Edge Davao 5 Issue 255 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

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Serving a seamless society

Indulge

Page Page A1 A4 A member of Sto. Tomas High School dance troupe performs a dance routine during the opening of the Davao Region Athletics Association (DAVRAA) at the

Empowering Filipina women Sports

Page 15

Davao del Norte sports complex in Tagum City last Monday afternoon. Lean Daval Jr.

Unsa kahay behind ani?

Rallyists storm DSWD 11 office ‘Pablo’ protesters ‘loot’ relief goods for ‘Crising’ victims

By EJ Dominic Fernandez

Battle of Mactan begins

ILITANT protesters who earlier barricaded the national highway in Compostela Valley stormed the regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office at the corner of Damaso Suazo St. and Ramon Magsaysay Ave, in Davao City yesterday morning and forcibly took relief goods intended for victims of Typhoon “Crising” in Davao del Norte. The protesters who said they were Typhoon “Pablo” victims in ComVal and Davao Oriental entered the DSWD at about 11 a.m. and forcibly took 3,000 food packs, 116 sacks of rice, 600 noodle packs, and 300 boxes of coffee. The “Pablo” survivors earlier staged a protest a day earlier and camped overnight outside the DSWD 11 regional office whose officials refused to release 10,000 sacks of rice demanded by the

FRALLYISTS STORM, 11

Members of progressive groups and alleged victims of typhoon Pablo ransack the Department of Social Welfare and Development regional office in Damaso Suazo Street, Davao City yesterday. The protesters took away numerous sacks of rice, boxes of canned goods and other food packs intended for the victims of tyhoon Pablo in Compostela Valley Province and Davao Oriental (see related story). Lean Daval Jr.

2 THE BIG NEWS

Dabawenyos to view relic of St. Camillus

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

By Che Palicte

N line with St. Cammilus de Lellis’s 400th death anniversary, part of the celebration is the pilgrimage in Davao City of the St. Camillus’ relic--his heart--which Dabawenyos will be able to view it March 4 and 5. Fr. Domingo Barawid, of the Camillians, said at the Kapehan sa Dabaw in SM Annex last Monday, that the St. Camillus relic will be open to the public for viewing. “The relic is in a glass box, so everybody is free to wipe their handkerchiefs on it and, most importantly, this is a spe-

cial moment for the sick to deepen their devotion and relationship with St. Camillus,” the priest added. Fr. Barawid added that the visit of the relic will be a historic event and an opportunity for all healthcare providers to renew their dedication and commitment to loving and serving the sick by putting more heart in their hands. He added that St. Camillus de Lellis is the patron saint of the sick, of hospitals, doctors and nurses who, in his life-

FDABAWENYOS, 11

DavNor sports complex

RDR: Our dream come true

“F

INALLY this dream of ours of putting up a sports complex for the benefit of the young and adults has been realized. We can finally rest!” This was the take of the dynamic Davao del Norte governor, Rodolfo Del Rosario, at the opening ceremony of the 2013 Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) sportsfest. The governor told media practitioners yesterday at the Davao del Norte Sports Complex in Mankilam,Tagum City,

that his feeling “is just so fantastic and everything just turned out the way” they planned it. “A long time dream realized, thanks to God,” he added. He said the sports complex will help the people of Davao del Norte, especially the youth, in developing their sports ability and at the same time it is a way of molding them to have a strong character and discipline as well. The governor announced that they won the bid to host the Private Schools Athletic Associ-

FDAVNOR, 11

SPINNING TOPS. These children are seen locked into a spinning tops battle instead of playing computer and video games which is a very rare sight in this cyber technology generation in Bucana, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Sabah standoff

Plot to sabotage FAB? By EJ Dominic Fernandez

HE armed group led by the heirs of the Sultan of Sulu that is trying to reclaim Sabah is probably involved in a plot to sabotage the Framework Agreement of the Bangsamoro (FAB), according to first vice chairman of the central committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Gh-

adzali Jaafar. Jaafar, in an interview Monday, said, “the heirs of the Sultan should never have done that, because the focus right now, under the leadership of President Benigno Aquino III, is to solve the issue of the Bangsamoro people, which is to have their own government through the FAB.”

ECC for Sagittarius Mines

is left out of the peace negotiations because no Bangsamoro is excluded in the Bangsamoro government discussed in the FAB. He explained that one of the provisions in the Bangsamoro basic law is that there must be a democratic election, which means the leader of the

FSABAH STANDOFF, 11

Businessmen want responsible mining

“W

PEDDLING. Two sea gypsies can be seen peddling second hand rubber shoes around the main thoroughfares of Davao City, along E. Quirino Avenue yesterday. Majority of sea gyp-

“There are rumors that what is happening in Sabah is a plot to sabotage the FAB, which may be true because the group trying to reclaim the territory feels left out of the peace negotiations between the PNoy administration and the MILF,” Jaafar said. However, Jaafar denies that the Sultanate of Sulu

sies in Davao City nowadays are more enterprising as they earn their living peddling used shoes, sandals and clothes to earn a living no longer rely on just begging for Lean Daval Jr.

HAT matters to me is the company’s commitment to responsible mining, environmental sustainability and social development . They should be consistently implemented and monitored so that project benefits are realized.” This was the statement of architect Daniel T. Lim, president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.,when asked to comment on the recent approval by government of the environmental clearance certificate (ECC) for Sagittarius Mines, Inc. on its Tampakan (South Cotabato) project. “It’s my hope that with this experience, the general public will have a better appreciation for sustainable development as achieving a balance between people’s needs and environmental goals,”Lim said. Vicente Y. Lao, president of the Mindanao Business Council and vice chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC) in the Davao Region, said the President “has

made the right decision in moving the Tampakan project forward.” Lao said the project will bring a lot of economic, social and progressive developments of the island of Mindanao. “The significant impact of Tampakan mining area definitely has a very strong influence in the progress of southern part of Mindanao,” said Sebastian L. Angliongto, DCCCII chairman and one-time chairman of the Mindanao Economic and Development Council (Medco), forerunner of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). However, Angliongtosaid the government should not be complacent and must strictly monitor the ecological balance of the whole place as well as the benefits to the people living in and around the mining area. “I pray the project will have a positive socio-economic impact on Mindanao and the whole country, “ he said. “I’ve always been for responsible mining ever since, so I’m glad to hear about this development,”

past president of the DCCCII Simeon P. Marfori II said. However, Marfori added that “my remaining aspiration is for Filipinos to process the ores and export the refined metals.” Meanwhile, lawyer Leoncio P. Villa-Abrille, president of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA)-Davao, said he is confident that SMI, a multi-billion dollar company, will not waste the government permit to go ahead with its huge project inSouth Cotabato and neighboring provinces by being an irresponsible mining company. Villa-Abrille is likewise hopeful that the communities and people will not allow SMI and other mining companies to engage in ruinous practices while extracting minerals from their localities. Antonio Partoza Jr., a lawyer-farmer based in Davao City, said he has no reason to believe that vigilant people, especially environmentalists, will allow excesses of mining companies, given past negative experience. AMA

SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Mawab town completes Compostela’s GK Villages

ACH of the eleven municipalities of Compostela Valley Province has its own Gawad Kalinga (GK) Village already as the Pagsandugan USWAG Gawad Kalinga Village in Tuboran, Mawab completes this aim of Governor Arturo T. Uy for the province. Forty (40) new hou-

ses built through bayanihan now make 40 family-beneficiaries happy and safe to have their own homes, recalling on what they’ve been through while they were still living in areas identified as disaster high risk. The bayanihan build started last November 28, 2012 but since the typho-

CHEERFUL OFFICIALS. (L-R) Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario, Mayor Rey Uy, Senator Pia Cayetano and DepEd-11 Regional Director Gloria Benigno are in high spirits as they head towards the flag hoisting ceremony at the opening of the Davao Region Athletic

on Pablo came, rescue and retrieval operations and other interventions were the focus of the provincial and local government units. Weeks after, construction was resumed through the volunteer-builders, provincial government employees, and the LGU Mawab. The awaited moment

came and the ceremonial turn-over on February 20 was graced by GK Founder Antonio P. Meloto, Jr. who said that ComVal is a blessed province. Now the said GK Village can be seen standing with beauty and pride as a fruit of labor by the united Comvalenyos. [GRACE ALMEDILLA, IDS-COMVAL]

Association Meet at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center on February 25, 2013. [Noel Baguio]

Media’s active participation in times of disasters sought

HE Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has vowed to involve the members of the newly-organized Mindanao Press Alliance for Development (MinPressDev) in the government’s effort to prepare for the so-called “new normal” situations, referring to disasters and calamities that Mindanao was not used to having, but are becoming regular occurences these days. Olie Dagala, MinDA Development Management Officer V, told members of the media, information officers and civil military operation officers who attended the 1st MinPressDev Assembly held recently at a hotel in Cagayan de Oro City that he sees a potential partnership between the Mindanao Communicators Network (MindaComNEt) and the

MinPressDev. “This (MinPressDev) is the kind of media organization we have been looking for and we see a possible tie-up here on matters of information coordination, especially in times of disasters and calamities or in what is now called “new normal” that are affecting our lives here in Mindanao,” Dagala said. Dagala said that forging an inter-partnership is also very useful in achieving “value-chain” and “supply chain” for purposes of attaining sustainable development among regions. Dagala particularly announced the government’s effort to develop Mindanao via the “EastWest Lateral” against the old integration scheme for Mindanao projects using “Circumferential Planning.” [PNA]

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

IP tribe has better access to water through Hedcor

UNDREDS of families in Sitio Baroring, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur now have better access to clean water through the help of Hedcor. The renewable energy company recently donated 30 rolls of Polyethylene (PE) pipes and other materials needed to bring water to the community. As a joint project with the community, the tribe volunteered to work together to establish the water supply facility themselves. The community, mostly members of the Bagobo-Tagabawa, received the donation through tribal leader Datu Rudy Agtag. “Ang sa unang damgo nga makabaton og tubig mismo sa among tugkaran, karon natinood na gyud. Dili nami magkabo pa sa suba ug maglakaw og layo, arun lang magkatubig sa panimalay (We have now attained our long time dream of having access to clean water in our community. We no longer need to go far to get water for our house).”Agtag

PATUBIG. Bagobo-Tagabawa tribal leader Datu Rudy Agtag receives Polyethylene (PE) pipes and other materials donated by Hedcor. The donation will be used to bring in clean water for residents of Sitio Baroring, Davao del Sur.

said. Sitio Baroring hosts Hedcor’s 42.5 MW Sibulan Hydropower Plant. The same community stands to gain more ben-

efits when the 13.6 MW Tudaya Hydropower Project is completed. Over the past 35 years, Hedcor has practiced partnering with and

improving the welfare of its host communities across the country. The company reliably delivers social development projects like primary

health care, infrastructure development, livelihood assistance and education support. Hedcor, a subsidiary of AboitizPower, oper-

ates and maintains 19 run-of-river hydropower plants in Benguet, Ilocos Sur, Davao del Sur and Davao City with a total capacity of 155 MW.

ing for the creation of an Inter-Agency Committee on ENR Statistics (IACENRS) with the DENR acting as chair tasked “to generate and compile environment statistics and environmental accounts on a regular basis.” The NSCB acts as vice chair of IAC-ENRS with members consisting of the BAS, BSWM, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Health (DOH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Energy (DOE), and Department of Public Works and Highways. Other members include NWRB, Climate Change Commission Office, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), National Statistics Office (NSO), Foundation for Philippine Environment (FPE), the Senate Economic Planning Office (SEPO), Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI), and the University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB).

HE sudden issuance in a conditional Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) to the Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) project in Tampakan, South Cotabato is symptomatic of the weakness in the country’s environmental law, said the Interface Development Interventions, Inc. (IDIS). IDIS Executive Director Ann Fuertes took to task the latest procedural manual of the Philippine Environmental Impact System (EIS) which she said is viewed by many environmentalists as “ a step backward in terms of environmental regulation.” “This ‘conditional ECC’ is the result of a streamlined EIS process which was made possible by a the revision of a DENR Department Administrative Order , resulting in a law that is biased for investment.”, Fuertes said. In 2010, IDIS commissioned the Sentro ng Alternatibong Panligal (SALIGAN) to conduct a legal study on the impact of the revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of the EIS system. The study, which was funded by the Foundation for the Philippine Envi-

ronment (FPE), compared the current DENR Department Administrative Order (DAO) 30-2003 with its previous iteration, the DAO 37-96. According to the study, DAO 30-2003 differed from DAO 37-96 in that it lacked teeth to enforce the mandatory requirements in the issuance of an ECC. “In particular, the study found out that DAO 30-2003 had significantly weakened the provisions which were designed to strengthen public participation and social acceptability in environmental projects.” , Fuertes revealed. As an example, Fuertes pointed out that DAO 302003 has removed the mandatory nature of public hearings, relegating the decisions to conduct a hearing to the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) - a scenario that most development workers are not comfortable with. “The study even interviewed respondents which revealed that these public hearings- or scoping sessions, as they call them- are often token in nature with facilitators asking only safe questions.”, she said.

DENR unveils all-in-one site for environment data T

EDGEDAVAO

HE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has created a onestop web page that contains all data on the state of the country’s environment and natural resources in one place. Called the Environment and Natural Resources Statistics Information Systems (ENRSIS), the site – http://enrsis. denr.gov.ph/ – is a centralized database online destination that provides an integrated information bank on current environmental and natural resources (ENR) facts and figures. According to DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje, the ENRSIS is a useful tool for the public and organizations and institutions pushing for sustainable development through effective environmental planning. “By creating this centralized resource, the ENRSIS allows the public to use with greater efficiency the power of reliable information as a tool to empower themselves,” Paje said. The environment chief

said that apart from serving as a repository of the government’s ENR data, the ENRSIS also facilitates easy collation and valid comparison of data across ENR sectors contained in a single format. He also cited the ENRSIS for its usefulness in enabling civil servants to make a qualitative analysis of government’s performance in its key ENR programs such as urban and rural poverty reduction through sound environment conservation and protection measures, land distribution, food production, and even climate change adaption. “With the ENRSIS, it is now easier to track the progress we are making over a wide variety of concerns or to compare and analyze varying ENR policies being implemented,” Paje pointed out. Two web portals were built to support ENRSIS users – one for Land/ Soil Resources Statistics (LSRS) and one for Water Resource Statistics (WRS). These portals contain data generated initially by some 13 agencies under a

single format and will be updated regularly. The agencies under the WRS portal are the DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), National Water Resources Board (NWRB), Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), Local Water Utilities Administration, Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). LSRS data, on the other hand, are sourced from the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Agriculture Statistics (BAS) and Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), and four DENR land-based agencies, namely, Forest Management Bureau (FMB), Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB), Land Management Bureau (LMB) and the National Mapping Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA). ENRSIS is product of Memorandum Order 0042007 issued by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) call-

ECC process flawed according to envi NGO

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Economic Analysis

EDGEDAVAO

So how well have we done and what more can we expect moving forward? By Gico Dayanghirang

E’VE done exceptionally well than most countries in the world despite the global economic crisis. In the ASEAN region only Indonesia is growing faster than the Philippines. The country is also the 26th fastest growing economy out of 196 countries in the world. No secret formula has been employed but just plain and simple good governance. Countries importing our products are still struggling with the still

ongoing global economic crisis. But our economic growth has come largely from internal output. This means that we have a resilient domestic market and this is good news. This means that we’re no longer vulnerable to external disruptions. But much more needs to be done to spread the money around. The figures show that a great number of Filipinos still does not benefit from any upward

movement of the economy. Most of the poor are in the rural areas and are employed in the agriculture, forestry and fishery sectors. The figures in these sectors are dire at best. But what can we do? The trick of course is to focus intervention on the sectors of the economy that isn’t growing as fast. As usual, since the birth of the nation after the end of the American occupation, it’s the rural areas that are being left behind. So much

has been said about mobilizing and redirecting resources to the rural areas, but little has been achieved so far. The barriers to rural development are fourfold: 1) continuing urban bias, 2) inability of national government agencies to integrate their programs and work well with local government units, 3) limited absorptive capacity of local government units and 4) slow implementation of agrarian reform, a strategic

intervention that should more quickly mobilize the economic resources of the rural sector. The only visible and effective poverty alleviation initiative of government has been the 3Ps World Bank funded program. But it is not designed to reduce poverty now but to keep it from recycling to the next generation. Fine, but that’s still twenty years down the line. Urban bias is no longer as extensive as in the past because of the enactment of the local government code during the 8th Congress, of which I’m proud to have been a member. The local government code has granted more autonomy to local government units and provides for equitable sharing and automatic transfer of resources. But three decades have passed since the enactment of the local government code and the national government is still unable to work well with local government units. The fault lies in lack of planning integration. More integration in planning should synchro-

nize priorities, implementation and deployment of resources. Corollary to planning integration is the provision of remedial measures from the national government when the absorptive capacity local government units are wanting. National and local officials complain so much about lack of integration. Perhaps they should spend more time devising a solution rather than complaining. The national government should really do its darn best to accelerate implementation of agrarian reform. No amount of government intervention can really mobilize the rural sector when most people don’t have any kind of resource to start with. A piece of land would therefore go a very long way to finally making the rural poor more productive. This is because employment is very limited in the rural areas and levels of education are low. But people know how to grow things and a piece of land is all they need to be productive.

Growth Rates of Gross National Income and Gross Domestic Product by Industrial Origin 4th Quarter 2011 and 2012 and Annual 2011-2012 (at constant 2000 prices) INDUSTRY

4th Quarter 2010- 201111 12

1. AGRI., HUNTING, FORESTRY AND FISHING-2.5 a. Agriculture and forestry -2.0 b. Fishing -4.8 3.3 2. INDUSTRY SECTOR 3.4 a. Mining & Quarrying -16.3 b. Manufacturing 3.3 5.6 c. Construction 8.1 18.4 d. Electricity, Gas and Water Supply 2.9 3. SERVICE SECTOR 5.9 a. Transport, Storage & Communication 4.1 b. Trade and Repair of Motor Vehicles, Motorcycles, Personal and Household Goods 3.4 c. Financial Intermediation 1.5 d. R. Estate, Renting & Business Activities 13.6 e. Public Administration & Defense; Compulsory Social Security 5.2 f. Other Services 7.5 GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT GROSS NATIONAL INCOME

4.7 5.1 -4.1 7.5 9.6 4.7 -7.3

2.7 4.5 -0.7 2.3 7.0 5.4 14.4

2.7 3.5

3.7 6.9

0.6 5.1

5.1 7.4

8.1

4.3

9.1

6.4 7.2

3.3 5.2

7.5 7.8

7.7

9.3

7.9

6.1 6.0

0.3 6.6

3.3 7.2

4.0

6.8

3.9

6.6

4.5

5.4

3.2

5.8

Source: National Statistical Coordination Board ASEAN 5 GDP Growth Rates 2012 Indonesia Philippines Malaysia Singapore Brunei

6.10 6.8 6.4 1.10 0.10

Annual 2010201111 12

6.5 -3.7

7 DTI plans coffee industrial tours in SK T THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Stat Watch

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

5.8% 1st Qtr 2012

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

6.4 % 1st Qtr 2012

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

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

8. Interest Rates 4/

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

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

P 42.78 Jun 2012

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

5,091.2 May 2012

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

130.1 Jun 2012

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.8 Jun 2012

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.7 Jun 2012

16. Visitor Arrivals

349,779 Apr 2012

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

18.8 % Jan 2012

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.2 % Jan 2012

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

2012

2011

2010

42.85 42.70 42.86 42.66 43.62

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

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

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) plans to launch more coffee industrial tours in Sultan Kudarat province in a bid enhance the area’s thriving coffee industry. Nelly Dillera, DTI-Sultan Kudarat provincial director, said they are looking at sustaining the coffee industrial tours in Senator Ninoy Aquino town as a strategy to draw more investments and further improve the industry’s market potentials. DTI and the municipal government of Senator Ninoy Aquino earlier launched the industrial tours as part of the highlights of the Coffee Festival in the area last Feb. 12 to

Dillera said they opened the industrial tours to mainly showcase the province’s coffee industry, which is mainly centered in the fertile upland plantations of Senator Ninoy Aquino town. “Our goal is to draw more visitors to the area, compel coffee players to improve their farms as well as generate sales for local enterprises,” she said in a statement. The recent industrial tours were initially handled by the SNA (Senator Ninoy aquino) Coffee Industry Development Council, she said. Dillera said the tour package included coffee drinking at a traditional coffee shop sit-

uated near a popular waterfall and a tour at a coffee nursery, coffee plantation and coffee roasting and grinding processing firm in the area. Highlighted in the tour was a technology adopted by local coffee farmers who were able produce as much as 1,000 kilograms of coffee per hectare, she said. She said they also inserted a visit to the Neo-Country Crafts, a local producer of top quality souvenir items made of abaca. “For those who want to spend the night in the area, the tour may also include an overnight stay at Elan’s Haven Resort, a mountain resort where visitors could go on

swimming, horseback riding, camping and trekking along the Tinalon Cave, which is also part of the resort,” Dillera said. Sultan Kudarat province is presently considered as the country’s biggest coffee producer. Region 12 or the Soccsksargen Region currently produces around 28,000 metric tons of coffee annually, the bulk of which is sourced from Sultan Kudarat. The region comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato as well as the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. [Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews]

driven by service fees on loans. As of end December 2012, the bank serviced a number of 96,825 borrowers with an average loan size of P150 K, resulting to an expanded loan portfolio of P14.55 B which is 41% better compared to the P10.3 B level reported a year earlier. The loan expansion has been further supported by the P14 B deposit base which is a P3.6 B or 34% climb from the P10.5 B level in December 2011. ONB ended 2012 with a pool of 600,248 depositors. Total resources, meanwhile, reached P19.9 B, a 28% improvement over 2011, illustrating the bank’s capacity to reinvest its profits. ONB aims to notch a net income of P617 M for 2013. ONB’s performance is expected to advance further this year as the bank continues to

expand its reach nationwide. Following the BSP Monetary Board approval on the merger of ONB and Iloilo-based Rural Bank of San Enrique, Inc. (RBSEI), ONB, the surviving bank, will absorb RBSEI’s five (5) regular branches in Iloilo City, Guimaras, Passi, San Enrique and Dingle plus one (1) Business Development Office (OBO) in La Paz, Iloilo City which will be converted into a branch. The MB resolution also granted the merger incentives of converting the OBO in Iloilo City into a regular branch and the establishment of fifteen (15) new branches in non-restricted areas over a period of three (3) years. Five (5) previously approved ONB branches in Jaro, Pototan, Janiuay and Dumangas in Iloilo and Semirara Island in the municipality of Caluya, Antique will be added to this net-

work. As such, ONB, which currently operates with 90 branches and MBOs in Mindanao and 1 branch in Makati, will beef up its total branch network to 117 by 2016. For this year, ONB is focused on taking advantage of its augmented branch network and expanded client base in bringing its brand of banking to new heights. Sustained growth is foreseen as more communities, especially those who have minimal access to financial services, will enjoy the conveniences of electronic banking products like ATM, POS terminals, internet banking, foreign and domestic remittance services, bills payment, online interbranch transactions, PCHCcleared checking accounts as well as the advantages of salary loans and business loans offered by the leader in the rural banking industry. [Ara Largo]

plete the MyPhone experience of every user with the convenience and reliability of our most preferred unlimited postpaid offering – the Sun Plan 350,” says Ricky Peña, Senior Vice President for Postpaid, Broadband & New Business of Sun Cellular. “After getting their new MyPhone mobile phones, all they have to do is to visit The Sun Shop and present a valid ID, along with their MyPhone purchase receipt and promo voucher,” he explains. Offered in two subscription types, availing MyPhone users

get a Sun Postpaid SIM with unlimited Sun calls and texts and 250 texts to other networks, as well as extra 100 texts and 5 minutes of calls to other networks for the Call & Text Profile or 10 hours of mobile internet should they decide to choose the Surf Profile of the plan. “We have also incorporated value-added features to let these users maximize all the more their new MyPhone mobile phones – for calling and texting their contacts or even for internet surfing,” adds Peña. Now on its 10th year in the

business, the country’s youngest major telecommunications firm is set to sustain its rapid growth in subscriber and network base through the introduction of more groundbreaking service innovations and heightened accessibility of its offerings. “We are all the more driven to introduce innovations that will significantly excite the market and truly address the communication needs of the most value-seeking Filipinos of today,” Peña concludes. Sun Cellular is a member of the PLDT Group.

15.

ONB 2012 net income soars to record high

NB concluded 2012 with a record net operating income of P421 M which is a34% increase over the P315 M level reported in 2011. This enabled the bank to fortify its unaudited capital base to an all-time high of P2.9 B as of end 2012, exceeding the P2.4B minimum capital required to operate as a commercial bank. If annualized, this net income level translates to a 26% return on average private equity and 2% return on average assets. The strong revenue is primarily accounted for by the growth in interest income of 22% and by the 11% growth in fee based income. Loans, which accounted for 90% of the bank’s total interest income, posted a level of P1.2 B which is an increment of 33% from end 2011. Likewise, fee based income surged to P 804 M, largely

Sun Cellular offers postpaid carrier support for new MyPhone users

UN Cellular continues to enhance the accessibility of its services after having announced its newest tieup with mobile phone brand MyPhone which seeks to offer postpaid carrier support to newly-availed MyPhone units. Under this exclusive partnership, consumers purchasing new units of any MyPhone mobile phone at any accredited MyPhone Concept Store or kiosk until April 30, 2013 will get special vouchers to easily avail the Sun Postpaid Plan 350 SIM-only offering. “We aim to instantly com-

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 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 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 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 Manila-Davao-Manila Manila-Davao-Manila

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

13:35 15:20 12:05 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

18:55 18:55 15:45 15:30 16:45 17:05 17:45 18:20 19:10 20:30 21:00 21:00 21:50 22:50

8 VANTAGE POINTS

EDGEDAVAO The Europeanization of America

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

( 1st of two parts )

COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Taking justice in their own hands

T’S one thing when you are hungry and another thing when you steal. So when does being hungry justify the act of taking away another’s property? In the legal and moral sense, the end desired may not justify the means employed. But when one steals a thing he is legally entitled as a matter of right, is it a crime? These are the questions that face authorities after an irate mob of typhoon Pablo victims from Compostela Valley stormed the regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development yesterday to ransack relief goods they ought to receive from government. This scenario has been hanging like time bomb after a militant group representing the victims of typhoon Pablo in the two provinces were asked to submit the required list of would-be recipients of relief goods from DSWD before they can be given their share. Despite the protest made by the typhoon victims, the DSWD stuck to its rule. ‘No list, no rice’ was the strict or-

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der of DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman. The condition likewise slammed any threat of protest. And so the incensed Pablo victims led by the Barug Katawhan group and the militant Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Southern Mindanao made true their threat—they took the fight to the DSWD’s own backyard in the same fashion as a People Power revolt, albeit pocket-sized, and forcibly carted away the relief goods. This scenario is no different to the 1933 Great Depression in America when people queue up for free food called “bread line.” When bread runs out, expect pandemonium to break loose. We understand that the obvious reason for doing so is to feed the hungry families in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental. But we also surmise under the circumstances that there could be a bigger motivation that pushed the group to seek justice by force and that is to prove the government that a hungry stomach cannot wait for documentary requirements. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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BY MARK LEONARD

OR her first overseas trip as secretary of state, Hillary Clinton went to Asia. For his first trip, John Kerry chose Europe. His choice is partly a result of his strong connections across the Atlantic and partly a move against the frustrations U.S. diplomats have faced in places like Beijing. Kerry’s choice also speaks to a remarkable narrowing of the Atlantic, which culminated in Obama’s championing of a transatlantic free-trade agreement in his State of the Union address this month. Only 10 years ago, Europe and the U.S. were meant to be so different that not only did they have different views, but they viewed each other as if from different planets. Politically and militarily, the author Robert Kagan claimed, Americans were from Mars and Europeans from Venus. American commentators used to routinely denounce European economies for being closed, backward-looking and missing the wave of the future. Germany was still seen as the sick man of Europe, and it was the subject of ridicule for the way it was wedded to an industrial economy in a post-industrial age. What a difference a decade can make. As a European in Washington, I have spent much of the past few weeks listening to pillars of the American foreign policy and economic establishments. I am struck by how many of today’s U.S. debates mirror those in Europe. These two giant economies are no longer as different as they once were. In the foreign policy and security fields, no one seems to be coming from Mars anymore. The U.S. is debating how to avoid war and how to save money. Everyone agrees that whether or not there is a sequester there will be deep cuts in the Pentagon’s budget, with tens of thousands of soldiers and marines facing decommission. On Friday, a seminar at the Brookings Institution, which gathered soldiers, senators and academics, seemed to agree that future administrations should not call on the armed forces to intervene directly in other countries’ civil wars, to build democracy or engage in lengthy peacekeeping operations. As Michelle Flornoy, a former Pentagon official who many people want in the sidelines behind Defense Secretary-nominee Chuck Hagel, said, “We don’t want to be the world’s policemen.” In the place of major ground wars, participants said they want to rely on drones, alliances and rapidly conducted offshore interventions. Where the Clinton and Bush administrations were apostles of a flat world of financial and technological globalization, the Obama administration has a more nuanced position. While Obama does not advocate protectionism, he worries that trade with China has de-industrialized the American economy, hollowed out middle-class jobs and depressed wages. (This paper on the“China Syndrome” seems to be required reading in Obama’s economic circles.) As a result, administration officials are talking about energy independence, re-industrialization, re-shoring and fair trade. Where once the U.S. saw Germany as being trapped in auto parts and metal bashing at a time when high-tech services were the future, people in D.C. now talk about the German economy with reverence.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

VANTAGE POINTS

Seasonal durian pulls up health benefits, exalted as good for anti-aging

RAISED as the “king of fruits” in many Southeast Asian countries, durian pulls up nearly a dozen health benefits with a coveted bonus that it is good for anti-aging with vitamins for increased sexual energy. The tree, tropical in origin and belongs to the genus Durio, family of Malvaceae, is native to Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia and some southern provinces of the Philippines. Its season lasts from June until August, but the by-product can well go past it. Durian fanciers say the fruit is delicious, soft, succulent and very popular for its unique characteristics, its flesh filled with vitamins like A, E, Ascorbic acid, Calcium, phosphor, Potassium, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Sugar, Fat, Protein and fibers which are needed by the human body. They quote a pervasive belief in the Malay-speaking areas that durian can increase vitality related to one’s sexual activity, with others saying durian has a lot of Amino acid known as Triptofan which stimulates production of serotinin in the brain. Other upholders suggest that to achieve this end people should eat durian with lamb chops to get more rapidly bullish effect. But they warn those with high blood pressure against eating durian because of its stimulant role, particularly eating durian with alcoholic drink. Given its capacity as a stimulant, a Malay proverb suggests “when the durian fruit falls, the sarongs rise.” Durian adherents say the fruit is as well good for anti-aging, adding using durian flesh as masker will reduce aging process because of its rejuvenating effect, pointing to a product called Intensive Wrinkle Reducer containing the extract of durian which has been made by a prominent cosmetic firm. The company says the durian extract formula may reduce wrinkles around eyes (crow feet) up to 33 per cent in 3 weeks and tightening skin by 55 per cent in 12 weeks, 45 per cent improvement in skin smoothness in four weeks, and 44 per cent increase in hydration in four weeks. There are 30 known species of the botanically classified Durio zibethinus, only nine of them have been identified as producing edible fruits. Durian tree, which starts bearing fruits after four or five years after plantation, grows up to 50 meters in height depending on the species. Those in Mindanao as well as Bru-

SPECIAL FEATURE BY HONOR BLANCO CABIE nei, Indonesia and Malaysia say the fruit is distinctive for its large size, unique odor, and formidable thorn-covered husk. In shape, it varies from round to oblong; color of its husk (rind) is green with brown; and its flesh features creamy-yellow to saffron color depending upon the species. The flesh or pulp can be consumed at various stages of ripeness, and is used as flavor base in a variety of culinary and sweet preparations in Southeast Asian cuisines. Durian seeds are small, round to oval shape and appear like jackfruit seeds. Many discard them, though they can be eaten after boiled thoroughly. The seeds feature a bland taste akin to

jackfruit seeds. Edible flesh emits a distinctive odor which can be described as strong and penetrating even when the husk is intact; this unusual stinky flavor and intense odor of the fruit have prompted many people to express diverse and peculiar opinions ranging from deep appreciation to disgust about durian. Durian zealots raise the health benefits of the seasonal fruit thusly: 1) Like other tropical fruits such as banana, avocado, and jackfruit, durian is rich in energy, minerals and vitamins. 100 g fresh fruit provides 147 calories. 2) The fruit is made of soft, easily digestible flesh made of simple sugars like fructose and sucrose that when eaten replenish energy and revitalize the body instantly. Though it contains a relatively high amount of fats among fruits, it is free from saturated fats and cholesterol. 3) Durian is rich in dietary fiber, which makes it a good bulk laxative. The fiber content helps to protect the colon mucous membrane by decreasing

exposure time and as well as binding to cancer-causing chemicals in the colon. 4) The durian fruit is a good source of antioxidant vitamin-C (about 33 per cent of recommended dietary allowance). Consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful free radicals. 5) The fruit is an excellent source of health benefiting B-complex groups of vitamins; a rare feature among fruits, such as niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) and thiamin (vitamin B-1). These vitamins are essential for the body as it requires them from external sources to replenish. 6) Durian also contains a good amount of minerals like manganese, copper, iron and magnesium. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Copper is required in the production of red blood cells. Iron is required for red blood cell formation. 7) Fresh durian fruit is a very rich source of potassium. Potassium is an important electrolyte of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure. 8) Durian also contains high levels of essential amino acid, tryptophan (also known as “nature’s sleeping pill”) which in the body metabolizes into serotonin and melatonin; these neuro-chemicals have important functions like sleep induction and in the treatment of epilepsy. 9) The durian fruit is native to Southeast Asia. It is sold in markets all over the Asian world and is also imported in the United States and Europe. People have differences in preferences regarding ripeness, while some like slightly ripened, tart flavored durians while others might like to cherish over ripened. Usually, ripe fruit that falls off the tree is collected and put to sell. 10) In the store, one should choose a durian fruit with firm stalk. Outside their native habitat, it is one of the expensive fruits; some of its varieties like D24 (Sultan) is in high demand and commands higher price. The fruit can also be stored in the refrigerator for few days. The durian’s distinctive odor despite, which some find rather repulsive and revolting, the fruit continues to be revered in many Southeast Asian countries, including the southern backdoor of the Philippines. [PNA]

Software piracy remains a problem

LOBAL E C O NOMIC SLUMP DUE TO UNABATED S O F T WA R E PIRACY –The latest economic difficulty that might otherwise have gone unnoticed is the gut-wrenching software piracy problem. Unfortunately, the most upsetting development is the unexpectedly disappointing performance of the country’s different law enforcement agencies to combat extensive software piracy – the theft of Intellectual Property. Lack of closer cooperation and coordination among concerned government agencies and law enforcement units, lack of enabling laws and stringent measures that would minimize if not totally stamp out software piracy are results of a government drive pockmarked with inefficiency. The problem is that in purely economic terms, the mode of business is a nightmare for software manufacturing sector and legitimate distributors. But despite the burdening situation, still confidence remains high that the global software producers could duck the bothering software piracy market plaguing not only the Philippines but throughout the world. However, much to worry about is that fundamentals are slumping further and faster as expected. Piracy rate in the country, for example, is rising at accelerating speed registering 70% in 2012 valued at P14.6 billion or up from 69% in 2011. In such figures can the real significance of the software piracy problem can be measured. If some manufacturers remained confident to withstand the treat, some actually are not notably the local producers. Already they are terribly worried because the major part of the problem is the users’ increasing interest in patronizing pirated software products. The negative indications are disheartening owing largely in part to cheaper and availability of pirated software items. Although the showcase export of software producing countries had redefined competitiveness, unscrupulous software distributors were clearly getting a big slice of the market. The software piracy problem has consistently taken center stage. Low prices and high customers’ satisfaction on pirated software items had spurred a never-ending cycle of increased demand and high sales growth. That is precisely the reason why according to a report of joint operatives of the NBI, PNP, OMB and IPO, 58% of computer and electronic gadget users admit they have acquired pirated software and use them all or most of the time. The economic reality is vastly more complicated but in many ways, business is brisk. Moreover, even the normally upbeat tax officials would admit that no taxes have been collected from the unlawful but highly profitable software piracy business. The source of software manufacturers’ woes and the global economy will not rebound until the clandestine operations of unscrupulous entrepreneurs are not put to a halt. Economists noted that the toughest problem relates to the very nature of the software manufacturing base. Prices of personal computers, peripherals, semi-conductors and different electronic components are mired in a global slump due to the unabated software piracy. It’s a double-whammy for the industry. There’s no doubt that the approach to solving the problem needs to be changed. Industry sources insist that the real solution to widespread software piracy problem is not only pressing the “red light” or other scaring moves, but a massive information campaign, concerted public education and forceful law enforcement. These precautionary measures would be enough to make unscrupulous entrepreneurs turn tail. Authorities can actually minimize if not totally eradicate the deceitful undertaking, but until they adopt a “mailed-fist” policy the software piracy problem are going to keep on returning. It is also widely believed that a no non-sense campaign – sparing no one in the process would be an uncomfortable squeeze for the violators. Sooner or later, the lure of profit will toughen the nerves of the unscrupulous traders. If there is brisk business here, if there are many customers and deals to be done, they will come and continue the software piracy business that is proving to be “hugely lucrative.” Meanwhile at this stage, authorities are just treating the symptoms – too lenient and seemed satisfied dealing the problem with “kid gloves.” All of which proves the wary public’s point: for the stouthearted, this is a great way to make money from illicit undertaking because authorities are looking at the opposite direction – for obvious reasons.

10 E-SEASON

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Ex-senator laments over high cost of radio-TV ads

FORMER senator of the republic and one-time member of the Cabinet said something must be done with the prohibitive cost of political advertisements as it one of the causes of corruption in government. Ex-senator Orlando “Orly” Mercado, who also served as national defense secretary, told former scholars and travel grantees of the US State Department gathered in Manila last Saturday ad placements in radio and television constitute some of the biggest expenses incurred by candidates for president, vice president and senator in this country. “You won’t believe it, but a 30-second spot primetime now costs P600,000!” Mercado said, adding “that’s not for a month, but for just onetime airing.” “Where will the candidate get all those money which can never be recovered through the meager honest monthly salary

of a senator?” he asked. “What happens to the poor although very qualified candidates?,” he said. Mercado said it is possible to ban political advertisement as this was done in elections during the administrations of Presidents Cory Aquino and Fidel Ramos. He said there is also need for the candidates to be transparent about the sources of their campaign expenses. The former senator said disclosing the candidates’ financial supporters will tell the electorate whom they (candidates’) are indebted to. Mercado said strictly limiting the campaign expenses is important in leveling the playing field among candidates and in eventually improving the quality of the country’s lawmakers. At the same time, former senator who made a name as anchor man of popular radio-TV programs “Radyo Patrol” and “Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko,”

MORE CLASSROOMS. Education being one of her priority projects, 2nd district Congresswoman Mylene Garcia turns over the 8-classrooms Gabaldon building at the T.V. Fernandez Elem. School in barangay Indangan, Buhangin district. Joining the Davao

City representative on stage are (from L-R) district Supervisor Ramonito Alba, principal Yolanda Malano and Indangan Brgy. Captain Armando Abapo.

lauded the reforms being instituted by the P-Noy administration in the mil-

itary and other branches of government, but he warned that reforms will

not be institutionalized unless followed through. He said many good

always have jobs,” Cayetano said. “Most of them are contracted for about 6 months to 1 year for a project and paid on a weekly basis but after the project, it becomes a challenge for them to find employment again,” he added. Cayetano thus insisted that in order to answer the problems of temporary unemployment, the government should create a 2nd level «Pantawid” welfare program. He suggested that ideally, government may consider giving these workers 1/3 of the basic salary of construction workers for a period of two to three

months until they find work. The funds could be sourced from taxes (which these workers also pay) and to avail of this benefit, workers should have worked for at least a year prior to availing this program. “I applaud the efforts of the Aquino Administration in terms of the Conditional Cash Transfer Program but we are not a welfare state. We need to empower our people and the only way we can do that is by creating an environment where there are greater opportunities for employment,” Cayetano said. “Kailangan mayroon

din tayong pantawid hindi lang para sa gutom kundi para maka-ahon (We cannot only have a program for hunger but also for livelihood),” Cayetano said. Cayetano is on a #PiTiK listening tour where he meets various sectors all around the country to hear their concerns regarding high prices, lack of jobs, and low income. Among those he already visited the past days are the coconut farmers of Legaspi, bangus fishermen of Dagupan, strawberry farmers of Benguet, furniture workers of Cebu, and market vendors in Manila, to name a few.

ter their needs are former workers in the countries that they came from,” Villar, a noted social entrepreneur, explained. She also noted that OFWs in different parts of the world could also be harnessed as tourism ambassadors by both the DOT and DFA. “Equip our OFWs with promotional materials and develop a program where they can speak to the business community and other sectors in the countries where they work. These OFWs are very patriotic and many of them are loved

by their employers and co-workers,” she stressed. Known by her campaign monicker “Misis Hanepbuhay”, Villar said that the tourism industry is a fast-growing sector and both the national and local governments must work together to outbeat other rival countries in terms of tourist arrivals. According to the DOT website, the Philippines welcomed over 4-million foreign visitors in 2012, marking the first time for the country to go over the 4-millionth threshhold. Korea continues to be

the country’s largest visitor market with 1,031,155 arrivals, accounting for 24.13% share of the total visitor volume. The said market rose by 11.45% from its arrivals of 925,204 in 2011. Another record was achieved by the tourism industry as it is the first time that a source market of the Philippines reached its 1 millionth visitor. “Many OFWs from Korea are able to speak the language fluently. They can be trained to become professional tour guides and interpreters,” Villar pointed out.

government programs are wasted due to lack of follow-through. AMA

Cayetano: we need to graduate from CCT Del Rosario, Cayetano

ENATOR Alan Cayetano yesterday said that the government has to graduate from giving people social welfare through the Conditional Cash Transfer Program and empower them instead to earn a living through their own successful efforts. Cayetano met with a group of construction workers in Makati City today to discuss their concerns regarding higher prices and finding employment opportunities. “Construction workers complained that while they earn higher than minimum wage, they have no assurance that they will

Tap OFWs as tour guides and tourism ambassadors, Villar asks DOT, DFA

ENATORIAL candidate and former congresswoman Cynthia Villar (NP-Team PNoy) called on the Department of Tourism to tap returning OFWs as tour guides to welcome international visitors from such countries as Korea, Japan, Malaysia and the Middle East. “This can be part of our reintegration efforts for OFWs since they are familiar with the customs, culture and even languages of countries that send a lot of tourists our way. It will also help put our tourists at ease since those looking af-

tune up 2013 DAVRAA

ONGRESSMAN Anthony Raphael G. del Rosario of Congressional District I of Davao del Norte keynoted the opening program of the 2013 Davao Region Athletic Meet held at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center, Mankilam, Tagum City on February 25, 2013. The lawmaker inspired all the young athletes to achieve excellence in sports and be one in the array of world-renowned Filipino athletes, like Roberto Cruz in taekwondo, Lydia de Vega in athletics, Eugene Torre in chess and Manny Paquiao in the field of boxing. “Go for gold and be one of the nation’s pride in the sports arena,” the congressman challenged all the delegates from the 10 athletic delegations of DAVRAA, comprising Davao del Norte, the host division, Tagum City, as its co-host, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Comval, Davao City, Digos City, Panabo City, IGACOS and Mati City. Sen. Pia Cayetano, dubbed as sports darling of Davao del Norte, also graced the event as she was personally invited by Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario to add color and surprise to the program. The lady senator carried the torch while

taking a full turn at the rubberized oval, along with Geovanni Gulanes, the sports coordinator of Davao del Norte, before turning it over to athletes participating in the torch relay for the lighting of the DAVRAA cauldron. Gov. del Rosario welcomed the delegates of the 5-day sports competition. He was joined by DepEd 11 Regional Director Gloria Benigno, 2nd District Congressman Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Vice Governor Victorio Suaybaguio, Jr. and all members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and Mayor Rey Uy, along with other local officials of the province. Other guests include ComVal Gov. Arturo Uy, Representatives Maricar Zamora and Rommel Amatong of ComVal’s 1st and 2nd Congressional Districts, respectively, Digos City Joseph Peñas, among other LGU officials in the region. A 20-minute fireworks display concluded the opening program of the annual sports competition for elementary and secondary schools in the region, which was attended by over 5,000 spectators, including DepEd officials, local officials and employees, as well as, the families and friends of the athletes.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Rallyists storm... FFROM 1

protesters unless they submit a list of legitimate Pablo victims. Backed by the militant group Barug Katawhan, the protesters broke into the gated office and took the goods. Barug spokesperson Sheena Duazo in a statement to GMA 7 said Barug did not order the storming and that the move was decided by the protesters themselves. Acting regional chief DSWD Priscilla Razon expressed her disappointment saying, “the protesters’ behavior became very uncontrollable to the extent that they trespassed a government property and ransacked the relief goods meant for “Crising” victims.” Razon said they can’t give the protesters the 10,000 sacks of rice because they have not yet complied with the agreement to give a list of the recipient’s names, adding that it will not take them two months to submit the agreed list of names if they are legitimate victims of Pablo. At least nine protesters claimed they were injured when the policemen tried to disperse them and stop the looting. Jesaley Nakila, 11, of Mabini town in ComVal, said he was hit by a truncheon on her back outside the gate while others were taking out the relief goods. Iwan Solin-ay, 30, claimed to have been hit with a steel stick on his right leg. Ronilo Bagsi, 27, was allegedly hit with a truncheon on the forehead and right leg. Both said they were from Barangay Mangayon in Compostela municipality in ComVal province. Jason Ello, 18, of Barangay Ngan in Compostela town alleged a truncheon hit his right knee.

Two policemen reportedly grabbed Manuel Tanaid, 44, also of Ngan by the shirt. But when one of the policemen tried to hit him, his wife, Marefin, was hit instead on the back. Rene Antonio, 28, from Compostela town, was hit on his right leg inside the compound. On his way outside, another policeman hit him on his right butt. Jorem Masaring, 38, of Barangay Pasian in Monkayo town, ComVal, was hit with a shield that caused a cut on his left brow. He was further hit with a truncheon that bruised his right knee. Mariel May Moralde, 18, a member of Anakbayan Davao City chapter, was detained for a few minutes by a policeman inside the DSWD compound for allegedly leading the crowd that destroyed the gate. By 5 p.m., former Bayan Muna congressman Joel Virador and lawyer Carlos Isagani Zarate asked city police chief Ronald dela Rosa to give them an hour to call DSWD Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman before proceeding with the dispersal. Dela Rosa agreed but after about five minutes he ordered the relief goods confiscated from the protesters loaded into patrol cars and two dump trucks of the city government. He warned protesters that those who would resist will be arrested. Dela Rosa said Mayor Sara Duterte told him the goods were meant for the city. At 6:25 p.m., the police and military had finished loading the goods. Barug spokesperson Karlos Trangia called their move an organized “confiscation” of the relief goods intended for Pablo victims. He said it was not

Dabawenyos...

looting as the goods were intended for Pablo victims but which the DSWD refused to release. Dela Rosa maintained the Barug members committed looting, a criminal offense, unless they could prove ownership of the goods.

Trangia said the gathered goods would have been distributed later to Pablo victims with the police and DSWD personnel as witnesses. He said they should see for themselves that the relief goods will reach those who really needed them. Duazo said that the members of Barug Katawhan are not afraid to face charges because they have nothing to lose. She also said that there is still no decision to leave coming from the protesters yet and clarified that there was no command coming from Barug Katawhan leaders to loot the goods, it was the initiative of the protesters because of their anger and hunger for not receiving the 10,00 sacks of rice yet. The militant groups who stormed DSWD 11 Tuesday were the ones who created the human barricade in Compostella Valley January 15, where 8 of their leaders were charged with unlawful appearance, public disturbance, and obstruction of traffic under the Revised Penal Code before the Nabunturan Prosecutor’s Office (NPO). The eight leaders who were charged are Duazo, Juland Suazo, spokesperson of Panalipdan, Grace Curso and Carlos Trangia, both leaders of Barug Katwahan, Mae Fe Templa of Balsa Mindanao, Bello Timdasan, Tony Salubre and Leni Camino [with report from Lorie Ann Cascaro/MindaNews].

FFROM 2

time, dedicated himself to the service of the poor. His charism was to take care of the sick and the dying. The priest also bared the following places and time where the relic could be viewed: March 4, at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and at

6:00 p.m. will be transferred to the Camillian Community Neighborhood in Ladislawa, Buhangin. March 5, the relic will be at the San Pedro Cathedral from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and then transferred to San Pedro Hospital from 2:30 -5:30 p.m. and to San Pedro College from 6:00- 10:00 p.m.

“After Davao City, the relic will be taken to Mati, Davao Oriental on March 6 and stay there up to March 7,” Fr. Barawid said. St. Camillus’ relic has been in the Philippines since February 18 and will make a series of pilgrimages around the country until March 10, 2013. It will be returned to Rome on March 11.

‘TukHang’ summons 28 Toril drug suspects By EJ Dominic Fernandez

TOTAL of 28 suspected drug pushers from different barangays in the district of Toril in Davao City went to the Toril Police Station yesterday after being summoned by the police for a dialogue. Instead of individually going to the houses of suspected drug pushers, as commonly done for the Oplan “TukTuk Hangyo (TukHang),” police summoned the suspects whose names were submitted by barangay officials . Upon being confront-

ed by Davao City Police chief Ronald dela Rosa, some suspects claimed they are only users and not pushers while others said they already stopped selling drugs. However, through a technique in interrogation, a number of them were caught lying and later admitted they were still into the illegal trade. Some suspects admitted they got the drugs straight from Cotabato and transported it to Toril. Bangkas Heights ba-

rangay captain Wilberto Al-ag said that a lot of suspects in the list failed to appear in the police office. Toril Police Station chief Angel Sumagaysay thanked the suspects who came to clear their names, saying they will schedule TukHang activity soon. In line with Oplan TukTuk Hangyo, Sr. Supt. Dela Rosa had earlier “visited” 38 suspected houses of drug pushers in Phase 1, S.I.R. New Matina, and Barangay 76-A, Bucana.

jected Manila’s initiative to let a United Nations arbitration body hear the Philippines’ complaint over what it calls Beijing’s “excessive” claim to waters where undersea gas deposits have been discovered in several areas. China said Manila’s case was legally infirm and carried unacceptable allegations. “The Philippines strongly objects to the Chinese patrol of Philippine maritime domain in the West Philippine Sea. Such activities would not validate the nine-dash line and are contrary to China’s obligation under international law including the UN Convention on the

Law of the Sea,” Hernandez told a press briefing. China’s nine-dash line is a U-shaped map that covers nearly 90 percent of the South China Sea. “We again call in China to respect our territorial sovereignty and exclusive economic zone,” he said. The Philippines, he asserted, “exercises sovereignty and sovereign rights over the waters and features in the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf in the West Philippine Sea.” “Therefore, we continue to call on China to act responsibly and to refrain from taking further action that would heighten tensions in the region.” [PNA]

Pambansa comes back to Mindanao, we hope to bid for that in 2015 and by that time, I presume and I believe, that this complex will be complete where all of the games can be held within this complex,” Del Rosario explained, adding that they would be adding

one more football field, two diamonds for baseball and one beach volleyball court. “We have utilized the nine hectares and there are two hectares still available, so we will be putting the additional facility there,” he said.

of Sulu being allowed to run, and either of them can be the leader depending on who the people will choose.” The MILf has nothing to do with the Sabah incident, according to Jaafar, because the main concern of the MILF right now is to have its own government, a long-time

dream of the Bangsamoro people. “As long as this issue of having a Bangsamoro government is not properly addressed, then there will still be conflict in Mindanao,” Jaafar said. “So far, we are still anticipating the final results of the FAB dialogues,” he added.

PHL objects to China routine fishery patrols in WPS

HE Dept. of Foreign Affairs Tuesday protested China’s routine fishery patrols in the disputed South China Sea as part of it would include areas within the Philippines’ territorial waters. China’s Fishery Bureau last week announced that patrols in the resource-rich waters where Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims will be a “top priority” in 2013 and 2014. The patrols, according to state-run Xinhua News Agency, aim to safeguard the “legitimate interests of Chinese fishermen.” China’s announcement came a week after it re-

DavNor...

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ation (PRISAA) in 2014 and that they are willing to hold the Batang Pinoy of President Benigno Aquino III and Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East-Asian Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) games in 2015. “When the Palarong

Sabah standoff...

FFROM 2

Bangsamoro government may come from any of the Bangsamoro people and that the Bangsamoro government is not only for the MILF. “It is not true that the Bangsamoro government is MILF, anyone can be the leader,” Jaafar said, citing the example of Nur Missuari and the Sultan

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VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Realty

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 0922-8515337 (Sun), 0908-8838832 (Smart) or send email to propertiesindavao@ yahoo.com.

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

EDGEDAVAO

Health and Wellness

Petition for Approval of Sale and Transfer with Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment to operate A PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service WILMA N. DELA TORRE, Petitioner-Vendor

Case No.2012-XI-01038 (2003-XI-02004)

IRENE O. LUMIKID, Petitioner-Vendee

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioners request authority for the Approval of Sale and Transfer executed by WILMA N. DELA TORRE in favor of IRENE O. LUMIKID of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: SIRIB ROUTE and for cargoes as dual service from said to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on October 14, 2013. In the petition filed on December 18, 2012, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MARCH 6, 2013 at 09:30 a.m. at this office at the above address. At least, FIVE (5) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 18th day of December 2012 at Davao City. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transport Development Officer

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INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

STYLE

Parfois Spring Summer collection PARFOIS, the leading women’s fashion accessories brand, announces the launching of its new Spring Summer collection for the feminine, young, and independent women.

The new season features a trendy mix of colors, textures and prints. The Jungle and all its exotic imagery inspire tiger motifs, tie dyeing, and tropical florals in a range of colors. Reptile skins influence textures in tote and bowling bags. Metallic coated eyelets, together with a variety of patchworks, help evoke the mood of tropical forests. In jewelry, a neutral palette is strongly contrasted with splashes of orange, turquoise and greens. The Graphic theme brings us a simplistic color range. Shoppers, shoulder bags, belts, and sunglasses all share the geometric prints and stripes. The predominant mood of this trend is influenced by the 60’s, with strong color blocking in white and black. The Romantic theme embodies transparent materials, colored metallic and cut-outs, reminding us of the basic elements of elegance and femininity. Bright acids and lime green, add an edge to delicate necklaces, bracelets, and clutch bags.

The relaxed sense of summer holidays provide the perfect setting for a vibrant range of colors, wrapped around sunbaked tones of saturated oranges, reds, greens, and yellows. This strong multi-colored cocktail can be seen on printed straw handbags and hats, detailed flowers and raffia wedges.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

HEALTH

Is your handbag safe? A lady’s best friend could be her handbag. That’s where all her necessary stuff goes everytime she leaves the house. But the innocent handbag could be making you sick! Many of us wouldn’t consider the impact of our handbag on our health, however research suggests this essential fashion item could be more risky than you think. As our handbags tend to travel most places with us and are often placed on floors, they can easily pick up germs throughout the day. A study by microbiologists tested swabs taken from the outside and bottom of handbags and found that your handbag could contain thousands, or even millions, of bacteria, including fecal bacteria and viruses that can cause colds and stomach upsets. However, when it comes to your handbag, it’s not just what’s on the outside that counts. Here are five health dangers lurking in your handbag that I gathered from the internet. I’m sure you’ll be nodding at most if not all of the 5 hazards listed. 1. Your handy water bottle. Many of us carry a bottle of water in our handbags to stay hydrated throughout the day. However, while drinking water is great for our health, repeatedly drinking from plastic bottles could play havoc with your health. Studies have suggested that dangerous chemicals called phthalates contained in the plastic can leach into

the water over time, which may lead to hormone imbalances and fertility problems. The concentration of these chemicals also increases the longer a bottle is stored. For a safer way to stay hydrated, try switching to a different type of water bottle. Glass bottles are a healthier solution and can be wrapped in a protective silicone sleeve, or try using a metal bottle such as stainless steel or aluminum if you are concerned about breakages. 2. The makeup that you just love to use every day! If, like many women, your handbag is packed

with various mascara tubes, makeup brushes and lipsticks, it may be time to have a handbag clearout. Just as it’s important to throw out old food once it’s past its freshness date, makeup should also be thrown away and replaced after a certain period of time as it can go off and harbor bacteria, particularly in the case of mascara. Mascara can harbor bacteria that is transferred into the product after each application and which can reproduce in the dark, warm environment of the mascara tube. Make sure you throw out mascara after six months to avoid eye infections and replace other products after roughly 18 months. To further prevent the build-up of bacteria, wash makeup brushes regularly and avoid sharing makeup with friends. 3. Used tissues in the bag. While many of us wouldn’t admit to it, lots of women are guilty of wip-

UP AND ABOUT

Little Miss Solane opens search for smart and talented kids and teens SOLANE, the country’s leading LPG solutions company, is currently on the lookout for the most beautiful and talented little misses and teens as it opens the first Little Miss Solane pageant this year. This pageant aims to continue the legacy of the former Little Miss Shellane (Solane’s former brand) pageant which started in 1969. This milestone has generated a lot of interest then and has produced a number of past winners who are now established and distinguished women in their own fields.

Open to young girls (Cuties category: 8-12 years old) and teens (Teenies category: 13-16 years old), the new Little Miss Solane is

a rare opportunity where these girls can discover, develop and nurture their talents and potentials at an early age and grow into empowered, responsible and successful women in their own right. On its first year, Little Miss Solane will thoroughly search the country by holding screenings and regional pageant competitions in key cities and provinces. Out of all the applicants, pageant officials will choose 12 finalists per category who will represent their region in the national pageant night set on May 25, 2013 at New World Hotel. During the pageant night, finalists will stand a chance to take home the crown and win exciting prizes. Little Miss Solane 2013 Cuties and Teenies will each bring home P50,000 cash plus P50,000 worth of schol-

arships and developmental programs, while the 1st and 2nd runner-ups will take home P30,000 and P20,000 cash, respectively. Aside from these titles, special awards with corresponding cash prizes (P5,000 each) will also be given to deserving contenders. Interested parties may download application forms at Mrs. PhilippinesGlobe 2013’s website ( www. mrsphilippinesglobe.com). Special screenings will also be held simultaneously on April 2, 2103 in Pampanga, Cebu and Davao. GMA and South Luzon screening will be on April 3, 2013. Deadline of entries is on March 20, 2013. For more information about Little Miss Solane, you may visit www.mrsphilippinesglobe.com or the pageant’s official Facebook page at www.facebook. com/LittleMissSolane.

ing their nose while on the go and then stuffing the used tissue or hanky inside their bag. However, the viruses that cause colds and the flu are fairly robust and can survive on tissues for significant periods of time. Although you may be the only person using your handbag, it is still easy to spread these germs to others. Every time you rummage through your bag your fingers can come into contact with the germs on used tissues which can then be spread to surfaces such as door handles and stair rails and easily passed on to others. When you blow your nose, make sure you throw your tissue away as soon as possible, then wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer. 4. Oh my…mobile phone/s have always been a source of controversy when it comes to our health, with studies suggesting a link obile phone. Mobile phones have always been a source of controversy when it comes to our health, with studies suggesting a link between mobile phone use and health conditions such as brain tumours, and the World Health Organisation admitting that they may cause cancer. However, other experts have suggested that there is no

evidence of this and more research is needed.Aside from these potential serious health dangers, a study of mobile phones in Britain also found a more immediate danger associated with mobile phones, with their results showing that one in six mobile phones were contaminated with faecal matter. A condition known as “texter’s thumb” is also a potential danger for regular mobile phone users, with Virgin Mobile stating that mobile phones are the cause of a reported 3.8 million cases a year of repetitive strain injury. Handbag health hazard 5: Heavy items While the items in your handbag may all be innocent enough, an accumulation of heavy items such as books, gadgets and cosmetics can add up to a serious health hazard. With the rising number of items many of us feel the need to haul around, you could be carrying around several pounds of weight on your shoulders every day. While you may not feel the effects of this immediately, lugging around a heavy handbag can have serious implications on your body and can eventually lead to serious back problems and neck pain as well as poor posture. To look after your health, try

switching to a smaller bag and filling it only with the items that you feel are really necessary each time you leave the house. between mobile phone use and health conditions such as brain tumours, and the World Health Organization admitting that they may cause cancer. However, other experts have suggested that there is no evidence of this and more research is needed. Well, the mobile phone will have to be a regular item in our handbags but let’s make it a habit to clean and sanitize our phones too. Also, we can lessen radiation exposure from our mobile phones by operating it hands free through state-of-the-art gadgets. One could also limit time of usage of the phone. When it starts to warm up start hanging up. And if there are no secrets in the conversation, you can always press the speaker phone command so you can converse from a distance. 5. The heavy load in the bag. While the items in your handbag may all be innocent enough, an accumulation of heavy items such as books, gadgets and cosmetics can add up to a serious health hazard. With the rising number of items many of us feel the need to haul around, you could be carrying around several pounds of weight on your shoulders every day. While you may not feel the effects of this immediately, lugging around a heavy handbag can have serious implications on your body and can eventually lead to serious back problems and neck pain as well as poor posture. To look after your health, try switching to a smaller bag and filling it only with the items that you feel are really necessary each time you leave the house. It would be best to make it a habit to wipe our bags clean at the end of the day and de-clutter what’s inside. By doing so, we are able to remove or dispose of unnecessary stuff in our bags specially those that can cause harm to us.

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Seth MacFarlane’s Jewsrun-Hollywood joke draws fire from Jewish groups

IF you hire Seth MacFarlane to host the Oscars, you know you’re gonna get a certain amount of his signature irreverent humor. But we’re not sure the Academy was expecting this.

While the Family Guy mastermind kept last night’s ceremonies relatively dignified compared to the potty humor of his TV toons, one joke that sparked outrage was MacFarlane’s “Ted” character trotting out the Jews-control-Hollywood line. In a bit while presenting the award for Best Sound Mixing and Best Sound Editing, the funnyman’s R-rated teddy bear alter ego suggested to costar Mark Wahlberg that if he “wants to work in this town,” he’s gotta be Jewish. That didn’t go over too well with Jewish watchdog groups, many of which chastised MacFarlane for rehashing an old anti-Semitic stereotype in front of a global audience. “While we have come to expect inappropriate ‘Jews control Hollywood’ jokes from Seth MacFarlane, what he did at the Oscars was offensive and not remotely funny,” said Abraham Foxman, National Director of the Anti-Defamation League, in

a statement. “It only reinforces stereotypes which legitimize anti-Semitism. It is sad and disheartening that the Oscars awards show sough to use anti-Jewish stereotypes for laughs.” It also didn’t help matters any when the MacFarlane-voiced Ted declared to Wahlberg, “I was born Theodore Shapiro and I would like to donate to Israel and continue to work in Hollywood forever,” The ADL subsequently expressed disappointment that MacFarlane and the Academy failed to show “greater sensitivity” by airing the sketch,

which it said had greater potential for the “Jews control Hollywood” myth being “accepted as fact.” The Simon Wiesenthal Center concurred. “The Oscars are transmitted to every corner of the globe, even to such places where such hateful myths are believed as fact,” said the organization’s Founder and Dean, Rabbi Marvin Hier. “Every comedian is entitled to wide latitude, but no one should get a free pass for helping to promote antiSemitism.” Reps for the Academy and MacFarlane have so far not responded to requests for comment.

tionally-acclaimed public affairs program I-Witness wins the Best TV Documentary Award while Philippine TV’s one and only Sumbungan ng Bayan Imbestigador scores the Best Investigative Program Award. Unang Hirit, GMA’s award-winning early morning news magazine program, receives the Best Morning Show Award. GMA News TV’s Powerhouse wins as the Best Lifestyle Program. GMA also earns honors for its innovative entertainment programs including Best Gag Show for the 17-year old highrating program Bubble Gang and Best TV Cooking Show for Kusina Master hosted by Chef Boy

Logro. DZBB, the Network’s radio arm, receives both the Best AM Station and the Best Station of the Year Awards. Gawad Tanglaw also honors veteran TV host and star-builder German Moreno with the Gawad Tanglaw Sa Sining Ng Telebisyon Award, while DZBB’s weekend anchor Eddie Ilarde is this year’s recipient of the Gawad Tanglaw sa Sining ng Radyo Award. Aiming to recognize members of the print media, radio and television arts that uphold Filipino values, the Gawad Tanglaw Awards is set to commence on March 7, 5pm, at the Colegio de San Juan de Letran in Calamba, Laguna.

GMA Network is Best TV Station of the Year in Gawad Tanglaw 2013

GMA Network reinforces its status as the country’s leading broadcast company as it clinches the Best TV Station of the Year Award in this year’s Gawad Tagapuring mga Akademisyan ng Aninong Gumagalaw (Gawad Tanglaw). After winning the Best TV News Anchor Award for the fifth consecutive year, GMA News Pillar Vicky Morales advances to the Gawad Tanglaw Hall of Fame for the latenight news program Saksi. GMA News TV’s flagship and news authority State of the Nation with Jessica Soho, in turn, receives the Best News Program Award. Locally and interna-

SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK Jennifer Lawrence , Bradley Copper

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BEAUTIFUL CREATURES Alden Ehrenreich, Alice Englert 12:00 | 2:30 | 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS PG-13

DIE HARD 5 Bruce Willis , Jai Courtney

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LINCOLN Daniel Day-Lewis , Sally Field

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VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EVENTS

Empowering Filipina women:

The search for Mrs. Philippines-Globe is on! By Kenneth Irving Ong Photos by Lean Daval Jr.

GOING beyond age and civil status, Mrs. Philippines-Globe recently launched its search for this year’s candidates.

Already on its second year, Mrs, PhilippinesGlobe honours Filipina women of substance who play an important role in society, believing that age and civil status are not boundaries for women to fulfil their dreams and to realise achievements that serve to inspire others. “We were deeply overwhelmed with the success of Mrs. Philippines-Globe last year. So this 2013, we made the pageant even bigger to reach out to more Filipinas and to let them know about the pageant’s advocacy, which is women empowerment. We also wish to encourage them to take this opportunity where they themselves can become an instrument of empowerment and source of inspiration to others,” says National Pageant Director Morena Carla Cabrera-Quimpo. Pageant officials will choose 20 official candidates from all over the Philippines who will compete for the coveted

The Mrs. Philippines-Globe team.

crown during the national pageant night set on May 25, 2013 at the New World Hotel. More importantly, the winner will also have the rate opportunity to represent the country in the Mrs. Globe 2013 World Finals at Shenzen, China on September 2013. “My journey during the Mrs. Philippines-Globe pageant was definitely one-of-a-kind. It allowed me to expand my horizons by helping me meet different kinds of people, bringing me to places I’ve never been before, and creating more opportunities for personal develop-

ment. All in all, the pageant helped become a better person,” shares Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2012 Joycelyn Agsaway, who also won Face of the Year Award in last year’s Mrs. Globe World Finals. More than just a celebration of beauty, Mrs. Globe in the US is affiliated with The Women In Need Foundation which aims to help abused women and children recover their self-esteem. The pageant emphasizes that women have the right to be heard, loved and respected. Interested parties

may download application forms at Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2013’s website at www.mrsphilippinesglobe.com. Special screenings will also be held simultaneously on April 2, 2103 in Pampanga, Cebu and Davao. GMA and South Luzon screening will be on April 6, 2013. Deadline of entries is on March 20, 2013. For more information about Mrs. PhilippinesGlobe, you may log on to its website or the pageant’s official Facebook page at www.facebook. com/M rsPhilippinesGlobeOfficial.

Ms. Pinky Siva, Woman of Substance Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2012 and Ms. Joyce Pascual-Agsaway, Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2012. National Pageant Director Morena Carla Cabrera-Quimpo.

Valerimae Batenga, Marketing Implementation Manager - Promotions of Solane, a partner of Me together with Pinky and Joyce. Mrs. Philippines-Globe.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Special Project on

PROPERTY

Property dev’t remains key eco growth driver By Greg G. Deligero [Editor’s Note: As we mark the 5th year anniversary of Edge Davao, we will be running a series of special supplements which will feature the top 5 economic drivers of Davao City—property development, agribusiness, tourism, wholesale and retail and the Information Communication Technology-Business Process Outsourcing (ICT-BPO)—starting this issue which focuses on property development industry.]

XACTLY half a year after the city government excluded big property development investments from the list of preferred business activities, big ticket development projects remain as one of the city’s key economic growth drivers. “The sector which has the most investment and employment generated in the records of the Davao City Investment Promotion Cent (DCIPC) is property development.

What is inside Filinvest

Page 2 Santos Land

Considering the ripeness of the industry for promising returns in some of its products, we have refined this area to cover only the development of residential areas for low-cost and socialized housing,” said DCIPC chief Jason Magnaye. “Yet, big ticket projects continue coming in the city,” he said. Being in the list of preferred areas entitled to exemption from payment of the local business tax for three years and basic real property

Page 4 DMCI

tax for two years where the project is located, provided this is owned by the proponent. Despite the exclusion of huge development projects, the property industry remains the key economic growth driver of the local economy along with agribusiness, tourism, wholesale and retail and the Information Communication Technology-Business Process Outsourcing (ICT-BPO) industry. Top industry players include

Camella Homes Davao, Filinvest Land, Inc., DMCI, the home-grown Alsons Properties, Uraya Land, Inc., Santos Land Development Corporation and the Floirendo-owned Damosa Land, Inc. Forthcoming projects include the multi-million-peso housing project of Camella Homes Davao in Buhangin, Davao City and the planned mixed-used development of Alflocor Group of Companies, also located in the city’s second

Page 7 Camella

FPROPERTY, 5

Page 9

FOCUS ON PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Changing the Landscape of Condo Living in the Vis-Min Region

Filinvest offers oasis-themed mid-rise communities ideal for modern urbanites

N a bid to respond to the rising demand of city dwellers for a haven in the city, Filinvest, one of the country’s leading real estate developers today, crafted oasis-themed residential condo communities strategically located in key cities. Poised to provide a refreshing take on urban living, these exclusive enclaves feature midrise residential buildings (MRBs) set amid lush greenery and resort-inspired environs. Coming at the heels of its successful series of oasis-themed communities in Metro Manila, Filinvest offers One Oasis Davao and One Oasis Cebu, two additions to its breakthrough MRB portfolio, enabling Filipinos in regional areas to enjoy the hallmarks of modern, hassle-free, and exclusive condo living experience. Davao’s tropical haven One Oasis Davao is a 2.3-hectare commune that offers stylish studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units that suit varying preferences. Located at the heart of Matina, it is a convenient distance from major destinations, such as SM City Davao, NCCC Mall, Matina

Town Square, Davao City Golf Club, and Davao Doctors Hospital. Educational institutions such as Ateneo de Davao High School and Philippine Women’s College are a convenient five-minute driving distance away. Homes inspired by Asian-tropical designs are set against a backdrop of refreshing gardens and resort-inspired amenities, making One Oasis Davao a thriving condo community that appeals not only to Davaoeños but to residents of General Santos City and neighboring areas as well. Verdant living in Cebu One Oasis Cebu is a 3.7-hectare commune located in the uptown district of Mabolo. It is ideal for young professionals and start-up familes because it is minutes away from workplaces in Asiatown IT Park and Cebu Business Park. Likewise within easy reach are major lifestyle destinations, such as SM City Cebu and the Ayala Center. Featuring Asian-inspired architecture, One Oasis Cebu offers stu-

One Oasis Davao entrance gate

One Oasis Davao clubhouse exterior night shot

dio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units at the five-storey Garden Suites 1 and 2 and the ten-storey Fairways 1, which offers unobstructed views of the Cebu Country Club fairways. Great value for money As in other MRB projects in Manila, Filinvest’s oasis-themed developments in Davao and Cebu infuse leisure into everyday living. These communities offer a whole range of amenities, which include a multipurpose clubhouse, swimming pools, a basketball court, play areas, gazebos, and generous wide, open spaces, among others. In doing this, One Oasis Davao and One Oasis Cebu create a refreshing haven that city dwellers truly deserve. All these facilities can be enjoyed within a neighborhood made secure by a perimeter fence, a well-guarded and gated entrance, and provisions for 24-hour security. This, aside from the fact that Oasis developments are low-density communities, ensure privacy and a wor-

One Oasis Davao exterior shot

ry-free lifestyle. To give residents the best value for their money, Filinvest has also put in place a professional management team which keeps the entire community masterfully maintained and takes care of leasing out the units to tenants. With their ability to respond to the modern needs of city dwellers, the dynamic communities of One Oasis Cebu and One Oasis Davao are expected to attract more young professionals and startup families looking for a haven in the city as well as investors who are after great value and amazing returns on investment. One Oasis Davao and One Oasis Cebu are additions to Filinvest’s growing portfolio of oasis-themed projects in key cities, which include One Oasis Ortigas, the Balinese-themed Bali Oasis along Marcos Highway in Rizal, the Italian-inspired Capri Oasis and Sorrento Oasis in Pasig, and the Pacific island-themed Maui Oasis in Sta. Mesa, Manila.

One Oasis Davao clubhouse function

One Oasis Davao clubhouse interior

For more information, call (082) 222-2639 One Oasis Davao.

One Oasis Davao swimming pool

One Oasis Davao Master bedroom

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

FOCUS ON PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

SLDC recognition and thanksgiving night

Hornijas bags major awards By ChePalicte

Ms. Hannah Joy Horjinas, Tops Sales Director for the year

ANNUAL TRAVEL INCENTIVE AWARDEES

ANTOS Land Development Corporation (SLDC), headed by Antonio S. Domingo, the president conducted its annual recognition and thanksgiving night last January 29 at the Grand Men Seng Hotel, Magallanes, Davao City where Hanna Joy Hornijas bagged the major awards. Hornijas was cited as the 4th quarter quota achiever, quarterly top producer, annual top sales producer and annual quota achiever.

Aside from that, she was also recognized as the top cash sales producer of the year, outstanding saleswoman of the year, SLDC Board’s Elite Eagle Awardee and is one of the recipient of the annual travel incentive. Hereunder is the complete list of awards and the respective awardees TOP PRODUCERS FOR THE 4TH QUARTER Top Sales Director Ms. Hannah Joy Hornijas Top Manager Ms. Sonia Hornijas Top Executive Mr. Zoilo Hornijas

The President & the Chairman of the Board with the Elite Eagle awardees.

A special dance number of board of directors & officers of the company. ANNUAL QUOTA ACHIEVERS Top Sales Director Ms. Hannah Joy Hornijas Top Manager Ms. Sonia Hornijas Top Executive Mr. Zoilo Hornijas CASH SALES PRODUCERS OF THE YEAR Top Sales Director Ms. Hannah Joy Hornijas Top Manager Ms. Sonia Hornijas Top Executive Mr. Zoilo Hornijas OUTSTANDING SALESMAN OF THE YEAR Top Sales Director Ms. Hannah Joy Hornijas Top Manager Ms. Sonia Hornijas Top Executive Mr. Zoilo Hornijas

With Banco De Oro representatives.

SLDC BOARD ELITE EAGLE AWARDEE Top Sales Director Ms. Hannah Joy Hornijas Top Manager Ms. Sonia Hornijas Top Executive Mr. Zoilo Hornijas

The party

ANNUAL TRAVEL INCENTIVE AWARDEE Ms. Hannah joy Hornijas Ms. Alma Apolonio Ms. Josefina Orense Ms. Myra Palmera Ms. Sonia Hornijas Mr. Romeo Orense Mr. Cris Cuajotor Mr. Zoilo Hornijas Ms. Rochelle Joy Orense Aside from the awards, prizes and gifts received, it was also an opportunity to bond for members of the oldest yet most progressive companies in Davao City, which shows how solid SLDC is, a company worth trusting in construction and housing development.

With BPI representatives.

Recognizing the role of sales agents and their leaders to the prosperity of the company, SLDC continues to soar high as one of the top developers in town.

The company also awards certificates of recognation to the banks which have supported the housing activities of the company all these years namely; BDO, BPI, Metrobank & Unionbank.

With Unionbank representatives.

Board member Mariano Santos (L) & cousins.

SLDC Dance troupe

The Hornijas Realty, the winning group.

With Metrobank representatives.

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Property... FFROM 1

district which will feature a business park, a nature zone, a recreational zone, a residential zone and other uses. “Over the last decade, Davao has grown to become the leading metropolitan city ub the southern Philippines. Many will agree that the city’s economic life has indeed changed dramatically over the last three to five years,” Magnaye said. “And we anticipate this to be sustained and for us to even attain a sharper growth trajectory in another three to five years with the accelerated inflow of investments happening now in the city,” he added. City Planning and Development Office chief Roberto P. Alabado said there is a high demand for residential expansion in both the southern and northern sides of the city, specifically in the

districts of Tugbok, Toril and Buhangin. He also noted that in recent years “we have seen the construction of medium to high rise residential units within and along the fringes of the central business district or downtown area.” “These residential projects are currently located on Pichon Street, Ecoland Drive and along J.P. Laurel Avenue in Bajada. It may be observed that informal settlements are expanding along coastlines and riverbanks,” Alabado said. In terms of commercial uses, Alabado noted the development of large commercial malls at the edge of the central business district, particularly in the Matina, Bajada and Lanang areas in the past ten years. “New commercial malls are expected to rise in Toril, Buhangin and Tugbok districts to complement the residential area development in those areas. The past few

years have seen the reuse of old buildings or structures for new commercial activities. Old moviehouses were reused as shopping centers and old hotels were refurbished and reopened,” he said “Commercial buildings exclusively for ICT related businesses are being built around the CBD. Most of the new developments are along major roads of the city resulting to ribbon development type of commercial development,” he added. It the tourism front, Alabado also noted an ongoing boom in construction of hotels and resorts in the city. “The large development projects of Ayala and SM Lanang have incorporated hotels within their areas. These are expected to be completed by 2013. New small and boutique hotels are mostly concentrated in both Bajada and Lanang areas,” he said. He, however, noted that while the tourism master

FOCUS ON PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT plan has already been developed for the Catigan–Tagurano –Eden TRIAD area, tourism facilities development in the area is still slow paced.

“Resorts and recreational establishments are now accessible to the CBD with the establishment of the Crocodile Park, Japanese Tunnel and other resorts.

Tourism activities and facilities are being planned in the Marilog and Paquibato areas as the new highland destinations in the city,” he said.

FOCUS ON PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Citihardware set to open new store C

ITIHARDWARE, the pioneering home improvement warehouse will soon welcome its 3rd store in Davao. CitiHardware Buhangin will open its doors to Davaenos this year. This 3rd store is preceded by the company’s first store in Bajada which opened in 1998 and its flagship store CitiHardware Matina. A key player in the construction finishing materials market for over a decade, Citihardware has not only been expanding in Mindanao but has also grown in numbers in Visayas and Luzon as well.

CitiHardware brings world class building materials closer to your doorstep, with a wider range of products to choose from, CitiHardware’s extensive network is further strengthened by its capacity to source innovative products both locally and internationally. It’s consequent wide array of product offering which now include an extensive lumberyard, appliances and storage and organizing items. CitiHardware, in their many years of experience, have stayed true to their goal of giving Great Value

Everyday to its customers. There is no need for seasonal discounts and price offs because each time the customer makes a purchase, it is guaranteed that he or she is given the best price matched with quality service. Truly, CitiHardware has a lot to be proud of with its roots in Davao and intends to make Davaenos equally proud with its growth and success. For more information on CitiHardware, visit www. citihardware.com or go to the CitiHardware branch nearest you.

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

FOCUS ON PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

Business booming for DMC-UPDI, say By EJ Dominic Fernandez

ENGR. Leonora Gutierrez

USINESS is booming for the DMC Urban Property Development Incorporated (UPDI) which is engaged in residential condominium development. “Good. Business is good,” these were the words of engineer Leonora Gutierrez, director for sales, marketing and customer care of DMC-UPDI in an interview with Edge Davao. DMC-UPDI has built four commercial and residential condominium buildings in Davao, namely, Ecoland 4000 Residences which has two five-storey residential buildings located in Ecoland; Magallanes Residences with three seven-storey commercial and residential buildings located along Bolton Street; Palmetto Place with a three-storey commercial and residential building and two seven-storey commercial and residential buildings with a two-level parking space located in Ma-a; and the Hacienda in Catalunan Pequeño which is a compact 9.1 hectare subdivision de-

velopment. With businessmen, overseas Filipino workers, foreigners, professionals and retirees as the major customers of DMC-UPDI, Gutierrez said market acceptance is more than what they had expected, citing the example of the Ecoland 4000 Residences and Magallanes Residences which are sold out and occupied. Gutierrez also announced that “any time soon,” after the development permit is released, they will conduct the ground breaking of their newest project, which is the twin 27-storey condominium towers at Tulip Drive and Ecoland Drive behind SM City Ecoland. She added that the Davao market remains bullish, considering that it extends to as far as neighboring provinces, cities and municipalities. “Having a good number of inventories, the company has a very good projection of expanding to neighboring areas in the future,” she said, although most of them are

Leonora Gutierrez, director for sales, marketing and customer care of DMC-UPDI

Gutierrez with her marketing and sales force

still on the drawing board.” According to Gutierrez, the DMC-UPDI has contributed a lot to Davao City’s labor force from the executive, technical, clerical, and even to the lowest labor contingent. “Hundreds of brokers and agents generate income from every sale they make, specialty contractors and suppliers also earn which means DMC-UPDI provides a good source of livelihood for Dabawenyos,” she added. DMC-UPDI has been operating in Davao City as far back as the 1970s since the development of Ecoland, but remained in the background since its partners in the Ecoland properties were actually the ones managing the operations then. The company “purposely” resurfaced in 2004 to dispose existing land inventories starting with Ecoland 4000 Residences in 2007, which is, “historically,” the first condominium project in Davao City and Mindanao, according to Gutierrez.

FOCUS ON PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

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EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAOVOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

FOCUS ON PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

Camella Homes Davao:

Pursuing projects consistent with Davao’s development direction By Greg G. Deligero

PERATING in Davao City for the past 18 years, Camella Homes Davao remains as one of the leading real estate developers in the city with untainted track record of reliability, dependability and stability. “Camella remains the most preferred brand and the largest builder of homes in the country. With that reputation and brand recognition, it is easy for us to penetrate and dominate the market. Our track record tells the marker that we are s solid company and dependable developer,” said Camella Homes Davao general manager Marlon B. Escalicas. Camella first made its presence in Davao City felt in the mid-1990s with the construction of Solariega, a Caribbean-inspired, master planned subdivision equipped with upscale facilities and amenities. It was followed by 22-hectare landscaped Toscana in Bago Gallera and the ongoing Camella Northpoint, British colonial themed condo de-

Marlon B. Escalicas, Camella Davao general manager.

The Manor House, Camella Northpoint

Camella Northpoint building

House and lot at Camella Cerritos Mintal

velopment of Camella Communities along J.P. Laurel Avenue and the Mediterranean-themed Cerritos in Mintal. The Villar-owned company is set to formally launch next month its newest project, the 27-hectare Camella North Davao, located in Buhangin which will feature amenities and facilities truly Camella Homes in trademark: upscale, innovative environment friendly. Escalicas, who joined the Villa group of companies nine years ago but took at the helm of Camella Davao only in 2009, said they are spreading out their development projects outside the central business district to bring development to the outskirt area. “Before, we open projects one after the other but now we open simultaneously because of strong demand of our product,” he said, referring to Cerritos Mintal, Camella Northpoint and soon to be

constructed Camella North Davao. In all these development projects, Escalicas said, they are not only building residential houses or units but also commercial establishments to cater to the needs of the residents. “The people will no longer see the need to come to the downtown area as their needs will be provided with the availability of commercial establishments in their own community. It is our own way of support to the development thrusts of the city government to spread out the development outside the central business district,” he said. “With that kind of development concept, we can help solve the problem on traffic,” Escalicas pointed out. Camella is set to build a mall and related establishments in Cerritos Mintal and the planned Camella North Davao. In its Northpoint project, the community of four condominium buildings is equipped with a lifestyle center, coffee shop, spa, pizza house and a fine dining restaurant. In support to the environment program of the city government, Escalicas said all their projects provide spaces for trees and landscaped pathways to create green surroundings “that allow one to commune with nature which attest further to the company’s regard for the environment.” “Our development projects are very supportive and complementary to the development thrusts of the city government,” Escalicas said.

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EDGEDAVAO

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Uh oh, Lakers lose again D

ENVER (AP) -- It’s a good thing Danilo Gallinari was a late scratch for the Denver Nuggets. With a bruised left thigh, he couldn’t have kept up with his hustling teammates as they sped past the aged and aching Los Angeles Lakers. Wilson Chandler scored 23 points in place of Gallinari, and Ty Lawson added 22 in the Nuggets’ 119-108 win Monday night in which Denver outscored the Lakers 33-3 on the fast break and 78-50 in the paint. ‘’The fast-break points, that’s a killer,’’ Kobe Bryant said. ‘’That team is like a track team over there.’’ And the Lakers were like a bunch of shuffle-boarders, trailing on the scoreboard and the hardwood all night long as they trudged through the second game of a difficult back-to-back. ‘’First, we know that they played last night,’’ Lawson said. ‘’Coming into the altitude, also they’re a little slow getting back. So, once they miss a shot, it seemed like a jailbreak. Everybody was trying to run downcourt and get the layup.’’ Or the arena-shaking slam dunk. Or the rim-rattling alley-oop jam.

Corey Brewer also got extended minutes with Gallinari out and he scored 16, many in transition. Even seldom-used reserves Anthony Randolph and Jordan Hamilton joined in the fast-break fun. ‘’Our running game was sensational,’’ Nuggets coach George Karl said. ‘’And we put enough defense in the game.’’ Gallinari, the Nuggets’ leading scorer, wasn’t needed as the Nuggets won their ninth straight game at home, snapped the Lakers’ three-game winning streak and took the season series from their long-time nemesis 3-1. Coming off a downto-the-wire win at Dallas the day before, the Lakers wanted to slow down the Nuggets but just couldn’t keep up with their younger, more athletic and, yes, better-rested opponents. ‘’They just ran out of the starter’s blocks and beat us down the floor,’’ Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni said. ‘’... We couldn’t catch them. We just couldn’t catch them. For whatever reason, they just took off. Even on just a missed shot, we couldn’t get back quick enough.’’’ Bryant led the Lakers with 29 points, and his fadeaway jumper with five minutes left cut Denver’s

lead to 106-99, but the Lakers got no closer. The Nuggets scored 22 points off the Lakers’ 15 turnovers. ‘’It’s tough to neutralize speed, especially when they’re very good at what they do,’’ Bryant said. ‘’Yeah, their speed. Their speed got us. They got out on transition, got easy buckets. Kept the pressure on us. We had to labor for opportunities, think we might have had two fastbreak points. Contrast that with 33. It’s crazy.’’ Anything and everything the Lakers tried to do to flip the size-speed disadvantage only backfired on them. ‘’You have to almost over-exaggerate getting back on defense,’’ Bryant said. ‘’Literally, nobody can go to the offensive boards.’’ Sure enough, the Lakers had zero rebounds off the offensive glass in the first half and just eight all night. ‘’I think it was their speed,’’ Bryant said. ‘’Their speed was something that was tough for us to adjust to all night long. They continually pushed the ball down our throats. Shots go up and those guys are already leaking out, to go along with the speed. They got a lot of easy buckets because of it.’’

SPORTS 13

Denver Nuggets center Kosta Koufos, center, pulls down a rebound while covered by Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant, front, and center Dwight Howard in the first quarter of their match won by the Nuggets.

SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Davao athletes relish new stadium By Neil Bravo

OT even the floods and the devastation of typhoon Pablo could stop over 1,000 athletes from two provinces battered by recent calamities from joining their peers from the rest of Davao Region and taking part in the biggest Davao Regional Athletic Association Davraa) Meet ever. Governor Rodolfo del DAVRAA. Congressman Anthony Del Rosario of Davao del Norte was the keynote speaker in the opening of the Davao Regional Athletic Association (Davraa) meet at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center. Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario waves to the crowd as Senator Pia Cayetano and Compostela Governor Arturo Uy watch as the Rosario and his son Condelegates pass by. (Lean Daval) gressman Anthony Del Rosario cheered the delegates from visiting Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental who are part of the close to 6,000 athletes and officials to the 2013 Davao Regional Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet which formally opened here on Monday at the sprawling Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center. “Take it from our fellow Dababawnons, those whose lives were ravaged by Typhoon Pablo. Take it from them who have lost so much, yet displayed such remarkable resiliency. Take it from them who have had to weather not just the mighty typhoon, but also the other storms of apathy, neglect and poverty. However, instead of retreating in surrender, and sulking in misery, these proud and sturdy people have struggled to reclaim their lives. It has not been easy, but their collective spirit is strong. They will prevail,” the younger Del Rosario said in his speech. Congressman Del Rosario praised the delegates for their determination to rise above the adversities they have experienced in life. Not even the heavy rains and flooding of recent days that affected nearby Carmen town and some parts of Tagum City could wash away the burning excitement of the hosts, most especially Governor Del Rosario who spent almost every day in the past months ensuring the venue Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center is finished in time for this event. Senator Pia Cayetano ran the length of the track for the ceremonial torch run while colorful

field performances spiced up the opening ceremony capped by a 15-minute fireworks display that lit up the stadium as the region’s elementary and secondary athletes wore mixed faces of admiration and excitement at the sight of the world-class stadium. “I am here not only to extol this new project and its proponent. I am here to honor you, the young athletes under whose feet these grounds will tremble in competition. I am here to honor your strength, your single-mindedness, and the purity of your aspiration. For it is in the spirit of friendly battles where character is further tempered. It is in winning and losing that we rediscover ourselves, and pledge to be humbler, better persons,” said Del Rosario. “Today, we stand proud.” He added that the sports facility, built to the tune of P242 Million, is a dream he and his father nurtured. “It is the unfolding of a dream. A dream that started around ten years ago, when Gov del Rosario was nearing the end of his term as governor, and I was gearing up to run as vice governor of Davao del Norte. We talked then about the need to put in place a truly holistic sports program for our province’s youth anchored on the reconstruction of this once outdated sports complex into possibly the best sports center in the region to date. That dream culminates today as we open these DAVRAA games,” Del Rosario narrated. Competing in 18 events are Davao City, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, Compostela Valley, Digos City, Island Garden City of Samal, Mati City, Panabo City, Tagum City and host Davao del Norte. The Davraa 2013 is considered by the host province as the take off point for bigger sporting events like the 2013 Batang Pinoy Mindanao eliminations in August and the 2014 PRISAA National Games in February next year.

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 255 •WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

PAL INTERCLUB

SPORTS 15

Battle of Mactan begins By Neil Bravo

Davao teams ready to mix it up

EBU CITY--After the Seniors squads from Davao were blown away by the opposition here last week, their men’s counterparts will have the chance for redemption. Apo Golf and Country Club, Rancho Palos Verdes and Davao City Golf Club men’s teams all see action today as the 66th Philippine Airlines Men’s Interclub begins with the “Battle of Mactan.” The par-72 Military-run layout in Cebu’s historic island will be the venue for the first 18 holes of the 54-hole tournament sponsored by Philippine Airlines. “Wala namang pressure. Laro lang. Tingnan natin kung anong mangyari,” said Denden De Castro during the team’s practice yesterday morning at the Cebu Country Club—the other venue of the tournament which uses four courses for the first time in its 66-year history.

The scenic Alta Vista and the Club Filipino de Cebu were the venues for the Seniors tournament last week won by Canlubang. Day 1 and 3 will be played in Mactan while Day 2 and the Final Round will be at the CCC where the fairways and greens have been in excellent condition. Aside from De Castro, Apo’s men’s squad will be banking on Karlos Alba, Almar Etrone, Toffee Tionko, Peter Pineda, Patrick Tan, Pitt Jun Batu, Leo Fusilero and Chikoy Saavedra. Apo will be playing in the Founder’s Division where host Cebu Country Club, which won last year at Apo, is bidding to become backto-back champions. Rancho Palos Verdes will be banking on Joel Yamyamin, Larry Miculob, Marc Lopez, Monchit Mackay, Kuresh Samanodi, Chris Tan, Vincent Gumapac, Paul Garcia, Jeff Ramirez and

Ninot Galicia. Davao City Golf Club meantime will parade a veterans-laden team led by Willie de Leon, Ludwig Ledesma, Ben Hur Villarosa, Marlon Aranas, Jun Narciso, Gani Gascal, Nilo Dalut, Brad Quemada, Jimmy Dureza, Boy Braganza and Roy Quemada. The PAL Interclub is being sponsored by the Department of Tourism, 105.1 Crossover, Solar Sports, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, 92.3 FM Radyo 5, Araneta Coliseum and AXN. Major sponsors are Airbus, Manila Broadcasting Corporation, Philippine Broadcasting Network, People Asia, Radio Mindanao Network, Business Mirror and ABSCBN The Filipino Channel (TFC). Corporate sponsors include Radisson Blu Hotel, Shangri-La Resort & Spa, Boeing, Inquirer Golf Magazine, Philippines Graphic and Manila Bulletin.

onship today while listing three other teams as possible title threats in the centerpiece event. Young LJ Go and veteran campaigner Bayani Garcia will open up hostilities for the Cebuanos as the first 18 holes are played at the unpredictable Mactan Island Golf Club in Lapu-Lapu City, a layout where not even the CCC bets can claim familiarity with. Carl Almario, a former pro, lawyer Jovi Neri and Mark Dy are the other starters for CCC, which will be shooting to win a second title and its first-ever repeat championship. Cebu CC will be trying to get a good start in its efforts to repeat, hence the big starting lineup, even as the hosts have labeled Del Monte and Alabang as their biggest challengers and Southwoods as the darkhorse in the event. “We want to make a statement early, we want to come up with an opening day effort that would announce that we are really dead serious in re-

peating as champions,” Cebu CC team official Jeric Hechanova said yesterday. The starting five sampled the Mactan layout for the final time yesterday, and though they are all from this bustling city, they also cannot claim homecourt edge over the other teams. “The best that we have over the other teams is that we have played Mactan maybe three times more than they have,” Hechanova said. Championship division action will be held at Mactan and then the Cebu CC in the second and fourth rounds, and Hechanova has talked with confidence about having an even stronger five finishing hostilities for them on Saturday. “What we want, if we get the strong start that we are aiming for, is to be able to come up with a steady lineup in the second and third rounds just to keep our lead,” Hechanova said. “And then we will have the strongest team in the final day.”

PAL MEN’S INTERCLUB

Bring out the best

PAL INTERCLUB CHAMP. Ramon Tito Garca (top) of Cebu Country Club, Brig. Gen. Nestor Deona (below, right) of Mactan Golf and Country Club, and Mayor Michael Rama (below, left) of Cebu City fire the ceremonial balls of the 66th PAL Men’s Interclub at the Cebu Country Club yesterday. (PAL photo)

EBU – Cebu Country Club will field in a very formidable five to open up its repeat bid in the Philippine Airlines Interclub Men’s champi-

16 SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 255 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

Farmer’s son wins first gold by Jumar James B. Dela Cruz and Jerry Ben V. Sasam

HE DavNor Pioneers drew the first blood in the Davao Region Athletics Association (DAVRAA) Meet after clinching gold in the high jump at 10:00 am today at the new Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center. Albert Jay Callejo, 16, and a junior student of Quezon Memorial Institute (QMI) in Kapalong, Davao del Norte scored the first gold in the weeklong competitions when he successfully dominated the pole vaults in the highjump event finishing with an amazing 1.62-meter leap. The farmer’s son, whose family was stricken

by recent flash floods that hit the province, took the never-say-die stance and sprung over Davao City’s Marchan Butahan in the final jump. The victory opened the opportunity for Callejo to grab his first national title when he represents Region XI in the Palarong Pambansa this April in Dumaguete City. “Dako kaayo ang akong kalipay nga nakadaog ko. Wala nasayang ang among kahago ug pag-antos sa mga preparasyon,” (I am very happy that I won; our efforts and painstaking practice are all worth it) said the triumphant two-time Palaro player.

GOLDEN LEAP. Davao del Norte Pioneer’s Albert Jay Callejo of Quezon Memorial Institute in Kapalong town dominates the high jump to clinch the first gold medal at day one of the week-long Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) Meet at the Davao del Norte Sports and Cultural Center. Photo by Resurrecion Nibres, Anibongan NHS

Callejo revealed that he is staying in his grandmother’s house, whose prime means of living is rice-farming in barangay Gabuyan, Kapalong, which is among the identified flood-prone villages in the province.

Coach Beverly Villarino, who himself is a firsttime DAVRAA coach, said their feat was a product of sheer hard work and dogged determination, as the rigid 20-day training he designed for Callejo culminated in an over-

whelming success. “Many first times happened to me this year; first time to join DAVRAA and first time to bag gold in the same event,” Villarino said in jubilation. (Note: Campus Writer Jumar James B. Dela

Cruz is a 4th year High School student of the Luna National High School in Kapalong, Davao del Norte; while Jerry Ben V. Sasam is a school organ adviser of Sto. Tomas Central Elem. School in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte.