Edge Davao 6 Issue 242

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

BIG ART. A mall-goer inspects a huge acrylicon-canvas painting titled “Danglo” by local artist Anoy Catague at the recently concluded Art for Everyone exhibit at the atrium of SM Lanang Premier. Lean Daval Jr.

NO SUSPECT YET IN HARAN FIRE

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has yet to identify the suspect who caused the fire at the in United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP)-Haran Compound in Fr. Selga Street, Davao City which hurt four children last week.

In an interview yesterday, DCPO spokesperson Chief Inspector Milgrace C. Driz said the investigation on the incident still continue to pinpoint the people behind the fire on February 24, 2016.

“Nakuha na nato ang report gikan sa Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) na al-

legedly intentional or arson ang nahitabo (We already got the report from BFP that the fire was allegedly intentional or arson),” she said.

UCCP-Haran has become a shelter from indigenous people (IPs) who have evacuated their homes in Talaingod and Kapalong in Davao del Norte.

The fire started at around 2 a.m. on February 24 and burned the evacuation camp and a dormitory.

Driz said the BFP found evidence inside the compound such as a gallon of kerosene and torch after the fire.

She said witnesses also said they saw persons jumping on the fence.

Driz urged other witnesses who know the perpetrators to report to the San Pedro Police Station for the immediate resolution of the case.

“Kung naa na tay suspect diha na ta mag-file og kaso (If we already have a suspect then we will file the case),” she said.

Earlier, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte ordered a thorough probe into the fire that razed the temporary homes sheltering displaced IPs inside UCCP- Haran compound.

Earlier, a Lumad leader took to task the commander of Task Force Davao for claiming fire was “orchestrated” by the Lumads to gain sympathy and donations.

“Sunugon namo ang among kaugalingon para magka-kwart mi?” (We will set ourselves on fire to gain money?), Kerlan Fenagel, chair of the Pasaka Lumad Regional Confederation-Southern Mindanao Region asked in a press conference Thursday at the Haran compound of the United Church of Christ of the Philippines’ (UCCP).

He said the statement

of Task Force Davao (TFD) commander, Colonel Cristobal Zaragoza is is an insult to them and the rest of the Filipino people.

At the AFP-PNP press conference at the TFD headquarters on Wednesday, TFD Zaragoza said the fire in Haran could have been a move to gain attention to receive more donations.

“It can be them or it can be somebody else (behind the fire incident). The AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) will not go that far.

We are protecting the people,” he said. With a report from MindaNews

EDGEDAVAO Sports DASIA upsets EsdevcoGenesis 78-75 P16

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

COMMUNITY PROJECTS. AboitizPower-Hedcor president and chief operating officer Rene B. Ronquillo (center), Department of Education (DepEd)-Davao del Sur Schools Division superintendent Reynaldo B. Mellorida (left), and Department of Education (DepEd)-Davao City Schools Division superintendent Dr. Maria Ines C. Asuncion sign the

Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the company’s 2016 community projects in partnership with DepEd and the Department of Energy in Davao del Sur and Davao City. The ceremonial MOA signing was held at Grand Men Seng Hotel yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte to push law ‘similar to BBL’ E

Haran evacuees not safe from fire: BFP

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

RESIDENTIAL bet Davao City Rodrigo R. Duterte has vowed to the leaders of Moro Islamic Front (MILF) that he will resolve the conflict in Mindanao by pushing another law similar to the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) which Congress had failed to pass.

In his visit last Saturday in the MILF’s Camp Darapanan in the town of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Duterte said if he becomes President, he will pursue a system that will not only make the aspirations of

the Moro people a reality but also “make everybody happy.”

He said he only wants “peace for everybody.”

During his meeting with MILF first vice chair for political affairs Ghazali Jaafar, he said he was worried about the failure of the BBL to be passed into law.

“I know you are very frustrated and I know you are hurt. This could have created a problem had it not been for the moderation of the Central Committee,” Duterte told Jaafar and the other members of

the Central Committee of the MILF. He said the Aquino administration “only dribbled BBL.” Jaafar, apparently wanting to hear more, pressed Duterte for specifics.

“How will you exactly come up with a peaceful solution to the problems of Mindanao?” Jaafar said.

Duterte replied: “We will create a commission that will eventually come to a consensus that will be fair and where there is equality,” he said.

The mayor said he has

been proposing Federalism but added that the MILF territory will not be touched.

Duterte said his administration will also create territories for the Tausug, Sama, Iranon, Maranao, and even the indigenous peoples.

“Other groups, the other tribes who are hungry for better life, will be given their share and their chance,” he said.

“Through federalism, we will correct the injustice committed against the Moro

yer Lorna Kapunan, who had said in the online news portal Interaksyon.com that the rally, which was supposed to be held on February 25, was diverted to Tacloban City because “there was really no issuance of permits.”

“I think we should also credit Senators Grace (Poe) and Chiz (Escudero) for their sensitivity in not forcing themselves on other people’s turf,”

Kapunan said in the report.

But in an interview with EDGE Davao yesterday, Bantiding denied the allegation and said Poe’s staff was the one who informed his office that they will not to pursue the permit because most of their senatorial line-up was unavailable during the date they had set.

“Unsa man ang among ihatag na sila man mismo ang

nag-cancel sa ilahang gi-schedule na rally kay dili daw magka-uyon ang schedule ang ilang mga kandidato ( How could we issue a permit when they were the ones who canceled their scheduled rally because their schedule would not jibe with the other candidates’),” Bantiding said.

Bantiding said two weeks ago a member of Poe’s

FDUTERTE TO PUSH, 10

Business Bureau: It was Poe’s camp that canceled their rally

D

AVAO City Business Bureau chief lawyer Lawrence Bantiding yesterday clarified that it was the group of independent presidential aspirant Senator Grace Poe that canceled their rally in Davao City and that his office did not bar them from mounting it.

Bantiding was reacting to the statement of one of Poe’s senatorial candidates, law-

FBUSINESS, 10

crc@edgedavao.net

VACUEES temporarily housed inside the Haran compound of the the United Church of Christ of the Philippines (UCCP) are “not safe” from fire due to poorly-built shelters, the Bureau of Fire (BFP) 11 said.

BFP spokesperson Senior Fire Inspector Nestor Jimenez said investigation of the bureau revealed that the indigenous people (IPs), who fled from the Talaingod and Kapalong in Davao del Norte last year, are only using light materials like pieces of wood and plastic canvases for their shelter.

The evacuation area was set on fire by unidentified persons last week, causing injury to four Lumads.

“They are not safe,” Jimenez said, adding that the evacuees are living in tight-knit shanks that are fire hazard.

However, he said the bureau has no jurisdiction over the area. “We cannot just drive these evacuees away back to their homes” despite the imminent danger, he said.

“It’s the management of the church that has the authority over the area because they are the ones who tempo-

FHARAN, 10

Mindanao women declare support for Duterte’s bid

W

OMEN from various fields and interests declared support for the presidential bid of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.

Around 300 women leaders gathered in Davao City Saturday to launch ForwarRD Women or Forum of Women for Action with Rody Duterte, a loose movement of women with members who are lawyers, educators, activists, children and women’s rights advocates, and nongovernment organization workers.

Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan said the Mindanao-wide assembly was aimed at discuss-

ing concerns and drafting a women’s agenda and present them to Duterte.

“But first we must be able to collectively discuss our situation and issues for us to develop an agenda, and we shall challenge our candidate (presidential) to act on this,” Ilagan said.

Ilagan, who is Gabriela Partylist Representative, also emphasized the vital role that women will play in the upcoming national elections.”

“Women are half of the population and could effectively swing the votes,” she said.

FMINDANAO, 10

Poe, Escudero welcome endorsement of NPC

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RESIDENTIAL candidate Senator Grace Poe and her running mate Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero on Monday welcomed the endorsement of the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) and called it a “big boost” to their chances in the May 9 polls.

“Our heartfelt gratitude to the NPC for their support,” Poe told the media when asked for comment on the endorsement of the country’s second largest political party.

For his part, Escudero said the NPC was a big factor for their candidacies since “many have been belittling our candidacies due to lack of machinery and (political) party supporting us.”

“With the NPC announcement, it is a big push and boost for our candidacies because we will have presence in many provinces wherein there are NPC officials or candidates,” Escudero added.

Poe also expressed admiration for the NPC’s endorsement amid the impending decision of the Supreme Court

(SC) on her petition to cancel the Commission on Election (Comelec) ruling favoring the disqualification cases filed against her on the ground of her citizenship and qualification.

“I think the NPC became firm on its decision not based on the impending SC decision but on what is right. On what they think is right on platforms of government,” Poe said.

Poe and Escudero, along with the senatorial candidate Neri Colmenares, were conducting campaign sortie here when the NPC announced in a press conference at the House of Representative that 90 percent of party members voted to support the Poe-Chiz tandem.

“For us, we will remain fair to everybody especially now that the NPC believes on our platforms and on what we can do,” Poe said.

Poe clarified that the NPC’s support will be through logistics such as support in every campaign sortie in the provinces. Jelly F. Musico

Police declare full alert in Northern Mindanao

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HE regional police command on Monday tightened security in Northern Mindanao in anticipation of attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA) as the national and local poll nears.

Police Superintendent Surki Sereñas, the police regional spokesperson, confirmed the declaration of the full alert status in the entire region, especially in the provinces of Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental where the NPA presence is prevalent.

He said as the elections and the anniversary of the NPA draw near, it is highly likely that the rebel group will intensify attacks in various areas in Northern Mindanao.

Sereñas said the NPA will

celebrate its founding anniversary on March 29. It has been the NPA tradition to escalate its tactical operations on or prior to the celebration.

In a statement released to the media last week, the NPA vowed to continue to launch a series of attacks to counter the continued military operations in rebel turfs in the region.

“Disrupting the functions of the government has been the ‘bread and butter’ of the communist rebels,” Sereñas said.

Sereñas urged the public to report to the local police any information involving security concerns while appealing for cooperation in the fight against the insurgency. (PNA)

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

VISIT. Presidential bet Davao City Rodrigo R. Duterte shakes hand with Moro Islamic Front (MILF) first vice chair for political affairs Ghazali Jaafar during his visit last Saturday in the MILF’s Camp Darapanan in the town of Sultan Kudrat, Maguindanao. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

Woman, 2 sons slain in Cotabato ambush

U

NIDENTIFIED gunmen ambushed and killed four persons, including two minors, in a daring broad daylight shooting incident along Rajah Tabunaway boulevard here Sunday afternoon, police said.

Killed on the spot were Junjun Macarido, 22, a habal-habal driver, Rahima Tan, 40, her children

Saysai, 12 and Guiabel, 11, all residents of Piang compound, Lugay-Lugay, Mother Bagua, Cotabato City.

Police investigation showed the victims were on board a motorcycle driven by Macarido and were on their way home from a visit at the Cotabato City jail.

The victims had just

left the hospital some 50 metwers away when two armed men opened fire at them.

Three of the victims died on the spot while the 11-year-old child expired at the Cotabato Puericulture Hospital.

Police said the victims sustained multiple gunshot wounds in the head and body. Empty shells

from caliber 45 and 9 mm pistols were found at the crime site.

Witness near the crime scene said that before the shooting incident, they noticed two men riding tandem on a motorbike as if waiting for someone.

The Cotabato City police is still investigating the case. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/MindaNews)

ATROLLING troops from the 66th Infantry Battalion have recovered three New People’s Army (NPA) firearms and three rifle grenades during opera-

tions in Compostela town, Compostela Valley Sunday.

Captain Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the weapons were recov-

ered from a rebel cache located in Barangay Ngan at 1 p.m.

Recovered were two M-16 automatic rifles, an M-1 Garand carbine, and three rifle grenades.

Batchar said the location of the NPA weapons were reported to them by a concerned civilian.

Also recovered were several medical paraphernalia. (PNA)

NPA weapons seized in ComVal operations P

DOJ scheduled to finish Mamasapano resolution

T

Q&A. Ambassador of Mexico to the Philippines Julio Camarena answers queries from members of the Ambassador Club and American Chamber of Commerce-Davao while Honorary Consul of Mexico Dr. Maria Lourdes

Monteverde listens during the two organizations’ joint gathering at The Marco Polo Davao yesterday. Camarena was the guest of honor and speaker during the said event. Lean Daval Jr.

HE Department of Justice (DOJ) was poised to finish on Monday the printing of the criminal information against the 90 commanders and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and private armed groups (PAGs) who were allegedly behind the killing of 35 Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) commandos in the Mamasapano encounter on Jan. 25, 2015.

Prosecutor General Claro A. Arellano, Chief of the DOJ’s National Prosecution Service (NPS), said that they merely conducted a review in the findings of the investigating panel led by Assistant State Prosecutor Alexander Suarez, hence, it would take a little while before it can be filed in court.

DOJ Acting Secretary Emmanuel L. Caparas said that they were just making sure that the case of complex crime of direct assault with murder and theft would be “air tight”, which was earlier recommended by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) against the killers of the PNPSAF troopers.

However, Caparas clarified that only the killers of the 35 members of the 55th SAF Company would be charged such that there was still no sufficient information about the killers of the other nine PNPSAF members.

Caparas noted that the gathering of evidence and testimony was very difficult in the sense that some witnesses in the incident would not like to cooperate for fear of their safety. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

4 SUBURBIA

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

Pangarap turns 17 P

ANGARAP, AboitizPower’s adopted female Philippine Eagle, turned 17 years old last February 23.

Captive-bred through natural pairing, Pangarap is one of the 35 Philippine Eagles under the care of the Philippine Eagle Foundation’s conservation breeding program.

AboitizPower has been supporting the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) since 2010 by providing funds for Pangarap’s food, veterinary care, and shelter maintenance.

“With the Philippine eagle as our flagship for conservation, taking direct actions to protect the species is integral in conserving our natural resources.

With AboitizPower’s continued support to our captive breeding program, we

are working doubly hard in our efforts to conserve the species,” PEF executive director Dennis Salvador said.

In the goal to augment the dwindling population of the species, the PEF has been working on Pangarap to produce its first offspring through cooperative artificial insemination (CAI). “Now that Pangarap has fully bonded with her keeper, we are hoping that she will finally lay a fertile egg in the next breeding season”, said Philippine Eagle Center Curator, Anna Mae Sumaya.

Pangarap is sheltered at the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos, Baguio District in Davao City.

Pangarap is not the first wildlife conservation project of AboitizPower.

AboitizPower, through

its subsidiary Hedcor, supported the recovery and upkeep of Mabikker, an adult Pinkser’s hawk-eagle that was released to the wild within the 64,053-hectare Mt. Apo Natural Park last October 2015. The hawk-eagle, considered an endangered species, was rescued September 2015.

Therma Marine, another AboitizPower subsidiary, together with local fishermen, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), local government unit of Brgy. San Roque, Maco and D’ Bone Collector Museum, rescued and released an injured pygmy sperm whale near the Therma Marine power barge in Maco town Compostella Valley last May 24, 2014.

The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park is an Aboitiz BetterWorld initiative that mod-

els an urban-based habitat conservation and biodiversity management. Developed in partnership with Davao Light, the sprawling 8-hectare outdoor biodiversity park located in Punta Dumalag in Davao City provides nesting sanctuary to the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle.

A-Park is the Aboitiz Group’s contribution to reforestation and a healthy ecosystem. Every year since 2010, groupwide simultaneous tree planting activities have been conducted on top of the tree-planting activities being done by the various business units with the goal of planting 3 million trees by 2015.

The target was hit a year ahead and as of December 2015 a total of 3.8 million trees have been planted all across the country.

Leyte thanks GenSan for‘Yolanda’efforts T HE provincial government of Leyte has feted the city government for the assistance it extended to the area in the aftermath of super typhoon “Yolanda” two years ago.

The city government received a plaque that “symbolizes the gratitude of the entire Leyte” for being one of the first local government units (LGUs) that responded to the area after the onslaught of typhoon “Yolanda.”

“Thank you for giving our constituents another lease to life, an extra mile to tread, and an opportunity to make things better in their lives,” the plaque’s text cited.

City Mayor Ronnel Rivera said Monday the recognition was personally delivered by senatorial candidate and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez in a visit to the city last week.

The mayor said the appreciation from Leyte was huge for the city and stressed that it is always ready to help other LGUs when necessary.

“It’s human instinct to help one another, especially in dire times. We saw how the people there were suffering that time so why not help? We have the capacity to help them and that’s what we did,” he said.

A week after the devas-

tating typhoon struck Leyte and the neighboring areas on Nov. 7, 2013, the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (CDRRMC) approved the provision of around PHP10 million worth of relief goods to the area.

It agreed to extend some PHP1.2 million in cash assistance to the cities of Ormoc and Tacloban, which were among the areas that were hit hardest by the typhoon.

The local government sent personnel to Leyte to take part in the relief operations and provide various assistance to the affected residents.

Rivera said the city government had learned a number of lessons in terms of disaster preparation and response through the “Yolanda” incident.

“We have to be prepared at all times. Natural disasters can’t be prevented so what we can do is to be ready always,” he said.

A few months after “Yolanda,” the local government rolled out its Rescue 727 program and Noah’s Ark project in partnership with Smart Communications.

It also strengthened the CDRRMC and acquired new rescue equipment and monitoring devices. (PNA)

HE Sarangani provincial board is pushing for the passage of an ordinance that will make the province a smoke-free area.

Sarangani Vice Governor Jinkee Pacquiao said the consultations with various sectors in the province are ongoing for the proposed measure, which will mainly reinforce the national government’s anti-smoking regulations.

The ordinance will focus on the stricter implementation of the ban on smoking in public places and the sale or distribution of tobacco products to minors as well as the proper designation of smoking and non-smoking areas in establishments.

These regulations are provided for in Republic Act 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003.

To complement the proposed ordinance, board

member Cesar Nallos Jr. authored another measure that seeks the regulation of smoking in public places, including public vehicles, within the province’s seven municipalities.

Aside from the two smoking-related ordinances, the board has also launched public consultations on its three other priority measures.

These are the ordinance charcoal and firewood production, trading and for other purposes; the Sarangani Bay conservation and protection ordinance; and, the anti-human trafficking ordinance.

Board member Arman Guili, author of the charcoal and firewood regulation ordinance, said the measure has gained support from various sector the public consultations that they conducted.

He said they already con-

Smoke-free Sarangani pushed T Photo courtesy of the Philippine Eagle Foundation

New traffic signals set up in Gensan T WO sets of new traffic signal system have been installed in a main road here to help decongest the traffic.

These two traffic signal sets started to operate in the national highway of General Santos City — part of the Asian Highway 26 (AH26) — on the evening of February 18.

City Mayor Ronnel Rivera led the traffic lights ceremonial switching which was witnessed by personnel from Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and project contractor Abretique and Associates.

Different tricycle driver associations were also present during the event.

Rene Pleños, Modelong Driver Association head, said that these traffic lights would improve the safety of the streets as well as the discipline of drivers.

“Dito kasi sa national highway, mabilis magpatakbo yung mga drivers. Yung iba pa, barumbado kung magpatakbo. Kaya minsan, delikado talaga tumawid dito. Pero dahil may traffic lights na, magiging safe na ang pagtawid at madidisiplina na ang ibang drivers,” Pleños said.

The national highway is also notorious for heavy loads of traffic, especially during rush hours.

This is one of the reasons why Mayor Rivera had the City Engineer’s Office

(CEO) to prioritize the installation of traffic signals in the street.

One traffic signal system was installed in the Pendatun – National Highway junction and another at the Roxas – National Highway junction.

The total project cost is PhP9 million, according to Engr. Francisco Provido, head of the CEO. Mayor Rivera said these traffic lights would improve the transportation system of the city.

“We know we are facing traffic problems. That’s why we are doing our best to aid this problem. I believe these traffic lights will help address these problems,” Rivera said.

He also mentioned that he wants to pattern the public safety measure of Davao.

“Roads in Davao are safe becaus of their traffic lights.

They also have a very efficient 911. I want Gensan to establish these systems.

Don’t worry. We are working it out,” the mayor said.

Engr. Provido said that he will have talks with Mayor Rivera for the installation of additional traffic lights in the city, adding that the city government has sufficient budget to put up another system.

At present, around 700 LED streetlights have been mounted in the main thoroughfares of Gensan.

(IJLagare-Gensan CPIO/ DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

FSMOKE-FREE, 10

EDGEDAVAO

5 ECONOMY

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

30 YEARS. SM Supermalls vice president for operations in Mindanao Oliver Tiu (center), assistant vice president for Marketing in Mindanao Russel Alaba (second from right),

and SM City Davao assistant mall manager Engr. Nick Santos greet media practitioners on behalf of the management on the mall group’s 30th anniversary. Lean Daval Jr.

Oil firms slash diesel but increase gas prices

O

IL firms will slash diesel prices by 10 centavos per liter and hike gas prices by 20 centavos per liter Tuesday.

In separate advisories, Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp.

(PSPC) and Phoenix Petroleum Philippines said they will implement the new prices at 6 a.m. on March 1.

Eastern Petroleum also cut diesel prices by 15 centavos per liter at 6 p.m. of Feb-

ruary 29 (Monday), while it will hike gasoline prices by 15 centavos per liter at 6 a.m.

Shell will also cut kerosene prices by 15 centavos per liter.

According to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) oil monitor, diesel prices range from P19.53-22.85 per liter and gasoline prices play around P30.95-39.12 per liter.

The local oil prices reflect the changes in international

It’s TIME to CHANGE THE GAME.

market prices, derived from the trading days a week before its implementation.

The United States’ oil rig count fell last week to 413, which shows a reduction of 68 percent from all types from 1,609 in Oct. 2014. It is one of the largest producers of oil in the international market.

The lower rig count will likely lead to a decreased production, easing the global oil glut. (PNA)

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

Meralco to invest P10B in emergency CAPEX

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HE Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) plans to use its P10-billion allocation for emergency capital expenditures (capex) as its capex this year.

Meralco president and chief executive Oscar Reyes said in a press briefing that the capex is needed to beat “customer and demand growth.”

Reyes said the company hopes the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) will approve its proposed P18-billion capex, which was filed in February 2015.

He pointed out the commission likely wants to review their expenditures properly.

The president, however, said the climate resiliency projects for its facilities will be at risk.

Meralco chairman Man-

uel Pangilinan stressed the emergency capex will likely be sufficient for the year.

“If the emergency capex is up to P10-billion and we spent P11-billion last year — it’s tight but can be done,” he said.

The chairman also stressed the booming economy needs to be supported with power supply.

“The good news is that the economy is growing. We have to make sure that we have the supply. It hinges on the CAPEX as well,” Pangilinan said.

He also pointed out the second half of 2016 will likely follow the trend last year, with power demand increasing due to the completion of construction projects.

Meralco operates in Luzon, with 5.8 million customers in its franchise area. (PNA)

Academe, government agencies to draft halal industry roadmap

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ECOGNIZING the big potential of Mindanao in increasing the country’s market participation in the growing multi-million dollar global halal industry, members of the academe and different national government agencies in Mindanao are targeting to develop a research development and extension roadmap for the industry.

Dr. Emma K. Sales, director for the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)- Higher Education Regional Research Center (HERRC) for the University of Southern Mindanao, said the roadmap for the local industry of halal in Mindanao is among the expected output of the three-day Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines-East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) International Halal Congress: An Academe Perspective starting today at the Apo View Hotel in Davao City.

Sales said Mindanao “could be a potential producer of major Halal food products” because of the availability of

raw products here as well as its proximity to other Muslim nations in the Asean region.

“We’re also targeting for the crafting of the Draft Research Development and Extension (RDE) agenda or roadmap for the Philippine halal industry to include areas of collaboration among the higher education institutions (HEIs) as well as various stakeholders both public and private sectors in the (local and international) for halal RDE,” Sales added during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the SM City Davao Annex yesterday.

Sales said the participants are also expected to produce a “draft on the human resource plan to address halal industry requirements to include relevant course curriculum in HEIs” during the three-day conference.

She said it is important to align the requirement and standard of halal to the curriculum of HEIs to ensure the production of graduates that are Halal-industry ready

FACADEME, 10

BANANA PROBLEMS. PhilExport Foundation’s Ferdinand Marañon (left) and Rene Dalayon say the main issue which will be tackled in the upcoming National Banana Congress is how to cope with the fusarium wilt or the

SIGNED. DOT 11 director Roberto Alabado III (second from left), Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDFS) secretary May Aranda (leftmost), Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) senior manager Mary Glen Hermosilla (second from right), and regional markets-Mindanao manager Paula Sanson-Geron show the signed

Memorandum of Agreement as VDFS entered into a partnership with BPI. The ceremonial MOA signing happened during Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Higher buying prices give banana exporters relief

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

B

crc@edgedavao.net

ANANA exporters in Davao Region are experiencing short-term relief as the buying price in the international market went up despite the negative effect of the long drought season on the industry.

“Both small and big banana producers and exporters are enjoying the benefit of the price increase in the export market,” Philippine Exporters Confederation-Davao president Ferdinand Y. Marañon said in yesterday’s edition of the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex.

Marañon said the prices of banana started to go up last January as the supply of bananas continued to contract.

He said other banana producing counties in Asia like China, Sri Lanka, and Laos experienced cold weather which affected the productivity of their banana since it is frost-sensitive.

Marañon said prices of banana per box are now reaching almost US$10 or almost P450, which was way better that the almost below P100 per box of 13 kilogram bananas late last year.

“This is the best price we’re getting so far,” Marañon had said in an earlier interview. He said all local producers, whether contracted or independent, are benefiting from the price hike despite the low production because of El

Panama disease that has already affected 3,000 hectares of banana farm areas in Davao region. The two gentlemen graced yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Niño.

Marañon said local banana production dropped because of the long drought season which is expected to end by June. However, the banana growers and exporters are feared to experience its negative effect until the third quarter of the year before it is projected to recover by next year.

Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA) executive director Stephen Antig earlier said this year another “bad year” for the multi-billion dollar industry because of the prolonged dry spell.

Antig said the prolonged dry spell can cause the bunch-

es of fresh banana to weigh lighter, with each banana finger smaller than the usual. He said production per hectare is projected to nose-dive from 3,700 boxes annually to just 2,500 boxes during the dry season.

“One of our major worries is the drop in production.

It will significantly affect our export. We are projecting that

by April we can feel the significant reduction of about 30 to 40 percent,” he told reporters in an earlier round table discussion at The Apo View Hotel.

In 2015, the PBGEA recorded a total export from its member countries a total of 1.6 million metric tons (MT) or 120.6 million boxes.

HE Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers’ Association (LPG-MA) supports the plan of the Department of Energy (DOE) to build a crude stockpile.

“Considering the historical volatility of global oil prices, it would make sense for government to take advantage of inexpensive oil and obtain at a bargain additional fuel supplies for use in extraordinary need,” LPG-MA Party-list Rep. Arnel Ty said in a statement.

Ty, who is also a senior member of the House Energy Committee, said the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Petroleum Security Agreement also encourages its members to put up stockpiles.

The potential stockpile will take advantage of the current oil glut in the world market, which has caused oil prices to plunge 75 percent to

US$30 per barrel since 2014.

Some analysts also forecast that crude prices will fall to US$18 per barrel, but will recover to US$60 per barrel.

The House of Representatives deputy minority leader further said the association will let the DOE — through the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) “to ascertain the best way to build reserves.”

He also said “future supplies at a pre-determined price could be acquired on paper, without immediate physical delivery of the product.”

Ty stressed the prepared stock is “enough to protect consumers and deter potential pricing abuses.”

He cited that President Benigno Aquino III ordered PNOC in 2011 to procure 50 million liters of diesel for emergency use. It amounts to Php2.3 billion and is hoarded in two tank farms. (PNA)

LPG association backs potential oil stockpile T

7 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

Okra:

Not just another vegetable

Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

I

F British spy James Bond has “Goldfinger,” chefs and food enthusiasts have their ladyfinger.

It is a supreme vegetable for those feeling weak, exhausted, and suffering from depression.

It is used for healing ulcers and to keep joints limber. It treats lung inflammation, sore throat, and irritable bowel syndrome.

It has been used successfully in experimental blood plasma replacements. More importantly, it is good for summer heat treatment.

Ladyfinger is more popularly known as okra in the Philippines. It is known in the science world as “Hibiscus esculentus.”

Unknowingly, aside from the famous ampalaya, okra can be touted as another nature’s answer to diabetes. Okra is a rich source of many nutrients, including fiber, vitamin B6 and folic acid. Dr. Sylvia W. Zook, an American nutritionist, said that the superior fiber found in okra helps to stabilize blood sugar as it curbs the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract.

Looking for something to help you to lose weight? Okra might be the answer as it is very low in calories; one-half cup of okra has just 25 calories. It contains no cholesterol or saturated fat, which are two components that should be avoided when losing weight.

The fiber content in okra is

high. You can get nine percent of the daily recommended amount of fiber in one half cup of okra.

Fiber helps to maintain the digestive system by allowing food to pass through the intestines easier.

Dr. Zook, who is from from the University of Illinois, found okra to be full of valuable nutrients, nearly half of which is soluble fiber in the form of gums and pectins. Soluble fiber helps to lower serum cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.

The other half is insoluble fiber which helps to keep the intestinal tract healthy, thus decreasing the risk of some forms of cancer, especially colon cancer.

Along with containing high amounts of fiber, okra also contains high amounts of vitamins A, C, and B6, according to Michael Murray, author of “The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods.”

Large amounts of calcium, zinc, riboflavin, folic acid, and iron are also present in this vegetable. Women who are pregnant are urged to incorporate okra into their diets due to the high content of folic acid. Folic acid is essential for the healthy growth of a fetus especially during the fourth week through the twelfth week of pregnancy.

Not too many Filipinos know that okra also contains glutathione, a protein molecule that is naturally produced in the body. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps the body

Blanced okra against the harmful effects of germs and bacteria that cause cancers and other diseases. It helps to improve liver, heart and lung functions and boost the immune system. The levels of glutathione produced in the body decreases as a person ages.

One unique health benefit of okra is that it can add bounce and volume to your hair. All you need to do is boil okra that has been sliced horizontally until the contents become slimy. Let it cool and then add a couple of drops of lemon to it. Wash your hair like you normally would, and then use this mixture as a last rinse. Cover all of your hair and then rinse it off with water. You hair should have more volume and have a little more bounce to it.

The mucilage (that sticky substance with thickening

properties) from the okra has a health benefit, too. If the acids

Okra prepared for cooking and toxins are allowed to remain in our intestinal system too long they tend to cause inflammation and can lead to many of the gut problems, including irritable bowel syndrome. With the regular use of okra with its lubricating effect and acid neutralizing characteristics, it protects the intestinal membrane from those inflammations that can lead to colorectal cancer.

One nutrition expert explains: “The mucilage has a laxative quality that helps lubricate the large intestine, soothing rather than irritating the bowel and helps elimination without the toxic side effects of constipation medications. Okra is much more cost effective than many of the drugs out there and it is loaded with nutrition that isn’t available in pills or animal-based food products.”

“Okra has a future in serving the booming markets for health foods,” one economic paper said. “Given an aging global population increasingly concerned over sickness prevention, mucilage is big business these days.”

What about the okra seeds, which can be used as a form of substitute for coffee? The seed contains a high amount of oil which is rich in unsaturated fats such as oleic acid, a healthy source of fat. Found also in olive oil, avocados, almonds and cashews, oleic acid helps to lower the level of cholesterol and reduce blood pressure in the body.

To retain most of okra’s nutrients, it should be cooked as little as possible, with low heat or steamed. It can also be stirfried, deep fried, stewed or eaten raw but may be a bit tough to chew and a bit too bitter.

By the way, it is important to choose the best quality of

okra for cooking, because sometimes buying bad quality of okra can make the food difficult to cook and the dish unpleasant to taste. Always go for okra pods which are crispy and immature.

Go for small-sized pods, as they taste good and are tender. Avoid large sided pods and look for pods which have a deep green color.

You can store okra in refrigerator for 2 days; after that the nutritional value of this vegetable will decrease. So, choose immature and crispy freshokra pods for cooking, and eat it regularly to gain all the above mentioned health benefits.

Growing okra Okra plants are extremely drought and heat resistant. It can be grown on a wide range of soils, provided the internal soil drainage is good. Soils high in organic matter are preferred. It does best in rich, well-draining soil. It’s not particular about soil pH (6.5 – 7.5), but it won’t thrive in heavy, soggy soils.

When planting okra, choose an elevated area with adequate source of water during dry season. However, it grows anytime of the year. If grown in lowland areas from October to December, high yield and more profit can be attained. Growing okra on hilly areas from May to July is also profitable.

Broadcast organic fertilizer or compost before plowing the area. For sandy loam soil, plow and harrow once. For clay loam soil, plow and harrow once if the soil is moist. However if the soil is cloddy, harrow 2-3 times to attain good soil tilth. Set furrows at 75 cm apart for wet season and 100 cm for dry season planting.

If the furrowed soil is moist, take advantage of the moisture content of the soil. Drill 2-3 seeds per hill in the furrows at a distance of 30 centimeters and cover the seeds with 3 centimeters depth of soil, then press lightly to prevent excessive loss of moisture. This system of planting, which is usually practiced by farmers favors deeper root penetration of seedlings and avoids the early emergence of weeds.

The common practice in seeding is planting the seeds before irrigating the field, causing weed seeds to germinate faster than the okra seeds, resulting in more labor input in weeding.

A 1,000 square meter area re-

quires one kilogram of seeds.

During rainy season, plant the seeds on raised beds or at the ridge of furrows to prevent the plants from water logging in case of flush floods.

For vigorous growth of okra and to prolong the productive period, apply fertilizer. Foliar fertilizer may be applied late in the afternoon or early in the morning after the dew on the plants have evaporated to avoid burning effect on the leaves and stems.

Cultivate and hill-up by hand-hoeing in between furrows at 14 days after emergence (DAE) to suppress the emerging weeds. Finally hill-up at 42 DAE or one month after. At such stage, the profuse foliage cover of the crop is enough to suppress the growing weeds. Uproot the remaining weeds (spot weed) that were missed during the previous cultivation.

If the crop is planted in moist soil and was not irrigated after planting, irrigate the area at 14-21 DAE just after hilling-up. At such stage, the water will easily subside in the soil and the roots will be forced to pursue the water, favoring longer and deeper root penetration.

In light textured soils, irrigate or water at weekly interval.

During dry season, irrigate 10-5 times for the entire period of production.

Okra is tolerant to most insect pests specifically during wet season because of the profuse growth of foliage, but diseases are common because of the wet–warm condition of the environment. However, during summer or second crop, leafhopper is the most damaging pest with occasional diseases. These can be managed using the suggested biological and remedial control measures.

Harvest immature fruits 5-10 days after flowering and every other day thereafter to obtain higher yield. Harvest in the morning when the dew have disappeared on the leaves. To avoid getting rashes when harvesting, as okra has trichomes on the leaves and fruits, wear long sleeved clothes and hand gloves.

Pack the newly-harvested fruits in 10-kilogram polyethylene bags for convenience in hauling and to maintain freshness. Too much moisture favors the development of molds on the packed fruits so puncture 4-5 small holes on each plastic bag.

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

EDITORIAL

D

What’s the truth, DLPC?

ABAWENYOS are starting to be restless with the long brownouts that run up to four hours a day.

Consumers must have had enough of the long brownouts prompting them to pour out their disgust on social media ruing the power outages that occur anytime of the day. People decry the random brownouts which have affected businesses and even caused damages to household appliances.

What irked consumers is the way power provider Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) provided information regarding the brownouts. Take the case of a recent announcement that the power situation is going to normalize. The statement was met with a big sigh of relief from consumers only

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to be surprised by another long brownout. If this is what is meant by being normalized, then what could the worst mean?

The trouble appears to be the apparent wrong information DLPC is providing the public. The inconsistencies are what drive the people incensed.

It also did not help that the new source of power here which is the coal plant of Therma South Inc. inaugurated a month ago cannot provide power because according to management it is under repair.

So what is really the truth here? People are asking until when are we really going to suffer this power crisis.

This question deserves a straightforward and truthful answer.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

GENERAL SANTOS CITY OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING MARKETING OFFICE

LEIZEL A. DELOSO | Marketing Manager EDMUND D. RENDON Unit 6, SouthbankMarketing Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Specialist General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Mobile: (Smart) 0909-424-7990 Tel: (088) 852-4894

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA | Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

EDGEDAVAO

O

N March 16, 1521, Ferdinand Magellan rediscovered the Philippines. Since then, the country was put in the world map. But whenever I go to other countries, people still wonder where the Philippines is. “What is your country noted for?” they inquired.

1. Beaches: The phrase “Life is a beach” must have been created for Filipinos. With a coastline of 26,289 kilometers (almost twice that of the United States), the Philippines has the third longest combined coastlines in the planet (after Canada and Indonesia). It is home to more than 7,000 islands. Boracay in Panay Island is known globally as having one of the world’s finest beach resorts.

2. Surfing Site: Siargao’s Cloud Nine is said to be among the best surfing sites in the world.

American surf photographer John Callahan discovered the remarkable waves of the island in 1993.

3. Underground River: The navigable part of the river inside the cave of the 4000-acre St. Paul Subterranean River stretches 8.2 kilometers in length. This pride of Palawan is among those with the longest underground river. (Palawan is also noted of its towering limestone cliffs found in El Nido.)

4. Rice Terraces: Touted to be the “Eight Wonder of the World,” this Banaue architectural wonder – otherwise known as the “stairways to the sky” – is about 13,500 miles long, or about half the globe’s circumference and ten times the length of the Great Wall of China.

5. Deepest Spot: The Philippine Deep or the Mindanao Trench is the world’s second deepest spot underwater as it is about 34,440 feet (10,497 meters) below sea level. Marianas Trench (11,000 meters below the sea level) holds the record.

F

ILIPINOS, all 100 million+ of us, are presently hostage to two dire circumstances: 1) a gigantic and still growing population; and, 2) an environment that is slowly losing its capacity to provide. Think Metro Manila and every other metropolitan city in the country.

Ostensibly, the conflation of these two challenges has placed the Philippines in an extremely difficult position. And it is very alarming that none of the five Presidentiables has clearly acknowledged this grim predicament in their respective campaign agenda. In fact, not one of the national development plans proposed by these candidates are purposely designed to meet these two ominous conditions threatening our nation’s future.

A good example of such a shortcoming would be the well-appreciated proposal to invest in agriculture to increase productivity but without any clear accompanying measures to help stakeholders within this sector cope with the demands of climate change. An environment policy that prioritizes international treaties over the need to feed the 100 million+ warm bodies in the country would likewise be a clear illustration of such inadequacy The sad truth is the electoral narrative presented so far by these candidates is simply a collage of motherhood statements and catchy two-liners. It lacks that sense of coherence necessary to actually help voters be more appreciative of the country’s current state.

Moreover, the presidential platforms on offer are so jam-packed with proposals and promises that we are left essentially dazed, confused

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

Truly Philippines

6. Marine Park: THINK ON THESE! The Tubbataha Reefs in Sulu Sea is considered as the world’s richest “bio-geographic area.” The marine park, declared as such in Henrylito D. Tacio 1988, cov- henrytacio@gmail.com ers 33,200 hectares and contains what is believed to be the world’s largest grouping of marine life per unit area.

7. Volcanoes: The eruption of Mount Pinatubo created a worldwide phenomenon. But the country is actually known for Mayon Volcano in Albay, which has been considered as having a nearly perfect cone. Taal Volcano, said to be the world’s smallest volcano, is described as “an island within an island, a volcano within a volcano.”

8. Icons: Bangus (fish), sampaguita and waling-waling (flowers), carabao (animal), sipa (sports), tinikling (dance), Philippine eagle (bird), mango (fruit), narra (tree), “Lupang Hinirang” (anthem), bahay kubo (house), and Dr. Jose P. Rizal (hero) are some of the country’s icons.

9. Fruits: Filipinos love to eat mangoes, whether green or ripe. The Guinness Book of World Records listed the Philippine mango as “the sweetest fruit in the world.” Filipinos also devour durian, that fruit that emits “a smell like hell” but has “a taste like heaven.”

Other fruits on the list are mangosteen, ba-

BY MICHAEL HENRY LL. YUSINGCO and utterly unable to intelligently distinguish among the five candidates. Hence, it is highly doubtful that at this stage of the campaign if voters, even the more astute ones, can actually paint a clear picture of what could potentially happen in the next six years.

Nonetheless, the fact remains that every Filipino desires economic progress. We get excited with promises of more jobs and higher income.

We thank the high heavens upon hearing assurances of making education and health care more affordable. We leap for joy after listening to candidates talk about infrastructure investments and so forth.

However, the spate of natural disasters that have come our way has taught many of us to be more circumspect as to how we achieve national prosperity. Indeed, while the majority of the electorate see the exploitation of nature for economic gains as unavoidable, the twin notions of sustainability and social responsibility are now viewed as indispensable too.

And it may come as a surprise to many but integrating environmental and community dimensions to economic development planning is already an accepted concept here in the Philippines. About two decades ago, the Philippine Agenda 21: A National Agenda for Sustainable Development for the 21th Centurywas launched under the leadership of arguably the

9

nana, marang, papaya, melon, guava, pomelo, caimito, chico, and santol.

10. Fish: The dwarf goby (Pandaka pygmaea) measures 1.2 centimeters or less than half of an inch, the tiniest known vertebrate. The world’s smallest commercial fish, however, is “sinarapan” (Mistichthys luzonensis); it grows to an average length of 1.25 centimeters. At P4,000 per kilogram, “ludong” (Cestraeus plicatilis) is the country’s most expensive fish.

11. Delicacies: During special occasions and events, you may find these various delicacies: bibingka, binignit, sapin-sapin, lumpia, maja blanca, kutsinta, puto, pichi-pichi, galapong, biko, bukayo, and suman.

12. Foods: Filipinos are noted for their weird foods like balut, kinilaw, patis, and bagoong.

But foreigners love to eat the delicious chicken adobo and the crispy lechon. Yes, we also love pansit, lumen, sinigang, luglug, and dinuguan.

13. Word record: Filipino National Artist Levi Celerio has been recognized by The Guinness Book of World Records as “the only man who could play beautiful music with a leaf.” Celerio wrote more than 4,000 songs.

14. World Achievers: Manny Pacquiao, Bong Coo, Eugene Torre, Paeng Nepomuceno, Lea Salonga, Carlos P. Rumulo, Cory Aquino, and Juan Luna. They all make us proud as a nation.

15. Beauties: In almost all beauty contests (Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss Asia, Miss International, Miss Earth, and Miss Tourism), you will find a Filipino competing against other beauties from other countries. Gloria Diaz and Margarita Moran won the Miss Universe title; the current title holder is also from the Philippines. Gemma Cruz was

crowned Miss International in 1964, a title which Aurora Pijuan got in 1970 and Melanie Marquez in 1979. Megan Young won the first ever Miss World title.

16. Gathering: Most participants are one hour late. If the meeting starts at 7:00 p.m., they will show up at 8:00 p.m. Most of the important people will arrive much late than the rest. Generally, someone will say, “Announcing the arrival of…”

17. Festivals: Almost every city now has their own way of attracting tourists by means of street dancing. It also started with the Sinulog Festival in Cebu. Davao followed suit with its Kadayawan.

18. Movies: Some producers use kilometric titles like “Mahal, Saan Ka Nanggaling Kagabi,” “Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon?” “Alas Tres ng Hapon, Gising Na Ang Mga Anghel,” “Lumakad Kang Hubad sa Mundong Ibabaw,” “Tinimbang Ka Nguni’t Kulang,” and the tongue-twisting “Kakabakaba Ka Ba?” 19. Sing along: Filipinos love to sing and drink.

This is the reason why “Singing Bee” and “Videoke Challenge” are popular shows.

Give the mike to anyone, and he or she will immediately sing at the top of his or her voice. Just don’t sing “My Way,” please!

20. Inventions: Agapito Flores has been touted as the inventor of the fluorescent lamp but this has been under scrutiny. But Dr. Abelardo Aguilar really discovered erythromycin in 1949 and Edgardo Varquez is credited in 1995 for developing a modular housing system.

When he was still alive, Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino said these immortal words: “The Filipino is worth dying for!”

Now you know the reason!

most effective head of government our country has ever had The Philippine Agenda 21 (PA21) envisioned “a better quality of life for all Filipinos through the development of a just, moral and creative, spiritual, economically vibrant, caring, diverse yet cohesive society characterized by appropriate productivity, participatory and democratic processes, and living in harmony and within the limits of the carrying capacity of nature and the integrity of creation.”

Unfortunately, this economic development mindset was effectively set aside during the terms of Presidents Joseph Estrada and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo because both obviously had other plans in mind as to where the profits of the country’s economic gains should go.

While our country has made significant progress at the macroeconomic front due to the focused effort of the current administration, there is still reason to worry about the years to come.

As matter fact, as per the United Nations Human Development Index for 2014, the Philippines is only at the Medium Human Development level. We are in the same category with countries such as Uzbekistan and El Salvador.

Obviously, economic progress that is completely satisfactory for every Filipino demands more work to be done.

The good thing is our national economic managers never gave up on pursuing economic progress through the PA21 pathway. Accordingly, an official document, Assessment of the Philippine Agenda 21, the Prospects for a Green

Economy, and the Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development, which advances a national development blueprint that meets our needs in the present but does not compromise the ability of future generations to address theirs.

Obviously, formulating a campaign narrative that is grounded in reality is not an impossible task. Perhaps the 5 presidential aspirants should consider utilizing this report to streamline their respective electoral platforms so that the same directly and unequivocally attacks the actual problems confronting us head on.

Making this critical adjustment in their campaign can be a game-changer because voters will definitely be more motivated to rally behind an economic development proposition which does not gloss over our massively growing census and the sobs and gasps of Inang Kalikasan.

Hopefully at the next scheduled debate, the Presidentiables actually leave the electorate with a clear and realistic picture of what may lie ahead for the country. Indeed, I pray that we finally see and hear someone who can truly put us at ease that the Philippines will be a much better place in 2022. “The author is a practicing lawyer and a legislative consultant. He conducts research on current issues in state-building, decentralization and constitutionalism.”

(MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. Micael Henry Ll. Yusingco is a practicing lawyer and a legislative consultant. He conducts research on current issues in state-building, decentralization and constitutionalism.)

Worrying about 2022

COMMENTARY

VANTAGE POINTS

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

Mindanao... FROM 2

NOT SAFE. Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) 11 chief of Operations Division Chief Inspector Nestor Jimenez says the Lumad staying at the UCCP-Haran have built their shelters out of light materials, making them susceptible to fire. Jimenez was among the guests of yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Duterte to push... FROM 2

people, against Mindanao,” he added.

Jaafar said he personally admires Duterte’s brand of leadership, describing him as brave.

He said of the five presidential aspirants, it was only Duterte who visited their camp to hear their side after the failure of the passage of the BBL. “We are inspired by his courage as we are impressed by what he did to Davao, a city that is progressive — where business is good and where people are given the opportunity to better their lives,” Jaafar said.

“God-willing, if he will win, he will also transform the Philippines just like how he transformed Davao,” he added.

But at the sidelines before the meeting, Jaafar told jour-

nalists that the Central Committee of the MILF will not endorse any candidate, not even Duterte.

“Members of the MILF, their families, and the members of the communities will be given their independence to choose whoever they want to choose,” Jaafar said.

Duterte also clarified that his visit in the MILF camp was not a campaign for his presidential bid.

“I am here not to campaign,” he said. “I know that you are apolitical. I also know that you will give independence to your people and you will respect their decision.”

Duterte said the reason for his visit was to present his proposal to resolve the conflict in Mindanao and the issues confronting the Moro people.

sulted residents of Maitum town in a hearing held at the municipal public market.

Among those who attended the hearing were provincial researchers, barangay officials and council members, senior citizens, traders, utility drivers and members

of the town’s market vendors association.

The Sarangani Bay conservation and protection ordinance is authored by board member Eugene Alzate while the anti-trafficking measure is authored by Vice Gov. Pacquiao. (PNA)

which is not only limited to food production but is extended to beauty products production, service, among others.

“A parallel effort should be also given to HEIs for them to integrate themselves in the halal value chain,” she said.

USM director for Halal Center of USM Sutan Salik D. Makakena said integrating halal will be beneficial both on the health and social aspect of the society.

In the same event, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 11 regional director Dr. Anthony Sales said the three-day congress will provide a platform for different stakeholders to “invigorate interest and awareness about halal concept especially during the congress that will

be held in the first two days.

Sales also said there will be also academic fora as well as an exhibition of halal research and development and products Congress director Josephine Migalin said about 400 participants from different universities and colleges will join the event. Halal experts from the Malaysia and Thailand will also grace the event.

Migalin said two representatives from the Organization of Islamic Countries will join the event to give an overview on the global standard of the halal industry.

The congress is organized by the USM, DOST, DA 11 and the Mindanao Development Authority. CHENEEN R. CAPON

Smoke-free... FROM 4

Academe... FROM 6

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

Haran... FROM 2

rarily adopted these people,” Jimenez added.

Jimenez said the bureau is continuing its investigation on the fire incident, which he said has been identified as arson after his men found an empty gasoline container in the area.

“We haven’t identified the perpetrators,” he told reporters at the sidelines of the Kapehans a Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex.

Jimenez said once identified, the BFP will file the appropriate cases immediately.

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte had earlier ordered a

probe on the fire incident that hit the temporary shelter.

Initial reports showed that the fire started with an explosion from the dormitory building occupied by students at dawn on February 24.

Among those injured during the incident were Magno Kulot, 14; Odessa Dumol, 12; Loloy Manayap, 30, and his two-year-old son.

The evacuees had fled to UCCP-Haran last year to escape the presence of the military which they said accused them of being sympathizers of the New People’s Army (NPA).

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since been upgraded and expanded to effectively prevent transmittal of spam and scam messages. By design, the filtering mechanism can be reconfigured to address the kind of spam and scam messages that goes through the Globe network. Since the new mechanism was put in place early February, the number of spam and scam messages blocked from the network averages 300,000.

Aside from blocking spam and scam messages from going through the Globe network, the telecommunications provider also has dis-

connected from service more than 30,000 prepaid numbers found to be consistent source of spam and scam text messages.

The numbers blocked from the Globe network were subject of complaints reported through the http://www. globe.com.ph/stopspam where customers are simply required to provide all the details of spam and scam messages they received on their mobile devices. Numbers that are reported to be a constant source of spam messages are then disconnected from service.

Globe... FROM 11

Duterte, who attended the gathering, received the women’s agenda and said: “This is easy. I just need money to do these.”

The issues presented were women’s limited access to education, unemployment, lack of health services at the barangay level and the review of the (Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the government, a poverty alleviation strategy that proved to be lopsided and restrictive pushing Filipino women further to the brink of poverty and helplessness.

“I assure you that if given the chance to sit in Malacañang, I will stop corruption, get all the resources needed so that the needs of our women will be addressed,” Duterte said.

The mayor’s daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio, who is running for mayor in Davao, was also in attendance. She expressed confidence that her father will make as a priority women’s issues once elected. She noted how Davao City home to trailblazing policies and programs such as the Women Development Code and Women’s Health Ordinance that was enacted in 1997 during his father’s administration.

Some of the participants traveled all the way from Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, and Caraga Region to attend the launching at the Garden Oasis

in Davao.

A resource speaker, Professor Mildred Megabio-Estanda, said while some quarters are depicting the Davao City Mayor as anti-women, the Ateneo de Davao University-sponsored survey in October 2015 shows that gender sensitivity preference of 86.5 percent is on the top qualities that Dabawenyos desire of a president in terms of political traits.

The issue of violence against women is on top 3 of the issues of women and men alike, survey results showed.

Estanda added that this trend clearly reflects Davao City’s awareness of women’s issues and their preference for Duterte as an effective leader who could address gender issues.

Saturday gathering was aimed at developing a national women’s agenda which will be adopted by Duterte once elected president.

“The women in Mindanao, while recognizing these trailblazing efforts of the City of Davao, believe that these things should not only be replicated nationally, but these programs and legislations should be enhanced and supplemented with more programs and policies,” the women said in a statement. “We are gathered today not only to show our support but to demand that our Women Agenda be accepted and implemented.”

staff went to the Business Bureau asking for the requirements for the rally. He said he instructed the person to go to the City Traffic and Transportation and Management Office (CTTMO) for traffic assistance.

“Nibalik siya Lunes last week, only to tell us na dili sila modayon (They returned Monday last week, only to tell us that they canceled it),”he said.

He said the staff member told their office that their rally might push through in March because all the senatorial candidates will be available by that time.

He said the city does not withhold the issuance of special permits for rallies regardless of political affiliation because it enshrined in the Philippine Constitution that it is the right of everyone to conduct mass gatherings.

“I want to clarify that there is no issue about the denial of permit because their staff is the one who canceled it,” he said.

“In my three years here in the bureau, I cannot remem-

ber that the office denied any application for special permit,” he added.

Bantiding said the basic requirements for the issuance of permit are security assessment from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) and traffic assessment from CTTMO to ensure that a rally will be secure.

He said the permit is needed to provide groups with proper assistance especially in traffic as well as security of the people who will attend.

DCPO spokesperson Chief Inspector Milgrace C. Driz said, for her part, said the city police will provide security to any national candidate who will conduct a rally in the city.

In a separate interview yesterday, Driz said so far no staff from any national candidate has approached the DCPO for security assistance.

She said the candidate can also request security from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and their office will act on it. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

leaders. He vowed that under his administration, “we will correct the historical wrongs.”

He noted misconceptions about radicalism. He said the Malays like Malysian, Indonesians and Filipinos, have not reached the point of ruthlessly killing innocent women, children and anyone as the extremists in the Middle East are doing.

“Our Islam and Malay cul-

ture cannot do that, it is still inherent among us to be compassionate,” he said.

Jaafar said the MILF welcomes all candidates who wish to visit and discuss their platforms with the organization but they are not endorsing any candidate and will let their people choose whom they wish vote according to their conscience. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera / MindaNews)

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Globe uses new comprehensive tool to block unwanted spam Starts blocking an average of 300,000 messages a day

G

INVEST IN SAMAL. The Island Garden City of Samal is strengthening its investment promotion and generation strategies.

DTI, IGaCoS LGU formulate 1 investment priority roadmap st

I

N a move to promote the city as one of the major investment hubs in the region, the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) Investment Board through its secretariat, the City Investment Promotion Office with the assistance of the Department of Trade and Industry – Davao del Norte Provincial Office assembled the city’s public and private sector for a two-day workshop on February 4-5, 2016 to draft its 2017 – 2019 Investment Priority Roadmap at the ABC Session Hall, New City Hall Site, Island Garden City of Samal.

The growing competition among countries and local government units in gener-

ating foreign and domestic investments prompted the Island Garden City of Samal to strengthen its investment promotion and generation strategies which led into the approval and implementation of the IGaCoS’ Local Investment and Incentive Code (LIIC) in 2015.

Along with its implementation is the establishment of the IGaCoS Investment Board, which serves as the institutional body that spearheads the implementation of the LIIC. To propel the enforcement of its LIIC, the local government unit pushed for the drafting of the city’s first ever Investment Priority Roadmap.

The roadmap will serve as an operational tool in imple-

menting programs, projects, and activities that will generate quick wins and milestones on investment promotion and generation in the city for the next three years.

To ensure oneness in direction with the national government, the identification of priority investment projects and initiatives for the city is harmonized from the various local, regional and national plans such as the Philippine Development Plan, Region 11 Industry Clusters Roadmap and the City Land Use Plan. It also took into account the ASEAN Economic Community Integration which is considered one of the major game-changers for the country’s economy.

The draft will be endorsed for review to the Island Garden City of Samal Investment Board then to the Sangguniang Panglungsod for final approval.The body expects to realize the final output by April this year.

Once approved, it will serve as a catalyst that will set the direction for the investment priority areas to be implemented by the IGaCoS Investment Board and the City Investment Promotion Office who are the key enablers for investment promotion and generation.

IGaCoS is the first local government unit in Davao del Norte to come up with an investment priority roadmap.

ital identities that will help them achieve their goals and compete online. GoDaddy is committed to providing the products and services that will enable Asia entrepreneurs to easily start, confidently grow and successfully run their own ventures.”

Small and medium enterprises serve as the economic backbone in Asia. SMEs account for over 97 percent of all enterprises and employ over half of the workforce across APEC economies. At the same time, more people inAsia are utilizing the Internet and connected devices to stay informed and make purchases. 72 percent of people in Hong Kong access the Internet daily and 74 percent use a smartphone; 81 percent of people in Singapore access the Internet and 88 percent use a smartphone. Overall, Internet growth across Asia has grown 1,319 percent between 2000-2015.

The impact of creating an online presence for small businesses can be significant.

A RedShift Research survey of 1,000 very small businesses in Hong Kong and Singapore that built websites for their ventures found that 45 percent saw their business increase by 25 percent or more.

for China to help facilitate cross-border commerce between China and neighboring markets.

• GoDaddy also offers an aftermarket platform where users can buy and sell domain names.

GoDaddy launches in Phl, 10 other markets in Asia

G

ODADDY Inc., the world’s largest technology provider dedicated to small businesses, yesterday launched in the Philippines and 10 other Asian markets, bringing its suite of cloudbased products and expert customer care to millions of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the region.

With the launch of 11 new markets, GoDaddy is now in a total of 10 languages and 14 markets across Asia, including: Hong Kong (English and Traditional Chinese), Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia (English and Malay),Philippines (English and Filipino), Singapore (English and Simplified Chinese), South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

“Asia is home to one of the largest, most vibrant small business communities in the world,” said GoDaddy CEOBlake Irving. “As Internet growth and smartphone adoption continue to accelerate across the region, it’s important that these businesses are able to create strong dig-

Localized, Purpose-Built Products GoDaddy offers a complete suite of cloud-based products in local language and currency to help businesses find the perfect domain name, create a beautiful website, find new customers, and improve business productivity. Specific product highlights include:

Domains: As the world’s largest domain registrar with more than 62 million domains under management, GoDaddy offers the largest top-level domain (TLD) inventory in each of the new Asia markets. GoDaddy’s extensive inventory includes country-specific domains for Asia markets (e.g., .sg for Singapore and .tw forTaiwan).

• GoDaddy now offers .cn

Website Hosting: GoDaddy hosts more than 10 million websites across more than 55,000 servers around the world and is hyper-focused on delivering fast, reliable and easy to use Web hosting.

• The company offers a wide range of options, including Managed WordPress Hosting, an optimized platform for customers who require performance and scalability. All of the technical hosting aspects are managed for customers including setup, software updates, network security and daily backups.

Build Your Website: GoDaddy’s presence product offerings help customers get online, get found and get

FGODADDY, 10

LOBE Telecom has stepped up its anti-spam/scam campaign, utilizing a more comprehensive and fully automated mechanism to rid its network of unwanted and unsolicited text messages, bringing the daily average of blocked messages from 17,000 to 300,000.

The new mechanism involves setting up a new hardware and software solution with complex anti-spam algorithms, with a capacity that can filter up to 1 billion SMS a day. The establishment of the new platform was undertaken in partnership with Xura, a US-based technology company that specializes in digital services addressing network vulnerabilities such as transmittal of spam and scam messages. Project cost is estimated at around $4 million.

“The establishment of a new mechanism to block the transmittal of these messages brings us a step closer to having a spam-free network.

Globe will never allow the use of its network by individuals who want to take advantage of our customers. As Globe steps up its campaign to purge its network of spam and scam messages, we expect this number to increase further

moving forward,” said Anton Bonifacio, Globe Chief Information Security Officer. The new mechanism allows the telecommunications provider to continuously optimize and expand the reach of its anti-spam/scam campaign, he added.

According to Bonifacio, the new mechanism will also address election-related spam messages ahead of national and local elections in May of this year. He added the new mechanism now covers majority of the company’s postpaid and prepaid customers totaling 53 million at the end of 2015.

To keep its customers from receiving spam and scam messages, Globe operationalized in September 2014 an automated filtering functionality that reduced the number of such messages going through the Globe network. At the end of 2015, Globe blocked close to 37 million of spam and scam text messages. The number of spam/scam text messages blocked by the mechanism averaged around 17,000 day in the last quarter of 2015, reaching a peak of around 200,000 in July last year.

Such mechanism has

FGLOBE, 10

Phl hosts 2nd Madrid Fusion Manila

F

OOD enthusiasts have another reason to visit Manilathis April when Spain’s first and only Asian edition of its top culinary event, Madrid Fusion, will be staged for a second year in Manila.

Organized by the Philippine Department of Tourism, Madrid Fusión Manila (MFM) is on April 7-9, 2016 at the SMX Convention Center of the SM Mall of Asia Complex.

MFM 2016 will feature an International Gastronomy Congress discussing the theme, “The Manila Galleon: East Meets West.”

The panel will feature the world’s most acclaimed chefs, including: • Joan Roca, El Cellar de Can Roca (No.1 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list) • Dani Garcia, Bibo Andalussian Brasserie and Tapas • Jose Andres, Minibar • Ricard Camarena, Ricard Camarena • Angel Leon, Aponiente • Jordi Butron, EpaiSucre • Michael Voltaggio, Ink. • Yoshihiro Narisawa, Les Creations de Narisawa Restaurant • Virgilio Martinez, Central Restaurante (No.1 on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list) • Michael Aspiras, Scout’s Honor • Amy Besa and Romy Dorotan, Purple Yam

• Myke Sarthou, Alab, • Kevin Cherkas of Cuca • Leah Cohen, Pig & Khao • Paul Qui, Qui • David Thompson, Nahm • Nurdin Topham, Nur • Jungsik Yim, Jungsik • Enrique Olvera, Pujol and • Jorge Vallejo, Quintonil

MFM 2016 will also have a Trade Expo showcasing gourmet products, unique ingredients and regional delicacies from the Philippines, Spain, Asia, Europe and the Americas. Trade visitors enter the Trade Expo for free.

Alongside Madrid Fusion Manila is the month-long Flavors of the Philippines Festivalthat features food-related activities all over the Philippines from food tours, exhibits and gourmet markets to special dinners with celebrity chefs, food trips and hotel food festivals.

Celebrated annually in Madrid since 2003, Madrid Fusión is considered one of the leading gastronomy gatherings in the world.

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INdulge!

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took the wrong turn, wrong bus, and train.

I felt lost and alone, and for a while I thought I was in a movie gone badly. But I’ve never had so much fun, and felt so youthful and free.

My goal was to spend the least amount of money and to visit places I’ve only read about. After getting a promo ticket for Narita (kyaaah!!), I did my research for a brief winter stay in Tokyo from December 28, 2015 to January 4, 2016.

I visualized what to do when I get there, and wrote a lot of personal notes and prayers.

PRIOR TRIP I booked for places to sleep through AirBnb, a cheaper alternative to Agoda.com or Booking. com. While the latter have hotels and inns, AirBnb rents out couches, bed spaces, or rooms.

I booked for a bed in Minato and in Urawa at two nights each. I left the dates December 30 and 31 empty for I was undecided on when to sleep at an onsen (hot spring inn).

I planned to sleep at the airport for my last night in Tokyo.

I also reserved a JR East train pass which is available only for tourists, plus a pocket wifi. The train pass is convenient for first time visitors and non-Japanese speakers. You only have to show the train pass at the attendant to get through the gates.

I exchanged P30,000 for some 77,000Y at a Mus-

lim shop in Aldevinco.

This served as my ‘baon’.

I calculated it should be enough for my food, bus rides, etc.

Taking with me the least number of clothing, I travelled with my small leather backpack which I’ve been using for 2 years, and a disposable bag (a shopper’s bag from SM). Without the desire to broadcast my every activity and outfit in Facebook, I saved myself from the hassle of luggage.

Adding the hours from Davao to Manila, waiting between flights, and Manila to Narita, the travel time took more than 12 hours.

THE COLD Upon exiting the plane, a temperature of 2° C greeted. In the short walk from the plane to the building, I shivered.

Good thing I was prepared to buy Heat Tech clothes from Uniqlo inside Narita Airport. I bought leggings, inner shirt, socks, and gloves. I’ve read about Uniqlo Heat Tech online, but the lightness and softness of the cloth surprised me. I thought to myself that if it had been an online game (although I do not play) then I’ve found such light and flexible armour.

My mother had bought me a coat from ukay-ukay

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

EDGEDAVAO TRAVEL The areas around the train stations were always packed and bustling with excitement. I’m not someone who likes selfies, but I took this one upon request by my mother.

Japan SOLO TRIP IN

By Jade C. Zaldivar

which cost P50. I’ve set aside extra money in case I really needed to buy a coat but I decided to stick with the cheap coat.

I should’ve bought a coat then, because in the next days I was shivering from the cold. By then the temperature had dropped below zero. Like a comedy skit, I found myself slouched and shaking while walking, wondering why everyone else seemed fine.

It was by December 30, at Uniqlo in Shibuya, that I bought a coat on sale for the holidays at 20% off.

Lucky!

SUBWAY WARS Getting my JR East train pass from the airport, I took a Narita Express straight for Ikebukuro, my place of dreams.

I was secretly grinning with excitement to see the so-called Otome Road where manga and cd shops were lined up. It was already past 3:30 pm and I was hoping to see the shops before it’d get dark.

Alas! When I got out

Venue for the Comiket 89, attended by around 50,000 fans of comics or manga of various genres. of the train I was visually shocked with the massive amount of people coming from different directions!

Some were walking fast; some were half-running, or totally running as if there was fire. Grenades and bombs exploding inserted in my vision.

I gulped and paced myself while looking for the signs hanging above to get to the correct exit. I got

pushed and shouldered, but the other person was quick to give a brief bow, and in reflex so did I. In all the panic, I didn’t even realize I got off the wrong exit! Instead of the East Exit, I got out from the West.

Perhaps it was because of the holiday rush, or because Ikebukuro station’s one of the busiest in Tokyo, I’ve had my first taste

of a train station.

WRONG TURN, LONG WALKS I was using Google Maps on my Samsung phone to navigate during my entire trip. I was mentally prepared that I might get lost, since I couldn’t read kanji (one of three Japanese alphabets, and

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TRAVEL White House in Washington, D.C.

The starting point of Biscayne National Park in Miami, Florida.

Five places to visit in the US Yellowstone National Park.

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

I

had been to the United States several times and had seen some of those places which most Filipinos only see with awe in the movies or postcards. Most of those areas I had visited were really amazing if not, to quote the word of most Americans, “awesome.”

Here are some of them: YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People” – these words, as seen on the Roosevelt Arch located at the North Entrance to the park, were excerpted from the Act of Dedication, which established Yellowstone as the world’s first national park.

President Ulysses S. Grant signed the law on March 1, 1872.

With a total land area of 3,472 square miles, Yellowstone National Park is larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined! Americans often described it as “a treasure that inspires awe.”

At the heart of Yellowstone’s past, present, and future lies volcanism. Yellowstone’s volcanic geology provides a classic example of geyser. In fact, it is home to five geysers, namely, Old Faithful, Castle, Grand, Daisy, and Riverside, which are predicted by the park’s “interpretative staff.”

Old Faithful’s average interval between eruptions is about 88 minutes, varying from 45-120 minutes, and reaches a height of 32.3 to 56 meters. When we arrived at the scene, hundreds of people – waiting for about twenty minutes – were getting ready with their cameras to shoot the famous eruption.

WAKULLA SPRINGS IN TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA The heart of the park is the beautiful Wakulla Spring. Crystal clear water flows from the spring to create the Wakulla River, one of the last pristine rivers in the United States. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a National Natural Landmark.

Wakulla Springs is one of the world’s largest and deepest

freshwater springs. The greatest outflow of water ever measured at the spring was in 1973, at almost 860,000 gallons per minute. That’s over 1.2 billion gallons a day! On the average, 250,000 to 400,000 gallons of water a minute flow from the spring’s huge single opening.

Two boat tours operate daily, and both are worthwhile. You’ll see an abundance of wildlife, including a host of birds and alligators. Greg said that during the winter, the spring becomes a prime spot for bird watching as thousands of migrating species pass through.

While on a boat tour, some of the scenery may look familiar as the place was the backdrop for several movies. The first Tarzan movie, featuring Olympic champion swimmer Johnny Weissmuller, was filmed at Wakulla Spring. Scenes from the classic Tarzan movies – “Tarzan’s Secret Treasure” and “Tarzan’s New York Adventure” – were shot throughout the park and included several locals as standins and the use of elephants and monkeys on the set.

BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK IN MIAMI, FLORIDA Within sight of downtown Miami, yet worlds away, there is a place that can be considered a living testimony of 10,000 years of human history – from pirates and shipwrecks to pineapple farmers and presidents.

That place is known as Biscayne National Park, which protects and preserves a nationally significant marine ecosystem with mangrove shorelines, a shallow bay, undeveloped islands, and living coral reefs. “The park has protected this unique underwater world for over 35 years,”

The author at the Wakulla Springs. says Dr. Bernhard Riegl, associate director of the National Coral Reef Institute and associate professor at the Nova Southeastern University.

While land dominates in most parks, Biscayne is an exception.

Here, water and sky overwhelm the scene in every direction, leaving the bits of low-lying land remote and insignificant (only 4 percent of the total area). This is paradise for marine life, water birds, boaters, anglers, snorkelers, and divers alike.

The center of attraction of the park is the ecologically-fragile coral reefs. Notes one science reporter after diving under the water: “The shallow water reefs are inundated with light and burgeoning with life. Brilliantly colorful tropical fish and other curious creatures populate the reefs.”

STATUE OF LIBERTY IN NEW YORK New York, the city that never sleeps, generally does not disappoint, even if it frustrates. There are only few places in the United States that can be considered inherently as entertaining as New York.

New York is famous for its Statue of Liberty in Liberty Island. A must, it is the most recognized icon of the city, perhaps of the United States. Some ten years in the making, the statue

was a gift from France in recognition of the friendship between the two countries.

As you see it for the first time, remember the philosophy of Auguste Bartholdi, who sculpted it: “Colossal statuary does not consist simply in making an enormous statue. It ought to produce an emotion in the breast of the spectator, not because of its volume, but because its size is in keeping with the idea that it interprets, and with the place which it ought to occupy.”

Near the Statue of Liberty is the Ellis Island, a memorial to all foreigners who have made United States as their adopted home. Among the notable personalities who made it through Ellis Island were actors Claudette Colbert, Bob Hope, and Edward G. Robinson, composer Irving Berlin (yes the man who composed “Heaven Watch the Philippines”), the Von Trapp family of “The Sound of Music” fame, and poet Khalil Gibran.

WASHINGTON, D.C. There are so many things to see but the first stop-over should be the Smithsonian Institution building, more popularly known as The Castle. From there, go to the National Museum of Natural History, where you can explore the world’s natural and cultural wonders beneath the dome of the 1910 Beaux Arts building.

Not to be missed is the National Air and Space Museum, touted to be the most-visited museum in the world. The fascinating museum’s 23 main exhibition galleries pay homage to some of the most ingenious and beautifully crafted objects of flight, including Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis, the very first Wright brother’s airplane, and the Apollo 11 lunar module.

Then, walk for more than a kilometer to be near the majestic while marble Washington Monument. From up there, you can see the Capitol, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and even the Central Intelligence Agency.

Heading west of the Washington Monument, follow the three-lined path of 2,000-foot long reflecting pool to the classical Lincoln Memorial. Going north-east, visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

On your way back, stop for a while and see the most elegant and familiar of all the world’s political residences, the White House. George Washington personally supervised the design and construction of the building although he never lived there.

Washington is a city built for walking: sidewalks are wide, intersections have pedestrian walks signs, and drivers are courteous.

But scale can be misleading, so wear comfortable shoes when exploring the city.

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ENTERTAINMENT

GMANetworkoffersanintriguingfamilydrama GMA Network premieres Hanggang Makita Kang Muli on March 7 after Wish I May.

A highly intriguing family drama, it studies the astounding life of one feral child who has lived isolated from human contact from a very young age, and has little or no experience of human care, behaviour, or, crucially, of human language.

This original series magnifies the unbearable pain and far-reaching consequences of disconnectedness, physically and emotionally.

Hanggang Makita Kang Muli is headlined by the much anticipated team up of Derrick Monasterio and Bea Binene.

Bea plays her most challenging role to date as Ana Medrano, a feral child who is isolated from human contact and confined in a dark room for a very long time. Derrick plays Calvin Manahan, a compassionate psychology student who will find Ana in the heart of the woods while hiking with his best friend.

Ana’s mother, Evelyn, struggles to forgive her husband for being responsible for Ana’s disappearance and will result to them living apart from each other.

Playing equally important roles are Raymart Santiago who plays Larry Medrano, an architect and a loving father to his only daughter Ana. His wife Evelyn Medrano played

by Angelika dela Cruz is a renowned psychiatrist and a nurturing and compassionate mother. Ina Feleo plays as Odessa, an obsessive admirer to Larry and the kidnapper of their child. Kim Rodriguez plays the role of Claire, Calvin’s socialite girlfriend. Rita Avila is Glenda, the mother of Calvin and a best friend to Evelyn.

Ramon Christopher plays the role of Francis, Calvin’s father who has a heart for the poor. Luz Valdez takes the role of Conching, a sickly

aunt to Odessa who knows all of her niece’s secrets. Shyr Valdez is Helen, the elder sister of Evelyn who acts as her confidant.

Portraying the role of Dominic is Marco Alcaraz. He is a colleague and a friend to Larry who knows about his affair with Odessa.

Jak Roberto takes the role of Elmo, Calvin’s best friend who secretly admires Claire.

Meanwhile, the woman they saved from her attempted suicide is rejoicing after planning the kidnap of Ana. Odessa’s (Ina) intention was to destroy their family so she can get Larry’s affection.

She then locks Ana in a barn and gives her food every once in a while, but never letting

her out of confinement and making development of her social skills suffer. As Odessa begins to live a life full of false love with Larry, Ana finds a way to escape and will be rescued by Calvin.

How will Ana survive the world she did not know existed? Will she find her way home to her family? And is there hope for Evelyn and Larry to hold their daughter in their arms again?

Director Laurice Guillen, who helms Hanggang Makita Kang Muli, says the series’ storyline will capture the viewers’ interest and curiosity because this is the first TV show that will tackle the case of a feral child.

“This will be the first time we will see on Philippine television a feral character – a human who grows up with the traits of an animal after years of captivity with only a dog as company, and her journey back to human life. Is it still possible? Is love enough to undo the scars of hatred and cruelty? Can the feral child live with humans once again? Will she find love again?” said Director Guillen.

Behind this engrossing drama is the creative team composed of Creative Director Roy Iglesias; Creative Head for Afternoon Prime Dode Cruz; Concept Creator Wiro Michael Ladera;

Headwriter Cristine Novicio; Writers Mikee Ladera, Roda Marino, Ronalyn Sales; Brainstormers Rodney Junio, Jesse Villabrile, Patrick Louie Ilagan.

The program is another original creation of the GMA Drama group under the supervision of Senior Vice President for Entertainment TV Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Vice President for Drama Redgie Acuña-Magno; Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; Program Manager Camille Hermoso Hafezan, and Executive Producer Rebya Upalda.

See how it appeals to mother while harping on instinctive fear of losing their young child and making them ever-curious of its repercussion, which can be as devastatingly heart-rending and visual as Ana’s plight, her becoming a feral child.

Prove how true love can bring you back home via Hanggang Makita Kang Muli on GMA Afternoon Prime beginning March 7 after Wish I May. Get the latest updates about Hanggang Makita Kang Muli from the official facebook page of GMA Drama www.facebook.com/ GMADrama, twitter account @GMADrama and the GMA Network website www.

GMANetwork.com.

ABS-CBN’s original singing competition ‘I Love OPMw’ promotes Filipino music ABS-CBN’S NEWEST SINGING COMPETITION for 100% non-Filipinos who love OPM music, “I Love OPM,” prove to be a hit among viewers since it premiered two weeks ago with its consistently high national ratings and regular top Twitter trends.

So far, judges or “Himigration Officers” composed of Philippines’ Concert King Martin Nievera,

Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha, and Ultimate Multimedia Star Toni Gonzaga gave their approval to 12 Touristars to move on to the next round of the competition.

Some of them have been to the Philippines before just like American Sumner Mahaffeey and Australian Naisa Lasalosi, who are both missionaries, and Indian exchange-student Addy Raj. Pakistani model Harris Dio Smith and American touristturned-businessman Jerome Mccuin found their niche in the Philippines after Filipino friends invited to visit the Philippines.

Russian Anna Rabtsun and American Daniel Herrington, meanwhile, found the love of their lives in the Philippines.

There are also some who just simply love Pinoy music namely American heartthrob Ryan Gallagher, German-Irish teenager Jeena Dimaandal, and Singaporean wedding singer Fathin Amira.

Rounding up the first twelve are two groups, Korean rock band J Morning and interracial singing trio, DBD composed of Korean Dae Lee, Nigerian Bobby Skyz and Australian Dwaine Mooley.

February 29 – March 1, 2016

ALWAYS BE MY MAYBE Gerald Anderson, Arci Muňoz

PG

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

ZOOLANDER 2 / *THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell/ *Sarah Wayne Callies, Jeremy Sisto PG /*R13

11:25 | 1:35 | 3:45 LFS / *6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

KUNG FU PANDA 3 (Sneak Preview) Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman G

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

GODS OF EGYPT Gerard Butler, Abbey Lee, Courtney Eaton PG

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

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TRAVEL SOLO A1

most difficult) which means I can’t read street signs.

What I wasn’t prepared for were the long walks incurred by getting lost. I took so many wrong turns, got pulled in by the huge crowd, and crossed the wrong streets.

Some days I walked for 2 hours. The worst was walking for 8 hours the entire day just by getting to and around Odaiba.

Morning of December 29, I walked from Minato to Odaiba the man-made islands in Tokyo Bay, through the Rainbow Bridge. It took an hour and 15 minutes to get there. From the bridge I walked to Tokyo Big Sight, venue for Comic Market 89 (comiket).

I wanted to check out the comiket, an event held twice a year in Japan. Around 50,000 people gather to buy and sell Japanese comics and other goods created by fans for fans. Even if I didn’t buy anything, I was content with just watching the huge stretch of people.

It took me hours to get around, looking through the huge buildings and the different activities.

Then I walked to Palette Town, Venus Fort, and Megaweb, and it got dark quickly.

The walk back to the bridge took 35 minutes, only to be told that the bridge had closed. Exhausted and sad, I made my way back where I came from, and decided to stay at Oedo Onsen Monogatari for the night.

KONBINI FOOD It was nice how there were convenience stores or konbini everywhere.

There was Maruetsu (which has the cheapest and tastiest onigiri or rice balls), Family Mart (which sold the yogurt that I liked), Lawson (which has a corndog that I liked), and Seven 11 (which sold cheap coffee).

I planned to budget my meals at 2500Y (P975) maximum per day. A meal of ramen and gyoza could cost 1000Y (P390). But because of the availability of cheap food, I got by with a daily eating cost of 1000Y to 1500Y (P585).

Food is one of three big expenses in travelling (the other two being transportation and lodging). By eating konbini food, I saved a lot.

There are a lot of things made convenient for travellers in Japan: there’s the availability of vending machines which have both cold and hot drinks; the clean restrooms with an abundance of toilet paper; the coin lockers in train stations where you could leave your luggage as you go train hopping.

LANGUAGE AND MANNERS Having been familiar with the Japanese language from years of watching anime, listening to Japanese drama cds (otome and boys love), and 150 hours of schooling at Nikkei Jin Kai International School in Lanang, I didn’t panic from the language

New Year prayers at Sensou Temple in Asakusa. People patiently wait in a line before giving prayers and wishes. They throw a coin offering, bow, clap their hands twice, bow again, ring the gong to get the attention of the gods, and pray. (haha!).

I listened to conversations while waiting for the traffic lights, among a crowd filled with holiday excitement, the slow murmurs between an old couple on a train, a very funny talk about a questionable unisex onsen between a group of girls, and surprisingly I heard guys call me beautiful (“kirei” or “kawaii”) a couple of times when I walked by them.

Since I could understand the words of the people around me, I felt less lonely.

barrier.

The attendants in shops surprised me with their fast-paced sales talk. Starting with the welcome, a brief promotion, pointing to you the face cover (so as not to mess up your make up) while changing clothes, to the greetings when you get out which is a mixture of ‘you’ve worked hard’ and ‘please come again’.

I also learned that you must walk at the left side all the time. If you’re on an escalator, you must push yourself at the left side, so that those who’re in a hurry

could get past you. Even if you don’t know the person, always give a slight bow when you’re causing a slight disturbance.

Funny how when I helped an old couple, or when I let an old man have my seat on the train, they tried to talk to me, but I blanked on the corresponding reply. I could only smile.

Although I couldn’t speak Japanese as fast, and as well as a native, I could understand what people were saying. And because of this, there was less anxiety.

It might be creepy to say, but I highly enjoyed eavesdropping

HAPPY SOLO I’m glad I travelled alone.

Travelling which takes money and physical energy is enjoyable only when the person is open to changes and has a deep interest in the destination. If I had brought with me another person who wasn’t as curious about the place, they’d have found the long walks excruciating.

I could also say that people in their twenties should travel a lot, and better if alone. The stream of new sights, the challenge of communication, unfamiliar situations, and a slight feeling of helplessness: all these humble you.

Travelling teaches you your strengths, and shows sides of you which you didn’t know existed.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

Duterte to push passage of BBL A

DUTERTE presidency will push for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and make the Bangsamoro an example for the rest to follow under a federal system of government, Davao City mayor and presidential candidate Rodrigo Duterte told a crowd of supporters at the plaza here saturday afternoon.

Earlier at the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat town, Maguindanao, Duterte told MILF officials led by Ghazali Jaafar that he would convene a Constitutional Commission to amend the 1987 Constitution to change the system of government into federalism but “if it takes time, and if only to defuse tension, in my government I will convince Congress to pass the BBL then make it as a template for federal states.”

At the Cotabato City plaza, the lone Presidential candidate from Mindanao stressed the need to correct the historical injustices committed against the Moro people and vowed that under his administration, “we will try to go federalism. Yang Bagsamoro sa mapa ngayon, wag nang galawin yan. Gawin na lang nating example na makopya sa lahat. Ang mangyayari nito, uunahin ko na lang pakiusapan ko ang Congress na we

will pass the BBL (The Bangsamoro on the map now, let’s not touch that anymore. Let’s make it an example for the rest to copy. I will immediately ask Congress to pass the BBL).

He said he will also tell Nur Misuari “kopyahin na lang natin sila para sa Mindanao at buong Pilipinas” (let’s copy that in Mindanao and in the rest of the Philippines”). Misuari, whom Duterte considers a friend, is founding chair of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) with whom government signed a Final Peace Agreement in 1996 and whose implementation has yet to be fully completed.

Duterte said other Presidential aspirants do not care about Mindanao and do not even want the BBL even as “lahat ng mga leader sa Mindanao” (all leaders in Mindanao) agree that the Moro people should be given what is due them.

If he wins, Duterte, who said his grandmother is a Moro and he has daughtersin-law and grandchildren who are Moro, declared: “yung isang paa ng Moro ay nasa Malacanang na” (one foot of the Moro is already in Malacanang).

Reviving BBL In Camp Darapanan, Jaafar, the MILF’s 1stVice Chair (formerly referred to as Vice Chair

Ghazali Jaafar, 1st Vice Chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (right) introduces the other members of the MILF Central Committee to presidential candidate and Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte during his visit in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat town in Maguindanao on February 27, 2016. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO for Political Affairs), asked Duterte how he would revive the BBL should he become President.

Duterte, the first Presidential candidate to have visited the MILF camp, Duterte told Jaafar and members of the MILF Central Committee that if he were elected President, he would set a timetable and create a commission composed of multi-sectoral groups including the Bangsamoro.

He said the shift to the proposed federal set-up “will be undertaken by a Constitutional Commission, and thereafter if I

am contented and it is gaining ground, BBL will be incorporated into the Constitution as an organic law of the Federal Republic of the Philippines,” he explained.

But Duterte admitted it might take long to take on a federal structure so “if it takes time, and if only to defuse tension, in my government I will convince Congress to pass the BBL then make it as a template for federal states.”

He said he predicted, the present administration “will just dribble” the problem to the next administration.

“I am so worried of the outcome of the BBL, I know how disappointed you are, so please I am here to plead with you just postpone action that might derail the peace process,” Duterte added.

The MILF had issued a statement on February 18, signed by MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, expressing its “deep disappointment and grave dismay” over the non-passage of the BBL” but said it will “continue to uphold the peace process and ensure that all the gains will be preserved.”

Radicalism, extremism Also discussed at the meeting were the issues of radicalism and extremism. Already, armed Moro groups in Butig, Lanao del Sur, Datu Salibo in Maguindanao and some parts in Basilan and Sulu are reportedly being influenced by extremist groups abroad.

Jaafar, however, said, “there is no radicalism, extremism or terrorism, they are Bangsamoro heroes defending their rights. That was the feeling of majority after they felt fooled after the failure of BBL.” He said these groups, who are “not members of the MILF,” just wanted to send a message to the government that they were hurt by the outcome of the peace deal “and how to stop them (is to) pass the BBL we have waited and negotiated for.”

The government and MILF signed the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) on March 27, 2014, after 17 years of peace negotiations. The agreement called for the creation of a new autonomous political entity – the Bangsamoro – that would replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Duterte viewed the recent events as atrocities triggered by poverty and injustice, and said these groups were forced to the wall by government

FDUTERTE, 10

EDGEDAVAO

14 MOTORING

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

First Drive:

2016 Toyota Innova 2.8 G

T

OYOTA is serious about their Innovative Multipurpose Vehicle or IMV that a team of its senior engineers circled the globe and listened to customers, including those from the Philippines, to find out what their vehicles go through. Armed with this knowledge, the result is the much-improved second-generation IMV capping off with the most-awaited iteration of them all: the all-new 2016 Innova.

Already the country’s best-selling MPV, the Innova didn’t need a drastic change to win sales, but Toyota isn’t resting on their laurels. Understanding that it is set to expand to other markets, they need to toughen up this no-nonsense, practical family car. And toughen it they did.

Hiroshi Nakajima, Chief Engineer of the IMV sums it up as having to design a second-generation Innova that’s every bit an MPV, but with the added authority of an SUV. In short, he’s going for something he calls: multi-performance. Buyers aren’t just keen on having a car that does one thing well.

They want something that’s versatile—something he sums up in three aspects: an exterior that leaves a lasting impression, an interior that’s flexible, and performance that’s stress-free.

The first aspect is achieved through the Innova’s new design form.

Though it doesn’t seem to share much with other Toyotas in terms of design language, it does have a stronger presence thanks to add-

ed angularity. The chiseled form starts from the wide grille that visually connects to the slender headlamps.

At the side, the Innova gains a more prominent character line that projects a livelier vibe along with 205/65R16 tires at each corner. The window treatment at the back is somewhat odd, but it’s nonetheless unique. The rear end gives a strong finish with the fang-like tail lamps.

As changed as it is outside, it’s on the inside where it sees the biggest improvement in both design and quality. Toyota has certainly done their homework and it shows. The asymmetrical dashboard, a theme seen on the RAV4 and Corolla Altis, gives a visually odd look, but contributes to a driver-friendly experience.

The controls are slightly canted towards the driver and together with the large and clearly marked buttons, make for easy operation.

Compared to the previous model, the most comfortable seating position now is lower, giving a car-like feel. The seats themselves are also more supportive and the steering actually adjusts for both tilt and reach. The expansive dashboard top and low set instrument cluster does take some getting used to, but once adjusted to, visibility is quite good throughout.

With a body that’s stretched in all dimensions, the 2016 Innova feels bigger inside. In terms of numbers alone, it gains more headroom for the first (+5mm) and third row occupants (+10mm) while increasing

the seating distance between occupants by as much as 19mm. The second row seats are noticeably spacious while retaining its cargo flexibility by having a 60/40 split fold, slide, and tumble mechanism. The third row retains its 50/50 split side folding layout, but thanks to a spring loaded mechanism and anchors at the back, as opposed to the door handles, makes for easier storage.

The family man is already rejoicing at this point, but it only gets better from there. Another substantially improved area is the driving feel. Like before, it’s offered with both gasoline and diesel engines, though the diesel is the one to get. The 2.8-liter Euro-4 compliant diesel engine is equipped with variable geometry turbo enough for a 171 horsepower output as well as 360 Nm of torque from as low as 1,200 rpm. Mated to a sixspeed automatic (no paddle shifters), it makes for brisk acceleration. At idle, it’s quiet and refined, and will easily cruise to highway speeds with little difficulty. There’s almost no ruckus from the engine bay except at full throttle application. Surprisingly, occupants will easily converse with each other with controlled road, tire, and wind noise.

Still equipped with a double wishbone front and 4-link coil spring rear suspension, it manages to absorb bumps well thanks to its highly rigid frame. With the frame’s side rails as thick as those in the Land Cruise Prado, it makes for added durability that quells chas-

sis flex, especially on rough roads and/or full loads.

What’s more, the Innova has something called Body Control with Torque Demand. This fully transparent system uses sensors to quell unwanted pitching potion by controlling engine torque. Whenever the center of gravity shifts front or back, say going over large bumps, it smoothens power delivery to lessen the jolting position. The polished ride is capped off with a nicely safe and stable handling. Although the steering is still a bit lethargic because of the hefty steering and the brakes are still too grabby.

As a company, Toyota has set a challenge to create ever better cars and with the all-new Innova, they have delivered on that promise. Toyota didn’t need to improve it by leaps and bounds to maintain market leadership, but with a name derived from the word, “Innovate”, the all-new Innova has certainly lived up to its name. This is one vehicle that’s managed to live up to all the hype.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

INTERCLUB ‘KINGS’. Philippine Airlines President Jaime J. Bautista (center) awards the 9th championship trophy of Canlubang in the championship division of the recently concluded 30th PAL Seniors Interclub held at Mimosa Golf & Country Club in Clark, Pampanga. To Mr. Bautista’s right are Canlubang manager Luigi Yulo and Tommy Manotoc, while at far right is Ria Domingo, PAL vice president for Marketing. (photo by Roy Bonghanoy)

Canlubang wins 9 Seniors Interclub title th

C

ANLUBANG pounced on Luisita’s one-hole collapse Sunday to win the Philippine Airlines Senior Interclub golf team championships at the Mimosa Golf & Country Club.

The defending champion completed the come-from-behind victory through the solid efforts of rookie Zaldy Villa, Tommy Manotoc and Rolly Viray who combined for 149 points at the Mountainview course.

Canlubang finished the four-day event with 575 points, five points clear of Luisita whose title bid was dashed at the par-4, 15th hole.

Eddie Bagtas needed four putts to hole out while teammates Jingy Tuason, Pepot Iñigo and Herminio Maravilla hit the water on the left side of the hole.

Luisita captain Jeric Hechanova said they managed to draw level with Canlubang at one point before the tragedy.

HAT the Cleveland Cavaliers would drop a road game against a would-be playoff team while giving LeBron James a rare day off might not be all that surprising to most.

Still, trailing by as many as 30 points along the way to a 113-99 loss to John Wall and the Washington Wizards on Sunday did not sit well with Cleveland’s J.R. Smith. ‘’If we’re going to play with a lack of energy ... and come out and play the way we did today,’’ Smith declared, ‘’we shouldn’t be who we are and be in these uniforms.’’

Smith, who had eight points and four rebounds in 18 minutes, continued: ‘’We can’t play basketball like this going down the stretch. ... You talk about contending or being a championship contender and you’re blown out ... and get thrashed, make it look good at the end. We can’t do that. If we’re serious about who we’re supposed

to be, we can’t do this.’’

It was the second consecutive loss for Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland, which is in the middle of a stretch of three games in four days.

That busy schedule was one of the reasons coach Tyronn Lue gave for resting James, who had skipped only one other game this season, on Dec. 5 at Miami. ‘’Any time you (make) that kind of move, it kind of lets the guys down a little bit,’’ Lue said. ‘’But that’s a decision that we made.’’

James left the locker room without speaking to the media.

Taking advantage of not having to deal with the four-time NBA MVP, the Wizards got a boost in their bid to move into playoff position, using Wall’s 21 points, 13 assists and seven rebounds, and 21 points from Otto Porter Jr., to improve to 5-2 since the All-Star break.

“We lost six points from that hole,” rued Hechanova.

Villa, a 59-year-old businessman, carried the day for Canlubang with 51 points, capping his seniors’ debut with two closing birdies.

Manotoc, 67, made only one par in the last five holes for 49 points, a score matched

by Viray. Rene Unson did not count with 47.

“We didn’t give up. Our chemistry and experience won it for us,” said winning team

captain Tony Olives who may have played his last Interclub.

Olives failed to count in the first two days which Luisita dominated, leading Canlubang by 12 points.

Bagtas mixed four birdies with the same number of bogeys to lead Luisita with tournament-best 54 points. Tuason struggled with 47 while Iñigo made 45. Maravilla failed to count with 41.

Mimosa’s bid to become the first team outside the

championship division to win the Interclub fell short, but consoled itself with the Founders’ title.

Korean Lee Dong Koo led Mimosa in the final round with 50 points while Park Chanwoo and Rico Santos added 48 and 47, respectively.

The host club wound up with 567, 13 points ahead of Cebu Country Club. Third was the Orchard with 546.

The Interclub is sponsored by People Asia, Travelife,

Mareco Broadcasting Network (Crossover), Manila Broadcasting Corporation, Airbus, Business Mirror and Philippine National Bank.

Other supporters are Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer. net, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Tanduay Distillers, Asia Brewery, Splash Corporation, RFM Corporation, Goldilocks, Eastgate Publishing Corporation, Robinsons Land, TMC, Mastercard, Hytera and RollsRoyce.

ARCELONA came from behind to equal a Spanish record of 34 games unbeaten in all competitions by moving eight points clear at the top of La Liga with a 2-1 win over Sevilla.

Sevilla were the last side to beat Barca back in October and deservedly struck first through Vitolo.

However, as so often of late, Barca recovered from a slow start thanks to Lionel Messi’s brilliant free-kick and Gerard Pique’s winner early in the second-half.

Luis Enrique’s men have now matched Real Madrid’s record run from the 1988-89 season and in doing so moved 12 points clear of third-placed Madrid.

Atletico Madrid remain Barca’s closest challengers after beating Madrid 1-0 on Saturday.

“We are in great form, but records don’t mean anything. At the end of the day everything is judged by titles,” Pique told Movistar+.

“Our season is well on track, but we need to finish it off.”

Sevilla were a constant threat on the counter-attack, but should have taken the lead from a set-piece when Timothee Kolodziejczak somehow blazed over from point-blank range.

Barca nearly went in front in spectacular fashion as Messi’s audacious attempt from a corner hit the post and Luis Suarez then blasted the rebound

off the crossbar.

Sevilla did eventually make the breakthrough 20 minutes in thanks to a fine breakaway as Benoit Tremoulinas’s cross from the left was slotted home at the back post by Vitolo.

However, as ever Messi came to the fore when Barca needed him most and the fivetime World Player of the Year levelled with a stunning freekick high into the far corner 11 minutes later.

Sergio Rico prevented Messi turning the game around single-handedly before the break with a great save low to his left.

Barca upped the pace after

the break and were rewarded when brilliant link-up play between Messi and Suarez teed up Pique to tap home from close range.

Sevilla still had the chance to take something from the game when Claudio Bravo flew from his line to block Kevin Gameiro as the Frenchman bore down on goal.

Earlier, Valencia’s fourgame winning run came to a sudden halt as Gary Neville’s men were beaten 3-0 by Athletic Bilbao in a dress rehearsal of their Europa League last-16 tie.

The Basques moved up to seventh in La Liga with three

goals in seven second-half minutes at Mestalla.

However, Neville was furious at two strong Valencia penalty appeals that were waived away before the opener.

“I thought the referee was a joke,” said the former Manchester United captain.

“I’ve not blamed refs in every game, but his management of the game was awful. Some of the things he did were incredible.”

Sabin Merino headed the visitors in front before Iker Muniain then doubled the lead to register his first goal in 18 months.

Wizards dominate Cavs Barca equal unbeaten record in Sevilla win T B

Blazers turn back Pacers

D

AMIAN Lillard had 33 points and five rebounds to lead the Portland Trail Blazers to a 111-102 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday (Monday, Manila time).

CJ McCollumn and Gerald Henderson each scored 19 points for the Trail Blazers, who have won 8 of 9 games.

Monta Ellis had 18 points and Jordan Hill added 15 off the bench for the Pacers, who have lost three of four games.

Leonard made a 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Trail Blazers an 87-77 at the end of the third quarter. Then Leon-

ard opened the fourth with a basket and two 3-pointers, including one to give Portland a 95-79 lead with 10:16 remaining.

Lillard’s triple with 8:03 remaining gave the Trail Blazers a 103-83 lead. Later Henderson and Allen Crabbe both made 3-pointers to put Portland ahead 109-88.

The surging Trail Blazers have won 13 of 15 games now while the Pacers have struggled to put together more than two wins together since winning three in a row in December.

Sevilla’s defender Benoit Tremoulinas vies with Barcelona’s forward Lionel Messi during the Spanish league football match at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona on Sunday. (AFP Photo/Josep Lago)

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 8 ISSUE 242 • TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2016

DASIA upsets Esdevco-Genesis 78-75

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

The Blue Guards were on top 75-72 with L 11 seconds re0 maining when Glenn Escandor 0 spoiled their early 1 celebration with a booming tri1 ple that tied the match for the last 2 time at 75-all.

2 And just when it looked like it will go to overtime, Christian Dave Villeta sank a hurried jumper to put DASIA ahead 77-75. The Realtors went to reigning Most Valuable Player Francis Gabriel Escandor to try to tie the match but his drive to the basket did not draw the referees’ whistle to the dismay of coach Esdevco-Genesis Ronel Leuterio.

Bernabe Rollon was fouled on the rebound and he split his charities for the final count.

Jason Lumaya led DASIA

TEAM STANDINGS DASIA

TRMH

W 2

2

Esdevco-Genesis 1 White House KADSIA Premia

D

1

0

0

ASIA leaned on a noncall on Esdevco-Genesis top gun Francis Gabriel Escandor in the dying seconds and then iced the match with a free throw to essay a giant-sized upset in the 2016 Escandor Group of Companies Basketball Tournament at the Genesis Gym on Sunday.

DASIA surprised everyone with a 78-75 over the defending champions win but the dramatic ending showed it wasn’t easy.

with 23 points while Angelo Joy De Luna added 17 for the Blue Guards who now has a league leading 2-0 record.

The Realtors dropped to a tie for second place with White House at 1-1.

The younger Escandor, hounded throughout the match, was still able to fire a game-high 25 points in a losing effort while Glenn Escandor added 12, all coming from beyond the arc.

The Royal Mandaya Hotel kept abreast with DASIA on top of the leaderboard with an impressive 78-65 win over winless Premia Packing Corporation for its second straight win in as many outings. White House turned back cellar-dwelling KADSIA 69-66 to improve to 1-1.

The tournament is sanctioned by the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP) 11 under regional director Regino “Boy” Cua.

Glenn Escandor of Esdevco-Genesis scores 12, all coming from beyond the arc, in a losing effort against Dasia.

Lean Daval Jr.