Edge Davao 5 Issue 91

EDGEDAVAO P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

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Science/ Environment Page 4

Property

Sports

Mayor may file suit vs squat con-man

By Jade C. Zaldivar

D

AvAo City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio is mulling filing a case against one Manolito Gavas who dragged the name of the may-

n Advises victims go to court n Suspect detained by police or’s office in his alleged swindling of almost a hundred peo-

ple by offering them homelots in a squatted area

Illegal settlers started constructing shanties since last July 2 on an empty lot at victoria village, Matina Aplaya, Davao City

FMAYOR, 13

Page 7

Page 16

TEST DRIVE. Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio tests the first payong-payong converted into a closed cab which is similar to a tricycle. With her is City Administrator Zuleika Lopez. The standard design is painted yellow with black markings.

Upon the re-routing scheme for tricycles and payong-payong converted to the safer design, it’s roof will be painted according to its route. [City information offiCe]

PDEA watches coastal villages T

By Lorie Ann A. Cascaro

Follow Us On

he Philippine Drug enforcement Agency (PDeA) 11 is on the alert against the possible entry of illegal drugs through coastal barangays, regional direc-

tor emerson Rosales said Monday.

“The long coastline yields the possibility of entry of illegal drugs, either by land or sea,” he told reporters at the Kapehan sa Dabaw,

SM City Davao. he cited the increasing number of informal settlers along coastal areas that local government units cannot control, adding that many

of these settlers who come from neighboring provinces are the main factor why PDeA 11 should give more focus on these areas.

FPDEA, 13

2

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

100 Mabuhay Blue taxis to have GPS monitoring

By Lorie Ann A. Cascaro

M

CASHLESS TRANSACTION ON TAXIS. Pierre Ryan Tan of Mabuhay Taxi (left), China Bank’s AVP Area Head Mindanao 1 Hudson Uy (middle) and AVP Sales Head Cash Management Services Ricardo De Guzman III (right) showcased

Harassment, delays mar relisting of ARMM voters

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oCKeTS of harassment and delays marred the opening of the general re-listing of voters in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Monday, the Commission on elections (Comelec) said.

Comelec spokesperson James Arthur B. Jimenez however said the overall registration in the region, which will run until July 18, “generally opened on time.”

“Turnout of registrants is high and we can meet the capacity of our machines per day which is 200 persons,” he said. he added that big waves prevented them from delivering the voting registration machines to the municipalities of Mapun and Turtle Islands, all located in the island-province of Tawi-Tawi.

Top Comelec officials, including Chairman Sixto

S. Brillantes Jr., also flew to Tawi-Tawi on Monday to personally oversee the registration there.

In addition, Jimenez said three registration centers in Lanao del Sur have suffered delays due to lack of electricity in the area.

“We have more than 300 generating sets for Lanao del Sur. More than half are already for deployment,” he said.

For the meantime, registrants were asked to manually fill up their application and wait for the arrival of the generator sets to run the registration machines.

Jimenez said they also received reports of harassment against their personnel in Maguindanao by an unidentified group on Sunday evening.

“We are trying to estab-

FHARASSMENT, 13

DOE safety policy to ensure health program for workers

A

proposed safety and health policy to be imposed in all renewable energy (Re) facilities would ensure protection program for the workers.

The health program and services for workers in Re facilities will be encapsulated in the occupational health Requirements under the impending Renewable energy Safety, health and environment Rules and Regulations or ReSheRR. The Department of energy is putting in place the finalization of ReSheRR to be required in all Re exploration, development, utilization and system operations in the country.

Atty. Marissa Cerezo, Doe assistant director for Renewable energy Management Bureau (ReMB), said ReSheRR serves as policy guideline for Re operators, developers and contractors in ensuring safety and healthy environment and operations in the workplace.

Rule 6 of ReSheRR specifies the occupational health Requirements that mandate every employer to provide health program and services for the employees.

The health program covers health examination, management and treatment of occupational injuries and diseases,

FDOE, 13

the first in the country’s cashless transactions on taxis through debit cards, which was pioneered by Black Taxis. KARLOS MANLUPIG

Payong-payong trike

ABuhAy will be the first taxi company in the Philippines to install Global Positioning System (GPS) monitoring in 100 Blue taxis in two weeks time.

This is in addition to another first--a cashless payment system in 20 new Black taxis starting days ago.

Ryan L. Tan, assistant manager of Mabuhay, said Monday replacing the company’s two-way radio system for monitoring its units, the new computerized system can locate a Mabuhay taxi that is nearest the location of a customer.

The taxi driver will be notified of a possible passenger nearby through a message flashed on a touch screen monitor

placed on the dashboard. he or she will press either “accept” or “decline” button on the screen to respond to the computer operator.

Tan said the head office can monitor whether or not the taxi is heading towards the customer’s location, or send a message to the driver in cases that he or she had gone astray. he mentioned that the GPS technology also has security features, but he admitted that before the drivers’ safety, the company was first considering the customers’ convenience to respond to their needs efficiently.

It is also for the passengers’ convenience that Mabuhay installed

F100 MABUHAY, 13

Mayor Sara to shoulder 50% of conversion, if…

By Jade C. Zaldivar

I

F the owner of a payong-payong unit is also the operator and driver of the same, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte is willing to contribute 50% of the cost of converting the motorcycle unit into the recommended closed cab model similar to a tricycle.

Following numerous complaints against the cost of conversion, P8,000 to P9,000, the Mayor Sara said she will be lenient only with those who operate their own payongpayong.

“Those who have one motorcycle which they

depend on for their livelihood, I will help them,” she said yesterday at a media briefing in her office.

“Why would I pay for those who own a dozen or more motorcycles when they can afford to have them modified into payong-payong?” she added.

Payong-payong, a motorcycle unit with a side car is illegally operating in rendering transport service if they are not registered with the city. Its

form also exposes passengers and drivers to physical danger.

Last week, the city government began distributing drawings of the prototype which owners of payong payong should use as basis in converting their units.

Moratorium The mayor on June 25 ordered a 30-day moratorium on the impounding of the illegal motorcycle units, which ends the fourth week of July.

AvAo City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio yesterday said the theme for Kadayawan 2012 will be “Ten tribes. one vibe.”

It is noteworthy that it would be the first time that the Kadayawan will be projected in the english language while in previous years it had always been done in the vernacular.

Duterte-Carpio said this way tourists to be able to appreciate the celebration more.

“If we continue commu-

nicating in the vernacular (Cebuano-visayan) only we the Dabawenyos will understand the theme but not tourists visiting the city,” she said in a media briefing.

The Kadayawan festival is celebrated yearly by the city in honor of it’s cultural heritage, particularly it’s lineage from the ten native tribes -- Ata, Matigsalug, ovu-Manuvo, Klata-Djangan, Tagabawa, Tausog, Maguindanao, Maranao, Kalagan, and Sama.

The festival also upholds the city’s pride in be-

ing home of people of different cultures and faiths, whether they’re Christians, Muslims or lumads.

The mayor said this year’s Kadayawa, which will be celebrated from August 1 to 31, features 14 major activities which include the anticipated parade and street dancing performances.

Duterte-Carpio also said the city is yet to finish summing up the budget for the festival as the city continues to receive proposals of activities that should be

Kadayawan

n Rejects extension of moratorium

During the period, owners of payong-payong are advised to have their units converted so as when the moratorium is lifted they can operate legally and free themselves of the risk of impoundment.

The mayor said there have been requests for the moratorium’s extension which she has turned down.

“It’s cost-effective if they convert, they will expose themselves to the risk of penalties again and again since they’re operating legally,” she added.

‘Ten tribes. One vibe’ – theme D

accredited as part of the celebration.

Meanwhile, the mayor said the City Peace and order Council has submitted to the Philippine National Police an application for the implementation of a month-long gun ban during the Kadayawan celebration.

It was noted that the observance of a gun ban during the Araw ng Dabaw celebration last March was effective in minimizing gun-related incidents. [Jade C. Zaldivar]

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

Phoenix adopts watershed site

3

By Lorie A. Cascaro

P

hoeNIx Philippines Foundation, Inc. (PPFI) has adopted five hectares for rehabilitation in the Mt. TalomoLipadas watershed which is under the responsibility of the Davao City Water District (DCWD).

The company is the 74th among private sectors that have adopted sites in watershed areas.

During the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao yesterday, Phoenix and DCWD signed a memorandum of agreement under the adopt-a-site program of the DCWD. Lawyer Socorro ermac Cabreros, assistant vice president for corporate legal of the PPFI, said part of the agreement is to donate P150,000 to the DCWD for the rehabilitation of the site.

DCWD spokesperson Imelda Magsuci said rehabilitation costs P30,000 per hectare, which will be planted to 694 trees, consisting of 194 fruit trees and 500 forest trees.

Because this project is community-based, she said fruit trees should also be planted for the livelihood

of caretakers in the site which, although supposedly a watershed area, is a no man’s land.

The Department of environment and Natural Resources allotted 1,000 hectares of Mt. Talomo-Lipadas watershed to the DCWD for rehabilitation, out of about 60,000 hectares of watersheds in Davao City, Davao del Sur and North Cotabato.

Magsuci said as of December 2010, 530 hectares of the 1,000 hectares had been rehabilitated with 96 hectares adopted by private sectors since 1995, adding that there are 470 hectares left which the DCWD has opened for adoption.

She noted that the Mt. Talomo-Lipadas watershed is the most important source of ground water at the Dumoy aquifer, and it is vital to maintain its fresh water level to avoid salinity or sea water intrusion.

She also mentioned that the DCWD is grateful to the City Council for disapproving proposals for cemeteries in the Dumoy area which would pose a threat to the city’s source of fresh water.

Mayor Sara graces M Magazine cover

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AvAo City Mayor Sara Zimmerman Duterte-Carpio topbills M (Life and Living in Mindanao) Magazine’s latest issue.

Duterte-Carpio, the youngest and first female mayor of the 87th fastest growing city in the world (according to the City Mayors Foundation), shares her candid and simple life behind the headlines in the magazine’s cover story.

Sharing the pages with the lady mayor in the 3rd quarter edition of Mindanao’s first and only glossy travel and lifestyle publication are Tagumenyo owners of Tribu outdoor - brothers Jason and Jerome Luengo; Cotabato visual artist Zohayma Montaner; T’nalak advocate and designer Ivan Raborar; bone-inspired accessory designer AJ omandac; and Davao’s adopted son, award-winning singer/ songwriter Wency Cornejo.

Also in this issue, M Magazine explores the new and unfamiliar attractions of Mindanao, including Asik-asik Falls of North Cotabato; the Birds of Baras in Tacurong; the Balungis weavers of Sarangani; the

amazing sights of Quezon in Bukidnon; and the extreme adventure of paragliding in Sarangani.

Butuan’s Balangay Festival, Bukidnon’s Kaamulan Festival, and Davao del Sur’s Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge take the spotlight as M Magazine highlights the recent revelries and other exciting events in Mindanao, while taking a glimpse of the creations of Mindanawon designers at the Philippine Fashion Week and sampling the indigenous cuisine of the Ata-Paquibato tribe of Davao.

Pick up a copy now and rediscover the new Mindanao only in the pages M Magazine, available at all National Bookstore, Fully Booked, PowerBooks, Forewords, Christian ventures outlets, and in more than 200 bookstores and magazine stands nationwide.

In Davao City, get your copies at Babasahin (victoria Plaza, SM City, NCCC Mall, Gaisano Mall, Abreeza Mall), MetroLifestyle (Bo›s, Krua Thai, Metro Gym, Sinangag express, BananaBerry), Gaisano Mall Supermarket, Lachi›s, ProMark and Davao Periodicals outlets.

WATERSHED PROTECTION. Davao City Water District general manager Engineer Edwin Regalado (left), Phoenix Philippines Foundation Inc AVP for Legal Corporate Legal Attorney Socorro Ermac-Cabreros (middle) and Corporate

Clarification on Watershed Code

Affairs Manager Beethoven Sur (right) sign on Monday the memorandum agreement for the adoption of Phoenix of a 5-hectare area of the TalomoLipadas watershed for preservation and conservation.[KarloS manlUPiG]

No monocropping in agro-forestry, non-tillage areas, --city legal office

I

T’S now clear. The Watershed Protection, Conservation and Management ordinance, also called Watershed Code, prohibits monocrop agriculture in agro-forestry and agricultural non-tillage areas regardless of size.

This was the clarification issued by the office of the City Legal officer of Davao City in its recent legal opinion forwarded to the Watershed Management Council headed by City Mayor Sara Duter-Carpio in answer to a query the CLo received recently.

The opinion was written

by Gil Norman D. Cuidadano, attorney III, and approved by acting City Legal officer osmundo P. villanueva Jr. The query was whether the ordinance prohibits monocrop agriculture in agro-forestry and non-ag-

ricultura non-tillage areas when the area is more than 100 hectares as one official of the Department of environment and Natural Resources (DeNR) interpreted it.

Before rendering its legal opinion, the CLo first defined “monocrop agriculture” is a form of agricultural practice using only one crop planted over large areas like bananas and pineapple farming. This definition is contained in ordinance No. 0310-07, series of 2007, otherwise known as the Watershed Code.

CLo cited Article 9 on prohibited acts of the ordinance. It said “to ensure the health and sustainability of the Watershed Areas, the following shall be prohibited acts in the environmentally CriticalAreas, immediately upon effectivity of this Code.”

The ordinance allows

monocrop agriculture including but not limited to banana and pineapple plantations to implement a threeyear phase-out plan.

During this period “no permit shall be issued to new applications for monocrop agricultural ventures.”

The ordinance likewise provides that “existing monocrop agriculture covered by the phase-out plan shall not be allowed to expand.”

It said that under the provisions of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Watershed Code, the prohibition against monocrop agriculture in agro-forestry/agricultural non-tillage areas is without any distinction as there was no classification of areas less than or more than 100 hectares.

Meanwhile, Councilor

Marissa Salvador Abella said a multipartite team will monitor violations of the Watershed Code.

According to Abella, who is a ranking member of the Davao City Watershed Management Council with Councilor Arnolfo Ricardo Cabling, Acting City Agriculturist Leonardo Avilla III, City environment officer Joseph Domic Felizarta and City Administrator Lyka Lopez, the multipartite monitoring team composed of government, nongovernment organizations, the academe, media and the barangay governments of the 42 barangays where the eight initially-identified watershed areas are located.

The monitoring will start as soon as the WMC survey teams shall have delineated the watershed areas. [ama ]

isting contracts and the Tampakan project has an existing contract,” Paje said in a televised press conference over stateowned PTv channel.

Respecting existing mining contracts is a way of the government not to turn off investors in the mining industry, he said. on the open-pit ban of South Cotabato, Paje said: “It remains valid until invalidated by competent authorities.” he was apparently referring to the court or the lifting of the provision on open pit ban by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

South Cotabato officials did not immediately respond when sought for reactions.

John Arnaldo, Sagit-

tarius Mines external communications and media relations officer, said the company welcomes the signing of the new mining policy by the President.

“We believe this executive order is a positive step towards promoting a responsible mining industry in the Philippines and in particular, we welcome the recognition of the need for consistency between national laws and local ordinances,” he said in an emailed statement.

“We look forward to partnering with the national and local governments and our host communities to progress the Tampakan project and achieve our shared goals for southern Mindanao – namely a vibrant,

multi-faceted economy that provides sustainable opportunities for all,” he added.

If approved, we believe the Tampakan project would establish a blueprint for modern, largescale mineral development in the Philippines, Arnaldo said.

The mining executive, however, did not comment on the pronouncement of Paje that the open-pit ban of South Cotabato remains valid.

Rene Pamplona, advocacy officer of the Social Action Center of the Diocese of Marbel, said the new mining policy would not affect the stance of the diocese against the Tampakan project.

PNoy’s new mining policy considers open-pit ban in South Cotabato valid

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he open-pit ban imposed by the provincial government of South Cotabato, which poses an obstacle to the Tampakan coppergold project of Sagittarius Mines Inc., remains in effect, environment Secretary Ramon Paje said on Monday as he discussed the contents of the government’s new mining policy signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III. But while the open pit ban is considered valid, the new executive order on Mining won’t stop Sagittarius Mines if it wants to proceed because the policy does not repeal existing large-scale mining contracts.

“The eo respects ex-

[BonG

Sarmiento/mindanewS]

4

SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

85% of ‘Coral Triangle’ reefs at risk

In this underwater photo, released by US-based charity ‘The Nature Conservancy’ in 2011, corals are pictured in Indonesia’s Wakatobi archipelago. More than 85 percent of reefs in Asia’s “Coral Triangle” are directly

threatened by human activities such as coastal development, pollution, and overfishing, a new report warned on Monday.

oRe than 85 percent of reefs in Asia’s “Coral Triangle” are directly threatened by human activities such as coastal development, pollution, and overfishing, a new report warned on Monday.

Launched at the International Coral Reef Symposium in Cairns, it said the threat was substantially more than the global average of 60 percent and urged greater efforts to reduce destructive fishing and run-off

M

from land.

“When these threats are combined with recent coral bleaching, prompted by rising ocean temperatures, the percent of reefs rated as threatened increases to more than 90 percent,” the report said.

The Coral Triangle covers Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, The Solomon Islands, and east Timor and contains nearly 30 percent of the world’s reefs and more

than 3,000 species of fish.

More than 130 million people living in the region rely on reef ecosystems for food, employment, and revenue from tourism, according to “Reefs at Risk Revisited in the Coral Triangle”.

“Across the Coral Triangle region, coastal communities depend on coral reefs for food, livelihoods, and protection from waves during storms, but the threats to reefs in this region are incredibly high,” said lead

author Lauretta Burke.

“Reefs are resilient -- they can recover from coral bleaching and other impacts -- particularly if other threats are low.

“The benefits reefs provide are at risk, which is why concerted action to mitigate threats to reefs across the Coral Triangle region is so important.”

The report by the World Resources Institute, in collaboration with environmental groups WWF, The Nature

Conservancy and Conservation International, will be used by the six countries to develop their management of the reefs. “(The report) is an important contribution for supporting the six Coral Triangle countries in making critical decisions related to protecting their marine resources,” said Maurice Knight, a contributing author.

“The region-wide perspective on the status of coral reefs as depicted in this report demonstrates

the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action.”

The International Coral Reef Symposium, held every four years, has attracted more than 2,000 scientists from 80 countries to present the latest advances in coral reef conservation.

Their research and findings are considered fundamental to informing international and national policies and the sustainable use of coral reefs globally.

know the Coral Triangle status for real, in numbers,” he said after officially launching the report in Cairns, Australia.

“The message is loud and clear - we are managing this for the world, so we want the world to help us in taking care of it.”

Spanning the marine waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Solomon Islands and Timor Leste - banded together in 2009 under the largest regional marine governance effort, the Coral Triangle is the heart of the world’s coral reefs.

Called the “Amazon of the Seas”, the 75,000-square-kilometre Coral Triangle makes up

1 per cent of the earth’s surface but contains nearly 30 per cent of the world’s coral reefs and 75 per cent of all known coral species.

The area, which is also home to over 3,000 species of fish, twice the number found anywhere else in the world, supports the lives of more than 100 million people.

While safeguarding the Coral Triangle, Suseno said the six countries would need the world’s support to implement, among other things, alternative livelihood, food security programmes and economic empowerment.

“We need to help balance conservation efforts with economic develop-

ment and social inclusiveness so people can also feel the benefit and are not evicted for conservation reasons,” he said at the pre-event of the 12th International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS), held from July 9-13 at the Cairns Convention Centre in Cairns, Australia. “Conservation is important but people are a priority.”

According to Terry hughes, federation fellow at the Australian Research Council, Centre of excellence for Coral Reef Studies at the James Cook university, there are three factors as drivers of change on coral reefs.

They are human population growth and migration; wealth dis-

tribution and evolving markets; leading to runoff from land, overfishing and climate change.

“The scale of all these requires unprecedented international intervention,” said hughes, one of the experts who reviewed the report.

At the meeting, Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelagic country and home to 16 per cent of the world’s coral reefs, reported improved coral reef conditions.

Director of maritime planning and coastal areas at the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry, M. eko Rudianto, said that currently, 5.48 per cent of coral reefs is in excellent shape - better than 3.7 per cent some

five years back. however, a large chunk, or 31.98 per cent, is in poor condition.

Despite the slight improvement, nature and man-made threats against coral reefs - such as overfishing, destructive fishing and pollution - remain.

“To survive threats from nature, the coral reef should be in good condition, stronger, while to deal with economic challenges, people¿s welfare should be improved,” eko said.

Data in the report, he said, was crucial to provide a clearer picture of existing conditions of the area’s biophysics, social economy and governance.

Coral Triangle leaders vow to manage seas together

S

Ix countries bounded by the world¿s richest marine resources launched yesterday a landmark report that for the first time aims to offer a clearer picture on the state of Coral Triangle.

Suseno Sukoyono, executive chair of the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries and Food Security’s (CTI-CFF) Interim Regional Secretariat, said it was the first time the six countries had joined in and thought as one to produce the State of the Coral Triangle Report.

“Maybe there are shortcomings and gaps in the report. But for the first time, we are thinking together. Now, we

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

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

47.032 46.851 48.139

48.161 48.146 47.905 47.524 48.217

48.458 47.585 47.207

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

THE ECONOMY

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

5

PNoy confident of bright future for agri sector P

ReSIDeNT Benigno S. Aquino III said the country’s agriculture sector has achieved a lot in two years, as he asked the public to continue supporting the reforms being initiated by his administration for the benefit of the Filipino people and the country as a whole.

“Kung may isa man pong sektor na talagang sumasalamin sa kung gaano ka-epektibo ang ating krusada sa tuwid na daan, ito ay ating sektor ng agrikultura, sa pangunguna ng Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka,” the president said in his speech at the Makina-Saka 2012 Agri-Machinery Roadshow, in Pasay City, on July 5, 2012.

“Talaga naman pong sa pamumuno ng ating Kalihim Proceso Alcala, ang dating pambansang kamalig na pinagmumulan ng kaliwa’t kanang anumalya, ngayon ay bukal ng mabubuting balita,” the president added. under the Aquino administration, the government was able to cut the volume of rice imports last year from 1.3 million metric tons (MT) to 850,000 MT, the President said, adding that this year the country will just import 500,000 MT.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is also expecting achieving rice self-sufficiency next year, and the country may also start shipping out rice to other countries especially if weather disturbances do not affect production next year.

The government has also invested on the agriculture sector to reduce wastage, the president said.

Last year, the government allocated P1 billion to buy more than 2,300 units of postharvest machinery and other equipment.

For this year, the government increased the budget to P2.6 billion to buy 7,000 farm machineries that will be distributed to farmer organizations and local government units throughout the country, the president said.

The government has also invested on the country’s irrigation system to improve food production, he added.

The president also acknowledged the need to enhance research and development in the country, saying that the state colleges and universities and the DA must work together to help agriculture professionals, farmers and

DTI: Diversify products to continue development

A

top official of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has emphasized on the importance of product diversification in order to sustain economic development.

During the opening of the 45th Kadagayaan Festival last June 29, Trade and Industry undersecretary for Regional operations Group (RoG) Merly M. Cruz, who was keynote speaker, said that although the province is known for its banana, it must not only focus on this export commodity in terms of development.

“It’s not only banana that you should carefully develop. hindi lang po dapat saging. Tingnan po natin kung ano pa ang ibang produkto na pwede nating palaguin. Dito po pumapasok ang agrikultura,” she said.

Cruz also noted the relevance of Industry Clustering Approach for the continued economic contribution of banana, one of the country’s top export products.

“Kung ang Davao del Norte ay may saging, magkakaroon ng convergence with other bananaproducing provinces or regions

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

for a stronger banana industry,” she said explaining the idea of the Industry Clustering Approach. under this approach, collaboration of efforts among movers from the government and private sector is a major success component.

Cruz said a good leadership is important in achieving the goal of making an industry more developed.

“Development is dependent on leadership. Leadership is important for things to happen,” she said.

Meanwhile, Davao del Norte acting provincial administrator Norma B. Lumain said the 45th Kadgayaan Festival’s theme of “Convergence and Solidarity” is about the collaboration of the public and private stakeholders towards achieving development.

“This year’s theme talks of what it (Province of Davao del Norte) has achieved yesterday and what we are today. It also shows the strong partnership between the government and the non-government organizations (NGos),” she said. [dti11/JenmendoZa]

growers with the use of modern technology and farming methods. “hinihimok din po natin ang pribadong sektor na patuloy na makibalikat sa pagpapayabong ng ating agrikultura. Ang pagbabayanihan natin ang susi upang matiyak ang pangmatagalang seguridad sa pagkain, gayundin sa mas matatag na ekonomiya ng bansa,” he said. “Nananalig ako na ang tagumpay ng Makina-Saka 2012 ay magiging isang dambuhalang

hakbang tungo sa mas moderno, mas kapaki-pakinabang, at mas matatag na sektor ng pagsasaka.”

Aquino also asked every Filipino to strengthen the spirit of volunteerism to empower their fellowmen, noting that every seed of reform sowed today will benefit the next generations of Filipinos.

“Samahan po ninyo ako — Ituloy po natin ang pagtahak sa tuwid na landas, at atin pong pitasin ang mas mayabong na bukas,” he said.

Probe Prudential Life rehab, solon says

h

ouSe Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. Lorenzo “erin” Tanada has sought an investigation into the conservatorship of Prudential Life Inc. (PPI), saying he “felt the need to respond to complaints by the plan-holders that they are being disenfranchised by the Insurance Commission in its consideration of proposals to rehabilitate PPI.” “house Resolution 2537 will launch a congressional inquiry into whether the Pre-Need Code needs amendment to protect the rights and interests of planholders in cases like this one, where the firm is under conservatorship,” Tanada said. he said that Prudential Life has been under conservatorship since 2010, and was placed in a state of suspension of payments last March while the Insurance Commission decided on its proposal for rehabilitation. It has not been allowed to sell new plans since 2009.

“The plan-holders of PPI just want to be included in the process of determining the acceptable rehabilitation plan of the company. That is their right, because they are the owners of the trust fund that will be used for the rehabilitation. In fact they have already rejected a proposal from PPI and Manila Bankers Life Insurance, and have forwarded their own. unfortunately, the conservator had come out in the media stating a preference for the PPI proposal, which put the plan-holders in an awkward position because they thought the conservator represented their interests,” he said. “hR 2537 asks the question, ‘who is the conservator meant to be representing here?’ Is it the plan-holders, the company,

or the Insurance Commission? under the law, the conservator is appointed by, and accountable to, the Commission -- but isn’t the Commission also supposed to represent the interests of the plan-holders?” he said.

Tanada also pointed out the alleged “insufficiency” of the public hearings conducted by the Insurance Commission.

“The Commission conducted just two public hearings, both in its u.N. Avenue office here in the metro. With more than 300,000 plan-holders spread out all over the country, that was clearly a disenfranchisement of the vast majority residing in the provinces that did not have the time or money to attend. Not to mention that it is cruel to expect people who are already financially ruined to spend more of their resources -- surely we can make things a little easier for them by making the process less taxing,” he said.

“Also, without conducting these public hearings, how will the Commission know what are the concerns or negotiation points of the plan-holders?” he said.

The Quezon solon noted that the PPI case was especially significant, being the first of its kind.

“We enacted the Pre-Need Code two years ago, in response to the wave of collapse of pre-need firms. The PPI rehabilitation is the first to be undertaken under the new law, and considering that there are 30 other pre-need firms under conservatorship as of February this year, we need to ensure that we plug any holes in the law now, so that the same problem don’t come up with the other 30,” he said.

as of august 2010

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

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

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

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

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

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

EDGEDAVAO 6 Casiño wants DOE, BFAR wants 27 new patrol boats PNOC officials changed to monitor fisheries violations A THE ECONOMY

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he Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has proposed the purchase of 27 patrol boats from local manufacturers to boost its marine protection capability.

The proposed purchase, estimated at P189 million, has been forwarded to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). BFAR director Asis Perez said the boats would be made of fiberglass to make them last for about two decades. Wooden patrol boats, he said, has a life span of only about three years.

Perez said the new patrol boats would be fitted with armaments in the future. The BFAR has only ten existing boats in

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

n Only 2 patrol boats manning Moro Gulf and Davao Gulf n Boats will be for monitoring, control, and surveillance n Dynamite fishing still prevalent in the area

the country, two of them servicing the southern shores, from the Moro Gulf to the Davao Gulf, and are being utilized by the Coast Guard. These were made of fiberglass or steel and have machine guns and have a length of 45 meters.

Fatma Idris, BFAR director for the Davao Region, said the two boats have BFAR personnel.

“These are the MCS type, or the monitoring, control

and surveillance boats,” she said.

If the boats are acquired soon, Perez said BFAR will be able to increase its capability to monitor, not only poaching in our international waters, but violations within our municipal waters. he said domestic violations, especially dynamite-fishing, have been “the most destructive and posed immediate con-

INDANAo will get some P27 billion for the paving of national road networks next year to improve the movement of goods and people in the south, officials said.

The Department of Public Works and highways’ (DPWh) P27 billion budget for road projects in 2013 is P7 billion higher than this year’s allocation, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) reported on Friday.

In Region 12, the Regional Development Council has endorsed six road projects to improve the region’s tourism potentials. Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson said the road-concreting project is in support of the government’s strategy to spur development in Mindanao. he said that as of this year, 69% of the national roads in Mindanao are still unpaved, making it the area with the least number nationwide, of kilometers of paved roads.

“It is very clear that Mindanao should get a bigger share of the budget,” Singson stressed.

he added that in the past three years, DPWh has been allocating 26 percent of its budget for Mindanao.

Also this year the department has allocated an additional P2.8 billion solely for roads development in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, MinDA chair, stressed that Mindanao still lags behind in terms of its transport networks, which affects the efficiency of flow of goods in the island-region.

“A lot still needs to be done in our road networks, especially because these are essential in promoting our role as the country’s food basket,” Antonino said.

She also stressed that Mindanao’s accelerated growth and economic take-off “is possible once the island achieves full physical integration and interconnectivity.”

The RDC-12 has endorsed to the DPWh and the Department of Tourism the concreting of six road projects to boost their tourism potentials: Poblacion Lake

Sebu-Seloton-Seven FallsLake Lahit road; Junction National highway (Sarangani-Davao del Sur Coastal Road to Gumasa White Beach road); Kidapawan-llomavis road; Junction National highway (Sarangani-Sultan Kudarat coastal road to Pangui-Wali-New La union road); Junction National highway (MakilalaAllah valley road to Baras Bird Sanctuary road); and Junction National highway (Cotabato-Digos road to Barangay New Israel Road).

Arturo valero, National economic and Development Authority Region 12 director, said the RDC-12 found the proposed tourism road projects significant to the socio- economic progress of their influence area and the region as a whole.

“These projects would open opportunities for employment and productive economic activities, thus will improve eventually the quality of life of the beneficiary communities,” he said. valero, also the RDC-12 vice chair, said the DPWh, DoT and the Institutional Development Foundation,

he Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Bukidnon on Wednesday passed a resolution declaring the town of Maramag, which is home to five spring-based resorts, as the province’s “eco-resort capital” in line with the local government unit’s tourism and environment thrusts.

The town, which is near the foot of Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park and other watershed ar-

eas that are tributaries to the Pulangi River, is home to 150 springs. Maramag is a first class municipality in the crossroads of the Bukidnon-Davao, Bukidnon-Cotabato and Bukidnon-Lanao roads. It has a population of 85,000.

The resolution, jointly sponsored by all board members, cited the abundance of springs in declaring Maramag as Bukidnon’s “eco-resort capital.”

The town has been cel-

ebrating its Kahalawan Te Sebseb Festival or the Festival of Springs every June 30.

It is described as a spring festival “where the legends of the place are expressed through street dancing and tableau competition.”

The Department of Tourism has endorsed the celebration of the festival in the last seven years, the resolution said. (walter

cern because they damage a wider area for every blast”.

Aggregate estimated damage from all monitored and unmonitored blasting would affect up to two million cubic meters of marine life. Dynamite fishers use less than one liter of TNT (trinitrotoluene, the active ingredient of explosives but Perez said, “now, some are using one liter of explosives.”

Perez noted that from a sample controlled explosion, a blast from dynamite would affect an area of 100 meters and a depth of five meters. he said what is immediately visible are dead fish floating but the blast actually kills the fingerlings from as far as 100 meters.” (mindanewS)

DPWH earmarks P27-B for Mindanao roads

M

Bukidnon names Maramag ‘eco-resort capital’

T

i.Balane/mindanewS)

Inc early this year entered into a Memorandum of Agreement to pursue the integration of plans and programs in support of the government’s tourism infrastructure development as mandated by Republic Act 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009. (BonG Sarmiento/mindanewS)

MID increasing power rates and impending oil price hikes Party list Rep. Teddy Casiño today called for the revamp of the Department of energy, the Philippine National oil Company (PNoC), Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp.

(PSALM) and other agencies directly involved in the power and energy industry.

Casiño said the power shortages in Mindanao, the looming energy crisis in Luzon and the recurrent increase in the prices of petroleum products are glaring proofs that the executives of these agencies have failed miserably in their jobs.

“Most of these executives lack the knowledge and experience in handling energy matters while some are serving as stooges of the big players in the energy industry,” said the progressive solon.

Casiño particularly cited Doe Secretary Jose Almendras, who was a top executive of Ayala and Aboitiz companies and Doe undersecretary Jose Layug who was a legal counsel of Chevron before they joined the government service. “how can you expect Sec. Almendras to strictly supervise and regulate the oil companies and the suppliers of power and energy whose interest they used to

manage and promote?” the lawmaker added. he also said that Pres.

Aquino should not have appointed Sec. Almendras in an energy sector related office and that both officials should have declined their appointments to avoid possible conflict of interest.

PNoC President Antonio Cailao was also singled out

by Casiño as among those who should be replaced for questionable actuations including his favorable treatment of Shell and Chevron in the Malampaya venture.

PNoC Pres. Cailao proposed the extension of the Malampaya contract by another 13 years and even supported the uS1$ Billion expense for building two new oil well heads.

Bayan Muna has persistently been advocating thoroughgoing reforms in the power and energy sector and had filed bills to repeal the ePIRA law and the oil Deregulation Law. It has criticized government actions in the energy sector that led to mounting debts and very high electricity rates that have become unaffordable to the consumers.

It has also been critical of the highly disadvantageous Malampaya Contract, which grants big foreign oil firms billions of dollars in profit to the detriment of the Filipino people.

EDGEDAVAO

PROPERTY

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

7

Blooming in General Santos City

Local city officials headed by City Councilor Eduardo Leyson IV and San Isidro Barangay Captain Atty. Jose Edmar Yumang at the Grand Clubhouse blessing and launch, together with the Camella General Santos Homeowner’s Association officers, Camella Gensan Manager Ivy Provido, Camella officers, and prospective clients.

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aMELLa General Santos is the first of its kind in the boom city of General Santos. This masterplanned community is a premier subdivision known for prestige and quality, the first Caribbean-themed residential development in Gensan, boasting of a wide range of house designs, land area, and price options.

The elegantly masterplanned Camella General Santos residential enclave is the first gated community with 24-hour security monitoring and perimeter fence system designed to keep the area safe and secure at all times.

Camella’s Caribbean motif is complemented by its trademark tree-lined Grand Entrance and the Central Plaza, on open

space with amenities such as the Grand Clubhouse, Children’s Playground, play courts, pocket gardens, and soon, swimming pool and children’s wading pool.

Camella General Santos, which also provides its homeowners and their families with shuttle service to select destinations in the city and back, is the only subdivision in Gensan with a dedicated property

management company that oversees the community’s cleanliness, upkeep, and maintenance.

Over the course of its growth, Camella General Santos has perfected its esteemed Home Collection, which showcases designs masterfully crafted to style and function with different homeowner types in mind, providing a wide range of house models to choose from, even offering lot-only packages for investors.

Its Camella Home Series (PHP 1.1-2.5 M) features elegant house models ideal for start-up families and young professionals.

The Crown Jewels Series (PHP 2.6-3.5 M) suits the established individuals who

seek maximum comfort and superlative elegance. The Luxuria Series (PHP 4-5 M) combines luster, luxury and lifestyle in one irresistible package.

Camella General Santos is a development of Camella, a subsidiary of Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc., the country’s largest homebuilder. It has 35 years of experience, built more than 200,000 homes through 87 projects, and maintains a strong presence in Mega Manila and 19 other key provincial destinations and 44 cities and municipalities, while expanding to other regions. For more information, call 083-553-3377 or log on to www.camella. com.ph.

Why Camella GenSan?  Prime location / Accessibility: Within 3 km from SM City / Robinsons Place / KCC, very near to Quantum School  Comfort / Convenience  exclusive Lifestyle  Affordability / value for Money

Camella General Santos launches its Central Plaza

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AMeLLA General Santos formally launched its Central Plaza on May 19, 2012 with a blessing and grand ceremony attended by local city officials headed by City Councilor eduardo Leyson Iv and San Isidro Barangay Captain Atty. Jose edmar yumang, together with the officers of the Camella Gen-

eral Santos homeowner’s Association. Ms Ivy Provido, Manager of Camella General Santos, presided over the gathering, together with Camella officers and staff, and a large group of prospective clients.

The Central Plaza, a sprawling 5,000-squaremeter open space with lush landscaping and a Carib-

bean-themed motif, is the location of the amenities and recreational grounds and facilities for the exclusive use of Camella General Santos homeowners and their guests. The amenities include the 350-sqm multifunction Grand Clubhouse, the Children’s Playground, and the Basketball Court. Completing this

recreational outdoor setup is a swimming pool and a children’s wading pool, soon to be opened for use.

The sprawling Caribbeanstyled Central Plaza has a grand elevated entrance, setting it beautifully apart from the surrounding homes and tree-lined streets. The location, amenities, and sheer beauty of

the Central Plaza makes it a most ideal venue for parties, weekend get-togethers, and other similar gatherings.

Camella General Santos is a development of Camella, a subsidiary of vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc., the country’s largest homebuilder. It has 35 years of experience, built

more than 200,000 homes through 87 projects, and maintains a strong presence in Mega Manila and 19 other key provincial destinations and 44 cities and municipalities, while expanding to other regions. For more information, call 083-553-3377 or log on to www.camella. com.ph.

8

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Why single-sex education is spreading across the US Commentary

By HeatHer HollingSwortH and JeSSie l. Bonner

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EDITORIAL

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Hotel occupancy, what’s that?

oR the nth time, we have heard it: hotels in Davao City and the Davao region have not been religiously reporting their respective occupancy rates, despite repeated pleas by the City Tourism office and the Department of Tourism regional office.

The result of this obstinate refusal by hotel management to comply with what appears to be a simple task of reporting how many guests have patronized their hotels during a given period of time is the absence of accurate data on which government, through tourism agencies, can base its plans and programs designed to enhance the decidedly lucrative hospitality industry.

It is infuriating that tourism officers appear so helpless over the perennial adamance of tourism players to cooperate. This helplessness is embarrassing to government anyway one looks at it. of course, one doesn’t have to be a tax expert to realize that non-reporting of occupancy, which translates to sales, is a cheap way of tax-evasion. This is an old trick employed by traditional businessmen who loath paying

EDGEDAVAO

Providing solutions to a seamless global village.

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

OLIVIA D. VELASCO General Manager

the correct amount of taxes to government.

Tax evasion is suspected to be behind the resistance of some resort owners to accept an ordinance imposing an environment users fee (euF) in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS).

Tourism regional director Art Boncato and Davao City tourism officer Jason Magnaye should do something more than just complain to media and other allies about their helplessness before defiant tourism players.

They should propose legislation compelling hotels to report religiously on their occupancy rate. otherwise, they should study how other LGus were able to do it satisfactorily.

The city tourism officer of Puerta Princesa and the acting director of the DoT region 6 office based in Iloilo City were recent visitors of Davao City. The statistical data they presented impressed local media practitioners. The visiting factotums seem to know that even in tourism, the devil is in the details. And so, it was no surprise when Davao media people started asking the question how come this cannot be done in Davao.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

ALBERTO DALILAN Managing NEILWIN L. BRAVO Sports and Motoring ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

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

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

JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

SOLANI D. MARATAS Finance

RICHARD C. EBONA IMELDA P. LEE Advertising Specialists

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

(1st of 2 parts)

oBIN Gilbert didn’t set out to confront gender stereotypes when she split up the boys and girls at her elementary school in rural southwestern Idaho.

But that’s exactly what happened, with her Middleton heights elementary now among dozens of public schools nationwide being targeted by the American Civil Liberties union in a bitter struggle over whether single-sex learning should be continued. under pressure, single-sex programs have been dropped at schools from Missouri to Louisiana.

“It doesn’t frustrate me,” Gilbert said of the criticism, “but it makes the work harder.” While Gilbert’s school is believed to be the only one in Idaho offering singlesex classes, the movement is widespread in states like South Carolina, which has more than 100 schools that offer some form of a single-gender program.

Single-sex classes began proliferating after the u.S. education Department relaxed restrictions in 2006. With research showing boys, particularly minority boys, are graduating at lower rates than girls and faring worse on tests, plenty of schools were paying attention.

In 2002, only about a dozen schools were separating the sexes, according to the National Association for Single Sex Public education, an advocacy group.

Now, an estimated 500 public schools across the country offer some all-boy and all-girl classrooms.

Proponents argue the separation allows for a tailored instruction and cuts down on gender-driven distractions among boys and girls, such as flirting. But critics decry the movement as promoting harmful gender stereotypes and depriving kids of equal educational opportunities. The ACLu claims many schools offer the classes in a way that conflicts with the u.S. Constitution and Title Ix, a federal law banning sex discrimination in education. Researchers also have weighed in.

Diane F. halpern, a former president of the American Psychological Association, co-authored a review of studies last fall in the journal Science that found research doesn’t support the benefits of single-sex education. Additionally, there are lots of problems whenever you segregate people into groups, halpern said.

“Stereotyping increases so we really do have lots of data that says it’s just not supported,” she said. however, proponents have put out their own studies, showing the benefits of separating students. Middleton heights elementary cited the research when it first piloted single-sex classes in a few grades. The goal was to address the struggles boys were having in reading.

The idea proved so popular that single-sex classes have expanded throughout the school. Parents can opt out, a choice required by law, if they want their kids in a traditional coed classroom.

In the single-sex classes, teachers use microphones that allow them to electronically adjust the tone of their voice to match the level that research suggests is best for boys. When preparing for a test, the boys may go for a run, or engage in some other activity, while the girls are more likely to do calming exercises, such as yoga. on a recent tour, Gilbert peeked into a classroom of third grade boys, who had decorated their walls with a camping theme, complete with construction paper campfires and a sign that read “fishing for books.”

EDGEDAVAO

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oR GoD’s s a k e , w h o in heaven’s name is Bo Sanchez? This name could have been a nobody until you start seeing his name on so many books written and published by him, a Pinoy in his own right, writing to inspire and motivate others to succeed, to become wealthy, to find joy and happiness in life and marriage, etc --- all by seeking a closer, more personal relationship with God. I’m sure so many others have come across his name, a seemingly ordinary Catholic guy, with no title in front of his name, never pretending to be a priest nor a reverend,. yet millions of followers in this country and overseas all know him, whether they’re just readers of his books or part of a growing flock of disciples, willing to know more about God. It doesn’t even matter whether one is Catholic or Protestant, because Bo’s messages seem to cross religious borders, covering typical everyday topics like : “Three Things you Need To Be happy” or “What’s your Self-Portrait?” or “Loving The Poor The Way

A

F T e R the fifth round of the Nonino Donaire-Jeffrey Mathebula unification fight, I decided it was time to drive to Koronadal City to attend the burial of Jonas, eldest son of fellow journalist Allen estabillo.

Jonas died of dengue fever Thursday last week, days after a family excursion and out of town trip made him swear it was the greatest day of his life. Allen and his wife could not hold out their grief and other fellow journalists, most of them from MindaNews, shared their sorrow.

Despite it all, Allen still was composed enough to volunteer that Donaire won as soon as we shook hands at the church where the eulogy was held.

I was a bit disappointed Donaire was not able to put away the lanky and awkward South African who dropped to the canvass near the end of the fourth round, courtesy of a short but powerful left hook from the Filipino-American champion.

Donaire stomped his class right in the opening round by chasing the taller Mathebula and picking him up with his left hooks. Mathebula was already out of the fight right at the beginning as his

Monkey Business

Who, in heaven’s name, is Bo Sanchez?

God Loves Them,” or “how To Build A happy Family” or “eight Ways To Build Wealth” or “ My Maid Invests In The Stock Market” or “eight habits of Millionaires”, etc, etc.

What really impressed me, naturally, was the realization, that God really loves us and wants us to have all the abundance in the world we all dream of all our miserable lives. unbelievable this may sound to you, but God doesn’t want us to be poor, according to Bo Sanchez, he wants us to be wealthy, to be as rich as much as we want to be, either by starting a small business (as entrepreneur like him (Bo)), or by investing in the stock market.

This probably depends on how badly we want to be rich and doing all the things we ought to do to get there----- and eager of course, to share that wealth with those who have less in life.

What’s the point of all this, writing about a Pinoy spiritual leader who has touched the lives of millions of Filipinos?

Simply this--- Bo Sanchez is coming to Davao on August 15 to prepare his flock here for a much bigger conference sometime in December this year.

This encounter with Bo will take place

at the CAP Auditorium along Anda Street, while the conference will be held at a huge auditorium of the university of Southern Philippines here at Barrio obrero.

I’ve seen and browsed over several of Bo Sanchez’s books and booklets, usually displayed prominently near the entrance of the National Bookstore at SM Mall and tempted many times to buy because his writing is so simple even a housemaid can finish reading it in just one sitting. (Remember, his maids are making more money in the stock market now!)

I still find it so hard to see that Bo Samchez, who publishes several magazines, including the magazine “Kerygma” (in Greek, meaning Proclamation of the Gospel) is Catholic and still asks Mama Mary to intercede in some of their prayers. yet, his God’s message of love thru his Son Jesus, touches at the core of one’s own soul, even for a Protestant like me, who had been searching for this kind of personal, divine love from so many church leaders who preach only about Love of God--- not about hell, fear, anger and hate.

(Comments ? Email me at :tradingpost_davao@yahoo.com)

Donaire Odyssey: A class of his own decidedly longer reach was no match to the speed and power of Donaire.

For the first time in recent memory, Donaire was bulldozing his way knowing he can take Mathebula’s best shots.

But Donaire also made the South African look even more awkward to the point of being amateurish.

I have yet to see the full replay of the fight but from the stories and accounts of those who saw the fight live and on television, Mathebula was in survival mode throughout the fight although he occasionally traded punches with the Filipino. The knockdown in the fourth, the first in Mathebula’s career, nailed it for him. had there been 20 seconds more left instead of 2 seconds, the fight surely would have ended in the same round as Mathebula was clearly out of senses.

Donaire annexed the World Boxing organization superbantamweight title to add to his International Boxing Federation crown. Donaire is currently a three-weight division champion having won titles earlier in the super flyweight and flyweight classes. he dreams of following the footsteps of fellow General Santos City-raised Manny Pacquiao who won a record eight-division world boxing titles. of course that dream also extends into his pay checks.

Despite occupying a lofty ranking in the top pound for pound boxing list in

9 Cremation, a cultural challenge in PHL VANTAGE POINTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

the world, Donaire has yet to topbill an hBo pay per view and hit the million dollar purse mark. his purse for the Mathebula fight was mere uS$750,000.

Mathebula fight was mere uS$750,000. Donaire owns two of the Knockout year fights in this millennium. one was a stunning upset of Armenian vic Darchinyan and the other was a vicious knockdown of Mexican Fernando Montiel – all singularly inflicted by his powerful left hook.

Donaire is one of the best technically sound champions there is today. he is also one of the more exciting one-punch Ko artists. But he is fighting in a weight class that hardly attracts attention from mainstream sports channels that bring in the money fights. on Sunday, he was still fighting in a makeshift boxing arena outside home Depot Center in Carson, California instead of MGM Grand or Mandalay despite being the main event attraction.

Top Rank’s Bob Arum is promising bigger fights for Donaire in the coming months.

The 5’7” Fil-Am surely deserves it.

After all, there is no other fighter that is as exciting as Donaire today. By golly, he looks even better than Manny Pacquiao in the latter’s last five fights.

Bob Arum and hBo better be quick.

There is another gold mine in Donaire. A class of his own. [Edwin G. Espejo writes for www.asiancorrespondent.com]

SpeCial Feature

By Honor Blanco caBie

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ReMATIoN, in predominantly Christian Philippines, continues to be a burning issue and has become, since recent years, a cultural challenge.

When Dominador died a few years ago, at the prime of his professional career as a business tycoon, he was not brought home to his countryside roots for burial in the town’s public cemetery. he was cremated after a week-long wake, his ashes deposited in a columbary where his Metro Manila-based family could visit him at will.

When Cid, a self-made man who made a name in the banking world and in the management industry, died in his mid50s, his body was deposited in a posh memorial park where the remains of his inlaws were earlier buried.

Dionisio, who made millions by his own sweat as a tough businessman, has written instructions to his children that he would be cremated in his time and has in fact received his assigned number in what is called his own apartment in a multi-level columbarium in the country’s old capital.

Sittie, a 27-year-old Maranao doing business in Manila, is not bothered by the anxiety that attends preparations for burial when death knocks at her door, aware she would have to be quickly buried within 24 hours after death.

Burial in the Philippines, which has several cultures as it has several languages, is a deeply embedded cultural thread – and well depends on the economic stratum of the family of the dead.

There are those who have a long wake – either because the family is waiting for arrivals of near kin from other provinces or overseas where they are hacking out a living. or they are waiting for more wherewithal because the family lacks funds for burial expenses.

There are those who go for the traditional burial – within the first nine days after death, enough to give close relatives to give their last respects and time, if at all, for necrological services.

Many who subscribe to this retire to their Christian faith that the departed will still be with those the person leaves physically behind even if buried six feet below the ground or in a tomb above the earth.

Given space limitations in many graveyards and the rising cost of wake, funeral and burial arrangements in the Philippines, cremation has become a cost-efficient alternative to all the long traditional wakes which could mean hundreds of thousands of pesos to a million to the bereaved family.

Cremation, costing less than – by latest figures – P80,000, was a burning topic among theologians of the Catholic Church, many arguing the body was sacred and a temple of the holy Spirit.

While many nations in Asia had their dead cremated – largely on space constraints and not on religious grounds – the Philippines, which received the Catholic faith in the 16th century, understandably frowned on the practice.

In recent years, the Catholic Church has lifted the ban and many churches now even sell niches where the ashes of the departed can be interred for a comparatively low fee.

In Quezon City, several columbaria have since been rising, the most impressive the one near the corner of G. Araneta Avenue and Quezon Avenue, a multi-level building with niches, chapels and gardens.

Many argue that cremations make sense in ecological terms.

Transformed into ash, the dead don’t take up valuable space, and don’t pose any danger of contaminating water sources, according to cremation believers.

That argument despite, Filipinos generally have been slow to accept the practice.

Cremations have also erected a new challenge to the culture of Filipinos who believe in the sanctity of the body – with those attending the ritual killing time engaged in loose banter or making, in some instances, irreverent remarks.

In the meanwhile, debate on cremation continues in whispers. [Pna]

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SUBURBIA

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

New DENR XI chief vows Monkayo to construct environment protection P1.7-M water system Comval round-up

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he new Director of the Department of environment and Natural Resources (DeNR) in Davao said the agency will focus on development to ensure a holistic protection and management of the environment and Natural Resources.

“We shall religiously implement the National Greening Program (NGP) in order to accomplish or even surpass our Cy 2012 target which is to plant a total of 6,028,444 cov-

ering an area of 12,087 hectares,” said Regional executive Director (ReD) Joselin Marcus e. Fragada, who assumed office last Wednesday. Fragada was the ReD of Region 5, Bicol Region prior to his assignment here.

In 2011, the region was able to plant 2,867,000 seedlings covering an area of 5,734 hectares under the NGP. The whole country aims to plant a total of 1.5 billion trees covering 1.5 million hectares in six

years, from 2011-2016.

The NGP is designed to bring economic stability, livelihood and better utilization of the region’s resources.

The NGP, which is set in executive order (eo) No. 26, compliments the implementation of eo No. 23 or the moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in the natural and residual forests and creating the anti-illegal logging task force.

“While there is a moratorium on cutting of trees,

we are also bringing back our forests by massive tree planting through Public-Private Partnership,” Fragada explained.

The implementation of eo 23 will now be carried on by the National Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force as they were already instructed to establish their offices in Regions 11 and 13.

DeNR-xI will give them the technical and legal assistance as they perform their task on forest protection.

already provided about 867,452 budded rubber seedlings to landowners of the covered land areas.

These planting materials, he said, was planted to almost 1,879 hectares for the first five months of this year.

Caogdan said he is pushing for this project as he envisioned the rubber project to contribute to the town’s economy and livelihood of residents in the upland areas of Makilala, as well as to showcase the same to other upland areas in Region 12.

As a support mechanism and so as to protect the rubber project, Caog-

dan said, he has approved two municipal ordinances and ordered the immediate implementation of the regulation of the buying and selling of rubber and the accreditation of rubber nurseries in the office of the Municipal Agriculturist.

The mayor said he is also advocating in some parts of region 12, the rubber development project. he was the keynote speaker of the 1st Sarangani Rubber Forum held on May 30, 2012 at Maitum, Sarangani.

Makilala is a firstclass municipality in North Cotabato adjacent to Kidapawan City at the

foot of the country’s highest peak Mt. Apo. Based on 2011 data from the office of the Provincial Agriculturist, the municipality has the widest area devoted to rubber; of North Cotabato’s 32,066.79 hectares planted to rubber, 6,988.47 hectares were in Makilala.

In June,this year, Makilala LGu in cooperation with the Technical education and Skills Development Authority (TeSDA) 12 opened a technical vocational school specifically for rubber production.

Makilala’s rubber techvoc school is first in the country.

the provinces of North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and Sarangani as well as the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, and Cotabato.

She added that she has talked with Dr. Laidan “for the possibility of a program where we can send teachers from other PShS campuses to give review classes or teach the applicants how to answer the test questions.”

This is in line with their target to maximize the number of students who would qualify as scholars in the PShS-SRC in Barangay Paraiso, this city, which is scheduled to open on June 2013.

As in other campuses,

PShS-SRC will only accommodate a maximum of 90 students each year, that is three classes of only 30 students for the freshman year.

To qualify for a slot in Sy 2013-2014, Grade 6 or 7 pupils should pass the NCe, which will be administered on September 29, 2012.

To be eligible to take the aptitude test, a pupil must be among the top 10 percent of the batch (Sy 2011-2012) and does not have a grade of below 80 percent. If the applicant does not belong to the upper 10 percent, he or she must have special aptitude in science and math as evidenced by the report card with at least

final grade of 85 in math and science and 80 in all other subjects.

The NCe is designed to measure scientific ability, quantitative ability, abstract reasoning and verbal aptitude.

Bai Tagitican, designated information officer of DoST 12, said NCe application forms are available at the DoST regional office inside oRG Complex in Cotabato City, at their provincial science and technology (S&T) centers or in the office of principal or guidance counsellor in some selected schools.

Application forms may also be downloaded from the PShS website, www. pshs.edu.ph. (dedoGUileS/Pia 12)

Makilala mayor pushes for rubber investments

M

AKILALA Mayor Rudy Caogdan said his administration’s flagship program, the Rubber Project, intends to utilize the almost 10,000 hectares of the town’s idle lands to be planted with rubber trees under his term.

“This is our vital weapon to pursue our town’s fight against poverty and climate change,” he said.

In his 2012 State of the Municipality Address (SoMA) delivered on July 2 in the presence of Sangguniang Bayan members, other local government officials and guests, Caogdan said the LGu has

G

Science High School application extended

RADuATING elementary pupils in Soccsksargen Region who wish study at t Philippine Science high School (PShS) next school year have been given more time to file their application for the National Competitive examination (NCe).

Dr. Zenaida P. hadji Raof – Laidan, regional director of the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) 12 , announced today that the deadline of the submission of application form for the NCe 2013 has been moved from July 13 to July 31.

She pointed out the extension is only granted to students in Soccsksargen Region that covers

A

P1.7-million deepwell and spring development project would soon be implemented in the provincial government-owned Lamdag Agro-eco-Tourism Complex at Barangay Pasian, Monkayo town.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan members unanimously approved the memorandum of agreement for the construction of said water system project during its 89th regular session last June 27.

Assistant Provincial Agriculture office Chief Manolo Serafin Cayme said the project will be the source of water supply for the nursery of cacao, coffee, rubber, variety of seedlings and other horticultural commodities planted in the 97-hectare complex.

The demo farms of vegetables, rice, corn, and other livestock of the province such as poultry, piggery, carabao, cao, goat, sheep, are now con-

tinuously cultured and cultivated in Pasian.

The funds are from the Department of Agriculture under its highvalue Crop Development Program (hvCDP) given to the provincial government.

This aims to further stretch and intensify the implementation of hvCDP including the production, processing, marketing and distribution under the high-value Commercial Crop Act of 1995.

The hvCDP is the priority program of the Department of Agriculture to help address food security, poverty alleviation and sustainable growth. It also helps to promote the production, processing, marketing and distribution of high-value crops.

Strategically, hvCDP helps to increase income, create livelihood opportunity and contribute to national agricultural development of the country.

Gov. Uy launches “Bayanihan sa Paaralan”

T

he provincial government here has set another series of Bayanihan school building for the month July through “Bayanihan sa Paaralan.”

Kick-off activities are scheduled on July 9 to 13 and 23 in the identified public school sites.

This endeavor is led by Governor Arturo T. uy’s program in support to the Department of education (Deped) project dubbed “Kalinga sa kabataan, bayanihan sa paaralan” Program.

The recipient schools include Panganason elementary School at Sitio Lumanggang, Kingking, Pantukan (one unit of six-classroom building); Manat National high School at Cabidianan, Nabunturan (oneclassroom building); Coronobe elementary in Maragusan (one unit of a two-classroom building); and Bagongon elementary School in Compostela (home economics building).

The other schools are Banlag elementary School in Monkayo (one

unit of two-classroom building); San Antonio high School in Laak (one unit of two-classroom building); Mayaon high School in Montevista (one-classroom building); Bucana elementary School in Maco (oneclassroom building); and Tandawan high School in New Bataan (one-classroom building).

Another one unit of a three-classroom building is scheduled for repair at Gayab elementary School in Libay-libay, Maco.

As reported, Mines and Geosciences Bureau has declared the site of Panganason elementary School as extremely highrisk area.

In order not to stop the holding of classes, Governor uy has immediately instructed for the building of six-classroom building in Sitio Lumanggang identified to be a safe area.

The provincial government is also continuing its chair distribution to public schools through Provincial Sports Development Coordinator Tyrone uy.

EDGEDAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

Social workers meet slated on July 13 T

he Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc., (PASWI) Davao City Chapter invites all professional social workers to its Annual General Assembly on Friday, July 13, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Philomene Labreque hall, San Pedro College, L.M. Guerrero St., Davao City.

“We enjoin all social workers to attend this event to affirm their dedication and commitment to their profession,” urges PASWI Chapter President and DSWD Chief for In-

stitutional Development Division estrella DayoanBrigole.

Brigole said PASWI is the only accredited social worker’s professional organization by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

Founded on November 12, 1947 and a member of the International Federation of Social Workers, PASWI provides its members and partners opportunities for continuing professional education and career advancement.

Davao Light’s Sto. Tomas extension office which is located near public market in Feeder Road 2, Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, now accepts applications for meter, poles & lines extension and transformer installation,

“Registration is only P100 plus P250 for the annual dues. We also accept new members, most especially those who just passed the June 2012 Licensure examination for Social Workers. Membership fee is only P500. Prizes and surprises await everyone,” Brigole added.

For details, social workers may contact Ms. Brigole at telephone number 2278746 local 215 or at her mobile numbers: +639177002713 and +639396524444.

(ClC/ dSwd-11/Carmela CadiGal-dUron)

payment arrangement, reconnection and complaints every Wednesday. Electric bill payments will continue to be accepted every Monday to Saturday.

Davao Light Sto. Tomas office adds new services

D

AvAo Light and Power Company’s office in Sto. Tomas is now accepting applications for meter, poles & lines extension and transformer installation, payment arrangement, reconnection and complaints weekly every Wednesday starting July 4.

These services added to the existing electric bill payment service make Sto. Tomas a full service extension office.

“Sto. Tomas residents including those in Ka-

palong and Dujali areas who wish to avail the services other than payments can be spared of the inconvenience of traveling 60 kms. and more to and from the Panabo Branch Office.”, Engr. Reynold Felix said, AvP and Panabo Branch Manager.

Sto. Tomas extension office is located near public market in Feeder Road 2, Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte which accepts these added services (during Wednesdays) from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 p.m.

to 3:30 p.m.. electric bill payments will continue to be accepted every Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., no noon break To get your Davao Light electric bill balance, just text ASKDLPC(space) BILL(space)10-digit ACCouNT ID and send to 3913572 (Smart, Talk&Text and Red Mobile subscribers) or 09229993572 (Sun and Globe subscribers). Regular rates apply; Davao Light pays for the reply.

COMMUNITY SENSE 11

12 NATION/WORLD NATION BRIEFS

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Brain drain

he brain drain has become a bigger problem for the Philippines in the last 12 years, as the yearly exodus of people trained in science and technology (S&T) grew by about two and a half times from 1998 to 2009.

According to a Bureau of Labor and employment Statistics (BLeS) report, the number of S&T workers who opted for overseas jobs rose from 9,877 in 1998 to 24,502 in 2009.

Joined

S

eNAToR Antonio Trillanes Iv has joined the Nacionalista Party (NP). Trillanes was sworn in yesterday by Sen. Manny villar, NP president, in simple ceremonies at the Makati Shangri-La. villar described Trillanes as an asset to the party, which is preparing for the 2013 elections.

Trillanes, who spent his first three years as senator in jail, is expected to seek reelection.

P

Stopped

hILIPPINe quarantine officials on Sunday discovered some two million baby eels hidden in freight at Manila airport thought to be destined for hong Kong restaurants.

The eels were stored in plastic bags filled with water and hidden in 46 boxes, said Ben Curativo, head of Manila airport’s fisheries quarantine division. The Philippines in May banned the export of elvers, or young eels, after studies showed their numbers were slowly being depleted.

Missed

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he Bureau of Customs (BoC), the government’s second largest revenue generating agency, has missed its target collection in June by as much as P5.67 billion, as agency’s five main ports failed to hit its respective goals.

BoC data showed that the agency was only able to post a total revenue of P23.14 billion for June against its target of P28.81 billion for the month, citing the poor collection from all of the five main ports of the agency, where the bulk of the BoC collections come from.

Evolving

W

ITh two weeks left before President Benigno S. Aquino III addresses Congress, his State of the Nation Address is still a work in progress.

Deputy Presidential Spokeswoman Abigail valte said the President’s speech is still in ‘’constant evolution’’ as he continues to provide inputs and reviews the contents with his speechwriters. So far, the speech is on its fourth draft and more than 30 pages long, valte said.

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

ASEAN opens up after rights pact secrecy outcry S

WORLD TODAY

ouTheAST Asian nations should give top priority to easing tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea, Cambodia’s premier said on Monday, as he stressed the importance of regional stability.

As foreign ministers met in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, Prime Minister hun Sen said hammering out a code of conduct with China in the disputed waters was a chief goal for the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASeAN).

A

SeAN said Sunday it would release “key elements” of a proposed human rights declaration after international rights watchdogs slammed secrecy surrounding the document.

The decision was reached after Association of Southeast Asian Nations foreign ministers met with members of the bloc’s human rights commission, which is drafting the declaration, a senior diplomat said in Phnom Penh.

ASeAN foreign ministers “decided to release key elements of the draft... to the public as part of the consultations,” Kao Kim hourn, secretary of state at the Cambodian foreign ministry, told reporters.

But he said the draft could not be made public in its entirety because it had not been finalised.

Amnesty International, human Rights Watch and other groups had earlier warned the 10 ASeAN foreign ministers the proposed human rights declaration could fall below global standards if the wider public was left out of the consultations, which had been “mainly conducted behind closed doors”.

ASeAN’s Intergovernmental Commission on human Rights on Sunday submitted the first draft

Pushed

Attendees are seated during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh. International rights of a declaration that is to serve as a framework for human rights cooperation within the regional bloc.

A second draft is expected in october, which will be reviewed before being submitted for approval by regional leaders at their annual summit in November.

But not all ASeAN member states -- which are due to start regional meetings in Phnom Penh on Monday -- held consultations with civil society groups while others cherry-picked contributors, the rights groups said.

watchdogs slammed ASEAN for a lack of consultation on a proposed human rights declaration, warning that commitments could fall below global standards.

Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director at human Rights Watch, told AFP he wanted foreign ministers to “immediately release” a copy of the draft to the public, noting that a leaked earlier version was “quite worrisome”.

ASeAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan said he would welcome more openness.

“I certainly would like to have it as transparent as possible,” he told reporters.

ASeAN is comprised of 10 countries with disparate political systems and different levels of

economic development, ranging from freewheeling democracies such as the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia to the authoritarian regimes of vietnam and Laos.

Myanmar was under military rule until recently when it embraced the path to democratic reforms. human rights has been a sensitive issue for some members, with the grouping’s policy of non-interference in members’ internal affairs often preventing the issue from being discussed more thoroughly at annual meetings.

S

First birthday

ouTh Sudanese celebrating their nation’s first birthday on Monday will bask in the pride of their hard-won political freedom, but many may ask when they will enjoy the material benefits promised by the government of former rebels.

“Together we walk the land of freedom,” read a 20-foot Independence Day billboard near the airport showing President Salva Kiir in step beside vice President Riek Machar.

Women rights

u

S Secretary of State hillary Clinton made a powerful plea for the rights of women in Afghanistan, using a global forum to insist that they must be part of the country’s future growth. her comments came as a horrific video emerged showing the public execution of a 22-year-old woman accused of adultery, amid fears that recent gains for women are under threat as NATo troops leave and Kabul seeks peace with the Taliban.

‘Ballerina of the people’ gets National Artist nomination S S

eNAToR Miriam Defensor-Santiago has nominated prima ballerina Lisa Macujaelizalde for a National Artist Award for Dance Lisa Macuja-Elizalde joined Ballet Manila in its recent UK tour. The group earned standing ovations during its performances in London and Ireland.

for being a “ballerina of the people.”

She has written the National Commission for Culture and the Arts formally nominating Macu-

ja-elizalde as a national artist. She said Macujaelizalde has brought “ballet closer to the hearts of the Filipino masses through outreach performance tours throughout the country.”

“No Filipina ballerina has yet surpassed the recognition and pride Lisa Macuja-elizalde has brought to the Philippines. She is the embodiment of talent, creativity and imagination, technical proficiency of the highest order, grace, and humanity that makes her worthy of the title of National Artist,” Santiago also said in a resolution filed in support of the nomination.

Santiago said Macujaelizalde has received national and international recognition for her contribution “to ballet and society.” Among her awars are the Pearl of the orient Award and the Gawad Buhay Awards for the Per-

forming Arts in 2008, and the order of Friendship from Russian President vladimir Putin in 2001.

She was also among the Ten outstanding young Persons of the World in 1997 and received the Ten outstanding young Filipino Award in 1995, Santiago said.

The senator added Macuja-elizalde was also the first Filipino ballerina to bring home a laureate prize: a silver medal from the 1987 Asia-Pacific Ballet Competition in Tokyo.

There have been calls to give comedian Dolphy a National Artist award and Santiago made clear that her nomination of Macujaelizalde will not affect that.

“I strongly support Dolphy’s nomination for National Artist for Cinema. I am also nominating Lisa for Dance. They both deserve to be National Artists, because they represent the best in their respective fields,” she said.

Unrest

AuDI Arabia said on Monday that two men had been killed after protests in a Shi’ite Muslim area in the eastern part of the world’s top oil exporter, following the arrest of a prominent Shi’ite cleric.

A key u.S. ally, Saudi Arabia has largely escaped the kind of protests that have toppled four heads of state since last year, but the mostly Shi’ite Qatif region of the eastern Province has been the focal point of sporadic demonstrations alleging discrimination.

R

Mourning

uSSIA on Monday held a day of mourning for at least 171 people who died in its worst flooding disaster as questions mounted over whether officials did enough to warn of the impending calamity.

Flags flew at half-mast over the Kremlin and other official buildings and entertainment programmes were shelved as Russians asked how so many people lost their lives and property in the catastrophe in the southern Krasnodar region.

EDGEDAVAO

PDEA...

Mayor...

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upon the encouragement of Gavas who claims the lot had been awarded to him through a Supreme Court en banc decision. upon examination, the mayor said the documents were fake and were “chop-chopped” or edited with annotations coming from Supreme Court decisions.

“I advised the people who were conned to file an estafa case against Gavas. The city legal office is available.

If no one will file a case against him I will, since he used the name of the city mayor’s office to fool them,” she said in yesterday’s media briefing in her office.

Gavas had allegedly claimed heads a war veterans association and his group was awarded by the court ownership of

DOE...

land which they can distribute to descendants of war veterans.

The supposed victims told authorities, however, that they were not descendants of war veterans and that Gavas collected sums of money from them in order to become a member of their association and avail them of land titles.

Gavas was detained at the Talomo police station following reports that the illegal settlers had intimidated the real lot owner, victoria Reformina.

“The lot owner complained that she couldn’t enter her property because sha was afraid of people there who were armed, so I ordered the Public Safety Command Center (PSCC) to come in,” she said.

PSCC head, retired

major Magno Adalin had Gavas detained at the police station. “I did not order that he be arrested,” the mayor said, “but only had him brought to the police station and be made to explain why he has been using my name.

I am the complainant because he used my name in leading people to settle illegally,” she added. however, the city mayor noted that it is not only Gavas who is at fault, adding that property owners should protect their property.

“The owner of the lot, ma’am Reformina, came to me this morning (July 9) asking for assistance from the city building official, and chided her for not earlier taking action and prevented them from and constructing their shanties,” the mayor said.

mended by the employer’s medical personnel. vital sanitary and welfare facilities in the workplace should be provided by the employer as required under Chapter vII of Presidential Decree 856 or the “Sanitation Code of the Philippines.” under the health services, the employer shall also ensure that suitable transport facilities are readily available, and sufficient number of persons are adequately trained and readily available to render first aid in the absence of a clinic or hospital near and/or in proximity to the workplace.

Doe has gathered views, comments and recommendations from Re developers, contractors and other stake-

holders in a series of public consultations held last month in Baguio, Iloilo, Davao and Manila.

Cerezo said they have a month to consolidate all views, comments and recommendations before they could finalize the policy for approval

by Doe Secretary Jose Rene Almendras.

The promulgation of ReSheRR aims to guarantee adequate safety and protection against hazards to health, life and property as well as pollution of air, land and water from Re operations.

It is pursuant to Republic Act No. 9513 or the “Renewable energy Act” of 2008 and RA No. 7638 or the “Department of energy Act” of 1992. [Pia 11/Carina l. Cayon]

FFROM 2

immunization programs, health education and counseling, keeping of medical records, and other relevant health program.

The program also includes health surveillance with biological monitoring, medical surveillance and symptoms injury, inspection and examination activities.

For the health services, the employer shall ensure the provision of necessary medical and dental services and facilities in accordance wit the requirement of the occupational Safety and health Standards (oShS) by the Department of Labor and employment.

The employer shall also maintain necessary additional emergency medical supplies and medicines as recom-

Harassment...

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lish the identification of the group who harassed our personnel whether they are from the politicians or just plain bandits,” he said.

According to Jimenez, the registration officials were “told to leave” and were asked to drop themselves on the floor before the culprits turned off the electricity.

“There was no physical harm,” he said, adding “those registration officials have returned today.” harassment was also reported by the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible voting, who said that one of their volunteers in Maguindanao was mauled.

“Let us pray and support the new protectors and heroes of the people’s suffrage for duty for God and Coun-

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VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

try,” the group said in their Facebook account.

The registration in ARMM was aimed at purging the voters’ list in the region, which the Comelec described as bloated and inaccurate.

“There’s a commitment to clean the election in ARMM,” Jimenez said.

The national government has earlier agreed to weed out double registrants, said to be the cause of widespread fraud during elections.

ARMM figured in an alleged massive poll cheating during the 2007 midterm elections in favor of the candidates of the previous administration.

The Comelec said they discovered some 300,000

multiple registrants in the area, mostly listed in far-flung precincts in towns where political rivalry is intense.

The poll body said they expect the number of registrants to reduce to around 1.2-million from 1,778,817 million voters as of April 8, 2011.

Jimenez said the poll body has come up with the scheme to accommodate only certain villages per day to control the number of people who would come to register.

The Comelec has deployed 1, 118 voting Registration Machines in registration centers across Mindanao. The machines can capture the biometrics of registrants which include their photos, fingerprints and signatures.

The Comelec said they have 118 spare machines as backup in case some of the

however, Rosales said that while Davao City is generally under control, there is an increase in the number of operations, arrested personalities and seizure of illegal drugs.

As of January to April this year, PDeA 11 conducted 133 operations, compared to 76 in the same period last year.

Also in the same period, dangerous drugs seized, including marijuana and shabu, amounted to P1.3 million this year compared to P1.1 million last year. he said PDeA’s measurement of success in

curbing proliferation of dangerous drug in the region is reflected in the value of drugs seized, considering the law of demand and supply; and, the number of drug users. he cited the survey by the Dangerous Drugs Board that as of 2008 there were 1.2 million drug users in the Davao region. he said price increase indicates that there was a decrease in supply of drugs and suppliers have difficulty entering in region, adding that the goal of PDeA 11 is to make the region a “dangerous place” for drug

traffickers. on its 10th anniversary on July 19, PDeA 11 will hold a fun run for the benefit of drug dependents in the region.

Rosales said PDeA also apprehends drug users and endorses them for rehabilitation; however, this government agency is more focused on the supply aspect of illegal drugs. he also mentioned that large plantations of marijuana in the region had been busted, including those in Kiblawan, Davao del Sur, Compostela valley and Davao oriental.

out of cash,” he said.

Black taxi passengers may swipe their ATM cards for payments instead of cash, a convenience that can only be felt in Davao City, the first of its kind in the country.

A partnership between Mabuhay and China Bank, this project will equip over 200 units of Mabuhay Taxi with wireless PoS terminals by BancNet. Also, through BancNet, other ATM cards issued by Megalink

banks will be accepted.

“This project will make people realize that Davao City is a better place to live as we make it safer and more advantageous to go around the city,” said Joselito Crisostomo, branch head of China Bank Davao-Lanang.

Twenty-five Black taxis with GPS began hitting the streets last June 22, while the wireless PoS in 20 Black taxis was pilot-tested starting last Friday.

Perfect or not, Donaire was just too much for Mathebula.

So what’s next for Donaire? Could it be Abner Mares or Guillermo Rigondeaux in his bid to become the undisputed champion in the division?

Mares holds the World Boxing Council 122-lb. crown, while Rigondeux is super-bantamweight king of the World Boxing Association.

Donaire has kept an un-

beaten run since 2001 following a fifth-round unanimous decision against Rosendo Sanchez. he has his sights on annexing the other titles in this weight division although he does not count out the prospects of going up to 126.

With the conquest of Mathebula, the Filipino Flash now has a 29-1 record, with 18 Kos. his last fight was a win over Wilfredo vazquez Jr. of Puerto Rico five months ago to seize the WBo superbantamweight belt.

100 mabuhay...

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the wireless point-of-sale (PoS) terminals in Black taxis, Tan said, adding that by end of July, there will be an additional of 13 Black taxis with debit card terminals.

“We did not consider the security of our drivers when we started the project because Davao is already safe. our main consideration is the safety of our passengers to refrain from dropping by at automated teller machines (ATM) in case they run

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FFROM 16

to keep a fly away.

But the fly in Donaire was simply too feisty and creative for Mathebula that he got tagged occasionally with uppercuts and savage body shots. he tried to hide his head from Donaire’s vicious left in such a manner as he would wish he was a turtle where he could slip inside his shell.

Luckily for him, Donaire was not completely perfect in timing and oftentimes swung haymakers in the air.

machines would malfunction during the 10-day registration.

A single machine can process up to 200 persons per day, while a registration center can accommodate people from 20 villages.

Jimenez said the location of the registration machines are the same voting centers during the 2010 elections such as public schools and designated village halls.

To prevent politicians from bringing flying voters during the registration, military checkpoints were established to stop suspicious large movements of people. “each registrant will also be marked with indelible ink,” Jimenez said.

Samira Gutoc-Tomawis, women sector representative to the ARMM Regional Legislative Assembly said they have received reports of flying voters entering Lanao

del Sur. “Incident reports have yet to be filed but this early, we heard from the 103rd Brigade of Lanao del Sur that hakot (massing) of nonARMM voters is being done in far-flung towns of Lanao del Sur,” she said. earlier, Brillantes also met military and police officials, along with civil society groups, to discuss the security situation on the ground.

The Comelec placed the entire ARMM, along with nearby cities of Cotabato in Maguindanao, Isabela in Basilan, Zamboanga and Iligan, and the whole province of Sultan Kudarat, in a 30-day gun ban period starting July 1 to preempt armed violence during the general re-listing of voters.

ARMM, which is composed of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi,

has traditionally been beset by high incidences of crimes and violence during election seasons.

Months before the 2010 elections, 58 people were killed in Ampatuan town in Maguindanao in wha came to be called the Ampatuan massacre, said to be the bloodiest political violence in the country.

The Comelec has earlier said they have deployed some 2,000 personnel, who are not from the ARMM, to the registration centers in the region.

In addition, the Comelec has already issued a resolution deputizing the police and military for the voters’ registration, and they are under orders to tightly guard the registration sites to prevent armed groups or political warlords from illegally intervening and manipulating the process in their favor. [darwin wally t. wee/ mindanewS]

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SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

Timex Run set Aug. 26

By Neil Bravo

R

TIMEX RUN. Team Pangilinan led by running couple Anthony and Maricel with kids Ella, Hannah, Donny, Benj and Solana is photographed here along in the ccompany of coach Rio dela Cruz and wife, Piolo Pascual and Mirian

Quiambao during the Timex Run at Bonifacio Global City. The popular race hits Davao on August 26.

Cheers, tears for the Big J T

he chants were familiar. This was like the old Sundays at the Big Dome. 1970s, 80s’ 90’s.

Those chants reverberated for three decades. yet another time on a big Sunday at the Big Dome, the chants once more resonated inside the jampacked coliseum.

“Ja-wors-ki. Ja-wors-ki.”

It was like the good ol’ days for Ginebra and Robert Jaworski all over again. on a nostalgic Sunday when Barangay Ginebra for-

mally retired his fabled No. 7 jersey, Jaworski’s legendary career was celebrated and the man was brought to tears by an hour-long ceremony that became a trip down memory lane for the Living Legend and his multitude of fans.

“Sinira n’yo ang pagkamacho ko...pinaiyak n’yo ako,” said Jaworski, 66, when it was his turn to speak in the well- attended rites witnessed by wife evelyn, his family, close friends, former players, PBA bigwigs

and the league’s most rabid fans which made Ginebra the PBa’s most popular ballclub.

Waxing emotional, Jaworski spent his time at centercourt extending his gratitude to a lot of personalities, from the league’s forefathers to his former coaches to the media and even to his most loyal fans, calling most of them by name. he practically thanked all the people he met along the way as he built his leg-

endary career that spanned four decades, produced multiple championships in the amateur ranks and a distinguished stint in Asia’s pioneering pro league that saw him win a total of 13 titles in his 24 seasons both as player and coach.

“Today I may be retiring my jersey but my passion for the sport and love for the people shall remain forever in my heart and soul,” said Jaworski. “Tuloy ang samahan, tuloy ang pagkakaisa, tuloy ang lahing Ginebra.”

Long wait ends for Federer, not Britain

W

IMBLeDoN, england – one’s long wait ended. Britain’s long wait continues.

A Grand Slam title drought did indeed end in Sunday’s historic and riveting Wimbledon final, only it was Roger Federer’s lengthyfor-him gap between trophies that came to a close, rather than Britain’s 76-year wait for a homegrown men’s champion.

Making sure everyone knows he is still as capable as ever of brilliance on a tennis court - particularly one made of grass, and with a roof overhead - Federer came back to beat Andy Murray 4-6, 7-5, 6-3, 6-4 indoors on Centre Court for a recordtying seventh championship at the All england Club.

The victory also increased Federer’s record total to 17 major titles after being stuck on No. 16 for 2 1/2 years, and clinched a return to the top of the ATP rankings, overtaking Novak

Djokovic, after an absence of a little more than two years.

Federer’s 286th week at No. 1 ties Sampras for the most in history.

After a record seven consecutive Wimbledon finals from 2003-09, winning the first six, Federer lost in the quarterfinals in 2010 and 2011, then wasted two match points and a two-set lead against Djokovic in the u.S. open semifinals last year, raising questions about whether he might be slipping.

After losing in the semifinals each of the previous three years, Murray was the first British man to reach the final at Wimbledon since Bunny Austin in 1938, and was trying to become the hosts’ first male title winner since Fred Perry in 1936.

Alas, Murray dropped to 0-4 in Grand Slam finals, three against Federer. only one other man lost the first four major title matches of his career: Ivan Lendl, who

uNNING aficionados in Davao will have the time of their life when the one of the country’s popular running events—the Timex Run—goes to Davao on August 26.

The Timex Run Davao leg was formally launched on Monday with Timex’s chief endorser, the Pangilinan family of celebrity couple Anthony Pangilinan and Maricel Laxa and their five siblings gracing the launch at the Grand Regal hotel.

The Timex Run, officiated and managed by Runrio in collaboration with local partner vantage Sports, will cover events in the premier 16-kilometer class, 10-K and 5-K. The race starts and ends at Roxas Avenue. At stake are cash prizes and special edition Timex watches.

“We wanted to promote running as a family activity, we hope to start it here and with Davao’s passion for running, we look forward to more families running together as we have done,” said Anthony, a sought-after motivational speaker and television host.

Anthony’s wife Maricel also encouraged family run-

ning as a way to raise kids well and promote family bonding. “We run an average of 20 races year. each one has a reason for running, and everyone wants to be part of the team,” the former actress turned book author said.

Maricel will be running the 2012 New york Marathon in November and is now training more than one hour a day.

The Team Pangilinan is composed of siblings ella,15, former gymnastics standout hannah,12, Donny,14, Benj,10, and 11-month old Solana. Benj, who is also a tennis standout, is an open heart surgery survivor.

The Pangilinans will be running in the Davao race. vantage Sports president Kenneth Sai said the Timex Run is expected to lure some 3,000 to 5,000 runners. Runrio president Rio dela Cruz will also be joining the Davao leg. Registration fee is pegged at P600 (16K), P500 (10K) and P400 (5K). Registration is open at Timex outlets in Abreeza and SM Malls and via online at www.runrio.com.

Also gracing the launch was Gemma Pasibigan, Timex marketing director.

KADAYAWAN RUN. (L to R) Beethoven Sur, PPFI’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Engr. Edwin V. Regalado, General Manager of DCWD, Atty. Socorro ErmacCabreros, AVP for Corporate Legal of PPFI and Russel Alaba, Mindanao Group Marketing Manager of SM Supermalls hold the official jersey for the Phoenix Kadayawan Fun Run that will help raise funds for the watershed of Davao City during Kapehan sa Dabaw on Monday at SM City Davao. (lean daval, Jr.)

Oishi bowlers top NCCC Cup

o

Roger Federer kisses the cup after winning his seventh Wimbledon title. is coaching Murray now and sat in his guest box with chin planted on left palm, as expressionless as he was during his playing career. While

Lendl never did win Wimbledon, perhaps Murray can take solace from knowing his coach did end up with eight Grand Slam titles.

IShI Cuckoo Bird ruled the 1st NCCC Supplier’s Cup bowling tournament at the B3 Lanes at the NCCC Mall.

The Snack experts scored a total of 521 pinfalls to outlast runners up PLDT Jolly Ringo, virginia Foods happy Booster and Rebisco extreme teams.

The tournament attracted a huge cast that included Zest-o Striker, P&G BSPI, Century SuperBods, P&G Winning Team, Coca-Cola Tigers, P&G Blue Dragon, Zest-o Slicers, Foodsphere San Marino, unilever Masters, Foodsphere Batang Bibo, Monde Nissin Warriors, Alaska I and Alaska II.

A total of 18 groups saw action in the event sponsored by NCCC Mall.

Arnold Parages of PLDT Jolly Ringo took home the Men’s highest Total Pinfalls while Maricris Rondina of virginia Foods happy Booster got the same award in the women’s side.

“The bowling match is is a way for suppliers to relax and get acquainted with each other,” says Invictus Lorenzo, entertainment marketing supervisor.

Due to the overwhelming response, “we look forward to more matches and participants in the next Supplier’s Cup on September,” says Lorenzo.

INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

A day at the Crocodile park

By Carlo P. Mallo

THe Davao crocodile Park has been open to the public for quite sometime already, but for some reason or another, i have never been to the park.

Thus, when my good friend Harold came to town for a weekend getaway, i took up on his offer to visit the crocodile park on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Lo and behold! i was surprised with the many animals that are featured in the park – from the albino python that greets you by the entrance, to the parakeets, the orangutans, tigers, and many more reptiles and mammals.

But the main attraction of the park are the Philippine crocodiles, most of which have been bred in captivity. (One can only imagine the many leather products racing through my mind as i was looking at the crocodiles.)

Looking at animals behind glass cages or their pens can be pretty boring, but not at this park, or maybe the heavens were simply on our side that day. When we passed by the tiger pen, the two tigers decided to put on a show for us – complete with splashing water and growling. There’s nothing like seeing the animals in action up close.

Later that afternoon, the animal

show started which showed how ferocious the crocodiles could get in protecting their young and territory.

But the show also emphasized that its strength and feisty demeanor is no match to the cruelty of man who can destroy their habitats or kill them with the pull of a trigger.

Harold had a blast watching the animals and tweeting about them like there’s no tomorrow. But as the day and our trip to the park came to an end, i can’t help but wonder, how many of its visitors actually remember that even their small action of not properly disposing garbage actually contributes to the demise of these animals?

ARTS AND CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT

Hello, Northwestern Philippines!

By Carlo P. Mallo

Since we can’t fight china with our tora-toras, bancas, and what have we, let’s bring the battle online. But no, i don’t mean hacking their websites just as they hacked ours. i’m talking about internet memes that have spread online like wildfire.

Well, internet memes are definitely ‘more fun in the Philippines’.

Look at the map, it’s our version of what our claim would be like should we be living in a parallel universe. A universe wherein we get to call the shots, bully our neighbors, and keep its ally across the ocean just because we can.

Just imagine we live in a parallel universe and everything was just the opposite –china would be shivering in their knees and we would not only be claiming Scarborough Shoal but the entire People’s Republic of china and Sabah in Malaysia.

And while china wails and cries for help from the United States of America, the man sitting in the White House wouldn’t act so fast as they have their own interests in us and in the waters, which we proudly call West Philippine Sea. At the risk of our country withdrawing the bailout fund we extended during their crisis, USA would dilly-dally and issue merely vague statements that seem to show some semblance of support to china. instead of them blocking our

exports, we would be the ones rejecting imported peking duck from china for the simple reason that it’s made in china. Or we can block apples from china as the apples are not packed in packing plants that suit our tastes, to which china would immediately act on just to satisfy our whims and caprices. can you imagine we’ll be deploying our submarines, war ships, and what-have-we to the shoal to protect our territory, instead of chinese ships harassing our fishermen and our own Philippine navy?

Well, that’s just me and 98 million Filipinos wishfully thinking what it would be like if we were actually the ones calling the shots in world order? And then we snap back to reality.

EDGED

A2 INdulge!

ARTS AND CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT

Finding the he

cHinATOWn, with it’s cheap shopping thrills, and bustling commerce, one can say that things have changed. From the many new buildings being put up, to the many older buildings being torn down to make way for new ones.

One is hard pressed though to see the real soul and unique character of Davao’s chinatown. chinese signs are hardly seen, if ever seen at all. even some of the events that the chinatown council puts together do not feel authentic nor special. come now, there are other aspects, festivals and traditions in the more than four thousand year chinese history and culture that runs in the chinoy veins of the directors that they can use to promote chinatown other than just singing, dancing and loud car shows.

This is the reason why i really appreciate the quiet simplicity of Polian Temple, which is smaller than the more famous Long Hwa Temple along cabaguio Avenue. When i was

Polian Temple’s red columns accentuate the space.

young, my grandmother would always bring me here to have lunch on the first and 15th day of the lunar month along with many other Filipino-chinese families. You can say it was a get-together of sorts for the community. i can still remember the sights and the smells of the temple and just thinking of it brings back memories of those idyllic days with my grandmother.

Hidden now by a high wall, one can easily pass

by Polian Temple along Quirino Avenue and not even notice it. A privately owned and maintained Buddhist Temple, Polian (whose name means blessed flower) is Davao city’s oldest Buddhist Temple and was where the original Buddhist chinese settlers of Davao go to worship and get-together during the 1960’s.

The temple was built from private donations from the chinoy community, the concrete and wooden structure stood the test of time, many thanks to Lim Pi and three generations of her family. Polian Temple is like a well-preserved time capsule, with its original art deco tiles, its massive red columns, and impressive solid wooden altars. i can even see a metal sign with the name of the temple that had my grandmother’s name engraved on it which touched a

sentim heart. other like m Temp genera chine grew about well or pla in the pond. chi may b heart Fol kenne urban and ra and ar

The plaqu

The temple’s small koi p of the lotus.

DAVAO

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

eart of Chinatown

mental nerve in my . And i am sure that younger chinoy me will too as Polian ple is where many rations of Davao’s ese community, up with, running t within its small but manicured garden aying with the fish e temple’s small koi . hinatown’s lifeblood be business, but its and its soul is here. llow me on twitter @ ethkingong for more n finds, foodie thrills, andom ramblings in round Durianburg.

The quaint temple garden.

ue bearing my grandmother King Go Siu Bon’s name on the left side.

pond. Polian means blessed flower

Bringing two generations together.

INdulge! A3

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

ENTERTAINMENT

The end is near!

Sienna Miller is now a mom!

Is a settlement being worked out for TomKat? CoULD Katie Holmes’ trip to her attorneys’office yesterday signal movement in her divorce case against Tom Cruise, even before their scheduled July 17 courtroom showdown?

Since announcing news of their split, the superstar ex-couple appear to be trying to keep details of their divorce out of the public eye.

And early today, multiple media outlets have been reporting that the pair are working towards a divorce settlement to avoid a battle in court.

If reports are true that Cruise and Holmes are working towards a settlement, Cruise may come out more satisfied, according to Steven Stolar, a family law specialist with Stolar & Associates who has no connection to the case.

“If she has any info that could hurt him publicly, he has more to gain from reaching a settlement,” Stolar tells E! News. “She may get a little more out of a settlement than she would in a courtroom, but that’s [possibly] worth it to Cruise.”

Stolar says most highprofile divorces end up being settled out of court.

“High-profile entertainers don’t want their personal stuff being thrown out there in the courtroom and ending up on Twitter,” Stolar says. “They want to keep it as under control as possible.”

But in courtrooms, parties cannot be prosecuted for anything they reveal about the marriage.

“Whether it’s Scientolo-

gy-related or anything else, she can reveal it in court,” Stolar says. “No court will penalize her.” The same holds for anything Tom might say about Katie in court. Which is why Stolar says it’s rare that a couple as high-profile as this will actually head to court.

News of the couple’s possible settlement comes just a few days after Cruise’s lawyer told the BBC the Rock of Ages star is planning to file for di-

of paparazzi who were on his tail, according to another CHP spokesman.

The 18-year-old pop superstar was then cited for speeding, while the other car, containing the alleged paps, continued on its way. officer Ramirez wouldn’t confirm whether or not paparazzi were involved or at what speed Bieber was driving when cops caught him.

But, according to Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis Zine, who said he spotted the singer on his speedy highway ride, Bieber looked like he was going over 100 mph.

“As soon as he got some room, he accelerated and began weaving in and out of lanes,” Zine said, adding that he saw other cars following him.

And he wasn’t the only one who saw the purported chase.

After calling 911 to report the incident, Zine

said California Highway Patrol told him they had received 10 other calls about Bieber’s driving.

“It was a very dangerous, chaotic situation,” Zine said. “I was driving 60 to 65 miles per hour.

When he passed me, he was...driving in a careless, reckless fashion.”

Bieber’s manager, Scooter Braun, who bought the car for the “Boyfriend” crooner, told TMZ Zine’s story was rubbish, saying, “[Zine] is just a councilman looking for a headline.”

Zine soon responded, saying, “I’m a councilman trying to save lives,” adding that he would testify against Bieber if asked.

This isn’t the first time Bieber has gotten into a highly publicized incident with the paparazzi.

In May, he got into an alleged scuffle with a photog in Calabasas, Calif., while out and about with girlfriend Selena Gomez.

They’re still on!

NEVER say never to getting checked by law enforcement…. even when you’re a celeb.

When Justin Bieber took his flashy Fisker Karma for a spin Friday morning, he ended up getting pulled over for driving a little too fast down the 101 freeway in the San Fernando Valley.

So, what went down?

“At 10:45 this morning CHP officers observed two vehicles traveling at a high rate of speed on the 101 freeway near Coldwater Canyon,” officer Vince Ramirez, a California Highway Patrol spokesman, told E!. “our officer conducted an enforcement stop on one of the two vehicles. He pulled the vehicle completely off the freeway and made contact with the driver.

The driver was identified as Justin Bieber.”

The Biebs told cops he was trying to lose a team

vorce, but is letting Holmes “play the media” before making any moves.”

“Tactically we can’t say where Tom will file a divorce case and if he’ll be seeking joint custody of [6-year-old daughter] Suri,” Bert Fields told the network. “We are letting ‘the other side play the media until they wear everyone out, and then we’ll have something to say.”

The 50-year-old thesp’s attorney went on to say Cruise is “really sad” about the turn of events, adding, “It’s not Tom’s style to do this publicly.”

While Holmes, 33, is seeking sole custody of Suri in the divorce, speculation is mounting that Cruise may file a counter divorce case in California and demand joint custody.

Neither star’s representatives have responded to requests for comment today.

SIENNA Miller is officially a mom!

The 30-year-old Factory Girl star and fiancé Tom Sturridge reportedly welcomed their first child in London over the weekend, according to Us Weekly.

The über-private pair, who reportedly got engaged during a postChristmas trip to Paris, is staying mum on baby details for now, keeping specifics about their child’s name, gender and weight under wraps.

But back in March Miller dished to British Vogue about her first pregnancy, saying, “I’m feeling fine…It’s all progressing nicely and it’s very excit-

ing.”

Don’t expect to hear the baby’s name anytime soon though.

The thesp hinted that she would be keeping her pregnancy private, adding, “I’m under strict instructions not to say anything as it would completely defeat the point of everything I’ve tried to achieve in the last eight years.”

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS

VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

15

7 reasons why we love Jawo

By Neil Bravo

W

Hy do we love Robert Jaworski? Let us count the ways.

1. Never say die. The most enduring legacy of The Big J is the culture he created with just about every team he plays. This culture reached its heights when playing and coaching for a Ginebra team with a line-up that’s not the best a coach can have, Jaworski parlayed the importance of indomitable spirit in sports.

Jaworski had 4 titles with the Ginebra franchise and brought that infectious culture to the Philippine national team that went on to finish second place in the 1992 asian Games. In that finals match, the Philippines engaged the giants of China to a fierce battle, forgetting the result of their earlier encounter to give the Chinese a scare before succumbing.

2. Hardwork. In sports, hardwork is the only thing that can beat skills. Jaworski, not really the fastest guard and the sweetest shooter, epitomized hardwork in his entire basketball career. He hustles all game long—diving for loose balls. Getting down hard on defense. He makes life hard for the enemy. For that, opposing players hate to be guarded

by Jaworski.

3. Practice makes perfect. He puts emphasis on practice and conditioning. Jaworski puts the dictum “practice makes perfect” to a living reality.

Jaworski is not one who will play just for the sake of playing. If he feels he is not up to it, he does not force the issue. But he always makes it a point to get back into groove.

He was asked to play once more before retiring his jersey for good, but Jawo knocked the idea off. He admits he needs to be in shape. To do that again, he has to practice.

4. Championship tradition. Jaworski is synonymous to championship. He lives to win.

9 titles with Toyota. 4 with Ginebra. Jaworski rose above all the challenges and all the criticisms. Unlike his controversial teammate Ramon Fernandez, who was once benched at Purefoods for his dubious play in losing Game 1 against Ginebra in the 1998 all-Filipino Finals, Jaworski’s

will to win is never in doubt.

5. Quality time. Jaworski is one player who does not think about the length of time you spend on the court. He puts premium to quality time not the quantity of time.

Jaworski once held the record for most playing time.

Playing regulation period pus two overtime periods in Game 4 of the 1986 PBA Finals.

That record was later broken

by Zandro Limpot (60 minutes). While Jaworski holds the record for the longest playing years in the PBa, he also holds the record for the shortest time played in a game— one second!

In a game against the alaska Milkmen in 1996 and behind by two points with one second in that game, the Big J fielded himself to handle the inbound. While the inbound was successful, the team failed to convert this into a basket and lost the game.

6. Motivation. a simple pat in the back from The Big J, is like a heap of spinach for his players. Jaworski is always on top of his players and teammates. He talks to them in a way they respect him and takes his basketball words like a fountain of wisdom.

Whenever they are down in the endgame, expect Jaworski to map out his strategy, but more than that, expect him to energize his team. after the timeout, expect Jaworski’s team to roar back to life.

7. Big heart. They say Jaworski’s biggest secret to basketball is his big hands. He can grip the ball like tentacles.

But the biggest part of Jaworski

I

is his heart.

Jaworski is perhaps the most charismatic and the most passionate of players. He always has a time for his fans.

Those big hands? You become a diehard Jawo fan once you shake them. That’s guaranteed.

Look at him in the jersey

Robert Jaworski (top photo, with the ball) in action for Toyota in their storied rivalry against Crispa which had the likes of Abet Guidaben (left). From his Toyota days, Jaworski took the Ginebra-Anejo franchise to 4 PBA ti-

retirement ceremonies last Sunday—he remembers the names of people from team owners to officials to media to fans. amazing how Jawo remembers all of them in ipod precision. and that’s what makes him The Big J.

tles (right). Lower photo, Jaworski during his MVP year in 1978, and during the retirement ceremonies with his former teammates and the current batch of Ginebra players.

My encounters with The Big J

was in elementary when I started collecting the defunct Weekly Sports Magazine. Reason was I wanted to follow what’s going on with my sports idol—Robert “The Big J” Jaworski.

It is this passion that has made me fall for sports and sportswriting for that matter.

I had two memorable encounters with Jaworski and those will always be among the bulleted points in my sporting life. First was in 1995 when I attended the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Sheraton hotel and I had the privilege to ask some questions to Jaworski who was the guest panellist at that time.

After the forum, The Big J came up to me and shook my hand.

First time I got the feel of the famous big hands. I had a photo taken with Jawo but I could no longer find it when I tried to go through all the dumps in my archives.

I remember that so well.

I was wearing a Phoenix Suns cap, white shirt and Jawo was in yellow shirt. our next encounter would be the most unforgettable. I was working as Provincial Information officer cum sports coordinator for the Province of Davao oriental during the term of Governor Ma. elena Palma Gil when I thought of sending an invitation to Senator Jaworski to come to my hometown.

That was a crazy idea, but I thought why not give it a try.

I asked for the contact number of Jaworski’s appointments officer from the late Ferdie “Batman” Lintuan. once I got hold of it, I was able to get through with the endorsement of Batman, and the rest was history. I drafted an invitation letter, have it signed by the Governor who thought I was crazy doing it. It’ a long shot but I said, I will try.

To my surprise, Senator Jaworski’s secretary called me up to confirm that the Big J is coming to honor the invitation. (it was for the opening program of a provincial sports program I called “Project olympkids”).

I told the Governor of the confirmation and just like that, we rolled the groundwork for his arrival.

Just as I thought bringing in Jaworski to my hometown was a masterstroke, it brought me into trouble with another political force. A congressman in my province was fuming mad why he was not informed of the Jaworski invitation. At that time, Senator Jaworski was the chairman for the Senate environment Committee. At that time too, there were mining issues in my province. I am surprised why the congressman suddenly got interested with the sports program and asked why he was not invited.

Anyway, Senator Jaworski came. So did the congressman. I humbly asked for apologies for the ‘impasse’but I was still hit in the congressman’s speech.

Call that legislative privilege. I silently smiled and did not lose composure at the podium. I know Jaworski is too large for this congressman to grab any attention for himself.

In that program, the folks of my province embraced Jaworski warmly as they listened to him in awe. The Big J was joined by another sports legend Mayor Francisco “The Rajah of the Rebounds” Rabat. As soon as The Big J spoke, you could feel the electricity, his powerful contact with the audience.

For the second time, I shook his big hands. he said goodbye and promised to come for the next invitation.

For now that is a reserved engagement. Maybe in 2013.

16

SPORTS

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VOL.5 ISSUE 91 • JULY 10, 2012

N

oNITo Donaire Jr. is the next big thing in boxing.

The Filipino WBo super bantamweight champ destroyed tall and lanky Jeffrey Mathebula on Sunday and in the process annexed the South African’s IBF version of the world super-bantamweight title belt. he looked good, by boxing skills and by boxing fashion.

For those born in the Bruce Lee era, Nonito’s garb was a Bruce Lee-inspired yellow and black “Game of Death” combo. For those who did not live to know that, at least there’s Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill” suit worn by uma Thurman to remind us all.

For those who wish to put political color into it, yellow will always have reference in this country’s rich history.

Whatever, the `Filipino Flash’ cemented his reign as the best in the 122-lb. division with a convincing unanimous decision at the home Depot Center in Carson City,

EDGEDAVAO

Next big thing

By Neil Bravo

Nonito Donaire of the Philippines is bound to conquer the super bantamweight class.

California where he was cheered on lustily by a proDonaire crowd.

Donaire, 29, would not be denied. he won it by scores of 119-108 (Deon Duarte), 117-110 (Jonathan Davis), and 118-109 (Steve Morrow).

The highlight reel of the match was in the fourth

round where he swang a vicious left to Mathebula that snapped the South African’s head and sent him down to the canvas in the final seconds of the round. Mathebula barely picked himself up and was clearly on wobbly knees when the bell sounded to give him a new lease on life.

The rest of the way, Donaire was simply toying with the slow Mathebula who just do not have the tools to match the Filipino’s power and ring savvy.

At best, Mathebula kept Donaire at bay with a flurry of jabs that were almost automatic it was simply meant

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