Edge Davao 6 Issue 97 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

www.edgedavao.net

Serving a seamless society

FRUITY SEASON. Davao’s fruits will once again be the toast of the season this Kadayawan Festival. This early, fruit farmers are getting their produce ready for the Kadayawan season ahead where sales are expected to be brisk. Lean Daval, Jr.

THUMBS DOWN Dayanghirang says Council NO TO MINING. Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang briefs media on the Paquibato mining controversy during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex. Lean Daval Jr.

to junk 2 mining applications By CHERRY MAE PALICTE cdp@edgedavao.net

ITH a firm resolve despite the absence of a scientific study of its adverse effects on the environment, Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang gave the thumbs down on the two mining applications in Davao City. “I will strongly oppose the application of two mining firms to exploit

Paquibato and Malabog,” Dayanghirang, chairman of the committee on environment and natural resources, said during the weekly Kapehan sa Dabaw in SM Annex yesterday. Dayanghirang considers the applications of Albertos Gold Corp, a multinational based in Michigan, USA, and Penson Corp “very dangerous to the environment and could greatly affect

FTHUMBS DOWN,10

INSIDE: AIDS killed 70 in Region 11 Battalion commanders bare tactics behind success Melindo falters in closing rounds, loses by decision

2 3

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

Planned Daliao food complex may become a reality soon By GREGORIO G. DELIGERO greg@edgedavao.net

FTER nearly a decade after its inception, the proposed food exchange complex inside the 24-hectare property of the National Development Company (NDC) in Daliao, Toril will finally push through once the government-owned investment agency allows the local government to use part of the property. In a letter dated July 25, 2013, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte formally asked NDC chairman and Industry Secretary Gregory L. Domingo to support the proposed Agri-Pinoy Trading Center (APTC) with a possible usufruct or other

modes of institutional arrangements for the use of a five-hectare area inside the property. Usufruct is the right to enjoy all the advantages of another’s property, provided that such property is not destroyed or damaged. Describing the NDC property as “the most suitable location,” Duterte said the food exchange complex is intended to provide a venue that can collectively accommodate aggregate quantities of goods from production areas for trading them in bulk. “The benefits will be

FPLANNED,10

GIFT-GIVING. It was like Christmas in July for some 300 indigent grade one pupils coming from schools in various districts of the IGaCoS division of city schools when the Rotary Club of East Davao and Seagrass Beach Resort in San Miguel, in cooperation with the Knights of Columbus and the Department of Education, distributed last Friday bags, school supplies and books. Photo shows Seagrass owner Gregorio “Boy” Sarmiento hands over a backpack to a mother of a pupil in the presence of Rotarians, Knights and Deped officials. From left: RCED president Paul Yuste, Rotarians Renante

Andres, Jim Sabino, Scott Richard Mcadoo, Sir Knight Balbino C. Fauni, Sir Knight Gerry Mison, principal Roger dela Cruz, Rotarians Vir Sojor, Don Canes, Hiriyuki Kawasima and Harold Thomas Kelleher, Deped Region 11 Director Gloria D. Benigno and School Division Supt. Eufemia Gamutin. Not in photo are Rotarians Fred Yelenik, co-organizer of the “Alay Ko Bukas Ko” gift-giving project, Dave Evans, Ranz Apolinario and Tony Ajero. The event was held in the scenic Seagrass Beach Resort. Lean Laval Jr.

Cabinet members 70 die of AIDS in Region 11 to join Minbizcon In 20 years

By CHERRY MAE PALICTE cdp@edgedavao.net

EVENTY people succumbed to the dreaded human immunno deficiency virus-acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV-AIDS) in Region 11 from 1993 to April 2013 as recorded by the in Region 11. According to Dr. Jordana Ramiterre, chief of Davao City’s Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC), there were 701 HIV cases in the region, 593 which were in Davao City alone. “Davao City has been the major contributor to the list of cases because it is highly urbanized and populous,” Ramiterre

said during the weekly Kapehan sa Dabaw in SM Annex yesterday. The following data show the number of HIV cases by provinces: Compostela Valley - 9; Davao deedl Norte - 56; Davao del Sur - 35; Davao Oriental – 8. The data for HIVAIDS cases by sex from 1993 to April 2013 are 43 female and 658 male. “The reason why males are the most common victim is because they indulge in sexual affairs with bisexual and gay men,” she explained, adding that, injection of illicit drugs is also one of the causes.

Ramiterre also bared that ages 25-34 were the most common victims of the virus since the age group is sexually active. HIV is the virus responsible for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) that is found in the blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk of infected people. HIV is also found in saliva, sweat, and tears, though not in high enough amounts to transmit the virus to another person. Meanwhile, Nidgie Tindoc, president of the Mindanao AIDS Advocate Association Inc. (MAAAI) and an HIV

positive for 10 years herself encouraged people with HIV to come out in the open. “At first I was devastated, but when I realized that a lot of agencies are extending help to us, I felt that life is worth living,” Tindoc said. Tindoc related her story to the media, announcing that HIV testing is free. “It’s for free and if a person is positive for HIV, we will help him/ her through counseling,” she said. Tindoc was diagnosed positive for HIV last 2002 and started her treatment in 2007.

Scene of the crime operatives (SOCO) examine the body of one Eduardo Moreno Jr. who was shot dead by an unidentified assailant along Gov. Duterte Street in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

LEVEN members of the Cabinet have been invited by organizers to attend the 22nd Mindanao Business Conference (Minbizcon) slated in Davao City on Aug. 8 to 10. Johm Gaisano Jr., president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) and Minbizcon director told media that their presence would add prestige and significance

to the event. Speaking at yesterday’s weekly Kapehan sa Dabaw in SM Annex, Gaisano said the forum would tackle issues concerning problems of Mindanao businessmen which only the national government can effectively address, hence the invitation. So far, some of those invited had confirmed their attendance while

FCABINET,10

Mindanao business leaders to craft ASEAN integration policy agenda

EY business leaders in Mindanao will convene for the 22nd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) to discuss policy agenda and craft recommendations that will prepare the island-region for the anticipated ASEAN integration by 2015. “In this year’s MinBizCon, we have consulted nearly 250 businessmen and industry organization leaders in five regions all over Mindanao and asked them to identify key economic concerns that will be presented during the event,” said John Gaisano, Jr. conference director of the 22nd MinBizCon, while adding that rec-

ommendations will be endorsed to the concerned cabinet secretaries who are attending the three-day conference. Gaisano said that if the country enters into a free trade agreement with other ASEAN-member countries, there must be a concerted effort between the government and private sectors to prepare the Mindanao business sector for bigger markets abroad. Dubbed as the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), the integration intends to merge Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Burma (Myan-

FMINDANAO,10

3 SUBURBIA

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

MATI, DAVAO ORIENTAL

Battalion commanders bare tactics behind success M

ILITARY commanders based in Davao Oriental bared last week the secrets behind the success of the peace and development efforts initiated by the Philippine Army in tandem with the Provincial Government during the Battalion Commander’s Symposium at Panacan, Davao City, where Battalion Commanders from the 4th and 10th Infantry Divisions and other Operation Control Units of the Eastern Mindanao Command have convened. Lt. Col. Krishnamurti Mortela, Battalion Commander of the 67th IB operating in the province’s first district and Lt. Col. Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., Battalion Commander of the 28th IB taking charge of the second district, concurred that the synergistic relationship between the Philippine Army and the local government was key in achieving sustainable peace the province now enjoys especially in the rural areas formerly flagged as conflict hotspots. LTC Mortela noted that under the Philippine Army’s Integrated Community Public Safety System, the military, civilians

and police components have merged and worked together. This strategy, he stated, helped in fostering peace and even aid in opening businesses and livelihood opportunities, which provided additional income for the residents in these farflung areas. “Peace can be achieved by winning the hearts and minds of the people through immersing in the communities and by taking the lead on livelihood projects,” Mortela said, stressing that the government should eye on the most vulnerable population groups that include farmers, peasants, and the youth. Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, who was invited as guest speaker to provide insights of the province’s best practices in peace and development divulged that providing the basic needs of the community is imperative in sustaining lasting peace, emphasizing the importance of making the government’s presence and services felt. “I am convinced more than ever that winning peace is just winning the hearts of the people and a simple way of winning the hearts is by being

BATTALION COMMANDERS MEETING. Participants of the Battalion Commander’s Symposium at Panacan, Davao City. (Inset) Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, who was invited as guest speaker to provide insights of the sensitive and responsive to what matters most to them,” she said. During the session, LTC Mortela divulged that a Barangay Health Station will soon be constructed in a remote village in the first district along with other infrastructure projects. He also said that he was able to source out funds from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) who earmarked

250,000 pesos for livelihood trainings, and has also submitted a 450,000 pesos project proposal for native chicken production in Boston town. Mortela further urged his fellow military officials to tap assistance from other non-government organizations, both national and international to initiate development projects in the communities since the government’s resources

province’s best practices in peace and development, receives a plaque from Lt. Col. Krishnamurti Mortela, battalion commander of the 67th IB. are limited. LTC Lorenzo of the 28th IB said that the provision of transportation services, manpower assistance to projects, among others were also crucial in maintaining the good image of the army and gives the people confidence on the armed forces presence in their communities, which is to provide aid and security. Meanwhile, Governor

Malanyaon vowed her continued all out support to the peace and development efforts of the Philippine Army. She underscored that the funds allocated for peace and order must be appropriately spent as to how it is intended to be used—a challenge that she gave to the chief executives in her province as to how they would spend their peace and order funds. [PIO Davao Oriental]

KABACAN, NORTH COTABATO

TAGUM CITY

Blast rocks state university

Mayor Rellon lauds cops, security officers T

NIDENTIFIED men set off a powerful improvised explosive device at the administration building of a premier university in Kabacan, North Cotabato on Sunday night, police said. Chief Inspector Jordine Maribojo, Kabacan police chief, said the powerful blast occurred at about 8:15 p.m. at the back portion of the administration building of University of Southern Mindanao (USM). Nobody was hurt in the incident but the explosion damaged the glass panes of the two-story building. Maribojo said no one has claimed responsibility for bomb attack which caused panic among the residents nearby. The administration building is situated near the main entrance of the university and about 50

meters away from residential and commercial center. Classes at the university, which has been marred by a series of protests and demonstrations against former USM President Dr. Antonio Jesus Derije since January to June, have returned to normal when Derije opted to step down to avoid delay of classes. During the time when rallies were held, there were violence reported, including bombing and burning of vehicles inside the campus. Army and PNP bomb experts recovered fragments of what they believed was an IED fashioned from 81 mm mortars with mobile phone as trigger mechanism. Classes continue as scheduled yesterday. [PNA]

AGUM City Mayor Allan L. Rellon praised the full force of the Philippine National Police-Tagum City Police Office led by the newly-assigned Chief of Police Solomon de Castilla for its successful pursuit against lawless elements and its continued support to his administration’s crusade against criminalities. The local chief executive led in the awarding of cash incentives to the men in uniform who helped in apprehending two suspects alleged to be involved in drug operations in the city. “This proves that our strategy to make Tagum secure and peaceful is effective,” Rellon told city employees during their flag-raising ceremony last July 29, 2013 where the simple awarding ceremony was held. The police arrested

RECOGNITION. Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon hands over the certificates of recognition and cash incentives to members of the Tagum City Police Office headed by Chief of Police Solomon de Castilla for the police suclast June 5, 2013 two suspects identified as Tomas Cañas and Madeline Plama at Abellera Compound in Pioneer Avenue along with methamphetamine

cessful pursuit against lawless elements in the city. The said awarding was held July 29, 2013 during the LGU’s flag-raising ceremony. [Leo Timogan/ CIO Tagum]

hydrochloride, commonly referred to as shabu worth 360,000 pesos, one .45-caliber pistol and other drug paraphernalia. The two were charged

in violation of Section 11 and Section 12 of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. [Louie Lapat/ CIO Tagum]

EDGEDAVAO

NATION

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

EXCHANGING VIEWS. President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with visiting Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the Expanded Bilateral Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace as part of the latter’s Official Visit to the Philippines Saturday. (Photo by: Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau/PNA)

MANILA

‘Pork barrel’ funds to stay in 2014 budget T

HE Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF) of lawmakers will stay in the 2014 budget despite allegations of misuse. Budget Secretary Butch Abad said some P27 billion in PDAF or “pork barrel” is in the 2014 budget.

Abad said the PDAF stays unless and until there is a decision by the President on the investigation on allegations of PDAF misuse. However, he said they have recommendations as to how to make the use of PDAF more accountable. “The direction is

limit-based, the NBI [National Bureau of Investigation] and DOJ [Department of Justice] will adopt some measures so we can make sure PDAF assists constituencies,” he said. Abad added that the budget for next year has all the hard and soft PDAF projects

itemized, unlike in the past when only soft projects (non-infrastructure projects) are listed and hard projects are tucked away in the budgets of agencies. Abad left it to the House leadership to decide if any lawmaker will be denied the PDAF.

HILIPPINE President Benigno Aquino III condemned on Sunday the explosion that rocked southern city of Cagayan de Oro where six people were killed and 48 were wounded Friday night. Deputy presidential spokeswoman Abigail Valte said that Aquino ordered authorities to bring to justice whoever was behind this “act

of senseless violence.” “The president ordered a clear investigation, that the right process is followed, to determine who was behind this explosion,” she said in an interview over a state-run radio station. She said probers were reviewing the CCTV cameras in the area and Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas

had flown to the place to ensure that the process was being followed. “They are trying to reconstruct now the crime scene because apparently the owners were allowed to clean up even before a clearance was given by the police,” said Valte who refused to speculate as to the motive of and whoever was behind the incident.

The bomb blast occurred in a posh restaurant filled with doctors and other health workers after a national medical convention on Friday night. A provincial council member was one of the six fatalities in the explosion inside a mall in downtown Cagayan de Oro city in Mindanao’s Misamis Oriental province. (PNA/Xinhua)

from the Comelec led by Chair Sixto S. Brillantes, Jr. against critics of the defective Smartmatic precinct count optical scan technology used in the 2010 and 2013 elections. In a two-page resolution written by Associate Justice Edwin Sorongon,

the CA acted on the order issued by the Supreme Court directing them to set a hearing on the petition filed by former Comelec commissioner and IT expert Augusto Lagman, and Comelec whistleblower and former Legal consultant

Melchor Magdamo and several others. “Let the summary hearing be set on July 30, 2013, Tuesday at 10 o’clock in the morning at the Paras Hall, 2nd Floor, Main Building, CA, M. Orosa Street, Ermita, Manila,” the resolution said. (PNA)

“We can only propose to legislature and we will have to make that decision in deference to them we would like to discuss those proposals. We leave to legislature to announce what those reforms are. This is a new Congress, we hope it will also usher in new

policies, but again that will be subject to discussion to leadership of the House. We defer to the Speaker’s views with respect to that,” he said. Abad maintained though they did not deny former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo her PDAF.

Aquino orders probe into CDO blast BIFF rebels attack 2 villages P

MANILA

CA sets hearing on habeas data raps vs Comelec’s P30-M intelligence funds HE Court of Appeals has set a hearing on the petition for habeas data filed against Commission on Elections and Malacañang officials on Tuesday. The case involved the alleged P30-million intelligence funds and threats

MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato

in North Cotabato, kills farmer

ORE government forces were sent here Monday by the Army’s 6th Infantry Division after renegade Moro rebels stormed two villages, shot dead a farmer, and used civilians as human shields as they fled from pursuing government forces. Colonel Dickson Hermoso, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, said elements of the 40th Infantry Battalion which has jurisdiction over Midsayap, North Cotabato, were sent to the villages of Baliki and Polomoguin where Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) harassed on Monday dawn. Reports here said that at around 1:00 a.m., BIFF rebels attacked the village of Baliki, a community in Midsayap, North Cotabato situated near Datu Piang where the BIFF operates. Armed Civilian Volunteer organizations (CVOs) engaged the attackers in an hour-long firefight until the renegade Moro rebel group fled towards Datu Piang when elements of

the 40th Infantry Battalion reinforced the militiamen. As the 40th IB elements started to close in Barangay Baliki, the BIFF forces numbering about 50 persons, fled toward Datu Piang in Maguindanao. But as they passed by Sitio Mirasol, Barangay Polomoguin, also in Midsayap, the bandits took away work animals and personal belongings of civilians. A farmer identified only as Reynald was shot dead after he refused to release his work animal. Before escaping toward the Rio Grande de Mindanao, the BIFF took some civilians and used them as human shields when the Army conducted pursuit operations. The civilians were released unharmed about an hour later. The BIFF harassment in Midsayap came after the bandits attempted but failed to blow up a bridge in Barangay Magaslong, Maguindanao Sunday morning. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 •TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

6 THE ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

Stat Watch

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

7.1 1st Qtr 2013

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

7.8 1st Qtr 2013

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

USD 3,741 million Feb 2013 USD 4,708 million Feb 2013 USD -967 million Feb 2013 USD -640 million Dec 2012 P 4,964,560 million Feb 2013

8. Interest Rates 4/

2.4 % Mar 2013 P113,609 million Mar 2013 P 5,281 billion Mar 2013

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

P 41.14 Apr 2013

12. Stocks Composite Index 6/

6,847.5 Mar 2013

13. Consumer Price Index 2006=100

132.8 Apr 2013

14. Headline Inflation Rate 2006=100

2.6 Apr 2013

15. Core Inflation Rate 2006=100

3.1 Apr 2013

16. Visitor Arrivals

418,108 Feb 2013

17. Underemployment Rate 7/

20.9% Jan 2013

18. Unemployment Rate 7/

7.1% Jan 2013

MONTHLY AVERAGE EXCHANGE RATE (January 2012-April 2013) Month Average December November October September August July June May April March February January

2013

2012

2011

40.67 40.73

42.23 41.01 41.12 41.45 41.75 42.04 41.91 42.78 42.85 42.70 42.86 42.66 43.62

43.31 43.64 43.27 43.45 43.02 42.42 42.81 43.37 43.13 43.24 43.52 43.70 44.17

It figures

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

P4 B worth of projects due for completion By GREGORIO G. DELIGERO greg@edgedavao.net

FTER posting higher than expected 7.4 percent growth in the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in 2012, the Davao Region is expected to continue its strong economic position for the rest of 2013 with the prospects of more economic opportunities. Maria Lourdes D. Lim, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) regional director, based the bullish forecast on the number of projects ready for completion and the expansion and entry of new investments particularly in the areas of information communication technology (ICT) and tourism. The projects registered with the Board of Investment (BOI) that will see realization in 2013 are the hydro power plant in Davao del Sur amounting to P1.3 billion, coal production in Davao Oriental worth P1.1 billion, a 186-room hotel in Davao City amounting to P824.5 million

and the low-cost mass housing projects in the cities of Davao and Tagum with a combined amount of P975 million. Lim also bared other investments that are already in the pipeline include the retail shopping malls and the electronic and steel manufacturing in the proposed Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) zone in Sta. Cruz. She said the ICT sector is also expected to continue its robust performance especially with the start of operations of Convergys which is the country’s biggest Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) that recruited 1,000 agents, expansion to Knowledge Process Outsourcing such as those for non-voice sector that would cater to health IT, back office outsourcing, engineering and design outsourcing, graphic design and animation and the accreditation of more IT parks in

Davao City. Lim also cited the current negotiations on a Joint Venture of Tagum Water District with i-Water and Maynilad which now focus on the conduct of the feasibility study. She also cited the strategic location of Davao City which continues to be a favorite national convention hub. “From the recent conventions of lawyers and those from the construction sector, to the MICE Con, to the National ICON (Investors Conference) that gathered 800 investors from all over the country in this city. Our winning of the bid as one of the sites for the APEC Ministers and Senior Officials Meeting in 2015 reinforces our Lead position in events and convention in Mindanao and in the ASEAN,” she said. “Given the economic opportunities that abound in the region, particularly in property

development, sustained boom in the ICT sector, manufacturing ventures, ongoing construction of power facilities, tourism and events, post Pablo rehabilitation programs, good governance practices of the LGUs, and the overall business confidence, Davao Region shall be able to achieve its revised 2013 regional growth rate target of 5.6%, to be sustained by the Industry and Services sectors of the region,” Lim added. She said that the economic impact of Typhoon Pablo is expected to slow down the GRDP growth this year “but the region’s gains will outweigh this and there is no stopping the region as it already has the momentum and the synergy that makes Davao Region the biggest economy in Mindanao.” Lim said Region 11 is one of the only 7 regions in the country that have significantly decreased its poverty incidence.

of franchise companies that have emerged in local and international business. The candidates were evaluated based on economic growth, corporate governance, market sustainability and social responsibility. The awarding was held on July 22, 2013 at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Pasay City.

“Phoenix Petroleum’s notable financial standing and growth rate, and quality of franchising support made them deserving of the awards,” said ENTREPRENEUR Philippines Editor-in-Chief Leah del Castillo. The screening committee was composed of ENTREPRENEUR’S editorial staff, an au-

diting firm, lawyers, and management and entrepreneurship experts. Phoenix Petroleum was awarded as one of five Outstanding Franchise Companies after winning in this year’s two major categories: Best in Franchise Support and Fastest-Growing Franchises. “A franchise has no chance of taking off if the franchisor has not put in place an excellent support system for its franchisees. This means making it easier for franchisees to follow the rules and come up with a consistent product or service,” said ENTREPRENEUR magazine. “It wouldn’t say much for a franchise if the rate of growth of franchisees were stagnant. Winners in this category are recognized for building a franchising model that enabled the franchise to expand exponentially.” Other top awardees were Kumon Philippines, Mr. Quickie, 7-Eleven, and Botoy’s Litson Manok. All the winners, their stories, and best practices are featured in the July 2013 issue of ENTREPRENEUR Philippines magazine.

Phoenix Petroleum feted in 2013 Franchise Awards

EADING independent oil company Phoenix Petroleum Philippines was named an Outstanding Franchise Company at this year’s ENTREPRENEUR Philippines Franchise Awards. The ENTREPRENEUR Franchise Awards, now on its 8th year, honors the achievements

PAL FLIES TO GUANGZHOU. Philippine Airlines (PAL) recently started its four-times-weekly flights to Guangzhou (formerly Canton), marked by a simple send-off ceremony at the NAIA Terminal 2. Photo shows officials during the ceremonial toast prior to departure

percent

Trust approval rating of President Benigno S. Aquino III, according to a survey conducted by Pulse Asia for the second quarter of 2013. This figure represents a five-point jump in the past three months while the President’s performance approval remains steady at 73%.

of the inaugural flight, from left -- PAL AVP Josen Perez de Tagle, Special Minister Sun Xiang Yang of the Embassy of China, MIAA Asst. Terminal Mgr. Andrew Balde, PAL’s head of airport operations Meliton Pascual Jr., and PAL’s head of international sales Bryan Lim.

percent

Satisfaction rating of President Benigno S. Aquino III, according to a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations for the second quarter of 2013. This figure is an improvement from the first quarter results of 74%, which nearly mirrors his record-high 77% rating recorded in August 2012.

692

million dollar

The country’s balance of payments (BOP) surplus in June 2013. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), this is due to sustained inflows of remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), business process outsourcing receipts, and investments.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

SCIENCE/ENVIRONMENT

Climate change poses challenge to Davao Region’s economy By GREGORIO G. DELIGERO

greg@edgedavao.net

HE increasing vulnerability of the Davao Region to climate change poses a big challenge to the local economy, according to National Economic Development Authority (Neda) regional director Maria Lourdes D. Lim. “In 2013 and onwards, the region shall be faced with major challenges. One, the agricultural sector will suffer a slight setback due to the devastation in banana, coconut, cacao and coffee plantations brought about by Typhoon Pablo. Other climate change factors such as rise in rise in sea level and temperature also threaten the region’s fishery subsector,” she said. Lim said the devastation brought about Typhoon Pablo “is a realization that the region, as most part of Mindanao, is no

longer a typhoon-free zone.” With this, she said the affected Local Government Units have to fast-track their Disaster Risk Reduction / Climate Change Adaptation or DRR/CCA plans (DRRMPs). Lim said NEDA 11I has continuously rendered assistance to the provinces in mainstreaming the DRR/ CCA principles in the PDPFPs, especially in the formulation of the Disaster Risk Assessment along with geo hazard and risk maps. “These enhanced plans are expected to be completed by end of this year and will significantly reinforce and strengthen the existing capabilities for reducing risks and adapting to climate change. All LGUs in the Region are expected to complete their DRRM Plan

by October 1, 2013, the timeline set by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC),” she said. In terms of eco-

nomic performance, Lim said the agriculture and fishery sector its growth from 0.6% growth in 2011, to only 0.4% growth in 2012 due t the

as HFCs could cut the rate of global warming by up to 0.5 degrees Celsius, save millions of lives and reduce crop losses by over 30 million tonnes a year. The increased support for clean cook stoves, amounting to US$1.4 million, will in part go to supporting regional testing centres to improve performance standards for clean cooks stoves and fuels. Studies indicate that, depending on the design, choices of fuel and the conditions in which they are used, advanced coosktoves

and fuels can play a key role in reducing emissions of SLCPs. Funding will also be used to support a fund, known as the Spark Fund, to provide pre-investment funding to scale projects that reduce black carbon and SLCPs while also supporting outreach and education on the role that advanced cookstoves and clean fuels can play in mitigating emissions of SLCPs. Radha Muthiah, Executive Director of the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, which is a member

of the CCAC, said: “The Alliance believes that this work to support standards and testing for black carbon, and pre-investment grants for entrepreneurs to scale projects that reduce SLCPs, will pay tremendous dividends for the climate and women and children’s health in the developing world.” At the end of the week’s meeting, hosted by the Government of Mexico, an additional US$1.6 million was also awarded to the Coalition’s brick kilns initiative. [UNEP]

management of marine resources since it is “nature-based and non-extractive.” “It brings together many key players in advocating for a type of tourism that protects marine biodiversity, thereby sustaining the protein requirement of Filipinos supplied by the seas, and providing sustainable livelihood to a marginalized sector of the population,” Paje explained. The environment chief cited the government’s Integrated Coastal Resources Management Program (ICRMP), which promotes sustainable management

of coastal resources using a “ridge-to-reef” or upland to lowland approach and creates income and livelihood opportunities to fisherfolk. Paje also disclosed that he recently issued DENR Administrative Order No. 2013-19, which sets the guidelines on ecotourism planning and management within protected areas that include coastal, marine and wetland regions. He said that with education and conservation awareness as one of the principles of ecotourism, the local community and other stakeholders are educated on the ecological

and economic benefits of the natural resources peculiar to their area. “This encourages them to sustain these resources, which are the prime draw for tourists, instead of extracting them until depletion,” Paje said. “Sustainable ecotourism, while heightening tourists’ awareness on the richness of our biodiversity and the need to conserve them, improves the quality of life in our coastal communities, empowers them and makes them more resilient in facing and adapting to the adverse impacts of climate change,” he added.

DOING INFRASTRUCTURE RIGHT. To help address impacts of extreme weather events, U.S. Embassy Manila’s United States Agency for International Development (USAID) conducted a climate change vulnerability assessment covering the eight municipalities in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley provinces most severely affected by Typhoon Pablo (International name: Bopha). Using advanced technologies such as Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), experts from the University of the Philippines-National Institute of Geological Sciences (UP-NIGS) generated

Clean-up of polluting brick kilns, cook stoves backed

FFORTS to reduce emissions of so-called Short Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) were given a boost at an international meeting last week in Mexico City. Members of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) approved last July 26 multi-million dollar funding to support the more widespread uptake of high quality clean cookstoves that also cut soot or black carbon emissions. Cutting emissions of SLCPs like black carbon, methane and gases known

DENR bats for coastal ecotourism as ‘win-win’strategy

HE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is pushing for ecotourism in coastal areas as a potential “win-win strategy” for sustainable development of the country’s rich marine resources and the millions of people who rely on them for food and livelihood. According to DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje, the concept of ecotourism takes advantage of the abundant natural and human resources the Philippines is endowed with. Paje said coastal ecotourism is the most sustainable approach to

area-specific flood and landslide susceptibility simulations (above) which helped ensure that critical infrastructure, to be constructed and rehabilitated with USAID funding, adopted above average design safety standards. USAID’s ongoing Pablo recovery assistance efforts also include education support activities and climate-resilient agriculture and aquaculture livelihood training. USAID-GEM/Sonny Mendoza (Photo credit: UP-NIGS)

reduced output attributed to the drop in the volume of banana production and fishing output in the Typhoon Pablo affected provinces of Compos-

tela Valley and Davao Oriental. The losses from the banana plantations alone was pegged at P15 billion while P53 million for the fishery output.

Sen. Pia warns against Hepatitis B spread:

16 million infected and counting

ENATOR Pia S. Cayetano today said the government has made headway in addressing Hepatitis B, a viral infection of the liver which is highly endemic in the Philippines, but she added that more needs to be done to control the spread of this deadly disease which currently affects one in every eight Filipinos. Marking World Hepatitis Day, which is observed every July 28th, Cayetano said the passage of Republic Act 10152, the ‘Mandatory Infants and Children Immunization Act’ two years ago, made vaccination against the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) compulsory for all infants within 24 hours of birth and available in government health facilities. “The enactment of RA 10152 seeks to address the most common mode of transmission of the HBV, which is from mother to child. It

is one major step, but it’s not enough and we need to follow through,” said Cayetano, the law’s principal author in the Senate. “The government urgently needs to intensify its programs and map out a comprehensive strategy against the spread of Hepatitis B, which liver experts have described as a ‘public health emergency’ in the country,” added the senator, who also chaired the Senate Committee on Health and Demography in the 15th Congress Official estimates place the prevalence rate of Hepatitis B at 16 percent of the population, or approximately 16 million Filipinos. Hepatitis C has a lower prevalence, but its cases are steadily climbing, according to reports from the Hepatology Society of the Philippines (HSP) and the National Viral Hepatitis Task Force (NVHTF).

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

EDITORIAL

Protection for our inventions

AVAO City’s talents in terms of discovering and recognition in the form of patents. developing technological solutions have reached So instead of cashing in on these inventive steps, our Silicon Valley level. Simply put, we are world- discoverers are left with just a bit of memory that once class. there was a geek from Davao who gave birth to this techThat is why there is a continuing program to harness nology only to be obliterated once the more advanced, our talents with the 2nd Startup Weekend Davao set on more empowered and well-funded inventor from the the second week of August. Expect the breakout of more first world gets hold of the idea. Remember the famous geniuses from Davao to emerge in this platform with inventions like the armalite, the moon buggy and the flumore inventive steps in technology. orescent lamp whose creations were attributed to FilipiHere’s the catch. While we produce inventors whose no inventors. Not to mention the popular yoyo, erythroapplications provide new scientific solutions applicable mycin, 16-bit microchip, e-jeepney, banana catsup and to the workplace and industries, there appears to be no karaoke. All of these were made by Filipinos. protective safeguards of their inventions. This means It should give organizers of the “Startup Weekend” the there is a need to establish a link in the development idea that other than providing the stage for the Davao and discovery of home-grown inventors with the cloak geeks to bring out their genius, it is also their responof legal protection of their intellectual property. While sibility to ensure that these discoveries are legally prowe produce breakthroughs in technology, the brains tected and attributed to the greatness of Dabawenyo scibehind these breakthroughs do not get the appropriate entists. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 •TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

Mutual animosity

AINTAINING A CERTAIN LEVEL OF CIVILITY – There is actually a disconcerting aspect in the Filipino character. It comes as no surprise that when the kind of attribute that we have, perhaps we will be rated very poorly. No matter how we try to conceal it, we are turning out to be increasingly motivated in raising grievances in every twist and turn. Perhaps tellingly, we have the inclination to find the right pasty upon whom to fix the blame on our misgivings and failures. The most callous accusation probably is that the leadership or any government for that matter, past and present have been remiss in their responsibilities to the people. A greater number of us are insensitive on our leaders – its programs and policies. Sad to lament, though, but this is all we can say: we have the habit of relying too much on our own biased opinion and buttered up with self-righteous pride bordering on haughtiness. The toughest problem relates to the very nature of the Filipino character – hard to please but hasty in making judgment. One glaring example: different critical groups and their worn-out invectives and bitter side comments had a familiar tone to the annoyed public. When I mentioned about groups, I’m referring to opposition diehards, over-assuming church leaders, human rights advocates, student activists, transport organizations, progressive labor and peasant groups and militant factions of different colors and stripes. The object of their moral indignation was no less than President Benigno Aquino III and his 4th SONA. Actually the friction between President PNoy and his adversaries, the same groups perhaps with additional few who are steadfastly critical of whoever is in power is nothing new. Ever since PNoy became president in 2010, he and

VANTAGE POINTS

his “built-in” detractors have crossed swords over a number of socio-economic and political issues. But the critics’ latest tirades about the country’s mounting problems were the strongest attack on President PNoy yet. The President, they charged, was seeking to lead the country back into the ages of political dynasties, nepotism, warlord era, corruption, sham democracy and debilitating poverty. What’s the triggering factor behind their outburst? - a litany of old issues such as joblessness, homelessness, landlessness, lack of food, shelter, proper education and medical care and health services. However, the crucial issues that had been on the boil for quite some time with the transport groups, student activists, militants and workers movement loudly making their cases heard in the streets is the unabated oil price and tuition fee increases. The President, though, has consistently stated during his SONA that his administration is addressing all the pressing concerns without letup. At the center of controversy is the alleged failure of President PNoy to mention during his annual report to the nation other critical issues such as the “pork barrel,” FOI Bill, OFWs, fuel price adjustments, crime situation, agrarian reform, just to name some. This topic has been the subject of continuous debate and refuses to calm down – in the street corners, coffee shops, public halls, and elsewhere. Notwithstanding the number of obsta-

cles, the Aquino leadership, however, believes the prevailing issues related to the people’s basic social needs, protection of the environment, disaster preparedness, proper use of natural resources, crime prevention, fluctuation of prices of oil and other refined petroleum products have a good chance of being address posthaste and given priority concern. Fortunately, the Aquino administration has not been slow in reacting to the slew of criticism. The Palace spokespersons stressed that President PNoy is not likely to back down from a cause he strongly believes is extremely beneficial to the nation. The vast majority according to the present dispensation would eventually support programs and policies of the government if all are deeply rooted into the country’s economic and social peace. Public dissatisfaction has risen with the perception that the government has been unable to tackle the prevailing interlocking problems, but in actuality it is working consistently to get the economy back into shape and that has to include a return to the values that made the Philippines a new haven for investments. Nevertheless, an important adjustment must be observed: President Aquino’s trademark broad grin and press-friendly attitude had earned him praises, but he may be able to do more than just put a smiling face to the mounting challenges he would encounter along the way. He will be judged on how well he manages the economy, social concerns and the fight against crime and other pressing problems, as well as the relations with his adversaries and political detractors. For all the mutual animosity and the current bad blood, President PNoy and his multitude of critics are actually not so alienated therefore they still could maintain a certain level of civility toward each other.

Emotion minus understanding

. Muslim students shall not be required to participate in non-Muslim religious rites.” This section was the response of DECS (Section 3) to a reminder from the National Youth Commission (Section 2) about “the plight of Muslim students attending schools where certain policies and practices infringe on their religious rights”. DepEd Order adopted this section in toto as Paragraph 2 of its Section 2: “The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos has called for strict implementation of the policy on the right of Muslim Filipino women to wear hijab/veil. Hence, the Department of Education (DepEd) reiterates its policy on the protection of religious rights of students as contained in DECS Order No. 53, s. 2001 entitled Strengthening the Protection of Religious Rights of Students, to wit: (Section 4 of DECS Order follows). It should be noted that NCMF replaced the Office of Muslim Affairs on August 11, 2008. Sections 3 and 4 of DepEd Order are new – Section 3, a distinction from Section 2; Section 4 to specifically address the case of ALIVE teachers. ALIVE was integrated into the public schools in school year 2005-2006. Section 3 states: “Furthermore, while the Department supports and promotes the right of Muslim Filipinos

MIND DA NEWS PATRICIO P. DIAZ

(Conclusion) to wear the hijab/veil, it does not compel Muslim Filipino women to wear it. Section 4 states: “For Muslim Filipino women who are wearing the veil that covers the entire face (ustadja) and have been hired as ALIVE teachers, the following conditions are strongly suggested [Note: “ustadja” as clarified in (b) below is “ALIVE teachers”; the veil referred to is “niqab”]: a. Wearing such veil covering the entire face is allowed outside the classroom. b. Once the ustadja is in the classroom she is requested to remove the veil for the following reasons: (i) For proper identification of the teachers by the pupils, thus promoting better teacher-pupil relationship; and (ii) In support of effective language teaching, recognition and discrimination of letters and their sounds are enhanced. Lip formation significantly helps in the correct production of the letter sounds.” Is DepED Order No. 32 offensive to Islam and Muslims? First, it aims to protect and strengthen the religious rights of all students. Second, it gives special attention to Muslim stu-

dents. Third, it makes an exception to the wearing of niqab only by Muslim women ALIVE teachers and only while teaching stating clearly the reasons. Section 4 is an appeal for professional proficiency without threat of punishment. Can this be reconciled with Islam? The Star report quoted Sadain: “Women in the Islamic world have a variety of ways of complying with the Quoranic injunctions by using either the hijab, niqab or burqa. This means that a Muslim woman who wears the hijab with her face uncovered, as a matter of preference, complies with the Quoranic dress code for women”. Sadain implies that niqab wearing Muslim women ALIVE teachers or ustadja can wear hijab while teaching and after that switch back to niqab. By that the ustadja will be true to their profession while still being true to Islam and their being Muslim. Being the NCMF commissioner, Sadain’s statement carries weight. DepED Order No. 32, s. 2013 understands Islam and the Quoranic dress code for women and is understanding toward Muslim women teachers. Secretary Luistro has nothing to reconsider. Unfortunately, Section 4 reported in media without proper understanding stirred up emotions and controversy obscuring the real purpose of the Order. [MindaNews]

To veil or unveil, a purely Muslim issue SPECIAL FEATURE BY ILUMINADO VARELA, JR.

RUDENCE dictates that non-Muslim Filipino educators should leave alone Filipino Muslims and Muslim teachers decide when and where to unveil or expose their hair and face. For the Muslims all over the world, the burqa or head-to-toe garment worn by Islamic women, is not only religious but cultural and political standard as well. For the conservative Islamic women, wearing of the burqa or veiling of hair and face, is not just an expression of political freedom but freedom from unwanted sexual advances and pride in Islam. But for the Westernized or modern Middle East nations unveiling is their right and the veil is a symbol of suppression. This is a sensitive subject -- and non-Muslim educators in public and private schools-- need not join this Islamic issue. In the 7th Century when Islam spread across the Arab countries, the new religion changed the position of women in the Arab society. Before his death, Muhammad, founder and prophet of Islam, decreed the liberation of Arab women. He prohibited the Arabian practice of female infanticide when infant girls were buried alive. Muhammad made the education of girls a sacred duty and gave women the right to own and inherit property. He also believed and decreed that sexual satisfaction was a woman’s right. But Muhammad’s Koran did not regard women equal to men: men are entitled to four wives or more but women to only one husband; the value of women’s testimony in court is worth half that of men’s. Interviewed in a government radio station, the oldest Imam (Islam clerics) in the Quiapo (Manila) mosque, said he has had at least a dozen wives and the youngest is 24 years old. The octogenarian Imam, like all Muslim men, can marry a girl of 14 years. Patriarchal tradition is losing support in many Middle East countries. Muslim women have been appointed to high government positions, including the government cabinet. Modernization of Muslim women began in Turkey before World War I. When Mustaffa Kamal Ataturk defeated the Ottoman Empire to become Turkey’s leader, he began the modernization or Westernization of Turkey. He unveiled Turkish women and prohibited the fez, a cone-shaped cap worn by Muslim men and made popular by the late Indonesian President Sukarno. Ataturk closed Muslim schools and established a public school system after that of Britain and the United States of America. Finding majority of the Turkish population illiterate, Ataturk adopted the Latin alphabet where the English alphabet is patterned. He rejected the Sharia Muslim law and established a new Code of Civil Laws. On the other hand, the victory of the Taliban in 1996 and it’s joining of forces with the Muslim Fundamentalists, including the Al Qaeda led by Osama bin Laden, boosted the restoration of the Ottoman’s First Principle. The Taliban declared that “complete Islamic system will be restored.” The Taliban banned girls from schools and ordered women to leave offices and hospitals. Men ordered to grow a beard within month’s time. Everybody had to pray five times a day. Taxi drivers had to pull up at mosques to pray five times daily. Disorder was left by the Taliban upon exit and fall of bin Laden. Shouldn’t non-Muslims need leave alone the purely Muslim issues? [PNA]

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

Mindanao.. FFROM 2

Thumbs down.. FFROM 1 the local government units” as well as the indigenous people. He did not elaborate how mere applications could “greatly affect” “local government units”. Penson Corp. is applying for 8,390 hectares of land for mining exploration while Albertos Gold Corp. is eyeing another 8,400 hectares. Dayanghirang said that the council was surprised by the endorsement of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 11 to MGB Manila for approval of the applications, adding that if the applications are approved the residents and environment would suffer. “We want to know the contents of their endorsement as far as MGB is concerned. We want to know if they are favorably endorsing the same or that they just endorsed the matter to Manila for what-

ever purpose,” Dayanghirang said, apparently perplexed. He bared that a public hearing was also held yesterday and the applications of mining firms should not be allowed and a manifestation from the city council should also be done. “We won’t delay this, I will strongly recommend opposition to their applications and try to finish everything in three weeks,” he said. Dayanghirang said Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and former mayor Sara Duterte made pronouncements that they are against the operation of mining in Davao City. “They want the city to be a mining free zone and asked Congressman Isidro Ungab to push the matter in Congress,” he explained, adding, ”After the committee hearing on mining, I will also call the attention of those who are involved in quarry-

ing and sand and gravel operations in the city.” He did not say why. “Right now I am still studying and require CENRO to furnish a copy with regards to the status of quarry operation permits,” he said. Dayanghirang bared that he is also collecting data on Land Transportation Office (LTO) on the apprehensions for overloading trucks that has been involved in quarry operations. “Anything that is dangerous to the environment will be addressed, right now we are still focusing on the mining issues,” he explained. Earlier, Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte said that he is not in favor of foreign firms exploiting Paquibato and Malabog. However, he said he supports the indigenous people in the area to engage in small-scale mining activities.

lower transport costs, minimized handling losses, being more competitive with affordable prices, livelihood and employment opportunities. Farmer-producers and consumers will be the project beneficiaries with the improved system of marketing,” he said. Starting in the last quarter of 2012, Duterte said discussions among key officials of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), NDC and Davao City LGU resulted in “concrete initiatives” for the conduct of the master plan and feasibility study of the food exchange terminal project and the possible allocation by DA of a “substantial budget support” for the trading cen-

ter.

At present, the city government is being assisted by the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) of the DA and the National Agribusiness Corporation (NABCOR), a government –owned and controlled corporation operating parallel to the thrust of the DA. These national government agencies will conduct the feasibility study of the APTC and provide funding requirements for the infrastructure and development cost while the Davao City LGU will provide the working capital and service support for the project. The Davao City Council has expressed its full support for the project and passed last July 23 a

resolution requesting the DA for the establishment of the APTC. Since 2004, the city government and DTI 11 had identified and agreed to pursue development options in establishing the food exchange in Daliao, Toril in line with the local government’s thrust of developing and promoting industries with high growth potentials. “The food exchange complex was envisioned to become a food and food processing consolidation center while the city government continues with its commitment to develop off-site infrastructure, including the Toril-Calinan alternate road, but no concrete agreements were completed at the time,” Duterte said.

others said they were trying to work out their previous schedules. Romeo Montenegro, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) director for investment, promotions and public affairs said that MinDA collaborated with the DCCII in crafting the policies and specific agenda that needed to be worked on with the agencies of the national government. “We expect that during the conference, we will hear specific actions coming from the national

government, particularly agencies concerned with such issues as power, the long and short term measures the government is planning to undertake,” Montenegro explained. Gemma Dagaas, MinDA supervising development management officer, said, “We are helping the DCCCII in crafting issues to be discussed in the conference, like agri-business, economy, skills development, eco and adventure tourism, development for small and medium enterprenu-

ers (SMEs), transport and logistics, and the power industry.” Minbizcon is the multisectoral platform for fostering competitiveness and accelerating growth in Mindanao, aside from the biggest gathering of senior business leaders, members of chambers of commerce, government policymakers, investors and foreign partners to network and exchange ideas on improving the business climate and competitiveness. CMP

Planned.. FFROM 2

Cabinet.. FFROM 2

EDGEDAVAO

mar), Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), into a single market economy. He added that in the next two years, the government and private sectors must pour in more resources to build and rehabilitate road networks and ports in Mindanao for a freer movement of people, goods, and services. Slated from August 8 to 10 here in this city, the 22nd MinBizCon is expected to convene more than 1,000 key business leaders from Mindanao and the Philippines as well as representatives from the Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). Gaisano said that Mindanao’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) would have the leverage to compete with their ASEAN counterparts since the island-region’s economy is being supported by a largely SME-

based sector. “Mindanao’s services sector, which is supported mainly by SMEs is steadily rising as one the region’s economic drivers in the past three years,” said Gaisano while adding that Mindanao still accounts for about 40 percent of the country’s food requirements and contributes more than 30 percent to the national food trade. Meanwhile, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Chair Luwalhati Antonino lauded President Benigno Aquino’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), in which he called for the review the cabotage law, which prohibits foreign vessels from directly transporting domestic cargo between two ports other than those designated as international ports. “Mindanao’s business community has long been clamoring for the amendment of the cabotage law, which the President has cited as a key legislative item in his re-

cent SONA,” said Antonino while adding that the government will boost efforts on sustaining the gains of the investment upgrades that the country recently received. She said that international trading prospects for Mindanao remains very promising, especially with the emerging popularity of its agri-based products such as cacao, coco sugar, and coco water that are beginning to penetrate markets abroad. “Mindanao remains as the country’s premier food source and agri-business producer, generating more than US$3 billion worth of agricultural exports and accounting for 60 percent of the country’s total agricultural exports in 2012,” announced Antonino while adding that this year’s MinBizCon aims to propel further Mindanao’s growing sectors while ensuring the participation of the region’s budding sectors and industries. [MinDA]

11 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

STUDY SHOWS:

Corn for diabetics, great alternative to rice T

HERE are various alternatives to rice as a staple and with a lot of dietary benefits as well; one of the most popular ones we known of today is corn. According to University of the Philippines Los Baños research professor, Dr. Artemio Salazar the best thing about using corn instead of rice was that it not only tasted similar, it also had significantly higher protein, dietary fiber, minerals, anti-oxidants and amylose than other staples. Salazar explained in a recent seminar, that white corn, in particular had higher amylose content than rice which explained its ability to have a harder gelatinization and slower digestion. This, he said was good news for diabetic patients because it was exactly what they needed to keep their digestion in the right pace. “Foods with low GI (glycemic index) can less-

en the risk of diabetes by slowly releasing glucose into the blood stream,” Salazar said. “Low GI food helps delay hunger and promotes weight loss,” he said. “Low GI food is a slow-releasing fuel for the muscles which can extend endurance.” However, Salazar also explained that while corn was a good staple to try out, Filipinos are not usually used to shifting to eating something they have already been used to. “Shifting from rice to pure corn is difficult, hence rice blend is recommended,” Salazar said, explaining how it was rice blend (rice composite) has acceptable taste similar to rice alone. “The acceptable ratio for the rice blend is 70:30,” he said. Another benefit of corn as a staple was shown in a study wherein there was a one kg weight gain of children fed with 70:30 rice blend. [PNA]

DA exceeds 100-MT rice export target A

G R I C U LT U R E Secretary Proceso J. Alcala is pleased that the Department of Agriculture in partnership with farmers’ groups and the private sector has exceeded its self-imposed target of 100 metric tons (MT) of rice exports this year. He favorably reacted on a report of DA Assistant Secretary and national rice program coordinator Dante S. Delima, who led a send–off of 45 MT of aromatic rice to Singapore, July 22, 2013, at the Manila North Harbor. Delima said the rice export would in part

satisfy the demand of 146,000 overseas Filipino workers in Singapore, and other rice-consuming Singaporeans and foreign tourists. The shipment consisted of 25 MT from farmer-members of Firmus Service Cooperative (FSC), in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, and 20 MT from Magtutumana ng Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MSRMPC), in Nueva Ecija. The rice was processed and exported by the Vegetable Importers Exporters Vegetables Association (VIEVA), carrying the brand “Golden Vieva aromatic white rice.”

“With this shipment, and at the rate we are going, it is not far-fetched for our exports of premium and organic, colored Philippine rice will breach the 200-MT mark by the end of the year,” said Delima, who is recently designated as OIC-Undersecretary for field operations. As of July 22, the country has already exported a total of 106.55 MT of premium and organic black rice varieties, including the recent 45-MT shipment to Singapore. The previous shipments included 35 MT to Dubai, 15 MT to Kuwait and Hong Kong, and 11.55 MT to

Germany, Hong Kong, Macau, Canada, and the Netherlands. Delima said the DA looks forward to exporting another batch of 97 MT until yearend to Russia, Italy, the Middle East, and the United States. He said rice exports to the Middle East would further increase as soon the DA task force on rice exportation has completed and complied with the Halal certification for premium rice, including the establishment of a code for good agricultural standards for Philippine rice. [Adam O. Borja/DA National Rice Program]

ESPITE the devastation wrought by ‘Pablo’ in Davao Region’s banana plantations, it still retains its position as the country’s top banana producer. This was bared by Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Unit XI (DA-RFUXI) regional executive director Remelyn R. Recoter during the agency’s mid-year

performance assessment conducted recently at Isla Betita, Island Garden City of Samal. “Last year’s total banana production in the Region decreased by 0.10 percent due to Super Typhoon Pablo, yet the region is still the country’s number one producer of this prime export commodity, “ Recoter said, adding that Davao Region’s total banana

production last year at 3,785,421 metric tons (MT) was slightly lower than the 3,854,844 MT production record in 2011. Other commodities that Davao Region tops in production, nationwide are cacao, with a total production of 3,763 MT and coconut, at 2,720,232 MT, based on 2012 production record. With regards to

coffee, the Region came in second at 18,950 MT, second only to SOCCkSARGEN’s 27,868 MT total production for the same year. The mid-year performance assessment was attended by regional technical director Bernadette San Juan, regional commodity coordinators and division chiefs of DA-RFU XI. [Aggie Media Service]

Davao Region is still top banana producer D

World cereal production set to reach historic high in 2013

ORLD total cereal production is forecast to increase by about 7 percent in 2013 compared to last year, helping to replenish global inventories and raise expectations for more stable markets in 2013/14, according to the latest issue of FAO’s quarterly Crop Prospects and Food Situation report. The increase would bring world cereal production to 2 479 million tonnes, a new record level. FAO now puts world wheat output in 2013 at 704 million tonnes, an increase of 6.8 percent, which more than recoups the previous year’s reduction and represents the highest level in history. World production of coarse grains in 2013 is now forecast by FAO at about 1 275 million tonnes, up sharply (9.7 percent) from 2012. World rice production in 2013 is forecast to expand by 1.9 percent to 500 million tonnes (milled equivalent) although prospects are still very provisional. Import forecasts, cereal prices Cereal imports of Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries for 2013/14 are estimated to rise by some 5 percent, compared to 2012/13, to meet growing de-

mand. Egypt, Indonesia and Nigeria, in particular, are forecast to import larger volumes. International prices of wheat declined slightly in June with the onset of the 2013 harvests in the Northern Hemisphere. By contrast, maize prices increased, supported by continued tight supplies. Export prices of rice were generally stable. Food insecurity situations The report focuses on developments affecting the food security situation of developing countries. In its review of food insecurity hotspots, the report highlights the following countries, among others: In Syria, 2013 wheat production dropped significantly below average due to the escalating civil conflict leading to disruptions in farming activities. Livestock sector has been severely affected. About 4 million people are estimated to be facing severe food insecurity. In Egypt, civil unrest and dwindling foreign exchange reserves raise serious food security concerns. In Central Africa, serious food insecurity conditions prevail due to escalating conflict affecting about 8.4 million people in Central African Republic and Democratic Republic of the Congo. [FAO]

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14 SPORTS

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

A TWEAK IN TIME

Gilas needs to adjust W

BIG MEN DESERVES MORE TOUCHES. Junmar Fajardo in action against Kazakhstan.

ITH less than four days to go before the FIBA Asia Championship tips off on August 1, PBA coaches see the need for some adjustments on the part of the Philippine national men’s basketball team for the competition. Veteran international campaigner Rajko Toroman, who serves as coaching consultant for Barako Bull, sees the need for Gilas Pilipinas to create more chances for their big men.

“They have yet to establish their inside game. For them to have better chances, Marcus Douthit and Jume Mar Fajardo should be given more touches and more opportunities to score inside,” said Toroman. Neither Douthit nor Fajardo scored in double-figures in Gilas’ 92-89 victory over Kazakhstan in their final tuneup match last Friday. The Philippine team relied heavily on their guards on the offensive end, with Jayson Castro and Jeff Chan scoring 20 points apiece, Larry Fonacier adding 14, and Jimmy Alapag posting 12. For his part, GlobalPort coach Junel Baculi saw the need to tweak the team’s defenses. “In my opinion, we are on the right track,”

wrote Baculi in a text message to InterAKTV. “Just a little adjustment on our defense, specifically on the pick-and-pop plays of our opponents. “More and more big men are improving on their pull up jumpers with range, too.” Kazakhstan’s ace big man Anton Ponomarev burned Gilas from the outside in their tuneup game. The 6-foot-10 forward scored four three-pointers in the first half off pick-andpop opportunities. But the Philippine team was able to make an adjustment in the second half of that match, with Ponomarev scoring just two points after the break with Gilas ace defender Marc Pingris hounding him.

Iran coach: We will win this

RAN has won two of the last three FIBA Asia Championship tournaments, and coach Memi Becirovic is not bashful about his team’s chances in the 2013 edition of the competition. “We are going to win the title but five or six other teams want to do that,” the Slovenian coach told the Tehran Times before the team’s departure for Manila on Sunday. Despite his confidence, Becirovic identified several other teams as contenders, including the host nation. “Teams such as South Korea and the Philippines are dangerous as well as China,” he said. Iran won the Asian championship in 2007 and 2009, before falling in a quarterfinals upset in the 2011 staging of the competition. But the powerhouse squad, led by mammoth NBA center Hamed Haddadi and Asian scoring superstar Samad Nikkhah Bahrami, is heading

into the competition with a lot of confidence, especially after winning the William Jones Cup in Taiwan last month. “I believe in my team and without a doubt I am coach of the best Asian team in the competitions. We have won Williams Jones Cup last month and it shows we are on the right track,” said Becirovic. Iran is bracketed in Group C, tabbed by observers as the “Group of Death” with fellow contenders China and South Korea, alongside minnow Malaysia.

INdulge!

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

STYLE

Camella supports local talents By GREGORIO G. DELIGERO greg@edgedavao.net

As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) project, Camella Davao is extending support to young local talents in Davao City who have grouped themselves under the Starbox Project Davao headed by Christian Robles.

Last July 25, the local talents gathered at the Camella Northpoint’s Wakefield Manor Clubhouse where they showcased their gifts and skills in the performing arts, like singing and dancing. “We will give them projects in our activities,” said Camella Davao general manager Marlon Escalicas. He said the idea of organizing and supporting local talents began to develop while they were scouting for entertainers during the various launchings of their projects. “Every time we have an activity, we find difficulty in searching for local talents. Now that they have organized, it is easier to contact them. Hopefully, more people would support this group amd more companies will become aware that we have local talents,” Escalicas said.

FCAMELLA,A4

Photos by Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge! UP AND ABOUT

Score free tickets to Carly Rae Jepsen Live in Manila POP MUSIC FANATICS ARE IN FOR ANOTHER WORLD-CLASS MUSIC EXPERIENCE AS CANADIAN SINGER-SONGWRITER AND THE ARTIST BEHIND THE HIT SONG “CALL ME MAYBE” CARLY RAE JEPSEN VISITS MANILA FOR A ONE-NIGHT CONCERT AT THE ARANETA COLISEUM ON AUGUST 7, 2013.

Are you one of her thousands of fans waiting for that chance in a lifetime to watch her concert without breaking the bank? You don’t need to call her maybe with your exclusive chance to see her up close and personal for free, made possible by Globe Telecom and Huawei. Get free concert tickets to Carly Rae Jepsen Live in Manila when you avail of a Huawei Ascend Mate or Huawei Ascend P6 under Globe Best-Ever MySuperPlan. You can also score free tickets when you purchase a prepaid phonekit for both handsets. For plan subscriptions at Plan 999 and up, get two (2) free VIP or Patron* seats at the concert. Meanwhile, subscriptions at Plan 499 and All-Unli Plan give you two free (2) Lower or Upper Box* seats. A prepaid phonekit also comes with a free Upper Box ticket. The Huawei Ascend Mate is free at Plan 999 and is also available at Plan 499 with a P200 monthly cashout** over a 24-month contract period. Meanwhile, the Huawei Ascend P6 is available for as low as P999 monthly at Plan 499 with P500 monthly cashout** or at P1,199 monthly at Plan 999 with P200 monthly cashout** also for a 24-month contract period. Huawei Ascend P6 is a Globe-exclusive handset while the leader in postpaid is the first telco to carry the Huawei Ascend Mate. “We are very excited to be part of a musical extravaganza that’s set to make another concert history that Filipinos will surely remember for years. Co-presented by Globe and Huawei, the Carly Rae Jepsen Live in Manila will definitely break concert records once again with thousands of Filipinos eagerly waiting for her and her music,” said Raul Macatangay, Head of Globe Postpaid. “Be part of the Carly Rae Jepsen global phenomenon in the Philippines for free by availing of Huawei’s newest handsets, perfect for those who want top quality smartphones at an affordable price, with the Best-Ever MySuperPlan, now made even more flexible and customizable. You are definitely in for the best-ever concert party to hit Manila this year.” With the Best-Ever MySuperPlan, subscribers get more than what they pay for with a plan value that is almost twice the value of prepaid load. Each plan has a corresponding ‘peso value’ (PV) which can be converted to avail of a combination of call, text or surf services, free or discounted gadgets, and a monthly consumable amount for more calls, texts, and surf. Subscribers also get the full flexibility of choosing the gadget they want at the contract period of their preference. The Best-Ever MySuperPlan now offers contract periods of 6, 12, 18, and 24 months.

The wait is over! Witness again the fashion authorities glammed up to the nines with their hand-picked pieces from SM Accessories. Fashion becomes versatile as Xian Lim, Georgina Wilson, Richard Gutierrez and Anne Curtis star in the SM Accessories for the third quarter. Ladies, take your pick from classic gold, grey and silver jewelry that match virtually any outfit you may think of. As for the guys, it’s time to stock up on your trusted gear in shades of blue, brown and black. Not so much into the classic pieces? Step

up and give in to the much-awaited SM Accessories Pre-Holiday Collection this month. Indulge your senses with captivating pieces of the season crafted by the only fashion accessories authority. Ladies would not be able to resist the romance of florals and teals, or focus on cutting-edge metal accessories for those who mean business, while gentlemen would enjoy the rawness of denim, or the sleekness of sartorial blues. Watch out for all of these pieces this season at The SM Store nearest you. See you soon!

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

EVENTS

P2 at Veranza The Gensan lifestyle is rapidly changing, and its not slowing down.

Veranza just recently opened its environmental friendly doors to the public last June 29 2013, and they’re not only here to provide us with satisfied tummies and an avenue for retail therapy from their newest internationally known resto’s, cafe’s and shops. They’re also determined to match it with quality entertainment. They have live top local bands performing every night at the Al Fresco and Promenade fronting the Veranza Waterfalls. Not only that, but they got two all time favourite OPM bands, Parokya ni Edgar and Pupil, to perform on their first mall show being held at the 5th floor of Veranza’s parking building. Clouds were slowly hovering over the rooftop, but eager-torock-out Generals are

still crashing the scene around 7pm on the 19th of June 2013. Then Parokya ni Edgar took the stage, played a few of their hit singles,like This Guy’s in love with you Pare, Halaga, Buloy and even a couple of requests from the crowd. I was lucky to have a friend that was able to get me up close, in

front of the barricades. I was able to get a photo taken just about 3 steps from the stage, when Parokya’s bassist, Buwi leaned and struck a pose with me, my inner fan girl in squealing with excitement, as I have been fond of Buwi’s on stage and onrecord antics for a long time. While the band is performing, even if rain started to pour, everyone was still having a good time, enjoying good music with good company. I have to hand it to Chito Miranda, the bands vocalist for 20 years (and counting), dove in with the crowd climbed on an extended ramp from the main stage and performed, even with rain pouring over our heads. Giving dating advice, joking around and thanking their fans for their continued support. Chito warmed our hearts amidst the cold breeze

from that rooftop. When Pupil started playing, the Generals sang along with Ely Buendia, not letting the weather get in the way of the fun. The band did not only play their original songs like, Obese and Disconnection Notice, but also, songs from Ely’s former band, Eraserheads, songs like Superproxy and Pare Ko. While singing along those songs, I got flashbacks from my childhood, of me listening to them over the radio. Both bands defined a generation, in OPM, which made them timeless. All in all, the night was a blast, the music was awesome, the crowd wasn’t brutal. Veranza recognises the importance of diversification when it comes to music, thats why their next treat for their mall goers, the next time, is an international artist, Keith Martin on July 27.

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

The End is the Beginning is the End Richard Linklater’s Before Midnight

by Jay Rosas Can love last, or perhaps a more relevant question, can love last in this era of superficial connections and busy lives? How can two individuals make it work? Is it really possible to have a happy ending in the real, cruel world? Does the beauty of sunsets lingers for just a fleeting moment and is rekindled until the next? These are questions that may or may not find their answers in the third instalment to Richard Linklater’s Before series. We get re-acquainted with our two leads and ponder upon these questions as the film unfolds in the usual string of conversations that we have become accustomed to. It’s a familiar path but it’s refreshing, almost miraculous how it avoided the usual routes of cliché we encounter over and over again when we talk about love. Almost ten years have passed since we were introduced to the two’s meeting in a Viennese train in 1994’s Before Sunrise, the verve of young lovers radiating, unwary of the future. We met them again in 2004’s Before Sunset in Paris, now in their early thirties trying to rekindle the connection and unbridled fervor of that fateful meeting. In Midnight, we find them spending summer in Greece’s southern Peloponnese region (Greece as location is important here, both historical and contemporary), now 40-ish with twin daughters and Jesse’s son from an ex-wife. The film opens in an airport scene with Jesse sending off his son Hank to Chicago (after spending a Greek summer too), the father incessantly engaging his son in a conversation only to be countered by curt answers, finally being dismissed when he offered to come to his piano recital saying things would be better off without his father’s presence. Hank is not disrespectful but practical, his reticence maybe hinting at his generation whose sense of connection is molded by technology, by iPhones and Facebook. (Interestingly, Jesse sports a shirt with the a design for Neptune Records, a record label in the 60s. This is matched by Celine’s iPhone casing which looks like a cassette tape.) When Jesse walks out of the airport lobby, we are greeted by a familiar tune and we see Celine waiting for him. While driving through scenic landscapes and past Greek ruins, we listen to their usual animated banter, and one suddenly notices the stark contrast, how different it is from the conversation with his son. Celine talks about work, her possibly joining a government agency, in which Jesse doesn’t seem to agree with. Jesse talks about Hank some more, longing to spend some more time with him (so that he could teach him how to throw a baseball, and things a father should be teaching their sons), and the exchange escalates into an argument about parenting. Their conversations with each other and with friends, in the course of

the film, is marked with the familiar spontaneity, only this time it feels richer and nuanced. They have a decade of life on and off together, a minefield of experiences they pick up assessing their relationship and for probing for a future of possibilities. When Jesse mentions that his grandma died, they go on discussing who will outlive each other. The exchanges, which escalate to a near-ticking bomb in that memorable hotel scene, spew out painful truths not just about the characters but of ourselves. It’s like reading a really good book or listening to stories of people we know, stories we have become familiar with and have become unconsciously intertwined into our own personal narratives. This convergence of elements of their past and probable future seems to be reinforcing the importance of the present. How does it matter when the past is light-years away and the future too bleak to look forward to? Jesse’s ramblings when discussing with the guys about an idea of a book he wants to write and which he tentatively calls “Temporary Cast-members of a LongRunning But Little-Seen Production of a Play Called Fleeting” is an insightful inside-reference of how the fragility of time impinges on the lives of our characters (he insists it’s

about perception, while his friend Stefanos clearly sees it’s about time). It is also a convergence of perspectives on love and relationship, which is beautifully realized in that group conversation. Everybody pitching in their life lessons: the young couple who seemed to have built something out of Skype, the Greek couple on love’s practicalities and Natalia’s musings on the ephemeral nature of memories and our transitory lives. While at some moments the film reaches the point of existential weariness, it doesn’t feel burdensome, rather it is enriching. You feel like you too have gained this perceptiveness, this zest for life, a celebration of things present. In that often talked about scene where the couples gaze at the sunset, Celine accompanies the setting of the sun with the words “still there… still there… gone,” with both sad longing and thankfulness of having to be in that moment, that not knowing the future is important because “the point is searching”. Jesse may have recognized this as he attempts to bring us to the cusp of romantic attraction, recreating a familiar intimacy, seeped in dreaded fairytale fashion, but grounded in the ironic realities of love and relationships. If you want true love, or some version of it, this is as real as it can get. Rating: 4.3/5

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

Camella..FFROM A1

The 18th year anniversary of Camella Davao this coming September will be the group’s big break as Escalicas said they are planning to organize a benefit concert “promoting Camella with a heart.” He said the proceeds from the concert will all go to the local talents. Among the Starbox Project Davao’s pool of talents are singers Patricia Veluz and Jannine Cartagena who

performed “magical duets” during the July 25 event and the Boys on Track boy band whose members, Mark Ken Mariscal, Edward Paul Gersava and Jofilouz Pacatan, rendered acapella songs with guest Elton Baranaskas. Also showcasing their dancing skills were Patrick Osorio and Rodz Bananola. “We are a boxfull of talents. We will try our best to give them the opportunity to shine,” Robles said.

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 •TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

GALLANT STAND. Milan Melindo in a fierce exchange with Juan Francisco Estrada. (Below) Estrada retained his two world titles with a unanimous decision against Melindo.

MILAN MALFUNCTION

Melindo falters in closing rounds, loses by decision

Morning fight favors Pacquiao

HERE is no denying that Cagayan de Oro City’s Milan “Metodico” Melindo is a skillful boxer. Undefeated in all of his professional boxing fights, this product of another grassroots boxing program started by then Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar Moreno, Melindo was expected to teach WBA and WBO Flyweight champion Juan Francisco Estrada a neat boxing lesson and become a world champion that he dreamed to be. Estrada, who is younger and taller than Melindo and who won the title by defeating FilAm Brian Viloria, is not really a technical fighter. But what he lacked in boxing skills and the technical aspect, Estrada and his handlers more than covered it up with an outstanding tactical strategy. Melindo and his handlers, on the other hand, miscalculated the fight and the strategists overrated the Filipino challenger’s punching power. While Melindo does not possess power behind his punches, he

fought the Mexican champion like he was Mike Tyson, standing in front of Estrada and hoping to land one big punch that would end the fight. Melindo connected with clean punches early on in the fight but while some may have indeed hurt Estrada, those hits were not enough to declare “lights out.’ Estrada and his handlers, on the other hand, knew that Melindo is no longer a young fighter and that chances are he would fade in the late rounds, a chink in the armor of most ALA boxers.

The Mexican champion just allowed the shorter and smaller Melindo to chase him all over the ring for nine rounds and when the tell-tale signs of fatigue showed, Estrada came back in the 10th round, scored a knockdown in tehe 11th and punished the Filipino challenger badly in the 12th. What I saw in the fight was a classic example of why Filipino boxers always end up losing to Mexican fighters in bouts which stretch the distance. Filipino fighters may

have the natural talent and skills but the Mexicans are outstanding tacticians who know what their fighters’ technical deficiencies are but cover these up with an excellent fight strategy. This scene will be replayed over and over again unless those involved in Philippine boxing realize that our trainers, handlers and cornermen have to study and learn. Otherwise, we will always end up nursing broken hearts and chasing elusive championship dreams.

OR the first time since his title fight against Oscar Larios in the morning of July 2, 2006 at the Araneta Coliseum in the Philippines, Manny Pacquiao will again fight in the morning against Brandon Rios at the Venetian Resort & Casino in Macau, China. For seven years Pacquiao has been fighting at nighttime in the US, mostly in Las Vegas, Nevada and Texas. On Nov. 24, Pacquiao will face Rios in the morning of Nov. 24 in Macau, China (Nov. 23 in the US) to jibe with the HBO programing and to accommodate pay-per-view clients on US TV prime time. Speaking at the press conference to kick off the media tour of the Pacquiao-Rios camps, Pacquiao’s promoter, Bob Arum said the “fight will begin at 10am, ensuring a prime-time Saturday night audience in America. “Nov 24 will be an historic occasion. It’s expected this event will reach more people than any event held in China, other than the Olympics,” said Arum “The fight will be live here at about 10am on Sunday, which is 9pm on

Saturday night in New York, the usual time to start a pay-per-view show.” Arum added. The timing of the fight seems to favor Pacquiao for a number of reasons. First, Pacquiao won’t experience the usual jet lag that Rios will have to bear even if he travels a week before fight date. Flying time for Pacquiao takes just a little over an hour from the Philippines and he doesn’t have to worry about jet lag. Secondly, Rios will have to bear with the sudden time shift of the fight from his usual evening schedule to early morning as he has to rise early for the usual pre-fight requirements. To reduce the effect of jet lag, Rios should perhaps consider flying at least two weeks before the fight. According to news-medical.net, Charles Samuels of the Centre for Sleep and Human Performance of Calgary, Canada says that “jet lag and travel fatigue have been identified by athletes, athletic trainers, coaches, and physicians as important but challenging problems that could benefit from practical solutions.”

16 VOL. 6 ISSUE 97 • TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2013

BOLT EYE

attention to the World Championships in Moscow next month, where he will face a weakened line-up in the main event. With Gay, Powell and the injured Yohan Blake all ruled out, the star attraction has dimmed somewhat. However, the 26-year-old has called on some of his younger rivals to make the most of the opportunity. “The fact that so many athletes are out is a good chance for a lot of young athletes to show up and get to the podium. It should be interesting to see who will step up and who wants it the most because it’s pretty wide open.” Bolt admitted that he is excited about the World Championships and feels he always performs better at the biennial competition. “This year I want to break my World Record. My best performances are always at the World Championships, so I’m aiming to go out there and run my best. I live for big moments. “I try to work as hard as possible when the championships are coming around and push myself to the limit. If you want to be a champion, you’ve got to work hard and stay on top because a lot of people are gunning for you.” The World Championships could hold some bad memories for Bolt after his false start in Daegu two years ago, but he insists that he has put it behind him. “I’m past that, from the next day I was over it,” he said. “I figured out what I did wrong and just moved past it. I learned from that mistake and I won’t make that mistake again.” After his “horrific” start in the 100m at the London Anniversary Games on Friday night, Bolt admits there is a fine line between starting too quickly and too slowly. “I’ve sat down with my coach and he told me he was happy. He explained to me that the slow start was probably just the workload and my legs just aren’t free enough. For the next two weeks we’ll be toning down and my legs will feel lighter. He has a plan, so I’m good.” One event Bolt will be missing out on this summer is his friend Rio Ferdinand’s testimonial match at Old Trafford. The Manchester United fan was invited to play by Ferdinand, but his involvement in the World Championships has ruled him out. “I wish that I was going to play, but hopefully next summer when there are no Championships something will happen.”

EDGEDAVAO Sports Bolt takes aim at world record L

ONDON — When Usain Bolt stepped into the London Olympic Stadium on Friday night, he felt something he had not felt in a long time — nerves. Returning to the venue where he won three gold medals just one year ago, Bolt admitted that the reaction he received from the crowd came as a complete shock. “I wasn’t actually nervous before I got to London, it was when I got out (in the stadium) and the reception I got when I felt the nerves coming on,” said Bolt. “I didn’t expect the amount of energy to be the same as it was for the Olympics, so it caught me by surprise ... I got a little bit of nerves. It was good nerves, though. I was just happy and it felt so wonderful to be back in the stadium.” After a turbulent week for athletics, Bolt feels that the London Anniversary Games helped “the world forget about what happened”. With Tyson Gay and fellow-Jamaican Asafa Powell — the second and fourth fastest men of all time — under investigation for doping, having a major event to remind fans about the quality of the sport was crucial. “I feel I’ve got a duty to help the sport,” said the sixtime Olympic champion. “I try my best to prove to the world that it can be done; to run clean and run fast and I’ll continue doing that until I retire.” Bolt now turns his