Edge Davao 5 Issue 7 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

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Davao eyed next film-making hub

Indulge! Page A1

By Jade C. Zaldivar

HE Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), responsible for bringing the fourth installment of the Hollywood Bourne series to the country, is promoting the city to become a future location for similar movie-making ventures. An official from the FDCP yesterday said the city is ideal as a filming location.

“We are enthusiastic about making Davao City the next film location for big productions. We want to break the concentration of filmmaking in Metro Manila. The question shouldn’t be ‘Why Davao?’ but ‘Why not Davao’. Davao is very beautiful,” said Peter Philip Lat, coordinator of the upcoming Davao International Film Festival set in June this year. “It’s very peaceful in Davao, the people are friendly, it’s clean, the lo-

cal government is cooperative, there are a lot of untapped talents, and geographically there’s a lot to see. May bukid, may dagat na malapit,” Lat said in an interview at the city hall. Lat, a Dabawenyo himself, said the FDCP is eyeing the city as a future “film hub” in Mindanao, reason for their decision to invest on a film cinémathèque here estimated to cost P1.5 million worth of renovation and construction.

DCPO is under me. If I say ‘Do not move’ they will not move) But seriously, I do not need a private army,” she said. The allegation came up after several ACU personnel were caught extorting money from motorists, specifically habalhabal drivers. The mayor confirmed the incident Ftiday, adding that PSCC chief Magno Adalin had given his assurance that the erring personnel would be punished. Police auxilliary

The mayor explained why the ACU was created, saying this stemmed from the DCPO’s lack of personnel. “Years ago the request came from the police. The need for force multipliers came from the DCPO kay kulang daw sila ug tao,” she said, recalling that several years ago there was an appeal from the DCPO requesting the city government to finance additional personnel, however once installed the additional personnel were utilized for other functions as driv-

‘I do not need a private army’ - Sara Falling Page 14

AVAO City Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio says she does not need hired guns. “Dili na nako kinanglan ug private army,” she said during her weekly press conference yesterday, referring to loose talk that the Anti-Crime Unit (ACU) under the Public Safety Command Center (PSCC) is the mayor’s private army. “Ang Davao City Police Office (DCPO) ako na tanan. Kung muingon ko nga ‘Ayaw mo ug lihok’ dili na sila mulihok. (The

FDAVAO ,13

FI DO, 13

Sports Page 16

Follow us on NO TO DEMOLITION. This old man is said to be one of urban settlers opposing the development of Le Jardin Subdivision in Maa. They alleged that heavy equipment escorted by security guards attempted to demolish their shanties in the

area. The head of the guards allegedly pointed a gun at them. When reporters and photographers arrived in the scene, the guards and the equipment were no longer around. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

More women joining AFP M

ORE and more women are joining the military, sharing their collective expertise for the good of the organization, the country and the Filipino people. Armed Forces chief of staff Lt. Gen. Dennis D. Dellosa even cited the increasing role of women in celebrating the International Women’s Month in the predominantly male military organization. This year’s national celebration of the women’s month circles around the theme, “Women Weathering Climate Change: Governance and Accountability, Everybody’s Responsibility.” It is the government’s recognition of the renewed role of women in environmental, political, and other social reforms. Today, the AFP has 1,054 female officers and 2,905 female personnel who enjoy the same privileges, facilities for growth and achievement in defending the freedom that their predecessors have fought for and won with their lives. There are women com-

bat pilots in the Philippine Air Force (PAF) where it was dominated by men before. “Our female soldiers’ role in engaging various stakeholders (is) to cooperate and participate in our internal security operations,” Dellosa said. He said women sol-

diers were also involved in the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan as well as in disaster response and relief operations. Dellosa said that women soldiers excelled in their field duties and assignments. “We have female soldiers who are performing well in

combat operations. They are physically and mentally resilient and can cope with the harsh conditions in their field of duty,” Dellosa said. Recognizing the potentials of women, the Philippine Military Academy (AFP) opened its gates to the first female cadets in 1993.

LandBank loan releases reach P40.5B in 2011

AND Bank of the Philippines on Friday said it released P40.5 billion in loans to small farmers and fisherfolk last year, up 25 percent from P32.3 billion a year earlier. “We continue to intensify our efforts to

effectively address the financing needs of our agro-fishery sector.” LandBank president and CEO Gilda Pico said in a briefing Friday. The loans were channeled through 979 cooperatives and 367 countryside financial

institutions. More than 900,000 small farmers and fisherfolk benefited from the bank’s credit assistance, according to the state-owned lender. Loans for crop production surged by 17 percent to P20.9 billion from P17.9 billion. Mar-

FMORE, 13

keting loans increased by 52 percent to P12.9 billion from P8.5 billion. Other economic activities financed by the bank are livestock, fishery activities, agricultural services, fixed assets and manufacturing.

EDGEDAVAO

POEA: Beware of fake recruitment e-mails

HE Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has advised job seekers to ignore e-mails coming from certain “international companies” saying that they are selected for a job. In a statement, POEA Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac said an e-mail congratulating an applicant for being selected for a specific job he or she did not apply for reeks of a recruitment scam. “When you post your resume to a job search site, you are opening your personal data to potential employers, and even scammers, so be careful,” Cacdac warned. He said the e-mails promise employment in hospitals and caregiving establishments in Canada and the United States at almost no cost to the applicants but they have to pay for “medical tests and interview coaching” in the Philippines. Cacdac cited the case of a certain Fraser Health which “recruits nurses and

Guingona urges LGUs to beef up disaster preparation

O avert future disasters and boost government’s capacity to promote human security, Senator Teofisto “TG” Guingona III is urging local government leaders to beef up their disaster preparation and mitigation plans throughout the country. Guingona made this appeal to local government unit (LGU) leaders a year after the tsunami tragedy struck Japan which claimed more than 15,000 lives and damaged properties amounting to more than US$ 15 billion last year. “Improving our strat-

Quips

SAVE MORE. Allan Flores, operations manager of Save More, said that their newest branch in Bangkal, which will operate starting March 17, is

It figures

14percent DROP in the bottomline of Aboitiz Power Corp. year-on-year in 2011 to P21.2 billion from P25 billion. This translated to an earnings per share of P2.94.

$77.77billion

ANOTHER record high foreign exchange reserves of the country in February, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in a report. The latest gross international reserves (GIR) is an indicator of the country’s ability to service its debts to foreign creditors, pay imports and engage in other forms of commercial transactions with the rest of the world, BSP said.

their 70th branch nationwide. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

P1billion THE required minimal capitalization of a life-insurance company to be raised over a four-year stretch. This is also the amount of capitalization required of a non-insurance company.

NUMBER of big business groups which are opposed a ban on mining. The Philippine Chamber of Commmerce and Industry (PCCI), the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), and the Philippine Exporters Confederation (Philexport) issued a joint statement which called on the administration to consider a “judicious, rational and developmental approach to minerals development.”

caregivers” for supposed employment in Canada. Upon verification, the real Fraser Health in Canada denied the e-mail came from it. The fake company uses free e-mail accounts at hushmail.com whereas the true Fraser Health uses its domain name fraserhealth.ca. Cacdac said the comeons offered by the fake company could be hard to refuse for some Filipino workers looking for overseas jobs. The e-mail said applicants would not be charged any placement or processing fee, and the cost of air fare and work visa would be paid by the employer. However, the catch is they have to pay P3,750 for “Canadian Embassy Interview Coaching” and medical tests costing up to P5,000. “Because the company is not real, the victims are unnecessarily spending hard-earned money in pursuit of non-existent jobs,” Cacdac said. [PNA]

egies to prepare for disasters could save lives and minimize economic losses. Our country is prone to natural calamities and the local governments should be well-equipped in preparing and handling disasters. Filipinos must also be well-informed and empowered on how to react when facing different calamities,” Guingona said. He emphasized that local leaders should help their respective communities to plan for, and adapt to the impacts of natural and man-made hazards. [PNA]

‘IF I have my way, we will finish the Palace-endorsed Amla (Anti-Money Laundering Act) amendments as soon as we can. But many senators have voiced reservations and concerns over the amendments.’ --Senate Ponce Enrile

President

Juan

155percent P6.6billion PERCENTAGE of growth in government subsidies to governmentowned and –controlled corporations (GOCCs). The subsidies rose to PP53.7 billion last year. It was higher than the P21 billion in subsidies during the previous years.

AMOUNT involved in the initial public offering (IPO) approved by Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC), the listed-investment company of Gotanianun Group, of East West Banking Corp, it flagship banking subsidiary.

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

Gov’t mining review sets off fierce debate T

HE government’s bid to take a greater share of mining revenues amid the global commodities boom has set off a storm of debate, with industry mounting an intense campaign to knock it down. President Benigno Aquino had intended to sign an executive order endorsing the regulations to raise taxes on the mining sector at the end of last month, but delayed it as opposition from industry’s biggest players raged. Nevertheless, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, a key driver of the plan, has continued to insist Mining Inc. does not pay enough taxes, and that other reforms are needed to improve what is a chaotic and often unregulated industry. “In the past, the way the laws were implemented, it was not a true win-win situation where the government was able to get its fair share from mining activities,” Purisima said shortly after the signing deadline was missed. Purisima told reporters that the government collected a mere two billion pesos ($47 million) from the industry in 2011 compared with about 1.2 trillion pesos in national tax collections, or just 0.17 percent of total taxes. “You really have to ask yourself whether the way we’re implementing (mining policy) is a responsible way of harnessing the wealth of the country,” he said. One of the key draft provisions in Aquino’s proposed executive order that was leaked to the press in Febru-

ary was a fresh five-percent “royalty tax” on the market value of the minerals produced. But Peter Wallace, an advisor for foreign investors, said at a nationally televised forum on mining this month that the Philippines already had some of the highest taxes on mining in the Asia Pacific. Wallace and other mining advocates argue there are many taxes on the industry and other business costs the government does not take into account when making its case for more revenues. “If we make it higher, we won’t get the investments. We won’t get the mines. Maybe that is the idea,” he said. The leaked executive order also called for much stricter environmental requirements, with agricultural land, ecotourism sites and other sensitive areas to be closed to mining. But industry chiefs say the sector is already complying with stringent safety and environmental requirements. They charge that the real environmental, social and economic problems in the industry rest with the hundreds of thousands of unregistered “small-scale miners” who collude with corrupt local officials. The small-scale miners typically do not pay taxes and do little to safeguard the environment, often destroying mountainsides and sending dangerous chemicals such as mercury directly into waterways. The Philippines is believed to have some of the

Mining: A divisive issue.

biggest mineral reserves in the world, but they have been largely untapped due to poor infrastructure, security issues, a strong anti-mining movement and a range of other reasons. The government estimates the country has about $840 billion in gold, copper, nickel, chromite, manganese, silver and iron, and this figure could go higher once further exploration is carried out, mining bureau

chief Leo Jasareno said. Yet, only 31 major mining companies are operating in the country, focused mostly on nickel, gold and copper. “We have barely scratched the surface of our country’s mineral wealth,” Jasareno told AFP. Chamber of Mines president Philip Romualdez said last week that industry feared the government’s reform plans had given am-

munition to the already very strong anti-mining lobby, which includes the powerful Roman Catholic church. “They are riding on the issue. Cesar Purisima is playing into their hands,” Romualdez said. However anti-mining groups are concerned that industry’s intense lobbying campaign, which has seen a barrage of press conferences and full-page advertisements in newspapers, may

lead to a weakening of the planned reforms. “The president is beginning to feel the pressure of the mining industry,” said Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of the Alliance to Stop Mining. Purisima and other government officials have not indicated what changes there will be from the leaked executive order, if any, nor said when Aquino would endorse a new one.

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

opening Mayor backtracks on 911 OIC Savemore branch in Bangkal

By Jade C. Zaldivar

AYOR Sara DuterteCarpio has reversed her earlier appointment of a new Central 911 officer in charge (OIC). The mayor clarified during an executive meeting of department heads and consultants held Sunday evening where it was decided to assign a team of consultants led by someone from the mayor’s office to oversee operation of Central 911. Duterte-Carpio last Friday revealed her plan for Central 911, the city’s emergency response unit, to undergo extensive audit during which a ‘transition team’ will take over. Heading the ‘transition team’ is newly appointed Central 911 OIC Emmanual Jaldon, former City Tourism action officer. Jaldon was formerly a top executive of Coca-Cola Bottlers Philippines before he was appointed a co-terminus employee of former city mayor, now vice mayor, Rodrigo Duterte under the City Tourism Office. “He has background in management. He was action officer, then he was recalled as employee of the city mayor’s office. Okay ang iyang performance,” Duterte-Carpio said. The mayor clarified her earlier reported appointment of Pepito Capili, saying the latter will maintain his position as officer in charge of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and

In IGaCoS

Management Council, a unit under Central 911. Transition team Duterte said Jaldon will be backed by two consultants, one to oversee operation for emergency medical services while one will focus on Central 911’s call center. To oversee the emergency medical services is Antonio Boquiren, presently chief of staff of the 22nd Infantry (Ready Reserve) Division, Army Reserve Command of the Philippine Army; technical consultant, Human Resource and Organizational Development of the Office of Davao Oriental Governor Corazon; and part-time faculty of the School of Business and Governance of Ateneo de Davao University. Boquiren was a professional management practitioner for 29 years, from 1970 to 1999, and had worked for seven private companies (two American-owned, and one Filipino conglomerate) in six industries (electronic data processing, pharmaceutical sales, consumer goods marketing, industrial equipment marketing, transport leasing, corporate security/executive protection). He started consultancy work from 1999 to the present involving implementing rules and regulations of the Watershed Code; the Traffic Code of Davao City under Councilor Pilar Braga; and the Solid Waste Management of Da-

gupan City. Mayor Duterte-Carpio said she cannot yet announce the consultant assigned to the Central 911 call center as the person has not yet confirmed her appointment. “Among others naay problem sa call center, so there will be one consultant assigned there. But she has not yet given her confirmation so dili pa nako masulti ang pangalan,” she said. Audit The mayor said an audit of the Central 911 is needed to pinpoint its deficiencies and to verify complaints. “Well, actually there were all kinds of problems. I asked the team how we were going solve the and we agreed there should be an audit. Only then can we know the expanse of problems so we can start fixing them,” Duterte-Carpio said in the dialect. “There will be an audit of everything: finance, budget, management, equipment, personnel, among others. This will be done by a third party, preferably from the academe so there’ll be no bias. There might be issues on impartiality should the auditing team come from the mayor’s office,” she added. The auditing team will be given one month to finish while a meeting will be held by the appointed transition team and Central 911 personnel. “We intend to talk to all 911 personnel on Wednes-

day. Itapok silang tanan,” she said. Not institutionalized Among the things that cropped up during an executive meeting held, the mayor said the body discovered that “there is no law creating the 911.” “During the discussion it turned out na walay basis ang creation sa 911. There’s no law. There’s never been any paper creating the 911. What everyone knows is that it’s a unit under the city mayor’s office,” she said. The Central 911 is “neither an office or a department, she bared” “Karon ginapangita nako tanan, unsa pagsugod, kanusa nag-sugod katong agreement with Globe and Smart. It turns out nga ,well na-create siya, then ni-dako nga ni-dako ang unit. Hangtod nagbuhat sila ilahang structure diha sa SIR, hangtod nagbuhat sila ug chief operations officer,” she said. She added that “every problem will come out once the auditing is finished.” Asked if she would want the Central 911 to become an institution, the mayor concurred. “It will be for the best kung ma-institutionalize gyud para naa tay reference date for operation and naka-specify ang function on paper,” DuterteCarpio said. “If it’s a matter of legislation then we will refer it to the City Council,” she added.

ing areas. This is implemented under a barangay ordinance approved by the City Council. Recently, members of the Isama tribe led by Datu Octaviano Colong bared a threat of demolition of their homes by private investors, particularly in Sitio Pigasaan, Barangay Tambay, Barangay Balet and Barangay Camudmud last February 15, 22 and 29. When asked by reporters for clarification about investors in the area, Galvez said, “That accusation is malicious because the barangay has identified the area as area

that should be free from residential structures. The city was just there to implement relocation site.” Colong earlier said the coastal areas on Samal island are part of their 80,135-hectare ancestral domain. However, the tribe’s application for Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) has been undergoing processing since its filing in 2007. In Pigasaan, 17 families were asked to vacate the area, which Galvez said is not private property but belongs to the State. “Coastal areas are danger zones,” he said,

adding that the government’s concern is a public welfare issue. He noted that the areas mentioned are not the first coastal settlement the city government is relocating, but “one sequel of a series of relocations” such that the first was in Babak with 300 informal settlers. “We are not contesting their claim of ancestral domain. What we are concerned about is the public welfare. We are mandated by the local government code to implement relocation sites for settlement areas that are within the danger zone, to provide

‘No investments allowed to locate in coastal areas

By Lorie A. Cascaro

ITY Administrator Cleto Galvez, Jr. of Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) said yesterday that no investor will be allowed to occupy the coastal areas of the island because there is an existing barangay ordinance that identifies fish landing areas. Speaking in Kapehan at SM City Davao, Galvez said under the city’s program in 2000 called the Coastal and Marine Water Zone Plan (CMWZP), 31 out of 46 barangays declared as coastal areas should identify fish land-

FNO, 13

RINGING SM Davao nearer to Dabawenyo homes, Savemore will cater to household and retail shoppers when it opens a branch in Bangkal, Davao City on Thursday, March 15, said Allan Flores, operations manager. Savemore, which was launched in 1999, is part of the SM Food Retail Group which is smaller than a supermarket but offers similar quality products and customer services, said Ariel Angni, store manager. “It is a chain of grocery stores located outside SM malls to bring SM shopping experience closer to shoppers, with excellent customer service. It complements a regular SM supermarket and caters to last-minute purchases of day-to-day needs,” Angni said. Savemore Bangkal will be the 70th outlet nationwide, and the company aims to have 100 out-

lets by the end of the year. Another outlet will be opened in Davao City, two or three more in Cagayan de Oro City and another one in General Santos City, Flores said. With the existence of Savemore stores in barangays and subdivisions, he added, consumers can save on transportation cost. It will also be easier for SM patrons to complete their shopping activity in a short period of time, Angni said, adding that the store provides special services such as free fish cleaning, and has a wide variety of products, including fresh meat, seafoods, vegetables and ready to cook items. Flores noted that Savemore also provides employment to communities as the company has an average of 200 employees so far and will still be hiring when more outlets open soon. {LORIE A. CASCARO]

CHED allays fears on unified system

HE Commission on Higher Education has addressed fears and concerns on the proposed Davao Regional State University System (DRSUS) and its impact on existing state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the Davao Region. Secretary Patricia Licuanan of the CHED allayed concerns of the proposed amalgamation during a meeting attended by the governing boards of the four SUCs under the DRSUS bill; presidents, faculty, student and private sector regents/ trustees together with the representatives of regional agency offices, Senate and Congressional committees on Higher Education held last March 2 in Davao City. “The total budget for Davao Region SUCs shall not be divided equally among the four institutions,” Sec. Licuanan assured the audience. “USEP and the state colleges’ budget can only increase with the Regional University System given the stimulus funds earmarked by the Department of Budget and Management for

Quips

institutions willing to amalgamate as a University system; autonomous units shall still have their own budget and sufficient operational autonomy,” the Secretary added. The proposed DRSUS is contained in House Bill 5311 filed by Davao City 3rd district Representative Isidro Ungab which seeks the amalgamation of the region’s four SUCs; namely the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP), Davao del Norte State College, Southern Philippines Agribusiness and Marine Aquatic School of Technology or SPAMAST and the Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology. Sec. Licuanan assured that academic programs under the DRSUS would improve and will not be indiscriminately closed. She said that the CHED is laying down the foundations for amalgamation to enable people in the four SUCs to work together instead of competing with each other and prevent them from being caught flat footed.

‘UNFORTUNATELY in the past, the way the laws were implemented, it was not true winwin situation. The government actually was not able to get its fair share from mining activities.’ ART. SM City Davao officially opens their Araw ng Dabaw spectacles including the Artists for Earth which features the paintings and sculptures of Davao artists like Rey Fuentes, Maximo Labandero, Abe Garcia, Jong-

jong Tangiday, Dantoi Pintor, Obet and Joey Acyatan with the special participation of Kublai Millan. [KARLOS MANLUPIG]

--Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima

EDGEDAVAO

Stat Watch

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

3.5% 4th Qtr 2011

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

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

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

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

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

P 43.65 Dec 2011

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

3,999.7 Sept 2011

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

128.1 Jan 2012

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.9 Jan 2012

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.4 Dec 2011

16. Visitor Arrivals

284,040 Sept 2011

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

19.1% Oct 2011

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

6.4% Oct 2011

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

2011

2010

2009

Average December November October September August July June May April March

43.31 43.64 43.27 43.45 43.02 42.42 42.81 43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52

45.11 43.95 43.49 43.44 44.31 45.18 46.32 46.30 45.60 44.63 45.74

47.637 46.421

February

43.70

46.31

January

44.17

46.03

47.032 46.851 48.139

48.161 48.146 47.905 47.524 48.217

48.458 47.585 47.207

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

NEDA closely monitors oil prices W

ITH oil prices continuing is sky-high increases and transport groups threatening to stage massive transport strikes, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) assures the public that the government remains vigilant and mindful of the renewed volatility in the prices of petroleum products. “Petroleum products are considered as input costs to production and in transporting people and goods that ultimately affect headline inflation. Given the substantial impact of a very high oil price, reasonable and timely implementation of programs and projects are vital in maintaining stable consumer prices while ensuring continuous supply of goods and services,” NEDA Director General Cayetano W. Paderanga Jr. said after

the National Statistics Office (NSO) reported that the headline inflation in February 2012 was the country’s lowest since October 2009. Headline inflation rate is the percent change in the average prices of goods and services commonly purchased by households, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). “For the first two months of 2012, the headline inflation averaged ate 3.3 percent, which is within the Philippine Development Plan’s target of 3.0 to 5.0 percent,” Paderanga said. The Cabinet official noted that prices of all major commodity groups recorded slower price upticks last month, except health, which remained at 2.8 percent, and the very slight increase in the prices of recreation and culture. Mean-

while, the communication index posted a 0.1 percent price reduction compared with the 0.2 percent decline in January 2012. “Prices of food and alcoholic beverages, which comprise 39 percent of the CPI, increased at a slower rate. The Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) reported that prices were generally stable in Metro Manila from February 22 to March 01 on account of abundant supplies of fresh farm products at wholesale markets,” Paderanga said. Citing data from BAS, the NEDA chief said that continued flow of supplies from various domestic production sites resulted in significant year-on-year contractions in the average prices of red onion (-53.5% in February 2012 from -20.4% in January 2012), tomato (-36.5% from -22.6%),

access and easy entry and exit to and from the Philippines, he explained. “These are industries being developed and promoted in order to generate much needed investments and foreign exchange. Clearly, the country is dependent on access provided by international airlines operating to and from the Philippines,” Treñas said. The author said the exit of international carriers from the Philippine, where foreign carriers are taxed, has been in stark contrast to the growth in services experienced by neighboring Asian nations that either provide incentives or do not tax foreign carriers. Treñas revealed that carriers with extensive global networks have already left the Philippines, shifting capacity to benefit neighboring countries’ tourism and trade. “One of the main reasons why the number of airlines operating in the Philippines has decreased is the grossly onerous tax regime for foreign airlines,” he added. “Without a healthy airline industry, Philippines tourism will never flourish,” Treñas stressed, adding that potential tourists avoid the Philippines due to the lack of non-stop connections from/to the USA and Europe. Based on 2009 data, international tourists contribute at least US$2.3-billion in export receipts. The lack of non-stop

Tax exemption for airlines sought

LOILO Rep. Jerry Treñas believes there’s need to rationalize the taxes, particularly the Commom Carriers Tax (CCT) and the Gross Philippine Billings (GPB) tax that is imposed on international air carriers operating in the country to make the country’s tourism industry globally competitive. “Our onerous tax regime is driving away tourists from the country. A tourist lost means lost jobs and revenues for the BIR,” Treñas pointed out as he urged Congress for the passage of HB 4444 which would finally exempt these carriers from CCT which is 3% percent of the airline’s gross turnover and GPB which is 2% of the gross turnover. The author noted that international air transport connectivity is the most crucial infrastructure linking the country to the global export markets of tourism and international business. “It enables movement of our network of 8.2 million Overseas Filipino Workers, including those in ship crewing, healthcare, IT, and hospitality industries,” Treñas said. International airlines are providing seamless travel connections for customers and suppliers of service exporters (e.g. health tourism, retirement, logistics, creative industries, business process outsourcing , high yield backroom operations and regional headquarters) that require direct

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

cabbage (-21.7% from -4.4%), and amargoso (-17.6% from -10.9%), as well as slower price increases of carrots (6.1% from 61.9%) and native pechay (23.4% from 76.6%). “The easing of inflation was also recorded in neighboring Southeast Asian economies,” Paderanga said. He observed that Thailand and Indonesia’s headline annual inflation in February 2012 slowed down to 3.4 and 3.6 percent, respectively, in February 2012, which is a decline of 0.03 percentage point (ppt) for Thailand and 0.09 ppt for Indonesia relative to January 2012. In addition, Singapore and Malaysia’s January 2012 inflation rates moderated to 4.8 percent and 2.7 percent, respectively, from 5.5 percent (Singapore) and 3.0 percent (Malaysia) in December 2011.

PHL tropical fabrics goes mainstream

N line with the call to increase the use of tropical fibers for textile and the revitalization of the local textile and garments industries, the Philippine tropical fabrics has transformed and incorporated in modern fashion, and expected to create new business opportunities. “Our researchers have explored fibers to convert into textile materials. After pineapple, banana, abaca, we moved to water hyacinth, saluyot, and maguey. These fibers were used to produce high value fabrics,” Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) Director Carlos C. Tomboc said. Through science and technology, fabrics’ properties were enhanced for textiles to become more comfortable, practical and trendy. “Tropical fabrics are now enzyme-finished, wherein microorganisms are used to eliminate fabric components that make it itchy and stiff,” Tomboc said.

services also negatively impacts airfreight, penalizing existing and potential exporters of electronics, fashion items, seafood and vegetables. “All the incentives granted under the Tourism Act of 2009 to increase the country’s capacity to generate investments, employments and reduce poverty will simply be rendered worthless. The same is true for all the other government plans to

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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

The PTRI recently showcased the versatility of naturally dyed fabrics and homegrown fiber materials from leaves of piña and maguey, trunks of banana and abaca, stalks of water hyacinth, and barks of saluyot during their exhibit and fashion show “Bagong Habi, Salinlahi”. The show also presented the transformation of local fabrics like inabel of Ilocos, hablon of Iloilo, various weaves from the Cordilleras, and the inaul of Maguindanao into modern outfits. “We are currently looking for a company to manufacture the total needs of the government employees. The technology is available, and we are willing to transfer this technology to an investor to produce tropical fabrics,” Tomboc said. The PTRI, a research institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), have a program called technology transfer wherein they are looking for partners to commercially produce tropical fabrics.

develop export industries and services,” he added. HB 4444, Treñas emphasized, seeks to advance Philippine tourism, trade, employment and economic integration with the rest of the world, eliminating the negative impact of CCT and GPH on Philippines’ international connectivity and competitiveness as an international investment destination. (30)

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

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

MinDA seeks Congress probe on looming power outages T

HE Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is seeking a congressional inquiry on the rotating daily power outages in the island, which “should not be that worse because there is an untapped 65 megawatts from stateowned hydropower plants,” an official said. Secretary Luwalhati R. Antonino, MinDA chairperson, said the House of Representatives’ committees on Energy and Mindanao Affairs will investigate on Tuesday the power situation in the south and the curtailment scheme implemented by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). “We understand that NGCP’s action prompted distributors, mostly rural electric cooperatives, to implement two to four hours daily brownout,” she said, adding that in Region 12, brownouts would sometimes last for 10 hours. NGCP, the pri-

Minda Secretary Lualhati Antonino

nPower supply status remains under

“red alert” with around 80-100 MW deficiency reported by NGCP vate operator of the country’s power transmission network, earlier said the curtailment was due to generation deficiencies of power producers in Mindanao. Cynthia Alabanza, NGCP spokesperson, said that in the event that the power supply from the plants is not enough to address the demands of all power customers connected to the grid, NGCP implements load curtailment to maintain the power grid’s security and reliability. The level of curtailment is based on the matrix of load to be maintained as issued by the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation/National Power Corporation, according to her. In seeking the inquiry, Antonino also noted that the Napocor’s Agus 2

and Pulangi hydropower plants have a combined 65 MW or more untapped capacity that could sustain demand within few yours during peak loads. She said Agus has an installed capacity of 180 MW but only 90 MW is being transmitted to the Mindanao grid. On the other hand, Pulangi has an installed capacity of 255 MW but only 180-200 MW is being dispatched. Antonino said Pulangi’s installed capacity can still be increased if dredging is done to optimize its operation. Likewise, Agus 2’s output could be further stretched to a level that will not violate environmental policy on the operation of the plant or a level that will not cause flooding at Balo-I area. Although it is not yet clear if the 65 MW is the reserved power for Min-

danao, Antonino said this can be utilized during peak hours when demand surges. “Bakit hindi ito ginagamit samantalang ang dami sa ating mga tagaMindanao ang napeperwisyo dahil sa araw-araw na brownout? (Why isn’t it being used when a lot of Mindanawons are suffering from the daily brownout?),” she added. Power generation in Mindanao has been steadily increasing at an average annual growth rate of 4.7 percent from 2002-2009. In the second quarter of 2010, the average and peaking capabilities of the hydropower plants dropped to 771 MW and 860 MW, respectively, resulting to brownouts reaching 4-6 hours daily in several areas during that period. The island’s power supply status remained under “red alert” with around 80-100 MW deficiency as reported by NGCP, MinDA said.(PNA)

PAGCOR posts P3.5 B Subic airport to be turned income for February 2012 into major tourism facility

HE state-owned Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has continued its recordbreaking revenue performance, posting P3.56 billion gross income for February, this year. Cristino Naguiat Jr., PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer, said this is the ninth time since July 2010 that the gaming agency posted the highest gross earnings for a single month in its 25-year history. Of the gross income for February, P1.22 billion will go to the National Treasury as government share; P129 million to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) as franchise tax; P61 million to the Philippine Sports Commission to boost sports development in the country; P201 million to the President’s Social Fund; and P1.67 million to the Board of Claims to support victims of injustice. A total of P40 million has been paid to cities hosting Casino Filipino

branches. Naguiat is optimistic that PAGCOR will reach its gross income target of P45 billion for 2012. “We are relying on the continued support and dedication of our more than 12,000 personnel nationwide, especially those in the frontlines. They are the main reason why our customers - especially our foreign VIP players - keep coming back,” he said. PAGCOR began posting new monthly income records during the first month of its new management in July 2010, earning P2.93 billion compared to the highest monthly revenue generated by the corporation in May 2010 (P2.74 billion) under its previous administration. This was followed by more record-setting performances last year in March (P2.98 billion), May (P3.03 billion), June (P3.05 billion), July (P3.10 billion), August (P3.11 billion), September (P3.34 billion), and December (P3.50 bil-

lion). According to Naguiat, PAGCOR’s gross revenue last month was far better by almost a billion pesos compared to the P2.63 billion the agency generated in February 2011. The corporation also exceeded its February 2012 income target by P274 million. “Last February, our winnings from our own casino operations reached P2.58 billion, by far the highest gaming income ever recorded by PAGCOR as a casino operator,” Naguiat said in a statement. The agency’s previous winnings record was P2.45 billion which was attained in December 2011. Naguiat attributed the record-breaking February income performance of PAGCOR to the sustained improvement of marketing programs for Casino Filipino’s foreign and local markets, upgrading of slot machines, and rationalization of expenses in gaming operations. (PNA)

HE Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is considering the possibility of turning the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) into a major world-class tourism destination. SBMA chairman Roberto Garcia said the operation and maintenance of the Subic airport cost SBMA huge money, leading the agency to think of sustainable alternatives like converting it into an integrated family-oriented tourism facility. Garcia said there were compelling reasons behind the idea to redevelop the SBIA, which he admitted was the most challenging concern the SBMA faced. “The Subic airport is superfluous because of Clark, and it is losing. And lastly, it is one of the last remaining prime real estate assets of SBMA,” he said. “Huge problems require huge actions for huge solutions. The plan is very bold and very ambitious, but with the

support of everyone, this plan will come through,” Garcia said. Since the project required a big amount of money, the SBMA hoped to bid the project internationally to attain international standards for the plan and design, he said. Garcia said that the basic idea was to turn the airport into something like Sentosa, a popular family-oriented resort in Singapore. The redeveloped SBIA will still be accessible because Subic is now just 45 minutes away from the international airport at the

Quips

Clark Freeport because of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). The planned leisure complex will house at least two or three international theme parks, a new golf course, duty free shops, hotels and casino, an entertainment complex, a promenade, and a new marina and yacht club, among others. “The opportunities that exist today are very tremendous, believe me. And with the help of every hand, our ambition of turning our airport into a major international tourism destination will come true,” he said. (PNA)

‘WE’RE spending a lot of money and resources in securing the President, Presidential Security Group and all. Why not allow him to use a bullet proof vehicle.’ --Senator Panfilo Lacson

EDGEDAVAO

PROPERTY

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

6 questions about the real estate industry T T

HE real estate industry is considered as one of the booming industries of the country. And with Davao City being one of the favored destination for real estate investors, it is best that we prepare ourselves with the knowledge of where to invest and when to invest. Online magazine Entrepreneur.com.ph asked Victor Asuncion, Executive Director for Global Research & Consultancy of CBRE Philippines about what he sees in the future of real estate in the country. In this Q&A, Asuncion talks about what sectors will boom in 2012, which ones to avoid, and what you can do with your property to turn it into an asset in the coming year. 1. What is your forecast for the growth of real estate in the country for 2012? The macroeconomic indicator of the real es-

tate industry is the gross value added of real estate renting and business activities (i.e. sales transaction/ revenues/ earnings of real estate businesses) which registered a yearon-year growth of 6.8 percent (i.e. 2009 vs. 2010). However, for the last 10 years, the compounded annual growth rate is at a low 4 percent given the fluctuations of the property cycle. For 2012, given the PublicPrivate Partnership trust of the government and the continued growth by the drivers of the real estate industry i.e. OFWs, BPOs, Tourism and also Mining in selected area, we expect a growth of between 5 to 10 percent. 2. How about in the major cities in the country? The drivers of real estate for the Philippines in 2012 will still be OFWs, BPOs, Tourism and also Mining in selected areas. This will be mainly felt in key locations such

SHDA Housing Fair set March 21-25

as the Subic-Clark Economic Corridor, Metro Manila particularly the business districts namely Fort Bonifacio, Quezon City, Ortigas and its fringes, Bay Area and Alabang. For the South, we continue to see growth in Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, Iloilo and Bacolod City plus the major tourist destination such as Boracay and Palawan. 4. What sectors to avoid? While the industrial segment continues to be a laggard, it should not be avoided because it sustains itself mainly from the consumer demand for consumer goods i.e. domestic market. There are still strategic industrial or logistic sites across the country like Subic, Clark, Sta. Rosa, Calamba and Cavite. 5. In what real estate sector would it be most wise to invest in this coming year? In my opinion, the

most promising sector will be the Hospitality Industry given the target growth of foreign tourist arrival, more liberalized and competitive airline industry and the infrastructure developments of the government related to tourism like building and renovating the airports. Gaming is also seeing its way into the Philippines. Thus, hotel and leisure development for this market is expected to be strong. Thus, investment in this segment will be favorable and lucrative. 6. What trends should we anticipate for the real estate industry next year? All businesses are conducted with the use of real estate, whether air, sea or land. Thus, demand for real estate will continue to be strong. As the Philippine population approaches 100 million, a consumer-based economy is emerging with all the needs and wants of this market growing year-on-year. Therefore a wise developer, investor and even creditor should partake of the strong potentials and opportunities of this specified market. An example is the OFW families given their dollar remittances expected to hit another record amount of US$23 billion for 2011.

SSS condones loan penalties T HE Social Security System (SSS) said employees, selfemployed workers and voluntary members with overdue loans can settle their unpaid principal and interest without paying the full amount of penalties under a new amnesty program that would start on April 2. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. said the amnesty «differs from SSS loan penalty condonation programs in the past» and its terms and requirements for applicants will depend on the type of delinquent borrower. “SSS will waive 100 percent of penalties of qualified applicants whose loan delinquency was not their fault, such as members whose employers failed to remit their amortizations to

SSS despite deducting loan payments from their salaries,” he said. Members must have at least three contributions within the last six months before the month of application and present proof of deducted loan amortizations such as pay slips, company certification and notarized affidavits to be eligible for full condonation of penalties. “They can pay their loan principal and interest in full, or avail of a three-year installment payment scheme at an annual interest rate of three percent,” De Quiros said, adding that SSS will take legal action against employers that fail to remit their workers’ deducted amortizations. SSS will also offer amnesty to beneficiaries of deceased borrowers who will file their death

claim applications within the availment period. SSS will waive 100 percent of penalties and the member’s delinquent loan principal and interest will be deducted from the death benefit. De Quiros said delinquent borrowers who paid at least three amortizations can also apply for amnesty, provided that they have remitted a minimum of three monthly contributions within the last six months prior to the month of application. “Members with at least three paid amortizations will have 90 percent of their penalties condoned if they pay in full. Those who will pay in monthly installments over three years at a three percent annual interest rate will have 80 percent of their loan penalties waived,”

he said. Borrowers filing total disability or retirement claims within the availment period will have 50 percent of their penalties condoned under the amnesty program. The outstanding loan balance and remaining penalties will be deducted from their retirement or disability benefit. “The deadline of application for the amnesty program will be on September 30, but beneficiaries of borrowers who passed away without settling their delinquent obligations can apply until March 30 next year,” De Quiros said. The amnesty program covers overdue salary, calamity, emergency, educational, study-now-pay-later, stock investment and privatization fund loans.

HE Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA) – Southern Mindanao Chapter will hold its Annual Housing Fair this coming March 21 to 25, 2012 at the Atrium of Gaisano Mall. This housing fair is now on its second consecutive year and it promises to be bigger and better – presenting the prospective market with new housing projects and better value for their investment. SHDA chose this year’s theme, “Working Together for a Better, More Responsive Housing Industry”, to create awareness not only of its member’s projects and the products and services of other allied businesses in the City, but also each individual’s responsibility towards sustaining a better environment for future generations. As an organization, SHDA aims to strengthen its commitment to provide projects that are more ecologi-

cal and environmentfriendly. SHDA, being composed of the leading developers in the entire country, is always dedicated to being a prime mover in the sustainability of the industry and our country’s economy, while at the same time, encouraging green practices for the preservation of our environment. This year’s housing fair is made possible by Davies Paints, SHDA’s steadfast co-presentor for this event. Other sponsors include Holcim Philippines, Inc., our platinum sponsor; Home Development Mutual Fund, our gold sponsor; Davao Light and Power Co. and Designer’s Avenue, our silver sponsors. Bronze sponsors include: Phinma Property Holdings Corp., Francisco M. Soriano & Co., Inc., Forghorn, Inc., and Union Bank; while patrons include Maer Summit Konstruct Co. and Prestige Home & Realty Dev’t. Corp.

Sun cellular intensifies signal reach and boosts indoor signal quality

UN Cellular is working on further widening its coverage areas and improving its indoor coverage penetration as consumer demands keeps on changing. Charles A. Lim, Chief Operating Officer of Sun Cellular revealed Sun Cellular will further enhance Sun’s presence in urbanized areas by deploying high gain antennae and installing more In-Building Systems. “The immense demand for our services in urban areas has prompted us to further improve our coverage inside condominiums, offices, and other urban establishments,” Lim explained. Lim also shared that Sun Cellular will augment their more than 6,000 existing cell sites to further strengthen their coverage in North Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, where Sun’s affordable communication products are likewise in demand. The mobile technology landscape has changed drastically over the past few years as consumer demand for communication and data services now extends beyond conventional call and text messaging. People nowadays practically stay always on-line with the advent of social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter and the proliferation of portable internet devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. Lim added that Sun

Cellular recognizes the need to ensure that its network must be ready not only to meet this current demand from its current and future subscribers but also to anticipate the direction the market is headed and prepare for the increasing demand for reliable voice and faster data services. Sun Cellular says this intense network improvement program will compliment their state-of-the -art network technology. “Our All-IP Next Generation Network is the most modern mobile technology designed for true unlimited service. Now imagine multiplying the reach of this network, then definitely, you’ve got a broader, and more cost-efficient network that ultimately benefits subscribers,” said Richard Zawila, Sun Cellular Senior Executive Technology Advisor. Zawila explained the All-IP Next Generation Network is the technology that enables Sun to offer its unlimited services as permanent products. AllIP Next Generation Network transmits text messages and voice calls more efficiently using Internetlike technology. “Given this our network transmits text and voice using only half the resources that an older network technology would require, hence Sun Cellular’s lowest rates in the market,” Zawila added. Sun Cellular is a member of the PLDT Group.

8 VANTAGE POINTS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

Science and the young mind

EDITORIAL

Mining’s win-win solution

HE proposed executive order that President Benigno S. Aquino has so far failed to sign because of vehement opposition by the mining industry needs to be reviewed if only to ensure that its final form would result in a win-win solution for everybody concerned. Such an executive order would mean additional taxes—for one, a reportedly fresh five percent of the market value of minerals produced— which the industry considers too horrible to contemplate. One Peter Wallace, advisor for foreign investors , alleges that the industry has been paying enough taxes already and in fact such taxes are among the highest in the Asia Pacific. He even hinted that the executive order would drive away investors, and that probably is what is in the mind of its proponents all along—to discourage new investments and eventually kill big-time mining. But being among the highest in the “Asia Pacific” region is not the same

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as “in the world”. Maybe that’s what’s wrong with the setup. How much taxes are paid by the industry in the rest of the world, by the way? Shouldn’t that be the yardstick? Consider that Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima says that mining taxes in the country totalled only P2 billion in 2011, a mere 0.17 percent of the P1.2 trillion of all the taxes earned by the government in the same year. On the other hand, the Philippines is reportedly host to some $840 billion worth of minerals which, if exploited, is such a staggering amount that the country would certainly go a long way to solving the country’s economy many times over. What’s wrong with that? God loves this country. But He wants us to make up our minds to extract all that wealth from underground in the most sensible, correct and safest manner. By all means, let us raise mining taxes reasonably to the extent that it will not necessarily bankrupt the mining firms nor prove grievously disadvantageous to the government. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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found myself one afternoon stuck in front of the television set. The reason: I was mesmerized watching young students – from grade school to college – presenting their inventions. Their new creations are not at all new ideas. They are simply the products of combining old technologies with new ones and creating a set of new products. That’s what I call ingenuity – pure imagination put into reality, an upshot of creativity and the application of technical know-how. The most amazing thing is that these are mere products of young minds. Time has greatly changed. There was a time when practical arts or vocational subjects were focused on the use of indigenous raw materials to create and recreate things. It was plainly reproducing existing objects into something more beautiful but functionally the same. Science then was more on observation and learning about the existing world – what it was. Today, there is the integration of science, technology and practical arts. It allows young minds to challenge the existing order by recreating and improving it. Young minds can easily generate new ideas simply because they think about “whatifs” and other possibilities. They can go beyond existing norms, set rules and standards. Their only guides are logic and science. Consequently, they produce something different. Wonderful! Consider for example the car fueled by solar energy produced by college student of a university in Manila. To some, this may not seem very new as the principles that guided the production of the solar energy-powered vehicle have long been in existence. The guts and daring spirit of these students to combine different technologies and principles that enabled them to produce it made all the difference. It’s not merely the production of new things. It’s about the application of knowledge to produce relevant, useful and globally competitive new products. To me, that’s the real essence of invention. We claim that Filipinos are great inventors. We claim that certain products were invented by well-known and not-so-well-known Filipinos. Some of these claims were contested; some were simply ignored. The fluorescent lamp is a classic example. In another television show, some old Filipino scientists and inventors were aired as they call the attention of the government to provide them with funding support so that they could continue to harness their inventions or creations. The inventions that struck me most were: the super kalan (cooking stove) fueled by the traditional charcoal but more effective in producing the needed heat; a dust pan with wheels so that you can simply drag it as you clean the house; and a disposable plastic cover for toilet bowl rim to protect you from unnecessary infection when using public toilets. Are these the type of “new” creations that require funding support from the government? There’s really nothing new with the super kalan which I had heard about some 20 years ago. It just evolved into something physically more attractive, and perhaps, more functionally effective, but it applied the same basic principles in each stage of its evolution. No addition or introduction of new knowledge. No integration or combination with new technology. Call it a Filipino brand cooking stove; it doesn’t make sense. What about the dust pan with wheels? Why not invent a remote controlled vacuum cleaner by combining the principles of robotics and the usual operation of a vacuum cleaner. Yes, this is already in existence. The challenge is to make it a Filipino brand with the materials it is made of and the source of power to operate it. The idea is to advance what we have originally invented into something that projects intelligence, knowledge and technology – something that we can be proud of in the international market. We then have to think global – becoming at par with the quality of products of the rest of the world. I am not trying to belittle old inventions. It is just that I don’t feel comfortable by having these products as eternal novelties of Filipino ingenuity. I believe that we can do more; we can do better. If the government needs to invest, let it be for the further development of the young minds. Invest in schools as they advance their curricula in research and development, and in science and technology.

EDGEDAVAO

F YOU’RE still dreaming of asking your Fil-American citizen relatives to file a petition (Form I-130) at the US Embassy to help you migrate to America, stop dreaming right now. It’s a totally useless effort, a real waste of time, especially if you have a shorter time frame of fulfilling that dream. At least, that’s what I got from my relatives over there who are bonafide US citizens, all laughing at the idea of filing that petition form at the US Immigration. “Mo puti na lang ang uwak, ha ha ha ha dili na ma approve!” says one of them on Facebook from Ohio. (“The black crow will grow white feathers, it won’t still be approved”). America is still trying to get over its trauma of 9-11 (Remember that terrorist attack on the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York, Sept 11, 2001?), it now treats everyone entering its seaports and airports as a poten-

NLESS it can secure long term power supply contract, the South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (Socoteco II) said residents of General Santos City and areas covered by its franchise will have to live with at least two hours of daily rotational brownouts which could go as high as eight hours a day. Socoteco II general manager Rodrigo Ocat said erratic supply from the National Power Corporation (NPC) is now being felt by its consumers following the power company’s decision to limit supply contracts with utility firms on an annual basis due to inadequate capacities from its remaining generating plants, most of them hydro-electric plants. Ocat even said they have already resorted to buying power from dieselfired power barges of Therma Marine Inc. to compensate for the reduced supply from the NPC. Socoteco II has a base load capacity of at least 70 megawatts (MW) and a peaking requirement of up to 105 MW from over 120,000 consumer-households. Its power supply requirement is expected to further increase beginning next month when SM Properties opens its shopping mall here. The SM shopping center will reportedly use up at least 10 megawatts when it opens in April which will coincide with the shutting down of the 100-MW Pulangi hydroelectric plant for annual preventive maintenance. The 110-MW Mt. Apo Geothermal Plant will also undergo preven-

Monkey Business

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

How sure are you about migrating to America ? tial “terrorist”, so don’t be surprised why every single application to migrate are given a strict, microscopic review. Don’t get pissed off if they’re checking your background, for any American hatred expounded by religious groups or leftist organizations---which is fairly understandable considering just how vulnerable that country is to terrorist attacks. Even Filipino leftists today haven’t got tired of waving anti-US placards from Marcos to Aquino. They’ll even blame tsunamis and earthquakes to US imperialism. That’s why my Fil-Am relatives told me to tell friends that if anyone really wants to go to America, just try to go there as a “tourist” or “visitor” and stay (or hide) with your relatives, making sure you’re not caught. This will give you that chance of feeling your way around to find out if America is really where you want to be. You can’t be too sure. How sure are you about going to America for good? If you end up as TNT, or tago ng tago (hiding yourself) that’s alright as long as

you don’t make it too obvious to US immigration agents who’re probable just tolerating them--- since most “illegals” are probably more talented. more skilled and more literate than Americans. Many Filipinos have the skill and talent that most Americans don’t have, so it’s easy to get a job in the US and work for companies or small businesses that aren’t strict about a US Greencard that allows you to work and stay in America. Have you seen that Spielberg movie “The Terminal”? Do you still remember that Indian airport janitor who told Tom Hanks (as the man without a country) : “You came so close to America, but you don’t have the courage to go from here to here” he said, pointing one finger to the next finger. Most of those working at that airport terminal started probably as illegal immigrants--- and were daring enough to take the plunge against all odds. What the heck, you’re only trying to chase the American dream.... (Comments : Emal: tradingpost_ davao@yahoo.com)

tive maintenance in June. Other power plants that have reportedly scheduled their own maintenance are one of the Agus Hydro power plants in September and one of the two 105MW power plants of STEAG in Misamis Oriental. NPC is said to have already advised Socoteco that it will be shedding off at least 15 megawatts of the utility firm’s requirement for the month. For March, Socoteco II will reportedly only get an average supply of 61 MW from NPC. This will mean at least six hours of daily rotational brownouts, according to Socoteco. It has also contracted at least 23 MW of supply from Therma Marine which is priced between P11 to P13 per kilowatt hour, depending on the cost of fuel, jacking the average cost of electricity of its consumes by at least P1.00 per kilowatt hour. Still, the combined power supply of NPC and Therma Marine for March (84MW) is not enough to meet the peaking demand of Socoteco II forcing the utility firm to resort to two-hour rotational brownouts. To cushion the impact, Socoteco II revamped its feeder assignments last month which enabled it to shorten the power interruptions. Power sales agreement As this developed, Ocat urged the public to support the approval of its power supply agreement with Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) which is now being heard by the Energy Regulatory Commission. The city government, however. filed an opposition and is asking the board of directors to rescind the contract citing, reportedly, “onerous provisions” in the agreement. But Ocat said, under the circum-

stances and considering the power supply outlook of Mindanao, the power supply agreement between Socoteco II is the best it could procure even though it will mean slightly higher electricity bills for its consumers during the first two or three years of the supply contract. The PSA between Socoteco II and SEC provides for a supply and purchase agreement of 70 MW of base load capacity at a cost significantly lower than the current supply contract between the cooperative and Therma Marine. In the public hearings and consultations held in December and early this year, both Socoteco II and SEC said the benchmark of its supply is pegged at passed on price to consumers of P5.91 per kilowatt hour. Socoteco II’s average cost per kilowatt hour at the moment, without the brownouts, is P5.47, inclusive of generation, transmission, and distribution charges. SEC is constructing a two-phased 200-megawatt power plant in nearby Maasim, Sarangani. The Alcantara-controlled power firm said it will commence construction as soon as the ERC approves its PSA with Socoteco II. SEC will initially build a 100 MW plant and common structures for its second 100 MW power plant, which will start 12 months after it lays it foundations. If plans push through, SEC will be able to deliver electricity to Socoteco II at the start of 2015, at the latest. Businessman Manny Yaphockun, former president of the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce, said residents will have to make a choice between slightly higher electricity cost or prolonged brownouts.

Brownouts threaten Gensan’s way of life

ASEAN economic community: The implications for Australia COMMENTARY By Nattavud Pimpa

(First of 2 Parts)

HE Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) has a long history of the promotion of active collaboration and mutual assistance on matters of common interest in the economic, social, cultural, technical, scientific and administrative aspects in the region. The ten members of ASEAN are diverse in political, economic and racial backgrounds but are common in historical and cultural links. With over 600 millions in population, ASEAN is clearly a key trade partner for Australia. In terms of political and historical links, ASEAN and Australia have long been established bilateral (Australia and a single country within ASEAN) and multi-lateral relationships. ASEAN is an important trading partner for Australia with two-way trade in goods and services. For instance, the value of trade among ASEAN nations and Australia in 2010-11 valued at A$60 billion or around 15 per cent of Australia’s total trade. In contrast, Australia’s investment links with ASEAN are relatively small. At the 12th ASEAN Summit in January 2007, the leaders of South East Asian affirmed their strong commitment to accelerate the establishment of an ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) by 2015 and signed the Cebu Declaration on the Acceleration of the Establishment of an ASEAN Community by 2015. From the geo-politic perspective, we understand that the geographical value of Southeast Asia seems to have increased in the eyes of the global community. ASEAN’s geographical and buffer value between super-power China and industrial nations such as Japan and Korea has attracted many offers for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Such offers for ASEAN have come from the Common Economic Relations (CER with Australia and New Zealand as a free trade area), Japan, India and America. The key characteristics of AEC include (a) a single market and production base in ASEAN, (b) ASEAN will become a highly competitive economic region, (c) ASEAN as a region of equitable economic development, and (d) a region fully integrated into the global economy. The ultimate goal for AEC is to transform ASEAN into a region with free movement of goods, services, investment, skilled labour, and freer flow of capital. So, what are the implications to Australia? ASEAN and Australia have a long history of trade, political and cultural collaborations. Australia, however, seems to have little understanding about our neighbor. For instance, a number of studies in language education in Australia confirm that most Australian students are interested in European languages. The decline in numbers of students studying languages from South East Asia in Australia may be under the influence of strong linguistic and cultural links with Europe, governmental budget on Asian studies and limited interests in South East Asia among Australian students and teachers. This requires careful attention from key business, governmental and educational organizations promoting South East Asian in Australia. If Australia need to play a role in the region, the promotional links through language and cultural education to our younger generation is clearly important.

Quips

‘THERE’S a consensus to revisit how much government gets by allowing mining in the country.’

--Sec. Ricky Carandang, head of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning.

10 COMMUNITY SENSE

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Moros and Lumads reunite in Bukidnon T

HE sound of the tambol (drums) greets participants as they enter the Talaandig Ancestral Domain in Sungku,, Lantapan, Bukidon, Mindanao. The long dirt road is lined with flags, each one indicating the names of the participating tribes, in honor of the guests who have come for the historic Reaffirmation of Kinship Ceremony between the Bangsamoro and Indigenous Peoples of Mindanao. “This is an historic event that no historian should miss. We are writing a new chapter in the history of Mindanao.” As a historian and a former Chair of the Government Peace Negotiating Panel with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Professor Rudy Rodil knows, intimately, the significance of this historic event. For the first time in 492 years, 13 Bangsamoro tribes have come together with 18 indigenous tribes to reaffirm their shared ancestry and commit to the 5 pillars of Kinship established in the traditional peace pact of their ancestors: Co-operation, Mutual Sharing of Information, Mutual Protection of Life, Recognition and Respect, and Mutual Obligation to Help the Needy. Despite the animosities and conflicts in the past, these tribes have chosen to come together today to not only acknowledge their shared ancestry, but commit themselves to respect and protect one another. As the introductions begin, the tribal leaders give impassioned speeches about why they have traveled today – some from the far islands of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi – to take part in this historical ceremony. “We must set aside our interests and re-emphasize our kinship. We must walk together towards peace in Mindanao. We are answerable to Allah, to one another, to our future generation.” Salic Ibrahim, a Maranao leader calls those present to live out the kinship pact – to pave the way towards peace. The hope for peace in Mindanao is palpable. The Kinship Pact comes at a critical time for the Philippines. The Aquino administration and the Moro Islamic Libera-

HISTORIC RE AFFIRMATION OF KINSHIP between the Moro and Indigenous Peoples of Mindanao in Sungku, Lantapan, Bukidnon March 7-8, 2012 tion Front (MILF) find themselves on the cusp of a signed peace agreement that recognizes a Bangsamoro Sub-State and autonomy within the region. Similar negotiations have failed in the past due, in part, to the animosity between the Indigenous and the Bangsamoro tribes. As the tribes join together to uphold their historical peace pact, they are preparing the way, not only for a signed agreement between the GPH and the MILF, but also for sustainable peace in Mindanao. “It is very important to reaffirm our kinship, which has not been nurtured in the past. We have seen the cracks in the past between our tribes,” explains Attorney Raissa Jajurie, a consultant to the MILF peace panel, “Today, we want to see equality and mutual respect. It is time to heal the wounds of our past.” One by one, the leaders of each tribe come forward to retell their history. The descendants of the original peace pact holders call us the tribes to once again unite as kin, to protect one another, and to help build a new Mindanao based on the ancient practices of their ancestors. “I normally see myself as an educator,” LTC Ronald Alcudia , 4 th Army Training Group Commander of the 4 th Infantry Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, says, “but today I am a student. I am learning of the history of Mindanao from the true tribal el-

ders – a history I did not know until today.” Datu (Chief ) Victorino Migketay Saway along with leaders from the Bangsamoro tribes begin with the prayers of their people, calling on Allah, the ancestors and Magbabaya to be present in the ceremony. As the prayers come to an end, the tribal elders move forward and prepare to sacrifice a Carabao in honor of the ancestors. The blood of the Carabao is used to cleanse the land of the ancestors – to heal the wounds of the past so that all the tribes, together with their ancestors and their God – may move together towards a future of peace in Mindanao. Datu Vic calls the descendants of the peace pact forward to sign their names, committing to the 5 pillars of kinship. All of the witnesses are also called to sign the sacred covenant. The Ceremony is not just about a ritual for those present, but about a renewed commitment to one another to uphold peace, protect life and respect one another as kin. The tribes, adorned in their traditional regalia, gather under a new monument that the Talaandig artists carved in honor of this historic event: It is an intricately carved Jar, the vessel that will hold the sacred oil and covenant of kinship. The monument reads, “This monument is a symbol of the historic kinship of the Indigenous Peoples and

Moro in Mindanao who existed as First Nations inhabiting their respective ancestral territories duly covered by traditional peace pacts and treaties long before the colonial era.” The Reaffirmation of Kinship Ceremony

began a new chapter in Mindanao’s history as the Moro and the IP’s come together to uphold the ancient kinship of their ancestors and acknowledge the traditional peace pacts made long before the colonial era. The Cer-

emony marked a new way forward for sustainable peace in Mindanao – a peace built since time immemorial by a common ancestry – a relationship that today, the tribal leaders have embraced once more.

EDGEDAVAO

SUBURBIA 11

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Lagdameo set to inaugurate completed projects this year

avao del Norte 2nd District Cong. Anton F. Lagdameo, Jr. is set to inaugurate several of his major projects this 1st quarter of 2012 as part of his Barangayanihan Development Program. Ms. Gene-rose Tecson, Chief of Staff of Cong. Lagdameo revealed the congressman allocated Three Million Pesos (P3M) to improve the facilities and the fire-fighting capability of the Panabo City Fire Station building and is now already in its final completion phase. This is to complement the solid leadership of the City›s Bureau of Fire Protection, in disaster preparedness and prevention, just in time as it celebrates the Fire Prevention Month this March. Lagdameo earmarked the same amount for the construction of the Bureau of Internal Rev-

enue Building within the wide expanse of the Panabo City Hall Complex which started late last year and is about to be inaugurated also this month. The project is expected to boost the tax revenue collection and generation procedures of the said office. In addition, Lagdameo›s Market Road Concreting Project in Brgy. Ising, Municipality of Carmen funded with 5 Million Pesos has just been finished, finally linking with concrete roads Carmen National High School, Carmen Public Market and Public Terminal. Accordingly, this will be utilized also in improving the income generation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of the municipality as this could be converted as part of the LGU›s night market venture and contribute to the overall upsurge of investments in the locality.

Also, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) recently released Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) from the legislator›s Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) releasing Two Hundred Thousand Pesos (P200,000) each for the strengthening of the Marine Ecosystem and Fish Sanctuary facilities of the Barangays of Peñaplata and Tagbaobo, both in Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS). These barangays were earlier identified as pilot areas for this environmental initiative of Cong. Lagdameo. Aside from the purpose of protecting its marine resources, these projects are being planned to help in the income generation of the fishermen, promote marine biodiversity, increase food production and strengthen the tourism potential of IGaCoS .

TIANGGE RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY - In the celebration of the International Women’s Month, a Women’s Tiangge was also opened featuring different products and crafts. Here, former Miss Universe Margie Moran Floirendo (4th from left), Gender and Development Officer of Davao del Norte Clarita P. Galagala (5th from left), Tagum City Council of Women Presi-

dent Ms. Alma L. Uy (3rd from left), Executive Assistant to the City Mayor Mrs. Delia B. dela Cruz (2nd from left) and Barangay Apokon Council of Women President Ms. Melinda Iraola (1st from left) formally opens the Women’s Tiangge through a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Photo by Francis Abrenica of CIO Tagum

Tagum City marks Women’s Month

OMEN from all the corners of Tagum City converged at the Rotary Park Gymnasium to join the whole world in the celebration of the International Women’s Month last March 8, 2012 with the theme “Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures.” Speaking to the members of the different Barangay Women Councils, former Miss Universe Margie Moran Floirendo hailed all the participants for coming together to celebrate what she considered “a very important event.” “Ang International Women’s Day ay nakapagbigay ng isang natatanging

araw upang matutukan ang pangangailangan at tagumpay ng mga kababaihan at magsumikap pa upang matigil na ang kalapastangan at pagdurusa na patuloy na dinaranas ng mga kababaihan at mga bata,” she said. The event was also graced by Tagum City Council of Women, Inc President Alma L. Uy, Gender and Development Officer of Davao del Norte Clarita P. Galagala, City of Tagum Councilor Maria Lina F. Baura and Executive Assistant to the City Mayor, Delia B. dela Cruz who represented the local chief executive. Organized by the Tagum City Council of

Women, Inc. the event is the kick-off of series of events which will cater women. These activities include a lecture on the salient points of the Violence Against Women and Children, training on Ice Cream and Ham Making, Make Up Demo, Herbal Oil and Medicine and Herbal Information Drive on Malunggay. The council will also offer free social services like hair cut, body massages and bone scanning. The Women’s Month Celebration will be culminated with the holding of the Coronation of Gng. Milyonarya on March 31, 2012, at the Tagum Trade and Cultural Center.

lion cash, the city also donated 1,436 square meters of land where the new PNP Mati building will be constructed. The Deed of Donation was signed last September 22, 2008. The PNP will also provide additional P10.137 million for the completion of the project. Last February 22, 2012, Mati City Administrator Richard L. Villacorte represented Mati City Mayor Michelle N. Rabat in the turn-over

of the LGU counterpart in a simple ceremony at the Police Regional Office In Camp Catitipan, Buhangin, Davao City. PNP Regional Director Jaime H. Morente received the check in behalf of the PNP. Mayor Rabat meanwhile said that she expects better performance from the Mati police. She said that aside from the new building, the city government is also providing free legal counsel to police personnel. [BOT]

Mati LGU donates P5M for new PNP building

he City Government of Mati has donated P5 million to the Philippine National Police for the construction of a 2-storey building that will serve as the new headquarters of the Mati City Police soon. The donation was approved by the Sanggunian Panlungsod in Resolution No. 81, series of 2011, dated April 19, 2011. The money was sourced from the city’s General Fund Annual Budget 2012. Aside from the P5 mil-

WORLD/NATION

NATION BRIEFS

New tricks

REELANCE rent-acar operators, beware! The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) has uncovered a new modus operandi of carjackers victimizing unsuspected car owners who advertise their vehicles for rent through the internet. The police issued the warning following the carjacking of two late model Hyundai vans by carjackers in Pampanga and Bataan recently.

Boom

boom in economic activity is taking place in the five provinces and six cities of the Caraga Region. The region is drawing more foreign and domestic investors to its agriculture, fisheries, mining, eco-tourism, and power generation sectors. Businessmen continue to forge agreements with local government units and private entities. The region is noted for its wood-based economy. Its leading crops are palay, banana, and coconut. It has tourism potentials because of beautiful beaches, abundant and fresh seafood, historical sites, hot springs, virgin forests, and good weather. It is Mindanao’s gateway to Eastern Visayas and Luzon, with opportunities in inter-island trade and tourism.

Sensors

HE Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) will install 27 new strong motion censors in provinces around Metro Metro to beef-up its earthquake monitoring, according to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo said Phivolcs is beefing up efforts in mitigating disaster risks especially in areas highly vulnerable to quakes.

Vulnerable

HE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on barangay captains to update their lists of populations at risk in vulnerable areas, particularly in cities and municipalities that were previously identified by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) as landslide and flash flood-prone sites. Interior and Local Government Secretary Robredo said barangay captains should have a ready and updated list of at-risk communities such as those living in low-lying lands, along riverbanks, shorelines, esteros, canals and in and under slope areas which are prone to landslides and flooding; people with special needs such as elderly, children, infants, pregnant women and persons with disability, and their locations; and poorly constructed houses and facilities.

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Sarkozy defies Europe M with protectionist push

WORLD TODAY Minimum

ALAYSIA’S cabinet has approved a national minimum wage for the first time in the country’s history, two government sources said, as Prime Minister Najib Razak looks to shore up incomes and votes ahead of widely expected elections this year. The minimum wage comes as Asia increasingly turns to such social safety nets to counter widening income gaps and the related political repercussions, while debt-laden Europe struggles to keep these policies afloat.

RESIDENT Nicolas Sarkozy, recasting himself as France’s saviour from low-cost competition and high immigration, threatened to disregard European limitations on protectionism as he sought to give his re-election campaign a second wind on Sunday. Going out on a limb that risks angering France’s European partners, Sarkozy said it was time to support local companies and stop the uncontrolled influx of immigrants and cheap imports that demonstrate Europe’s lack of protectionist controls. Addressing some 30,000 people at a vast conference centre just outside Paris, Sarkozy vowed to pull France out of the European Union’s open-borders Schengen zone unless there was progress over the year ahead in fortifying Europe’s borders. He also proposed a European law similar to the “Buy American Act” which would require governments to favour European-made products in their purchases, and said that without advances in that area, France would start applying the rule unilaterally. “I want a Europe that protects its citizens. I no longer want this savage competition,” Sarkozy said to roars of support.

CANDIDATE. France’s President and UMP party candidate for the 2012 French presidential elections

“I say no to a Europe that opens up its markets when others don’t. Such behaviour does not mean accepting free trade, it means accepting being a Europe that is a sieve.” Sarkozy’s main rival and poll favourite, Socialist leader Francois Hollande, hit back by saying the speech was hypocritical given the conservative incumbent’s frequent criticism of Hollande’s desire to renegotiate the European fiscal pact if he is elected. “He has accused me for

Nicolas Sarkozy delivers a speech during a political rally in Villepinte, Paris suburb March 11, 2012.

months of wanting to renegotiate the European treaty on budgetary discipline and austerity to be applied in each country...Now Sarkozy, unable to present other ideas to the French, is using Europe as a scapegoat,” Hollande said on television channel M6. Sarkozy’s speech lacked the economic policy ideas many observers had expected following hints he would unveil his full programme at Villepinte for the April/May election. Opponents say the lack

of a complete manifesto makes Sarkozy’s campaign look haphazard and ill-prepared. Instead, his targeting of Europe as a scapegoat for France’s economic problems seemed clearly geared towards the far-right voters whose support he sorely needs if he is to close the gap with Socialist frontrunner Francois Hollande. “Today he is clearly addressing the France that voted no, speaking both about immigration, which is normal, and protection-

Life a constant battle for squatters

FSARKOZY, 13

HE women and children of a shantytown in Manila huddled along an alleyway while the men battled riot police nearby in a last-ditch stand to save their homes. Many of the 600 residents had lived in the shantytown in the centre of Metro Manila all of their lives but, without any formal legal title to their homes, were being evicted to make way for a new town hall. “They treated us like criminals,” spat out Vicky Balabor, a 47-year-old mother of three after the hour-long confrontation that saw riot police fire water cannons and tear gas at the men of the neighbourhood. The men resisted with petrol bombs, rocks and bottles, but numbering only a few dozen, were no match for the roughly 500 riot police who paved the way for demolition crews armed with crowbars to tear down the shantytown. Twenty-two people were slightly injured, including residents, police and demolition crew members, while 13 men defending their homes were arrested, in January’s skirmish, according to local

SQUATTERS. Informal settlers throw stones at police and a demolition team in Manila in January.

city council spokeswoman Grace Cortes. The clearing of Pinaglabanan, an eight-hectare (19.8-acre) park, was just one of many battles that regularly erupt pitting Manila’s giant “informal settler” community against authorities or property developers who want the land. More than two million people in Metro Manila -or roughly one fifth of the sprawling city’s population -- live in shanty towns as so-called informal settlers.

The urban blight is worsening as the Philippines’ population continues to expand at one of the fastest rates in the world, and people from rural areas head to Manila and other cities in search of work. The phenomenon sees squatters take over parcels of vacant land and build shanties. With grinding poverty stripping away choices for the desperate squatters, almost any type of vacant land is considered an opportunity with some shan-

tytowns built atop public cemeteries and many in flood-prone areas. But while the squatters do not have formal rights to the land, Philippine law makes it hard for the owners -- whether they be the government or private interests -- to get it back. A 1992 law says demolitions and evictions will not be allowed unless the settlers occupy dangerous areas, when the site is needed for public infrastructure projects, or when there is a court order.

Therapy

ENEZUELAN President Hugo Chavez said on Sunday he will be home from Cuba in a week and start radiation therapy for cancer that could leave him weakened ahead of his re-election bid on October 7. Chatting for more than two hours in a televised address from Havana, where he is recovering from a third surgery to treat cancer in his pelvic area, Chavez seemed eager to show he is fully in command of the government despite his illness.

Lawsuit

group of Japanese citizens said they would file a lawsuit Monday to prevent the restart of a nuclear power plant, a day after the first anniversary of the country’s atomic disaster. The group of 259 citizens are to file the suit in Osaka District Court seeking an injunction that would block the reopening of utility Kansai Electric’s nuclear power plants Oi Unit 3 and 4 in central Fukui prefecture.

Friendship

OURISM and trade between Laos and Thailand have seen a lot of positive changes since the opening of the third Friendship Bridge in November last year. The approach to the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge linking Khammuan province with Thailand’s Nakhon Phanom province across the Mekong River. The bridge connects Veun Tai village in Thakhek district, Khammuan province, to Hom village in Meuang district of Thailand’s Nakhon Phanom province across the Mekong River.

Not worth

IXTY percent of Americans believe the war in Afghanistan is not worth its costs, and nearly the same number advocate an early US pullout from the country, a new poll showed.

EDGEDAVAO

Davao...

I do...

FFROM 1

FFROM 1 “We will be putting up a 150-seater cinémathèque beside the Pasalubong Center along Palma Gil St. This is just one of our efforts to promote filmmaking in Mindanao. We will be bringing in top directors and actors later this June for the first Davao International Film Festival (DIFF),” Lat said. Other than the city, the FDCP also plans to put up a cinema hub in Zamboanga within the year to add to their hubs in Baguio and Ilo-ilo. The DIFF, which will be in partnership with the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. and the local government, is adopting the local tourism slogan “Life is here” to DIFF’s slogan :“Film is Life. Life

Sarkozy...

is here.” Mobile cinema Lat yesterday represented the FDCP in a ceremony presenting a mobile cinema to Mayor Sara Duterte. The mobile cinema will be making stops in barangays, parks, and avenues, showing a total of 10 films for the duration of the 75th Araw ng Davao. “The films will range from as long ago as 1930s to the present. Films with FPJ, Sharon, about Zaboanga all of which were beautifully directed in order to promote Filipino films,” Lat said. Before coming here, the mobile cinema was in Zamboanga City as part of its nationwide tour.

FFROM 12 ism, which is becoming a popular issue in France,” said Jerome Sainte-Marie of polling firm CSA, referring to those who voted against key European treaties on sovereignty concerns. Sarkozy is running for re-election with the double handicap of some of the worst popularity ratings of any French president and the same deep-rooted public anger over the sickly economy that has felled leaders across Europe. He managed to narrow Hollande’s poll lead by a few points when he launched his campaign in mid-February with his trademark oratory verve, but has since slipped back in voter surveys. Heckling by left-wing militants has also created bad publicity. Election poll graphic: http://r.reuters.com/ was36s DANGEROUS ULTIMATUM Stronger at the podium than Hollande, who is a bland public speaker, Sarkozy is hoping to stay in the headlines and make his rival’s weeks-old campaign manifesto look stale by drip-feeding his policy proposals week-by-week. His protectionist push on Sunday follows a pledge to hold regular referendums on policy and toughen up unemployment benefit rules so jobseekers must undergo training to get their pay. He has also vowed to halve annual immigration flows. “Europe must not be a threat, it must protect,” Sarkozy said in Villepinte. “Europe cannot be the only region in the world with such badly respected borders, which so little defends its interests, which so ignores the anxiety of its citizens.” His threat to act unilaterally if necessary to protect the French economy marked a turnaround from his 2007 promise that on his watch, France’s commitment to EU treaties would never again be thrown into

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

question, and risks friction with Brussels. “Rather than saying that France can only work in Europe, it’s almost saying the contrary, that Europe must do what France tells it to, otherwise France will do so anyway,” said political analyst Roland Cayrol. “This kind of ultimatum is something that could cause problems in the working of the European Union.” Nervous about a gaping trade deficit in France, Sarkozy has in the past criticised perceived U.S. protectionism, pointing to specific contracts such as a $50 billion refuelling plane contract in 2010 that he said favoured Boeing. He has also previously floated the idea of suspending the EU’s 25-member Schengen treaty on openborder travel, prompting the European Commission to unveil proposals that could see border checks reinstated if member states persistently fail to protect the bloc’s external frontiers. The topic is sensitive given the free movement of people is one of the cornerstones of European integration. Sarkozy, who is around 2 points behind Hollande in polls for the April 22 first round and 10-12 points behind in polls for a May 6 runoff, was backed on Sunday by such characters as former first lady Bernadette Chirac and actor Gerard Depardieu, who both made speeches in his support. He suffered a setback, however, when two popular ex-ministers, both of them centrists that were part of a diverse cabinet early in his term, declined to support him at the rally. Former environment minister Jean-Louis Borloo said Sarkozy had only his “cautious” support, and former sports minister Rama Yade said she could not support such a right-wing campaign.

ers, kargadors, tig-limpyo. Nahimo silang ‘tig’ which was not the original intention,” she said. Following this discovery, Duterte-Carpio said she told the police she would finance an additional force under the city government’s control thus the ACU was created. The ACU received crime-fighting training from the police but is recognized as a unit under the PSCC. Unarmed bodyguards Duterte-Carpio last week disclosed that her own bodyguards did not carry firearms in comsonance with the citydeclared gun ban from March 1 to 31. But the military and police Protested, calling the move “unwise”,causing her to reverse her decision. “They told me they felt uncomfortable with the idea and helpless if my own security personnel do not carry firearms because the enemy presumably carries firearms. So I said okay.” The mayor’s security detail is composed of six personnel from Task Force Davao and four from the DCPO.

More...

No exemption When the mayor consulted Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 director Gen. Jaime Morente, the latter said the gun ban imposed here “does not provide exemptions.” “It turns out na wala daw naka-provide nga naay exception. Only those in uniform are allowed to carry firearms within the city,” Duterte-Carpio said. The solution was for her security personnel to be in wear uniform. “Gisultian nako sila, sige mag-uniform na mo. So karon naka-uniform sila tanan pag nag-trabaho sila,” she said. Firearms surrendered DCPO director Sr. Supt Ronald dela Rosa said several politicians have obliged to surrender their escorts’ firearms once entering the city. It should be noted that the city is second home to many politicoians and personalities hailing from neighboring towns and provinces. “Naa nay mga persons of position nga ni-surrender sa mga baril sa ilang mga tao sa mga checkpoint area. The firearms are with the Task Force Davao,” dela Rosa said

in an interview Friday at Philippine Women’s College as he escorted PNP chief Dir. Gen. Nicanor Bartolome. Asked whether there have been instances where the armed party refused to surrender their fire-arms, dela Rosa said none. Duterte-Carpio expressed her appreciation to politicians with residences here who follows the city’s gun ban declaration. Gun ban implementation a test The mayor revealed that the implementation of a gun ban during the Araw ng Davao celebration is a test. As the gun ban during a festival had not been done before, a comparative analysis will be made whether declaring a gun ban during the celebration this year lessened the volume of crime, the mayor said. “We’ll compare the crime rate between the first quarter last year and this year, as well as for the month of march last year and this year where whereas last year there was no gun ban during the celebration and now that there is a gun ban,” she

said. “Hopefully it will be a positive endeavor for the city. (That) it will be worthwhile doing it again,” she added. PNP supports declaration Meanwhile, PNP Dir. Gen. Nicanor Bartolome said the mayor made the right decision by declaring a month-long gun ban here. In an interview Friday, Bartolome said implementing a gun ban during “such a big event” would be best for the city. “Yes, it is for the best. In fact the PNP supports decisions such as this. We approved the same requests during the celebrations of Sinulog, Ati-atihan, and yung Panagbenga. The same ang ginawa natin,” Bartolome said at the Philippine Women’s College. The PNP chief said during events that would suddenly raise the density of people and concentrate thousands of people in one area, the city executive has the right to order a gun ban within the locality. “Yes it is necessary. While marami ang tao, it would also give people a peace of mind,” he said.

staff for personnel (AJ1) of the AFP. Her previous assignment was adjutant general, AFP. On her way up, Go felt that the changes being employed to accommodate the entry of women have been effective. “I never felt isolated in the military bureaucracy because I was given tasks where I was very effective. In the Army, women are employed according to their capabilities,” she said. “Women of the AFP are the subtle energies that stamp a difference in the wholeness of the military organization,” she said. She said that this “difference” has been her mantra in her whole career, starting from when she first joined the active duty in 1982 until now that she has her first star on her shoulders. Following her footsteps are the female cadets in the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), among them are Cadet Maila Maniscan and Cadet Dianne Jane Aragona ,who are consistently in the top 10 of their class. “Surpassing the rigid

training here (in the PMA) only proves how strong and determined I am in finishing what I have started. Being a female in the Academy does not hinder me in my development as a future leader of the nation,” says Aragona who is looking forward to her entry to the active military service a few years from now as a commissioned officer. In the opening of the Women’s Month Celebration here at the General Headquarters’ Canopy Area on March 5, Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin relayed the start of a several activities aimed at recognizing the dynamic role played by women in various societal concerns, especially in emerging environmental issues. “In line with this year’s theme, a series of activities are lined up to celebrate women’s month. There will be a nationwide tree-planting by women as part of the National Greening Program of national government, of which the Department of National Defense and AFP are actively participating in,” Gazmin said.

“There will also be a ‘Magna Carta for Women Information Caravan’ to raise awareness among different stakeholders, and the conduct of various other fora for consciousness-raising on gender and climate change,” he said. For his part, Dellosa gave his personal account of his recognition of the roles of women in and out of service. “I look at my wife and daughter and see immense potential for growth and self-fulfillment. I am thankful that more and more women are joining the AFP and sharing their individual potentials for the good of the organization and the people we serve,” he said.. He said that the AFP had made significant improvements in ensuring that facilities, trainings and career opportunities were equally available for both sexes “in accordance with the Magna Carta for Women.” The AFP has pushed for stronger protection of women from harassment and violence, as well as of their tenure in the service, he said.

“We don’t want for fishermen to have no place to dock their bangka (boats),” he said. The city government provided a relocation site for the residents in Sitio Pigasaan, a walking distance from the shoreline

at 75 square meters for each household. “Sad to note that there are still some who are resisting the offer because of their claim of ancestral domain,” he said. Galvez mentioned that the Isama tribe’s

claim of ancestral domain is still in process and that no CADT yet has been released anywhere on Samal island. The total land area of Samal is 30,130 hectares, he added, but the tribe is claiming more than 80,000 hectares.

[JADE C. ZALDIVAR]

FFROM 2 Dellosa said women have had their fair share of battles as proven by a long list of female revolutionaries in Philippine history. The same courage and leadership exhibited by men also flowed in the veins of the likes of Maria Josefa Gabriela Silang and Teresa Magbanua who stood among their male counterparts in the Philippine revolt against Spanish colonizers. These values were passed on to thousands of female officers and personnel in the AFP, Dellosa said. With the Gender and Development Focal Point adhering to the Republic Act 9710, or the Magna Carta for Women, female soldiers and cadets are afforded the same rights, privileges, opportunities, roles, and even hardships that are initially given to men. Brig. Gen. Ramona Go is the first female line officer to become a general in the AFP, making her the face of women empowerment in the military. Go is still in the active service and concurrently the assistant deputy chief of

NO... FFROM 4

and uphold social justice,” he said.

Further, Galvez said relocating settlers along coastal areas is a social justice issue considering that those are identified as fish landing areas.

SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Plants’ natural World seabird numbers still falling rhythm revealed

LMOST half of the world’s seabirds have populations that are thought to be in decline, according to a new review. The study, published in Bird Conservation International, found that 28% of species are considered to be in the highest categories of risk. Conservationists are particularly concerned by the albatross family. Threats to the birds include commercial fishing and damage to breeding colonies caused by rats and other invasive species. Seabirds make up just a small proportion (3.5%) of the world’s bird species. But researchers say they are an important indicator of the health of the oceans. The review, carried out by BirdLife International, found that of 346 species, 47% are known or suspected to be in decline. It says that seabirds are now more threatened than any other group of birds. Prof John Croxall, Chair of BirdLife’s Global Seabird Programme, told the BBC: “They are top predators in their marine systems. The fact that almost a third are globally threatened should really be telling us something about how we need to look after where they occur to breed on land and

UN says

where they go to feed in the ocean.” BirdLife assesses the threat status of seabirds on behalf of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which compiles the internationally-recognised Red List. On that list, 5% of seabirds are in the highest category of Critically Endangered. One of those is the Balearic shearwater, which can be found in UK waters in the summer. The review also found that 17 out of 22 species of the albatross family are threatened with extinction. Conservationists say

commercial fishing is one of the key threats to seabirds with large numbers killed as a bycatch in nets and on lines. Another is the impact that invasive species such as rats and feral cats have on breeding colonies, either damaging habitats or eating chicks and eggs. Some of the most important breeding colonies are on remote islands in UK overseas territories. Last year an Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) project, part-funded by the UK Government, carried out a programme to eradicate rats on Henderson Island in the South

Pacific. Helicopters guided by GPS dropped rat poison pellets on the island, which is the only known breeding site of the endangered Henderson petrel. Grahame Madge of the RSPB said: “Without projects like this, these seabirds would have a finite life. On Henderson Island the rats were bringing birds towards extinction.” A pilot study is being carried out to look at the feasibility of removing mice from another important breeding site, Gough Island in the South Atlantic.

Climate, food pressures require rethink on water

E world’s water supply is being strained by climate change and the growing food, energy and sanitary needs of a fastgrowing population, according to a United Nations study that calls for a radical rethink of policies to manage competing claims. “Freshwater is not being used sustainably,” UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova said in a statement. “Accurate information remains disparate, and management is fragmented ... the future is increasingly uncertain and risks are set to deepen.” It says that demand from agriculture, which already sucks up around 70 percent of freshwater used globally, is likely to rise by at least 19 percent by 2050 as the world’s population swells an estimated 2 billion people to 9 billion. Farmers will need to grow 70 percent more food by that time as rising living standards mean individuals demand more food, and meat in particular. The report will be debated at the World Water Forum, which starts in the French city of Marseille on Monday. A “silent revolution” has taken place underground, the report warns, as the amount of water sucked from below the surface has tripled in the past 50 years, removing a buffer against drought. And just as demand

increases, supply in many regions is likely to shrink because of changed rainfall patterns, greater droughts, melting glaciers and altered river flows, it says. “Climate change will drastically affect food production in South Asia and Southern Africa between now and 2030,” the report says. “By 2070, water stress will also be felt in central and southern Europe.” Asia is home to 60 percent of the world’s population but only around a third of water resources, it points out. A separate water study by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and De-

velopment (OECD) released last week forecast world water demand would rise by 55 percent by 2050, with more than 40 percent of the global population likely to live in water basins facing water stress. The report says with limited supply, policymakers will have to better manage the competing demands of farmers, energy producers and humans demanding drinking water and sanitation. “The lack of interaction between the diverse communities of users, decision makers and isolated water managers has caused serious degradation of the wa-

FOR BRICKS. Kaltoum Yakoub Issa, 19, pours water used to make bricks for her new house in Abu Shouk

ter resource,” it says. The World Health Organisation said last week the U.N. target to raise the proportion of people with access to safe drinking water by 2015 had actually been reached at the end of 2010. However the figure was contested by French charity Solidarites International, which said 1.9 billion people remained without safe drinking water, not the 783 million estimated by the United Nations. The charity is among groups planning to challenge official messages at the Forum, with some associations holding an alternative event in Marseille.

camp for internally displaced people (IDP), in North Darfur

gene that triggers plants to become dormant at night and controls flowering has been discovered by scientists. Computer models of cress plants genes showed how 12 genes work together to set plants’ internal clocks, University of Edinburgh researchers said. They found that a protein, known as TOC1, previously associated with helping plants to wake up, dampened down gene activity at night. Professor Andrew Millar said “it was a big change in thinking”. Plants, animals and even bacteria go through a daily 24-hour routine, known as a circadian rhythm, which allow them to make tiny adjustments as daylight changes, and adapt to changing seasons. Prof Millar said: “Just like humans you should think about plants having rhythms. “Having a biological clock is particularly important for plants to prepare for daylight and at night-time [to] store energy for growth. “We now understand how the dozen or so genes work and are typical to particular times of the day,” he said.

The Edinburgh-led study was published in Molecular Systems Biology. Prof Millar said the results would help further research into the flowering of other plants - particularly crops such as wheat, barley and rice. “It’s useful as it’s important in terms of biology and flowering. “We now understand how it all fits together and how the same genes control rhythms in all plants as far back as single-celled algae,” he said. Another study run independently in Barcelona has also made similar findings to the Edinburgh research. Professor Paloma Mas, of the Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics in Spain, said: “We can now extend the knowledge we have gained of cyclic processes to the major crops and other plants of agronomic interest.” Prof Millar said the new data would help scientists discover more about other plant genes. “We now know about 12 genes - but we would still like to know about the ones that control photosynthesis, nitrogen use, and petal opening and fragrance.”

WORLD TODAY

The Business PAPER

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

Davao HELPING YOU MAKE INFORMED BUSINESS DECISIONS.

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Living in a suitcase: TRAVEL

How to prepare for sudden trips

By Ariel C. Balofinos

Y life nowadays is practically inside a suitcase. I travel a lot and you would likely find me inside a car for long distance rides or on board a plane. It has gotten to a point I feel like throwing up just by the mere thought of embarking on another trip to another destination. But hey, I can’t complain… Travels still end up being fun…

And I admit it…I am what many consider as the heavy traveller and each time I carry my luggage, my mother would always describe it as akin to “dragging the whole closet”. Needless to say, I go through a long and arduous ritual in picking up the right clothes and stuffing these inside my suitcase, sometimes lasting up to five hours for a weeklong trip. Unfortunately, I am no Gretchen Barretto who has a whole entourage to sort this out…nor do I have a tour bus where I could throw in all my “just-in-case(s)”…along with a microwave oven. So if you’re like me, imagine how agonizing it is when suddenly, the boss says, “oh, you have to be here tomorrow” or “you should have been on the plane yesterday so get that butt here NOW!” We may try to keep our lives in perfect order but there are good days and there are days when efforts to be organized just end up being futile. Many of you may have been in this kind of situation and will most likely be confronted again with the same in the near future. But, before you get lost in a frenzy of pulling out clothes here and there, here are some practical tips that I have picked up from my many struggles to take control of my luggage for sudden trips: • Always remember that time is of the essence, so keep in mind that your goal is to make sure that you get to bring the essentials and not over pack (I once paid a fortune on a trip to Australia, realizing later that I could have just used that to shop for new clothes! Darn!) • Try to understand what the trip is about, it is not only knowing where, when, and how to go but also knowing what to take with you. So if your boss says that you’re attending a business meet-

ing, then don’t waste time fussing over what evening gown or tuxedo to carry, unless otherwise needed. • Aim for versatility with the kind of clothes you bring. My trick has been to bring classic clothes, e.g. polo shirts, polos, or collar-less shirts and in most cases, plain colored clothes (safe choices would

with any look but is also comfortable enough for you to go the distance. It is good that, nowadays, there are many nice pairs of shoes that are suitable not only for business meetings but are also built in with comfort soles in case you need to do a lot of walking. Unless, you’re going trekking on unpaved roads, then this should be

just said I’m a heavy traveller! But you do get my point, don’t you? Ha ha ha) • For accessories, a good timepiece and a few small pieces of jewelry cannot go wrong. Depending on where you’re going, hats and sarongs have proven to be a staple lately. Do not forget other essential travel items such

A good pair of shoes can make or break your trip so make sure that this is not only versatile to go with any look but is also comfortable enough for you to go the distance. be black or white). Here, you can throw in a light jacket or a blazer both for functional and aesthetic purposes, and you should be able to mix and match. Shawls or scarves have become a travel staple for many people I know. • Bring a pair of trousers or jeans that you can pair up with any of your selected tops. You may want to opt for those that have many pockets in case you need extra space. (The more classic the cut and color, the less chances of people to notice if you wear it for a Round 2… or 3…) • A good pair of shoes can make or break your trip so make sure that this is not only versatile to go

enough. A good pair of sandals or flip-flops should also come in handy. • I am a big sucker for skin care product so this is a non-negotiable for me. I always have them on “standby” mode, that is, in a carry-all bag that I can just pull out. (very important: DO NOT forget the sunblock since, believe me, this is your modern-day fountain of youth, especially when you’re going to the beach). My favorite validated hypoallergenic skincare line, fortunately, has products that have multiple uses (such as my favorite body wash and shampoo in one) and this allows me to travel light…er…(who am I kidding?! I

as chargers, adapters, your mp3 player, a book, and perhaps a camera. • Depending on the amount of time and the level of expertise you have, try to visualize and plan your outfits on a daily basis. You may consider packing for an extra day. I always do this and this practice has not been useless, so far. Now, now, now, this does sound like your usual set of basic tips when packing clothes. But remember, this is about sudden, unplanned trips so the point I am driving at is: minimize possibilities for error so the less time and effort to think about these things,

the better. It is important therefore to know the basics since this is where you always go back to when making your choices. It is also good to be travel-ready. If you’re like me who travels quite often, then the clothes and accessories that I usually bring with me have been already segregated. I usually use these ‘cubes’, smaller bags that you can use to organize your things. This does not only help me organize but it can also remind me of what I may have forgotten to pack. Otherwise, just know your closet very well so that you won’t lose time figuring out where you have placed that nice piece of underwear that will make you ready for any occasion (Wink! Wink!) But even the best of us can go also go wrong as we might forget a swimsuit top or that favorite daily scent. So before you go ballistic, just think of it this way… the heavens is giving you an excellent excuse to shop! Which reminds me, you should be bringing along your travel documents and your money. Nobody wants to be given the difficult task of having to fetch you from the edge of the planet just because you forgot to pick these up from your counter top!!! Safe and fun travels everyone!

A2 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

Six summer soiree suggestions ENTERTAINING

O celebrate the season of sun, a true partyphile must throw a summer party. There is something about summer parties that inspire the party-lover in everyone. Perhaps, the casual and carefree vibe of the season works well with the idea of partying and enjoying the company of family, friends, and food.

Add some summer flair to these dollops of cake by frosting them evenly with your frosting. Then, completely cover the frosting with crushed grahams to resemble sand. Finally, top the “sanded” cupcake with the cocktail umbrella, and your dessert is ready to be served. 3.) Covered Cup: Outdoor parties are perfect for summer. Unfortunately, celebrating in the open also means that you have to come up with creative solutions to keep dirt, To give you more summer inspi- bugs, and dust away from your ration, here are five summer party spread. One simple way to add tips that are easy to pull off, afford- beauty to your table while keeping able, and add a festive flair to your your drinks bug-free is by using summer soiree. decorative muffin liners. Simply ing all the sweet treats we want. USE your bandanas in lieu of runners or placemats or use them to hold party favors. 1.) Pop and Stir. Sparkling water is fold your cupcake liners crosswise One way of bringing back those the perfect base for any summer and cut a slit in the middle of the times (while still staying interestdrink. The fizz of sparkling wa- liner. Then, run this through your ing for your current age group) is ter refreshes the palette, while the straw with the bottom-side up. This by adding some alcohol to your absence of sugar that is common could fit most slim highball glasses. favorite childhood snack: gummy in carbonated drinks keeps thirst Also remember to choose cupcake bears! All you have to do is simply away. To create the perfect summer liners that come in colors to match purchase a pack of gummy bears refresher, simply squeeze some the theme of your summer party. and pour some vodka over it. Let fresh citrus juice (Lemon/Lime/ 4.) Bandana Bonanza: Most people it rest for at least twenty-four hours Calamansi) into a glass with ice have a stock of safe and neutral table and serve them chilled during your then top it with some sparkling wa- cloths that work well as a blank can- next summer party. What you get ter. Add powdered sugar for some vas for any party theme. One way is pieces of reconstituted gummy sweetness. Here’s the cute summer of adding a quirky pop of color and bears that have grown in size while suggestion: instead of sticking a instant attitude to your table during acting like a sponge and sucking up stirrer inside the glass, pop a citrus- a summer party is by using several all the alcoholic goodness of vodka. flavored lollipop instead. This adds bandanas in lieu of table runners This unique dessert/snack/cocktail color, some sweetness, and novelty or place mats. All you have to do is the perfect treat for a hot sumto your drink. is arrange your bandanas over the mer day. 2.) Sand in Hand: Desserts make neutral table cloth ad voila! Instant Catch Confessions of a Partyphile your summer spread even more kitsch for your party. You may also (the radio show) on 105.9 Mix FM special, especially if your dessert- use your bandanas to hold some every Wednesday evenings from 6 of-choice is kitschy and cute. To party favors like pieces of candy or to 9. For comments, suggestions, create cupcakes that are attention- nuts by wrapping them up in a bun and more confessions from this pargrabbing and oh-so-summery, and securing it with a ribbon. This typhile, log on to http://party.i.ph or all you need are some unfrosted, unexpected touch definitely adds follow the columnist on twitter.com/ store-bought cupcakes, store some zing to your summer soiree. zhaun CUPCAKE liners double as decorative statements to make your drinks pop bought icing (or you can make 5.) Summer Spring: One of the some from scratch), crushed gra- easiest ways to add some sumhams, and some cocktail umbrellas. mer appeal to your table is by creating flowers from cupcake liners and straws. All you have to do is choose two shades/colors of cupcake liners and run them (right side up) through a bendy straw by cutting a slit on the bottom. When done right, this will give the effect of bloomed flowers. 6.) Gummy Dummy: Summer is all about fun and festive flair. It is also about a carefree attitude that brings us back to our childhood days when we were afforded the luxury of not going DECORATIVE cupcake liners keep your beverage bug-free KITSCHY cupcake creations make your spread even more POP a lolly to add novelty to your drink to school and enjoy- for outdoor parties summery.

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

ENTERTAINMENT

Who is 2012’s best dressed man?

OVE over Ryan Gosling, there’s a new roster of impeccably dressed dashing brood of young men in tinseltown right now. Men’s magazine, GQ, lists the best dressed among the many rising men of Hollywood. Do you agree with the list? Send your comments to IndulgeTweets@ gmail.com

INdulge! A3

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

TRAVEL

SICOCCO Sky Bar in Bangkok.

My travel bucket list

THE view from Shanghai’s Bund

NEW York’s Times Square.

ITH the heat of summer already here, images of flying off to locations unknown are now popping into my head. Some may be far fetched and some may be within reach but in my mind these are the big cities that I have not visited yet and want to visit in the near future.

Taipei Now I have been to Taipei before on a study tour but that was more than a decade ago but I was not able to explore the city as much as I would want to given the fact that I was still a minor then. This time I want to visit Taiwan to experience life outside of the four corners of my school building in Taipei. And why should I visit? One word, food! Taiwan is every foodie’s dream with it’s capital Taipei hosting delicious street food is almost every corner. In fact, Shilin Night Market has rows upon rows of food establishments that serve everything from oyster cakes, to hotpot. Bye bye diet! Bangkok They say Thailand is truly amazing with a culture that is so different yet instantly familiar to us Filipinos thanks to Thais having such a friendly disposition. I hope to one day explore Thailand’s city of angels, Bangkok, and experience its legendary food and partying as told by the movie “The Hangover 2” and by my friend Carmina has been telling me. Given the many quirky streets and markets of the city one can

also find hidden gems and curios along the way. The museums and many temples of Bangkok are also a must see for me. Rio de Janeiro Directly on the other side of the world is Rio de Janeiro. The soul of Brazil and the home of samba and Havaianas flip-flops, Rio is definitely up there in the places I want to visit. What excites me most about Rio is not just the beach and laid-back lifestyle of the people but to be able to experience Rio’s love and passionate for life just like in it’s annual Carnival. Rio de Janeiro is also hosting the Summer Olympics this coming 2016 making it one hot spot to visit even before the Olympics. London With much hype thanks to the upcoming 2012 Summer Olympics, London is definitely the place to be this year. Although personally, I think it would be better to experience London after all the hustle and bustle of the games have quieted down since I honestly hate crowds of loud tourists. Aside from the famed theater district of the WestEnd, museums abound all over London. The party animal in me would also love to experience what it feels like to visit the London club scene which they

UNDERWATER suite at the Conrad Hotel in the Maldives.

TAIPEI’s Shilin night market.

NEON lights in Tokyo’s Shibuya district.

say is one of the best in the world. The Maldives I am not normally a beach person and it is not strictly a city but I am willing to make an exception for the Maldives. Comprising of a few coral atolls and islands, the Maldives is located in the middle of the Indian Ocean with its closest neighbors thousands of kilometers away. A diver’s paradise with lots of coral reefs to explore and multitudes of white sand beaches, I bet it would be difficult NOT to get a nice tan in this tropical island paradise. Shanghai The Pearl of the East, Shanghai is the largest city

in China and is a mix of colonial style architecture and futuristic skyscrapers. One visit to Shanghai will allow you to visit some of the most modern and tallest structures in the planet. Who would have known that this city of 23 million souls would become so modern and high tech? I would love to experience what the night life is like in Shanghai’s old Bund area and its growing art scene. The city’s many temples gardens, and teahouses are also places I would like to experience. New York The city the never sleeps, that is New York. Boasting of many ethnic boroughs and even more ethnic

RIO’S Carnival.

groups living in close proximity to each other. New York is the center for everything hip with a multitude of museums, theaters and art galleries. Given that many cultures clash and melt with each other in the Big Apple, I want to explore and taste the restaurant scene here and of course experience how New York throws its parties. Tokyo Nothing beats Japan when it comes to culture and food and it sits way on top of my travel bucket list. The home of anime, manga, robots, sushi, and the original iron chef, one can say Japan is a mecca for everything high tech but

with a uniquely Japanese twist. Tokyo is the world’s largest city and their know-how in design and architecture truly amazes me. Whats more amazing is that Tokyo has actually found a balance between modern urbanism and nature which is evident in their design and planning. Food is also a top priority for any Japan visit, ever since my first taste of Ippudo ramen, I have been craving for more authentic Japanese food. Although there are a myriad of other places, I want to visit, there seven cities are on the top of my urbanite to visit list. So what is on your travel bucket list?

EDGEDAVAO

Sports

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

Cardona is Player of the Week

EPENDING on one’s point of view, Mark ‘Macmac’ Cardona could be easily loved or hated. One thing is certain: The prolific guard, despite his oncourt antics so loathed by the opposition, is currently being toasted by Meralco and its fans for helping the Bolts score back-toback wins and earning for himself the Accel-PBA Press Corps Player of the Week citation for the period March 5 to 11. The man with the “Captain Hook” moniker notched back-to-back 25-point games and sprinkled those with other numbers to become the hands-down choice among the scribes and

emerge as the first Meralco player to earn such honor in the franchise’s young existence. Foremost among those welcoming the citation is Bolts coach Ryan Gregorio. “I was really hoping that his exploits will be recognized,” said the tactician, who readily gave up a first round draft choice to acquire Cardona from Talk ‘N Text in August of 2010. “In our last two wins he was simply phenomenal. He took it upon himself to bring our game to the next level by displaying tremendous firepower on offense and tireless energy to bring up the intensity level of the entire team after a 1-4 start.”[PR]

Uichico now with Smart-Gilas proj

ANILA-- For former Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, his transfer to the MVP Group to help form and prepare the Smart Gilas-Pilipinas national team for next year’s FIBA-Asia World Championship qualifying tournament gives him an opportunity to finish a business left unfinished in the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, South Korea. That year, an all-PBA Philippine team was on the way to earning itself a finals seat to at least duplicate the Robert Jaworski-coached side fashioned out in 1990 in Beijing but turned into frustration that relegated the Filipinos to fourth place subsequently. Foul throws missed by “Man Mountain” Asi Taulava and spitfire Olsen Racela in the clutches and a buzzer-beating threepoint shot in the opposite side lifted the Koreans to that hard-earned victory and eventually won the title by beating China in the gold medal play, a chance

that could have been the Filipinos’. That loss relegated the downhearted Filipinos to the battle for the bronze which they lost to Kazakshtan. Not really his fault, but such an exercise in futility kept hounding him the past decade even as he repeatedly asked himself when he can be given an opportunity to take revenge. He had a chance actually in 2009 when he was named one of the assistants of head mentor Chot Reyes in that year’s Olympic qualifying competition in Hiroshima, but that team could only end up ninth. “Bad luck still persists, but ngayon, baka naman suwertehin na, pangatlo na ito eh,” Uichico, who will turn 50 this coming July, said in an interview with the Philippines News Agency following his appointment to his new post after resigning and serving the San Miguel Corporation franchise for 20 years. (PNA)

DIFFERENT STROKES. Jess Guevarra blasts from the bunker (left) while Jhong Tan does an impromptu jig after hitting his putt in this action during the Araw

ng Dabaw-Phoenix Open Golf Tournament over the weekend at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club. (Boy Lim)

Timberwolves’ Rubio out for season with torn ACL M

I N N E A P O LIS—Ricky Rubio’s sensational rookie season has come to a devastatingly abrupt end. The Minnesota Timberwolves point guard will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL in his left knee, the team announced on Saturday. Now the upstart Wolves will have to keep chasing a playoff berth without the flashy, fiery leader of the franchise’s resurgence. “It’s a big emotional shock,” All-Star forward Kevin Love said. “He makes winning plays, he’s a winner. We love having him around. On and off the court. We hope for a speedy recovery so he can help this team next year. It’s a big loss for us.” It also means that Rubio will miss the upcoming Olympics, where he was expected to be a vital part of Spain’s bid for the gold medal. “All my support to my big friend and teammate (at)rickyrubio9,” tweetedToronto Raptors guard and fellow Spainiard Jose Calderon. “Hard news about his knee. He’ll be back stronger.” Rubio went down in the closing seconds of a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, when his knee buckled as he tried to help out on defense against Kobe

Bryant. An MRI on Saturday confirmed everyone’s fears, and there plenty of long faces before the Wolves hosted the New Orleans Hornets. “It’s just too bad,” coach Rick Adelman said. “He was having such a great year, he had such a great influence on our team and the way our team was playing and I think the league. It’s too bad any time you see a young player go down like that with an injury like that. You feel for him more than anyone else.” The first game without him wasn’t a good sign. The Wolves committed 17 turnovers and lost 95-89 to the lowly Hornets (10-31). A date for surgery has not yet been set, but team president David Kahn said he fully expected Rubio to be back for the start of next season. “His work ethic knows no bounds,” Kahn said. “If ever there was a player that was ticketed to have not just a full recovery but to come back better than ever, stronger, it’s Ricky Rubio.” Rubio was not at Target Center on Saturday night, but tweeted several messages of thanks and encouragement for his teammates. “Thank you everybody for ur support,” Rubio tweeted. “I promise I will be back soon and stronger. There is only one way to take: move forward and stay positive.”

In his first season after coming from Spain, the 21-year-old was averaging 10.6 points and 8.2 assists, but his impact has been so much greater than his numbers. The floppy-haired, irrepressible young point guard changed the dynamic of a rebuilding team almost from the moment he set foot in Minnesota. His flashy, unselfish play galvanized his teammates, and his funloving nature has been an immediate draw at the box office, where the Timberwolves have already sold out seven games this season, their most since 2006-07. Chants of “Ole! Ole, ole, ole!” have filled the building, which just last year was half empty almost every night as the Wolves sunk to the bottom of the league. He’s one of the most popular players in a tightknit locker room and has helped forge chemistry with the team that has paid dividends through the first 41 games this season. “Everybody feels bad about this,” center Nikola Pekovic said. “He is a rookie, a new player, but he’s also been the leader in so many ways.” Rubio is averaging 2.2 steals per game and is one of the better help defenders on the perimeter in the league.

nition by the city government on Friday night, is the player to watch in the two-day tournament which is expected to draw a strong field. The two-divisional chessfest offers cash prizes for the top ten in both the Open and Executive categories. The tournament calls for a 7-round Swiss System format with 30-minute time control

per player. Registration fee is P50 for Open and P100 for Executive. “Chess is very much alive in the city and this is a manifestation that we are serious in developing this sport. We hope to find more talents from our city,” said NCFP regional president James Infiesto. The tournament is also supported by the City Sports Development Office.

MISD-VM RD Open chess slated

I HONORED. Former PBA player Eugene Tejada who suffered a career-ending injury was recently honored by the PBA.

N T E R NAT I O NA L Master-elect Reggie Olay will lead the cast of top woodpushers in the forthcoming 2012 Mayor Inday Sara Duterte and VM Rody Duterte Open and Executive Chess Championship on March 31-April 01, 2012 at the Entertainment Area of the NCCC Mall of Davao. Olay, who was among the athletes given recog-

LIST OF AWARDEES [CONCLUSION] 9.CYCLING Dexter Nonato 10. FOOTBALL Javier Romero Salas Darius Joseph Ramos Diamante Janna Raizel Teruel Barcemo 11. HORSE RIDING Kobi troy Tan Bienvenido Aznar Alyssa Gonzales George Misa Patrick Tuazon 12. JUDO Sydney Sy Tancontian Erickson Penera James Veles Christian Bou Alibanggo Carl Dave Malinao Aseneta Jamilo V. Pacot Dulce Amor L. Herdiles Edyson E. Castaneros Geromae Zia Dennise D. Roldan Aimie Panes 13. JIU-JITSU Paolo Tancontian Chino Sy Tancontian Hamir Achocoso 14. KARATEDO Pavel Jervis D. Bacayo Carmela Marie C. Estarija Arthur Y. Lao III Oona Ysabelle T. Barnes Kassandra Danielle T. Barnes Bern Rexander R. Tacay Rexor Tacay Shinji Rex Tacay Miyuki Tacay Lya Marie Carrillo 15. LAWN TENNIS Juan Paolo Cansino Jenni Celine C. Dizon 16.MOTOCROSS Norben Mata, II Joven Lagrada Michael Tapic Vince Edward Peñalosa Jessie Pineda, Jr. 17. MARATHON Mona Liza Ambasa Brian Lupio Cynthia Jaro 18. KICKBOXING Steve Grandeza 19. TENPIN(Bowling) Thomas Convoy Ian Ancheta Celso Garcia Janine Kuwahara 20. SOFTBALL Edmer Dec Socorro 21. TAE KWON DO Patricia Anne Go Renie M. Borre Rafael Miguel Alagon Santiago Maria Irene Padillo Reinzee Nicole Pangilinan Grechelle Anne Bacus 22.TCHOUKBALL Team Davao 23. SEPAK TAKRAW Alex T. Barrios Jr. 24. MIX MARTIAL ART Ali Cali Dr. Angelito B. Manguray Isaac Tuling Ricardo M. Sapno,III

SPORTS

FOOTBALL AWARDEES. Davao’s Little Azkals Jed Diamante (left) and Javi Romero-Salas (extreme right) with ANZA Cup standout Jana Barcemo (second from right) receive their awards from Mayor Sara Duterte as out-

standing football players in the 1st Mayor Sara Duterte-Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte Recognition Night. The three youthful standouts were among over 300 players feted in the sports recognition ceremonies.

By Neil Bravo

Stella Mamac-Diaz stride by stride three-fourths of the way in the 42-k race. Jaro clocked 3 hurs, 19 minutes and 51 seconds, way below her personal best of 3:04, but she was happy with the results. Jaro said her target is a modest 3:20. A little challenge from Diaz set up Jaro to break her target. In the endthe former running queen Diaz, now mother of four, conceded to Jaro who nailed her first ever full marathon title after coming in second to Kenyan Joan Jenutoand breaking the Kenyan domination in the Sinulog Marathon last January. Diaz clocked 3:37:32. In the men’s race, Misamis Oriental running coach Arnold Unabia crossed the finish all alone in 2 hours, 43 minutes and 12 seconds. The 32-year old veteran stayed with the lead pack composed of Bukidnon’sJunelLanguido, and Davao’s James Castillo and Brian Lupo most of the way. Sensing no one is making a move,Unabia took the reins in the final five kilometres then gave his all with three kilometres to go to

leave his rivals surprised of his strong finishing kick. Languido made a mad dash to catch up with Unabia but fell a few strides short in finishing second 5 seconds behind the winner. The Tangub City coach who finished only 14th in the 2011 Milo National Marathon was a bewildered winner at the finish. “Gibuhosnanakotanansa last three kilometres,” he said. Castillo was the best Davao finisher at third with 2:44:41 while Brian Lupo (2:48:12) crossed the line in fourth. It was a big day for Unabia and his Tangub City wards as two runners in his fold also won.Jhanine Eve Mansueto (42:38) and Jojielyn Mae Pepito (44:34) finished 1-3 in the women’s 10K race. Rounding up the men’s top 10 finishers in the 42K were Gilbert Maluyo (2:50:35), Mario Ecalner (2:53:29), Jensen LydPasaporte (3:00:11), Ronald Dagang (3:08:01), Elmer Bartolo (3:09:45) and Jonathan Pido (3:11:50).

replaced with boos and chants of replacements. The New York Knicks continued to hit a snag and for the fifth straight time, they lost. Quickly as they rose to the stand-

ings, quickly they are going down now. Carmelo Anthony, whose return from injury only worsened their fate and kind of gave fans some idea that there is no good Fung Shui between him and new sensation Jeremy Lin, was booed from introduction. At some point going into the end of the match, fans even chanted “FreD’Antoni” which referred to their head coach Mike D’Antoni, who looked headed to a playoff stint before the sudden turnaround.

‘Baby Kenya’ wins Phoenix run T

HERE was no Kenyan invasion, but don’t look now, there’s someone to remind you of them. Cynthia Jaro, who has earned the tag “Baby Kenya” in the running circuit, provided glimpses of the vaunted runners as she formalized her ascent as the South’s long distance queen after pocketing the 2012 ArawngDabaw Phoenix Marathon on Sunday. After sweeping the titles last year, organizers decided to exclude the world-class Kenyan runners to give locals the opportunity to win in this emerging premier race which offer a significant portion of its proceeds to fund books for public schools under its slogan “Run Para sa Kina-Book-asan”. The dusky 21-year old Brokenshire College standout, whose breakout performance was against the feared Kenyans in Cebu eary this year, broke away in the last seven kilometres after engaging a comebacking former national team standout

Knicks fal-Lin fast N EW YORK —There is a different air in the building. Unlike a month ago when fans enjoyed the show like Broadway, the cheers are starting to be

FALLIN’ KNICKS. AS often as Jeremy Lin falls to the floor, so do the N ew York Knicks nowadays.

EDGEDAVAO Gratitude in the eyes of a child

VOL.5 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 13, 2012

Eco2 tandem wins Samal netfest The tandem of Bobong Caorte and Jun Jun Alcoseba of Ecoland 2 pocketed the men’s doubles title in the recent Samal Invitational Men’s Tennis Tournament. The Caorte-Alcoseba partnership beat Boyet Caorte and Jimboy Kabigting of TAF, 9-7, in the finals to win the tournament organized by the Davao Association of Tennis Clubs (DATEC) and sanctioned by Philippine Lawn Tennis AssociationB headed by Engr. Carol Angel. Caorte and Alcoseba advanced to the finals with an 8-6 win over Jim Bacalla and Ronron Palin of Toril Lawn Tennis Club in the semis. Caorte and Kabigting meatime survived a 9-8 sudden death win over Janus Rafailes and Daniel Abad of Babak Tennis Club. The tournament was held in celebration of the 14th Araw ng Samal and hosted by the IGACOS Tennis Club. The other participating clubs are DENR, IGACOS, Ecoland TC and Midland. (NJB)

ONA Ysabelle T. Barnes could hardly be seen from the podium when she was called up to speak on behalf of over 300 athletes honored recently by Mayor Sara Duterte and Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. But the petite and spritely 4th-grader from Davao Christian High School stood tall as a giant with her achievement. After she spoke, she walked off like a skyscraper. She spoke with conviction, as serious as she was in the dying seconds of her championship fight against a bigger girl from Indonesia. Then she capped her speech with an arresting smile—the same smile she flashed to her nervous coach after punishing her foe. Oona was one of the athletes given recognition Friday night in a glitzy ceremony. Whoever chose her to speak must be commended for making the right choice. Gratitude is deeper spoken from the lips of a child. Gratitude is real as seen in the eyes of a child. Oona’s speech in its full length goes like this: “For young athletes like us, it is a great honor to be presented with this award. In behalf of the athletes, I would like to thank God for giving us the strength and always guiding us through our training and competitions. We would also like to thank our ever-supportive families, especially our parents who have always believed in us. Thank you to my coach Rommel Tan. Thanks for guiding me in every step of the way even if I always make you nervous at tournaments. To my fellow athletes of Davao City, please do

continue to bring honor and glory to our city and country. And last but not the least; we would like to thank Mayor Inday Sara Duterte and ViceMayor Rudy R. Duterte for giving us the opportunity to receive the 1st Mayor Inday Sara Duterte and Vice-Mayor Rudy R. Duterte Athletes Recognition award. We will definitely treasure this moment until we grow up. Again, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much.” Oona’s coach Rommel Tan was all smiles in the sidelines for his ward. Last month in Kuala Lumpur, Oona gave Rommel the fits when, in control of her finals match against a taller and bigger Indonesian foe, she committed a costly foul giving her rival a chance to equalize. “Instead of being sorry, she smiled naughtily,” Rommel confessed. “I got nervous. All of a sudden a sure gold is about to slip away.” Oona is actually not a mischievous kid. But in the arena, Oona is the fiercest foe her rivals will ever face. She is undoubtedly the smartest kid around. She proved that again Friday night at the podium. Oona is a real champion. Hands down.

JUVIC PAGUNSAN. P2.5 Million richer.

Juvic ties for 35th, pockets P2.5M

UVIC Pagunsan of the Philippines settled with a second straight even par round on tough conditions at the Doral Monster course to finish a strong tie for 35th in his first stint in the World Golf Championship. Pagunsan’s four day 4-under total 284 netted him US$60,500 or a whopping P2.5 Million. He finished ahead of such notable players as Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods who withdrew after injuring his knee in the final round. Justin Rose expected a moment like this, pos-

ing on the 18th green of the famed Blue Monster at Doral with a World Golf Championship trophy in his hands. It’s the rest of the script that made Sunday so surprising. The biggest charge came from Rory McIlroy, eight shots behind until he crept within one of the lead late in the round. The early departure came from Tiger Woods, who muddied his Masters future by limping off the course after 11 holes with soreness in the left Achilles tendon, the one that caused him to miss two majors last year.