Edge Davao 7 Issue 238 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

UNMASKED. Without a facemask, a vendor refills big baskets with coconut charcoal in his makeshift store at Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City yesterday, apparently not realizing that inhaling charcoal powder can cause a variety of health issues. Lean Daval Jr.

GARMA PROBED

Sta. Ana Police chief in hot water over detainee’s escape By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

TA. Ana Police Station commander Superintendent Royina Garma is under investigation after a detainee managed to escape last week when a jail guard tasked him to throw out the garbage. Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 Investigation Division head Superintendent Joseph Sepulchre said an investigation is being conducted to find out if it has been the practice of the Sta.

Ana Police Station to use detainees in cleaning the office. Sepulchre said the Investigation Division will review how the station handles its detainees, especially if it has been a practice to use detainee with more minor offenses to perform chores. “We have to review how they handle their detainees especially if they allow detainees who have minor

cases like theft to go out and clean the station,” he said. Sepulchre said letting detainees go outside the police station to do chores is not allowed based on the rules of the Philippine National Police (PNP). If proven that the Sta. Ana Police Station practices this, Garma will be included in the case that will be filed, Sepulchre said. On February 9, Police Officer (PO)3 Roman Baslan

brought out detainee Reymart Padada to throw garbage outside the station. Police said Padada fled towards nearby Mini Forest after pushing Baslan. Operatives of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) have also mounted a manhunt operation against Padada, who had been detained for a theft case. Meanwhile, Baslan remains in his post at Sta. Ana Police Station.

INSIDE EDGE

FELCRIS CENTRALE GRAND OPENING Economy P5

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

ISSUES. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte appears on Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy’s “Give Us This Day” program to discuss some issues in the city and in the country. Duterte said he asked Quiboloy to have him as guest so he can explain certain issues, particularly his listening tour on federalism. Photo By Armando Fenequito Jr.

Duterte to Congress, DOJ: Stop, let BOI do its work By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. and FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte urged Senate, House of Representatives, and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to stop their investigation on the January 25 Mamasapano, Maguindanao incident and let the Philippine National Police (PNP) Board of Inquiry (BOI) do its job. Speaking in Pastor Apollo

C. Quiboloy’s television program Give Us This Day on Monday night, Duterte said the incident was a “military matter” that the Senate, Congress, and DOJ should not meddle in. “Hayaan niyo muna sila na mag imbestiga (Let the BOI investigate first) and if it will release the result, then that is the time they would validate

the investigation,” he said. “If it is the truth, they can go ahead and find it out why it happened,” the mayor added. Duterte said the anger felt by the lawmakers and the justice department is making them “like bumble bees and mosquitoes” that are very eager to investigate the incident. “You should rise about

your anger,” he said. The mayor also asked the lawmakers who withdrew their support for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) not to abandon talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “I am passionate with the talks because we are the battleground every time there is war,” he said.

At the same time, Duterte said President Benigno Aquino will be the key to the investigation. “President Aquino alongside with the other guys over there (can be the key to the investigation). That is assuming that they will tell the truth and if their truth will be similar to one another,” he said.

Duterte said being the commander-in-chief, Aquino plays a vital role in the planning stages of an operation like the one mounted by the Special Action Force (SAF) in Mamasapano. “He plays a vital role because he is the President. If he does not give the order, then it cannot proceed,” he said.

attack or harass,” Rivera said. Four soldiers and one rebel died when about 50 NPA members attacked the Mati Municipal Police Station on February 15, 2015. Rivera said prior to the attack, the PRO 11 sent around 20 members of the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) to the Mati police station to augment its force

because the DAVRAA was going to be held there. He said police also received intelligence reports that the NPA was planning to attack the city. “A large augmentation force was sent to Mati City because of the upcoming DAVRAA, plus the military also received intelligence reports about an imminent NPA attack,” Rivera said.

Ranking rebel arrested Police assure safety of DAVRAA athletes in Mati

HIGH-RANKING leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) was arrested by elements of the 10th Infantry Division in Barangay Taguibo, Mati City on Monday night, a day after rebels attacked the police station of Mati. The alleged NPA leader was identified as Prince Wendel Olofernes alias “Edoy” or “Doy,” whom the military said was the commander of Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) Front-18 of the NPA Southern Mindanao regional Command (SMRC).

The military said Olofernes was wearing a military uniform when cornered by government troops. The military said Olofernes assumed as commander of SDG Front-18 of the NPA following the arrest of its former leader, Jordan Donillo alias “Talyo,” in December 2014. Meanwhile, the rebel who was killed in Sunday night’s rebel attack on the Mati City Police Station has already been identified.

FRANKING, 14

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 has given assurance that the athletes who will join the Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) which will be held in Mati City on February 24 to 28 will be safe. In an interview, PRO 11 spokesperson Superintendent Antonio Rivera said regional police director Chief

Superintendent Wendy Rosario mandated the Mati Municipal Police Station to strengthen its defenses following the rebel attack on Sunday night. “RD (regional director) mandated Mati Municipal Police Station to strengthen its defenses through target hardening, (which means) meaning make the station difficult to

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

Two Dabawenyos test negative for MERS-CoV

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

HE two Dabawenyos suspected of having been infected with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus (MERS-CoV) have tested negative of the disease. In yesterday’s regular session of the Davao City council, committee on health chair councilor Mary Joselle D. Villafuerte said the 39-yearold woman from Talomo South and 48-year-old man from Buhangin were found negative through a Nasopharygeal swab test. In a privilege speech, Villafuerte said the two samples were submitted to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) last February 13 and the result was released last February 16. “The DOH-RESU (Department of Health – Regional Epidemiolgy Service Unit) and SPMC (Southern Philippine Medical Center) Isolation Unit were monitoring the two who left Saudi Arabia on January 31 and arrived in Manila on February 1,” she said. Villafuerte said another nurse from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia opted to be quarantined since she had the symptoms of the virus. She said the suspected MERS-CoV patient was admitted to the SPMC Isolation Unit last February 15 and underwent swab test. The result is still pending. Villafuerte said there

is nothing to worry about since MERS-CoV is not fatal unlike Ebola. She added, however, that if a person has a weak immune system there is a possibility of death. “If you have pre-existing respiratory and lung diseases you could be killed by pneumonia,” she said. In Zamboanga City, four residents who were with the flight that carried the Filipina nurse who tested positive of the vuris have been placed on home quarantine, City Health Officer Dr. Rodelin Agbulos announced Monday. The Filipina nurse arrived in the country aboard Saudi Flight 860 last February 1 from Saudi Arabia. The plane was carrying over 200 passengers. Agbulos said the four are among the five residents of this city that were together with the nurse who arrived in the country aboard Saudi Flight 860. He identified them as two males aged 28 and two females aged 32 and 41, adding they were located through contact tracing. He said they have taken swab samples of the four which were sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine of the Department of Health for laboratory analysis. Agbulos said the results of the laboratory analysis are expected to be released on Thursday,

services in the full service centers at SM Lanang Premier and at SM City Davao in Ecoland will be accepted from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Meanwhile, Panabo City branch customer services will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and its payment services will be from 7 a.m.to 5

NEGATIVE. Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte discloses in her privilege speech during yesterday’s regular session that two Dabawenyos suspected of having been infected with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus February 19. “We were able to trace the (whereabouts of the) four. They are with their families and we advised them home quarantine for the moment until the results arrive,” he said. He said the four were asymptomatic, which means they did not show any symptoms of MERSCoV. The signs and symptoms of MERS-CoV, which is a viral illness, include cough, fever, shortness of breath and diarrhea. MERS-CoV was first reported in 2012 in Saudi Arabia. With a report from MindaNews

Davao Light customer services open on Feb 19

AVAO Light and Power Company’s frontline services will be available for the public on February 19, Thursday, which has been declared a special no-work holiday in celebration of Chinese New Year. Payment and customer

p.m. Toril and Calinan payment offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, and from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Only Sto. Tomas payment office is unavailable during holidays. Emergency service will remain available 24 hours through 229-DLPC (3572).

(MERS-CoV) have tested negative of the disease while another one is still at the isolation ward of Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC). Lean Daval Jr.

NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

LUMAD PROTEST. Indigenous Peoples (IP) from the hinterlands of Davao City converge at Freedom Park yesterday to stage a protest rally against the military, whose presence they say is causing unrest in their communities. Lean Daval Jr.

COAL-FIRED POWER PLANT TAX

Duterte approves 50-50 sharing with Sta. Cruz By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte will let the municipal government of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur have an equal share in the local business tax (LBT) of Therma South Inc. (TSI)’s coal-fired power plant. In an interview, Duterte told reporters he will give the 50-50 share of the LBT being asked for by Sta. Cruz Mayor Joel Ray Lopez to solve the sharing dispute. “OK lang ko ana. Nganong magdinalo man pud ta... walay

problema tutal Pilipino man pud ang tagaan (It is OK me. Why should we be selfish? It’s not problem especially since Filipinos will be the ones to benefit),” Duterte said. “If that is the fastest solution, I am OK with it,” he added. Duterte said Sta. Cruz also has the right to an equal share since the coal plant is situated in one of its barangays. He said the share should not just be based on where

the facilities and buildings are situated because the entire plant will not operate if the whole complex is not used. “Do not focus on one building alone, it is not laid out that way,” he said. Earlier, city administrator Jesus Melchor V. Quitiain said that during a meeting last week, Lopez said Sta. Cruz wants an equal share of the remaining 70 percent of the LBT since Davao City will automatically receive 30 per-

cent of the tax since the main office of TSI is in Davao City. Davao City officials, however, want a higher share. Quitain had said the city should have the biggest share and therefore he was not in favor of equally sharing the remaining 70 percent. City treasurer Rodrigo Riola had also said the city should have a bigger share of the LBT since the city got the higher percentage of equipment of the coal plant compared with Sta. Cruz.

NDIGENOUS peoples in the city’s uplands who are beneficiaries of government’s conditional cash transfer program are among those that have availed of the contraceptive Implanon, a health official said Monday. Assistant City Health Officer Samuel Cruz said in an interview they have at least 1,000 available units of Implanon monthly. He said each Implanon unit costs from P10,000 to P15,000 in the market but the

CHO is giving it for free. He added they will hold regular sessions for women who wish to avail of the product. Priscilla Razon, Department of Social Welfare and Development regional director said at the Kapehan sa SM Monday that 8,000 indigenous peoples in Marilog, Paquibato and Baguio districts have availed of the modified conditional cash transfer program. Razon, however, said she could not give as yet the ex-

GenSan sinkhole likely caused by coastal erosion

HE suspected sinkhole that appeared near a coastal community here over the weekend and triggered the evacuation of 46 families could be a case of coastal erosion, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Region 12 said. Roger Tamayo, MGB-12 mining engineer, said their initial assessment showed that the huge hole that developed at the shores of Purok Tinago in Barangay Dadiangas South here could have been caused by the degeneration of coralline limestones situated underneath the area’s shoreline. He said the breakdown of the limestones might have triggered the erosion of its

sand covering that eventually appeared liked that of a sinkhole. “(But) this is just our initial or partial assessment. We have no basis for now to conclude what really happened here as that can only be made through further geological assessment,” he said. MGB Region 12 director Constancio Paye Jr. sent Tamayo and his team to assess the site on Monday and verify whether it was indeed a sinkhole. The suspected sinkhole, which was initially estimated at around 40 meters in diameter, emerged early Sunday morning, prompting the city government to order the forced evacuation of 46 families settled near the area.

act number of Lumad women who are using the contraceptive but confirmed it was the DSWD that helped identify the beneficiaries. Non-Lumad women who are beneficiaries of the cash transfer program have also availed of free Implanon units, she added. The city has partnered with the DSWD in distributing the contraceptive to poor beneficiaries through its Listahanan program. Implanon prevents preg-

nancy up to three years and has been approved by the World Health Organization. Cruz said the distribution of the contraceptive is based on the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law, or Republic Act 10583, which was signed by President Benigno Aquino III in 2012. He said distribution of the contraceptive is assured at least until the end of the Aquino administration in 2016.

FGENSAN, 14

Seven NPA men killed Lumad women given free contraceptive implants in Sarangani encounter I S By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

EVEN members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a series of encounters in Sarangani Province on Monday. The military said members of the 73rd Infantry Battalion engaged the rebels in two gun battles, one at 8 a.m. and the other at 3:30 p.m., in Sitio Tubal, Barangay Datal Anggas,

Alabel, Sarangani Province. After the battle, the government troops were able to seize two AK-47s, one M653 rifle, and six M167 rifles. According to reports, the soldiers encountered around 30 NPA members led by a certain Lucas, the secretary of the NPA Far South Mindanao

FSEVEN, 14

FLUMAD, 14

5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

Felcris Centrale grand opening today By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

ELCRIS Centrale formally opens its doors to the public today with business leaders from Mindanao welcoming the newest addition to the ever-changing real estate landscape of Davao City. “Good! The more the merrier,” Mindanao Business Council (MinBC) chairman Vicente T. Lao told Edge Davao in a text message yesterday as Felcris Centrale opens for business starting today. Felcris Centrale, a flagship development project of homegrown Felcris Hotels and Resorts Corporation of the Yap family, just had its blessing and inauguration yesterday afternoon. The project, located in a 5.9-hectate lot along Quimpo Boulevard in Barangay Bucana, has a 12-storey commercial complex with a 10-floor office space and a two-level retail and entertainment center complete with supermarket, boutiques, restaurants and shops.

PHL, SG sign new air pact

HILIPPINES and Singapore are allowing more flights between the two countries following the inking of an agreement last weekend, the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) said. CAB executive director Carmelo Arcilla said this development not only opens up more opportunities for airlines of the two countries, but also allows both to increase the limit on the frequencies for fifth freedom to 10 per week from eight per week. Fifth freedom rights is the right to operate services to a third country from a country with which an airline’s resident country has an air services agreement. Furthermore, co-terminal points for Singaporean carriers were also expanded to Iloilo and Bacolod, which adds to the current list of Cebu, Davao, and Puerto Princesa From now on, Singaporean carriers can fly to Cebu for example and then proceed to Davao. He said both countries also agreed on a third country code sharing, which allows airlines from both countries to share marketing services with third-party countries. CAB also said that the new air pact increased the capacity entitlements between Manila and Singapore by 7.1 percent to 18,888 seats per week from the current 17,627 seats per week. (PNA)

The Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) lauded the opening of Felcris Centrale and congratulated its management for realizing the project. “This is a manifestation of their trust and confidence to the city government,” DCCCII president Antonio Dela Cruz said. “This is a manifestation of their trust and confidence to the city government,” Dela Cruz added. On the other hand, Davao City Investment Promotions Center (DCIPC) chief Ivan C. Cortez said he is generally happy that another urban landmark is opened to the public. “Felcris Centrale will offer another options and additional spaces for business activities. In the nearest future, the immediate winners here will be the end users,” Cortez said. Felcris Centrale is accessible to the neighboring business establishments, government offices and residential areas.

NEWEST MALL. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte, Architect Felino A. Palafox (leftmost), Felcris owners Felipe (second right) and Cresencio Yap (rightmost) cut the ceremonial ribbon during the inauguration and blessing of Felcris Centrale in Quimpo Boulevard yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

Davao del Norte gets biggest slice of tourism infra projects for 2015 By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE province of Davao del Norte will get the biggest chunk of the P2.02 budget allocation for the construction of tourism-related infrastructure projects in Davao Region this year. Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 11 information officer Dean Ortiz said that out of the 30 tourism-related projects that

were identified by the Department of Tourism (DOT) under the DOT-DPWH convergence program for 2015, seven of these are for Davao del Norte. Ortiz said the seven projects have a total amount of P810 million and will be implemented within the fiscal year. Earlier, DPWH11 director Mariano Alquiza said during

the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex on Monday that bulk of the budget will go to Davao del Norte as DOT is planning to project the province as prime tourist destination in the region. Alquiza said most projects will be implemented in the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos), known as a resort island because of its white sand and

pristine beaches. Other than the seven projects in Davao del Norte, Davao City will have 10 tourism-related infrastructure project this year with a total cost of P455.5 million, followed by Compostela Valley with five projects that cost P330 million, Davao del Sur with five projects costing P274.2 million, and Davao Oriental with

FAMILY TIES. Premier Family Business Consulting Group chief executive officer Jonathan Ramos (left) and chief operating officer Neil Montesclaros discuss their group’s advocacy of helping family businesses transition from one generation to another during a press briefing with local media yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Firm aims to help family businesses

EBU-BASED Premier Family Business Consulting (PFBC) is planning to seal an agreement with the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) for the conduct of workshops and seminars on the importance of family enterprise planning. PFBC founder Jonathan A. Ramos said the partnership will enable the firm to

have access and be able to offer services to the families in business in Davao Region. Ramos said family enterprise planning “aims to strengthen the family foundations – their relationships and shared core ideologies and at the same time carefully plan fundamental preparations of a sustainable family enterprise.” PFBC has been extend-

ing consultancy services on family unity building, leadership succession planning, ownership succession planning, and family financial planning for more than 10 years. “We chose Davao City because we would like to infiltrate families in business in Mindanao and extend our consultancy here,” Ramos said. More than that, Ramos

which is expected at 20,000 MT. This means as 2015 is an off-year, next year will be a bountiful harvest which the PCBI target to breach 25,000 MT. He noted that coffee farmers need support through technical assistance and providing financial programs to leverage equipment and process of producing coffee. Moreover, Matti said that there are also larger demands for ARABICA COFFEE than Robusta coffee. Around 60 to 70 percent of the world’s coffee demands are Arabica coffee while 30 percent are for Robusta. But

the country produces more Robusta than Arabica, according to Matti. Meanwhile, PCBI president Pacita Juan mentioned that foreign markets such as the U.S., Japan and South Korea are looking into Philippine coffee. “It is important to bring up production and improve the quality of our coffee,” she said. In 2014, Philippine coffee gained international awards after PCBI brought Davao-produced coffee in Bangkok, Thailand for the Thaifex Roasters Choice Awards where the local coffee bagged two awards. (PNA)

Phl urged to hike production

HE Philippines’ coffee industry is urged to increase quantity and improve the quality of coffee produced in order to take advantage of the Php21-billion local coffee industry. Philippine Coffee Board, Inc. (PCBI) chair Nicholas Matti, in a briefing on Monday, said the demand of coffee is at 100,000 metric tons (MT) which continues to grow yearon-year by 3.0 to 5.0 percent. Matti, however, said the current local production is only at 20,000 to 22,000 MT. He mentioned that local coffee harvest for this year is an “off-year”, following a cycle,

said the firm is in Davao because it wants to raise public awareness on the importance of consultancy in making family businesses sustainable and efficient even after changes in management. He said in the Philippines, 80 percent of businesses are family-owned and controlled. “Family businesses

FFIRM, 14

three projects amounting P153,224 million. In addition, Ortiz said the DPWH will implement more tourism infrastructure projects for Davao Region this year. Ortiz also said that the convergence between DPWH and DOT resulted to the implementation of a total of 30 tourism infrastructure proj-

ects this year with a total project cost of more than P2.02 billion. This year is higher compared than last year because we only had 28 projects worth P1.9 billion. “This will be the first time that the province of Compostela Valley will have a tourism-related project,” Alquiza said.

N a meeting today chaired by the President of the Republic of the Philippines, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board approved six infrastructure projects. “Most of these projects aim to have a more reliable and efficient transport infrastructure system. These are consistent with the government’s thrust to increase investment in connective infrastructure,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan. Among the approved projects is the Panguil Bay Bridge, with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) as implementing agency. The project involves the construction of bridge across Panguil Bay connecting the City of Tangub in Misamis Occidental and the Municipality of Tubod in Lanao del Norte. The project is one of the high priority development projects in Mindanao. The bridge will potentially reduce travel time along the 100-kilometer national road between Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental and Tubod, Lanao del Norte from 2.5 hours to 37 minutes. The project’s total estimated cost

is P5.09 billion to be fully financed by the government and targeted to be implemented starting 2015 until 2018. Moreover, there are two projects approved under the North-South Railway masterplan. First is Phase 1 of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Project, which the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) will implement, involves the construction of a 36.7-kilometer narrow-gauge elevated commuter railway from Malolos to Tutuban. It aims to improve efficiency of land transportation capacity of Metro Manila and provide a more environmentally sustainable mode of transport. Also, the NSCR Phase 1 will use the Philippine National Railway’s (PNR) rightof-way with 10 stations and a depot at Valenzuela. The project’s total estimated cost is P117.30 billion and targeted to be implemented from 2015 with a 35-year operation period starting 2020. Another is the NorthSouth Railway Project – South Line, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project of the DOTC, which has a total estimated cost of P170.70

NEDA Board approves 6 transport infra projects I

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KALILANGAN FESTIVAL 2015. General Santos City Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera signs the memorandum of agreement with RMMC president and event co-chair Kristoffer Franz Mari R. and Festival director Marthin Anthony L. Millado and Councilor Shandee Llido during the recent launching of Kalilangan jingle, festival design and videos.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

Hot water

HE members of the Sta. Ana Police Station, along with its commander Superintendent Royina Garma, have found themselves in hot water over the escape last week of a detainee who had been tasked by a police officer, acting as jail guard, to take out the garbage. Once outside, the detainee apparently pushed the cop aside and made good his plan to flee into a densely populated area – from which he has not been recovered as of press time. The man had been detained on a theft case, a minor offense compared with, say, murder or kidnapping, and perhaps because of this he was in good enough terms with the officers to be trusted with handling the day’s trash. Unfortunately for the police station – and for Garma – the guy did not intend to stay in the detention area and took advantage of his being treated as a convenient helper. Now letting detainees do the dirty job in police stations is not unheard of. Some repeat offenders are detained so frequently that they virtually become friends with police officers. This may not be a prevalent practice, but it is seen often enough to make

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civilians wary of entering police stations for fear of meeting a detainee who is on the wrong side of the cell. And of course, many police stations throughout the country have little space for detention cells, and many times offenders are allowed to stay outside. And then there is the case of Sta. Ana Police Station, which apparently makes helpers out of detainees. Perhaps the officers have been thinking that they are the ones pulling one over the offenders, but really, what detainee would not jump at the chance of going out for a breath of fresh air, even if it is, as it were, to take out the garbage? And in last week’s incident, it was the detainee who pulled one over his jail guard. The investigation by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 will focus on whether or not Sta. Ana police regularly use their detainees as helpers, which is a clear violation of Philippine National Police (PNP) rules. It is certainly hoped that the probe will finally put a stop to this practice and, ironically, make police stations safe for the people. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. KENNETH IRVING K. ONG 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 ARLENE D. PASAJE Correspondents 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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THERE is a lot that happens around the world we cannot control,” American Congressman Jan Schakowsky once said. “We cannot stop earthquakes, we cannot prevent droughts, and we cannot prevent all conflict, but when we know where the hungry, the homeless and the sick exist, then we can help.” This statement came to mind while reading a report last that there are more Filipinos who are hungry than ever. According to a new survey by pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS), more Filipinos experienced hunger in March last year, with about 3.9 million Filipino families saying they had nothing to eat at some point during that time. In its poll conducted from March 19 to 22, 2014 and posted on its media partner “Business World,” SWS said that the 3.9 million families or 19.2 percent of Filipino families that experienced hunger was higher than 16.3 percent in December. This was despite a decline in self-rated poverty to 52 percent during March, or some 10.6 million families, from 54 percent in December, the SWS noted. It added hunger increased among both the poor and the non-poor, even as it pointed out March’s figures were still below the record 23.8 percent recorded last year. Hunger is the physical sensation of desiring food. When politicians, relief workers, and social scientists talk about people suffering from hunger, they usually refer

HE September 17, 1862 battle of Antietam creek was the American Civil War’s bloodiest one-day fight. On September 4, America’s greatest general, confederacy’s Robert E. Lee, attacked the state of Maryland hoping to bring Maryland into the rebel’s fold. Sensing that Maryland would not join, Lee’s hurriedly retreated. Facing him was Union General McLellan whose forces outnumbered that of the rebels 3 to 1. On September 13, Lee’s entire operational plan (Special order 191) was seized by Union troops. On September McLellan already knew what Lee would do. All he had to do was attack with his superior force’s Lee’s weakest points. McLellan did nothing on September 14 and 15 while Lee retreated. He could have chased and attacked Lee’s weak forces in Antietam on September 16 but did not. When he finally attacked on September 17, Lee’s comrade General Stonewall Jackson arrived, thus stopping the Union from winning that day. The indecision of McLellan from September 13 to 16 was compounded when he ordered General Burnside to capture the bridge at Rohrback on September 17 at 8 a.m., cross it, and attack Lee from behind. Burnside instead attacked at 10 a.m. Again a tired rebel

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

VANTAGE POINTS

The hunger games to those who THINK ON THESE! are unable to eat sufficient food to meet their basic nutritional needs for sustained periods of time. Hunger is common not only in the Henrylito D. Tacio P h i l i p p i n e s henrytacio@gmail.com but throughout the world. In 2007 and 2008, rapidly increasing food prices caused a global food crisis, increasing the numbers suffering from hunger by over a hundred million. Food riots erupted in several dozen countries; in at least two cases, Haiti and Madagascar, this led to governments being toppled. A second global food crisis occurred due to the spike in food prices of late 2010 and early 2011. Less food riots occurred due in part to greater stockpiles of food being available for relief; however several analysts have argued it was one of the causes of the Arab Spring. Is there a solution in sight? “I now say that the world has the technology – either available or well advance in the research pipeline – to feed on a sustainable basis a population of 10 billion people,” Nobel Peace Prize winner Norman Borlaug

pointed out. “The more pertinent question today is whether farmers and ranchers will be permitted to use this new technology?” Dr. Borlaug, touted to be the “Man Who Saved A Billion Lives,” was referring to biotechnology. “While the affluent nations can certainly afford to adopt ultra low-risk positions, and pay more for food produced by the so-called ‘organic’ methods, the one billion chronically undernourished people of the low income, food-deficit nations cannot,” the American agronomist deplored. Biotechnology, for the information of the uninformed, encompasses an array of tools and applications that allow scientists to manipulate the genetic materials of plants, microbes, and animals. These methods provide ways to modify the characteristics that are passed from one generation to the next. Ismail Serageldin, during his time as vice-president of World Bank, sees biotechnology playing a crucial part of agriculture in the 21st century. “All possible tools that can help promote sustainable agriculture for food security must be marshaled,” he said, “and biotechnology, safely developed, could be a tremendous help.” Biotechnology’s primary contribution to the agricultural sector will be to increase the actual amount of food that can be grown on the planet. “At current rates of population growth, conventional tech-

niques may soon be insufficient if farming is to keep pace with the scale of increases required in the 21st century,” wrote Victor Villalobos in an article which appeared in Ceres, a publication of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. Genetic engineering, Villalobos believes, will not only provide varieties with higher yields, shorter maturity periods and broader resistance characteristics, “it will also greatly reduce the time needed to evolve and screen them.” All is not rosy, however. “I believe that this kind of genetic modification takes mankind into realms that belong to God, and to God alone,” deplored Prince Charles in 1998. Dr. Peter Wills, a theoretical biologist at Auckland University, agrees: “By transferring genes across species barriers which have existed for eons, we risk breaching natural thresholds against unexpected biological processes.” “If the naysayers do manage to stop agricultural biotechnology, they might actually precipitate the famines and the crisis of global biodiversity they have been predicting for nearly 40 years,” Dr. Borlaug deplored. One sage puts it in perspective: “A man who has enough food has several problems. A man without food has only one problem.” Or as the poet Horace puts it: “Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.”

airborne attack deep in German held Holland in Nijmegen (82nd Division) and Eindhoven (101st Band Brothers/ Screaming Eagles). The prize target and the farthest from allied line, the key cross road city of Arnhem; he reserved for the British airborne division (Red Devils) and a polish parachute brigade. Days earlier, Dutch guerillas told allied intelligence that two German Panzer Divisions were in Arnhem, but Montgomery brushed off the report and proceeded with the plan. One of staff looking at the map and seeing Arnhem was deep inside Holland asked, “Is it not a bridge too far?” (Cornelius Ryan) it was called operation Market Garden, market the code for airborne troops, and garden, code for the British ground force who were suppose to charge German Lines and link with the Red Devils in Arnhem. On September 17, the two American airborne divisions parachuted and captured their targets. The British division dropped into the middle of two German Panzer (Tank) divisions who were refitting in Arnhem and was chopped to bits. The British armor who was to link with the airborne troops in Arnhem was stopped by strong German resistance many miles away. Think Arnhem (British) as Tagum,

Eindhoven (US) as Panabo, and Nijmegen (US) as Davao. The roads connecting the three places crisscrossed by bridges and canals were in German hands but the two US divisions were ready to go Arnhem if ordered. From September 18 to 24, Montgomery was undecided. On September 25, eight days later, Montgomery instead of ordering the two US division and the British armor to rush to Arnhem to the trapped Red Devils is to retreat. Of the 9000 British and Polish airborne troops, only 2,400 reached allied lines. A chicken moves fast. When facing a snake, it becomes paralyzed with fear not knowing where or when or how to run so it is swallowed. A commander must decide and move fast because delays/indecisions could cost the lives of his men. In World War II, the British long range desert group, a special force, had this motto: “Who dares, wins.” The old cliché about, great warriors is that they were able to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat (Rommel, Patton Spruance), not that they were able to snatch defeat from the jaw of victory. Gladiators in Rome’s coliseum faced the Roman crowd and the Emperor, raise their weapons, say Morituri Salutamos (we who are about to die salute you), then fight to the death.

He who hesitates is lost

EDGEWISE BY JESUS QUITAIN (PART TWO) brigade arrived in time to reinforce the small defending force, thus stopping Burnside from crossing the bridge, up to 3 p.m. By 4 p.m., McLellan was about to charge Lee’s weak exposed side, when for the third time a tired bloodied rebel division arrived, thus stopping McLellan’s drive. The fight ended at 5 p.m. However, on September 18, McLellan did not chase the retreating Lee, otherwise Lee’s army would have been destroyed. The Civil War would have ended that year, 1862. Instead it dragged on until 1864. McLellan gave many excuses. President Lincoln sarcastically asked “are you not overcautious when you assume that you cannot do what the enemy is constantly doing?” McLellan was removed and never given a command again. After the June 6, 1944 invasion, the world’s attention was on the heroic of US armies and Generals Patton, Bradley, and Eisenhower. The Allied’s No 2 commander, England’s Montgomery, felt the British forces and he needed pogi points to balance the limelight. He planned an

10 ICT HUB EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

Smart’s online course with UP-OU gets positive response

LMOST 700 students have enrolled and are taking the mobile app development online course offered by Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), in partnership with the University of the Philippines Open University (UP-OU), proving the increasing popularity and pervasive potential of mEducation for the country. The course is the country’s first Massive Open Online Course (MOCC) to date and it was co-developed with UP-OU, the nation’s Center of Excellence in Distance and Open Learning. It started accepting online students for the course in July last year. The online course is part of Smart’s Internet for All efforts in the areas of mEducation and mLearning to help extend the reach of educational institutions through Internet and mobile technologies. Smart will be expanding the number of courses and is working with UP-OU to further improve the online learning system. To further boost efforts in mEducation, Smart is also set to commence with the launch

of the eUP Project, a key initiative under the University of the Philippines’ Strategic Plan with the goal of making the state university more competitive in the region. For this project, Smart is providing WiFi connectivity and access points that will link all of its seven campuses and its Open University program. Under the agreement, websites whitelisted by UP and Smart can be accessed for free over WiFi inside UP campuses. Sites that are not whitelisted can be accessed for free within a set limit of minutes per day. Data usage beyond that period will be charged the usual rates. For the project, Smart will install numerous hotspots in various UP campuses. Smart’s project complements the initiative of PLDT which won the competitive bidding for the core programs needed to run the eUP Project. Under the contract, PLDT will enable the university’s electronic management system that help provide an integrated infrastructure across all UP campuses and units.

Smart and PLDT are in discussions for similar efforts in other colleges and universities across the country. “On top of connecting learning institutions with broadband infrastructure, it’s important also that students have access to the mobile Internet as well as relevant digital services. Increasing digital literacy among our youth and teachers will definitely help make our emerging workforce more competitive worldwide.” said Ramon R. Isberto, Smart public affairs group head. “That’s why we’re committed to be a partner not just in terms of providing infrastructure but also through education and development programs that can benefit the nation.” he added. Aside from the schools WiFi initiative, Smart has been pioneering in the mEducation space through various offerings. For example, Smart has its Alternative Learning System app – available for download on Google Play –and an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) solution that contains courses that can be accessed

HI-TECH LEARNERS. Students from the University of the Philippines stand to benefit from the eUP project. Smart is providing WiFi connectivity and access points that will through feature phones to help non-formal mobile teachers and learners, including Out-of-School Youths (OSYs). These solutions form part of Smart’s support for the National Youth Commission program Abot Alam and the initiative has been cited by international agencies such as the GSM Association as a “first commercial collaboration with multi-stakeholder

link all of its seven campuses and its Open University program. The telco is also offering an online open course on Android Development for distance learners.

partnerships for mEducation to support OSYs” in its country report last December 2014. To help develop industry-ready graduates in the technology sector, Smart has been running its industry-academe innovation initiative SWEEP (Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program) since 2003 and to date, the program has produced thousands of successful engineers

for the work-force as well as a number of technology startup founders. “mEducation and mLearning will help bridge socio-economic divide through digital inclusion. With technology, even young people from families with limited financial circumstances can have a fighting chance to have a boost in life through education,” Isberto said.

Globe, Japan’s Brastel tie up ASUS announces local for co-branded call card availability of MeMOPad 7 G T

Japan-based Filipinos get more affordable IDD calls to Globe, TM LOBE Telecom marked the launch of its partnership with leading Japanese telco Brastel with the introduction of their co-branded reloadable calling card. The product was developed for the 250,000 overseas Filipinos in Japan and offers calling rates to Globe and TM in the Philippines that are as low as half the cost of other offers in the market. “Globe is starting 2015 with a great proposition for our kababayans in Japan whether as residents, temporary workers, students or visitors,” said Globe EVP & COO for International and Business Markets Gil Genio. “We have forged ties with a respected company such as Brastel in order to provide Filipinos abroad with more affordable

means to communicate with their loved ones back home,” he added. Globe SVP for International Business Rizza Maniego-Eala said Japan has always been an important market for Globe because of the hundreds of thousands of Pinoys based there. “This partnership with Brastel gives us an opportunity to offer good quality calls, superior rates and a widely-accessible reloadable card product available in over 44,000 outlets across the said country,” he added. For his part, Brastel CEO Wilson Kendi Kawai said since the company’s founding in 1996, “we at Brastel aim to give our customers a voice by providing them with the best packag-

es and offers.” “Through our partnership with Globe, we are delighted to enable stronger connections between overseas Filipinos in Japan and their family and friends back home,” he said. The Globe-Brastel card is available for free at Filipino stores across Japan. To make a call, dial the access number, country code, area code, and phone number from any landline, mobile, or payphone. Reloading the card is easy via the widely-accepted Smart Pit payment gateway at partner convenience stores such as Family Mart, Mini Stop, Circle K, and Lawson. It can also be reloaded via the Brastel website using a credit card in denominations of 2,000 yen up to 10,000 yen.

TIE-UP. Officials in the photo, from left: Carmina Velayo-Villo - Head of Marketing for Globe International Business; Rizza Maniego-Eala, Senior Vice President for Globe International Business; Jorge Tatsuki Takata General Manager for Carrier Operations & Support, Brastel.

HE ASUS MeMO Pad 7 was created for those looking for a value tablet. The 7-inch MeMO Pad 7 punches well above its weight, boasting features and specifications more commonly found on tablets. It sports the powerful Intel dual-core processor can easily handle multiple tasks and deliver an immersive entertainment experience. It comes with Android 4.3 and features ASUS ZenUI, the all-new mobile user interface exclusive to ASUS devices. ASUS ZenUI is packed with more than 1000 software enhancements and sports a new visual design with modern ‘flat’ icons, customizablee vivid color themes that match the device color, animations, new ringtones and notification sounds, and a clean layout to clearly present information. ASUS ZenUI also includes two features — What’s Next and Do It Later — designed to free users from actively having to manage the multitude of information they are confronted with daily, and enable them to be more productive. What’s Next puts the information currently most important and useful to the user — such as upcoming appointments, new messages and missed calls from VIP contacts, weather at the next destination, and more — front and center on the lock screen, the home screen and in the notification drawer. ASUS MeMOPad 7 (ME70C) is available for only P3,995(8GB) and P4,495(16GB) in all ASUS authorized re-sellers nationwide.

SPECIFICATIONS ASUS MeMOPad 7 (ME70C) Processor

Intel® Atom™ Z2520 dual-core (1.2 GHz)

Operating system Android™ 4.3

Display

Cameras

7-inch, TN(1024 x 600) 0.3MP front camera 2MP rear camera

Memory & storage 1GB LPDDR2 RAM 8/16GB eMMC 64GB microSD Wireless Connectivity

5GB ASUS WebStorage free for life with an additional 11 GB for the first year 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi Bluetooth 4.0

1 x High-quality speakers 1 x Micro USB

Sensors Battery Colors Size Weight

1 x Micro SD card reader, up to 64GB SDHC G-Sensor

3220mAh for up to 8 hours use [1] Black, White

192 x 110 x 12.5mm 270g

11 THE TRAVEL TELLER

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

Tupi, South Cotabato:

Simply beautiful

By OLAN FERNANDEZ EMBOSCADO

OUTH Cotabato, now slowly being known as the Land of the Dreamweavers, is best known for its vast plantation of fruits and vegetables. The province owes its fertile soil to the volcanic waste that eroded from the orifice of the magnificent Mt. Matutum.

One of the towns in the province richly endowed with this natural resource is Tupi, known as the fruit capital not only of South Cotabato but the whole of SoCCSKSarGen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City). It boasts of vast pineapple plantations located just along the national highway with the imposing view of the majestic Mt. Matutum dominating the background. Aside from pineapple and other fruits, Tupi is also known for its vast cut-flower and vegetable plantations. Along the national highway is the Tupi Fruit Stand which sells tropical fruit produce and preserved fruits from Tupi. It is strategically located along the national highway within Barangay Kablon and Polonuling. If you’re into bottled fruit jams, perhaps you’ve heard of Kablon Farms. It’s from Tupi. In the heart of the town is the charming Tupi Municipal Hall and Town Plaza. Its unique architectural design with attention-grabbing colors possesses a stunning appeal that has become a unique attraction to passersby. Believe me, I was also captivated by this structure when we passed by the town.

A 20-minute drive from the town proper is the Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape. Deep into this forest reserve is the Linan Tarsier Sanctuary situated in Sitio Bagong Silang, a small B’laan village in Barangay Linan. Long before the strict conservation of tarsier and other wild life in this protected area, B’laans used to cut trees and burn them to make charcoal as source of livelihood. When the local government implemented the protection of the wildlife in the site, it found it hard to convince the B’laans to stop this practice. But with the alternative livelihood program and intense information drive introducing to the community to the necessity of protecting the habitat, the locals eventually realized the importance of wildlife and the need to conserve it. Today, Linan Tarsier Sanctuary is managed both by the local government and the B’laan community with the support of NGOs and other agencies. Together, they work hard to preserve the tarsiers (locally called tukay

mal or small monkey) and other wildlife that can be found at the foot of Mt. Matutum like squirrels, flying foxes, civets, and several species of eagles. Those who would like to the Visit Linan Tarsier Sanctuary can also experience immersion program with the B’laan community. B’laans are a generally hospitable and good-natured people. Here, you will experience indigenous culture, local food, and their way of life. You will not only be amazed by the wildlife of Sitio Linan but also by the rich culture of the IP community living in and protecting the area. So the next time you visit South Cobatabo, don’t just pass by Tupi. Perhaps you can park your car on the side, run to the vast pineapple plantation, and get yourself a striking selfie there with Mt. Matutum as your background. Or perhaps, take a selfie at the Municipal Hall or maybe a selfie eating pineapple at the Tupi Fruit Stand. Or better yet, go to Linan and spend the night there with the B’laans and the tarsiers. Because just so you know, Tupi is beautiful.

1 The majestic Mt. Matutum 2 Experiencing B’laan culture 3 A B’laan House in Sitio Linan 4 I was captivated by the Municipal Hall when we passed by the town 5 Sweet fresh delicious pineapple

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DAVAO CITY MAIN OFFICE

GENERAL SANTOS CITY MARKETING OFFICE

Director of Sales

Marketing Specialist

JOCELYN S. PANES

Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel: (082) 224-1413 Telefax: (082) 221-3601

EDMUND P. RENDON

General Santos City

Mobile: (Sun) 0925-357-3460 (Smart) 0907-202-3844

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

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EDGEDAVAO

WOMEN

Parent-child relationships and the UNDERSTANDING a child’s troubling behavior is a never-ending process. Every parent goes through this at different stages of their offspring’s life. It’s challenging, baffling, and sometimes nerve-wracking. Couples try to develop their own system of underst a nd i ng of what their child wishes to communicate even in the midst of tantrums and outbursts because, after all, behavior has meaning and it is one means of expression.

There are many ways you work out and establish a good relationship with your child. Keeping an open mind and heart allows you to see through every tear and scream. Your responses vary depending on the situation and condition. Taking Chinese astrology in consideration (as we are also welcoming the Chinese New Year), there is a framework on building relationships by understanding characteristics and compatibility through horoscope. This is not to help you predict or pattern your child’s future, but simply a more comprehensive outline on how characteristics can manifest behavior. The following information could help you understand how you can maintain and improve your understanding and responses to your child’s behavior. By this, you can may also reflect on your own shortcomings and how you can manage your own parenting style by loving and accepting your child’s through the best and worst times.

Rat Parent Child: Rat: They are very idealistic and would want to get away from their Rat-parent’s shadow Ox: Devoted to family and home, even when he grows older Tiger: A source of pride and worry for a Rat-parent Rabbit: Impulsive, full of surprises and they are likely to do things without warning Dragon: They will never cease to amaze the Rat-parent Snake: Of opposite sexes, a

CHINESE ZODIAC they settle into home life

Rat-parent will be a friend to a Snake-child, while parent and child of the same gender might have disagree on certain matters Horse: Ratparent needs to make a conscious effort in bridging the gap with a Horsechild Goat (sheep): Rat-parent should make it very clear to the Goat-child that all lines of communication are open and they will be accepted by family no matter what Monkey: Smart but stubborn, needs clear guidance and strong support from the Ratparent Rooster: Devoted to the Ratparent, except when the issue is concerning what they feel most emotional about Dog: Might start off as disobedient as a child, but will later on surprise the Rat-parent with something they will be proud of when the child grows old Boar (Pig): Needs a good

Rabbit Parent Child: Rat: Sel-centered Ox: Very devoted and helpful to Rabbit-parent Tiger: Maintains close relationship with the Rabbit-parent Rabbit: Very loving and caring to the Rabbit-paren Dragon: Full of surprises Snake: Reserved but full of love and devotion Horse: Mature and can relate to adults Goat (sheep): Loving and true Monkey: Might cause some problems but will maintain a tight bond with Rabbit-parent. Rooster: Needs independence but remains devoted to Rabbitparent Dog: Quiet and reserved Pig: Will be a Rabamount of caring and loving Tiger Parent bit-parent’s from a Rat-parent Child: Rat: May start off as wanting for best friend Ox Parent independence but later on devel- and source of comfort Child: ops a closer relationship with the Dragon Parent Rat: Intelligent and Tiger-parent Child: smart Ox: Stubborn and rebellious Ox: Hard-working Tiger: Might refuse to follow the Rat: Takes on the unrealized artistic aspirations of the DragonTiger: Active and full Tiger-parent’s footprint of life Rabbit: A source of happiness to parent Ox: Have different views and inRabbit: Source of the Tiger-parent happiness to an Ox- Dragon: A source of pride to the terests from the Dragon-parent Tiger: Dragon-parent needs parent Tiger-parent Dragon: Very particSnake: Might have to be more understanding and ular with their comdifficulty relating open to Tiger-child to avoid disfort zone or personal to the Tiger-parent agreements bubble, territorial the way the parent Rabbit: Obedient to Dragonparent Snake: Might somewishes to times try to outsmart Horse: They might Dragon: They will enjoy the the Ox-parent be more open to comforts given to them by the Horse: They always others rather than Dragon-parent Snake: Sensible want to declare indethe Tiger-parent pendence. Goat (sheep): Loving and dedi- Horse: Mature Goat (sheep): Needs great attenGoat (sheep): Ox-parent needs cated to keep open the communica- Monkey: Needs direction and tion and open communication Monkey: Perfect companion for tion lines to a Goat-child guidance. Monkey: Mischievous Rooster: Might want to leave the the Dragon-parent Rooster: Full of happy surprises comforts of family but will stay Rooster: Follows his own inDog: Ox-parent needs to give affectionate to the Tiger-parent stincts more vote of confident to the Dog: Finds mutual bond with Dog: Might always disagree Dog-child to appreciate his ef- what the Tiger-parent takes de- with the Dragon-parent Pig: Loving and affectionate to forts light in. Pig: Warm and affectionate Pig: Most likely to depend on the Tiger-parent to provide as

PARENT-CHILD A4

EDGEDAVAO

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EVENT

ENTERTAINMENT

A love

THE Toscana Garden i Balesin Island was tran formed into a wonderlan to celebrate the beginnin of the fairytale-like love sto ry of Senator Chiz Escuder and now Heart Evangelista Escudero.

The Universo Robots light up the scene.

Robots, Samir Ayeb, and Davao DJs at Abreeza Mall’s

ELECTROSTATIC PARTY

ABREEZA MALL has made it its mission to kick off each year with a free, fun-filled celebration for its customers. From the massive success of last year’s 3D mapping outdoor party, this time around, Abreeza Mall ushered in 2015 with an exciting, robo-tastic experience for all. On January 24, Saturday, over 3,000 guests flocked to Abreeza Mall’s Park Dining area fronting JP Laurel Avenue for the Electrostatic 2015 New Year welcome party. Besides boasting sensational mixes by Manila-based,

Dutch-Tunisian main act DJ Samir Ayeb and homegrown talents in the local club circuit such as Tien Batu, Wacky Masbad, Torch Gacuma, Uno Tupas, Jin Chan, and Niel Recinto, Electrostatic 2015 showcased an extraor-

Dutch-Tunisian DJ Samir Ayeb. dinary attraction: three- performers who danced meter-tall Universo Robot among the crowd and hyped up partygoers with their flashing LED suits, blasting CO2 cannons, and other visually stunning gimmicks. Lucky partygoers also got to take home raffle prizes such as brand-new LG smartphones and gift certificates from Ayala Malls and TGI Fridays— a special New Year bonus from Abreeza Mall to mark greater treats to come in 2015. Electrostatic 2015 was organized by local event production group Manic Nightnings Productions and featured acts of Manila-based event outfit The Loop. Last year, Abreeza Wacky Masbad and Torch Gacuma with performers of Manila-based outfit The Loop. Mall hosted the Reverie

After being blessed with the sa rament of marriage, the newly-we Chiz and Heart treated their gues to a night of excellent gastronom experience and heart-warmin music. Mrs. Escudero came to the ba quet wearing a Chantilly lace dre with off-the-shoulder neckline an sparkled with Swarovski crysta designed by Mark Bumgarner. M Escudero was still clad in the sam crisp tuxedo tailored by Paul Cabr for their wedding. Traditions of the reception fo lowed. The couple had their fir dance as husband and wife. The they proceeded to cutting the cake and sharing a toast. Jonalyn Viray and Kyla rendere emotional performances durin the post-wedding festivity. Hea also sang, dedicating the son “Wind beneath my wings” to h sisters Mich, Lissa, and Camille. What sent Heart to more tea was when her cousin Happy rea the letter sent by her father, M Reynaldo Ongpauco, making it on of the night’s most touching m ments. It began, “Isa sa pinakamasak para sa isang ama ay mawala an anak na babae sa kanyang pode

Lady Gag MOTHER MONSTER is getting married!

2014 New Year welcome party—the first event in Davao and in Mindanao to feature 3D projection mapping, turning the formidable façade of Seda Abreeza Hotel into a screen on which mindblowing visuals were flashed. With Electrostatic 2015, Abreeza Mall continues its streak of offering Davaoeños an awesome way to welcome the year ahead. For inquiries and updates on Abreeza Mall news and events, please visit the Main Concierge at the ground floor or call (082) 321-9332. Stay updated by liking www.facebook.com/ AbreezaMall and following @abreezatweets on Twitter and @iloveabreezamall on Instagram.

Lady Gaga is engaged to longtime boyfriend and Chicago Fire actor Taylor Kinney. She announced the news on Monday, two days after Valentine’s Day, with an Instagram post that included a photo of a heart-shaped diamond engagement ring. “He gave me his heart on Valentine’s Day, and I said YES!” she said. The 28-year-old pop star, who also debuted a new look on Valentine’s Day, and her 33-year-old beau met on the set of her 2011 music video “Yoü And I” and later started dating. They have kept their relationship mostly private, making few public appearances together. “When you meet someone that’s not intimidated by the amazing people that are around you [or] by the love that you receive—that’s love,” Lady Gaga, whose real name is Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, told Fashion magazine in 2013. “Men weren’t always happy for me. It was very challenging

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ely reception for Heart and Chiz

in nsnd ng oro a-

aced sts mic ng

aness nd als Mr. me ral

olrst en eir

ed ng art ng her

ars ad Mr. ne mo-

kit ng er.

Photo by Pat Dy.

Mula nang pinanganak ka, ikaw at ang mga kapatid mo ang buhay namin. Marami kaming sinakripisyo at ang tanging hangad lang namin (ay) mabigyan lang kayo ng magandang kinabukasan at buong pamilya.” “This is it. You are about to enter a new chapter in your life. Your mom and I taught you the proper values in life. And you are old enough to know what’s right or wrong. My only wish is to see both of you happy. Alam mo anak, gus-

tong gusto kitang ihatid sa altar. Sino ba naman ang ama na ayaw makita ang kanyang anak sa pinaka-importanteng araw ng buhay niya. But a lot of things have happened that hinder us from going,” Heart’s dad expressed in the letter. Mr. Ongpauco also addressed the groom. “Sana Chiz, mahalin mo nang buong buo ang anak namin. Accept everything about her. Take care of her and love her unconditionally. Just like her mom and I loved her unconditionally. This is

Photo by Pat Dy. my promise -- when the day comes that I see both of you truly happy, when I see Chiz loving you the way you deserve to be loved, I will come knocking at your door. I may not be there right now but i am thinking of you, Heart.” Mr. and Mrs. Escudero capped the night with a spectacular lights and pyrotechnic display for their families, friends, and guests. The night ended beautifully; simply the perfect send off to a new chapter in the life of Chiz and Heart.

ga is engaged to Taylor Kinney

to watch a woman be so successful.” Also that year, the singer talked about her relationship with Kinney on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. “Well, he’s a hidden weirdo,” she said. “He is extremey strange, actually, and we

‘That Thing Called Tadhana’, a certified box-office hit!

THE Cinema One Originals 2014 film “That Thing Called Tadhana,” has lived up to its hype as it reached the P100 million mark last February 15, only less than two weeks since it hit theaters nationwide. The Cinema One Originals breakthrough movie of Antoinette Jadaone is tagged as the “Ultimate Hugot Film” of the year, with thousands praising it for its simple yet exceptional storytelling. Angelica Panganiban and JM de Guzman star in the romanticcomedy hit, which bagged the Audience Choice Award and Best Actress Award for Panganiban last November complement each other’s at the Cinema One Originals film festival. weirdness,” The sought after filmGaga told U.K. paper The Times last fall, “He’s the first maker has been making man that I have dated that, waves in the industry since when I sing onstage, he her critically acclaimed Cinema One Originals 2011 cries.” “That means more to me entry, “Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay,” than anything,” she added.

which won six awards at the Cinema One Originals film festival. For the 2014 film festival, Jadaone submitted “That Thing Called Tadhana,” which she calls as her dream film. Its screenplay received its first seal of approval even before it was filmed when it won the prestigious 2014 Don Carlos Memorial Palanca Awards for Literature where Jadaone won third place. Jadaone’s romantic film was picked up for nationwide distribution by Star Cinema, ABS-CBN’s film outfit its pre-Valentine’s offering for the year. “That Thing Called Tadhana” is a story of two Filipino strangers, Mace (Angelica Panganiban) and Anthony (JM de Guzman) who meet in Rome and eventually travel together up north to Baguio and Sagada in search for the answer to the question: “Where do broken hearts go?”

February 18-24, 2015

KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson R16

11:40 | 2:15 | 4:50 | 7:25 | 10:00 LFS

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan R18

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

THAT THING CALLED TADHANA /*JUPITER ASCENDING

R-16

PG13/ *PG13

Angelica Panganiban, JM De Guzman/ *Mila Kunis, Channing Tatum 11:30 | 1:20 | 3:10 LFS / * 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS

DRAGON BLADE Jackie Chan, John Cusack, Adrien Brody R13

12:20 | 2:45 | 5:10 | 7:35 | 10:00 LFS

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

WOMEN PARENT-CHILD A1 the Dragon-parent Snake Parent Child: Rat: Follows his own line of thinking Ox: Needs guidance from Snake-parent Tiger: Difficult but not rebellious Rabbit: S ou rc e of happiness to the Snake-parent Dragon: Expressive and opinionated Snake: Will always be in close contact and communication with the Snake-parent Horse: Might not share the same interests with Snake-parent, might choose to keep thoughts to himself Goat (sheep): Attuned to the ways and nature of the Snake-parent Monkey: Independent Rooster: Follows his dreams but needs guidance from Snake-parent Dog: Requires more attention and affection from Snake-

parent Pig: Loving and devoted Horse Parent Child: Rat: Might want to follow his own dreams and ambitions Ox: Independent but helpful Tiger: Source of happiness to the Horse-parent Rabbit: Sensitive Dragon: Requires more support and understanding Snake: Might start off with frustrations but will find his own comfort and gain stability when he grows old Horse: Close to the Horseparent Goat (sheep): Might turn out to be the most loved by the Horse-parent. Monkey: Will follow instincts and find other interests Rooster: Independent Dog: Loyal and helpful Pig: Caring and affectionate G o a t (Sh e e p) Parent Child: Rat: Inde-

pendent Ox: Aggressive and stubborn Tiger: A source of happiness to the Goat-parent Rabbit: A source of happiness to the Goat-parent Dragon: Have different views and interests from Goat-parent, but will remain very respectful Snake: Loving Horse: Loving and caring Goat (sheep): The favorite child. Monkey: Independent and secretive Rooster: Joyful and productive Dog: Difficult but determined to find better ways on life Pig: Gentle and loving Monkey Parent Child: Rat: Warm and loving Ox: Trustworthy, generous and responsible Tiger: Enjoys his personal space Rabbit: Might disagree with the Monkey-parent’s views and opinions Dragon: Smart and intelligent

Snake: Reserved but amiable Horse: Responsible and genuine Goat (sheep): Might prefer to be left on his own by the Monkey-parent Monkey: Needs more support Rooster: Full of life Dog: Loving and caring Pig: Needs more affection and attention Rooster Parent Child: Rat: Independent Ox: Reliable and responsible Tiger: Needs close supervision Rabbit: Carefree, needs guidance Dragon: Full of surprises Snake: Source of pride and honor to the Rooster-parent Horse: Independent Goat (sheep): Affectionate and caring Monkey: Needs direction and support from the Rooster-parent Rooster: Might need a bit of independence from a clingy Rooster-parent Dog: Loyal and caring Pig: Gives comfort and

assurance to the Rooster-parent Dog Parent Child: Rat: A source of happiness to the Dog-parent Ox: Dog-parent should not be dominating over the Ox-child so as not to hinder the child’s personal and intellectual growth Tiger: Talented, an

achiever Rabbit: Dog-parent should find means how to open the Rabbit-child to communicate with him Dragon: Responsible and solution-oriented Snake: Ambitious and have aspirations which might not be easily accepted by Dog-parent Horse: Well cared for by the Dog-parent Goat (sheep): Might encounter challengers in romance and business later on in life, needs guidance Monkey: Energetic and mischievous

Rooster: Independent Dog: A good companion to the Dog-parent Pig: Affectionate and warm Pig (Boar) Parent Child: Rat: Doesn’t show much interest on matters important to Pig-parent Ox: Brings a lot of joy and satisfaction to the Pigparent Tiger: Enjoys the comfort of home Rabbit: Source of happiness to Pig-parent Dragon: Pig-parent should not be too dominating or overly protective of Dragon-child Snake: Independent Horse: Serious, strong and responsible Goat (sheep): Will give honor and great advantages to the Pig-parent Monkey: Energetic Rooster: Will show a great potential in a lot of fields and skills Dog: Loyal to home and Pig-parent Pig: Happy, cheerful and full of life

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

Coordination key to ensuring birdwatchers, tourists not caught in crossfire in Kitanglad C

OORDINATION is key in ensuring birdwatchers and other tourists visiting Mt. Kitanglad’s attractions avoid a repeat of what happened to seven foreigners and two tour guides who got caught in a crossfire between government forces and the New People’s Army last Friday. All seven foreigners escaped unhurt while one of the local tour guides was wounded. Bae Inatlawan Adelina Tarino, spiritual leader of the Bukidnon Daraghuyan tribe and head claimant of the ancestral domain where the bird watching site is located, said the foreigners and their tour operators did not seek a free and prior informed consent (FPIC) from the elders of the tribe before entering the bird watching site in Sitio Mangasa in Barangay Dalwangan. Obtaining the FPIC is one of two conditions stated in the visitors’ permit approved by the Protected Area Superintendent (PASu) to the group on January 29 for their February 11 to 14 visit. The other is to “coordinate with the local government units (LGUs) in the locality.” Tarino said she has reminded tour guides helping

visitors to submit to the consent process to pay respects to the spirits of the area and to avoid problems. “I hope they will now learn from this experience. They have ignored our appeal before,” she said citing most of the visitors coordinate only with the tour guides. According to the visitors’ permit obtained from the PASu office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the group planned to go on bird watching in Mt. Kitanglad . The group’s contact person is Peter Simpsons of United Kingdom and tour guide Carlito Gayramara of Dalwangan. The group was billeted at the Del Monte Lodge for the four-day, three night visit. Gayramara, whom the PASu described as an expert tour guide, was hit on his left arm. After going through an operation for a broken bone, he was moved to the intensive care unit of the Malaybalay Polymedic General Hospital as of February 14. His family told MindaNews, his son-in-law, Danilo Docenos, also a tour guide who assisted him in guiding the foreigners, suffered some scratches. Coordinate

HAND THAT FEEDS. A farmer throws synthetic fertilizer into a rice field in barangay Lemon, Butuan City. MindaNews photo by Erwin Mascarinas Tarino, who is mandatory representative to the Dalwangan barangay council, said the tour guide and the visitors also did not coordinate with the LGU. “The least they could have done was to log in at the visitors’ log book of the

village,” she added, speaking in the vernacular. Forester Daniel Somera, deputy PASu, said the incident is an eye-opener for all parties involved to improve on the process. He added that obtaining the FPIC, for one, is left to the responsi-

bility of the visitors. PASu staff admitted that the application for visitors’ permit involves emails, calls, and electronic transfers of the US$ 15 per person permit fee. One staff admitted that they don’t even get to meet the visitors as they

proceed to the local guide. Somera said they are willing to submit to a group effort to discuss possible improvements. He said the city government scheduled a coordination meeting on Monday, February 16, to

FCOORDINATION, 14

14 NEWS

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Ranking... FFROM 2 The military identified him as Brian Alfonso alias “Sim,” the vice-commander of the SDG front 18. Four soldiers were also killed in the resulting gun battle. 10th Infantry Division Commander Major General Eduardo Año vowed that the military will continue to hunt down those who were involved in the Mati City attack.

“We will continue to hunt down these lawless armed elements and we will make sure the sacrifices of our brave soldiers who perished in defense of Mati City will not be put to waste,” Año sadi. Various criminal charges will be filed against Olofernes and his colleagues after the foiled NPA attack. Funny Pearl A. Gajunera

The 206 evacuees are currently taking temporary shelter at the covered court of the Irineo Santiago National High School here. Citing their assessment, Tamayo said the shoreline opening could not be considered a sinkhole as there was no “igniter” like an earthquake that happened before it emerged. He said its likely cause could be coastal erosion as it appeared that there is already a pattern of such phenomenon in the area. “According to some residents, this is the third time that happened in the area these past years,” he said. Tamayo explained that coralline limestones or fossils are natural features in some coastal areas. In parts of the Visayas, he said the coralline limestones have led to the emergence of small islets, and with trees and plants growing in some due to their sand covering. But the official said they will still confirm their assessment through the agency’s

geologists, who are currently attending a training in Manila. He said the geological study will be aided by the agency’s ground penetrating radar, which will specifically determine what is underneath the opening. In the meantime, Tamayo advised the city government to keep a close watch of the site and prevent anybody from getting near as it is “very dangerous.” He said the nearby community should remain off limits to residents pending the conduct of the geological assessment. The affected area is located near the pier and anchorage area of motorboats ferrying passengers and cargo to and from this city and Balut Island in Davao Occidental. It is adjacent to the city’s Queen Tuna Park and several commercial establishments, including a hotel and a gasoline station, as well as a crowded residential community. (MindaNews)

billion. This project consists of commuter railway operations between Tutuban and Calamba, Laguna. It also includes a long haul railway operation between Tutuban and Legaspi, Albay and on the branch line between Calamba and Batangas and an extension between Legaspi and Matnog. The NEDA Board approved three more PPP projects. First is the expansion of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) of the DPWH from two (one lane per direction) to four lanes (two lanes per direction), which entails an estimated government support of P2 billion. Full project cost for TPLEX Ultimate Stage is P24.303 billion for the design, financing, construction, O&M of the 88.5 kilometer expressway from the terminus of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) in Tarlac City to Rosario, La Union. Next is the NLEX-SLEX Connector of the DPWH, with a total estimated cost of P20 billion, which will now proceed through unsolicited mode subject to a Swiss Challenge, involves the construction and operation and maintenance (O&M) of a

13.4 kilometer 4-lane elevated expressway over the PNR right-of-way, which starts in Caloocan City and ends in Buendia, Makati. This will connect the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and SLEX to decongest traffic in Metro Manila. Third is the rebidding of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway f the DPWH, for the highest premium for the government, with a floor of P20.105 billion. The total project cost is estimated at P35.4 billion. With a total of 47.018 kilometers, the project will start from the Cavite Expressway in Kawit and will end at the SLEX-Mamplasan Interchange in Biñan, Laguna. There will be nine interchanges in areas such as Kawit, Daang Hari, Governor’s Drive, Aguinaldo Highway, Silang, Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay, Laguna Blvd., Technopark, and a Toll Barrier before SLEX. “These projects will support the government’s goal of increasing infrastructure spending to at least 5.1 percent in 2016. We hope that they will be implemented efficiently and effectively,” said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General.

GenSan... FFROM 4

NEDA... FFROM 6

APOLOGIES. It may cause inconvenience now, but this drainage system project along C.M. Recto Avenue in Davao City is intended to help prevent flooding in the area. Lean Daval Jr.

Lumad... FFROM 4 He said the CHO has trained its doctors to administer the non-intrusive drug. Implanon is a 68mg etonogestrel rod-shaped implant that is inserted in the

arm. Cruz also said the CHO was planning to include non-indigents in its distribution of Implanon. (MindaNews)

comprise the majority of business in most countries across the globe according to the facts by the Family Firms Institute,” Ramos said. PFBC executive director Neil Arnold C. Montesclaros said it is urgent for families in businesses in the region to avail them-

include representatives from tourism, the DENR, the police, the military and other sectors. Honolo Cruzin, Malaybalay city tourism officer said there is a need to review the guidelines to receive guests, especially foreigners, who will go on bird watching in Mt. Kitanglad to ensure coordination. She recognized that the PAMB, the policymaking body for the Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, has existing guidelines on the matter. “Maybe we will just have to check and review to improve so precautionary measures be strengthened and coordination will be established among parties concerned,” she added. Cruzin said the city tourism did not know about this group of foreign bird watchers because travel operators went directly to the PASu. First time But she noted that this is the first time an incident like this has occurred, that’s why it is “shocking.” “It was OK and smooth

Firm... FFROM 6

Seven... FFROM 4 Regional Committee. The Philippine Air Force sent two MG-520 attack helicopters that provides close air support to the ground soldiers. The bodies of the slain

rebels were brought to Angel Funeral in Alabel while they were yet to be identified as of press time. The military said no one was injured on the side of the government troops.

selves of consultancy because of the opportunities and challenges of the ASEAN economic integration. According to Montesclaros, family business have an impact on family relationships. He said a business can either make a family stronger or weaker.

Montesclaros said poor family dynamics can result in long standing conflict that divide the family and even result in expensive court battles and business closure. Aside from family unity, passing core values to the next generation who will manage the business

to make the family business sustainable is another challenge faced by many entrepreneurs here. He said passing on leadership to the next generation can be a difficult process especially when the next generation is not trained to run the business. CHENEEN R. CAPON

in the past,” she added. The city government has earmarked funds to help improve road conditions to a lodge near the bird sanctuary for better access. She said they are worried about a travel advisory asking foreigners to stay away from the mountain. “I hope everything will be OK soon,” she added, citing the luck that the foreigners were not hurt in the incident. On Friday, the Gayramara family alleged that soldiers physically abused Docenos after they mistook him as a rebel. A family member who spoke to this reporter via telephone said they did not think there was an encounter at the bird watching site. Major Jennan Montealto, spokesperson of the 403rd Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, denied the allegation via telephone Friday and insisted only Gayramara was guiding the group. He said there was an encounter but no one was hurt from the

Army’s side. Montealto said the Army had clashed with the NPA three days before the incident in nearby Barangay Capitan Anghel, also in this city. He cited that they have continued operations to pursue the rebels. Tarino said although they could hear gunfire from their village she believed it is in the boundary of Capt. Angel and Dalwangan, outside their ancestral domain. Peace Zone With over 125 species of birds, about half of them endemic to the area, including the Philippine Eagle, Mt. Kitanglad is one of the favorite destinations of bird watchers, the DENR noted. An average of 800 bird watchers visit Kitanglad in a year, 4% of them foreigners, Somera said. In 2012, the 403rd Brigade submitted to a ritual with the Bukidnon Daraghuyan tribe declaring the area a peace zone. The military vowed to secure an FPIC from the

Bukidnon-Daraghuyan tribe the next time they will enter their ancestral domain in Mt. Kitanglad. Col. Romeo Gapuz, then commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, made the promise in a ritual of reconciliation held at the Mt. Kitanglad Cultural Heritage Center following the protest from the tribe over the bombing conducted by the military in late April 2012 in parts of their territory. He admitted then that they need to educate their personnel about the need for FPIC if they enter the sacred grounds of the tribe’s ancestral domain. He said they are also willing to declare the ancestral domain of the tribe as a peace zone, and accused the NPA of allegedly violating it. Tarino, who described the 2012 bombing as a violation of their culture and an affront to their ancestral territory, said there has been no further violation to the “FPIC before entry” so far. (Walter I. Balane/MindaNews)

Coordination... FFROM 13

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Armstrong loses $10M fight A

N arbitration panel ordered Lance Armstrong and Tailwind Sports Corp. to pay $10 million in a fraud dispute with a promotions company for what it called an “unparalleled pageant of international perjury, fraud and conspiracy” that covered up his use of performance-enhancing drugs. Dallas-based SCA Promotions announced the 2-1 decision against the former cyclist when its lawyers said Monday they had asked Texas’ 116th Civil District Court in Dallas to confirm the arbitration ruling, dated Feb. 4. The panel included a neutral chairman, who ruled in favor of SCA, and one person selected by each side. Tim Herman, a lawyer for Armstrong, insisted the ruling is contrary to Texas law and predicted it will be overturned by a judge. SCA paid Armstrong and Tailwind, the since-dissolved team management company, about $12 million in bonuses during Armstrong’s career, when he won seven Tour de France titles. Those victories were stripped after Armstrong and his U.S. Postal Service teams were found to have used banned performance-enhanc-

ing drugs. SCA disputed the bonuses in arbitration in 2005, and the case produced the foundation of the doping evidence later used against him. Despite allegations of cheating, Armstrong continued to deny doping and the company settled with Armstrong and paid him $7 million in 2006. The company sued Armstrong to get its money back after Armstrong’s cheating was exposed by a report from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency and a televised confession interview with Oprah Winfrey. The case was sent back to the original arbitration panel of independent chairman Richard Faulkner, SCA selection Richard Chernick and Armstrong pick Ted Lyon. In the 2005 arbitration hearings, Armstrong testified under oath that he did not use performance-enhancing drugs. “Perjury must never be profitable,” the majority wrote in the new decision. “Tailwind Sports Corp. and Lance Armstrong have justly earned wide public condemnation. That is an inadequate deterrent. Deception demands real, meaningful sanctions.”

Stoudemire commits to Mavs after Knicks

MARE Stoudemire asked out of his contract with the New York Knicks because he wants to make a run at a championship. The veteran forward has apparently decided Dallas is the place to spend the rest of this season chasing his first title. A person with direct knowledge of the talks said Monday night that Stoudemire has agreed to sign with the Mavericks after taking a buyout from the Knicks. He can’t make his verbal commitment official until he clears waivers Wednesday. The person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal wasn’t official, told The Associated Press that Stoudemire could be available

when Dallas returns from the All-Star break Thursday at Oklahoma City. The 32-year-old Stoudemire was waived Monday after requesting the Knicks buy out the remainder of his contract that was set to expire after this season. He’s likely to clear waivers. ‘’I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to contribute positively on the court and in the community,’’ Stoudemire said. ‘’Although I leave the Knicks with a heavy heart, I wish the organization the best of luck. Once a Knick always a Knick.’’ Dallas has needed frontcourt help since trading Brandan Wright in a deal that brought point guard Rajon Rondo from Boston.

UNDAY night right about dinner time, my brother-in-law and three nieces were greeted by a loud burst of gunfire. They ducked for cover and crawled to a room. The gunfire, according to my niece who was still crying when she recounted, last about 15 minutes. This was in my hometown Mati City, fast-emerging as a tourism destination with its pristine beaches and laid-back country ambiance. I have not been home for a long while and being here Down Under makes me just give flashes of memories of good old Mati. The house where my sister’s family lived was just right behind the Mati City Police Station where New People’s Army rebels stormed a day after Valentine’s Day. Lost in the fierce gunbattle were one NPA rebel, and four Army men. A policeman and another Army soldier were also wounded according to the report. A friend told me a civilian was

Lance Armstrong was stripped of his Tour titles and given a life ban from cycling by USADA in 2012 for using a cocktail of performance-enhancing drugs (AFP Photo/Joel Saget)

Manotoc returns for Sugar Barons; Seniors action tees off tomorrow

ANLUBANG will be armed to the teeth this week when the Sugar Barons try to wrest the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Seniors Interclub title away from arch-rival Luisita at the Mactan Island and Club Filipino layouts in Cebu. Tommy Manotoc returns to the Cangolf roster after a two-year absence and will again lead the squad when it seeks to bounce back from a narrow loss to the Luisitans last year in Bacolod. Senior action gets going tomorrow with the Regular Men’s Championship to start Wednesday next week at Club Filipino and Cebu Coun-

try Club. Orchard is the defending men’s champion. Manotoc served two years as president of the National Golf Association of the Philippines during his absence and battled health issues that prevented him from also playing the Interclub. Back in peak health and able to play a lot of golf again after stepping down last year, Manotoc is again listed as the man to beat in individual play and will be the anchor of Canlubang that last won also in Cebutwo years ago. “I’m excited to see old friends and play with them again,” Manotoc, whose term as NGAP president included a

My hometown Mati

injured but the LET’S GET IT ON fact could not be confirmed. My heart bled for Mati upon knowing of the incident. I condemn such act by any revolutionary group. This new city is just about to blosNeil Bravo som into one of the country’s promising tourism destinations and is bracing for the upcoming Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVRAA) meet on February 24 to 28. After the incident, coming off at the height of the Mamasapano massacre probe, Mati City

first championship in 17 years for the Philippines in the Putra Cup in 2013, said. “Playing in the Interclub, especially for Canlubang, and doing battle with Luisita is something we look forward to every year,” Manotoc, a many-time individual champion, said. “The competition will be fierce but friendly at the same time.” Old hands Dave Hernandez, Rolly Viray, Mari Hechanova and Tony Olives will again be there for the Sugar Barons, while Francis Gaston, Richie Garcia and ex-pro Eddie Bagtas will again spearhead the Luisitans. Final round action will be

suddenly became what it once was—a ghost town. Stores closed early, people stayed in their homes, tricycles stopped plying early, and practically no solitary soul in the streets. The threat of the NPAs still roaming around the city and the spectre of another attack are gripping everyone in fear. The city’s hosting of the DAVRAA is now in peril. The possibility of cancellation is looming large. I could understand the concerns and the fears. But Mati City is never known to be a problematic place in terms of peace and order. Contrary to growing notion, it is not rebel-infested. It’s a quiet locality where most people know everyone. Not since an attack in the Provincial Capitol in the 70s and the grenade-throwing incident during the Southern Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (SMRAA) meet, the predecessor of DAVRAA, in 1978 where my mother

at Club Filipino, a bending, upand-down course designed in a mountain where precision will be the premium. Fielding will as usual be key for both sides with the event to end at Mactan, a course right beside the airport where the greens are small and the roughs tall. Hotel H20, Travelife, Boeing International Corp., Business Mirror and GE Aviation are sponsoring the twin events. Other backers include Mareco Broadcasting Network (Crossover), People Asia Magazine, Whealth Inc., Aerospace, Uniglobe Travelware Co. Inc., Tanduay Distillers and Intercontinental Manila.

was one of those hit by a shrapnel, Mati City is relatively peaceful. It would be unfair, to say the least, to lay judgment on Mati this early just because of the February 15 attack. I winced as I read posts on social media of very sweeping statements, some overly exaggerated, about how dangerous it is to go to Mati. Like any place whose peace is disturbed, Mati should not be faulted for this atrocity and made to suffer for the mishap. If you ask me if the DAVRAA in Mati should push through, I’d tell you “yes” a hundred times without hesitation. There’s only one February 15 in a year. Don’t punish her for the rest of the days. Mati will bounce back. It’s just a matter of time. Postscripts: Listen to “Let’s Get It On with Neil Bravo” on 105.9 Balita FM every Saturday 8-10 a.m.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 7 ISSUE 238 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

REEVALUATION

RDR to review security plan for Palarong Pambansa after Mati City incident

Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex. Photo by Astro Phil

OLLOWING the incident of insurgency in Mati City Davao Oriental, Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario of Davao del Norte said that the Palarong Pambansa Committee will have to review again their security plan to prevent similar incident to happen during the sporting event on May 3-9.

Around 50 New People’s Army members in army uniform attacked Mati City Police Station yesterday evening, in which the hot pursuit operations of the joint PNP and Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP) after the attack resulted to three dead soldiers. “Given the situation of

the attack in the Mati City Police Station, we have to adjust the security plan to strengthen it and make it better preventing any untoward incident like this,” Governor Del Rosario said. Del Rosario said that this should not be taken for granted as this involved the safety of the players from all the regions in the coun-

try.

“But we have to continue with our preparations to deliver the best Palarong Pambansa,” he added. He suggested to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to be alert at all times because this they have been the usual targets of the New People’s Army like what happen in Pana-

bo City. “This is not new and I think that’s how they (NPA) operate; so the PNP should have a continuing alertness always,” Del Rosario said. In March 2011, days before the start of the celebration of the annual Araw ng Panabo celebration, a group of NPA rebels attacked the Panabo Police

Station resulting to the death of two cops. Del Rosario also said that the military should look into their blocking force on how these NPA troops entered Davao Oriental particularly its capital city, Mati City, as the whole province has been declared as insurgency free last 2013. (PIA11, Michael Uy)

main gunners re-injured his left knee at with 2 minutes left in the third quarter. Tugbok, who only showed up with seven players was already exhausted going to the final half as the 12-man Agdao squad continued with their running game. “May session kasi yung ibang kasama namin kaya wala sila,” said Barangay captain Ruel Ayog. The game had several lead changes until last four minutes of the 3rd quarter at 46all. Agdao, however, exploded a 14-0 bomb to grab the lead, 60-46 at the end of the quarter.

Barangay Duterte Kagawad Flordelito “Dodong” Cagampang (who earlier won the 3-point shootout for Kagawads) and Randibol Villasenda led Agdao with 17 and 12 points, respectively. Epe and Renato Roble each added eight points, while Roel Laurel and Barangay Captain Roger Galido had six and five points. Bangcas never came back to the game but still contributed 13 points for Agdao. His partner Jeje Juntong scored a game-high 42 points, 22 were all in the final quarter. Tugbok will face Bunawan

in the battle for third place at 1 p.m. on Tuesday (Feb. 17) according to tournament chair Goldie Delvo, officer-in-charge of the organizing City Sports Development Division. The boxscores: AGDAO (78) - Cagamapang 17, Villasenda 12, Epe 8, Roble 8, Laurel 6, Galido 5, Godoy 4, Salas 4, Cañeda 2, De Lara 2, Crisanto 2, Gillo 1. TUGBOK (68) – Juntong 42, Bangcas 13, Ayog 6, Alfone 2, Ramos 2, Caparoso 2, Ceballos 1. Quarterscores: 17-22, 2731, 60-40, 78-68 (LDR/CSDD-CMO)

to this year’s Grand Finals of the National Age-Group Chess Championships slated in San Juan City in Metro Manila on April 12-19. The National Chess Federation of the Phils. (NCFP) headed by its chairman and president Prospero “Butch” Pichay Jr. will send the national winners to represent the country to the 16th ASEAN + AgeGroup Chess Championships in Singapore on June 8-17. The tournament is open to all youth players from 20 years old and below both boys and girls. The categories are 20

and below, 18 and below, 16 and below, 14 and below, 12 and below, 10 and below and 8 and below. Cash prizes, medals and trophies are up for grabs in the 6-round Swiss System event. Registration fee is P300. All players must submit a copy of his/her birth or baptismal certificate as proof of age. Time control shall be 90 minutes with 30 seconds increment for each player to make all the moves necessary to finish the game using the digital clocks or two hours using mechanical clocks. Recording of moves in

Algebraic notation is mandatory. Tournament director is GM Jason Gonzales, secretary-general of NCFP while chief arbiter is IA Gene Poliarco. Gov. Lala Taliño-Mendoza has already made an initial organizational meeting for the said Mindanao Qualify Leg with NCFP XI regional director IA James Infiesto together with North Cotabato provincial sports coordinator Romeo “Boy” Anito, provincial governor’s office coordinators Allan Matullano and Ronald Olay.. (PGO-Sports)

Agdao rips Tugbok to enter DBL finals

GDAO District took advantage of Tugbok’s depleted line-up by exploding in the final quarter to win 78-68 and enter the finals of the Duterte Basketball League (DBl) Inter-Political tournament Monday (Feb. 16) at the Almendras gym. Agdao will play against top-qualifier Poblacion B in Game 1 of their best-of-three championship series on Tuesday at 10 a.m. Agdao first struggled in the opening as Tugbok took a 22-17 lead until the final half, 31-27. But Kagawad Roy Bangcas, one of Tugbok’s two

2015 Gov. Mendoza Nat’l Age-Group Chess Championships March 12-16

HE 2015 Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza Age-Group Chess Championships (Mindanao Qualifying Leg) is set on March 12 to 16 at the Amas Provincial Capitol in Kidapawan, North Cotabato. “We are bringing here the Mindanao Qualifying Leg to give more chances to our young chess players especially in Cotabato to be able to play in the national or international competition,” said Gov. Lala Taliño-Mendoza. The top three winners from each category will qualify