Edge Davao 7 Issue 102

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA)2014 junior grand champion performer of the world Lloyd Montebon poses with his medals and trophy during yesterday’s courtesy visit at Sangguniang Panlungsod.

Lean Daval Jr.

RECORD RPT COLLECTION City posts P665-M RPT revenues in 6 months

By Vannah S. ang vsa@edgedavao.net

h

alfway through the 2014 fiscal year, Davao City’s total real property tax collection has already surpassed the 2013 total collection based on the latest record of the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO).

As of June, the CTO reported a summary of net collections worth P664,972,247 which exceeded the total real property tax collection of P638,743,949 last year.

According to Rodrigo Riola, City Treasurer, there was a great improvement in real property tax collection because they have actively engaged in notifying real property owners about their failure to pay tax.

“We have been sending notices of delinquency and we already started cleansing our records between the assessor’s and the treasurer’s office,” he said.

Riola said that most real property owners in the city

FRECORD, 10

INSIDE EDGE

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DRUNKS NOT BARRED IN KADAYAWAN THE BIG NEWS page 2

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

DRUNKS NOT BARRED Kadayawan Execom says there is no such restriction in festivities By aRManDO B. fEnEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

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he Kadayawan executive Committee clarified that there is no policy against drunk persons from attending the activities of the forthcoming Kadayawan Festival.

Davao City councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, spokesperson of the Kadayawan execom, told reporters in chance interview yesterday at Sangguniang Panlungsod that contrary to an earlier pronouncement last Monday by Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) head Ret.Gen. Francisco Villaroman, the prohibition does not exist.

“I am surprise of the statement of General Villlaroman... actually nag security briefing mi gahapon (Monday) around 3:00 p.m., all of the committees were present and he didn’t mention about that. he only mention the back packs and katong mga uban pa,” said Alejandre. he said, in his opinion, the policy would deprive the right of every person to enjoy the festival.

“Katungod man na sa tao ang mag enjoy og mag-inom provided na naa ka sa sakto nimong pang-isip og wala kay gi-

himong destructions,” Aljeandre explained.

Alejandre emphasized that the city council did not passed a resolution on the new policy of Villaroman, prohibiting drunks to participate in the activities.

“If you remember naa tay mga back packs og ubang ginabawal, ginaagi na sa council. So far wala pa tay council resolution for that and I don’t know if there is an executive order from the mayor,” Alejandre stressed.

“We should remember that naay mga events nga naay liquor like Ka’an sa Da’an ug naa pud tay Kadayawan Invasion,” Alejandre said. he said that the drunk can be only arrested if the person will make trouble in a certain place of activity.

Last Monday, after the flag raising ceremony at the City hall, Villaroman told reporters that they will prohibit the drunk people to watch some activities because they might make trouble.

The PSSCC head said that they make some procedures to check the person who is suspected drunk during the major activities.

REQUIREMENT. People sit tight while waiting for their turn to obtain resident certificate, which is one of the requirements in applying for a job, at Sangguniang Panlungsod along San Pedro Street, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Militant leader scoffs at AFP’s challenge to help disarm NPA

By ChEnEEn R. CapOn

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crc@edgedavao.net

human right advocate group leader slammed the challenging statement of an official from the 10Th Infantry Division of the eastern Mindanao Command, adding it is both “stupid and defensive”.

“They [authorities of 10th ID] are trying to divert the issue kasi totoo naman na may nangyayaring human rights violation perpetrated by the elements of the state, especially in Kapalong,” hanimay Suazo, spokesperson of KarapatanSouthern Mindanao chapter, said in a phone interview yesterday.

In a press statement, Lt. Col. Norman S. Zuniega, commander of the 10th Civil-Military Operation Battalion in the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division Philippine Army challenged Karapatan to help disarm the New People’s Army (NPA).

“We challenge the groups who claim to champion people’s rights, especially KARAPATAN, that if you are truly concerned about the rights of the people, help us disarm the NPA, who have obviously terrorized and exploited the people, disrespected the IP’s customs, and continually violated CARhRIhL and human rights in its continued recruitment of minors, cold-blooded murder of civilians, and use of improvised landmines,” Zuniega added.

Suazo said that the elements of 10th ID who are now in Kapalong are “war mongers”.

“Ilang ginaingon na may civil war pero sa tinuod lang ang mga sibilyan ang nagiging biktima sa gyera,” she added.

The Karapatan spokesperson said that there were many human

FMILITANT, 10

Govt to install more CCTV cameras in city M

ORe closed- circuit television (CCTV) cameras will be installed along routes where major Kadayawan Festival events will take place in Davao City.

“More CCTVs will be deployed for security purpose and monitoring the activities during the Kadayawan,” retired general Francisco Villaroman, chief of the Public Safety and Security Command Center, said.

Villaroman told edge Davao that the deployment of CCTVs started last August 1 so that the augmentation project will be finished in time for the

opening of festivities on August 11.

The PSSC chief said that the CCTVs will be taken from areas where there are two CCTVs or more.

Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Sr. Supt. Vicente D. Danao Jr. said PSSC will deploy some of the CCTV cameras along the route where the Indak-indak and Floral Float Parade will happened.

In addition to CCTVs, Danao also added that “martial-law” like security measures will be implemented in the city during the celebration to ensure the safety of participants

and public viewers.

“I just quoted the mayor but “martial-law” means that stricter checkpoints and stop freeze and search will be implemented in the city” he said. he said that about 2,000 security forces will be deployed throughout the city. It will be from DCPO, Regional Police Office 11, Task Force Davao, Public Safety and Security Command and Mobile Police Group.

Danao also said that additional 2,000 volunteers from different barangays in Davao City will secure all participants during the celebration.

he said that each barangay in the city contributed five volunteers who will help the police in implementing stricter security measures.

The director also said that DCPO is maintaining high security alert within the city despite there’s no terror threat. he said that all entry points in the city, either by land or by sea, are secured with police and soldiers.

Danao encouraged the public again to be more vigilant especially to suspicious people and immediately report it to proper authority. CRC

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO Council approval sought for installation of slaughterhouse rendering machine VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

By aRManDO B. fEnEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

N international company has sought the approval of the Davao City Council for the installation of a rendering plant in Ma-a Slaughter house.

Nico Bolzico, General Manager of LM10 Corporation told reporters yesterday that they asked the legislative body for a recommendation to install their rendering machine to the slaughter house.

“Ideally what we are trying to do is to take care of all the waste in the slaughter house,”Bolzico said Bolzico said that their rendering machine is an environment-friendly apparatus since it will treat the waste in the slaughter house to become odorless.

“We used in many Latin American countries many years ago,” he said.

Bolzico said that their company already installed plants in different parts in the Philippines particularly in Metro Manila and Cagay-

an De Oro City. he said that the Ma-a Slaughter house will only need a small machine since they only have small amount of wastes.

In a separate interview, councilor Nilo Abllera Jr., chairman of the committee of government enterprises and privatization said that the Bankerohan Livestock Dealers Cooperative (BLDC) contracted LM10 to install a rendering plant as part of the rehabilitation project of the slaughter house.

“Ang BLDC naghimog proposal na rentahan nila atong Ma-a Slaughter house karon kay tungod kinahanglan apil sa pagpaayo sa slaughter house ang rendering plant. Mao na ang i-apply nato sa atong city council,” Abellera said.

Abellera said that the City Government required the BLDC to install a rendering plant to control the

FCOUNCIL, 10

Palace firm on moratorium on construction projects in West Philippine Sea

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he government will continue to push for a moratorium on any construction in disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea, despite China’s refusal to cooperate, a Palace official said Tuesday.

“Ang ating posisyon dito ay malinaw. Unang-una, nais nating pairalin ang moratorium sa lahat ng lugar na sakop ng maritime entitlement claims; ikalawa, buuin ang Code of Conduct na dapat pairalin; at ikatlo, isulong ang proseso sa UN arbitral tribunal,” Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a press briefing in Malacañang. he said the Philippines

has earned the support of other claimant countries in the Southeast Asian Region.

“Sa lahat ng mga aksyon na iyan, umaani tayo ng suporta at pagkilala ng katuwiran ng ating posisyon mula sa iba’t ibang bansa sa daigdig. Ang pinakahuling natanggap nating ulat ay ang pagpapahayag ng suporta ng Brunei, Vietnam at Indonesia sa posisyon ng Pilipinas, ayon sa Department of Foreign Affairs,” Coloma added.

The Philippines has filed a memorial at the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) against China, which has been carrying out con-

FPALACE, 10

RICE PRICE HIKE. Councilor Bonifacio Militar listens attentively to National Food Authority (NFA) Davao City manager Virgilio Alerta’s explanation on the

reasons behind the current rice price hike in Davao City during yesterday’s City Council regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod. Lean Daval Jr.

Funding for publication of Zoning Ordinance readied

By Vannah S. ang vsa@edgedavao.net

Release of the P4 million funds necessary for the publication of the City Government of Davao’s revised Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) and Zoning Ordinance is expected anytime soon according to the Local Finance Committee.

According to hon.

Rene elias Lopez, 3rd District City Councilor, all laws must be published first before they can take effect.

“As of now, the publication of the Zoning Ordinance is still pending the approval of the City Mayor’s Office,” he said.

Lopez said that the

City Council is currently looking for funds through the supplemental budget which is already being fast-tracked to accommodate urgent projects including the CLUP and Zoning Oridnance.

“The estimated cost is quite big and we have not allocated that from our general budget. So, we are hoping that the city government might be able to allocate the required funds for the publication,” he said.

The City Council is extending all efforts to locate funds for the publication. They find the task quite challenging

as the amount needed is rather expensive due to the three big volumes of the plan.

“It is now with the city hall, we used to have that here in the Sangguniang Panlungsod but because of certain budgeting laws and through the local government code, it is the general services office which shall undertake the publication,” he said.

Lopez said that the target deadline for the publication of the Zoning Ordinance depends on the executive branch.

The planning for the utilization of the supplemental budget is ex-

pected to be finished this month. “hopefully, if the publication of the Zoning Ordinance will be added to the supplemental budget, then we will be able to publish that soon as we approve it as a law in the council,” he said.

The revised CLUP is beneficial to the city as it will aid the development of economical, residential, industrial, and commercial establishments as the population, number of business establishments, and influx of residential and commercial invest-

FFUNDING, 10

Lack of budget hampers IP reparation

By ChEnEEn R. CapOn

I STARSTRUCK? Councilor Bernard Al-ag, together with Councilors Victoriano Advincula Jr. and Tomas Monteverde IV, takes a video of World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA)2014 junior grand champion performer of

the world Lloyd Montebon who sang his winning piece during yesterday’s City Council regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod. Lean Daval Jr.

crc@edgedavao.net

NDIGeNOUS people (IPs) whose rights were violated during the Martial Law may not be included in the list for recognition and reparation as mandated by the law because of lack of budget.

Chito Gascon, board member of human Rights Victims’ Claims Board (hRVCB) told edge Davao in an interview yesterday that the board has not visited IP communities and remote places in the country because of lack of funding and manpower.

“Malaking problema yan pero walang kapasidad ang board para pumunta sa

lahat ng barangay. At best, what we are doing now is the two-three day caravan.

Obviously, hindi sapat yun pero ang susunod nating gagawin is iaanunsyo kung meron ng sapat na budget,” Gascon said.

Based on Republic Act 10368 or human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013, human right victim during the Marcos regime will receive reparation and recognition from the State. It is said that the victims will receive monetary and non-monetary assistance. human rights victims

FLACK, 10

4 HEALTH EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

Tuberculosis is here to stay By aRManDO a. MORTEJO

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hRee years ago, Marianne received an e-mail from her mother.

She was petitioned of going to the United States. The 32-year-old single teacher from Davao City was ecstatic to hear the news.

After all, she had been dreaming of going to the land of milk and honey.

Unfortunately, it has been more than a year now but her visa application is still pending.

She wondered why. It all started when, after having a medical check-up, she was found to have tuberculosis (TB).

Despite advance knowledge in science and recent discovery of sophisticated drug regimes, the disease has continued its deadly progression.

“Tuberculosis is perhaps the greatest killer of all time,” wrote Dr. Frank Ryan, author of Tuberculosis: The Greatest Story Never Told. “Tuberculosis rose slowly, silently, seeping into the homes of millions, like an ageless miasma. Once arrived, TB stayed (and become) a stealthy predator.”

The “predator” is now out of control in many parts of the world. “The disease, preventable and treatable, has been grossly neglected, and no country is immune to it,” deplores the Geneva-based World health Organization (WhO).

With every tick of the clock, someone is infected with TB somewhere.

“One-third of the world’s entire population is now infected with the TB bacillus,” the UN health agency claims.

The United Nations health agency lists as the Philippines as among the four countries that account for 93 percent of the tuberculosis cases and deaths in the Western Pacific region. TB afflicts 712 Filipino every day.

“The Philippines, Cambodia, China and Vietnam account for 93 percent of the estimated regional TB burden of 1.6 million cases and 110,000 deaths each year. These four countries are among the 22 high-burden countries worldwide,” said the WhO in a statement.

Although the incidence of TB in the country had declined in the last 21 years, many patients still died daily due to failure to seek medical treatment, health Assistant Secretary Dr. eric Tayag said in a press briefing last year.

Of the 712 Filipinos afflicted with TB every day, only 632 seek treatment (of which only 577 are able to complete the entire six-month treatment).

The tenacious TB bacillus has preyed on people since antiquity.

TB-induced skeletal deformities point to the disease’s existence as early as 8000 BC. Unmistakable signs of tubercular bone decay were found in the skeletons of egyptian mummies as long ago as 2400 BC. “Year after year, century after century, it tightened its relentless grip, worsening with wars and famines that reduced people’s resistance, infecting virtually everyone but inexplicably sparing some while destroying others,” wrote Dr. Frank in his book.

Tuberculosis infection is transmitted almost entirely by the aerial route. “TB is transmitted from person to person, usually by inhaling bacteria-carrying air droplets,” writes Maria Luisa Padilla in encarta encyclopedia. “When a person sick with TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks, small particles

that carry two or three viable bacteria surrounded by a layer of moisture and released in the air.

When these particles are inhaled, bacteria lodge in the lungs and multiply.”

A less common route of transmission is through the skin. Pathologists and laboratory technicians who handle TB specimens may contract the disease through skin wounds. TB has also been reported in people who have received tattoos and people who have been circumcised.

A person may become infected with TB bacteria and not develop the disease. his or her immune system may destroy the bacteria completely. In fact, only 5-10 percent of those infected with TB actually become sick.

The four most familiar signs of TB, according to health experts, are chronic cough, mild fever in the afternoon and sweating at night, chest and back pain, and progressive weight loss.

In more serious or advanced cases, the symptoms are spitting blood, pale and waxy skin, and a hoarse voice.

The disease can occur

in two stages: primary and secondary. “In primary TB,” explains Padilla, “a person has become infected with the TB bacteria but often is not aware of it, since this stage of the disease does not produce noticeable symptoms.

Macrophages, immune cells that detect and destroy foreign matter, ingest the TB bacteria and transport them to the lymph nodes where they may be destroyed or inhibited.”

TB is not contagious in the early stage. “About three weeks after initial infection,” Padilla continues, “bacteria may be inhibited, destroyed, or allowed to multiply. If the bacteria multiply, active primary TB will develop.”

Symptoms of carriers include coughing, night sweats, weight loss, and fever. A chest X-ray may show shadows or fluid collection between the lung and its lining.

If the bacteria are inhibited, rather than destroyed, the immune cells form a mass known as granuloma or tubercle. In effect, the immune cells form a wall around inactive bacteria.

“As long as the immune

system remains strong, the TB bacteria remain walled off and inactive,” Padilla maintains. “The tubercle gradually collects calcium deposits to form what is known as a Ghon focus. These initial tubercles in the lung usually heal, leaving permanent scars that appear as shadows in chest X-rays.”

At this primary stage of TB, the disease does not progress, but bacterial may remain dormant in the body for many years.

If the immune system becomes weakened, the tubercle opens, releasing the bacteria, and the infection may develop into active disease, known as secondary TB. In the secondary TB, the formerly dormant bacteria multiply and destroy tissue in the lungs.

They also may spread to the rest of the body via the bloodstream. Fluid or air may collect between the lungs and the lining of the lungs, while tubercles continue to develop in the lung, progressively destroying lung tissue. Coughing of blood or phlegm may occur. At this secondary stage, carriers of TB can infect others.

In the past, TB was considered the world’s deadliest disease. Then, in 1944, 21-year-old “Patricia” with progressive, far-advanced pulmonary TB received the first injection of streptomycin.

She improved dramatically during the ensuing five months and was discharged in 1947. She was evaluated in 1954 and found to be healthy and the happy mother of three children. “This injection began the age of modern anti-TB treatment and led - until recently - to dramatic reductions in TB in industrialized countries,” the WhO says.

Other anti-TB drugs are thioacetazone (first introduced in 1946), isoniazid and pyrazinamide (both first tried in 1952), and ethambutol (used for the first time in 1961).

The most recent one, rifampicin, was released in 1966.

The success of drug therapy and the declining rates of disease incidence in the middle part of the 19th century instilled a sense of confidence in public health officials that TB could be conquered.

But like phoenix that rises from ashes, TB has staged a comeback - in a deadlier and more

complicated form. “The current TB epidemic is expected to grow worse, especially in developing countries, because of the evolution of MDR (multidrug-resistant) strains and the emergence of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), which comprises human immune system and makes them more susceptible to infectious diseases,” notes Anne Platt of the Washington-based Worldwatch Institute.

The MDR TB is any strain of the bacteria that is resistant to anti-TB drugs. It generally develops through improper use of TB medication.

People being treated for TB normally must take a mixture of drugs over an extended period of time. If they don’t complete their full course of medication, the strongest bacilli surviving in the lungs are given the opportunity to reproduce.

Those bacilli will likely be drug-resistant and, if the patient continues to suffer from active TB, can be spread by coughing to other people.

Poverty has been cited as the major reason for the resurgence of TB. “Overcrowded, impoverished dwellings are its breeding ground, and TB thrives on immune systems weakened by other chronic infections and by malnutrition,” said The Stop TB Initiative Report. “even before the cause of TB was discovered in 1822, thus paving the way to effective drug treatments, the rates of disease were falling in many developed countries because of an improvement in peoples’ standard of living.”

A significant cause of the dramatic rise in TB cases from the mid1980s onwards is the human immunodeficiency virus (hIV), the microorganism that causes AIDS. Today, TB is the single biggest killer of people infected with hIV. “hIV and TB form a lethal combination, each speeding the other’s progress,” the WhO says. hIV weakens the immune system.

Someone who is hIV-positive and infected with TB is 30 times more likely to become sick with TB than someone infected with TB who is hIV-negative.

“There is nothing a person can do to not get TB,” laments the WhO. “You can change your behavior to lower the risk of AIDS, but you cannot stop breathing.”

THE ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

Services sector: Slower but sustained growth

By Vannah S. ang

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vsa@edgedavao.net

he Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) growth rate of the Davao Region’s services sector slowed down from 8.8 percent in 2012 to 6.6 percent in 2013, based on the latest report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Region11.

The services sector is divided into six subsectors, namely, transport, storage, and communication; trade and repair of motor vehicles; personal and household goods; financial intermediation; real estate; renting and business activities; public administration and defense; compulsory social security; and other services.

According to Rosendo M. Aya-ay, regional head of PSA-RSCU 11, the transport, storage, and communication service subsector registered the biggest de-

celeration from 8.2 percent in 2012 to 3.4 percent in 2013. however, Regional Director Maria Lourdes D. Lim of the National economic and Development Authority (NeDA) in Region11, said that total passengers accommodated at the Francisco Bangoy International Airport reached 2.8 million or 25 percent higher compared to 2010.

“The number of inbound passenger flights also increased by 25 percent to reach 12,687 flights during the year. Likewise, total cargo handled increased by 22 percent at 49.8 thousand metric tons, the biggest cargo since 2010,” she said.

The trade and repair of motor vehicles, and personal and household goods service subsectors

Yellow Cymbidium, a ground orchids species which is also considered a delicacy in some Asian countries, is one of the varieties of cutflowers on display

in the ongoing Kadayawan agri-trade fair at SM City Davao car park. Lean Daval Jr. also decelerated from 10 percent in 2012 to 5 percent in 2013 but wholesale and retail trade remained strong due to the sustained spending capacity of the region.

“We saw the openings and expansions of shopping malls, buffet restaurants, and other commercial establishments.

Among the establishments that opened their doors to Dabawenyos during the year were the S & R, Puregold Prince Club, Gaisano Mall of Toril, Vikings, Yakimix, and French Baker to name a few,” Lim said.

The financial intermediation service subsector accelerated from 12.1 percent in 2012 to 13.5 percent in 2013 as evidenced by outstanding deposits amounting to P129.5 billion, which was the highest deposit level among all Mindanao regions.

“There was a high loans-to-deposits ratio of

36.6 percent and an increase in net loan portfolio at 20.5 percent compared to 2012. In terms of bank service availability, the region had 388 bank branches as of December 2013, which is the most in any region in Mindanao,” Lim said.

The real estate, renting and business activities service subsector also accelerated from 8.5 percent in 2012 to 10.3 percent.

“It benefitted from sustained demand in residential and office spaces which led to the spur in growth in condominiums and commercial buildings,” Lim said.

Public administration and defense and compulsory social security service subsector posted a slight decrease in growth with 6.6 percent in 2012 and 5.1 percent in 2013 while other services increased from 6.1 percent in 2012 to 6.8 percent in 2013.

he government has stepped up its efforts to improve the plight of people in the agricultural sector, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary herminio Coloma Jr. said during Tuesday’s press briefing at the Palace.

"Ang isinasagawang istratehiya ng pamahalaan ay mayroong spatial or area focus. Tinutukoy kung nasaan ang pinakamaraming mga mahihirap," said Coloma. "At batid naman natin na ang mga magsasaka ay kabilang doon sa hanay ng mahihirap, kung saang mga probinsya sila naroroon." he said the government has assessed 44 provinces based on high poverty magnitude, poverty incidence, and vul-

nerability to natural disasters, which contribute to poverty.

It is also helping the farmers increase their yield and is giving them opportunities to plant high-yielding crops to increase their income, he said.

"Kaya ito ay bahagi ng istratehiya para sa agricultural sector, na hindi ganoon kataas ang naging paglago noong mga nakaraang taon," he added.

Commenting on criticisms that the sector has been lacking support from the government for a long time, Coloma said data from the National economic and Development Authority (NeDA) could be analyzed to see if the farmers’ incomes have increased. (PNA)

Gov’t steps up efforts to improve agri sector T

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

SM Business Center now processing Ombudsman Clearance Applications

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N addition to its many government services like NSO applications, PRC renewal of professional licenses, SSS and Pag-IBIG payments, and DTI Consumer Welfare Services, the SM Business Center now offers its customers Ombudsman Clearance Applications in 49 SM Malls nationwide beginning July 28.

With that, SM Business Centers may now be able to receive applications and payments for Ombudsman Clearances. The Ombudsman Clearance is a document issued by the Office of the Ombudsman to certify that a particular person, especially a government employee, does not have any pending graft and corruption case filed against him/her.

The Clearance is used for claiming of retirement benefits, promotion or transfer of office, travel abroad (especially those with hold departure orders or with similar names with people who have such), permit to

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Ombudsman- SM Mart Partnership SM Mart, Inc. recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Office of the Ombudsman for the availability of Ombudsman Clearance Applications at the SM Business Center at 49 SM Malls nationwide. Shown at the MOA signing are Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales and Overall Deputy Ombudsman Melchor Arthur Carandang

together with SM Retail, Inc. President Jorge Mendiola, SM Retail, Inc. SEVP Ricky Lim, and SM Mart, Inc. President Chelo Monasterio. Also in the photo is Atty. Joan Lou Gamboa, from the Office of the Ombudsman, who acted as notary public.

Application and payments can be filed at SM Business Centers, even on weekends and holidays.

SM shall electronically transmit the data to the Office of the Ombudsman for printing of the clearance.

The final clearance shall be picked up by Air21 and delivered directly to the customer.

death certificates; PRC renewals of professional licenses; and DTI consumer welfare services and renewal of business name.

It also accepts payments for contributions and/or loans for the Social Security System, PagIBIG, Philhealth, and the National home Mortgage Finance Corporation.

Over the past years, the SM Business Center has become a one-stop shop for government services so that customers can transact these requirements while shopping in the malls. Aside from the Ombudsman Clearance Applications, its services include NSO applications for birth, marriage, and

Side events to also highlight the National MSME Summit

he slated National MSMe Summit at SMX Convention Center here on August 20-21, will be featuring two side events in different venues to further promote local products in the crafts and food sectors of 100 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMes).

The conduct of the Mindanao Crafts and Cultural Village and Great Mindanao Food Fair back-to-back with the summit is also geared towards opening market opportunities for the participating MSMes through buyer-producer linkage or matching.

The Mindanao Crafts and Cultural Village will be conducted on August 20-24 at SM Lanang Premier’s Atrium, while the Great Mindanao Food

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carry firearms, and participation in government biddings.

To formalize the partnership, SM Mart, Inc. recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Office of the Ombudsman at SM City North eDSA. No less than Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales and Overall Deputy Ombudsman Melchor Arthur Carandang graced the MOA signing together with SM Retail, Inc. President Jorge Mendiola, SM Retail, Inc. Senior executive Vice President Ricky Lim, and SM Mart, Inc. President Chelo Monasterio.

Deputy Ombudsman for the Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices Cyril Ramos and Atty.

Joan Lou Gamboa, also from the Office of the Ombudsman were present together with SM Supermalls President Annie Garcia and SM Business Center Operations Senior Assistant Vice President Dennis Yaw.

Fair will be on August 18-24 at Abreeza Ayala Mall’s Supermarket hallway.

The Mindanao Crafts and Cultural Village will feature crafts, weavings, and living traditions of indigenous groups of Mindanao tribes who have been the beneficiaries of the Davao Industry Cluster Capacity enhancement Project (DICCeP), National Industry Cluster Capacity enhancement Project (NICCeP) and various workshops and trainings spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

These indigenous groups include the Ata Manobo and Matigsalug of Davao City, Mandaya of Davao Oriental, and Bagobo of Davao del Sur. Special settings for the T’bolis and Pablo Crafts of Compos-

tela Valley Province will likewise be showcased.

The Great Mindanao Food Fair, on the other hand, aims to discover new products, encourage food producers to develop innovative products, and provide a platform for food producers and create market linkages for their products.

During the Great Mindanao Food Fair, food and fruit and vegetable carving demonstrations, interactive juicing, and some presentations by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will be made. There will also be contests for the Most Innovative Product, Most Visited Booth, and Biggest Sales, among others.

DTI-11 Officer-in-Charge Ma. Belen-

increase over the same period from the previous year’s gross revenue of P5.64 billion.

“The company is positive about this development, as it is an encouraging sign that the potential for growth is truly there for all industry players,” said Jetti Corporate Af-

fairs Manager Leo Bellas.

Factors cited behind this impressive result include a jump in sales volume, from 157.9 million liters of the previous year to 174.4 million liters at present; the attainment of matured volumes of stations that opened in the second half of 2013;

da Q. Ambi said the agency is really optimistic about reaping positive results of these side events.

“With the conduct of these side events, we are really aiming that the market reach of our products will be widened. On the other hand, we also want people to learn more of our culture,” she said.

Interested participants may contact the DTI office nearest them for additional details about the event. In Davao City, they can reach the DTI-Davao City Field Office at (082) 224-0511 local 201 or the Regional Trade and MSMe Development Division (TMSMeDD) at (082) 2240511 local 415, or email at msmesummit2014@ gmail.com and/or r11@ dti.gov.ph.

Apart from government services, the SM Business Center also accepts donations to the Red Cross and UNICeF, contributions for Couples for Christ, the reloading of easytrip and e-Pass, and payments for ticket purchases with Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Cathay Pacific.

DA stops transport of 160 imported pregnant cattle from New Zealand

T

he Department of Agriculture in Northern Mindanao has issued a cease and desist order for the transportation of 160 heads of imported cows from New Zealand, an official of a dairy cooperative here said on Tuesday.

Robert enerio, Chairman of the Federation of Northern Mindanao Dairy Cooperative, said that the DA has stopped the importation of the imported pregnant cattle for fear that the cattle have Porcine epidemic Diarrhea (PeD) disease.

The DA based its cease and desist order in response to a resolution passed by the members of the provincial board in Bukidnon expressing the fear that the imported cows might have PeD and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) of swines.

PeD, is a viral disease that is associated with outbreaks of diarrhea and vomiting with swine and PRRS that are now prevalent east of Thailand, enerio said.

he said it is not known whether the pregnant cattle intended for Northern Mindanao came from New Zealand. enerio said that the New Zealand government has donated 60 out of 160 heads of swine for hog farmers and dairy cooperatives in Northern Mindanao while the remaining 100 heads were for distribution for the dispersal program in Davao and Cotabato regions. he said that the New Zealand government has scheduled the delivery of the cattle last July 20, but the National Dairy Authority (NDA) has deferred the delivery due to the DA’s cease and desist order. enerio said that the members of the dairy cooperative in the region are asking the national government to investigate the DA’s cease and desist order considering the effects of the dairy industry in Northern Mindanao has been greatly affected. (PNA)

Complementing this is the strong sales from the existing network of retail outlets and commercial accounts.

According to Bellas, Jetti is expecting a further boost in sales figures once their new stations begin operations. They are looking at launching

more new stations by year-end, bringing the total number of Jetti stations to 135.

“The company is optimistic that, given our current performance, we will meet our projected gross revenue of P14 billion for 2014,” said Bellas. (PNA)

Jetti Petroleum posts 18% sales growth for H1 ‘14

NDePeNDeNt oil player Jetti Petroleum, Inc. (Jetti) posted an 18 percent increase in sales, representing a significant growth for the first half of this year.

Jetti saw gross revenue hike to P6.65 billion from January to June of this year, an 18 percent

100 percent utilization of Jetti’s Tagoloan bulk terminal, which is currently the company’s sole importing terminal; and the opening of four new stations from January to June 2014 in Cavite and the cities of Surigao, Cagayan de Oro and Dumaguete.

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. VOL.77ISSUE ISSUE102 102••WEDNESDAY, WEDNESDAY,AUGUST AUGUST6,6,2014 2014

WITHOUT TREES

Text and photos by aRManDO a. MORTEJO last of 2 parts

“M

I G R AT I O N accounted for the bulk of the upland population growth,” said Ma. Concepcion Cruz, who made an extensive study on upland migration in the country. “The highest rates of population growth in the uplands were in municipalities with logging concessions.”

“Poverty, lack of jobs and wages, and absence of farm lots in the lowlands have forced some people to invade the forest,” commented former Senator heherson Alvarez, who served as environment secretary during the administration of Corazon Aquino.

Consequences “For sin pays it wage… death,” said the holy Bible.

“When man sins against the earth, the wages of that sin is death or destruction,” explained Watson, who received the 1985 Ramon Magsaysay Award for peace and international understanding. “This seems to be a universal law of God and relates to all of God’s creation.

“Today, we face the reality of what man’s sins against the earth have caused. We see land degradation expressing itself in destruction of forests, loss of topsoil, pollution of streams and even the air we breathe. We are facing not a mere problem; we are facing de-

struction and even death if we continue to destroy the natural resources that support life on earth.”

As a consequence of the continuous removal of forest cover, particularly in the uplands, the Philippines now reels from various environmental problems. “Most of these were not seen in such intensity and magnitude before our time,” said Roy C. Alimoane, the current MBRLC director.

“The signs cry out for immediate nationwide attention.”

Soil erosion is one of the most prevalent problems of deforestation.

“Soil erosion now is an extremely serious problem in the country,” Alimoane said. “It does not only result in increasing the impoverishment of the Filipino farmers, but also destroys other things down under.”

Siltation, caused by erosion, shortens the productive life spans of dams and reservoirs.

The Magat resevoir, for instance, has been cut its probable life span of 100 years to 25 years. The Ambuklao Dam reservoir had its life halved from 60 to 32 years as a result of siltation.

Another consequence: water shortage. “Without vegetative cover, especially the trees, the land’s water absorption capacity is greatly reduced,” said Ines Basaen, who once did a community-based environment impact as-

sessment for indigenous peoples’ project.

Deforestation also threatens the country’s wildlife resources. The Philippine eagle has become an endangered species but of the destruction of their natural habitat -- the tropical rainforest -that is the principal cause of their rapid disappearance.

The natural habitat of Philippine eagle consists mainly of old-growth forests from 100 meters to 1,000 meters above sea level. Unfortunately, these are the habitats that are also fast disappearing due to deforestation.

“Deforestation is terrible,” deplored Dennis Salvador, the executive director of the Philippine eagle Foundation, Inc. “The Philippine eagle has become a critically endangered species because forest destruction has made it lose its natural habitat.” food and wood together All is not gloomy, however. The MBRLC has developed a farming model system that integrate tree planting into the agricultural production. It’s called Sustainable Agroforest Land Technology or SALT 3. Actually, it is a modification of the internationally-known Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT).

SALT 2 stands for Simple Agro-Livestock Technol-

ogy (SALT 2) which integrates goat raising into the SALT system.

“Where can you find in the world a farming system that combines food production and trees together?” asked Alimoane.

“In our model, we plant food crops at the lower portion of the farm. In planting the crops, contour hedgerows are still dominant in order to control soil erosion. Also, crop rotation is still practiced.”

Mulching is also a contributing factor in the sustainability of the farm. The hedgerows are cut every 15 days and the cutting serve as mulching materials for the growing crops. “We also plant fruit trees and other permanent crops on every third strip,” Alimoane said.

The upper portion of the farm is planted with different trees -- in different zones.

Timber trees like acacia occupy the higher areas. The middle portion is allotted to trees that can be harvested within 10-15 years like mahogany. The lower part is planted to trees that can be used for firewood and charcoal.

As a buffer between the trees and crops, bamboo is planted. good news Although people think the country’s forest cover continues to dwindle, it’s actually on the contrary, according to Dr. Rodel

Lasco, Philippine coordinator of the World Agroforestry Center.

In a span of 10 years, from 1998 to 2008, the total forest area in the country has actually increased... according to the official data of the government, said Dr. Lasco, who is also the dean of the College of Forestry of the University of the Philippines at Los Baños .

Dr. Lasco quoted a report released by the Forest Management Bureau (FMB), a line agency of the Department of environment and Natural Resources, which showed that from 6.48 million hectares in 1998, the forest cover increased to 7.168 million hectares in 2003, 7.391 million hectares in 2005 and finally 7.8 million hectares in 2008.

“The State of the World’s Forests 2011,” released by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, showed the extent of the forest area in the Philippines at 7.66 million hectares as of 2010.

The Philippines is one of the only two countries in Southeast Asia to have an increase in forest cover.

Both the Philippines and Vietnam have increased forest cover by an annual average of 55 hectares and 207 hectares, respectively.

Curbing change

climate

This increase of forest cover in the country is indeed a good news as forests have been cited as one of those that can curb climate change.

“Our forests harbor one of the highest biodiversity resources in the world,” Dr. Lasco said. “They are also significant carbon sinks able to absorb all our greenhouse-gas emissions from fossil fuels, making us almost carbon neutral.”

In fact, reducing deforestation in the tropics would significantly cut the amount of carbon dioxide -- the primary culprit of global warming -- emitted into the atmosphere. Scientists from the Universities of edinburgh and Leeds estimate that if all human-related deforestation of the tropics were to stop, the forests could absorb more carbon than at present, equivalent to one-fifth of global emissions.

Their study, published in “Global Change Biology,” claim carbon emissions from tropical forests will increase as the climate warms, as rising temperatures accelerate the decay of dead plants and trees, giving off more carbon dioxide. Global temperatures are forecast to rise by two degrees by the year 2099, which is predicted to increase annual carbon emissions from the forest by three-quarters of a billion

FWITHOUT, 10

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EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

EDITORIAL

Surpassing expectations

D

AVAO Region’s economic growth expressed in gross regional domestic product (GRDP) in 2013 was 6.8 percent, surpassing the year’s target of only 5.6 percent. This, despite the extent of the devastation left by super typhoon Pablo that hit Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley in 2012. Before the natural disasters that year, Region 11 posted a 7.4-percent economic growth.

In a July 31, 2014 presentation, Regional Director Ma. Lourdes D. Lim of the National economic and Development Authority said this was the second consecutive year that the region surpassed its growth forecast. The 2013 GRDP figures, she said, are a confirmation that Davao Region is truly resilient and that Dabawenyos have the capacity to recover quickly from calamities and to rise above difficult challenges.

“We are also pleased that the region has retained its position as Mindanao’s top economy in terms of GRDP value, a position we have enjoyed for the third consecutive year,” she said.

Director Lim said services grew by 6.6 percent as compared to target of 7 percent for the sector. Under transport, storage and communications sectors, total passengers accommodated at the Francisco Bangoy International Airport reached 2.8 million or 25 percent higher than in 2010. The number of inbound passenger flights also increased by 25 percent to reach 12,687 flights during the year. Likewise, total cargo handled increase

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by 22 percent at 49.8 thousand metric tons, the biggest volume since 2010.

The growth of industries was most impressive at 16.2 percent surpassing the target of only 4.8 percent. All of its subsectors posted double digit growths. Construction achieved the highest growth at 18.9 percent. Private building construction costing P22 billion surged by 70 percent.

Tourism was vibrant with the entry off 1.8 million visitors, which was 70 percent higher than in the previous year. Tourism receipts reached P6.7 billion, or 68 percent higher than in 2012.

Meanwhile, the combined earnings of 21, 000 Dabawenyos now working in the business processing outsourcing (BPO), mostly in contact centers, had a combined earning of P2 billion. however, as expected, growth in the agriculture sector was at negative 8 as against target of 2.2 percent. This was due to Typhoon Pablo’s devastation of coconut, banana and palay production areas in Davao Oriental, Compostella Valley and Davao del Norte.

As shown, the performance of services and industries sectors saved the day for the region. The figures also show the region’s brightest future could be in tourism and in business process outsourcing (BPO), and in construction. Let us nurture the boom that these sectors are experiencing.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA KENNETH IRVING K. ONG Photography Contributing Photographer Creative Solutions ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. AQUILES Z. ZONIO ARLENE D. PASAJE CHENEEN R. CAPON / VANNAH S. ANG Correspondent Cartoons Reporters

the national association of newspapers

Columnists: CARLOS MUNDA • MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEñA • MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NICASIO AGUSTIN • VIDA A. MIA VALVERDE • Economic ENRICO“ADDIE” “GICO” G. Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER ANGELO C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO PEñA • ZHAUN ORTEGA Analysts: • BERNADETTE B. DAYANGIRANG M.QUISIDO PEREZ • Lifestyle Columnists: BAISR., FAUZIAH SINSUAT •AMBOLODTO • MEGHANN STA. INES BORBON • MARY• JONALLIER ANN “ADI” C. • LEANDRO B. DAVAL • NIKKIFATIMA GOTIANSE-TAN NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • EMILY •ZEN NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Economic Analyst: ENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ

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Getting things done after SONA

USh FOR STRATeGIC VISION – As expected criticism against the 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Aquino reached a level comparable or maybe even grimmer that the time of his predecessors.

Protest groups of all colors and stripes – opposition diehards, militants and progressive groups, and student activists including exploited innocent children collided with the police dispersal units during the SONA resulting to injuries on both sides and damages to government and private properties.

Activists denounced President Aquino’s alleged repressive policies and even regarded him as more disgusting than his predecessors. They concluded that with the present temperament instituting reforms under the present system is highly improbable.

Problems such as the poor delivery of basic social services, massive unemployment, grinding poverty, rising crime, human rights violations, social injustice, unabated smuggling and government spending scandal just to name a few have taken center stage during the protest rallies.

Both sides of the debate agree that the most serious divisions within society spring not from the alleged po-

T

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

lice brutality and apparent protesters’ recklessness during the SONA, but from alleged economic and social inequality. For now, political watchers consider the occurrence as signs of fracture, although government strategists say there are now signs that the Aquino administration is beginning to strike at the roots.

Some people are declaring it’s time for committed reform measures that could bring back a quick recovery.

Of course, many of the loud critics are themselves lacking in credibility.

Moves to restart the economy, the institutions and the systems become more and more urgent. Government therefore must be serious in tackling the massive problems rather than spending time entertaining the impracticable demands of the noisy and annoying red-flag and placard-bearing protesters.

Most everyone is fed up of the an-

archy on the streets. Many people are tired of it and they realize that there is absolutely no end to the protests. Of course, nobody would care about the complaints if government is addressing all the pressing problems.

A week after the SONA, government should seriously get back to work, take necessary actions and get things done.

The Aquino leadership may be in for some real, desirable work because it is the common belief that government should be responsible to the people and the President is committed to achieving these aims while he is in power. To succeed on a national scale, President Aquino had to reverse decades of neglect and indifference, which led many frustrated people to join protest actions and embrace the culture of hate and disgust. however, reforms should not be abrupt because the mounting and pressing problems could not be solved overnight, but the goal is to ensure that Filipinos don’t lag far behind in terms of socio-economic and political development. Nevertheless, the elements for reforms and government’s willingness to listen, to work and institute reforms are as persuasive as ever as emphasized during the SONA.

Filipinos are suckers for political dynasties

he fact that more than 90% of our provinces are ruled by political dynasties says a lot about Filipino gullibility or simplemindedness.

Falling for the wiles of power-greedy traditional politicians (trapos!) isn’t much different from swallowing fantasy served up by fairy tales or teleseryes; an episode provides momentary distraction and somehow locks the viewer into following the series.

Doing so provides temporary relief from reality, especially harsh reality. Fantasy is enthralling, even spellbinding for one seeking an escape.

Following tales and contrived legends of royalty is also an engaging distraction, especially if one can imagine himself or herself as part of the narrative. ***** The Filipino’s fascination with royalty is well-established. We like to crown a make-believe queen or princess during fiestas. We hold other festivals where a “Mr. This,” a “Miss That,” or a “Mrs. Whatever” is chosen or elected. he or she then gets to mount a royal “throne” and reign for a day or week or month…with pomp and pageantry!

“Royal” pageants are regular features in all kinds of festivity, street-level community-wide, nationwide. It stops people in their tracks and sets off the flashbulbs.

Filipinos tend to drool over royal personalities, be they pretend or real, a beauty queen or a screen star or a make-believe princess.

It dates back to the days of monarchs and queens, princes and princesses, and the stories and legends that court habitués wove around them. ***** What’s appalling is the way the masses take such pageantry for real, letting the fantasy spill over into politics—and even

WORM’S EYEVIEW

by MAnny vAldehueSA participate in “royal” battles waged by political dynasties.

Part make-believe, part deadly Game of Thrones, it would be so entertaining if only it weren’t being waged in earnest, casualties and all.

Played out in fields where rival forces collide, as in the Ampatuan Massacre or, earlier, in Antique where evelio Javier was gunned down, it’s no longer a matter of whether the winner is malakas or maganda. It has become a lethal game where it’s not the Force of Law but the Law of Force that decides the winner. Or, alternatively, as the pork barrel scandal tells us, the name of the game is money. In which case, the grand prize will go to a Pogi, a Sexy, a Tanda, and the like. ***** In this game, the winners get to shed off their persona as public servants and democrats and behave like royalty, who then insist on staying on the throne forever.

If this were just make-believe, it wouldn’t be so bad. The trouble is, trapos stretch the fantasy to the limit, thinking and acting as if they’re above the law.

And that’s how propriety, legality, and morality get thrown out the window as pretenders to the throne conduct the business of government without transparency, accountability, or the participation of their “subjects.”

The problem is aggravated when constituents do behave like subjects, tolerating imperious behavior and impunity, letting even gross manifestations of wrongdoing go unpunished.

And that’s why political dynasties

crop up like mushroom throughout provinces and regions—turning the political system into a haven of dynastic privilege, corruption, opportunism, inequality… and impunity! ***** Actually dynastic politics is not new. Dynasties have come and gone in our relatively short history. What is new is its epidemic scope and the utter shamelessness, the in-your-face indulgence, that violates the nobler nature of Filipinos and what is proper or acceptable in a civilized society.

Dynastic politics has become so widespread that even its victims view it as ineluctable, and no one even bothers to point out how it exacerbates inequality and greed.

As long as this docile, unquestioning behavior persists, dynastic officeholders will always monopolize political and economic power, doing so by bastardizing the democratic process—cheating or buying votes, bribing the Comelec, bending the popular will to their whims and caprices, and manipulate the economy to their advantage.

It is sad that these royal pretenders don’t have delicadeza or a sense of propriety. It used to be that officeholders were icons of society—illustrados— learned, edifying, worth emulating. Not anymore.

Manny is former UNESCO regional director for Asia-Pacific; secretary-general, Southeast Asia Publishers Association; director, development academy of Philippines; member, Philippine Mission to the UN; vice chair, Local Government Academy; member, Cory Govt’s Peace Panel; and awardee, PPI-UNICEF most outstanding columnist. He is president/national convenor, Gising Barangay Movement Inc. valdehuesa@gmail.com

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Sex on the island

FAST BACKWARD by the ArchiviSt

T

OURISM, American bases, sex permissiveness, and ‘live’ shows in adult bars are only some of the issues observers always link to the distortion that has descended on Filipino perspective about “hospitality.” Some call it the “sun, sand and sex” promo factors.

In the not so distance past, there were the ‘toro-toro’ exhibitions (live sex shows) that graced, albeit clandestinely and held past midnight, the kinky bars that once upon a time were Davao attractions along San Pedro, Claveria, and MacArthur thoroughfares. Incidentally, our forefathers, i.e., the Visayans, were way ahead when it comes to this titillating practice.

Venetian chronicler Antonio Pigafetta, Ferdinand Magellan’s diarist, was not only a consistent raconteur that provided the world the minute details of the first global trip around the world by sea, he was among the finest researchers. Attentive to details, he wove his anecdotal records with particulars that would have otherwise been overlooked by greenhorn storytellers.

When Magellan arrived in Cebu in April 1521, he observed that the Sugbuanons were organized and skillful in their barter practices, using accurate system of weights, measures, balances and scales.

Remarkably, the place was booming with business and it was for a long time a dropoff point for maritime merchants engaged in spice trade.

Pigafetta did more than just record the nitty-gritty of his Captain General’s deals with the local Cebuano chiefs, he also documented the bizarre sexual practices of ethnic Pinoys in the area, observing an actual copulation, which the natives presumably performed in person.

Unlike men of today who use aesthetic medicines to prolong the sex act, the Cebuanos Magellan met had a weird and by today’s standard unusual way of procreating, which they called “palang”, a penile ornament cum sex enhancer. Pigafetta wrote: “The males, large and small, have their penis pierced from one side to the other near the head, with a gold or tin bolt as large as goose quill… In both ends f the same bolt, some have what resembles a spur, with points upon the ends; others are like the head of a cart nail… In the middle of the bolt is a hole, through which they urinate. The bold and spurs always hold firm.”

Palang was not confined only to men.

It also referred to the practice of Cebuano women in applying genital stretching to make the use of the gadget among girls less painful. Pigafetta noted that girls as young as six years and upward had their organs gradually enlarged to allow the entry of the bolts and spurs in time for the ripe time when the sexual act was performed.

In pre-Magellanic times, virginity was deemed as a serious liability that the tribes even had its own “professional deflowerers” and the women had access to artificial penises, the crude comparison of present-day dildos, to tone down their lust. Pigafetta continued: “When the men wish to have communication [intercourse] with their women, the latter themselves take the penis not in the regular way and commence very gently to introduce it [into the vagina], with the spur on top first, and then the other part. When it is inside, it takes its regular position; and thus the penis always stays inside until it gets soft, for otherwise they could not pull it out.” (Another similarly used Cebuano sex gadget is the tugbuk.)

10 NEWS

DABAWENYOS’ PERCEPTION. Dr. Maria Linda Arquiza , executive director of Institute of Popular Opinion (IPO), bares during Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao yesterday the result of her group’s survey on the hu-

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014 Militant... FFROM 2

appreciation to all our real property owners, considering that they always respond to our notices of delinquency,” he said.

The CTO always finds ways to extend their effort in notifying delinquent real property tax payers yearly, but Riola also believes that another reason for the increase in real property tax collection is due to the improvement of real property businesses in the city.

“Based on our assessment, we could see that some real property owners were hard-up in paying taxes last year but for 2014, we could tell that they have earned enough to settle their obligations with the government,” he said.

Riola said that this scene could serve as proof for the booming real property industry in the city considering the increase in real property collection.

ments are rapidly growing.

It will determine potential land areas for agricultural, information technology, and tourism development, expand and relocate commercial areas nearer to residential areas, re-zone and map geological haz-

ardous areas, declare conservation zones, and establish buffer zones between conflicting areas like commercial and residential zones or industrial or agricultural zones.

The amended CLUP and Zoning Ordinance also provides the no-re-

classification policy within five years for all areas identified under the general zone (agriculture, conservation, water resource, and non-tillage) and three years for sub-urban zone (residential, industrial, and commercial).

tons.

told a news daily a couple of years back that a healthy, single and mature tree could store about six kilograms of carbon yearly while a hectare of trees can also absorb carbon emitted by a car traveling 1,600 kilometers.

According to the DeNR, a single mature tree can absorb carbon dioxide at a rate of 21 kilograms a year and release enough oxygen back into the atmosphere to support two persons. For every ton of new wood that grows, about 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide are removed and 1.07 tons of life-giving oxygen are produced.

Red Constantino, executive director of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, urges:

“Climate-change adaptation measures, including those that pertain to securing our forests, should be integrated into national policies, particularly Philippines faces critical environmental challenges and is already a victim of global warming.”

While it is true that “only God can make a tree,” to quote the words of Joyce Kilmer, people can plant a tree – or billions of trees. Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, who is internationally known for her persistent struggle for democracy, human rights and environmental conservation, once told a reporter, “When we plant trees, we plant the seeds of peace and seeds of hope.”

Without... FFROM 7 Carbon sequestration Trees can help sequestered carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. Carbon sequestration describes longterm storage of carbon dioxide or other forms of carbon to either mitigate or defer global warming and avoid dangerous climate change. Carbon dioxide, in the form of gas, can be sequestered out of the atmosphere through photosynthesis. The carbon dioxide is converted into sugar by the plant or emitted back to the air through perspiration.

Julius Cawilan, chief of the forest research conservation division of the DeNR in the Cordillera,

Community Learning Center have been disturbed since July 29 after two members of 60th Infantry Batallion were killed due to landmine blast allegedly set by members of New People’s Army.

“Kung gusto nila ng long and lasting peace, ceasefire is not enough.

Kailangan ibalik ang peace talk between the Government of the Philippines and National Democratic Front of the Philippines,” she added.

“Kung dili masulban ang armed conflict, dili gihapon maatain ang pinaglalabang kapayapaan,” Suazo said.

Suazo said that Karapatan is planning to conduct a fact-finding operation in communities located at Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong on August 10 to 13. CRC

struction projects at the disputed Spratly Islands.

China, through its Foreign Ministry, has rejected the Philippines’ proposal to freeze reclamation projects in the area, which is being claimed by several

countries.

“Sa patuloy nating pagtahak sa landas ng kapayapaan at diplomasya, umaani tayo ng suporta sa mga bansang naniniwala sa ating posisyon na batay sa makatuwiran at

makatarungang pagtukoy sa mga usaping ito. Kaya hindi tayo natitinag kung anuman ang pagtangi na gagawin dito dahil naniniwala tayo na makatuwiran ang ating posisyon,” said Coloma. (PNA)

foul odors from its waste.

“Para ang mga residente diha dili pud mo angal. Kay kabalo ta na pag kani siya mo gwasa sa Ma-a Slaughter house maapektohan ang atong health, ang atong mga tao labi na tong mga taga Maa,” he said.

Abellera said that the city did not spend even

a single centavo on this project since the BLDC are the ones who contracted it to them. he said that the machine is advantageous on the part of the cooperative and also to the immediate community.

“Sa akong komite, ginarekomenda nako ni,” he said.

LM10 is a Filipino company founded in February 2012 with Argentine capitals. Its main objective is to bring and invest in agribusiness technology in the Philippines. The company is supported by its foreign partners that are located between Argentina and Brazil.

are defined by the law as those who were “victims of summary execution, torture, enforced or involuntary disappearance and other gross human rights violations committed during the regime of former President Ferdinand e. Marcos covering the period from September 21, 1972 to February 25, 1986”.

“The board has only P50 million budget for human resource and for two- year operation and we already received P32 million of the budget mandated by the law,” Gascon said during the four-day regional intake caravan at Almendras Gym yesterday which started last Monday. The caravan was attended by more or less 1,500 alleged victims from the region and nearby provinces. however, Gascon said that the board is considering the plan to assign regional and provincial focal point person who can receive application on a daily basis.

The appointed person is planned to be housed in the regional offices of Commission on human Rights. he also said that the board is planning to go to remote areas if there is enough funding.

Gascon said that at present, the board cannot just

hire people nor add more equipment.

“For example, mas magiging mabilis ang pagproseso ng applications if we have three more additional computers in the encoding area but we only have three,” he said, adding that at present they can only process 300 to 500 applicants per day.

“I doubt makaka-apply lahat ng applicants kasi kulang kami ng tao sa board,” he said. Only 7 of the total 30 personnel in the board are here for the receiving and validating claim applications of victims in the region.

Less than three months before the November 10 deadline, the board has yet received 10,000 claim applications from the estimated more or less than 100,000 victims nationwide. The board had been to Bauio, Bicol, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro,

Samar, Butuan and Zamboanga.

The caravan will be in Tagum for another round of the caravan on October 27 to 30. each validated claim applicants will receive portion of the P10- billion turnedover by the Swiss Government from the ill-gotten wealth of Marcos.

The amount of their receivable will depend on the severity of the violation and the number of validated applicants.

The board is targeting to distribute the monetary assistance on December 1, 2016 during the anniversary of ChR. Despite the lack of budget, Gascon is positive that many human rights victims during the Martial Law will surface to be validated and be honored by the state.

CRC

man immunodeficiency virus (HIV)- acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) situation in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

are cooperative enough to respond to their notifications.

“Some would directly come to our office, or would enter into a compromised agreement for installment, or others would even pay in cash,” he said.

Riola also cited an instance when a popular real estate developer instantly paid P24 million worth of real property tax.

“I have to express my

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rights violation as accounted by residents and tribal leaders in Kapalong, Davao del Norte.

Suazo said that classes in different sitios in Kapalong were disrupted because of the presence of military in the community.

“Five days [as of press time] na walang klase ang mga bata sa iba’ibang schools sa Kapalong kasi kinakampohan ng mga sundalo ang mga classrooms pati ang mga bahay ng mga residente sa lugar,” she said.

According to Datu herminio Sumiggil, tribal leader of Ata-Manobo Tribe in Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong and spokesperson of People’s Organization of Karadyawan, classes in shools like the Sito Aninipot Deped School, Sinugpungan Kapatano Igkanugon

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11 BIGGER PICTURE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

CHILD BULLYING IS FOR REAL By aRManDO a. MORTEJO

“B

UllyIng is a symptom of a deeper problem. It should never be tolerated. Through the anti-Bullying act, we provide a platform for young victims to speak up and seek help. Quality education and a safe and positive learning environment go hand in hand.” – Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” angara *** Dave (not his real name) used to be a consistent honor pupil when he was still in kindergarten. Then, the family moved to a city when his father became a supervisor of the company where he is working.

It was the middle of school year and Dave, now 8, had to be transferred to a new school, a few distant away from where they are living.

It was a totally different surrounding for Dave; new classmates, new teacher, and new friends.

In the first few weeks, it was fine. Then, something weird happened. he felt sick in the morning. his grades started to drop. he had unexplained cuts or bruises. Then, one afternoon, after arriving from school, he told his mother: “I don’t want to go to school anymore.”

Sarah was completely baffled. When they were still in the province, Dave really liked going to school.

But now, he didn’t want to school which is just nearby.

She asked her son but he won’t say anything.

The mother instinct said there was really something wrong with her son.

No, it wasn’t about his son but something must have been done to him in order for him to be reclusive.

After doing some sleuth – asking Dave’s friends – she found out that her son was being bullied by one of his classmates, the son of the school principal.

Violence against children by their peers, in particular bullying, has received little attention in the Philippines, possibly due to the perception that bullying and fighting among children is part of school culture. “Away bata” is the common excuse for it – it’s “normal” or “a rite of passage” for children.

Last year, President Benigno S. Aquino III signed the anti-bullying bill into law, Republic Act 10627.

Senator Juan edgardo “Sonny” Angara, one of the principal authors of the bill, called it “a huge step in protecting our children from the earliest forms of violence.”

“I congratulate both houses of Congress and our President for working together in providing the Filipino youth the opportunity for maximum learn-

ing in a peaceful and violence-free setting through the passage of this law,” the first-time senator hailed.

The Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 requires elementary and secondary schools to adopt policies to prevent and address bullying. The law defines bullying as any severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of actually causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or damage to his property, creating a hostile environment at school for the other students.

“A school is a student’s second home, and assumed to be one of the safest places for children. Unfortunately, for some this is where they experience abuse,” says a statement from the United Nation’s Children Fund (UNICeF).

“Schools become the settings that expose children to violence, not just from their peers but also from teachers and school personnel.”

A 2009 study by Plan International and Unicef on Violence Against Children in Public Schools in the Philippines showed that four out of 10 children in Grades 1 to 3, and seven out of 10 in both Grades 4 to 6 and high school have experienced some kind of violence in school.

“Results of the survey show that peers perpetrate most forms of violence experienced by children,” commented Plan Philippines country director Michael Diamond. “Ridicule and teasing by peers are the most common experiences.”

“Many parents are unaware that it is happening because they never discuss it with their kids and because bullying is often a kind of underground activity that many children wont report,” wrote Dr. Richard B. Goldbloom in an article which appeared in Reader’s Digest.

Aside from those experienced by Dave, other manifestations that a child is being bullied if he or she: is frightened of going to school and is difficult to wake in the morning; doesn’t want to ride the school bus; begs to be driven to school; becomes withdrawn, anxious, or lacking in confidence; cries him/herself to sleep at night or has nightmares; feels sick in the morning; and comes home with clothes torn or books damaged.

A child is also being bullied if he or she has possessions (like pens or pencils) that end up “missing”; asks for money or starts stealing money (to pay the bully); comes home starving (money/ lunch has been stolen); stops eating; and is frightened to say what’s wrong.

A major red flag is when he or she attempts or threatens suicide or runs away from home.

Bullying leads to several suicides every year. It is estimated that between 15 and 25 children commit suicide every year in the United Kingdom alone, because they are being bullied.

In some instances, the effects of bullying can be serious and even fatal.

The link between bullying and school violence has attracted increasing attention since the 1999 Columbine high School massacre in the United

States. That year, two shotgun-wielding students, both of whom had been identified as gifted and who had been bullied for years, killed 13 people, wounded 24, and then committed suicide.

A year later an analysis by officials at the U.S. Secret Service of 37 premeditated school shootings found that bullying, which some of the shooters described “in terms that approached torment,” played a major role in more than two-thirds of the attacks.

What turns some children into bullies? There are no research data done in the Philippines but researchers, led by Kris Bosworth of the University of Arizona, collected information from 558 students in grades 6 to 8, then divided the students into three groups: 228 who rarely or never bullied anyone; 243 who reported a moderate level of bullying; and 87 who reported excessive amounts of bullying.

“Those who reported the most bullying behaviour had received more forceful, physical discipline from their parents, had viewed more TV violence and showed more misconduct at home,” Dr. Goldbloom wrote. “Thirty-two percent lived with a stepparent, and 36 percent lived in a single-parent household. Bullies generally had fewer adult role models, more exposure to gang activity and easier access to guns. This partly explains why bullies need help as much as victims: Many learn their behaviour by example.”

The word “bully” was first used in the 1530s, which means “sweetheart,” which was applied to either sex. It was coined from the Dutch boel (“lov-

er, brother), probably diminutive of Middle high German buole (“brother”).

The meaning deteriorated through the 17th century through “fine fellow,” “blusterer,” to “harasser of the weak.” This may have been as a connecting sense between “lover” and “ruffian” as in “protector of a prostitute,” which was one sense of “bully” (though not specifically attested until 1706. The verb “to bully” is first attested in 1710.

In her weekly column, Cathy S. Babao-Guballa defines bullying as an “aggressive behavior that involves an imbalance of power and strength and which is repeated over a period of time. As opposed to conflict, which involves a misunderstanding or antagonism between two or more people, bullying only occurs where there is an imbalance of power, where one child has great difficulty defending himself or herself against another child or person.”

While bullying gets a lot of attention from parents and teachers in industrialized countries (like those being depicted in hollywood movies), such is not the case in the Philippines. Dr. honey Carandang, a noted Filipino psychologist and author, has often expressed her disappointment over the seeming lack of concern that school authorities have shown towards bullying incidents that take place right under their noses.

“It’s really sad how, instead of being helped, the bullied child is sometimes even blamed for the bullying that has taken place,” Dr. Carandang deplored, adding that there should be more programs put in

place to further educate teachers and administrators about the dangers of bullying and to teach them to be more sensitive.

“There are three persons who need to be helped and empowered here – the bully, the bullied, and the bystander,” Dr. Carandang. She further said that everyone needs to be part of the solution and that if a teacher or student is in a class or is a witness to a bullying incident elsewhere on campus and does nothing, then that person is as much a part of the problem as the bully.

Babao-Guballa believes that an anti-bullying program in the Philippine setting “can only be effective if both the school and the parents’ association work together to discourage bullying, both in private and public schools.”

“Bullying is the one thorn on the side of education that hardly gets noticed by the authorities,” wrote Joel Pablo Salud, editor-in-chief of Philippine Graphic, in an article which appeared in Business Mirror. “Since those involved are children, society seems to find it rather a waste of time and public funds to address.”

“School bullying is everyone’s business,” wrote Dr. Goldbloom. “It is unrealistic to expect it can be totally eliminated: We can’t eradicate the conditions that turn some children into bullies and others into targets. But if everyone, concerned teachers, school authorities, police, parents and children is truly committed to zero tolerance, then there is solid evidence that the amount and the severity of bullying can be reduced dramatically.”

12 CLASSIFIED

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Billiard Supplies

Phone Nos.

Cell Nos.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

STYLE

Embracing the possibiliTEES THE past days leading to this week have been crazy, if not, overwhelming. My husband and I are down to the last few months of planning our church wedding and I still couldn’t get my finger on a few yet significant details. Straight out of our civil wedding ceremony, which happened about a month ago, we had to jump right into planning the next big event with so much to do and so little time.

Having worked in the hospitality industry for almost 9 years now, I’ve had a good experience in organizing big events from New Year parties, fashion shows, launching new brands, etc. Through the years, I have managed to stay focused on these work related affairs, and surprisingly, now that I am planning my own, I seem to have trouble never easy - or cheap.

Thinking out of the putting one and two tobox and dreaming of gether. I guess it really is different when you’re Kate Spade colors, I deplanning your own cided to streamline my design paradigm and wedding.

Having crossed out look into possibilities and solved a couple of available in retail shops. concerns in our master Lo and behold, I have list, I have now come found the perfect garto that point of plan- ment to dress my pretning the motif and style ty friends in, sans the concept for my entou- usual bridal accents and rage. Again, with just a decorative.

Say hello to Soul Lifefew months left in the PossibiliTEES calendar, I had to de- style’s Dress the ultimate cide on what my pretty versatile and convertbridesmaids should ible party dress that can wear and this had to be worked out in a jiffy, be worn in a multitude without having to bar- of ways.

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Seeing this online was like a lightbulb moment for me. It’s a onestop solution for any wardrobe crisis, be it for weddings or any occasion for that matter.

I only have six bridesmaids yet this one dress can already style up to more than a dozen lassies! It’s like having 30 looks in one.

Anyone can get creative because there are in fact endless options!

It’s really fun to experiment with this garment and find a look you love --- from sweet to edgy, short to long, to casual or formal. The possibilities of this one product are infinite and only bound by creativity, resourcefulness, fashion intuition and imagination. My bridesmaids won’t only get to enjoy this dress one time, but also reuse it in several more celebrations and

FEMBRACING, A4

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

OPM Hitmen in Davao

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

Smart to fly lucky fan to watch Katy Perry concert LIVE in the US

Lucky postpaid subscribers of wireless services leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) will get the chance to live out their teenage dreams, get to see “California Gurls” live, and hear their musical idol “Roar” with Smart and SPINNR’s Katy Perry Fly-off Promo.

By KAI DEL CORRO

The Order of the Knights of Rizal is bringing the OPM Hitmen in Davao this Kadayawan Season! Be serenaded by versatile Filipino artists, Chad Borja, Richard Reynoso, Rannie Raymundo and Renz Verano with their special guest, our very own, KZ Tandingan!

This Kadayawan Special will be held at the USEP Gym this coming August 15,2014 at 7:00 in the evening. Ticket prices are: P250, P500, and P1,000 and it will all got to a very good cause, the development of the youth. Enjoy not only songs of the past but also of contemporary and modern Filipino music!

“This concert will benefit the youth, sapagkat sila ang ‘Pag-asa ng ating bayan,’” said Dr. Romulo Ramirez, Knight Grand Officer of Rizal. The funds will be allocated for the leadership trainings and seminars about the idealism of Rizal, which are annually held in Baguio, said Dr. Willy Mamocod.

So make sure you come and see the OPM Hitmen in Davao with KZ Tandingan and support the development of the youth!

Get your tickets at : SM Department Stores, NCCC Mall davao, Gaisano Mall of Davao Customer Service and USEP OCSC Student Council.

CLAUDE’S LAUNCHES BUSINESS LUNCH BUFFET. Starting August 4, your favorite dishes at Claude’s will now be served for lunch with a generous Salad Bar. From August 4 to 16, choose from Grilled Prime Rib of Beef, Poached Fillet of Blue Marlin or Maya-Maya, or Grilled Tanguigue for only P500 net per head. For more info, pls call Claude’s Cafe de Ville at 222-4287 or 227-9405 today.

Just by listening or downloading Katy Perry’s songs through SPINNR, the country’s first and leading music streaming service, three Smart Postpaid subscribers can have the chance to an allexpense paid trip for two to the US to watch Katy Perry’s PRISMATIC concert live at Staples Center, Los Angeles, California in September.

“By just being a Smart Postpaid subscriber, users will have this rare and enviable opportunity to watch Katy Perry live in the US,” said Kathryn Carag, Postpaid Marketing Head at Smart. “This is our way of providing only the most unique experiences to our subscribers who are musically inclined and are die-hard fans of Katy Perry.”

“This is another way SPINNR is giving its us-

ers the total music experience, by getting them really close to their musical idols like Katy Perry,” added Mellissa Limcaoco, Innovation and Product Development Group Head at Smart.

Users only have to register for free at the

SPINNR Facebook page to qualify for the promo using their name, complete address, birth date, and their Smart Postpaid cellphone number.

Once registered, they can earn points by doing any of the following: sharing Katy Perry content through the SPINNR Facebook app (1 point); downloading (10 points) or gifting (15 points) any song on SPINNR; downloading (15 points) or gifting (20 points) Katy Perry songs on SPINNR; subscribing to the SPINNR VIP package (50 points); or signing up for a Smart Postpaid Supercharge Plan with bundled Spinnr VIP access (300 points).

The top three subscribers with the most points at the end of the promo on August 31, 2014 will get the chance to see the Grammy Award-winning artist live, including roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodation, and travel allowance while in California, USA. Subscribers who did not win the grand prize,

meanwhile, need not fret because they still have the chance to take home exclusive and official Katy Perry merchandise as consolation prizes.

Subscribers can check their status in their profile within the Katy Perry Fly Off app to see if they’re part of the top 10.

For more information and full mechanics of Smart Postpaid’s Katy Perry Fly-off promo, visit www.facebook.com/ SpinnrPhilippines. This promo is made possible by Smart, SPINNR, and label partner MCA Music, Inc. (a Universal Music Group Company).

SPINNR is the first homegrown Filipino music portal and mobile streaming service that enables Smart, Talk ‘N Text, and Sun Cellular subscribers to download and stream millions of songs for as low as P2.50 per day or P49 a month with free data included.

It is accessible via the Android and iOS apps, as well as via the Web through www.spinnr.ph.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

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Alex Gonzaga says there’s “something special” about Joseph Marco “PURE LOVE” star Alex Gonzaga admits that, just like other girls and girlsat-heart, she is in awe of the unique charm of her leading man Joseph Marco who’s in the trending topics list of Twitter almost every night because of his endearing character in the show, Dave, who is now caught in a love triangle with Dianne (played by Alex) and Ysabel (played by Yen Santos).

“I can’t blame the viewers who quickly fall in love with Joseph because there’s really something special in him,” said Alex about her love team partner in her first teleserye in a leading role on ABS-CBN. “At first, I thought we won’t become that close because Jowsy (Alex’s nickname for Joseph) seems very mysterious.

But I was wrong. He’s so kind, approachable, and fun to talk to. And I admire him as an actor because he is so professional. In every take, he is quickly in character as Dave,” said Alex.

Directed by Veronica Velasco, “Pure Love” also features Arjo Atayde, Arron Villaflor, Matt Evans, Yam Concepcion, and Anna Luna, a neophyte among the cast. Completing the cast are Sunshine Cruz, John Arcilla, Ana Capri, Bart Guingona, Dante Ponce, and Shey Bustamante.

Don’t miss primetime’s newest sensation, “Pure Love,” on weeknights before “TV Patrol” on ABSCBN’s Primetime Bida.

For more updates, log on to ABS-CBN.com, follow @PureLovePH on Twitter, and “like” the show’s official Facebook page

Newlyweds Jopay and Joshua Zamora in ‘Tunay na Buhay’ THIS Tuesday afternoon, join seasoned broadcast journalist Rhea Santos as Tunay na Buhay features newlyweds Joshua and Jopay Zamora in Tunay na Buhay on GMA-7.

Jopay and Joshua first met on the soap opera Daisy Siete. Because they share a passion for dancing, their hearts then began to share the same beat.

And just this June, after nine years, Jopay and Joshua finally got married.

But viewers are not aware that the wedding almost didn’t push through. And it was Joshua himself who called it off. Two years after they broke up, they got together again.

This Tuesday, join Joshua and Jopay as they share their love story in Tunay na Buhay, 4pm, on GMA-7.

GMA News and Public Affairs presents ‘ELEMENTO’ CREATURES from Philippine myths and folklore come to life – but with a twist - in GMA News and Public Affairs’ upcoming Halloween Series entitled ELEMENTO. The kapre, tikbalang, duwende and manananggal among others – are traditionally presented as elements of darkness. In ELEMENTO, viewers discover they are feeling beings who face difficulties preserving their own kind in an increasing modern world.

ELEMENTO showcases these underworld crea-

tures as having filial concerns and conflicts of interest. They struggle with their own internal battles between good and evil.

The family friendly series will include the impact of environmental abuse on nature and the effect of greed and cor-

ruption on communities.

In many of the stories, the twist will be: Humans are the villains while the Elementos are the heroes.

Conceptualized by Ivy Magparangalan, written

by Urian winner Zig Dulay, directed by acclaimed horror director Topel Lee and starring premiere Kapuso actors and actresses, ELEMENTO will take viewers into a magical universe rarely seen on local television.

Catch this very special Halloween Series only on GMA weekend primetime coming this October.

LUCY Scarlett Johansson, Morgan Freeman R 16

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

ONCE A PRINCESS Erich Gonzales, Enchong Dee PG 13

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

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper PG 13

R-16

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

TROPHY WIFE / *HERCULES Cristine Reyes, Derek Ramsay, Heart Evangelista, John Estrada / *Dwayne Johnson R 13 / *R 13

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

STYLE Embracing...FFROM A1 destinations.

I raise a toast to Mimi Vergara-Tupas, the creative genius behind Soul Lifestyle, for coming up with everyday wonders like this. Just like the Mod Audrey collection, the PossibiliTEES Dress is a style she designed herself. Stitching together tubes of fabric and bands in different lengths and drapes, she has come up with numerous designs that have now become wardrobe staples for most women, especially those who love to travel and embrace a fast-paced life. I remember Mimi sharing her design philosophy during one of those talks we had in the past. “Women love versatility and we love

looking fabulous. Every day and everywhere, we have run into significant life encounters that prompt us to adapt to different situations and environments. Change is the most constant thing in this world, so why shouldn’t your fashion change with you? I want to inspire women to express their uniqueness through convertible, sustainable and functional fashion that can adapt to any mood or occasion. I believe in a functional wardrobe that can withstand all seasons and spark up your originality and creativity.”

Check out more colors and style options for the PossibiliTEES Dress and send in your orders through https://www. facebook.com/SOULLifestyle.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

COMMUNITY SENSE 13 USeP prexy bags asia education leadership award T EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

he University of Southeastern Philippines’ (USeP) President, Dr. Perfecto A. Alibin, received the edu-

cation Leadership Award from Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Asia, and its Strategic Partner, World education Congress, on

August 1, 2014, at the Pan Pacific Hotel, Singapore.

CMO Asia held its 5th Asia’s education excellence Award in Singapore,

endorsed by World Federation of Academic & educational Institutions, CMO Council, Asian Confederation of Businesses,

and World Private Universities Forum & Awards, in partnership with Stars of the Industry Group.

Before the recent CMO Asia Award, Dr. Alibin had also received various esteemed awards which served as proof of his professional diligence, passion towards excellent education, and industry contribution. he was a recipient of the Datu Bago Award, 2014, the highest and most prestigious award that the City of Davao bestows to its constituents.

On the other hand, Mr. Randy halasan, USeP’s Outstanding Alumni Awardee, 2013, will receive his emergent Leadership Award on August 31, 2014, in Manila, Philippines. he completed his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at USeP and was assigned in Pegalongan since 2007. Mr. halasan is now the head Teacher of Pegalongan elementary School, Sitio Pegalongan, Malamba, Marilog District.

The said school can be reached within 7 hours of travel from halasan’s hometown, Davao City, and he needed to hike for 6 hours, crossing two major rivers, on a weekly basis, in order to conduct classes. At first, Halasan

admitted that he wanted to be re-assigned the moment he gets there, but things changed as he realized what he had to do not only for the students, but also for the whole community. halasan exhibited his passion towards education that no raging river could stop.

Years have passed and halasan was able to help the residents implement new farming and livelihood techniques, aside from lobbying for an extension to high school education. All of halasan’s hard work paid off as he, together with the five other awardees from Afghanistan, Indonesia, China, and Pakistan, will receive a medallion bearing Ramon Magsaysay’s image, a certificate, and $50,000 worth of cash.

Indeed, striving for excellence in education is the foundation for a better and brighter future, but not everyone has the guts to work hard for it.

Dr. Alibin and Mr. halasan will serve as inspirations for USeP, its graduates, current students, and faculty, to achieve further greatness when it comes to higher education, by contributing to the industry and to the society, even if it’s against all odds. (USeP PIO)

14 SPORTS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

GIRLS TAKE OVER Shakey’s Girls V-League Regionals set Aug. 11-14 T

SHAKEY’S GIRLS V LEAGUE. Ali Bernan (left) announces the staging of the 2014 Shakey’s Girls V-League regional finals at the SCOOP Forum. Right, Ateneo spikers in last year’s finals in Manila.

Schrock, Cagara bolt Azkals T

ROUBLe is brewing in the camp of the Philippine Azkals as two of their members have pulled out from the squad as long as current head coach Thomas Dooley is in command.

Stephan Schrock and Dennis Cagara announced on their social media accounts that they will no longer don the country’s colors in international competition unless the Azkals replace their coach.

Schrock was the first to announce his decision

through his Facebook page.

“Dear fans, because of all accuses I want to talk to you directly. It’s not true that I don’t want to play for Philippines anymore. It was always a pleasure for me and I feel still honored to have the possibility to play for my country, the country where my heart belongs,” the statement said.

“I want to be honest to you because you deserve the truth. As long as coach Dooley will lead the team, I won’t

wear the jersey of Azkals again. Anyway I’m still one of you, and I’m proud to be one of you!

I wish u all the best, for the football and for the team! I hope I will give [sic] my comeback one day.”

After this, the official Facebook page of the Philippine Azkals also released a statement confirming Schrock’s decision.

“Azkals Player Stephan Cabizares Schrock informed Coach Thomas Dooley and the

Team Management tonight of his resignation from the Philippine National Football Team,” the statement read.

“Coach Dooley and Team Manager Dan Palami regret the decision of Schrock, but they accept and respect his desire to pursue new challenges.

They likewise express their deep gratitude for Schrock’s commitment to the Azkals in the past and his pivotal contribution to the team and raising football awareness in the country.”

watch out for in the class of 2016 with an impressive stint in the 2014 adidas Super64 tournament, which was held last July 23-27 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Playing for Team Bayless, which was mentored by NBA veteran guard Jerryd Bayless of the Milwaukee Bucks, Paras shined under the bright lights of Sin City, and even dropped a 29-point bomb in a 10194 win versus Garner Road in Day 4, helping

his team claim a Final Four finish in the annual summer showcase.

Paras’ athleticism and perimeter game has caught the attention of scouts and recruiters, who gushed at the 6’6” wing’s quickness and diverse skill set.

Among those who praised the Cathedral high cager were hardwood Insiders’ Paul Johnson and basketball recruiting website NY2LASports.com’s contributing editor Trevor

Andershock.

Johnson wrote of Paras during the first day of the meet: Kobe Paras and Marcus Shaver from Team Bayless were two more of the numerous talented players on the floor.

Paras is a big guard at 6’6” and used his size to finish over and through defenders. he also hit a number of pull up jumpers.

Andershock also handed in his impressions of Kobe Paras:

Kobe Paras caps brilliant offseason B

eFORe he returned home to the Philippines last August 1, Kobe Paras had one last hurrah, to place the finishing touches on what has become a memorable summer season for the rising Filipino swingman.

Coming off remarkable campaigns in offseason leagues such as the DeMar DeRozan Tournament and the Pangos Stars of the Future, Paras further solidified his reputation as one of the hS players to

Cagara, on the other hand, tweeted that he also decided to leave the team temporarily.

Bob Guerrero of Yahoo Philippines asked Dooley via SMS if he wants to release a statement or stay quiet for the time being.

“I never keep quiet,” Dooley replied. “I’m in Vietnam and when I’m back by Wednesday or Thursday, we will have a press conference.”

Dooley is in Vietnam to attend the draw of the 2014 Suzuki Cup.

PROMISING. Kobe Paras is back in the country to play for the Batang Gilas squad.

he region’s best volleyball squads vie for that lone ticket to the National Finals when the popular Shakey’s Girls V-League hits town for the regional finals on August 11-14 at the Davao Doctors College Gymnasium.

2013 champion Ateneo de Davao University will be back to defend its crown against perennial champion Davao City National high School. eight other squads will be seeing action in this event which serves as the qualifying school for the Shakey’s Girls V-League Philippine Finals set January 1014 in Manila.

Tournament organizer Ali Bernan announced the staging of the event in yesterday’s SCOOP Forum at The Royal Mandaya hotel.

“We are happy to bring back the Shakey’s Girls V-League. This time, there will be two Mindanao qualifiers as we have requested that there should be two eliminations for Mindanao,” said Bernan. The Northern Mindanao regionals was held last month in Cagayn de Oro City won by Iligan City National high School.

Also vying for the Southern Mindanao finals is tournament darkhorse Tagum City National high School, the reigning Batang Pinoy national champions, which is expected to make this year’s contest a possible three-cornered fight.

The other contenders are the University of Immaculate Conception, Cor Jesu College, Koronadal General Comprehensive high School, Notre Dame of Cotabato, holy Cross College of Sasa and Maa National high School.

Ateneo won last year’s title ending the long reign of DCNhS. The Blue Knights went on to finish sixth in a field of 12 in last year’s Philippine Finals.

“This year’s nationals will also feature foreign squads from Australia and New Zealand,” said Bernan.

NJB

VOL. 7 ISSUE 102 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2014

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

Manny to lead team in Kadayawan cagefest M

ANNY Pacquiao, the cager, will display his wares before Davao fans as he leads his team MP hotelGen. Santos City in the forthcoming Kadayawan Invitational Basketball Championships on August 18-21 at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Pacquiao, recently appointed head coach of Kia in the PBA and knocking on the door as an applicant-rookie in the pro league, will lead MP hotel in the short tournament which could also serve as his workout prior to the PBA draft.

Arvin Bonleon will

U

once again call the shots for the club owned by the world boxing champion and Congressman of Sarangani Province.

“Manny will be playing here barring any changes in his schedule,” Bonleon told edge Davao in an interview.

Also suiting up for MP hotel are Pacquiao’s brother Bobby, a deadshot from the perimeter who also applied in the 2014 PBA rookie draft, and prolific import Victor Wade.

The rest of the squad is composed of Dondon Adormeo, Chris Liaz, Mark Panerio, Roi

Coronel, edrinar Yusop, Chris Masaglang, Jasper Callo, Archie Bacolod, Jay Collado, Jovani Alih, Allan Santos, Rafael Sanchez and Jeff Morillo.

Other teams taking part in the Kadayawan cagefest are 2012 champion The Royal Mandaya hotel-CMO, Goldstar hardware and Montana Pawnshop.

The tournament, supervised by the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP) Region 11 under Regino “Boy” Cua, will be a single round robin affair with the top two teams squaring off for the title in a winner-take-all match.

USA cuts 3 players

SA Basketball cut Washington Wizards guards John Wall and Bradley Beal and Atlanta hawks forward Paul Millsap on Monday, reducing its roster to 16

in advance of this month’s World Cup of Basketball in Spain, sources told Yahoo Sports.

The U.S. lost guard Paul George after he broke his leg during Friday’s scrim-

mage. USA Basketball must submit its official 12-player roster the day before the tournament starts on Aug. 30. The team will resume its training camp on Aug. 13 in Chicago.

HE WILL BE BACK. Manny Pacquiao (right), shown here last year donning the TRMH-CMO uniform in a light talk with Mayor Rodrigo Duterte (left), will suit up for his MP Hotel-GenSan team in the coming Kadayawan cagefest.

LOOKS CAN BE DECEIVING. Ann Osman is Malaysia’s first professional female MMA fighter.

Paras back to play for country D

Meet One FC’s prettiest fighter

T

he grudge between Malaysia’s Ann Osman and Singapore’s Sherilyn Lim remains unresolved as the rematch in Kuala Lumpur failed to happen in March. The latter was unable to make weight and the highly anticipated fight was unfortunately cancelled.

Denied the opportunity to fight in front of her home crowd, Osman, 28, is tremendously determined to win her next fight against American-Filipino boxing world champion Ana Julaton at ONe FC: ReIGN OF ChAMPIONS later this month in Dubai.

This will be Osman’s second fight for ONe Fighting Championship

(ONe FC) after she lost to Lim in Singapore on her debut.

“I was definitely disappointed as I had been training hard and a lot was put into preparing for that fight, not only by myself but from my teammates, coach, sponsors, family and friends. Nonetheless, we have passed that moment, I accepted that it happened and we have moved on from it.”

Moving forward, she would like to dedicate this upcoming fight to her fellow countrymen and teammates as she “owes them a long overdue win” since the last fight was cancelled.

She would also like to

dedicate it to former victims of child prostitution and human trafficking at Agape International Mission in Cambodia, where she led a ONe FC humanity project to recently.

“Learning about what they have been through, I say they are definitely the real fighters and I would like to dedicate my win to them as well,” she explained.

NO ReST FOR The WICKeD After the match cancellation, Osman jumped right back into her normal routine without a break and continued to balance work and training with the Borneo Tribal Squad.

“We must not dwell on

these things, but rather, learn and move forward.

I just continued to train with the team, focusing on improving my game and learning new skills and techniques.”

Over the past four months, she had the chance to train with a number of high level coaches from all over the world and competed in the last Pan Asian Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Tournament in Manila too.

During this period, she also left her job as a business development manager for a property media company and set up Borneo Paddlers, a Sabah travel adventure company with a business partner.

eSPITe his busy schedule in the United States, rising basketball star Kobe Paras has found his way home.

The 16-year-old, now attending Cathedral high School in California, is back in the Philippines on a one-month leave from his school and he’s determined to make the most of it.

Foremost on his list of priorities is to represent the country in the FIBA Asia Under-18 Championship in Qatar from August 19 to 28.

“Kapag kasi naglalaro sa national team, it’s really a big honor. It’s once in a lifetime na mapili ka to represent the national team,” Paras told InterAksyon.com in an exclusive interview during the Philippine national Under-18 basketball team’s practice session on a rainy Monday night.

Kobe, the son of PBA legend Benjie Paras, has made waves in several appearances for Cathedral in the US, with reports of him drawing attention from US NCAA Division I schools coming out.

The 6-foot-6 swingman considers himself fortunate that his coach, despite the team’s busy training schedule, gave the green light for his participation in the Asian championships.

“Kinausap ko yung coach ko doon and

nagawan naman ng paraan. Swerte rin ako kasi maraming bata ang gustong mag-represent sa national team,” he said.

Kobe, much like his famous namesake, has already developed an impressive work ethic.

Though his training in the US and with the Batang Gilas squad already takes up much of his time, he continues to do extra work on his game in an attempt to keep improving, particularly in his ballhandling and shooting skills.

“Kasi kung gusto mo talaga gumaling, dapat kang mag-extra work or practice ng sarili. Kasi yung paggaling naman hindi yan madalian. It really takes time,” he said.

“Like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, they’ve always done extra workouts.”

The athletic Paras already towers over most of his Batang Gilas teammates – he even stands an inch taller than his father. he understands that might mean he’ll need to slot into a big man role at times for the squad, even if he’s a natural twoguard.

“I’ll take advantage na lang. Since mas matatangkad yung kalaban, gagamitin ko na lang yung speed ko. Kung mga kasing height ko yung bantay, I will do my guard skills, kapag mas maliit naman, I will try to post them up,” he said.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

UNFINISHED BUSINESS T R M h - C M O hoteliers set to ‘redefend’ title Last year’s unfinished business is this year’s main agenda for The Royal Mandaya hotelCMO squad as the countdown starts for the much-anticipated return of big-time basketball in Davao City.

With the 2014 Kadayawan Invitational Basketball Championship just around the corner, coach Ronel Leuterio has already started to assemble a squad that will re-defend the title the hoteliers won in 2012.

Last year, the hoteliers failed to defend its title after organizers called the tournament off after complaints of game fixing rigged the annual cagefest held in celebration of the Kadayawan Festival.

The hoteliers paraded a star-studded line-up last year with future top two PBA draft picks Greg Slaughter (Ginebra San Miguel) and Ian Sangalang (SanMig Coffee Mixers) leading the cast. Boxing star Manny Pacquiao played one game for the hoteliers who also proved to be the only match they dropped and with that single loss, the hoteliers dropped off the race for the finals.

“We hope it will not happen again this year,” said Leuterio.

The hoteliers, comanaged by TRMh president Glenn escandor and City

Mayor’s Office executive assistant Bong Go, are bringing back veteran PBA center John Ferriols of Talk N’ Text as their main man with exciting Cebuano backcourt standout eman Calo, ex-pros Jojo Tangkay and Darwin Cordero, brothers Dennis and Dino Daa, and hafer Mondragon.

“We are still looking for five to seven players to complete our lineup. Maybe in a week’s time we can have something to work on,” said Leuterio w h o will be assisted on the bench b y assistant coaches Miggy Solitaria and Mark Bonifacio. earlier, the hoteliers were rumoured to have been in talks with Alaska star Calvin Abueva but the talks went off after the flamboyant forward was reported to have an injury.

Leuterio said they will start their practice on August 11. he said some of the players will be arriving by August 10.

Also taking part in this year’s tournament are MP hotel of Gen. Santos City, Goldstar hardware and Montana Pawnshop.

Hunat Dabaw 2 Fun Run on Aug. 31

T

he Royal Mandaya hotel is staging the “hunat Dabaw 2” Fun Run on August 31 in celebration of its 16th year anniversary in an out and back course along Palma Gil Street.

“We are proud to bring back our hunat Dabaw Run and Zumba events for this year’s Kadayawan,” said TRMh general manager Benjamen Banzon at the SCOOP Session of The Royal Mandaya hotel last Tuesday.

Also present at the weekly public service sports program sponsored by TRMh, Genesis 88, Mulatto Outdoor and Beefit Gym were committee chairman Brandon Borras and marketing officer Guada Gamboa.

A registration fee of P300 for the 3K and, P400 for both 5K and 10K, a runner can already enjoy

the hotel’s buffet plus get a singlet, certificate, race bib and raffle.

Last year’s inaugural race attracted 1,200 runners and this year’s the organizers are targetting a maximum of 2,000 participants only.

“We just want to limit it in order to serve them all,”Banzon said.

A total of P100,000 worthof prizes will be given away.

This year’s theme is “Dagan Para sa Kalambuan”with proceeds to be given to community outreach program of TRMh. “This year our beneficiary is the Obu-Manuvu in Marahan,” Banzon said.

Deadline of registration is Aug. 23. For inquiries and reservations, call tel. no. 225-8888 or visit front desk of The Royal Mandaya hotel. – LDR/ SCOOP DAVAO

HUNAT DABAW 2. Benjie Banzon (center), The Royal Mandaya Hotel general manager, is flanked by marketing officer Guada Gamboa (left) and front office manager Brandon Borras during the SCOOP Forum yesterday at the TRMH Mezzanine.

VOL. VOL.77ISSUE ISSUE102 102••WEDNESDAY, WEDNESDAY,AUGUST AUGUST6, 6,2014 2014

PRETTIEST MMA FIGHTER Ann Osman’s looks and charisma has made her popular with the fans and the media, easily making her one of the most high-profiled female MMA fighter in Asia.

See story on page 15.