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VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

LOADED WITH ‘PORK’

DREAMS NEVER DIE. Like most basketball-crazy Filipinos, this boy takes his sport by heart with the dream of one day playing for the national team. Despite the recent debacle by the Philippines Gilas team in the Asian Games, Pinoys continue to hold high hopes for the country in a sport dominated by big men. Lean Daval Jr.

Zarate says 2015 budget contains hidden ‘pork’ By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HERE’S hidden “pork” in that national budget pie in 2015— the biggest this country has ever had. For Bayan Muna Party list Representative Karlos Isagani Zarate, the 2015 national budget is still loaded with “pork” hidden in lump sum appropriations that could be the “war chest” the administration is preparing for the next national elections. In an interview with 105.9 Balita FM, Rep. Zarate said there are a lot of lump sum allotments in the 2015 P2.6 trillion budget, which is the biggest ever in Philippine history. “Gi-approve ang budget atong kad-

lawon sa September 27. Gibabagan namo kini tungod puno og pork barrel gihapon. Sayop ang prayoridad sa mga programa sama sa conditional cash transfer ug daghan kaayo sya’g lump sum (The budget was approved before dawn on September 27. We opposed it because it was still full of pork barrel. The priority programs are all wrong, like the conditional cash transfer, and there are a lot of lump sum allocations),” he said. Zarate also fears the entire budget will just be subdivided with the administration especially since the 2016 election is fast approaching.

MILF DISARMED BY 2016 THE BIG NEWS page 2

FLOADED, 10

INSIDE EDGE

MYSTERY CLOUDS CALUAG’S ASIAD CHANCES SPORTS page 14

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

ON GUARD. Members of Davao City Police Office’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team stand guard outside the Ateneo de Davao University where Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas was giving a talk to delegates of the Koalisyon ng Mamamayan Para sa Reporma (KOMPRE) yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Agus 6 units to undergo maintenance next year By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HREE units of Agus 6, the oldest of the six cascading powerplants of the Agus Hydroelectric Power Plant Complexes in Lanao del Norte, will be shut down starting next year for preventive maintenance. “Only the affected units of Agus 6 such as Units 1, 2, and 4 with combined output of 100 megawatts (MW) will be shut down next year,” Romeo Montenegro, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) director of investment promo-

tions and public affairs, told reporters at a press conference yesterday at the Grand Men Seng Hotel. Montenegro said the closure was scheduled for next year because by then the 300 MW coal-fired power plant of Therma South Energy Project (TSEP) of AboitizPower Corporation and the 200 MW coal-fired power plant of Sarangani Energy Corporation of the Alcantara Group shall have been commissioned

FAGUS, 10

Grenade explosion rocks Isabela City Z

AMBOANGA CITY – A grenade explosion rocked Isabela City, Basilan on Monday night amid the tight security measures imposed by both the police and military authorities in that province. The explosion took place a day after a foiled bombing attempt in the same city, which had prompted the tightening

of security. Superintendent Albert Larubis, Isabela City police chief, said no one was injured or killed in the explosion that occurred around 7:15 p.m. Monday in front of a gasoline station in Barangay Riverside. Larubis said the grenade was tossed by one of two men riding a mo-

FGRENADE, 10

MILF disarmed by 2016 By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

HE Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels are targeting the complete weapon decommissioning of the MILF by 2016. Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Teresita Deles told reporters yesterday in a chance interview that the decommissioning must be done by 2016 since it is also the election year in the proposed Bangsamoro state. “They are forming party, hindi naman maaaring may party ka na tatakbo sa election na may army ka pa (It is not

appropriate for a party to run in the election while its army is still existing),” Deles said. Deles said the GPH and MILF see the decommissioning to start this year. Deles also said they are positive that the House of Representatives and the Senate will approve the bill on the Bangasmoro Basic Law (BBL) within the first quarter of 2015. She said there is still sufficient time for Congress to tackle the BBL even though it is already late in the year. The GPH and MILF peace panels met last Saturday, September 27, in the Malaysian capital to

discuss and formalize the bodies and mechanisms that will roll out the normalization process. In the official OPAPP website, GPH chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said the two parties welcomed the three foreign experts who will sit in the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) which will oversee the process of decommissioning of MILF forces and weapons. The IDB will perform functions that include the conduct of inventory, verification and validation of Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) members, arms and weapons; develop and implement a sched-

ule of decommissioning of BIAF forces; plan, design, and implement techniques and technologies for weapons collection or retrieval, transport, and storage and putting weapons beyond use in accordance with the ‎agreement of the Parties; and report on the progress of its work and submit its report to the GPH and MILF Panels. Aside from the IDB, the two other bodies integral to the normalization process are the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) which will coordinate the different normalization processes and mechanisms and the Transitional Justice and

(PIAP). A press statement from Bayan Southern Mindanao said Dexter Librando, an organizer of the KilusangMagbubukidsaPilipinas (KMP) in Davao del Norte, was shot along 3rd Avenue near Fatima parish in Tagum City.

Librando was rushed to the Tagum Doctors’ Hospital. “Some of the participants of the launching earlier monitored suspicious men in the forum who tailed Librando when he left the venue,” the statement said. “Librando has been

active in the campaign against militarization of peasant and lumad communities in Davao Del Norte,” it added. The human rights group, Karapatan Southern Mindanao said in a media advisory that Librando is in critical condition.(MindaNews)

FMILF, 10

Activist farmer shot, in critical condition A

31-year old activist farmer is in critical condition after being shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen at around 3 p.m. Monday, shortly after attending the Daaodel Norte-Compostela Valley launch of the People’s Initiative to Abolish Pork Barrel

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

Rural electric cooperatives push for renewable energy

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AMRECO) requested the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to conduct a feasibility study (FS) that will look into the possible locations for potential renewable energy projects in the franchise area of the electric cooperatives. Speaking at a press conference at the Grand Men Seng Hotel yesterday, AMRECO president Sergio C. Dagooc said the study will focus on finding possible locations where electric cooperatives can put up their own mini-hydroelectric power plants

as embedded capacity or standby power. Dagooc said AMRECO has asked the NEA to provide a consultant that will conduct the study because it would cost the members a lot of money if they are the ones who would do it. He said NEA administrator Edita S. Bueno texted him and told him the World Bank has already allocated an assistance fund for the feasibility study. Dagooc, however, did not disclose the amount because the project is still in the planning stage. He said construction

FRURAL, 10

Microsoft to present software upgrade for city’s security system

fficials from Microsoft Corporation will be meeting with department heads of the Davao City government today for the possible adoption of Microsoft Citynext, an information technology (IT) initiative billed as the “perfect solution for safer, smarter, healthier, and modern cities.” “Citynext is our program to enable LGUs (local government units) in the Philippine context to serve their citizens better and create a better climate for business and investment by maximizing new technology on data, social media, mobility, and cloud computing,” George Parilla, public sector lead

for Microsoft Philippines, said at a press conference yesterday at the Grand Men Seng Hotel. He said among the features of Citynext is the provision of IT solutions for the existing safety system being implemented in the city. The city has deployed hundreds of closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras to get real-time video of different areas. However, there are instances when video footage from CCTVs cannot provide specific data because of the system’s limitation, like low resolution video. Guy Ron, Microsoft regional industry director for public safety and na-

FMICROSOFT, 10

NO JAYWALKING. Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas (center, with Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles beside him) yells to members of the media who were crossing

C.M. Recto Avenue while the “Don’t Walk” sign was still up. Roxas was walking from The Marco Polo, Davao to the Ateneo de Davao University for an engagement. Lean Daval Jr.

Roxas brushes aside stronger survey rating By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

NTERIOR and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas yesterday brushed aside his improved showing in the latest 2016 “presidentiable” survey of Pulse Asia. “Yang ratings na yan talaga, hindi ko naman tinitingnan yan. Tataas– bababa ‘yan (Those ratings, I really don’t look at them. They go up and down),” Roxas said in an interview with reporters yesterday at The Marco Polo, Davao. The latest Pulse Asia Survey showed Roxas

rising to the second spot from the previous survey’s fourth place, taking over Senator Grace Poe-Llamanzares. Roxas got 13 percent support in the latest survey, up from seven percent in the previous survey in June-July. He was tied with Senators Francis “Chiz” Escudero and Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Roxas, however, told reporters he was not giving attention to the survey and is focusing on his job.

“Kaya nandito kami ni Sec. Ging (OPAPP Secretary Teresita Deles) para pag-usapan ang BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law) isang napakahalagang kilos para magkaroon ng kapayapaan sa Mindanao at pati buong bansa (Secretary Deles and I are here to discuss the BBL with stakeholders. It’s a very significant step towards achieving peace not just in Mindanao but in the entire country as well),” he said. The Pulse Asia survey showed Vice Presi-

Treevolution unofficial count stands at 3.5 million

D GETTING READY. Fishermen load sacks of ice onto their fishing boat before going out to sea for a month-long fishing assignment. Photo taken yesterday at Sta. Ana wharf in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

dent Jejomar Binay still leading the pack, but his ratings decreased by 10 percent: from 41 percent in the June to July survey to just 31 percent in the latest survey. Pulse Asia said the survey was conducted after the Senate Blue Ribbon sub-committee started an investigation into the alleged overpricing of the Makati City Hall building 2. The building started construction when Binay was mayor of Makati City.

ESPITE unofficially breaking the world record of simultaneous planting of trees in one hour in Mindanao in September 26, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is still awaiting the final result of the tree planting activity in many parts of the island even in Region 11 which planted most of the trees. MinDA development manager officer Yvette Villar said they still wait for the final results from Impasugong, Bukidnon, Mati City, Davao Oriental, and even in Barangays Katipunan and Magsay-

say in Davao City. She said the total number of trees per area must be submitted to the community, provincial, and regional offices of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) before being turned over to the MinDA which will officially report the outcome to the Guinness Book of World Records. Villar said the unofficial count of the Treevolution as of yesterday stands at 3,517,489 trees planted, with 1,403,312 coming from Davao Region.

FTREEVOLUTION, 10

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE

Comval launches ‘Lalawigan Module’

T CROCODILES LIVE HERE. A boatman paddles his boat in Paghungawan Marsh in Barangay Jaboy, Pilar town in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. This

marshland has an area of at least 120 hectares and offers crocodile watching, preferably at night time. MindaNews photo by Roel N. Catoto

BANSALAN, Davao del Sur

MRDP’s P5M rubber project benefits Bansalan farmers

HE municipality of Bansalan was fortunate to have two farmer cooperatives as recipients of the Provincial “Big Ticket” Project for Rubber Plantation. Sitio Alo Farmers Agri-Cooperative (SAFACO) and Disa Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (DIFAMUPCO), respectively of barangays Darapuay and Anonang, recently received a P5-million project. Sixty per cent of the source of funds came from World Bank (loan proceeds) in the amount of P3 million, while 20% or P1 million came from the Department of Agriculture and another P1 million from the Provincial Local Government Unit of Davao del Sur. Provincial Administra-

DAVAO DEL NORTE

tor Lorna Bautista-Bandigan officially handed over a check worth P1 million as its counterpart to farmer cooperative representatives. Bandigan hoped that there would be more projects for the farmers of Davao del Sur designed to reduce poverty and boost economic sustainability. She believed this is the fruit of a work intensive effort done by the Provincial Planning Development Office through feasibility study geared towards inclusive growth. The allocation per cooperative beneficiary varies on the number of hectares each cooperative has voluntarily offered for the project. The target area to be planted is 250 hectares. Brgy. Anonang has 160

hectares while Darapuay has 90 hectares. The project has 153 beneficiaries. This is a project under the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP) and the Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD) with the latter as a component of the entire program. Project coordinator Helen Diana bared that projects like these need constant monitoring after a long and tedious process is done like identifying proponents, ocular inspection of the target areas that fit to be utilized, series of the consultation meetings, identification of policies to be implemented on the projects, pre-inspection on target areas and feasibility writing. If the project agency sends back to the local gov-

ernment unit a No Objection Letter, the proposal is deemed approved. MRDP seeks to further improve rural incomes, achieve food security through agri-fishery, infrastructure, livelihood enterprise and biodiversities conservation project. It has four program components namely the Rural Infra (RI), Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD), Natural Resource Management (NRM), and the Investment for Goverrnance Reforms (IGR) with support components like Financial Management, Inventory and Evaluation, Social and Environmental Safeguard and Information, Advocacy, Communication and Education. (PLGU-DavSur/Nilda S. Aniñon)

an equal or opposite reaction. On September 8, 41 families in Purok 2, Brgy. Palma Gil, Talaingod formally gained ownership the low cost solar home lighting systems from Pamana / Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS). The system included 2.5 watts solar panel, 12 volts battery/charger and two LED lamps for each household. These were installed on February 2014 together with the street lights powered by 50 watts panel and 12 volts battery charger, which automatically switched on from 6:00 in the evening until 6:00 in

the morning. Although the solar home lighting system can only energize two LED lamps, those were enough for the families in the community, who have not experienced having their own electricity at home. When I asked the children on how they benefited from the lights, they all exclaimed in unison, “Makapagstudy nami ug tarong” (We can now properly study). The innocent expressions of the children never failed to describe how happy the community is with a simple development in their area. It was as if they received individual gifts from Santa. But the journey to

getting this project was never easy especially to the purok leader who pushed for it at the top level. Carmela Liguyan, purok leader, recalled that her emotional journey during the approval of the project. “What we wanted really was a housing project, but they only gave us P300,000 fund, so we decided to have a water system as our first priority then lighting system,” Liguyan said. She added that the water system was later scrapped from the list when the municipal government announced that they had already allocated funds for the project. (PIA 11, Michael Uy)

Sun lights up night time in Talaingod

HEN we are infuriated by the intense heat of the sun that we could barely go outside our houses, a community is more than happy to see the sun shine so bright that they can recharge their solar-power batteries. When we are talking about Mindanao power crisis, a community in Talaingod had just experience light bulb in their houses. When the urban children need internet to complete their research, an Ata Manobo child just wants to have a light during night time to study his lesson. It has been the balance yet irony of life that for every action, there is

HE province in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd)- ComVal lead by Schools Division Superintendent Dee D. Silva has launched on September 29, 2014 at the Provincial Capitol the “Ang Aking Lalawigan Module.” It is an instructional module for Araling Panlipunan subject in line with the K+12 Basic Curriculum which requires the pupils to get oriented with the historical background and cultural traditions of their very own place. Governor Arturo T. Uy, with his full support to provide quality education to Comvalenyo children, finds this information and education initiative very important for every pupil to be well informed about his own province. He tapped the Provincial Tourism Office, Provincial Planning & Development Office, Provincial Information Office, and the Provincial Disaster Risk

Reduction & Management Office to assist the DepEd on such endeavor. Municipal Local Government Units also extended help when it comes to the other needed data per municipality. The “Ang akong Probinsiya Module” (cebuano) shall serve as the teaching material and local reference of the Grade 3 Social Studies Teachers. DepEd-ComVal has chosen 14 Araling Panlipunan Grade 3 teachers from the 14 School Districts of the province as the module writers who were further trained through Module Making and a Writeshop in the early weeks of September. The launching of the Module forms part as one of the highlighted events in celebrating September as the Tourism Month and September 27 as the World Tourism Day with the theme, “Tourism & Community Development.” (grace almedilla, ids-comval)

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

RDC-12 ups preparations for ASEAN integration

N a bid to enhance the area’s preparations for next year’s integration of the 10 member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Regional Development Council (RDC) of Region 12 has adopted the business sector-led regional desk for the East ASEAN corridor as its special coordinating unit. In a resolution, the council specifically confirmed the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) desk manned by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)-South-

KORONADAL CITY

western Mindanao as a special body under its Economic and Development Committee. Acting RDC-12 chair Arturo Valero said the move was based on a recommendation earlier submitted to the council by the EDC. He said the EDC specifically passed a resolution recommending the recognition of the Region 12 BIMP-EAGA desk as its special sub-committee and for the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) to serve as its secretariat, subject to confirmation by MinDA chair Sec. Luwalhati Antonino. (MindaNews)

HE city government here will open today (Wednesday) the area’s 4th Negosyo Festival in recognition of the contributions of the local business sector to the city’s progress and development. City Mayor Peter Miguel yesterday said the festivity, which focuses on the theme: “Green economy towards competi-

tive and resilient city,” is among the highlights of the city’s 14th charter anniversary celebration on October 8. He said as part of the festivities, they earlier launched a trade fair dubbed “Tiangge sa Parke” and the Agri Fair at the city’s Rizal Park as well as a grand carnival along the Jaycee Avenue here. (PNA)

Koronadal City opens 4th Negosyo Festival T

THE ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

Coco sugar is co-op’s best bet to progress I

N a town planted with close to a million coconut trees, it is no wonder that majority of its residents have relied heavily on this crop. But while coconut offers numerous products, farmers in Pikit, North Cotabato are confined to selling copra and whole nut, giving them limited opportunities to increase their income. “Through the years we are engaged in copra and whole nut production but has not created a significant leap for members. Lending on the hand continues to be active but there is a risk of draining our resources if we will solely depend on it,” said Fernando Bingtan, president of the Samahang Magniniyog ng Pikit Cooperative (SMPC). “Coconut farmers are usually within the poverty line. One manifestation of this is Pikit, being the leading coconut producer in the province, also leads in having the most number of conditional cash transfer beneficiaries,” said SMPC manager Rey John Ceriales. While attending the Mindanaowide Coconut Summit in Davao Oriental in 2012, Ceriales and oth-

er officials learned about the potentials of coco sugar as a viable value-adding activity. This prompted the officials to plan and propose coco sugar production to the Department of Agriculture’s Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP). Seeing its good standing as a co-op, DA-MRDP approved the proposal and provided P1 million to jump-start the project. The bulk of the funds went to the construction of the processing facility and equipment. Ceriales said they are eyeing the export market so they are putting importance on making the plant structure FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-compliant. “We are now working for FDA certification. Initial test showed promising result as the product passed the microbiology test which speaks so much of the product’s safety,” he said. “For now the co-op is producing around 30-40 kilos per day but based on its structure it can produce as much as 20 tons per day. Once our prospective market is ready we will then maximize

BEST BET. Imelda Alegado, one of the processors, shows their coco sugar which they plan to market in volume abroad. its capacity” said Jennifer Daylusan the co-op’s treasurer. Promotion of their products is also intensified through business matching activities. “Whenever our officials attend meetings or seminars they always bring samples of our coco sugar,” she added. The quality of SMPC’s coco sugar impressed a Davao-based businessman who signified his intention to order in volumes once the FDA certification is ap-

proved. “He has a business in Israel and he committed to help our product enter the Israeli market particularly in getting the Halal and Kosher certification,” Ceriales said. Aside from the building, the co-op is also anticipating the increasing need for raw materials once the marketing arrangement takes effect. The co-op has accredited nursery operators and incorporated in their operations the prop-

agation of dwarf coconut varieties. “We have Green Dwarf coconut variety which we also called Pikit Dwarf. This is highly suitable for sap production as it will not require tappers to climb tall trees in gathering the sap,” Ceriales said, adding that tappers can maintain at least 60 trees as source of coconut sap. Although the coco sugar production is still in its initial operations, its im-

pact on the community can already be felt. Since the start of the project it has employed at least 18 women doing the processing and packaging of their product. Ceriales said coco sugar production offer better income to mananguetes or tappers. One tapper in their co-op is now earning P4,000 a week or P16,000 a month from supplying coco sap as raw material. (Noel T. Provido/DAMRDP)

THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

Gov’t to prioritize Mindanao infrastructure roadmap By JON JOAQUIN

OVERNMENT will prioritize the implementation of the Logistics Infrastructure Roadmap for Mindanao in order to link the island-region’s agriculture and fishery production with the market. In his statement at the Philippine Economic Briefing yesterday at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and NEDA Director-General Arsenio Balisacan said sustaining the economy’s high-growth trajectory requires continued investment in infrastructure to unleash the potentials of many areas throughout the country. “Thus, investors are encouraged to participate in the construction

and implementation of various programs and projects that have been identified in a number of infrastructure-related roadmaps and master plans approved by the government. Several programs and projects in these roadmaps and master plans have no identified financing yet,” Balisacan said. Among the approved master plans is the Logistics Infrastructure Roadmap for Mindanao, which is intended to improve logistics infrastructure for cost-effective linking of Mindanao’s agriculture and fishery production centers to markets within the region, the rest of the country and abroad. Also being prioritized are the Transport Infrastructure Development

Roadmap for Metro Manila and its Surrounding Areas (Region III and IVa), and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Tourism (DOT) Convergence Plan. The development plan for Metro Manila aims to improve coordination among relevant agencies on transport projects in Metro Manila and its environs in the short-term, medium-term, and longterm. The DPWH and DOT convergence plan aims to provide road access to designated priority tourism destinations under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP). Balisacan said infrastructure development remains one of the top priorities of the govern-

said in a forum Monday that the BOI is still looking at other sectors that are relevant to inclusive business models. He said the department will soon develop guidelines for accreditation in which inclusive businesses can be provided with business process facilitation and other assistance from the government.

Inclusive businesses, as defined by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), are commercially viable profit-making private companies whose core business solutions are designed to address social issues for the poor and vulnerable by engaging them as a producer, employee, distributor, or consumer of goods and services. (PNA)

and air conditioning supply with investments of P162 billion or accounting 41.3 percent of the total; *real estate sector with investment pledges worth P28 billion or 25 percent of the total; *manufacturing with investments amounting P55 billion or 14 percent of the total; and *construction sector with P34 billion investments or 4.4 percent of the total. It was noted that investments in manufacturing surged by 71 percent, an offshoot of promotion efforts of the government to revive the sector that promotes decent jobs and income essential

in achieving inclusive growth. Top investors from the period came from Japan, Cayman Islands, the Netherlands, British Virgin Islands, and the United States. However, the total amount of investment in the first eight months of the year is about 53 percent of the target investment pledges of BOI and PEZA this year. Aggregate investment target of BOI and PEZA by end-2014 is at P790.3 billion. This means the two IPAs have to bring in P337.3 billion investments in the remaining months of this year. (PNA)

Gov’t eyes easing process for inclusive businesses T

HE government targets to grow inclusive business models in the country by easing the process of doing business here, Board of Investments (BOI) managing head Adrian S. Cristobal Jr. said. Cristobal, who is also Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Undersecretary for Industry Development and Trade Policy,

DTI investment arms seal P394-B pledges Jan-Aug 2014 I

NVESTMENT promotion agencies (IPAs) under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) approved P393.6 billion investment pledges in the first eight months of the year. Data presented during yesterday’s Philippine Economic Briefing Tuesday showed that pledges in Board of Investments (BOI) and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) from January to August period came from 541 projects that are expected to generate 107,639 jobs. The bulk of the investments in the said period were from the following: *electricity, gas, steam,

ment “to help sustain the robust economic performance and the improved confidence level among the international business communities that the country is currently enjoying.” “As we know, infrastructure development plays a critical role in the growth and competitiveness of the Philippines and its major economic sectors; in reducing poverty, and creating quality employment; and in ensuring the safety of people, communities, properties and livelihood in times of natural disasters and calamities. Given all these, the government is working to enhance the quality, adequacy and accessibility of the country’s infrastructure,” Balisacan said.

He said the overall strategy of the government to accelerate infrastructure development is to increase public infrastructure spending from 2.2 percent of GDP in 2012 to at least 5 percent by 2016. “The strategies and action plans in the Philippine Development Plan are translated into priority programs and projects under the current Public Investment Program (PIP) being implemented within the medium-term by the national government (NG), government-owned and/or -controlled corporations (GOCCs), government financial institutions (GFIs), and other government offices and instrumentalities,” he said.

Balisacan said for 2013 to 2016, the priority programs and projects for the infrastructure sector consist of 952 projects with total investment requirements amounting to about P2.06 trillion or $46.69 billion, including capital infrastructure projects that are both ongoing and proposed. “As we accelerate infrastructure development, the government shall continue implementing strategies to improve the country’s business climate and encourage private sector participation through good governance, vital infrastructure support, and policy reforms to facilitate doing business in the country,” he said. Jon Joaquin

7 HEALTH

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

Brain attack By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

PEAKING before an audience of graduating students, 52-year-old Sean suddenly lost sight in his left eye and stumbled over his words. The business executive quickly recovered and completed his speech. Sean blamed stage fright, but his doctor was concerned. Tests revealed severe blockage of Sean’s right carotid artery. He had suffered a transient ischemic attack (TIA), a brief period when blood fails to reach a specific area of the brain. Although TIA is fleeting, it should not be ignored. Some neurologists estimate that up to onethird of people who experience a TIA later suffer a stroke which, according to the World Health Organization, is the third leading cause of death worldwide. Stroke affects an estimated 20 million people each year. In the Philippines, stroke affects about 500 out of 100,000 people, reports Dr. Jose Navarro, author of “Prevalence o Stroke: Community Survey,” which appeared in The Philippine Journal of Neurology. “Don’t confuse a stroke with a heart attack,” says Dr. Isadore Rosenfeld, bestselling author of The Best Treatment. “A stroke is what

happens when the blood supply to a portion of the brain is interrupted; a heart attack is what you suffer when the blockage is in an artery within the heart.” There are two types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic. “About 80 percent of strokes are ischemic – due to a blocked artery,” explains The Merck Manual of Medical Information. “Brain cells, thus deprived of their blood supply, do not receive enough oxygen and glucose (a sugar) which are carried by blood.” Aside from TIA, other common early symptoms of ischemic stroke are the following: sudden weakness or paralysis of an arm, a leg, or one side of the body; sudden dimness or loss of vision, particularly in one eye; sudden confusion, with difficulty speaking and understanding speech; loss of balance and coordination, leading to falls; sudden severe headache with no apparent cause; and abnormal sensations or less of sensation in an arm or a leg or on one side of the body. “Many other symptoms may also occur,” the Merck manual points out. “People who have a symptom that suggests an ischemic stroke should seek medical attention immediately.”

The other 20 percent of strokes are hemorrhagic – due to bleeding in or around the brain. “In this type of stroke, a blood vessel ruptures, interfering with normal blood flow and allowing blood to leak into brain tissue,” the Merck manual explains. “Blood that comes into direct contact with brain tissue irritates the tissue and can cause scarring, leading to seizures.” The Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, based in Minnesota, says one cause of hemorrhagic stroke is an aneurysm, which caused the death of martial arts icon Bruce Lee and American comedian John Ritter. This “ballooning” from a weak sport in a blood vessel wall develops with advancing age. Some aneurysms may also form as a result of a genetic predisposition. “As aneurysm forms, the vessel wall becomes thin and stretched,” the Mayo Clinic points out. “An aneurysm that grows to at least three-eighths of an inch in diameter (about the size of the head of a thumbtack) is most likely to rupture.” But the most common cause of hemorrhagic stroke is high blood pressure (hypertension). There are about 12.6 million Filipinos

with hypertension and half of them are not aware of their condition until they begin to suffer illnesses that have associated complication with hypertension. “Hypertension per se does not kill, but the complications are the ones that disable and kill a hypertensive,” says Dr. Rafael Castillo, a cardiologist at the Manila Doctors’ Hospital. “Too much pressure can cause the bursting of a vessel – especially if that vessel has been weakened by age and the excess pressure of hypertension,” writes Dr. Julian Whitaker, author of Reversing Hypertension. “Hypertension also contributes to atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis, the narrowing and stiffening of the arteries that increases the likelihood of blood clots cutting off blood supply. When either of these scenarios occurs in an artery in the brain, the result is a stroke.” “Hemorrhagic strokes are less common than ischemic strokes but more often deadly,” warns the Mayo Clinic. “About 50 percent of people who have hemorrhagic strokes die compared to about 20 percent for ischemic strokes. Strokes that occur in young adults are typically hemorrhagic.” According to the Mer-

Symptoms of stroke ck manual, stroke usually damages only one side of the brain. Because nerves in the brain cross over to the other side of the body, symptoms appear on the side of the body opposite the damaged side of the brain. Stroke afflicts people at the prime of their age and the peak of their career. Aside from hypertension, other risk factors include family history of stroke, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, atrial fibrillation, high blood cholesterol level, smoking and those who previously had suffered from TIA. People eating diet rich in saturated fats, living sedentary life, and who are heavy liquor drinkers are also at risk for stroke. Experts urge Filipinos to be aware of the symptoms and know who to call and go to in case a stroke happens. Once the brain is damaged, it is irreversible. “Prompt attention could make a big difference in the outcome following a stroke,” says Dr. Willie T. Ong, an internist-cardiologist and author of several health books. There are no known first aid treatments to reverse the stroke process. According to Dr. Navarro, the treatments readily available to prevent grave disability from stroke can only be obtained from hospitals. A study conducted by the National Stroke Association in the United States has shown that 80 percent of stroke is preventable. In fact, the incidence of strokes in Western countries in recent decades has declined, mainly because people are more aware of the importance of controlling high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, and quitting smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages. “Controlling these factors can go a long way in preventing stroke,” the Merck manual claims. Those who have suffered from strokes should not fret. There is life after a stroke. Look at the case of Patricia Neal, who suffered a series of near-fatal strokes in 1965. Though pregnant at the time of the first stroke, she bore a normal child. She resumed her acting career in 1968 and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her electrifying performance

in The Subject Was Roses. Quite a feat! American president Dwight David Eisenhower made a quick and complete recovery from stroke in 1955. The following year, he was reelected a second presidential term. In retirement, he remained active in politics and wrote three books. An avid golfer, he scored his only hole in one in 1968, 13 years after his stroke and a year before his death. Before becoming the 38th U.S. President, Gerald Ford was a star on the University of Michigan football team and a lieutenant commander in the Navy during WWII. He suffered a stroke during the 2000 Republican Convention at age 87. Other American presidents who have experienced a stroke include Thomas Jefferson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and Ford’s predecessor, Richard Nixon. But despite all the odds, they continued to be in the limelight in the remaining days of their lives. Hugh Hefner, the controversial magazine publisher who launched the Playboy media empire in his late 20s, suffered a stroke in his late 50s. He later described this incident in 1985 as a “stroke of luck” for how it changed the direction of his life. A few years after the stroke, the famous bachelor married, though that marriage officially ended in 2010. An American television icon, Dick Clark, is famous as the creator and host of American Bandstand. Following his stroke in 2004, he continued to host “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” and inspires millions with his strength. Della Reese, the former “Touched by an Angel” star, survived an aneurysm during an appearance on The Tonight Show. When a blood vessel burst in her brain, it turned into a hemorrhagic stroke. Later, she became a spokeswoman for the National Stroke Association. Ted Williams, the Boston Red Sox slugger, had his finest year in 1941, when he hit .406. He ended his 21-year career with the team in 1960. Six years later, he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Williams suffered a stroke in 1994 and lived until 2002.

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

EDITORIAL

High-tech prostitution

N Davao City these days, even the oldest profession has become high-tech. Prostitution in this city has evolved from the old-fashioned car-flagging pimps and bimbos on side streets and darkly-lit corners of the city to the high-tech social media and text-for-sex. Yes, in a city where the “mecca of flesh trade’ is just around the block of the country’s central banking institution, prostitution has transformed into a more complex and worrisome social problem. Why is there a demand for child sex? Stats will show that almost half the prostitutes in the Philippines are underage, many of them street children lured from the provinces by the promise of work or simply food and water. According to a report by the Child Protection Unit citing the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) and the Center for Women’s Resources (CWR), the Philippines ranks fourth on the list of countries having a large number of prostituted children. There are about 75,000 children in the Philippines who were forced into prostitution due to poverty. The top five areas for child prostitution and sex tourism are Angeles City, Puerto Galera in Mindoro, Cebu and Metro Manila, and Davao. Based on latest report of Talikala, a non-government organization working closely on prostituted women and chil-

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dren in Davao, girls as young as 9 years old are already being pimped by their fellow kids. Based on Talikala’s report, there are 314 listed prostituted women and children in the city, but we know that in reality, that number is far from the real stats. It could even be more alarming. Prostitution is almost everywhere and practically at the tip of your fingers—a text away or a ‘like’ away on social media. These days, even the pimps are under age, and prostitution is promoted through the internet’s social media sites and through texting. According to informal sources, there are school girls and so-called freelance models engaged in prostitution who maintain a Facebook account where they post their photos for would-be-clients to check. The trend goes also with referral system. A friend refers another to a client through social media. Prostitution now has a face and the images are vivid, splashed on the internet and done like advertising catalogs complete with portfolio of photos. The Talikala report may have only given us the tip-of-theiceberg situation of child prostitution. It could be worse than that. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. CHENEEN R. CAPON BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO Reporters MEGHANN STA. INES AQUILES Z. ZONIO NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA Lifestyle Photography CHA MONFORTE JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Correspondents ARLENE D. PASAJE Contributing Photographer Cartoons MUNDA • HENRYLITO TACIO • MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO AURELIO A. PEÑA • MARY Columnists: CARLOS MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. ANN “ADI”• C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN • VIDA MIA VALVERDE • Economic Analysts:• ENRICO BORBON MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO B. DAVAL SR., • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO ANGELO AGUSTIN EMILY “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER PEREZENRICO “GICO” G. DAYANGIRANG • JONALLIER M. PEREZ ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA EconomicM. Analyst:

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

Who turns in the first gun?

N paper, it is such a good copy and a very romantic story. Imagine reading this piece in the newspapers: “After decades of bloody conflict which has claimed the lives of tens of thousands in Southern Mindanao, the secessionist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has signed peace with the Philippine government. ‘As the next step to efforts to achieve true and lasting peace in Mindanao, the MILF has agreed to a “normalization” process which would involve turning in their firearms and return to their farms in the countryside to lead a new life.” Beautiful? Dramatic? Romantic? Yes! Yes! Yes! Doable? Acceptable? Achievable? The answer depends on who you ask. Ask those who were involved in the peace negotiations, those who studied conflict resolution and those who have observed the way bloody civil wars ended in other parts of the world. They will tell you that it is achievable. But for those who have lived their whole lives in arenas of conflict and those who understand the realities on the ground, disarming the MILF or other rebels groups in Mindanao is a pipe dream. Here are some troubling facts which support the view of those who believe that disarmament is a far-fetched dream: Fact 1: The MILF is not the only armed group in the Southern Philippines. In

VANTAGE POINTS

fact, within its BRAVEHEART own organization, there are groups which may not even be keen on abiding orders to disarm and some of these elements are identified with the late MILF Manny Piñol Chairman Hashim Salamat. Fact 2: There is the MNLF-Nur Misuari wing which has been misbehaving lately because they believe that the peace deal with the MILF effectively repudiates the GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement of 1996. Fact 3: The newly-formed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) has snubbed the peace process and vowed to continue the struggle for Bangsamoro independence and they will continue to create trouble; Fact 4: The Abu Sayyaf in Basilan and other islands of Tawi-tawi and Sulu have lately pledged allegiance to the ISIS and this is a group which is very difficult to deal with because they are not even asking for independence but simply dreams of establishing a Pan-Islamic state in Southeast Asia through a campaign of terror; Fact 5: The Kidnap For Ransom

Groups, the plain and simple bandit groups, the Christian vigilantes and even private individuals who have landholdings and businesses to protect. Fact 6: The political warlords who have running feuds with each other or with the MILF or MNLF and who have enough armaments to fight off any of these groups, not to mention the tacit support of some wayward members of the armed forces and the police. There is enough guns and armaments in the Southern Philippines to equip the whole Armed Forces of the Philippines. The only war equipment which these groups do not possess could only be fighter planes, naval ships and tanks. These facts bring us to fore the following questions: 1. Will the MILF be willing to voluntarily disarm knowing fully well that there are groups like the rogue MNLF of Nur Misuari and the BIFF breathing down their necks? I have talked to some MILF commanders in the field and they are openly saying that if the coverage of the “normalization” or disarmament is the Bangsamoro Territory, they will have to spirit out their firearms to areas outside the BBL like North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Saranggani and even South Cotabato. 2. Will the political warlords voluntarily lay down their weapons in spite of the fact that they have running feuds or clan wars with fellow warlords and other

armed groups? Local political warlords I was able to talk to said they could not disarm for as long as their area threats from the BIFF, the KFRG and fellow politicians with whom they have running clan feuds. 3. Will the Christian vigilante groups, including those who own vast landholdings and business interests be willing to disarm in spite of the continuing threats from the KFRG, the BIFF and the Abu Sayyaf? 4. Will the government be able to convince the MILF that when it scales down the number of guns in the hands of its members, the armed forces would be able to protect the group and its political institutions from other rogue elements? 5. Will the government be able to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf, the BIFF, the KFRG and other criminal groups who also possess awesome firepower? 6. And finally, will the political leadership in Malacanang be firm enough to implement the law on loose guns and firearms as soon as the Bangsamoro Basic Law is passed and the Disarmament starts? To declare that with the signing of the peace agreement with the MILF and the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, peace will come at last to the troubled Southern Philippines is looking at the problem with jaundiced eyes. There is more to true and lasting peace than just a signed piece of paper.

dirt road leading to the planting sites that can be navigated only by 4X4 vehicles. There were many accounts of volunteers who ranted against the seeming lack of preparation, and newspaper reports called it disorganized. But let’s not forget that there were over 170,000 other volunteers in the rest of Mindanao that conducted their tree-planting without a hitch. Don’t get me wrong. I feel for all those who have been physically distressed – mostly students, I’ve heard – even if I wasn’t there to witness it. I wasn’t there but I felt the merciless heat of the sun as recounted by those who had to walk for hours to and from the planting site. I felt the burning need for water or food by those who did not have enough to last them the whole morning. I felt the hardship of trudging the rough terrain of Marilog, and the fear of falling into a ravine beside the steep slope that some planters had to climb. I feel for them because I care. When you’re in the business of protecting and

promoting company image and reputation, you are trained to care about what others feel or think about the organization you work for. After all, public relations is all about building relationships, and to build relationships you need to be real and sincere when dealing with your stakeholders. So yes, I cannot help but feel for all those volunteers. And no, I will not judge them even if others think they are simply being wailers or whiners. For who are we to judge those who went through the ordeal themselves? Yes, many of those who complained may be city-bred and unused to such physically taxing activity, but that’s their reality. That’s who they are and we have no right to belittle how they feel. We should not only be thankful they volunteered; we should also be concerned over what happened to them because without those volunteers, those millions of seedlings would not have been planted in so short a time. In the protocol of crisis communication, expressing concern over those affected and taking responsibility for the situation would be the right course of action – whether the cause of the problem was your doing or not – because doing so would demonstrate your sincerity and concern for the volunteers’ welfare. Taking stock of the lessons that can be learned and taking concrete actions to help those who have been direly affected are not only the correct next

steps; they are the right thing to do. I can only hope that those who feel strongly about their ordeal would be more forgiving in the days to come. Even those who said they will no longer join such an activity in the future will hopefully have a change of heart. After all, Mindanao needs more than the 3.5 million seedlings planted by Treevolution to allow its environment to recover. Let it not be said that a new world record has been achieved at the expense of all those volunteers. Let it be said instead that a new world record was achieved because Mindanawons chose to come together and make sacrifices for the environment. This, after all, is the noble goal of this tree-planting event. The almost 190,000 volunteers made Treevolution happen. When Guinness concludes that a new world record has indeed been achieved, no one deserves the accolades more than the volunteers because they did more than plant those three million seedlings. They united for a common cause, showing the Mindanawon spirit is alive and real, and shattering Mindanao’s long-drawn image as the home of a fragmented people. So to all volunteers, especially to those who went through extreme hardship to reach their planting site, to those who succumbed to the extreme heat of the sun, to those who shed tears because of thirst, hunger, and exhaustion, you all are the true heroes of Treevolution.

The true heroes of Treevolution

UCH has been said about the simultaneous tree-planting activity held last Friday all over the six regions of Mindanao. I’d like to think that what drew thousands of people to participate in the event is the compelling concern for the environment, but of course the activity’s attempt to achieve a Guinness World Record also has a lot to do with it. It may have been a combination of both and there’s no harm in that. After all, whatever the motivation of the volunteers, the environment still stands to gain from it. Now let’s hope all those 3.5 million saplings planted will grow to maturity, expand our forest cover, and contribute to carbon sequestration. Hopefully, the fruit-bearing trees and crops that were among those planted will also generate livelihood for the communities. While the people await the official verdict of Guinness, stories that came at the heels of Treevolution exploded in social media over the weekend: volunteers suffering from heat stroke and collapsing on the road because of fatigue from the unexpected long hike, some getting lost because there was no guide, and someone even getting injured in a vehicular accident due to the rough terrain of the site. The 13,000 people who showed up in Marilog (instead of the 8,000 expected) choked traffic not only along the highway, but more so at the single-lane

NEWS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

Grenade... FFROM 2

Loaded... FFROM 1 “Tan-aw namo nga kini usa ka election budget. Gamiton kini sa administrasyon para sa mga paboran niini nga mga kandidato gikan diha sa lokal, congressional labi na gyud sa presidential (We see this as an election budget. This will be used by the administration for the candidates it favors, from local, congressional, and especially presidential),” he said. House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte has been quoted as saying the House of Representatives will tighten its oversight over the national budget to assure the public that the funds will be properly spent and will not be lost to corruption. He also said they have invited different members of Congress to create public account and audit committees to question all government agencies on the

use of their funds, and to undertake legislative action to improve transparency of government operations. The proposed P2.6 trillion budget of the government is 15.1 percent higher than this year’s P2.265-trillion budget. Congress approved the 2015 budget appropriations on Sunday before it took recess last Monday. The House also expects that the biggest budget in the country’s history will be approved on third and final reading when session resumes next month. Social services will receive the lion’s share of the budget at P967.852 billion or 37.14 percent of the total budget, followed by economic services at P700.198 billion or 26.87 percent share, general public services at P423.057 billion or

16.23 percent share, debt burden at P399.363 billion or 15.33 percent share, and defense at P115.530 billion or 4.43 percent share. The Department of Education will receive the highest budget at P365 billion, followed by the Department of Public Works and Highways at P300.5 billion, Department of National Defense at P144 billion, Department of the Interior and Local Government at P141.1 billion, Department of Social Welfare and Development at P109 billion, Department of Health at P102.2 billion, Department of Agriculture at P88.8 billion, Department of Transportation and Communications at P59.5 billion, Department of Environment and Natural Resources at P21.3 billion, and the judiciary at P20.3 billion.

and would be producing power. Montenegro said the additional capacities from the two power plants would cover for the 60 to 80 MW that will be taken out of the Mindanao grid because of the maintenance of Agus 6. Bryan Diosma, technical head of the Mindanao power monitoring committee of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), said the shutdown of Agus 6 will not result in an increase in the electricity rate in Mindanao because the maintenance will not be implemented simultaneously. “It will be done consecutively so that only 25MW will be taken off the grid at any given time,” Diosma said in a phone interview yesterday Earlier, Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla said the incoming 500 MW capacity in the grid will “hopefully fast-track the rehabilitation process” of Agus 6. The process would take as long as 36 months if units 1, 2, and 4

are not closed. The rehabilitation of Agus 6 was supposed to start last January 2014 and end in March 2016, but Montenegro said it was rescheduled because no additional capacity entered the power grid this year. An allocation of P2.6 billion has been approved for the rehabilitation and replacement of plant components of units 1 and 2 in order to increase the generation output by 19 MW and extend the economic life for another 30 years. The three units that will be rehabilitated has an original capacity of 100 MW but only 70 percent are now delivered. The Guangxi Hydro Electric Construction Bureau has been appointed by the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM) to lead the project, which is now in the design and initial planning phase. The rehabilitation of unit 4 of Agus 6 was proposed earlier by the National Power Corporation

(NPC) with a project cost of P495 million. Units 1 (25 MW) and 2 (25MW) of Agus 6 were commissioned in the early 1950swith thenPresident ElpidioQuirino authorizing the construction of the project. Agus 6 was originally known as the the Maria Cristina Falls Hydroelectric Plant, named after the famous scenic waterfalls just 100 meters in the background. A total of P4.32 billion has been allocated for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the Agusn Power Plant Complexes located in Lanao del Norte. The rehabilitation project is expected to be completed in 2016. For the dredging of the reservoir of Pulangi 4 in Bukidnon, Diosma said the government allotted less than a billion pesos. There will be no upgrading or rehabilitation of the power plant. Diosma said that there is still no schedule for the dredging of the Pulangi 4 resevoir. (CRC with reports from PNA)

Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) which will undertake a study and recommend to the panels the appropriate mechanisms for transitional justice and reconciliation. The JNC is co-chaired by Undersecretary Zenonida F. Brosas for the GPH and Muhammad Nassif for the MILF. GPH members include Major General Ariel B.

Bernardo (Ret) and Major General Leo Cresente M. Ferrer (Ret), while MILF members include ‎lawyers Naguib Sinarimbo and Blo Adiong. Director Susan Guadalupe Marcaida and Toks Ebrahim will co-head the Secretariat of the JNC. The TJRC is preparing to hold two events in early October in Cotabato City and in Manila to

introduce the TJRC to the public and begin the process of consultations. The group is tasked to study and recommend to the peace panels the appropriate mechanisms to address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, historical injustices, and human rights violations and marginalization towards healing and reconciliation.

Agus...FFROM 2

MILF...FFROM 2

torcycle that passed in front of the gasoline station. He said the bombing attempt on Sunday was foiled after a concerned resident reported an unattended bag along Rojas Avenue in downtown Isabela City. Larubis said the con-

tent of the bag turned out to be a cell phone-triggered improvised bomb that prompted the explosives experts to use water disruptor to disarm it. He said the improvised bomb, which is an ammonium nitrate fuel oil-type of explosive, was

placed in a cooking pot. He said two-men riding a motorcycle were seen to have dropped the bag at the roadside of Rojas Avenue. Larubis said both incidents are being investigated thoroughly to unmask the suspects. (MindaNews)

of embedded capacities in the franchise areas of electric cooperatives will help in provide a sustainable source of power. Felix G. Vergara, board member of the First Bukidnon Electric Cooperative (FIBECO), said renewable energy projects such as hydroelectric and biomass “can be the best option for this kind of initiative.” He said even before the proposal, FIBECO had already submitted its intent to the Department of Energy (DOE) to construct a biomass power plant within its franchise area. “We have three biomass projects in our franchise area but the cooperative can’t start the construction of the facili-

ty because it is still pending now in the offices of government agencies,” he said. Vergara said some offices require “pampadulas” or bribes for the approval of projects. He did not elaborate. At present, there were a total of 157 pending renewable energy projects with a potential capacity of 1,700 megawatts in Mindanao in different desks of government agencies. “A single project needs 169 signatures, apart from the local government unit,” Romeo M. Montenegro, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) director of investment promotions and public affair, said yesterday.

Among the signing agencies are the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), and National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP). MinDA is now implementing an online onestop-shop for renewable energy projects which was launched earlier this year with the aim to fasttrack the processing of applications. MinDA aims to have a 50-50 balance in the generation mix of the Mindanao grid. At present, 57 percent of the energy mix comes from hydroelectric power plants while the rest comes from coalfired power plants. CRC

tional security in the Asia Pacific Region, said this can be addressed through software. Ron said Microsoft will present an IT solution for Davao City that can adapt to its existing security infrastructure. “Most of the time, LGU officials invest too much on CCTVs but get limited results,” he said. Ron said in the case of Singapore, one of their partner cities, the local government invested on few infrastructure like CCTVs but invested on software and other sensors for noise, motion, smell, and others. He said their software will provide an automated analyzer that can an-

alyze real time data detected by CCTV cameras. Ron said the data will be rationalized and analyzed faster, thus creating a more secure city with higher responsiveness from security personnel. Ron and Parilla will also present today the possible use of social network in tracking crimes, accidents, and others. Parilla said a partner company of Microsoft developed a software that will analyze data from subscribers of social media. “There’s no hacking of private accounts. It’s just that there will be a list of keywords that will automatically enter the

system and will give an alert if it’s an emergency,” Parilla said. As to the cost of the program, Guy and Parilla did not give an exact amount because they still have to see the Public Safety Command Center where data collected by CCTV cameras are forwarded. “We still have to ask the department heads what the key priorities of the city are so that we can provide the solution based on their needs,” Parilla said. Parilla said Citynext can also be utilized by the city for its plan to interconnect different city government offices in the city. CRC

MinDA chair Secretary Luwalhati Antonino had earlier expressed confidence that the Treevolution would reach its target, saying the enthusiasm of participants had been observed in most planting areas not only in Davao Region but also in other areas in Mindanao where the number of participants exceeded expectations. She said there were

MinDA representatives deployed in all planting sites to monitor the situation. “In Barangay Magsaysay, we accomplished the actual planting of trees within thirty minutes because of the number of volunteers who participated,” Antonino said after conducting the tree planting activity in the area. She said the government through the De-

partment of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will tap the services of the indigenous peoples through the food for work program to serve as stewards of the trees. Antonino said the government will use this approach to ensure that the trees will eventually grow since the planting sites are situated in the mountains. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

Rural... FFROM 3

Microsoft...FFROM 3

Treevolution... FFROM 3

11 MOTORING

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

SELF-DRIVING

BMWs self-driving cars heading to China T

HE luxury and executive car maker is taking its autonomous driving technology to the streets of Beijing and Shanghai in the hopes of developing its features for Chinese drivers. The company’s self-driving cars have already clocked up thousands of kilometers on European roads -- they’ve even autonomously conquered the Nurburgring, the world’s most challenging racetrack. But now, after five years of research, development and testing on its home turf, BMW is partnering with Baidu -- China’s largest search engine -- to start testing autonomous driving technology on Chinese freeways too.

Over the next two years BMW will be trying to understand the technological challenges that need to be overcome to make self-driving cars a reality for the world’s biggest car market. For example, a feature that is currently unique to Chinese road infrastructure is the multi-storey freeway. The company plans to build specific prototype vehicles for developing the solutions to these problems and will use Baidu’s mapping and cloud expertise to help guide them and keep them connected. Like most realistic car companies, BMW sees the immediate future of autonomous driving technology as a means of offering

an automated co-pilot for taking the strain in specific driving situations -- such as in heavy traffic or when the driver is taken ill and is no longer able to control a vehicle. However, even in these very specific circumstances, a self-driving car would still need to be as capable, connected and aware as a human driver to be able to cope with the traffic conditions. Despite the very gradual approach that most car companies are taking with developing self-driving cars, Audi, Tesla and Nissan have all pledged to bring the next generation of autonomous driving technology to market before the end of the decade.

W Autosports-Staging Lanes lead BMC Circuit Showdown

WINNERS. Vanni Garcia (fourth from left) lifts the trophy with the W Autosports-Staging Lanes Racing Team led by Willie Torres (extreme right) during the recent

Phoenix Petroleum-The Racing Line Mindanao Drag Racing Championships at the Riverfront Speed City.

EAM W Autosports-Staging Lanes continue to set the pace in the BMC Air Filter Circuit Showdown with an aggregate of 537 points after seven rounds of racing. Led by University of Mindanao president Willie Torres, W Autosports amassed 93 points in the latest stage to take a wide

margin over second-running Team GT Radial which has 346 after accumulating 65 points in Round 7. A1 Racing is at third with 333 out of a 53 in Round 7. Rounding up the top 10 are Team T Factory (243), Ratchet Head Racing Garage (203). Forcedspeed (181), GT 86/ BRZ (161), Centrum Fuel

(156), MLPH (83) and Flat Out (82). Pampanga Circuit Racing is at 11th with (65) in a tie with Grupo Toyota, followed by Stock Options (22), Megasquirt Phils. (17), Ultra Racing (10), HLR (5) and BMS Motorsport (0).\Team W Autosports also has Vanni Garcia and Why Dagondon. (NJB)

12 CLASSIFIED

Call: 224-0733 • Tionko St., Davao City

Billiard Supplies

Phone Nos.

Cell Nos.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

WOMEN

Active parenting

WHAT’S your parenting style? Are you the indulgent type or an authoritarian? Parenting is one of the most crucial influences in a child’s development. It is just one of the many aspects that factors in one’s holistic growth into a happy adult. Its effects during each stage in childhood can extend as far as adulthood. Just as parents and children have differences of their own, the manner and approach with which couples rear their young ones also vary for every family. What fits for one parent or child may not necessarily be suitable for another. There are some who inculcate offsprings with a love for arts, channelling their creative side as part of personality development. To some couples, sports plays an important role in establishing discipline and enhancing social skills among kids. The ultimate goal of making sports a part of their lifestyle should be to promote lifelong physical activity, recreation and healthy competition, which can come in handy later on in their lives. Taken from one mom’s point of view, it’s highly suggested that parents pay close attention to their child’s interests, identify their needs, and provide motivation and guidance. “The goal must not be skewed toward what parents expect to see or gain out of engaging their child in a particular activity, hobby or sport. Everything should be focused on your child’s well-being, to teach him to realize his own goals and get a deeper understanding of how he can maximize his potentials in order to achieve,” shares Anna BorlonganPacheco, a mom of two. “My husband, Jaypee, and I just want our kids to enjoy their childhood. They are very much in touch with what they want in life as of now. We don’t put any pressure on them, be it in academics or in other activities. We make our presence and love felt by guiding them through their million questions on

different subject matters in school, attending all their events, cheering them on, providing their needs and supporting their hobbies and interests. Because of these things, our kids have a better grasp of the meaning of family and what it takes to make a home happy and healthy.” Sportingaround Anna’s kids, Miggy and Isabel, are different in some ways. Migs is the reserved and conservative type, spending his “alone” time in between reading books, biking and planting. Isabel is sociable and very expressive. She enjoys arts and crafts as much as she loves dancing and singing. Anna points out, “Sports and the great outdoors are their only common ground.” Miggy and Isabel remind me so much of the old Milo TVC’s which featured little champions in the making. Like most of them, Anna’s kids have evidently grown into bonafide young athletes, always in anticipation of a new sport or competition. “My kids enjoy a good sweat and they are very active. Both have already participated and placed in several triathlons and have maintained their standing as members of the swimming varsity for 2 years now. Aside from taking karate lessons, Migs also plays soccer, basketball, badminton and chess. Isabel, on the other hand, has just discovered a new love in synchronized swimming. Recently, she has been competing in dance sports events,” shares the proud mom. “This love of sports just

teamwork and self-discipline. They have become responsible in a way that they take charge of their own time --- using it wisely for learning and fun,” explains Anna.

came naturally to them. We didn’t have to force them into trying out each activity. I guess they just found it interesting since my husband and I are also into sports. I guess children really learn by example. In a way, this is our kind of family bonding.” Personality development Any form of physical activ-

ity and exercise promotes a holistic growth and benefits the child in different ways. Aside from keeping one strong and healthy, sports can help boost selfesteem and confidence, improve concentration and balance, and develop flexibility and social skills. “In the case of Miggy and Isabel, they learned to respect each other’s capabilities and value patience,

Nurturethegift Anna shares her parenting experience to all mothers. “Being parents, we are our child’s main support system. But we also discipline ourselves by keeping to our children’s own goals. We don’t pressure them into winning all their competitions. We let them know that we believe in their talent and, whatever the outcome may be, we trust they’d always give it their best.” “Any parent whose children are into these competitive activities should let their kids follow their own pace and allow them to enjoy the experience

to the best of their abilities. Parents can set good example by reinforcing acceptance and respect of different shapes and ability levels. Another way of extending moral support is by promoting talent, strength and an open mind in coping with different environments and situations.” “It’s just natural that parents hope our little ones will achieve success throughout their life, but we have to let them find their own place in this world and not push them to follow unrealistic dreams. Keep in mind the difference between conditioning our children to do what we love versus loving what they do. We have to let them grow into the person they want to be. Our role is to prepare them for a world outside their hobby and outside our home.”

A2 INdulge! EVENT

MX3 whoops it up at GenSan Tuna Festival THE Annual celebration of the City’s Tuna Festival ensued with a bang as MX3 and the casts of “Sana Bukas Pa Ang Kahapon”- Bea Alonzo, Paulo Avelino and Maricar Reyes surprised the folks of the City of their presence at the Kapamilya Karavan at KCC Convention & Events Center on August 30, 2014. Merrymaking and cheering went on and on as the MX3 Fun games were carried out. Players and winners received MX3 gift packs. The MX3 participation is a sought- after amusement. Young and old folks yearn to be one of the game contestants. They desire to go home with bags of MX3 products, MX3 T-shirts and many other MX3 items. Joining the MX3 fun events also made them truly feel the spirit of festivity of joy and thanksgiving. MX3 continues to support their amazing yearly celebration. The street dancing colored the main streets. Different Private Companies and Government Offices never failed to support and be part of the celebration. The City is popularly dubbed as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. The fishing Industry has and always been the center of economics and fame notwithstanding their rich agricultural products for cereals especially corn, fruits (for local and export markets), and handicrafts from rattan, ramie, among many others which raw materials are just grown in the nearby provinces and towns within the Province and Region in general. General Santos City is also famous for their people in the world of boxing arena, showbiz and beauty queens. The reason the festivity is for thanksgiving and rejoicing. The God of all creation is truly to be praised! MX3 congratulates the Tuna Festival organizers and supporters!

SHOP ON A BUDGET WITH SM KIDS FASHION! Enjoy up to 70% off on trendy outfits for boys and girls. Visit Children’s Wear Department from Oct 1 - Nov 2, 2014 and prep up for the coming holidays!

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

SUN Cellular-GameXeSports Festival brings top Asian gamers and fans to Cebu THOUSANDS of gaming aficionados came together at the recent SUN Cellular-GameXeSports Festival, a three-day event at the SM City Cebu Trade Hall that featured adrenaline-charged games and activities, such as a Cosplay competition, fan meet-ups, exhibits, and a raffle of gaming gears, among others.

As the highlight of the festival, top-caliber teams from Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, South Korea and Thailand competed for the 1st Asian eSports Championship, where they all slugged it out on the game Defense of the Ancients (DOTA) 2 for a prize pool worth USD10,000 and a chance to advance to the upcoming World e-Sports Tournament in Baku, Azerbaijan. In the end, South Korea’s powerhouse team MVP Phoenix bagged the title after beating the Philippines’ Team MSIEvolution Gaming Team (EVOGT) in a best-ofthree final match that kept the mostly Filipino crowd on the edge of their seats. “It was really awesome competing with the best players around the region,” said Tae Won Park, the leader of Team MVP Phoenix, who were considered a force to be reckoned with right from the start because of their experience in several international tournaments. “We also enjoyed the passionate Filipino gamers who showed support for all the teams out of love for the game.” “Our team actually trained hard to reach the finals, and we’re glad to make it happen, even giving our opponent quite a challenge as we fought until the very end,” said Paty Pascua, leader of Team MSI-EVOGT. MVP Phoenix and MSI-EVOGT took home USD5,000 and USD3,000, respectively, and earned slots to the World e-Sports Tournament where a total prize pool of USD50,000 is

at stake. Meanwhile, another Filipino team, Cebu-based Team Arcanys, placed third and took home a total of USD2,000 from the competition. Level-playingfield The strong finish of Filipino teams at the SUN Cellular-GameXeSports Festival augurs well for eSports in the country, said Brian Lim, the chairman of the Philippine eSports Organization (PeSO), the main organizer of the event. “The fact that Filipino teams landed within the top three spots in the competition shows our potential to dominate the eSports scene,” said Lim. “Esports allows Filipinos to compete on a levelplaying field. With the right direction and more exposure to events like this, I’m quite sure that our own eSports players will prove themselves to be among the best around the world.” Die-hard DOTA 2 fans from all over the country flocked to the event to root for their favorite eSports athletes, meet with their online peers and catch a glimpse of the latest prod-

ucts in the gaming industry. Among them was Jeffrey Kintanar, 22, who stood elbow-to-elbow with the rest of the jubilant crowd at the final match between MVP Phoenix and MSI-EVOGT. “How can it become more exciting? To see gamers from other parts of the world convene in this venue, I’m very much willing to pay the price,” said the certified online game aficionado since high school. “Seeing the Philippines represented in the finals gave me goosebumps,” said eighteen-year old Eliezer Quinto, who came to the festival with his friends. “You just can’t help but be proud of them and aspire to be as good as they are!” The SUN Cellular-GameXeSports Festival also became a venue for tens of Cosplayers to live up their fantasies, showing up at the event as their favorite character. Meanwhile, seasoned gamers also brought their souped-up customized gaming rigs for everyone to see. Grandexperience forSUNCellular

subscribers Sun Prepaid and Postpaid subscribers also had a grand experience as they enjoyed exclusive perks such as free tickets for load and postpaid line subscriptions. Lucky subscribers also took home premium items for their SUN load and GameX purchases at the venue. Throughout the event, gaming aficionados learned more about GameX, a one-stop shop that allows gamers to buy credits for popular mobile and PC games using their SUN Prepaid load or SUN Postpaid account. With GameX’s innovative platform, SUN Cellular subscribers, along with Smart and Talk ‘N Text users, are able to level up their gaming lifestyle without having to rely on a credit card for in-game purchases, or leave their homes just to buy additional credits for upgrading their characters and weapons. To purchase game credits, SUN Prepaid and Postpaid subscribers may simply access the GameX portal (www.gamex.ph/ epins) on their phone, tablet or PC, select the ePIN for their chosen game, and pay with their mobile load or charge to their Postpaid bill – all from the comfort of their own homes. For more information about the latest offers from SUN Cellular and GameX, visit www.suncellular.com. ph and www.gamex.ph/ epins, respectively.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Alex Gonzaga and Ellen Adarna grace Metro’s Oct 2014 cover TRUE to its goal of bringing the best in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, Metro Magazine presents an issue that’s packed with everything that its readers need to know now—from trends and trendsetters to new movements and products that will help one become his or her best self yet. Front and center and televisions new ‘it’ girl and reality show revelation Alex Gonzaga, as well as fearless ‘it’ girl and ultimate fitspiration Ellen Adarna, who take on Metro’s challenge of veering away from their usual looks to try on high fashion’s best. Alex dons Nicolas Ghes-

quiere’s premiere collection for Louis Vuitton, while Ellen

wears Cary Santiago’s 25th anniversary collection for

Metrowear Icon 2014. Get to know these two

women, their journey to the top, and why Metro believes they’re here to stay. Also, read up on how to pull off scorching hot military, oriental, and layering trends as Metro shows its readers how to make these looks work—from a day in the office to date night. Braids are also making a big comeback, and now they’re more youthful than childish. Metro shows how to rock them anywhere and everywhere with easy and foolproof tips; along with makeup looks to match and to effortlessly make an impact. Everything that’s making waves and redefining

convention is in “Metro’s 2014 Hot List” so there’s no need to look anywhere else. Indulge in the magazine’s well-curated selection of products, people, places, and trends…the new, the now, and the next. Plus, Metrowear Icon Cary Santiago also shares his preparations for his upcoming show. Metro is available in bookstores and newsstands for only P150. Like Metro on Facebook (www.facebook. com/Metro.Magazine) and follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@metromagph). #Metro25 #TheMetroDifference

Kim-KC rivalry in ‘Ikaw Lamang’ explodes on primetime TV THE rivalry between KC Concepcion and Kim Chiu’s characters in ABSCBN’s master teleserye “Ikaw Lamang” is set to fire up primetime TV as Natalia (KC) discovers that Jacq (Kim) is her long lost sister Andrea. As she returns, Natalia is ready to do everything to ruin the life of her only sibling after Andrea destroyed her relationship with Gabriel (Coco Martin). How will Natalia be able to do her evil plans if her father Franco (Christopher de Leon) is protecting Andrea? Is Gabriel going to continue his search for vengeance now that he knows that the woman he loves the

most is also the daughter of the man he despises? Under the direction

of Malu Sevilla, Manny Palo, and Avel Sunpongco, master drama series “Ikaw Lamang”

is produced by Dreamscape Entertainment Television, the group that created top-rating TV masterpieces such as “Walang Hanggan,” “Ina Kapatid Anak,” and “Juan dela Cruz.” Don’t miss the much awaited scenes and confrontations in the timeless master teleserye, “Ikaw Lamang,” weeknights after “Hawak Kamay” on ABSCBN Primetime Bida. For more information about “Ikaw Lamang” visit the show’s official social media accounts Facebook.com/IkawLamang.Online, Twitter. com/IkawLamang_T V and Instagram.com/ IkawLamang_TV.

‘Wanted: Smart tutor’ on the latest episode of Pepito Manaloto this Saturday THIS Saturday, take a break from the stressful work week and join Pepito Manaloto (Michael V.) in his exciting search for an intelligent tutor. Upon knowing that their daughter Clarissa (Angel Satsumi) failed her English and Math subjects, Pepito and his wife Elsa (Manilyn Reynes) are determined to hire a proficient and patient tutor who can help Clarissa in achieving high grades. The only person who will pass these qualifica-

tions is the witty school nerd Lea (Rita De Guzman) who turns out to be Chito’s (Jake Vargas) worst school enemy. Lea’s stay in the mansion as Clarissa’s tutor will then cause a series of hilarious cat and dog fights between her and Chito, bringing loads of laughter to Kapuso viewers. Be part of a fun-filled and productive weekend in Pepito Manaloto: Ang Tunay na Kuwento this Saturday right after 24 Oras Weekend on GMA 7.

THE MAZE RUNNER / RUROUNI KENSHIN 3: THE LEGEND ENDS Dylan O'Brien, Kaya Scodelario / *Takeru Satoh

PG 13 / *R 13

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

WALKING ON SUNSHINE Annabel Scholey, Giulio Berruti, Hannah Arterton, Leona Lewis GP

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

THE EQUALIZER Denzel Washington R 16

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

R-16 ANNABELLE Annabelle Wallis, Ward Horton R 13

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

TRAVEL

Eden Nature Park celebrates seventeen wonderful years

EDEN Nature Park and Resort, a leading tourist destination in Davao City is celebrating its 17th anniversary this year. To commemorate the event, the resort will launch several promotions highlighting and celebrating Eden’s position as one of the premier destinations in Davao City’s hospitality industry. Eden Nature Park and Resort is situated at the foot of Mt. Talomo, around 3000-ft above sea level. Behind the mountain resort lies the majestic Mt. Apo. Eden Nature Park is 95% man made. Discovered sometime in 1971, resort used to be a logged-over area covered only by a blanket of wild grass. Its prospective was readily seen by the owners, Atty. Jesus V. Ayala and his wife Mrs. Fe M. Ayala as the property is blessed with rich natural resources and provided a resplendent view of Davao City and the Davao Gulf. It is also a great model of how man can ameliorate nature, rebuild a lost environment, and re-create awe-inspiring natural wonders. Today, there are over 100,000 pine trees spread throughout 80 hectares, providing an ideal climatic condition and astonishing landscapes that attract many nature lovers all-year round. Eden is one of the most popular and most visited mountain resorts in the Philippines today that offers a plethora of exciting things to do and heart pumping adventures. It set a precedent for premier hospitality services and standards, and continues to lead the industry 17 years later and a superb tourist attraction that offers tons of fun activities and amenities for all ages.

It is a nature lover’s paradise and an idyllic spot for all year round destination. On its 17th Anniversary, Eden offers so much to travel aficionados starting October 1 to 30, 2014. Eden invites you to take it easy in a private leisure where you can savor quality and intimate moments with family, and enjoy an overnight stay in Vista Cottage, Holiday Lodge, Begonia Room with Breakfast for P1700.00 per room. Avail 17% off on our Family Cottages and Mountain Villas. Cherish time with your loved-ones and avail 17+1 on Snacks and Buffet lunch Daytour Packages. A special 17% discount awaits guests who will avail Skycycle, Skyrider, Guided Shuttle Tour and fishing at the Fishing Village. Celebrating 17 years of service marks a key milestone as it stands as a significant landmark in Davao City’s colorful history. This is an exciting year and momentous occasion for Eden as it celebrates the past and looks forward to the future, continuing to lead the way as it continues to become a landmark in Davao City. Eden constantly provides exceptional experiences for its guests. The resort’s distinct and unique elements have continued to make it a choice retreat for Davaoenos and travelers alike. Eden received a Certificate of Excellence award voted by reviewers on TripAdvisor. The accolade was part of the TripAdvisor’s 2014 Travellers’ Choice Awards. Eden Nature Park & Resort is a member of the

JVA Group of Companies which is principally based in the Davao region. The JVA Group strives

to be a strong business group and a key catalyst to Davao’s development. We are committed to the prin-

ciples of integrity, professionalism and excellence in all our undertakings. We recognize our responsibil-

ity to enhance and promote the development of our people, community and environment.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 â&#x20AC;˘ WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

ZION

CLASSIFIED 13

EDGEDAVAO

ACCUPRINT PUBLISHING, INC.

Is in need of:

MACHINE OPERATOR

EDGE

Serving a seamless society

DAVAO

WANTS YOU!

(Printing Press)

Qualifications:

- At least high school graduate, not more than 30 years old - Physically and mentally fit - Can handle minor repairs of the machine - Has the ability to be cool under pressure of deadlines and complex projects - Experience of at least one year

Send application letter & resume to: HR Supervisor ZION Accuprint Publishing, Inc. Door 14 Alcrej Building, Quirino Ave., 8000 Davao City, Philippines E-mail: marketing@edgedavao.net zion_publishing@yahoo.com Telefax: (082) 2213601 Website: www.edgedavao.net

Account Executives (3) - Male / Female, not more than 30 years old - Candidate must posses a Bachelor/ College Degree in any Business field. - Willing to work under pressure, flexible, persuasive, can speak fluently and computer literate - A team player - With Basic Salary, Transportation, Communication, allowance + Commission For interested applicants, you may send your resume to: HR Department EDGEDavao

Doors 13 & 14 Alcrej B;dg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel. No. (082) 221-3601 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com

14 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

AAK Davao bets bag 3 golds P

ERENNIAL medal achiever AAK (Association for the Advancement of Karatedo) Davao City won three golds, a silver and three bronze medals in the recently-concluded SM Milo Super Karate Kids Age Group Championships held in SM Marikina, last Sept 28, 2014. AAK Davao fielded seven karatekas (composed of karatekas from

AAK Davao and AAKUIC) namely. Lexine Elise Tan (Davao Christian HS), Brent Kendric Tan(Davao Christian HS), Kyzzhia Pauline Navarro ( UIC-GS), Seth Michael Navarro (UIC-GS), Sofia Agullo (UIC-HS), Daryl Sulla (UIC-HS) and Emmanuel Bayugo (UICHS). A total of ten teams competed in the said tournament mostly

coming from Luzon led by Jose Rizal University, La Salle Greenhills, AAK-ADMU, AAK-Megamall, AAK-St. Paul Pasig, AAK-DLSZ, ASKACavite, Sacred Heart Marikina and AAK Davao. The Gold medalist are Lexine Elise Tan (Girls Kata-6-8), Sofia Agullo (Girls Kata 12-13) and Kyzzhia Pauline Navarro (Girls Kumite 8-9), Daryl

Sulla won the lone silver medal in the girls 14-15 years old (cadets) after bowing to Nicole Erika Dantes from AAK-Megamall, Bronze medal winners are Seth Michael Navarro (boys kata 6-8 yrs old), Kyzzhia Pauline Navarro ( girls kata 9-11 yrs old) and Daryl Sulla (girls kata 14-15 yrs old). Emmanuel Bayugo and Brent Kendirc Tan Failed to win a med-

al after bowing to an AAK-ADMU Karateka in the repechage match. The team is composed of yellow belts (beginners) and this is the first time they competed here in manila, and i am very happy about the results, this kids is going to be the future karatekas of AAK Davao who will also compete someday in national and the international scene.

The team was accompanied by AAK Davao Branch Chief Rommel Tan and Jeofrey Albarico as coach and assistant coach respectively. “AAK DAVAO would like to thank our sponsors, Dr. Dennis Tan and Dr. Carla Tan, Seth and Michael Navarro, Mr. and Mrs Sulla, Mr and Mrs Agullo, UIC-HS, Mr. and Mrs Bayugo and Beefit gym,” Tan said.

Athletes Village with Christopher and his coach of two three years Greg Romero. They failed to check the Games track which is a twohour ride by bus from the Village. “But I have seen the track on video and it’s just any other track,” Caluag said. “But we’ll get to see it tomorrow [Tuesday] and test the difficulties, perhaps ride it.” Caluag is clueless on who he will face on Wednesday but stressed he would be ready for anybody. “I’ve learned that guys I’ve raced with are here and we’ll have

to set up our game plan for that,” he said. There are only nine riders racing on Wednesday— two each from the Philippines, China, Japan and Korea and one from Indonesia. The seeding run is set at 11:30 a.m. while the motos will be at 1:10 p.m., all Korea time. The Philippine also fielded two riders in cycling’s road events with Mark John Galedo finishing 13th in the time trial and in the 26th group in the road race where young teammate Ronald Oranza wound up with the 11th group.

Mystery clouds Caluag’s preparedness I

NCHEON, Korea—Daniel Caluag knows the weight of his task for the Philippine team in the 17th Asian Games. Philippine delegation officials talk about him as one of the few brightest hopes to win a gold medal here. He is entered in cycling’s BMX event, but his record remained as mysterious as it was prior to the London 2012 Olympics when he failed to meet the same expectations placed on him. He was kept busy pursuing a degree in Nursing in the US. That kept him off the track in the UCI-sanctioned races since May 2013 when he won the Asian championship in Indonesia. As a result, his name does not appear on the UCI’s ranking that was released this month. But Caluag said he has

prepared well enough for the Asian Games by participating in at least three races in Nashville and Texas in the US

and I am hoping to get things in the right box for the gold medal here,” said Caluag, a ranked BMX rider in the US before agreeing to race for the Philippines in London and in last December’s Myanmar SEA Games where he won gold and his brothe r Christ o pher—

GOLDEN HOPE. Daniel Caluag hopes to win the gold in BMX cycling.

within the past year. “ I h a v e mentally and physically prepared

myself

Fil-Am player Dani Gilmore had two RBIs for the Blu Girls.

who is also competing at the Asian Games—clinching the bronze. “There is such expectation for me to deliver and I am not going to let the Philippines down,” he said. Caluag checked in at the

Blu Girls on track

NCHEON, Korea—The Blu Girls remain on track of piercing the medal play despite losing their third straight game, a close 4-5 defeat at the hands of Chinese-Taipei, that kept their campaign in the 17th Asian Games going. The Blu Girls are looking forward to making it to the bronze medal game, and if still possible advance to the silver medal depending on the outcome of the games of the leading teams. Filipino-Americans Danielle Lindsey Gilmore and Morgan Teressa Stuart each had two RBIs for the Blu Girls,

who mounted a threerun explosion at the top of the fifth inning but fell short against the calculated game of the Taiwanese. The Filipinas broke the ice on Stuart’s RBI single that sent home Garie Blando, but Chinese-Taipei was quick to level on a Hsueh Mei homerun at the bottom of the opening frame. The Taiwanese, who brought in the same team that routed the Filipinas in the Irvine (California) World Cup last July, scored a run each in the next two innings and had two more at the bottom fourth to form a foundation for their second win in three match-

es and secure a place in the page system semifinals. Chinese Taipei played Thailand in the second match of its double header on Monday. The Blu Girls are toting a 1-2 won-lost record but are expected to go 2-2 with an otherwise easy match against Thailand (0-3) at the close of the round-robin eliminations on Tuesday. The Thais are already eliminated at this point and are expected to be joined by the Koreans who take on the Taiwanese on Tuesday. A loss would give the hosts a 1-4 record that would be good for fifth place. “We are on course

toward what we have planned for the Asian Games,” Blu Girls assistant coach Ana Santiago said. The Blu Girls’ coaching staff led by head coach Randy Dizer opted to shoot for a semifinal round berth and then take it from there. Japan, China and Chinese Taipei are hard to beat in the round-robin, prompting the Philippines to focus on beating Korea and Thailand. The ploy is working and the Filipinas are bound to compete in the medal round. Tuesday’s game also pits front-runners Japan (4-0) and China against each other.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

DISQUALIFIED. Marestella Torres, tipped to win the gold medal in women’s long jump, was disqualified for thrice committing faulty jumps. Left photo, Mark Anthony Barriga, and fellow Panabo City boxer Charly Suarez (right photo with former DCPO chief Ronald dela Rosa) are the country’s best hopes now for a gold in the Asian Games.

HOPE FADING FAST

Torres flops in long jump, hope now lies on boxers I

NCHEON, Korea— Motherhood shrouded her competence with doubts, and long jumper Marestella Torres failed to dispel them on Monday when she flopped three flights in the most awaited event for the Philippines in the centerpiece athletics competition of the 17th Asian Games. Torres registered a ‘no mark’ after her failure to launch in three attempts. She was the second entry in a field of 11 athletes to be dropped after Yuliya Tarasova opted not to start. Only the top eight entries were contesting the medals in the event still ongoing at press time. Also eliminated were Johny Mayooka of India, Kishari Chaudhari of Nepal and Bashair Obaid M almmanwari of Qatar. Torres’ way to Incheon was a hard one. She gave birth on Jan. 25 this year and but had to stop training six months before that. She almost did not make the team but convinced the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) to include her in the roster with a qualifying mark in the Singapore Open. The Philippines remained with just two silver medals courtesy of wushu. It has another bronze also from wushu and one more from archery.

HE Phoenix Suns signed forwards Marcus Morris and Markieff Morris to multiyear contract extensions Monday reportedly worth a combined $52 million for the twin brothers. Multiple media outlets reported that Markieff Morris will receive a four-year deal worth

But boxing delivered a sure bronze through lightweight Charly Suarez, whose overwhelming triumph over Ammar Jabar Hasan of Iraq moved him into the semifinals of his class. Suarez, 26, scored 2927, 29-27, 29-27 in plastering Hasan. Wilfredo Lopez defeated another Iraqi, Abdul-

ridha Waheed, in a rather unimpressive win. The muscle-bound brawler Waheed had the on a defensive from the start and at fight’s end and primed himself to be declared win but the 29-year old Lopez clinched it. Three three judges cored similar 29-28 counts to advance the Filipino into the quarterfinals.

Suarez, who had three operations on his shoulder last year and one earlier this year, advanced to the semis against Mohammada Mustafa Alkasbeh, 20, of Jordan who ousted South Korean Han Soonchul via a 3-0 count. They clash this Thursday, with the winner gaining a shot at the gold medal and the loser settling for the bronze.

$32 million while Marcus Morris will get a fouryear deal worth $20 million. -Veteran swingman Evan Turner officially became a member of the Boston Celtics when he signed a two-year deal with the club worth about $6.7 million. Turner and Boston had agreed

to terms in July. Turner averaged 17.4 points for Philadelphia in 54 games last season before being traded to Indiana on Feb. 20. He started two of his 27 games with the Pacers, averaging 7.1 points. -The Washington Wizards added six players to their training camp ros-

ter: guards Vander Blue, Xavier Silas and David Stockton, forwards Rasual Butler and Damion James and center Daniel Orton. -The Orlando Magic added four free-agent players to their training camp roster: guards Seth Curry, Drew Crawford and Peyton Siva and for-

NBA ROUNDUP

ward Kadeem Batts and former Northwestern guard Drew Crawford. -The Cleveland Cavaliers signed guard Chris Crawford and forward Shane Edwards. Terms of the deals were not disclosed. Crawford averaged 8.7 points, 3.3 assists and 3.5 rebounds in 140

career games for the University of Memphis. -The Atlanta Hawks signed guard/forward Jarell Eddie and center Dexter Pittman. Eddie played the last four seasons at Virginia Tech, and Pittman is a four-year NBA veteran who appeared in two contests off the bench for

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 142 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014