Edge Davao 6 Issue 227

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

ENTER THE DRAGON. Performers mimic a lion’s movements during the traditional Chinese dance performance which was part of the Chinese New Year countdown at Rizal Park on Sunday night. Lean Daval Jr.

WATCHDOG QUESTIONS DECREASE IN R-11 VOTERS

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

LECTION watchdog Kontra Daya-Southern Mindanao yesterday expressed concern about the possible manipulation of the 2016 national and local elections.

This after the group found from the website of the Commission on Election (Comelec) that the number of voters in Region 11 has decreased.

Speaking in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex, Kontra Daya-Southern Mindanao and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan spokesperson Sheena Duazo said the final number of voters in Re-

gion 11 for the 2016 election is 2,659,704, lower than the 2,710,956 from the number of voters registered in July 2015.

She said there would have been time for voters to have their biometrics taken from July to October last year.

“So, mag-expect unta ta na modako pa ni siya kay magapas gud ang mga tao sa deadline, pero pag-abot final nibaba man hinuon, nabawasan man nuon ang mga naparehistro tong July last year (It should be expected that the number would increase because people wanted to beat the deadline. But the final list shows a

decrease),” she said.

Duazo said a total of 51,252 voters were deleted from the list. “Among all the regions in the whole Philippines why is that only Davao region had decreased while the rest of the regions were increasing,” she said.

She said the numbers are questionable and the group wants the Comelec to explain why it is happening.

“Nagsugod na ba karon ang maneuvering since dili pud nato masulti kay naa may kandidato nga gikan dinihi? (Has the maneuvering of the election started because we cannot

deny that there is a candidate from this region?) ” she said.

Earlier, COMELEC 11 assistant regional director Marlon Casquejo said some 170,000 voters in the region had been deactivated from the Comelec database after the Supreme Court dismissed the petition last December 16 questioning the constitutionality of the poll body’s “No Bio, No Boto” policy for lack of merit.

Comelec records showed that Davao City has a total of 873,670 voters, followed by Davao del Norte with 525,343, Compostela Valley with

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EDGEDAVAO Sports Notre Dame golfers win duel with Ateneo P15

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

FULL SUPPORT. Davao City third district Rep. Isidro Ungab signs the commitment wall to solidify his full support to the Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) during the Matigsalug elders and leaders of the community recognition and validation program held in Barangay Salumay, Marilog District over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr.

Charter change needed to lower Phl energy cost

S

ENATOR Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. yesterday said the next administration must adopt policies like easing constitutional provisions on foreign ownership to drive down electricity cost in the country.

Marcos aired this statement in the wake of the announcement of Manila Electric Company of a 42-centavo per kilowatt-hour hike in their charge this month. Meralco also warned of higher electricity rates in the coming summer months.

“We have among the highest power rates in Asia and our current generation capability can hardly keep up with the demand that some areas continue to experience rotating brownouts. If we can drive power costs down mothers can put more food in the table for their families,” Marcos said.

He said one good way to drive down power cost is to encourage foreign investors to come in by easing the constitutional restrictions limiting foreign ownership to 40 percent.

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Army captain hurt in clash with BIFF T HREE soldiers, including an Army captain, and two civilians were injured in clashes between government forces and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) from late Friday afternoon until Sunday.

“We suffered three injured personnel, including an Army captain but all minor injuries,” said Lieutenant Colonel Warlito Limet, chief of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion based in Datu Saudi Ampatuan.

Captain Jimmy Amoloy, commander of the 22 Mechanized Company under Limet’s battalion, was slightly wounded on his forehead when the BIFF under alias Bungos, alias

Abusaiden, Kagui Tatang and Ustadz Roman attacked his team at Sitio Dagading in Barangay Tee late Friday afternoon, Limet said.

Limet said two civilians, identified as Mammex Indiong, 30 and Tammy Musarup, 19, sustained minor injuries when their feet were hit by stray bullets.

Amoloy was brought to the 1 Mech Brigade for treatment while the workers and their equipment were relocated while troops held the line.

Citing intelligence information, the military claimed the BIFF suffered two dead, including the son of a BIFF leader, during the firefight in

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Environmental group fears smog in DC soon

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

NVIRONMENT group Panalipdan-Southern Mindanao Region (SMR) fears that Davao City will soon be blanketed with smog just like China in the next few years due to the operation of a coalfired power plant here.

“Posibleng mangyari sa Davao City na mag magkaron ng smog katulad ng nangyari sa Beijing (Smog could happen in Davao City just like what happened in Beijing),” Panalipdan-SMR spokesperson Kim

Gargar said in yesterday’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex.

Gargar, a professor in University of the Philippines-Mindanao, said the presence of the 300-megawatt (MW) coalfired power plant of Therma South Inc., (TSI), a subsidiary of AboitizPower, increases the potential of enshrouding the city with poisonous gas emitted by these power generators.

“It would take years before the city could experience the

bad effects of the operation of the coal-fired power plant,” he said, adding the group is planning to conduct investigation on reported noise and air pollution caused by the plant in surrounding areas.

Gargar said the group is still looking for source of funds and volunteer scientists to conduct the study of noise and air pollution in the area.

For his part, AboitizPower corporate affairs manager for Mindanao Willy Rodolfo

denied that the power plant is causing pollution in the area.

“Those who have seen the power plant can attest that there is no visible smoke coming out of the chimney, thanks to the modern technology the power plant is employing,” Rodolfo told EDGE Davao.

Earlier, TSI SI assured that its coal-fed plant “is safe as it is equipped with clean coal technology, where limestone is mixed in the process to help

grounds, had just arrived in front of the church on board his Mitsubishi Strada pickup vehicle with a companion when gunmen on a motorbike opened fire at about 8 a.m.

Abanilla and his companion, Degul Semillano, both residents of Barangay Doruloman, Arakan, North Cotabato, were still breathing when churchgoers and villagers

rushed them to the hospital.

The two were declared dead on arrival due to multiple gunshot wounds in the head and body.

“He was about to enter the church when the suspects on motorbike opened fire,” Fornan said, quoting witnesses.

Police recovered empty shells from a cal. 45 pistol at the crime scene.

North Cotabato Gover-

nor Emmylou Mendoza condemned the killing.

It’s a waste of life for a dedicated man doing his service. There is a deeper reason why those culprits wanted him to die. This was not the first attempt. Justice must be served for them,” she said.

She urged the police to conduct a thorough investigation. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera / MindaNews)

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NorCot prov’l security chief shot dead in front of church T

HREE unidentified gunmen shot dead the chief security officer of the North Cotabato provincial capitol in front of a Catholic church in Arakan, North Cotabato on Sunday morning, police said.

Chief Inspector Felix Fornan, Arakan police chief, said Bernabe Abanilla, chief of the Civil Security Unit of North Cotabato ’s provincial capitol

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

‘There’s still time for veto’

CLUP amendment not in City Hall yet

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

E

abf@edgedavao.net

NVIRONMENT groups in Davao City are still hopeful that Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte will veto the amendment of the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) removing the 10 percent green space in socialized housing subdivision.

Speaking in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex, Ecoteneo director Mylai Santos said the amended ordinance which the City Council had approved has not been transmitted to the Office of the City Mayor for Duterte’s approval.

“The last time we checked, it was not yet forwarded,” she said.

Santos said this means there is still time because the 10-day period for the mayor to approve or veto the ordinance has not yet started. If the mayor does not act on an ordinance, it automatically passed into law.

City Legal Office (CLO)

spokesperson lawyer Enrique Junior Bonocan told EDGE Davao last Friday that the amended ordinance has not reached the office yet.

Bonocan said all approved ordinances from the City Council go to the CLO first before the mayor’s approval.

This is because ordinances should undergo legal opinion before it will be enacted.

Santos said environment groups in the city had already sent a letter to Duterte requesting the mayor to veto the amendment. There is still no communication from the mayor, however.

“We are waiting for their official communication on when,” she said.

Santos said the groups want to veto the amended ordinance due to procedural lapses since the Council did not follow the provision that before any changes the Local Zoning Review Committee (LZRC) should be convened

first.

“Supposedly we expect that we will sit down with that committee (LZRC) because it is stipulated in the CLUP that there should be representatives from NGO (non-government organization) and academe. But they did not convene it,” she said.

Santos also responded to councilor Diosdado Mahipus’ statement that the LZRC can be bypassed because it is just a recommending body and cannot supersede the power of the City Council.

She said previous members of the City Council have stated the public needs to be involved in policy making.

“Tingnan niyo ang nangyari nung dumiretso kayo nagkagulatan na ganun na pala ang decisyon ninyo (You see what happened when you bypassed it. Everyone was caught by surprise),” she said.

Santos said the groups also

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WE’RE NOT PESTS. Dagohoy Magaway of Mamamayan Ayaw sa Aerial Spray (MAAS) shows off his anti-aerial spray shirt during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

AFP to intensify operations vs rebels after encounters

T

HE 10th Infantry Division (ID) will intensify its military operation after a series of encounters with suspected members of New People’s Army (NPA) in Compostela Valley Province and Davao Occidental over the weekend.

In a statement, 10th ID commander Major General Rafael Valencia said the campaign against the NPA will be relentless.

“For those who continue to choose the path of violence,

we will vigorously pursue and defeat them using legitimate force,” he said.

The first incident happened at around 5 a.m. on February 6 when the Bravo Company, 73rd Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered Guerilla Front 71 of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) at the boundaries of Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental and Glan, Sarangani Province.

The second incident happened at around 2:30 p.m. on February 6 when troops of

Bravo Company, 46IB caught up with the escaping group of NPA members under Guerilla Front 2 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) led by alias Raden at Sitio Binotaan, Brgy Kingking, Pantukan, Compostela Valley Province.

The third incident occurred at around 3 p.m. on February 7 in Sitio Logpaton, Barangay Kingking, Pantukan when rebels fired upon a group of soldiers on a checkpoint triggering a six-minute

exchange of fire.

The report said there were no soldiers hurt in the incidents while the NPA was believed to have suffered casualties as they left behind traces of bloodstains and various personal effects and other paraphernalia after immediately fleeing the site of the incidents.

The soldiers of 46IB and 73IB are still conducting pursuit operations against the NPAs. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

HE Philippine Press Institute, also known as the national association of newspapers and considered the oldest professional media organization in the country since 1964, joined the United Nations (UN) in its call for safety and welfare of journalists and media workers in an on-going forum in Paris, France.

“Worldwide, media organizations and their partners have put to the fore discussions on safety in the context of economic and press freedom. Enabling a violence-and-impunity-free society makes for an independent media and stronger democracy,” PPI chair lawyer Jesus Dureza said in a statement.

He said on the local front, the PPI has always encouraged owners and publishers of its member-newspapers to protect their media employees by providing enough remuneration and resources to be able to function well.

He also noted that the Philippines “is one of the most dangerous places for media workers.”

“The situation admittedly is far from ideal but necessary steps, largely provocation, have already been taken up to make safety as a priority newsroom mechanism and an employment right that secure tenure and defend the otherwise volatile press freedom in the country,” Dureza said.

Wanted man in SoCot falls P olice authorities arrested here on Sunday the third most wanted man of South Cotabato during a police raid.

Chief Inspector Marvin Duadua, Banga town police chief, considered the arrest of John Casiple Aquinan, alias “NogNog,” a major accomplishment because he was the No. 3 most wanted man in South Cotabato, having five standing warrants of arrest.

He was arrested at about 11 a.m. Sunday by joint operatives of Banga PNP and members of the Philippine Drug

Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Region 12.

Arrested with Aquinan was Prudencio Hapitan Falalimpa.

The raiding team seized two hand grenades from the suspects, shabu and shabu paraphernalia.

Judge Roberto Ayco of Regional Trial Court Branch 26 in Surallah, South Cotabato issued the following warrants of arrest for violation of PD 1866 for illegal possession of explosives, Criminal Case No. 7143-3 with no bail recom-

APAG walang gutom na mamamayan, walang gulo sa

country.

Cayetano told of the plight of Mang Max, a farm worker for 15 years in Tarlac who does not have his own land and barely makes ends meet. “Dalawang beses lang siya umani sa isang taon, usually March and August, at 15 kaban lang ang napupunta sa kanya mula sa 100 na average niya.”

“Under a Duterte-Cayetano leadership, Mang Max wouldn’t have to become a construction worker on top of being a farm worker,” said Cayetano, explaining that Mang Max earns a maximum of P30,000 a year, which could not meet the needs of his fami-

FWANTED, 10

PPI joins UN call for safety of journalists Cayetano: Food security is key to end disorder T “K SAFETY FIRST. PPI chair and president lawyer Jesus Dureza (right) is currently in Paris for the UN forum on the safety and protection of journalists worldwide where he is panelist and resource person.

bayan.”

This is what presidential bet Davao City Mayor Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte and his running mate Senate Majority leader Alan Peter Cayetano said as they highlighted the importance of food security to address the country’s disorder in a town hall meeting on Monday in Concepcion, Tarlac.

Speaking to an audience of farmers, coop members, and irrigators’ association memers, the tandem said that lack of support for the agricultural sector adds to the lack of peace and disorder in the

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EDGEDAVAO

4 SUBURBIA

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

DavOr kids receive free dental care M

ORE than 150 preschoolers and daycare pupils here received free dental and oral health care during the Provincial Government’s kickoff celebration of the National Oral Health Month last February 2.

Held at the Provincial Capitol, public health dentists from different municipalities in the province provided the kids with free dental services such as atraumatic restorative treatment for dental caries and application of sealant and fluoride treatment.

During the activity, the kids were taught the importance of oral health hygiene and the proper way of brushing the teeth through a mass tooth brushing drill.

Dr. Jereme Yuson, head of the Planning Department of the Provincial Health Office, said the Oral Health Month is a campaign to help improve oral health in the communities.

She said that by observing this celebration and with the government pouring a portion of its resources for this sector, “we are one step closer in making a difference in our community” by reducing the

number of adults and children with untreated dental disease.

The month-long celebration, said Yuson, also brings together all committed dental and health care providers and educators to raise awareness

on the importance of maintaining good oral health, particularly on children, through oral health education, prevention, and treatment.

“Despite the fact that tooth decay is almost entirely pre-

ventable, it is also the most common chronic oral health disease in children. The good news is that there are ways to prevent tooth decay and cavities,” said Yuson, noting the importance of oral health hygiene.

Dr. Raul S. Delosa, Oral Health Program Manager of the Department of Health in Region 11 said common oral health problems such as dental caries and periodontal disease can easily be prevented not only by means of maintaining good oral health but also through the intake of nutritious food.

A priority program of the DOH, the Oral Health Program is now being strongly pushed throughout the country, wherein dentists are mobilized to improve the dental health of the communities.

This is done by delivering oral health care and providing dental health education and

OMMUNICATIONS Secretary Sonny Coloma Jr. has clarified that Cagayan de Oro’s Lumbia Airport would serve as storage depot for equipment necessary for rescue operations during calamities.

Coloma made the clarification following reports that Lumbia Airport would be converted into into a US military depot.

Lumbia airport, which is five kilometers southwest of Cagayan de Oro, stopped commercial operations after the opening of the new airport in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental in 2013.

“Nais nating linawin (na) ang tinutukoy na pasilidad ay isang storage depot para sa kagamitang nakalaan sa mga kalamidad. Bahagi ito ng programang HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disas-

ter Relief) na mahalagang elemento ng Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Sa panahon ng bagyo, lindol o iba pang kalamidad, makatutulong ang pasilidad na ito sa agarang paghatid ng tulong at kalinga sa mga apektadong komunidad,” said Coloma in an interview over Radyo ng Bayan.

The 500-hectare Lumbia Airport complex is currently home to the 10th Tactical Operations Group of the Philippine Air Force.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Saturday confirmed the conversion of the Lumbia Airport into a military depot. He also said the use of the airport is covered

by EDCA. “Ang pagkaunawa natin doon sa loob ‘nung dating Lumbia Airport dahil ito ay napalitan na, mayroon nang

ibang airport para sa lugar na ‘yan, bahagi lang ito ng kabuuan ng area na tinutukoy ni Secretary Gazmin ay ‘yung pagtatayo lamang ng isang physical facility na gagamitin bilang storage facility. Dahil alam naman po natin hindi na po pinahihintulutan ngayon ‘yung base militar at ang ipinaiiral po ay ‘yung Visiting Forces Agreement na kung saan ay rotating presence lamang po ang pinahihintulutan,” explained Coloma.

“Ang pagtukoy sa mga lugar na maaaring gamitin ng Pilipinas at Estados Unidos ay kailangang pagkasunduan pa ng dalawang bansa. Sa panig ng Pilipinas, ang pagbabatayan natin ay ‘yung kagalingan ng ating bansa at kapakanan ng ating mga mamamayan. ‘Yan ang paninindigan ng ating panig sa pagpupulong ng Mutual

disease prevention into communities.

Delosa further emphasized the significance of educating the public on the importance of keeping oral health particularly in underserved communities.

Aside from children, Delosa said that oral health is a subject that cuts across different age and groups. He emphasized its significance on pregnant mothers, the elderly, and adults.

Spearheaded by the Provincial Government in joint collaboration with the City of Mati Division of the Department of Education and Public Health Dentists of Davao Oriental, other stakeholders of the Oral Health Program in the province include the Philippine Dental Association – North Davao Chapter, DOH, and the Philippine Army’s 701st Brigade. PIO/Photo by Eden Jhan Licayan

Defense Board at ng Security Engagement Board,” said the Palace official.

“At dito naman sa EDCA, ang isang elementong bago ngayon ay ‘yung pag-focus doon sa humanitarian assistance and disaster relief dahil batid naman po natin, kapag sumasapit ang mga kalamidad, first responders po ‘yung ating Sandatahang Lakas dahil sila ay organisado, mayroon po silang kagamitan, at integral na bahagi na ito ng kanilang misyon—‘yung pagbibigay ng agarang tulong sa ating mga mamamayan sa pagsapit ng mga kalamidad,” Coloma further said.

The Supreme Court has declared the EDCA constitutional. The EDCA allows increased US military presence in the country and the use of Philippine military bases by the foreign troops. (PCOO)

Maguindanao bets Former CDO airport to serve as storage for rescue equipment sign peace covenant C

T

O ensure that local election activities here will adhere to policies of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the poll body on Sunday gathered political aspirants and let them sign a peace covenant.

Lunamer Gargara, municipal election officer, said the gathering was witnessed by the candidates, police and military officials and election watchdog who all desired for a peaceful balloting.

The town, one of the 36 municipalities in Maguindanao and situated in the second district, was one of the areas of immediate concern of the Comelec in previous elections due to intense political rivalry, presence of Moro armed groups and private armies.

“We would like to show to the world that we can administer peaceful elections, especially when most of the local aspirants are related by blood and by affinity,” Gargara told reporters.

Incumbent Mayor Salik Mamasabulod is being challenged by Datu Jimmy Mata-

lam and Bai Masla Kalantongan.

During the peace covenant signing, the candidates vowed to subscribe to the tenets that registered voters should be given the opportunity to choose their candidates freely.

The covenant also called for non-use of violence and intimidation which marred previous elections in the town.

While all admitted they have relatives in the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, they vowed not to use guns, goons and gold to ensure victory in the May 2016 national and local elections.

Mamasabulod also called on all political candidates to do away with dirty election campaign and raise the level of political activities in town to erase impression blood always accompany political exercises in Pagalungan.

A first class municipality, Pagalungan has 12 barangays with 15,000 registered voters and a population of 31,891.

(PNA)

2 moderate quakes jolt Surigao Norte, Leyte

T

WO moderate earthquakes shook various parts of Surigao del Norte and Southern Leyte on Monday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

In its bulletin, Phivolcs said the first quake with a magnitude of 3.4 occurred at 4:30 a.m. and its epicenter was traced 23 kilometers northwest of Malimono, Surigao del Norte.

The earthquake has

depth of nine kilometers.

The second tremor with a magnitude of 3.7 happened at 7:02 a.m., with its epicenter located eight kilometers southwest of Pintuyan town in Souhern Leyte.

The agency said that no reported intensity and had a shallow depth of 18 kilometers.

Phivolcs said there were no reports of damages, casualties and aftershocks from these tremors. (PNA)

OLD MAN AND COWS. An old farmer brings out his cows to graze on the mountains in Luinab, Iligan City early morning Saturday. In the background is Mt. Agad-agad, the landmark easily seen from downtown. MindaNews photo by Bobby Timonera

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

SC asked to resolve aerial spray ban

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

E

crc@edgedavao.net

NVIRONMENTALIST organization Mamayang Ayaw sa Aerial Spraying (MAAS) appealed to the Supreme Court to give its resolution to the seven-yearold- pending case against the implementation of Davao City’s ordinance banning aerial spraying in banana plantations here.

“We’re appealing to the SC to make the case urgent,” MAAS president Dagohoy P. Magawag said in the weekly edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex yesterday.

He said yesterday marked the ninth year of the passage of the city ordinance as well as the seventh year that the

case has remained pending in court.

Magawag said the protection of small farmers and communities surrounding banana plantations is clearly not in the priority agenda of the Aquino administration.

He said the Supreme Court has taken on new cases while equally important cases like

the constitutionality of aerial spraying have been pending for several years.

The case was filed before the SC in 2009 after the Court of Appeals granted an injunction on the implementation of the ordinance, which bans aerial spraying of pesticides in banana plantations.

The CA drew a resolution

NOW OPEN. Kuya J multi unit head Marjorie L. Mateo announces the opening of the restaurant’s latest branch at the Annex of SM City Davao. The restaurant is set to open today. Lean Daval Jr.

in favor of banana corporations, including members of the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA), Davao Fruits, and Lapanday Agricultural Development, which had questioned the legality of the ban in court and filed a lawsuit against the Davao City government seeking to strike down the ordi-

nance as unconstitutional.

The CA injunction allowed some banana companies here to use aerial spraying as their mode of pesticide application in vast hectares of banana plantations.

Magawag said at present, banana production areas operated by Sumifru in the ba-

HE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has approved the P3.2-billion solar farm project of PetroSolar Corporation, a joint venture of PetroGreen Energy Corp. and EEI Power Corp.

PEZA Director General Lilia B. de Lima told reporters that PetroSolar’s solar power plant will have a capacity of 50 megawatts.

PetroSolar’s Tarlac Solar Power Project (TSPP) will be on a 55-hectare land in Central Techno Park in Tarlac City.

In its previous statement, PetroSolar said the project can provide clean energy to approximately 31,700 households and is expected to save more than 47,800 tons of carbon emissions annually.

Meanwhile, investment approvals in PEZA reached P295.09 billion in 2015 increasing by 5.6 percent from 2014’s figure of P279.48 billion.

Total employment in PEZA as of November 2015 increased by 8.49 percent to 1.25 million compared November 2014’s figure at 1.15 million. (PNA)

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PEZA approves P3.2-B solar farm T

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

14 impact projects worth P1.8B in Davao Occ: DPWH T

PROGRESS REPORT. Davao Occidental District Engineer Noe V. Placer (left) and Regional Director Mariano R. Alquiza of Public Works and Highways Region 11 answer questions from reports on the updates of 14 import infrastructure projects worth P1.8 billion in Davao Occidental during a press conference in Malita last week. Dean Ortiz

HE contractors of the Department of Public Works and Highways are about to finish 14 impact infrastructure projects in Davao Occidental and partly in its mother province, Davao del Sur. This was the report of DPWH Region 11 Director Mariano “Marnie” R. Alquiza and District Engineer Noe V. Placer during a press conference in Malita, Davao Occidental last week timed with the regional staff monthly meeting of the agency there.

The 14 impact projects with a total construction cost of P1.86 billion are mostly 90 percent completed with only three left behind in accomplishment.

The biggest projects costing more than P200 million each involve upgrading of

sections of the Malalag-Malita-Jose Abad Santos-Glan Road under various contractors.

They are Biton-Lamidan section costing P215 million, 93.05 percent accomplished; Kiobog-Culaman section, P205 million, 94 percent; Culaman-Meybio section, P232.35 million, 78 percent; Lindasan-Kiobog (Davao del Sur) section, and KiblawanPadada Road, Davao del Sur, P250 million, 90 percent.

The rest of the impact projects are: Construction of Carahayan Bridge and approaches, P55 million, 95.38 percent accomplished; Tabayon Bridge and approaches, P60 million, 94.62 percent; Malalan Bridge, P75 million, 91.44 percent; Kalibay Bridge, P90 million, 92.44 percent; Meybio-Carahayan section upgrading, P94.385

million, 90.36 percent; road upgrading of Demoloc to other barangay sections of Alabel and Malita, P160.43 million, 96.45 percent; road upgrading from Bansalan to Mt. Apo National Park, P100 million, 60.20 percent; road upgrading from Cogon-Kapatagan to Mainit leading to Mt. Apo, P109.24 million; and widening of Davao-Cotabato Road (Digos junction), P120 million, 7.52 percent.

Among the construction companies involved in the projects are FFJJ Construction, Three W Builders, Inc., joint venture of Prime Megastructures Inc. and Flying Seven Construction Company, St. Gerrard Construction, Verzontal Builders, Inc., and Ulticon Builders, Inc. (AMA with reports from Dean Ortiz, DPWH 11-PIO)

its allied sectors in key cities of Mindanao like Dvao City increases the potential of the island as the growth area for the operation of the Canada-based insurance provider.

He said these sectors provide employment and increase the purchasing power of young professionals who can be their clients.

“Fresh graduates are already earning high even at entry level,” he said, adding more youngsters are becoming more financial literate.

At present, he said, Mindanao contributes about 6 percent to its total company business, with Davao City as a

major contributor.

“This is very similar to other provinces in Luzon and Visayas where Sun Life is also operating, but we want to increase our presence in Mindanao, especially in Davao because of the huge potential here,” he said.

To increase its presence here, the firm is targeting to hire more than 300 financial managers and advisors all over Mindanao.

At present, Sun Life has a total of 500 managers and advisors in Mindanao visiting offices and offering financial products “Majority or 300 of our

managers and advisors are in Davao while the rest are in other cities like Cagayan de Oro and General Santos City,” Quitangon said.

“We have doubled our managers and advisors here for the past few years to cope with the fast growth of the island, especially of Davao City,” he added.

Quitangon said Sun Life is expecting that more people aged 35 and below will be interested in being part of its growing manpower to be able to serve the growing demand for financial literacy and preparedness of Mindanao. CHENEEN R. CAPON

Oil companies hike Sun Life expanding Mindanao operations diesel, cut gas prices I

O

IL firms will increase diesel prices by 95 centavos per liter and rollback gas prices by 70 centavos per liter today (Tuesday).

In separate advisories, Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. and Phoenix Petroleum Philippines said they will apply the new pump prices at 6:00 a.m., Tuesday.

At the same day, Shell will also hike its kerosene

prices by P1.05 per liter.

According to the Department of Energy’s Oil Monitor for Metro Manila, as of February 2, diesel prices range from P17.9021.80 per liter, while having a common price of P19.30 per liter.

Gasoline prices, on the other hand, range from P32.00-44.36 per liter. It has a common price of P36.95 per liter. (PNA)

New resto opens in SM City Davao

K

UYA J, another Filipino chain of restaurants, opens a branch on the ground of the annex of SM City Davao , also known as “SM Ecoland,” today, Tuesday.

The Davao City outlet is the chain’s 31st branch, according to Marjorie L. Mateo, VisMin multi-unit head, who announced the resto’s opening during yesterday’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw .

Mateo said the restaurant, which originated in Cebu City, will have two other outlets in Davao Region, one in Davao City and another in Tagum

City within the year.

These are on top of the 80 outlets it plans to open in various parts of the country this year and beyond.

Kuya J offers Filipino cuisine at affordable rates.

Mateo said “Kuya” is derived from the address of respect Filipinos call elders and persons of honor and prestige, while “J” is indicative of the many Filipinos whose names start with a capital letter J like Jose, Juan, Julio, Joven, Junar, Juanito, Jesus, Jon, Jejomar, Jonalier, Jovito, Johnny, Juno, etc.

NSURANCE provider Sun Life-Philippines, Inc. targets to reach double-digit growth in its operation for Mindanao this year as it expands its manpower by adding more than 300 financial managers and advisers.

“The potential for Mindanao is really great given its thriving economy as well its fast development and progression,” Alfonso D. Quitangon, newly-appointed sales territory head for Mindanao of Sun Life, said in a press conference yesterday.

Quitangon said the rise of the business process management (BPM) industry and

PROSPERITY. Sun Life Philippines Mindanao sales territory head Alfonso D. Quitangon holds the insurance company’s prosperity card during a brief press conference yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

7 SCIENCE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

Understanding

biotechnology

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO “Without us knowing, (biotechnology) has permeated our everyday lives.

From the food that we eat to the gas we pump into our cars, biotechnology provides breakthrough products and technologies to help improve the quality of human life and preserve the environment.”

-- Shereen P. Razon in an article

B

Y 2020, the world will be home to around 7.5 billion people. And by that year, the 30-million hectares of the Philippines will be occupied by 122 million Filipinos, according to demographers.

Every second, three people are born, the United Nations Population Fund reports.

Every 7.67 seconds, one hectare of productive land is lost, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

“Unless we are ready to accept starvation, or place parks and the Amazon basin under the plow, there really is only one good alternative: Discover ways to increase food production from existing resources,” points out Martina Newell-McGloughlin, director of the Biotechnology Research and Education Program of the University of California Systemwide.

Dr. Norman Borlaug, Nobel Peace Prize winner in 1970, shared the same view.

“Global food security will not disappear without the effective application of new technology,” he said. “To ignore this reality will make future solutions to food security all the more difficult to achieve.”

Biotechnology (which comes from the two combined words: “bio,” which stands for biology or the science of life; and “technology,” the tools and techniques used to achieve a particular purpose) has been seen as one possible solution to the forthcoming world hunger.

As defined, biotechnology is the manipulation of biological organisms to make products that benefit human beings. Its definition evolved through times and so its context and scope. Over 10,000 years ago, humans produced wine, beer, vinegar and bread

using microorganism through the process now known as fermentation. Using advanced fermentation process, Egyptians were able to create 50 varieties of bread.

In recent years, with the advances in cell and molecular biology, biotechnology emerged from classical or traditional to modern or advanced biotechnology. Today, biotechnology is closely associated with genetic engineering, a high-end science seen by many as having tremendous potential to increase agricultural productivity. “Biotechnology is by default our best and, maybe, only way to increase production to meet future food needs,” says Dr. McGloughlin.

Modern biotechnology, when used among crops, allows a scientist to choose and move the single characteristic he wants -- it’s streamlined, efficient, and produces superior results. “The techniques used in modern plant biotechnology provide plant breeders with precise tools that permit them to introduce desirable characteristics into a plant,” explains a fact sheet published by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA).

“They do so without having unwanted or extra traits that occur with traditional plant breeding,” the ISAAA fact sheet adds. “Because of the control that’s afforded with plant biotechnology, scientists can examine introduced traits in great detail.”

In 1994, Calgene’s delayed-ripening tomato became the first genetically modified (GM) food crop to be produced and consumed in an industrialized country. Since then, several GM food crops are introduced or currently being studied.

In the near future, the following crops will be available: rice enriched with iron, vitamin A and E, and lysine; potatoes with higher starch content and inulin; edible vaccines in corn, banana, and potatoes; corn varieties with low phytic acid and increased essential amino acids; healthier oils from soybean and canola; and allergen-free nuts.

As early as the mid-1970s, the Philippine government has recognized the potential role of biotechnology in achieving sustained economic development and food security. In 1979, the National Institutes of Microbiology and Biotechnolo-

A Bt corn and traditional corn (Photo courtesy of SEARCA) Golden rice (Photo courtesy of IRRI)

gy (BIOTECH) was set up at the University of the Philippines at Los Baños.

During her term, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo issued a memorandum on July 16, 2001 stipulating the promotion of “the safe and responsive use of modern biotechnology and its products as one of the several means to achieve and sustain food security, sustainable and safe environment…”

But biotechnology is not only applied in food production -- even in medicine and industrial processes. Erythropoietin is one of the first biotechnological drugs; it triggers the production of new red blood cells. In industrial processes, there’s laundry detergents whose new enzymes could help remove oily and protein-based stains.

“The principal challenge in biotechnology research is how to realize the promise of benefits and advantages from this cutting-edge technology for developing countries,” said Dr. Estrella F. Alabastro, when she was still the head of the Department of Science and Technology.

But all is not rosy, however. “I believe that this kind of genetic modification takes mankind into realms that belong to God, and to God alone,” commented Philip Arthur George Charles -- more popularly known as Prince Charles

-- in 1998.

“By transferring genes across species barriers which have existed for eons,” said Dr. Peter Wills, a theoretical biologist at Auckland University, “we risk breaching natural thresholds against unexpected biological processes.”

One potential risks of bio- Bt eggplant (Photo courtesy of SEARCA) technology is out-crossing, the unintentional breeding gist and vice chancellor of the agricultural systems need to of domestic crop with a relat- Cameroon Christian Universi- be in place to detect and mined plant. In 1999, it was also ty, contends that the benefits imize potential risks, as well as reported that pollen from of GM crops are greater than to ensure GM crops continue to biotech corn had a negative any negative effects they might be safe after their release.”

As to the health issues, the impact on Monarch butterfly have in the future.

“Remember that (when) Geneva-based World Health larvae. Another concern is that biotech crops may lead to the fire was discovered, it was Organization gives this assurdevelopment of insect resis- both useful and harmful,” Prof. ance: “The potential direct tance to Bacillus thuringiensis Titanji was quoted as saying health effects of GM foods are (Bt), a common soil bacterium. by Inter Press Service. “I have generally comparable to the Then, there’s that question been in the domain of bioengi- known risks associated with about allergen (a protein that neering for over 30 years and conventional foods, and incauses an allergic reaction) none of the predicted effects clude, for example, the potenfrom GM foods which could be have materialized. It was pre- tial of allergenicity and toxicity accidentally introduced into a dicted that weeds will invade of components present, and the entire ecosystems of coun- the nutritional quality and food product.

Some GM crops contain tries like Brazil, the United microbiological safety of the genes for a trait called antibi- States, South Africa, and China, food.”

“Despite the current unotic resistance. Scientists use which produce GMOs massivethis trait as a market to identi- ly. Even the toxic substances certainty over GM crops, one fy cells into which the desired predicted have not material- thing remains clear,” the ISAAA fact sheet claims. “This technolgene has been successfully in- ized.”

On the potential risks of ogy, with its potential to create troduced. Concerns have been raised that these marker genes biotech crops on the environ- economically important crop could move from GM crops to ment, ISAAA has this answer: varieties, is simply too valumicroorganisms that normal- “The environmental and eco- able to ignore. There are, howly reside in a person’s gut and logical concerns potentially ever, some valid concerns. If lead to an increase in antibiotic associated with GM crops these issues are to be resolved, are evaluated prior to their decisions must be based on resistance.

Prof. Vincent Titanji, a release. In addition, post-ap- credible, science-based inforCameroonian biotechnolo- proval monitoring and good mation.”

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

EDITORIAL

A

Change is also coming at CBCP front

FTER the shocking revelation made by presidential candidate Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on his being a victim of sexual abuse by a priest, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has come up recently with a directive to the members of the priesthood.

Under the new CBCP directive, a priest who has been the subject of complaints of sexual abuse will, instead of being dismissed outright, be put on suspension and held under the custody of the CBCP. Under the pastoral guideline, the priest will not be allowed to leave the diocese but will stay at the bishop’s residence to be available for trial should his presence be needed to answer charges against him. The priest will also

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undergo spiritual reformation while the case is ongoing.

The canonical proceedings will be made but will await the results of the court proceedings. No monetary assistance or any other means shall be extended by the Church until the resolution of the case.

No amicable settlement will be allowed by the church.

The CBCP has also made it clear to all parishes that no minor children whose schooling is sponsored by priests shall be allowed to live in convents.

Now, all these changes are obviously spurred by the revelation of Mayor Duterte, whose slogan is “Change is coming,” and the rise of cases of sexual abuse involving members of the clergy.

Yes, even with the CBCP, change is coming.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

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A

COUPLE of years ago, I had the pleasure of visiting my sister, Elena T. Chase, and her family in Livingston, Montana. They used to live in Hibbing, Minnesota (although they are back now in Minnesota but now settle in Grand Rapids, where famous Hollywood star Judy Garland grew up).

After presenting a paper in Washington, D.C. on water and population, I decided to pay her a visit. After all, I was already in the United States. So, when I visited her, I really didn’t have any idea as to what I would do while there.

But she had prepared something for me. Since she knew that I am a science journalist, she and her family decided to bring me to the Yellowstone National Park.

If you have a hard time figuring what it is, try to watch Robert Redford’s A River Runs Through It. It was filmed in Livingston and I did that famous fly fishing at the spot where heartthrob Brad Pitt did it.

Yellowstone National Park – which sits on an active volcano – preserves the largest hydrothermal area on the planet. And geysers, like most thermal features, are fragile rarities of nature.

Molten rock, or magma, may be as close as 5 to 13 kilometers underground in the world’s first national park. This magma provides the first ingredient for thermal features: heat. Ample rain and snowfall supply the second ingredient: water.

The water seeps down several thousand feet (more than a kilometer) below the surface where it is heated. Underground cracks and fissures form the third ingredient: plumbing. Hot water rises through the plumbing to produce geysers and hot

A

SIDE from being globally known for our OFWs, our country is also notorious for cultivating a society of “fixers.”

A “fixer” has a notorious connotation in that in the Philippine setting, he/she is one who is adept at arranging a favorable end result of a deal or transaction with any government instrumentality. A fixer is not an employee but whose physical presence indicates that something underhanded almost always is happening.

Enter into the premises of the LTO during registration periods and you will immediately notice dozens of fixers roaming around and volunteering their services to clients who are either lost or are in a hurry to finish their transaction with the agency. They’d never know they had turned into victims of calibrated extortion. So don’t be surprised that even a blind was able to get a driving license from the agency.

Go into the Bureau of Customs. Here it is just business as usual with desk

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Understanding geysers springs.

THINK ON THESE! In geysers, constrictions in the plumbing prevent the water from circulating freely to the surface where the heat would escape. The Henrylito D. Tacio deepest water henrytacio@gmail.com can exceed the surface boiling point of 93 degrees Centigrade. The surrounding pressure also increases with depth.

Increased pressure exerted by the enormous weight of the overlying water and rock prevents the water from vaporizing. Small bubbles of steam form as a result. As they rise, they expand until they are too large and numerous to pass freely through the tight spots.

At a critical point, the confined bubbles actually lift the water above, causing the geyser to overflow. This decreases pressure on the system, and violent boiling ensues. A tremendous volume of steam is instantly produced and forces water out of the vent in a super-heated mass and the eruption starts.

In an eruption, water is expelled faster than it can enter the geyser’s plumbing system. The heat and pressure gradually decreases. The eruption stops when the water reservoir is exhausted or when the gas bubbles diminish enough to be able to rise without ejecting the water. At the Old Faithful geyser in the Yellowstone Nation-

al Park, 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of water are reportedly expelled per eruption, depending on the length of eruption.

How I wish I can include photos but since this is a column, I cannot do so.

It is thought by many scientists that geysers are predictors of earthquakes. For instance, only sixty hours before the October 1989, 7.1-magnitude quake in the San Francisco Bay Area, Old Faithful’s usually dependable period suddenly lengthened too more than 100 minutes.

Scientists believe that small earth movements preceding the quake could have altered the size of the reservoir beneath the geyser, affecting its pressure and water flow rate.

My question is: Could geysers save the lives of people by predicting earthquakes?

Well, your answer is as good as mine.

Geysers also affect us in our use of power. Science tells us that steam from geysers is purified, transported in pipes, pressurized, and turned into electrical power. This electrical power is produced in various geothermal power plants in some parts of the world, including the Philippines.

Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak, is one source of geothermal power.

Geyser fields are ideal for this type of energy. Unfortunately, geothermal energy production by humans steals the geyser’s water, and further destroys the geyser activity.

There are only about a total of seven hundred geysers on earth. The majority of the world’s active geysers are located in the Yellowstone National Park. Only three other locations – Iceland, New Zealand, and Kamchatka (in Siberia) – have large

concentrations of thermal features.

In the Yellowstone National Park, five geysers – Old Faithful, Castle, Grand, Daisy, and Riverside – are predicted by the interpretive staff. Old Faithful’s average interval between eruptions is about 88 minutes, varying from 45-120 minutes. An eruption lasts 1-1/2 to five minutes and reaches a height of 106 to 184 feet. When we arrived at the scene, thousands of people – who were waiting for several minutes already – were getting ready of their cameras to shot the famous eruption.

Old Faithful is located in the Upper Geyser Basin, where most of the geysers in the world are concentrated. Another favorite performer is the Beehive geyser, which erupts twice daily and its display lasts 4-5 minutes.

The Lion Group consists of four geysers: Little Cub, Lioness, Big Cub, and Lion.

Lion has the largest cone and erupts up to 50 feet for 1-7 minutes. If you witness its eruption, you might hear how this geyser got its name: the eruption is often preceded by sudden gushes of steam and a deep roaring sound.

I loved Doublet Pool for its series of ledges, elaborate border ornamentation, and deep blue waters. Doublet produces vibrations, surface wave motion, and audible thumps – most likely caused by collapsing gas and steam bubbles.

To end this column, I want to thank my sister, Elena, and her husband, Engineer Daniel Chase, for bringing me to the Old Faithful Geyser. The trip was equally worthwhile since my two nephews -- Erik and Phil -- were around. Both had been to the place but they still tried to have fun.

drawers of SPECKS OF LIFE employees slightly ajar to allow a “drop’ from the fixer who passes through.

File your income or q u a r t e r ly Fred C. Lumba tax at the Bureau of Internal Revenue and very soon a decently-dressed woman or man will approach you to “fix” your headache.

Seek a renewal of your immigration status at the Bureau of Immigration – chances are you will be met by persons in civvies rushing to offer their services. In a matter of minutes, your troubles are over.

Hey, these are only a handful of government offices I have mentioned. Not yet cited are the Civil Service Commission, getting clearances from the NBI and police, getting business permits from many

LGUs, the LTFRB, the courts and other sensitive agencies.

Even in various departments like the DOTC, DPWH, DBM, DOLE and its attached agencies, Dep-ED, DoT and all other line agencies, fixers are omnipresent.

Would you believe that Malacanang itself is embedded with “fixers”?

Of course, you know who the “fixers” inside the Palace are. Big ticket projects whose contract amounts can easily discombobulate the thinking are given final imprimatur here. “Fixers” elegantly dressed in coats and tie and attired in barong Tagalogs are usually moving papers and documents for approval and signatures of people in authority.

A “fixer” in Tagalog means “nag-aayos.” Or one who makes ‘palusot’ under the very noses of their superiors.

Since “fixers” and “fixing” are already part of our culture (and even the vocabulary), will there ever be a period in our social life where the Filipino will find the courage and the means to kick it out and get rid of it forever?

“Fixers” have become efficient tools of corruption of greedy government officials and functionaries wanting to make a quick buck and enrich themselves. Their presence is tolerated because they have been properly coached what to say and what to do in case they get into trouble.

If they are really good and glib, “fixers” get to earn more than the minimum daily wage, sufficient to put food on the table for the family.

Between the “fixers” and the families who receive dole outs from the 4Ps DSWD project, you will always pick the lesser evil, right?

At least, the common excuse is that the “fixers” are flexing their muscles and the 4Ps beneficiaries are just sitting on their asses. Nagpapalaki ng puwet.

If Filipinos are good at fixing, how come we cannot fix our government?

This is a riddle that will take centuries to solve.

Sirit na po. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) God bless the Philippines!

A nation of fixers?

10 NEWS

Ecoteneo director and Green Davao Coalition coordinator Camela Santos says her group will conduct a signature campaign to gather support for the retention of the 10-percent green space requirement in housing

WATCHDOG... FROM 1

408,539, Davao del Sur with 373,692, Davao Oriental with 319,971, and Davao Occidental with 158,551.

Meanwhile, Duazo said the group also received reports from the communities that some politicians are using the Conditional Cash Trans-

fer (CCT) known as Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

She said the group wants to look into this because it is a form of manipulation of the people.

want to explain to Duterte that the 10 percent green space is different from the 30 percent open space intended for road access, drainage outlets, and services.

“Right now, as we can see open space is more of the gray space,” she said.

Santos said it is also stated in the CLUP that green space is needed because of climate change.

Earlier, Duterte said he will

weigh the matter to see it if the amendment will not compromise public interest.

He said if the amendment proves to be beneficial to the city, he will not oppose it.

Duterte, however, said the provision in City Ordinance no.

0546 of 2013 or the City Land Use Plan 2013-2022 allocating an area for green space is a good set up.

“The intention is good because it is for trees,” he said.

ly of 10 children.

Cayetano said they are pushing for 100% free irrigation systems in all major rice-producing provinces. The senator also said they will relocate the Department of Agriculture (DA) to Mindanao to transform it as the country’s

food basket.

“Our aim is real inclusive growth through regional development and social justice.

Through this we achieve the twin goals of achieving food security and ending the disorder in the people’s daily lives,” Cayetano ended.

rangays of Subasta and Dacudao in Calinan District and La Panday in barangays Callawa and Mandug also use aerial spraying.

Magawag said aerial spraying has not only affected the health of nearby communities, the production in areas near the banana plantations has been dropping since 1998 by more than 60 percent.

He said the annual yield in his own 2.5-hectare farm located a few meters from banana plantations and planted with different agricultural crops like cacao, coconut, lanzones, and rambutan in Calinan District dropped due to the aerial spraying done by banana

firms.

He blamed aerial spraying for the drying up of the leaves of his crops because of exposure to the pesticide and fungicide debased with “banana oil.”

Banana oil, according to him, allows the chemical to stick further to the leaves and not be easily wash away by water or rain. He could not, however, identify what “banana oil” is, only saying he had heard it being used by banana growers.

“The banana can withstand the oil because it is basically 90 percent water, but other commodities cannot especially when it is exposed to the sun. This leads to the drying up of leaves,” he said.

she said.

Last year, 16 towers were bombed, of which nine were toppled in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Cotabato City, and Maguindanao.

In January 2016, Tower 63 and Tower 50 were bombed by

unidentified group.

For the toppled towers, the NGCP constructed an emergency restoration structure (ERS), a temporary foundation made of steel that is propped up to deliver tower from the sources. (Antonio L. Colima IV / MindaNews)

CLUP... FROM 3

Cayetano... FROM 3

SC... FROM 5

Tower... FROM 13

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

Charter... FROM 2

subdivisions which was removed by the City Council’s amendment of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP). Santos was among the guests of Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Environmental... FROM 2

reduce gas emissions.”

But Gargar said “clean coal technology” has not yet been invented.

“There’s no such thing as clean coal technology yet even in other countries,” he said, adding that other coal-dependent countries have already shifted to other renewable power sources instead.

Reports have it that coalfired plants in the China’s smog-hit capital are being closed since 2014 to ease the problem on air pollution.

Last year, Beijing shut down a 400-megawatt facility owned by the Guohua Electric Power Co. Ltd, the third of its four coal-fired power plants.

Gargar said the promotion of renewable energy sources is the best option for Mindanao’s

worsening power situation.

He said Mindanao can resort to other energy sources like wind, solar, and hydro.

“These technologies are expensive if the Philippines will import it from the US, Japan, and Germany, but it can be made cheaper if the government will employ our local scientists and engineers to develop a cheaper alternative,” he said.

Gargar also said the management of the whole power sector should be given back to the hands of the government as against to the goal of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001.

“The profit of the government from operating the power sector can be used to build more plants,” he added.

the villages of Tee, Butilen, Andabit and Sambolawan.

This was denied by the BIFF spokesperson.

Limet said the firefight started at 4 p.m. Friday when about a dozen suspected members of the BIFF harassed soldiers securing a government-funded dredging project.

He said Army units were responding to calls for help by a private construction company contracted to do the dredging operation in Barangay Butilen in preparation for the construction of a bridge.

As our troops arrived, they were met by gunfire and rifle grenade attacks from the BIFF, he said, adding sporadic firefight ensued until Friday evening and toward Saturday dawn.

Limet said that while the soldiers were moving towards the dredging site, improvised bombs were planted by the BIFF. Army bomb experts defused them while sporadic exchange of mortars and rifle grenades continued.

“They have barret snipers targeting our troops, so we fired back,” Limet said.

Late Friday night, Col. Felicisimo Budiongan, commander of the Army’s 1stMechanized Brigade in Datu Saudi Ampatuan said they monitored reinforcements from the armed group’s side.

“Some reinforcements are coming from Shariff Aguak

and we monitored from other sides. It seems they are having pintakasi now but our troops have been holding the line and we are doing ..hard defense moves,” Budiongan said.

He said their troops fired back with 105 mm howitzers.

“We monitored as of this time some of the heavy equipment were hit and firefight has now reached the nearby Barangay Tee,” said Budiongan.

A backhoe was found burned on Saturday morning.

Datu Salibo Mayor Norodin Salazar said the firefight has displaced at least 1,500 residents.

“Our people want to have this project completed because all of them will benefit from it, but how it will pursue if this is happening?” he said.

BIFF spokesperson Abu Misry Mama late Friday said they were forced to fire back as military personnel were closing in on their area.

He admitted his men were involved in the skirmishes with soldiers but denied his group is opposed to the project.

“We are here to fight for our members who were not compensated from the lands used by the construction company,” Mama said in Filipino.

He also admitted they were behind the burning of the backhoe but denied two of their members were killed. (Ferdinandh Cabrera / MindaNews)

Army... FROM 2

In particular, Marcos wants the cap removed for renewable energy companies.

“We have a lot of areas with the potential for development of renewable energy sources but these require considerable investment. Many foreign firms are interested but not too keen on coming in unless we ease the 60-40 rule,” he said.

Marcos said the country’s current energy policy is in disarray, citing the complaint of British Ambassador Asif Ahmad who bewailed that while there is a cap on foreign investments in reliable energy, full foreign ownership of traditional power generation is

allowed.

“It is imperative for the new administration to put up a clear cut and fair policy on energy, particularly with respect to renewable energy development. If we can do that we would not only have reliable and cheaper electricity but we would be protecting our environment as well,” he added.

Marcos noted that it was under his term as governor of Ilocos Norte that the pioneering wind farm project for commercial power generation, located in Bangui town, was established. He said it now serves not only the energy needs of the province but of nearby areas as well.

mended.

Judge Ayco also issued three warrants of arrest for Aquinan for violation of Republic Act No. 9165 or the

Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

The court set more than P300,000 bail bond for his temporary liberty. (PNA)

Wanted... FROM 3 Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Approval of Sale and Transfer of Unit with Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service

Case No. 2016-XI-00110 (2010-XI-00809) VIRGIE I. SERASPE, Petitioner-Vendor VIRGIE I. SERASPE, Petitioner-Vendee

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NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioners request authority for the Approval of Sale and Transfer executed by VIRGIE I. SERASPE in favor of ELVIE B. SUAREZ of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: TIBUNGCO VIA R. CASTILLO and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on August 13, 2016. In the petition filed on January 25, 2016,petitioners likewise request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 24, 2016 at 09:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

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

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 26th day of January 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

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

Application for a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUB ORDINARY REGULAR Service

Case No. 2016-XI-00132 JOFFREY A. NUENAY, Petitioner

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NOTICE OF HEARING Applicant requests authority for a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUB Ordinary Regular Service for the transportation of passengers and freight on the route: DAVAO CITY-COMPOSTELA (COMVAL PROVINCE) AND VICE VERSA with the use of ONE (1) unit.

NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 23, 2016 at 10:20 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

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

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 28th day of January 2016 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

Mindanao can overcome challenges, Antonino says

M

INDANAO always has what it takes to emerge from challenges, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chair Luwalhati Antonino said yesterday.

“There is no island-region in the Philippines more intensely challenged then and now than Mindanao, but its resiliency always allows it to make headways at every turn,” said Antonino, head of Malacanang’s think tank in the south.

The MinDA chair issued the statement amid perceptions of uncertainty arising from recent realities affecting Mindanao, which a major national broadsheet’s recent editorial has cited as “series of unfortunate events.”

Among the pressing concerns it said that confront the island are the impact of the non-passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and rotating blackouts caused by transmission-related problems and low hydropower output due to El Niño, which is also wreaking havoc on Mindanao’s agricultural yield.

“We recognize these challenges as affecting our dogged efforts to accelerate Mindanao’s overall socioeconomic growth, but are in no way keeping us out of focus,” Antonino stressed.

She said despite the impasse on the BBL, there is a demonstration of commitment from various stakeholders to pursue lasting peace, in which everyone can move forward for sustained development.

“What is important is we find means to interface and coordinate on development

initiatives, including private sector investments so as not to derail delivery of benefits especially to conflict-affected communities,” she added.

According to MinDA, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) posted sustained investment growth in the last three years of the Aquino administration, with P1.4 billion in 2013 and doubled to P3.86 billion in 2014.

“ARMM investments are on the upswing, jumping 60 percent growth last year at P6.5 billion pesos inflows from big-ticket investments,” according to Atty. Ishak Mastura, chair of ARMM Regional Board of Investments.

On the power situation, Antonino said a Task Force was created recently by President Aquino to address long term security of transmission assets in Mindanao, and complement ongoing government and private sector efforts to improve the power supply situation.

“Addressing the Mindanao power situation through long-term measures is a demonstration of President Noy Aquino’s commitment, such as allocating nearly P4 billion for Agus-Pulangi rehab. No administration has ever invested this much to make Mindanao’s cheapest source of renewable energy reliable again,” Antonino pointed out.

With the expected completion of initial phases of several baseload power plants this year having combined capacity of over 600MW, the Department of Energy

expects Mindanao to enter into a regime of supply excess for the first time since 2009.

While conceding that El Nino will certainly have significant impact on Mindanao’s agriculture output, MinDA said the island’s diversified economic make-up keeps the region moving along growth path.

In 2015, six Mindanao provinces made it to the top 10 of the 2015 Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index of the National Competitiveness Council (NCC), reflecting economic dynamism, government efficiency, and infrastructure growth.

Under the Mindanao Development Corridors Program being coordinated by MinDA, Mindanao has able to get between 25-30 percent of national public works budget over the last three years, reflecting a steady hike in Aquino government’s infra spending for the region.

Mindanao’s competitiveness is also seen playing a critical role in its contribution to the national growth.

The island’s

Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) has many times outperformed national average.

Its economy grew by 7.4 percent last year, from 6.3 percent recorded in 2014, and contributed 14.4 percent to country’s overall growth.

“Mindanao’s real progress is hinged on the unity of all its peoples, amid diversity,” Antonino said.

“Mindanao’s real progress is hinged on the unity of all its peoples, amid diversity.” – (MinDA) chair Luwalhati Antonino

New food spots to visit at The Fountain Court:

Kuya J and Choobi Choobi W

HEN in metro Davao, one of the best dining places to check out is The Fountain Court, an exquisite two-level strip of restaurants, at the back of SM Lanang Premier.

The Fountain Court is home to exceptional fine and casual dining restaurants of local and international concepts. With a spectacular view of the country’s longest dancing fountain at 122-meters, it offers a beautiful and unique alfresco experience for diners.

Since its opening, The Fountain Court has constantly offered a wide range of food options, all the more with the recent addition of two food places, Kuya J Restaurant and Choobi.

Kuya J, a fast-growing

chain of Filipino restaurants based in Cebu City, opened its first branch in Mindanao at the 1st Level of The Fountain Court.

“We want to bring our love at first bite experience to customers here in Davao,” says Marjorie Anne Lim-Mateo, VisMin Multi-Unit Manager of iKitchen Inc., the company which owns Kuya J. With an ambience that is both cozy and inviting, Kuya J offers Filipino cuisine at a reasonable price. Among its specialties include the signature Kuya J Crispy Pata, Grilled Scallops, Binagoongang Baboy, Lechon Kawali, and Adobo sa Mangga.

At the 2nd Level of The Fountain Court is Choobi Choobi, another Cebu-based restaurant that has opened its

doors in Davao in late January. Known for its sumptuous seafood dishes with a twist, Choobi Choobi at SM Lanang Premier is its first branch not only in the city but also in the region.

Some of Choobi Choobi’s must-try specialties are Shrimp in a Bag, Chilean Mussels in a Bag, Lobster Fish, Giant Bamboo Clam and Scampi Baby Lobsters in a Bag. Open every day from 10am to 9pm, Kuya J and Choobi Choobi join the lineup of must-try restaurants at The Fountain Court – Vikings, Mesa Filipino Moderne, The French Baker, Banana Leaf, Munchtown, Archipelago 7107 by Barrio Fiesta, Bistro Selera, Hukad sa Golden Cowrie, Dayaw Coffee & Tea, and Bulgogi Brothers.

Feast on scrumptious food finds at The Fountain Court of the city’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination.

For inquiries, call 285-0943.

You may also follow SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for event updates.

Globe Business backs 10th Int’l ICT Awards

G

LOBE Telecom information and communication technology (ICT) arm Globe Business is lending its support to the 10th International ICT awards, one of the most renowned awarding ceremonies in the IT-Business Process Management (ITBPM) industry as part of its commitment to revolutionize and scale up Philippine enterprises and business organizations through ICT. In its upcoming 10th year, the International ICT Awards is introducing the Most Popular Team Leader of the Year in the ICT Industry category, a new category which determines the winner via on-site SMS voting. The new category features a voting system that is powered by AdSpark, a Globe venture.

The ICT Awards also helps improve processes and operations geared towards achieving the best service to clients that benefit not only the industry, but also the nation.

In addition, it will continue the Cities for ICT sponsorship program where the identified next wave cities can showcase themselves as a potential outsourcing hub to ICT companies who are looking to expand.

“Our support in this year’s ICT Awards is testament to Globe Business’ goal to become the preferred business advisor to Philippine enterprises as we help them realizing the importance of ICT in driving operational efficiency and productivity, which ultimately play a role in achieving success and global visibility,” shared Globe Senior Advisor for Enterprise and IT-Enabled Services Group Mike Frausing.

As the preferred ICT

partner of Philippine enterprises, Globe Business provides a comprehensive range of ICT solutions for the country’s top BPO firms that enable connectivity, increased productivity, and operational efficiency. The portfolio of solutions comprises of E-line, Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS), Direct Internet, BGIX (Burstable Internet), Data Center (Co-Location), Integrated Services for Digital Networks, Primary Rate Interface, all the way to Enhanced Managed Voice Solutions for wireline solutions to name a few. For wireless solutions, Mobile and TxtConnect are highly sought-after services. The data center and carrier ethernet services are ISO- and MEF global standards-certified, respectively.

Since 2011, Globe has invested over $2.2 billion in our network and IT infrastructure to enhance capacities of its data network and augment legacy-related investments.

The telco recently invested $400 million in submarine cable systems that are interconnected with the South-East Asia Japan Cable (SJC) network.

This addresses the increasing requirements for higher bandwidth and better speeds for enterprises and subscribers.

The 10th ICT International ICT Awards announcement of winners will be at the 2016 ICT Awards Gala Night on March 22, 2016 at the Mariott Grand Ballroom.

For more information about Globe Business, get in touch with a Globe Business Account Manager or call the Globe Business Premium Support Center at +63 2.730.1288 toll-free using a Globe mobile and landline. Directly apply online at http://business.globe. com.ph/help-and-support/ form/newline.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

EDGEDAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO GENSAN PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT Serving a seamless society

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Tel No. 082.221.3601/224.1413 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com marketing@edgedavao.net

INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

EDGEDAVAO TRAVEL

Harajuku dreaming The Takeshita shopping street is the heart of Harajuku.

ONE REASON WHY I LOVE TO TRAVEL is the fact that I love to experience the street culture of the destinations I visit. Each city has its own quirk, such as Seam Reap’s “happy” pizza parlours, Hong Kong’s Sham Sui Po weekend flea markets, and Singapore’s trendy Haji lane.

The streets are where one can grasp the local vibe as well as check out and appreciate a city’s local fashion sense through the throngs of people who are walking about.

For fashionistas and trend spotters everywhere, there is no hotter place to catch the latest looks and street fashion in Japan than along Takeshita shopping street.

For fashionistas and trend spotters everywhere, there is no hotter placeto catch the latest looks and street fashion in Japan than along Takeshita shopping street, the heart of Harajuku in Tokyo. Immortalised through Gwen Stefani’s song of the same name, Harajuku is where Tokyo’s young and hip head out to express themselves through fashion.

One of the bigger shopping streets in Japan, the Takeshita Shopping Street is a beehive of activity with many stores selling fashionable items lining the main street and stoking fashions from a range of looks and

HARAJUKU A4

Cute lolitas walking along Takeshita street.

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EVENT

THE YEAR OF THE RED FIRE MONKEY is predicted to be a rare year and was heartily welcomed at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao on February 7, 2016. An Eye-dotting Ceremony was performed on the “Lions” at the hotel lobby by hotel manager, Bryan Yves S. Lasala, and a member of the Club Insulares, Mr. Christian de Walden.

The Chinese use the lion dance to spread all the good blessings of the gods to the whole community. Once the “Lion” was “awakened,” the guests were treated to a very energetic Lion Dance display and showered with lucky coins by Mr. Lasala.

A lavish Chinese-inspired dinner buffet was prepared by Executive Chef Victor D. Barangan and his award-winning team at the Café Uno that featured hefty helpings of the traditional Prosperity Salad, Baby Pork Spareribs Adobo, Chinese Fried Chicken, Steamed Baby Bok Choy, and Roasted Suckling Pig were all laid out for the

feast. The celebration continued on to a sumptuous lunch buffet of Chinese-inspired cuisine on Chinese New Years’ Day, February 8, 2016 also at Cafe Uno. “Gong xi fa cai,” and ”Wan shi ru yi.” from the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao.

For inquiries, reservations and updates on our events, promos and culinary offerings, contact us at (082) 233 2881 to 87 or 300 8881 or visit our website at www.waterfronthotels.com. ph. Like us also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/waterfront. davao and follow us on Instagram and Twitter at WaterfrontDavao.

UP AND ABOUT

Early bird rates at Summit Hotels and Resorts website PLANNING THE PERFECT SUMMER HOLIDAY for you and your loved ones?

At Summit Hotels and Resorts, guests booking days in advance of their desired check-in date are in for a great treat!

With the Early Bird Rates, travellers can get as much as 45% off on room rates when they make their reservations at least 31 days in advance. With Summit Hotels and Resorts’ Early Bird Rates, one can book ahead for that perfect Tagaytay summer vacation for as low as Php4,777 per night with buffet breakfast for two, inclusive of VAT. These Early Bird Rates, exclusively offered at the official

website, www.summihotels. ph, are applicable to all hotel properties of Summit Hotels and Resorts.

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Tagaytay’s fresh mountain air in Summit Ridge Hotel. Be at the center of everything bright and delightful in Fuente, Cebu’s Summit Circle Hotel. Or treat yourself to an urban escape and well-deserved shopping trip in Summit Hotel Magnolia, located right next to Robinsons Magnolia, an award-winning mall in Quezon City. All at great room rates when you plan ahead and book your stay directly at www.summithotels.ph.

The Early Bird Rates are available at Summit Hotels and

Resorts website according to when you book – the earlier, the better! To take advantage of these Early Bird Rates, guests have to click the “Book Now” button on the hotel’s website. This will open up its

online reservation system.

Here, guests must enter their check-in and check-out dates to view the Best Available Rates and room availability.

Guests should keep in mind that the Early Bird Rates only

applies to reservations made days before the preferred check-in date. Rates may vary per night and changes in booking details, including transfer of booking to another person, are allowed only up to 72 hours before check-in time. Appropriate charges may apply. Booking Terms and conditions apply.

Get the most updated information about Summit Hotels and Resorts right on its site. Everything from guest room information to meeting details, not to mention exclusive offers and savings available to guests who book direct. More savings are offered through its monthly e-newsletter so be sure to sign up on www.summithotels.ph.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

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ENTERTAINMENT

Liza and Enrique make people believe in forever once again LIZA SOBERANO AND ENRIQUE GIL reprise their well-loved roles as Agnes and Xander as they top bill “Forever and More,” the first exclusive content offering on iWant TV this year via ABS - CB N m o b il e starting Monday.

Before the TV debut of Liza and Enrique’s “Dolce Amore” on February 15, Lizquen fans can relive and follow the love story of Agnes and Xander in “Forever and More,” the much-awaited retelling of the hit “Forevermore” series. It shows Xander (Enrique) as a successful

hotel magnate being interviewed for the Grande family’s biography. As he shares his journey, he recalls his transformative experience in La Presa and opens up about Agnes (Liza), his one great love.

With a 15 episode

order, “Forever and More” will also showcase Agnes and Xander travelling down memory lane to reminisce about the sweet memories and challenges that rocked their relationship and will finally unveil the current status of Agnes and Xander’s legendary

love story.

Does forever really exist for Agnes and Xander? Find out and catch up with their relationship status in “Forever and More.”

To watch “Forever and More,” visit the iWant TV website (www. iwantv.com.ph) or go to the iWant TV mobile app beginning Monday (Feb 8) and text IWANTV10 to 2135 using an ABSCBNmobile SIM. Believe in the power of love and follow Agnes and Xander’s love story once again in “Forever and More” exclusively on ABS-CBNmobile. For more information, visit w w w. abscbnmobile. com.

GETTING READY FOR YOUR SUMMER VACATION? It’s the Luggage Sale in all branches of The SM Store nationwide! Enjoy up to 50% OFF on selected brands. Don’t miss this!

GMA wins at 2016 Platinum Stallion Media Awards VARIOUS KAPUSO PROGRAMS and personalities were recognized at the 2016 Platinum Stallion Media Awards held last Wednesday, February 3, at the Trinity University of Asia (TUA) University Theater.

One of the country’s most respected broadcast journalists, Mel Tiangco, was honored as Best Female News Anchor for Television.

GMA News and Public Affair’s multi-awarded documentary program I-Witness brought home yet another addition to its long list of awards as it won Best Documentary Show. One of its hosts, Sandra Aguinaldo, was also recognized as the Most Trusted Female Field Reporter.

Meanwhile, GMA News TV travel program Biyahe ni Drew was given the Trinitian Awardee for Best TV Magazine Show.

Receiving the Platinum Stallion nod as well are various GMA Entertainment TV programs.

Family sitcom Pepito Manaloto, top billed by award-winning comedy actor Michael V., was recognized as this year’s Best Values-Oriented Program.

Longest-running comedy program Bubble Gang won as Best Gag Show while another GMA original program, Celebrity Bluff, was cited as the Best Game Show.

Kapuso comedy-variety noontime show, Sunday Pinasaya, was recognized as Best Entertainment Program.

Saturday primetime drama

program, Magpakailanman, meanwhile, won as this year’s Best Drama Anthology. The Trinitian Awardee for Late Night Show went to Walang Tulugan with the Master Showman.

Trinity Asia University also recognized Kapuso singer Jaya as the Outstanding Trinitian Media Practitioner for Music and Television.

The EB Dabarakads also took home several awards.

Longest-running noontime show Eat Bulaga added another feather on its cap as it won Best Noontime Show. Eat Bulaga’s Kalye’s Angels—composed of Wally Bayola, Jose Manalo, and Paolo Ballesteros—were also recognized as the Trinitian Awardees for Values-Oriented TV Character/s.

Hero TV says “I love you” this February IN THE MONTH OF LOVE, being an anime fan never stops.

Sometimes, there are those anime’ shows that touch our hearts and let us feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Otakus (anime and Japanese culture fan in English) can rejoice as Hero TV brings back titles that are both familiar and new to everyone without scrimping on any of the action, comedic moments, or even romantic ones this month of February.

As the love month rolls, journey once again with Mei Tachibana through the ins and outs of being, and having, a relationship in “Say I Love You.” Then there’s being friends with someone whose memory lasts

only a week in “One Week Friend.”

Or join Magasumi who finds out what it’s like to be married to a mermaid who’s a daughter of

an underwater gangster in “My Bride is a Mermaid.”

Otakus should also not miss out on Hero TV’s new offering, “Space brothers,” which tells the story of brothers Mutta and Hibito who dreams of becoming famous astronauts. The other new titles for Hero TV this month are “Aoharu Ride” and “Magic Kaito.”

Old favorites like “Captain Earth,” “Dragon Force,” “Kuroko No Basket,” “Eccentric Family,” and “Ixion Saga” also make a return to the channel to provide more action, laughter, and inspiring moments.

For updates, visit www. facebook.com/myheronation and follow their Twitter, @ myHEROnation.

February 5 – 9, 2016

PRIDE & PREJUDICE & ZOMBIES Lily James, Sam Riley R13

12:40 | 3:00 | 5:20 | 7:40 | 10:00 LFS

EVERYTHING ABOUT HER Vilma Santos, Angel Locsin, Xian Lim PG

12:00 | 2:30 | 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS

THE REVENANT Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy R16

1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 | 10:00 LFS

THE BOY / *DIRTY GRANDPA Lauren Cohan, Rupert Evans/ *Robert De Niro, Zac Efron R13/*R16

12:00 | 2:00 | 4:00 LFS / *6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

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TRAVEL

EDGEDAVAO HARAJUKU A1

styles from shabby-chic lolita uniforms, ultra high platform boots, to frilly girly outfits, and Japanese glam-rock get-ups inspired by the metal band KISS. Pasalubong shoppers will find it hard not to purchase something from the many colourful stores in the area. Those shopping on a budget can visit a nearby 100 Yen store for many finds.

The true draw of Harajuku, though, are the many young locals dressed up in their most fashionable attire to either shop or just meet up with friends. For them dressing up is a way for them to express

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

themselves through fashion with a range of looks and styles that literally assault one’s senses.

Should you get hungry, there are also many trendy coffee shops and street food carts along the shopping street with offerings that are trendy and exciting.

Indeed Harajuku lived up to its hype and I am dreaming of flying back soon to see more of it.

For more travel stories, foodie finds, and happenings in, around, and beyond Durianburg, follow me on Instagram or on Twitter @kennethkingong.

Happy travels!

A hodgepodge of souvenirs on display at a store.

Takeshita street is a beehive of locals, tourists, and fashionistas alike.

A window display of one of the many clothing stores along the steet.

Harajuku street fashion.

The Harajuku train station sits right across Takeshita street.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

NEWS 13 Tower 25’s lot owner demands payment of P40 million claims A

EDGEDAVAO

FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING A leading distributor of Irrigation System, Agricultural Machinery, Generator and Heavy Equipment immediately needs sales personnel to complement its staff, with the following qualifications: 1. Licensed Agricultural Engineers or Licensed Mechanical Engineers; 2. Male or female, 24-35 years old; 3. Background knowledge or sales experience in agricultural machinery, irrigation system, generators or heavy equipment is an advantage; 4. Must be willing to travel within the island of Mindanao.

Interested applicants should submit application letter, bio-data and transcript of records to:

INTERNATIONAL HEAVY EQUIPMENT CORPORATION

Km. 7 McArthur Highway, Bangkal, Davao City Tel. Nos.: 285-0685; 297-5851 Fax No.: 2975849 Email add: info@ihecdavao.com, info@ihec.com.ph

TOP official of the National Transportation Corporation (Transco) said the family who owns the lot where the bombed Tower 25 of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) stood is asking the government to settle the unpaid claims worth P40 million.

Transco president and chief-operating-officer (CEO) Generoso Senal said this concern was submitted to them only on January 6, 2016, two weeks after the Christmas eve bombing of Tower 25 at Ramain in Lanao del Sur. Agus 1 and Agus 2, with a combined installed capacity of 150 mw but can produce only about 80 MW because of low water inflow due to El Niño, have remained isolated for more than a month now because lot owners Johnny Sambitori, Intan Sambitori, and Naguib Sambitori refused NGCP personnel entry to facilitate repair works on the damaged tower, he said.

Senal said they have yet to conduct an assessment on the true cost of the lot based on its

assessed value and secure documentation such as the tax declaration from the Land Registration Authority (LRA) of the owners.

“We try to talk to the owners... There has to be a validation, which comes with papers and then we settle it,” he told the 7th Principals’ Meeting of the Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee (MPMC) last Thursday.

He said cost of the lots will be based on the time of taking of the property and the annual interest of 6 percent of the lot’s cost would compensate as rent to the owners.

In an earlier press conference, Romeo Montenegro, director for Investment Promotion, International Relations and Public Affairs of the Mindanao Development Authority said the tower was constructed by the National Power Corporation 60 years ago.

Transco deputy legal counsel Lawyer Leon T. Tapel Jr. said the Sambitoris’ alleged unsettled claims surfaced only after the bombing incident but they have to undertake a process to prove whether they are the owners or if

NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN issued to the following planholders, to wit; PH NAME 1. ERLINDA L. GUYO 2. GLORIA P. FAUSTINO

CPF NO. 45783

21022525

CONTRACT NO. 455978-7

NNN 130004955

were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

2/2,9,16

their claims are real.

In 2001, when Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) was passed into law, the grid operation was relegated to the newly created National Transmission Corporation (TransCo). When privatization came in 2007, the TransCo concession was awarded to the NGCP. Energy Secretary Zenaida Monsada said there are several reported claimants in Mindanao but they must show documents as proof of their ownership.

“Before you claim, you have to have documentation that you own it. There are so many areas of concern but the major one is the Tower 25,” she said.

She added that power generation is not so much of a problem in the grid. What worries them more is transmission, after a series of attacks on the NGCP towers and road right-of-way that they see this now as national interest.

“Mindanao used to be on red alert. After new plants came in, it became normal. We’re seeing problems on the transmission.

It’s national interest. Mindanao is major part of the country that contributes to the growth of the country, so there should be power to fuel the development,” she said.

She appealed to the public to cooperate with the government to resolve transmission issues because Mindanao is expected to have lesser brownouts or none at all due to the entry of new power plants such as the 300 MW coal plant of the Therma South Inc. (TSI), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Aboitiz Power.

“The plants (Agus 1 and Agus 2) cannot supply electricity to the grid. The line would have an impact on the transmission charges,”

FTOWER, 10

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016 Mt. Hamiguitan photo from davaooriental.com.ph

Witnessing Davao Oriental’s progress and transformation

By FERDINAND ZUASOLA

T

OP government officials witnessed firsthand the remarkable progress and transformation of Davao Oriental as the association of Regional Executives of National Agencies (ARENA) in Southern Mindanao held its immersion activity cum consultation in this province on February 4 and 5.

The activity was aimed at deepening the awareness and appreciation of the Davao Region’s top executives of national government agencies on national and local development initiatives and project implementation concerns on the ground, and the strengthening of collaboration and partnership among agencies with the local government units in the province for the efficient delivery of government projects.

Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon briefed the visiting government executives on the province’s development programs, particularly on ecotourism and the rehabilitation projects for typhoon-stricken areas in the province.

The visiting officials were received by Malanyaon at the Banaybanay Welcome Park and they proceeded to the province’s crown jewel, the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, the only World Heritage Site in the island of Mindanao declared by the UNESCO. The group then traveled to the provincial capital, City

of Mati, to visit the other top tourism landmarks of the province, like the world-class Subangan Museum and the Dahican Beach.

The following day, the officials visited the road improvement projects and tourism facilities in the Baganga Sunrise Boulevard, the oldest Catholic church in Mindanao, the San Salvador Church and Pusan Point, where the sun first rises in the country.

They also visited the Aragon Dam, the largest irrigation project in Mindanao, and the Cateel Riverview Park, including the country’s most beautiful waterfalls, the Aliwagwag Falls.

“Expand your perspective by seeing and experiencing Davao Oriental, an eye-opening destination that will help you find what is really most important in life. A wonderful experience awaits you in this province, a place that beguile and inspire, sedate and stir, where the distance between heaven and earth collapse and you will be able to catch glimpses of the divine or the Infinite Whatever as you are united with nature,” one government executive based in Davao City said.

“The resplendent landscape and seascape of Davao Oriental, a wind-swept province south of Mindanao, will give you an exciting and powerful experience that can change forever your outlook on nature. You will fall in love with its lovely sea and the treasure troves of riches beneath its surface. Its myriad

SURF’S UP. The pristine waters of Dahican is fast becoming a surfers’ paradise. Photo by Jon Joaquin

forest, lush mountain peaks, verdant ravines, waterfalls and cool coastal areas down to the coral reefs, sea grass beds, the mangrove forests, plus the lakes and rivers that breeds an impressive array of plant and animal species are the most enjoyable reasons for coming,” another said.

Davao Oriental is host to extra long wild and untamed beaches of white fine sand that enjoy the best view of the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

And having the most impressive scenery that directly faces both the Pacific Ocean and the Celebes Sea, the long coastlines of Davao Oriental are sanctuaries of sea cows, whales, dolphins and marine turtles that nest along sandy beaches.

Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel, Davao Oriental.

Photo by Olan Embocado

VOL. 8 ISSUE 227 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

Golfer Arman Abarquez blasting out at the Apo Golf and Country Club during the 5th Notre Dame Cup Golf tournament held Feb. 6. Golfer Larry Baluso tees off at hole no. 1 of the Apo Golf and Country Club during the 5th Notre Dame Cup Golf tournament held Feb. 6. (Photos by TOMMY INIGO)

Phoenix Fuelmasters to play Ginebra in Davao March 19

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

B

njb@edgedavao.net

RACE yourselves for this. Phoenix Petroleum Fuelmasters, the first local-based franchise of Asia’s longest play-for-play loop, will play its first “home game” on March 19 in Davao City.

Their opponent? No less than the PBAs crowd favorite Ginebra San Miguel.

“We are playing in Davao on March 19 and we are all excited to play there,” said Phoenix Fuelmasters team official Atty. Raymond Zorilla.

The Fuelmasters will play its first PBA game tomorrow when the import-laden Commissioner’s Cup opens.

Phoenix Petroleum, a Davao-based independent oil firm, has bought the franchise of Barako Bull and inherited the full complement of the

team.

“We are keeping

rade Gilas standout JC Intal and

t h e team intact for now unless there are attractive trade offers. Only the management will change but not the players and coaching staff,” Zorilla told this writer in an interview over 105.9 Balita FM. Zorilla said leading scorer RR Garcia is already practicing with the team after being injured in the Philippine Cup. The Fuelmasters will pa-

form e r Ginebra players Josh Urbiztondo, Eman Monfort, Mac Baracael, Willie Wilson and Rodney Brondial.

Veteran Mick Pinisi is also with the team to be coached by Koy Banal.

For the Commissioners Cup, Phoenix has signed up Nigerian journeyman Kenny Adeleke as import. The 6-9 Adeleke is a veteran in several

leagues in Turkey, Israel, Venezuela, China, and Puerto Rico.

“He is a big man with a lot of experience,” said Zorilla of their import.

Interestingly, the March 19 duel with Ginebra will be an encounter of former teammates but Zorilla expects the Fuelmasters to give their all before their homecrowd.

Zorilla also said this early they already have some remarks on social media of the organization of a Fuelmasters fans club.

“It’s pretty excitting to know that we already have some fans even before we play our first game,” he said.

The Phoenix ballclub is owned by sportsminded Dabawenyo businessman Dennis Uy.

Fajardo suffered a knee injury in Game 6 of their semi-final series against Rain or Shine, but made a surprise return in Game 5 of the Finals against the Alaska Aces with the Beermen trailing 1-3 in the series.

San Miguel eventually won in seven games, becoming the first team to win a championship despite trailing 0-3 in the best-of-seven series.

Fajardo, who played limited minutes in each of the final three games, told the league

website after the Finals series that he has been advised to rest “for two to three weeks.”

“Maybe it was a blessing in disguise that I got injured,” Fajardo also told PBA.ph. “We were down 0-3 and we ended up making history.”

Fajardo gets at least 2 weeks of rest T

WO-TIME PBA Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo of the San Miguel Beermen is getting at least two weeks of rest following their successful campaign to defend their All-Filipino crown, the player told the PBA website.

T

HE Superbowl never ceases to amaze us.

No doubt, it’s called the greatest show on earth.

Yesterday’s Superbowl 50 is one of the most unforgettable I must say. After the memorable 1999 win

by Denver on John Elway’s final outing as one of the greatest quarterbacks of the sport, this one should

SPORTS 15

Notre Dame golfers win duel with Ateneo C HALK one for Team Notre Dame.

The Notre Dameans fired an aggregate total of 730 to in its faceoff with Team Ateneo by a convincing 37 strokes in the first ever Ateneo-Notre Dame Golf Duel, a sideshow in the 5th Notre Dame Cup golf tournament last Saturday at the Apo Golf and Country Club.

The Ryder Cup format duel counts the 10 best scores from both teams to determine the winner of the prestigious trophy and the bragging rights that come with it.

Team Notre Dame’s scorers were Mike Barnuevo, Robert Garan, Ronald Gumawa and Land Transportation Office assistant regional director Macario “Bong” Gonzaga, who each scored 72s.

Also counting for ND are Peter Deloria (73), Ronnie Magsico (73), Danny Robles (73), Zaldy Abellera (74), Abe Dizon (74) and Rey Batomalaque (75).

Ateneo tallied an aggregate 767 with Felix Enofre leading the charge with a one under par 71. The other scorers for the Ateneo swingers were Darius Gloriane (72), Nido Albarillo (73), Nilo Miole (73), Fred Bandong (77), Nono Bata (78), Ver dela Cruz (78), Bong Lafuente (79), Carlos Senase (79) and Joel Martin (87).

“Ateneo can make a comeback next year,” said tournament director Atty. Dan Calica.

In the centerpiece tournament, Robert Dizon shot a net 70 spiked by three birdies to emerge as the over-all individual champion.

Tsikoy Saavedra fired a three-over par 75 for the overall gross title.

American expat Kevin Hermiston won via countback over Marlon Tabanao and Edwin Cayamanda in the premier Class A division. The three frontrunners carded identical

Bradley’s 25 points helps Celtics dethrone Kings

T

HE Boston Celtics enjoyed a season-high scoring day to keep their current winning stretch rolling along.

Avery Bradley scored 25 points, Isiah Thomas had 22 and the Celtics held off the Kings 128119 on Sunday for their ninth win in 10 games. ‘’Whenever you get a chance to run up and down and move the ball like we did tonight, it’s fun,’’ Bradley said. ‘’And not only that, we were making shots. When everybody’s making shots, everybody’s happy.’’

The loss may also fuel recent reports on the shaky status of

Jordan Norwood’s amazing rush

go down as one of the best ones.

For a number of reasons, it is.

First, there was Peyton Manning, now a ripe 38, in his last game in the NFL and leaving the sport in style (as was Elway) winning for the Broncos the Lombardi trophy.

Second, the halftime

LET’S GET IT ON

Neil Bravo

show was awesome and yes, no wardrobe mishaps or power outage. Beyonce, Cold Play, and Bruno Mars put up one heck of a show at halftime.

And third, Jordan Norwood.

The Fil-Am Norwood, younger brother of Rain Or Shine combo guard Gabe, set a new Superbowl re-

70s highlighted by two birdies but Hermiston had more pars scored (7) while Tabanao and Cayamanda only made six and four, respectively.

Dexter So (71) won the Class B title with lawyer Vincent Paul Montejo (72) placed runner-up behind a birdie to win by a countback against second runner-up Jerry Leonor (72).

LTO Director Gomer Dy pocketed the Class C crown with a one-under par 71. First runner-up was Vic Danao (72) followed by Robert Garan (72).

Special awards were given to Walter Thalhammer (most accurate drive), Han Hee Chui (longest drive) and Montejo (nearest to the pin).

More than 100 players joined the annual golf tournament organized by Batch 85 – Notre Dame of Kidapawan for Boys and Girls HS Alumni Association, Inc. and Batch 86 – Notre Dame of Kidapawan for Boys and Girls.

“The funds will go to our different socio-civic programs and projects,” said Batch 85 AA president Lilian Tirona, who awarded the prizes together with Laarni Lacuna and Batch 86’s representative Leilani Tiu. The tournament was sponsored by Pepsi, Agri Component Corp., Colorsteel, Philippine Councilors League Las Pinas Chapter and AGCC while the hole sponsors were Kidapawan City Mayor Joseph Evangelista, Cotabato Gov. Lala Talino-Mendoza, Rep. Nancy Catamco, Atty. Paolo Evangelista, GABS Agri Supply, Buy & Sell, Supertrade Enterprises, Megatesting Center, Modern Time Enterprises, Alzen Corp., LCG Marketing Phils., All Certified Equipment Trading, Borderline Construction & Supply, The Naked Market masters, CSP Pharmacy and Marketing, Island Gas and Mega Fiber Food Supplement. NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

cord with a 61-yard punt return.

I almost fell off my seat as Norwood took the football to their homeside rushing through the sidelines before being brought down. It was one of the shining moments of SB50 and one that should make every Filipino proud.

Jordan Norwood thus is

Sacramento coach George Karl’s future.

Jared Sullinger matched his season high with 21 points, reserve Tyler Zeller had a season high 17 with seven rebounds and Thomas added nine assists for Boston, which committed a season high 24 turnovers but shot 56 percent. ‘’The one thing is our offense has been pretty good the last 10 games,’’ Boston coach Brad Stevens said. ‘’I don’t think we’re 128 points good. We’re probably due for games like that. You’re going to have games like the other night when we’re struggling to get to 100.’’

added to the growing list of bright stars among Fil-foreign athletes joining Jordan Clarkson (Los Angeles Lakers) and Justin Day (golf).

Jordan Norwood’s Superbowl heroics should spur the growth of American football in the country.

Another sport Jordan Norwood, only 6 foot flat, has proven we can excel.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. VOL.88ISSUE ISSUE227 227••TUESDAY, TUESDAY,FEBRUARY FEBRUARY9,9,2016 2016

Broncos win Super Bowl 50 T

HE Denver Broncos upset the top-seeded Carolina Panthers to win Super Bowl 50 on Sunday, giving quarterback Peyton Manning the chance to call a fairytale ending to his storied career.

The 24-10 win over the Panthers marked the third Super Bowl triumph for Denver and second for 39-year-old Manning, who was playing in what many expect to be his final game.

Manning, a five-time league most valuable player, added yet another line in the record books as he became the NFL’s oldest quarterback to play in a Super Bowl and first to reach 200 career wins.

It was the top ranked Denver defense, however, that can claim credit for the victory after holding the league’s highest-scoring offence to a single touchdown and 10 points.

The Denver defense was led by a rampaging Von Miller who forced Panthers quarterback Cam Newton into two fumbles that led to touchdowns and ultimately earned the outside linebacker Super Bowl Most Valuable Player honours.

“It just shows the type of team we have. It’s not just about offense, defense or special teams,” said Miller. “We came together as a whole.”

Manning, who has kept fans guessing about his playing future, refused to reveal his hand after the game as a shower of golden confetti fell on a capacity crowd of 71,000 at Levi’s Stadium.

“I got some good advice from (former Indianapolis coach) Tony Dungy. He

said don’t make an emotional decision,” said Manning, who joins younger brother Eli Manning as a two-time Super Bowl champion. “It’s certainly been an emotional week for everybody.

“This has been a very emotional week, an emotional night, and I’ve got a couple of priorities. I’ll take some time to reflect. I’m going to drink a lot of beer tonight. Von Miller’s buying.”

Manning, who holds the record for most career touchdown passes, did not add to his total in what was his fourth Super Bowl, completing just 13 of 23 attempts for 141 yards.

Instead the Broncos leaned on a relentless defense that kept regular season MVP Newton in check, sacking the quarterback six times, intercepting him once and forcing two fumbles.

As if it had been specially ordered by the NFL just for the Super Bowl’s golden anniversary, Mother Nature delivered perfect party weather with blue skies and unseasonably warm temperat u re s

hovering around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 Celsius).

While the Panthers entered the game almost a touchdown favourite the majority of the fans filing into Levi’s Stadium were decked out in Broncos orange.

The Broncos scored on their opening drive and never trailed, Brandon McManus connecting on a 34-yard field goal to leave the Carolina

trailing for the first time this post-season.

Newton, as he does every game, began by saying a prayer then blowing a kiss to his mom, but it was the only thing that was routine as he was kept under constant pressure.

Denver Broncos players celebrate after beating the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 Levi’s Stadium.