Edge Davao 7 Issue 199 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PEACE. Television personality Sam Pinto flashes a double peace sign while being photographed with Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte during Wednesday afternoon’s Christmas party for barangay officials at the Davao City Recreation Center. Pinto, who was one of the special guests, performed to the delight of barangay officials present during the event. Lean Daval Jr.

BUS FIRMS WARNED By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

UBLIC Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) head Francisco Villaroman yesterday warned bus companies that they will face charges if a bomb explodes inside one of their units within Davao City. Villaroman made the statement even as he said passengers will no longer be allowed to board buses outside of the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) to ensure that no bombs are smuggled in. He said this is for the

safety of passengers in the aftermath of several bus bombings in Mindanao, including one that killed 10 people in Maramag, Bukidnon last December 9. Villaroman met yesterday morning with the management of bus companies in Davao City to talk about the matter. Based on the attendance sheet, the bus companies present during the meeting were Holiday Davao Bus, Grand Courier, Cyrus AC JMC, Yellow Bus Line, Land Car Inc., Surigao Xpress, Nor Beu

Jun Transit, Bachelor Express Inc. Del Norte Fighter’s Bus, WeenaExpress, and Rural Transit Mindanao, Inc. In an interview with Edge Davao after the meeting at the PSSCC office, Villaroman said the companies agreed that their bus units should not pick up passengers outside DCOTT. He said the operators should tell their drivers not to pick up or solicit passengers outside the DCOTT or in the highways to avoid any untoward incident.

“We warned them (bus operators) if this thing happens, we will file charges against them, their drivers, and their conductors,” he said. “Hindi kami nagbibiro, pag may sumabog dito (We are not joking. If an explosion happens here) during the Christmas season or even after that we will go against you,” he added. Villaroman said the order is part of the 2011 memorandum of agreement (MOA)

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INSIDE EDGE

FLOYD: FANS LOVE ME MORE SPORTS page 15

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

SAFETY FIRST. Public Safety Command Center (PSCC) chief Francisco Villaroman (sixth from right) presides over a meeting at the PSCC office yesterday between government agencies and bus operators to talk about the safety of passengers traveling to and from Davao City. The meeting stemmed from the recent bombing in Maramag, Bukidnon that killed 10 passengers. Lean Daval Jr.

Rody won’t comment on Inday Sara’s defense of Peking duck plant

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte refused to comment on his daughter, former mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio, defending the application of the Peking Duck Processing Plant before the City Council. In an interview last Wednesday night during the Barangay Official assembly at the Davao City Recreation Center, Duterte told reporters that he cannot question his daughter’s defending the application of Vicente L. Lao, president of the Maharlika Agro-Marine Ventures Corporation. “We cannot question that. She is just doing her

job as a lawyer,” he said. In last Tuesday’s regular session, Duterte-Carpio appeared in the plenary for the pending request of Lao for favorable endorsement of the City Council of Davao relative to the establishment of the Peking Duck dressing plant in Barangay Tamugan, Marilog. Committee on agriculture and food chair councilor Marissa Salvador-Abella invited the former mayor to shed light on the issues raised during the previous sessions. The discussion on the request took less than 20 minutes and ended with the City Council approv-

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Federalism needs to be studied-rep By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

ORMER Agusan del Sur Rep. Maria Rachel Arenas called for careful study of the proposal to change the country’s form of government to a federal system. In an interview last Tuesday night at Park Inn by Radisson Davao, Arenas told reporters that the national government should study the effects of the proposed paradigm shift on its form and system. “Kailangan makita natin yung positive na mangyayari if mag federalism tayo at yung negative din (We must see both the positive and negative

effects of federalism),” Arenas said. She said the call for Charter change in order to effect a change to federalism will take a long time, and a lot of discussion must be done in the House of Representatives and the Senate. Arenas said the call for federalism is now widely discussed in Mindanao and also in the Visayas, which shows that this should be discussed in the two plenaries. She said that the strong call to change the present system of government is due to

that the electorate voting is not predominantly MILF. “They (MILF) have to win their votes and MILF has to win over entrenched incumbent, non-MILF political leaders who have mastered their ‘craft’ of staying in power,” he said. Dureza said he recommended a longer period of transition precisely so that MILF first comes of age before being involved in an election. “They are newcomers

and upstarts. Allow them opportunity to first show that they are a different, competent breed of leaders,” he said. Dureza said holding elections in 2016 will be dangerous. “MILF may not be ready yet to win elections and do good governance,” he said. Political analyst and Ateneo de Davao University faculty member Ramon Beleno said the MILF’s submission of application for accredi-

corruption issues such as the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP). “It has something to do with funds and they (federalism advocates) have pointed out that the fund will go to Imperial Manila,” she said. Arenas said with the present system, the central government really does not notice that other cities and provinces have the potential to be an investment hub. Arenas, however, said with little more than a year

before the Presidential election, federalism will likely not be discussed in 2015 unless President Aquino makes it a priority. For his part, National Movement of Young Legislators president Kirk A. Asis said federalism will be advantageous to Mindanao since power will be distributed to the regions. “Most of the time, the present system only focus in Imperial Manila,” Asis said. He said if federalism materializes, it will help places in Mindanao to be developed.

MILF’s Comelec application lauded BI recaptures escaped ward By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

ORMER Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza lauded the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)’s submission of application for accreditation of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) to the Commission of Election (Comelec) for the 2016 election. “This is a positive step as MILF brings to the next level its clear intentions of peacefully participating in the country’s electoral process,”

Dureza told Edge Davao yesterday. Dureza, however, said it is uncertain if the members of the party-list will win in the upcoming election despite the MILF’s effort to attain lasting peace in some parts of Mindanao. “That will depend on the political building process of MILF and the public support they can generate,” he said. Dureza, a Mindanao peace advocate, said the public should remember

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N American who escaped from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) holding facility in Davao has been recaptured in Tibangan, Iligan City after a six- day manhunt by BI Davao Intelligence Agents. Douglas Brent Jackson was apprehended in a hotel in Andres Bonifacio Avenue, Tibanga, Iligan City, Lanao, at 8 p.m., using the alias Ted Miller.

“The arrest was effected by joint elements of BI and Philippine National Police (PNP) operatives,” said BI spokesperson Elaine Tan in a statement. Jackson escaped the bureau’s holding facility last December 7 by sawing off the grills of the window where he was detained. The foreigner is now detained at the BI-Bicutan Detention facility pending

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

SoCot prov’l hospital upgraded next year T HE provincial government of South Cotabato is targeting to begin early next year the upgrading of its provincial hospital following the approval of a P70-million grant from the Department of Health (DOH). Dr. Rogelio Aturdido Jr., South Cotabato Integrated Provincial Health Office chief, said Thursday they have already submitted to the DOH central office the detailed plan for the project, which will involve the rehabilitation and expansion of the hospital’s main building, wards and other vital facilities. He said the hospital’s upgrading, which is among the top priorities of the local government, initially received a funding of P20 million ear-

ly this year from the DOH’s Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP). But the agency approved an additional P50-million grant for the project following a visit and inspection of the facility last July by Health Secretary Enrique Ona and Senate President Franklin Drilon. “They personally saw the hospital’s situation and the need for its immediate rehabilitation and upgrading so they pushed for the release of the additional funding,” Aturdido said. Aside from the P70-million grant, the official said South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes is currently working for another “bigger

CONTEST PIECE. Employees of the city government of Davao put the finishing touches on their Christmas tree, which is their entry to the “Pasko ng Empleyado” Christmas tree contest at Rizal Park yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Admin cases vs cops up in 2014 FSOCOT, 10

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 recorded a higher number of administrative cases filed against police officials from January to December this year compared with last year. For 2014, PRO 11 recorded 114 administrative cases against police officers, of which 79 are considered

resolved while 29 are still pending. Last year, PRO 11 recorded only 77 administrative cases, of which 73 were resolved while four are still pending. PRO 11 spokesperson Chief Inspector Antonio Rivera said most of the cases for this year are negligence of duty, Violence Against Wom-

en and their Children (VAWC), and grave misconduct. “Negligence of duty had the highest number because many failed to take the physical test. That’s what pushed up the number of cases,” Rivera said. Rivera said the resolved cases last year were either exonerated or penalized while

HAPPY MEOWLIDAYS

the four remaining pending cases are in relation to drug cases. Rivera also clarified that the recorded cases exclude the case of Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao Jr. because the case was filed in another office and not with PRO 11.

Water interruption on Dec. 20 and 21 T HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 recorded a higher number of administrative cases filed against police officials from January to December this year compared with last year. For 2014, PRO 11 recorded 114 administrative cases against police officers, of which 79 are considered resolved while 29 are still pending. Last year, PRO 11 recorded only 77 administrative cases, of which 73

were resolved while four are still pending. PRO 11 spokesperson Chief Inspector Antonio Rivera said most of the cases for this year are negligence of duty, Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC), and grave misconduct. “Negligence of duty had the highest number because many failed to take the physical test. That’s what pushed up the number of cases,” Rivera

cader of Pets First Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Hyacinth May Pugoy of The Paws Palace Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Harold Burnos of Doc Bayani’s Animal Wellness Clinic, and Dr. Bobbie Celera. Puspins (pusang pinoy) of all shapes and sizes from all over Davao City were brought

to the compound of Doc Bayani’s clinic in Maa. This event, aptly titled Happy Meaowlidays, was initiated by Katrina Carriedo of The Kat Closet, which started as a personal hobby of selling cat-themed shirts to help finance care for rescued cats. Her passion for cats, perseverance, and collaboration with Doc Bayani laid the foundation from which an animal healthcare endeavor of this kind came to fruition. The owners of the puspins were asked to give a minimal fee of P500 for each cat spayed or neutered. Normally, a vet would charge P4000 for spaying and P1500 for neutering. Spaying is done on female cats and is more complex as it involves abdominal surgery to remove the uterus and ovaries. On the other hand, neutering is done on the male cats and involves removal of testicles. The surgical team generously extended their time and expertise for free as the lineup of cats never seemed to end. At

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84 Davao cats given healthcare By VIDA MIA VALVERDE

F healthcare and attention given to animals are indicators of the progress of society, then Davao City is well on its way to holistic development. Last Sunday, December 14, 2014, 50 domestic shorthaired cats were spayed and neutered in a campaign to curb

Edge Davao columnist Vida Valverde with her cats to be spayed and neutered.

irresponsible breeding and animal abandonment. Dr. Bayani Vandenbroeck of Doc Bayani’s Animal Wellness Clinic led a team of veterinarians that tirelessly worked to do all 50 surgeries in one day. Together with Dr. Vandenbroeck were Dr. Joanna Mer-

The team behind Happy Meowlidays, headed by Doc Bayani (leftmost)

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5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

LTFRB to hold hearing on fare reduction next month T

HE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has set the hearing on the petition for reduction of fare in buses, taxis, and utility vehicles for January 9, 2015. In a statement, LTFRB chair Winston Ginez said it is about time that a hearing be set since commuters have long been expecting it. “We understand that due to successive decrease in the prices of diesel in the global market, the commuting public should also feel the movement of the price of oil,” Ginez said. “That is why the Board is holding a public hearing to meet with lawmakers to address our petition and consumer groups,” he added. The hearing will be held starting 9 a.m. at the LTFRB main office in Quezon City. LTFRB said a Notice of Hearing was already transmitted by the Board to petitioner Negros Oriental Representative Manuel Iway. In his petition filed on December 17, Iway asked the Board to reduce the flag

down fare for taxis from the present P40 to P30; and from the current P3.50 to P2.50 for every succeeding three hundred (300) meters, for taxi services nationwide. Iway, a former LTFRB board member, also requested for a P2 cut in bus fare or from P10 to P8 for the first five kilometers; and from P1.85 to P1.50 for every succeeding kilometer. He also asked for a reduction of airport taxi’s flagdown rate to P70 for the first 500 meters and to P4 for every succeeding 300 meters. Based on the notice of hearing, the petitioner has 15 days prior to the date of the hearing to publish the Notice of Hearing in a newspaper of general circulation. The petitioners should also submit proof of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements. Meanwhile, the Board said that it will also allow opposing parties of the approval of the proposed fare reduction to file their position prior to the hearing date. Both parties should also appear to submit their position papers on the same date. (PNA)

NO TO COAL. Iliganons attending a march to commemorate the third anniversary of Typhoon Sendong on Wednesday express their opposition to the proposed coal-fired power plant to be built inside the compound of cement manufacturer La Farge Iligan. MindaNews photo by Roberto Klemente Timonera

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

MSMEs get P36.65M in grants from DOST 12

HE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Region 12 has released around P36.65 million worth of “innovation support” this year to various micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the region. Dr. Zenaida Hadji RaofLaidan, DOST Region 12 director, said Thursday the assistance comprise the region’s allocation this year under its flagship Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). She said a total of 27 MSMEs in the region have benefited from the program, which included the provision of technical support and other related services. The agency released P11.69 million worth of assistance to 11 beneficiaries during the first half of the year while the remaining P27.55 million was distributed to 16 others in the second half, she said. Also known as Soccsksargen, Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. “The assistance allowed the beneficiaries to acquire and adopt new technologies and innovations to address their technical problems as well as improve their productivity and product quality,” Laidan said in a statement. A report released by DOST-12 showed that four MSMEs based in this city received financial and technical assistance under the program. These are the JPRG Trade and Services, KM Food Products, Greenlands Agri-Tech Ventures and CLG Food Products. The agency provided a package of technical assistance to Angel Resort, Aquaculture and Agriculture Farmlands, Inc. based in Kiamba town in Sarangani Province. In South Cotabato, the

recipients were the Matutum Agri-Lime Marketing, Durian Garden and Monte Farms in Polomolok town; Villa Edna Farm and Niños Food Products in Tupi; Sunrice Solivio Rice Mill in Surallah; and, Pascual Bakery Equipment and Services, Balaoing Enterprises and Mang Gorio Bahay Kainan in Koronadal City. In North Cotabato, the firms that received support from the program were Joyce & Jong Machine Shop and Motor Parts, NCV Workshop and Tecuala Mini Sawmill and Woodworks in Kidapawan City; FC Martinez Industrial Machine Shop in Midsayap; and, King JEM Coconut Products Philippines, Inc. in Makilala. The agency also assisted Salinas Breadtop, Danwel Furniture & General Merchandize, 3DCs Light and Heavy Equipment Repair Shop and Engineering Services and Gabato Machine Shop in Tacurong City; Toreña Aqua Farm in Lebak; Sultan Kudarat Coffee Ventures in Senator Ninoy Aquino; Isulan Glass and General Merchandize in Isulan; Erese Sugar Mill in President Quirino; and, Municipal Aggies Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Esperanza. Laidan said the technical assistance that they extended focused on boosting the productivity and competiveness of the beneficiary-MSMEs. She said the support includes human resources development, cost minimization, waste management, product standardization, operation-related activities and identification of necessary or appropriate machineries and equipment. The MSMEs that were covered by the program were engaged in food processing; manufacture of furniture and home furnishings, gifts, holiday decors and fashion accessories; marine and aquatic resources; horticulture; metal and engineering; information and communication technology; and, Halal food production. (PNA)

GIFT-GIVING SEASON. A woman chooses from a wide array of Christmas gift bags being sold outside a shopping center along San Pedro Street in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

Private firms invited to develop 6 airports By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) called private firms on Monday to bid for the bundled development, operation, and maintenance of six key regional gateways, including the Davao International Airport (DIA or the Francisco Bangoy International Airport). In an invitation to pre-qualify and bid, DOTC and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) invited prospective bidders to submit applications to pre-qualify and bid to finance, design, construct, operate, and maintain the project for a period of 30 years. Based on the project description, the private sector proponent shall take over the operations and maintenance of the airport, undertake immediate expansion of passenger terminal buildings, apron, other airsides and landsides facilities, and any capacity

augmentation of the airport that may be required to cater future demand throughout the contractual term. One of the bundled projects for public-private partnership (PPP) is the development of the DIA with an estimated cost of P40.57 billion. The other five are the Bacolod-Silay International Airport (P20.26 billion), Iloilo International Airport (P30.4 billion), Laguindingan Airport (14.62 billion), Puerto Princesa Airport (P5.81 billion), and New Bohol Airport (P4.57 billion). The project for DIA is expected to be implemented by phase. For the first phase, the indicative development requirements include the expansions of the passenger terminal building with an additional of 19,000 to 32,000 square meters; of the cargo terminal building with an additional 8,000 to 12,000 square meters; and expansion of other key facilities such as card parking

admin building and other infrastructures like passenger boarding, bridges fuel farms and curbs, among others. DOTC believes it is crucial to develop these airports because of the anticipated influx of the growing number of domestic and international passengers in the years to come. DIA is the third busiest airport in the Philippines after Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila and Mactan Cebu International Airport in Cebu. It has either exceeded its current design capacities or is nearing the design capacity level. From 2008 to 2012, DIA recorded a growth rate of 6.9 percent in the number of foreign arrivals and 13.77 percent for domestic. In 2012, DIA received a total of 34,905 foreign passengers and 2.76 million locals. For cargo, it has grown to about 7.01 percent from 2008 to 2012. In 2012, DIA recorded 43,862 metric tons

(MT). Officials of the airport projected that the international and domestic passengers short term growth rate (1-5 years) for 10 percent to 20 percent and seven percent to 13 percent, respectively. Cargo, meanwhile, has a growth rate of seven percent to 12 percent. The PPP projects will be implemented under an operate-add-transfer (OAT) contract, where DOTC and CAAP will enter into concession agreements to expand, operate and maintain the existing airports with private operators. Concessionaires will operate the facility on behalf of the implementing agencies (DOTC and CAAP) in line with specified performance standards and specifications. The project information memorandum will be available to interested parties by December 23 and the instructions to prospective bidders in February next year.

for the week ending Dec. 12, U.S. crude stockpiles fell 0.8 million barrels to 379.9 million, while inventories at Cushing, the delivery point for contracts, increased 2.9 million barrels to 27.8 million barrels. Russia Energy Minister Alexander Novak said Tuesday crude output from Russia, one of the world’s largest crude producers, will maintain its crude output of 10.6 million barrels a day in 2015.

“The price will stabilize itself. Some investment projects by oil companies may be reconsidered, but so far they have not adjusted anything,” Novak told reporters at a meeting in Doha, Qatar. The oil prices fell to the five-year low Tuesday as there was no sign that producers would cut production in response to the slump. Suhail Al-Mazrouei, energy minister of the United Arab Emirates, said Sunday

that the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries will refrain from cutting output even if prices fall as low as 40 dollars. Light, sweet crude for January delivery moved up 54 cents to settle at 56.47 U.S. dollars a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, while Brent crude for February delivery gained 1.17 dollars to close at 61.18 dollars a barrel. (PNA/Xinhua)

DPHW allocates P16.9M to widen Pagadian bridge Crude prices climb from 5-year low

HE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has approved the allocation of P16.9 million to widen the bridge in Barangay Balangasan, Pagadian City. Engineer Reynerio Alcachupas, DPWH’s first engineering district head, said Thursday the works to widen the bridge in Balangasan have already started and is expected to be completed by May 2015.

Alcachupas said the widening of the bridge is in preparation for the widening of the Zamboanga-Pagadian highway. He said the Balangasan bridge will be widened by 15 meters. The DPWH official appealed for the indulgence of the public for the inconvenience, which is temporary in nature, as the widening works is expected to affect the flow of traffic. (PNA)

IL prices advanced from a five- year low Wednesday as traders speculated that excessive supplies will decline amid the low prices. Crude prices jumped about 5 percent, then pared earlier gains after the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a supply increase at the U.S. storage hub at Cushing, Oklahoma. The EIA said Wednesday

7 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

ABACA:

The country’s premier natural fiber Text and Photos By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

OT too many Filipinos know it, but abaca is one of the country’s most important products. In fact, you can find these products everywhere, anywhere, and anytime. If you happen to attend a wedding, you will definitely see one of the principal sponsors wearing an ornate abaca fabric barong outfit. Try going to a shipyard and you will see strong abaca fibers used by mooring aids for docking sea vessels. Now do this. Pick out one of the peso bills from your wallet and stare at them. Do you know that 30 percent of the paper materials for Philippine currency are now made from abaca fibers? In a study conducted by Dr. Leslie Lantice-Diaz, it was found that abaca fibers can attain a tensile strength of up to 970 Mpa (megapascal). A 2.5-centimeter diameter abaca rope is capable of withstanding over four tons full before yielding. “The very durable nature of abaca is not the only quality of this natural fiber that makes it in demand in the market,” said a report. “Its environment-friendly and biodegradable nature makes manufacturers, especially those in Europe, to use abaca over synthetic fibers. “Coffee cups and tea bags are among the products that make use of abaca. These food containers highlight abaca fiber’s sanitary nature,” the report added. “Many European institutions had already adopted a policy of turning away from non-biodegradables like plastics.” Aside from those mentioned earlier, abaca has many other uses. For one, the fiber is used for many things including handicraft, high quality bags. “Our sinamay is used as blade for wind mills,” said Dr. Editha O. Lomerio, project leader of Abakayamanan, a project that combines farming of abaca with other crops like coconut. Sinamay is a natural fabric

Abaca plant

made from abaca. Roots may be converted into fertilizer and feeds. The roots of abaca are of primary shallow root compared to hardwood trees which have deep roots. These may be uprooted more easily and may be chopped down to be made into fertilizer and feed. Other products are electrolytic condenser paper, high grade decorative paper, Bible paper, coffee filter, meat and sausage casings, special art paper, cable insulation paper, adhesive tape paper, lens tissue, mimeograph stencil base tissue, carbonizing tissue, currency paper, checks, cigarette paper, vacuum cleaner bag, abrasive base paper, weatherproof bristol, map, chart, diploma paper, nonwovens, and oil blotting paper. Abaca has also food values. Abaca leaves, for instance, can be used as growing material for mushroom. Coconut extract may be used as soap as it can heal psoriasis. The flower of abaca may be used as hamburger material. “We want to promote it as a zero waste crop,” said Dr. Lomerio. Known worldwide as Manila hemp, abaca is obtained from a tree-like banana plant, scientifically called Mussa textiles. It is indigenous to the Philippines. The Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA) shares this information: “Abaca has been grown in the Philippines for centuries, long before the Spanish occupation. When Magellan and his companions arrived in Cebu in 1521, they noticed that the natives were wearing clothes made from the fiber of abaca plant, noting further that the weaving of the fiber was already widespread in the island.” However, it was not until 1685 that abaca was known in the Western world. Then, in 1820, John White, an American naval officer, brought few abaca fibers for testing to the United States. It proved to have superior tensile strength over any other known cordage, es-

Harvesting abaca fiber pecially under sea water. “The Japanese also took keen interest in abaca for naval use,” wrote Ernee Lawagan in an article which appeared in the defunct Mod. “They improved the method of production introduced by the Americans and put the abaca industry in the Philippines to a higher level of efficiency.” It was in the 1920s when the Philippines monopolized the world production of abaca fibers. “During those times, wars were won by countries with superior navies and considering that cordage was vital to naval operation, the Philippine monopoly in abaca production alarmed the Americans,” reported Lawagan. “In 1921, the U.S. Department of Agriculture decided to cultivate abaca in Central America, particularly in Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Honduras, using the most outstanding Philippine abaca varieties. Much of these resulted in failure,” Lawagan wrote. After World War II, Furukawa Yoshizo, one of the prewar abaca plantation owners

in Davao, started field-testing and successfully cultivating abaca in Ecuador. “Today, Ecuador is the only other country commercially producing abaca in the world,” Lawagan noted. “Costa Rica, on the other hand, is now developing modern harvest facilities as studies indicated that its land could accommodate high yields of the crop.” In later years, on the onrush of modern technology, abaca was relegated to the background. Lawagan reported: “The advent of oil-based synthetic fibers in the mid-1950s, which rapidly replaced the traditional usage of natural fibers, displaced abaca as prime cordage material and precipitated its almost total collapse. The Philippine abaca industry suffered a slump as prices hit rock-bottom that several farmers eventually phased out their plantations.” But thanks to the global shortage of many natural resources and the pollution being wrought by synthetic products on the environment, abaca stages a comeback. FIDA

Abaca fiber

reports: “Significant breakthroughs in technology and processes took place in the ‘60s that brought about development of new uses for abaca, particularly in the use of pulp for the production of specialty paper products.” As demand for abaca for pulp use increased, Filipino investors became interested in domestically producing abaca pulp. Other investors followed suit with most of them tiedup with foreign companies, which, due to strict anti-pollution laws in their respective countries, transferred their pulp operations in the Philippines. At the time when demand for abaca was declining, the government encouraged the development of the fibercraft industry. Fibercraft products like abaca rugs, doormats, hats, coasters, hot pads, linen and handbags became very much in demand abroad. By mid-70s, the fibercraft industry became the second biggest foreign exchange earner for the abaca industry, next to raw fiber exports.

The Philippines remain the world’s largest producer of abaca. As of 2010, the Philippines supplies about 85.0 percent of the total world abaca requirement and the rest, by Ecuador. From 2001 to 2010, the abaca industry generated some US$82.1million per year from the exports of raw fiber and manufactures. Because of its economic importance, the government is pushing for abaca’s further development. “We have to push all commercial uses of abaca. Once fully developed, this industry can be a huge driver of economic and jobs growth,” said Senator Loren Legarda, who chairs the Senate committee on economic affairs. Eastern Visayas is the country’s biggest producer of abaca fiber. The other top provinces are Catanduanes, Lanao del Sur, Davao del Sur, Leyte, Sulu, Davao Oriental, Camarines Sur, and Surigao del Sur. In 2011, the total area devoted to abaca was 172,528 hectares at a total product of 73,274 metric tons of abaca fiber.

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

EDITORIAL

Let’s show some love to our Lumads

s a tradition, Lumads from the highlands of Davao City come down during the Christmas season for their traditional pamasko. It’s saddening to note that three of them have died according to report due to an assortment of illnesses while staying here in the city’s urban center. But there’s more to dying of illnesses that’s more saddening about the Lumads coming down for their ‘pamasko.’ The saddest part is being ignored and worse, shooed away by some of us. They come knocking on cars at intersections, poke everyone passing by on sidewalks and beat their drums while singing odd tunes in subdivisions and offices. They may be annoying at times but that’s simply because we are not used to these.

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Come to think of it, they, too, are not used to doing these things. They were invited to come and do their pamasko. And just because it’s Christmas and they are told we are happy givers and we are gracious hosts to carolers, they have decided to accept the invitation. So the least that we can do to our Lumad brothers and sisters is to share our love and there are many ways of doing that – more than just giving money. It’s as simple as returning a smile, a touch, or talking to them instead of shooing them away. As the biblical passage goes, what we do to the least of our brothers, we also do to God. It’s the season of giving and loving, so let’s show them some love. It’s the most genuine expression of celebrating Christmas, more than the glittery costumes and the festive banquets at parties. 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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GENERAL OFFICE SANTOS CITY CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYNRICHARD S. PANES C. EBONA SOLANI D. MARATAS OLIVIA D. VELASCO SOLANI D. MARATAS MARKETING OFFICE | Marketing Manager General Manager of Sales SpecialistFinance General Manager DirectorAdvertising FinanceLEIZEL A. DELOSOLEIZEL A. DELOSO | MarketingFLORENCE ManagerS. VILLARIN

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Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Marketing Specialist Cagayan de Oro City c/o PZ Villarin Marketing Cagayan de Oro City Tel: (088) 852-4894

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OLICE have filed charges against one Macmod Manibpil as a suspect in the December 9, 2014 bombing of a bus in Maramag, Bukidnon which killed 10 people and injured 42 others. Manibpil, who reportedly bolted the Kidapawan City Jail, is also a suspect in the 2006 bombing in Kabacan, North Cotabato. Inspector Jiselle Longakit, spokesperson of the Bukidnon provincial police office, said Manibpil belongs to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a breakaway group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Let’s try weaving together the facts presented by the police. If Manibpil really belongs to the BIFF, it is implied that he was with the MILF at the time he allegedly carried out the Kabacan bombing. The BIFF only came about as fallout of the 2008 Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain fiasco. Before the BIFF, authorities were quick to point an accusing finger at the MILF (almost) every time a bombing occurred in parts of Mindanao even

P to 35 percent of the losses in annual crop production worldwide are due to pests, according to the Romebased UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Of the estimated one million insects in the world, some 180 species frequently cause serious damage to crops. Any material used to kill pests is called a pesticide, and usually any organism that competes with humans for food, fiber, or living space is called a pest. The use of chemicals to kill pests is not a new idea. For centuries, farmers have used minerals such as arsenic, lead, and mercury or natural plant substances to kill insects and other pests. For a long time, no one seemed to question the safety of pesticides. Not until 1962, when marine biologists and writer Rachel Carson wrote the now classic Silent Spring. In her book, she described how pesticides cause long-term hazards to birds, fish, other wildlife, and humans, but provides only shortterm gains to controlling the pests. “Pesticides are like bombs being dropped in the food web creating enormous destruction,” said Dr. K. L. Heong, an entomologist who once worked with the Laguna-based International Rice Research Institute. Pesticides also pose health risks to people who are exposed to them. “There is direct evidence from clinical and epidemiological studies of humans who are occupationally or accidentally exposed to pesticides that normal immune system structure and functions are altered,” reports the Washington-D.C.-based World Resources Institute. It is for this reason that scientists are constantly looking for alternative ways of dealing with plant pests. And this where Bt comes in. Bt stands for Bacillus thuringiensis, a common soil bacterium so-called because it was

VOL. 7 ISSUE 194 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 - 13, 2014

VANTAGE POINTS

Casualties of peace if a ceasefire between the government and the rebel group was already in place. Police claimed a sketch based on the description made by two witnesses matched the photo of Manibpil photo in the rogues gallery. Nonetheless, they added that aside from “furtherance of their (BIFF) cause”, they are also looking at extortion and business rivalry as the other possible motives. That’s another way of saying they’re not 100-percent sure as yet of BIFF involvement for reasons other than the BIFF’s denial they had a hand in the incident. Meawhile, Maj. Christian Uy of the 4th Infantry Division said that an official from Rural

Transit Mindanao Inc. told the Regional Peace and Order Council that the company received text messages demanding P50,000 monthly or one of their buses would be bombed. Such story tends to give credence to the extortion angle except that the amount being demanded seems too small compared to the degree of brutality of the act. Why the supposed extortionists only demanded P50,000 a month – just a drop in the bucket of RTMI’s daily revenues – raises more questions than there are answers. If it was indeed extortion, why settle for a pittance? Why not P500,000 or even a million pesos a month? Would a real extortionist take the risk of carrying out a bombing for a measly sum? The pieces simply don’t fit. Then a day after the Dec. 9 bombing, an alarmist text message warning that MILF forces would block some highways, harass or kill Christians, and attack government facilities because the peace agreement was no longer in effect, went around. Of course, such text mes-

sage was baseless and meant to mislead people who are not following the progress of the Bangsamoro process. Yet, while that text message sounded stupid, we can only hope that it was not related to the Dec. 9 and Nov. 9 bombings in Bukidnon and the previous bombings that occurred in other parts of Mindanao. If it was related to the recent acts of violence against innocent civilians, then it’s clear that some sectors would want to see the Bangsamoro aborted. War creates widows and orphans. But peace also has its own “casualties”, aside from those who died in the bombings. The absence of war means slow promotion of military officials and reduced arms sales, among others. The stakes are so high the death of a dozen or more civilians would mean nothing to the saboteurs. Corporate and institutional greed has been known to commit far worse atrocities. (MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. H. Marcos C. Mordeno can be reached at hmcmordeno@gmail.com.)

Understanding BT Technology first isolated in THINK ON THESE! the Thuringia region of Germany. “Bt produces a protein that paralyzes the larvae of some harmful insects, includHenrylito D. Tacio ing the cotton henrytacio@gmail.com bollworm and the Asian and European corn borers, all of which are common plant pests whose infestations produce devastating effects on important crops,” notes a briefing paper circulated by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA). How does Bt act? “When ingested by the larva of the target insect, the Bt protein is activated in the gut’s alkaline condition and punctures the mid-gut leaving the insect unable to eat,” the briefing paper explains. “The insect dies within a few days.” Bt’s ability to produce the insecticidal protein has paved the way for several studies to exploit the organism’s agronomic value. So far, more than 200 types of Bt proteins have been identified with varying degrees of toxicity to some insects. In the past, Bt was cultured by fermentation. It has been used as an insecticide by farmers around the world for over 40 years now. In fact, organic farming has benefited from Bt insecticides as it is one of the very few pesticides permitted by organic standards. As an insecticide, Bt is applied either as a spray or as ground applications. It comes in both granules and liquefied form. “The

efficiency of both applications is quite limited, as target organisms often do not come in contact with the insecticide as they are found on the underside of the leaves or have already penetrated into the plant,” the briefing paper states. Scientists are working to overcome this problem through the use of modern biotechnology. What they do is take the Bt gene from the bacterium and incorporate it into the genome of plants. “Thus, these plants have a built-in mechanism of protection against targeted pests,” the briefing paper says. “The protein produced by the plants does not get washed away, nor is it destroyed by sunlight. The plant is thus protected from the bollworm or the corn borer round the clock regardless of the situation.” Among the crops where Bt was incorporated include cotton, corn, poplar, potato, rice, soybean, and tomato. Recently, Bt has been introduced in eggplants, one of the most often-used fruit vegetables in the Philippines. However, it is often attacked by eggplant fruit and shoot borer (EFSB), which is considered as the most destructive insect pest. “The EFSB can cause as much as 50-75 percent loss of fruits,” said former Science Secretary Emil Q. Javier, who is the president of the National Academy of Science and Technology. “The worm of the insect bore tunnels in the fruit, rendering them unfit for consumption.” Unfortunately, there is no known genetic resistance to EFSB in cultivated and wild eggplants. “The insects are concealed in the shoots and fruits and are difficult to reach,” Dr. Javier explained. “Thus in order to protect their crops, farmers spray their plants almost every other day with insecticides.” The current methods used by some egg-

plant growers in controlling the fruit and shoot borer are unacceptable, said Dr. Emiliana Bernardo, an entomologist and retired professor of the University of the Philippines. Many eggplant farmers spray chemical insecticides every other day, or up to 80 times per growing season to control fruit and shoot borer infestation in their farms, she pointed out. The practice is unacceptable and unhealthy to consumers, farmers and the environment. According to Dr. Bernardo, studies conducted in major eggplant producing provinces found that almost all farmers use chemical insecticides and that some even dip the unharvested eggplant fruits in a mix of chemicals just to ensure that harvests are marketable. “The very basic question is, which is safer, the present practice or the alternative, the Bt eggplant which is rigorously evaluated by experts?” she asked. “Is bathing the unharvested eggplant fruits in chemicals, which would end up in dinner tables of people, safe?” But despite this, there are those who are oppose with Bt eggplant. “We are not anti-GMO. We are not anti-development or anti-technology,” Daniel Ocampo, sustainable agriculture campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia, was quoted as saying. Testing of GMOs (genetically-modified organisms), he added, “should be confined in the laboratory, not in the fields.” Neal H. Cruz, in his Inquirer column, wondered: “Why is Greenpeace doing this when biotechnology can improve the lives not only of Filipinos but also of the peoples of other nations? Some people suspect that Greenpeace is secretly working for the big manufacturers of chemical pesticides who will lose their lucrative markets if pest-resistant crops are propagated through biotechnology.”

10 NEWS

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between the operators and DCOTT which stipulates that the all bus units are prohibited from picking up passengers outside the terminal. “Kaya may DCOTT tayo kasi diyan dadaan lahat ng pasahero. For security reasons, doon i-check yung mga baggage nila, or kung may mga baril sila, or may contraband (That is why we have DCOTT in the first place because passengers should pass through there. For security reasons, their bags will be checked to see if they are carrying firearms or contraband),” he said. Villaroman said the MOA stipulates that buses can pick up passengers outside the DCOTT provided they will conduct a baggage check-up. He said, however, that he doubts if the conductors can do the check on passengers. Earlier, Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte ordered Villaromanto come up with a protocol for buses that continuously pick up passengers outside DCOTT.

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LAUGH OUT LOUD. Barangay captain Juanito Flores (center) of Barangay Sasa laughs his heart out while watching the humorous performance of Manila-based comedian Pooh during Wednesday afternoon’s Christmas party for barangay officials at the Davao City Recreation Center. Lean Daval Jr.

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ing the endorsement of the processing plant. During the deliberation, Duterte-Carpio told the councilors that her client complied with all the requirements when he applied for a business permit only to be told by the Business Bureau that the dressing plant is “akin to a slaughterhouse.” “All the requirements for a business permit were already complied with except that we are in issue with the Business Bureau with regards to a dressing plant and a slaughterhouse,” Duterte-Carpio said. She said they told the Business Bureau that the dressing plant is not in the same category as a slaughterhouse “but the Business Bureau insisted that it is. So we went up to the City Council because we need permission from the City Council to operate a slaughterhouse.” In an interview with reporters, Duterte-Carpio said her client really need-

ed a resolution from the City Council so he can attached it to his application. “The City Council approved it. We might ask for a provisional temporary permit to operate since we cannot get the business permit immediately,” she said. She said their request for the temporary permit will still depend on whether or not the Business Bureau will allow. Duterte-Carpio clarified that the dressing plant is still closed as of this moment since her client received a cease and desist order from the Business Bureau. The application for endorsement was deferred several times because of issues raised by some councilors during the previous sessions, particularly that the area where the plant is located us part of the watershed protected area declared by the Watershed Management Council. [ABF]

the implementation of his deportation order. Jackson was issued a summary deportation order on August 29, 2014 for being a fugitive in the USA for theft. The manhunt operation was led by Atty. Jose Carli-

tos Licas, Chief of the Intelligence Division together with BI-Davao Alien Control Officer Eddie De Lima, Intelligence Officer Abdullah Madale, Special Agent Melody Gonzales and Confidential Agent Mark Andrew Asistido. (PNA)

said. Rivera said the resolved cases last year were either exonerated or penalized while the four remaining pending cases are in relation to drug cases. Rivera also clarified

that the recorded cases exclude the case of Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao Jr. because the case was filed in another office and not with PRO 11.

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tation was “actually a nice move.” “That means that they are serious in participating in our democratic processes. That instead of using armed struggle to have their voices heard, they would be using the legal and peaceful way, by officially joining the democratic institutions,” he said.

Beleno said the MILF has a decent chance within the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) jurisdiction. “But nationally, it will be a difficult challenge. They should resist being used by these traditional political parties. Otherwise, they will lose their identity

and credibility,” he said. For his part, Mindanao Business Council (MinBC) chair Vicenta Lao said the MILF’s move is “a good development… because now they will already be involved with mainstream politics.” MILF vice chair for political affairs GhadzaliJaa-

far said in an earlier report that UBJP members will be coming from Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, Davao City, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Butuan, and Bukidnon. CRC

project” for the provincial hospital. The DOH earlier agreed to send a team of experts to the area to study and evaluate the operations of the provincial hospital. The team will help the local government identify problems and recommend the necessary reforms to help improve the management and operations of the hospital. As of end-November, the facility already generated

around P160 million in revenues that was up by nearly P30 million compared to last year. The provincial hospital posted a total income of P133 million in 2013 and P89 million in 2012. Aturdido said they had been pushing for the hospital’s upgrading to mainly cope with its growing occupancy rate and demand for various hospital-related services. Although listed by the DOH as a 200-bed tertiary fa-

cility, the provincial hospital’s daily occupancy rate reaches as high as 170 percent, which is equivalent to a total of 340 patients. Aside from being overcrowded, he said the hospital has a total work force of only 479, which is 130 less than the ideal manpower set by the DOH for a 200-bed facility. In 2013, the DOH invested a total of P26.5-million for the initial improvements at the provincial hospital through

the HFEP. Around P20 million was spent for the rehabilitation and construction of hospital facilities while the P6.5 million was utilized for the acquisition of various equipment. For this year, the DOH allotted an additional P48.7 million under HFEP to fund various projects in the province, specifically the improvement of the area’s three district and municipal hospitals.

the end of a long day, 50 cats were spayed and neutered as well as given anti-rabies and deworming shots, plus another 34 cats were also given anti-rabies and deworming shots. All in all, Happy Meowlidays helped 84 cats live

longer and healthier lives, which in turn frees the owners and communities from unnecessary expense, anxiety, and opportunity for cruelty when they choose to abandon unwanted animals. Indeed, a city that takes into consideration the

well-being of its marginalized creatures shows that it is well on its way towards holistic growth and development. It is hoped that the next event of this kind will garner more support from the various stakeholders of the city. Congratulations

and more power to the team behind Happy Meowlidays. The team behind Happy Meowlidays, headed by Doc Bayani (leftmost). Edge Davao columnist Vida Valverde with her cats to be spayed and neutered.

izo-Quimpo, delivering a message by Governor Florencio T. Miraflores said: “My heartfelt gratitude to Globe for involving Aklan in the continued rehabilitation program. Even if it was over a year already, we cannot deny that many Aklanons are still struggling to regain what they have lost in the catastrophic typhoon. Thank you for Noah’s Ark, the newest crucial project for Aklanons. Surely, this will serve many purposes not only for the pupils but for the whole community. Thank you for establishing corporate social responsibility advocacies to complement network development. Thank you for

considering our province as primary development area. Be assured that the provincial government of Aklan will always be willing to partner with you to better serve our investors, our tourists, and our fellow Aklanons.” On top of the seven Noah’s Arks, Globe also committed to build 33 regular “built back better” classrooms in the identified municipalities to be funded by proceeds of Project 1 Phone, the company’s electronic waste recycling campaign, and its parent-company Ayala Corporation. “As development partner for Aklan, it is our role to move things faster for the recovery

and the rehabilitation of the province with the assistance of OPARR,” said Yoly Crisanto, SVP of Globe Corporate Communications. “Aside from bonding us internally, Typhoon Haiyan also bonded as closer to our customers in terms of being able to look after them, providing relief in times of disaster, and keeping an eye on their needs, among others. Also, corporate social responsibility is no longer just for our CSR team. For instance, Globe Platinum is funding Noah’s Ark, Globe Prepaid is bringing livelihood activities to Aklanons while Globe Tattoo is building homes,” Cri-

santo added. Globe has started building 40 homes in New Washington in partnership with Gawad Kalinga and UT Global Foundation. Twenty-eight houses are also set to be constructed in Libacao. Globe is also providing livelihood opportunities through Custom Made Crafts Center, a non-government organization involved in dye and abaca production and the Non-Timber Forest Products Exchange Programme aside from the distribution of AutoloadMax retailer kits to 100 beneficiaries of the DSWD’s Pantawid Pampamilyang Pilipino Program in Malay.

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11 BIGGER PICTURE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 199 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 - 20, 2014

Priest starts Mindanao leg of ‘Climate Ride’ Fr. Amado “Picx” Picardal (right), who is on a 14-day journey covering 1,800 kilometers from Baclaran to Iligan City for his “Climate Ride,” is joined by MindaNews reporter Roel Catoto (left) and Surigao City triathlete Jayjay Baldonado as he passes by the junction at Bad-as in the municipality of Placer in Surigao del Norte early morning Wednesday (December 17). He was expected to arrive in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, 182 kms away from Surigao City, later in the day. MindaNews photo

FTER finishing the Baclaran-Leyte route on Tuesday, Redemptorist priest Fr. Amado Picardal began the Mindanao leg of his bike tour for the climate Wednesday from the Lipata Port in Surigao City. The 60-year-old priest started pedaling around 3:30 a.m. Tuesday, shortly after arriving here from Liloan, Southern Leyte via a roll-on-roll off vessel. “I embarked on this bike-tour in memory of the victims of super typhoon ‘Yolanda’ (2013), ’Pablo” (2012) and Sendong (2011),” he told MindaNews. Picardal left Baclaran in Manila last Wednesday for a bike journey that he hopes would raise awareness about climate change. MindaNews joined Picardal from Surigao City up to the junction of Badas, Placer town in Surigao del Norte, a distance of 30 kilometers, along with Jayjay Baldonado, a triathlete from this city. “We should do something to respond to disasters because this is a serious threat to humanity,” Picardal said, adding the typhoons that hit the country claimed thousands of lives. Picardal’s bike tour stretches a total of 1,800

kilometers. His final destination is Iligan City, on Dec. 23. “My bike from Luzon to Visayas was colorful. I was impressed by the beauty of nature in those places, I really appreciate it well. I saw poverty here, there and everywhere,” he said. Down twice Picardal said his advocacy is what keeps him going because “this keeps me energized”. But he said he had fallen from his bike twice already – the first after hitting an uneven road somewhere in Plaridel in Luzon, and the second was on a descent along the Quirino Highway also in Luzon. “In the second accident I did not notice that the road had loose gravel. I got minor bruises and my knee is still swollen after those accidents,” he said. Picardal said he could not go beyond 20-27 kilometers per hour because he has to maintain a heart rate of below 140 beats per minute. He added that on his first 50-kilometer run he suffered leg cramps that forced him to reduce his speed. “I have to relax because my muscle in the legs had tightened.” With no support vehicle, as he finds it awkward for his campaign, he said he just uses mental tough-

ness to reach his goal. Picardal also got flat tires twice which delayed his arrival in some places. Nonetheless, he managed to make it to Tacloban City from Baclaran in five days, which was shorter than his previous trip along the same route. In 2000, Picardal did a ‘bike for peace’ advocacy with a total distance of 2,080 kilometers from Davao to Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte, after deposed president Joseph Estrada waged all-out-war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. In 2006, he did a bike around Mindanao for the Life and Peace campaign, covering a total distance of 2,100 kilometers, to protest extra-judicial killings, human right violations, mining and logging. He endured a 5,160-kilometer bike tour in 2008 from Davao to Aparri in Cagayan Valley and back to Davao. Picardal also hiked from Davao to Appari via the Cordilleras. Calling himself an ultra-marathoner, the priest said that in Spain, he ran 800 kilometers barefoot. “In all of these, it’s not about bike and run per se, but once I’m in the church I always ask if I could preach on my advocacy,” he said. Aside from the church,

he said he shares his advocacy everywhere, on the road, in a store or in a waiting shed while taking rest. Prior to this tour, his doctor warned him not to proceed citing the risk. “I was diagnosed with atherosclerosis and myocardial ischemia. It’s a mild heart ailment,” he explained. But Picardal went on despite the risk and even if he had tooth extraction prior to the tour. “I can’t bear the pain. I was advised by my dentist not to proceed.” Misa de Gallo Last Sunday, Picardal held a mass at the Redemptorist church in Tacloban where he told the churchgoers about what he’s doing. “People were shocked by what they heard. They were awed by what I did and what I’m doing right now,” “It’s not about disasters but it’s about the cause of it,” he told the churchgoers. He said he just wanted to remind people that climate change is a serious threat to humanity. “We need to act, we need to tell the government to do something about this and the people must respond to this by doing simple things like riding a bike in going to office or school instead of riding a car.” Picardal stopped

Wednesday by Prosperidad in Agusan del Sur where he officiated the traditional Misa de Gallo Thursday. On Friday, he will do the same in New Bataan, Compostela. He said that since the start of the nine-day Misa de Gallo on Dec. 16, he would request to preach at a church in the place where he would sleep for the night. ‘One day, one eat’ Picardal’s food intake follows a Spartan regimen. He said he doesn’t take breakfast, only a cup of coffee before getting on the bike. By lunch time, he just takes water and a few minutes of rest. He said he had tried surviving a few days with just water. “I rest, I do catnaps. That makes me recover when I get tired.” At evening, it’s refueling time for the priest. “I eat heavy meal at dinner for me to fully recover.” He said he sleeps only five to six hours a day. But on his trip to Surigao from Liloan, he slept for only one hour. “Feel groggy, would just find a waiting shed and take some rest for a while,” he said with a smile. Training Fr. Picardal said he trained on his own for at least three months before the tour. “I do bike 3-4 days

in a week. That’s when I go to the office and back to where I stayed.” He said he did long rides on weekends. “I bike from Baclaran to Tagaytay, Pico de Loro, Nasugbu, Lipa, among others.” Triathlon A certified marathoner cum cyclist, there is one thing he wants to do next — become a triathlete. “I want to compete in a triathlon race. But right now I have to finish this mission,” he said. But he admitted that becoming a triathlete is quite difficult because he needs more time to train. “I have to go on out of town trips in a month. I need to undergo a total immersion in swimming.” Baldonado said he was amazed by the priest’s feats and advocacy. Baldonado, a shop mechanic assistant and now considered one of the strongest and fastest triathletes in Caraga Region said he wanted to join Picardal in trips around Mindanao but his work won’t allow him to do so. “It’s my first time in my life to meet a person who has made a remarkable personal record and with a passion for advocacies. I salute him for that. He is awesome, he is the man,” Baldonado said. (Roel N. Catoto/MindaNews)

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Pearl Farm’s Christmas lighting By Kenneth Irving Ong THE PEARL FARM Beach Resort recently held the annual lighting of its parola last December 16. Leading the lighting ceremony was the resort’s general manager Josu Mikel Villaverde, who was joined by representatives from the local government of the Island Garden City of Samal, the Anflo Group of Companies, local tour operators, and media. “Every Christmas Season, the Pearl Farm lights up the parola to welcome guests and to signal the joy of the season,” says Mikel. “The lighthouse is an icon in Davao designed by Fili-

pino architect Mañosa and together with the architect, we are in the process of renovating the resort as well as expanding it.” Dinner immediately followed at the resort’s newly renovated Maranao restaurant with dishes that highlighted the best of Davao region’s produce. Entertainment for the evening was courtesy of the UP Mindanao Koro Kantahanay who presented familiar Western and Filipino Christmas songs. Pearl Farm Beach Resort’s general manager Josu Mikel Villaverde (left) together with Anflocorp’s Ms. Susan Matus at the lighting ceremony.

UP Mindanao’s Koro Kantahanay.

A2 INdulge! UP AND ABOUT

Vault Magazine reaps accolades in 2014 Asian Publishing Awards ABS-CBN Publishing’s Vault Magazine recently won the “Best Photo Documentary” and “Best Feature on Wine Appreciation” in the annual Asian Publishing Awards. Vault Magazine was the only recipient of the Excellence Award in the “Best Feature on Wine Appreciation” category, while Vault Magazine’s photo documentary titled “Vault: Feature on Horses” was the excellence award winner from the Philippines together with Singapore’s Ink Publishing’s “Welcome to the Punch.” Since 2012, Vault Magazine has been consistent in bagging various accolades in the Asian Publishing Awards. Among those awards are “Best New Magazine (2012),” “Best Use of Design, Layout, and Presentation (2012),” “Best Feature on Cars (2013),” and “Best Feature on Wine Tasting (2013).” Meanwhile, Vault Magazine’s latest issue gets playful as it glorifies men’s fondness for toys in its first ever Toy Issue. The issue is packed with rare collections of automata, toy cars, functioning model trains, and other mechanical marvels, as are KLM Delft Blue houses and wines with quirky names. Vault’s Toy Issue also showcases places that fuse fun and playfulness: from Germany’s Christmas markets where men recreate their boyhood every year with traditional yuletide toys and treats, to the Facebook headquarters in Silicon Valley where the best and brightest choose to work for firms where they can have the most fun at. Just in time for the holiday season, Vault Magazine also dishes out a do-it-yourself guide on roasting premium meats as well as a holiday gift guide of thoughtful presents that are suitable in small Christmas boxes. Don’t forget to grab a copy of Vault Magazine’s first ever Toy Issue out on your favorite newsstands today! Published once every two months by ABS-CBN Publishing, each issue of Vault has sections dedicated to automobiles, aviation, new establishments, equipment, travel, timepieces, art, style, grooming, property, and fine dining. Vault is sold at all major bookstores in Metro Manila and is available for download on Zinio. To download ABS-CBN’s magazines, users on Android devices must download the Zinio app from the Android Market. The app is also available through the iPad App Store. PC and Mac users can access Zinio at zinio.com.

GAMING GEEKS AND TECH FREAKS, Abreeza Mall’s got something awesome in store for you from December 22 to 27! Join the Games And Gadgets Expo 2014 and take part in a Dota 2 tournament, a rig show, PC/console games, gadget exhibits, and more! See you there!

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EVENT

GMA, corporate partners wrap up estero clean-up project in UP community THE estero running through Block 5 in Daang Tubo (a community inside the UP Campus) is on its way to being clean – paving the way for a safer, cleaner environment for its residents. This, as GMA Network and its partners, the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA), the Philippine Biochar Association (PBiA), and the Sagip Ilog Pilipinas, collaborated on the Clean River Zone Biochar Community (CRZ) initiative.

The Kapuso Network and its partners inked a Memorandum of Agreement in early 2014 to clean up the said estero using bokashi balls (bokashi balls are made from dried mud and other organic materials, including biochar, and are used to clean bodies of water that have high concentrations of sludge and slime). CRZ is among GMA’s corporate responsibility initiatives under its Kapuso ng Kalikasan platform. PBiA covered the technology transfer component, teaching the Block 5 residents how to make the bokashi balls that were submerged into the estero. Sagip Ilog organized the residents into committees that will continuously liaise with the barangay long after CRZ is finished. Sagip also gave workshops and trainings on leadership and other necessary skills to help the residents govern themselves more efficiently and effectively. PMSEA, the industry association focused on espousing safety in the mining industry and the

Kapuso actress Solenn Heussaff taught around 30 Block 5 youngsters the basics of painting – needless to say, the young ones were thrilled! Cleaning the muck and mud from the estero was a challenge that the GMA GIVES and the residents of Block 5 tried to overcome together. PMSEA, PBiA and Sagip Ilog were also present during the clean up activities.

environment, funded the community engagement activities of both Sagip Ilog and PBiA as part of its larger effort to bring the importance of safety to the public at large. The Kapuso Network’s corps of employee volunteers, the GMA GIVES, interacted with the community through various volunteers activities. GMA GIVES

In January 2014, GMA Network, PMSEA, PBiA and Sagip Ilog Pilipinas signed a MOA to formalize their Clean River Zone Biochar Community project. In photo, signing for their respective organizations, are (l to r), Louie Sarmiento (president of PMSEA), Teresa Pacis (AVP for Corporate Affairs of GMA), Philip Camara (CEO of PBiA) and Severino Galindo (president of Sagip Ilog). Behind them are Gia Veloso (PMSEA), Unis Loleng (GMA’s Corporate Relations manager), Chris Cenal and Meth Jimenez (executive director of Sagip Ilog).

worked side by side with the Block 5 residents during several clean up activities; Kapuso star Solenn Heussaff taught around 30 kids the basics of painting; Bea Binene, a Kapuso teen darling, spent an afternoon learning how to make bokashi balls, together with the Block 5 residents and GMA GIVES. A distinct component of the CRZ is the water quality testing – while bokashi balls were periodically submerged, water testing was also done on a regular basis to track and quantify the improvements in the estero. The results of the first water sampling in January 2014 were very bad with the water quality failing in all aspects of DENR’s standards. After five water tests and around 2000 bokashi balls submerged over a nine-month period (February to October 2014), the estero’s water quality is showing signs of improvement - the foul odor is practically gone and the Ph

levels have, at least, reached the minimum to be considered neither alkaline nor acidic. As this formal collaboration among GMA, PMSEA, Sagip Ilog and PBiA wraps up this December, interest from other like-minded organizations to replicate this in other areas has been noted. The community officers of Daang Tubo and the barangay officers are all very enthusiastic, too, about sustaining the gains of the CRZ. Ms Isabelita Gravidez, the barangay captain, says she is a Kapuso through and through, and has profusely thanked the partners for piloting the CRZ in her community. Meanwhile, no less than GMA Network Chairman and CEO, Atty Felipe L Gozon, expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome the Block 5 residents extended to the CRZ players. Gozon lauded the residents for their willingness to take specific actions to keep their environment clean. As a way to sustain CRZ’s handiwork, the residents have committed to keep the peripheral areas of their homes clean and clutter-free. Their rallying cry? “Tapat ko, linis ko.”

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INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Gerald and Maja star in the newest “Give Love on Christmas” special REAL-LIFE COUPLE Gerald Anderson and Maja Salvador will team up for the first time in the newest story of ABS-CBN’s Christmas TV special “Give Love on Christmas.” The second Kapamilya Christmas series titled “The Gift of Life” will start on Monday. In the story, Gerald will give life to the character of Tristan, a young man who needs a kidney transplant because of an accident he had when he was still a kid. As he tries to find a possible donor, Tristan meets a young woman named Melissa (portrayed by Maja) who lost her faith in God after the death of her parents. As their paths cross, Melissa and Tristan come up with a special agreement that she will help him fulfill his bucket list, which in-

cludes all the things he was not able to do because of

his ailment. How will Tristan and

Melissa be able to change each other’s lives as they help one another regain the things they have lost— his chance to have a normal life and her faith in God? Will Melissa sacrifice herself just to give Tristan a new hope to live? “Give Love on Christmas Presents The Gift of Life” also features Marlann Flores, Melissa Mendez, Ricardo Cepeda, Nico Antonio, Shey Bustamante, and Angel Sy. It is directed by Malu Sevilla. “Give Love on Christmas” is composed of three stories that revolve around family, relationships, and love. These include Gerald and Maja’s “The Gift of Life,” Paulo Avelino and KC Concepcion’s “Exchange Gift,” and “The Gift Giver,” starring Eddie Garcia, Aiko Melendez, Dimples Romana, Carlo Aquino, and Louise Abuel, which will air its last

episode this Friday (December 19). It is a Christmas special produced by Dreamscape Entertainment Television, the group that created toprating TV masterpieces such as “Walang Hanggan,” “Ina Kapatid Anak,” “Juan dela Cruz,” and “Ikaw Lamang.” Don’t miss the beginning

of “Give Love on Christmas Presents The Gift of Life” this Monday, before “It’s Showtime” in ABS-CBN Prime-Tanghali. For more information about “Give Love on Christmas,” visit the show’s official social networking sites Twittter.com/ DreamscapePH and Instagram.com/DreamscapePH.

“Give Love On Christmas Presents The Gift Giver” gives viewers the ‘best christmas ever’ this Friday ABS-CBN’s Christmas TV special “Give Love on Christmas” teaches TV viewers the importance of forgiveness and a family’s love as its first story “The Gift Giver” airs its last episode on Friday. Despite his desire to have a complete and happy family, Ernest (Eddie Garcia) chooses to move away and be alone because of the disrespect that his children have shown towards him. What will Julie (Dimples Romana), Eric (Carlo Aquino), and Rose (Aiko Melendez) do when their father Ernest gives up on them? Will they finally learn to value the love and sacrifices that he has done for them? In the end, will

Ernest still be able to get the ‘best Christmas ever’ he wishes to have with his

children? “Give Love on Christmas” is a Christmas TV special produced by

Dreamscape Entertainment Television, the group that created top-rating TV masterpieces such as “Walang Hanggan,” “Ina Kapatid Anak,” “Juan dela Cruz,” and “Ikaw Lamang.” Don’t miss the last week of “The Gift Giver” on “Give Love on Christmas” weekdays, before “It’s Showtime” in ABS-CBN Prime-Tanghali. For more information about “Give Love on Christmas,” visit the show’s official social networking sites Twittter. com/DreamscapePH and Instagram.com/DreamscapePH. Viewers may also catch up on full episodes and past episodes of “Give Love On Christmas” through ABS-CBNmobile.

Patrick Rosas to sign books this Sunday with Gretchen Barretto MAKE-UP ARTIST to country’s most beautiful Patrick Rosas will be holding a book signing event for his much talked about book, “Rituals” this Sunday at National Book Store Glorietta. Tagged as the trusted makeup artist of Manila’s loveliest women, Patrick Rosas’ coffee table book, “Rituals” highlights various transformations of over 100 of Manila’s most beautiful – from the sophisticated to

the avant garde down to fresh natural looks. Patrick’s dear friend and muse Gretchen Barretto who is also featured in “Rituals” will be gracing the event on Sunday. Among the personalities featured in “Rituals” are Angel Aquino, Miss Universe 1973 Margie Moran-Floirendo, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Vanessa Matsunaga, “Asia’s

Next Top Model Season 1” Runners-up Jodilly Pendre and Katarina Rodriguez, designers Rajo Laurel, Jojie Lloren, and Michael Cinco, Ruffa Gutierrez, Joseph Marco, and Richard Gomez. “Rituals” was launched last December 3 in Whitespace, Makati which was attended by some of Manila’s prominent figures and highlighted by a n exciting visual feast of photographs captured by some

of the top photographers in the Philippines Mark Nicdao, Neal Oshima, Filbert Kung, Glenn Gordon, Patrick Uy, and Jo Ann Bitagcol. The “Rituals” book signing event will happen on Sunday (December 21), from 2:00PM to 5:00PM at National Book Store Glorietta. “Rituals” by Patrick Rosas is available at National Book Store and Powerbooks and brought to you by ABS-CBN Publishing Inc.

THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES Ian Mckellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage PG 13

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

THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES 3D Ian Mckellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage PG 13

12:30 | 3:30 | 6:30 | 09:30 LFS

THE PYRAMID Ashley Hinshaw, Denis O'Hare R 13

12:25 | 2:20 | 4:15 | 6:10 | 8:05 | 10:00 LFS

R-16 EXODUS: GODS AND KINGS Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton PG13

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

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A4 INdulge!

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EVENT

Marco Polo’s ‘Greasy’ Christmas party CHRISTMAS is the one time of the year when families come together to catch up, and just like one big family, the associates of Marco Polo Davao came together last December 15 to have their annual associates Christmas party. The event was attended by the officers of the Halifax Davao Hotel Inc., representatives from the Marco Polo Hotels management group, as well as many of the hotel’s clients and friends. In his welcome speech, Marco Polo Hotels VP for Operations Philippe Caretti shared that the hotel industry is all about the people. “This event showcases the talent, passion, and the potential our people here at the Marco Polo have,” Caretti said. This year, the party used the popular broadway musical “Grease” as its theme. The lively tunes and carefree and energetic dances of the musical were interpreted by the hotel’s associates from their housekeeping, finance,

Marco Polo Hotels’ Vice President for Operations Mr. Philippe Caretti and Halifax Davao Hotel Inc. and Marco Polo Davao’s General Manager Anthony Tan.

human resources, front office, food and beverage service, food and beverage kitchen, sales and marketing, executive office, technical, as well as security departments. In the end, it was the group composing of the finance and housekeeping departments who took home the grand prize. Five-year, 10-year, and 15-year awards were also given to associates who rendered their dedicated

The winning dance performance by the housekeeping and finance departments. service to the Marco Polo Davao. Not wanting to be outdone, the Marco Polo Davao management team also prepared a special presentation bringing cheers and laughs to everyone in

Halifax Davao Hotel Chairman and President Carlos G. Dominguez, his wife Cynthia, Halifax Davao Hotel Inc., Director Ms. Rosie Dominguez and Mr. Paul Dominguez HDHI’s Senior Vice President Francis Ledesma, Mrs. Jocy Ledesma and Bea Ledesma with Nader Ibrahim Hassan’s General Manager Jeroen D’ Haas and MC D’ Haas.

The Melodies of Marco Polo Davao serenaded the Fifteen Years service awardees. guests with their special song number.

Atty. Lindy Carillo, Mr. Timothy Lownose, Mr. David Evans and Ms. Elsa Echevarria.

the room. “Although competition has sprouted up thanks to the rapid growth of Davao, we have remained the hotel of choice for travellers,” beamed Halifax

Davao Hotel Inc. Chairman and President Carlos G. Dominguez. “This in part is because of you (the associates) who make every stay at the Marco Polo Davao live up to the Marco

Polo standard.” Follow me on Instagram or on Twitter @kennethkingong for more travel stories, foodie finds, and happenings in, around, and beyond Durianburg.

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DLPC launches Hugas Kamay project in tribal village

THIS IS THE WAY…Grace Migue, Customer Retails Services Department Specialist and a licensed nurse, lectures on the proper way of hand washing to the members of the Tribal Village.

ELIGHTING customers is not just providing the best customer service, but also reaching out to them in an extraordinary way. Davao Light and Power Company’s Customer Retail Services Department (CRSD) successfully performed a CSR project dubbed as Salumay Hugas Kamay last November 27 at the Tribal Village in Datu Salumay, Marilog District. The Tribal Village is composed of Matigsalug, Ata Manobo, and Manobo people. This is located in the uphill mountains in the Southern part of Davao, which is not yet reached by electric service. The purpose of the project is to educate the community about the importance of practicing proper daily hygiene beginning with hand washing so as to avoid common sickness such as colds, influenza (flu), cough, stomach ache, and diarrhea. Grace Migue, CRSD Specialist and also a licensed nurse, led the project and demonstrated the proper way of hand washing. CRSD Manager Engr.

Mervin Dalian, Supervisors Engr. Jing Enriquez, Ruby Barnes, Engr. Rodel Bariquit and Staffs - Engr. JJ Madolora, Enjie De Guzman, Engr. Charlo Deniega and other members of CRSD distributed health kits to more than 120 members of the community and served lugaw. “It is our first time to conduct a community work in this area and it is just very heart warming that the community welcomed us warmly. They even rendered us a tribal dance to express their heartfelt gratitude to us.” said Engr. Dalian. The funding for the said project came from the prize money of CRSD from Davao Light’s Sinag Awards, an award given to the company’s departments or teams that have implemented innovative projects. The team plans to go back to the said community next year to provide more health and educational assistance. A rural electrification project will also be implemented in 2015 as answer to the electricity service needs of the barangay.

Globe, Habitat break ground for ‘Noah’s Ark’classroom in Aklan

LOBE Telecom together with Habitat for Humanity recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a special “Noah’s Ark” classroom in Balete Elementary School, Aklan, one of several projects being undertaken by Globe as a development partner for Aklan under the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery (OPARR). The Noah’s Ark classroom was designed by Habitat for Humanity to double as an evacuation site during calamities. It can house a big number of people and is equipped with two toilet and bath facilities and a kitchen to provide a safe and convenient place for people in the community. Globe Platinum, the premium Postpaid brand, together with Globe Rewards, are funding the construction of Noah’s Ark classrooms in seven municipalities in Aklan hardest hit by Typhoon Yolanda late last year. These

include Libacao, Madalag, Banga, Batan, Altavas, Balete, and New Washington. Globe Platinum and Globe Rewards are making this contribution in lieu of giving gifts this holiday season. “We always hold the utmost regard for service not just in providing the best offers, exclusive privileges and world-class customer experience to our valued clients but also in extending our support to nation-building,” said Kaisie del Carmen, Director for Globe Platinum. “We understand that most of our customers look for meaningful advocacies to support and involve themselves in. Through the Noah’s Ark project, our customers will be able to give the gift of hope and inspiration to many more Filipinos this Christmas and help give them a better future,” del Carmen added. In response, Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Cal-

FGLOBE, 10

14 EDGEDAVAO Sports

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LINING UP. Romeo Silvano lines up his shot as the two Taiwanese player watch from their seats. Edwin Espejo

PINOYS RULE

Filipino duo captures 2nd Pacquiao Int’l billiard crown

CHAMPS. Jordan Legaspi (right) and Romeo Silvano (foreground) are the doubles champion in the 2nd MP 10-Ball International Tournament. Edwin Espejo

HE tandem of Romeo Silvano and Jordan Legaspi twice came from behind to catch up with their Taiwanese opponents before clinching the doubles title in the US$100,000 2nd Manny Pacquiao 10-Ball International Tournament held at SM City here. With the game on the line, Taiwanese Hsu Kai Lun scratched the cue ball on the 21st rack of the race-to-11 finals which the Filipinos took advantage for a thrilling 11-

10 win. It was the only time the Filipinos led but it was for the US$ 40,000 champions’ purse. A dejected Cheng Yu Hsuan, who also scratched the cue ball during his break in the 19th rack, said he was depressed and blamed himself for the miscue. They were then ahead 10-8 and would have clinched the crown if they won in their break. Hsu blankly stared on the table thinking of the op-

portunity that slipped their hands after Silvano closed out the match. The Taiwanese pair raced to a 4-0 and 6-2 leads before the Filipinos knotted the match at 6-6. They were one rack of winning the title, 10-7, but Silvano holed a difficult bank shot of the 2-ball to clean-up and won the 18th rack. The Filipinos proceeded to win the next four racks to disappoint the pair of 26year old Taiwanese.

Philboxing’s Dong Secuya said the turning point of the match was the magical shot of Silvano of the 2-ball in the 18th rack that nullified the safety shot of the Taiwanese. It was a fitting triumph for Silvano and Legaspi who ousted the defending doubles titlists Jeffrey de Luna and Jeffrey Ignacio in the quarterfinals. Legaspi was teary eyed when interviewed by report-

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SPORTS

ANOTHER DIG. Floyd Mayweather dissed Manny Paquiao again for his boxing style. The recent hit on Pacquiao came after the American sent word to the Filipino camp for a May 2, 2015 fight.

Baldwin is top Floyd: Fans love me more candidate: MVP I I

T’S looking like American mentor Tab Baldwin could have the inside track on the Philippine national men’s basketball team’s head coaching job after Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Manuel V. Pangilinan confirmed that he was a “prime candidate” for the position on Wednesday. Pangilinan, the chief backer of the Gilas Pilipinas national squad, said that the decision has not been finalized, though Baldwin appears to be among the favorites for the post at this stage. “I’m waiting for Pato (Gregorio) and executive director Sonny Barrios to return from Geneva so we can

PINOYS... FFROM, 14

ers after their riveting finals victory. Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes, who watched the finals from the sidelines, said the tournament hosted and sponsored by Rep. Manny Pacquiao yielded many young Filipino talents in the game he made popular in the country. “Lalo na sa Mindanao, ang daming magagaling,” Reyes said.(Specially in Mindanao, there are plenty of good billiard players) Reyes and his partner Francisco ‘Django’ Busta-

formalize the appointment of the new Gilas coach,” wrote Pangilinan in a text message to InterAksyon.com. He added that the top SBP officials, including Ricky Vargas and Al Panlilio, are set to meet in the near future to make the final decision. “This is the final step of a formal process which I want to observe and respect. We should meet as early as Sunday with Ricky and Al, amongst others. That said, yes, Tab Baldwin appears to be a prime candidate.” The SBP is awaiting the return of Gregorio and Barrios from Geneva, where they attended a briefing for potential hosts of the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

mante lost in the Round of 32. But Reyes earlier crowned himself the singles champion with breathtaking 11-10 triumph over Demosthenes Pulpul in the championship match. Rep. Pacquiao and his doubles partner Ronie Alcano reached the round of 16 but lost to Oliver Medenilla and Raymond Faraon 9-4. Medenilla and Faraon however fell to Hsu and Cheng in the quarterfinals, 6-9.

N an interview with Ben Thomson of FightHype, Floyd Mayweather lambasted Manny Pacquiao’s boxing skill and even claimed that fans love him more than the Filipino pugilist. “It’s not called slugging; it’s called boxing. I mean, that’s what happened in the [Juan Manuel] Marquez fight. You was [sic] trying to play tough guy and we see what happened. It’s about working smarter, not harder,” Mayweather said. “When he was fighting Brandon Rios, he wasn’t slugging. He was boxing. It’s obvious he must know that he’s not going to win. He feels that in his heart. Like every other fighter trying to bait me into slugging, that’s not going to happen. Even though I know

I’m bigger and I’m stronger than him, and I’m smarter than him, we don’t believe in taking no punishment.” The undefeated American added that he sees himself as an artist in the ring. “The cool thing about Floyd Mayweather’s career is I was able to dish out punishment, not take punishment, make a lot of money, and have all my faculties. That’s the cool thing about my career,” he added. “What’s so crazy is they’re always talking about Floyd Mayweather fights are boring. I mean, it’s an art and last time I checked, I’m an artist and I paint a beautiful picture. A bloody mouth, a bloody nose, cut lip, broken ribs; that’s not beautiful on me.” Pacquiao has often said

NBA ROUNDUP

that he wants to fight Mayweather for the fans. The eight-division world champion even added that he’d fight Mayweather for charity if need be. “Listen, I’m truly, truly blessed to be where I’m at and I’m very thankful for the fans. He’s talking about the fans this and the fans that. It’s obvious the fans must love me more because the pay-perview numbers are showing who’s getting the most love,” Mayweather countered. “I mean, of course I’m only human, so every day I come out of my house, I don’t always want to take pictures, but I do appreciate the fans because without the fans, we wouldn’t be where we’re at today. I don’t like when people say stuff like, “I’m doing it

just for the fans.” No, you’re doing it for yourself. If you’re doing it just for the fans, then you can give the money back to the fans if that was the case. You want to please the fans, but you’re not just doing it for the fans. You’re doing it for yourself also.” After Pacquiao issued a challenge to Mayweather after beating Chris Algieri, Mayweather responded that he wants the mega-fight to happen on May 2 but added that he wants a bigger piece of the pot. “I mean, if he wanna [sic] fight for free, he can. I’m not fighting for free,” Mayweather closed. “Once again, I’m a prize fighter. I fight for a prize, and I’m the A side so I’m always going to get the biggest prize.”

Raptors first to make 20 wins in East K

YLE Lowry scored 20 points and handed out 12 assists Wednesday to lead Toronto to a 105-89 NBA victory over Brooklyn that made the Raptors the first Eastern Conference team to 20 wins this season. Patrick Patterson and Lou Williams contributed eight points apiece in the fourth quarter and Lowry scored six as the Raptors outscored the Nets 29-16 in the final frame to pull away for their fourth straight win.

Toronto improved to 20-6 and have enjoyed three winning streaks of at least four games this season. Mason Plumlee had 23 points to lead Brooklyn, Joe Johnson scored 17 and Mirza Teletovic added 14 in the first meeting between the Atlantic Division rivals since the Nets’ seven-game win in the first round of last season’s playoffs. While the Raptors’ star remained on the rise, the Cleveland Cavaliers and su-

perstar LeBron James endured an embarrassing 12798 pounding at the hands of the Atlanta Hawks. The Cavs, expected to be instant contenders in the East thanks to the return of James after four seasons in Miami, were out-scored 30-15 in the third quarter on their home floor as the Hawks avenged a lopsided loss to Cleveland earlier in the season. Shelvin Mack came off the bench to hit six

three-pointers and score 24 points for Atlanta who improved to 18-7, their best start since the 2009-10 season. James had 21 points, Dion Waiters added 21 points off the bench and Kevin Love provided 13 points, 10 rebounds and six assists for the Cavaliers, who have dropped three of their last four games. “I really don’t have too much to say,” Cavaliers coach David Blatt said. “That was embarrassing how we played.”

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