5 percent of cases. Risk Factors There are certain things that increase your risk of getting ovarian cancer. These are: • Never having been pregnant during your childbearing years • Being in later life (over 50) • Having a family history of ovarian cancer or cancer of the rectum, colon, uterus or breast or a previous history of having any of those cancers • Using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that is an estrogen-only product for more than 10 years

Ovarian cancer is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because women don’t always realize they have cancer until it has spread. Due to this, it has a high mortality rate. • Ovarian stimulation for IvF procedures may increase the risk of borderline ovarian tumors, although more studies are needed • Being overweight with a body mass index of over 30 • Having your first period when you are very young or having a late menopause • Having a history of endometriosis • Being Ashkenazi Jewish, Dutch, Polish, Icelandic, norwegian or Pakistani. Ovarian cancer is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because women don’t always realize they have cancer until it has spread. Due to this, it has a high mortality rate. However, the medical profession is working at reducing the death rate by helping women to recognize the early symptoms. Early Warning Signs If you develop irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms for the first time when you are over the age of 50, it may be ovarian cancer because it is unlikely

that women over this age will get IBS for the first time. Symptoms to look out for are: • Bloating or increased stomach size • Persistent stomach pain • Feeling full after only a small amount of food • Difficulty eating • Frequent urination or other urinary symptoms • Changes in your bowel habits • Back pain and/or excessive fatigue Although similar, ovarian cancer symptoms are persistent, whereas IBS symptoms can come and go. If you are over 50 and you suddenly develop these symptoms and they don’t go away, please see your doctor. It may be nothing to worry about, but he can at least rule out serious illnesses. Treatment Treatment consists of surgery which will remove the cancer and radiation therapy in an attempt to try to kill off any leftover can-

cer cells and prevent them from coming back. This is called local therapy. Sometimes chemotherapy may be offered, which will either be put into the abdomen and pelvis through a tube, taken by mouth, or injected into a vein. Side effects of chemotherapy are varied, but can include: • Depletion of blood cells that help fight infection leaving you more vulnerable to infection • Hair loss • Appetite loss • Diarrhea • Sores on your lips or in your mouth • Nausea and/or vomiting • Joint pain • “Pins and needles’ or numbness in your hands or feet • Kidney damage • Hearing loss Depending on your stage of cancer, your age and whether you wish to have children or not, you may be given surgery to remove your ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, lymph nodes and the omentum (a tissue layer that covers the intestines). If you are young, have only stage 1 cancer and you want children, it may be possible to ask your surgeon to only remove one ovary and one fallopian tube, and to leave your uterus intact. Post-operatively, you may be in some pain and may require painkillers for several days. It can take a few weeks to feel normal again and to be able to do your normal activities.

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

Lance Armstrong admits doping to Oprah Winfrey

WELL, if anyone can get it outta you, it’s Oprah Winfrey.

After the highly anticipated sit-down interview with Lance Armstrong today (which will air on OWN this Thursday), someone close to the situation spilled that the former athlete confessed to Oprah that he used performance-enhancing drugs to win the Tour de France, according to Fox News. Gasp! The exchange between Armstrong and Winfrey was “emotional at times,” according to a source, and it followed an apology to the staff at the Livestrong Foundation that left some of them in tears. According Rae Bazzarre, Director of Communications and External Affairs at Livestrong, Armstrong

“offered a sincere and heartfelt apology for the stress [the Livestrong staff has] endured because of him and urged them to keep up their great work fighting for people affected by cancer.” Meanwhile, Oprah tweeted, “Just wrapped with @lancearmstrong More than 2 1/2 hours . He came READY!” Ready and willing. Armstrong reportedly said, “I

told her (Winfrey) to go wherever she wants and I’ll answer the questions directly, honestly and candidly. That’s all I can say.” And this interview was so important, that there’s going to be an interview about the interview. (Yeah, it takes a second to understand.) CBS says Winfrey will be on CBS This Morning tomorrow to discuss her sit-down with the cyclist.

before any of us knew what she was about to do upon receiving the Cecil B. DeMille Award. “But there was a lot of whittling down,” she added. “I had to do a lot of whittling down.” Considering the Oscar winner’s remarks clocked in at six minutes and 47 seconds, we could only imagine how long the

original draft would have taken to read. Interestingly enough, Foster said the most fun she’s ever had at the Globes was in 1996 when she presented her good pal Mel Gibson with the Best Director award for Braveheart. “It wasn’t about me,” she said. “It was all about him. It was totally fun.”

Jodie Foster’s Golden Globes Speech: “It Didn’t Take Me Too Long to Write”

JUST how much Jodie Foster thought about her much talked-about speech at the Golden Globes is not known exactly, but it wasn’t off-thecuff. She kept to her script.

“It didn’t take me too long to write,” she told me on the Globes red carpet

The Carrie Diaries: Save it or sink it LET’S go back, back to the beginning.

Sure, that might be a lyric from a Hilary Duff song, but it’s also the premise of The CW’s Sex and the City prequel The Carrie Diaries, which premiered tonight and introduced viewers to a 16-year-old Carrie Bradshaw, (with AnnaSophia Robb seamlessly stepping into Sarah Jessica Parker’s iconic Manolos). It’s 1984, Carrie is just a young high school student dealing with the loss of her mother, a bratty younger sister, first love (No Mr. Big here) and experiencing the magic of New York City for the first time. Now that the series has finally debuted, we’re curious to hear what you thought of Carrie’s origin story. Gone are Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte, Carrie’s BFFs in the original series. Don’t worry, SATC fans, you won’t miss ‘em after meeting young

Carrie’s group of misfit friends: Mouse (Ellen Wong), Maggie (The Killing’s Katie Findlay) and Maggie’s BF Walt (Brendan Dooling), whose coming out story we can’t wait to see unfold. Replacing Mr. Big as the guy in Carrie’s

life is Sebastian (Austin Butler from Life Unexpected), whose basically the non-jerk version of James Spader in Pretty in Pink. Seeing as we were huge SATC fans prior to watching The Carrie Diaries, we were almost surprised by how much we adored the pilot. Of course it helps that the author Candace Bushnell is serving as an executive producer, but we can’t stress enough how impressed we were with Robb’s performance. She perfectly captures Parker’s spirit (and certain mannerisms!) without ever crossing the line into impersonation territory; she is simply Carrie Bradshaw. Plus, we loved the subtle nods to the original series, including the shot of Carrie writing in her diary from her window. There’s a lot of heart and sincerity to the series that can appeal to all ages. And who doesn’t love ‘80s fashion?!

INdulge! A3

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge! WOMEN

Manquilleuse... FFROM A1 ture, and started collaborating with her friends for fashion shoots. She then worked together with the creative team of leadFoto Studios and fellow makeup artist Mae Ann Cortez, through whom she has built a strong client base throughout the city. realizing that this was the career she wanted to pursue, Tiny decided to enroll in a beauty academy in Manila, where she studied hair and makeup under the tutelage of worldrenowned instructors. Tiny’s approach to hair and makeup is “less is more” especially with brides and bridesmaids. She pays close attention to her client’s personality and best features. She also loves to explore her creativity, break the rules, and just play with colors. Being a makeup artist is not just a career choice to Tiny. It is also a hobby and a passion which she has remained dedicated to from the moment she set her foot in the beauty industry. Her creative talents go beyond make-up as she has exhibits her skills in hair styling for high profile commercial and bridal shoots. “I find excitement and satisfaction in meeting and developing strong bonds with all the clients I work with.” To date, her portfolio of work features her skills and standards beyond doubt. She has just recently partnered with friends Deeno Jeong and Clarice Samsonlu in planning out her goal of opening a beauty academy. For details and inquiries on hair and makeup services, please check Tiny’s website at www.beauteeny.com. You may also email her at tinypinili@beauteeny.com or call 09177023205.

VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 225 •WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

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Big names roll AUSTRALIAN OPEN

• Serena survives injury • Federer, Murray in straight sets win

Serena Williams of the US lies on the court after falling during her first round match against Romania’s Edina Gallovits-Hall at the Australian Open.

ELBOURNE, Australia (AP) -- Serena Williams frightened a few people, including herself. Defending champion Victoria Azarenka had a momentary lack of concentration. Two of the biggest names on the men’s side at the Australian Open Roger Federer and Andy Murray - had straight-set wins. Day Two at Melbourne Park on Tuesday brought another day of perfect weather but a few anxious moments for Williams, who fell awkwardly on her right ankle in her 6-0, 6-0 win over No. 110-ranked Edina Gallovits-hall. Williams had the ankle heavily taped by trainers and was able to continue and still dominate the Romanian player. Later, she said she hoped to continue playing - she’ll have a scheduled day off Wednesday, returning Thursday to play her second-round match - and maintain her quest of winning her third Grand Slam tournament in a row and sixth Australian Open. ‘’I think I was really, really close to panicking because a very similar thing happened to me last year, almost on the same side, the same shot,’’ Williams said. ‘’I just had to really remain calm and think things through.’’ She left little doubt she’ll be back to play her second-round match Thursday against Garbine Muguruza of Spain, who needed a 14-12 win in the deciding set to clinch her first-round match Tuesday against Magdalena Rybarikova of Slovakia. ‘’Oh, I’ll be out there,’’ Williams said of her second-round match. ‘’I’m alive. My heart’s beating. I’ll be fine.’’ Azarenka trailed 3-0 in the second set of her match with Monica Niculescu before leveling the set at 4-4 and winning 6-1, 6-4. ‘’I started well but I struggled a little in the second set,’’ Azarenka said.

Told that her biggest threat on her half of the draw had injured her ankle, Azarenka wondered, tongue-in-cheek, how serious Williams’ ailment could be: ‘’I heard she won love and love, so what kind of injury are we talking about?’’ Murray, playing with more confidence since his U.S. Open win in the final over Novak Djokovic that ended a 76-year drought for British men in majors, beat Robin haase of the Netherlands 6-3, 6-1, 6-3. The second-seeded Federer defeated Benoit Paire of France 6-2, 6-4, 6-1. Murray needed just 1 hour, 37 minutes, and Federer 1:23 in their first-round matches. They’ll need to conserve their energy for a potential semifinal against each other to determine a final against top-seeded and defending champion Djokovic, assuming all three men are still around on the final weekend. Before a ball was hit Tuesday, players and officials were shocked to hear of the serious illness and pending resignation of ATP World Tour executive chairman and president Brad Drewett. The ATP said in a statement Tuesday that Drewett, a former player, has motor neurone disease, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, but will continue in his role on an interim basis until a successor is found ‘’in the near future.’’ Drewett has held

the top ATP position since Jan. 1 last year. The 54-year-old Australian was a top 40 singles and top 20 doubles player before he retired as a player in 1990. Federer, president of the ATP Player Council, said the news was difficult for the tour and its players. ‘’I saw him yesterday and he told me the news,’’ Federer said. ‘’Obviously very emotional ...’’ Murray said it was ‘’shocking news.’’ ‘’he’s definitely had an impact in the time he’s been working there,’’ Murray said. “It’s a big shame.’’ It was Murray’s first Grand Slam match as a major champion. ‘’It didn’t feel much different to me,’’ he said. ‘’I was still nervous before I went on to play the match. ‘’The benefits of that is if I get myself deep into a Slam this year and you’re playing against the top players - that’s when you’ll draw on that experience and use it in the right way.’’ It’s been 12 months since Murray started working with eight-time major win-

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 15: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France celebrates after winning his first round match against Michael Llodra of France during day two of the 2013 Australian Open at Melbourne Park. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

ner Ivan Lendl, and he attributes much of the success in his breakthrough 2012 to his partnership with his new coach. It’s relaxed ‘’in front of the cameras,’’ Murray joked. ‘’Behind closed doors he works me very hard ... he tells you exactly how it is and that’s exactly what I needed.’’ In other men’s matches, No. 6 Juan Martin del Potro, 2008 finalist Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, No. 13 Milos Raonic of Canada, who beat Jan hajek 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 7-6 (0), No. 14 Gilles Simon, No. 17 . Philipp Kohlschreiber, No. 21 Andreas Seppi and No. 25 Florian Mayer advanced. Williams sounded almost matter-offact about her ankle ailment and its potential to affect her play in the rest of a Grand Slam she has won five times. ‘’I’ve played this tournament with so many injuries and w a s able to come off pretty on top,’’ she said. ‘’So for me, it’s just another page and a g r e a t story to tell the grandkids o n e day.’’ Williams is favored to win the season’s first major, coming into Melbourne with 35 wins in her previous 36 matches, including titles at Wimbledon, the London Olympics and the U.S. Open. In other women’s matches, former No. 1-ranked Caroline Wozniacki won the last six games to beat Sabine Lisicki of Germany 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 to advance along with No. 16 Roberta Vinci, No. 17 Lucie Safarova and No. 29 Sloane Stephens, the American teenager who beat Simona halep of Romania 6-1, 6-1. Former U.S. Open and French Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova continued her comeback from a knee injury that kept her out of the U.S. Open, ending her run of 40 consecutive majors. Also, No. 14 Maria Kirilenko had a 6-4, 6-2 win over American Vania King, and China’s Peng Shuai beat Canada’s Rebecca Marino 6-3, 6-0. And 42-year-old Kimiko Date-Krumm of Japan upset No. 12-seeded Nadia Petrova of Russia 6-2, 6-0 to become the oldest woman to win a singles match at the Australian Open. While Serena Williams will have the day off to rest her weary ank l e Wednesday along with Murray and Federer - Djokovic returns to play his second-round match against American Ryan harrison. Second-seeded Maria Sharapova takes on Misaki Doi of Japan and Venus Williams plays Alize Cornet, with a third-round matchup created if French Open champion Sharapova and Venus Williams win their matches.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 225 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013

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Davao pug wins in boxing World Series F

ILIPINO SENSATION Charly Suarez, fighting for the Milan-based Italia Thunder, scored his second victory in the World Series of Boxing (WSB) at the Mediolanum Stadium in Milan Saturday. The Panabo City native Suarez was ranged against Asian champion Anvar Yunusov, a Tajik who carried the colors of the United States (USA Knockouts) in the competition organized by the International Boxing Association (AIBA). The tournament is on its third season. Last year, Suarez fought for India’s Mumbai Fighters (the team is currently on leave). The fight was the most fiercely fought in the 5-fight card, with the Filipino trailing going into the fourth round. however, the Davao native, buoyed by the lusty cheers of about 500 Filipinos in the audience who came out to support him,

won the late exchanges. The fight was so close that 2 of the judges scored it a draw. Suarez was jubilant after the victory, especially because unknown to anyone, he was nursing a shoulder injury prior to the fight. “I had to suck it up because so many Filipinos had bought tickets in advance. I didn’t want to disappoint them.” he thanked the officials of Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) led by chairman Manny Pangilinan and president Ricky Vargas for giving him the opportunity to fight in the international league which has a 5-round format sans head guards and singlets. In an email to ABAP executive director Ed Picson, Suarez said he was going to undergo laser treatment for the injury before he goes up the ring again in March, possibly in the United States. (PNA)

Daria Gavrilova of Russia plays a backhand in her first round match against Lauren Davis of the United States during day two of the 2013 Australian Open at Melbourne Park. More Australian Open stories on page 15. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)