Edge Davao 7 Issue 36 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

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Serving a seamless society

WORD PRESS FREEDOM EXHIBIT. Mass Communications students from Holy Cross of Davao College clean two old Sony Trinicon Color Camera on display in the three-day World Press Freedom Day exhibit which started yesterday until May 9 at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

PALM OIL PLANT PUSHED Mayor Rody to ask NPA to give way to project in Paquibato By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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AvAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte will ask the New People’s Army (NPA) to make way for the proposed establishment of a palm oil plantation in Paquibato district which he considers beneficial to the local residents, including rebels. Duterte earlier bared that a Malaysian firm expressed interest to pour in investments for palm oil production. The investment could amount to staggering capital and should be a possible catalyst for economic activity in the rebel-infested area. “Makigstorya kong Parago (Leoncio Pitao), ingnon nako na kamo mga taga Paquibato bah magstorya ta pasudlon nato ni – undang una sila’g giyera, ilubong nila ilang armas, ihatag nako sa ila,” Duterte said, referring to the commander of the NPA operating in the area.

He said that if the proposed investment project pushes through, he will make an arrangement with the company that will only hire workers who are residents in the area, “Ihatag nako sa NPA ihatag ninyo kamong – pagsabot mo sa NPA diha. Para walay samok,” Duterte said. Aside from the Malaysian firm, Duterte said that San Miguel Corporation has also expressed interest to invest in the area where it needs at least 1000 hectares. “Di ko mangayog sur-

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PASILUNgAN. Children under the care of “Balay Pasilungan” (BAPAS) gather before the start of a mass celebration during yesterday’s 25th anniversary of the institution in Bankerohan, Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

BANgSAMORO SUPPORTERS.Thousands of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) supporters gather themselves at Rizal Park along San Pedro Street in Davao City on Sunday appealing to Congress to approve the BBL. Lean Daval Jr.

Electrical permit is now required from fire victims By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

ITH their own devastating experience as a great lesson, fire victims in Isla Verde will be allowed to go back and rebuild their ruined houses. But they have to comply with this mandatory requirement: secure electrical permits. “I am hopping na katulad

nito ngayon, aayusin na namin ang Isla Verde that is the only that we require to the people who will go back to the area to see to it that their electrical connections are covered with the necessary permits,” City administrator Jesus Melchor V. Quitain told the reporters yesterday after the flag raising

activity at the City Hall Quitain said that he already ordered the Office of the City Building Official ensure compliance once the residents return to their area. In a meeting with Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC), Quitain said they were told that only few houses have

legitimate electrical connections while the rest tapped their electricity supply from their neighbors. “So, nagkakaroon ng overloading,” Quitain stressed. Quitain said DLPC has asked the help of the local government to stop the illegal tap-

OVeRNMeNT’S weather agency is urging the people to take extreme cau-

tion when staying outdoors in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and Metro Davao this week, fore-

casting there health-threatening scorching heat during the period. In its five-day forecast released Monday (May 5), Staterun weather agency Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the expected maximum heat index in MetroManila can range from 38.7°C on Tuesday and Wednesday (May 7) to 39.3°C on Friday (May 9). PAGASA said the index for Metro Cebu can vary from 37.5°C on Tuesday (May 6) to 38.2°C on Wednesday and Thursday (May 8). Forecast maximum heat index for Metro Davao ranges from 37.7°C on Tuesday to 38.6°C on Wednesday, PAGASA continued. Heat index is also known as the human discomfort index and indicates what a given temperature feels like to the human body, PAGASA said. “Full exposure to sunshine can increase the heat index by 90°C,” noted PAGASA.

PAGASA said it calculates maximum and minimum heat indices using as basis highest and lowest temperature this agency forecast for a day. Citing studies, PAGASA noted heat indices of 32°C to 41°C mean people must already take extreme caution as they’re at risk for possible occurrence of heat cramps and heat exhaustion. People could suffer heat stroke if they continue activities under such condition, PAGASA continued. Heat indices of 41°C to 54°C already signal danger as PAGASA said with such range, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely to occur while heat stroke is probable with continued activity. Among selected cities nationwide this week, PAGASA forecast maximum heat index to be highest in Tuguegarao City, capital of northern Philippines’ Cagayan province. Data show such index can soar to 40.2°C on Wednesday

FELECTRICAL, 10

Public utility drivers urged: Be a Pag-IBIG member By ChENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

uBLIC utility drivers who are set to attend the first ever Public Transportation Week slated on May 7 to May 9 at Rizal Memorial College (RMC) are encouraged to become members of PagIBIG Fund. Grace Camaganacan, assistant manager of Pag-IBIG Fund in Southern Mindanao explained that drivers can become self-employed members by paying the minimum P200 monthly premium. They can then avail of multipurpose

loan or housing loan after 24 months. Members can also avail their new loyalty card program wherein Pag-ibig partnered with various reputable institutions to give discounts and rebates. “We have partner educational institutions that will give tuition fee discounts to Pag-IBIG members,” she said during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex yesterday. Camaganancan said that

PAGASA advises extreme caution against heat PHL readies El Niño G WEATHER FORECAST

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FPUBLIC, 10

contingency plans T

He government has earmarked P1.3 billion for the construction of small-scale irrigation facilities, as it intensifies preparations to cushion the possible effects of the looming el Niño phenomenon especially in the agriculture sector. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., in a Palace media briefing on Monday, said the Department of Agriculture (DA) has increased its investments on the establishment of small water impounding facilities, and rehabilitation and construction of new irrigation systems to help guarantee agricultural water even during the summer season. Coloma said these irrigation facilities aim to benefit

areas where small and poor farmers are located. He said the department is also working closely with the state bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to intensify cloud-seeding operations to induce rain in major watersheds and drought-affected farming communities. Coloma said DA’s Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) has completed 15 trips across the rain-deprived municipalities of Aglipay, Maddela and Nagtipunan and Magat watershed areas in Isabela province. “The DA said these cloud-seeding operations have

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NEWS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

Agricultural output to plungeduetodrought A

HELP FOR DRIVERS. Councilor Leo Avila, together with Pag-ibig Fund Southern Mindanao assistant manager Grace C. Camaganacan, gives the details of the upcoming Public Transportation Week slated on May 7-9 during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Pag-ibig Fund is aiming to help public utility vehicle drivers to avail of the membership program of the agency during the said event. Lean Daval Jr.

Mindanao grid synchro reset By ChENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

He Mindanao Grid synchronization of the105 megawatts (MW) unit 2 of Steag State Power Inc., (SPI) has been reset on May 8 or four days behind its original schedule. In a statement furnished to edge Davao, SPI plant manager Dr. Carsten evers explained that the company needs more time to ensure that the unit is in “excellent condition” before they start commissioning and

synchronizing it to the grid. But he assured that the repair and restoration of the unit is “substantially completed”. “We apologize for this delay and rest assured that we are doing everything we can to bring the units back to the grid,” evers said. It says that SPI is coordinating closely with Department of energy (DOe) and other stakeholders in the

Mindanao power industry to improve the power supply condition in the island which is expected to worsen with the onset of el Niño by June. Reports from the DOe and National Transmission Commission (NTC) revealed that the February 27 Mindanao-wide blackout started when Steag reduced its capacity, making the other power plants to trip down. The power plant went of-

fline after sustaining damage on its turbine-electric generating sets. Its absence in the Mindanao grid contribute to the worsening power situation in the area, causing longer rotating brownouts affecting economic and every day activity in the island. SPI, meanwhile is still targeting to restore unit 1 on or before June 1 which also has 105 MW capacity.

Revilla Jr., mandates Telcos to send free mobile alerts in the event of natural and manmade disasters and calamities. Mobile subscribers will receive the warnings at no cost to the government and the public. Drilon said that the government must employ the most efficient and fastest methods of informing the public on impending calamities, such as tropical storms, tsunamis or earthquakes, hence the use of mobile phone technology. “As the texting capital of the world, we can greatly use the instantaneous, flexible and reliable short message service (SMS) technology as a potent tool during disaster situations - one that is intimately understood and easily accessed by millions of Filipinos who have cellphones,” he said. Drilon cited a Business Monitor International (BMI) study wherein the Philippines is expected to have 117 million mobile subscribers by

2016. under the bill, the alerts

shall consist of updated infor-

Senate approves mobile alert bill T

He Senate passed on third and final reading on Monday a bill that would require the Philippines’ telecommunication companies (Telcos) to send out early warning alerts or other relevant information during times of disasters, as part of the government’s efforts to further improve its national disaster prevention strategy. House Bill No. 353, or the “Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act,” was approved with 20 yes votes. Senate President Franklin Drilon said that once the bill is enacted into law, it would “help create an effective early warning system that will help achieve the main objectives of our national disaster preparedness strategy, which is to lessen the impact of incoming disasters, and ultimately save precious lives and valued property.” The Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act, which was endorsed by the Senate Committee on Public Services chaired by Senator Ramon “Bong”

FSENATE, 10

GRICuLTuRAL output in Davao Region is expected to plunge by 20 percent by the end of the year with the onset of the drought season forecasted to starting this June up to first quarter of next year. Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council (RAFC) chair Armando Angsinco said in a media conference yesterday at the regional office of Department of Agriculture 11 that the supply of water in region’s irrigation system will be adversely affected by el Niño. “Planting season will be delayed especially in rice and corn because these two crops need large volume of water to grow,” Angsinco said. Angsinco explained that 50 hectares of rain-fed rice fields in the mountainous areas in Compostela Valley and Davao del Norte will be severely affected by el Niño due to the absence of irrigation system. “That’s is why we are encouraging farmers to plant

camote, cassava, peanuts and other root crops in case their rice and corn production fail,” he added. However, DA 11 regional director Remelyn R. Recoter said that this is only a small portion of the 53,000 hectares attributed to rice in the region. Large rice producers in the region are in the provinces of Davao del Sur and Davao Oriental which area already properly irrigated. In fact, there is an on-going construction of a big irrigation system in Cateel, Davao Oriental that is expected to be operational next year. She said that 80 percent of the total land area devoted to rice in the region is irrigated although there is still ongoing rehabilitation of irrigation systems hit by typhoon Pablo. In preparation to the long dry season, Recoter said that they are planning to practice cloud seeding in case a need for it arises in areas in Davao region that will be badly hit by

FAgRICULTURAL, 10

3 hostages in ComVal freed T

HRee persons, held hostage by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Compostela Valley, were freed by the rebels Monday. This was disclosed to the Philippines News Agency by Capt. ernest Carolina, 10th Infantry Division spokesman. The three hostages that have been released were from Barangay Mahayahay, he said. Carolina, however, said they are still looking into reports that the NPAs still have with them four hostages, all of

them children, which they took from the nearby mining area. Two of the captives are three-year-olds while the other is a one-year-old, and the last one is a four-week old infant. Last Saturday, rebel forces took hostage around 39 residents from Sitios Tabon and Dasuran, Barangay Panamin and Barangay Mahayahay, Mabini town, Compostela Valley Rebels from the NPA’s “Front 2” and “PBC 6” were reportedly behind this act. [PNA]

EFFECTS. Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) past president Bonifacio Tan discusses during Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao yesterday the effects and the challenges that the business sector is facing amid the current power crisis in Mindanao. Lean Daval Jr.

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014 Internet Photo

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

DOLE taps solar tech to curb power outages I

N a bid to offset the impact of the daily rotational brownouts in its operations and at the same time help promote the use of “green technologies,” the Department of Labor and employment (DOLe) in Region 12 has installed a solar energy system at its regional office compound in Koronadal City. Ofelia Domingo, DOLe Region 12 director, said Monday they initially set up a 300-watt solar power system to provide for their basic energy or power requirements during power outages, which currently reach two to three hours daily. She said the power system comprises several solar panels and a mini generator that is directly connected to the regional office compound’s main line. The 300 watts of power that could be generated from the system is capable of lighting up 20 nine-watt bulbs at the two buildings within the compound, she said. The buildings host the offices of DOLe-12’s regional director and assistant

Tagum CiTy

regional director, internal management service division, technical support services division and the South Cotabato field office, Domingo said. She said the solar power system includes a 220volt inverter that could support a computer unit with Internet access and two electric fans. “We’re planning to expand the system later this year to around 2,000 watts so we can use more office equipment during brownouts,” she told MindaNews. Domingo said they were the first DOLe regional office in the country so far that adopted the system, which costs around P100,000. She said its installation was completed last April 28 or three days before its scheduled formal launching and initial test last May 1. “We’re hoping that this initiative will be replicated in other regional offices and encourage some local companies to give it a try and eventually adopt it,” she said. A statement released

City-wide Bayanihan slated

RuMMING up the call to revive the spirit of volunteerism down to the grassroots level, the local government of Tagum City is spearheading a massive bayanihan across the city which will be participated by all puroks in the 23 barangays here. Set on May 14 this year, the synchronized one-day civic action is focused on cleanliness drive aimed specifically on de-clogging the canals and drainage systems in the purok level, as well as cleaning vital areas in the puroks across the city. This initiative is an offshoot of the “Bayanihan sa Kapurokan” launched last May 3, 2014 at the Tagum City Pavilion thatb was attended by all the purok leaders of the city. The bayanihan that will be focused on drainage-cleaning is an

immediate mitigation response to problems on flooding, especially so that nine barangays in the city was flooded when a torrential rain dumped a month-equivalent of rainfall last April 17. On the part of the local government, the City engineering Office is working on a comprehensive drainage planning and mapping so as to provide a long-term solution to possible flooding in the future. Mayor Allan L. Rellon stressed that the said leaders, them being as frontliners in the grassroots level, have a great role in trumpeting the city government’s advocacy at all fronts. Among this is on matters geared towards disaster resiliency and adaptability and on peace and order. [Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum]

PASS THE LAW. Thousands of residents gathered at the Cotabato City Plaza, on Sunday, May 4, to ask Congress to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law immediately. [MindaNews photo by Ferdinandh B. Cabrera] by DOLe-12 said the installation of the solar energy system is part of the agency’s contribution to climate change mitigation initiatives in the area and

COTABATO CITY

commitment to continually improve on its quality management systems. It is also in compliance with the Green our DOLe Program, an initiative that

seeks to “strengthen the advocacy and readiness of the agency to engage in green issues and mitigation solutions on climate change for better delivery

and quality of programs and services to its stakeholders and customers, including facilitating the creation of green jobs.” [MindaNews]

President Aquino. The proposed law, drafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, is expected to undergo scrutiny by the Senate and House of Representatives and once approved, will be subjected to a plebiscite. ”Our gathering is a democratic process, it was very peaceful and successful,” Benito said. “It simply shows our desire for lasting peace in Mindanao.” The event was organized by MAP, an umbrella organization of peoples and civic organizations working for the attainment of peace in Mindanao during the term of President Aquino. ”No other President have shown so much passion and concern for Bangsamoro people than President Aquino, we would like to take that opportunity

so peace is achieved in our homeland,” he said. Participants of the peaceful rally here came from the towns of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur who have grown tired of armed conflict and never ending displacements. ”We are hopeful the BBL will be ratified on or before 2015, still within the term of President Aquino,” he said. “We are pinning our hope on P-Noy, I hope he will never fail us.” Similar activity was also held in Davao, Zamboanga, General Santos, Pagadian, Isabela, Marawi, Jolo, Tawi-tawi and the towns of Baloi in Davao del Norte, Isulan, Sultan, Kudarat and Pikit, North Cotabato. To show how eager the Bangsamoro people to realize peace in their communities, Benito said a peaceful

mass mobilization and vigil will also be held in Batasan, Quezon City on Sunday night. Supt. Rolen Balquin, Cotabato City police chief, said the rally was peaceful and orderly. He placed the number of participants to about 5,000 people from various places. Solema Abdullah, a 40-year-old mother from Datu Piang, Maguindanao, brought along her three teenage girls to participate in the rally which she described as peaceful and solemn. ”Peace is at hand, we are looking forward for the realization of our long dream of having peace in our communities,” said Abdullah, who fled countless times when war breaks out in her village. [PNA]

Moro people pinning hopes on P-Noy, calls on Congress to pass draft BBL T

HOuSANDS of Moro people Sunday held a peaceful rally here calling on Congress to immediately pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) that will establish the Bangsamoro government. Bobby Benito, chair of the Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP) and rally organizer, said the gathering which was similarly held in other parts of Mindanao calls for the passage of the BBL. The rally was simultaneously held a day before Congress resumes session on Monday. ”We strongly appeal for the passage of the proposed bill expected to be certified as urgent by President Aquino,” Benito told reporters, adding that the Bangsamoro people subscribed to the roadmap for peace of

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

NEDA reiterates need to align programs with updated plan T

He National economic and Development Authority (NeDA) reminded development partners, including multilateral banks, to align their cooperation frameworks and technical assistance in line with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 20112016 Midterm update. NeDA Deputy Director-General Rolando G. Tungpalan made this statement during the Kick-Off Meeting for the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Philippine Country Program Confirmation Mission held at the Astoria Plaza, Pasig City on April 28, 2014. “The updated PDP outlines what is urgent and what needs to be done by 2016. It has an accompanying document, the Results Matrices (RM), which details the outcome indicators in attaining the updated PDP goals. These two instruments are essential for development partners in aligning their operations with our country’s goal of

attaining inclusive growth,” Tungpalan said. Tungpalan said the updated PDP and Revalidated RM are products of extensive multistakeholder consultation and present updated strategies and targets in attaining the overarching goal of inclusive growth half-way into the administration’s term. President Aquino approved the documents last month. The meeting is the start of a series of dialogues between ADB and Philippine government agencies in firming up ADB’s lending and technical assistance pipelines for its Country Operations Business Plan 2015-2017. The strategic priorities of ADB’s assistance in the next three years are employment and income generation, regional development, services (e.g., power, water supply and sanitation), and public sector management and other crosscutting support. Tungpalan said that

ALIgNMENT. National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Deputy Director-General Rolando G. Tungpalan (right) and Mr. Richard Bolt, Asian Development Bank (ADB) Philippines Country Office Director (left) discussed strategic priorities after the Kick-Off Meeting for the Philippine Country Program Confirmation Mission held at the Astoria Plaza, Pasig City on April 28, 2014. The ADB Country Mission aims to ensure the alignment of ADB programs and operations with the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 Midterm Update’s outcomes through discussion and review of government demands and priorities as well as lending and technical assistance pipelines for its Country Operations Business Plan 2015-2017. apart from aligning ADB’s plan with the priorities of the Philippine government, the development partner

should also consider the capability of agencies to implement a program or project under a particular

institutional arrangement. “Alignment is always easy to measure. What we also need to address is the

issue of appropriateness of modality of institutional arrangements, which sometimes gets in the way.

6 THE ECONOMY

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

Local rubber industry now ‘feeling the pinch’ of Mindanao power crisis By DANIEl D. JOAQUIN

he local rubber industry is now among the key sectors severely affected by the ongoing power crisis in Mindanao. Bonifacio Tan, vice president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), yesterday said power outages disrupt the production process in his rubber factory in Makilala, South Cotabato. He said that power interruptions made the costs of labor and production to increase as the factory is forced to reduce working hours due to the rotational brownouts implemented by the local power distributor. With the reduced production output, Tan said he expects that his company’s profit will also plunge, as he pointed out his dilemma in meeting export ob-

ligations to China-based companies. He said that most of his factory’s produce are being exported to China which absorbs around 50 percent of all rubber produced worldwide. In the world’s rubber market scene, Tan said the Philippines is ranked last among rubber-producing countries in Southeast Asia with an annual production of only 80,000 metric tons. With the current slowdown in China’s manufacturing economy, he said the local rubber economy, which is still reeling from the impact of Mindanao power crisis, will be further affected. With the grim scenario, Tan said he expects the farmers to resort to inter-cropping rubber trees with corn to maximize productivity and profitability of farmlands.

Dairy industry players to gather in GenSan for 17th DairyConEx

AIRy industry stakeholders from various parts of the country will gather in General Santos City this week to discuss various challenges and new strategies to further enhance the thriving dairy industry. Juan Lozano, national chair of the Dairy Confederation of the Philippines, said Monday around 400 industry players have so far signified to attend the 17th Dairy Congress and expo (DairyConex), which is slated May 7 to 9 at the Family Country Hotel and Convention Center here. He said the three-day 17th DairyConex will be joined by top government officials as well as foreign dignitaries. They include New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Reuben Levermore, agricultural attaché William Verzani of the united State embassy in Manila’s Foreign Agricultural Service, Dr. Krailas Kiyothong of the department of livestock development of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand and Batangas (4th district) Rep. Mark Llandro Mendoza.

In a statement, Lozano said the 17th DairyConex will be highlighted by presentations of updates on the dairy industry and the National Dairy Authority’s (NDA) dairy upgrading program. The other major topics that will be discussed are new technologies and best practices in calf rearing, feed nutrition and forage, food quality and safety and dairy buffalo production. Several experts will hold presentations on the improvement of dairy products, organic farming, feeding supplementary fats to dairy cattle and Halal certification of milk and milk products. “The 17th DairyConex is geared towards substantially raising the productivity and incomes of dairy farmers, augment the base herd, create new market niches, and accelerate the realization of a self-reliant countryside,” Lozano said. He said the gathering will work to raise the competitiveness of the country’s dairy industry and contribute to the national government’s quest to attain food security and agricultural modernization. [PNA]

FOR HIRE. A laborer carries a basket of vegetables at Bankerohan Market, Davao City. Laborers get at least P20 for every basket that weighs at least 50 kilos. [MindaNews Photo by Keith Bacongco]

Innovative kitchen sink appliance now available at Citi Hardware By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

He Focus Global Incorporated in partnership with Citi Hardware has launched an innovative kitchen sink appliance that will lessen the food waste disposition in the landfills. The InSinkerator food waste disposer was introduced at The Marco Polo Davao to the Davao City households last Friday. During the launching, Chef Jhun Jovero, corpo-

rate chef of Barrio Bistro demonstrated the ease of cleaning up food wastes while preparing the meals and after the meals. The food waste disposer can grind and turn the food wastes such as bones and fibrous fruits into liquid waste. It deals with food wastes hygienically as the waste will be easily disposed rather than those in solid form that could invite more insect that contami-

nate the sinks. The product offers not only a practical and contemporary convenience but also provide an environmental solution to the growing problem of solid waste disposal. There are two models of InSinkerator available in the market, the evolution 200 and evolution 100 which will give more powerful and quiet operation than the other.

Based on their product brochure, these models are built with new technologies that can grind even the most difficult food wastes such as bones and peelings. It states that the safety on using the product would not be a problem since it uses a grinding rings which safer than the blades. The InSinkerator food waste disposers are available in all Citi Hardware branches in Davao City.

The direct flight was previously operated by AirAsia Zest (flight code Z2) and will now be operated by Malaysia AirAsia (flight code AK), AirAsia is the only airline providing direct flights from Kuala Lumpur – Cebu. The 3x weekly direct flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, marking AirAsia’s third

Filipino destination connected with direct flights from Malaysia, apart from Manila and Kalibo (gateway to Boracay Island). Special promotional seats from RM0 base fare with applicable taxes and fees from RM80 one way are available for booking at AirAsia’s website from 5th – 11th May 2014, for the trav-

el period from 24th July 2014 – 30th April 2015. Booking is also available on AirAsia’s mobile apps through iPhone, Android devices, Blackberry10 and the Windows Platform. Search AirAsia on the respective app stores to download and start booking, or visit AirAsia’s mobile site at mobile.airasia.com.

AirAsia re-connects Kuala Lumpur direct to Cebu with 3x weekly flights A

IRASIA will be re-commencing direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Cebu, Philippines with 3x weekly frequency effective 24th July 2014. Promotional seats will be available for booking online at http://www.airasia.com/ from RM0 base fare one way from Monday, 5th May onwards.

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

group joins growing chorus to reduce use, conserve water A

N environmental group promoting zero waste has joined government officials in appealing to all water consumers to cut down on wasteful practices as weather scientists predict the onset of the el Niño phenomenon next month. In a statement released on Monday, the ecoWaste Coalition called upon household, as well as commercial and industrial consumers of water, to carry out measures to reduce consumption and wastage of water, an indispensable but finite resource. Last week, the Department of Science and Technology– Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) announced the potential start of el Niño in June, which could last up to the first quarter of 2015. DOST Secretary Mario Montejo on Labor Day advised concerned agencies “to take precautionary measures to mitigate the potential impacts of this phenomenon.” In response, Senator Loren Legarda, Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. and other government officials have urged the public to brace for el Niño and embark on water conservation programs, including putting up rainwater harvesting facilities. An update from the World Meteorological Organization last April 15 said

“that an el Niño may develop around the middle of the year,” saying that “during el Niño events, the eastward shift of thunderstorm activity from Indonesia into the central Pacific can result in abnormally dry conditions over northern Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines.” “We should not wait for the water levels in Angat, La Mesa and other vital dams to reach super critical levels during the long dry spell before we act to conserve water,” said Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator of ecoWaste Coalition. “Let us demonstrate our resolve to save water by cutting back on non-essential uses and getting rid of wasteful practices,” she stated. As summer temperatures soar, the ecoWaste Coalition released some water conservation ideas to help consumers reduce their water use all-year round, while it requested commercial and industrial users to invest on vital water use reduction initiatives such as waterless urinals and/or support the establishment of rainwater catchment basins or ponds in the communities. 1. Check pipes, faucets, showerheads, hoses, toilet and water tanks for leaks and have them fixed at once. Replace worn out sapatilya (washers) without delay. 2. Don‘t let the water run while you brush your teeth. Wet your toothbrush

and fill a glass for mouth rinsing. 3. When washing your face or hands, turn the water off while you lather. 4. Take shorter showers and use just enough water. Turn off the water while you shampoo your hair or soap your body. 5. Reuse towels a few times before putting them on the laundry basket. 6. Place a bottle filled with stones or water inside the toilet tank to reduce the amount of water in every flush. 7. Place used tissues in the bin rather than in the toilet bowl, and avoid flushing the toilet needlessly, 8. Keep a bucket in the bathroom and laundry area for the grey water that can be used to flush the toilet, clean the laundry area and car port or dampen dusty road. 9. Organize your laundry schedule and wait until you have a full load before using the washing machine. Match the water level to the size of the load. 10. use laundry water for cleaning used bottles, cans and other recyclables, blinds, rugs, doormats, and car wheels. 11. Collect water dripping from air conditioners and use it in washing mops, watering the plants or flushing the toilet. 12. Do not hose down your driveway or footpath. use the walis tingting (broomstick) to sweep the place clean. 13. Wash fruits and

vegetables in a palanggana (pan) instead of running water from the tap; reuse the water for watering the plants. 14. Do not throw hugas-bigas (rice wash) down the drain; use it for washing dishes or watering plants. 15. Thaw frozen meat in the refrigerator overnight, not on running water. 16. use fewer cooking and dining utensils and dishes to cut down on the water needed for dishwashing. 17. Do not let the wa-

ter run when washing the dishes, fill one basin with wash water and the other with rinse water, and do collect the grey water for other purposes. 18. Pick the proper pan and pot size for cooking as bigger ones may need more cooking water than necessary. 19. Do not scrape pans and pots in running water; soak them first to reduce water use. 20. Never waste water served during meals; drink it up! 21. Harvest rainwater through the spout and use

it for your essential needs. 22. Water the plants after 5:00 p.m. when temperature is cooler to minimize evaporation and water them only when necessary. 23. Leave grass clippings on the lawn as this cools the ground and holds in moisture. 24. Spread a layer of mulch around plants and trees to retain water and reduce evaporation. 25. Reward household members, especially the kids, for conserving water and for reducing the water bill. [PNA]

DENR 12 intensifies ‘greening’activities

He Department of environment and Natural Resources (DeNR) in Region 12 has stepped up its tree planting activities in a bid to achieve its target of planting around three million trees this year under the national government’s flagship National Greening Program (NGP). Datu Tungko Saikol, DeNR Region 12 director, said Monday the implementation of the program is currently ongoing in parts of the

region’s four provinces and five cities that they have identified as priority sites for the program this year. Region 12, which is also known as the Soccsksargen Region, comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. “We have forged partnerships with different sectors to fa-

cilitate our ongoing expansion in forest areas that need rehabilitation,” Saikol said in a press conference in Koronadal City. By the end of the year, the official said they are targeting to cover around 25,000 hectares in the region for the NGP. To achieve such target, he said they have linked up with local government units, non-government organizations, peoples and community groups to assist with its imple-

mentation. He said their collaboration covers the preparation of the planting sites, tree planting as well as the monitoring of the sites and the planted trees. The joint or collaborative efforts have resulted to the high survival rate of trees planted in the region under the NGP, he said. Based on an earlier evaluation conducted by the DeNR central office, Saikol said the region achieved a survival rate of 84 percent

for trees planted in 2011 and 2012. He said such rate was the highest so far among the country’s 17 regions. Saikol also urged anew the public to do their part in helping achieve a “greener Region” as a strategy to mitigate the foreseen negative effects of climate change in the area. “We need to stop blaming the government for its inadequacies and start making our own moves to

combat the effects of climate change,” he said. NGP, which is based on executive Order 26 issued by President Benigno S. Aquino III, is a nationwide reforestation project that aims to plant 1.5 billion trees in 1.5 million hectares from 2011 to 2016 for poverty reduction, food security, livelihood development, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. [PNA]

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

Investigate them

ORMeR Senator edgardo Angara and former Palawan Rep. Abraham Mitra are in spotlight due to their alleged involvement in the failed multi-billion peso in Agricultural Competitiveness enhancement Fund (Acef). The fund amounting to P6 billion is reportedly the extension of the Acef first established during the Ramos administration to prepare the country’s agricultural sector for the integration of the southeast Asian market in 2015. The funds were allegedly stolen by dummy companies acting on behalf of lawmakers. Both Angara and Mitra have reportedly denied involvement in a scam, with Angara urging government to conduct an investigation into the anomaly. A Philippine Daily Inquirer report claimed that the two lawmakers allegedly channeled a combined amount of P410.27 million in Acef fund for grants

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in no-interest, no-collateral loans for their provinces. The Acef was put up in 1996 after the country joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) as a safety net for farmers and fishermen to be affected by the trade liberalization policies of the government. The sordid tale is again sullying the reputation of both Houses in Congress whose foundation has been rocked recently by the P10-billion pork barrel scam. Take note that like Juan Ponce enrile, Angara is a former president of the Senate. In fairness to Angara, Mitra, other personalities whose names have been mentioned in the alleged scam and the Filipino taxpayers, especially, the Aquino government should now initiate an investigation into the case, prosecute the guilty and clear the innocent.

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

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

Back to candle power

OVeRNMeNT LIKeWISe IS GROPING IN THe DARK – There was public outcry over the way government handles the country’s pathetic power supply situation. In most instances government is not registering a bite in its dealings notably with the deteriorating energy situation, and does not always develop picture-perfectly. Many plans of the government for the energy sector suffered setbacks since the time of the late President Cory Aquino. Present and past administrations likewise failed to pull off substantial deals that would have given the opportunity to solve the power deficiency problem. In dealing with the continuous power outages government doesn’t have to stumble upon opportunities. It has to look for areas where per-capita electricity consumption is low. Coal is cheaper and abundant therefore it has to switch its focus on coal-fired power plants while upgrading at the same time the existing geothermal and hydro-power generating stations. Moreover, government should work not only on short-term contingency measures such as intensifying its effort to cushion the impact of the inevitable power supply problem only during the long dry spell where stock is thin and scarce. It should work on long-term plans aimed at building a grid that will allow the country to maintain a steady and abundant supply of electricity. The entire country badly needs sufficient and stable power reserve. And government knows just the independent power producers (IPPs) who are obligated to supply power to private distributors through a take-for-pay contract but are not producing enough. The public perception was that government has a fantastic power purchase agreement with the IPPs, but it lacks the will to compel the latter to strictly follow the contract to the letter. Like its predecessors the Aquino adminis-

tration doesn’t seem to be able to nudge the energy crisis much higher. The consensus is that the deplorable power supply situation is only going get worse while the present dispensation remains groping in the dark looking and proposing for alternative supply network. In the meantime, the aghast and disgusted consuming public had to contend with the worsening situation by going back to candle power. THeRe IS eVIDeNT OF A CONTINuING PROGReSS – For Davao City’s confident entrepreneurs the competition is stiff, but there are rewards. The influx of Manila-based capitalists with a dash of foreign investors is a sign of confidence of the business climate in the city. Despite the arduous business competition that resulted in the increase of property prices, which have almost tripled, there is evident progress. Investors are keeping up with the trend as commercial establishments, and of course, guest houses and high-concept hotels are being built to accommodate business locators and frequent travelers alike. Not a few optimistic entrepreneurs are getting a toehold and probably think that Davao City is a great place to make money – “the perfect location for business.” The basic institutions are firmly in place and in some ways business is brisk even with the peso showing a bit of slowing down against the uS dollar. Being an entrepreneur based in the city may be among the most reassuring jobs in business today. As Dabawenyos and people in adjacent provinces have begun to earn more and spend

far more money than ever, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, entertainment joints, hardware and appliance stores, car exchange and other line of business are proving to be “highly lucrative.” The clearest sign of progress can be felt both in the southern and northern parts of the city. In the northern part for example, the private sector is really booming with infrastructure development - several high-end hotels, condominium units and commercial establishments. With its seaports strategically located and proximity to industrial zones in nearby areas, government-controlled Sasa wharf is rapidly re-establishing itself as a major entry port at the mouth of Davao Gulf. As of late, property prices according to a series of reports have tripled or maybe even quadrupled in some prime locations throughout the city. But amid the high prices of prime properties, Manila-based and some foreign investors setting up operations in the city are among the risk takers who are riding the wave to get the economy moving. Amid the tough competition are hard-nosed business smarts, say those who are already here. Perhaps other capitalists will follow the trend if there is good business in Davao City and huge contracts to be done. The entrepreneurs on the ground say the know-how they have developed through the difficult months will give them a hugely valuable edge over latecomers. Furthermore, city officials still expect that more new capitalists with business contracts to flood the city, and probably those with existing sub-contracting deals and other spending. All of which prove their point: for the confident and stouthearted, Davao City is a great place to invest and make money. The city promises to be a gold mine for the busy and assertive entrepreneurs. But to make money and make your business grow, first you have to be highly competitive.

How inactive SSS members can still reactivate their account

eOPLe make investments or “savings” for their future through lots of ways – with a common view- “to have something to use in times of need” or have a secured feeling that after years of hard work, they have something to rely on during tough times. Some save through coin bank, others by depositing their money in the banks while some invest on stock markets. Others buy pension or life plan from some pre-need institutions especially those who are neither government employee nor employed in a private company remitting SSS contribution. Since these people are not covered by the benefits provided for government employees through coverage from Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) as a form of insurance or security if something happens to them they most likely save for their future by securing a pension or life plan from Pre-Need companies. However, sometimes, the failure to remit on time the premium for the said insurance plan causes lapse of payment when it remains unpaid, or if the plan holder failed to file reinstatement plan for a certain period of time leading to termination of the plan. This happens when a person either loses or is terminated from his job especially those employed only for a specific period of time or those under job order contract positions. Good for “lucky ones” if they were able to land a job right away and able to file for reinstatement, which means their pre-need plans will be active again and in case something hap-

SPECIAl FEATURE By leilani S. Junio pens to them, they are secured and their love ones they leave behind will have “lesser worries” as they have a pension they can depend on for their future needs. But for those who have not secured a stable job thereafter, they are left with no choice but to give up the insurance plan and prioritize their daily needs instead of trying to reinstate it again especially if there is lack of budget. “This is how membership from Social Security System (SSS) differs,” said Maria Cecilia F. Mercado, SSS QC branch senior communication analyst. Mercado said that once an individual becomes a member of SSS, the person is a lifetime member and in case he fails to pay his monthly contribution on time or become an inactive member, he can always become an active member again by just paying the present required monthly premium. “What so good with SSS is it is a kind of security protection that a member can pay anytime, especially the voluntary members or self-employed who had lost their jobs or resigned from their previous job or has no employers that will remit their monthly contribution,” Mercado explained. She added that paying SSS contribution will not require the member to pay the past unpaid monthly contribution but just the current

month when they decide to activate again their membership. “This means that for those inactive members who failed to continue paying their contribution have chances to still enjoy the benefits provided for active SSS members by just paying their monthly contribution based on their current monthly income,” she added. She added it is never too late to be an SSS member as anyone can be an active member like the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), domestic helpers (Kasambahay), voluntary members (those who have their business or self-employed) and even the informal sectors like garbage pickers, market vendors, tricycle and jeepney drivers , prisoners or those engage themselves in job-earning activities where they earn a sum of money and set aside a P330 portion of it as regular monthly contribution . She also added that active members who pay regular contribution will give them chance to enjoy the privilege and services provided for SSS members. “Regular payment of contributions will entitle them to security benefits such as sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, death and even funeral grant,” she pointed out. Aside from these there are loan programs like salary loan, educational assistance loan program, housing loan, social development loan facility , business development loan facility and Access of Small enterprises to Sound Lending Opportunities (ASeNSO) that were designed by SSS for its members. [PNA]

VANTAGE POINTS

The folly of supporting misleaders WORM’S EYEVIEW By Manny ValdehueSa

Part 1 of 2

RADITIONAL politicians who will not willingly step down to give others a chance to enter the public service are not true leaders. They are misleaders, greedily hanging on to public office, aiming to keep their monopoly on power and privilege. So are political dynasties in their insistent hold on public office. If they were true leaders, our society would have the benefit of statesmen on all levels, all eager to push development and progress even if they’re not in office, and all supportive of good democratic governance. unfortunately there is a dearth of such leaders. The continued worsening of our society’s problems are clear indicators of their absence. Look around and note how long years of abuse by trapos and hypocritical misleaders have devastated our sense of values, bastardized governance, and trivialized the public service. Because we allowed our politicos to use money as a substitute for competence or integrity, our level of development remains in the category of underdeveloped, or Third World. They misled us! What hurts is, it isn’t even their money that is used to mislead us; it is money extracted from our pockets, passed around as pork, then diverted into their pockets. Many if not all of our so-called representatives and senators seem to view legislative work as unnecessary or redundant, preferring pork and its variations. Then in the misguided, badly motivated state of our masses, they reward hypocrisy, artifice, and superficiality with high office and privilege. Naturally, the latter are encouraged not to serve but to enjoy their tenure at public expense with gusto and relish. Watch them parade in their finery; note how a do-nothing, say-nothing Lito Lapid puffs up just by being addressed as “The Honorable Senator.” What’s so honorable about him? Or watch the always acting Bong Revilla: who seems always out on location for a B-Grade film set in medieval times. He tries his best to look like a senator when not on location or when shedding crocodile tears complaining of being unfairly tagged as a pork barrel thief. Honorable? There’s the spoiled brat Mikey Arroyo and his brother Dato who gatecrashed Congress for the pork. Between them and their mother, they made more than P21 million per year in entitlements in their heyday, becoming bigger millionaires by the year! Honorable? Then there’s a half-literate pugilist who buys himself a congressional seat which he can’t even occupy from being absent most of the time. The Pacman’s idea of lawmaking is hitting the air while sparring in boxing gyms. With such low standards for our politicos, it’s no surprise that even the Pacman’s wife thinks she can run a province with nothing but a marriage certificate to show.

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

Palm...FFROM 1 render… undangon nato ang gyera, pasudla ang kwarta, pasudla ang mga Malaysians og ang San Miguel,” he said. Duterte, however, urged the NPA not to impose revolutionary tax to the investors. “Kana lang kamoy motrabaho, inyo tanan ang trabaho ninyo hasta ang ilang planta inyo na didto man na siya galingon kuhaon na ang oil. Di mi manghilabot ayaw lang ng taxation – di man gyud – kinsa

may mo sugot ana,” Duterte emphasized. Duterte said he will also request President Benigno S. Aquino III and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff to consider his proposed arrangement. “Hangyo ko kang Presidente and military na dili na sila hilabtan taguan lang ang armas ilubong ninyo suwayi daw ninyo ang naay sweldo,” he said.

ping of electricity to avoid another fire incident in the area. “Otherwise, walang katapusan ang mga sunog sa lugar na yan,” Quitain stressed. Last Saturday, the Rizal elementary School which serves as one of the temporary shelter areas for the fire victims got conflagrated. City Social Service and Development Office (CSSDO) head Malou Bermudo said

the Bureau of Fire Protection attributed the cause of fire to electrical wirings. She said that although there are no reports of casualties, around 300 food packs from Department of Social Welfare and Development were burned. The incident burned the three classrooms of the school. each classrooms accommodates up to seven families.

Electrical...FFROM 2

POWER CRISIS TALK. Mindanao Business Council (MBC) chairman Vicente Lao blames the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 or better known as the Epira Law for the current power crisis in Mindanao during this week’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at the Annex of SM City Davao. Lao also believed that two years is needed to resolve this perennial energy problem that is affecting the business sector greatly. Lean Daval Jr.

Young Filipinos urged to register PAgASA... A

N official of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is urging the people, especially first-time voters, to go out and register as the nationwide voter’s registration is set to start on Tuesday. Fr. Kunegundo Garganta, executive secretary of the CBCP-episcopal Commission on youth (eCy), reminded that it is part of the people’s right to vote or participate in electoral

exercises. “To our dear young people, the Constitution recognizes the right to suffrage of every people of age. The least requirement is to register as a voter…” he said. He asked them to exercise their right as a citizen of the country to participate in the elections. “Do not fail our country. It is a noble duty to select leaders from among the many. exer-

Agricultural...FFROM 3

cise your right. The Church is also calling on to you. Register and be part of bringing positive change to our country and our people,” Garganta said. Meanwhile, a Churchbased election watchdog also called on the people to prioritize the upcoming registration, to register and have their biometrics data taken. Henrietta de Villa, chairperson of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting

(PPCRV), also reminded the voters to register early and don’t wait for the last days of registration. “To Filipino voters: register early, don’t wait for the last days. For those who are already registered, make it your priority to check your registration status, especially check if you have your biometrics taken already. Without biometrics, you can’t vote in 2016,” she said. [PNA]

el Niño. “We already informed provincial agriculture office to send their letter of intent if they want to avail the cloud seeding operation,” she said.

She said that it will be the Bureau of Soil and Water Management (BSWM) which will undertake the operation. Angsinco also said that the drought season will affect

the production of fish cultured in inland ponds. “We already see reports of fish ponds drying in Luzon and that can happen here once the temperature goes

up,” he said. He reminded the public that climate is unpredictable anymore compared before when el Niño only hit the country every 10 years. [CRC]

most jeepney and other public utility drivers in the city are not Pag-IBIG Fund members. “Most members are taxi drivers because they already have groups (like cooperatives) that encourage them to become member of Pag-ibig, “she said. Most of the drivers register and pay individually. under the Republic Act 9697 or Home Development Mutual Fund Law of 2009, she said that since the implemen-

tation in 2010, all drivers are required to avail the membership. Councilor Leonardo Avila III, chair on the committee on transportation, yesterday said being a Pag-IBIG Fund member offers a lot of opportunity for drivers to avail of various government services especially housing loan. “The common problem among our local drivers is the lack of house,” he said.

Aside from Pag-IBIG Fund, other agencies that will be present in the three day event are Social Security Services (SSS), PhilHealth Insurance, Technical education and Skills Development Agency (TeSDA), Department of Labor and employment (DOLe). Officials from Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) will also brief the drivers on the importance of having an organized group like coopera-

tives. The activity is organized to raise public awareness and promote government social services in public transport community.

prevented damage on some 4,155 hectares of corn farms across the province, of which 3,490 hectares are in reproductive stage and 665 hectares in the vegetative stage,” he said. Apart from cloud-seeding operations, Coloma said the country has prepared other interventions, such as the provision of shallow tube wells and drought-tolerant crop varieties to farmers in any part of the country that will be affected by dry spell episodes. “The government is tak-

ing concerted action to ensure food security for our citizens and to mitigate the possible effects of the projected onset of the el Niño weather phenomenon in the country,” he noted. Further, Coloma said that aside from contingency measures for the agriculture sector, the Department of energy (DOe) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) are working to ensure stable power supply and commodity prices. As it appealed to the public

to save water and electricity, Coloma said government officials and employees are involved in conservation efforts. “Kailangan po iyong pairalin natin iyong diwa ng bayanihan. Ang gagawin po natin sa ating kani-kaniyang sambahayan at komunidad ay malaki ang maiaambag sa pambansang pagkilos. (We need to promote bayanihan. What we can do in our households and communities have big contributions to national action),” he further said. [PNA]

Public...FFROM 2

PHL... FFROM 2

FFROM 2

and 40.1°C on Friday, exceeding this week’s indices for Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and Metro Davao. PAGASA noted that to protect health, people must stay indoors as much as possible, particularly on the lowest floor and out of sunshine if air conditioning isn’t available. “Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing as light

colors reflect the sun’s energy,” PAGASA also urged people. eating small meals and regularly drinking water to keep the body cool are likewise among ways to help beat the heat, PAGASA said. “Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies -- avoid drinking liquor because it dehydrates the body,” PAGASA added. [PNA]

mation from relevant agencies working on disaster management and shall be transmitted directly to the mobile phone subscribers located near and within the affected areas. Meanwhile, the Senate also passed House Bill No. 3187, a bill granting franchise to the Cotabato Light and Power Company to operate and maintain the distribution system for electric power to Cotabato City and other towns of Sultan Kudarat province and Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao province. The bill was also sponsored by Revilla.

Drilon said that the Senate’s approval of the franchise is “part of the government’s continuing efforts to secure stable and sustainable source of power for citizens in parts of Mindanao, long troubled by power outages and other similar issues.” “We are hoping that the Cotabato Light and Power Company can adequately serve the needs of those living in the area. We will be monitoring their progress, so that the electrical requirements of the people of Mindanao can be adequately and sufficiently met,” he said. [PNA]

Senate...

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EDGEDAVAO

ICT HUB

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

Mid-summer’s top free games CHIll JIll

Athena Jillian Bravo

AMeRS do switch quickly especially during summer where there are more gaming hours. So, what’s hot in March is not that hot by mid-summer. Now, let’s see what the gamers into as boredom-killer this mid-summer. 1. Candy Crush Saga This one’s a toughie, an exception to the rule. We expect this game to be the Top 1 since nothing has come close to it in terms of game addiction. Candy Crush Saga continues to give fun and enjoyment this summer not just to the kids or teenagers but also to their parents and grandparents. yes, grandparents because I have seen some old folks playing while on a jeepney. Imagine how influential this game is. 2. 2048 Number puzzle game This one’s a newbie, coming out only last week in the market but it went up to

Top 2 with a blink of an eye. If you’re wondering why this game is very trending then let me tell you this. It’s been so long since Android have something to cater to their customers that won’t make them think or look dumb for months. After those flappy games, here comes something that will at least twist their minds. It’s a puzzle game where you need to use your intelligence in math here. you need to swipe and add your numbers carefully to be able to come up with a 2048 in just one tile. It’s just addition were talking about here no to X or y algebra thing. 3. Pou People loves taking good care about things and maybe one of them is Pou. Now Pou has reached more than 100 million downloads and about 4 million high ratings just because he or she is so cute and cuddly. People love potatoes anyway but if it’s the bitter ampalaya no one will ever play this game. 4. Zombie Tsunami Never goes out of trend. It now has more than 10 million downloads and almost a million high ratings. People loves zombie even if they scare people or eat their brains and family members. They just look fu to watch with their

awkward walk and sound I guess. 5. Subway Surfers Can you believe it this game finally went up to top 5 from 6 which means a lot of gamers are putting much of their time playing games at home. It now h a s more than 100 million

downloads and almost 7 million high ratings. Top notch! 6. Temple Run 2 everyone loves to chase for the Idol even if a lot of games are created similar as this. Well, if I were to choose I would rather play this game than all those other versions who doesn’t have any

uniqueness at all.

7. hill Climb Racing Surprisingly, this game is still at the top rank up until this mid-summer. See? People would go for some adventure hill climbing than guiding some bird pass through tunnels. 8. 4 Pics 1 word

W e expect this game to be still here. Now we know what the gamers are looking for. They want something that will twist their brain or at least make them use it. Well, its summer time and they have much of theirs to use it

in games like this. 9. Powerboat racing 3D Now here’s something that has the summer splash! Race with your hydroplane powerboat in the ultimate test and crush your friends in the multiplayer mode. yes, you heard that right. you won’t get bored playing this game alone because you can play with someone at the same time just like how you do it in your Play Station. 10. Wordworm Adventure Last on top of the list is a vocabulary game. I remember playing a game like this with my dad every summer. If you can still remember Bookworm, this game is more like it. It now has more than a hundred thousand downloads in less than a month. Cool huh. People still love to play games like this. There goes your Top Android Games for your colorful summerbreak, and with a few weeks left, let’s see how the rankings move next week.

ADDU represents Mindanao in Pioneer video competition By AThENA JIllIAN BRAvO

N entry from Ateneo de Davao university made it to the Top 15 in the nationwide Pioneer Insurance Video Competition. Directed by Anju De Vera, the ADDu entry was chosen one of the nominees from more than 50 universities nationwide in a video-making competition sponsored by leading insurance firm. The ADDu videomakers are the only entry coming from the Visayas and Mindanao area. The video is entitled “My Friends Who Ran” which is directed by the talented young filmmaker. The cast was composed of Dennis Jabilles III, Maura Mae Vigilia and Mike Cedric espino all coming from the Humanities and Letters department. The story is all about a

teenage boy who was left by his friends who planned to study in the city. He learned to run alone but not for long. The production team hopes to get all the support they have not only

from their school but also all over Mindanao. “We are very proud to represent our school and Mindanao in this video competition. I would like to ask everyone to support and vote for

our entry “ De Vera said. De Vera also added that they are not asking the people’s vote for popularity. They only wish to bring joy and lesson to their supporters most especially to those who give importance to friendship. For decades now, Pioneer has been serving the Filipino as an insurance company and a friend who is always ready to back you up when the unexpected happens. To celebrate their 60th year in the industry, Pioneer launched their first-ever video competition, “Stories of Friendship.” Viewing and votation online for “My Friends Who Ran” is found in https://apps.facebook.com/video_pioneer/gallery.php?request_ids&id.

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INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

Chic and stylish seaside dining at Phuket

Located on the east coast of Phuket, far and away from the hustle and bustle of Patong, Karon and Kata beaches, Kan eang@ Pier is a laid-back restaurant and night spot with a spectacular panoramic view of scenic chalong Bay. Roughly translated, “kan eang” means “easygoing” and that is what the stylishly designed restaurant is all about. Its 200 meter-long outdoor terrance invites guests to

Kan Eang@Pier’s main entrance.

hang out alfresco to enjoy the sea breeze while sitting under the restaurants age old tamarind trees. I loved exploring every quiet nook and crany of the place, and as sunset ap- proaches, Kan eang@Pier takes on a magical feel. The food at Kan eang@ Pier is classic chineseThai with emphasis on fresh seafood with the fish usually harvested around the area. The dinner that was hosted by the tourism authority of Thailand consisted of Steamed Garupa, crispy crab cake, as well as the regional favourite, Nam Prick or spicy papaya salad. and as the evening The stylish bar. whiled away, I sat back with my mojito in hand, relishing the laid-back easy-going vibe of what could be one of Phuket’s most stylish seaside dining experience. Follow me on Instagram or on Twitter @kennethkingong for more travel stories, foodie finds, and happenings in, around One of the many pathways and beyond Durianburg. around the restaurant.

Gardens and ponds dot the area.

Enjoying the views of Chalong Bay at Ken Eang@Pier.

A2 INdulge! UP AND ABOUT

AirAsia re-connects Kuala Lumpur direct to Cebu 3x weekly AiRAsiA will be re-commencing direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Cebu, Philippines with 3x weekly frequency effective 24th July 2014. Promotional seats will be available for booking online at www.airasia.com from RM0 base fare one way from Monday, 5th May onwards. The direct flight was previously operated by AirAsia Zest (flight code Z2) and will now be operated by Malaysia AirAsia (flight code AK), AirAsia is the only airline providing direct flights from Kuala Lumpur – Cebu. The 3x weekly direct flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday and saturday, marking AirAsia’s third Filipino destination connected with direct flights from Malaysia, apart from Manila and Kalibo (gateway to Boracay island). special promotional seats from RM0 base fare with applicable taxes and fees from RM80 one way are available for booking at AirAsia’s website from 5th – 11th May 2014, for the travel period from 24th July 2014 – 30th April 2015. Booking is also available on AirAsia’s mobile apps through iPhone, Android devices, Blackberry10 and the Windows Platform. search AirAsia on the respective app stores to download and start booking, or visit AirAsia’s mobile site at mobile.airasia.com. spencer Lee, Head of Commercial of AirAsia Berhad commented, “As a truly low cost airline, AirAsia is committed towards our tagline, ‘Now Everyone Can Fly’ and connecting communities in the region. We have created new markets for various destinations that we serve, and Cebu will be no different as it is the gateway to many adventure activities and enables visitors to delve into the history & culture of Philippines. We are proud to continue to operate this route as part of our extensive list of exciting destinations.” Cebu, Philippines is dubbed as the Queen City of the south and has much to offer for all types of visitors. Diving enthusiasts will find Cebu the next best destination with Malapascua islands in the north, Mactan island close to Cebu city off the east coast, Moalboal off the west and sumilon in the south with wrecks, colourful corals and extensive marine life to discover. The city also offers many adrenaline-packed activities such as viewing the city skyline from 38 floors above with the sky Walk Extreme, where you can walk around on a translucent glass flooring on the edge of the Crown Regency Hotel & Towers with an overhead safety harness at the main outer rim of the building; Edge Coaster, the world’s very first and only amusement ride of its kind with ride around the building while strapped into a rail seat. Apart from that, Cebu is also home to many wonders of nature like Kawasan Falls – with beautiful crystal clear and cool waters for the whole family to relax in; as well as the nearby island of Bohol which will enable visitors to experience the scenic geographical landscape of Chocolate Hills, Bohol’s most famous tourist attraction. AirAsia is also having special promotional fares from Kuala Lumpur – Manila, as well as Kota Kinabalu – Manila with all-in-fares from as low as RM162 one way, with the same booking period from 5th – 11th May and guests will be able to travel immediately until 3rd August 2014.

PAL celebrates Pope John Paul II sainthood As Papal carrier during Pope John Paul ii’s 1981 and 1995 Philippine visits, Philippine Airlines joined all Filipino Catholics in celebrating the recent canonization of the well-loved Pontiff by way of a memorabilia & photo exhibit currently on display at the international pre-departure area of the NAiA Terminal 2. Photo shows Rev. Fr. Modesto Teston, parish priest of Our Lady of the Airways, blessing the exhibit during its April 25 formal opening.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

EVENT

Jollibee launches JKC Happy Plus card with fun-filled party

By Kenneth Irving Ong JoLLIBee recently launched their Jollibee Kids club (JKc) Happy Plus card last april 13 at the SMX convention center davao at SM Lanang Premier with a fabulous party for all Jollibee Kids club members, their families, as well as members of the press. Fun and free activities were set up for JKc members to enjoy the afternoon off such as a story reading, a bookmark-making, cupcake decorating, face painting, and even video games and a cotton candy-making booth. entertainment for the afternoon was courtesy of members of the Jolly Kids club, which happens to be the biggest nationwide club for kids at over 440,000 members strong, who did a dance presentation together with Jollibee himself. aside from getting the usual perks, JKc members now have their own exclusive JKc Happy Plus card, the first ever electronic wallet and rewards earning membership card for kids, which allows for the earning of points and freebies. The card which can be purchased for Php100 at select Jollibee stores also entitles the bearer to a 3-year Jollibee Kids club membership as well as coupons and discounts at Jollibee, Greenwich, chowking and Red Ribbon. Members also get a chance to win gift certificates as well as Php100,000 in the monthly raffle. The afternoon ended with the Jollibee gang and

their special dance presentation, much to the joy and approval of the audience. The Jollibee Kids club will also have their Grand Bee Family Picnic on May 10, 2pm at the crocodile Park. The event will features special family bonding activities as well as musical performances by Imago as well as other celebrity performers. tickets are available for only Php150 with any food purchase and comes with a set of Jollibee picnic meal good for one which will be distributed on the day itself. For more details, visit www.jollibee. com.ph.

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ENTERTAiNMENT

Ben Affleck banned from blackjack at Las Vegas’ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

THE Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas was apparently keeping a close eye on the forthcoming “Batman” star, Ben Afleck, during his recent trip to sin City, because the high roller was ultimately asked to stop playing blackjack. Well, Affleck certainly isn’t an amateur. One of those modern-day classic celebrity stories, it was widely reported back in 2001, during his wilder premarital days, that he won $800,000 playing blackjack at the Hard Rock. Affleck was in Vegas on a couple’s trip with wife Jennifer garner for a quick ro-

mantic getaway before he starts shooting the Batmansuperman movie in Detroit.

He was not booted from the casino, but security did tell him, “You are too good

at the game,” said a source. The source says that the hotel continued to treat the Oscar winner like a ViP even after he was cut off from blackjack. He was told that he could play other games, and then they arranged for a car to take Affleck and garner back to their hotel. Card counting isn’t illegal — but is frowned upon by every casino. The betting tactic involves adding card values to decide when — and when not — to place big wagers. The practice becomes illegal if a device is involved or signs or signals are used between players.

ABs-CBn and Charo santos-Concio win gold in Asia-Pacific stevie Awards ABs-CBN and its president and CEO Charo santos-Concio were hailed as the gold stevie Award winners in the services Company of the Year and Woman of the Year categories for the Philippines at the prestigious Asia-Pacific stevie Awards. ABs-CBN is one of the only two Philippine companies to receive a gold stevie Award this year. More than 300 nominations from organizations across the Asia-Pacific region were considered in 18 categories. The Asia-Pacific stevie Awards are the first business awards program to recognize achievement in business in all 22 nations of the Asia-Pacific region. They are the newest of the stevie Awards programs, which

are widely considered to be the world’s premier business awards, conferring recognition for achievement in the workplace in programs such as The international Business Awards for more than a decade. The award-giving body recognized ABs-CBN’s business achievements in the past year, most especially its efforts to provide public service to Filipinos by launching the “Tulong Na, Tabang Na, Tayo Na” campaign that included initiatives such as the selling of Tulong shirts and the star-studded Tulong fund-raising concerts to help the victims of typhoon Yolanda, and conducting relief and rehabilitation efforts for the victims of typhoon Pablo, Zamboanga crisis, and

the Bohol quake. santos-Concio was cited for leading the country’s largest multimedia conglomerate into supremacy in terms

Celebrity style

IT looks like Adam Levine wants to have more fun! The Voice coach has bleached his brunette locks platinum blond. The Maroon 5 frontman shared a snap of his latest look saturday on Twitter writing, “Apocalypse prep course complete.” Also in the pic and looking over his shoulder was fiancée Behati Prinsloo. Adam is no stranger to changing up his coif. Last month he debuted a half-shaved rocker haircut at The Voice season 6 private concert in Los Angeles. Levine’s stylist shaul Arbiv, who owns shampoo On 3rd salon in L.A, tells People the 35-year-old was ready for another change. “With summer months coming up we wanted to do something totally drastic and different from his previous styles so we bleached it,” Arbiv said. “I have been working with Adam for a long time and he likes to change up his style often.”

of TV ratings and box office sales for star Cinema, revenue increase, groundbreaking business ventures such as ABs-CBNmobile, theme park Kidzania Manila, and TV home shopping channel O shopping, and its public service initiatives. in 2013, ABs-CBN was awarded as Best TV station seven times, while santosConcio received five individual awards. gold, silver and Bronze stevie Award winners were selected by more than 50 executives around the world. A second international panel of judges will choose five grand stevie winners from among the gold winners in early May. The grand stevie winners will be announced at the May 30 banquet in seoul.

Lani Misalucha highlights the beauty of OPM via debut album under Star Records AsiA’s NigHTiNgALE Lani Misalucha returns to Philippine recording scene, after five years, through the release of her debut album under her new recording label star Records. Lani’s all-Filipino track album is titled “The Nightingale Returns: Lani Misalucha sings The greatest Filipino songbook.” it features 12 OPM songs including its carrier single “Muli,” and Lani’s hair-raising collaborations with Journey frontman Arnel Pineda in “Maging sino Ka Man;” and Angeline Quinto, KZ Tandingan, and Yeng Constantino in the track “May Bukas Pa.” Completing the newest album of the Asia’s Night-

ingale are her revivals of hit songs such as “Anak,” “Paano,” “ikaw Lamang,” “Pan-

gako sa’yo,” “saan Darating Ang Umaga,” “Bulag, Pipi at Bingi,” “gaano Kadalas Ang

Minsan,” “Tayong Dalawa,” and her first ever rendition of a movie theme song “starting Over Again” for star Cinema’s blockbuster movie with the same title. “The Nightingale Returns: Lani Misalucha sings The greatest Filipino songbook” album is now available at all record bars nationwide for only P350. Digital tracks can also be downloaded via Amazon.com, Mymusicstore.com.ph,and iTunes. For more information about “The Nightingale Returns: Lani Misalucha Sings The Greatest Filipino Songbook” album, visit Star Records’ Facebook fan page at facebook.com/starrecordsphil or follow @starrecordsph on Twitter.

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2 2D Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone PG 13

12:00 | 3:00 | 6:00 | 9:00 LFS

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2 3D Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone PG 13

12:30 | 3:30 | 7:00 (reserved) | 10:00 LFS

DA POSSESSED 2D Vhong Navarro, Solenn Heussaff PG 13

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

R-16 THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2 2D Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone PG 13

1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 (reserved) | 10:00 LFS

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EVENT

GenSan’s K-Pop Face Off 2014 FRoM South Korea, Korean Popular Music or ‘K-Pop’ started making waves all over the Philippines since the dawn of asianovelas on Philippine tV. Now K-Pop got even bigger especially with the impact of social media within different fan bases. With that, Gensan K-Pop town, Gensans very own K-pop community, brought us, ‘KPop Face off 2014’ which took place at SM city Gensans trade Hall 1, last april 27, 2014.

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

I was invited to be a judge, and was astonished on how big K-Pop really is in Gensan. With more or less than 500 screeching fan girls and boys, cheer for their favorite contestants under different categories such as, K-lookalike, Song cover, and dance cover, I twitched a little as the screams echoed in the trade hall, but after getting used to it, I eventually smiled with awe from their enthusiasm. twenty four groups for the dance cover, three Klook-alike and nine song cover participants graced the stage and shook the walls of the trade hall, with their awesome costumes, killer vocals and ground breaking dance moves as they were being cheered on by their supporters. Between each event they raffled a bunch of K-Pop goodies to the crowd. It was truly a fun afternoon indeed. I understand the joy of being surrounded by the people that share the same passion as you. Follow me on Twitter or Instagram, @kyriekoutre for more adventures in and around my wonderland that is Gensan, Tuna Capital of the Philippines.

13 COMMUNITY SENSE

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Permanent housing program helps typhoon victims start a new life

OMe 188 families in Boston and Baganga towns have received on Monday April 28 certificates of occupancy to their new homes under the innovative permanent shelter program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in partnership with the provincial government. Funded under the Modified Shelter Assistance Program of the DSWD, the shelter program addresses the provincial government’s goal of providing stable and longterm housing to the thousands of typhoon-affected families in the east coast. During the turnover ceremony, these beneficiaries, who are the first batch of recipients in these towns, said they

are thankful to benefit on this housing program, telling they cannot wait to move in to their new homes and start over with their lives. “We now have roofs over our heads and a warm place to sleep, all thanks to the government who subsidized all expenses in building us homes,” said one beneficiary. A combination of concrete and hard wood, the fully-painted farmhouse type design home has room divisions and has its own comfort room. These houses are also designed to withstand strong winds brought about by the current climate extremes. Typhoon Pablo may have trampled the houses and lives of many residents, but for Mila

NOTICE OF lOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) 52823/ 21040789 under LOYOLA PLAN Contract No.(s) 300152-0/190891-6 issued to ADRIANO A .DELA PEÑA / TEODORA S. DELA PEÑA was lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void. 4/22/29/5/6

Malvar of Brgy. Dapnan in Baganga, the disaster is a double-edge sword that brought not just devastation but also opportunities. “I am so delighted we now have a home we can call our own. Typhoon Pablo may have shattered our houses, but in the end we were provided with a much better and much beautiful home,” she said. “It is a big help especially for us. This is a legacy of the government that we shall never forget.” Moreover, aside from the provision of houses, permanent livelihood opportunities are also provided.. Just recently, the provincial government launched the Oil Palm Industry Development Program that hopes to benefit farmers in the east coast towns who lost their livelihood. Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, who spearheads the housing program said that provision of a secured home gives people freedom to pursue their goals in life. During the ceremonial turnover, sheencouraged beneficiaries to also participate in the construction, in a scheme where they too are paid for the labor in building their own homes.“There is a construction

A combination of concrete and hard wood, the farmhouse type design home has room divisions and has its own comfort room. These houses are also designed to withstand strong winds brought about by the current climate extremes. boom in the typhoon-hit areas,” she said urging residents to take advantage of the livelihood opportunity especially now that the thousands of homes are yet to be constructed. Meanwhile, to ensure good quality construction, a team of building inspectors from the provincial government ison

the ground running checks for possible building defects such as cracks and leakage among others. Governor Malanyaon said the turnover of houses that manifests such defectswill be halted and will undergo repair before they are awarded to its respective beneficiaries. Governor Malanyaoncongratulated the beneficiaries,

hoping that this would inspire them to work hard to better their lives. She reminded the beneficiaries to complement the help provided to them by the government with hard work. “you are already given the foundation to rise back. The rest is up to you,” she told the beneficiaries.[PIO]

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Go sparks Roman Tesoro grandkids T

He Roman Tesoro Apo team turned back Tesoro Printing Press All-employee’s basketball tournament reigning champion, Rotsi Plant II, 110 – 97, in an exhibition game at the Tesoro Basketball Court on Friday night. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go sizzled with 55 points, shooting thirteen triples, to lead the grandsons of Roman Tesoro who held off an emphatic Rotsi Plant comeback try in the pay off period to seal the win. The Roman Tesoro Apo team went into scoring blitz in the second period behind Go, whose mother is a Tesoro, who made 32 of his total 42 first half points, to take a 73 – 41 advantage entering the third period. But the Rotsi Plant squad under chief tactician Linda Tesoro didn’t just roll and lie ahead for a crushing defeat as Manlatican and Mañacap spearheaded an 18 - 0 blast in the final canto to cut the deficit to a single digit, 97 - 88. Kim Tesoro made six of his 21 baskets in the midst of fear-provoking Rotsi Plant assault in the pay off period and Go scored in the crucial spell as Roman Tesoro Apo team hanged on to win the match.

Mark Tesoro had 8 points for the Popoy Madrazo-mentored Roman Tesoro Apo team which also drew nine baskets from Dr. Anthony Tesoro. Manlatican, who engaged Go in a duel in the high-scoring first half, finished the game with 41. Mojillo and Dayag had 14 each for the Luz Carr-managed Rotsi Plant II team which limited Roman Tesoro Apo team to just 10 points in the fourth period. Both teams traded baskets in the early going of the match that visibly sizing up each other’s strong suits. Roman Tesoro Apo team wrapped up the opening period with 26 – 19 lead. Box scores: ROMAN TeSORO APO TeAM – 110 - Go, Christopher Lawrence Tesoro - 55, Tesoro, Kim – 21, Tesoro, Anthony – 9, Tesoro, Mark – 8, Salceda – 6, Tesoro, Gene – 4, Tesoro, Boyet – 2, Tesoro, RJ – 2, Tesoro, Kalyl – 2, Tesoro, RP – 0, Villas – 0. ROTSI PLANT II - 97 -- Manlatican 41, Mojillo 14, Dayag 14, Boc 12, Mañacap 10, Bultango 2, Aguilar 0, Caliboso 0, Caro 0, Mellejor 0, Pacifio 0, Pendez 0, Patie 0, Rojas 0, Vergasirga 0, Monteverde - 0, Gallo 0.

TNT-SBP 3 on 3 on May 8 - 9

RePARATION for the Talk N’ Text-SBP under-18 3x3 “Tatluhan” Davao regional eliminations has shifted into high gear as final day of registration is set today and tomorrow. The two-day tournament, which is open to everybody born 1996 onwards, will take center stage on May 8 and 9 at the Davao City Recreation Center (Almendras Gym). Registration area is located outside the venue. Teams may represent schools, barangays, clubs, civic organizations, non-government organizations or commercial entities. Only four players will be allowed

per team. Registration fee is pegged at P100 per player. The champion team in the Davao regional elimination, organized by Duterte Basketball League (DBL), will earn the right to represent Davao region to the national finals slated May 24 – 25 in Manila. The tournament is one of the sporting activities in this year’s Davao Summer Sports for Peace Festival. Interested teams may call 0932-5220434. Meantime, three other regional qualifying legs will also be held in Mindanao in the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga, and Gen. Santos/ ARMM.

SUMMER SPORTS. Coach Bert Malinao (with microphone) gives a briefing to the more than 180 kids joining the free basketball clinic in the Davao City Summer Sports for Peace Festival which started last May 5 at the Almendras gym. (PR Photo)

Summer clinics underway C

LOSe to 200 kids are taking part in the ongoing basketball clinic of the Davao City Summer Sports for Peace Festival at the Davao City Recreation Center. The 5-day clinic, which is spearheaded by the Davao City Sports Development Division, started yesterday morning (May 5). CSDD Deputy Goldie Delvo said the clinic will also be conducted on May 6, 7, 10 and 11 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. The coaches are composed of former PBA players

Cadel Mosqueda and Dindo Pastor, Allan Josol, Roy Josol, Weng Faruchilen and veteran coach Bert Malinao. As of press time, more children are still signing up for the free clinic sponsored by the city government of Davao as part of the sports development program of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. elsewhere, free clinics/ trainings are being held in Arnis at the Gaisano South Citimall on May 5-7 (8 a.m.-5 p.m.), chess at NCCC Mall on May 7-9 (10 a.m.), volleyball on May 12-16 (8 a.m.-12 nn)

at Almendras gym, futsal on May 12-16 (1 p.m. – 5 p.m.) at Almendras gym. Handling the arnis is Coach Mario Palazuelo while chess is handled by international arbiter James Infiesto, regional coordinator of the National Chess Federation of the Phils. (NCFP). Meantime, volleyball and futsal will be under the Balibolista Dabaw and the Maharlika Foundation, respectively. This year’s Summer Sports for Peace Festival, which is in partnership with the City Tourism Office un-

der OIC Lisette Marquez, also features the Sports Scientific Conference on May 8 at the SM Davao Annex, ecoland. It will have topics on Sports Administration and Management, Sports Medicine, Sports Nutrition, Sports Physiology, Sports/ event Organizing and Sports Marketing. Resource speakers are former Director for Philippine Center for Sports Medicine Dr. Jose Raul Canlas and Ateneo de Davao university Athletic Director emmanuel Rene Ayo.

THe Philippine Air Force emerged over-all champions in the mixed and women’s divisions in the 1st Mayor Rody and Vice Mayor Pulong Duterte Dragon Boat Race held May 2-3 at the Baywalk, Queensland in Davao City. PAF, which brought the four boats from Manila aboard a C130 plane last week, dominated the Mixed division with a total of 20 points after ruling the 2000meter (8:26:04), 200meters (54:77) and 400meters (1:45:61).

Air Force also ruled the women’s division with 12 points by topping the 200m (1:04:92) and 400m (1:56:96). The Triton finished first runner-up in both the mixed (17 pts.) and women’s (10 pts.) divisions. Fr. Saturnino urios university (FSuu) A and B teams placed second and third runners-up, respectively with identical six points in the women’s division. Phil. Blue Phoenix (14 pts.) and FSuu-A (11 pts.) finished second and third

runners-up in Mixed. Philippine Army, however, took the over-all title in the Open division with 21 points just a one point win over arch-rival PAF. FSuu of Butuan City earned 15 points to cop second runner-up followed by Bakunawa of Iligan with 14. The Army topped the Open 400m by clocking 1:42:32 followed closely by PAF (1:42:84). FSuu (1:47:76) took second runner-up honor followed by newcomer Hiraya Minokawa

Dabaw (1:53:36), who settled for third runner-up despite only practicing on the boat two days before the race. “Our strong determination helped us despite only practicing for less than an hour on the boat,” said Minokawa boat captain Bill Cacho. Minokawa also did fairly well, despite being newcomers, in other categories. “At least nakapasok din kami sa semifinals. Kulang lang talaga pa kami sa practice,” Cacho said. Army also won the Open 200m (44:51) followed by PAF (50:86), Bakunawa (57:18) and FSuu (59:17). Army ruled the Open 2,000m at 7:05;61 followed by PAF (7:53:78), FSuu (8:47:22) and Bakunawa (8:53:79). PAF won the women’s 200m at 1:04:92 followed by Triton (1:05:53), Boracay Bumshells (1:09:71) and FSuu-B (1:10:22). In the women’s 400m, PAF clocked 1:56:96 followed by Triton (1:58:59), FSuu-A (2:16:91) and FSuu-B (2:17:31). City Tourism Officer Lisette Marques awarded the cash prizes, trophies and medals to the winners.

Air Force rules Davao Dragon Boat festival

ATENEO BASKETBALL CAMP. The Ateneo basketball camp recently concluded last Saturday at the ADDU Gym in Matina. Cousins Matthew and John Emmanuel Pang (left photo) were among the graduates of the two-week camp handled by ADDU coaches.

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

BOXER TO WATCH. Jonel “The Pal” Dapidran (left), nephew of WBO welterweight king Manny Pacquiao, punishing Yoshinobo Arai of Tokyo, Japan en route to a 4th round technical knockout win in the undercard of the Tibay ng Pinoy 3 last Saturday night held at the USEP gym in Davao City. (PR photo)

VETERAN MOVE. San Antonio Spurs’ Manu Ginobili (20), of Argentina, drive around Dallas Mavericks’ Monta Ellis (11) during the first half of Game 7 of the opening-round NBA basketball playoff series.

Ancajas stops Thai in first, Spurs blow away Dapidran TKOs Japanese Mavs in Game 7 H

OMeTOWN hero Jerwin “The Pretty Boy” Ancajas stopped Petchwanchia Sor Visetkit of Thailand in 2:16 of the first round to capture the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) Pan Pacific bantamweight title last Saturday night at the uSeP Gym. Ancajas, handled by MP Promotions, first knocked down this Thai rival early in the opening round with leftright combinations before finally sending down Visetkit for good with a right jab on the midsection for the knockout. “Hindi talaga namin plano i-knockout. Pero nakita kasi ni coach Nonoy (Neri) na mahina sa katawan kaya itinuloy ko na,” said Ancajas in a postfight interview after receiving his belt from Thai boxing promoter Naris Singwangcha. Ancajas, who is currently ranked IBF no. 3 contender,

improved his ring record to 20 wins with 11 knockouts, one loss and one draw while Visetkit suffered hi s seventh loss in 21 fights. “His next fight might be in Macau against a Mexican to determine who will fight the No. 1 contender for the IBF world title,” said Neri, main trainer of the MP Boxing Gym in Davao City. Jonel “The Pal” Dapidran, nephew of WBO welterweight king Manny Pacquiao, punished yoshinobo Arai of Tokyo, Japan with his vicious leftright jabs to score a technical knockout in the 4th round of a scheduled six-rounder. Arai suffered a nasty cut on his left eye due to the stinging jabs of Dapidran in the second round. The Japanese fighter, however, remained on his attack by throwing wild punches despite the constant blood flowing from the cut. Ring physician edgar Tan

Nietes chases Elorde’s record

BO light flyweight champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes who faces a tough test against Mexico’s Moises Fuentes in a mandatory title rematch ordered by WBO president Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel has one more thing on his mind aside from winning in the main event of the tremendously successful Pinoy Pride series of the giant broadcast network ABS-CBN in partnership with the famed ALA Promotions at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday. That quest is to get closer to breaking the record set by the late, great Gabriel “Flash” elorde, who reigned as world junior lightweight champion for seven years and three months, having won the title on March 16, 1960 with a

spectacular seventh round knockout of American Harold Gomes at the inauguration of the Araneta Coliseum before losing by a majority decision to young Japanese Toshiaki Numata on June 15, 1967 in Tokyo despite dropping Numata in the third round. Nietes who has reigned as WBO minimumweight and light flyweight champion began his quest when he won the 105 pound title from previously undefeated Thai champion Pornsawan Porpramook (20-0) on September 30, 2007 and then moved up in weight and captured the WBO light flyweight title with a unanimous twelve round decision over Ramon Garcia Hirales at the university of St. La Salle Coliseum in Bacolod City on October 8, 2011.

finally halted the fight after the fourth round to protect Arai from further harm. Two other fights also both ended via the short route. Aston Palicte of MP Promotions stopped Jovel Villegas of elorde Stable-Paranaque in 1:02 of the first round of a tenner while Romeo Jakosalem of MP Promotions stopped elmer Legaria of Lopez Stable-Glan in 1:53 of the second round. All the four knockout winners each received a bonus of uS$200 cash from Singwancha. Four other boxers under MP Promotions also prevailed against their separate rivals in the undercard of the “Tibay ng Pinoy 3” boxing card presented by the MP Promotions uSA LLC and GMA 7. Jay-Ar “Hitman” Inson won by a convincing unanimous decision against Abduldiu Harada of Bohol.

Marivlou “The King” Aballe outpointed Ronald Garcia of Koronadal City by uD; John Philip Fuentes beat Kim Dangan of Iligan by uD. Genesis Libranza landed a right cross to stop Paolo Perono of Gen. Santos City in 2:30 of the first round. Jaysever Abcede of Bukidnon won by a uD over Orly Silvestre of Mayor yap Stable-Glan, while the opening bout between MP Promotion’s Dande de Claro and GenSan’s Dingdong Quiñones ended in a majority draw. The free to the public boxing card was promoted by the Joven Sports Promotion in association with the Mitsubishi Superstores (Southeast Mitsubishi), Cerritos Mitsubishi, Hurlington Beach Mitsubishi and Victorville Mitsubishi. It is sponsored by The Royal Mandaya Hotel, City Government of Davao and Rep. Manny Pacquiao of Saranggani Province.

AN ANTONIO (AP) -Faced with the possibility of having a second straight season end with a Game 7 loss, the San Antonio Spurs played with emotion and let Tony Parker have some fun. Parker scored 32 points and the San Antonio led by as many as 31 on its way to a 119-96 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, closing out a stressful first-round series Sunday in seven games. The finale featured Tim Duncan diving into Dallas’ bench to save a ball and the Spurs’ reserves continually on their feet to celebrate baskets. But no one had as much fun or hit the floor more than Parker. The All-Star point guard was 11 for 19 from the field and 10 for 13 on free throws as Dallas was unable to keep him from attacking the lane, despite a series of hard fouls. ‘’I just knew that I had to be aggressive if we wanted to have a chance to win the game

because of the strategy that the Mavericks chose,’’ Parker said. ‘’They just dared me to score.’’ Manu Ginobili scored 20 points, Danny Green added 16 points and Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard had 15 points apiece for San Antonio. Dirk Nowitzki had 22 points and nine rebounds to lead Dallas. Last season ended for the Spurs with a Game 7 loss in the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat. Facing a much earlier end, San Antonio rode a raucous home crowd and overwhelmed Dallas. San Antonio advances to face the fifth-seeded Portland Trail Blazers, who upset the Houston Rockets in a sixgame series. The series opens Tuesday in San Antonio. The Spurs got off to a quick start as they had done at home all series, but the Mavericks were unable to respond as they did in winning Game 2 on the road.

CHASINg THE RECORD. Donnie “Ahas” Nietes will try to move past the record of legendary Gabriel Flash Elorde.

16 EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 36 • TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014

AEON TOWERS CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

SIGNIFICANT ACCOMPlISHMENTS REPORTED AS OF MARCH 2014 By NEIlWIN JOSEPh l. BRAvO njb@edgedavao.net

HE much-anticipated Aeon Towers project, Davao City’s would-be “King of the Sky,” continues to move according to schedule.

Latest construction update from the project engineering team reported that 90 percent of foundation works has been completed as of March 2014. The key development is the concreting of the Diaphragm Wall, which has reached ninety percent (90%) with forty four (44) out of forty nine (49) panels cast in the second (2nd) week. Also significantly accomplished is the concreting of one hundred sixty three (163) Bored Piles is 100% complete in the third (3rd) week. AFCSC likewise reported that they have poured a total of 12,540 cu. M. of ready mix concrete equivalent to 95% of the total volume requirement for Bored Pile and Diaphragm Wall works. Significantly, one hundred percent (100%) of the total steel requirement for Bored Pile and Diaphragm Wall was delivered on site. Meantime, developers of the project said the operation on site is 24 hours. They are also in continued close coordination with the city government, DPWH, Davao Light and other private companies. Continued design coordination meeting of all Manila consultants are also being held. The other notable developments of the project are: •Partial set of For Construction Drawing (FCD) for Structural, Architectural, MEPFS was issued and full set of FCD is expected to be released by May 2014. •Temporary drainage was installed this month for the completion of the remaining Diaphragm Wall panels by April 2014. •Preparation for construction of capping beams commenced 27th of March and its targeted completion date is by end of May 2014. •Purchase of major construction equipment is in progress. •Contract by Davao City Solidmix Concrete Corporation as an official concrete supplier was formally signed. •Bored Pile and Diaphragm Wall works total accomplishment is 85%.