Edge Davao 7 Issue 41 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

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MAlnourisHeD. Raymond Aleje, a child suffering from severe malnutrition, eats noodles and steamed rice for lunch while being watched by relatives inside their shanty at Sta. Ana wharf in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

TAX collecTion surges CTO collects 88% of total 2014 real property tax in just three months By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

hE Davao City local government posted a huge increase in the collection of Real Property Taxes (RPT) during the first quarter this year.

Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang, chair of the city council committee on finance, ways and means and appropriations, reported that the city’s real estate tax collections amounted to a staggering P P560.45 million which is 88% of the collected RPT in the entire year of fiscal period 2014. He said the figures indicate high collection rate as compared to the 2013 entire collection of 638,743,949.36 only. Councilor Dayanghirang explained that they held an initial meeting with the City

Treasurer Rodrigo S. Riola on May 12, 2014 where the report was made. In the meeting, he said the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO) submitted the latest and updated regarding Real Property Tax (RPT) collection from January to March 2014. “It means they were able to collect 88% of the total tax of 2014 in just 3 months. So I would like to commend and congratulate the City Treasurer’s Office for doing its job. The increase in collection can be

FTAX, 10

AlArMing. Dr. Celna Tejare, head of program for nutrition of Action Against Hunger, shows a mid-upper arm circumference (muac) tape, which is used to help identify childen and infants with severe acute malnutrition, during Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao yesterday. Tejare revealed that there are 234 recorded cases of children suffering from severe malnutrition in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

Brgy.tanodscanoffset need for more police By ChENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

He proposal of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte to mobilize and institutionalize barangay tanods or police auxiliaries can make up for the deficiency of law enforcers in the city. Davao City Police Office director Vicente C. Danao, Jr. told edge Davao in a phone interview yesterday that the city of 1.7 million population has only 1,200

working policemen “The supposed ideal ratio is 1:500 but because we lack manpower so one policeman have to secure 1,500 people and sometimes it will go up to 3,000 during shifting,” Danao said. Some police officers are doing administrative tasks while others detailed for public officials. “Dili

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Bomb threat disrupts Hall of Justice offices

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

ransactions in the offices housed at the Davao City Hall of Justice were disrupted yesterday morning after an employee of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 17 received a bomb threat via its landline phone. Jose Demerin Jr., one of the security personnel of the Hall of Justice, said RTC executive Judge Pelagio Paguican ordered the temporary halt of operations and to call for assistance from law enforcement responders. After calling 911, Demerin said operatives from the explosive Ordnance Division (eOD) and K9 Unit of Davao City Police Office immediately arrived and searched the RTC Branch 17 and other premises of the building that lasted for

about an hour. SPO3 Jimmy Libranza, eOD team leader, told edge Davao that they found nothing inside the building and concluded that the threat was made by a prank caller. The telephone at RTC Branch 17 has no caller I.D. Henry June Luchano, an employee at RTC Branch 17, said that at around 8:30 a.m. her colleague Aileen I. Bustamante answered the phone and the male caller in the other line uttered: “Pagbantay mo naay mo buto na bomba karon,” and immediately hung up the phone. Libranza advised all the establishments and offices in the city to install Caller ID on the telephones to help the police trace and identify the callers.

ATTenTion MAgneT. Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte is welcomed by usherettes during the 40th Midyear Convention of the Philippine College of Surgeons at SMX Convention Center over the weekend where he was invited as a keynote speaker. Lean Daval Jr.

Business leader assails T schedule of brownouts

Davao Light: Power supply improves with STEAG’s 1 unit now back online

By DANIEl D. JOAQUIN

BUSIneSS leader yesterday assailed the way Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) set the schedule of rotating brownouts in Davao City. Ferdinand Marañon, president of the Philippine export Council said at the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao, cited the instances where his employees would report for work and gets compensation even as they cannot render their duties because of brown-

outs. The businessman is involved in the production and exportation of processed Cardava banana. He said that even as the power company imposes brownouts as long as eight hours, he can avoid loses by making adjustments in working hours of his employees. But the current scheduling system of DLPC makes it difficult to set definite working hours.

DLPC’s scheduling system set power interruptions to start anytime within the announced time-frame. For example, if the schedule falls on 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m., then, the start of the interruption may be implemented anytime within the given time frame. Hence, if it starts at 2:00 pm, the interruption will end at 7:00 p.m. for a five-hour rotating power outage. Marañon said the

scheduling system seriously hurt his company’s operation which already incurred thousands in loses. He appealed to DLPC to review the system and instead set more definite schedules. Marañon said some of his clients already expressed concern on the effects of brownouts to the production capacity of his company. Most of his clients are based in the US, Australia, and Canada.

He power situation in the Davao Light & Power Co. franchise area has improved over the past few days since May 8. This was when one 100 MW unit of the STeAG State Power, Inc. resumed operations. Starting today, May 12, the rotating power interruptions will now be at a maximum of 2.5 hours during peak period and a maximum of 1 hour during off-peak. Peak period is from 8 am to 8 pm while off peak is between 8 pm to 8 am the following day. Since May 9, no interruptions have been implemented after 12 midnight to 8 am. The possibility of longer rotating power interruptions can still be

expected as power supply remains to be unstable due to the deteriorating water elevation from the hydropower plants in Agus and Pulangi and the forecasted dry season starting June. Davao Light will exert its best efforts to reduce the duration of the interruptions significantly. It will also continue to make the necessary announcements and updates to its customers should there be any change in the duration of the ongoing rotating power outages. Again, Davao Light apologizes to its consumers for the inconvenience brought about by these power interruptions which are beyond its control.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

Suspected thief killed By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

29-year-old suspected thief was killed in a shoot out last Sunday night after he reportedly fought back to the responding police operatives at Lulu Village, Barangay R. Castillo. The suspect was identified the suspect as Arnel T. Diaz, resident of Barpa, Barangay Leon Garcia, Agdao. According to the report from Davao City Police Office, at around 11:00 p.m. of May 11, the Mobile Patrol Group headed by PO3 Clarence Bernard H. Bracoma responded to the call from Central 911 on the alleged theft incident in the area near Lanang Fire Station. Upon arriving in the area, the police responders saw Diaz at the back of the building

of fire station and approached. But the suspect immediately fled. While running, he reportedly threw his looted items such us the copper electrical wires, improvised safety belts and electrical pliers to the grassy portion in the area. When the operatives finally cornered him, Diaz allegedly drew his .38 revolver and shot Bracoma who also shot back and hit the suspect. The responding police recovered from the scene a Smith and Wesson revolver and an empty shell. The suspect was brought to Southern Philippines Medical Center but minutes later he was declared dead by the attending physician.

AWArDees. Recipients of the Media Development Award, veteran photojournalist Renato B. Lumawag of Mindanao Times (leftmost), Mindanao News and Information Cooperative (MNIC) chair Carolyn O. Arguillas (2nd from left), Mindanao Daily Mirror’s Ana Theresa F. Basilio (center) representing her grandfather Demetrio T. Flaviano, and Charles Raymond Maxey (3rd from right) representing his father and Edge Davao editorial consultant, the

late Ramon M. Maxey, together with event convenor Amalia Cabusao (3rd from left) of Mindanao Times, Edge Davao editor Antonio M. Ajero (2nd from right) and Philippine Press Institute (PPI) executive director Ariel Sebellino pose for a photograph in front of the PPI golden anniversary cake during the World Press Freedom Day Media Appreciation Awards last week at the Marco Polo Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

City to regulate handling of flammable, toxic substances Fire causes rise of undernourished kids

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte has issued an order creating a multi-agency task force that will regulate the safe practices of entities handling flammable and dangerous and toxic substances. Last May 9, Duterte signed the executive Order (eO) no. 23 series of 2014 “An Order Creating a Multi-Agency Task Force to Properly Regulate and ensure Safe Practices of Persons and entities Handling and/or engage in Business Involving Flammable and Dangerous Chemicals and Other Hazardous and Toxic Substances.” The eO states that it has been deemed urgent and necessary to provide a mechanism for the close coordination and monitoring among government agencies, both local and national, that will ensure strict

adherence to applicable and existing standards and other related laws relative to safe practices governing the proper handling of flammable and dangerous chemicals and other hazardous and toxic chemicals. “It has been observed that persons and entities handling and/or engaged in business involving flammable and dangerous chemicals and other hazardous and toxic substances have been remised with their duties on observing proper, correct, and safe practices to the detriment of public in general in the City of Davao,” it said. The task force will be composed of the City Mayor as the chairperson and the City Administrator as the Co-chairperson. The members will be the heads of the of the local offices and national agencies such as;

By ChENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

He recent fire incident that razed three barangays last month has triggered the rise of undernourished children aged five years old below in the city, an international health group said. Dr. Celina Tajare, program head on nutrition for Accion Contre la Faim or “Action Against Hunger” (ACF) International said during yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao that 19 out of the 24 cases after the fire incident were from evacuation centers. “Malnutrition is one of the silent problems that arise from emergency sit-

uation just like what happened in Tacloban City after the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda,” Tajare said. She added that children are the ones usually left out during calamities. “Small children cannot endure five days of hunger,” she said. Aside from emergency situations, Tajare pointed out that children belonging to marginalized families usually suffer from undernourishment. She explained that marginalized families are those who have not regular salary. Last year, the Operation Timbang of ACF Int’l and

the local government recorded a total of 2,107 severely wasted patients and 4,559 wasted in the whole city. She said that severely wasted are those that are severely malnourished. Tajare said that they expect an increase for this year’s operation adding that the city experienced an emergency situation which affected more than 3,000 families. The partnership of the humanitarian group with UnICeF and with the local government resulted to the raising of P6.5 million funding from various private and public stakeholders two months ago.

Davao media persons honored on World Press Freedom Day

Fun run For YolAnDA surViVors. SM Supermalls assistant vice president for marketing Russel D. Alaba (center), accompanied by SM City Davao assistant mall manager Jonathan Nick D. Santos (left), gives the details of the mall’s Color Fun Run, a run to build homes for Yolanda survivors, slated on

June 15 at SM City Davao while newly-installed Park Inn by Radisson Davao general manager Pavan Kakar listens during this week’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Councilor Joy Villafuerte, chairman of the Sangguniag Panlungsod committee on health, told edge Davao that the fund will be used to purchase ready to use therapeutic food (RUTF) which is enriched with calculated amounts of calories and minerals needed by a severely wasted child. At present, 235 patients below five years old are enrolled under the feeding and treatment program of ACF while P6.5 million from the entire budget will be used to purchase RUTF for 1,500 more identified moderately wasted child.

DOZen veteran reporters, editors and broadcast executives were honored during Davao City’s version of World Press Freedom Day last May 5. Ms. Amalia Bandiola Cabusao, editor-in-chief of the Mindanao Times, event convenor, said the awarding was part of the press freedom day activities in Davao City. The events included a forum on press freedom at the Ateneo de Davao University wherein a number of speakers discussed related topics. Kurt Hoyer, press attache of the United States embassy, spoke on the celebration theme “Media Freedom for a Better Future Shaping the Post 2015 Development Agenda,”while Red Batario of the Center for Community Journalism and

Development tackled “The Challenges of a Free Press,” and H. Marcos C. Mordeno, chairman of Mindanews, on “The Challenge of new Media.” Antonio M. Ajero, editor of edge Davao, welcomed the participants. In the afternoon, the group opened a 5-day press photo exhibit at the SM Annex at ecoland, Matina, and at 7 p.m. the media night was held at the Jade Room of Marco Polo Hotel. Archbishop of Davao Romulo Valles delivered an inspirational speech during the media night, before the list of 12 honorees was read by Ajero, who said he knew all the awardees personally. The occasion was graced with the presence of Ariel Sebellino, executive director

FDAVAo, 10

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

DA 11 turns over 30units farm tractor T

He Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 11 has turned over 30 units of farm tractors worth P130 thousand each to the District 1 and 2 of Davao del norte Federation of Irrigators Associations (IAs) in Carmen Davao del norte held last week. During the celebration of the 2nd national Irrigation Association and Irrigator’s Association Day, DA led the ceremonial activity which was attended by the farmers organization, irrigators association, and local chief executives. Regional Rice program Coordinator edelDondonilla said that these farm tractors which will be used for land preparation are incentives to the IAs who are practicing ratooning in their farm. Ratooning or commonly known as “double harvest” (subing) is a method of propagation that uses shoots (ratoons) of the mother crop as the planting material for the next planting season after the previous growth has been cut back.

“We encourage you to practice ratooning in your irrigated rice lands for this method would give you additional seven to 10 sacks of palay per hectare. Your harvest with this method is also an organic produce since this will no longer require fertilizer”, he emphasized. He said that in a study conducted by Philippine Rice Research Institute,ratooning resulted to higher gross returns at P36,550 per hectare which can attributed to higher yield and low production cost. He added that thefarmers can save more for the ratooned crop which matures in only about 70 to 75 days and requires lesser inputs such as time, labor, and cost for land preparation, seedbed preparation, pulling of seedlings, transplanting, water and weeding. These farm tractors are grant from DA which is also part of the directive of Secretary Proceso J. Alcala in promoting mechanize farming in the country. [Aggie media service]

FArM MecHAniZATion. Irrigator’s Association leader Felipe Asuncion is one of the beneficiaries of the 30 units hand tractor from DA RFO-11.

Sarangani can Southeast Asia palm oil problems hit consumers worldwide produce dairy could S S

ARAnGAnI Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon boldly projected that Sarangani Province would be one of the major producers of dairy products in the Philippines in the next coming years. This he bared during the second day of the 17th Dairy Congress and expo (DairyConex) held at the Family Country Hotel and Convention Center in General Santos City from May 7-9. Solon added that the dairy industry will also help the economic status of the community. The DairyConex is a national dairy meeting place, a three-day event showcasing the newest technologies available to the dairy industry. The stakeholders of the Philippine dairy industry and allied sectors come together once a year to exchange ideas, make new contacts and see the latest technology the dairy industry has to offer. This year’s theme is “Gatas Pinoy: Paunlarin, Tangkilikin, Palaganapin.” “I think producing more dairy locally can alleviate poverty and improve the health status,” said the governor. The strength of the livestock industry of Sarangani Province can be

attributed to the presence of a dairy plant in the municipality of Malungon, owned and operated by the Malungon Dairy Farmers’ Association (MADAFA) in Barangay Malalag Cogon which can produce 900 liters per day. The dairy plant was established in 2011 by the Land O’ Lakes Cooperatives based in the U.S.A. According to data from the Provincial Veterinary Office, MADAFA targets to increase its production to 1,200-1,500 liters per day by October 2014. At present, 160 heads of cattle can be milked by the plant for processing. Governor Solon said the conference is a good venue to focus on strategies to improve the quality and competitiveness of Philippine dairy products in the market. It is also good venue to develop more areas to increase production volume for local consumption. On the other hand, Dr. Daniel Aquino of the Philippine Carabao Center, who spoke about calf rearing during the conference, said the Philippines is spending $857 million annually for imported milk. [Joy R. Sevilla/Sarangani Information Office]

OUTHeAST Asia’s booming palm oil industry is facing a double blow from a recent drought and a possible el niño weather phenomenon later this year, with analysts warning a production shortfall could spark a jump in consumer goods prices. From biscuits to shampoo and make-up, the oil has become a key ingredient in numerous products found on supermarket shelves across the globe, fuelling rapid growth of the industry in the world’s top two producers, Indonesia and Malaysia. But a drought in January

and February in the countries, which provide some 85% of the world’s palm oil and are home to vast plantations where swathes of rainforest used to stand, has raised the prospect of a drop in production later this year. Dry weather does not have an immediate effect on the fruit, which needs to be deprived of water for some months before any impact is noticeable. While palm oil prices have risen slightly in recent months in Indonesia, the country’s Palm Oil Association put it down to other factors, and

industry observers predicted the drought’s impact would start to be felt later in 2014. Consumer price rises likely “We are likely to see the effects starting in September to October, and in terms of production, we are likely to see a double-digit percentage drop in Indonesia and Malaysia,” said Tan Chee Tat, a Singapore-based investment analyst at Philip Futures whose work has focused on palm oil. “There is a high likelihood companies will pass on the price rise to consumers.”

Another threat could come hot on the heels of this year’s dry weather – forecasters are predicting an el niño weather phenomenon later this year, which could spark another drought that will hit production in 2015. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology issued an el niño alert this week, warning the likelihood of the weather pattern developing was at least 70%, and it could appear as early as July. This follows recent warnings from other weather agencies there is a good chance of an el niño. [AFP]

Maco, Compostela Valley and in nasipit, Agusan del norte. The two barges combine for 200 MW. Therma Marine supplies 30 MW to Davao Light and Power Co., 15 MW to Davao del norte electric Cooperative, 12 MW to the Davao del Sur electric Cooperative and 6 MW to Davao Oriental electric Cooperative. It also serves cooperatives as far sa Zamboanga peninsula, Caraga, Socksargen, Cotabato and northern Mindanao. From a capacity factor of 29 percent in January, the

barges are now at almost 100 percent capacity factor with availability at percent; which means the barges have responded to its customers 100 percent of the time, according to its records. Capacity factor is the measure of the power plants’ utilization while availability is the measure of the plants’ ability to run whenever needed. “Our challenge now is to ensure our power plants are operating optimally and we have enough fuel supply to meet the demand for power,” Batiquin said. “We have set our

team members work schedules so there we are on top shape every hour of every day.” Traditionally utilized as a peaking power plant, Therma Marine has been operating lately as more of a baseload plant with Mindanao experiencing an acute shortage in power. Some 90 percent of Therma Marine’s power rates to its customers are for fuel costs, which is a pass through rate. The remaining 10 percent covers the capital recovery, maintenance, salaries, spare parts costs, among others.

Therma Marine secures fuel supply as Mindanao power shortage persists A

BOITIZPOWeR subsidiary Therma Marine Inc, (TMI) announced its continued 24-hour operations as the power supply situation in Mindanao worsens with summer. TMI president and COO Jovy P. Batiquin said that all of TMI’s customers – 22 electric cooperatives and distribution utilities in Mindanao – are calling on the barges to supply their full contracts, mostly for 24 hours amid precarious supply from nPC-PSALM. Therma Marine operates two floating power barges -- in

6 THE ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

Dole calls for a chemical-safe, healthy working environment S

AFe and healthy working environment is a productive environment. Joffrey M. Suyao, regional director of Department of Labor and employment (DOLe) in Davao Region underscored the importance of prevention of occupational accidents and diseases as contributing factor to productive industries and healthy environment during recently held celebration of the World Day for Safety and Health. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Safety and health in the use of chemicals at work.” “The use of chemicals in the workplace nowadays is inevitable thus, it poses a challenge of finding the balance between the benefits of chemical use and the preventive and control measures of potential adverse impact on workers, workplaces, communities and environment,” Suyao

said. “We have to strictly enforce and comply with the occupational health and safety guidelines to protect man and his environment,” he added. The International Labor Organization (ILO) marks in 2003 the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on the 28th of April to promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally. In many parts of the world, national authorities, trade unions, employers’ organizations and safety and health practitioners organize activities to celebrate this date. Observed in Davao region last May 7, the celebration intensifies the awareness-raising campaign intended to focus international attention on emerging trends in the field of occupational safety and health and on the magnitude of work-related injuries, diseases and fatalities

in the country and in the world. During the event, companies who have observed high standards on safety practices were recognized. J.A. Angeles Construction Corp, Hedcor Tudaya Project contractor, was recognized for attaining Two-Million Safe ManHour no Lost Time Accident. While the Makati Development Corporation was awarded for its One-Million Safe ManHour no Lost Time accident achievement for its Abreeza Residences project. Suyao also cited the contributions of Philippine Red Cross and Association of Safety Practitioners of the Philippines, Inc. (ASPPI) in the observance of this international event. Both organizations have been DOLe’s partner in advocating occupational safety and health, and continuing education safety practitioners.

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An ILO report published in early February calls for measures to prevent or control the adverse effects of chemicals on workers, the public and the environment. “Chemicals are key to healthy living and modern convenience. They range from pesticides that improve the extent and quality of food production, to pharmaceuticals that cure illnesses, and cleaning products that help establish hygienic living conditions,” the report said. “Chemicals are also critical in many industrial processes for developing products important to global standards of living. However, governments, employers and workers continue to struggle to address controlling exposure to these chemicals in the workplace, as well as limiting emissions to the environment,” it added. [Sherwin B. Manual/DOLE 11]

sAFeTY FirsT. Clad in reflector vest, hard hat and working gloves, DOLE-11 Regional Director Joffrey M. Suyao strikes a pose in the photo booth that aims to advocate safety practices in the workplace during the World Day of Safety and Heath at Work celebration. [Photo by DOLE11]

Globe Telecom acclaimed Asia’s Best Telecom Carrier G

LOBe Telecom was hailed as Best Asian Telecom Carrier by Telecom Asia, further solidifying its leadership in the region. The Philippine telecommunications company bagged the award for its leadership in various areas namely innovation, business execution, financial performance, market leadership, corporate social responsibility and corporate governance. “We embarked on our transformation journey in 2012 and since then has

achieved so much especially for our customers. This international recognition further compels us to provide our customers with the most innovative product and superior service experience,” Globe President & CeO ernest Cu said. The company’s consolidated revenues in 2013 reached a record high of P90.5 billion, up 9% from a year earlier, driven by continued demand for data connectivity across its mobile, broadband and fixed line data segments and strong subscriber acqui-

sitions across all three Globe brands, with total mobile subscribers reaching 38.5 million by the end of the 2013, a 16% growth from the previous year. The company’s strong revenue performance led to a core net profit of P11.6 billion, a 13% rise from a year earlier. Globe also launched in 2013 an exclusive and groundbreaking partnership with Facebook, an unprecedented offer allowing its 38.5 million mobile subscribers free access to the social networking site on Globe data network.

er-members of the Community Forestry Project-Taytayan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CFP-TMPC) comprised the first-ever batch of AlkanSSSya participants in the eastern coast of Davao Oriental. “The CFP-TMPC members are farmer-beneficiaries of the cash-for-work program supported by the International Labor Organization (ILO) after the onslaught of Typhoon Pablo two years ago. While re-establishing the farmers’ source

of livelihood is important in helping them bounce back from the disaster, ensuring their social protection through the SSS is also a top priority for their full recovery,” Palma said. Typhoon Pablo rampaged through southern Philippines in December 2012, triggering floods and landslides that flattened the hardest-hit areas of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley and depriving residents of their homes and livelihood.

SSS helps Davao farmers bounce back from Typhoon Pablo thru AlkanSSSya

ver 160 farmers in Cateel, Davao Oriental, five hours away from the provincial capital of Mati, are the newest participants of the Social Security System (SSS) AlkanSSSya Program as part of ongoing initiatives to help residents recover from Typhoon Pablo that hit Mindanao in 2012. emmanuel Palma, SSS Assistant Vice President for Southern Mindanao Division, said 167 out of the 244 farm-

7 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

sarangani Bay as protected seascape

nVIROnMenT personnel in Region 12 are pushing for the passage within the next two years of a proposed law that would establish the coastal waters of Sarangani Province and this city as a protected seascape. Dr. Ali Hadjinasser, chief of the Department of environment and natural Resources’ protected areas and wildlife division, said they are set to submit to the Senate and the House of Representatives a draft measure that would formally set up the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape. He said the draft bill, which is currently undergoing review and “fine-tuning,” specifically seeks the establishment of the entire 211,913-hectare Sarangani

Bay as a protected seascape and the provision of appropriate funds by the national government for its management and for other purposes. The protected seascape will cover this city and the coastal municipalities of Maitum, Kiamba, Maasim, Alabel, Malapatan and Glan in Sarangani. Hadjinasser said the proposed law is mainly anchored on the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 7586 or the national Integrated Protected Areas System (nIPAS) Act of 1992 and Presidential Proclamation 756, which initially declared the bay as a protected area in March 1996. “The measure specifically calls for the annual appropriation of funds in

the national budget for the management, protection, and conservation of the entire Sarangani bay area,” he said in a statement. The official said the bill also pushes for the creation of a regular protected area office, setting up of a management regime, formal organizational structures and other related arrangements. Hadjinasser said they pushed for the passage of such measure to ensure the protection and conservation of Sarangani Bay’s “economic, biological, socio-cultural, educational and scientific values for the enjoyment of the present and future generations.” He said it will help foster widespread awareness and concern for the critical bay area and set off the implementation of comprehensive and holistic promotional activities, trainings and

information campaigns for the protection and preservation of its resources. “While Sarangani Bay is rich in coastal and marine resources, including the famed tuna, its existence and health is threatened by pollution from the surrounding populations and industries,” he stressed. Hadjinasser said Senator Loren Legarda, who chairs the Senate environment and natural resources committee, has agreed to sponsor the measure. He said Sarangani Rep. emmanuel Pacquiao and South Cotabato (1st district) Rep. Pedro Acharon have also signified to sponsor it in the House of Representatives. “We’re hoping that it will be passed into law before the term of the present Congress ends,” he added. [PNA]

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

EDITORIAL

Improving competitiveness

OURISM players in the Philippines must be euphoric over the fact that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Canadian government have granted technical assistance worth $7.1 million for skills development designed to boost the tourism industry in this country. Pursuant to the program, a total of 26 Philippine hotels, resorts and tourism industry associations have received funding grants to bankroll trainings that would improve the skills of their tourism workers. Indeed, one doesn’t have to be an expert to agree how badly our local tourism workers, with the exception of a few, need to improve the quality of their service. Our country has a surfeit of world-class destinations that are potential lure to domestic and foreign tourists but their competitiveness will suffer if the personnel manning them will continue to lack the needed skills and competencies that other countries have. It is likewise heartening that some of the players bene-

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fitted by this Improving Competitiveness in Tourism program which will run for 38 months are from the Davao region. It is said that one aspect of the program is the local government units’ positive policies toward tourism projects and players. In this regard, it may be wise to take a hard look at the simmering controversy between resort owners and the LGU of the Island Garden City of Samal. The conflict is over the insistence of the LGU to impose huge penalties on resorts who have allegedly built permanent structures around their establishments thereby preventing egress and ingress of the public, especially fisherfolk, to the sea, and the refusal of the resort owners to pay such penalties. Somebody who is believed by both resort owners and the LGU leaders should intervene and convince the warring parties to embrace a win-win solution. Will that somebody now come forward to settle the case, which is now in the court?

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG Creative Solutions

ARLENE D. PASAJE Cartoons

RAMON M. MAXEY Consultant

GREGORIO G. DELIGERO Associate Editor

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA Photography Contributing Photographer

ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR./ CHENEEN R. CAPON Reporters

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

GENERAL OFFICE SANTOS CITY CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OFFICE CAGAYAN DE ORO MARKETING OLIVIA D. VELASCO OLIVIA D. VELASCO RICHARDRICHARD C. EBONAC. EBONA SOLANI D. MARATAS SOLANI D. MARATAS MARKETING OFFICE | Marketing Manager General Manager General ManagerMarketingAdvertising Supervisor SpecialistFinance FinanceLEIZEL A. DELOSOLEIZEL A. DELOSO | MarketingFLOREnCE ManagerS. ViLLARin

JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales

AQUILES Z. ZONIO Correspondent

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

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

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slip-up and vagueness

HY SO MUCH OBSCURITY AMOnG TOP OFFICIALS? – Prominent government officials recently have been talking at cross-purposes and causing the wary citizens to wonder just what is going on. Last week alone saw several startling examples. Former Senator and current Secretary Panfilo Lacson of the Office of the Presidential Assistance for Recovery and Rehabilitation (OPARR), the lead agency tasked to oversee the recuperation project in Yolanda-stricken provinces in the Visayas shocked the nation with his disclosure. He alleged that two Cabinet officials are not cooperating with him in the project, but refused to name the two. Lacson observed that six months after the devastating typhoon, still there’s no master plan for the rehabilitation and recovery program. Why it takes so long? Could it have anything to do with some officials’ lack of cooperation? Maybe with cracking the presidential whip harder, they could be a bit obliging. Whatever the reason, people especially in the badly-affected areas actually are not happy. According to Lacson, his function at the moment is limited only to supervision and monitoring the progress of the rehabilitation and recovery project. The somewhat irate and aghast rehabilitation czar said he could no longer take the non-supportive gesture of the two ranking officials sitting down. He mouthed off about the two callous officials’ action who needlessly ignored his request and calls. This public ambiguity among officials is causing concern in government circles. Why are some officials doing it? Secretary Lacson doesn’t understand why some of his peers who

are involved in the Yolanda recuperation project seem not interested to lend their expertise in fast tracking the development. Is there something to hide considering that irregularities were already found in the early stages of construction works? Such obscurity may not be the trend, but the frequency of recent incidents makes it appear so. earlier there had been a war of words over government finances. That dispute shared publicity with another face-off between lawmakers and Cabinet men with economic portfolios over whether funds had gone missing in various government agencies. Most often lawmakers and security experts argued with senior police officials whether the police were responding effectively or not to the unabated crime situation. The stubbornness of some high-profile officials is troubling because, in the long time they have spent in their respective posts, they have shown themselves as incapable leaders. The prevailing problem should best be resolved in the cabinet level. Meanwhile, Lacson is contemplating to consult the President to settle once and for all the hitches. Lacson has, for instance continued the productive talks with other concerned officials to fast track the rehabilitation and recovery effort. This is to avoid creating confusion and anxiety

among the typhoon victims who continue to suffer from miserable conditions. If so, all officials involved in the project should better start getting their assigned task done posthaste. IS eDCA A DAnGeROUS COnCePT? – Different sectors in society howled a protest against the enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or eDCA. Groups opposed to the agreement alleged that such a geopolitically naïve proposal will only draw a protracted armed conflict into Philippine soil. They likewise say that eDCA only favors the interest of the U.S. and an unacceptable pact. Foreign and security experts emphasized eDCA is like suggesting that the country put itself in the line of fire in the event that a sea border conflict, possibly armed confrontation or nuclear in nature, breaks out. A protracted presence of American troops, warships, jet fighters and modern war armaments is really a problem – courting war. With the presence of U.S. troops in the country, this will push us closer and closer into an armed hostility. However, government remains steadfast in its decision that a U.S. facility could be granted only if it would be under the control of the Philippine military and would not violate the Constitution. Constitutional and foreign relations experts insist that eDCA is unconstitutional because it has no concurrence of Congress. Despite government’s insistence that eDCA is within the framework of the existing Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), there are still lots of loopholes that need to be talked about, discussed and debated.

stories of human rights victims as part of school curricula

He Human Rights Victims Claims Board (HRVCB) said over the weekend that stories on martial law atrocities and the lives and sacrifices of human rights victims would be included in the basic and higher education curricula as well as in continuing adult learning. According to Chito Gascon, one of the nine HRVCB members, after the HRVCB has fulfilled its primary task of giving the martial law human rights violations victims the corresponding recognition and reparations, the board will be dissolved but a Memorial Commission will be responsible for ensuring that lessons learned from atrocities of martial law will be taught in school. “The Memorial Commission (MC), which is attached to the CHR, will be tasked to establish a Memorial Museum/Library which will preserve all the records, including the stories of atrocities suffered by the victims and their sacrifices,” Gascon told the Philippines news Agency in an interview. Gascon said the MC will coordinate and collaborate with the Department of education (Deped) and the Commission on Higher education (CHeD) to ensure that lessons from the traumatic experiences of martial law will be taught in school as a reminder to present and future generations that the freedom and human rights currently in place in the Philippine society have been borne from the sweat, tears and blood of those who fought for the trampling of ML under the regime of the late President Ferdinand Marcos. However, he emphasized that only those who would freely give their consent to publish their stories will be included in the publication. He also said that the names of martial law victims that will be given reparation and recognition by the HRVCB will be enshrined in the Roll of Victims of Human Rights Violations which will be turned over to the Memorial Commission Gascon pointed out that the museum will also

SPECIAl FEATuRE By LeILanI S. JunIo serve as a memorial library wherein the present and future generations will be reminded that martial law abuses really existed and a lot of victims had suffered so much that they will never allow again the dictatorship to happen again. “It is a way also to correct those who have misleading notion and saying that it is better during martial days which is unfair for those who had suffered a lot,” he stressed. He said that the memorial coliseum will help prevent the recurrence of similar abuses and atrocities committed by martial law like killing, torture, rape and warrantless arrest, kidnapping, seizure of property and others. He explained that the compensation for the martial law victims will come from the P10-billion plus accrued interest that was transferred to the Philippine Government by the Swiss Federal Court in 1997. Under Republic Act no. 10368 or the Human Rights Victims Reparations and Recognition Act of 2013, the state is mandated to recognize the heroism and sacrifices of human rights violation victims during the Marcos regime from the period Sept. 21, 1972 to Feb. 25, 1986. The law was signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III on Feb. 25, 2013, during the 28th anniversary celebration of the 1986 eDSA People Power Revolution. The appointment of the nine-member HRVCB was done last Feb. 10, 2014. It is headed by Chairperson Lina Sarmiento, with the eight board members consisting of lawyers and medical doctors. They are lawyers Wilfred Asis, Galuasch Ballaho, Byron Bocar, Chito Gascon, Glenda Litong and

Jacqueline Mejia and Dr. Aurora Parong and Dr. Senturias. The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of HRVCB was completed last April 27 and was published in two major newspapers thereafter. Filing of Claims for Reparation or Compensation will begin Monday, May 12, at e. Virata Hall, e. Jacinto St., University of the Philippines Campus, Quezon City, and end on nov. 10, 2014. There will be no fee for application forms. The applicants will be required to present their pertinent document/s photos such as news clippings, death certificate, seizure orders, warrant of arrest, police blotter, release papers, medico-legal autopsy report, court records or other similar documents that will prove that they are indeed victims or relatives of the claimant/s in case the claimant/s is already dead. The applications will be raffled off to the different divisions of the claims board for adjudication and rejection of spurious, fraudulent and fictitious claims. After the evaluation of the claims, members of the board will compute the amount of compensation that the claimants presented through their documents. From the point system of violation/s that a claimant suffered, it will be determined how much compensation he or she is entitled to receive. Those who suffered more will receive more points, which means higher compensation. The list will be published in two major newspapers to give time for those who will oppose certain claims, especially if there are claimants perceived to be fake or not really victims of martial law. After a year, the board will schedule the release of qualified claimants who will receive the compensation.[PNA]

VANTAGE POINTS

Japan’s path forward, in five steps COMMENTARY By Ian Bremmer

Part 1 of 2

n the surface, Barack Obama’s recent Japan visit struck all the right chords for Tokyo. For the first time ever, an American president stated that the U.S.-Japan security treaty extends to the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands dispute, the most combustible geopolitical conflict between Japan and China. And Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced a “key milestone” for negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the trade deal that encompasses 12 countries and more than 40 percent of the world’s economic output. But there was less to the visit than meets the eye. Obama’s Senkaku pledge was a restatement of existing U.S. policy. The “key milestone” on TPP was never identified; in fact, it seems that the 40 hours of bilateral discussions between the U.S. and Japan led to no breakthrough at all. And while the trip was a big win for Obama — he managed to placate Tokyo without provoking Beijing — it didn’t offer any solutions for how Japan should deal with a rising China. With the United States disengaging on foreign policy and China rapidly expanding its influence, Japan is caught in a dire geopolitical position. But Tokyo still has options. Here are five foreign policy priorities for Japan. 1. Stay the course on Abenomics. Japan’s first priority must be to follow through on the prime minister’s economic plan. Despite Tokyo’s recent fixation on security issues, it has maintained economic momentum — and must continue to do so. Improving its long-term economic trajectory is the single most important initiative for Japan. It makes Tokyo more attractive as a partner, and gives Japan opportunities to influence regional outcomes with its wallet. Tokyo cannot take its eyes off the ball to deal with geopolitical concerns. Pressing ahead with Abenomics is the most valuable use of Abe’s political capital. 2. Reject China’s U.S.- Japan “wedge.” Driving a wedge between American and Japanese policy is a key strategy for China. We’ve seen this approach on full display since november 2013, when Beijing announced its Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), a region that extends into contested territory where all aircraft must follow instructions issued by Chinese authorities. After that announcement, we saw some differences between the American and Japanese positions; for example, while both countries rejected China’s air zone claim, only Japan demanded that China rescind it. To emphasize the daylight between the U.S. and Japan, China excoriated Tokyo’s ADIZ response while treading lightly with Washington’s. Going forward, when it comes to the east China Sea and Asian security, Japan needs to coordinate with the United States. If the Obama administration won’t move closer to Japan’s position, then Abe should adopt more of the United States’ language wherever it is politically feasible to do so. The countries must broadcast a unified message to Beijing. 3. Protect gains in Russia and work with europe.

10 NEWS

Tax... FFroM 1

Davao... FFroM 4 of the Philippine Press Institute (PPI), which supported the Davao events. The awardees and their short descriptions are: 1. Guillermo e. Torres Sr.– GeT, a topnotcher both in the bar examination and the board examination for certified public accountant (CPA), was one of Mindanao’s pioneers. A visionary in his own right, he founded the Mindanao Colleges, now the University of Mindanao, the biggest private university in the island, the Mindanao Broadcasting System (now the UMBn) and the Mindanao Times, a newspaper, a printing press and a school supplies store, at the time when there was crying need for such institutions in the booming economy and burgeoning population of the then undivided Davao Province. He took a short course in journalism in Yale, and wrote excellent news stories and speeches. 2. Alfredo navarro Salanga– a literary giant, outstanding communication professor, excellent newspaper editor and martial law opposition who was detained for his writings against the dictatorship. Freddie Salanga was the first editor of the Daily San Pedro express, where many professional media persons learned the ropes under his tutelage. In 1969, the year he obtained a bachelor of arts degree from the Ateneo de Manila University, Salanga received the Mulry Award for Literary excellence. He was also an awardee for the 1980, 1983 and 1985 Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. He was a winner during the 19841985 USA Annual Salute to the Arts Competition sponsored by Triton College in Illinois. In 1984, he won the Best Opinion Column award from the Catholic Mass Media Awards. In 1986, he won the Book of the Year award. A year before that, he was chosen one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) for Literature and Journalism. He died at the very young age of 40. 3. Miguel “Mike” Balbin Sr.– Mike Balbin was a giant in the broadcasting industry in the 60s, 70s and 80s. He was also an active civic leader and an advocate for environmental protection. Despite his being physically-challenged, moving around with two crutches, he loved to fish and go outing. He was past president of the Rotary Club of South, former president of the Davao Press Club, and retired as general manager of the University of Mindanao Broadcasting network (UMBn) where he mentored some of the leading broadcasters of our time.

4. Jose “Jayvee” Velasco – was a hard-hitting radio announcer, anchorman and broadcast executive who was not afraid to take on advocacies even to the point of compromising his supposed neutral position as media person. He was chairman of the Kapisanan ng mgaBrodkaster ng Pilipinas, president of the Davao City Metropolitan Press, Radio and TV Association, and was a consistent participant in the “Yellow Friday” marches against strongman Ferdinand Marcos. Although he held strong opinions on social issues, he was not inclined to join politics. He politely declined an offer to become an OIC Davao City councilor after People Power drove dictator President Marcos away and restored democracy in 1986. 5.Leonilo G. Claudio– a young prosperous entrepreneur and rising professional who dared to establish the Daily San Pedro express, a hard-hitting local newspaper in those days of living dangerously during Martial Law. He became president of the Davao Press Club and as media leader rose to become president and chairman of the Philippine Press Institute, the first Mindanaoan to hold the prestigious position. He continues to support causes designed to help media and media practitioners. He and his family recently launched a store for environment-friendly products along the Carlos P. Garcia Highway, better known as the Diversion Road in Davao City. “It is a social entrep to promote healthy living, help communities and protect the environment” was his quick description of his latest venture. 6. Renato B. Lumawag– unbeknownst to many of us, RBL is not just a photojournalist who corresponded to international news wires UPI, AFP, Reuters and Asiaweek. Before he acquired his first camera, he was an artist who was an employee of the Davao del Sur provincial engineer’s office, disc jockey, newswriter and anchorman of dxGS, dxUM and dxMC. In his younger days in Zamboanga, he was a fisherman, a cinema billboard painter, who tried in his hand in painting caskets. He was into embalming too. 7. Ramon M. Maxey— first wanted to become a career diplomat. But World War II and fighting the enemy in the jungles and mangroves of what is now Caraga Region interrupted his foreign studies at the old University of the Philippines in Padre Faura. When Liberation came, the main UP Campus was moved to Diliman, which was too far for him. So, he quit foreign studies and shifted to journalism in the nearby Far eastern University. His first job was as sports reporter of the defunct evening news. He spent most

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of his time as community journalist in General Santos City during the height of the bloody reign of the murderous Octopus Gang and martial law in Davao City, where he settled until his demise last week at the age of 92. Ram was a simple man who taught many aspiring journalists the many tricks of the trade. At the time of his death, he was editorial consultant and internal ombudsman of eDGe DAVAO. 8. Demetrio T. FlavianoDean Demetrio T. Flaviano was a professor in english in the University of the east and Far eastern University while his wife, Anita, was tending to the fast growing bookstore of the family in the so-called University Belt of Manila. Soon after, they decided to move to Mindanao, particularly Davao, after realizing the huge business potentials of the area which was experiencing a boom in business in the 50’s and 60’s. They started the Mindanao Mirror which was only 6 pages thick and coming out only once a week then. The readers liked the style of the Mirror as reflected in its fast growing circulation. This encouraged the couple to increase the Mirror’s frequency to thrice a week, then four times a week and then six times a week. Instead of putting out a seventh edition, Demet Flaviano, who was already appointed as the dean of the Commerce of Commerce of the defunct International Harvardian University decided to put the Mindanao Mirror Bulletin, every Sunday. 9. Reynaldo MagnoTeves- Rey Teves started advocacy journalism and investigative reporting in this part of the country. His favorite stories then were about labor strikes and environmental issues. even before he could finish a college course, Rey was already editing the Davao Sentinel, the first Catholic weekly in Mindanao, the local version of the Manila Sentinel. He also worked as managing editor of the Mindanao Times. Rey was very popular as a student leader – he was elected president of the Supreme Student government of the Ateneo de Davao and Rizal Memorial Colleges, were he was also editor in chief of the college paper. He headed the Student Catholic Action (SCA), a very popular national student organization at the time. Due to his activism, the military placed him in detention on suspicion of being a subversive. Teves founded the Consumer Movement of Davao, or Konsumo Davao, together with the other plucky concerned citizens, like the late Mrs. Soledad Roa-Duterte, as a spin-off of the Coordinating Council of Organizations of Davao (CCOD). Together with other Konsumo stalwarts including Mindanao Times publisher Jess Dureza, and the oth-

er Konsumo leaders, Teves initiated the “day of rest”, a form of civil disobedience to protest against the abuses of the Marcos Dictatorship. The “day of rest” later caught fire and became welgang bayan or people’s strike. It was the most amazing, most effective and most crippling form of protests during martial law. At the time of his death at the age of 65, Rey was a member of the board of governors of the Development Bank of the Philippines. He also served as regional director of the Philippine Information Agency, as member of the House of Representatives representing the urban poor sector and the Land Bank of the Philippines as member of the board of directors. 10. Cesar R. nunez Sr.– Chuck was a lawyer, but he spent his life as a very respected media person. He was a campus journalist who graduated to be real life media practitioner, as longtime editor of the Mindanao Times and of Davao Sentinel. Because of his very good reputation, he was invited to serve in government many times. He was the only local editor who became city secretary of then Mayor elias B. Lopez and served government with distinction. Before his untimely demise, Chuck was publisher and general manager of Ang Peryodiko Dabaw, forerunner SunStar Davao. Like broadcaster Mike Balbin, Chuck loved to fish and bask in the sun and bathe in the then pristine waters of a beach now officially called the Mindanao Times Beach. 11. Josefina San Pedro– This lady was a teacher in journalism. She spent her life in information dissemination, first as society and cultural page editor of the Mindanao Times, then she was with the Philippine Information Agency as regional director. When she retired, she wrote a column for Sun. Star, she stayed on for a decade, then was back as publisher of Mindanao Times before she died. Tita Josie must have been in Davao media for about half a century. 12. Carolyn Arguillas— The 12th awardee is the youngest of them all. This plucky and awarding winning journalist has covered Mindanao more extensively than all of Philippine media persons combined. She knows all the protagonists and main characters in the war –the rebels, the military, the peace-makers and specially the victims. She is not a recipient of the prestigious Marshall Macluhan Award in 2012 for nothing. Aside from running the prestigious Mindanews news organization, she continues to mentor aspiring journalists. Ajero said the organizers intend to make the World Press Freedom Day awards an annual event to honor outstanding past and present media practitioners.

attributed to the intensified cleansing of record and expanded and strict collection,” he said. “I am not surprise that Mr. Rodrigo Riola can do it as a veteran city treasurer with the support of business sector of the city who has a high regard to the leadership of Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte and Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte,” he added. Dayanghirang expressed

Brgy... FFroM 2

man nato sila mapugos na magtrabaho 24 hours kay naa pud sila’y kinabuhi,”he added. He said that a city as big as Davao needs at least 2,000 to 3,000 working policemen to ensure the peace and order situation. Danao expressed support to the proposal of Duterte. “It will be a great help for the peace and order in the city,” he said, adding that the city has only 400 roving policemen at any given time. He said that back in 2002, when he is still the chief officer of Talomo Police Station, the city is implementing the Davao City Auxiliary Group whose logic is same with the barangay police institutionalization. each staff receives P2,000. earlier, Duterte proposed that the city should allocate P5 million every month for the institutionalization program. However, he proposed said that the Mayor should augment the P6,000 budget for two or three. “Kung hahatiin ang P6,000 na tig P2,000 mas marami ang maeemploy kasi kung isa lang hindi naman natin mapipilit na magtrabaho yan 24 hours saka marami naman tayong tao dito na hindi naman talaga sweldo ang hanap, allowance lang, okay na,” he explained.

NFA, PCA chiefsresign

WO top officials of the Department of Agriculture (DA) have filed their courtesy resignation to President Benigno Aquino III. national Food Authority (nFA) Administrator Orlan Calayag and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator euclides Forbes confirmed on Monday that they have submitted their respective resignation letters last week to the Office of the President. In his letter of resignation dated May 6, Calayag said he is resigning to allow Presidential Assistant on Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan “greater latitude in performing his (Pangilinan’s) mandate.”

assurance that his committee will “continue to find its ways in improving its measures such as upgrading computerization system so that people can pay their taxes anywhere in the bank or in any ATM booth.” In 2014, the city government reported a deficit of P91 million in RPT in 2013. The said deficit has been overcome by the increased collection this year. Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAnD TRAnSPORTATIOn FRAnCHISInG AnD ReGULATORY BOARD Regional Office no. XI Davao city Petition for Approval of Sale and Transfer with Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service. lEONIDA A. OBRA. Petitioner-Vendor NAIMAh G. ABPI, Petitioner-Vendee Case No.2014-XI-00256 (2003-XI-01241) x- - - - - - - - -- - - -----x

NOTICE OF hEARING Petitioners request authority for the Approval of Sale and Transfer executed by LeOnIDA A. OBRA in favor of nAIMAH G. ABPI of a Certificate of Public Convenience with equipment issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCOnDITIOneD TAXI service on the route. WITHIn DAVAO CITY to any point in region XI with the use of THRee (3) units, which Certificate will expire on December 31, 2014. In the same petition filed on April 29,2014., petitioners likewise request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same units previously authorized. nOTICe, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on MAY 26, 2014 at 10:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, Ten (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time. This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence.

WITneSS the Honorable BenJAMIn A. GO, CeSO V, Regional Director, this 29th day of April 2014 at Davao City. TeReSITA DeLA PeÑA-YÑIGUeZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

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Basketball for gamers CHIll JIll

Athena Jillian Bravo

O doubt, the best basketball game app ever invented is hands down nBA 2K14. But when you get an overload of the slamdunking, body-banging nBA stuff, you kind of ask for something different instead of the beefy, lanky, savvy characters who move like their real impersonation. Imagine this, a back to basic stickman character doing an ankle-breaking crazy crossover, or a rim-rattling slam off a lob pass. These are sticks, dude. They’re cool. enter Stickman Basketball, your hippest alternative to nBA. Yo’llu got to love basketball more this time and you don’t need to follow the trend because the best way you can do now is to find something that is unique and interesting for everyone. So get that Stickman Basketball into your download list. Yes, you heard that right. I really mean STICKMAn basketball. I know everyone now gets bored with the 3D version not to mention it does not really have all the

moves of your basketball player in real life. Stickman Basketball is only available in the Android market which means not everyone can have it or play it. With its very cool and colorful graphics, you will enjoy this game even if the player got no face or uniforms on. It’s just stick guys bouncing and passing the ball to their teammates. Ironic because you won’t be seeing any muscle at all. There are over 31 basketball teams to choose from—Miami, USA, Atlanta, Detroit, name it and you’ll

have it. Just like any basketball games, there are quick games, Cup-type tournaments and even season games you can choose from. You can also compete with your friends with the integrated world ranking leaderboard. Watch, replay and share your spectacular dunks with your friends afterwards and show them how fun this game is. experience pure basketball fast-paced game with astonishing graphics and simple controls with Stickman Basketball and you won’t get disappointed at all.

Catch LIVE PBA on your smartphone via PinoyHoops B

ASKeTBALL fans raring to be in the thick of PBA action can now rely on their smartphones to get the latest game updates as PinoyHoops, the most comprehensive basketball app in the country today, recently made available a livestreaming feature through the app. never miss a free throw, a foul, or a three-point shot from your favorite team again by downloading the free PinoyHoops app on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, now supercharged with livestreaming features. Fans can tune in and get play-by-play updates anytime, anywhere, as long as they have an Internet connection on their phones. “With the new livestreaming feature of the PinoyHoops app, we’re taking

sports fans closer to where the PBA action is,” said Mitch Padua, Head for Digital Content at Voyager Innovations, Inc. (Voyager), a subsidiary of Philippine mobile leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart). Whenever a PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) game is airing live, users can simply go to the PinoyHoops app and click on the “Watch Live Stream” tab to watch their teams battle it out on the hard court. To make sure they don’t miss a live game, users will receive alerts for any upcoming basketball game of any team they’re following closely. This complements earlier features that allow basketball fans to follow their favorite teams and players, get live status updates from basketball personalities, and share news

stories with their friends on social networking sites through the app. “The livestream on the PinoyHoops app is best enjoyed with a superfast LTe connection from Smart, which paves the way for high-definition mobile content like the PBA games to be enjoyed by avid fans anytime, anywhere,” added Orlando B. Vea, Chief Wireless Advisor at Smart and Voyager President and CeO. With more than 1,000 4G-capable sites delivering up to 42 Mbps of Internet speeds around the country, Smart LTe users will be able to enjoy seamless and uninterrupted viewing of the PBA games through the PinoyHoops app. The livestream, however, is also available for users from other Internet service providers.

Launched in 2013 in time for the 27th International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Asia Championship where the Philippine drew second place, the PinoyHoops app has revolutionized the way sports aficionados follow basketball action using their mobile devices. Aside from PBA games, users can also get 24/7 updates about their favorite national Collegiate Athletic Association (nCAA) teams through the PinoyHoops app. These engaging and interactive sports content are made possible through a partnership with Sports5, the sports arm of broadcast network TV5. To know more about PinoyHoops and other mobile innovations developed by Voyager, visit www.voyagerinnovation.com.

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Rice or wheat?

How grains define cultural identity Psychologists say cultural differences may be explained somewhat by the type of crops historically farmed in different regions.

Rice farmers in China.

VeR wondered why cultures can be so different, with Westerners more focused on the individual than people in the east? Psychologists said that the divide may come down to which crops are historically farmed in different regions. This “rice theory,” described in the journal Science, holds that people who traditionally grow paddy rice become more collective and holistic over time because of the intense labor involved and the need for cooperation among neighbors. In contrast, those who live in regions that grow wheat think more independently and analytically, in large part because the crop requires half the labor and not nearly the same need for cooperation as rice, researchers argued. “We propose that the rice theory can partly explain east-West differences,” said the study led by Thomas Talhelm, a University of Virginia doctoral student in cultural psychology. “You do not need to farm rice yourself to inherit rice culture,” he added. Since a host of differences exist between cultures across the world and could be linked to religion, politics, climate or technology, researchers decided to narrow their focus to China, where the Yangtze River roughly divides the

wheat-growing north from the rice-growing south. Researchers tested 1,162 Han Chinese – China’s majority – students from 6 different locations using measures of cultural thought, implicit individualism, and loyalty or nepotism. Some tasks involved picking two related objects from a basic diagram of a person’s social circle; and dealing with friends versus strangers in a business transaction. They found that people in rice-growing regions tended to choose more abstract pairings, while people from wheat cultures tended to pick more analytical pairs. People from rice-growing regions tended to draw themselves smaller than wheat-region people when constructing diagrams of social networks, suggesting wheat people saw themselves as more important than others. Those from rice provinces were also more likely to reward their friends and less likely to punish them, showing how the ties within the group prevailed in social and business interactions. “It’s easy to think of China as a single culture, but we found that China has very distinct northern and southern psychological cultures and that southern China’s history of rice farming can explain why people in southern

China are more interdependent than people in the wheat-growing north,” said Talhelm. He said he first noticed differences in outlook and attitude while studying in China for several years

from 2007. Co-authors on the study came from Beijing normal University, South China normal University, and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. The study also found

A farmer in Montana, USA harvests his wheat field.

evidence that more successful patents for inventions came from areas where less rice was grown, signaling a potential link between wheat growing and innovation. “This doesn’t nail it,

but is consistent with the broader idea and will no doubt drive much future inquiry,” said an accompanying Perspective article in Science by Joseph Heinrich of the University of British Columbia.[AFP]

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

The Penny Lane Hotel Tagum’s leisure and gaming hub Tagum CiTy is indeed changing fast, with many big malls and attractions popping up and making life in Tagum a little more sophisticated. i remember visiting Tagum when i was still in high school, the roads to the capital of Davao del Norte at that time was narrow and travelling on it seemed like an eternity.

Fast forward to the present and the highway leading from Durianburg to Tagum City is wide and flanked with stately royal palms. There used to be just one hotel in Tagum in the 1990’s, today travellers now have a variety of hotels to choose from, and one new hotel that is redefining Tagum’s hospitality business is the spanking new Penny Lane Hotel and Casino. Located along apokon Road, the Penny Lane Hotel and Casino sports a modern 21st Century facade that lights up in colours of the rainbow at night. Entering the hotel, one is greeted by a massive hand-made mosaic of the Beatles. Hotel operations officer Benetict Ting says the owners of the hotel loved the Beetles and thus the hotel was actually named after one of the Beatle’s songs “Penny Lane”. The rooms of the Penny Lane Hotel are adequately sized and each of the hotel’s 26 guest rooms have 32” LED cable TV, coffee making facilities and bathtub. Dining at the Penny Lane is courtesy of David’s Tea House which serves delicious Hong Kong-style dim sum as well as shabushabu hotspots. Big dining groups will want to reserve David’s Tea House’s two ViP dining areas which can be combined for a bigger dining space for intimate functions or events. David’s Tea House also caters. Those who are up for

Nuat Thai Spa.

The Penny Lane Hotel by night.

The hotel’s lobby.

The Penny Lane Casino.

more excitement will want to try their luck at the hotel’s casino which is the only casino in Tagum City. Operated by Pagcor, the Penny Lane Casino has 140 Slot machines, six Baccarat Tables and the FabFour Coffee Shop. The Penny Lane Hotel also has a spa for urbanites who want to find soothing relaxation. Open from two in the afternoon to 10 in the evening, Nuat

Thai offers Thai and aromatherapy massages in a cozy environment. With the right blend of fun, excitement, dining and relaxation all in one hub, The Penny Lane Hotel redefining Tagum’s lifestyle. Follow me on Instagram or on Twitter for more travel stories, foodie finds, and happenings in, around, and beyond Durianburg.

David’s Tea House.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge! UP AnD ABOUT

Fun summer workshops at SM City Davao EVERyThing is at SM City Davao for a fun summer! Learn to sing, dance and act at the workshops and recitals happening this May at the Annex Event Center. Embrace a culture of rap music, turntablism, breaking and graffiti art. get your groove on and catch holiday gym and Spa’s hip hop Recital on May 10. Learn to move and snap with the city’s hottest dance crew groove Unlimited for their hip hop Summer Clinic on May 12 and 13. Open to all who love to swing ages 3 to 18 years old, the Davao Sports Council of the Philippines holds its Dancesports Summer Workshop May 19-20. Put your dancing shoes on and boogie your way to the Annex Event Center. Admission is free. improve your theater skills and meet new friends. Learn to move and act on stage at the AOCAi Theater Workshop on May 22 to 23. On day 1, know more about the anatomy of facial expressions and awaken your creativity; and get acquainted with screen and tv acting on the second day. Showcase newly acquired skills in the afternoon. Admission is free. On May 24, learn ballet from the country’s premier dance company Ballet Philippines at 1PM. Watch them perform Rock Supremo live at 5PM. Catch the ballet recital Moving Up Fitness Center on May 18 and Araneta Ballet Center on May 27. Moving Up and Araneta shows start 2 PM at the Annex Event Center. Lapore Music Center mounts their 9th recital showcase on May 28, 2PM. Catch the kids’ perform live at the Event Center. Enjoy an afternoon of movie soundtracks with students of Musikademy. Catch the Summer Blockbuster music recital on May 29, 2PM. Make the most of summer! Present a single or accumulated receipt worth P 1000 at the registration booth and get a free pass to the workshops. Registration starts May 11. For inquiries, call 297.6998 local 126. Like SM City Davao on Facebook or follow @SMCityDavao on Twitter and @smdavao on Instagram for event and promo updates

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

EVEnT

MX3’s Trip to the ‘Land of the Salt’: Pangasinan

THE PROViNCE of Pangasinan held a month-long foundation celebration with a series of festivals that harken back to the province’s unique cultural heritage. The third biggest province in the Philippines, Pangasinan, whose name means “where salt is made”, is a coastal province with the lives of its townspeople tied to the bounty of the sea.

as a tribute to the hard working Pangasinense, mX3 together with gma Network went all the way to Pangasinan to join the province’s barrage of festivals. May 10, 2014 (WORLDWiDE hOUSE, hOngKOng) – The First stop was DaguFilipino Channel (TFC), through TFC Load-n-Watch powered pan City’s Bangus Festiby Cloudfone is set to bring the Philippines’ top-rating variety val which celebrates the show “it’s Showtime’s” successful segment, “Stars on 45,” to bountiful harvest of banhong Kong. TFC will bring “Stars on 45” to hK as part of TFC gus in city. The celebration Load-n-Watch’s weekend event on May 11 at the Worldwide is one of the Philippines’ house and as part of TFC’s 20th anniversary year-long offer- grandest Festivals that ing. As its 20th anniversary theme promises, “Stars on 45” will created a mark of culture honor the galing or bring out the great Pinoy talents in hK. for a global reputation of Twelve finalists aged 45 and above who were picked from tastiest milkfish. The festidifferent Filipino organizations in hK will compete for the val celebrations culminattitle of “Stars on 45: hong Kong Edition” Champion. The ed at the De Venecia Exwinner will receive hK$5,000, a chance to be featured in tension Road in Dagupan one of TFC’s shows, and a brand new TFC Load-n-Watch de- City with a grand Kapuso vice. The finalists are: Josephine Bigata (OFW hK Sing- Night featuring gma ers Association), Lowelyn Adu (Sarranetas hK – ilocos Kapuso stars Dingdong norte Association), Jane Suba (Dapwa Association), Fely Dantes, Jonalyn Viray and Forges (Vigan Assocation), Christina intia (The Voices hK gladys guevara. group), Teresa Villabos (St. Joseph Church – FCg), isabel after the Bangus FestiSiagan, Lenie genese (Lamtin Church group), ismaelita Ma- val, the Pistay Dayat Fescajeto (hikers group), Carmelita gonzales (Migrant Work- tival, a thanksgiving celers Association), Liza Parantar (Twin Ann Salon group) ebration for an abundant and Rosario Kilakiga (Visayas, Mindanao Dance Ensemble). fishing industry in Lin Like the actual segment of “it’s Showtime,” each finalist will gayen, followed and culperform two songs: one from the 80’s and another from the minated at the Lingayen year 2000 up to the present. Two judges or hurados will then Capitol Plaza where Ka-

TFC Load-n-Watch powered by Cloudfonebrings ‘It’s Showtime’s’ ‘Stars on 45’ to Hong Kong

give out scores ranging from one to ten - ten being the highest and one, the lowest. The audience will also be able to participate as they will be given a set of score cards to help the hurados judge each contestant after each performance. FASTER WAY TO ENOY KAPAMILYA CONTENT The singing search, “Stars on 45: hK Edition,” is part of TFC Load-n-Watch’s Sunday launch of its cable downloading system - a better and faster way of downloading the affordable content bundles from the Cloudfone store (also located at the Worldwide house) to the Cloudfone Excite 402D devices. TFC Load-n-Watch powered by Cloudfone is the breakthrough solution to the communication and programming needs of the overseas Filipinos (OFs) on-the-go in hK as it enables them to be informed and entertained throughKapamilya shows anytime, anywhere even without internet access.

puso stars Jaya and Jonalyn Viray serenaded and played with the audience. mX3 made the affairs more exciting with the company’s mX3 Hooray game much to the approval of the gathered grows. Participants were cheering and rearing with excitement eager to win fabulous prizes from mX3.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

EnTERTAinMEnT

Summer is the new Valentine Celebrity style season with Coco and Sarah

STAR Cinema continues to celebrate its 20th anniversary as it join forces with Viva Films in Maybe This Time, the biggest romantic film this season. Maybe This Time marks the maiden and highly-anticipated big screen collaboration between two of ABS-CBn’s biggest and most bankable stars: Primetime King Coco Martin and Box-Office Queen Sarah geronimo. Directed by Jerry Lopez Sineneng and written by Anton Santamaria and Melai Monge, Maybe This Time is a love story centered on Steph Asuncion (Sarah geronimo) and Tonio Bugayong (Coco Martin). Steph and Tonio are polar opposites and the only thing they have in common is the fact that they fell in love with each other. Circumstances beyond their

control eventually compelled them to trek separate paths and lead different lives until they finally meet after so many years to confront an unfinished business

that may or may not be resolved. After leaving Steph, Tonio became involved with an unlikely girlfriend in the person of Monica (Ruffa guttierez) who happens to

be the boss of Steph in the PR firm she is working for. Moinca instructs Steph to transform and reinvent Tonio for him to fit into Monica’s wortld. Will their burning passion with each other be finally rekindled or will they conclude a major chapter in their lives and simply move on? Ultimately, Tonio and Steph will be reminded of the great significance of time and the inevitability of change in their relationship Maybe This Time is a story on how two people will be reminded about the importance of being truthful to one’s self for true love to triumph. Experience a different kind of love and romance and fall in love as Coco and Sarah make summer the new Valentine season. Maybe This Time hits cinemas nationwide this May.

Talk about making a statement! Former Victoria’s Secret Angel and actress Karolina Kurkova arrived at the Met Gala in the biggest, jawdropping gown of the evening by Marchesa.

GMA Network’s Basta Every Day Happy brings brighter mornings to Filipinos STARTing this week, throw away all the negatives vibes as gMA network makes the state of being happy contagious via the newest morning talk/variety program Basta Every Day happy. Basta Every Day happy brings Donita Rose, gladys Reyes, Alessandra De Rossi, and Chef Boy Logro together for the first time on Philippine TV to create a vibrant atmosphere through a mixture of their witty personalities that the viewers have never seen before. They will share their happy experiences in various fun segments, projects, and challenges that will certainly draw smiles and laughter from the viewers. in its desire to make more Filipinos happy and inspired every day, this morning show will encourage everyone to take an active step in making one’s self happy through the simple pleasures of life, such as stumbling upon a hilarious social media post, an amazing food discovery, completing one’s wish list, or a deed of paying it forward, which will consequently affect someone else’s happiness. Knowing that Filipinos possess the unique characteristic of being naturally cheerful despite the adversities being experienced, Basta Every Day happy will feature guest celebrities and even ordinary people who

BRICK MANSIONS 2D

will share fun-filled conversations with the hosts. Kapuso viewers will certainly have something to look forward to every day as each episode contains a collection of happy moments of everything under the sun, such as parenting, family, relationships, home care, beauty, fashion, technology, and travel, among others. Under the helm of ac-

claimed director Louie ignacio, Basta Every Day happy is set to change the Filipino viewers’ weekday morning viewing habits. Created by the gMA Entertainment TV group, this morning talk/ variety program is under the supervision of Senior Vice President for Entertainment TV Lilybeth g. Rasonable; Assistant Vice President for Talk, Magazines,

Musical, Reality Productions and TV Specials Darling P. De Jesus; Program Manager Jenny Cordova-Reyes; and Executive Producer gladys hernando. Catch your daily dose of happiness every morning in Basta Every Day happy with hosts Donita, gladys, Alessandra, and Chef Boy starting Monday at 11:00 AM only on gMA 7.

Paul Walker, David Belle, RZA R 13

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

THE OTHER WOMAN 2D Cameron Diaz, Leslie Mann, Kate Upton PG 13

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

SO IT'S YOU 2D Carla Abellana, Tom Rodriguez PG 13

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

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

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

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

GDAY GenSan 2014 UP AnD ABOUT

Photos by Fra Jamir

FROm the team that brought us last years g-DayX mindanao, google Business group (gBg) gensan brings us an even more googlier, g-Day genSan! The event took place at Sm City gensans Trade Hall 1, last may 3, 2014. 250 participants stormed the trade hall, and were pumped up by a flash zumba session to the tune of Pharells ‘Happy’, by Donna mae Congson, from gensans own Legendz, along with gBg gensan members. g-Day gensans highlights were of course were the talks, participants were dazzled by speakers who bring out the awesomeness of various google tech available. The googly event was hosted by quirky Orman manansala, gBg gensans Co-manager. among those speakers were gensans own avel manansala (manager of gBg gensan) ariel Lalisan (Lead of google Educators group-Sarangani), and in place of mayor Ronnel, Couns. Hon. Dominador Lagare iii, Chiclet Rillio (lead gBg Women gensan) Belida Canlas (Exec. director of gSC Chamber of Commerce

& industry) Job Oberio (System Sales admin, genSanSales.com/gBg Trainer), Rap gregorio (gBg Trainer), alexis Chua (Cash mngmt. Specialist, auB/gBg

EDGEDavao Davao Partners

Trainer), Leizl Oberio and Cindy Bascon (Entreprenours), Rain Ramas (Hotel San marco Consultant), gwyn ann Ebol-Palima (Communications Officer, Dole Phils., Corp.). Keynote speakers, ms. gail Tan,google Business Community manager and ms. Chelle gray,google Developer Community manager, who flew to gensan to share their thoughts, experiences and gDg and gBg’s aims. in between talks, prizes were given away, served lunch, Q&a floor was opened in order for the participants quires to the speakers. all in all it was a fun filled, inspirational and informative day. Some might argue that technology has its downsides, can’t say that its untrue, but its how we use those information available at our fingertips, that define us. it is how we act toward this galaxy of limitless possibilities, whether we use it for our destruction or for our victory. Follow me on Twitter or Instagram, @kyriekoutre for more adventures in and around my wonderland that is Gensan, Tuna Capital of the Philippines.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 â&#x20AC;˘ TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

ClASSIFIED 13 Edge Davao hiring 3 reporters eDGe DAVAO is a need of three staffwriters/reporters for its expansion program. The reporters will be assigned to the business, science/environment and political beats. Applicant must be a graduate of a four- year college course. experience is not needed although preferable.

Interested parties may send their application letter to Mr. Antonio M. Ajero, edge Davao editor, thru email address ajero_ antonio@yahoo.com. For inquiries, please call Mr. Ajero thru mobile phone 09052422686 or landline 221-3601.

14 ClASSIFIED

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15 SPORTS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 41 • TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

CMO pummels RPSB for 4th win in a row C BlocK. Los Angeles Clippers guard Darren Collison, upper right, puts up a shot as Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant, left, defends and Clippers guard Chris Paul looks on in the first half of Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinal NBA basketball playoff series, Sunday (Monday PHL Time) in Los Angeles.

clippers stun Thunder 101-99 to tie series

OS AnGeLeS (AP) -- After being thoroughly outplayed for over 40 minutes, the Los Angeles Clippers fought back. Leading the way was a player not known for coming up big in the clutch. Darren Collison scored eight of his 18 points in the final 2:58, rallying the Clippers past the Oklahoma City Thunder 101-99 on Sunday to tie the Western Conference semifinal series 2-2. ‘’even though we didn’t play well throughout the game, we were able to get a

win,’’ Collison said. ‘’That feels more impressive than anything we did.’’ Russell Westbrook, who scored 27 points, missed a 3-pointer and Serge Ibaka’s tip attempt was too late at the buzzer, allowing the Clippers to salvage a game they trailed until the final 1:23. ‘’It was a good look,’’ Westbrook said. ‘’Just didn’t go in.’’ Blake Griffin led Los Angeles with 25 points, making 9 of 11 free throws. Jamal Crawford added 18 points. DeAndre Jordan had 14 rebounds, helping the Clippers win the

boards, 45-43 - the first time in 11 playoff games the Thunder were outrebounded. ‘’We just willed this one. We found a way,’’ said Chris Paul, who had 23 points and 10 assists. Kevin Durant scored 40 points, hitting 15 of 18 free throws, for the Thunder. ‘’We let this one slip away,’’ he said. ‘’We could have took control of the series.’’ ‘’We were almost on the mat and we got off of it. We didn’t get pinned,’’ Clippers coach Doc Rivers said.

guarantees he will stay no. 1 in the rankings heading into Roland Garros. ‘’It wasn’t that I didn’t want to play or I was missing intensity, I was just mentally blocked.’’ earlier, Maria Sharapova bounced back from a poor start to defeat Simona Halep 1-6, 6-2, 6-3 to win the women’s title. nadal became the first repeat winner in Madrid but it was only his second clay-court title of the year, and third overall in 2014. nishikori’s aggressive start allowed him to jump out to a 5-1 lead as his powerful groundstrokes overwhelmed nadal, who struggled to find an answer against his Japanese opponent.

‘’We don’t deserve the victory, (nishikori) deserves it, he played better than us the whole time,’’ nadal’s uncle and coach Toni nadal told Antenna 3 TV. ‘’We had a lot of luck today. We didn’t really come back, he was hurt.’’ nishikori broke nadal again to start the second set to leave the Magic Box center crowd, which included Queen Sofia, dumbfounded to find nadal struggling so badly. nishikori first experienced discomfort while leading 4-2 and nadal took advantage to break back. nishikori soon needed a medical timeout for treatment on his back and hip, and his energy then looked sapped as he hit a shot long to concede the set.

and scored 28 points after halftime Sunday, including making six of his franchise playoff-record-tying seven 3-pointers. Roy Hibbert had 17 points and nine rebounds, continuing his recent surge after a pooras-can-be start to the series. He helped Indiana overcome Washington’s 32-2 advantage in bench scoring. That was thanks mainly to 30-somethings Al Harrington, Drew Gooden and Andre Miller, who combined for 28 points, 13 rebounds and six

assists. Wizards coach Randy Wittman likes to call that trio of not-yet-retired, best-daysbehind-them guys - Miller, 38; Harrington, 34; Gooden, 32 - the ‘’AARP group,’’ but they momentarily turned the game Washington’s way with quite a second quarter and a key stretch of the fourth. There even were chants of ‘’An-dre Mil-ler!’’ when he made two free throws in the fourth quarter to make it 8576. But George willed the Pacers back.

Nadal, Sharapova win Madrid Open

ADRID (AP) -- Rafael nadal finally won another clay-court title, although not in a manner that alleviated any concerns about his recent form on his favorite surface. The top-ranked Spaniard won his fourth Madrid Open on Sunday after Kei nishikori was forced to withdraw with a hip injury when trailing 2-6, 6-4, 3-0 in the final. And nadal, who is coming off to uncharacteristic quarterfinal losses on clay, said his mental strength is still lacking just two weeks ahead of the French Open. ‘’I was blocked. There were some moments where, I don’t know, I couldn’t find myself,’’ said nadal, whose victory

‘’They’re seething right now. They had an opportunity to go up 3-1 and now it’s an even series.’’ It was the 14th comeback - and largest yet - by the Clippers this season after trailing by double digits. They rallied from 12 points down in the second quarter of Game 7 to oust Golden State in the first round. ‘’This is one of the best ones yet,’’ Paul said. ‘’Darren Collison was amazing. You just got to love a guy like that who plays with so much heart and never gives up.’’

ity Mayor’s Office stretched its winning run to four games by besting Regional Public Safety Batallion, 68 – 54, in the ongoing Davao Summer Sports Festival AFP-PnP Basketball Tournament at the Davao City Recreation Center Almendras Gym on Wednesday. Christopher “Bong” Go made game-best 22 points as CMO continue to play at a high level winning four straight games in seven days. Go’s performance was at far than the previous wins but good enough to propel CMO remained at the solo second. Rodel Bantilan scored nine of his total 11 in the pivotal third canto where the City Hall-based dribblers outscored RPSB, 19 – 10, to enter the pay off period with 58 – 44 lead. Ryan Lomotos added 10 baskets for CMO which took 39 – 35 advantage at the half.

Kaymer wins Players Championship

He 17th at TPC Sawgrass is meant to be evil. Sitting out there just 130 or so yards, it’s a fairly easy shot if you get past the fact that any miss means doom. When you’re playing for the biggest check in golf, and a career achievement, the hole looks like someone is joking with you. That’s why the tee shot of Martin Kaymer on the 17th as he barely held on to a one-shot lead was so mystifying. The shot wasn’t lucky or unlucky, good or bad, it was just, the one place

George’s 39 lead Pacers past Wiz 95-92

ASHInGTOn (AP) -- Paul George had a career playoff-high 39 points and added 12 rebounds to lead the Indiana Pacers back from a 19-point deficit and past the Washington Wizards 95-92 on Sunday night to move one victory away from returning to the eastern Conference finals. The Pacers lead the second-round series 3-1 and can close it out Tuesday night, hosting Game 5. George played 46 minutes

Banking on its run and gun type of play, RPSB managed to trail CMO within the striking distance most of the game. But the Mayor’s men turned things around in the third, shooting consistently and defending intensely, to hand RPSB its third loss in four games. John Lamparas top scored for RPSB with 14. Go, who averaged 36 points in the previous three victories, made 16 in the first half, eight in the opening canto to help CMO establish, 23 – 14, advantage at the end of the period. In the other encounters, Bureau of Fire prevailed in the battle of the heavyweight as the Firemen subdued 10th Infantry Agila Division, 94 – 86. Bureau of Jail Management and Penology defeated Philippine Air Force, 77 – 62. (Rico Biliran)

MAriA Wins. Maria Sharapova from Russia celebrates her victory holding her trophy after a Madrid Open tennis tournament final match against Simona Halep from Romania in Madrid, Spain, Sunday (Monday PHL Time). (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)

on that green where you’re really leaving it up to a favorable bounce if you want to walk away with a par. Kaymer’s bounced, spun, rolled and nearly went in the hazard he already cleared, but the ball stayed up, and there was life in the young man again. That was where the man that finally sunk the Americans at the 2012 Ryder Cup pulled off his usual antics when it’s a life-changing putt, burying a 30-footer for a par and that all-important oneshot lead.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. VOL.77ISSUE ISSUE41 41••TUESDAY, TUESDAY,MAY MAY13, 13,2014 2014

RECOGNITION

nietes closes in on elorde’s record By NEIlWIN JOSEPh l. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

iT’s oVer. After knocking doen Mexican Moises Fuentes for good in 2:56 of the ninth round, Filipino world champion Donnie Nietes was carried over the shoulders of his trainer Edito Villamor. nJb

ATHeMATICALLY, World Boxing Organization (WBO) light flyweight champion Donnie nietes has exactly six months to officially become the longest reigning Filipino world champion. He can practically sleep between now and the new Year, and claim that record owned by the legendary Gabriel “Flash” elorde. However, nietes is not the type who will sleep on his accomplishments. never mind that he still remains an underappreciated champion. The 31-year old mainstay of ALA Stable is dead serious of claiming not just the distinction of being the longest reigning

champion, but also the respect of the Filipino fight fans. On Saturday night, an upgraded nietes displayed his newfound arsenal—faster, ferocious and running on full tank--in what was to be his most impressive performance ever. nicknamed “Ahas”, nietes sent a strong message to the world when he clinically disposed Mexican rival Moises Fuentes in nine rounds to win their keenly awaited rematch and regain his WBO title. The lanky Fuentes, reigning WBO minimumweight titlist, went down three times after getting tagged with vicious overhand rights from the Filipino and was officially counted out in 2:56 of the ninth. Refer-

ee Robert Byrd called it a night when Fuentes failed to beat the count after reeling to the canvas for the final time with a right overhead to the face. Before that, he went down first from a 1-2 nietes combination but was saved when Byrd penalized an overeager nietes for hitting him when he was down. nietes sent Fuentes a second time with an overhead and it was obvious the Mexican was just moments away from being done. He finally fell like timber when nietes unleashed his final overhand blow like an ax that cut him out for good. “napansin ko na nasaktan siya kaya binuhos ko na,” said nietes after the fight.

ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer said they will put nietes up for two more defenses before he climbs up to the flyweight ranks. He is just eight months away from at least equalling elorde’s record of eight years and three months as world champion. nietes improved to 33-14 with 18 knockouts, while Fuentes tasted his first career knockout and dropped to 192-1 with 10 KOs. Aldeguer said they might put nietes up against Roman Gonzalez or Juan Francisco estrada within the year. The other ALA fighters--Milan Melindo and comebacking Rey “Boom Boom”

Bautista – also won their matches against Mexican foes. Melindo (31-1, 12 KOs) won a majority decision over tough Martin Tecuapetla (11-6-2, 8 KOs) in the main supporting

bout while Bautista (35-3, 25 KOs) was a little scrappy in taking a unanimous decision against Mexican prospect Sergio Villanueva (26-4-2, 13 KOs).