Edge Davao 5 Issue 36

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

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Mindanao power

PNoy gives MinDA, Cabinet homework

By Lorie Ann A. Cascaro

P

RESIDENT Benigno Aquino III gave some members of his cabinet a “homework”, which is to look at the financial statements of the National Power Corporation (NPC) and the Power

n President might consider not

privatizing Agus-Pulangi if he could be convinced that it is earning.

Sector Assets and Liabilities Manage-

ment Corporation (PSALM).

Secretary Luwalhati Antonino of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) earlier said the President might consider not privatizing Agus-Pulangi

FPNOY, 13

NATION/WORLD Page 12

Sports Page 16 POLLUTED. Idly moored along the riverbank, a group of small fishing vessels are set for another trip to the Davao Gulf. The river is currently being monitored for any ill-effects of the domestic wastes that polluted the water. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

Scarborough standoff

PHL seeks dialogue with China

By Jade C. Zaldivar

Follow Us On

T

O avoid armed conflict with China over who owns Scarborough Shoal, the Philippine government

prefers ‘peaceful discussions’ to solve the problem, said Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista last Monday night here.

Bautista said the national govern-

ment will have to depend on ‘international intervention’ rather than confront the so-called Asian dragon with arms.

“By area naman, the Philippines is much closer to Scarborough that’s why

FPHL, 13

2

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Quiboloy’s media network now an Army reserve unit

By Jade C. Zaldivar

Emmanuel Bautista signed a MemoranHE command- dum of Agreement ing general (MOA) with Kingdom of the Armed of Jesus Christ leader Forces of the Phil- Pastor Apollo Quiippines personally boloy, who is chief brought with him operating officer and the papers that show president of SMNI. Sonshine Media NetThrough the MOA, work Inc. (SMNI) is the SMNI is recognow a military re- nized as an AFP Affiliserve unit. ated Reserve Unit or During his visit AFPARU. Monday night, AFP “This is in recogcommander Lt. Gen. nition of SMNI’s will-

T

City dad cites tuna shortage D AVAO City Councilor Conrado Baluran yesterday cited the short supply of tuna in the city.

The chair of the committee on agriculture and food expressed concern over the fact that the current supply of tuna has fallen short compared to previous years.

“Unlike before when the daily supply was 10,000 kilos or 10 metric tons of tuna, the supply has dropped to 3,500 kilos,” Baluran said.

“This is a cause for alarm as tuna is considered an important part of our daily food consumption as Dabawenyos,” he added.

Baluran will ask the Council to invite officials of Bureau of Fisheries

and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to appear before it to shed light on the reason for the shortage and provide measures that need to be taken.

Last January, the Davao City Fish Port Complex (DCFPC) said the drop in tuna catch is not due to the decline of foreign long line vessels arrival to the city but because of climate change.

DCFPC port manager Mario Malinao said the drop in tuna catch is not only felt in the Philippines but worldwide.

“This has been the situation worldwide for the past few years,” Malinao said.

Still with a solid intervention from the City Council, Baluran expects the concern will be addressed. [JADE C. ZALDIVAR]

ingness and cooperation to the cause of the Armed Forces,” Bautista said in an interview following the airing of Give Us this Day television program where the MOA signing was held.

“SMNI is considered as an asset, especially with their communication service,” he added.

Pastor Quiboloy said SMNI is glad to

be of help to the AFP. “It’s like what we’ve always been doing. Ginawa lang nating formal. This is a partnership between SMNI and the Armed Forces in providing service to the people,” Quiboloy said.

Col. Lysander Suerte, commander of the 1003rd Brigade, said once signed by President

Benigno Aquino III, the SMNI will officially become a Reserve Unit with Pastor Quiboloy as commander.

“Mukhang matutupad na yung sinabi ni Pastor earlier na nung bata siya gusto niyang maging sundalo,” jested Suerte.

Meanwhile, Quiboloy praised the AFP and the leadership of the President

in handling the country’s internal conflict and external threat.

“I think the President is doing what he can to the best of his capabilities in serving our country, protecting the people,” he said.

“I support General Bautista in calling the whole of nation to come together in attaining peace,” Quiboloy added.

A group of young boys play a game of cards under the shade of a commercial building in Davao City. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

Life in the Davao Gulf

Pawikan conservation Ukay2x in Roxas now in Uyanguren workshop proposed

A

FTER several establishments along Roxas Avenue complained against the presence in their area of 121 ukay-ukay (used clothes) and food vendors, acting Davao City Mayor Rody Duterte ordered last Monday their relocation to Magsaysay Avenue, from corner Bangoy to corner Alvarez streets.

Assistant City Administrator Erwin Alparaque said yesterday that since Monday night, vendors have not been allowed do business on Roxas Avenue.

“In fact, last night I was there to monitor.

Wala pa silay lugar. Nagapaabot pa sila,” he said.

Alparaque, together with Desiderio Cloribel, chief of the Traffic Management Center, along with other city offi-

cials, had earlier surveyed the relocation site.

The instruction was to relocate them immediately, hence before last Friday the vendors were gone.

However, they are still waiting for a City Council resolution to temporarily close the streets at the relocation site from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM of the following day.

The Roxas area was actually well regulated, in terms of traffic and waste management, Cloribel said until the vendors over-extended their tents towards the street when they were only allowed to stay at the original area adjacent to the drainage canal.

“Personally, wala pa koy nadawat nga reaction sa vendors association,” he said, adding that he

FUKAY2X, 13

By Lorie A. Cascaro

T

HERE is a need to conduct an orientation workshop on marine turtle (pawikan) conservation and management in Toril district, Davao City because the current management has inappropriate skills, lacks technical knowledge and enforcement of existing laws and regulations.

This, according to Ernesto T. Santa Cruz, a concerned citizen, in a proposal he recently submitted to the region’s Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through its Pawikan Conservation Project (PCP) of the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB).

“The critical decisions concerning the management of nesting and hatchery habitats must be based on accurate data,” he said.

He reported that from May to October 2011, out of 475 eggs in situ from four clutches/nests, 145 pawikans or 30.52% were hatched in Brgy, Sirawan, Bgy. Lizada, Toril district.

Last March 23, nesting incidents were reported and 66 eggs in situ were relocated to the artificial hatchery in Sitio Lawis, Bgy Lizada, Toril district.

Significant changes in the number of eggs in situ reported and surrendered to authorized personnel of District City Agriculture Office (DCAO) including nest validation results through time, he said, indicate that problems may be occurring.

Determining these changes is based on means and standard deviation derived from the past studies in Davao Gulf since 2003.

Santa Cruz also mentioned in his report that in-

tervention design introduced in Toril District to manage nesting and hatchery habitats need to be adjusted to new information to improve hatching rate and emergence; arresting all identified threats to increase marine turtles’ population in this regional water.

He also recommended organizing a composite monitoring and law enforcement team to arrest serious threats to marine turtles and other marine wildlife species.

Training The training design aims to equip concerned DENR field personnel, local government units (LGU), non-government organizations (NGO), and people’s organizations (PO) with the appropriate skills and basic knowledge specifically on the biology and ecology of the endangered marine turtles as well as applied man-

agement techniques.

It will also update participants on the existing policies on marine turtle in order to achieve a more responsive and well coordinated implementation of the marine turtle conservation programs of the DENR. Participants are expected to formulate an action plan that can be implemented in their respective areas of jurisdiction, and participate in marine turtle tagging and hatchery activities and rescue, rehabilitation and release of stranded marine turtles.

Citing John G. Frazier, Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) marine turtle expert, he said, “Wildlife management and biological conservation are as much managing people as managing wildlife. In the end they are politics, not biology.”

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

DOT exec lauds Visit Samal 2012 T HE Department of Tourism (DOT) 11 has noted the efforts of the Island Garden City of Samal to drum up its tourism campaign in line with “It’s more fun in the Philippines” promotion campaign.

During the opening rites of Visit Samal 2012, DOT 11 Regional Director Arturo Boncato was glad that the island city had started creating “noise” about its being a must-see place especially during this summer season.

Boncato noted that its campaign to entice more visitors to take a look and experience Samal Island “has become bigger and grander with stronger participation of the private sector.

Started last year, the Visit Samal 2012 is the second round of promotion campaign aimed at enticing domestic travelers and visitors to come, see and spend time in the island city during the summer season. This year, it carries a promo line “Where Life Is Fun.” Stretching until July 15, the Visit Samal 2012 lines up various inland and coastal activities done mostly in competitions in sports, music, beauty pageant, dance,

painting, among others.

As the island city has started catching attention of domestic visitors country-wide, Boncato revealed that it will be one of the places-to-see in a visit this month of the staff and personnel of BBDO Guerero, the advertising agency which won DOT’s tourism branding campaign.

“It’s a sort of incentive.

Instead of going outside the country, they’ll be seeing Davao and Samal Island will be one of the places they will go,” he said.

Aside from supporting the Visit Samal 2012, DOT 11 is also working on a marketing program “bringing Samal out of Mindanao, out of the Philippines,” Boncato said but he did not elaborate how would the marketing would go and when would it start.

In priming the island city to become one of the prime destinations in the country, DOT prioritizes Samal in its convergence project with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) which DOT has worked with in establishing access roads to tourist destinations. [PIA 11/ JEANEVIVE DURONABANGAN]

SouthCot, Maguindanao to settle boundary disputes

O

FFICIALS of South Cotabato and Maguindanao provinces are set to meet next week to discuss ways to resolve a worsening conflict among residents within their disputed boundaries.

South Cotabato Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. said Tuesday Maguindanao officials agreed to meet with them and work on a possible settlement regarding the delineation of the boundaries of Tantangan town in South Cotabato and Mangudadatu town in Maguindanao.

He said they will discuss during the meeting some interventions to help ease the tension among land claimants that already led to the killing of a resident of Tantangan town earlier this month.

Pingoy said Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu has signified to attend the proposed meeting, which is being finalized by both local governments.

“Gov. Mangudadatu and I had initial discussions on this matter and we both agreed that it’s time for us to settle this matter to avoid further bloodshed among the claimants,” the governor said.

Pingoy said the local government has re-

quested the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to conduct a survey and set delineation marks on the boundaries of the two municipalities.

He said they also asked the Department of Agrarian Reform to provide copies of possible documents pertaining to the disputed lands.

“We’re currently compiling the registry and assessment records, survey maps and other related documents concerning these lands. Hopefully, we can come up with some settlement and bring peace to the affected areas in Tantangan,” Pingoy said.

On April 9, a resident of Purok Maharlika in Barangay Poblacion of Tantangan was killed in an attack allegedly staged by a group of land claimants from nearby Mangudadatu town.

The victim, identified as Army T/Sgt. Fernando Patria, was on his way home from his farm when he was waylaid by about 20 armed men allegedly led by a certain Kumander Patotoy.

The local police believe the incident was an offshoot of a long-drawn conflict over vast tracts of farmlands in the area, including Patria’s palay farm.(ALLEN V. ESTABILLO / MINDANEWS)

3

TRAFFIC CODE. Commuters face traffic jam along Quezon Boulevard as the Davao City Council discuss on Tuesday the provisions of the local Traffic Code, which some councilors believe is the solution to the traffic problems in the city. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

At last, a breakthrough in GPH-MILF peace talks

K

UALA LUMPUR -The “stalemate in our ideas for transition,” as Philippine government peace panel (GPH) chair Marvic Leonen described the peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation (MILF) last month, has been broken.

The two panels finally agreed yesterday on a framework on how to proceed with the 14-monthold negotiations after a 90-minute executive session that ended at 11:15 a.m., the panel chairs and their members emerging from the State Room of the Palace of the Golden Horses with wide grins.

“There will be a signing,” Leonen and MILF chair Mohagher Iqbal told MindaNews separately before returning to the function room at 11:45 a.m. for the formal opening of the

Leonen

Iqbal

talks, the 27th exploratory talks since the 2003 war but the eighth under the Aquino administration.

Leonen and Iqbal declined to provide details of the “decision points on principles,” that they expect to sign today, the first major agreement under the Aquino administration.

A hint of positive outcome in the talks was the arrival at the venue of Philippine ambassador Eduardo Malaya at 11:05 a.m.

A smiling Malaya told

MindaNews he was “just passing by.” It was the first time Malaya showed up at the talks venue since the negotiations began in February last year.

Tengku Dato’ Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed, the Malaysian facilitator of the talks, confirmed to MindaNews at 12:55 p.m. that “there will be a signing” in a few minutes.

Tengku has been facilitator of the talks since April 27 last year.

The panels broke up for lunch at 1:20 p.m. but

panel members from both sides affixed their initials on the document at 12:47 p.m., according to Brig.

Gen. Leo Ferrer, senior military adviser of the GPH panel.

Datu Michael Mastura, MILF senior panel member, said all panel members from both sides, except their respective chairs, initialed the document.

Those who initialed for the GPH panel are Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, Hamid Barra, Senen Bacani and Bai Yasmin Lao and for the MILF, Mastura, Maulana Alonto, Abdullah Kamlian and Raissa Jajurie for Abhoud Syed Lingga who could not attend today’s talks.

The two panel chairs will formally sign the agreement when they resume session at 2:30 p.m.

The constitution states: “Each Local Government unit shall have the power to create its own sources of revenue, to levy taxes, fees and charges subject to such guidelines and limitation as the congress may provide, consistent with the basic policy of local autonomy.

Such taxes, fees and charges shall accrue exclusively to the Local governments.”

However, Treñas pointed out that R.A. 7160 unduly deprives the LGUs of their legally-collected business taxes by automatically allocating thirty percent (30%) of these taxes to the city or municipality where the principal office of a business is located.

This is the current scenario even as the business establishment and the point of sale are both located within the LGU that imposed the business tax, allowing another LGU which has no stake or participation in the

sale that transpired to benefit from the taxable transaction, he said.

“The system of allowing the territory where the principal office is located to share in the business tax proceeds of another LGU is clearly contrary to the mandate of the Constitution promoting fiscal autonomy,” Trenas added.

The Code’s provision that automatically deprives LGUs of 30% of their business tax collections from branch sales of commercial establishments is inconsistent with the other provisions of R.A. 7160 itself;f.

Treñas further noted that the Code explicitly provides that taxes, fees and charges imposed by LGUs shall accrue exclusively to the local government units and that the revenue collected by the LGUs shall inure solely to the benefit of, and subject to the disposition by, the local govern-

ment units levying the tax, fee, charge or other imposition.

“The power of taxation is founded on the reciprocal duties of support and protection between the citizens and the state in every organized society,” the author stressed.

Hence, he explained that it is solely the LGU wherein the branch of a commercial establishment is located that has the right to collect business taxes. It is the branch which makes the sale that is protected and supported by the LGU. “On the other hand, the political unit that houses the principal office does not spend a single centavo in ensuring the welfare of the branch establishment.

Under the current set up, the political unit of the principal office is sharing from the income of another LGU without incurring any expenses,” concluded Treñas.

[CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS / MINDANEWS]

Widened fiscal autonomy of LGUs sought

A

lawmaker today proposed to correct a provision in the Local government Code of 1991 which he considers is “clearly contrary to the constitutional mandate of fiscal local autonomy for local government units (LGUs).”

House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability Chair Rep. Jerry P. Treñas filed House Bill 3957 to amend Section 150 (b), (c) and (d) of Republic Act 7160 or the Local Government code of 1991to underline the great importance of local fiscal autonomy for LGUs. The bill is now pending with the Committee on Local Governments.

“The enabling law (Local government code) implementing the constitutional mandate on local fiscal autonomy should always be pursued and this measure seeks to strengthen fiscal autonomy,” the author said.

4 SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Marc, Rovilson do hands-on marine conservation work in Tubbataha Reefs

L

YING at the heart of the Asia-Pacific region is the Coral Triangle, a spectacular underwater world brimming with wealth of unparalleled proportions. The Coral Triangle is the planet’s richest center of marine life, the nursery of the seas.

Few reefs within the Coral Triangle can rival the productivity of the Philippines’ own Tubbataha Reefs, located in the Central Sulu Sea in Palawan.

Tubbataha, touted as the crown jewel of the Coral Triangle, is a project site of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This April, WWF-Philippines national ambassadors Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez went on a five-day diving expedition to do hands-on conservation work at the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Marine Park. Onboard WWF-Philippines’ research vessel M/Y Navorca, Marc and Rovilson stood at the front lines to ensure that the reefs remain pristine for generations to come.

“I’m an avid scuba diver and Tubbataha has some of the best diving in the world. Being able to see sharks and turtles on every dive and even running into a whale shark underwater is proof positive that WWF’s conservation efforts in the area is a success,” says Marc.

Since Marc and Rovilson were named WWFPhilippines national ambassadors in October 2010, the dynamic duo has led a slew of activities to create more awareness about the Philippine environment’s immense biodiversity. These activities include WWF environmental education sessions to help empower thousands of public school students to become young stewards of nature.

The Tubbataha Experience

Tubbataha Reefs

The twin atolls of the Tubbataha Reefs lie in the middle of the Sulu Sea, approximately 160 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa City in Palawan. The reefs are only reachable by boat, a journey which takes 10 to 12 hours and is only attempted from mid-March to mid-June. Entry to the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Marine Park without proper clearance is strictly prohibited.

Tubbataha spans more than 97,000 hectares and hosts approximately 600 species of fish; 360 species of corals (approximately half of all coral species in the world); 14 species of sharks including the ferocious tiger shark; 12 species of dolphins and whales; a nesting population of endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles; and over 100 species of birds, including rare migratory birds.

“During our trip, we saw spinner dolphins, black and white tip reef sharks, stingrays, manta and eagle rays and a whale shark, which is rarely seen in Tubbataha. Such sightings manifest the excellent health of these waters,” says Rovilson.

“Best dive ever!” exclaimed Marc after seeing the four-meter juvenile whale shark. Marc has been diving since he was 11 and has had hundreds of diving trips around the world.

Marc and Rovilson likewise interacted with rangers from the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Marine Park, the best-managed offshore marine protected area in the country. The ranger station stands on a sandbar in Tubbataha’s north atoll.

The rangers ensure that Tubbataha’s waters are protected from illegal fishermen and poachers. “They also maintain a steady watch on the licensed dive boats in the area and are trained to come to their aid in any emergency situation,” adds

AMBASSADORS. WWF-Philippines national ambassadors Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez went to the Tubbataha Reefs on board the M/Y Navorca, WWF-Philippines’ main research vessel. [WWF-PHILIPPINES]

Marc.

HANDS-ON. WWF-Philippines national ambassadors conservation work while diving in Tubbataha’s rich waMarc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez do some hands-on ters. [WWF-PHILIPPINES] The Tubbataha Reefs: the fish stocks for Palawan life.”

Home from their trip, and the Visayas. Without Ensuring Food Security But the Tubbataha this protected area, fish Marc and Rovilson are Reefs go beyond being a would not have the oppor- more determined than Mecca of Philippine diving. tunity to grow to maturity ever to protect the TubThe reefs’ rich marine bio- and repopulate other ar- bataha Reefs plus other critical ecosystems in the diversity also ensures an eas,” says Marc.

Adds Rovilson, “With Philippines. ample food supply for over “We are privileged 20 million Filipinos, who a burgeoning Philippine depend on fish as a source population, escalating food and proud to represent prices, and unmonitored WWF, the world’s largest of protein.

The Tubbataha Reefs’ unsustainable fishing prac- independent conservation twin atolls produce fish tices, it is only imperative organization. At the same biomass of at least 200- that we protect the Tub- time, Marc and I also carry tons per square kilometre. bataha Reefs. As ambassa- the responsibility to comThis is five times greater dors of WWF-Philippines, municate the need to prothan the productivity of a we want to raise more tect the Philippine enviawareness about Tubbata- ronment’s fragile beauty,” healthy reef.

“Tubbataha is the ha so we can better safe- concludes Rovilson. seeding and growth area of guard this cradle of marine

EDGEDAVAO

Stat Watch

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

3.5% 4th Qtr 2011

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

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

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

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

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

P 43.65 Dec 2011

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

3,999.7 Sept 2011

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

128.1 Jan 2012

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.9 Jan 2012

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.4 Dec 2011

16. Visitor Arrivals

284,040 Sept 2011

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

19.1% Oct 2011

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

6.4% Oct 2011

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

2011

2010

2009

Average December November October September August July June May April March

43.31 43.64 43.27 43.45 43.02 42.42 42.81 43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52

45.11 43.95 43.49 43.44 44.31 45.18 46.32 46.30 45.60 44.63 45.74

47.637 46.421

February

43.70

46.31

January

44.17

46.03

47.032 46.851 48.139

48.161 48.146 47.905 47.524 48.217

48.458 47.585 47.207

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

5

Ledesma: We followed the law n 6-hectare project is located in Baliok, Toril where

By Carlo P. Mallo

B

USINESSMAN Francis R. Ledesma reaffirms that he followed the law and processed all the necessary permits legally for his proposed 6-hectare memorial park in the southern district of Toril here in Davao City.

In an interview with Edge Davao, Ledesma said that as early as January 2011, his company, South Grove Memorial Park, Inc. started processing the necessary permits needed for the development.

“We followed the law and every process required of us. We did not go through any shortcuts.” Ledesma said.

The property, which measures 57,996 square meters at the end of Libby Road in Baliok,

a public and private cemetery are also located n DCWD, DOH, MGB issue certification in favor of

memorial park project Toril is set to be a high-end memorial park, complete with facilities that would ensure that all the coffins buried in the area are sealed tightly.

While some sectors would want to project images of the cramped and filled beyond limits public cemeteries, one of which is right across the proposed property, the project of Ledesma is designed to cater to a low-density form of memorial park with extensive greenery.

One of the contentions being raised is the location of the memorial park, which sits on

one of the city’s aquifers. However, it should also be noted that the area is peppered with mass housing developments with no proper sewage treatment, another private memorial park, and a public memorial park.

Based on the certification issued by the Davao City Water District, the water table in the area is no higher than 4.5 meters below the ground, which is in compliance with the allowable limit set by the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board for cemeteries and memorial parks.

The water utility also said in its

certification that the project is between 200 and 280 meters away from the production wells in the area.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau 11 said in its geologic hazard survey that the property is highly stable ground composed of underlying volcanic rocks. The property is also not within range of any active faults.

However, the Department of Health recommended a 25-meter buffer zone between the burial ground and the nearest dwelling house and a 50-meter buffer zone between the burial ground and the nearest drinking water supply.

Ledesma added that if his project was proven to cause harm to the environment, or the to the city’s aquifer for that matter, he is willing to pull out of the project.

Del Monte eyes ARMM for banana plantation

D

EL Monte Philippines, Inc. is planning to expand its banana plantation in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Gov. Mujiv S. Hataman said.

Hataman told reporters recently that Del Monte is eyeing to put up a 1,300-hectare banana plantation in Maguindanao province.

He noted the agribusiness firm signified to expand its banana plantation in the town of Ampatuan following assurance from regional officials on the speedy issuance of permits for the company.

“The problem before was the bureaucratic red tape,” said Hataman, referring to the prolonged granting of approvals to businesses planning to operate in the ARRM. Under Republic Act 9465 or the AntiRed Tape Act of 2007, government transactions such as applications or renewal of permits, licenses and other documentation should be completed in 5 working days especially for simple cases and 10 working days for more complex transactions or requests.

Hataman, who was appointed by Pres-

ident Benigno S. Aquino III last December, said his administration is working to stamp out red tape in a bid to attract new investments in the impoverished autonomous Muslim region.

Besides Del Monte, the governor revealed that talks have been initiated with the Sandakan Business Chamber of Commerce of Malaysia for the resumption of trade exchanges using Polloc Port in Parang, Maguindanao.

Local and foreign investments in the ARMM are seen to grow this year with the planned establishment of a one-stop-shop that would facilitate business transactions faster, easier and more convenient for prospective investors.

The setting up of the one-stop-shop was embodied in a Memorandum of Agreement signed earlier by the ARMM regional government and the Mindanao Development Authority.

The partnership shall also embark on a strengthened campaign to promote and facilitate investments ranging from small and medium enterprises to agro-industrial ventures.

Larzon Santos, ARMM Regional

Board of Investments research division chief, said they are anticipating investments valued at P1.5 billion with the planned expansion of agricultural firms in the area.

Hataman earlier said that uplifting the

social and economic conditions of ARMM following years of downturn “entails aggressive measures on enterprise development, harnessing existing industries, and drawing more businessmen to invest in the region.”

as of august 2010

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

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

5:45 5:45 6:00 6:10 7:50 7:50 8:00 9:10 9:40 11:30 12:00 18:55 12:55 13:35

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

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

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

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

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

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

6

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

taps US firm SSS nets P25 B in revenues for 2011 Telco for cable management T S HE Social Security System (SSS) saw its financial performance continue to strengthen, posting net earnings of P25.5 billion in 2011 as a result of intensified collection efforts, prudent management of operation expenses, and robust investment income. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. emphasized that service delivery to members likewise improved, thanks to enhancements in information technology systems.

“The bottomline is that 2011 was another landmark year for the SSS in terms of financial performance and service delivery,” de Quiros said.

“Year-end net revenue of P25.5 billion is 12 percent higher than the P22.8 billion net income in 2010.

Our moves towards more electronic and Internetbased transactions also resulted in more efficiency and better service to our members,” he added.

Contribution collections of SSS in 2011 came close to P86 billion, an increase of 8.4 percent from the P77 billion worth of contributions collected in 2010. This came about through intensive marketing efforts made by SSS and from expanding the range of its payment deadlines for contribution and loan remittances.

The SSS collected P17.5 billion from the employed sector, which posted the highest number of collections, while contributions from household helpers, the self-employed and overseas workers saw the

biggest volume growth from 2010.

During the second half of 2011, the SSS undertook an “OFW Information Caravan” to widen its coverage in the Middle East and Europe where many Filipino contract workers are based. Negotiations were also held for the conclusion of bilateral social security agreements with Denmark and Japan.

Meanwhile, SSS benefits payments in 2011 totaled P76 billion, an increase of 6.8 percent from the 2010 benefit payouts of P71 billion. The majority of these payments were for retirement and death benefit claims.

“It is worth noting that contribution collections outpaced benefit payments by P3.2 billion – the highest recorded since 2002. This is in step with our objectives of continually building up the Investment Reserve Fund and lengthening the actuarial life of the Social Security fund,” de Quiros said.

Despite a low-interest rate environment, SSS investment income in 2011 still managed to hit close to P30 billion, a 7.2 percent increase from the P28 billion it earned from investments in 2010. Part of its investment income came from the penalty condonation program the SSS offered to its employer-members for unremitted loan amortizations of their employees. The six-month condonation program, which ended in June 2011, resulted in the collection of about P1.08 billion worth of de-

linquency payments from 13,776 employers.

The SSS likewise showed significant improvements in its service delivery due to upgrades in its information technology infrastructure and by enabling electronic or Internet-based transactions. An example of this is the Automated Records Management System, which digitizes documents to enable faster and more efficient processing and accessibility.

Also implemented were the enhanced Text-SSS facility, the mandatory electronic submission of collection lists by employers, and the direct crediting of sickness and maternity reimbursements to employers’ bank accounts instead of mailed checks.

Meanwhile, the enhanced SSS website (www.sss.gov.ph) provides members with greater convenience in transacting with the SSS, such as submitting salary loan applications and maternity notifications online, viewing and printing their records and forms, and setting appointments with their servicing branches.

“As of year-end 2011, the SSS website had a total of 1.4 million registered users, of which 410,000 are employees and over 6,900 are employers. The rest are voluntary and self-employed members, household helpers, OFWs, and pensioners,” de Quiros said.

The SSS kickstarted the production and issuance of the Unified MultiPurpose ID (UMID) Cards in July 2011, after the sus-

pension of SSS biometric ID card production due to equipment breakdown.

By year-end 2011, the SSS was able to wipe out the 700,000 backlog of pending ID applications from 2008 to 2010. De Quiros said, the SSS is now working on the 2011 backlog of 800,000 IDs and it is looking forward to normalizing production by November 2012.

Finally, 2011 marked another year for SSS to plead its case before stakeholders for muchneeded reforms to extend the life of the Social Security Fund to perpetuity. It conducted several consultative meetings with its stakeholders throughout 2011, in which de Quiros and key officials explained plans to, among others, increase the 10.4 percent contribution rate to 11 percent and the P 15,000 maximum monthly salary credit to P 20,000. Doing so would add seven years to the SSS fund life and enable it to provide higher benefit amounts.

“The SSS was able to achieve all these performance milestones without incurring large operating expenses. In fact, our 2011 OpEx totaled P7.5 billion, which was only 67 percent of our Charter limit and the lowest incurred in the past ten years,” de Quiros noted. “The SSS remains steadfast in delivering efficient service and timely benefits to our members, while ensuring that their contributions are secured and prudently invested for their future needs.”

lawmaker has proposed the creation of the Department of Mines to institute a revised regulatory framework for an environment-friendly mining industry.

“There is now a necessity for a well-regulated mining industry to allow mining to substantially increase its contribution to the national economy while, at the same time, ensure the promotion and protection of the environment,” Rep. Philip A. Pichay of the 1st District of Surigao del Sur said.

Pichay, author of House Bill 5781 or the proposed “Philippine Mining Code of 2012”, said mining is a capital-intensive undertaking and a well-planned exploration and a well-engineered and systematic development and utilization of the country’s mineral reserves require that the deficiencies and limitations of the existing laws must be addressed.

The bill seeks to repeal Republic Act 7942 (The

Philippine Mining Act of 1995), R.A. 7076 (The People’s Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991, and Presidential Decree 128 (revising Commonwealth Act 136, creating the Bureau of Mines) and amending Section 15 of Executive Order 192 (providing for the reorganization of the DENR) and Section 25 of Republic Act 4274 (The Mining Engineering Law of the Philippines).

Pichay said the proposed department shall be responsible for the conservation, management, development and proper use of the country’s mineral resources as well as licensing, permitting and regulation.

The department shall oversee the mining operations of contractors and permittees particularly on mining practices and methods relating to protecting life and property, economy of operations, prevention of pollution, environmental protection and mineral conservation, and order the suspension of

any or all mining operations or closure of the mines, Pichay said.

Likewise, it is empowered to require the contractors and permittees to take nexcessary measures to provide for the growth and developmebnt of any industry suitable fopr the contract area, other than mining, in order that when the mine is exhausted or becomes no longer profitable for mining purposes the people residing therein or those who used to work for the mine will have a substitute industry or business activity to provide for their means of livelihood, and to place the mine in a condition suitable for habitation or agriculture.

Under the bill, the department will absorb the powers and functions of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.

Pichay noted that in recent years, metal prices have risen dramatically because of the increasing demand for copper, gold and nickel, among others.

“In 1998 copper, gold and nickel prices were $0.75 per lb., US$295.00 per troy ounce and US$2.10 per lb., respectively. By 2010, copper was averaging US$3.35 per lb., gold US$1,200.00 per troy ounce and nickel, US$9.85 per lb,” Pichay said.

“This tremendous rate has attracted to the mining industry not only many foreign and local investors but also small-scale miners, mostly illegal,” Pichay said.

Pichay noted that last year, foreign investments reached US$956 million and could have easily surpassed the US$ 1-billion mark had it not been for excessive regulations, antimining movements, and local Government interference in purely National Government functions.

“Despite the mining industry’s efforts to address problems relating to the environment and community development, the efforts of some sectors to bring down the industry continues,” Pichay said.

Lawmaker proposes creation of new ‘Department of Mining’ A

PATIAL info with its spatialSUITE products, will provide Globe Telecom a geo-spatial FMS that will improve quality of their physical network data records, resulting in improved operational efficiencies, reduced MTTR through integration with service assurance processes, and reduced service outages as a result of integration with their existing OSS platforms. spatialSUITE is quickly becoming the industry leading choice for managing the physical assets of service providers, more than fifty (50) companies worldwide are now using SPATIALinfo solutions to more efficiently and effectively deploy and manage their fiber, copper, and HFC networks.

“Globe’s selection of SPATIALinfo as its supplier of a physical network asset management solution is further proof that our spatialSUITE of products is quickly becoming the leading platform in this

space,” said Don Wadas, SPATIALinfo’s Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We are honored to have Globe as a customer as we rapidly expand our global service provider footprint.”

According to Robert Tan, Chief Technical Advisor of Globe Telecom, “The project is a strategic fit in Globe Telecom’s OSS blueprint that will enable us to further streamline our operations and leverage geo-spatial information. The FMS will allow us to capture, design, and implement fiber network expansions more cost effectively by transforming our current engineering processes to a highly automated solution, which will ultimately benefit our customers.”

SPATIALinfo will be working with partners; Ark One and Apex CoVantage, to deliver the project.

12,000 vacancies up for Labor Day jobs fair

A

ROUND 12,423 vacancies from the locality and abroad will be offered on Labor Day for many job seekers in Davao Region.

The Department of Labor and Employment in the region will bring these employment openings in two jobs fair events on May 1 to mark the celebration of Labor Day. Allan Baban, officerin-charge of DOLE-XI’s technical services support department, said the vacancies are from 88 local and overseas employers who have signified joining the jobs fair.

As of today, April 23, 4,878 vacant positions have been submitted to DOLE-XI by 46 local firms, while 7,545 jobs have been offered by employers abroad, Baban told the media during today’s Kapihan sa SM City Davao.

He said they are still urging more companies to post their vacancies during the jobs fair events to be held at SM City Mall and Gaisano Mall in Davao City, with the theme: “Pagtulungan. Pagbabago. Disenteng Trabaho.”

DOLE-XI’s information officer Joy Flordelis said most of the local positions offered include call center agents, office workers, fac-

tory workers and skilled workers such as engineers.

The participating overseas employers mostly need domestic helpers, construction workers, skilled engineers in all fields and experienced nurses, Flordelis stated.

She told the Philippine Information Agency that they are projecting 15 percent of the total registrants during the jobs fair to be hired on-the-spot.

Apart from the jobs fair, different DOLE-attached agencies will render their respective services in a one-stop-shop center to be put up during the event at Gaisano Mall of Davao.

Flordelis said the participating agencies include the Social Security System, PhilHealth, National Bureau of Investigation, Department of Foreign Affairs and National Statistics Office.

Meanwhile, Baban disclosed that about P2 million to P3 million cash grants are expected to be released also during the jobs fair, as livelihood assistance to some ten beneficiaries.

He said that most of the recipients are out-ofschool youth and farmer women from across the region.

7 Chinese investors scramble for a bite of Apple EDGEDAVAO

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HINA’S rigid capital rules ban its citizens from investing directly in Apple Inc but that’s not keeping them from seeking a piece of the iPhone maker’s success by buying shares in its suppliers - and even companies rumored to be suppliers.

Investors have flocked to the only two China-listed firms that Apple has confirmed as suppliers, sending their valuations to lofty levels, while speculation has become rife in firms thought to be indirectly doing business with the technology giant.

Suzhou Anjie Technology Co Ltd has jumped more than 30 percent and Warren Buffett-backed carmaker BYD Co Ltd has gained more than 15 percent since mid-January, when they were cited on Apple’s first-ever suppliers’ list. China’s benchmark Shanghai Composite Index is up 5.6 percent for the same period.

“Investors want to share in Apple’s growth as they believe sales of iPhones and iPads will remain strong,” said Zhou Feng, analyst at Donghai Securities Co. “Investing in Apple suppliers is not a bad idea, since they’re the girls hanging out with the rich guy.”

Shares of Apple, which

is listed on the Nasdaq, hit a record high of $644.00 this month. They have since fallen 11 percent, closing at $571.70 on Monday, but are still up 41 percent in 2012.

The closest that Chinese individuals can get to owning Apple shares, given the ban on the direct purchase of overseas stocks, is to buy into one of the overseas investment funds permitted under China’s Qualified Domestic Institutional Investor (QDII) scheme that have invested in Apple.

QDII is China’s main channel for outbound investment by individuals in foreign capital markets.

The biggest exposure to Apple in a QDII fund is around 20 percent, via the Guotai Nasdaq-100 Index Fund which tracks the Nasdaq-100 Index. The fund has gained 7.3 percent during the past 12 months, compared with a 21 percent drop in China’s benchmark Shanghai Composite Index.

Given their limited access, many local investors have turned to Chinalisted firms that directly or indirectly do business with Apple as proxies for the world’s most valuable company.

Such a trading strategy is not uncommon in

China’s strictly controlled capital markets.

Investors use overseas REIT funds to speculate on the property market, for example, even though the performance of these products is based on the commercial rental market.

SUPPLIERS OF SUPPLIERS The hunt for exposure to Apple has at times taken Chinese investors to the far periphery of Apple’s supply chain or deep into the realm of rumor and speculation.

Shares of Success Electronics Ltd, which makes touch screens and has been cited by domestic media and analyst reports as an Apple supplier, nearly doubled in February on expectations of the imminent launch of the iPad 3.

Nanjing Yunhai Special Metals Co, which domestic media and analysts have said provides raw materials to suppliers of iPad and iPhone components, surged 35 percent in the fourth quarter of 2010, following the launch of the iPhone 4 earlier in the year. Its shares have since fallen back, however, and the company barely made a profit in 2011.

But analysts believe that Anjie, with its proven and direct relationship with Apple, can continue to

10 simple tips for boosting security for Apple Mac users

W

ITH the increasing popularity of laptops and desktop computers running Apple’s Mac operating system, Kaspersky Lab, a leading secure content and threat management solutions developer, stressed in a number of ways to ensure that their devices remain secure.

The appearance of the most recent Flashback/Flashfake malware is a testament to the fact that cybercriminals will target any device as long as these would provide them with potential revenue.

Kaspersky Lab security expert Costin Raiu explained that “during the next few months, we are probably going to see more attacks of this kind which focuses on exploiting two main things: outdated software and the user’s lack of awareness.”

“If you follow these steps, keep everything updated and be aware of these attacks, your chances of becoming yet another random victim will be greatly diminished,” Raiu reminded.

1. Create a non-admin account for everyday activities – create a non-admin user where you only log in as administrator when you need

ICT HUB

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

to perform administrative tasks. This greatly helps to limit the damage from zero-day threats and drive-by malware attacks.

2. Use a web browser that contains a sandbox and has a solid track record of fixing security issues in a prompt manner -- Google Chrome is updated more often than Apple’s built-in Safari browser. Google Chrome also comes with a sandboxed version of Flash Player that puts up a significant roadblock for malicious exploits. It has also a silent, automatic update mechanism that removes the burden of patching security vulnerabilities.

3. Uninstall the standalone Flash Player -Adobe’s Flash Player has been a common target for hackers as it allows them to take complete control over target computers.

Removing it will significantly lessen security risks.

4. Solve the Java problem -- Java is also a preferred target for exploit writers looking to plant malware on your machine. It is recommended to have it completely uninstalled.

5. Run “Software Update” and patch the machine promptly when updates are available

A security guard stands in front of an Apple store in downtown Shanghai in this February 18, 2012 file photo perform well, even with its high valuations.

The company last week forecast that first-half profit this year may grow as much as 70 percent, after surging 82 percent last year to 101 million yuan ($16 million).

“You can hold on to Anjie as long as you have faith in Apple,” said Wu Binhua, analyst at Hwabao Securities. “But too much reliance on one single customer is also a potential risk.”

Asset managers including China Asset management Co and Yinhua Fund Management Co boosted

F

RAIU -- Many of the recent attacks against Mac OS X took advantage of old or outdated software. Commonly exploited suites include Microsoft Office, Adobe Reader/Acrobat, and Oracle’s Java. It is recommended to update to 2011 as soon as possible.

Be sure to apply the fixes and reboot the machine when necessary.

6. Use a password manager to help cope with phishing attacks -Mac comes with a built-in password manager, the “Keychain,” which generates unique and strong passphrases for a device’s resources. Whenever the cyber-criminals manage to compromise one account, they will immediately try the same password everywhere - GMail, Facebook, eBay, PayPal and so on. Hence, having a unique strong password

their holdings in Anjie during the first three months of this year, the company’s first-quarter earnings report showed.

“It’s possible that the Apple suppliers list has generated more investor interest in us,” said Ma Yuyan, an investor relations official at Anjie, which makes components used in iPhones and generates about half its revenue from Apple.

Sixteen potential investors, including Haitong Securities Co, Bank of China Investment Management Co and HFT Fund

Management Co, a fund venture of BNP Paribas, visited Anjie in January and February, its quarterly report showed.

BYD, which makes cars and batteries, declined to detail its business with Apple, citing a confidentiality agreement. The company has yet to publish its quarterly results.

Anjie now fetches 35 times its 2012 earnings and BYD trades at 46 times, far above the average of 29 times for firms listed on Shenzhen’s SME board, which lists smalland mid-cap companies.

to investors if faced with a lofty valuation,” Wieser said.

Facebook is preparing to raise at least $5 billion in an initial public offering that could value the world’s largest social network at up to $100 billion.

“The biggest issue is the realization that Facebook is not going to have an easy time meeting high expectations of the public market,” said Jeff Sica, chief investment officer of SICA Wealth Management, which manages more than $1 billion in client assets, real estate and private equity holdings. “It will affect how people look at the IPO.” Investors are still likely to sign up in droves for the IPO; However, growth con-

cerns may make some investors less likely to keep the stock over the long term, he added.

“I’m still encouraging people to participate in the IPO, under the acknowledgement that it could be a bumpy ride,” Sica said. “There are high expectations and I hate high expectations.”

The company, founded

by Mark Zuckerberg in a Harvard University dorm room in 2004, surpassed 900 million monthly active users in the first quarter and said its full-time staff grew by about 1,100 employees to 3,539 in the past 12 months, according to an updated filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Monday.

Facebook reveals revenue, profit slide ahead of IPO

ACEBOOK Inc reported its first quarter-to-quarter revenue slide in at least two years, a sign that the social network’s sizzling growth may be cooling as it prepares to go public in the biggest ever Internet IPO. The company blamed the first-quarter decline, which surprised some on Wall Street, on seasonal advertising trends.

“It was a faster slowdown than we would have guessed,” said Brian Wieser, an analyst with Pivotal Research Group.

“No matter how you slice it, for a company that is perceived as growing so rapidly, to slow so much on whatever basis - sequentially or annually - it will be somewhat concerning on each resources is a huge boost to your online security.

7. Disable IPv6, AirPort and Bluetooth when not needed -- Turn off connectivity services when not in use, or when not required. These include IPv6, AirPort and Bluetooth --- three services that can be used as entry points for hacker attacks.

8. Enable full disk encryption (MacOS X 10.7+) or FileVault -- In MacOS X Lion, Apple updated their encryption solution

(FileVault) and added full disk encryption. Now known as “FileVault 2”, this has the advantage of securing the entire disk instead of just your home folder and can be very useful if your laptop gets stolen.

9. Upgrade Adobe Reader to version “10” or later -- Adobe Reader is also a preferred target of cybercriminals. Version 10 includes numerous security enhancements which make it a lot safer than any previous versions.

10. Install a good security solution – It is no longer true that “Macs do not get viruses.” After six years, the situation has changed considerably. The Flashback trojan which appeared in September 2011 caused a huge outbreak in March 2012, which amounted for over half a million infected users worldwide.

Thus, a security solution is absolutely required for any Mac user. One can easily download and install a trial of Kaspersky Anti-Virus for Mac.

8 VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

Earning almost effortlessly

“T

EDITORIAL

T

A real Traffic Code at last?

HE proposed Comprehensive Transport and Traffic Code of Davao City that is pending in the City Council is one legislation whose time has come. If there is something this city needs badly, it is a traffic system that really works.

As in other major cities in this country, this is a city where probably 80 percent (or is it 85, 90 percent?) of drivers are ignorant of traffic rules and regulations. And many of those who do, tend to violate them—if no traffic enforcer is looking. And even if there is an enforcer who sees the violation being committed, he probably considers the act of arresting the violator too much of a chore and pretends he did not see it.

Then, there is that other phenomenon.

The number of motor vehicles plying our streets and thoroughfares is growing in step with our population (where is that RH Bill?) and traffic congestion gets worser and worser with the passing of time. Then, there are the smoke-belchers ad those whose road-worthiness are questionable and are candidates for the scrap heap.

What do we do with these potential road hazards?

EDGEDAVAO Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

ALBERTO DALILAN Managing

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

NEILWIN L. BRAVO Sports and Motoring

Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc.

OLIVIA D. VELASCO General Manager

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

Our traffic signalization system seems to be working and it has been a big help in maintaining some semblance of sanity in our streets. Perhaps we need more of such signals, considering the number of busy intersections where there are none.

Speaking of vehicles, these range in size from bicycles, the lowly trisikads (pedalpowered three-wheeler), the thousands of obstreperous motorcycles that weave in and out even of heavy traffic, multicubs, all the way to dump trucks, buses, 18-wheelers, trailers, you name it.

And of course, lest we forget, the thousands of pedestrians all over the city who also add to chaos in the streets with their mindless crossing of streets just anywhere except the pedestrian lanes.

By all means, we wish that Councilor Pilar Braga, chair of the committee on energy, communication and transportation would guide this proposed traffic code through plenary session and all the way to its final approval.

Our city needs a code that will rationalize the city’s traffic management once and for all. It’s about time, too.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

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

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

JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

RICHARD C. EBONA IMELDA P. LEE Advertising Specialists

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

EDGEDAVAO

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE

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

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HE total amount of investments is equal to the total amount of savings” a simple macroeconomic theory says. This assumes that all savings go to proper and formal economic channels and that they are not kept hidden in proverbial piggy banks. Unfortunately, not all undisposed incomes remain in economic circulation simply because many Filipinos prefer to have their unspent money within easy reach until the time they need easy cash.

For ordinary Filipinos, savings are the means to respond to unexpected (yet anticipated simply because they are inevitable) emergencies and forthcoming financial obligations. Savings are not usually used to create opportunities for greater and additional incomes. Or if there are, they are unreasonably postponed until the amount of savings has reached a comfortable level where emergencies could easily be addressed when they actually occur. To put it simply, Filipinos are more concerned with the rainy days rather than the simple yet potential opportunities to multiply their incomes.

For lack of better appreciation and knowledge where to put their savings into,average Filipinos keep their extra money in the bank – simply for safekeeping.

Even successful business personsdeposit their earnings in the bank – again, for safekeeping, until such time that they need some cash either for business expansion or for ordinary personal or household spending.

If you cannot yet afford to set up your business with the savings that you have, putting your savings in the right place and at right time provides opportunities for you and your family to realize additional income without unnecessarily compromising your ability to meet emergencies and financial obligations later on.

People should change their mindset a bit such that their extra, undisposed money could be called “investments” rather than mere “savings”. No matter how big or small they could be, these monies should generate additional incomes. Even in banks, there is a menu of options where to park one’s savings – in addition to the usual savings account.

Among these are: 1.

Checking accounts – they are usually meant for transactions, not real savings.

Given this, there is a notion that they don’t pay much interest. However, some commercial banks - especially the universal banks - combine the conveniences of checking account with the return of a money market account. Hence, you have convenience, access and earnings rolled into one.

2.

High-yield bank accounts – they are rare to find in sub-urban places but if you can find them, their main feature is that they offer flexibility and liquidity where you could easily manage your deposits and withdrawals anywhere and anytime.

3.

Money market deposit accounts – they are offered by banks. They require a minimum balance and permit a limited number of transactions per month. However, the interest you earn is far higher than the pittance in savings accounts.

4.

Money market funds – these are normally offered by brokerages and mutual fund entities or families. The returns on money market funds are typically higher than the return on money market accounts.

5.

Certificates of depositand time deposits – these are debt instruments with a specific maturity, which can be anywhere from three months to 60 months. Depending on how long it is to maturity, CDs or time deposits may pay more than money markets.

6.

Government bills or notes -Treasuries are considered the safest investments in the world.

Of course, there are more high yielding investments where you could put your money into such as real estate investments or mutual funds.

The choice where to park your money depends on your personal need for cash at any given time, the amount of risk you could take, and you personal lifestyle. It’s your personal choice.

EDGEDAVAO

I

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

It’s more fun to retire in the Philippines

T’S more fun to retire in the Philippines!

Come to think of it, it’s really more fun to enjoy running, hiking, biking, cooking, food tripping and then sunset-watching before the cool evening or stargazing when the night falls.

These, as one thinks of a leisurely life in the horizon under the retirement program prepared by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA).

What could be more than better than what PRA is offering to former Filipino citizens and foreigners looking for a lower cost of living, almost endless ecotourism destinations, quality services and the world renown Filipino hospitality in their sunset years. ”In fact, there is a total of 106 nationalities in the Philippines residing as retirees and/or dependants in Manila, Makati, Calabarzon (Calamba, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon), Cebu, Clark, Subic, Baguio and Davao wherein PRA has put up satellite offices near the areas,” said division chief-processing division, Annalyn A. Eria.

PRA has approximately 16,000 active participants at the moment from Asian nationalities like Chinese, Koreans and Japanese with European roots like the British, Germans, French, etc. ”We are targeting a 20-percent increase on foreign applicants or exactly 3,120 persons by the end of this year.

This increase will be able to help our job retirement industry immensely as every retiree is equals to two jobs or more, which is a great help to our economy,” Eria added.

T

ake note of a new phrase in the seemingly endless debate over whether the days of the United States as the world’s preeminent power are numbered: Those who doubt the country’s economic decline are holding an “intellectual ostrich position.”

The expression was coined by Edward Luce, author of a deeply-researched new book entitledTime to Start Thinking: America in the Age of Descent. It notes that the United States accounted for 31 percent of the global economy in 2000 and 23.5 percent in 2010.

By 2020, he estimates that it will shrink to around 16 percent.

Luce’s diagnosis of descent, published in April, was the latest addition to a steadily growing library of books, academic papers and opinion pieces for or against the idea that the United States can maintain its status as the world’s only superpower. If we adopt Luce’s phrase, it’s a discussion between declinists and ostriches. The latter include President Barack Obama and his presumptive Republican rival in next November’s presidential elections.

“It means that we’re going to have a 2012 election where…both candidates will start on a false premise: that relative economic decline is simply to be ignored or dismissed,” Luce said in an interview with Foreign Policy magazine. “And I’d describe that as a kind of intellectual ostrich position.”

The false premise, in this view, was set out by Robert Kagan, a scholar at the Brook-

Monkey Business

SPECIAL FEATURE

BY ZORAYDA DEE DADIS ’Smile at Life in the Philippines’ is the invitation of the PRA to former Filipino citizens and foreign nationals in line with their Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) Program which offers retirement at its zenith.

With four options to choose from – SRRV Smile, SRRV Classic, SRRV Courtesy and SRRV Human Touch, the applicant can harness the same benefits without being tight on budget. ”The SRRV Visa Deposit ranges from US$ 1,500 to US$ 50,000 with a minimum age of 35 years old,” said Irma S. Lappay, corporate planning–division chief. ”It’s like a choose-your-own account with the perks and benefits on your fingertips; from staying in the Philippines indefinitely, exemptions from various taxes and clearance to discounts on specific facilities like spas, resorts, country clubs and so on,” said Lappay.

Mervin A. Magbuhat, planning officer on corporate planning, added “Aside from being able to stay in the Philippines within an unlimited period, retirees also get to bring two dependants initially a wife/husband and a child. Beyond that, an additional deposit is required.”

PRA is working together with private companies or “merchant partners” in order to give the retirees perks and benefits mentioned above. ”Also, we have a Social Dynamics Unit

that organizes events and programs to keep the retirees abreast with the organization and give them a gateway to kill time,” Eria said.

Summer Opening events, LakbaySaya field trip, PRA Sports fest and such are only a few of the activities PRA has to offer.

With more than a handful of perks and benefits to reap, PRA makes sure that the organization is able to maintain their quality service and carefully designed programs made to entice and encourage former Filipinos and foreigners to come over.

Ray R. Sousa, division chief of the marketing department, said “We continue to innovate. We don’t rest on our laurels. We come up with regular meetings and consultations with different agencies as to how we can better the lives and uplift the standard of living of local and foreign retirees alike.” ”It’s not like once they have their visa, that’s the end. We continue to take care of them through services. If they have other concerns beyond the organization’s interest like choosing a type of dog to adopt or buy, we do our best to assist them,” Eria added.

With staff and people dedicated to improve their service to the growing member of applicants for the SRRV Program, no doubt the Philippines is the ideal haven for the middle aged, the old, the grandchildren and the young-atheart, foreigners or not.

Certainly, these are some of the reasons why “It’s more fun to retire in the Philippines!” [PNA]

America’s decline – myth or reality?

ings Institution, a Washington-based think tank, in a lengthy analysis entitled Not Fade Away: Against the Myth of American Decline.

One of the points Kagan made to support his argument: the U.S. share of world Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has held steady over the past four decades. Plain wrong, says Luce.

The Kagan article, now expanded into a book (The World America Made), is reported to have so impressed Obama that it influenced his State of the Union Speech in January, when he said “Anyone who tells you that America is in decline or that our influence has waned doesn’t know what they are talking about.”

They don’t? Here’s the view of Clyde Prestowitz, a labor economist and veteran declinist, weighing into the debate in April: “You’d have to be blind not to see the deterioration of our infrastructure. We used to have trade surpluses. Now we have chronic deficits. We used to tell ourselves that didn’t matter because we had surpluses in high tech items. But now we have deficits there, too. We used to be the world’s biggest creditor. Now we are its biggest debtor…How can anybody claim we are not suffering decline?”

Washington’s loss of influence has been evident in many regions of the world, most recently at a summit that brought together leaders of North and Latin America in the Colombian city of Cartagena. There, in Uncle Sam’s traditional backyard, Obama’s assertion that U.S. influence had not waned highlighted a particularly wide gap between rhetoric and reality.

BACKYARD NO MORE? The backyard showed itself so united in

opposition to decades-old U.S. policies – the trade embargo on Cuba, the war on drugs – that the summit ended without the usual final communiqué. “There was no consensus,” said the summit’s host, Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos, an important U.S. ally in the region.

Apart from disagreements over two of Washington’s oldest (50 years of Cuba embargo, 40 years of drug war) and most obviously failed policies, the meeting showed that the United States is no longer seen as the single most dominant force in the region. As an analysis by the Washingtonbased Inter-American Dialogue put it on the eve of the Cartagena meeting: “U.S.-Latin American relations have grown more distant. The quality and intensity of ties have diminished. Most countries of the region view the United States as less and less relevant for their needs – and with declining capacity to propose and carry out strategies to deal with the issue that most concern them.”

Why less and less relevant? For one, U.S. economic dominance in Latin America is no longer what it used to be. A decade ago, 55 percent of the region’s imports came from the United States. That has shrunk to less than a third. China’s share of trade with Brazil, Latin America’s economic and political powerhouse, has overtaken that of the United States. The same goes for Chile and Peru.

To what extent U.S. influence in the backyard will continue to slide depends largely on how clear-eyed U.S. leaders see their country’s global position. The ostrich view would hasten the decline.

9

The energy race ANALYSIS

BY MARTIN WALKER It is ironic that the United States seems set to become one of the world’s cleanest and most energy-efficient counties, thanks in large part to fossil fuel.

The revolution in natural gas, pioneered and developed in the United States through the technology of hydraulic fracturing, means that energy consumption per head is set to decline in the country 0.5 percent each year for the next quarter-century.

It also means, in the words of the U.S. Department of Energy’s latest Annual Energy Outlook, that: “The energy intensity of the U.S. economy , measured by primary energy use per dollar of gross domestic product, declines by 42 percent from 2010 to 2035.”

That is an extraordinary rise in the efficiency of energy use, which is a fancy way of saying the United States will use less fuel to create more wealth.

And the new technology of natural gas is only a part of the explanation. By 2025, renewable fuels will be providing 16 percent of the country’s energy. And by 2035, a much richer and more populous United States will still be emitting fewer carbon dioxide emissions than it did in 2005.

Last year, the United States invested almost $50 billion in clean energy, more than any other country in the world (probably helped by the imminent prospect of cuts in subsidies.) China was next, with investments of $45.5 billion, a Pew Charitable Trust report, “Who is Winning the Clean Energy Race?” stated. Germany was third, with $30.6 billion and Europe as a whole invested just more than $80 billion.

Overall, the world invested a record $263 billion in clean energy (not including nuclear power) last year, an increase of 6.5 percent over the previous year. That money bought an extra 83.5 gigawatts, 30GW of solar energy and 43GW of wind power. A good-sized nuclear or coal-fired power station generates about 1 gigawatt, sometimes a bit more.

As of today, the world has 539GW of generating power from clean energy. Wind is the biggest contributor, with 239GW, followed by hydro with 184GW, solar with 73GW and biomass with 57GW. The potential to generate power, however, doesn’t mean actual power; wind and sunshine can be fickle. But then the dramatic fall in the price of the photovoltaics that produce energy from sunshine is making solar power more and more competitive.

Australia, for example, last year celebrated “crossover day,” when the price of solar power dropped to less than that of coal-fired electricity.

One of the main reasons why the next 25 years of U.S. energy look to be cleaner and more efficient is the way that coal-fired power stations, which are responsible for about a third of carbon dioxide emissions in the United States are being replaced with gas-fueled plants, which produce less than half the CO2 of the traditional coal plants. (If the technology of carbon capture and storage can be made economically viable, coal may yet make a comeback.)

By the end of next year, no major U.S. city will be hosting a coal-fueled power plant. The last two, each inside Chicago’s city limits, close over the next 18 months. More coal-fueled plants are set to follow, under the Obama administration’s announcement of much tougher carbon emission standards. To the horror of the coal industry, the new standards are almost impossible for coal-fired stations to reach under existing technology.

Steve Miller, chief executive officer and president of the American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity, a group of coal-burning electricity producers, said the new regulations “will make it impossible to build any new coal-fueled power plants and could cause the premature closure of many more coal-fueled power plants operating today.”

That may be an exaggeration. The current rules, which have yet to come into effect, won’t apply to existing coal-fired plants or those built within the next year. And since half of U.S. electricity comes from coal, phasing it out will be a slow process. The Energy Department’s study reckons that by 2035 coal will still be providing 37 percent of American electricity.

The changing nature of the primary energy that produces the power is only one aspect of growing energy efficiency. There is a healthy international competition in the attempts to squeeze more electricity from power stations.

Turbine design is going through something of a revolution, as computer-aided designs tweak the shape of the blades to squeeze maximum output from the steam.

10 SUBURBIA

Cadets perform silent drill in Tagum City

T

HE Philippine Military Academy conducted a Southern cruise tour for the PMA “SINAGLAHI” Class 2015 from 09 to 26 of April 2012 where they chose Tagum City as one of their visited cities, where they showcased their silent drill performance.

The tour was headed

by LTC Larry B. Mojica (INF) GSC PA, MA3, PMA and the over all in charge of the PMA tour, and facilitated by CPT Harold A. Ho (INF) PA- acting CMO officer 1003rd Brigade, 1LT Maricel C. Fronda (INF) PA- CMO officer 60th Batallion and 2LT Katrina B. Alamo (CAV) PA- Armor officer 2nd act.

Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy led in welcoming the delegation along with the city councilors, City Administrator Rafael Abrenica, Provincial Vice Governor Victorio Suaybaguio Jr., and Board Member Daniel Lu. The contingent is composed of forty nine (49) Firstclass Cadets (Navy Group), one hundred ninety eight (198)

Thirdclass Cadets and fifty two (52) support personnel.

“The Cadets’ visit in the Province of Davao del Norte includes courtesy call to LGU Officials, Interactions with the Davao del Norte Youth (St. Mary’s College, Youth for Peace (YFP) members), Silent Drill Performance and Cadet’s HOP,” said LTC Mojica.

There were eighty three (83) Sinaglahi Class 2015 who showcased their Silent Drill Performance at around 2:30pm at the Freedom Park, Tagum City.

On their presentation it comprises the right shoulder arms, left shoulder arms, forth arms and order arms.

They also performed a comedy dance which made the Tagumeños snigger.

“The objective of this activity is to orient and expose the Thirdclass Cadets to various AFP units, Local Government Units and other stakeholders to provide them a better appreciation of the Government Bureaucracy,” LTC Mojica added. [BY: JORJAN FEDERISO OF CIO TAGUM]

EDGEDAVAO ARENA 11 arrives in Sta. Cruz town

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

The cadets showed their simultaneous marching during the Silent Drill Performance last April 20, 2012 at Freedom Park, Tagum City. [PHOTO BY: LEO TIMOGAN OF CIO TAGUM]

One of the heads of the cadets commanded them to form a new formation.

This was during the Silent Drill Performance of the PMA Sinaglahi Class 2015 at the Freedom Park, Tagum City last April 20, 2012. [PHOTO BY: LEO TIMOGAN OF CIO TAGUM]

During the synchronized firing of the PMA Cadets silent drill performance at the Freedom Park, Tagum City last April 20, 2012. The most awaited scene of the event and shocking part. [PHOTO BY: LEO TIMOGAN OF CIO TAGUM]

The sensational scene of the cadets on their comedy dance that made Tagumeños snigger. This was on April 20, 2012 of the PMA Sinaglahi Class 2015 at the Freedom Park, Tagum City. [PHOTO BY: LEO TIMOGAN OF CIO TAGUM]

T

HE Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies of Region 11 (ARENA-11) recently conducted, “Serbisyo Caravan,” a one-stopshop delivery of government services to the residents of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur last April 20.

The municipality of Sta. Cruz, with the cooperation of the 39th Infantry Battalion, hosted the first stop of the caravan, where about 30 national government agencies (NGAs) provided their respective programs and services to the people.

Beneficiaries were gathered at the municipal gym, while some services from the different NGAs were provided at the Sangguniang Bayan Session Hall.

“The caravan aims to bring the national government programs closer to the people, especially to the vulnerable sector of the communities,” Lt. Col. Oliver R. Artuz, Battalion Commander of the 39th IB said.

Government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) introduced to the residents the Beneficiary Update System, Compliance Verification System and Grievance Redress System while the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) conducted registration and membership to senior citizens in the area.

The Department of Health (DOH) assisted rural health units in the distribution of free medicines and provided information and communication (IEC) materials to educate residents on health issues. They also initiated free consultation and check-up.

The National Food Authority (NFA) distributed rice through rolling stores, and held advocacy campaign on their programs. Department of Science and Technology (DOST) conducted demonstrations and consultancy services on food processing.

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) distributed land titles while the Department of Agriculture (DA) handled technical education on its different banner programs.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and Land Transportation Office (LTO) conducted lectures to applicants for proper licensing.

Meanwhile, Department of Education (DepEd) provided information on the K+12 program to the Parents and Teachers Associations (PTAs) and distributed school supplies and bags to the Alternative Learning System (ALS) students and Badjao elementary pupils of Apo Beach. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) tendered information on K+12, skills demonstration and awarding of scholarship grants at the Sta. Cruz National High School.

Consultations, dialogues and information drive with their beneficiaries and the general public were conducted by agencies like Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Civil Service Commission (CSC), Commission on Audit (CA), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), among others.

“Serbisyo Caravan is a novel approach to public service,” ARENA President and DBM Director Achilles Gerard C. Bravo said.

The 39th IB, aside from providing security to all of the participants, also facilitated dental extraction and other related dental services through the services of military dentists.

Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy wearing a smile and give his hand to one of the members of PMA Cadets after they showcased there Silent Drill Exhibition, last Friday April 20, 2012 at the Freedom Park, Tagum City. With the company of Davao del Norte Provincial Vice- Governor Victorio Suaybaguio Jr. (beside Mayor Uy). [PHOTO BY: LEO TIMOGAN OF CIO TAGUM]

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

COMMUNITY SENSE

PRO 11 still accepting applicants for 2012 recruitment program

P

OLICE Regional Office 11 announces that it is still accepting applicants for Calendar Year 2012 Recruitment Program for Police Officer 1 with a quota of 269. The Regional Personnel Human Resource and Development Division (RPHRDD) said that the deadline of submission of folders is on May 02, 2012.

Those who are interested to join the police force must meet the following general qualifications: a natural born Filipino citizen; of good moral character; a baccalaureate degree holder/college graduate; height of 5’4 for male and 5’2 for female; must possess any of the following eligibilities: NAPOLCOM PNP Entrance Examination, 2nd

Level Eligibility (Career Service Professional, CSC PO1/PO-1998 onwards), RA No. 6506 (License Criminologist), RA 1080 (BAR and BOARD Examination) -PD No 907 (College Graduates with Honors); at least 21 years old, but not more than 30 years old upon oath taking; must not have been convicted by final judgment of any offenses of crime involving moral turpitude; must not have been dishonorably discharged from military employment or dismissal for cause from civilian position in the government; and must pass general physical, neuro-psychiatric, medical, agility test and interview.

If you meet the above-mentioned requirements, you may

submit your application folders to the nearest police station in your area or directly to the Recruitment Selection Section (RSS) of PRO 11.

For more inquiries, visit our Facebook account: Pnp Pro XI (Isumbong sa Pulis) and Twitter Page: PNP PRO XI; e-mail us at: orphrdd_proxi@yahoo. com; visit our website: www.pro11.gov.ph; call RPHRDD/R1 Hotline: (082) 234-1033; or call or Text Police Hotline: 0917-70-8547 If you possess the required qualifications and have the passion to be part of the police force, this could be your opportunity to realize your vision of “serving and protecting” the community! Heed the Call for Public Service!

LOCATION Matina, Davao City Matina(Diversion) Davao City Bunawan, Davao City Indangan, Davao City Bincungan, Tagum City

Davao 911 sees bike-riding Quick Response Team

T

HE Davao Central 911 Communication and Emergency Response Center is building up an elite unit of bike-borne emergency responders.

“Its main purpose is conduct initial assessment on the field.” Says Nelson Vallejo of the Central 911.

The Quick Response Team will be riding on motorcycles and are equipped with jump-kits which can be used for emergency medical

situations. If the situation is severe the responders can call in on the ambulance.

Vallejo said that the team will enable 911 to cut down its response time from an average of 15 minutes. The team is patterned after those used by European countries such as the United Kingdom.

The motorcycles can just beat around the traffic, hence they can reach the victim in a much shorter

time. The responders are also trained in first aid.

They are equipped with first aid jump kits like wound dressings and small oxygen tanks.

About six brand-new motorcycles are readied for the new group; the team are currently undergoing training on motorcycle-riding. These motorcycle units are deployed in the satellite stations of 911 in Panacan and Toril.

AREA (sq.m.) PRICE/sq.m.

17,940

P2,500

3,831

P1,500

41,408

P800

7,056

P1,200

27,411

P1,000

LOCATION

AREA (sq.m.) PRICE/sq.m.

Villa Josefina Resort Village, Dumoy Toril, Davao City

Minimum of 240 sq.m.

P5,985

St. Joseph Homes, Sirawan, Toril,Davao City

Minimum of 150 sq.m.

P3,600

LOCATION Lot Area Flr. Area Blk. 4, Lot 10 Villa Josefina Resort Village 240 sq.m. 177.31 sq.m Dumoy, Toril, Davao City

For Inquiries: THE DINOSAURS ALIVE INVADES DAVAO. The Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) led the ribbon cutting ceremony last April 20, 2012 at the Matina Town

Square as the Dinosaurs Alive invades Davao for the next two weeks. The recreational area is now open for public to enjoy and get the chance to see dinosaurs up close and personal.

11

Please Call : PRYCE CORPORATION c/o SONNY MOLE Contact No. : 0922-­‐879-­‐0036 / (082) 224-­‐2686 Email ADD : sonitomole1223@yahoo.com

PRICE P4.8 M

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NATION/WORLD

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

WORLD TODAY

NATION BRIEFS

B

New

T F

Wifeless

ROM being partyless, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is reportedly going wifeless, too. After months of alleged separation, a report by entertainment writer Ricky Lo claims the senator and his wife Tintin have formally filed for an annulment. Escudero neither confirmed nor denied the article.

According to Lo’s story published on Philippine Star, somebody close to the senator confirmed that he was the one who made the decision to formally end their marriage.

E

Stop selling

NVIRONMENT and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje said yesterday the government should stop selling lands in Baguio City and Boracay Island to protect the environment.

“The government can only promote public welfare in lands that it owns. Once sold to the private sector, we cannot dictate. We can only tell (the buyer) how to mitigate (the impacts of development on the environment),” Paje said.

T

O far a total of five heads of state and several United States “heavyweight” politicians have signed up to attend Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou’s inauguration to his second term next month, Taiwan’s foreign minister said yesterday.

The list of heavyweight U.S. politicians include Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, chairwoman of the House’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Timothy Yang said in a question-andanswer session at the Legislature’s foreign affairs and national defense committee.

Discrimination

Subsidy

HE Aquino administration has released P767.2 million to local government units (LGUs) for programs that will bring down electricity in their jurisdictions.

Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said the fresh funds for the local governments are part of their 40-percent share in national revenues from energy projects.

Creditor

HE Philippines, which now has a creditor nation status in the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is expected to contribute more to the global community as it enters a phase of continuous economic growth, IMF officials said.

While the country can pledge more funds and share its experience,the Philippines should still work with the IMF as numerous reforms are needed, they added.

Inauguration

S

EGINNING next year, community papers can vie for two new categories in the annual Civic Journalism Community Press Awards organized by the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) – the Best in Online Reporting and Best in Biodiversity Reporting awards.

This online reporting category was announced Tuesday in the PPI’s 16th National Press Forum, held April 23-24, at the Trader’s Hotel. The addition of the biodiversity reporting was earlier announced but formally launched on the same day.

JOINT MILITARY EXERCISE. A U.S. soldier patrol past a boy during a Philippine-U.S. troops joint military exercise in Ternate town, Cavite City last April 19, 2012. More than 4,T000 American troops joined their Filipino

counterparts for a series of military exercises in the West Philippine Sea, an area that involves a territorial dispute with China that centers on a shoal not far from the Philippines’ main island of Luzon.

Former guerrilla wins East Timor presidency F

ORMER guerrilla fighter Taur Matan Ruak has officially won East Timor’s presidential election, according to a court statement that confirmed preliminary results announced last week.

The Supreme Court of Appeals said in a statement dated Monday that Ruak had won 61.2 percent of the vote, beating rival Francisco Guterres “Lu Olo” in the April 16 run-off ballot.

Ruak, a hero of the 24-year war against Indonesian occupation and

a former army chief, will replace Nobel Peace Prize winner Jose Ramos-Horta, who trailed in third place in the first round of voting on March 17.

“The court validates the second ballot for the election of thePresident of the Republic,” the statement said. “The candidate elected President of the Republic is Taur Matan Ruak”.

Ruak, 55, will lead an impoverished and oildependent country which next month celebrates a decade of formal independence, and later this

year bids goodbye to UN peacekeepers stationed on the half-island nation since 1999.

On July 7, voters will also choose a new government in a general election.

Late last year Ruak, whose name means “piercing eyes” in the local Tetum language, resigned as defence chief to run for president. He had vowed to introduce mandatory military service if elected.

Ruak, whose real name is Jose Maria Vasconcelos, has been accused by the

United Nations of involvement in illegal weapons transfers in 2006 when rioting and factional fighting left the nation on the brink of civil war.

However, no attempts have been made to prosecute him.

While the presidency is largely ceremonial, it has enjoyed a high profile under Ramos-Horta.

Among East Timor’s many teething problems as a fledgling nation is its heavy reliance on energy reserves, which account for around 90 percent of state revenues.

E

UROPEAN countries are discriminating against Muslims for demonstrating their faith, especially in the fields of education and employment, according to rights group Amnesty International.

In a report focusing on Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland, Amnesty urged European governments to do more to challenge negative stereotypes and prejudices against Islam.

N

U.N. chief to visit Myanmar V to encourage more reforms

U

.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced on Monday he would visit Myanmar soon to encourage the Southeast Asian nation to press ahead with democratic reforms.

“I have accepted an invitation from President Thein Shein to visit Myanmar,” Ban told reporters.

“I will depart at the end of this week.”

“We have seen encouraging political and economic reforms over the past year and a half,” he said. “The recent elections were a landmark.

We see Myanmar reopening to the world.”

U.N. officials said Ban would arrive in Myanmar at the weekend and stay for several days.

Ban welcomed the decisions by the United States, European Union and others to begin easing sanctions against

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon speaks at a joint news conference with European Commission the country previously known as Burma, though he cautioned that the country’s “fresh start is still fragile.”

President Jose Manuel Barroso after addressing the Sustainable Energy summit in Brussels April 16, 2012.

The European Union agreed on Monday to suspend most of its sanctions against Myanmar for a year, despite a dispute

over a parliamentary oath between the army-backed ruling party and pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Soon

ORTH Korea has almost completed preparations for a third nuclear test and has the capacity to carry it out “soon,” a senior source with close ties to Pyongyang and Beijing told Reuters. “Soon. Preparations are almost complete,” the source said when asked whether North Korea was planning to undertake a nuclear test.

North Korea said last week it was ready to retaliate in the face of international condemnation over this month’s failed rocket launch, increasing the likelihood the hermit state will push ahead with a third nuclear test in defiance of U.N. sanctions.

Return

ENEZUELAN President Hugo Chavez said by phone that he will return home this week after cancer treatment in Cuba, in an apparent bid to quash speculation that his health is failing.

“I should be there in Caracas, God willing, on April 26,” Chavez told state television VTV on Monday, in a telephone call that marked the first time Venezuelans had heard his voice live on state media in more than a week.

A

Provided

Chinese firm that intelligence agencies believe provided North Korea with the body of an offroad transport vehicle used to carry missiles appears to have a press release on its website that boasts about the sale, U.N. diplomats told Reuters.

Washington suspects that the Chinese firm, Hubei Sanjiang Space Wanshan Special Vehicle Co., did not sell North Korea an entire vehicle, but a chassis, and may have believed it was for civilian purposes, suggesting the company did not intentionally flout U.N. sanctions, a U.S. official said.

EDGEDAVAO

PNoy...

PHL...

FFROM 1

FFROM 1

Hydro Complex (APHC) if he could be convinced that it is earning.

“This is our homework. If we get the actual statement, we can present it on paper and show that it can create money,” she said.

This homework is a result of the Mindanao Power Summit attended by the President himself where he stated his bias for the privatization of AHPC. Some Mindanao leaders who strongly oppose the privatization of hydro plants believe that the President’s bias showed that he lacks information, or was misinformed, about the real situation of Mindanao power.

Antonino said Senator TG Guingona had also asked officials of the NPC to disclose their records.

He was promised to be given copies of the financial status of the Agus-Pulangi Complex in two weeks time.

“That complex is a net earner. Kailangan lang ipakita na it is a very profitable business that if you privatize it napaka swerteng anak

13

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

ng diyos sya kung sino mang makabili nyan.

And if we Mindanaons run it, we get the profit and at the same time, it will be a profit-oriented venture. This is what we need to prepare. This is our homework,” Antonino said.

She is optimistic that the President’s decision on the fate of APHC may favor those who oppose its privatization because he was the one who asked for the records.

Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III also said after the power summit that if the President sticks to his plan to privatize, Mindanawans must rise up in protest.

Antonino bared that she had a discussion with the President after the summit on the position papers of Mindanao leaders on how to solve the crisis.

That meeting in Malacañang which had to be her longest oneon-one meeting with the President eversince, she said, was where she enlightened the President on the feasibility of APHC as a net earner.

we are defending it. If ever [an armed conflict arises] we’ll need international intervention step in,” Bautista said in an interview at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) compound in Buhangin.

“Hopefully na magkaroon ng international pressure for the issue to be solved in a peaceful manner, using international mechanisms and the rule of law. We hope that the United Nations would help us negotiate with China,” he added.

The army commander was the guest in KJC leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s regular television program Give Us this Day wherein he stressed the transformation of the AFP from what it was decades ago, saying soldiers now have become ‘peace warriors’ rather than being ‘utak pulbura’ or trigger happy.

“We’d [Philippine Government] rather sit down with China and have a peaceful negotiation than to use arms. After all they are also human beings,” Bautista said.

The tension between China and the Philippines

arose the second week of April following the deployment of the Philippine Navy’s Gregorio del Pilar, a US Hamilton-class cutter and currently the biggest warship in the country’s fleet.

The Del Pilar was sent to the Scarborough Shoal located in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) in an attempt to deter Chinese boats who have been illegally fishing in the area.

In response, China sent two surveillance vessels and prevented the BRP Gregorio del Pilar from arresting the Chinese fishermen.

The Chinese fishing boats only left the shoal when the BRP Gregorio del Pilar was pulled out, which authorities said left the area in order to refuel.

The Scarborough Shoal is 230 kilometers (140 miles) from Luzon while the nearest Chinese land mass from the shoal is Hainan province, which is 1,200 kilometers (750 miles) to the northwest.

At present, Army chief Bautista said the Philippine Navy continues ‘to guard the shoal and monitor the situation.’

Outnumbered

Bautista admitted that the Republic of China outnumbers the Philippine government’s army in number of soldiers and equipment.

“Wala naman tayo compared sa China. Given na yun with the size of China and our size. Sa number ng tao pa lang, mas marami na sila,” he said.

He however pressed that the government ‘is not mindful of the numbers.’

“Ang perspective namin is to win the peace rather than defeating the enemy. We still count [the number of our soldiers and equipments] but that is no longer the measure,” Bautista said. “[What is more important] is winning the peace. Winning an argument through peaceful means with people supporting you – that is our standard,” he added.

Balikatan unrelated Bautista dismissed views that the Scarborough standoff was brought by the Philippine government’s alliance with the United States, particularly through the ongoing 28th PhilippinesUnited States Military Exercises 2012 exercises in Palawan.

“Ang Balikatan na-

man has been going on for years. Hindi yan ngayon lang. It has nothing to do with the standoff,” he said.

“We have the Balikatan helping us with our internal conflict. Sa external is a different thing.

The Balikatan helps us in many ways, economically speaking. Many people benefit from the aid,” Bautista added.

In reaction to activitists who’ve blamed the tension evolving in Scarborough to the Balikatan exercises, Bautista brushed off their opposition saying ‘that’s okay.’

“They are allowed their freedom of expression,” he said.

City Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has the same view, saying the Republic of China has not taken claim of a disputed shoal in a long time.

During his television show Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa last April 22, Duterte opined that the Balikatan exercises could be the reason why China sent its patrol ships to Scarborough.

He said China could feel threatened that the Philippine government would request assistance from the United States in claiming the Scarborough Shoal.

opportunity for the poor people to buy still usable clothes or used items.

“Actually, ang mga middle class natin na gusto magmukhang mayaman, nakakabili sila ng LV na half the price or one-fourth of the price,” he said.

He added that the city government is looking for areas where vendors can avoid direct competition from legitimate establishments, as it is an industry not just in Davao City but all over the Philippines.

Alparaque mentioned that there are vendors who already have

stalls at the Bankerohan market and other places, even as far as Tagum City, and then branched out to Roxas Avenue.

“Tinuod gyud na based sa among survey, ang uban ana naa nay pwesto sa palengke magbutang na pud og pwesto diri sa Bajada, branch ba,” he said.

He admitted that his office is working on these vendors like playing “hide and seek” with them whenever vendors disperse from undesignated areas when law enforcers arrive, and return when the latter are gone.

an integral part of the community is having places where kids can play. And with the popularity of football now, every community needs to have a football field.

That is what is ideal for us. There is always opportunity of adding more,” Kendrick Tan said.

“This is just one

of the possible agreement that Megaworld has informed us,” said Araneta. “They’re open to having maybe three to four more pitches in Metro Manila. Maybe there will be some more in the provinces. They mentioned places like Cebu, Bacolod and Iloilo as possible other field venues.”

Ukay2x...

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expected complaint similar to an earlier one when they were transferred to Roxas, alleging that customers were scarce thereat.

Acting Director Roberto Alabado III of the Davao City Planning and Development Office said people tend to go where there are ukayukay stalls.

“Kasi ang pagtingin ko sa economic na activity gamay ra ang customer didto. Karon ibalhin na sila, dili na sila mohawa didto,” Alabado said.

Ukay-ukay for him is an industry that offers an

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people which they aim to finish by middle of 2013.

The league sees the construction of the field as a boost to the growing popularity of the sport in the country.

“It has always been Megaworld’s credo to build a community where you live, work and learn. We feel that

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SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

12 Davao girls make it to nat’l pool

By Neil Bravo

F

OR sweeping the PFF Under-13 Girls Selection tournament recently in Bacolod, the core of Davao’s Under-13 squad has been selected to the National Training Team.

National Under-13 coach Joyce Landagan and assistant Marinell Dimzon said the players will be training for a period of one month which will also serve as the final selection process for the team that will play in the AFF Under-13 Championships in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.

Top scorer Zuleika

Lee, who is considered as a shoo in to the squad, led the candidates along with Moira Calizo, Arwen Allado, Joyce Semacio, Elizabeth Santos, Patricia Francisco, Therese Reyes, Kyra Gabinete, Mia Co, Bea de Luna and Johana Adao.

The final selection will be on May 8 in Manila.

The DFA-backed squad recently bested four other squads including RIFA-Manila in the Bacolod qualifying tournament. The team is coached by Reynalyn Ravanes and Analou Ingles.

‘Pista sa Kinaiyahan’ to highlight Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge

AIMS HIGH KICKED FOR THE GOAL - A player of Comval Gold (in yellow) representing the Province of Compostela Valley aims high kicked for goal while the player of Tagum Palm City Booters (in white) tries to get and block

the ball. In final Comval Gold won the match against Tagum Palm City Booters, 3-2.

City Mayor Rey T. U of Tagum stresses a point during a press conference prior to the launching of the PFF Suzuki U23 National Cup in Energy Park, Tagum City. Joining the local chief executive was Mr. Satoshi Uchida, Suzuki Phil-

ippines President and Mr. Cyril Dofitas, Department Head of PFF National Competition.

Mayor Uy backs football program M

AYOR Rey T. Uy extended his adm i n i s t ra t i o n’ s full support to the country’s search for the next best football players in time for the kick-off of the National Football Grassroots Development Program undertaken by the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) on Sunday at Energy Park, Barangay Apokon, Tagum City.

Speaking to journalists and media men during the press conference prior to the start of the games, the local chief executive stressed the importance of engaging the youth in sports to keep them busy.

Mayor Uy underscored the importance of the strong commitment by local government units to sports development, saying that LGUs play an important role in the training of the future athletes who will compete in national or even international sports competitions.

Venues for training, he said, are very important and cited that under his watch, the City Government of Tagum has provided suitable training grounds like the Energy Park and the Rotary Park which housed the city’s major sports and recreational facilities.

“No matter how we

train our kids if there are no available spaces for training, our efforts will be futile.”

On Sunday, the vast fields of Energy Park developed by the local government in Barangay Apokon played host to the PFF Suzuki U23 National Cup where Compostela Valley’s Comval Gold went head-to-head with the Tagum Palm City Booters representing the province of Davao del Norte.

Comval Gold reigned supreme against the Tagum Palm City Booters during their duel with the score of 3-2.

The said competition is dubbed as the local

adaptation of the AFF Suzuki Cup, the highlycelebrated football competition organized by the ASEAN Football Federation for football competing national teams in the Southeast Asian Region. Several kick-offs were held in key cities in the Philippines including Tagum, and is considered to be a preparation for the country’s bid for the 2013 SEA Games.

Philippine Azkals Football Members Ian Araneta and RoelGener added flare to the event with their attendance, inspiring kids and amateur football players to “strive and excel.” (CIO TAGUM)

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HE Municipality of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur will once again celebrate the “Pista sa Kinaiyahan” (Festival of Nature) on April 26-29, 2012, in response to the call to save, protect and rehabilitate Mt. Apo, the country’s highest peak.

Celebrated since 2001, the “Pista sa Kinaiyahan” is instrumental in advocating environmental protection awareness through series of activities such as coastal and mountain clean-up drives, tree planting and growing, fora and exhibit on the environment, among many others, which has attracted tourists and volunteers nationwide.

This year, the celebration will be highlighted by the 2nd International Mount Apo Boulder Face Challenge on April 28-29, which will be participated by around 50 local and foreign adventure teams.

The planting of more than 500 trees and mangroves on April 26-28, “Duaw kay Apo Clean Up and Climb” on April 26-29, Basura Art Exhibit and Fashion Show on April 27 comprise the main events for this year’s celebration.

On April 28-29, the Mountaineering Federation of Southern Mindanap/

Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines, Inc. will also be conducting special events at the Municipal Plaza, such as a Climate Change Forum, Mini Adventure Race, Inter-Club Photo Exhibit and Body Painting Contest.

“Pista sa Kinaiyahan” aims to advocate and develop responsible mountaineering and outdoor ethics, and promote Davao Region as a major eco-tourism destination in the Philippines.

The annual environmental event is spearheaded by the Municipal Government of Sta. Cruz, Municipal Council for Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Provincial Government of Davao del Sur, Department of Tourism XI, Mountaineering Federation of Southern Mindanao, Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Event cooperators include HEDCOR Sibulan, Inc., San Miguel Brewery, Inc., National Commission for Indigenous Peoples, Kapiid Ka Banua, Municipal Tribal Council, Barangay Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 2, Zone 1, Coronon, Astorga, Darong, Sibulan, and Tibolo, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, 39th IB, Philippine Army, and the Philippine National Red Cross. [DOT 11]

Siargao to host Asian Women Surfing Championship

F

ORTY professional women surfers from Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia and other parts of Asia and the world are expected to compete in the famous surf of Cloud 9 in Siargao Island for an Asianwide competition on May 1-4.

The Asian Surfing Championship (ASC) circuit for women will be held in five countries – Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. Women surfers from all over Asia will converge at Cloud 9 surf break in General Luna for the Philippine leg as they vie for the P300,000 (close to US$7,000) total prize-money.

“This is a historical landmark in the progression of Philippine surfing as it is the first time that ASC

included Philippines in a multi-country, multi-event professional surfing competition circuit,” said Zeny Pallugna, secretary-general of the Philippine Surfing Federation (PSF), said in a statement.

Pallugna pointed out this international event is a very good indication that Siargao’s tourism is flourishing.

“The ASC works with local, national and multinational event sponsors and organizers to maximize the results of the competitive surfing events towards accomplishing the goals of sharing the sport of surfing and bringing positive economic, social and environmental benefits to the people in these Asian countries,” said Pallugna.(ERWIN MASCARIÑAS / MINDANEWS)

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Nanny panky MOTHERHOOD

MANIC Monday started with an early morning exercise, a mere 10 minutes of sweat from one corner leading to the City Hall zone. I was brisk-walking my way back to my prized privilege, so to speak, otherwise known as Single Parent Leave. Such benefit requires a special certification / ID purposely issued to qualified individuals on solo parenthood. Mine just expired and I needed to have it renewed and ready for any kind of emergency or need.

Out of the ID’s I kept, this one had the best photo in it. I made sure of that. I had set a schedule for a photo shoot at a reputable portrait studio, laboured over hair and makeup for about 30 minutes before I flashed my sweetest smile. The photo had to give justice to my ID which bore the trademark SINGLE PARENT printed right above it, in bold characters.

It was almost time for me to report to work, so I decided to just pick up whatever paper I had to complete from the Social Welfare and Development Office, and come back for the assessment some other time.

A guy handed me the files I needed.

Doesn’t this look familiar? I asked myself. I was staring at the registration form I filled up 3 years ago.

I was told to update the required fields according to what changed over the past years.

Name --- same. Religion – same. Age --- 28. Height --- Is it possible that I’ve grown any taller? Weight --I don’t check anymore. Civil Status --- I’m technically committed to be married.

Should I just write TBA? What lies beneath the checklist and other personal facts is the essay part where you detail out the problems you encounter as a single parent. “Kulang ang space ninyo,” was my first reaction 3 years ago. I had the urge to ask for extra papers to enumerate the tales of all Yayas past, hoping my revelations would get the officer to approve my request for renewal. After all, one of the prevailing reasons I needed a buffer in my leave credits is because of Yaya Woes.

Good help is so difficult to find nowadays. I consider it a wishful thinking to find a candidate and keep one who is close to a Mary Poppins persona. I can’t help but worry each day how long we’ll have Yaya with us.

I only had a few good ones before --- few meaning with not more than 5 to count.

soon as I stepped out of the door, Jekyll would turn into Hyde. She got physical with my daughter simply over TV shows and turns on the DVD. She threatened to spank the little one should she fail to keep her silence.

This, unfortunately, I found out only a week after I fired her on the grounds of stealing. A pang of guilt hit me, wishing I could just work from home, as my daughter shared distressing accounts of Yaya’s cruelty. She even taught me Yaya’s mechanics in stealing, breaking through security locks on my closet.

The innocent one became a witness to malicious deeds,

We had one who stepped into the role of a deceitful character.

Around me, she was quiet and obedient. As soon as I stepped out of the door, Jekyll would turn into Hyde.

Some of the rest I was more than happy to be rid of, except that I tried to delay it as much as I could. Problem is, as I spent more years growing up in Manila, I don’t have any close relative in town who’s always available and who I can rely on to play substitute nanny.

Try as I might, I extend my understanding and patience with these individuals who take my place at home while I fulfilled my responsibility as bread winner. I give space for their sensitivities and material desires. I am sometimes at fault of taking a significant share of tasks from the Yaya, just to make her feel more at ease. Some of them know how “in demand” nannies are in the society, and they would even use (and abuse) this as reasoning to gain more in cash and do less with chores. Of course, left with no choice, I have bended my own limitations for a number of instances.

Time and again, I’d mentally call positivity back to my exhausted soul, and pray for sanity from the heavens above. I would even pray for Yaya’s enlightenment and health, incorporated to my personal intentions at Mass.

I may not have bragging rights to say I am a perfect employer, but give it my best try. In general, there is not much to do at home except to focus on my daughter’s needs, plus a bit of house-

hold tasks. We eat the same food and she has comfortable place to sleep in. I make it a point to show my appreciation, give complements and respect, and as much as I can. I entrust the welfare of my daughter to them and, in turn, I treat them fairly and, at times, close to being one with the family. On top of the reasonable salary, I also provide them with toiletries, vitamins / medications, medical check-up’s, personal essentials, e-load, transportation allowance on Sundays

(just so they can’t use lack of money as an excuse not to get back home on time), plus a bit of premium such as shoes, clothing, and bags.

Still, these do not win their loyalty, especially when a boyfriend becomes a factor in her decision making.

Our misadventures with nannies over the past 5 years saw a few sad goodbye’s and incalculable agonies.

We had one who stepped into the role of a deceitful character. Around me, she was quiet and obedient. As

and she was able to demonstrate how Yaya screwed out the hinges of my closet door to gain access to my clothes, accessories, and underwear.

The kid didn’t have any clue she was being brainwashed to think that Yaya also has her own valuables hidden in my closet. No wonder my daughter got confused when she saw me putting on Olay cream, pointing out “Mom, you should not use that because it’s Yaya’s.”

We also had a nanny who had the best qualities of a

loving older sister. But her caress and affection also extended to a good number of men. I’d joke aside and advise her to think and act wisely. I pointed out my own ordeals as a single parent, hoping it’ll empower her will so as not to be misled by admirers. My words went to waste as she got pregnant by one who promised to marry her.

She asked to be dismissed from her duties so she can prepare for her wedding and childbirth. 4 weeks after, she nonchalantly shared news of her miscarriage, segue to her wedding plans with someone else. Wow, ang haba ng hair ni Ate! Ang daming marriage proposals.

Buti ka pa.

This one we have with us right now is more than ok. However, she felt it was necessary to look after her grandchildren, too, when they enter school in June.

This she confided to my daughter weeks ago, and I’m guessing she’ll be making her big announcement to me soon.

Sometimes I’d try to compare yaya-serviced months to yaya-less weeks, weighing the pros and cons. When will the search and ordeal end? Is there really any assurance things will fall into place? Will I really win a chance at finding help who’ll last as long as needed?

I still have this motherlyguilt eating me once in a while. If only I could cut myself in half to function both as full time mommy and bread winner.

To all single parents out there, I raise my glass to you for doing a kick ass job in raising your kids. I’m sure we share the same sentiments. I hope for peace of mind for all of us.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

Skin sins HEALTH

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OUR skin is the largest organ in your body, and it takes a lot of abuse.

Constantly exposed to the elements, your epidermis (and the layers beneath) can really take a beating, especially if you’re guilty of the following skin sins. Want to preserve your skin?

Here’s what not to do.

1. Get Overexposed There was a time when people thought it was perfectly fine to slather their bodies in baby oil and spend entire days baking in the sun. Over the years, dermatologists set us straight, telling us in no uncertain terms that sun worshipping will only put us on the path to premature aging -- and skin cancer.

“If there’s one thing in the world that one can do to avoid the ravages of injury to the skin, it’s avoid the sun,” says Norman Levine, MD, a dermatologist in Tucson, Arizona and the author of Skin Healthy: Everyone’s Guide to Great Skin.”The sun has effects on the cells that renew the skin, and when those cells are injured irreparably you get skin aging and you are more prone to skin cancer.”

You can tell right away when someone’s been spending a lot of time in the sun, says Jennifer Stein, MD, PhD, assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Medical Center. “Their skin looks very wrinkly and is covered in lots of brown spots, and that’s from years and years of sun damage.”

2. Skimp on Sunscreen Your sunscreen probably isn’t shielding you from sun damage because most of us don’t apply the shot-glasssized amount (1 ounce) of SPF 30 or higher sunscreen -- the minimum experts say we need to protect us.

“Most people under-apply by one-fourth. Whatever you’re putting on is probably too little, so at least double it,” says Jeffrey Dover, MD, FRCPC, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine] and director of SkinCare Physicians in Chestnut Hill, Mass. Many people also don’t apply sunscreen every two hours as dermatologists recommend.

If you’re going to be out-

side, don’t forget to wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and seek the shade, as well as wearing sunscreen (and reapplying it as needed).

Then your skin is as protected as possible.

3. Smoke If the risk of lung cancer, emphysema, heart disease, and stroke aren’t enough to scare you off cigarettes, how about all those wrinkles you’ll get?

Study after study shows just how extensively smoking ages the skin. “It does a lot of what the sun does.

It just does it inside [the body] instead of outside,” Dover says. “It makes the skin weak, tired, and listless looking.”

If that weren’t enough, smoking also yellows the skin, interferes with its blood supply, and slows wound healing. “So if you injure your skin it may not heal as well if you’re a smoker,” Levine says.

4. Use the Wrong Cleanser A big mistake people make when they wash their face is using a harsh soap that’s meant for their body. Keep the bar soap in the shower. Use only a mild cleanser for your face, especially if you have sensitive skin, Stein advises.

If your skin is acneprone, make sure the cleanser you use is oil-free and noncomedogenic, which means it does not promote acne. People whose skin is on the dry side should follow up each wash by applying a layer of lotion (preferably one that contains sunscreen) to seal in the skin’s moisture.

5. Scrub Your Skin Washing your face is a good idea. Scrubbing it isn’t. “Scrubbing can be very irritating to the skin,” cautions Stein. “A lot of times people who have acne will feel like they have to scrub the skin to make it better, but that can actually worsen the acne.” Be gentle to your skin. Wash your face using a soft, circular motion.

6. Pop Your Pimples

Whenever you feel tempted to pop a pimple, control the urge. “Picking can actually make the acne worse and lead to permanent scarring,” Stein says.

“Better to leave it alone.”

Instead of popping pimples, try an over-the-counter pimple remedy containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. If that doesn’t clear up your breakouts, call your dermatologist.

7. Stress Out It’s not your imagination. When you’re stressed out, it really does show in your skin. “It’s not well understood, but it’s clear that stress makes many skin conditions worse,” Dover says.

Stress can flare up psoriasis and rosacea, as well as acne. It may also lower the skin’s ability to keep out harmful irritants and infections. Plus, people who are wrapped up in their stress have less time to care for their skin properly.

8. Overdo It Looking young and vibrant is highly prized, but the quest for it can have a price, especially if you trust your chemical peel to someone without an MD after his or her name. “I think they should be done under the guidance of a doctor because they certainly be very irritating, particularly to sensitive skin or people who have skin conditions,” Stein says. In the wrong hands, a chemical peel could leave you with an infection or permanent scars.

You also don’t want to overdo home microdermabrasion and peels.

Instead of making you look younger, they’ll leave your skin red and irritated. Let

your dermatologist guide you if you are going to try at-home skin procedures 9. Overeat Before you take another bite of that bacon double cheeseburger, consider this: When you gain a lot of weight, your skin has to stretch to accommodate your new girth. Lose the weight and you’ll be left with flabby, saggy skin.

If your skin isn’t elastic enough to bounce back, you may have to resort to surgery to tighten it up.

10. Fall Short on Sleep More than a quarter of us aren’t getting the seven to nine hours of sleep we need nightly, and our exhaustion is as obvious as the pallor of our skin and the bags under our eyes.

“Your skin rejuvenates while you’re sleeping,” Dover says. He warns that a lack of sleep makes your face look “dull and listless” and can exaggerate the appearance of dark circles.

11. Ignore Warning Signs A changing mole is one of the clearest signs of skin cancer. Spotting it early gives your doctor a chance to treat it before it has time to spread. But how will you ever know a mole is changing if you never look at your skin?

Once a month, you should be checking your skin from top to bottom, front to back in a full-length mirror. “You’re looking for changes in the size, shape, and color of moles, or new moles,” Dover says. If you spot anything, or if you’ve got a personal or family history of skin cancer, let your dermatologist do a full exam as well, Stein says.

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

The Avengers: a hit or a miss?

WITH apologies to a certain Marvel supervillain who’s not in the film, Joss Whedon has hit a bull’s-eye with The Avengers.

Marvel’s highly anticipated first outing for its band of superheroes known as S.H.I.E.L.D.— directed by the man who brought you TV’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Serenity—is out in theaters today!

E! News has a roundup of the early reviews, which by the sound of them, should guarantee Hollywood will be off to a stellar start at the box office this summer when The Avengers unspools May 4.

• “The Avengers is humongous, the film Marvel and its legions of fans have been waiting for. It’s hard to imagine that anyone with an appetite for the trademark’s patented brand of fantasy, effects, mayhem and strangely dressed he-men will be disappointed,” writes the Hollywood Reporter’s Todd McCarthy, heaping glowing praise on the blockbuster.

“Director Joss Whedon has adroitly balanced the celebrity circus to give every single one of the superstar characters his or her due.

Worldwide box office returns will be, in a word, Marvelous.”

• “As the first of this summer’s three superhero blockbusters (the others are The Dark Knight Rises and The Amazing SpiderMan), Avengers sets the bar impressively high, and that it does it with a smile is all the more refreshing.

A lot of this stuff has been done before, and recently—but never quite as well as this,” says Robbie Collin of the U.K.’s Telegraph.

• “The Avengers have been assembled and, for the most part, they fit together superbly. A joyous blend of heroism and humour that raises the stakes even as it maintains a firm grip on what makes the individual heroes tick,” offers James White of Empire Magazine.

One reviewer extolled the film for infusing its characters with unexpected depth.

• “Crucially, the wisecracking id of Robert Downey Jnr’s Iron Man is balanced out by instilling a hearty dose of fear in

What did Scarlett Johansson wear under her Black Widow suit?

one of the team’s central figures, thanks to a beautifully honed performance

by Mark Ruffalo. He plays Bruce Banner—the brilliant scientist who turns into the uncontrollable colossus Hulk when angered—as a man afraid of himself,” opined The Guardian’s Henry Barnes.

White did, however, take issue with the constraints imposed by the movie’s genre.

“Unfortunately, this being a comic-book movie, the need for biff-bang-pow tends to prevail,” he adds.

“The hero-against-hero slugfest that the comics have been trading on for decades is entertaining at first, but the various combinations of Hulk v Thor v Iron Man quickly blow themselves out.”

• “The end of the world may loom but Whedon creates a good time atmosphere, seeming to take inspiration from old WWII capers like The Dirty Dozen where the fun is as much derived from the rat-a-tat banter between the guys as it is from the big explosions and the butt-kicking,” wrote Digital Spy’s Stella Papamichael.

• “The first half contains too much laboured exposition, and even the action-packed second half may not convert everyone who finds superhero movies immature. But this is a superior example of its kind, with sequences on a par with the best Spiderman and Batman movies.

And technically, it’s a real marvel,” raved Chris Tookey of the Daily Mail.

NOT much came between Scarlett Johansson and the skintight Black Widow suit she wears in The Avengers.

Literally.

“What do I wear underneath it?” she said when I asked her about slipping into the costume at last night’s The Avengers premiere in Hollywood. “Actually I wear, well, not much!”

She was the envy of all the men on set. That would be hotties like Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner, Mark Ruffalo and Robert Downey Jr. “The guys couldn’t believe it because they all have their padding and their big kind of crazy suits and they were like, ‘You’re really wearing nothing under your suit?’ “ Johansson said. “I said, ‘Not absolutely nothing, but…’ “ Her costume wasn’t as uncomfortable as you might think. “It’s not as bad as it looks,” Johansson said. “It’s got a lot of give.”

Evans said of his Captain America gear, “They have a bit of foam rubber padding, but you still have to work out.

It’s not going to fill out if you don’t hit the gym.”

A4 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

UP AND ABOUT

Lego for girls at The Oak & Acorn ALREADY one of the world’s most iconic toys, LEGO intoduces a whole new world where girls can build, create, remodel and redecorate!

The LEGO Friends are a group of 5 very different and very talented girls living in Heartlake City. Your girls can build and expand their own Heartlake City with colorful bricks, dozens of new details and never before seen mini-doll figures. LEGO mini-dolls are LEGO minifigures made especially for the world of LEGO Friends with thousands of customizable hair and fashion combinations!

With lots of new LEGO Friends sets available now, and even more coming throughout the year from the feature-packed

Olivia’s House, to caring for animals at the Heartlake Vet, there are play scenarios for everyone!

Plus, LEGO Friends pieces are all fully compatible with all LEGO bricks!

You can visit The Oak & Acorn at Plaza del Carmen, Loyola Street, Obrero ( beside Best Buy), Davao City, Philippines or call 822278449 for mor inquiries.

Zia Quizon to perform on SM City Davao 3-Day Sale MYX Music Award 2012 Favorite New Artist Zia Quizon is set to perform at SM Davao The Annex on May 5.

Zia’s music, which fused pop, soul, jazz, and retro R&B, has been widely-accepted by the public yielding the hit song “Ako Na Lang.” She recently launched her new single “Dear Lonely,” lifted from her debut album “Zia.” The album has just been awarded a Gold Record Award.

Owing most of her musicality to her Dad- Dolphy, Zia’s style sounds very unique from her veteran singer mother- Zsa Zsa Padilla and singer-actress Karylle.

Her raspy voice used in jazzy arrangement is a fresh listening from the OPM pool.

Apart from her original songs, her self-titled album also has unique versions of the classic Smile (Charlie Chaplin), So Much In Love (popularized in the Philippines by Sharon Cuneta) and her mom’s Mambobola.

Enjoy the soothing music of Zia live at SM Davao The Annex, 5 PM on May 5.

SM City Davao 3 Day Sale runs May 4-6 with extended mall hours until 12 MN on May 4&5 (Friday,

Saturday), and until 10 PM on May 6(Sunday). Avail of up to 70% discount on great selections and get a chance to win 1 of the 3 Asus Netbooks!

For inquiries, call 297.6998 local 126. Like SM City Davao on Facebook or visit www.smcitydavao.blogspot.com for event and promo updates.

EDGEDAVAO

B

Pacquiao need not prove anything more

AGUIO CITY-Coach Freddie Roach said that pound-for-pound champion Manny Pacquiao need not prove anything more when he faces undefeated American champion Timothy Bradley on June 9 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

During their highaltitude training here on Monday, Roach said that

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even in boxing history, Pacquiao has nothing more to prove as he is the only boxer to become champion in eight different weight divisions.

During the interview, Roach was working with new conditioning coach Marvin Somodio, his understudy for the past few years particularly in the absence of coach Alex Ariza who left for

the US on Saturday.

Roach said Pacquiao’s forthcoming sparring sessions will be off limits to the public.

After his regular jogging this morning, Pacquiao is back for his biometrics training to improve his stamina that was abandoned during his fight with Juan Manuel Marquez last year.

Philipps Cando, Senior Vice President.

“With this partnership we have with Megaworld, this will be the first contract that we will sign which will give us FIFA-standard football field with bleachers of about a maximum of 4,000 seating capacity,” Araneta said.

UFL welcomed the deal saying it addresses the league’s problem on the lack of quality pitches. It could also help in improving the quality of play in the league.

Under the deal with Megaworld, the UFL will have priority in the field usage for the next four years. The deal is co-terminus with the television deal that the league signed with AKTV. UFL games are carried live on AKTV on IBC 13 every Saturday after-

noon.

The UFL holds most of its matches at the University of Makati football field due to the unavailability of the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium. Several Second Division matches are played at the BGC Turf as well as the Nomads Sports Club.

“To be honest with you, we’re trying to push in the United Football League that we play in UMak and in this new one. I think Rizal Memorial should be reserved for national team games,” said Araneta.

Work on the field is targeted to be completed by September just in time for the start of the new season in October.

This will be followed by the construction of a grandstand that can accommodate 2,000

(PNA)

New home for UFL

HE country’s premier football league will soon have a new home.

The United Football League struck a deal to use the artificial pitch that will be constructed by real estate giant Megaworld Corporation at McKinley Hill in Taguig City.

The field will be known as the McKinley Hill Football Field.

Present at the contract signing from Football Alliance were Santi Araneta, Chairman; Randy Roxas, President; and Javier Mantecon, Marketing Director. Representing Megaworld Corporation were Kendrick Tan, son of Megaworld chairman Andrew Tan and Emperador Cup director; Lourdes Gutierrez, Senior Executive Vice President; and

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SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

OS ANGELES (AP)-The Lakers jersey says World Peace on the back.

The player wearing it is still Ron Artest, and he’s in trouble again with the NBA. Metta World Peace was pounding his chest with his right arm in celebration of a dunk over two opponents Sunday when his left arm suddenly flew out, landing a vicious backward elbow to James Harden’s head and dropping the Oklahoma City guard to the hardwood.

Within seconds, the roars of the crowd fell silent as fans watched in disbelief the latest act of violence by a player who changed his name last year to promote peace.

World Peace is likely to be sidelined when the Lakers open the postseason this weekend, and possibly longer. He claims he accidentally clipped Harden while celebrating a dunk, yet given his history as perhaps basketball’s most notorious troublemaker since Dennis Rodman, not even his teammates have any idea why he lost control for

FNEW, 13

Interaction with the kids players with Azkal layers RoelGener and Ian Araneta inspire kids during their interaction at the sidelines of the National Football Grassroots Development Program.

Pangasinan 95% ready for Palaro

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INGAYEN, Pangasinan-- An official of the Department of Education regional office on Tuesday said with 13 days yet to go before the Palarong Pambansa on May 6 to 12, they are now 95 percent ready for the games.

This was disclosed to newsmen by Teresita Velasco, newly designated officer-in-charge of the Department of Education (DepEd) regional office after briefing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) here on the preparation aspect of the Palarong Pambansa last Monday.

She said the remaining five percent is the bringing in of sports equipment by national officials of DepEd to the different playing venues set on April 27 or before.

This means that once the equipment are in, the games can begin anytime, she said.

Velasco lauded Governor Amado Espino Jr. of the

host province of Pangasinan for being on top of the situation in every aspect of the Palaro preparation, adding that she was amazed to find out that every official of DepEd who has a role to play in the National Games has a counterpart official in the provincial government.

This makes for easier coordination between DepEd and the provincial government, she said, pointing out that this is only the first of its kind that ever happened in the history of the Palarong Pambansa.

“No wonder, the Governor wants to make this Palaro as the benchmark for all future national games,” said Velasco who assumed as DepEd OIC regional director only on April 2 this year vice former regional director Ligaya Miguel who retired.

As to the 17 delegations seeing action in the National Games, only the athletes of Region 4B from

Violent ‘World Peace’

an inexplicable instant. ‘’It was unfortunate that James had to get hit with an unintentional elbow,’’ World Peace said. ‘’I hope he’s OK.’’ World Peace undid much of the goodwill created by his notable charity work over the past few years when he knocked Oklahoma City’s top reserve out of the key lateseason game, giving him a concussion.

His upcoming suspension will be just a fraction of the 86-game ban Artest received in November 2004 when he jumped into the stands at the Palace of Auburn Hills to fight fans, precipitating perhaps the ugliest brawl in North American sports history.

Yet World Peace changed more than his name over the past three years with the Lakers. The former math major from St. John’s has devoted much of his free time to charity, even winning the NBA’s J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award last April, primarily for his work in mental health awareness.

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the Mindoro Marinduque Romblon Palawan area have so far arrived with athletes from the National Capital Region (NCR) and Region 3 slated to check in sometime Tuesday or Wednesday.

She said the billeting areas for the 10,000 athletes participating located in different school buildings in Lingayen, Binmaley, Dagupan and San Carlos cities and Bugallon, have already been in place, using part of the P38.2 million earlier allocated by DepEd central office.

Fourth District SP Member Jeremy Rosario, chair of the committee on education of the local legislative body, said the provincial government has allocated a total of P150 million to be used in this year’s Palaro, the bulk of which were used in improving the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center (NRSCC) in Lingayen and other playing venues. (PNA)

Metta World Peace, formerly known as the troubled Ron Artest, is once again in hot water after a violent outburst. ‘’One play in the heat of a battle, all of the sudden it changes his perception as a man and as a person? No,’’ said Kobe Bryant, his teammate and tireless defender. ‘’Everybody, all you guys, know what a sweet guy he is.’’

While the NBA’s top brass watched video of

the elbow and debated the length of a suspension Monday, sports fans debated whether to give Peace another chance. Some saw his actions as an ill-timed celebration that accidentally hurt a player standing too close, while others thought the Lakers forward should be suspended

indefinitely, perhaps even banned from the NBA for a dangerous lack of impulse control. ‘’During that play, I just dunked on (Kevin) Durant and (Serge) Ibaka, and I got really emotional and excited,’’ World Peace said in a 30-second statement afterward, refusing to take

questions in the Lakers’ locker room. ‘’The Thunder, they’re playing for a championship this year, so I hope that he’s OK, and I apologize to the Thunder and to James Harden. You know, it was such a great game, and it was unfortunate so much emotion was going on at that time.’’

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SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 36 • APRIL 25, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

PJ Simon: I’m from Makilala

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day before the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals, B-MEG’s crack scoring guard Peter June Simon had a big concern.

No, it wasn’t about trying to stop Talk ‘N Text guard Jayson Castro from getting to the hoop.

Neither was he worried about the lockdown defense of Tropang Texters

enforcer Ryan Reyes.

“Doon kasi sa [PBA Annual], nakalagay na hometown ko, Cebu City.

Baka bukas, pag tawagin ako, sabihin galing akong Cebu City,” Simon told InterAKTV on Sunday, referring to the traditional callout during the PBA finals, where each player gets his chance at having the solo spotlight on na-

tional television before hostilities begin.

For many PBA players, the callout is one of the rituals they most look forward to when playing in the finals. In Barako Bull’s semifinals series against Talk ‘N Text, Willie Miller told the AKTV broadcast that he missed the feeling of being in a dark arena, with the spotlight on him

as the coliseum barker called out his name — an experience, for PBA players, that is unique to protagonists of the finals.

Simon is concerned about being introduced as from Cebu City because, well, he isn’t from Cebu City.

“Galing akong Makilala, North Cotabato,” said Simon, proudly. It is a small place of less than 80,000, the last Cotabato town before reaching

Davao City.

In Davao, Simon became a basketball cult hero after starring at University of Mindanao. After college, he was picked up by the Davao Eagles, with whom he won the MBA Discovery of the Year award in 2001. He moved to Manila the next season, and thrived in the PBL, winning the Platinum Cup MVP award in 2004 and leading Fash to the title in a memorable five-game

series against Welcoat, which starred his current B-MEG teammate James Yap. After that, he was signed by Purefoods to a free agent PBA contract.

For Simon, having his hometown mentioned in the finals would be his way of paying tribute to where it all started.

“Inaabangan rin kasi yun ng mga kababayan ko,” he said. “At saka para naman makilala yung Makilala.”

B-MEG draws first blood

Game 2, April 25, Smart Araneta Center 6:30 pm--B-MEG vs. Talk ‘N Text

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MAKILALA PRIDE. Peter June Simon of B MEG wants to be known as someone from Makilala, North Cotabato, not Cebu City. The Llamados guard finished college at the University of Mindanao in Davao City.

-MEG squandered a 14-point first-quarter lead, but recovered in time by doing what they do best: playing tough defense.

The Llamados held the Tropang Texters without a field goal in the first seven minutes of the fourth quarter while Peter June Simon and Denzel Bowles took on the scoring mantle down the stretch, allowing B-MEG to preserve a hard-earned 88-82 triumph in Game One of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals Monday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

But Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes blamed free throws for the team’s loss.

The Tropang Texters shot a miserable 16-of-36 (44%) from the line.

“If we missed less than 50 percent of our total missed shots [from the free throw line], we had a chance of winning. These guys have been playing basket-

ball since they were wearing short pants. I can’t help them make free throws,” he said.

“We nearly stole the game. In fact,it was being given to us. Binibigay na sa amin yung mga regalo (gift shots) hindi namin tinanggap.”

B-MEG trailed, 67-62, heading into the final quarter after Talk ‘N Text unloaded its firepower in the third. But a backbreaking 15-2 run, anchored on eight points by Simon, allowed the Llamados to grab a 7769 lead with 5:15 left in the game.

The Tropang Texters cut the lead to four points, 86-82, with 44.6 seconds left in the game, but Ranidel de Ocampo missed a crucial three-pointer and Donnell Harvey had a turnover down the stretch, allowing B-MEG to take the head start in the best-of-seven

series.

Simon finished with 18 points on steady 9-of11 shooting from the field.

Bowles led the Llamados with 25 points and 11 rebounds, while Joe Devance and Marc Pingris contributed 11 points each.

Harvey led the Tropang Texters with 25 points and 13 rebounds while Jimmy Alapag added 12 points, including two three-pointers in the fourth period.

The scores: B-MEG (88) – Bowles 25, Simon 18, Devance 11, Pingris 11, Yap 9, Barroca 4, Intal 3, Reavis 3, Urbiztondo 2, De Ocampo 2, Villanueva 0.

Talk ‘N Text (82) – Harvey 25, Alapag 12, Reyes 10, Fonacier 8, Williams 6, Dillinger 5, Castro 5, De Ocampo 5, Carey 4, Peek 2, Gamalinada 0, Aguilar 0.

Quarters: 25-14; 48-40; 62-67; 88-82