Edge davao 7 Issue 254 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

UNDER TRAINING. Criminology students from three Davao City colleges participate in firefighting training under the Bureau of Fire Protection as part of the Fire Prevention Month activities. Lean Daval Jr.

NOT PREPARED Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law hits snag, LTO 11 not ready

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Land Transportation Office (LTO) 11 yesterday admitted that it cannot implement the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act right away because it lacks trained personnel and breath analyzers. The LTO is the lead agency in the implementation of Republic Act 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013 which is supposed to start implementation today,

March 12. “We are targeting to start the training of the LTO enforcers between March 23 and March 31,” LTO 11 regional director Gomer Dy told Edge Davao yesterday. Dy, who is part of the team that crafted the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR), said two teams with 10 to 12 members each will be trained by trainers from LTO central office for Davao Region.

He said the law will be implemented today and tomorrow in the National Capital Region (NCR) where enforcers have been trained. The twoday initial operation will serve as an “on-the-job training” of personnel. “I believe there will be a simultaneous implementation of the law in areas outside the NCR,” Dy said. The initial two teams of LTO 11 that will be trained

by the end of March will then train other deputized LTO enforcers in seven district offices in the region. These are located in the cities of Mati, Tagum, and Digos and the provinces of Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, and Compostela Valley. Aside from LTO enforcers, officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) are also deputized to enforce the law.

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INSIDE EDGE

Sports P15 BAUTISTA JOINSTEAM CARMUDI TO RACE AT FORS

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

BROMELIADS ON DISPLAY. Agriculturist Ven C. Gallego of Sam’s Garden fixes the Bromeliad plants on display at his stall in the ongoing 78th Araw ng Davao farm and garden trade fair at SM City Car Park yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Rody changes mind; Sudagar may take oath next week By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte has changed his mind and now approves of the appointment of Halila Sudagar of the Kagan tribe as the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) to the City Council In an interview, Duterte told reporters he had talked to some leaders of the tribe who were not present during the selection process in the past three days and

they expressed no objection to Sudagar’s appointment. “Ako, nausab na ang huna-huna (I have changed my mind) because I have gone into consultations and for them, she is acceptable and good,” the mayor said. “She (Sudagar) can take her oath probably next week and it will depend to whom she will take her oath,” he said. Duterte also said Sudagar did not reach out to

Rody wants Sara to run for mayor

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte wants his daughter, former Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio, to run for mayor in 2016 despite the declared intention of his son, Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte, to for the same position. In his message during the opening program of the 78th Araw ng Davao on Tuesday night, Duterte said he wants Sara to continue the development he had started in the city. In an interview after the program, Duterte told report-

ers he had seen Sara’s performance when she was mayor from 2010 to 2013. “Nakita naman gud ko sa iyang performance ba na ok man (I saw her performance which was good),” he said. Duterte said he does not want Sara and Paolo to fight over the position because they are siblings. He said he has not yet talked to Paolo over his declared intention to run for mayor. Edge Davao tried to get the side of Sara on the pro-

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him to talk about her appointment as IP councilor. The mayor had earlier expressed his disapproval of Sudagar’s appointment, saying the latter had already had the opportunity to serve in the City Council as youth representative. He clarified, however, that he did not have anything personally against Sudagar. Duterte also said he does not want it to appear that

members of the Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod get plum posts in government. Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte had earlier called on the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) 11 to issue a clear resolution on the status of Sudagar’s assumption to the Council. The vice mayor said a delay in the resolution of the issue will affect the delivery of service to IP community in the city.

Pipe leak leaves many Davao areas waterless

HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) apologized to the public for the unexpected water interruption yesterday that affected many areas of the city. In an interview, DCWD spokesperson Bernardo Delima told Edge Davao that the water outage was caused by a leak found in the temporary bypass pipe on Governor Generoso Bridge 2 in Bankerohan. He said that around 3:00 a.m. yesterday, the DCWD emergency response team decided to

switch off the flow of the water to repair the leak. “The leak was huge and there was a need for interruption because that pipe is our major line,” he said. Delima said the pipeline supplies the areas of Matina, Maa, Agdao, Pampanga, Sasa Bankerohan, Barrio Obrero, and the downtown areas. The repair was completed at around noon but some areas took longer to have water service restored due to the needed recovery period. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

station. Witnesses said he did not have a gun during the incident. An NBI agent, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the agency is still awaiting the result of the ballistic examination to determine if the slug recovered from body of the victim matches with the service firearm of a police officer from the Toril Police Station. The agent said they are convincing another eyewitness who can testify that a gun was planted on Locabarte after the killing. “We are on the process of

convincing another witness to speak. Allegedly this witness saw that the police just placed the gun beside Locaberte’s body,” the agent said. The agent also said that based on the NBI’s initial investigation, Locaberte do not have a gun during the police operation. The agent said if proven true, the NBI may file an administrative case against Sumagaysay. Witnesses named Police Officer (PO) 2 Ric John Borja and PO3 Rico Adlawan as the people responsible for the killing of Locaberte.

Ex-Toril police chief: Drug suspect killed in legit ops By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

ORMER Toril Police Station commander Superintendent Angel Sumagaysay yesterday stood by his assertion that the death of drug suspect Rolando Locabarte last year was the result of a legitimate operation. He said he will wait for the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to finish its investigation on the murder case. The NBI had said it is studying the possibility of filing administrative charges against Sumagaysay for his alleged involvement in the killing.

“Hulaton lang nato ang imbestigasyon sa NBI, basta kami mubarog mi nga legitimate operation tong pagka patay sa iyaha (Let’s just wait for the result of the investigation. As for us, we stand by our assertion that his death was the result of a legitimate operation),” Sumagaysay said. Sumagaysay led the team from Toril Police Station that was serving the warrant of arrest on Locabarte on April 10 last year in Silka Street, Saypon, Toril, Davao City. Locaberte was the seventh most wanted person in the

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

PEACE AND ORDER TALK. Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 spokesperson Superintendent Antonio ATROCITIES. Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) spokesperson Col. Romeo Brawner says the Armed Forces of the Philippines Rivera gives updates on peace and order matters during yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media (AFP) believes the recent atrocities committed by the New People’s Army (NPA) are all part of its upcoming anniversary. Brawner, together forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel. Lean Daval Jr. with Davao City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson Senior Inspector Milgrace C. Driz (left), graced yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

DCWD fears delay in pipe bridge completion By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) cannot give assurance that the construction of the pipe bridge crossing between the two Governor Generoso bridges in Bankerohan will be completed on March 28 due to some problems on the procurement of pipes that will be used. DCWD spokesperson Bernardo D. Delima told Edge Davao yesterday that the contractors are having a hard time in the delivery of the fabricated pipes due to the port congestion in Manila. Delima said the contractors did not actually

tell DCWD that the project would be delayed but he noted that the materials have still not been delivered. He said when DCWD called the port, they were told that there was still no schedule on the delivery of the pipes. “Wala man sila nag-ingon nga ma-delay sila, ang ingon lang nila is pag muabot tong mga transmission pipelines kay itaod lang man to siya, magdouble ilang working hours (They did not say that the completion will be delayed but they said that if the transmission pipeline will arrive, they will work double time be-

PRO 11 may ask Duterte to expand accord with NPA

cause it is just a matter of installing them),” he said. He said from the eight hours a day that the workers operate now, the contractors will make it 16 hours in order to meet the deadline. “Ang amo diha (What we want) is do not make unnecessary delays because it a major pipeline from that supplies major areas of Davao City,” he said. Delima had earlier said the project would be completed on March 28 “under normal conditions.” He said “normal conditions” means no occurrence of floods and other

calamities. Delima said the replacement of the existing pipes with a 1,000 millimeter (mm) diameter one started in early December last year. The mainline pipe that supplied water from the Dumoy pumps to the downtown area up to Sasa area was broken in December 2012. The pipe was replaced with two smaller ones with a diameter of .725 meter. “We will replace the two existing pipes which has a diameter of .725 meter with a bigger pipes that has a diameter of 1.785 meters,” Delima

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Hike in dialysis patients noted By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

HE number of patients undergoing dialysis in Davao Region increased by 10 percent last year. Philippine Society Nephrology (PSN)-Davao Chapter member Dr. Ma. Theresa Bad-Ang told media during the Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo, Davao yesterday that the group recorded a total of 1,299 new cases last year. “The region ranked fifth in the country in terms of the number of patients under dialysis,” Bad-ang said. She said there are a total of 428 patients in Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), 135 in Digos City, and more than 200 patients

in Tagum City undergoing dialysis. “The increase is very alarming. That’s why we end each year with a reminder to the public to take care of their kidneys,” Bad-ang said. Bad-ang said the acceptance level among patients who are suffering from kidney failure also increased. “Patients realized that their lives can be extended by 15 to 20 years longer if they undergo dialysis,” she said. Patients suffering from diabetes, hypertension, and kidney stone are most likely to suffer from kidney failure. Bad-ang said the worsening lifestyle of

FHIKE, 14

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 will consider the possibility of asking Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to extend his “gentleman’s agreement” with the New People’s Army (NPA) to the entire region. Duterte had revealed last Monday that he had an agreement with the NPA that the rebel group “will not target the police because their work is to investigate cases of robbery, theft, rape, stabbing, homicide, and murder).” Yesterday, PRO 11 spokesperson Superinten-

dent Antonio Rivera said the police will consider asking Duterte to make his agreement with the NPA applicable to the entire region. “We will consult that with the PRO 11 leadership. If they agree, we can talk to the mayor about that in the next meeting of the RPOC (Regional Peace and Order Council),” Rivera said in a press conference yesterday. The police in the region have had several runins with the NPA in recent weeks. Last February 15, an NPA

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HAPPINESS SURVEY. Institute of Popular Opinion (IPO) director Dr. Maria Linda Arquiza and specialist on economics, government, and political issues Dr. Adrian Tamayo outlines the results of their survey to determine what

makes an ordinary Dabawenyo happy which was conducted on February 7 to 15. Arquiza and Tamayo were guests of yesterday’s Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo, Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

IGaCoS recognizes transpo ‘draybers’ T

RANSPORTATION sector plays a crucial role in tourism industry. Traveler’s experiences with drivers often leave impression that can make or break the image of a place. Recognizing the significance of drivers in the tourism industry of Island Garden City of Samal, the City Investment and Tourism Office (CITO) led by Jennifer D. Cariaga organized the “Draybers” Day Off” which aims to recognize and appreciate the indispensable services of drivers as important sector

TAGUM CITY

and partners of the city government in socio-economic development. The “Draybers Day Off” was one of the highlight activities in the weeklong celebration of the 17th Founding Anniversary scheduled on March 4 , wherein activities hoped to provide memorable experiences to drivers. “This is our first “ Draybers’ Day Off” activity yet the response and support of the drivers were overwhelming “, CITO Focal Person on Local Transport Development Clark Jasper Montebon said.

He said about 200 skylab and motorcycle drivers attended the activity some of them attended the forum conducted by the Land Transportation Office IGaCoS District Head Elizabeth Ilustre who talked on the Joint Administrative Order 2014-01 on Revised Schedule of Fines and Penalties for Violations of Laws, Rules and Regulations Governing Land Transportation and a speaker from Honda Philippines Samal Outlet who shared on preventive measures and motorcycle maintenance, about 54 driv-

ers were also able to avail a free haircut and 62 drivers were pampered with a free body massage. The other drivers also joined the different contests in skylab balance , motorshow, and Da Singing D (singing competition). The motorshow activity was designed for drivers to appreciate the best model skylab and best model pedicab which emphasized on road worthiness and functional accessories (headlight, lamp, horn, etc.) of the motor vehicle and encouraged appreciation from

drivers for complete documents particularly the drivers license and unit registration and accreditation with the City Franchising Division and City Investment and Tourism Office. The unexpected response and cooperation of drivers to the activity encouraged City Mayor Aniano P. Antalan to consider the “Draybers Day Off” activity as a regular activity every IGaCoS Founding Anniversary to show how they are appreciated and to thank them for their services and support to the devel-

opment of the city and for drivers to take pride in their services and as celebration of their profession. What the city government look forward to drivers are for them to cooperate with the city government particularly in the tourism programs. The CITO will continue to reach out to more drivers and educate them with the City’s tourism programs and hopefully and eventually all drivers will be educated and disciplined tour guide of the tourism island. (CIO IGACOS)

Musikahan 2015 photo contest winners bared

HE City Government of Tagum announced the winners of the Musikahan 2015 Photography Competition, with photography enthusiast from Tagum City Daryl Taput’s “little trumpeter” winning the 1st prize of P10,000 plus a trophy. Randolph Val Sison Jr. “Harmony of Music” was named 2nd prize of P7,000 plus a trophy from Tagum City whose one submitted photo was also picked as one of the four consolation prizes winner making a total prize of P8, 000. Joel B. Owano of Mati City “Kundiman” was declared 3rd prize of P4,000 plus a trophy. Owano’s other entry also won as one of the four consolation prizes, making him accumulate a total of 5,000 pesos. The other consolation

winners winning P1, 000 plus a Certificate each were Jules Albert S. Songcuya “Little Army Blower” from Banay-banay, Davao Oriental, Pamela Gay B. Perales “Welcoming Tagumenyos All Over the World” from Tagum City and Eden Jhan Licayan “Guitar Trio” from Mati City, Davao Oriental. The announcement of winners was done during the celebration of the 17th Araw ng Tagum last March 7, 2015 at Gaisano Mall Atrium. The entry pictures were taken during the Month-long celebration of all festival activities and winners were chosen by renowned Award Winning Photojournalist and TV Personality Jojie Alcantara; National Award Winning Blogger/Photojournalist Olan

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COMPOSTELA VALLEY

R11 LGUs asked to align plans, programs with Reg’l Dev’t Plan

OCAL government units (LGUs) should align their plans and programs with the thrust and directions set in the Updated Regional Development Plan. Regional Development Council (RDC) XI Chairperson Rodolfo P. del Rosario (governor of Davao del Norte) made this call this morning during the Updated Regional Development Plan (RDP) Roadshow hosted this morning by the provincial government of Compostela Valley. While he pointed out that the RDP provides the policy framework for local development, Del Rosario also emphasized the crucial point of the Plan implementation at the local level, noting the involvement of the com-

mon populace as essential in achieving the Plan’s ultimate goal to ensure the improvement of the quality of life of all Dabawenyos Putting emphasis on the importance of LGUs and people’s participation in implementing the Plan, Del Rosario pointed the need to widely disseminate it. While RDC XI through the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) XI has set out to disseminate the Plan through conducting a series of Updated RDP Roadshow, Del Rosario echoed his call for wider Plan dissemination to the media sector and to the public and private partner “Let us advocate our Plan

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The Davao City High School Class of 1991 recently elected their new set of Batch Officers for 2015-2016 and were installed into office immediately thereafter. The officers are (from right to left): Pol Alan Leuterio, President; Oliver Autor, Internal Vice President; Ariel Decena, External Vice President;

Phany Castillo-Ho, Secretary; Atty. Joy Nikki Chang Tamayo, Auditor; Sheryl Suzara-Capin, Treasurer and; Joseph Lawrence Garcia, PRO. The said batch officers will be leading the whole Class of 1991 in hosting the Grand Alumni Homecoming of the DCNHS in 2016.

GenSan mall is first labor law-compliant retail firm T

HE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has declared a shopping mall here as the country’s first-ever labor law-compliant establishment in the retail sector under its enhanced Labor Law Compliance System (LLCS). Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz personally unveiled a marker on Tuesday at the KCC Veranza Mall here that recognizes its “100 percent” compliance of the country’s labor laws, standards and other related regulations. “KCC Mall is the first shopping mall in the country that has achieved full labor law compliance,” she said during the unveiling rites. Baldoz said the marker specifically distinguishes the mall as a recipient of the DOLE’s Tripartite

Certificate of Compliance with Labor Standards (TCCLS) Award. The TCCLS is given by the DOLE to companies that show commitment and exemplary adherence to the provisions of the Labor Code on General Labor Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Standards and the Child Labor Law or Republic Act 9231. “This shows that our efforts to cultivate a culture of voluntary labor laws compliance among establishments nationwide has been gaining ground,” Baldoz said. The recognition has brought the shopping mall a step closer towards the DOLE Secretary’s Labor Law Compliance Award and the Tripartite Seal of Excellence Award, which are the highest honors

given by the department to compliant establishments. These top awards mainly acknowledge the efforts of establishments in terms of “voluntary compliance of labor laws and implementation of higher standards of labor practice.” Ofelia Domingo, DOLE Region 12 director, said KCC Veranza Mall had passed various assessments and inspections conducted by the agency. She explained that the establishment specifically provided the due salaries and benefits of its employees, made sure that it has not employed any child or minor and had properly adopted proper health and safety initiatives for its employees. “The full compliance of the labor laws and stan-

dards was achieved by the shopping mall and all its tenants,” she said. The official said the compliance certificate issued to KCC Veranza Mall would be valid until Dec. 11 based on the LLCS. DOLE started the full implementation in Oct. 2013 of the new LLCS, which provides an integrated framework for voluntary compliance and enforcement of labor laws and other regulations. A briefer said the LLCS was formulated to operationalize the DOLE’s constitutional mandate to protect workers’ interests and welfare as well as promote social justice and maintenance of industrial peace through the encouragement of voluntary compliance and enforcement of labor laws. (MindaNews)

5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

Tagum Cooperative eyes more members By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

LREADY a Hall of Famer, the Tagum Cooperative (Tagum Coop) is not about to rest on its laurels. Tagum Coop board of director (BOD) chairperson Norma R. Peregras said despite the cooperative’s success, they will continue to aspire for greater heights by targeting to increase their regular membership by 8,000 more this year. “We have an estimated of more than 113,000 regular members region wide,” Peregras said during the Club 888 media forum at the Marco Polo Davao yesterday. Peregras said the Tagum Cooperative recorded a 12 percent increase from 2013 to 2014. “From 99,000 in 2013, our membership increased to 113,000 last year,” she said. Tagum Coop has a total of 11 branches in the Davao Region. These are located in Mintal, Matina and Bajada for Davao City; Digos City; Panabo City; municipalities of Carmen, Sto Tomas and Nabunturan; San Francisco in Agusan del Sur; Tagum Public

market and the Tagum Coop main in Tagum City. Peregras said 75 percent of their membership are women and that this is the reason why Tagum Coop developed a product that will cater to women, especially those who belong in the marginalized sector. The cooperative has also 50,000 youth members who have already deposited a total of P54 million and started saving instead of using their money to drugs, among others. The cooperative will be holding its 48th general assembly on March 29 at the San Jose Gymnasium at Tagum City. “We are expecting about 15 to 18,000 cooperators who will attend the assembly while there will be also a convention in Davao City that will be attended by about 45,000 coop members,” Peregras said. The Tagum Coop recorded a P2.7 billion in assets, and 238 million net surplus last year, making it a billionaire cooperative.

COOP Q&A. Tagum Cooperative chair Norma Pereyras answers questions from reporters during yesterday’s Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo, Davao. Lean Daval Jr. “Our loan portfolio now is P1.8 billion but we were able to release about P3 billion in 2014,” Peregras said. She also lauded the cooperative’s low delinquency rate of 9 percent last year from 65

percent 20 years ago. The coop’s initiatives like seminars on family budgeting, financial counseling and implementation of stricter collection, and checking the capacity to pay and collateral

of members are implemented to the past years, according to Peregras. For this year, Peregras said the cooperative is planning to expand its branches in Butuan City.

“We will set up another one branch in Butuan City and we will focus on our existing businesses like printing press, water refilling station, funeral parlor, among other,” she said.

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

DA launches P39.9-M program to combat Panama disease By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) 11 will embark on a P39.9 million program this year to combat the dreaded Panama disease and prevent the multi-billion banana industry in the Davao Region from suffering further. The allocation will be used by DA 11 in planting a Panama disease-resistant banana variety in 1,177 hectares, a major undertaking of the government agency that aims to decrease cases of the disease in the region. The variety called Giant Cavendish tissue-culture variant or GCTCV 219 is proven to be 90 percent resistant to Panama disease. “We haven’t identified yet the areas that will be planted,” said Herma M. Palma, DA 11 focal person for fusarium wilt. “Our 10 newly-hired plant pathologist will start the identification this month,” she added. Palma, however, said that infected areas in the provinces of Davao del Norte and Compostela Valley will be prioritized in the program that will

revitalize the banana industry which has suffered from Panama disease for years now. “Our 2013 report bared that a total of 701,000 mats as per geotagged were infected with Panama disease,” Palma said. Davao del Norte has the biggest infected number of mats planted either with Cavendish, saba, and Lakatan variety totaling to 430,256 mats; followed by Davao City with 109,837; Compostela Valley with 91,838; Davao del Sur with 61,780; and Davao Oriental with 7,769 mats. The level of infection in Davao del Norte has gone up to 50 percent, the highest. Next is Compostela Valley at 25 percent level of infection. Davao Oriental which has the lowest number of infected mats has also the lowest rate of infection. “This is very alarming to the multi-billion banana industry of the Davao Region,” Palma said. Palma said the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) 11 in Bago Oshiro, Tugbok district where

NEDA cites inclusive growth strategies

TOP official of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) 11 cited the inclusive growth strategies geared towards reducing poverty in Davao Region. Speaking to reporters during the roadshow of the Updated Regional Development Plan 2014-2016 conducted in the Provincial Capitol in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley, NEDA 11 chief Maria Lourdes Lim said these programs include the conditional cash transfer, universal coverage of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, K + 12 basic education program, scholarship programs for the priority sectors aimed at improving the competencies of students consequently making them better employed and of world-class standard. She explained that the CCT is an investment in human capital of the future generations while the universal coverage of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation aimed at addressing the basic health needs of the citizenry, especially the indigent members of the society. “They will now be provided with free basic health services,” Lim said. She said the basic education program given the improvements in the kinder-

garten, elementary and high school including tertiary education. “There are a lot more scholarship programs being offered by government addressing specially the priority sectors. We want to see more students enrolled in agriculture and fishery related courses, technical and vocational courses,” Lim said. She stressed that K to 12 revolutionizes the education program, so that the graduates can be better employed and competitive. Lim said that the plan of government on the medium-term is to provide minimum basic services to the people even they cannot participate in economic activities. “Either way, whether you are recipient or participant of these economic activities, it is all part of our inclusive growth strategy,” she said. Lim also said that the key drivers like tourism, mining, agri-business, knowledge-based industries like the information technology, these are all part of the inclusive growth strategies. She also bared that Davao Region is the least poor region in Mindanao from 2009 to 2012, when the number of poor families had been reduced. (PIA 11/Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

PREPARATION. Newly-hired pathologists take a pre-test on good agriculture practices and fusarium wilt management during the orientation in Davao City on Tuesday. (Che Palicte-DA-11) the variety was developed with the help of their partners based in Taiwan will initially supply P20 million worth of the tissue culture of GCTCV 219. “Officials from BPI are asking for extension for the pro-

duction of the remaining P19 million worth of GCTCV 219 tissue culture,” she said. The small-scale banana farmers in the region are among the main target of the project that will be implement-

ed starting this year until 2015, according to Palma. “Before a farmer can be a beneficiary he or she should be willing to plant GCTCV 219, willing to use fertilizer requirement, willing to attend seminar

and workshops, and willing to apply technology that will be prescribed by DA,” she said. Under the program, each farmer will receive a P1,500 worth of planting materials per hectare.

we send our request to the WB,” he said. “We may be requesting not less than USD500 million from them.” The agri chief further stated that the WB was very happy with the turn-out of the PRDP, as it received a positive and very satisfactory review during a mission conducted in February. “We urge the LGUs to partner with us and submit a business plan of your priority commodity,” Alcala said at the sidelines of his field visit in Davao City on March 5, 2015. The Davao City govern-

ment is currently preparing documents and other pertinent requirements in line with their commodity investment plan for cacao. PRDP, an off-shoot of the successful Mindanao Rural Development Program, seeks to bring agricultural innovations in communities across the nation, to improve the farming and fishing sectors, produce quality and competitive products and increase productivity and income of agricultural laborers. While in Davao, Alcala and Senate Chair for Agriculture and Food Cynthia

Villar, distributed various farm machineries and equipment amounting to P127.4 million. The packages of assistance, distributed to organized groups and farm associations, are part of the government’s efforts to mechanize the rural agri sector in preparation for the upcoming integration under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). Farm machineries distributed include mechanized threshers, tillers, hand tractors, combine harvesters, and corn shellers among others. (DA)

tity surveyor and financing partner of UZ. They appointed Energy Renewable Asia, Inc. (ERA) as the solar energy provider. James Buskowitz, BDI chief executive officer, said the installation of the solar panels will start either by June or July. Buskowitz said the solar power project is expected to be operational a month later. Lim said they chose ERA as the solar energy provider because of its local expertise having already done several projects in Metro Manila, Aklan and Iloilo, as well as international experience in Germany, Australia, India and

Myanmar. “We are taking the lead so that the others will not be afraid to venture into this kind of project. We need to be able to do something and to show to the people that we are willing to take the risk,” Lim said. She said UZ takes the lead in the utilization of solar energy among higher education institutions in Region IX as part of the university’s corporate social responsibility on the environment. “This venture is part of the institution’s efforts to help fight the effects of climate change along with other green initiatives of UZ,” Lim

said. She said they expect the electricity expenses of UZ to lessen once the project is operational. She disclosed that they are planning to develop solar power project in every UZ campus. UZ, which is known earlier as the Zamboanga A. E. Colleges (ZAEC), has eight campuses spread all over the city. Almost all of UZ’s campuses have large and flat roof spaces. Being a university where most of its load is needed during the day, solar photovoltaic system fits in perfectly. (MindaNews)

Government to LGUs: Lodge more projects under rural dev’t program

“

THE Department of Agriculture thru the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) may request additional funding from the World Bank as projects in the pipeline have already reached P13-billion,” according to Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala. “The approved projects have reached P5.3 B, and more local government units want to be included,” he said. We still have to see, how much more will be needed by the LGUs based on their project proposals before

Universidad de Zamboanga develops P12-M solar project

HE Universidad de Zamboanga (UZ) and the Buskowitz Development, Inc. (BDI) forged on Tuesday a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the development of a P12-million solar power project in one of the campuses of UZ in this city. The MOA signatories were Atty. Linda Eustaquio-Lim, UZ president, and James Buskowitz, BDI chief executive officer. The project will see the installation of a 120-kilowatt (KW) solar power system to supply electricity to the UZ main campus in Barangay Tetuan. The BDI will be the quan-

7 HEALTH SO YOU WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT? EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

Zumba, the current exercise sensation (from Wikipedia)

HESE days, people eat like there’s no tomorrow, sit in the office without leaving the room, watch television at home while eating snack, sleep late at night, and drinking too much. The result: obesity. Defined as “the accumulation of excessive body fat,” obesity is becoming increasingly common throughout the world -- even in developing countries like the Philippines. But whether a person is overweight or obese, it doesn’t matter. What is noteworthy is that these people are heavier than others. But thin is beautiful, so goes a saying. From the point of view of medicine, skinny lives longer than those who are fat! They are most likely to die from any of the following health problems: diabetes, stroke, heart attack, certain types of cancers (breast, uterus and ovaries in women and colon, rectum and prostate in men), gout, osteoarthritis and gallbladder. To lose weight, some people diuretics or water pills. “Since body is about 70% water, it is relatively easy for such pills to remove several pounds of water quickly,” write Aileen Lundington and Hans Diehl, authors of Health Power. “The scales look good -- for a few days. But gradually the body balances itself by replacing the water, and

Watch what you eat (Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio)

there goes the weight loss.” Others consume extra protein to lose weight. According to the tInternational Food Information Council Foundation, at least 37% of people surveyed believe protein helps with weight loss. Another study, published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that 43% of women surveyed are using the practice of eating more protein to prevent weight gain, and this strategy was associated with weight loss. But eating more protein than what body needs can accomplish the same thing. “The liver changes excess protein into blood urea nitrogen, which causes the kidneys to force water from the body,” Ludington and Diehl write. “It takes much water to wash out the products of excess protein metabolism than it does to take care of the breakdown products of either carbohydrates or fats.” Just like diuretics, extra protein can cause spectacular weight loss in a short time. “This is dangerous practice, however,” warn Ludington and Diehl. “That is why such diets are usually physician-supervised and limited to short periods of time, normally about two weeks. The scales show gratifyingly low numbers, but most of the weight returns

Skimboarding is one good exercise to lose weight (Photo by Henrylito D. Tacio) in a short time as the body replaces lost water.” There are those who, wanting to lose weight, resort to controlling hunger, the dieter’s Achilles heel. “Hunger is affected by many things, including when you eat, and the composition of your meals -- the amount of fats, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and water content,” notes Kathleen M. Zelman, a registered dietitian, in an article which appeared in WebMd.com. Hunger brings to the popularity of starvation diets. “Many of the quickie diets drop daily intake of 1,800 to 2,500 calories to less than 500 calories in a day,” Ludington and Diehl write. “Some of these starvation diets may go as low as 300 to 400 calories.” When these starvation diets are taken, “the body misreads this dramatic calorie drop as acute starvation and actually begins to digest its own protein (usually in the form of muscle) in an effort to protect more vital tissues,” point out Ludington and Diehl. “Careful testing has shown that weight loss on these diets can come from both fat and muscle tissues.” Instead of less eating, some health experts recommend switching to the optimal diet by eating more fiber. “Dietary” fiber refers

to the fiber found naturally in the foods that you eat. Fiber can either be soluble or insoluble. Soluble dissolves in water, insoluble does not. Both of these types are fiber are found naturally in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. “No one fiber is perfect, so eating a wide variety of fibers is the perfect solution to gain all the health benefits of fiber,” fiber expert Joanne Slavin, a professor at the University of Minnesota in St. Paul. “Not only will you trim your waistline with a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, but also reduce the risk for heart disease, diabetes, obesity, diverticulitis, and constipation.” Optimal diet does wonder in losing weight but it is not enough. Exercise must be part of the plan. It is true that you can lose weight without exercising. “But the one who manage to keep off lost weight for at least a year are involved in a regular exercise program,” nutritionist Bonnie Freedman emphasized. “(By comparison), a substantial number of people who lose weight through diet alone gain it back after a year.” You can safely lose 3 or more pounds a week at home with a healthy diet and lots of exercise, assures American

Sleep well (from Wikipedia)

weight loss counselor Katherine Tallmadge. Consider this: If you burn 500 more calories than you eat every day for a week, you should lose about 1-2 pounds. If you want to lose weight faster, you’ll need to eat less and exercise more. “For instance, if you take in 1,050 to 1,200 calories a day, and exercise for one hour per day, you could lose 3-5 pounds in the first week, or more if you weigh more than 250 pounds. It’s very important not to cut calories any further -- that’s dangerous,” reminds Zelman, WebMd’s director of nutrition. According to Freeman, exercise is “very effective and lasting way to shed pounds because it changes the energy equilibrium in your body -- your metabolism -- by increasing the amount of energy you expend in an average day.” To maintain body weight, diet and exercise are not enough. You should also have a good sleep every night. Not getting enough sleep means gaining extra pounds, according to John M. Jakicic, director of the Physical Activity and Weight Management Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh. “I think poor sleep is a contributing factor to weight gain,” Jakicic told CNN. “When you have poor sleep or lack of

sleep, you’re setting a whole cascade of events in motion hormonally that could set you up for weight gain.” Dr. Yue-Joe Lee, a physician and professor in the Department of Psychiatry at National Taiwan University Hospital, claims that insufficient sleep may affect three hormones that can contribute to obesity. First, there’s leptin, an appetite-suppressing hormone found in our fat and its levels are regulated during sleep, Dr. Lee says. Then, there’s ghrelin, which triggers appetite and increases with sleep deprivation. Our bodies then produce more of the stress hormone cortisol, which increases fat storage. Not only do the increased hormones resulting from sleep loss cause us to eat more but most of us also make poor food choices when we’re tired. “Get sufficient sleep if you don’t want to gain weight,” Dr. Lee suggests. Dr. Michael Grandner, who studies sleep and sleep disorders at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, echoes the same idea. “If you’re making your diet a priority and trying to be healthy, don’t forget that getting healthy sleep is probably an extremely important part of being healthy,” he points out.

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

Unprepared

T really comes as no surprise that the regional office of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has admitted that it cannot yet implement Republic Act 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013 which is supposed to start implementation today, March 12. The reason? It lacks trained personnel as well as breath analyzers. In a country where inefficiency is the order of the day, that really is something we have come to expect. That is not to say, of course, that it is acceptable. This law had actually been set for implementation in June last year after the approval of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR), but delays had reset it to today. One would think that almost a year of delay would have given the government the opportunity to conduct the proper training and purchase and distribute the necessary equipment. But no, what we have is still the same old situation. Today, the

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day when drunk and drugged driving will finally be penalized, our agencies are left untrained and empty handed. Which is a shame because the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act is a law that has been long in coming. Driving while under the influence (DUI) is something we take for granted and with a cavalier attitude, as if it is a trivial matter that does not merit attention. There are unfortunately no statistics on this problem, but it is safe to say that numerous accidents have been caused by drunks and addicts taking the wheel. We do not know how many people have died or been maimed by drunk drivers, but this law is what would have put a stop to the mayhem they cause on the road. To the government, let’s get our act together, shall we? This law needs to be implemented, and it’s not so reassuring when the enforcers themselves are ill-prepared to do it. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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

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GENERAL OFFICE SANTOS CITY CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OLIVIA D. VELASCO JOCELYNRICHARD S. PANES C. EBONA SOLANI D. MARATAS OLIVIA D. VELASCO SOLANI D. MARATAS MARKETING OFFICE | Marketing Manager General Manager of Sales SpecialistFinance General Manager DirectorAdvertising FinanceLEIZEL A. DELOSOLEIZEL A. DELOSO | MarketingEDMUND Manager P. RENDON

RICHARD C. EBONA Marketing Supervisor

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Unit 6, Southbank Plaza Velez-Yacapin Sts. Marketing Specialist Cagayan de Oro City General Santos City Cagayan de Oro City Tel: (088) 852-4894

Tel: (088) 852-4894

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

EDGEDAVAO

HEN was the last time you praise someone? The truth is, you cannot remember it anymore. “Giving praise is much like giving love,” says Irving Feldman. “The giver is usually the most benefited. He casts bread upon the waters and often gets back cake.” A married couple came to a counselor for advice. No sooner were they seated that they started speaking simultaneously in a duel of criticisms. When they finally stopped for lack of breath, the counselor suggested that now they tell each other all the good they see in the other person. There was a total silence from both. Then each was given a pen and a sheet of paper and told to write down something praiseworthy about the other. Neither of them wrote. They both sat and stared at the paper. After what seemed like a long time, the husband started to write something. At once, the wife also began to write – fast and furiously. Finally, the writing stopped. There was silence again. The wife pushed her paper over to the watching counselor. He pushed it back signaling that she was to give it directly to her husband. She reluctantly shoved the paper half way across the table. He took it and in turn, slid his paper towards his wife. Each began to read. The counselor watched. Soon a tear slid down the cheek of the wife. She crumpled the paper in her fist and held it tight. That proved that she treasured the sudden revelation of good things her husband had expressed about her. The whole atmosphere of the room changed.

F we shift to the federal form of government at this time, it’s unlikely that things will change for the better. The traditional politicians (trapos) who dominate government today will also be the dominant trapos of tomorrow. And the patronage-dependent voters of today, who make it possible for trapos to dominate, will be the voters, along with their clans, who will support the same trapos tomorrow and keep them in power. Without reforms or a change in attitudes, charter change won’t do much good. Electoral contests still won’t involve bona fide political parties to identify, recruit, train, or prepare promising leaders for responsible positions. Without coherent platforms or programs of government—to help people decide who should be in office—voting would still be a matter of guesswork or, worse, cash-exchange transactions. ***** We need proper political parties as institutional mechanisms for nominating worthy candidates. Their absence has turned our political system into a maelstrom of transactional confusion and horse trading. It’s a terrible blot on our politics that no less than the country’s immediate past president, head of the then ruling party, is in jail awaiting trial for plunder—a heinous crime against society. It is compounded by the prospect that the loot amassed by the Marcos plunderers will finance forthcoming campaigns.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

VANTAGE POINTS

The power of praise There was no THINK ON THESE! need for anything to be said. Praise had healed a thousand wounds. The husband and wife left the room arm in arm. “The deep- Henrylito D. Tacio est principle of henrytacio@gmail.com human nature is the craving to be appreciated,” William James reminds. Blaise Pascal agrees: “Vanity is so secure in the heart of man that everyone wants to be admired; even I write this, and you who read this.” One day, a field marshal requested an audience with Napoleon, and Napoleon knew what was coming. But as every good leader must, Napoleon agreed to hear him out. The field marshal brought news of a great victory he had achieved. He talked for a long time about his accomplishment, piling detail upon detail. Napoleon listened closely throughout the entire narration but said nothing. The officer was disappointed. He had hoped for a more enthusiastic reception, as well as Napoleon’s congratulations. Neither was forthcoming. Summing up, the field marshal repeated much of what he had already stated. As the officer rambled on, Napoleon continued to listen politely, and the marshal interpreted

this as encouragement. Surely, he thought, Napoleon will now give me the praise I so richly deserve. When the field marshal finally stopped talking, Napoleon asked him one question, “What did you do the next day?” The field marshal was speechless. But the lesson was not lost on him. From then on, the officer understood that he should never rest on his laurels. So he left it to others to bestow the praise. If you have the opportunity, praise someone. You will never know what will happen to the person whom you have praised. A business man tells this story on himself: I failed in grade three and this demoralized me so much that even in high school I stayed near the bottom of the class. Then, one day, something happened which changed all this. During my second year in high school, we had a class dance and the teacher said she was bringing along her sister, who was also middle-aged. When the two ladies arrived at the dance, the first thing our teacher did was pick me out of the crowd and bring her sister over to me. She put her hand on my shoulder and said to her sister, “My dear sister, I want you to meet this student first; he has the nicest smile in the class.” My teacher did not say, “Here is my student: he can’t read; he can’t recite; he can’t do anything.” Instead, she said, “He has the nicest smile in the class.” I left that dance a lot taller and with more self-confidence than I had ever had in my life. Since that time, I have earned a Master’s degree, been a teacher and a business

We need to act out our resolutions THE WORM’S EYEVIEW BY MANNY VALDEHUESA The twisted values spawned by the Marcos clique and its Martial Law-Kilusang Bagong Lipunan Party inheritors remain embedded in our body politic, such that one wonders whether we can ever cleanse the system and attain a modicum of decency and good government. Any thought of changing our system should be preceded by a grand effort to truly enfranchise and empower Filipinos. This means that even if it’s not election season, which is about the only time Filipinos are made to feel important, they can still voice out their expectations and be assured of some action at some foreseeable time—because “all government authority emanates from them.” ***** We have to be realistic. We have got to stop thinking that all we need to fix our problems is to do some rewriting—like the proponents of Charter Change seem to think. They have this simplistic view that the weakness of our political or economic system stems from “defects” in our Constitution and the shortcomings of the presidential form of government. It’s a debatable contention at best, just as it is debatable whether all the blame for the crises in our society today should be dumped on the wishy-washy ways of P-Noy.

Is it really the system or its operators? The causes of our national malaise are myriad and anyone can just as likely argue the case for or against dumping P-Noy and Company. ***** Getting rid of P-Noy and his barkada now may satisfy certain egos but it’s not likely to impress many people outside the partisan crowd. On the contrary, it will just complicate matters as it forces us to deal with self-appointed Diogenes-types with serious credibility problems. In the countryside today, there’s a sense that We, the People, are being toyed around with while the conditions essential for any political system to be effective remain unaddressed. People do need to be really enfranchised. Without their active participation the state structure can only be a shaky platform for wealthy oligarchs with questionable legitimacy. Common sense tells us that, like a New Year’s resolution, a Constitution or a political system is only as good as the deeds people do to fulfill its mandates. No matter how well-crafted it may be, it can do little good if people do not act out its precepts, intents, or purposes. The key elements here are “people” and “deeds.” People must “do” or act out what they resolve to do. Unless they do, nothing changes or improves, the status quo simply continues, or worsens, but no peace or justice or order will ensue, and the laws are just printed matter in the library.

man and now having a company of my own. But it all started at that dance class in high school when my teacher showed me that I had something of value, something to give to others. My self-respect was restored. All of us hunger for a word of praise. American author Mark Twain is credited with saying, “I can live for two months on a good compliment.” If you happen to be the head of a company or someone who hold a higher position, why don’t you praise your subordinates – if they deserve such recognition? “Some people will work harder for praise than even money,” said L. Perry Wilbur. “Those workers in your group doing good work should be occasionally praised. It’s goodsense and good courtesy. Many effective employees, who know they’re doing good work, expect to be recognized and appreciated. When deserved, be sure to praise your team members individually or before the group. They’ll appreciate your appreciation, and most of them will work all the harder for you.” If you’re a parent, recognize your children too. But George W. Crane advises, “When you praise a child, focus on his accomplishments rather than on himself. Thus, you encourage good works instead of mere egotism.” To make your praise worthy, don’t overdo it. “An overdose of praise is like 10 lumps of sugar in coffee; only a very few people can swallow it,” Emily Post said. And if that person doesn’t deserve praise, don’t do it. “Praise undeserved,” someone once said, “is poison in disguise.” ***** We already have a Constitution which summarizes our paramount wishes for our society. It expresses what we propose or resolve to achieve for our nation. When we ratified the present one in 1987, we laid out the ideals and principles we hold dear and restated the sovereign rights the Dictator trashed and suspended. Now, almost three decades later, instead of raising questions about how it has performed, or to what extent it has impacted upon our social consciousness — so that from the lessons learned we may know better how to make any Constitution work, Cha Cha proponents would rather have us jump to conclusions — their conclusions, and their prescriptions on what to change and how to do the rewrite. From the Cry of Balintawak to the two EDSA revolutions, we have had five constitutions. None of them resonate in our collective consciousness. It’s time we learn to act out our resolutions and stick to the agenda. Manny is former UNESCO regional director for Asia-Pacific; secretary-general, Southeast Asia Publishers Association; director, development academy of Philippines; member, Philippine Mission to the UN; vice chair, Local Government Academy; member, Cory Govt’s Peace Panel; awardee, PPI-UNICEF outstanding columnist. An author of books on governance, he is chairman/convenor ofGising Barangay Movement Inc. valdehuesa@gmail.com

10 ICT HUB EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

Smart supports PhilHealth to improve access to healthcare services C

ONSISTENT with its commitment to make quality healthcare services accessible to more Filipinos, wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) supported the annual run of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) as it steps up efforts to encourage its millions of members to avail of the various services and benefits for their well-being. The run, “PhilHealth Ready, TSeKaP, Go!” was also one of the main activities to celebrate PhilHealth’s 20th anniversary. It was held simultaneously in 13 sites nationwide participated in by over 50,000 runners. Proceeds of the run will finance projects of other institutions that cater to the vulnerable sectors of the society. As one of the key supporters of the event, Smart provided financial assistance and sent a contingent of runners to the PhilHealth Run. “Smart is supporting this initiative to help amplify PhilHealth’s call for its members to undergo regular checkups and avail of the suite of services and benefits from the agency,” said Ramon R. Isberto, head of Public Affairs at Smart. Smart has been a longtime partner of PhilHealth

Employees of Smart pose for a class photo with PhilHealth board member Risa Hontiveros after the PhilHealth Ready, TSeKaP, Go! run at Quezon Memorial Cirle. and both have been working together to create solutions to improve access of more Filipinos to healthcare services. In fact, Smart has been working closely with PhilHealth in its SHINE project, including serving in the national Electronic Medical Records Experts Group (EMREG). Recognized here and

abroad, SHINE or Secured Health Information Network and Exchange, is the first cloud-based electronic medical record and e-referral system in the country. It enables healthcare facilities such as rural health units and healthcare professionals to create an electronic medical record, send electronic referrals to other

facilities, generate reports, and send SMS to remind patients of their medical appointments or their medications. “To be able to create effective and efficient technology solutions, we make sure to work with healthcare experts such as PhilHealth. Even as far back as the SHINE pilot implemen-

tation in Iloilo, we had the PhilHealth Region 6 office as part of our project steering committee” added Isberto. This year, Smart has made SHINE an opensource platform allowing more users, including developers, to contribute modules and plug-ins, and customize the system according to their healthcare needs

and preferences. Now called SHINE OS+, it is among the first health service solutions in the country that is compliant with the requirements of PhilHealth and the Department of Health via the Philippine Health Information Exchange, in accordance to the Philippine eGovernment Interoperability Framework.

with the belief that an open source and collaborative approach to designing hardware and data centers “will create better and more efficient technology to power the internet for billions of people every day.” “Thanks to Open Compute and other efficiency

work, Facebook alone has saved more than $2 billion in energy and infrastructure we would have otherwise consumed. This is good for the environment and good for delivering faster services for our community,” he said. According to the Open Compute Project website

(www.opencompute.org), the project is “a rapidly growing community of engineers around the world whose mission is to design and enable the delivery of the most efficient server, storage and data center hardware designs for scalable computing.” “We believe that open-

ly sharing ideas, specifications and other intellectual property is the key to maximizing innovation and reducing operational complexity in the scalable computing space. The Open Compute Project Foundation provides a structure in which individuals and organizations can share their

intellectual property with Open Compute Projects,” it adds. Zuckerberg said Facebook wants to build a world “where everyone can connect, where our internet’s infrastructure is open, where our computing tools are intelligent and where we have the power to share any experience or idea instantaneously.” “This vision guides our research in areas like Internet.org, Open Compute, Facebook AI Research and Oculus VR,” he added. “Today, thousands of people are coming together at the Open Compute Summit in San Jose (California) to share new data center technologies. We shared designs for a new type of server that dramatically increases speed and lowers the cost of serving large amount of data traffic, a network switch that provides faster and better control of networks, and software that provides greater flexibility and control over server management,” Zuckerberg said.

Open Compute saves Facebook over $2B BY JON JOAQUIN

ACEBOOK has saved more than $2 billion in energy infrastructure through the Open Compute Project which it launched four years ago. Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, in a post on his Facebook timeline yesterday, said the project was launched

OPEN COMPUTE. Facebook’s newest data center in Altoona, Iowa, which Zuckerberg says is “one of the most efficient data centers in the world,”uses the latest Open Compute technology.

EDGEDAVAO

11 PROPERTY

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

TOP SELLING UNIT. Unit manager Sheena Ongkiko with her sales team pose with FTC Group of Companies president Ian Cruz (3rd from left) during the monthly recognition ceremonies for Aeon Tower agents. Also in photo are Al Punzalan and Gen Marchan of the firm’s marketing office.

Northpoint takes penthouse living to higher level PENTHOUSES take condo living to a higher level, but those at Liverpool, the 15-storey condominium building of Northpoint, bring penthouse living several notches higher. Liverpool is the fourth tower of Northpoint and has penthouse units available for those who want to enjoy the distinct and sophisticated lifestyle of penthouse living.

Tranquil living at the heart of the city. Living in a penthouse means you’re living at the top of the condo building where it is quieter, giving you a sense of being far from all the hustle and bustle of city life. While the patio gives you a vantage view of the goings-on in the city, it is also a good place to sit, put your feet up, and bask in the peace and quiet, barely hearing the distant din of traffic. Splendid views. Northpoint’s penthouse units have remarkable views from their wide windows and patio. As Liverpool is so far the tallest condominium building in Northpoint, it commands the best views of the city and Davao Gulf with its azure waters and Samal Island with its white sand beaches. Penthouse owners can also just look down to see the beautiful canopy of Caribbean pine trees growing all over Northpoint. Status symbol. A penthouse belongs to the top as far as dwelling goes, giving the people living in it a higher status symbol. It has a larger living space and more upscale

interior to fit the sophisticated tastes of its owners. Top that with Northpoint’s top-of-the line facilities and amenities and penthouse owners get to enjoy a charmed and refined lifestyle. More privacy. Penthouse units are located at the top of the building where there are less units, giving it a sense of exclusivity. That means no crowd, less noise, and more privacy for penthouse owners. Bigger living space reminiscent of a house. A penthouse unit’s larger living space gives it the impression of a single detached house. It’s like having the best of both worlds: living in a modern, upscale home in the heart of the city and having the sense of living in a house with its comfortable living space. Luxurious living. A penthouse is also defined by its luxury features: plush furniture, state-of-the-art appliances and gadgets, high-end fixtures and accents, and the finest flooring and finishes. It fits the refined tastes of its dwellers, amplifying their status sym-

TOP AGENT. Virgie Rubio (second from right) receives her certificate as top seller from Aeon marketing officers (l-r) El Don Dela Pena, Al Punzalan and Gen Marchan. bol.

Central location. Penthouse owners of Liverpool will benefit from all the conveniences of Northpoint’s strategic location in the heart of north Davao’s growth area, making it near to everything they need on a daily basis. It is proximate to the commercial district and shopping centers, as well as modern office buildings, IT parks, banks, hospitals, schools, malls, places of worship, airport, markets, and other public utilities. Value added service from developer. Northpoint penthouse owners are given free services for the interior design of the living area, dining area and master bedroom of their units. This helps them save on costly designer fees and prepares their penthouse to make it more livable. With the spacious living space, they can further

customize their penthouse to inject their own personality and preferences. Green living. Liverpool will be built to principles of green architecture, making it a unique condominium building that allows penthouse owners to live a greener lifestyle. The building is carefully planned to include the Sky Courts which are wide open spaces on three levels of Liverpool that allow the building to benefit from natural light and ventilation. These openings, filled with live plants, let cool breeze enter the building and flow through the hallways and units. There is also an Atrium, a vertical shaft where cooler air enters and pushes warm air out. This feature will harness natural wind and breeze to enter all levels of the condominium building to cool its interior temperature.

Viable investment. A penthouse normally fetches a higher value, but a Liverpool penthouse will be an even more viable investment with Northpoint’s stellar reputation and premier address. If a Northpoint studio comes at a monthly rental rate of P20,000, then a Liverpool penthouse with all its posh features will fetch a much higher rate, an excellent proposition for the investor-owner of a Liverpool penthouse. Northpoint is the landmark condominium development in Davao of Vista Residences, the vertical marketing arm of the country’s largest homebuilder, Vista Land. More information of Liverpool’s penthouse units are available at the Camella offices at Delgar Bldg., (fronting Northpoint) JP Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City, telephone 226-3100.

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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

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MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 254 • THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

LOCAL FAVORITES

for Araw ng Davao THERE is always a reason to celebrate, this month is more than just the sunny skies and summer plans. March, for us Dabawenyos, means merrymaking and festivities as we celebrate Araw ng Davao. And with festivities, food is always a star! To help you quench your thirst for good local dishes, here are 5 must try restaurants in town. Be you an organic lover or seafood fanatic, we’ve got everything covered. Enjoy! Wynward Valley Organic Vegetable Garden Regina Dalisay Compound, Bajada, 8000 Davao City. Tel. 09058419871 Situated at Regina Dalisay Compound, behind Abreeza Ayala Mall, this pesticide- free garden also serves their produce. ChefOwner Dr. Rodelio Dalisay whips up a plate (or two) of their greens and herbs packed with goodness and health nutrients.

Here, you are guaranteed a holistic culinary experience. Wild Garlic 497 South St. DBP Village Ma-a Craving for a palate adventure? Head on to the newest delicious food place in town. Wild Garlic has been serving plate after another of rich

local flavors with European influence. It’s a cozy place to dine and be with family and friends on any given day. Ellen’s Tunat Queen South Road DBP village, Davao City, Davao City, Philippines A foremost delicious place to be, your visit to Davao won’t be complete without dropping by Tita Ellen’s place and sampling her scrumptious feast. Choose from her array of lutong bahay favorites such as the seafood laing, binagoongan, kare-kare, kaldereta and the famous paksiw na buntot ng tuna. Balik bukid Quimpo Blvd., Davao City. Tel. 0915 595 112 If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life without leaving the comforts of the city then Balik Bukid is for you. Serving organic and farm fresh dishes, this dainty restaurant is best known for its delicious and beautiful take on local favorites that make us remember the past. Yellow Fin Seafood Restaurant (Ecoland Branch) Sandawa Plaza, Quimpo Blvd., Ecoland, Davao City. Tel. (+6382) 297-8777, (+6382) 2980299 Their menu is extensive – spicy prawns, tuna belly, seafood platter, sizzling meat platter, tuna tail adobo and greaseless chicken. Yellow Fin Seafood Restaurant is deliciously Davao! For every Filipino food favorite served, you are guaranteed of a memorable dining experience. Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit! Follow and tag me on instagram (herroyalheiress) for your delicious pics and food finds!

3 4 5

Fresh greens from Wynward Valley Organic Vegetable Garden.

Yellow Fin Seafood Restaurant’s Tuna Kinilaw.

Wild Garlic’s grilled chicken.

Photo courtesy of Wild Garlic’s Facebook page.

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FOOD

ENTERTAINMENT

InstaDAD b

Park Inn by Radisson Davao

PEOPLE nowadays are very much inclined into “instant” things. As the world continues to evolve, a lot of things are becoming instant which make life easier, comfortable and beyond imaginable. But what if that instant thing came in unexpectedly and you were unprepared? What would you do and how would you handle it?

DAD. Top titalen tor G InstaD aroun neth, one o bache He d single break Des. One Ken’s as he a fath but Marik Gabbi ish, a athlet protec sisters by A

features the best of local cuisine for Araw ng Davao weekend

Starting March 22, GMA Network offers another family-friendly drama series that will showcase to the viewers that parenthood can even become three times better with Insta-

HAPPY 78th Araw ng Dabaw! Get into the festive mood and set foot on the hip and modern restaurant of Park Inn by Radisson Davao.

Denise Laure

The team of RBG is cooking up a feast with classic delicacies and alltime local favorites. “As part of our celebration from March 14 to 16, we are ‘localizing’ our Supersize family meal with select dishes inspired by the flavors of the region,” explains General Manager, Mr. Pavan Kakar. Following the concept of the regular Supersize meal, diners still get to customize their own set with their choice of salad, soup, starter, rice, main course, desserts and drink, coupled with a family size pizza. This dining offer is available for lunch and dinner on the said dates. “For this Araw ng Dabaw weekend, we’re giving you bigger servings for

6 diners, all for the same price of Php1,699.00 net. That’s one person extra compared to the regular sharing fixed for 5 persons,” adds Mr. Kakar. “The choices we have on the menu are sure to excite all palates, Dabawenyos and visiting tourists alike. Our kitchen team, headed by Sous Chef Maria Kristina ‘Teng’ Collantes, tweaked some of the recipes to give them more zest, added with some home-grown produce and ingredients.” Included in the salad selection are Pomelo and Green Mango Salad, Native Dried Fish with Pomelo Vinaigrette, and Roasted Vegetables with Davao Cheese. For main course, the diners may

Denise Laurel and Arjo Atayd will topbill ABS-CBN’s “Maa laala Mo Kaya” (MMK) th Saturday (March 14) as ove seas Filipino workers, Andre and Jason, who got marrie in haste in Saudi Arabia du to an unplanned pregnancy

choose from Beef KareKare, Native Banana Stuffed Squid, Twicecooked Chicken with Orange Glaze, and Vegetable and Tofu in Garlic Butter. The pizza served with the meal is cooked together

with cuts of grilled chicken. “Come and celebrate Araw ng Dabaw with us and relish in a delicious Supersized Filipino fare with your family and friends,” Mr. Kakar en-

thuses. For reservations and inquiries, call 63 82 272 7600. Follow @parkinndavao on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to get updates on new offers and special promotions.

Pop-up Gourmet Market at SM Lanang Premier this weekend BRACE yourself for another festive foodie event in time for Araw ng Davao! SM Lanang Premier will be having ‘The Davao Gourmet Collective (DGC) PopUp Market’ on March 13-15, from 4pm onwards at The Fountain Court grounds.

The DGC Pop-Up Market draws together Davao City’s best chefs and gourmands in one venue, each putting on the table his/her specialties. Among the participating purveyors include Cellar de Boca, Banana Leaf, Bistro Selera, Kushiya, Bangkok Wok, Green Agenda,

Bon Appetit, Classio Pizza, Don Durian, and Café El Gato. The said event aims to promote food tourism in Davao, inviting food lovers from all over the country, tourists and locals alike, to discover and gain appreciation for the most delish eats the city has to offer. While at the DGC Pop-Up Market, head over Cellar de Boca and Café El Gato for their must-try Latin American eats. Sample authentic grilled Japanese recipes at Kushiya and visit Bistro Selera and Don Durian for their signature Filipino dishes. For comfort food options, check

out the offerings of Bon Appetit and Classio Pizza. Love Southeast Asian food? Get a taste of Bangkok Wok’s and Banana Leaf’s specialties. Then quench your thirst with organic cold-

pressed juices of Green Agenda. The DGC Pop Up Market will be launched on Friday, March 13, at 5pm at The Fountain Court grounds. The public is invited to come and ex-

perience a truly delightful food festival with family and friends. Diners will also enjoy the Urban Sound Music show happening at The Fountain Court grounds from Friday to Sunday, from 5pm till 7 pm. The country’s well-known artists – Markki Stroem, Hale and Kai Honasan – and Davao-based artists Juliet Bahala, Jad Montenegro and Thea Pitogo will play their own brand of music to entertain diners and shoppers during this time. For more details, call 285-0943 or check out SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Despite having been aba doned by Jason when she deli ered a stillborn baby, Andrea re onciles with her husband a ye later, hoping to build the happ family she has always dreamt with him. However, four years la er, Andrea discovers all the lies th Jason has expertly woven, inclu ing their long annulled marriage Will love be enough to cover u all the hurt caused by the lies one’s beloved? The upcoming “MMK” ep sode will also feature John Arcill Kelly Dela Cruz, Maureen Mau cio, Jamilla Obispo, Dale Baldill Menggie Cobarrubias, and Brya Termulo. It is directed by Gar Fernando and written by Joa Habana. “MMK” is led by busine unit head Malou Santos and cr ative manager Mel Mendoza-d Rosario.

NCCC celebrat

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brings fun and excitement every Sunday afternoon

pbilled by mulnted Kapuso acGabby Eigenmann, DAD revolves nd the life of Kena famous chef and of the most eligible elors in the metro. decides to remain e after his heartk from his first love,

e day, fate turns life upside down e learns that he is her of not just one, three daughters: kit portrayed by i Garcia, the boyadventurous and tic one but very ctive of her two s; Mayumi played Ash Ortega, the

eldest among three, poised and smart just like her mother; Maaya played by Jazz Ocampo, the most sociable, girly and fashionable among them. Aside from not being knowledgeable of being a father, Ken struggles even more in dealing with the different personalities of his triplets. Meanwhile, the triplets are also not used with the new family setup that will eventually sprout a series of family and teenage issues. Completing the cast of this family-oriented series are Matet de Leon as Gracia, the older sister of Des and aunt

of the triplets; Juancho Triviño as Dwight, a varsity player and Mayumi’s boyfriend; Prince Villanueva as Ikot, a musically-inclined, hopeless romantic who is secretly in love with Mayumi. InstaDAD is a contemporary and a relatable program that discusses the sweet, adventurous and challenging aspects of parenthood. The series becomes even more exciting as the family faces obstacles that will surely test Ken’s abilities of being a father. InstaDad is directed by Neal del Rosario and will premiere on March 22 after Sunday All Stars.

el and Arjo Atayde play OFW lovers in ‘MMK’

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anivecear py of athat ude. up of

pila, urilo, an rry an ess redel

Capturing the hearts of Filipino viewers all over the world for the past 23 years, “Maalaala Mo Kaya” has legions of fans from different generations who cried, laughed, fell in love, and got inspired through the real-life narratives of the show’s letter-senders.

Don’t miss the longest-running drama anthology in Asia, “MMK” every Saturday, 7:15PM, after “Home Sweetie Home” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to MMK.abscbn.com, follow @MMKOfficial on Twitter, and “like” Facebook.com/ MMKOfficial. Tweet your thoughts

about this Saturday’s episode by using the hashtag #MMKMaritalLies. Meanwhile, viewers may also catch up on full episodes and past episodes of “MMK” through ABSCBNmobile. For more information, please go to www.abscbnmobile. com.

tes ‘Fiesta, Himig at Saya sa Araw ng Davao’ IT’S an all-star Araw ng Dabaw celebration in NCCC Mall Davao featuring different Kapamilya artists on March 15 and 16.

Teen stars Sharlene San Pedro, Jairus Aquino and Diego Loyzaga with Jolina Magdangal and Daryl Ong highlights the Fiesta Saya celebration on March 15, 4pm at NCCC Mall Davao Activity Center. Following them for the Himig at Saya sa Araw ng Dabaw are The Voice of the Philippines Season 2 semi-finalists Timmy Pavino and Kokoi Baldo together with prom-

ising stars Sofia Andres and Inigo Pascual on March 16. Fiesta, Himig at Saya sa Araw ng Dabaw is in partnership with Pond’s, Vaseline, Rexona, Creamsilk, Hana Shampoo & Conditioner, Systema, Champion, Century Tuna, 555 Tuna, Argentina, Safeguard, Pampers, Rejoice, Olay, Downy, Lucky Me, Namnam, Skyflakes, Zonrox, Greencross, Lewis & Pearl, Colgate, Palmolive and Axion. For more exciting treats and updates visit www.nccc.com.ph or like and follow us on facebook and instagram

March 12-17, 2015

THE COBBLER / * WILD CARD Adam Sandler / * Jason Statham PG / *R16

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

CINDERELLA Lily James, Hayley Atwell, Richard Madden G

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

RUN ALL NIGHT Liam Neeson, Joel Kinnaman R16

R-16

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

CRAZY BEAUTIFUL YOU /

*CHAPPIE PG/ *R13

Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla / *Sharlto Copley, Hugh Jackman 12:40 | 3:00 | 5:20 LFS / * 7:30 | 10:00 LFS

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EVENT

MERRIMENT. Traditional Chinese lion and dargon dance number sets the mood for the celebration.

The Royal Mandaya Hotel welcomes

CHINESE NEW YEAR The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Davao’s most prominent address, welcomed the Chinese New Year with a bang. Known for whipping up the best of special celebrations all year round, The Royal Mandaya Hotel set the tome for the Lunar Year 2015 complete with Chinese charms, fortune cookies, card reading and dragon and lion dance. “It’s our unique way of welcoming the Chinese New Year and a treat to our clients

whether Chinese or of Chinese descent, or for those who simply wanted to join the revelry,” said TRMH manager Benjie Banzon. The main treat is an authentic Chinese dinner specially prepared by the hotel’s resident chef. With its grandiose lobby draped with Chinese inspired trappings,

TRMH pulled off another blockbuster treat for everyone last February 19. The day started with card reading and selling of Chinese charms. Revellers feasted on the sumptuous buffet dinner and were treated to real fortune cookies. No Chinese New Year party will be complete without a lion and dragon dance and TRMH made sure they brought the characters

FRIENDS ANF FAMILY. Glenn Escandor (extreme left) with son Ep (second from left) and wife Mic-Mic (fourth from right) celebrate the Chinese New Year with friends like Chicago-based coach Ronel Leuterio (extreme right), Ateneo’s Noli Ayo and Miggy Solitaria.

straight from Davao’s revered Chinatown. “The Royal Mandaya Hotel never ceases to spring a surprise and this is just one of those really amazing moments,” said one Lunar Year reveler. The Royal Mandaya Hotel is located at Palma Gil Street, Davao City. For bookings and reservations, contact (082) 225-8888 or visit www.theroyalma ndaya hotel.com. (NJB)

CHINESE TRADITION. A fortune teller reads cards to an amused guest (left) while a sales personnel attends to the Chinese delicacies on sale.

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Bakwit population in Maguindanao now 72,585 T

HE number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) or bakwits (evacuees) in 11 of 36 towns in Maguindanao due to the military operations against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) has reached 14,517 families or 72,585 persons, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s Humanitarian Emergency Action and Response Team (ARMM-HEART) reported as of 6 p.m. on March 10. A day earlier, ARMM-HEART reported the number of evacuees from the same towns at 12,920 families or 64,600 persons. Mamasapano town posted the highest number of bakwits at 2,637 families, followed by Datu Salibo at 2,119; Shariff Saydona at 1,864; Shariff Aguak at 1,582; Datu Saudi Ampatuan at 1,329; Talayan at 1,195; Datu Anggal Midtimbang at 1,101; Guindulungan at 939; Talitay at 712; Rajah Buayan hosting 255; and Datu Unsay at 175. ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman is leading the distribution of relief goods to the 11 towns on Wednesday, March 11, under “Tabang Sibilyan” (Help Civilians). The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), has a higher number: 16,111 families or 80,555 persons affected in the

towns of Mamasapano, Pagalungan, Datu Salibo, Shariff Saydona, Datu Unsay, Shariff Aguak, Rajah Buayan, Datu Hofer and Datu Saudi Ampatuan in Maguindanao and Pikit in North Cotabato, as of March 6, according to its most recently uploaded report dated March 7. Out of these affected families, 15,058 families or 75,290 persons are internally displaced, it said. According to the same report, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has spent P16,628,867.60 worth of relief goods for the IDPs from February 9 to 23 during the clashes between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and from February 25 when Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang launched his “all-out offensive” against the BIFF. Catapang on February 25 ordered the Western Mindanao Command to coordinate with the Philippine National Police in a joint law enforcement operation against the BIFF purportedly to “protect the communities.” “I am saddened by the news that at least 20,000 people had been displaced by the violent attacks perpetrated by the BIFF in

the hinterland villages. We will do our best to protect the people and allow them to go back to their homes,” GMA News quoted him as saying. The 20,000 he was refererng to was apparently the number of persons due to the BIFF-MILF conflict. But the “all-out offensive” against the BIFF which started on February 27, triggered mass evacuations of triple that number in 11 towns in 12 days. The NDRRMC figures, posted on March 7, does not say how many evacuees had returned home. The Protection Cluster Philippines and UN High Commissioner on Refugees in its IDP Protection Assessment Report, Issue No. 7 noted that as of March 10, there are 68,354 persons displaced in Maguindanao (68,019) and Pikit in North Cotabato province (355) from the skirmishes between the MILF and BIFF and later between the military and the BIFF. It said that in the displacement due to MILF-BIFF conflict, that a total of 6,383 families or 34,925 persons were displaced, of whom 5,630 families or 31,171 persons had returned home while 753 families or 3,754 persons have not. In the conflict between the military and the BIFF, a total of

BAKWIT BUSINESS. An enterprising bakwit lays down the goodies for sale at the grounds of Datu Pendiliang Piang Elementary School in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Magu12,920 families or 64,600 persons have been displaced, of whom 12,538 families or 62,690 persons are inside evacuation centers while 382 families or 1,910 persons are outside evacuation centers. “As of this posting, another armed encounter took place in the interior of Barangay Dapiawan Datu Saudi Ampatuan municipality and Barangay Pamalian, Shariff Saydona municipality. Community residents

indanao on March 7, 2015, displaced by the government’s “all-out offensive” against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

of Barangay Lower Masigay, Datu Salibo municipality evacuated to national highway,” the Protection Cluster said in its 6:04 p.m. posting on March 10. MindaNews asked Capt. JoAnn Petingly, chief of the Public Affairs Office of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division in Camp Siongco, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, how many combatants had been killed and wounded since Catapang’s “all-out offensive” declaration. Television reports had said

at least 70 members of the BIFF had been killed but did not say how many bodies were accounted for. Petingaly’s reply: “As per consolidated reports, there are about 70 plus BIFF killed.” But only four bodies of the BIFF were accounted for in the 12-day operations, she said. On the part of the military, six soldiers were killed and 23 others wounded. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

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House Committee to take up Bangsamoro Basic Law on April 6 to 16 T

on February 4 and Zamboanga City on February 5 but a day after Mamasapano, Marcos immediately cancelled the public hearings. Marcos said he will resume the hearings on BBL after the submission of findings by the BOI, the MILF Special Investigative Commission and the Senate Committee on Public Order and Safety. Rodriguez also said last week that the MILF can surrender its men involved in Mamasapano after the Department of Justice (DOJ) completes its report and names the MILF members there. Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has given the probe team up to April 2. Before the tragedy in Mamasapano happened, the Committee had targeted February 9 and 10 to finalize its draft law and February 11 as

the date for the “approval of the clean draft.” Plenary debates were also scheduled for February 16 to 18 and 23 to 24 and the House was expected to pass the BBL before it goes on break on March 20. On the surrender of MILF fighters, MILF peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal told MindaNews that “the ceasefire agreement we signed with government in 1997 provides that violations of the ceasefire agreement should be punished by the party where the violator belongs,” that before the conditions were issued, “on our volition, we returned the 16 firearms.” Iqbal had repeatedly said they would cooperate through the mechanisms of the AHJAG (Ad Hoc Joint Action Group with the government) to help find Basit Usman. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

police officers in Davao City. Yesterday, Rivera said such an agreement would be a big help to the authorities. For her part, Davao City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson Senior Inspector Milgrace Driz said the NPA should understand that the PNP is not a combatant group. “We all know that the PNP is not a combatant group, but they are now targeting us,” she said.

Dabawenyos is one of the reasons for the increase in the number of people having kidney failure. She said there are only 500 to 600 nephrologists in the country who can provide services to the increasing number of patients who have to undergo dialysis. She also said dialysis is an expensive medical service. “A patient has to undergo two to three sessions per week and each costs P4,500 depending on the institution,” she said. Philhealth members can avail themselves of dialysis at P1,000 to P1,500 per session.

Bad-ang said undergoing kidney transplant is a cheaper operation for patients. “It only cost 250,000 for Philhealth members who have donors,” she said. “Donor should be a family member who are up to second degree of sanguinity.” Bad-ang said f the 263 kidney transplant operations conducted nationwide, only 16 were conducted in Davao Region. In celebration of the World Kidney Day today, Bad-ang urged the public to take a glass of water and post a photo on any social media site to encourage other to take care of their kidneys.

Emboscado of www.travelteller.com and Ida Nanette Damo, the Mindanao Editor of ABS-CBN’s Choose Philippines. The Photo Contest is or-

ganized by City Information Office in partnership with the City Tourism Office and the Tagum City Tourism Council. (Gleiza Delgado of CIO Tagum)

the Plan can help Compostela Valley Province achieve its goals especially those on improving access to human development services and sustainable economic stability. The Plan is also crucial in aiming for “efficient, effective and dynamic local governance responsive to the needs of the people; and the transparent and participatory governance,” Del Rosario said. He pointed out the sim-

ilarity of the Plan’s focused objective of “achieving sustained high and inclusive growth by 2016” with what Compostela Valley provincial government wants to attain for its people. “As partners in development, this Province’s initiative are also geared toward eradicating poverty, promoting sustainable development and providing the best quality of life to Comvalenyos,” he said.

Del Rosario expressed his gratitude for the provincial government for hosting the 3rd leg of RDC Updatedd RDP Roadshow which was attended by Compostela Valley 1st District Representative Maricar Zamora-Mabanglo, Governor Arturo T. Uy, Vice Governor Manuel Zamora and Board Member Jayvee Tyron Uy, among other local government officials. (PIA XI/ Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)

HE House of Representatives’ Ad Hoc Committee on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (AHCBBL) will meet on April 6 to 16 to finish deliberations on the BBL, so that plenary debates can begin when Congress resumes sessions on May 4 to June 11, Committee Chair Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said. But Rodriguez told MindaNews that he has not dropped the three conditions they set before deliberating on the BBL. Last week he said he was afraid the BBL would lose if put to a vote now, hence the three conditions: for the MILF to surrender its men involved in the January 25 clashes that killed 44 members of the Special Action Force of the Philippine National Police (PNP-SAF); for the MILF to surrender Abdul Basit Usman, a Filipino who is allegedly an

expert in bomb-making with links to the Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiyah, with a one million US dollar bounty, who reportedly survived the SAF operations; and for the MILF to turn over the firearms taken from the slain SAF personnel. Rodriguez said scheduling the hearings on April 6 to 16 does not mean the three conditions he had imposed had been met. “We hope there will be progress on my three requests before April 6,” Rodriguez told MindaNews in a text message Tuesday afternoon. What he repeatedly referred to as “conditions” a week ago he now refers to as “requests.” A total of 67 persons – 44 from SAF, 18 from the MILF and five civilians – were killed on January 25 in the SAF operations that were not coordinated with the provincial

and regional police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the ceasefire mechanisms of the government (GPH) and MILF. The other casualty in the Mamasapano Tragedy, however, was the peace process between government and the MILF which last year signed the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) after 17 years of negotiations. The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) drafted by the GPH-MILF Bangsamoro Transition Commission and submitted to Congress on September 14, 2014 in ceremonies held in Malacanang, were subject of deliberations in the two houses of Congress until Mamasapano happened. Leaders of the two houses of Congress recently announced that the BBL will be

passed by June 11 this year. Congress goes on recess on March 20, will resume sessions from May 4 to June 11 and return for President Aquino’s last State of the Nation Address on July 27. Earlier, Reyes said the 75-member AHCBBL will resume deliberations on the proposed law that would set up the Bangsamoro political entity only after the Philippine National Police’s Board of Inquiry (BOI) has submitted its findings and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front has responded to its three conditions. The BOI was supposed to release its findings on Monday, March 9, but asked for a threeday extension. The Senate Committee on Local Governments chaired by Senator Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., was supposed to have held a public hearings in Jolo, Sulu

Dy said the region also lacks breath analyzers and drug testing kits. “The region will start to receive breath analyzer by next week but we have no idea when the drug test kits will arrive. The central office prioritized the distribution of breath analyzers first,” he said. Only 10 breath analyzers will be initially shipped to the region. “This is not enough but we will try to maximize these,” Dy said. He said the ideal would be for each district office of LTO in the region to have five analyzers totaling to 45 analyzers, including the 10 for the regional office. “We expect breath analyzers to arrive in the region between March 16 to 19,” he said. The breath analyzer will be used to test the alcohol level intake of professional (trucks, buses, motorcycles and Public Utility drivers) and non-professional drivers. “Professional drivers should test zero percent for alcohol using the breath analyzer, while non-professional drivers threshold is 0.05 percent

alcohol,” he said. The drug screening test component of the law will be conducted by an attending police officer in the nearest police station. “Our police officials in the region will be also trained because PNP is the lead agency that will assist the LTO under the law,” Dy said. The implementation of the law will start on the last week of March or as late as mid-April. “Originally, we are targeting to implement here the law a week before the Holy Week,” he said. Dy said his personnel will be deployed from 6:00 p.m. to 12 midnight. “(As the regional director,) I have to issue a special order that will allow my men to operate beyond 12 midnight,” he said. “But we assume that police officers will take over the observance of the law starting 1 a.m. to early morning,” he said. Offenders who hold professional driver’s licenses will be meted at least three months imprisonment and fined ranging from a minimum of P20,000 to P500,000.

said. Delima said the new pipe has a higher water holding capacity of 8 percent, enabling the DCWD to reach more clients suffering from limited to no water supply. “It will address the low water pressure in high areas in the central business district of the city,” he said. Delima said the existing water pipe located

in the Governor Generoso bridge is part of the Line 1 supplying water to 45,000 commercial or residential clients from Bangkal to Sasa. The construction of the new pipe bridge has an estimated cost of more than P115 million. It will be constructed by the consortiums of RD Policarpio & Co., Inc., Allado Construction Co., Inc., and TGV Builders, Inc.

attack on the Mati City Provincial Police Office resulted in the deaths of three soldiers. Last Sunday, an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Marilog, Davao City wounded two police officers and one civilian. The NPA apologized to the mayor for the Marilog incident, saying it was an accident. Duterte said he had an agreement with the NPA that the group would not target

nouncement of her father but she replied with a short, “No comment.” Paolo had earlier said he will run for mayor if his father runs for President. He said, however, that he

will respect the will of his father if Sara is chosen as mayoralty candidate of the Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod, the local political party to which the three of the belong. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

to the widest spectrum of the society,” he said in his message to the RDP Roadshow participants, among whom were local government officials of Compostela Valley, local development planners, regional and provincial directors of national line agencies and members of the media Meanwhile, he explained to Comvalenyos the benefits that the Updated RDP can bring to them saying that the strategies and targets set in

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SPORTS 15

LeBron, CavsL sink Mavs EBRON James had game highs of 27 points and eight assists, powering the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 127-94 victory over Dallas, their largest-ever win over the Mavericks. The four-time NBA Most Valuable Player also grabbed seven rebounds Tuesday as the Cavaliers improved to 41-25, second in the Eastern Conference and one game ahead of Chicago for the Central division lead.

Dallas had won five meetings in a row with the Cavaliers and eight of their past nine games against Cleveland. Kyrie Irving scored 22 points for the Cavaliers while Kevin Love added 21 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. J.R. Smith contributed 21 points and Russian big man Timofey Mozgov netted 17 points for Cleveland. Chandler Parsons led the Mavericks with 18 points

while Monta Ellis had 17 and German star Dirk Nowitzki had 13 points. The Mavericks fell to 4125, just ahead of defending champion San Antonio in the fight for sixth in the Western Conference. The Cavaliers next visit San Antonio on Thursday, the first time James will visit the Spurs since last year’s NBA Finals, when he and his then-teammates at Miami lost to the Texas club.

car both against time or part of the grid. “Carmudi Philippines is excited to enter the Philippines racing scene with our partnership with young racer Polo Bautisita. Polo, at 16 years old, has exceptional potential to become one of the top racer’s in the country given his skill, maturity and tenacity to win,” said Subir Lohani country manager of Carmudi Philippines. “We are proud to be able to support young talent in the Philippines racing scene and

to give them support their passion for cars and their drive to succeed in this industry. Racing truly exemplifies the performance aspect of vehicles and Carmudi is excited to take on this challenge of being the number one in the racing and the number one vehicle platform in the Philippines, “adds Lohani. Bautista will drive his 1993 Honda hatchback B16 SIR stock engine. The schedule of the second round is slated on April 18 at the Batangas Racing Circuit (BRC).

Bautista joinsTeam Carmudi to race at FORS

GOLD MEDALIST. Craig Infiesto (left) of Apo Learning Village and a member of the Association for the Advancement of Karatedo (AAK Davao) Davao in action during the boy’s 12 to 13 years old division kumite held last Saturday, March 7 at SM City Davao Annex. Infiesto won his first gold medal. (Photo by Emiliano Bacalla)

Ride for the Eagle wheels off March 22

LL is set for the staging of the 2015 Ride for the Eagle, a fun ride organized for the benefit of captive eagles at the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) which hits the road on March 22. The event, being held by the PEF in partnership with Marco Polo Davao and Globe Telecom, drew a total of over 400 bikers last year. Registration for the race is

P400 inclusive of packed food, souvenir shirt and raffle entry for fabulous prizes, including a mountain bike worth around P20,000 as the major prize. Funds raised from the cycling event will help the PEF’s programs like research and conservation, conservation breeding and education. The conservation center in Malagos, Baguio District, Davao City is home to a total

of 34 endangered Philippine eagles. There will be special awards during the event like the youngest and older rider and biggest delegation. Last year, riders from Tagum City and Panabo City joined the race. Expected to participate in the bikefest are families, friends and ride clubs. The race starts at 6:00 a.m.

USTRALIA have decided to play July’s Davis Cup quarter-final against Kazakhstan on grass in the tropical northern city of Darwin, Tennis Australia said on Wednesday. A purpose built grass stadium court and two practice courts will be built for the July 17-19 tie in the capital city of the Northern Territory, which has its “dry” season in July and August.

“All the boys are really looking forward to heading to Darwin for the quarter-finals,” team coach Wally Masur said in a news release. “It’s been a long time since Australia has had the opportunity to play a home Davis Cup tie in the World Group and I know the people of the Northern Territory will be keen to support the team and spur us all on.

“Being able to play on grass in the middle of the Australian winter is an absolute bonus and will give us our best chance to progress to the semis. I’m sure the atmosphere will be incredible and we promise to put on a good show.” France take on Britain, Argentina face Serbia and Belgium host Canada in the other quarter-final ties.

IXTEEN year old Slalom and Circuit racer champion Patrick Oliver “Polo” Bautista recently joins Team Carmudi to race at the 2015 Flat Out Race Series (FORS). The track day event, which was formally started and named as Circuit Showdown by the late Enzo Pastor, is an eight-leg race series made for the racer by racer which combines Touring car and time attack competition. The event is the only series that runs all race circuits where you can use any

Australia take Davis Cup to lawns of Darwin

HE PBA’s shift to a corporate set up was tipped to me last week by my good friend, Chito Loyzaga, former Ginebra Gin King and now Commissioner of the fledgling Pilipinas Legends basketball league. Chito, he of the barrel-chested forward we all knew, was actually floated as one of the possible replacements to the resigned PBA Commissioner Chito Salud who is bound to step down after the current season. He told me last week during the signing of the MOA between Pilipinas Legends and Davao’s MX3 food supplement brand that he doubted the PBA will fill up the Commissionership soon. “The PBA is taking its

time. Didn’t you notice that all of a sudden it shut down from the issue on the next successor and focused on the restructuring of the league organization?” he said. I noticed that too. But here’s the biggest surprise. Last Tuesday, the PBA announced that Salud has accepted the post as PBA CEO. What? You have a guy resign from his post and then offer him another job of higher rank. Only in the PBA. Look, I have nothing against Commissioner Salud nor the PBA. It is just very strange that things change so abruptly overnight. Of the change of set up

Tale of two leaders LET’S GET IT ON

Neil Bravo

to corporate, the PBA said it is not scripted. By that, the league meant the organic change was a step towards a new direction. It makes us believe that the shift to corporate was an offshoot to the vacancy in the Commissioner’s position and not intended to replace the old position with that of the CEO.

What is surprising is that here’s a man who has resigned from his position but came back to lead the same organization. Under a corporate setup, the PBA just acquired a new leash. But it’s the same dog. This is a given. If a person resigns from his job, he is moving on to another environment. That is the natural course. But to resign and accept the reins of the same organization under the color of a new title baffles me. Anyway, the PBA is the PBA and for whatever it’s worth, the changes it undergoes are made to make the league stronger. A basketball birdie told me that the real reason for Salud’s resignation is the

negative reaction by some members of the PBA community and the uproar at social media to many special treatments afforded to PBA rookie slash world boxing superstar slash Congressman Manny Pacquiao. The latest of which is the stiff penalty it slapped on import Daniel Orton for the negative remarks made against Pacquiao. If that were true, Salud must have done an honorable thing of resigning, an act even the President cannot do after the Mamasapano incident. I praised Salud for the honorable act. I saw him as more principled than PNoy who cannot even make the simple act of owning full responsibility of the

January 25 botched mission. The President blamed it on the SAF chief for making him believe the operations will go fine. In the same breath, Salud was blamed for making us believe that Manny Pacquiao can play in the PBA. The President is in no mood to be remorseful. Salud did not tell us the real reason for initially deciding to leave. In the end, both are staying put in their high chairs. So much for honorable men. Impossible is nothing. Notes: Listen to “Let’s Get It On with Neil Bravo” at 105.9 Balita FM every Saturday 8 am to 10 am. You may write the author at bravoneil@rocketmail.com.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. VOL.77ISSUE ISSUE254 254• THURSDAY, • THURSDAY,MARCH MARCH12, 12,2015 2015

FIERCE. WBO junior welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao is intense in training for his fight with the unbeaten Floyd Mayweather.

ROACH IS BACK After Zou loss, Freddie is back in camp with Manny

By AQUILES Z. ZONIO

ORLD eight-division boxing champion and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao had expressed joy his chief trainer and head coach Freddie Roach is now back in LA to take charge of his daily training regimen. “It’s good that we’re together again in training. Our relationship is special. You know, I’m very excited to train for this fight and I’m glad that Coach Freddie is back,” Pacquiao said in vernacular. Pacquiao looked perked up as he emerged from the Wild Card Boxing gym past 5:00 p.m. Monday. The Pinoy boxing superstar went straight to his favorite Thai Food restaurant nearby to take his early dinner. His meal was composed of fried rice, beef tapa, deep fried chicken wings and mixed seafood-vegetable soup. Outside the Thai restaurant, fans bringing souvenir

items like gloves, t-shirts, caps, jackets, photographs for Pacman’s signature were lining up waiting for their boxing idol to come out. Reporters from various media companies were also swarming around taking almost every opportunity to interview or take video footage of the Pinoy boxing legend. The boxer-lawmaker claimed that Roach had already lined up two sparring partners to help him prepare for the May 2 megabuck fight against Floyd Mayweather, Jr. “My sparring sessions will start next week. Coach Freddie had already hired two tough guys who can help me in my preparation,” Pacquiao bared. The Pinoy ring icon, however, refused to divulge the names of his two sparring mates. “I don’t have their names. But even if I knew them, I will not reveal their identity. They might be offered money

IN THE CAMP. Freddie Roach has lined up two sparmates for Manny Pacquiao.

again,” Pacquiao said laughing. Reports earlier came out that the camp of Mayweather Jr. has offered a much bigger amount to prospective Pacquiao sparring mates. Pacquiao, however, just shrugged off the reports, saying it doesn’t bother him a bit. Roger “Flash” Fernandez, one of Pacquiao’s training aides, told Agence France-Presse (AFP) that Pacquiao spent four rounds on the punch mitts with Roach on Monday. “After the punch mitts, he spent four rounds on shadow boxing; three minutes each on the heavy bag, double-end bag and speed bag; three minutes on the skipping rope and capped it with around 1,000 abdominals,” Fernandez said. Pacquiao’s training at the Wild Card Boxing Gym is off-limits to the media and the public. Only members of Pacquiao’s training team are allowed to get inside.