Edge Davao 5 Issue 55 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

EDGEDAVAO

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21 , 2012

www.edgedavao.net

Serving a seamless society

Indulge Page A1

Science/Environment Page 4

Region 11 lacks 4,224 teachers T

he Department of education (Deped) for the Davao region has noted a shortage of 4,224 teachers in public schools. Focal person for Deped’s Brigada eskwela, teacher eunice Atienzar last May 18 said there is a shortage of 1,687 of public school teachers for elementary and 2,537

n There is also shortage of 678,783 pieces of public school furniture in the region shortage for high school. “We are still short on the number of teachers. Not just teachers but also classrooms and furniture,” Atienzar told edge Davao during the Philippine Information

Agency’s press conference at ecoland, this city. “Ideally kasi it should be at most 40 students per teacher, but there are cases na umaabot ng 50 to 60 students. There are also cases na kulang ng teachers in far-flung areas,” she added. Atienzar said there is a shortage of

FREGION, 13

Sports Page 16

SPONGY BUSINESS. Pushing the pedals of his bike, a man carries a huge package of sponge along MacArthur Highway in Davao City.

Many OFW kids are victims of abuse By Jade C. Zaldivar

hIlDreN of Overseas Filipino Workers or “Anak OFW” called for intervention from the local government following the general observation that neglected Anak OFWs often become victims of

n Some children also perform low grades in school, become computer game addicts abuse and become unproductive. Maybelle himonda, 17, vice president of YAMAN (Young People’s Action for Migrant Worker’s Agenda and Nationalism) said last

[KARLOS MANLUPIG]

May 17 that children left to their relatives experience ‘unspeakable discomfort, or an irregular way of growing up and sometimes abuse and rape.’ “We cannot speak out. We cannot say we do not want our parents to go abroad because that’s how they can earn. But when left

FMANY, 13

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Eye domestic market for surplus bananas By Lorie A. Cascaro

ANANA industry stakeholders in the Davao region are considering the domestic market for their surplus bananas earlier earmarked for exportation to China. Although there has been no official ban on Philippine bananas by the Chinese government, an average of 1.1 million to 1.3 million boxes of Cavendish bananas a week or 70% of Philippine exported banana worldwide are barred from entering China, according to data from the Pilipino Banana growers’ and exporters’ Association (PgBeA). The current situation is considered alarming, especially for small banana farmers in the Davao region, according to romeo garcia, president of Mindanao Federation of Banana growers and exporters Association, during the consultative meeting of banana industry stakeholders last Friday at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 11 office here. It was the consensus in the meeting that promotion of domestic consumption could be achieved through business linkages, feeding programs and media blitz. In transporting the bananas to luzon, the freight of a 10-footer container van containing 600 boxes of ba-

nanas costs P22,000, excluding hauling and other logistic expenses. “It is very expensive for the farmers,” said garcia, adding that they lack the capacity to market in Manila, therefore, they should tap shipping industries for free or discounted freights. he said small farmers have lowered their prices to P129 per box of 13.5 kilograms of bananas, but it is actually a losing proposition, if not break even. Citing the Cabotage law which makes shipping from Mindanao to Manila more expensive than to other countries like Singapore, DTI 11 regional director Marizon S. loreto said banana producers must agree on their prices first. A representative from DA 11 told stakeholders that they can utilize some 80 trading posts or “bagsakan” centers of agricultural products in barangays and municipalities in the region. Funds Domingo Ang, chairperson of the Philexport’s assistance board, pointed out that an emergency fund should be raised, either from the landBank of the Philippines or Asian Development Bank, saying, “Somewhere there is a fund, and it only needs political will.” he added that the government should save at least 4,000 hectares, if not the

40,000 hectares of banana plantations in the country. loreto said they may ask the Department of Agriculture (DA) to realign the budget, particularly the one to address Fusarium wilt, a severe disease of banana plants caused by a fungus. garcia proposed to Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala a financial assistance to minimally maintain banana areas so that they will be easily rehabilitated and operations will resume easily once the market returns. he also noted that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) may allocate a budget from their feeding program to buy the surplus bananas from small farmers. loreto said she may discuss it with the regional director of the DSWD for possible local arrangements while Alcala mentions it to DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman. Pointing fingers to put blame for the temporary holding of export bananas to China is already out of discussion, said loreto, as the DA’s Bureau of Plant Industry, plant quarantine service, will be there in China to settle the issues on banana quality. She told stakeholders, “As I’ve said, hindi mahirap kausapin ang Chinese, pero mahirap kalabanin ang China.”

force, had seized a total of 6,746.77 cubic meters of logs, or 44,615 pieces with estimated market value of P33,757,467.24. Since February 1 last year, there were 5,403 hot logs seized in Davao Oriental; 12,344 in Compostela Valley (ComVal); 16,803 in Davao del Norte; and, 10,065 in Davao del Sur. Under the eO 23, section 2.7, all hot logs should be donated to the Department of education (Deped) to convert them into chairs for public schools, and hospital beds. A total of 38,675 units of armchairs, desks, kiddie chairs, double deck and hospital beds were fabricated/ manufactured and distributed to different schools. Specifically, 26,324 units were donated to schools in Davao del Norte;

11,620 in ComVal; and, 731 in Davao del Sur. As of March 2012, 3,257 pieces of logs with estimated value of P6,535,154.20 were turned over to Deped and other institutions; and, 2,220 of them were donated to Deped Davao Oriental. The Technical education and Skills Development Authority had manufactured a total of 3,991 chairs/desks, which were distributed to different schools in the province. The campaign against illegal logging has been successful in the region, he said, with the help of the local government units (lgU) that volunteered to convert the logs and donate them to the Deped. “So far, only region 11 has done this conversion of logs to chairs for the Deped,” noting the Deped has no logistics to make them into finished products, thus lgUs took the responsibility. Meanwhile, the DeNr 11 had initial discussion with Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio to convert hot logs into

No more illegal logging in Davao region: DENR

llegAl logging activities in the Davao region have been curbed since the implementation of President Benigno Aquino III’s executive order no. 23 or the indefinite log ban and the creation of an anti-illegal logging task force. This, according to Claudio T. Jumao-as, chief for Forest resources Conservation Division, Department of environment and Natural resources 11, yesterday during the Club 888 Forum at The Marco Polo Davao. he said there were reports on truckloads of illegally cut logs coming to Tagum City, however, those were not from the region, referring to the 21 trucks apprehended last May 9 in Tagum City which came from the Caraga region. Before the log ban was enforced, as of April 30 this year the DeNr 11, along with the anti-logging task

Quips

‘WHEN this was being discussed in 2001, we warned President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. This will haunt you. This is the bill that will haunt you.’

--Senator Joker Arroyo recalling what he told then President Arroyo when she asked for the passage of the Anti-MoneyLaundering Act.

FNO MORE, 13

PEACE TALKS. Dean Marvic Leonen of the GPH peace panel said the 10-point principles agreed by both the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in

Kuala Lumpur last April may be considered achievement for the administration. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

Loans released to OFW entreps

IghT OVerSeAS Filipino workers (OFW) from the Davao region availed of loans from landBank under the OFW reintegration program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) 11 since last year. They were the fortunate few among hundreds of OFWs, either returnees or under contract, who applied for loans to start a business, said Zenobia l. Caro, chief of programs and services division, adding that many are still in the pipeline. landBank of the Phil-

ippines provides financial assistance from as low as P300,000 to as high as P2 million worth of loans that are released in tranches, depending on the type of business. Caro said that despite the seminars OWWA provides every week, some OFWs are still rejected due to some issues about their business plans and interviews with the bank. “Most of the approved applications were those that have existing businesses, contracts, and for expansion,” she added. Among the eight recipi-

ents, an OFW from Tagum City was granted P1.9 M for the construction of a commercial building. In Davao City, P1.3 M was released for trucking services or truck for hire; P600,000 for service vehicle of a ready-towear business; P610,000 for a bakery; and P500,000 for rice, corn and other cereal retailing. In Davao del Sur, an OFW was granted P665,000 for her salon business while an OFW’s wife from Caraga received P300,000 to expand the couple’s food manufacturing business.

center as big as the upcoming SMX convention center. We asked them to invest, they said yes. Now they’re here. The challenge is for us to make sure that we deliver the promise. That’s why we are going to host the MICe con here tentatively set for February 28 to March 2 next year,” he said. Showing the architectural plan of the convention center, Magnaye described the SMX center as even better than that in Manila as it has a hotel-type design, complete with carpets in its three big function rooms, which may be arranged in such a way that it can accommodate up to 4,000 people for a theatre setup. “Ang ginagawa ng gobyerno naman is to make sure that there are users ang ating convention center sa SM,” he said.

“The potential buyers will see the city and its facilities and be able to appreciate the readiness of Davao to host big events, hence the benefits will come after the MICe conference. That’s why we have to put our best foot forward during the MICe con, like having tourist buses, nice tourist destinations, a good airport, good hotels, a good convention center depending on the size of your crowd,” he said. “The objective in having the SMX is to convince participants in the convention that the city is ready to be one of their preferred destinations for their future events.” “hopefully, after that, they will return to hold their big events, stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, etc. That’s the strategy,” he said. [LORIe A.

FLOANS, 13

Next year’s MICE gathering here to boost SMX as convention center

he 2013 meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICe) scheduled to be held in Davao City will be a golden opportunity for promoting the SMX convention center inside the soon-toopen SM City Davao complex in lanang, a city official said last Tuesday. Jason Magnaye, head of the Davao City Investment Promotion Center, added that organizers are expecting some 500 but who will be the key “buyers” of the convention center. “Although, it’s not really a big convention, but the mere fact that we can bring to Davao key “buyers” mao na sila nagadecide where to hold future big events, their big conventions,” he said. “It has been our long-time dream to have a convention

CASCARO]

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 â&#x20AC;˘ MAY 20 - 21, 2012

You can now buy your favorite Business Paper from any of these establishments still at Php 15.

Koronadal

Gen. Santos Drive, Koronadal City Telefax No.: (083) 520-0816 Mobile No.: 0922-843-9427 email: manggorio09@yahoo.com

general Santos

HAVEN BODY WORKS SPA & SALON Door 5 Kaykay Baloons Bldg., Laurel North Cor. Bayabas St. General Santos City Tel # (083) 301- 1991

Tel No. (083)- 553-2211

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS DEcISIONS.

SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Another earth needed to meet humans’ demand for resources

View of the Pantanal from the Cidade de Pedra viewpoint in the Chapada dos Guimaraes national park, Mato Grosso state, Brazil.

By Alex Morales

UMANS are using resources at such a pace they need another world to meet demand for land to grow crops and forests and raise animals, WWF International said. People required 18.2 billion hectares (45 billion acres) of land by 2008, with 12 billion productive hectares available, WWF said Thursday in its biennial living Planet report. About 55 percent of land needed was for forest to absorb carbon dioxide emissions. The earth takes one and a half years to regenerate natural resources used annually by human inhabitants, WWF said. “We are living as if we have an extra planet at our disposal,” WWF International Director general Jim leape said in the report. “We are using 50 percent more resources than the earth can provide, and unless we change course that number will grow very fast. By 2030, even two planets will not be enough.” The report, which urges humanity to cut waste and use food, energy and water more sustainably, is published before a United Nations conference in rio de Janeiro next month where leaders from around the world will debate how governments can eradicate poverty while also halting the degradation of the environment. The average person required 2.7 so-called global hectares, or biologically productive hectares, to produce the resources they consumed in 2008, the most recent data available, according to the report. That compares with the earth’s

so-called bio- capacity of 1.8 hectares per person, it said. The UN has said the world’s human population passed 7 billion in October. Overdrawn account National variations ranged from almost 12 hectares a person in Qatar, which will host this year’s round of UN climate treaty talks, to less than 1 hectare in the Palestinian territories. Kuwait, theUnited Arab emirates, Denmark and the U.S. followed Qatar as the biggest per-capita users of resources. “Similar to overdrawing a bank account, eventually the resources will be depleted,” the study’s authors wrote. “At current consumption rates some ecosystems will collapse even before the resource is completely gone.” Not all the nations with the biggest ecological footprints are developed or oil-rich. Mongolia ranked 15th of the more than 140 nations surveyed because of the large amount of grazing land it uses for its cattle. Uruguay was 20th for the same reason. The study also found 28 percent of the earth’s biodiversity was lost from 1970 to 2008. The measure, which gauges the abundance of 2,688 animal species in different parts of the world, showed that biodiversity in the tropics declined by 61 percent, and in temperate regions it increased by 31 percent. The paper was prepared by WWF International along with the Oakland, California-based global Footprint Network and the Zoological Society of london. WWF, based in gland, Switzerland, is known as the World Wildlife Fund in the U.S.

International River Summit showcases CSR of sponsors T he first Philippine International river Summit hosted by Iloilo City and the Department of environment and Natural resources (DeNr) from May 29 to June 1, 2012 is a showcase of corporate social responsibility (CSr) of the private sector, especially corporate sponsors. City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the city government is giv-

ing P500,000 to defray expenses amounting to more than P7 million while private corporations foot the rest of the bill. Industrialist Manuel V. Pangilinan of Metro Pacific Investment Corp. and Philippine long Distance Telephone Co. is giving P4 million. Other corporations that pitch in to defray the expenses include Petron Corp., Smart, Japan Internation-

al Cooperation Agency, and other local businesses. Some 1,000 delegates composed of international, national and local officials, scientists and environmentalists are expected to converge here for the three-day summit to discuss environmental issues and concerns. Mabilog said he is thankful for the support of the private sector to realize the first interna-

tional river summit in the world and in the Philippines held in this southern city. The city mayor said the organizers are ready to host the summit and various committees have been created to support the summit activities. President Benigno S. Aquino III is scheduled to come as guest of honor and speaker during the closing ceremonies on June 1. [PNA]

Basin Control Office which is among the event’s proponents. “We’ll seek a policy on sustaining the summit,” he said. The government continues promoting river clean-ups as studies show waterways in the country are dying from degradation due to indiscriminate waste dumping, soil erosion, encroachment of informal settlements and other problems. Such problems are polluting the waterways, reducing water-carrying capacity of these and constricting water flow, Tud-

dao warned. “Between 60 percent to 80 percent of waste dumped in waterways are from domestic sources,” he said. he noted that waste accumulation in such waterways causes water there to overflow, submerging surrounding communities. Tuddao said cleaning up the waterways will help reduce communities’ flooding risk. “We’re therefore looking at the summit as an advocacy campaign,” he stressed. environment watchdog greenpeace earlier

lamented the state of four Metro Manila waterways -San Juan river, Parañaque river, Navotas-MalabonTullahan-Tenejeros river, and Pasig river -- noting government data indicate these “showed poor water quality.” Indicators of such quality include low level of dissolved oxygen -- oxygen that’s dissolved in water and which is essential to healthy water bodies. Authorities decided holding the summit so best practices on improving water quality and on addressing other river-related concerns can be discussed.

Institutionalizing PHL river summit sought

elegATeS to the first Philippine international river summit in Iloilo City will seek the government’s approval for holding this event every two or three years to help further raise public action on cleaning up waterways nationwide so communities can have less risk for flooding and other disasters, particularly amid the climate change which authorities project to bring wetter rainy seasons. The recommendation is among the target outputs of the summit from May 30 to June 1, this year, said Dr. Vicente Tuddao Jr. of the river

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

THE ECONOMY

Solon: Stop beef US importation

lawmaker yesterday asked the Department of Agriculture to stop the beef importation from the United States due to the mad cow disease. rep. Angelo Palmones (Party-list, AghAM), author of house resolution 2359, said the government may be exposing the Filipino consumers to the deadly disease if it will not stop beef importation from the US. “Non-importation of beef from the US at this time can better serve the interest of the consuming public,” Palmones said. earlier, U.S. authorities reported the first US case of mad cow disease but quickly assured consumers and global importers that meat from the California dairy cow did not enter the food chain. Palmones said the bovine spongiform encephalopathy or mad cow disease is fatal to cows and can also cause a deadly brain disease to people who eat food contaminated with the brain, spinal cord or digestive tract of infected carcasses. “It is the policy of the state to protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness

among them. Food safety is one of the priority thrusts of concerned government institutions to promote the health of the public,” Palmones said. At present, Palmones said food safety standards from production to handling and distribution both in local and imported food products are being observed to provide public health risk free food, including meat products. earlier, the Department of Agriculture said the government will mot impose a ban on the importation of US beef saying the incident is a case that is far from creating another mad cow havoc in the US or elsewhere. DA Assistant Secretary for livestock Dr. Davinio Catbagan said the infected animal in California has been isolated and «is now for destruction in a rendering plant.» The Philippines imports beef primarily from Australia, but also Angus beef and frozen rib eye from the US. The US is fourth on our list of beef suppliers. Out of 16 million metric tons of imported beef in 2011, the US supplied slightly over 3 million MT to the Philippines.

CELLPHONE REPAIR. To catch the attention of potential customers, a cellphone technician in the bustling Uyanguren Street calls to passers by to offer his services which includes both software and hardware repair. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

News Analysis

Mining provokes examination of people’s role in development By Al Dacumos

heAD of Manila’s efforts to put together a win-win policy designed to appease largescale miners and their stakeholders, observers are noting the burgeoning ranks of the industry’s multisectoral protesters, and wondering if the latter

are inclined at all to bring progress to the people they purport to serve. For while environmental protection may be a legitimate concern, some protesters appear to prefer conflict over consensus, demagoguery over dialogue. Mining is an industry that can ill-afford such pervasive dissonance, more so in a nation fraught with poverty and underdevelopment. A case in point was what came down in April in Surigao City. An NgO called Caraga Watch was reported to have declined a government invitation to help monitor mining activities in the region. There are some 14 mining projects currently in Caraga, said to be covering more than 130,000 hectares. The Mines and geosciences Bureau apparently took this fact seriously enough to comply with the Mining Act of 1995, which orders lgUs to set up multipartite monitoring mechanisms that include NgOs and people’s organizations. going the extra mile, MgB director Alilo ensomo was said to have told Caraga Watch that the reason for the invitation was that “you are more credible than us.” The latter’s rejection astounded not only ensomo, but industry observers keeping watch over how civil society participates in development. This is ironic for two reasons: One, this is a country that has thrown out, not very long ago, a conjugal dictatorship on the strength of people power. If Filipinos have once found it in themselves to think and act concertedly for a shared goal, how

is it that the same spirit is wanting in today’s otherwise bullish arena of community development? And two, the country’s local government Code of 1991 has ushered in a new era for citizens’ involvement in local and national progress. Section 35 states that, in partnership with government, NgOs and POs are empowered “to engage in the delivery of certain basic services, capability-building and livelihood projects, and to develop local enterprises designed to improve productivity and income, diversify agriculture, spur rural industrialization, promote ecological balance, and enhance the economic and social wellbeing of the people.” Yet even before such a Code was trailblazed by the interior department, NgOs and cooperatives in Mindanao were working closely with government and the private sector to attract investments and create jobs. When the late ramon Mitra, then the agriculture secretary in 1986, helped put together a proposal for a fishport project in gen. Santos City, little did he realize that in just a few years’ time the project would snowball into what was then called the Mindanao growth Plan. The strategy, conceptualized and grandfathered into fruition by Mitra’s successor, Carlos Dominguez, em-

Quips

braced a bigger enterprise that included building a 178-km. road network, an international airport, and modernizing a major port. All that wouldn’t have evolved into what came to be known as the Socsargen growth Area were it not for the critical contribution of NgOs and people’s organizations. The success of the Socsargen model was “largely due to the presence of leaders who are willing to make sacrifices to achieve common goals,” said Felipe Uy in 1995, who was then chair of the Southern Mindanao Federation of Agricultural Cooperatives, Inc. Uy, who presided over a federation of 32 agribusiness cooperatives, was then narrating his story to the UP los Banos-based think tank, Agricultural Policy research and Advocacy Assistance Program (APrAAP) which was then examining the Socsargen model. An Area Development Board, composed of government officials, donor representatives, NgO and PO leaders, and members of cooperatives, oversaw the Mindanao growth Plan’s every stage. “They met once a month and they take care of all the problems that come up. They actually take care of all the problems right away,” a member of the board was once quoted as saying.

‘WE have available funds and the DOH has not done its part to properly utilize it that it could benefit thousands of poor Filipinos.’

--Abante Mindanao party-list Rep. Maximo Rodriguez

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

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

EDGEDAVAO

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

Construction of P2.7B modern container terminal underway OBSCENE? A woman ignores the naked half-body mannequins that are displayed outside a shop along Uyanguren Street. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

he Davao region gets close to achieving a competitive advantage on shipping of export and import products now that the construction of the P2.7 billion Davao International Container Terminal (DICT) has started. Port operator San Vicente Terminal and Brokerage Services, Inc. managed by Antonio Floirendo Corporation (ANFlOCOr) this morning officially broke ground the construction of DICT designed to become the “most modern” container terminal in Mindanao.

ANFlOCOr President and Chief executive Officer Alexander N. Valoria pictured the container facility to be fully computerized to manage loading and unloading of as much as 200,000 container vans as its maximum capacity. “how would you imagine managing such volume without (electronic) software?” he said in an interview during the ceremonial dropping of the time capsule at Barangay San Pedro, Panabo City where ANFlOCOr builds the DICT. Targeted to get completely done

and be made operational by the second quarter of 2013, DICT is designed to have two ship-to-shore cranes, serving gearless vessels, and that it would be equipped with stateof -the art terminal operating system (TOS)to ensure faster vessel turnaround time. Valoria looks at DICT as the factor that paves the way for Davao region, and Mindanao in general, to build “global competitiveness,” providing exporters and importers a cost efficient way of shipping their products. “This will spur further the growth

and development of Mindanao,” he said. “This is the good news that President (Benigno S.) Aquino (III) is looking for,” he added referring to the recent visit of the President Aquino on May 14 in Davao City. In a separate interview during the same event, master mariner Capt. Jose Panares of Tom Shipping Management confirmed that indeed the period of loading and unloading of products would matter in cost-efficient shipping.[PIA 11/JeANevIve DURON-

to the opening of classes next month. The department has published the Suggested retail Prices (SrPs) of selected school supplies in newspapers and in the DTI website (www. dti.gov.ph) to guide consumers on their purchases and at the same time alert retailers to sell within the published SrPs. Posters on these SrPs were also disseminated to bookstores, department stores, supermarkets, and other retailers of school supplies to serve as a ready reference for consumers to easily compare brands and determine whether the goods sold are reasonably-priced. SrPs are issued by manufacturers to retailers so as to ensure market share and fair competition in the market. These guide prices include production cost, distribution cost,

and profit margins of retailers and distributors. Aside from the prices, DTI also inspects the quality and proper labelling of school supplies. Under the Consumer Act of the Philippines, or republic Act No. 7394, manufacturers and distributors are required to comply with the minimum labelling requirements which include the name and address of manufacturer, trade or

brand name, type or size of product, country of manufacture, quantity, toxicity warning, and instruction for use. Other important markings that school supplies should bear are the class of paper (econobond, book, bond) and number of leaves for notebooks and school pads, hardness symbol for lead pencils, the word “non-toxic” for crayons, and tip classification for ball pens.

Monitoring on school supplies intensified

he Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its field offices, has heightened its monitoring activities to check on the prices, supply, and quality of school supplies in big public markets, where most parents flock to get bargain deals on school items. The DTI is closely working with other government agencies such as the Department of health’s Food and Drug Administration (DOhFDA), the Department of education (Deped) and the local government units (lgUs) to keep tight watch on the distributors and retailers of school supplies such as notebooks, pad papers, pencils, crayons, and ballpens, in order to prevent unreasonable price hikes and proliferation of unsafe school items as the demand for such goods increases prior

Quips

AbANGAN]

‘OUR law is very clear on the definition of marriage. It’s a union between a man and a woman.’ --Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda

as of august 2010

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

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

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

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

6:15 6:25 6:30 7:00 8:50 8:10 8:30 9:40 10:10 12:20 12:30 13:35 13:25 14:05

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

EDGEDAVAO

PROPERTY

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

Camella Northpoint offers comfort and convenience for retirees, empty-nesters A

fter the kids have grown up and moved out of the house, empty nesters and retirees deserve to be self-indulgent. At this stage when they’re no longer burdened with child rearing, they can have a fresh start.

When it comes to choosing a new home, a condo unit is one of the most logical choices. But it can’t be just any condo community; it can only be Camella Northpoint, Camella’s landmark condo development in Davao. With Camella Northpoint, there’s more reason for empty nesters and retirees to be excited about living by themselves, as this British colonial themed condo community gives them more choices and flexibility to enjoy their new home and life. At Camella Northpoint, there’s certainly no drab living for still active empty nester and senior residents. After putting their children’s needs ahead of theirs, now is the time to pamper themselves and enjoy the luxuries they denied themselves in the past. here, they will feel like they’re living at a resort. They can take their daily exercise walking or jogging around the track, taking in the beautiful sight and refreshing scent of imported Caribbean pine trees scattered all over. They can maintain agility and strengthen their joints and muscles at the fitness gym at the clubhouse, Wakefield Manor. An overall body workout can be had by taking laps at the wellness pool with salinated water. Then they can lounge and relax at the multi-function hall with its wide windows open to a vista of lush greenery and pine-scented open spaces. At this stage in their life, empty-nesters and retirees put a premium on their overall wellbeing. This desire will

fit right in at Camella Northpoint, as its buildings are designed to principles of green architecture, allowing unrestricted airflow and natural light to come into the condo buildings that also have indoor gardens. Choosing a studio unit can give them an easy, come and go lifestyle, where dining out is an enjoyable excursion, and engaging in hobbies, outdoor activities, or meeting friends and family is the highlight of their day. They can also just enjoy each other’s company while watching their favorite TV show at home, listening to music, or cuddling up near the window to take in the beautiful green landscape, or gaze at the stars and night

lights of the city. With a two-bedroom condo home, there’s enough room when children or grandchildren visit. What’s more, Camella Northpoint’s playground, pocket gardens, open spaces, and especially the kiddie and adult pools, give children and grandchildren more reasons to visit. Units with patios can give them a special place to have that morning cup of coffee, read the morning paper, chat intimately, or do the crossword puzzle. Their wide view of the landscaped lawns, majestic pines and lush greens helps relax the mind and rest the spirit. having a one-floor home takes climbing steps and stairs away, but the younger

and more fit can take advantage of the wide, airy staircase if they want to get some exercise while going up or down the condo building. For those who prefer to save their energy, the condo’s modern elevators can take them down or up their studio unit in no time at all. What’s more, there is a shuttle service they can take going from their building to the condo gates and back. A condo home allows seamless transition between one functional space to the next, making it easy to navigate, such as living space to kitchen, or bedroom to bathroom. This is important for those who want a home that makes it easy and convenient for them to live towards their retirement. Their basic goal is to have a small, efficient space that’s comfortable for retirement years. But just because

they are approaching their twilight years doesn’t mean they have to live an outdated lifestyle. As the city’s newest premier address, Camella Northpoint is just a stone’s throw away from everything its residents need. located at the junction of JP laurel, Bajada and Buhangin road, it is accessible to all sorts of public transport and a few minutes’ drive to all their daily essential needs. They are near everything, such as hospitals, banks, airport, malls, public markets, department stores, places of worship, supermarkets, shopping and commercial areas, entertainment and recreation centers. A quaint commercial center immediately outside the condo gates gives them a lifestyle destination within walking distance. Camella Northpoint is

managed by a professional property management team that takes care of the repairs and maintenance, even offering cleaning services. There are also activities that promote good health such as aerobic sessions, swimming lessons, family day, and others that enhance community camaraderie. Condo units are even easy to acquire with special promos and discounts offered by Camella Davao at 2F Delgar Building, JP laurel Avenue, Bajada, with telephone numbers (082) 2220963 and (082) 222-5221. Camella Northpoint gives empty nesters and retirees the best of both worlds: proximity to utilities, amenities, all modern conveniences, and the excitement of living where the action is, and a home environment of calm, beauty, and convenience.

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

How competition is killing education Commentary By Mark C. Taylor

EDITORIAL

HIV-AIDS

he scourge of human Immuno-deficiency Virus (hIV)-Aids (Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome) continues to rage in the Davao region as it does elsewhere in the country and the world. government and non-government organizations have raised the alarm in our particular region simply because the figures are indeed, alarming. The people of Davao City have reason to be genuinely worried because the cases of hIV, full-blown Aids and deaths constitute 80 percent of the region’s total recorded cases. Just recently, it was also found that more than 50 percent of new cases involves gay men who have engaged in MSM (men having sex with men). Ironically, hIV-Aids is a growing problem whose solutions have long been identified. The solutions, already tested to be very effective, are captured in the acronym “ABC.” A for abstinence from sex, B for loyalty to one’s spouse, and C for condom use. The solutions, it would seem, are not as

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village. Printed by Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. 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

OLIVIA D. VELASCO General Manager

ALBERTO DALILAN Managing

NEILWIN L. BRAVO Sports and Motoring ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

easy as ABC. Why? Because most people can be so obstinate as to insist on doing what they want, come what may. They find it extremely difficult to abstain from sex, be loyal to only one partner and to use condom regularly. That the influential Catholic Church is against the use of condom is not helping the fight against the scourge any. In fairness to the Church, it has never been known to be influential enough as to stop its flock from engaging in extra-marital sex even before the invention of condom. The do-gooders and their allies in government just have to try harder to convince everybody of the real danger in contracting this incurable disease. The campaign must be able to help them rein in their excessive libido or, if that’s not possible, at least practice safe sex. In Davao City, where the lgBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community has a palpable and influential membership, their leaders and members should launch a no-nonsense campaign to educate their peers without delay. lives are at stake. 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

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

OMPeTITION, we are constantly told, encourages individuals, institutions and companies to take the risks necessary for innovation and efficiency. But in higher education, competition often discourages risk taking, leads to overly cautious short-term decisions, produces a mediocre product for the price, and promotes excessive spending on physical plants and bureaucracies. The construction arms race on campus is the most visible example of competition run amok. To become more attractive to potential consumers, many colleges and universities undertake overly ambitious expansions. In some cases, new facilities contribute to educational programs, but too often they are tangential and trap institutions in a costly cycle: The new athletic center, dorm or student center starts to look faded when competing schools open theirs, and it never ends. It’s about “keeping up with the Joneses,” an official at Wright State University said in a Dayton Daily News article last fall detailing why colleges in Ohio were spending hundreds of millions of dollars on student centers and other nonacademic attractions in a down economy. In georgia, state legislators are reviewing questionable practices used to fund 173 projects to build student housing, parking garages, stadiums and recreation centers. Private universities with large endowments often start the cycle. Schools such as harvard University and New York University, for example, take on billion-dollar debts. In a trickle-down effect, less affluent schools also feel pressure to borrow and spend -- money they do not have. gaming the System This is not the only cause of financial difficulties, but it makes them worse. richard Kneedler, who was president of Franklin and Marshall College in Pennsylvania for 14 years, estimated in 2009 that an astonishing two-thirds of the 700 private colleges he studied were at risk of financial failure. Obsession with school rankings is another way that competition has warped higher education in the past few decades. College presidents, administrators and professors dismiss the importance of the U.S. News and World report survey and other ratings, but they are always looking for ways to gain advantage. I’ll give an example from Williams College, where I taught for 37 years. A decade ago, the new president conducted a review of the school’s tutorial program, which was modeled on one at the University of Oxford. The tutorials consisted of eight to 10 students who met with a professor weekly in groups of two to three to discuss papers they had written. The new administration opted to expand the tutorials -- a choice based on more than academics. Williams had dropped from first to third in the U.S. News rankings, a matter of concern on campus and among alumni. One way the school could reclaim its top position was by reducing overall class size and decreasing the faculty-student ratio. When the faculty voted to increase the number of tutorials, the administration changed its accounting system without announcing it. A tutorial consisting of 10 students, for example, that met three times in groups of three or four counted as three classes. Maybe it was a coincidence, but within a couple of years Williams was again No. 1 on the U.S. News list. Doctoral Degree glut graduate schools also try to game the ratings system, and their competition is global. every year, leading research universities anxiously await the Academic ranking of World Universities, the World’s Best Universities: Top 400 and the Times higher education World University rankings. These lists affect the recruitment of top students and the level of financial support. Schools engage in bidding wars for so-called star faculty who are supposed to bring prestige to graduate programs and help attract lucrative private and government grants.

EDGEDAVAO

O V I N g FrOM ONe eXTreMe TO ANOTher – Two months on, the situation is vastly more complicated. In some ways, the country’s banana industry is in deep trouble. For all those findings and the surprising decision of the Chinese government banning the importation of Philippine produced Cavendish bananas, the news could hardly be better. This is a perplexing times in a country famous for exporting bananas. Banana growers and exporters from the Davao region are the most directly affected by the ban. It is here in the region where the banana industry took its root in the mid-60s, and Tagum Development Corporation (TADeCO) help pioneered in the banana growing and export business. hardly a day goes by without the news of yet another uncovering of a disease infecting bananas being produced and imported from the Philippines by the Chinese authorities. Concerned Chinese government agencies concluded that the new discovered virus in Philippine bananas posed as health risk to its millions of consumers. But the most troubling development is the unexpected ban imposed by China resulting to the indefinite impounding of hundreds of tons of Philippine bananas which are beginning to rot right now in several Chinese ports. The ban would mean terrible losses in terms of dollar revenues on the part of Filipino banana growers and exporters. however, many of our people are more sensitive to crucial issues linking the ban to the current tension between the Philippines and China over Panatag Island or the so-called Scarborough Shoal situated in the West Philippine Sea. But it is rather unfortunate that the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI)

N their solitude the lawyers of impeached Chief Justice renato Corona must have regretted the day they announced that he would testify on the $10-million allegation if the Senate would summon Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales and the complainants to testify under oath. Did Corona’s lawyers simply resort to psywar? Was the announcement, made by Atty. Jose roy III, a mere bluff? If so, it proved to be a costly one for the Chief Justice based on Carpio-Morales’ detailed testimony on the movements of Corona’s accounts. The defense was reacting to the Ombudsman’s order for Corona to explain in writing how he amassed wealth, which was “grossly disproportionate to his salary and other lawful income.” Carpio-Morales, testifying on May 14 as a hostile witness, showed documents that the chief magistrate had eighty-two dollar accounts in Manila banks and a report from the Anti-Money laundering Council (AMlC). republic Act 9160 as amended by republic Act 9194 (Anti-Money laundering Act) requires banks to report to AMlC

Monkey Business

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

Perplexing times in the banana industry

quickly reacted claiming that the allegation is far-fetched considering the ban was already implemented a month before the stand-off between the two countries. right now, the most intriguing question raised by the affected sector is why the ban took effect at the height of the conflict. everywhere we turn, harsh critics and doubters are looking for evidence that the current “tension” between the Philippines and China plays a larger role in the ban. What to do? In the meantime the government says there are ways we all can do to cushion the impact and dampen the tough situation caused by the ban. Some of the advice may sound terribly unfamiliar, but perhaps it has fresh reasons to follow through – advancing the idea for the growers and exporters to look for new markets. The idea may be more of a problem rather than a solution especially in the early stages according to the Davao-based Philippine Banana growers and exporters Association (PBgeA) during a hurried press briefing. The present leadership and concerned government agencies have a commitment to help the banana industry, but when it comes to a plan what to do first, it’s less clear. What they always have to bear in mind is the fact that the banana export market is not very good at this point in time because of the ban imposed by China, one of the country’s biggest importers of Philippine bananas. It should be no surprise that the PBgeA prefers to think that with the government’s present stand, it seems they’re moving from one extreme to another. It’s clear that the government idea offers very little comfort to the disgruntled banana industry. here’s why. Aside from the Middle east, China and other Asian nations, the next export destination would be the US, Canada and the rest of North America. The daunting problem in eyeing these countries as new market prospects relates to the very nature of staggering costs of freight. Moreover, part of the problem aside from

the excessive cost of freight, which could probably double or maybe even triple due to the distance is the competitors from South and latin American countries. The growers and exporters of these countries are pumping huge capital outlay in agriculture and focused primarily in planting Cavendish bananas. Banana exports notably those coming from Brazil, Costa rica, Columbia and Peru is deluging the North American markets. With the present condition, it is therefore disheartening to note that Philippine banana growers and exporters had a very slim chance or maybe no chance at all to compete in these prospective areas. Such sentiments resonate loudly – especially considering that the country is currently in a critical financial situation. The PBgeA, at least, seems aware of the danger lurking ahead. In fact, it was the perception among noted economists and financial analysts that with the ban imposed by China, the country’s banana industry right now becomes unstable. The current crisis has focused the minds of those directly involved in the industry on the impending socio-economic problems confronting the banana export sector. A certain amount of anxiety is always present in the banana export industry because the ban would highlight a looming economic debacle and massive unemployment. The debates now range from narrow to broad: what impact will the indefinite ban have on one of the country’s top dollar-earner? eyeing a new market as the government would rather suggest only put the country’s banana growers and exporters in a bad competitive situation. In the short-run, the banana industry is likely to see a slight worsening in its current operations because of China’s “retaliatory” ban. And for the country’s banana export business to fully emerge and recover after the diplomatic confusion, government on the other hand has to hastily address their concerns.

within five working days any “suspicious transaction” involving an amount of over P500,000 within one banking day. Aside from [his] dollar bank transactions of $10 million between April 2003 and December 2011, the AMlC report showed that Corona had peso bank transactions involving P242 million between April 2003 and February 2012. Ombudsman investigators said that less his and his wife’s income, Corona’s “total possible unexplained wealth” could reach over P677,000,000.

disbelief, the defense did not know what hit them. roy’s statement after Carpio-Morales had testified implied that they had wrongly anticipated what the Ombudsman had to offer. It seemed that the defense just wanted to heed the growing clamor for Corona to take the witness stand. They failed to consider that while they can question the admissibility of the AMlC report they may not be able to change the impression it has created in the minds of the senator-judges, particularly the non-lawyers. Moreover, even if the allegation concerning the dollar accounts were not included in the impeachment complaint, the existence of such accounts as shown by the AMlC report has reinforced public perception that Corona had been less than truthful in his statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SAlNs). If and when Corona takes the witness stand, he has to explain the ocean of discrepancy between his SAlNs and the amounts in his bank accounts. If he says he owned the money, he has to convince the senator-judges that he obtained it through legitimate means. If he says it’s not his, then he has to divulge the real owner and explain why it was deposited in his name. [H. Marcos C. Mordeno writes mainly on the environment, human rights, and politics. He can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail.com]

To catch a falling crown

‘Did Corona’s lawyers simply resort to psywar? Was the announcement, made by Atty. Jose Roy III, a mere bluff?’

Carpio-Morales’ revelations stunned even the prosecutors themselves. Congressman Niel Tupas, lead house prosecutor told reporters that while they believed that Corona had [undisclosed] bank accounts, they did not think the amount involved was this big. If Tupas was bewildered to the point of

Can we retain privacy in the era of Big Data? oPInIon

By Don TapSCoTT

rIVACY is nothing if not the freedom to be let alone, to experiment and to make mistakes, to forget and to start anew, to act according to conscience, and to be free from the oppressive scrutiny and opinions of others. It may seem an odd notion today, but in its infancy the Internet was a favorite refuge for many seeking privacy. A famous New Yorkercartoon published almost 20 years ago featured two dogs sitting in front of a computer, with one saying to the other: “On the Internet, nobody knows you’re a dog.” Today such anonymity is essentially non-existent. Practical obscurity – the basis for privacy norms throughout history – is fast disappearing. Our society is collectively creating, storing and communicating information at nearly exponential rates of growth. Most of this data is personally identifiable, and third parties control much of it. This personal data will be archived online forever and be instantly searchable, and few appreciate how many ways this data might be used to harm us. Yes, likely someday there will be norms, laws and practices governing the responsible use of all this data. But practically, these do not exist today. There is little guarantee that personal information you share from social-media sites is locked down or will not be used in ways that harm you. Much of it can be searched and retrieved by anyone on the Internet, including employers, law enforcement officials, public-sector agencies, infomediaries, lawyers, the press and anyone else who may be interested in the data. When this data is assembled into profiles, matched with other information and used to make (automated) judgments about (and decisions affecting) individuals – such as in hiring them or admitting entry, calculating benefits or terms of an offer, or corroborating a claim – then the effects of privacy loss include discrimination, especially if the data is inaccurate. Young people are being denied that dream job simply because they didn’t understand they needed to be careful about what they posted on Facebook. Ninety percent of all employers access young people’s social-media pages when they are considering an application. Seventy percenthave rejected people based on what they found. Some employers demand that job applicants provide socialmedia IDs and passwords as a precondition to hiring. College applicants are being rejected because of their Facebook Newsfeed. Facebook postings have been deemed admissible by courts during litigation. And in some cases privacy settings won’t help – information you have restricted to close friends can be discoverable. Privacy is important to our concept of the self and our relationships with others. even though the human condition requires connection, we also need to feel confident that we can be alone and unwatched when we want to be. Says privacy advocate Ann Cavoukian: “We are social animals who seek contact with each other, and we benefit from sharing information appropriately. But we also seek moments of solitude, intimacy, quiet, reserve and private reflection. These interests have co-existed for centuries and must continue to do so, for the human condition requires both.” The tension between these needs is a subject of much discussion among psychologists and psychiatrists, described well in Masud r. Khan’s collections of essay entitled The Privacy of the Self. The book discusses our need for living in a community with others but at the same time our want and need to preserve our unique individual selves.

COMMUNITY SENSE

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

‘Brigada Eskwela’ 2012 focuses on sanitation T

he 5th year conduct of the National Schools Maintenance Week or “Brigada eskwela” gives emphasis to the importance of health and sanitation in schools. Dr. eunice Atienzar, “Brigada eskwela” focal person of the Department of education-11 yesterday said that the weeklong nationwide synchronized activity on May

21-26 will strengthen the advocacy and awareness on health and sanitation. Aside from minor repairs and preparations for the school opening on June 4, “Brigada eskwela” will also involve construction and repairs of toilets in all elementary and secondary schools, Atienzar stated. “So we will be able to look at the value and give importance to health and

sanitation,” she said, urging parents to help in this endeavor to elude their children from getting sick. She said various stakeholders from all sectors in the society are expected to converge and participate in this yearly bayanihan strategy that Deped has institutionalized in an aim to ensure that “public schools are ready to receive students when school opens.” Atienzar said Deped has been mobilizing parents, teachers, students, civic and business groups, religious organizations, local government units, non-government organizations and other community residents in the annual school maintenance program. She said they are expecting a 100 percent participation of all public schools including schools in remote areas in Davao region. Deped personnel from nine Divisions have been deployed to reach out to far flung schools, she added. Atienzar reiterated that joining the activity is voluntary, and emphasized that it is not a prerequisite for enrollment.

EDGEDAVAO

HERITAGE

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

National artist for music

NCCA celebrates centennial of Prof. Felipe Padilla de Leon

he National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) celebrates the 100th Birth Centennial of Felipe Padilla de leon, National Artist for Music (May 1, 1912- May 1, 2012). Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III signed Proclamation No. 283, declaring May 1, 2012 to April 30, 2013 as the Centennial Year of National Artist for Music Felipe Padilla de leon. likewise, the house of representatives has issued for the same purpose house Joint resolution No. 25, introduced by house Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., Congressman Neptali M. gonzales II, Congressman edcel C. lagman, Congressman Salvador h. escudero III, and Congressman rodolfo W. Antonino. Composer, conductor, scholar and cultural educator Felipe Padilla de leon launched his calling at a time of passionate striving for nationhood during the Commonwealth period, Japanese occupation and the post-war Philippine republic, he stood out most prominently as the champion of Filipino cultural dignity and identity. he always depicted what is noble, exalted and heroic in the Filipino, taking as his subjects the momentous events and symbols in our history and celebrated their deepest meanings through music. hence, he wrote the first full-length Filipino opera based on Dr. Jose rizal’s novel of social realism, “Noli Me Tangere” (1957), with libretto by another National Artist, sculptorlinguist-Filipinist scholar guillermo Tolentino. he followed this up with another opera, again based on a rizal masterpiece, “el Filibusterismo” (1970). Two arias from this opera, “Kay Tamis ng Buhay” and “Awit ni Sisa” are now part of the international operatic repertoire. right after liberation, de leon composed the symphonic poems “Cry of Balintawak” (1947) and “Bataan” (1947). Central to his idea of recognizing Filipino cultural worth is his consistent use of folk and ethnic themes as the basis of his compositions, for these themes – created by the people themselves – are the essential symbols of Filipino musical heritage.

Quips

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

Felipe Padila de Leon – National Artist he celebrated folk ideas by integrating their character in his most serious compositions as well as popular but artistic and well-crafted works. his art song “Kay Selya” (1950) breathes the very spirit of the traditional awit. his “Muntawit” Song Sonnet for Voice and Orchestra (1950) encompasses an epic breadth of moods and feelings while strongly retaining the character of indigenous musical forms. his well-known “Sapagkat Mahal Kita” (1952) could be mistaken for a traditional harana because of its highly popular style. his Filipinization of musical genres included zarzuelas, overtures, suites, chamber works, choral music, concertos, piano solos, band music, film music, children’s songs and Christmas carols. his carols “Pasko na Naman,” “Noche Buena,” and “Payapang Daigdig” have become so popular they have acquired the immortal status of folk songs. his genuine concern for the Filipino musicians’ welfare led de leon to gather band musicians in the country into one solid organization – the Pambasang Samahan ng mga Banda sa Pilipinas (PASAMBAP) – whose aims, among others, were to protect the welfare of Filipino band musicians and promote Philippine band music. he was also the founding presi-

‘WE are not like banana leaves that sway where the win blows. The Lakas party is a strong and sturdy tree with deep roots being proGod, pro-people, pro-Philippines and pro-environment.’ --Senator Ramon Revilla Jr.

dent of the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (FIlSCAP), to protect the legal rights of composers. During his prodigious lifetime, Maestro de leon was the most prolific composer of musical masterpieces that powerfully expressed the nation’s ideals, historical struggles and majestic destiny. For his outstanding achievements, he was well-recognized during his lifetime and continues to receive tributes from our people. National Artist Felipe Padilla de leon was proclaimed National Artist through Proclamation No. 1115 on October 9, 1997 by former President Fidel V. ramos in recognition of his rare excellence and significant contribution to Philippine music. In celebration of his 100th Birth Centenary, the NCCA shall present a Musical Concert entitled: “Sa Daigdig ng Musika ni Felipe Padilla de leon: Celebrating the Centenary of a Cultural Visionary.” On May 28, 2012 at the Philamlife Auditorium at 7:00 pm, with the Manila Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Prof. Arturo Molina, eminent pianist Dr. raul Sunico, violinist Alfonso “Coke” Bolipata and other performers. likewise, a Memorabilia exhibit in his honor shall be opened at 10:00 at the NCCA gallery, lobby, NCCA Bldg., 633 general luna St., Intramuros, Manila. The commemorative stamp in his honor will also be launched by Philpost Chairman Cesar Sarino and Philpost Postmaster general Josefina de la Cruz during the program.

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: 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

NATION/WORLD

NATION BRIEFS

Not rape

Panamanian embassy official accused of raping a Filipina finally broke his silence, as he claimed that what happened that night was consensual sex and not rape. erick Bairnals Shcks, a member of the technical and administrative staff of the Panama Maritime Authority, told Yahoo! Southeast Asia in a phone interview Friday that he did not force the alleged victim, tagged as “Pamela”, to have sex with him.

Convinced

hIlIPPINe President Benigno Aquino convinced protesters to abort plans to sail Friday to a disputed South China Sea shoal as he sought ways to resolve a tense stand-off with China. A group of about 20 people, led by outspoken former Philippine Marine officer Nicanor Faeldon and including television crews, was all set to depart to Scarborough Shoal from the northern coastal town of Masinloc.

Abortion

27-year-old woman died after undergoing a failed abortion in a clandestine clinic at a condominium in Pasay City Wednesday afternoon, police said yesterday. According to a police report, Jay Vanessa Yamson asked her mother, Janet, to accompany her for a medical check-up. They went to Unit 817 of the Park Avenue Mansion, where the alleged doctors were waiting for them.

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Lady Gaga warned T to tone down show l

WORLD TODAY

ADY gaga was warned Friday to refrain from nudity, lewd conduct and blasphemy when her Asian tour reaches the Philippines next week, after her controversial act was banned by neighbouring Indonesia. Antonino Calixto, mayor of Manila’s Pasay district where the American pop phenomenon is due to perform on May 21 and 22, said inspectors will be on hand at the venue to ensure she does not overstep the mark. “We reminded the producers of lady gaga’s concert that the show and the event as a whole shall not exhibit any nudity or lewd conduct which may be offensive to morals and good customs,” he said in a statement. “Although we respect artistic and musical expressions, I won’t allow anyone or any group to provide acts which may be questionable in (any) way.” lady gaga has already faced opposition elsewhere on the Asia leg of her tour, including in In-

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11TH JUDICIAL REGION Branch 12 Davao City

IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR RECOGNITION OF THE FOREIGN DIVORCE BETWEEN TSUYOSHI KAMATA AND RITCHEL A. ROILES SP. PROC. NO. 11, 912-12

donesia where police denied her show a permit amid threats from Islamic hardliners. Calixto said religious groups in the Catholicmajority Philippines have expressed concern over the show and that City hall was Friday picketed by several dozen members of a Bible study group offended by lady gaga’s “Judas”. The group claimed the song “mocks and blasphemes the name and person of the lord Jesus Christ, who is the central figure of each faithful Christian in the country”, Calixto said. Ovation Productions, the promoters of the Manila concert, told AFP its president renen de guia was unavailable for comment Friday. On Wednesday lady gaga’s Indonesian promoters vowed to fight to save her show, despite police denying it a permit and Islamic hardliners threatening “chaos” if she came to the mostly Muslim nation. Production company Big Daddy said it still hoped to find a way to hold the June 3 event after already selling more than 50,000 tickets to a concert in Jakarta. The Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) said it would

create havoc if lady gaga were allowed to perform in Indonesia, calling her the “devil’s messenger” and warning they were ready to die to stop the concert. In March the Korean Association of Church Communication vowed to take action to stop young people from being “infected with homosexuality and pornography” during the star’s concert in Seoul.

But the star has so far failed to tone down her performances. In Seoul, hong Kong and Tokyo, she rode on to the stage on a mechanical horse, wearing a black bodysuit and an enormous black metal headpiece. After Manila, the tour heads to Bangkok and Singapore. She was due to play in Jakarta after that, before flying south to New Zealand and Australia. [AFP]

x---------------------------x ORDER This is a verified petition for Recognition of the Foreign Divorce between Tsuyoshi Kamata and Ritchel A. Roiles, filed by Ritchel A. Roiles, assisted by counsel, praying that upon due notice and hearing, judgment be rendered judicially confirming and recognizing the Divorce obtained in Japan involving the Petitioner Ritchel A. Roiles and Tsuyoshi Kamata. Finding the verified petition to be sufficient in form and substance, set the hearing of this petition on June 7, 2012 at 8:30 a.m. WHEREFORE, Petitioner is hereby directed to cause the publication of this Order at her expense, in a newspaper of general circulation in the City and three (3) provinces of Davao, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks.

Likewise, let a copy of this Order be furnished the Local Civil Registrar, Davao City. Any person interested or who seeks to oppose the instant petition may appear to state why the petition should not be granted. SO ORDERED. Davao City, Philippines, April 17, 2012.

SUMMER DANCERS. A dance group calling itself as Unit-X Gensan performs some acrobatic moves to the delight of guests and visitors of the ongoing Sarangani Bay Festival celebration in Gumasa. The group won 1st

runner-up in the summer dance showdown “Hataw sa Tag-araw” held Friday morning. [COCOy SexCION/ SARANGANI INFORMAtION OFFICe]

Uncertain

lIND Chinese legal activist Chen guangchengsaid on Saturday he has left a hospital in Beijing, where he has been for the past three weeks since he sought refuge in the U.S. embassy, and was waiting at the airport. Chen said he believes he will be headed on a flight to the United States, but added he was still uncertain of it. The departure of Chen and his family would mark the removal of a sticking point in already difficult U.S.-China relations that have been marred by China’s handling of human rights. The U.S. embassy was not immediately available for comment.

United

rOUP of eight leaders agreed in their initial discussions at Camp David on Friday that Iran needs to disclose more about its nuclear ambitions and that it was time to focus on a political transition in Syria, a U.S. official said. The leaders, including newly elected French President Francois hollande and russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, also stressed North Korea needed to adhere to international norms on nuclear issues and said it would face more isolation if it “continues down the path of provocation,” the official said.

Petitioner is further directed to furnish the office of the Solicitor General a copy of this petition.

(EDGE 5/14,21,28)

Chance

o n t r o v e r sial Wikileaks founder Julian Assange stands a real chance of winning an upper house seat in his native Australia if he presses ahead with plans to stand for election, according to a poll. A survey conducted by the ruling labor party’s internal pollstersUMr research and published in the Sydney Morning herald newspaper showed 25 percent of those polled would vote for the whistleblowing website chief.

RITCHEL A. ROILES, Petitioner

(sgd) PELAGIO S. PAGUICAN JUDGE

Convicted

he former rutgers University student convicted of hate crimes for spying on his roommate’s gay tryst is drawing support from a surprising group before his sentencing on Monday: gay advocates. Tyler Clementi, 18, committed suicide in 2010 after learning that Dharun ravi used a computermounted camera to see him kissing his older man in their dorm room and used social media to encourage others to watch.

Pressed

growing chorus of world leaders on Friday pushed for a shift toward more pro-growth policies to help ease a european crisis that threatens to oust greece from the euro zone and reverberate throughout the global economy. Setting the tone for a weekend g8 summit, President Barack Obama aligned himself with the new French president’s drive for more economic stimulus in recessionplagued europe, in a swipe at the tough austerity programs that have been spearheaded by german Chancellor Angela Merkel.

EDGEDAVAO

Region...

Many...

FFROM 1 678,783 pieces of public school furniture in the region; 478,580 in public elementary schools and 200,203 in high schools. The shortage in furniture are chairs, tables, cabinets, among others. To mitigate the shortages, the education department has implemented since 1998 the Adopt-aSchool Program and part of this is Brigada eskwela held before the opening of classes. In the region, Brigada eskwela will be held from May 21 to 26, before the enrollment period. “We are encouraging everybody, even if you do not have a brother, sister, or child who’s attending a public school to please join Brigada eskwela. We need everyone in the community to help our public schools for the children’s education,” Atienzar said. “With a sound environment, when they’re comfortable, the children would find it easier to learn. Please help our public schools,” she

FFROM 1 added. Atienzar said there will be activities of classroom and furniture repairs, painting, cleaning, and other forms of environment improvement. To kick start the Brigada eskwela week, Atienzar said Tagum City Mayor rey Uy will be given a plaque of appreciation on May 21. “The award is from the education Secretary Armin luistro, in appreciation of Mayor Uy’s ‘Care for School Chairs’ program which has delivered more than 40,000 chairs in and out of the region,” she said. Atienzar added that the award will be given by Deped 11 regional director Susana Teresa estigoy through an opening ceremony attended by teachers from all over the region. Volunteerism Brigada eskwela should be viewed as ‘purely for volunteerism’, Atienzar said as she addressed issues attached to the activity. Atienzar admitted that she has heard reports of

parents complaining that if they do not join in the Brigada eskwela their children will not be enrolled. “This is not true. Joining in Brigada eskwela is not mandatory. We object to this kind of action. This goes the same for teachers, as I have also heard that if they do not join in Brigada they will be marked absent. Again, the activity is purely for volunteerism,” she said. The Deped officer added that teachers should not accept cash donations. “This is prohibited. We are making it clear that Brigada eskwela only accepts donations in kind. everytime that money is brought into the picture nagkaka-problema lang. It also destroys the spirit of volunteerism which is what Brigaga eskwela’s suppose to be,” Atienzar said. “Donations of paint, paint brushes, or other materials would be most welcome, but most importantly is the people presence from the community, working together” she added.

The OFW reintegration program was launched last year during Migrants’ day in Manila, said Caro, adding that some business proposals still waiting in the pipeline include internet café, commercial building, agricultural products, public utility jeepneys, and piggery. Migrants’ Day The OFW entrepreneurs will be presented on

Migrants’ Day on June 7 as mandated by republic Act No. 8042. During this event, there will be a joint one-stop processing of applications with the Philippine Overseas employment Administration while representatives from other government agencies that provide social services will also attend. The Department of Trade and Industry 11 will conduct

lectures on product and services development, as well as franchising, among other topics while the Technical education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) will give skills trainings and demonstrations. expecting some 1,000 OFWs on Migrants’ Day, OWWA 11 is still finalizing details of the event. [LORIe A.

By Jade C. Zaldivar

that the only way to attain a genuine and lasting peace is to work together with all sectors thus, to put an end to insurgency.” “The AFP joins this event to demonstrate that we are of one goal - Peace and Development,” he added. Monkayo Mayor Brillantes manifested that “attaining peace requires intensive and harmonizing efforts where each one must take an active role in peace building.” The marchers also expressed their commitment for peace thru a symbolic lighting of candles as an emblem for “Bayanihan” to achieve peace and development. last May 16, three persons were reported injured by a landmin explosion in Sitio Maripon, Baranggay Paradise embac, Paquibato district, this city.

Victims were two government troops identified as Staff Sgt. Nepomuceno Danga and Cpl. robert Aquino, both members of the 69th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army while another injured was a civilian identified as rosita Pardillo. The victims are undergoing treatment at the Panacan Station hospital. The blast went off at 9 a.m. as soldiers from the 69th IB aboard a civiian vehicle escorted by two motorcycles were on their way to a detachment in Sitio Maripon, Barangay Paradise embac. Following the landmine explosion, the insurgents immediately opened fire at the government troops who returned fire, forcing the rebels to withdraw.

Loans... FFROM 2

Dev’t. volunteers join march rally in Comval

eACe and development workers conducted a “March for Peace Towards Development” in Monkayo, Compostella Valley last March 14. The march, participated in by over a thousand people and culminated at the Monkayo Freedom Park, was the result of their a 3-day peace building seminar conducted May 12 to 14, said the 10th Infantry Division (ID) Public Affairs office. “This march for peace seeks to introduce audacity in the hearts and minds of the people in Monkayo,” said Joel Caballes, executive assistant of Monkayo Mayor Manuel Brillantes. “This is to denounce insurgency, persuade everyone to be part of the solution and a call for lasting peace and development,” he added. lt. Col. Cesar Molina, commander of 25th Infantry Battalion, said the participants of the march “represent the united voice of the people who believe

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

Quips

CASCARO]

‘THIS is a historic moment for us, since the Comelec is no longer in the way of our journey to victory in the elections, the way it used to.’

-Ladlad party-list chair emeritus and college professor Danton Remoto, who said he will run for senator next year representing the lesbian, gay, by-sexual and transgender (LGBT).

in the homes of our relatives we do not feel at home. We always feel like strangers,” himonda said in an interview at the Philippine Information Agency. “Some members of YAMAN were victims of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse by relatives. having your parents with you is really different from being left with your relatives and sometimes even with friends of OFWs. We need love and care from our parents,” she added. himonda added that some Anak OFWs also have “low grades in school, become internet or computer game addicts, trust only their friends, and perform rebellious acts.” Mindanao Migrants Center for empowering Actions Inc. (MMCeAI) executive di-

No more... FFROM 2

armchairs. Involving two politicians Jumao-as also mentioned that with the implementation of eO 23, two high ranking government officials in Davao Oriental were reported as being involved in illegal logging in

rector Inorisa Sialana-elento said there should be “support from the local government for children of OFWs.” “When you talk of OFWs, please also talk about their children. Although the concept is not new, there has yet to be a specific provision from the local government on the welfare of the children of OFWs,” she said. “Since 2008, we have handled seven rape cases. Three were abused by a close friend of their parents to whose care we were left, or their neighbors while four were abused by their grandfathers or uncles. Iba pa yung na-receive naming reklamo na nakaranas ng pisikal na pang-aabuso,” she added. MMCeAI has invited Anak OFWs to join their summer camp slated May 26

the area. Without naming them, he said the community environment and natural resources office is still verifying the alleged involvement of the two politicians before reporting them to the Department of Interior and local government (DIlg). he noted that the purpose of naming the region-

to 28 to be held at lantaw Bukid, los Amigos, this city. “We will be having enjoyable activities as well as counseling which will provide them with practical learning as they face their daily lives as Anak OFWs,” she said. “Although we can say that parents leave the country in order to provide for their family, the children should not be left confused about their situation. They should continue to receive affection even in the absence of their parents. This way they grow up to be productive citizens of the country,” she added. For more information about the Anak OFW Summer Camp, the MMCeAI may be contacted through tel. no. 299-0374 or through mobile no. 0947-966-4091.

al director of DIlg as vice chairperson of the anti-illegal logging task force is so that politicians who were involved will be referred to the department for investigation. If proven guilty by the DIlg, any official involved in illegal logging will be removed from his or her post, he added. [LORIe A. CASCARO]

SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

EDGEDAVAO In Britain

WORLD TODAY Serving a Seamless society

You can now buy your favorite Business Paper from any of these establishments still at Php 15.

Davao

Tulip Drive, Ecoland, Davao City

F. Torres St., Davao City Tel No. 227-3773 - (72) Fax: 295-3485

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS DEcISIONS.

Olympic torch relay starts

AND’S eND, United Kingdom—Sailor Ben Ainslie was the first torchbearer as the Olympic flame began its 70-day journey around Britain and Ireland on Saturday ahead of the 2012 london games. The flame arrived in Britain from greece on Friday and was flown to land’s end, the southwesterly tip of england, on Saturday by a royal Navy helicopter before it was used to light the torch for the start of the 8,000 mile (12,875-kilometer) relay. Ainslie, who has won gold medals in sailing at the last three Olympics, then walked just 300 meters, allowing some of the 3,500 spectators lining the route in the morning sunshine to touch the gold-colored torch. The yachtsman, wearing the number 001 on his T-shirt as the first torchbearer, then passed on the torch to 18-year-old Anastassia Swallow, a surfer who is hoping that her sport will one day become an Olympic discipline. Ainslie, who on Friday won a sixth world title in the Finn class as he prepares for an attempt to win a fourth Olympic gold, said it had been a special moment for him to start the relay in his home county of Cornwall. “It was pretty emotional, so much effort has gone into getting the Olympics in london and it means so much to everyone involved,” he said. On its first day, the torch will be carried through Cornwall to the city of Plymouth. Over the next 10 weeks, 8,000 people will carry the torch as it makes its way around the United Kingdom and heads for the Olympic Stadium in east london for the opening ceremony on July 27. It will travel through 1,019 cities, towns and villages and visit landmarks such as Stonehenge. From June 3-7, it will go to Northern Ireland and then the republic of Ireland — the only country outside the United Kingdom on the torch route. No overseas legs of the relay have been planned this year after those before the 2008 Beijing games was hit by protests against China. The flame was lit in Ancient Olympia in greece on May 10 and was handed over to the British delegation in Athens in a rain-blighted ceremony on Thursday.

INdulge! EDGEDAVAO Obama, Hollywood remember Donna Summer

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

ARTS & CULTURE

DONNA Summer’s musical influence went all the way to the top.

“Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Donna Summer,” President Barack Obama said in a statement today regarding the disco legend’s death from cancer at 63. “A five-time Grammy Award winner, Donna truly was the ‘Queen of Disco.’ Her voice was unforgettable, and the music industry has lost a legend far too soon. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Donna’s family and her dedicated fans.” Amen, sir. And the tributes are still pouring in from Summer’s friends and fellow entertainers of all stripes. “I mourn Donna Summer’s death but celebrate her life,” tweeted Newark Mayor Cory Booker. “She shared her gifts with the world and left it enriched by her artistic genius.” “I am so saddened to hear about the passing of Donna Summer,” said American Idol champ Kris Allen, who sang “She Works Hard for the Money” during his winning season. “I didn’t get to meet her in person, but I did have the privilege of singing one of her songs on Idol and

it was one of my favorite songs to perform on the show. The music world has lost a legend and she will be greatly missed.” “RIP Donna Summer. glorious disco Goddess,” added Allen’s runner-up, Adam Lambert. “Rest in Peace dear Donna Summer. Your voice was the heartbeat and soundtrack of a decade,” tweeted Quincy Jones. “I’m so sad about the news that Donna Summer died this morning. I was a big fan. I even used one of her songs in my show that airs today,” noted Ellen DeGeneres. Tweeted Taraji P. Henson: “*singing* “She works hard for the money so you better treat her right” - Donna Summer RIP to the disco diva. Aaaawww man....*tears*” “Rest in peace, Donna Summer. You worked hard for the money, hot stuff. Now go to MacArthur’s Park and get that cake out of the rain,” wrote Broadway star Lea Salonga. “When I was starting I toured frequently with Donna Summer as her opening act, I’ll never forget the sheer power of her voice or her kindness,” Gary Shandling remembered. “So sad about Donna Summer,” Nicole Scherz-

inger tweeted. “My prayers and condolences to her family. We love you queen of disco. I know ur shining down on us from heaven.” “Wow, another legend gone. Rest in peace to the beautiful disco queen Donna Summer,” Nicki Minaj wrote. “Deepest sympathies go out to Donna Summer’s family today. We lost the soundtrack of the 70’s.. never forgotten,” Vanessa Williams wrote. “Responsible for ALL disco / house style music including American

Boy,” Estelle noted. “Thank you for doing it so I could do it. #RIPDiscoQueen.” “Big loss 2 day w/ Donna Summer passing,” added Pitbull, who also linked to her tune “I Feel Love.” “36 years on and nobody ever made a better record than I feel love. RIP Donna Summer,” tweeted the band Ladytron. “My thoughts and prayers go out to Donna Summer’s family,” wrote Reba McEntire. “I will miss her but she will live on thru all her wonderful music!”

“Another one of my vocal idols has passed... RIP Donna Summer,” mourned Fergie. “’... Last dance , last chance , for love’ - Donna Summer/ goddess,” quoted Erykah Badu. “The queen of disco may have passed on but Donna Summer’s legacy will live on forever! Tonight my las tdance [sic] is in honor of you!” add-

ed Kelly Osbourne. “Few singers have impacted music & the world like Donna Summer!It’s the end of an era.Peace& prayers 2 all who loved her,” tweeted Gloria Estefan. “Very sad news, about Donna Summer. R.I.P!” tweeted Boy George. “Oh no. :-( we lost another legend. RIP Donna Summer. So sad,” wrote Naya Rivera. “So sad about Donna Summer!!” Watch What Happens Now host Andy Cohen tweeted. “The Queen of Disco will forever bring me joy w/ her booming, beautiful, optimistic voice.” “Donna Summer RIP. I promise to do u proud,” Kristin Chenoweth vowed. “My deepest condolences got out to the family of Donna Summer regarding the passing of a true legend,” wrote Bret Michaels. Offered a candid Slash: “RIP Donna Summer. She was the Queen of Disco no doubt. Although I pretty much loathed Disco, I always thought she was pretty cool.”

The Business PAPER

You can now buy your weekly paper fill of in-depth business news and features from any of these establishments still at Php 15.

Jose Abad Santos St., Corner Arellano St., Tagum City 8100 Philippines Tel. No.: (084) 216-3003 Cell No,: 0939-243-8539

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS DECISIONS.

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

Twin events

EVENTS

Zion, Edge Davao h T

OP business leaders, government functionaries and professionals, m e d i a practitioners and news makers were among some 150 people who attended the formal launch of Edge Davao as a daily and the Sapphire anniversary (5th year) of Zion Accuprint Publishing Inc. at the Lotus Court and Jade room 2 of the Marco Polo Davao last Thursday (May 17).

Among those who attended were local tycoon Uy Ching Siong of DIMDI, Manuel “Bobby” Orig of AboitizPower, Arthur Garcia, Dr. Willie Torres of the

General Manager Olivia D. Velasco

Bobby Orig of Aboitiz Power

Ross Luga of Davao Light and Power

Joji Ilagan - Bian ICHEF

Cris Rivera, Domini Del Rosario, of Pearl Farm Beach Resort

Angelica Garcia of Edge Davao Manila

n 2 loyal employees,

University of Mindanao, Joji Ilagan-Bian of the IlaganBian Group, Art Milan and Ross Luga of Davao Light, Jon-jon Ramirez of Cortes Printing Press, Davao Doctors Hospital President and CEO Raymund Cho-Santos del Val, Davao Doc marketing officer Geralyn Somozo, Rotary International District Gov. Leoncio “Nonoy” VillaAbrille, Joe Custodio of JV Custodio, Alvin Capinpin of SGV, Val Dionisio of Motormall Davao, Marlon Escalicas and Ann Dela Peña of Camella Vista Land, and Dr. Pilar C. Braga of the Davao City Council, Eric Dela Costa and Jessa Sisi of Alsons Development and Investment Corp., among others. Earlier, the invited mayors and governors who had accepted the invitation begged off due to a national gathering in Manila and sent their representatives, instead. The twin events were highlighted by the awarding of the two companies’ top 5 clients and advertisers and two loyal pioneer employees. The top clients and advertisers are Camella, represented by Marlon, DMMA College of Southern Philippines received by Mara Picar, SM City Davao, represented by Apple Legario and Alexandra dela Pena, National Nutrition Council received

too

by Regional Coordinator TeresaUngson and Consulate General of Indonesia, represented by Ater Kasilinsina. The Awardees received gift certificates entitling them five full color one -fourth pages of advertisements worth P30,750.00. The loyal awardees were Cheree Pajarillaga and Zaldy Boy Nemenzo. Ms Olivia D. Velasco, stressed on the need for players in the printing and publishing industry to cooperation, echoing the advocacy for “coopetition,” for competition and cooperation, and this was a lot more advantageous to all than ruinous rivalry. Velasco cited as an example the success story of the PIADI (Printing Industry Association of Davao, Inc) Multi-purposes Cooperative headed by Eladio Aviola. Echoing a similar theme, Antonio M. Ajero, said all media establishments – newspapers, radio stations and television, will soon have digital or social media as a point of convergence because this is the platform that is fast-growing to be the platform of preference of all audiences. ICT-Davao, Inc. execu-

Atty. Ed and Tes Batacan

Emelda Lee of Edge Davao

Merci G. Duduaco Uraya Land Art Milan DLPC

Adi Quisido of MinDA

Mae Puyat of NGCP

Mae Sanchez, Michelle Alcomendras of Primer Group of Companies

Gary Mañalac PS Bank

CHEERS! Participants led by the comp of Edge Davao and Zion Publishing.

tive vice president Eriberto “Bert” Barriga Jr. as guest speaker described the Digital Age Newspaper Reader. (We share the first batch of the events’ photo coverage by Karlos Manlupig and Leandro Daval Jr. on this spread).

Uy Ching Siong of DIMDI

Gel Ferrer of Accendo Commercial Corp.

Lolit Duran of ABS-CBN

Addie Borbon EdgeDavao columnist

DAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

INdulge! A3

honor 5 top clients Editor in Chief Antonio M. Ajero

pany directors gave a toast to the success

Neil Bravo MC

Mara Picar (DMMA College of Southern Philippines) receives award from Ms. Olive and Tony Ajero

Nick and Nina Partoza of Dabaw Print

Gabby and Marissa Atega of Midtown Printing

Marlon Escalicas,General Manager of Camella Communities

Teri Ungson of National Nutrition Council

Marlon Escalicas, Anna Randy V. Bañas of Mae Dela Peña of Camella KairoSolution Inc. Communities

Directors Jocelyn Panes, Olivia D. Velasco and Antonio M. Ajero present the gift certificate to Alex Dela Peña and Apple Legario of SM City Davao

Ater Kasilinsina of Consulate General of Indonesia

Imelda Magsusi of DCWD

Alexandra dela Peña SM Davao

Jocelyn Lorenzo of Retail Specialists, Inc.

Dr. Pilar C. Braga Jenny Loyola, Apple Legario, Lara Tonogbanua and Kaye San Juan of SM City Davao City Councilor

Val Dionisio Alvin M. Pinpin of Motormall of SGV and Co. Davao

Sol Matalam, Pong Iosipescu and Noel Daquioag

Michelle Robin- Bacsal of ABS-CBN

A4 INdulge! ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

Charlize Theron: My adoption plan had been in the works for 28 years! WHEN Charlize Theron said it had been her longtime dream to adopt a baby, the new mom wasn’t exaggerating. In fact, 28 years ago — when the South African-born actress was just 8 years old — she told her own mother she wanted to adopt. “My mother found [a letter I wrote]. It said, ‘Would you please take me to orphanage, so that I can go and adopt a baby?’” the “Snow White and the Huntsman” star tells the Australian magazine Madison. “I always knew I would adopt. Always.” Enter Jackson Theron, who she calls “Jacks,” the baby boy she brought home earlier this year following a domestic adoption. Theron adopted her son as a solo parent after ending a long-term relationship with Irish actor Stuart Townsend in 2010, though she has recently been linked to“True Blood” star Alexander Skarsgard, with whom she is said to be casually dating. “You know, I don’t think any mother aims to be a single

mom. I didn’t wish for that, but it happened.” Jacks is accompanying Theron across Europe as the superstar promotes her fairytale flick, “Snow White and the Huntsman.” Most recently, the mother and son duo have been in Madrid, where Theron and her co-star Kristen Stewart appeared at a photo call. Before the press event, the Oscar winner brought Jacks — who was barefoot and sporting a simple green onesie — to Casa Lucio restaurant, where she grabbed a bite to eat. The actress, who has several movies lined up, including “Prometheus,” which comes out in June,

and at least three more in the works — also talked to the Aussie mag about her work ethic. “I don’t like pretentious sh-t,” she says. “I like being around people who like to live life and understand the value of it. I need to be around people who understand we’re not curing cancer here. I like professional actors who show up, do the job, and are not a pain in the ass to either myself or the crew… A professional actor does their homework beforehand and they do their job. Then when it’s all said and done, they have a beer with the crew. That’s what a professional actor does.”

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

DAREDEVILS. National Team rider Joey Barba takes his bike on midair during the final jump of the Downhill race event of the Davao Summer Games National Mountainbike Challenge in Maa Team Davao Range on Saturday. Barba finished runner-up to cousin JR Barba in the Open Elite class. Christian Apostol of Davao (right) also shows fine form in winning the Expert category. (bOy LIM)

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

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service.

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service.

VICTORIANO YEE, JR., Petitioner Case No.2011-XI-00355 x- - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE HEARING

ELIAS C. PANCHO, Petitioner Case No.2002-XI-00964 x- - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - -x NOTICE HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on November 06, 2012. In the petition filed on May 2, 2012, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular Service on the route: LASANG VIA SASA ROUTE and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which certificate will expire on June 05, 2012. In the petition filed on March 27, 2012, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 30, 2012 at 02:00 p.m. at this office at the above address.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 30, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, FIVE (5) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 2nd day of May 2012 at Davao City.

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 27th day of March 2012 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transport Development Officer

/hoc Copy furnished: Petitioner, Victoriano Yee, Jr. Purok Sto. Niño, Dumanlas, Buhangin, Davao City Counsel, Atty. Gilbert G. Abellera, #64 VirgoMars Sts., GSIS Subd., Matina,Davao City NOTE: Affidavit of Publication and newspaper where notice was published must be submitted three (3) days before the scheduled hearing.

/hoc Copy furnished: Petitioner, Elias C. Pancho, Davao Empress Subd., Panacan, Davao City Counsel, Atty. Charlemagne B. Aldevera, Rm., 201, 2/F, Davao Consultant Center, Sandawa Plaza, Davao City NOTE: Affidavit of Publication and newspaper where notice was published must be submitted three (3) days before the scheduled hearing.

LAKERS DRAW THE LINE

Lakers beat the Thunder 99-96 in Game 3

OrTY-two free throws is a lot of free throw attempts. Forty-one free throws made is a lot of makes. The lakers got one, made the other, and walked out of Staples with a win in game 4, 99-96. We can talk about a lot of things. The way that the lakers attacked the Thunder defensively, once again doing damage to russell Westbrook who has been unable to find his jumper

since game 1. We can talk about Pau gasol giving more effort even if he wasn’t that assertive offensively. We can talk about Kobe Bryant hitting one clutch shot late (and missing two with a turnover), and all his free throws. We can talk about a lakers defense that on two key plays forced the ball out of Kevin Druant’s hands and into Serge Ibaka‘s, and then forced a tough 30-foot three-point-

er. it.

These were all part of

But really? It was the free throws, a 42-28 advantage for the lakeshow. good, bad, ugly, they were what they were. You can argue that the league hates small markets and that the lakers won because David Stern pushed some magical button. You’ll be an idiot, but you can say that. You can argue

that the lakers were more aggressive and earned those calls. But considering the lakers drew six shooting fouls in the second half to create 27 free throws and that the Thunder drew six shooting fouls to create 14, it doesn’t really hold up. You can argue it was the lakers’ size advantage, but the fact don’t bear that out, nor do they bear out that they were all bad fouls.

There are a lot of reasons why the Lakers beat the Thunder 99-96 in Game 3 of the Western semifinals, but it’s hard not to put Los Angeles’ 41 free throws made at the top of the list.

SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 55 • MAY 20 - 21, 2012

Phl riders stamp class in DH race By Neil Bravo

ational Team mainstays Jr Barba and cousin Joey Barba survived a tough course and a very tight competition to finish 1-2 in the premier Open elite class of the Davao Summer games National Mountainbike Challenge at the Maa Team Davao range on Sunday. After finishing only fourth

in the seeding run, Jr Barba came back strong in the final run, unleashing his true form to snatch the title in the Open elite class. Jr clocked 3 minutes 15.27 seconds over the 2.6-kilometer Devil’s Track layout. earlier, he negotiated the same distance in 3:25.22 on a soggy track after Friday’s heavy rains rendered the field a virtual trail of mud. Jr Barba, the country’s no.

Koronadal

HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS DEcISIONS.

1 Downhill rider from Dumaguete City, won P15,000 for his feat. Joey Barba came in second a little over a second behind in 3:16.72. his effort was worth P10,000. Davao’s Dinan recaborda salvaged Davao pride with a strong third place finish in 3:17.97. In the expert category, Christian Apostol of Davao City won the title in 3:23.60. Cebu’s galvin galan finished second in 3:33.41 while Davao’s Arnel rodriguez was third in 3:33.88. In the executive class, Joshua garcia, Sr. of gen. Santos City won the title with a clocking of 3:48.28. he bested renax lim of Cagayan de Oro (3:53.87) and Davao’s Jeff Babol (3:55.22). Dave Unlay of Davao’s BONe Club won the Masters title in 3:33.28 besting Kim Salcedo (3:46.47) and Jay Aba-a (3:49.35). Vincent Marasigan of Davao topped the Veteran’s class in 3:25.72 while eric John Decena (3:35.16) and Jeff Te (3:40.56) finished 2-3. In the Juniors class, gen. Santos City’s Jimboy limboran topped the race with 3:34.59, raul Tabil was second in 3:45.38 and Cebu’s Marco Michael riwan went third in 3:55.84. The bikefest was the biggest Downhill race ever staged in Davao City. It serves as one of the major highlights of this year’s Davao Summerfest organized by Duaw Davao Festival Foun-

EDGEDAVAO

FLYING BIKE. Galvin Galan of Cebu whips his bike in the air during the final jump of the Downhill race event of the Davao Summer Games National Mountainbike Challenge in Maa Team Davao Range on Saturday. (bOy LIM) dation. BONe Club of Davao is the official race organizer. The Summerfest is backed up by Davao light and Power Co., SM City Davao, International

Pharmaceuticals Inc., h2Zero, Nature Spring Water and official IT solutions provider AMA Computer College Davao. The second stage of the

bikefest is the Cross Country race set Sunday in an out and back course measuring 32 kilometers from Maa and back via Barangay lanngub.