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Serving a seamless society
There’s no resting and no reaching the tip of the curve yet By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net
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HERE’S construction going on everywhere and it looks like the trend is not about to come to rest.
Morris Agoncillo, chairman of the country’s biggest construction show dubbed as Philconstruct, believes the huge construction boom sweeping the entire country has been going on for ten years—unprecedented in the history of the Philippine construction industry—and yes, he does not see it having reached the top of the curve. “It’s been ten years and going strong. We cannot say if this is going to stop anytime soon because we are hoping this goes on,” said Agoncillo during the opening of the Philconstruct Mindanao at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City. Engr. Ramon Allado, the organizing chair of Philconstruct Mindanao, echoed Agoncillo’s observations.
“You look around and there’s construction, big and small, going on. And this is true to both private and government projects,” said Allado. Allado thinks the uptrend could still go up in the next two or three years. “We are not yet in the tip of the curve.” Allado said 32 percent of the country’s GDP growth is attributed to construction with its chief market belonging to the rich P17 billion Overseas Filipino Workers annual remittances. According to Allado, the main target of property development is the OFW market which usually invests hard-earned money on real property. Allado said Davao City alone has around 10,000 OFWs contributing to a chunk of that P17B annual remittances. “There is good market for property development and that explain why there’s construction everywhere,” he said. Mindanao Business Council president Vicente Lao also shared the observations
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CONSTRUCTION BOOM ENGR. RAMON ALLADO, Philconstruct Mindanao 2013 organizing chair
Photos by LEAN DAVAL JR.
2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO
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Cop who pointed gun at driver in hot water A
police officer faces possible termination for misconduct after he allegedly pointed a gun at a public utility driver who reportedly refused to stop his vehicle on Thursday about 6:00 p.m. just off the Tionko football field along Quimpo Boulevard. Senior Superintendent Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, chief of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) will file administrative case against SPO1 Edgar Belandres Arcos, 54, assigned at San Pedro police station despite refusal of the driver, Alberto Cambonga, 28, a resident of Talisay, Times Beach
Matina, to file a case against the cop. “Ang buang na complainant, patuga-tuga ug complain dili man mofile ug kaso,”dela Rosa said. Based on the investigation report of SPO1 Isidro Lao, investigator at the Sandawa police substation, Cambonga said Arcos got upset and pointed his gun at him when he refused to stop the vehicle along Sandawa road because the area is a “no loading/unloading” area. Arcos allegedly said “Patyon tika ron!” (I will kill you!) before getting off the vehicle. EPC
PRINTING SEMINAR. Employees of various printing press in Davao City undergo technical and product seminar to enhance their knowledge and capabilities with the latest printing equipment and products coming out in
the market during Friday night’s Printing Technology Forum which is part of the 3-day Philconstruct Mindanao 2013 and the 7th Manufacturing Technology Davao at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center. Lean Daval Jr.
Librado: Informal settlers Davao group to visit Beijing could double in number for tourism promotions
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HINA is Davao’s fourth largest foreign market for foreign tourist. In order to further increase the arrival of Chinese tourists in the city, the Department of Tourism in partnership with Cebu Pacific and Marco Polo Parkside will once again promote Davao in Beijing, China’s capital city. “We are confident that we shall get more tourists if we continue on marketing Davao and Samal as well as push for direct flight connection. We have what they like - our
beaches, our culture, our strong ties with them as we have the only Chinatown in the country, aside from Manila, and it is considered the biggest in the world in terms of area. At present, the multi-lingual guides’ trainings we conducted already produced new Chinese speaking guides,” Director Arturo Boncato, Jr. of DOT Davao commented. The Chinese authorities expect the number of Chinese outbound tourists to grow to 100 million by 2020. The
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By EMILORD P. CASTROMAYOR
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HE number of landless informal settlers (squatters) in Davao City would more than double if the local government does not do something to solve the problem, according to a city official. Councilor Leah Librado-Yap, the newly appointed chairperson of the committee on housing, rural and urban development is conducting consultations on the problem before coming up with “a concrete and effective legislative measure that will address
the issue of informal settlers estimated at some 40,000 families. “I am firmly convinced of the need to solve the worsening situation of most of our urban poor communities. If we are really to count the number of informal settlers the 40 thousand would more than double,” Librado said in a text message to this writer. Based on a report from the housing and homesite division, more or less 145 families have been relocated since 2011.
Librado said that there is a need to put up relocation sites, preferably in the 2nd and 3rd districts to accommodate more informal settlers. “It is the city’s priority to relocate those who are in danger areas like riverbanks, esteros, canals and victims of court-ordered demolitions as well as victims of calamities and natural disasters. There are 13 relocation cites with a total land area of 773,259 hectares in the city based on the record from the City
Housing Office. About 729 informal settler-families had agreed to be relocated in Los Amigos relocation area in Tugbok district because it is accessible, with a total land area of 23 hectares for Phase 1. Lots in other relocation areas such as in the barangays of Catalunan Grande, Tibungco, Mintal, Marapangi in Toril district, Tigatto, Upper Malagamot, Panacan, and Mahayag in Bunawan district, are also being filled up fast.
Avail of medicines faster the MedExpress way By EJ DOMINIC FERNANDEZ
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COFFEEMAKER. A representative of Concept Specialist, Inc. demonstrates the process of preparing brewed coffee using one of the company’s industrial coffeemaker machines during the final day of the Philconstruct Mindanao
2013 and the 7th Manufacturing Technology Davao at the exhibit area of SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center. Lean Daval Jr.
ejf@edgedavao.net
N easier and faster way to buy medicines through retail, delivery and even reservation is now made available in the first Mindanao branch of MedExpress at the Davao Doctors Hospital. Davao Doctors Hospital president and chief operating officer (COO) Raymund del Val, MedExpress president Robert Lim, and Davao Doctors chief finance officer Maria Luz Bueno inked the agreement Thursday to change the healthcare landscape in Davao by making sure they serve
their patients better with the help of MedExpress Pharmacy. Del Val said the selling of medicine will be a lot different with MedExpress because it can deliver medicines straight to the doorstep of patients, it has a call center that follows up the prescriptions given by doctors, it covers the doctors to make sure that medicines are available and their prices are affordable. He also said that through this, they can serve big corporations such as PLDT, Sumifru and DOLE with
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4 BIGGER PICTURE EDGEDAVAO
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PHL tuna exports can get into EU duty-free T
HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is hopeful over the country’s chances of getting duty-free treatment starting next year for canned tuna exports to the European Union (EU) under its enhanced Generalized Scheme of Preferences or GSP Plus program. Trade Assistant Secretary Blesila Lantayona said in General Santos City on Friday that they have adopted tuna as among the priority products for inclusion into the EU-GSP Plus program, which mainly grants zero duty to a number of qualified export products to the 28-member trade bloc. She said the agency is presently consulting various industry sectors regarding the country’s application into the program. “If our application is accepted, EU will be importing tuna from the Philippines at zero tariff starting 2014,” Lantayona said at the opening of the
15th National Tuna Congress trade exhibit at the SM City General Santos trade hall. The DTI is scheduled to consult tuna industry players and other concerned sectors here on Sept. 18 regarding the country’s application to the GSP Plus, said senior trade and industry specialist Edgar Soguilon. He said the upcoming consultation is part of a nationwide process adopted by the agency in connection with the processing of its GSP Plus application, which is due for submission to the EU by next month. A program briefer said EU-GSP Plus is an enhanced preferences scheme that took off from the standard GSP, which offers to developing countries a partial or entire removal of tariffs on two thirds of qualified product categories that are exported to the EU. Under the EU-GSP Plus program, product categories covered by the standard GSP are granted
the “full removal of tariffs.” These are granted to countries which ratify and implement international conventions relating to human and labor rights, environment and good governance. Joaquin Lu, president of the Socsksargen Federation of Fishing and Allied Industries Inc., said they are looking forward to the inclusion of tuna products, especially canned tuna, into the GSP Plus program by next year. The group, which hosts the annual National Tuna Congress, is pushing for the adoption at the closing of the two-day gathering on Saturday of a resolution urging the national government to fast track its application for the EUGSP Plus program. Lu said they are fully supporting the move as it will further enhance the country’s canned tuna exports, which are mainly produced by six tuna canneries based in this city. [Allen V. Estabillo / MindaNews]
Norte. But, their animosity was confined only on the playing fields, while they tried to outdo each other in the 22 events of the five-day games. Beyond the athletic prowess, officials, sports enthusiasts, and spectators witnessed the courage, resilience and dignity of the players both in winning and in losing. The episode has once again proven the perpetual relevance of sports in transcending
the differences of language, religion and culture, to unite polyglot Mindanao, which is still mired in age-old conflicts. Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chair Ricardo Garcia hailed the games as a good venue to unite the island, over and above the goal of laying the foundation for young Filipino athletes, aged 15 years old and below, to become future national team heroes. “The event has been
Breaking down barriers through sports By NOEL BAGUIO
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HE overwhelming success of the 2013 Batang Pinoy Mindanao leg highlighted the power of sporting events to unite people and overcome cultural differences. Some 2,029 young athletes from 79 local government units of the island came together for the competition, which was staged mainly at the sprawling Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex (DNSTC) in Mankilam, Tagum City, Davao del
(L-R) PSC commissioner Jolly Gomez, POC official Romeo Magat, PSC Chair Ricardo Garcia, Mrs. Milagros del Rosario, Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario, holds the torch before passing it over to Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario, and 1st District
a good venue to unite Mindanao,” he said. In his keynote speech at the opening ceremonies, the sports
Congressman Anthony del Rosario acknowledge the delegations to the 2013 Batang Pinoy Mindanao leg at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Center. Noel Baguio/DavNor PIO
czar said that “creating pathways through sports plays a vital role in molding young talents to be better individuals of our society.” Garcia also lauded Governor Rodolfo del Rosario for personally overseeing all the preparations that made the episode peaceful and achieve the largest participation ever, since the grassroots sports program started three years ago. The PSC also declared Davao del Norte’s readiness for big ticket sports competitions and capacity to become a sports capital in the region. PSC Commissioner Atty. Jose Luis Gomez said the province has all the right ingredients to become the sports
tourism capital, given its modern facilities and the big heart of the local officials for sports development program. “You have everything here, the facilities and the right people… There is no reason why you won’t succeed.” he said Powerhouse Davao City sealed the championship in the Mindanao qualifier with 87 gold, 71 silver and 37 bronze medals. Gen. Santos City followed with 43 golds, 29 silvers and 31 bronzes. While the host province of Davao del Norte pulled off 26 golds, 18 silvers and 39 bronzes. The medalists earned a spot in the Batang Pinoy national championships slated in Zamboanga City on Nov. 19-23 this year.
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6 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO
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EDITORIAL
Throwing away our money
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T’S disturbing when a senator of the republic says it is not his duty to ascertain whether or not a non-government organization is a fake. Senator Jinggoy Estrada’s reaction in one interview has become viral on social media after he reportedly said it is not his duty to know the status of the recipient of his generosity. Or make it government generosity, through his initiative as is the common term used by politicians in implementing government projects using people’s money. As one columnist would have it, if it is your money and you are giving it away to someone, would you not ask where the money went, how it was spent or if it had reached the person’s hands? Let’s give it a hypothetical example. If you are a parent and your child asks you money for a school project, what do you do? Human nature tells us to ask how the money was spent and if the school project was accomplished with
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the money given. And then we go on checking if the project is good, well-made or if will ensure a good grade from the teacher. Simply put, we value our money. In the same manner, taxpayers value the money we remit to the government as tax. We don’t just part with hard-earned cash. And so it is but natural for us to ask where our money goes. That is human nature. That’s part of our duty and responsibility as citizens. Now, if a senator thinks he does not owe it to the people to take care of our money and spend it wisely, then there is something really wrong here. With highly-paid staff around him, a lawmaker must have all the buttons to push and go the extra mile to ask if the recipient of people’s money really exists or if it really is functioning as a people’s organization. It’s a rotten alibi that is not only insulting to one’s intelligence but also reflects the quality of leadership we are forced to live with.
ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons
RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant
GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate Editor
LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. • JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Photography Contributing Photographer
EJ DOMINIC C. FERNANDEZ Reporter
Columnists: CARLOS MUNDA • MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NICASIO AGUSTIN • VIDA A. MIA VALVERDE • Economic ENRICO“ADDIE” “GICO” G. Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER ANGELO C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA Analysts: • BERNADETTE B. DAYANGIRANG M.QUISIDO PEREZ • Lifestyle Columnists: BAISR., FAUZIAH SINSUAT •AMBOLODTO • MEGHANN STA. INES BORBON • MARY• JONALLIER ANN “ADI” C. • LEANDRO B. DAVAL • NIKKIFATIMA GOTIANSE-TAN NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY •ZEN NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ
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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
Moral indignation
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RECIPITATING FACTOR BEHIND THE OUTBURST – Friction between government and the highly-politicized leaders of the church is nothing new. After all, Philippine politics is about as confusing and complicated as the Catholic Church. Ever since, government and church leaders have crossed swords over a number of issues both political and social. But the statement of over-bearing church leaders lately was the strongest against the Aquino administration yet. And the triggering factor behind the outburst? This time, the object of their moral exasperation was the misuse and abuse in handling public funds intended for the so-called “hard and soft projects” of the government. In its pastoral letter the church hierarchy charged that the P10 billion PDAF scam is an act of terror against the people. The highly controversial pork barrel fund scandal has been on the boil with cross-sections in society – religious sector, professionals, academe, militant groups, student activists, farmer and labor movement, and young and old alike loudly making their grievances in the streets, public parks and vacant government spaces. But the issue became more heated in the run-up to September 11 when people from all walks in life will again converge at EDSA to denounce the pork barrel anomalies. Dubbed as “EDSA Tayo,” it’s a successor to the successful “One Million People March” held two weeks ago at the Luneta Park and simultaneously across the country. Though President Benigno Aquino III and his platoon of economic think-tanks and budgetary experts have consistently stated that the government is on the thick of conducting
an in-depth and no-holds barred investigation to ferret out the truth surrounding the PDAF scam, severe critics notably over-assuming church leaders have accused them of dilly-dallying efforts to unmask the real culprits and accomplices of Janet Lim-Napoles, the brain behind the financial mess. This just as the investigation is heating up, and with church leaders weighing in, a personal element has been injected into the issue and the intense debate has seemingly turned into a clash between government and the church leaders. However, some experts on religious and political matters might be also so concerned to let the crucial issues enmeshing the Catholic Church out of their sight. They are particularly well-versed on issues that directly affect the moral of the faithful. Some quarters raised these queries: “Why were leaders of the church having the temerity to dip their fingers in our political affairs and likewise have the guts to justify their meddling as a moral responsibility to the people? And why can’t they just throw away their habiliments and leave their vocation, join mainstream politics and cross swords with politicians?” As it is, a constitutional provision about the separation of church and state doesn’t mean a thing to the pretentious ranking
church officials. Their dissatisfaction has risen with the perception that the government has been unable to solve, in particular corruption and immorality creeping in society. Disgusted by the rise of corruption, they now described the pork barrel scam embroiling some members of Congress as an act of terror against the people – poor majority to be precise. Is that so, monsignors! This leads to another question: “Is corruption and immorality in government entirely different from corruption and immoral activities happening in the dark corners of the church?” That may prove to be a difficult question to answer. I could still vividly remember that at the height of the unexpected resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, a series of scandals rocked the Vatican. One glaring example is the reported $30 million money laundering activities involving a ranking church official. No less than other church leaders admitted to authorities the veracity of the incident, not to mention a string of sexual abuses committed by the men in cloth, some even high church officials. Similar cases are rampant evolving around the church throughout the world, but many were kept under wraps for obvious reasons. To the surprise of many people, leaders of the country’s Catholic Church were never heard of either making a statement or lifting a finger and instead remained tight-lipped on those startling issues. If all they want really is a clean and honest government, they also have to be role models - impartial guardians of morality and decency. Least they won’t forget an old axiom which says, “Let he who has no sin cast the first stone,” otherwise that would be tantamount to hypocrisy.
Pork as irresistible tempter and corrupter
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HY do you think they give a lawmaker’s pork barrel allocation an innocent-sounding label like “Priority Development Assistance Fund” or PDAF? It’s to disguise its real purpose, which is to provide a senator or congressman an opportunity to do either one of two things: 1) fool the people with fake assistance or 2) collect part of the amount for his personal use. Or do both If they can get away with it. In other words, there is a dishonest motive behind it. How else can it be motivated if the purpose is to divert public funds for personal gain? This so-called assistance for local development enables the corrupt and the unscrupulous to keep getting elected or re-elected to Congress. For a first-time candidate, the prospect of receiving pork (P200 million yearly for a senator or P70 million yearly for a congressman) is a powerful incentive to incur debt to finance his campaign. Some will even go so far as hock the family’s wealth in hopes of winning and earning big money. They know there’s plenty of money from pork and other sources to draw from once in office. Traditional politicians or trapos (habitués of cockpits, casinos, and other gambling holes)
WORM’S EYEVIEW BY MANNY VALDEHUESA know this especially, as well as the tricks needed to access same without a paper trail. Once in office, to no one’s surprise, these Pork-dependent lawmakers aren’t really interested in legislation— which is their primary duty. The huge amounts that fall on their laps prove too distracting, making them focus on how to spend it in the name of development—not just spend it the ordinary way but imaginatively, so it camouflages their true motive. The true motive of course is, as everyone knows, to build a positive public image or reputation, to advance their political careers, to boost their chances of re-election, to increase their personal wealth and expand their campaign chests while also expanding their political dynasties. In other words, pork or PDAF showers public funds on personal agendas. Its abundance and casual handling enables any so-called lawmaker to do unlawful acts under official cover with impunity—meaning, without fear of punishment. Thus, it makes them dishonest without feeling any sense of guilt.
They divert public funds to private accounts as if it were the most natural thing in the world to do. It’s official and budgeted for by both Malacañang and Congress! Pork also makes them vain, savoring with relish the power to expend the people’s monies to satisfy personal whims. Confident in the belief that no one would dare question them, they indulge in it as part of the perks of power and privilege. The insidious thing about impunity is, they become reckless. They build infrastructure poorly, cut corners or sacrifice quality in order to maximize profits or kickbacks. They pour money on poor services such as makeshift feeding and medical programs that are here today-gone tomorrow. In such dishonest ways are constituencies fooled or bribed with token assistance. Unfortunately for us all, the trick seems to work all the time, which is why the trapos and their political dynasties win elections every time! [MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. Manny Valdehuesa writes from Cagayan de Oro and is the president and national convenor of Gising Barangay Movement Inc. He can be reached at valdehuesa@gmail. com]
VANTAGE POINTS
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Media transparency in the Bureau of Customs? COMMENTARY BY JORGE B. OSIT
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HE idea of media transparency as an integral part of the reform agenda in the Bureau of Customs is, perhaps, too good to be true. It is like mixing oil and water, or, more to the point, zebras never change their stripes – and, understandably, some jaded and hard-nosed media practitioners covering the graft-ridden revenue collecting agency are themselves skeptical that this transparency program will ever take off the ground. Come Monday (September 9) it will be known if the BOC leadership will walk their talk about launching a media transparency campaign regarding the intricate inner workings of the bureau which, to a large extent, are vulnerable to corruption. It will be recalled that in the recent opening of the bureau’s first-ever media lounge, Commissioner Ruffy Biazon said: “This will not only be a convenient place for BOC accredited reporters to work on their stories, but this will also be a place where customs transparency will be emboldened.” Moreover, in cooperation with the BOC Press Corps, Biazon has given his approval for the implementation of the Customs Procedures Immersion Program for the Media which involves a series of lectures about customs systems and procedures for the benefit of accredited reporters starting Monday next week. The orientation program is designed to inform media representatives on delicate customs procedures like, among others, the determination of values concerning imports, a function broadly discretionary and thus susceptible to corruption. Despite rumblings of built-in resistance to the idea of media transparency from some BOC officials, Commissioner Biazon has shown determination in pushing for media transparency, even accountability, in the bureau. In fact, Biazon has issued a memorandum instructing all top customs officials to create a public assistance and complaints desk in their respective units to handle all inquiries concerning BOC processes as well as complaints against erring customs officials, including rankand-file personnel. All concerned customs officials are instructed to submit within 10 days from issuance of the memo the names of the designated public assistance point person, hotline numbers and email addresses of their respective public assistance and complaints desks. The Commissioner, however, stressed that all complaints against customs officials/personnel received by the corresponding public assistance and complaints desk must be forwarded to the Office of the Commissioner’s (OCOM) Public Assistance/Complaints Desk which is handled by Atty. Jennifer A. Lagbas. The OCOM Public Assistance/Complaints Desk can be reached at tel. no. (632) 527-1935 and through its ocompacd@gmail.com email address. “I believe that opening up the customs processes to the public and being sensitive to stakeholders’ needs and complaints against the BOC and its officials through the public assistance and complaints desk shall be a good start for real reforms in the BOC,” Biazon said. Although the BOC’s media transparency program is too good to be true, there are still those hoping that it will push through come Monday. [PNA]
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EDGEDAVAO
Construction...FFROM 1 of the two leaders from the construction industry, saying “Mindanao has been experiencing a boom in construction ad it’s a huge boom.” Lao cited the growing government spending in Mindanao which increased from 27 percent to 35 percent. The government’s budget for 2014 is estimated at P160 billion for infrastructure development for Mindanao alone out of the P200 billion budget for the entire country. What excites those in the construction industry is that there is still a heavy backlog in con-
struction in Mindanao and that would translate to infusion of more revenues for the region. Studies have shown that the construction industry has a multiplier effect equivalent to 15 times. Another factor that would change the course of the construction industry and eventually, Mindanao economy, is the impending amendment to the Cabotage Law. “With a competitive freight rates, this will surely be good for our economy,” Lao said. President Benigno S. Aquino III directed Con-
gress in his state-of-thenation address in July to revisit the provisions of the Cabotage Law. President Aquino reiterated in last month’s Mindanao Business Conference in Davao City for the amendment to the cabotage provisions of Republic Act 137 in order to foster greater competition and to lower the cost of transportation of agricultural products. The Mindanao edition of the Philconstruct is expected to rake sales of as much as P50 million in the three-day staging of the annual construction show and industry convergence.
Chinese spend some $45 billion to $50 billion on travel. This big market of tourists is what Davao tourism would like to target. Boracay, Cebu, Manila and Palawan are the destinations already introduced to the Chinese market according to the Philippine Tourism Office in Beijing. Davao with its world class beach resorts, shopping places, cultural attractions and rich Chinese ties, is now the new foreign destination for the Chinese. With the growing wedding tourism, Davao can also provide the Chinese market the island wedding destination in Samal. DOT records show that in 2010, there were 2,893 Chinese tourists who came to Davao. From 3,178 in 2011, the numbers grew to 4,098 Chinese tourists in 2012. As DOT continues to endeavor the growth of the Chinese market, once again a Davao Cultural Festival will be staged at the Marco Polo Parkside in Beijing from September
9 to 27. In addition, a 16-member delegation will also visit China on September 7 to 12 for various promotional activities. The Davao Cultural Festival will highlight Davao cuisine prepared by celebrity chefs Gene Gonzalez and Gino Gonzalez of the Center for Asian Culinary Studies Davao. There will also be a Davao Media Presentation and a Davao Product Presentation on September 10. Added activities include a cultural presentation by the Kalumon Performing Ensemble and the presentation of various Davao tour packages. Around 100 members of the Chinese media and travel trade players are expected to grace the event. Supporting this tourism promotional undertaking, Cebu Pacific Air, now on its second year as the official airline of the Davao Cultural Festival, will fly the celebrity chefs, cultural performers and Davao representatives to Beijing. “We vow to continue
supporting DOT Davao in its efforts to increase foreign tourism arrivals to Region 11. Davao is no doubt an ideal destination for Chinese tourists who are looking for a new Philippine destination to explore,” said Cebu Pacific VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog. Aside from Beijing, Cebu Pacific flies from Shanghai, Guangzhou and Xiamen to Manila. From Manila, tourists can take any of the airline’s 10 daily flights to Davao. In 2011, a similar Davao Cultural Festival was held at the Marco Polo Parkside, which resulted to chartered flights of incentive travelers and media visits from China to Davao as increased interest and awareness in Davao grew by leaps and bounds. “We shall continue to promote the region as marketing is a continuous process and with partners like Cebu Pacific and Marco Polo Parkside, we can make our presence felt in the Chinese market every year,” Boncato added.
the medicine needs of their company or corporation through their delivery service which will also be able to help community pharmacies and small scale hospitals. MedExpress is the new pharmacy at the groundlevel the Davao Doctors tower on Quirino Avenue. Lim said the opening of MedEspress at the DDH is a milestone since it is a first in Mindanao and is a differ-
ent kind of community drugstore. Davao Doctors is the eighth hospital MedExpress has partnered with. Their first branch two years ago was at the Capitol Medical Center, Quezon City, Metro Manila, fo;;owed by the one at the Perpetual Help Medical Center in Las Piñas City, Metro Manila while the first large big one was The Medical City (TMC) Pasig City, Metro
Manila, Makati Medical Center Makati City, Manila Doctors Hospital, St. Luke’s Medical Center (SLMC) Quezon City and Makati City, Metro Manila, Mary Mediatrix Medical Center Lipa City, Batangas, which is the gateway to the south, and finally, Davao Doctors Hospital which is the gateway to Mindanao. Lim said they will be opening a branch at Cebu Doctors Hospital, a month from now.
Davao... FFROM 2
Avail... FFROM 2
TRAINING. Gen. Manager Olivia D. Velasco (extreme right) with employees of Edge Davao and Zion Accuprint during Friday night’s Printing Technology Forum which is part of the 3-day Philconstruct Mindanao
2013 and the 7th Manufacturing Technology Davao at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center. Lean Daval Jr.
PHL earns interest in int’l scene, DTI chief says F
OREIGN countries have so much interest in the Philippines not only in putting up investments but in all aspects of life, said Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo in an interview. Domingo, who recently arrived from the China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) in Nanning, China representing the Philippines as the “Country of Honor,” noted not only investors are asking about the situation of the Philippines but even the ordinary people. ”(The) interest (in the) Philippines is very broad-based; it is not only limited to business. It started out initially in business. But it’s expanding to tourism, to arts, culture, all aspects of life here,” Domingo said. ”There’s a lot of inquiry;
there’s a lot of curiosity. So all of these will bring more good.” ”We are on an outward spiral. That’s reinforcing itself. And (the) momentum is with us. And that will flow through again on the economic side,” the DTI chief pointed out. He explained that extended interest in culture and arts will soon benefit the economic side as foreigners may come here in the country to buy books, movies, arts and crafts, and literature materials among others. It will also make impact on the tourism industry of the country. Further, Domingo said the Maison and Objet Fair Trade in Paris wherein the Philippines is participating is a good chance to broaden the interest of foreigners in the country. According to Domin-
go Maison and Objet, a trade show on furniture and home furnishings, has put Philippines in the main hall of the trade. He added noted local designs gained attention from the organizers, thus getting a good spot in the show. He pointed out that even local buyers regained their interest to Filipino-designed furniture and home furnishings as new ideas are arising in the market. He has called the trend now as “renaissance” of Filipino designers. Meanwhile, aside from the Filipino entrepreneurs participating the Maison and Objet fair show, the DTI will be heading to Paris to support and try to get investments from foreign buyers. [PNA]
directly, in any partisan political activity except to vote. PSG is currently an Army unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with headquarters at Malacañang Palace. Also assigned to PSG are police personnel and operators from Philippine National Police (PNP) Special Weapons and Tactics and the Special Action Force. Co said the PSG posts are perceived to be the most sought-after assignment as these are closest to the seat of power -- the presidency. “Military and police officers and personnel are designated to PSG which serves as springboard for their professional careers,” Co said. Co added it is also alleged that military or police personnel assigned to
PSG are politicized as they are promised high-ranking positions in AFP or PNP and stay beholden to officials they served. Batocabe said to date, at least three PSG Commanders have become AFP chiefs of staff and were perceived, rightly or wrongly, to have been appointed because of their closeness to the President. “This perception should be eradicated as it demoralizes the members of AFP and weakens public confidence in its military. Creation of an institutionalized civilian agency, independent from AFP or PNP, ensures that the protective role of the agency -- that is ensuring safety of national leaders, their families, Malacañang Palace and foreign visitors -shall be upheld and given utmost priority,” Batocabe said. [PNA]
Solons propose agency to replace PSG
T
WO lawmakers revived a proposal to convert the existing Presidential Security Group (PSG) into a highly professionalized civil security organization to be named Government Protection and Security Service (GPSS). According to AKO-Bicol Party-list Reps. Christopher Co and Rodel Batocabe, their proposal aims to insulate GPSS from partisan politics while maximizing the organization’s efficiency and effectiveness. The solons explained their proposal embodied in House Bill 335 is pursuant to the 1987 Constitution which mandates that the armed forces shall be insulated from partisan politics. It prohibits members of the military from engagement, directly or in-
THE ECONOMY 11
EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
DTI to conduct study on PHL’s cabotage law T
HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is set to launch a comprehensive study and review of the country’s cabotage law as it moves to improve the competitiveness of local industries, including tuna fishing and manufacturing. Trade Assistant Secretary Blesila Lantayona said on Friday the study will mainly focus on determining the “pros and cons” of the proposed lifting of the cabotage provisions of Republic Act 1937 or the Customs And Tariff Code of 1978 She specifically cited the law’s granting of exclusive rights to coastwise trade for Philip-
pine-registered marine vessels. “We will be conducting consultations with various sectors to get the necessary inputs as to their experiences with the implementation of the law,” she said at the opening of the 15th National Tuna Congress trade exhibit in General Santos City. Lantayona said the agency moved for the conduct of the study after President Benigno S. Aquino III directed Congress in his state-of-thenation address in July to revisit the provisions of the cabotage law. In his address, the President said the move was aimed to “foster
greater competition and to lower the cost of transportation for our agricultural sector and other industries.” In the 13th edition of the National Tuna Congress, the delegates passed a resolution “urging the Philippine government to rationalize the cabotage provisions of Republic Act 1937 and other related issuances.” Congress delegates reiterated such move in their 14th gathering last year. The resolution, which was addressed to the President, cited that the cabotage provisions have contributed to the aging of the shipping industry’s fleet and triggered
the prohibitive costs on fuel, insurance premiums and taxes that eventually resulted to high shipping and freight cost as well as inefficient passenger and cargo handling. It said shipping, freight and transportation costs constitute a significant portion of the operating costs of the fishing industry in terms of movements of its raw materials, production inputs and finished products. “There is a need to rationalize the cabotage provisions of the law and other related issuances in order to improve the competitiveness of the Philippine tuna industry and its allied industries,”
it said. Joaquin Lu, president of the Socsksargen Federation of Fishing and Allied Industries Inc. (SFFAII), explained that the cabotage provisions have been hampering the movement of tuna products to various domestic markets. “At present, the cost of shipping tuna to Manila is more expensive than moving them to other markets abroad like the United States,” he said. Lantayona said the agency will work with the tuna industry players, specifically the SFFAII, in their upcoming study. “If we find out in our study that the cabotage law has been actually
blocking the progress of our industries, we will go to Congress to advance this cause,” she added. In late July, Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez filed House Bill 1789 to repeal and modify certain sections of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines and the Domestic Shipping Development Act of 2004. To be known as the “Coastwide Trade Act of 2013,” the bill seeks to spur domestic tourism, increase port revenues and promote cost-competitiveness among shipping companies with the entry of foreign vessel operators. [Allen V. Estabillo / MindaNews]
NOTICE OF LOSS
Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) 27903 under LOYOLA PLAN Contract No.(s) 409404-1 issued to TERESA M. LIBRON was lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void. 9/9,16,23
Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF DAVAO CITY 11th Judicial Region Branch 11
IN RE: PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRIES OF HIS CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH FROM ABNIR CANOVEDA NADELA TO ABNER CANOBIDA LADERA. SPECIAL PROC. NO.12625-13 ABNER CANOBIDA LADERA Petitioner Versus THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF DAVAO CITY, Respondent
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x ORDER
By this verified petition and for the reasons therein stated, the above-named petitioner, assisted By counsel, seeks for an Order of this Court directing the Local City Civil Registrar to cause the following corrections/ changes in his Certificate of Live Birth to wit: His full name from ABNIR CANOVEDA NADELA to ABNER CANOBIDA LADERA; Father’s last name fron NADELA TO LADERA; Mother’s last name from CANOVEDA to CANOBIDA; AND Parents’ Date of Marriage from September 18, 1967 to July 27,1968 Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance , the same is hereby set for hearing before this Court, sitting at the Hall of Justice, Candelaria St. Ecoland, Matina, Davao City on October 7, 2013 at 2:00 in the afternoon,at which place ,date and time any interested person may appear and show cause, If any, why the some should not be granted.
Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner once a week for three (3) successive weeks in a newspaper published in the city of Davao and of general circulation in the said city and the provinces of Davao as determined by raffle in accordance with law. Furnish, each with a copy of the petition and of this Order the Honorable Solicitor General, as counsel for the government, the Local Civil Registrar of Davao City and City legal office of Davao City for the City of Davao. SO ORDERED.
Given this 13th day of August, 2013 in Davao City, Philippines. 8/26/9/2/9
(SGD) VIRGINIA HOFILEÑA-EUROPA Judge
12 CLASSIFIEDS There’s a better way to get attention.
VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
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NOTICE OF LOSS Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No(s) 1004835 and 21047488 under LOYOLA PLAN Contract No(s) 294393-4 and 10028049-1 issued to REINA S. ASERIOS was lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void. 8/26, 9/2,9
EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
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CLASSIFIEDS 13
14
VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
EDGEDAVAO
INdulge! EVENTS
VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
EDGEDAVAO
Dinner with the Pacman
By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Photos by Lean Daval Jr.
When Saranggani congressman and boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao invites you to dinner, you would stop and hurriedly come running.
It’s not everyday that you get to dine with the legendary fighter and now lawmaker. That was the feeling we shared when, already starting to partake of our dinner elsewhere, the invitation came for us to come
to the Pacman Mansion for dinner which was timed during the Tuna Festival Week. Off we went with the entourage of The Royal Mandaya HotelDuterte Agilas basketball team of
Davao City which just finished a strong runner-up in the 1st Pacman Cup hosted by Manny himself. The entourage from TRMH had team official Jek Melendres, coach Miggy Solitaria, assistant Mark Bonifacio, Land Transportation Office XI assistant regional director and basketball fanatic Bong Gonzaga, and this writer along with the TRMH players Devon Sullivan, Ramsey Williams, Mark Magsumbol, Mark Andaya, Jojo Tangkay, Chris Concepcion, JR Gerilla, Dexter Maiquez, Ian San-
galang and John Gonzaga. Manny and his brother Bobby welcomed the guests to the sprawling Pacman Mansion which boasts of a covered basketball court, a gym, a billiard room and the guests’ receiving and dining area. When you’re dining with the Pacman, you don’t think about the food (which was of course a typical feast because Manny himself personally picked what was served). You simply relish the experience. (NJB)
EDGEDAVAO
A2 INdulge! UP AND ABOUT
VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
STYLE
Candidates for RDL Ambassador and Ambassadress 2013 visit House of Hope “THE RDL Ambassador and Ambassadress 2013” is not only a beauty, talent and brain competition but it is also a competition that would showcase the inner personalities of the candidates. This is a competition that would allow them to help their fellow youth to become a catalyst of change”- Mr. Fresnido stated.
The candidates together with their handlers visited the cancer patients of House of Hope located at the Southern Philippines Medical Center compound, Bajada, Davao City last August 31, 2013 wherein they shared their time, talent, skills and give thirty hygiene kits that includes soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand towel and toilet papers. With this simple yet heartily given gifts put smile on the face and on the heart of the cancer patients which are mostly children. The hygiene kit that has been given served as the way of laying hands for the children whom being treated with their illness and continues to fight for survival. The RDL Ambassador and Ambassadress candidates were taking part for this achievement, to be proactive youth leaders to continue enhancing their competence, strengthening their character, initiating and spearheading efforts towards nation building.
RDL Ambassador and Ambassadress 2013 Candidates together with the cancer patients
The candidates played a game with the young cancer patients of the House of Hope.
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The big reveal: The Havaianas Hot Air Balloon
Make Your Own Havaianas 2013 takes flight
IF YOU Havaianaticos were all but wondering when your favorite annual event of mixing and matching soles and straps was set to come around, you need only to look as far as Abreeza Mall’s Fountain lawn to make out the Hot Air Balloon that signals that it is looming near. The Havaianas Hot Air Balloon is an 18-foot rubber clad whimsical wonder recreated for Davao by Martish Marketing Company, the exclusive sub distributor of Havaianas in Southeast Mindanao. It was unveiled to members of the press last September
Martish’s Marga Nograles and Tisha Ang.
Managing Director of Martish Marketing Company, Marga Nograles, giving the opening remarks to kick off the Make Your Own Havaianas 2013 promotional activities.
5, 2013 to kick off the series of promotions for the Davao leg of Make Your Own Havaianas (MYOH) 2013.
“The Havaianas Hot Air Balloon is there to inspire everyone,” said Marga Nograles, Managing Director of Martish Marketing Company. “It’s there to spark everyone’s imagination and make it real through the Havaianas pairs they will customize at MYOH,” she added. Indeed, even for this confessed Havaianatico, there are still yet many pairs that cannot simply be left to the imagination. Each year, the beloved flipflops brand always comes out with new styles and adornments that allow everyone to seize their vivid ideas and embed them in soles to last. And while everyone eagerly awaits MYOH 2013
Mike Dakudao, Marga and your writer with the Havaianas balloon. which is set to happen in Center!” Those with valid about two weeks time, posts will receive a 10% Martish presents an ex- Discount Coupon that citing online promo that they can use when they will help spread the word purchase their Havaianas. about the event. Mall goers With imaginaare invited to take snap- tion as the theme for this shots with the Havaianas year’s activity, be ready to Hot Air Balloon and share be propelled by the fun these snapshots via Face- and vibrant spirit of Make book or Instagram with the Your Own Havaianas and caption “See you at Make its symbol, the Hot Air Your Own Havaianas from Balloon. It promises to be September 13-15, 2013 at a flight propelled by your the Abreeza Mall Activity every flipflop fancy.
VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
EDGEDAVAO
INdulge! A3
ENTERTAINMENT
Cannes grand prix award winning Korean film “Oldboy” airs on Cinema One AN intense and surreal experience is in store for viewers this Sunday (September 8) as the tagalized version of the 2004 Cannes Grand Prix award winning South Korean film “Oldboy” hits Philippine television on the Blockbuster Sundays movie block of Cinema One. to complete. He is then it depicts, but because of Starring Choi Minsik, Yoo Ji-tae, and Kang Hye-jung, “Oldboy” goes into the life of an average man who is kidnapped and imprisoned in a shabby cell without any explanation. After a grueling fifteen years, he is then released, eager to arrive at an explanation for what had been done to him. However, it turns out that his kidnapper has a greater plan for him, thus equipping him with money, a cellphone, and expensive clothes— aside from an odd assignment that he is required
thrown into a turbulent path of pain and suffering in an attempt to uncover the motives of his mysterious tormentor. Directed by Chan Wook-park, “Oldboy” received high acclaim internationally, even taking home the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival. It particularly received high praise from the President of the Jury at the time, director Quentin Tarantino. Famous American film critic Rogert Ebert said that “Oldboy” is a “powerful film not because of what
the depths of the human heart which it strips bare”, revealed in the way that the film’s main character is pushed to his limits. “Oldboy” was also named by voters on CNN as part of the ten best Asian films ever made. Due to its popularity, a Hollywood remake of “Oldboy” is also set for release this year, under the direction of Spike Lee. Don’t miss out on “Oldboy”, airing on Cinema One’s Blockbuster Sundays movie block on September 8 at 8:00 p.m. on SkyCable channel 56.
Tom Rodriguez signs up with GMA Network SOUGHT-AFTER leading man Tom Rodriguez is now officially part of the Kapuso Network after he signed an exclusive contract today at the GMA Network Center. Tom, who became a household name after playing the role of Vincent in GMA’s widely-popular and trending primetime series My Husband’s Lover, is very happy and honored to be part of the Kapuso family. He is very thankful to GMA for giving him the opportunity to showcase his acting chops via My Husband’s Lover which catapulted him to stardom and elevated his status as one of the busiest and most in-demand actors in the industry. “It’s really flattering that the whole GMA network is putting their trust on someone like me. Ang sarap ng feeling that they have gambled on putting me in My Husband’s Lover as a newcomer. First primetime show ko ito and sinali nila ako sa ganitong klaseng programa.”
During the contract signing held at the 16th floor Boardroom of GMA Network, Mr. Duavit said that GMA is already preparing Tom’s upcoming projects after My Husband’s Lover. He also said that the network is working on a big project for all the loyal supporters of My Husband’s Lover this October. “Looking at the clear talent and versatility of Tom, sa kasalukuyan ang ating Drama group are already looking at additional programs for Tom after My Husband’s Lover. Locally there is one we are planning to do within the month of October. So, Tom will be very, very busy. Bahagi ito ng pasasalamat sa ating mga Kapusong manonood na patuloy ang pagtangkilik sa programa. At masasabi na rin na isa itong pagkakataon na magsama-sama ang cast na mag-alay na isang palatuntunan para sa ating mga Kapuso.” Rasonable said that GMA will continue to give Tom
challenging roles after My Husband’s Lover, “Tuloy tuloy ang mga dramas niya. Nakikita natin kung gaano siya kagaling. We will definitely create more memorable characters for Tom.” Popoy, on the other hand, is confident that GMA will continue to give Tom good projects now that he is officially part of the Kapuso family. “I am very happy and we are looking forward to a lot of good projects, a great relationship between GMA and Tom and myself. We feel very blessed and thankful.” Present in the contract signing were GMA Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, GMA President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., GMA Entertainment TV’s OIC Lilybeth G. Rasonable, GMA Vice President for Entertainment TV Marivin T. Arayata, GMA Vice President for Drama Redgie AcuñaMagno, My Husband’s Lover Program Manager Helen Rose Sese, Popoy Caritativo (Tom’s manager) and Tom Rodriguez.
OTJ 2D Piolo Pascual, Gerald Anderson R 16
12:40 | 3:00 | 5:20 | 7:40 | 10:00 LFS
THE BUTLER 2D Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey PG 13
12:40 | 3:00 | 5:20 | 7:40 | 10:00 LFS
THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS CITY OF BONES 2D Lily Collins, Jamie Campbell Bower PG 13
12:00 | 2:30 | 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS
R-16 ELYSIUM 2D Matt Damon, Jodie Foster PG 13
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A4 INdulge! EVENTS
EDGEDavao Davao Partners
EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
Children’s Hour re-launches in Davao with “Cocktails for a Cause” THIS SEPTEMBER, Children’s Hour Philippines Inc. will relaunch its regional steering committee in Davao City through “Cocktails for a Cause,” a fund raising event featuring a musical comedy show with Mitch Valdes on September 21, 2013 from 5pm-7pm at the Activity Centre of Abreeza Mall.
Established in 1999 by founding Chairman Mr. Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Children’s Hour is a fund raising, fund giving, and friends raising organization that invites employees, corporations, and individuals to donate one hour’s worth of their annual salary or earnings to projects for children in the areas of education, health & nutrition, and child protection. The Foundation’s projects aim to benefit the poorest, most vulnerable, and excluded groups in society, and Children’s Hour invites donors and friends to give to the cause not only through sharing their treasures but their time and talents as well. The Children’s Hour Steering Committee in Davao is chaired by Ms. Erlinda Basa, former BPI Asst. Vice President for Corporate Accounts. She is ably assisted by Vice Chair Ms. Llewelyn Muriel del Rosario, who is an HRD Business Partner
Erlinda Basa, Children’s Hour-Davao Chair of Steering Committee, Art Gerald Perez, Children’s Hour-Davao Resource Deployment Committee Head and Major Ruben Aquino, AFP deploying relief goods to the typhoon-afflicetd families in Davao-Oriental. Photo shows (L-R): Brigadier General Edgardo Mortela of Philippine Army, Mr. Constantino Bagumba, Principal of Cateel Elementary School, Mr. Roy Mondares, Executive Assistant of Mayor Camilo Nunez of Cateel, Davao Oriental, Ovynania Jimenez, Resource Deployment Associate of Children’s Hour and Dr. Feleciano Tamondong, Superintendent of Schools Division in Cateel, Davao Oriental cutting the ribbon to turn-over 2 new classrooms to San Alfonso Elementary School in Cateel, Davao. for Globe Telecom’s Mindanao area and also current President of the Ayala Business Club – Davao. In fact, Children’s Hour was already identified as a beneficiary of the club’s Hour Run 2 held just last June
2013. Proceeds from that event went towards the construction of classrooms in San Alfonso Elementary School in Cateel, Davao Oriental. Children’s Hour hopes to further expand the work that it has carried out in region in the last decade. Through its local partner organizations, the Foundation has funded and supported about 50 projects all over the Mindanao region. As Children’s Hour relaunches in Davao City, initial plans include programs to improve the quality of education for less fortunate children in the community. Under the Bayanihang Pampaaralan project, Children’s Hour has been working on constructing more public school classrooms in Typhoon Pablo-stricken areas in Mindanao. Donations and pledges from generous donors have al-
ready been received for this cause. With Sept. 21’s „Cocktails for a Cause,“ Children’s Hour hopes to spread more awareness and support among Davaoenos for the Foundation’s advocacies and causes which aim to improve the lives of more underpriviledged Filipino children. „Cocktails for a Cause“ is an invitation for Davaoenos to „help make the world a better place, one hour at a time.“ To learn more about Children’s Hour and how you can contribute to its cause, please visit www. childrenshour.org.ph. You can also „like: us on Facebook (Childrenhourphilippines) and follow us on Twitter (@ChildrensHourPH) To get involved with Children’s Hour in Davao City please contact 082-2962661 or 09177010437.
EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
SPORTS 15
BIGGER AND TOUGHER Manny to stage bigger 2nd Pacman Cup
By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net
A
PACMAN WANTS HIM. The Royal Mandaya Hotel’s Devon Sullivan is in the radar of Rep. Manny Pacquiao for the 2nd Pacman Cup in December but it is doubtful if the 6-8 import will be released by the TRMH-Duterte Agilas. Right, Pacquiao awards the third place trophy to his brother Bobby, the MP Pacman Warriors team captain during the awarding rites of the 1st Pacman Cup on Wednesday night in Gen. Santos City. Lean Daval Jr.
bigger and tougher 2nd Pacman Cup is now being planned by Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao tentatively on December 8-16 late this year to coincide with his 35th birthday. The plan was hatched over dinner on Wednesday night shortly after the championship match of the 1st Pacman Cup won by Cebu’ Omega Pain Killer Pro in a tough double overtime win over a fighting The Royal Mandaya Hotel-Duterte Agilas in General Santos City. Pacquiao tendered dinner for the visiting teams where he announced the second edition of
his tournament. Rep. Pacquiao said the tournament will have six teams including his very own MP Pacman Warriors which finished third in the inaugural staging of the Pacman tournament. TRMH-Duterte Agilas of the tandem of team owner Glen Escandor and team manager Bong Go has been invited by Pacquiao to play in the tournament “on special request.” “I cannot say no to Manny so we will be taking part in the tournament in Decem-
killer distance punctuated with a stretch of scenic ascent and a short but rough off-road trail is what await adrenalin seekers when the Globe Arakan XC2 rolls out on October 13. More than the challenge though, there’s the exhilarating feeling of being a part of this annual advocacy ride and contributing to save the mountain ranges that is home to the Philippine Eagle. The Globe Arakan XC2 is a 60-kilometer cross-country fundraising bike challenge set in support of the Forest Corridor Development Program (FCDP) of the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) and the Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE). PEF is Globe Telecom’s partner and beneficiary for Arakan XC2. The cross country mountain biking challenge covers a total of 60 kilometers, one-tenth of which is a rough off-road trail through barangay roads in the conservation areas, while the rest would be a long and winding pedal-pushing through 54 kilometers of concrete and asphalt with an elevation of 612 meters, according to race organizer Jason Yap of Lead Pack during the press launch last Friday.
“Only 250 riders will be accommodated this year and registration will start on Saturday with P1,000 for Globe subscribers and P1,200 for non-Globe subscribers,” Yap, who ruled last year’s event, said. Also present during the press launch were PEFI executive director Dennis Salvador, Jake Aaron-Schoal-Berke, program director of the Solar Energy Foundation, and Fernando Esguerra, director for CSR of Globe Telecom. Leading telecommunications company Globe Telecom is intensifying its efforts in Arakan Valley to conquer the mountainous North Cotabato town through a wholistic program specifically designed to contribute to the well-being of the indigenous peoples of the Philippines. “We have chosen Arakan to be one of our Communities of Practice because we want to help in protecting the habitat of the Philippine Eagle while at the same time, assist in uplifting the lives of host communities where the nests of the eagles are located. We’re doing this through sustainable livelihood program, capacity building, agro-forestry initiatives, technology support, and educational assistance. We want the
ber,” said Escandor, who missed his flight to Gen. Santos City due to his hectic schedule in Manila. Pacquiao, who played for his team in the tournament, said he liked two of TRMH’s players and would be interested in taking them if they are available in December. “Kapag di nyo sila kukunin, ako ang kukuha sa kanila,” Pacquiao told TRMH official Jek Melendres and adviser Bong Gonzaga, assistant regional director of Land Transportation
Office XI. The MP Pacman Warriors currently have two reinforcements in former PBA Best Import awardee Jamelle Cornley and Stephen Williams. The team also has veterans Louie Medalla and Marlon Basco. Manny’s brother Bobby also plays guard for the team and averages in double figures. The boxing legend, who will be fighting Brandon Rios in November in Macau, said he wants the tournament played in two venues.
Manny, Jinkee Killer distance in Globe Arakan XC2 in Tuna Fun Run A
G
ENERAL SANTOS CITY--Boxing legend and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao and his wife Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao are expected to kick off the 2013 Tuna Fun Run in General Santos City on Sunday (September 7). There will be two gunstarts, one at 4:30 A.M to be fired by GSC Mayor Ronnel Rivera and another at 5:30 A.M. with the Pacquiao couple. The Fun Run, sponsored by the Notre Dame of Dadiangas “One Damean” Batch 87 as part of their silver jubilee celebration and the Order of Demolay of General Santos, is part of the Tuna Festival held every September of the year. “We hope to surpass the 1,900 runners last year considering that fun runs are becoming popular these days,” Tuna Run Chairperson Ma. Lourdes L. Libres said. The Tuna Run 2013 has four categories namely 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K and the 1.6K for parents-andkids tandems. Among the
expected participants are amateurs, professional runners and health buffs. Registration fees are from P200 to P450 with singlet and from P50 to P150 without singlet depending on the category (Elementary, College/ Adult, Half Marathon and Adult and Child Tandem). “All runners are expected to be at the Starting Line by 4:30 A.M.,” Libres said. The Fun Run will start and end at the Robinsons Place Gensan Parking Lot. One Damean President Architect Elwyn Banares said they are determined to make the Tuna Fun Run a yearly event not only to raise funds for a cause but also to promote running as a lifestyle. Two Free Run Clinic lecture and practicum sessions were conducted by the organizers on August 23 to 24 and August 30 to 31. Marathoners Allan C. Delima and Jessie A. Lozada gave the hopeful runners an overview of the benefits of running and some running tricks and tips. (Lovely A. Carillo)
communities to see us as a long-term partner in this undertaking,” said Esguerra. FCDP aims to re-establish forest on grasslands, rehabilitate degraded lands close to habitats of threatened wildlife and critical
watersheds, provide incentives to both indigenous and non-indigenous community partners, and participate in carbon markets to generate supplementary income for upland communities who restore degraded habitats.
16 EDGEDAVAO Sports
VOL. 6 ISSUE 126 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8-9, 2013
Mayor Rody to fete BPinoy qualifiers T
HE triumphant Davao City delegation to the Mindanao leg qualifier of the Batang Pinoy held last August 27 to 31 in Tagum City, Davao del Norte will be presented to Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte at the City |Hall grounds on Monday. Mayor Duterte will receive the winning delegation at around
3 p.m. and is expected to give his message during a brief program prepared by the Sports Development Division-City Mayor’s Office (SDD-CMO). The City Government of Davao bankrolled the participation of the Davao City delegation composed of almost 300 athletes, coaches and officials, allocating some
P777,000 to cover their uniforms, transportation and meal allowances throughout the duration of the competition. The Davao athletes emerged the top Mindanao qualifier after winning 91 golds, 75 silvers and 31 bronze medals in an impressive performance in the five-day competition organized by
the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) annually for the country’s athletes 15 years old and below. After their golden feat in Tagum, the Davao City athletes are now setting their sights on the 2013 Batang Pinoy National Championships slated in Zamboanga City this November. (SDDCMO)