Edge Davao 7 Issue 51

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

OOPS. A participant in the 4th Samal Summer Kayakfest in the Island Garden City of Samal falls off the boat after losing balance with his female partner Kizzia Delos Reyes heading towards the finish line in one of the exciting races last Sunday. Boy Lim

SECURE THE SCHOOLS 1,000 cops to be deployed in schools for ‘Oplan Balik Eskwela’

By Cheneen R. Capon

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crc@edgedavao.net

aRely a couple of weeks before the start of the incoming school year, the Davao City police office (DCpo) plans to deploy around 1,000 policemen in school premises to ensure security and safety of students, parents and school personnel.

LURING RODY. Brgy. Captain Mar Masanguid of Brgy. R. Castillo, the chief convenor of Pilipinas Duterte 2016 Movement, shows off an image taken from his cellular phone showing government officials from Surigao del Sur signing a pledge of support for Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte to run for president during a press briefing yesterday at Grand Men Seng Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

DCPO director Vicente Danao the police force will be augmented in every school especially in public schools with huge student population.

“We are prioritizing Davao City National High School and Sta. Ana Elementary School because of its bug number of students,” he said during the Kapehan sa Dabaw yesterday at SM City Annex.

Danao assured that all schools in the city will be covered in the implementation of the Oplan Balik Eskwela despite the limited number of police personnel.

“We will be deploying at least two policemen in every school,” he said.

“We are trying to avoid any kind of crimes during the opening of classes,” he said, citing occurrences of riots among students in the past particularly in public schools.

Linda S. Antiporta, data encoder at the planning division of Department of Education (DepEd) bared to Edge Davao that Davao City has a total of 285 public elementary schools and 70 public secondary schools.

For private schools, there are 214 in elementary and 85 in secondary.

Antiporta said the DepEd expects a three percent increase in the number of en-

FSECURE, 10

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EDGEDAVAO

THE BIG NEWS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

THAT OLD, INEFFICIENT SYSTEM. Applicants for Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) identification cards and license renewals had to flock as early as dawn just to catch the limited 200 slots allocated daily by the PRC Regional Office. People troop in vans from the provinces to get better chances of the limited allocation enduring the summer heat and hunger. Observers say the PRC, despite the processing services in malls, still remains as one of the least efficient agencies in government in terms of services.

‘Indiscriminate’ quarrying destroys Number of smoking roads, poses health, safety problems’ ban violators surges

By Cheneen R. Capon

By aRManDo B. FenequiTo JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

ESiDENtS in barangays Mandug and Callawa have aired their complaints against the effects of alleged “indiscriminate” quarry operations which reportedly destroyed public roads, caused health problems and posed threat to the communities. in today’s regular session, the city council is set to deliberate in the second reading the “Resolution Recommending to the City Mayor’s Office the creation of Composite team in order to monitor the strict compliance of environmental and traffic laws, appropriate and efficient tax collection and rehabilitation efforts in all quarry points in Davao City.”

Based on the draft resolution of the committee on

environment and natural resources, a petition filed by concerned residents of Barangay Mandug and Callawa, which host a number of quarrying sites, contained complaints against the alleged “indiscriminate and relentless quarrying activities which resulted to discomfort and environmentally discomfort in the areas.” the draft resolution disclosed that the complaints include the massive destruction of road due to presence of the heavy quarry vehicles passing by the roads, overloading and over speeding of the quarry trucks, concern on health issues due to the vastness of dust in the road and lack of personnel from the City treasurer’s Office (CtO) in the

WEATHER FORECAST

quarry site to ensure proper tax payments.

According to the committee report, the massive destruction of roads from Sitio ilihan, Fatima, Pangi, and Mandug Proper were caused by the use of trailer and 10-wheeler trucks passing the road.

“Quarry operators in the area, represented by Atty. Rose Cabaguio, express their dismay on the petition of the community since they are in constant coordination with the Barangay Council of Mandug and Callawa in the implementation of the road rehabilitation efforts, besides they should not be blamed solely on the destructions of roads since there is a need to upgrade enhanced the road quality in the area to

respond in the current development,” the report stated. it added that the Land transportation Office (LtO) deputies confirmed the said illegal practices citing one of their actual road inspection where apprehended and recorded quarry vehicles loading more than the allowed weight limit mandated by the city ordinance. the report further said the alleged over speeding of large trucks passing in the area posed threat to the safety of the residents especially the children.

“Vast cloud of dust caused by the vehicles passing the roads causes health problems among the affected residents,”

F’INDISCRIMINATE’, 10

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HE number of violators apprehended under the new comprehensive smoking ordinance of Davao City surged by more than 60 percent in 2013 as compared to the figures posted in the preceding year.

Anti-Smoking task Force (AStF) chief Dr. Domilyn Villareiz that law enforcers issued a total of 3,883 citation tickets to smoking ban violators, 64.81 percent higher than the 2,356

tickets issued in 2012. the city government started the implementation of the amended anti-smoking ordiance in May last year.

For the first quarter of 2014, the AStF recorded 1,889 violators issued with citation tickets.

Villareiz, guesting in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City, told reporters that since the start of 2014, police

FNUMBER, 10

DTI watches prices of school supplies

Rescued pygmy whale swims back to the sea W A

N injured whale was rescued by personnel from a nearby floating power plant in bry, San Roque, Maco, Compostela Valley last thursday morning, May 22. initial assessment by municipal fisheries officers and personnel from the regional Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) shows that the whale was a 4-yearold female, pygmy sperm whale, weighing approximately 250 kilos with a length of 120 inches or 10 feet. it was found to have injuries that were possibly caused by attacks from cookiecutter sharks. Aside from the bite marks, there were also signs of possible plastic ingestion. A more recent assessment con-

crc@edgedavao.net

By Daniel D. Joaquin

cluded that the whale was also dehydrated when it was found.

Region BFAR OiC municipal coordinator Nora tandawa, who headed the response team said “it was good that therma Marine quickly took charge of protecting the whale and preventing it from being butchered since the meat is poisonous to humans”.

A mekesift floating shelter was set up by fishermen and personnel from nearby therma Marine power plant where the whale rested for the better part of thursday.

As of 5pm thursday after some hydration and care for its wounds, the whale was strong enough and was allowed to swim back to the sea, said

FRESCUED, 10

itH the opening of the new school year, the Department of trade and industry (Dti) will strictly monitor business establishments selling school supplies to ensure that parents and students get the suggested retail prices.

Engr. Alvin Aranas, senior trade and industry specialist of Dti 11 Consumer Welfare and trade Regulation Office said the agency’s field offices in the region will start monitoring retailers and wholesalers beginning early this month.

He said the monitoring will help make sure that each retailer or wholesaler follows Dti’s suggested retail prices for each product that Dti applies nationwide.

Along with the Department of Health (DOH) and Bureau of Food and Drugs

(BFAD), Aranas said Dti also monitors quality and safety of school supplies.

Aranas bared that based on the accomplishment reports from the field work, no significant price hikes were noticed in school supplies during the past two years.

He said that “smart purchasing” is a key to safety and the best way in getting the most out of your money.

Aranas also recommended to parents and students to buy from well-known retailers and wholesalers, adding that when buying school supplies, especially crayons, the consumers shall make sure in checking for a toxicity warning on the box which should contain “non-toxic” label otherwise, he said, the product may contain dangerous levels of chemicals such as lead.

NEWS 3

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

DND official insists EDCA constitutional D

EPARtMENt of National Defense (DND) Spokesperson Peter Paul Galvez maintained on Monday that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States is above board and constitutional. the DND official was reacting to the filing of a petition for certiorari and prohibition before the Supreme Court by a group of former lawmakers and lawyers seeking to stop the implementation of the controversial agreement. the petitioners asked the SC to issue a temporary restraining order (tRO) against the implementation of the EDCA and to stop the Department of Budget and Manage-

ment (DBM) from releasing funds for the implementation of the same agreement. they also sought for the declaration of the EDCA as unconstitutional.

“We respect their initiative. Nonetheless, we hope they will see the merits and bigger picture on how the EDCA will impact our country,” the DND spokesperson said, stressing that the EDCA complies with the Philippine Constitution and other existing laws. “the interest of the country has been paramount in this negotiation. We will be cooperating in whatever hearing that will be required,” Galvez pointed out.

Petitioners against the

FDND, 10

Teen pregnancy in Davao on the rise, LGU alarmed

t

HE local government of Davao City is alarmed over the rising cases of teen pregnancies.

Jeff Fuentes, of the population division of the Davao City Health Office (CHO) said there is an estimated 2 to 3% increase in teen pregnancy cases, based upon data from live birth records of the city government. this is equivalent to 5,000 teen pregnancies (mothers 19 years old and below).

He said 5,000 teen pregnancies is equivalent to 5,000 high-risk pregnancy cases as the teenagers young bodies are not yet mature enough to bear babies as compared to adults.

Fuentes said the CHO once conducted fertility awareness talks in schools but ran into stiff competition particularly from the Catholic

Church.

He said the talks were refocused towards out-ofschool youths.

Fuentes said the talks do not tackle the morality of pre-marital sexual behavior but centers around the clear and present dangers of teen pregnancy.

Lack of parental guidance is pointed as the main reason for the rise in teen pregnant cases, which placed Davao among top 5 cities in the Philippines among teen pregnancies.

With the passage of the reproductive health law, Fuentes said they could revitalize their fertility awareness education in schools.

Currently the CHO has 43 personnel tasked to provide awareness education among teens in the City. [PIA 11/RG Alama]

BLACK ENERGY. A Badjao elder gathers wood charcoal after hours of sun drying at the so-called Tent City in Sta. Ana wharf, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Barangay officials qualify for special CSC eligibility E

LECtED and appointed barangay officials may apply for the Barangay Official Eligibility (BOE) issued by the Civil Service Commission (CSC).

BOE is a privilege granted to barangay officials, including Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chairpersons, who have rendered at least one term of office in one barangay. Said eligibility is equivalent to a Career Service Subprofessional eligibility suitable for first level positions in government or job positions which involve clerical, trades, crafts, and

custodial service. the grant of BOE shall be based strictly on the completion of term of office. if the services rendered by the elected or appointed barangay official fall short of the completed term, he or she may be considered for the grant only if the deficiency is not more than 15 days.

Barangay officials who completed their term of office before Aug. 1, 2012 may file their application for the BOE until Aug. 1, 2014, after which the CSC shall stop issuing BOEs to barangay officials with completed terms

before Aug. 1, 2012.

Barangay officials who completed their term of office on or after Aug. 1, 2012 may still apply for the BOE beyond Aug. 1, 2014.

Appointive barangay officials such as the Barangay treasurer and Barangay Secretary who were appointed by the Punong Barangay and are related to the latter up to the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity shall not qualify for the BOE. the applicant shall submit a notarized affidavit stating that he or she is not related up to the fourth degree of consan-

Comelec asks P18 B to purchase brand new counting machines

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SECURITY MEASURES. Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Vicente Danao Jr. discusses the security measures and the preparations being undertaken by his office for the upcoming school opening during Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

guinity or affinity to the appointing Punong Barangay.

Application may be filed at the CSC Regional or Field Office with jurisdiction over the barangay concerned. Application fee is Php 500.

Policies on the grant of BOE are stated in CSC Memorandum Circular No. 13, s. 2012. Form and requirements for application are available at the CSC website www.csc.gov.ph.

For more information on the Barangay Official Eligibility, please contact any CSC Regional or Field Office.

[PNA]

HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday said they need P18 billion to purchase brand new counting machines for the 2016 presidential elections.

Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes told the House committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms that P10 billion will be for the Optical Mark Reader (OMR) counting machine hardware alone while the remaining P8 billion will be used to buy other paraphernalia and software needed by the counting machines.

“We need to buy brand new counting machines because we are no longer sure the old Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) which are stored in an air conditioned warehouse can deliver 100% accuracy,” Brillantes told the

committee chaired by Capiz Representative Fredenil Castro.

Brillantes added that the old machines could be disposed or reused when Valenzuela City Rep. Magtanggol Gunigundo asked what the Comelec intends to do to the PCOS machines which are stored in an air conditioned warehouse which the Comelec admitted is paid less than a million peso every month.

“Using counting machines for 2 to 3 elections is enough. technology is fast changing,” Brillantes pointed out as he was saying that PCOS machines were used in the 2010 presidential elections, barangay elections and the 2013 senatorial elections.

However, Brillantes said

FCOMELEC, 10

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

DAVAO DEL NOrTE

LGU holds DRRM summit,‘rescuelympics’ O

LiCyMAKERS will converge for the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Summit on tuesday at the Big 8 Corporate Hotel in tagum City to firm up policies geared towards attaining a safer, adaptive and more resilient Dabaonon people.

About 120 participants from the 11 local government units of the province are expected to participate in the event, in pursuit of the province’s vision of mitigating the impact of climate change and managing disaster risks effectively.

Romulo tagalo, Executive Director of the Climate Change Adaptation/PDRRM Council, said topics in the summit include State of Climate Change for Davao del Norte which will be tackled by Dr. Lourdes Simpol, Director of tropical institute for Climate Studies (troPiCS).

Engr. Roy Badilla, Chief of the Flood Forecasting and Warning System of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) will also focus on the Science for Safer Communities. tagalo will likewise present the State of DRRM and the Policy Response of the Province of Davao del Norte during

EARTHQUAKE DRILL. School children and parents cover their heads during conduct of earthquake drill at the Oplan ANDAM cum Brigada Eskwela program in Tiburcia, Kapalong, Davao del Norte.

[Noel Baguio/DavNor PIO] the confab. the summit is likely to highlight the accomplishment of the Oplan ANDAM (Advocacy on Natural Disaster Awareness and Management)

GENERAL SANTOS CITY

program, which was implemented by the province since December 2013 to teach communities basic skills to survive calamities. in response to the policy

North Cotabato

meet, the 3rd RDR Rescuelympics will be held the following day at the Davao del Norte Sports and tourism Complex.

Local disaster risk reduction and management officers

of the respective cities and municipalities of the province will slug it out in the competition highlighting their skills in saving lives during emergencies.

tagalo said the event aims to strengthen the camaraderie of the various rescue units in the province and to enhance their skills in responding to disasters. [Noel Baguio]

Study to protect critical DSWD, NorthCot extend aid to distressed OFW Sarangani Bay pushed t t HE General Santos City Council is pushing for the conduct of a comprehensive study on the diverse ecosystems of the critical Sarangani Bay as it moves for the institution of special protection and conservation policies for the entire bay area and its resources. in a resolution, the council specifically asked the Mindanao State University’s College of Fisheries here to lead the study on the Sarangani Bay, focusing on the definitive assessment of its condition, status and protective measures that are currently in place.

“A comprehensive knowledge or information coupled with a well-informed populace could greatly contribute to its sustenance as one of the city’s last bastion of marine natural resource and wealth,” the resolution said.

City councilor Rosalita Nunez, who authored the resolution, said the results of the study will mainly assist the city government and other concerned agencies in formulating proper protection, conservation and management measures for the bay’s

ecosystems.

She cited the need for the city to set sustainable practices in terms of the utilization of the bay’s resources and development expansions along its coasts.

Nine of the city’s 26 barangays are situated along the coasts of Sarangani Bay, which is shared by the city and nearby Sarangani Province. these are barangays Siguel, tambler, Calumpang, Labangal, Dadiangas West, Dadiangas South, Bula, Buayan, and Baluan.

Nunez cited that the entire population of the city mainly benefit from Sarangani Bay’s ecosystems, especially in terms of “goods” derived from its resources and even from those that are regarded as intangible like tourism and recreation. it provides “services” such as the proper functioning of hydrological cycles, prevention of air and water pollution, maintenance of oxygen in the atmosphere, pollination of crops and other things that generally contribute to the betterment of the living conditions of the people, she said.

[MindaNews]

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the SOCCSKSARGEN region has provided financial assistance to the family of a Filipino Overseas Workers from North Cotabato who was reported abused by her Arab employer, officials announced Monday. the provincial government of North Cotabato is also readying financial and material assistance to the family of Fa-

North Cotabato

hima P. Alagasi, an OFW from Pikit, North Cotabato who was allegedly abused by her employer by pouring hot water on her body.

Rose Alcebar, of DSWD-12 Social Welfare Action Development Center (SWADC), said they have extended P10,000 for Fahima’s father who will fly to Manila to wait for his daughter’s return.

Upon her return, the DSWD 12 will help Fahima through the reintegra-

tion program of DSWD. North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza, after learning of Fahima’s fate in the Middle East, instructed the provincial social welfare office to visit Fahima’s family and how they could be of help.

Fahima, a 23 yearold OFW from Barangay Nalapaan, Pikit town, is now in the safe house of the inter-Agency Council Against trafficking (iACAt), according to Susan Ople of the Ople Center, a

non-government organization helping distressed OFWs. Ople said her office is helping the family connect with concerned government agencies like Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

Jocelyn Maceda, provincial social welfare worker, said Fahima’s father, Musa, and a sister are proceeding to Manila this week. [PNA]

WHO consultant pushes for massive immunization

A

RANKiNG official of the World Health Organization visited North Cotabato and met with local health officials in an effort to spread the importance of immunization.

Dr. Rupali Sisir Banu, WHO consultant, met with about 100 nurses, municipal and provincial health

officials over the weekend and told them the importance of immunization. the visit was part of Dr. Banu’s advocacy for immunization to save lives.

Banu explained that immunization will save lives even before they can contact highly infectious diseases.

Dr. Banu cited a study

conducted by WHO that annually the immunization program could save from two to three million individuals all over the world.

Physicians Rubelita Aggalut, Representative to the Local Board of the Department of Health 12 and Eva C. Rabaya, chief of the North Cotabato integrated

Provincial Health Office lauded Dr. Banu’s visit.

Following the speaking engagement, health workers in the province sat down and came up with strategies on how to improve immunization against various diseases in North Cotabato’s 17 municipalities and a city.

[PNA]

5 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

Business confidence up in Q2 P

HiLiPPiNE businesses turned more optimistic on the over-all economy in the second quarter of 2014 compared to the previous quarter tracking those in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore and South Korea Results of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Business Expectations Survey (BES) for the quarter showed that confidence index (Ci) rose to 50.7 percent from quarter-ago’s 37.8 percent. the improvement in the index was attributed to robust consumer demand during the secondary harvest season, graduation and enrolment periods, which increase demand for school supplies among others; and the summer season, which translates to more tourist arrivals and consumption spending.

Other factors for this positive developments are the putting up of new construction projects in line in the Eastern Visayas rehabilitation bid among others, the higher orders and new contracts that in turn leads to higher volume of production, business expansion, launch of new products vis-à-vis recovery in the advanced economy like the US, and continuing confidence in the Aquino administration. “the country’s strong

macroeconomic fundamentals such as manageable inflation and steady growth of remittances as well as more favorable external conditions with the recovery of global markets support the positive business outlook,” the central bank said.

Despite the improvement in the BES index, it is lower than year-ago’s 54.9 percent, a similar trend as those in China, New Zealand and india.

Similarly, the index for the next quarter slightly went down to 48.9 percent against the 50.8 percent in the previous survey. the central bank, on the other hand, cited that investors remain bullish on the economy despite the lower Ci partly because of “more optimistic outlook of firms in the wholesale and retail trade and construction sectors given their expectations of brisker demand at the start of the school year and new expansion projects in power generation, telecommunications and building of highways.”

“However, optimism was dampened by expectations of firms engaged in manufacturing and hotel and restaurant services of slack in demand during the rainy season,” it said.

Ask on selected economic indicators, the respondents said they expect inflation to

EXPANSION. Beautiful Horizon general manager Marvin Agustin delivers an inspirational message during the blessing of its Davao City branch at the second floor of Oroderm City along C.M. Recto Avenue over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr. go up but remain within the government’s three to five percent target for 2014 with the increase attributed to expectation in utility rate hikes and weather-related increase in food prices.

On the other hand, the

respondents who said they expect the peso to appreciate against the US dollar until the third quarter of the year increased because of “anticipation of sustained inflows of foreign exchange from overseas Filipino remittances,

foreign portfolio and direct investments, and merchandise exports.

Relatively, businessmen expect the interest rates to go up in the coming moths. the survey was done from April 1-May 14, 2014 and were

participated in by 1,529 firms around the country that belong to Securities and Exchange Commission’s top 7,000 Corporations in 2010 and Business World’s top 1000 Corporations in 2012. [PNA]

6 THE ECONOMY

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

DA adopts value chain as basis for rural investments C

OMMODity value chain will now be used in granting investment in rural areas. the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the World Bank-backed P27.5-billion Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) will use the said approach to improve market linkage of farm products.

“PRDP will be using the VCA [value chain analysis] to guide local government units in identifying priority interventions that will enhance competitiveness of selected commodities,” said national deputy program director Arnel De Mesa. the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in its Guidelines for Value Chain Analysis (VCA) defines value chain as a full range of activities to bring product or services to markets. the VCA on the other hand focuses on creating value along the chain as well as the rational distribution of benefits among participating actors such as producer, processor, and traders. to integrate supply chain approach in rural areas, De Mesa said PRDP will focus on building capacities of farmers and ensures the provision of strategic network of rural logistics infrastructure within

the priority value chains. “infrastructure such as farm-to-market roads and postharvest facilities should be within the identified priority value chain in a particular province or region,” De Mesa said. in Mindanao, identified regional pilot commodity value chains are: rubber in Region 9, coconut - Region 10, cacao - Region 11, cassava - Region 12, abaca - Region 13, and oil palm and Cavendish banana ARMM. “VCA promotes efficient allocation of government resources by providing funds only to identified commodities with potentials for expansion and value-adding activities,” he added. taking-off from the Mindanao Rural Development Program’s (MRDP) big-ticket projects, PRDP will continue to assist farmer organizations’ capacities to expand production of raw materials into high-value processing.

Among the MRDP-assisted projects that will be supported under PRDP include cassava processing in Banga, South Cotabato. the cooperative is now supplying dried cassava chips to a nearby feed processor. in Kapalong, Davao del Norte, a cooperative process-

DRIED CASSAVA. A worker in Banga, South Cotabato prepares the dried cassava chips for sacking. The dried cassava chips is being sold to a feed processing company as one of the main ingredients for livestock feeds. [Sherwin B. Manual] es bananasrejected for exports into banana flour and supplies food processors. in Zambonga Peninsula, rubber is being processed into higher-value crumb rubber for export. PRDP will assist so that rubber exports do not need to be re-certified in Malaysia.

“MRDP has helped augment their capacities and incomes. in PRDP, we want to see more of these enterprises not only in Mindanao but across the country,” De Mesa said.

He said VCA also promotes public-private partnership by presenting oppor-

tunities for private sector investment to make agricultural production and processing a viable business. initial government and private sector partnership include the development of 3,000-banana plantation in conflict-affected areas in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur.

De Mesa said PRDP is also partnering with another private company in setting-up of cacao demonstration farms and nurseries as well as plantations in the provinces of Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Palawan, Southern Leyte, and Bohol. [Noel T. Provido/ DA-MRDP]

HE Philippines has vast potentials to be the heart of services trade in Asia Pacific.

A study authored by Dr. Ramonette Serafica, research consultant of state think tank Philippine institute for Development Studies (PiDS), underscores the vast opportunities left untapped in the services sector. the services sector has significantly contributed to the Philippine economy in increasing employment, investment, and revenue generation. it represents 44.15 percent in gross exports in terms of service value added, Serafica said. “However, there are still vast opportunities left untapped to fully exploit its role in the economy.” the country’s strong information technology-business process outsourcing industry places the country in a comparative advantage as a net exporter of services, Serafica said. “the main source of the country’s comparative advantage is its pool of skilled, semiskilled, and low-skilled workers,” Serafica said. Moreover, technological changes in information and communica-

tion technology and the business models of multinational companies that are leaned toward outsourcing and offshoring of services have leveraged the country’s human capital.

Serafica added that the Philippines has a strong potential to become a major hub in ship repair because of its strong labor force. Other plus factors are its geographical location which is ideal as a logistics hub for cargo and its deep seashores that make the country suitable as a ship repair hub. the growing numbers of overseas Filipinos across the globe, more than 10 million to date, are a natural market for Philippine services, Serafica added.

Despite the country’s decades of experience as a supplier of labor, there should be a comprehensive services export initiative to help facilitate the overseas expansion of other services, Serafica said. there should be “an umbrella program dedicated to services exports that would help create the Philippines as a valuable brand in services trade.”

Serafica noted that based on the World Bank’s services

trade restrictiveness index (StRi), the Philippines has “one of the most restrictive policy environments for services.” StRi is a gauge of a country’s degree of discriminatory restrictions in financial services, telecommunications, retail, transport, and professional services. “Among the sectors included in the index, it is in professional services where the extent of restrictiveness [of the Philippines] is highest,” Serafica said. in addition to restrictive policies, anticompetitive business practices also exist, she noted.

Serafica suggested that a government policy on innovation and human resource development (HRD) be implemented to further create an environment conducive to improving competitiveness.

She cited a World Bank report where many countries both developed and developing are using innovation as the foundation of competitive industries from agriculture to services. this innovation involves the use of new technologies and practices as well as HRD policies that will ensure a high-quality labor force and a favorable labor market performance.

PHL seen as Asia’s hub in services trade

Recto files bill prohibiting t expiration of prepaid loads S

ENAtE President Pro-tempore Ralph Recto has filed a bill prohibiting telecommunication companies from imposing an expiration period on the validity of prepaid call and texts cards and the forfeiture of unused load credits.

Recto filed Senate Bill 2231, or to be known as “Prepaid Load Protection Act of 2014”, amid rampant complaints that prepaid subscribers do not get the full value of the loads credits that they paid due to expiration period set by the telecommunication companies.

At present, the telcos impose expiration period of prepaid call and text cards in two years while load credit’s expiry ranges from 15 to 120 days depending on the denomination.

”this means that unused prepaid cards will no longer work after two years and that unutilized load credits will be forfeited after their corresponding expiration period; hence, a waste of prepaid subscriber’s money and additional income for the telecommunication company,” Recto explained.

Under his proposed bill, Recto wanted to make the imposition of expiration period on the validity of load credits “prohibited acts with corresponding penalties.” ”this will ensure that every peso spent to purchase load credits are saved and usable until the day the credits are fully consumed,” Recto said. the measure provides a PHP100,000 to PHP1 million fine and imprison-

ment of not less than two years but not more than six years for “any director, officer, employee or agent” of a telecommunication company. if the violation will be committed by the “duly licensed” telecommunication company, a PHP500,000 fine will be imposed for first offense; 30-day suspension of license for second; and, license revocation for third infraction.

Based on the 2013 data of the National telecommunications Commission (NtC), around 80 million of the approximately 100 million mobile phone subscribers in the Philippines are prepaid subscribers. the major telecommunications operating in the Philippines are Smart Communications inc. and Globe telecom. [PNA]

7 Non-toxic, lead-safe zippers for school uniforms EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

U

SED school uniforms got a new lease of life through a practical “back-to-school” initiative involving a vibrant parish community, a toxics watchdog group and the world’s largest zipper manufacturer. through a collaborative project that brought together the Our Lady of Remedies Parish, EcoWaste Coalition and yKK Philippines, over 500 zippers of school shorts, pants and skirts that have seen better days were replaced with non-toxic and eco-friendly yKK Zippers at no cost to the delight of more than 100 mothers.

Dubbed as the “Palit Zipper na Ligtas sa tingga,” the

P

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

project sought to: 1) draw public attention on the lead hazard in some zipper products; 2) encourage consumers to patronize quality lead safe zippers; and 3) help poor families cut their back-toschool expenses by offering to replace worn-out zippers of school uniforms. the event was held Sunday at the Remedios training Center.

“Back-to-school expenses can be a real challenge for many families living on a shoestring budget. Most will rely on cheap, low quality items that may contain harmful substances. Mothers who took advantage of this ‘palit zipper’ initiative can now breathe a collective sigh

of relief for two reasons: first, they are learning another way to protect their children, and second, they know for certain that the zippers on their children’s clothes are safe from lead, a hazardous chemical,” said Fr. Leo Distor, Parish Priest, Our Lady of Remedies Parish, Malate, Manila.

“We are pleased to assure our customers that our zippers are compliant to standards and are globally accepted. By ensuring our proven product quality and safety through rigorous tests conducted by ourselves and via third party inspection, we give our customers a peace of mind and a real value for their money,” said tadashi

Koshio, executive vice-president for Sales and Marketing, yKK Philippines inc.

“Zippers containing high levels of lead on the surface coating or the substrate should be kept out of reach of children who may be unwittingly exposed to such neurotoxin when they touch the puller and slider of lead-containing zippers of clothes, bags and accessories,” said thony Dizon, coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition’s Project Protect. “there is no known amount of lead exposure that is considered safe, especially for a child’s developing brain. it is therefore imperative to get rid of all preventable

sources of lead in a child’s environment, including lead paint and dust, and lead in school supplies, toys and other children’s products,” Dizon added.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO): “Lead is a cumulative toxicant that affects multiple body systems and is particularly harmful to young children.

“Childhood lead exposure is estimated to contribute to about 600 000 new cases of children developing intellectual disabilities every year.

“Lead exposure is estimated to account for 143,000 deaths per year with the highest burden in developing

regions.”

Last December 2013, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources issued a Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds, which prohibits, among other things, the use of lead in the production of school supplies and toys and sets a threshold limit of 90 parts per million for lead in paint.

While the said policy does not explicitly mention about zippers and other fastening devices, it is a fact that these items are accessible parts of things that children normally use such as bags and garments and should be lead safe, the groups said.

[PNA]

World-first dialysis machine for infants is born

ARiS, France – the world’s first miniaturized kidney dialysis machine has saved the lives of 8 babies in 9 months, the italian scientists who raised the money to build it said on Friday, May 23.

Until now, babies with kidney failure were treated with machines built for adults, with smaller filters and other imprecise adaptations that tend to withdraw too much or too little of the waste fluid building up in the body. “incredible but true,” said Claudio Ronco from the San Bortolo Hospital’s renal research institute in Vicenza. “it’s like using a tool for a car to fix a watch.” yet companies have been

loath to invest in baby-targeted machines as they are not profitable enough, he added. “the number of neonates (infants) around the world that suffer from this disorder is very small and therefore there is no point for a company to invest in technology.”

So Ronco and colleagues launched a fundraising program, hosting sports games and concerts and collecting some 300,000 euros ($410,000) to build a prototype. this attracted help from two italian manufacturers, and so the child-friendly machine dubbed CARPEDiEM (Cardio-Renal Pediatric Dialysis Emergency Machine) was born. the first beneficiary, a girl

LIFE SAVER. Until the development of the machine, babies with kidney failure were treated with machines built for adults. with multiple organ failure weighing just 2.9 kilograms (6.4 pounds), was treated in August last year. “the baby was almost dead,” Ronco told Agence

France-Presse. “this baby could not be treated with any other treatment. When the baby was discharged from hospital we really had the impression that we had done something very good.”

the girl underwent 25 days of dialysis and was sent home after 50 days with her organ function restored.

Nine other babies have since been treated in Europe, of whom 7 survived, said Ronco. this was an “incredible” percentage given the historical mortality rate of up to 90%, he explained. “this technology has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of infants with acute kidney injury,” said a press statement from the Lancet medical journal, which published the study. it can be used on newborns and children up to 10 kilograms, can handle smaller volumes of fluid much more ac-

curately, and allows the use of a much smaller catheter.

About 18% of infants with low birthweight and about 20% of children admitted to intensive care are estimated to suffer from acute kidney injury, according to the statement. in a comment on the study, Benjamin Laskin of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Bethany Foster from Montreal’s Children’s Hospital said the girl’s survival was “an outcome that would have been less likely just several years ago.” “the smile of the baby when she came to visit me 3 days ago – that smile was worth 40 years of medicine,” added Ronco. – Rappler.co

Rotating power interruption schedule for May 27 - June 1 With the improved power supply situation since last week, rotating power outages will continue to be scheduled at a maximum of 1 hour during peak and none during off peak within the Davao Light and Power Co. franchise. As mentioned earlier, the main reason of this improvement is the increased power supply allocation to Davao Light from the National Power Corporation through the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines.

Below is the rotating power interruption schedule for May 27 - June 1.

Areas within Davao Light's franchise are grouped into three (3) – A, B, and C. Find your area to know which group you belong through the following:

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

EDITOrIAL

Liberation from mercury

A

t long last, a mercury-free gold processing facility is inaugurated in the gold-laden mountain of Diwata, also called Diwalwal, in Monkayo, Compostela Valley.the facility is a joint undertaking of the environmental group BAN toxics, the local government of Barangay Diwata and the United Nations industrial Development Organization (Unido). this project is potentially is good example of the much-ballyhooed public-private partnership, an advocacy of government which has yet to go fullblast. the press release claims that the launch, which was attended by more than 200 artisanal and small-scale miners, hopefully marks the end of the notorious practice of using mercury in extracting gold from the ores.

“We believe the small-scale miners of Mount Diwata are willing to change if they were given the chance and the choice,” BAN toxics executive director Richard Gutierrez said, adding that “the facility we are putting up will give them the alternative they need to let go of mercury.” this positive development should hearten concerned Dabawenyos, especially those who have been deeply involved in the early campaign against the dangerous practice of using

EDGEDAVAO

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mercury in Diwalwal and other small-scale mining areas in Mindanao.

An episode in that classic fight was the multi-million damage suit filed by the young lawyers of the Ateneo Legal Aid Center against operators of 29 ball mills in the center of tagum City where some schools and residential homes were located. Pressured by public opinion and the prospects of paying millions of pesos in damages to children and adults adversely affected, the once adamant operators eventually relented and decided to remove their ball mills from tagum. there was also the great campaign launched by the defunct Konsumo Dabaw, a consumer movement based in Davao City, where ball mills were also beginning to sprout. indeed, with the cooperation of all concerned, especially the vigilance of barangay leaders and their constituents, this mercury-free facility in Diwalwal is assured of success and replication.

Although it came more than three decades after miners began using mercury in Diwalwal, the facility cannot be considered to be late in the day. the fight against the use of deadly chemicals should be a never-ending one.

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

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EDGEDAVAO

U

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

Swelling labor forces’ frustration

NHEEDED WORKERS’ WAGE HiKE DEMAND – Some of the country’s noted political analysts and socio-economic experts have seamlessly described the prevailing situation in the labor front as factual. they say the large number of people mostly from the labor, transport and urban poor sectors that used to braved the scorching heat, crowd-pressed and joined a series of simultaneous nationwide protests action and street rallies are clear indications that have probably persuaded recent surveys showing an increased public disaffection with the Aquino administration.

While President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino iii is noted to be hardworking and straightforward, it is perceived that he has not squarely faced the root causes of the country’s interlocking problems - unemployment, poverty, and the suffering of the masses which is low income and skyrocketing of prices of basic commodities. the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) admits that roughly 2.6% of the population or about 3.5 million Filipinos are unemployed or underemployed, but skeptics say it’s a dubious estimate.

Likewise for some, notably President PNoy’s political adversaries and rabid critics from the transport sector, he did not exert maximum effort to hold the line on diesel fuel and gasoline prices which he could have easily done by the simple expedient of ordering government-controlled Petron not to go along with big oil players Shell and Caltex, and even the minor competitors in the price race. then again, the main issue being raised all over again by the labor sector is the wage adjustment approved by the Regional tripartite Wage and Productivity Board (RtWPB) during Labor Day celebration.

Leaders of different labor groups described the P8 to P10 wage increase as pittance when compared to the P125/day across-the-board salary hike demanded by the labor sector. An increase of P50 to P80 or much higher probably might have been acceptable. the three

L

AWyER Bruce Rivera besides lawyering for known PDAF (Priority Development Assistance Fund) or pork barrel scam brain Napoles is also her apologist. this is evident in the Philippine Star report (May 20, 2014: Napoles to name more senators) and other media sources.

Obviously, as her apologist, she puts ideas into Napoles’ head and words in her mouth then feed these to media as Napoles’ statements.

More names in the Star story, Rivera said “Janet Lim-Napoles is set to add the names of three more senators to her list of lawmakers and officials” she had given to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and to ex-Sen. Panfilo Lacson. He was sure of that.

He explained that “Napoles discovered the names of the three while checking her transaction records” which, for emphasis, were “not just in 2007-2009” but starting “from as far back as 2000.” it being “a very long list of transactions,” Napoles “tends to forget” since “she does not have a photographic memory” to be able to “know every nook and cranny.”

He said that “Napoles still has checks, vouchers and records to back up her claims of dealing with lawmakers” – suggesting that more names, not only of senators, could be added to the list.

He revealed “that since Napoles does not know how to use a computer, her records were largely different from those prepared and kept by main whistle-blower Benhur Luy. She keeps a list using her own handwriting and a piece of paper. it is not in a book. She wrote them down.

She has not only checks but vouchers.” (Emphasis supplied) incredible What does Rivera reveal? (1) the scam

government representatives to the RtWPB supposedly are the swing vote during the discussions on wage adjustment between the three labor and three management members.

What’s more is that whoever is in power could have instructed the DOLE to take side of labor in the deliberations.

But sadly, of course, that has not been the case. Nonetheless, when recovery and rehabilitation effort for the earthquake- stricken and typhoon-ravaged provinces in the Visayas operate full swing, perhaps President PNoy could now concentrate more on employment and salary standardization, shelter, health care, food security and stamped out unabated corruption which is the trust of his leadership. together with peace and order and criminality, these will be the deciding issues in the 2016 presidential elections – a great challenge for the dominant political party.

LOOSE CHANGE – trade union activists in the Davao Region decried the government’s delayed action in acting on their petition for minimum wage rate adjustment before the RtWPB. One can just hear the howl of protest raised by the different workers’ groups nationwide especially during the Labor Day celebration.

Over-zealous leaders of various labor groups claim what they want is the implementation of the P125 legislated wage hike instead of just “loose change” agreed by the wage body. the current minimum wage rates under Wage Order No. RB Xi-17 in Davao Region was considered a trifle and the workers’ groups probably feel that the prevailing wage rate was

Apology for Napoles COMMENT

By Patricio P. Diaz

Part 1 of 2

started in 2000; (2) Napoles had a personal record of her transactions handwritten in “a piece of paper”; and (3) “her records were largely different from those prepared and kept by main whistle-blower Benhur Luy” in computer disk.

What does Rivera want to imply? Napoles has been wrongly accused and she has to personally clear herself.

Rivera’s apology for Napoles is incredulous.

She had been running a multibillion racket from 2000 until its exposure on July 12, 2014. She was not running a small sari-sari store where she could record her transactions handwritten on a piece of paper. Even if she knew how to use a computer, as the owner and manager of a vast business, she had to set up a computerized record department with sizeable staff.

Had Napoles kept “handwritten records” since 2000 -- a list of her connivers and the amounts she had given them? Was she just re-checking these “handwritten records” with the files of “her transaction records from as far back as 2000” when she discovered the names of three senators she had omitted from her list?

Or, was she drawing up her records for the first time? this, Rivera did not say.

But considering facts and circumstances how could she do this?

First, Napoles was already under detention at the time possible for the “checking”. Were

too unreasonable citing the basic wage in the non-agricultural sector where a laborer has to be content of a take home pay of P301 representing P 286 basic wage and P15 cost of living allowance (COLA).

Why would anyone think that the workers had to always stage protest-rallies every time a new wage order takes effect? it’s precisely because it doesn’t meet the workers’ and in particular, their leaders’ expectations. you see, workers in the agricultural sector just received a meager P291 under the new wage order representing P276 basic wage and P15 COLA. imagine?

Well, it is not just the workers in the non-agricultural and agricultural sectors who have difficulties in dealing with the prevailing wage rates but the retail services as well. A worker of a retail company employing more than 10 only received P301 representing P286 basic wage and P15 COLA while a similar retail servicing outlet employing less than 10 accord a laborer P270 representing P255 basic wage and P15 COLA. Goodness gracious! if you want to examine closely the rates under the current wage order, it would be evident that workers in the Davao Region will just receive “peanuts” compared to the workers in Metro Manila and its adjacent areas. But despite the strong workers’ clamor for government to act posthaste for the immediate passage of the P125 across-the-board salary hike, the latter still has stiff warning against violators of the current wage directive.

Violators shall be punished by a fine of not less than P25,000.00 nor more than P100,000.00 or imprisonment of not less than 2 years nor more than 4 years, or both such fine and imprisonment. Persons convicted shall not be entitled to the benefits provided for under the probation law. Violators shall also pay an amount equivalent to double the unpaid benefits due to the employees (R.A. 6727, as amended by R.A. 8188 or the double indemnity pay). the files of her records carted to her detention bungalow in Sta. Rosa, Laguna – surely, not to her room in Ospital ng Makati?

Second, even if so done, could she have done in so short a time such task more herculean than the legendary cleaning of the Augean Stable? As reported (Philippine Daily inquirer, May 23, 2014: Mystery agents got P235M), the JLN files in Luy’s disk “included 2,156 folders with records of transactions from 2002 to 2012” including “Napoles’ bank accounts, with their numbers and balances” and “how the lawmakers or their representatives received kickbacks from the projects for which they assigned funds from their PDAF allocations”.

(Emphasis supplied) the 2,156 folders compacted in the computer disk must be a truckload or more of vouchers and other paperwork. According to Rivera, Napoles had gone over these – with some more vouchers still to check – while in detention. third, but, do JLN records or files other than those in the Luy’s disk still exist? According to the whistle-blowers, Napoles had all the JLN files shredded when the scam was exposed.

However, should there be still, the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee or the Department of Justice should take possession of them. not lying Rivera defended Napoles from the impression that she lied under oath when at the Senate Blue Ribbon committee hearing last year she evaded questions or declared “Wala akong alam” (i know noting), or “Hindi ko alam” (i don’t know) – not knowing the lawmakers being linked to the scam.

VANTAGE POINTS

9

A Haram Princess

O

N the passport, he is Abdul Aziz though he introduces himself as Amira.

Abdul Aziz means servant of Allah; Amira means princess. He is officially a hebut looks and acts like a she. He has struggled to break free from the confines of his religion and culture. For this, he earns the recognition he desires and henceforth, i will refer to him as a she, as a woman fighting for her place under the sun. Her father named her Abdul Aziz in the hope of bringing honor to their God and family. She named herself Amira because she wants to be the princess and ruler of her own life.

Amira is from the islamic monarchy of Saudi Arabia. She is 18 years old and currently in asylum in the Philippines. She is willowy and dresses provocatively.She has found a home in Manila with the assistance of an LGBt(Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) group. She tries to build a life and community while waiting for means to get to New Zealand, a more progressive country that she believes will recognize her as a full-fledged woman. in the meantime, Amira does modeling jobs that pay a pittance to unknowns.

Coming from a wealthy, conservative, Moslem family in a wealthy, conservative, Moslem nation, Amira is courting death for making such an aberrant stand. Saudi Arabia is a nation where women are second-class citizens. to want to be female when one already has the privileged status of being maleis tantamount to a shameful psychosis. to want to change one’s genitalia when one is supposed to be a creation and servant of the wrathful Allah is punishable by death. Still, Amira fights for what she believes is the real her despite the very high stakes. She wants to become a woman with the accompanying sexual apparatus. She wants to become a woman and be fully and officially recognized as one. She wants her passport to show that she is Amira and not the Abdul Aziz her father named. talking to her, i am immediately struck by her insightful maturity that belies her tender age. She reveals that she was never confused with her sexual identity even as a child.

She has always deemed herself a girl and is certain that she will make it through life as a woman. She is well-schooled in islamic and Arabic studies and hence, very aware of the repercussions of her choice. She talks about the demands of her religion but she does not believe that a real God will not accept her. When asked if she still believes in God, Amira answers without hesitation, “Oh yes, there is a God that keeps me safe.” She is very certain of a God that is loving and forgiving despite of her desires being haramor forbidden. Pointing to the general direction of her lower body, she painfully expresses that she does not want anybody to touch or see that part of her; she does not even like looking at that part of her body.

Amira is an epitome of courage even as her society and religion vilify her life choice.

Upon learning that Amira has found refuge in Manila, Amira’s father scornfully expressed that the city is ugly and has many poor people. Amira half- jokingly answers, “i am now one of them.” Her sunny disposition remains despite her difficult situation; for it is truly difficult when one’s own nation and family cannot accept who one truly is. it is Amira’s strong sense of self and personhood that makes her fight on despite the haplessness of her position. it is Amira’s conviction in the truth of who she is and in the acceptance of the larger world that she bravely forges her own path to happiness, even if it means forsaking her Allah, country, and family.

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rollees in public kinder and elementary level and four percent in public secondary schools.

DepEd 11 recorded last year a total of 305, 683 enrollees of which 27, 778 were enrolled in kinder level, 197, 571 in elementary and 80, 334 in secondary.

“We expect huge number of enrollees from highly- populated central schools like Kapitan tomas Central Elementary School and Matina Central School while for high school the increase is expected in Davao City National High School, Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School, Sta. Ana Elementary School and Calinan National High school,” she said. isidra B. Despi, education program supervisor of DepEd

11 said that they still expect huge number of enrollees despite the early registration last January.

“We are giving one week for the enrollment period but it will still be on-going despite the official start of classes on June 2,” Despi added.

Enrollment started yesterday and is expected to continue even after the officials start of classes next month.

Despi said the schools are ready for the opening of classes especially with the early orientation conducted during the Brigada Eskwela earlier this month.

“Our modules for Kinder, Grade 1, 2 7, and 8 under the new K = 12 curriculum are ready and we are just waiting for the arrival of modules for grade 3 and 9,” she said.

it said.

“On tax collection, Anastacio Jardin, assistant City treasure’s Office admitted that their system may not be perfect in collecting quarry fees; this is due to lack of collecting personnel. Accordingly, the determination of taxes per quarry operation depends on how much the CENRO (City Environment and Natural Resources Office) issue an allowable volume of quarry materials, which will be paid upon withdrawal, although other LGUs require paying it immediately based on the assessment,” the report added. the residents appealed to

the committee for an immediate stoppage of the alleged overloading of haulers and strict implementation of a 10-cubic meters load limit for the 10-wheeler trucks. the residents also want to prohibit hauling and quarrying activities after 5:00 p.m., implement stricter penalties for violation of city ordinances specially the tax Code of Davao City. they want also a deputation of barangay officials and tanods thru CENRO to assist the government in the implementation of laws and regulation relative to the alleged illegal quarrying practices.

Wilfredo Rodolfo, communications manager for Aboitiz Power Corp., the parent company of therma Marine.

After the whale was found, therma Marine team members together with the local coast guard immediately notified concerned authorities.

Pygmy sperm whales are found in tropical waters.

Although they are believe to prefer deep waters, a pair of these pygmy whales have been spotted for years swimming around Maco area. therma Marine also maintains a marine sanctuary near its floating power barge, which became a haven and breeding ground for various fish species and corals.

As of thursday afternoon, BFAR happily reported that after hydrating the whale, it was strong enough to swim back into deep waters unlike earlier where it preferred to stay in

the shallow areas. BFAR, assisted by therma Marine, continues to monitor the waters should the whale return and need more assistance.

“Despite the extreme odds, we were overjoyed to see the whale finally swim back to deep water. it was heartwarming to see our neighbors in Brgy.

San Roque, the coast guard, BFAR and our therma Marine team members all working together to save a life,” said Pablo Suarez, operations manager of therma Marine Mobile 1. therma Marine operates two floating barges, one in Maco and the other is Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. the two barges combine for 200-MW. it delivers some 22 electric cooperatives and distribution utilities in Mindanao, helping them cushion the effects of the acute power shortage in the island.

EDCA include former Senators Rene Saguisag and Wigberto E. tañada, former University of the Philippines President Francisco Nemenzo Jr., former president of St. Scholastica’s College Sister Mary John Mananzan, Former UP College of Law Dean Pacifico Agabin, lawyers Esteban Salonga, Harry Roque. Jr., Evalyn G. Ursua, and Edre Olalia, activists Carol Pagaduan-Araullo and Roland Simbulan, and former Party-list Rep. teddy Casiño.

Named as respondents

in the petition are Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr., Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, and AFP chief-of-staff Emmanuel t. Bautista.

Petitioners argued that the EDCA is invalid because it was signed without Senate approval. they also said the EDCA is a treaty and not just an executive agreement, thus it needs Senate concurrence.

[PNA]

‘Indiscriminate’...FFROM 2

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

INCREASE. Anti-smoking Task Force co-chairperson Dr. Domilyn Villarreiz bared during this week’s edition of Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao that there is an increase of 65-percent in the number of violators of the New Comprehensive Anti-smoking Ordinance of Davao City issued with citation tickets from January to December of 2013 which is 3,883 compared to 2,356 of 2012. Lean Daval Jr.

House approves bill declaring every November 23 as Press Freedom Day t HE House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure seeking to declare Nov. 23 of every year as Philippine Press Freedom Day to give recognition to the importance of press freedom in the country. the House Committee on Public information recommended the approval of House Bill No. 4128, which substituted HB 635 authored

by AKO Bicol Party-list Reps.

Christopher Co and Rodel Ba-

tocabe. “the measure, declaring November 23rd of every year as Philippine Press Freedom Day, shall promote and uphold freedom and heighten awareness on press freedom so that journalists may freely and securely report the truth no matter who gets hurt by it,” said Rep. Jorge Almonte (1st District, Misamis Occidental), committee chairman.

Co said while the Philippines is considered to have the freest press in Asia, it is

also bombarded with numerous cases of journalists who disappeared and got killed.

“Remembered as the single deadliest event for journalists in recent history was what happened on November 23, 2009. the Maguindanao massacre is and continues to be a symbol of a fight for press freedom and their rights in the practice of their profession,” Co said. “the commemoration of Philippine Press Freedom Day shall serve as a fitting remind-

er that we will never forget the sacrifices of these journalists who gave up their lives in the practice of their profession,” he stressed.

Batocabe said, “the Maguindanao massacre is a wanton violation of the rights, and the day that such an abuse of power and machinery happened at the expense of innocent truth seekers must be a day to commemorate and honor their sacrifices to prevent another ignominy in the history of the Philippine press.”[PNA]

officers have intensified their campaign against smokers in public places and recreational areas in the city. “it is a good thing that we have made many apprehensions because it’s just an indicator that they (the police officers) are doing their job well,” she added.

Among those who were issued with citation tickers are foreigners.

“Mostly are Korean and Chinese nationalities, but we also have Japanese,” she said.

Davao City Police Office director Vicente Danao said that one violator was a police officer whom he says may face suspension for violating the ordinance.

Villareiz said that in 2013, the Mobile Patrol Group (MPG)

topped in number of apprehension made with 1,644 violators followed by San Pedro Police Station (463), Public Safety Command Center (PSCC) (345) and Sta. Ana Police Station (234).

On its first year anniversary of implementation on May, AStF will be giving awards to police officers who have the most number of issued citation ticket including their corresponding police station.

AStF apprehended a total of 16, 909 violators in the city since the enforcement of the ordinance in 2002.

On the amended ordinance, violators are issued with citation ticket for them to use in making a payment for a fine of P500 to the City treasurers Office. Each of them

should undergo a cessation seminar in hospitals accredited by the city government.

“We are targeting to make Davao City tobacco-free,” she said, adding the city is now considered as “model city” by other countries and cities in other parts world.

Starting by June, AStF will be giving training to daycare center teachers on the bad effects and other information about smoking. “it is important to start the information drive on the young ones so that as early as five or six years old, they will be able to understand the effect of smoking to their health and to other people,” she said.

“We will be training the teachers first then it is up to them on how they will pass

it to their students,” she explained.

“We are planning to partner with the Department of Education (DepEd) for this project. We have to let them realize the importance of giving early education on smoking to young ones to protect them from being future smokers,” she explained.

For the incoming school year, Villareiz said they will talk with school administators for possible partnership in the intensified implementation of the ordinance within school campuses.

She said the police officers will also strictly impose in banning establishments and sidewalk vendors from selling cigarettes at least 10 meters away from the school premises.

Congress still has the last say on how much budget they will allot for the 2016 elections.

He said they can still use the old machines but needed to buy additional ones because the number of voters already reached more than 50 million.

Castro asked Brillantes if their proposal can be carried out by his successor since he is about to retire on February 2, 2015 together with Com-

missioners Elias yusof and Lucenito tagle.

Brillantes assured the committee that the remaining four commissioners, who compose the majority en banc, agreed to push automated elections in 2016. these other four commissioners who will remain and be part of the majority in 2016 are Grace Padaca, Christian Lim, Luie Guia and Al Pareno.

Meanwhile, Brillantes warned that voters who fail to undergo biometrics will not be allowed to vote for their names will be delisted. He said that even those who voted in the last two elections without undergoing biometrics will no longer be allowed to vote. “this is mandatory. Every voter needs to go biometrics. those who voted in the last two elections with their pho-

tos printed on the list have undergone biometrics are okay.

Only those who have not undergone biometrics needs to update their status in order to vote,” Brillantes stressed.

He said they also expect 9.6 million new registrants whose application will be subjected to evaluation. So far, he said they have already validated three million registrants.

[PNA]

Number...FFROM 2

Comelec...FFROM 3

11 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

New tool helps avoid global food wastage i

N a world where over 840 million go hungry every day, achieving food security goes beyond increasing global food production. Better food systems and sustainable consumption and production approaches are needed to achieve food security for all.

A new tool, the think.

Eat.Save Guidance Version 1.0 - released last May by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nation (FAO)and the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) as part of SAVE FOOD initiative and FAO-UNEP Sustainable Food Systems Programme - provides guidance to governments, local authorities, businesses and others on designing effective food waste prevention programmes.

Research shows that at least one-third, or 1.3 billion tonnes, of food produced each year is lost or wasted an amount corresponding to over 1.4 billion hectares of cropland. Even a quarter of this lost food could feed all the world’s hungry people.

According to the FAO, almost half of all fruit and vegetables is wasted each year.

About 10 per cent of developed countries’ greenhouse gas emissions come from growing food that is never eaten, and food loss and waste amounts to roughly USD 680

billion in industrialized countries and USD 310 billion in developing countries.

“Food waste carries direct economic and environmental costs and depletes the natural resource base that underpins food production,” said UN Under-Secretary-General and UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner. “today, diets are becoming more resource-intensive, and the way we buy and consume food is changing due to industrialization, the demands of a growing middle class, and the continued impacts of the economic crisis. this first-of-its-kind guidance document on food waste prevention provides the technical expertise and impetus needed for a wide range of actors to take advantage of existing wisdom, catalyze action, and get a head start in tackling this critical issue,” he added.

Ensuring that all the world’s people have enough food is the vision of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s Zero Hunger Challenge, and UNEP and the FAO are jointly charged under the challenge with reducing food loss and waste. to this end, UNEP in partnership with FAO, Messe Düsseldorf GmbH, WRAP and others, launched think.Eat. Save: Reduce your Foodprint (www.thinkeatsave.org) - a global campaign to galvanize

concerted action on food waste. in its first year, this campaign has engaged more than a million participants in awareness-raising activities, reached a diverse global network of followers, and provided a portal to showcase ideas and share resources. the think.Eat.Save Guidance Version 1.0 presents a

two to three days the country will continue to be spared from cyclones as no weather disturbance seen near the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

Meanwhile, most parts of the country will have a mixture of sunny and rainy weather in the next three days.

Until Wednesday, Cada said most parts of the country will continue to experience sunny to partly cloudy skies with possible isolated rains in the afternoon or evening due to localized thunderstorms or convections because of ridge of high Pressure Area (HPA) extending over Northern and Central Luzon.

HPA is the opposite of the low-pressure area – a weather system consisting of warm

air circulating over the Pacific Ocean.

He said that due to ridge of high pressure area (HPA) it will bring high temperatures and good weather conditions to the country in the coming days as he advised people to wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and drink plenty of water.

Despite a warmer weather, he said the occurrence of isolated rains will still prevail due to localized thunderstorms expect mostly in the afternoon or evening.

Cada explained that the convective activity brought about by intense heat triggers the formation of more cumulonimbus clouds or dark clouds associated with thunderstorms that brings rains.

[PNA]

full journey for users of the tool, beginning with the mapping and measuring of food waste and the development of national or regional policies and measures. in-depth modules then focus on programmes for food waste prevention in households and in the food supply chain. the guidance document

provides clear and comprehensive steps on scoping, planning, delivering and measuring food waste prevention programmes and activities at national, regional, business and household level. it has been built on proven experiences around the world, including that of the United Kingdom, where avoidable

household food waste has been reduced by 21 per cent between 2007 and 2012. the document published today is “Version 1.0”, to be enriched progressively as many more countries around the world begin to take on the challenge and reap the benefits of food waste reduction.

[UNEP]

promote the importance of conserving our islands as habitats of these unique life forms.”

Paje said the country’s 7,107 islands provide habitat to very rich and unique species of flora and fauna, the reason why the Philippines was named as one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world. He said among these unique species are the tamaraw and the Philippine eagle, both considered as critically-endangered.

Known as the country’s largest and most impressive mammal, the tamaraw can only be found on Mindoro island.

While the Philippine eagle, a national symbol that stands more than three feet tall with a headdress of spiky feathers, lives only in the islands of Luzon, Mindanao, Samar and Leyte.

Paje said the country was also lucky to have the Verde island Passage Marine Corridor

that has been identified by scientists as the “center of the center of marine shorefish diversity in the world.” Verde island is within the Sulu Sulawesi Marine Ecoregion, which is recognized as having the highest coral diversity in the world.

But despite having one of the greatest biodiversities on the planet, he said the country is facing biodiversity loss with the list of threatened and endangered species increasing every year. “ironically, however, our country is also identified as one of the hottest of hotspots in terms of biodiversity loss,” he lamented. the DENR official blamed the accelerating biodiversity loss to habitat destruction, over-utilization and poaching. He said the country also has to deal with the destruction brought by natural disasters and the threats of climate change on biodiversity.

ITCZ continues to bring DENR calls for protection of rains in Mindanao, Visayas island biodiversity, ecosystems

t

HE Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday said some parts of Mindanao and the Visayas will likely experience rains as the intertropical convergence zone (itCZ) is expected to oscillate back near the region. itCZ, which is the thick clouds coming from the south of Asia,is considered a breeding ground for low-pressure areas (LPAs) or potential cyclones.

Weather forecaster Fernando Cada said due to theitCZ, western and central Visayas and Mindanao will experience cloudy skies with light to moderate rains and thunderstorms.

He added that in the next

E

NViRONMENt and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje called on Filipinos to protect and preserve the country’s biodiversity and ecosystems for the essential goods and ecological services they provide. “the Philippines has the distinction of being one of 17 megadiverse countries in the world. this is a reason to rejoice.

Biodiversity, as we know, provides the essential goods and ecological service that constitute the source of life for all,” Paje said in a message during the celebration of international Day for Biological Diversity (iDBD) last thursday at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City.

With theme, island Biodiversity, Paje also stressed the one-day festivity gave the country the chance to “showcase its awesome endemic species and

12 CLASSIFIED

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

Going around Dipolog City Any traveller who is visiting a new city should try to take a quick tour around it to get a beat on the city’s culture and lifestyle.

On a recent visit to Dipolog, I did just that.

Dipolog is a charming city with a rich cultural heritage coming from the many peoples who have called the city home and a visit to the city’s Pagsalabuk Circle Fountain tells just that. Located at the crossroads junction of General Luna Street, the DipologOroquieta national Road and the Dipolog-Polanco Road, the four-and-a-half meter high polymer fibre monument depicts the three groups of settlers Rizal Street and is a beein the region: Christians, hive of activity for DipoloMuslims and the indig- gnons (what people from enous tribes, the Lumad Dipolog call themselves). raising a giant bowl as an The market is divided into offering to God. many sections with some From the Pagsalubuk carrying dry goods, while Circle, I made a quick trip some stalls carry meat, to the city plaza and ulti- fish, poultry, fruits and mately to the Holy Rosary vegetables. There is also a Cathedral. section where one can buy Built in 1895, it is said Dipolog’s famous lechon. that the Philippines’ naI was however, fascinattional hero, Jose Rizal, de- ed with the sheer number signed the church’s main of choices of dried fish in altar which still functions the market. From dried up to this day. I loved the danggit, needlefish, matunique wood details of the ambaka, dilis, and even cathedral’s ceiling which flying fish, the choices are has the relief carvings of endless and are truly a the four evangelists of the great gift for people who Catholic faith. love the salty goodness of And what is a trip tuyo. around a city without a For the one’s who are visit to its public market? less adventurous however, Dipolog’s Central Public I would suggest buying a Market is located along box of Montaño Spanish-

Outside the Holy Rosary Cathedral.

The Pagsalubuk Circle. style sardines instead.

The sardines are firm and meaty, not too salty and with a hint of heat in the end. A perfect combination with piping hot rice.

I would have wanted to explore Dipolog some more but alas I had to catch my Cebu Pacific flight back home.

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

Thumbs up for lechon.

Mangos.

Dried flying fish.

Crispy, delicious lechon.

The best sardines in the city.

Take your pick from different kinds of dried fish.

Hearing Sunday mass at the Holy Rosary Cathedral.

A2 INdulge! uP ANd AbOuT

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by GuEss fashion perfect for the next generation.

California style does not follow a set of rules. it is centred on individual aesthetic.

G by Guess offers collection for the fashionably brave and those comfortable with their own flair.

Embrace your sense of style and wear it with a casual, confident attitude, and you’ll already be most of the way there. be confident and be stylishly you. Visit G

by Guess at the ground floor of the Annex of sM City davao.

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

FOOd

Have Sam Thai in Gensan

I HAD always been a fan of flavorful, hot and spicy dishes. So you could list Thai food on my munch list.

Recently, I heard from my blogger friends of this Thai eatery, the only one of its kind in Gensan, located at the Tiongson Arcade, a row of food establishments, famous for serving barbecue and seafood dishes. So after watching Godzilla we dashed over to Tiongson Arcade to sink our fangs into the dishes we’ve been hearing so much about.

Have Sam Thai is an eatery that serves famous Thai dishes prepared by proprietors and siblings Sam and Dionam Basco.

We checked out the menu and was ecstat-

ic. Their menu offers over dishes like Chicken Khao Phad, Red Beef Curry, Tom yum Goong, Chicken Pandan Leaves, Phad Thai, Money Bags, Chicken Satay and HST appetizers.

Cebu Pacific Air joins Incheon Airport’s 2013 Best Airline Service awardees The Philippines’ leading carrier, Cebu Pacific Air (PsE:CEb) was one of 12 airlines recognized by the incheon international Airport (iiAC) for its contribution to incheon Airport’s various achievements, including its 9th consecutive ACi Airport service Quality Award. iiAC Acting President and CEO Hong-yeol Choi presented CEb with the 2013 best Airline service Award in a ceremony held recently. CEb joined 11 other airlines lauded for their major contributions to improving incheon Airport’s operations and services.

Aside from CEb, other airlines awarded were: Jeju Air, Asiana Airlines, Air China, united Airlines, Lufthansa, Emirates Airline, KLM Royal dutch Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, singapore international Air Line, shenzhen Airlines and Air Macau.

According to iiAC, they selected the leading airlines among airlines which have operated regular flights to incheon Airport for more than two years, and have performance of more than 50,000 passengers per year.

“We wholeheartedly congratulate iiAC for a successful 2013, and look forward to developing our incheon operations further, for the benefit of our passengers,” said CEb VP for Corporate Affairs Jorenz Tañada.

CEb flies daily from both Manila and Cebu to incheon (seoul). it also operates four weekly flights from both Manila and Cebu to busan, south Korea’s second largest city.

Lowest year-round fares start at P4,599.

For bookings and inquiries, guests can go to www.cebupacificair.com or call reservation hotlines (02)7020-888 or (032)230-8888. The latest seat sales can also be found on CEb’s official Twitter (@cebupacificair) and Facebook pages.

CEb’s 52-strong fleet is comprised of 10 Airbus A319, 30 Airbus A320, 4 Airbus A330 and 8 ATR-72 500 aircraft. it is one of the most modern aircraft fleets in the world. between 2014 and 2021, Cebu Pacific will take delivery of 11 more brand-new Airbus A320, 30 Airbus A321neo, and 3 Airbus A330 aircraft.

We had my favorite Tom yum Goong soup, which is prepared from scratch and didn’t come out of a jar, which is a relief. It was a cold night so the spicy soup really hits the spot. We also had some red and green curry, Thung Tong fried stuffed shrimp dumplings and their famous chicken and beef khao pad fried rice.

We were given hot towels before our meal. And the wait for the meal was swift. The ambiance is very warm and homy, just like their meals and the service the crew give. They also have a wall filled with photos of their happy customers. Which is what HST aims to provide.

After our scrumptious and hot meal we had a chat with Thania and Sam. Talked about the place and

gave them our feedback.

I walked out of Have Sam Thai knowing that I had an awesome meal, feeling like Godzilla with a full tummy, already anticipating my next visit. Even if we’re on our way out the smell of their meals could stop you in your tracks, don’t be surprised when you’d stop for a whiff when you pass

by Have Sam Thai. I advice to just give in to the smell and sample their dishes yourself.

They are open from Monday to Sunday from 10:00am to 2:00pm and 5:00pm to 10:00pm.For more info like their facebook page: Have Sam Thai Follow me on Twitter or Instagram, @kyriekoutre for more adventures in and around my wonderland that is Gensan, Tuna Capital of the Philippines.

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

ENTERTAiNMENT

GMA Network brings an inspirational drama series to primetime TV via NIÑO

bEGiNNiNG May 26, GMA Network presents another original primetime treat that will surely make a mark in the hearts of Kapuso viewers via the drama series NiÑO. This family-oriented drama series features the heartwarming story of a boy who will inspire other people to remain hopeful in the midst of life’s challenges. Niño, as a character and show, will not only promote good family values but will also encourage viewers most especially the kids to become loving and optimistic at all times.

Tasked to play the role of Niño/Miguel is one of Kapuso Network’s talented teen stars Miguel Tanfelix, a 15year old boy with mental incapacities who will become a beacon of hope and inspiration to his town mates and prove that miracles exist with the help of his “Tukayo”, a sto. Niño incarnate to be played by child star david Remo.

GMA Network is proud to present a stellar cast of the country’s most respected artists in film and television: Ms Gloria Romero as Lola V, Niño’s carefree grandmother; dante Rivero as don Pedro, Hannah’s father; Angelu de Leon as Leny, Niño’s adoptive mother; Jay Manalo as Lucio, don Pedro’s adopted son and protégé; Katrina Halili as Hannah, Jonathan’s wife and Niño’s kind-hearted mother; Neil Ryan sese as david, Niño’s adoptive father; Luz Valdez as Tiya Epang, david’s aunt and Lola V’s bestfriend; Ces

Quesada as Mrs. santos, Tiny’s mother; and German Moreno as Kapitan Pete, the barangay Captain of the barrio Pag-asa.

Joining the cast are the network’s fast-rising and talented teen stars and child actors: Renz Valerio as Rafael, Niño’s brother; bianca umali as Gracie, Niño’s bestfriend; sandy Talag as Tiny, Niño’s chic friend; Julian Trono as Cocoy and Vincent Magbanua as Mat-Mat, Nino’s friends.

Completing the cast are Jerald Napoles as Obet, david’s friend; Angeli bayani as belen, Leny’s close friend; Flora Gasser as yaya

Ason, Hannah’s loyal nanny; Rafa siguion-Reyna as Ric, Lucio’s friend and righthand man; Annika Camaya as Charito, Obet’s partner; stephanie sol as Magda, Lucio’s girlfriend.

Playing an equally important role in Niño is Kapuso Network’s dramatic leading man Tom Rodriguez as Gabriel, Niño’s hardworking father, who makes a special guest appearance in the TV series.

Niño will definitely appeal to the family as it introduces the “Naynay Commandments”, a set of values and good manners that will teach the importance of be-

ing responsible and honest individuals and how these commandments can be applied in everyday life. These Naynay Commandments will also inspire parents to raise their children to be hopeful and loving like Niño all the time. in the series, viewers will witness how Niño (Miguel), who will be raised by his adoptive parents Leny (Angelu) and david (Neil Ryan) after being separated from his real parents Hannah (Katrina) and Gabriel (Tom) because of an accident, will become a source of inspiration and hope to his town mates.

Niño’s Tukayo (david) will help and guide him in overcoming the different difficulties and problems in barrio Pag-asa with courage and confidence. They will always work together in motivating the people to appreciate life with childlike faith and become loving and hopeful always.

Niño, which is created by the GMA Entertainment TV Group, is another first in the television industry for its original concept and educational plot. under the helm of award-winning director Maryo J. delos Reyes with Conrado Peru as second unit director, Niño will be a certified hit among Kapuso viewers and their families, most especially the young ones.

Niño is under the supervision of senior Vice President for Entertainment TV Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Vice President for drama Red-

gie A. Magno; Assistant Vice President for drama Cheryl Ching-sy; Program Manager Helen Rose-sese, and Executive Producer Leilani Feliciano-sandoval.

The creative team is composed of Creative director, Jun Lana; Primetime block Head, RJ Nuevas; Creative unit Head Kit VillanuevaLangit; and Jules Katanyag

as the Headwriter.

Catch the story of Niño beginning May 26 after 24 Oras on GMA Telebabad.

Get the latest updates about Niño from its official facebook page www.facebook.com/OfficialNinoGMA, twitter account @OfficialNinoGMA and the GMA Network website www.GMANetwork. com.

Mirabella scores all-time high National TV rating

Abs-CbN’s top-rating and Twittertrending fantasy series “Mirabella” has reached an all-time high national TV rating of 22.6% last Thursday (May 22). based on data from Kantar Media, the episode that featured the confrontation between Mira (Julia barretto) and iris (Mika dela Cruz) scored almost nine points higher than its rival program on GMA, “My Love From The star” (13.9%). Meanwhile, the plot of “Mirabella” continues to thicken now that Mira has started getting even with her father’s family through the personality of bella. How long will Mira be able to keep bella’s real identity a secret? Will she succeed in bringing down Alfred (James blanco), Olive (Mylene dizon), iris, and Terrence (sam Concepcion)? don’t miss the drama series that will change the true meaning of beauty,

“Mirabella,” weeknights, before “TV Patrol” on Abs-CbN Primetime bida.

For more information about “Mirabella,” visit the show’s official social media accounts at Facebook.com/ MirabellaOnline and Twitter.com/MirabellaOnline.

BRICK MANSIONS 2D Paul Walker, David Belle, RZA R 13

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

GODZILLA 3D Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Bryan Cranston PG 13

1:30 | 4:00 | 6:30 | 9:00 LFS

GODZILLA 2D Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Bryan Cranston PG 13

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

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

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

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

EVENT

Creamsilk celebrates Mindanao’s women

By Kenneth Irving Ong

CREAMSILK, in partnership with M Magazine Life and Living Mindanao, Unilever Philippines and the Gaisano Mall of Davao, recently held an exhibit celebrating the 30 Beyond Beautiful Women of Mindanao.

In-line with Creamsilk’s 30th Anniversary Promo, the exhibit that was unveiled last May 23 at The Peak of Gaisano Mall of Davao showcased 30 women leaders, ground breakers and visionaries who made an impact in Minadano.

Local heartthrob EJ Falcon serenaded the crowd

as well as some of the Beyond Beautiful ladies present before formally opening the photo exhibit.

The list include Internationally known metal artist, jewelry maker, home accessories and furniture designer Ann Tiukinhoy Pamintuan, international award-winning modern Islamic typographer and visual artist, Zohayma Montañer, 2011 Miss Universe-Philippines Shemcey Supsup-Lee, and Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress awardee Angel Aquino from PMPC Star Awards, Gawad Tanglaw, CineFilipino Film Festival and Balanghai among others.

Event host Claudette Centeno.

A passer-by admires some of the women featured in the exhibit.

Artist Dadai Joaquin and her husband Jon DOT XI’s Eden David, Dr. Mae Dolendo and Mutya ng Davao Joaquin.

2014 Franchesca Enriquez.

The simple exhibit opening ceremony.

EDGEDavao Davao Partners M Magazine’s editor-in-chief Ian Garcia.

EJ Falcon rowdies up the crowd.

Dr. Annabelle Lao-Reyes and her husband.

Creamsilk’s Candy Hernandez.

Photo journalist Jojie Alcantara.

COMMUNITY SENSE 13

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

FoR Sale (Direct Buyer only)

Destiny training Center located at Silway-8, Polomolok, South Cotabato, Philippines Area: 1.5 hectares (clean title) Contact Person: Jayson Mata and Jarry Cortez Mobile Numbers: 09073069070,09266173168 telephone Number:(083)301-7975 Email Ad: april23jayson@yahoo.com / jarrycortez@gmail.com website: http://www.destinytrainingcenterph.com

JuDea, a start-up pharmaceuticals distribution company is looking for: TeRRiToRy ManaGeR/S

Qualifications: 1. Male/Female, 24 to 30 years old 2. At least 6 months of pharmaceuticals selling experience, 3. Very pleasing personality, 4. Passionate, honest, and can work with minimal supervision.

Successful candidates can look forward to : 1. industry competitive salary, allowances and commissions, 2. Company car, 3. Paid vacation leaves, Out-patient benefits, 4. Career progression and positive work environment.

For interested/qualified applicants: please email your resume with latest 2X2 picture on or before May 30, 2014 at judeapharma@gmail.com

YMCA, Y’s Men Club offer free circumcision t

HE yMCA of Davao and the y’s Men Club of Metro Davao headed by lawyer Leoncio “Nonoy” Villa-Abrille and engineer Jose “Joval” Valenzuela Jr, respectively, launched together Operation tuli last April 30, 2009, at the yMCA Multi-Purpose Hall, Davao City. y’s Men Club incoming Regional Director Paciencio Rosalem Jr, Past District Governor Vicente Banes Jr, VP Jose Custodio, Auditor Ulysses Solis, Directors Welehito Pepito, Reynaldo Sazon and Wendell Udan and Past president Antonio Partoza Jr., participated in implementing the service project. the joint support and cooperation of the medical team of San Pedro College Community Extension Services, Barangay 11-B and Don Cesareo Villa-Abrille Foundation inc. spelled success to the medical outreach.

With community extension service director Remark Mortalla

A Joint Community Service Project was successfully conducted at the YMCA Multi- Purpose Hall by the Y’s Men Club of Metro Davao, YMCA Davao, San Pedro College Community Extension Services, Barangay 22-B under Chairperson Martina Fe Arabiana and Don Cesareo Villa-Abrille Foundation, together with the College Y volunteers and YMCA HS scholar Michael Marc Cabuenas. [Photo by Lito Pepito] at the helm, he designated Melody May Bacsal to head the medical

General Santos Drive, Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506

tel. No. 083-228-2511 ; Fax No. 083-228-2654

General Santos Drive, Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506 Tel. No. 083-228-2511 ; Fax No. 083-228-2654

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May previous apply in employment person at Human Resource Department, yBLi in Office, General Santos Resource Drive, May apply person at Human Koronadal City.

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team while Dr. Cherry Ann Alalong led the team of registered nurses from San Pedro College. the volunteer nurses were Carlito Mata, Kathy tamayo, Marianne Venny Braga, Alvin Albert Bucia, Kate Junalee Zamora, Briezle Jane Camille Basbano, Ralph Waldo Fernando, Justin Albert Gonzales, Elinor Marcelino, Jenny Pagaduan and Ferdinand Catungal.

Aside from barangay chair Martina Fe Arabiana and kagawad Gerson Pilapil, barangay nutrition scholar Lucy Gonzaga, barangay health worker Ruel Rincal and purok leader Randy Arcos also assisted in the free circumcision project.

the volunteer College y Members from UP-Mindanao, the University of Southeastern Philippines and University of Mindanao, namely, Alexander Ken Libranza, Archival Espolong and Beverly Buot had participated as well. yMCA scholar Michael Marc Cabuenas volunteered too by washing and cleaning the medical instruments used in the community project. the Operation Free tuli gave the boys’ grateful parents economic relief considering the high cost of a circumcision today which easily ranges from P3,000 to P5,000 at a doctor’s clinic or in a private hospital. [Frances Marian Castaña]

14 SPORTS

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

SouthCot pushes bid for 2015 Palaro G

ENERAL SANtOS City – the provincial government of South Cotabato has started the rehabilitation of the provincial sports complex in a bid to boost Koronadal City’s bid to host the 2015 Palarong Pambansa.

South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said the local government has released an initial P33 million to facilitate the repairs on the sports complex’s main grandstand and its track oval.

She said the funds will mainly be utilized to replace the worn out rubber track oval and the repair of facilities.

Fuentes, who joined the Region 12 athletic delegation during the opening of the 2014 Palaro earlier this month in Sta. Cruz, Laguna, said the provincial government will utilize its available resources to complete the rehabilitation of the provincial sports complex if Koronadal City wins the bid to host next year’s games. the governor said Koronadal City’s aggressive bid to host anew the Palaro is also supported by South Cotabato

(2nd district) Rep. Ferdinand Hernandez.

“We are just a small province but we will do our best to support Koronadal City when necessary,” she said. “there is so much to be done, and more funds needed.

But if Koronadal City wins the bid, we will support it,” Fuentes added.

For his part, Hernandez said he would sit down with Koronadal City officials to discuss the joint pooling of resources for the initiative.

“We need to put all their resources together to ensure good results. We have to ensure that the stay of the delegates in our area can create lasting and memorable impressions,” he said.

Koronadal City, which is a component city of South Cotabato, is the regional seat and center of Region 12. the city and South Cotabato province hosted the Palarong Pambansa in 1996 and 2007 and was among the main playing venues of the now defunct Palarong Bayan in 2000.

[MindaNews]

ASIAN BET. Japanese netter Misako Doi in action during the second round of the French Open in Paris.

59TH. Roger Federer chalked up his 59th French Open win.

MVP. Rachel Anne Daquis (18) led FEU to its first ever Shakey’s V League title and in the process, won another MVP award.

F

MVP for RAD, title for FEU

AR Eastern U mastered National U with sustained firepower and a hard-nosed net defense that cut the taller Lady Bulldogs down to size as the Lady tams fashioned out a 25-21, 2523, 25-18 victory to nail their first-ever Shakey’s V-League crown before a jampacked Sunday crowd at the Arena in San Juan. the Lady tams, came out of a week-long break an organized lot with Bernadette Pons combining splendidly with Rachel Ann Daquis and Jovelyn Gonzaga in offense while the rest provided the grit and spunk in defense that stymied the defending champions’ vaunted attacking game anchored on the tall Santiago sisters.

Gonzaga, the talented

southpaw and former league MVP who made a name winning multiple championships in beach volley, banged away a ferocious kill at center after a short rally, ending the onehour and 47-minute encounter dominated by the Lady tams, who finally ended their long search for a crown in Season 11 First Conference after joining five others in the inaugurals of the country’s premier women’s volley league in 2004 put up by Shakey’s. the Lady tams surprised the fancied defending champions with a thrilling 26-24, 2624, 25-22 victory in the opener of the best-of-three series last week. “it’s a nice feeling to win a championship for FEU,” said FEU coach Shaq delos Santos as the Lady tams and their

supporters whooped it up at centercourt after Gonzaga delivered the championship point. it was equally special for the comely Daquis, an FEU alumna who never won a title during her college days until she was tapped to play as one of their local reinforcements along with Gonzaga midway through the conference.

“i thank God and the school for the opportunity they gave me. it’s extra special for me because i finally gave my school a title,” said Daquis, who churned out a 15-hit effort, highlighted by 12 kills and later copped the Finals MVP honors.

Dindin Santiago, the conference MVP, finished with just 12 hits after scoring 37 in

the other league while younger sister Jaja fared ever worse with six points. But the duo struggled all game in the face of the Lady tams’ impressive three-blocker set-up that underscored their tough defensive stand. the Lady tams racked up five straight points, aided by NU’s poor reception, to pull away at 20-13 in the third set.

Although the Lady Bulldogs closed the gap at 17-22, Dindin Santiago made a service error and Myla Pablo fired, setting the stage for a Gonzaga kill.

NU also threatened in the second set at 23-24 on a Jaja Santiago block after a long rally but the NU stalwart committed a net violation, giving the Lady tams the close win.

Earlier, Adamson also re-

Roger breezes through P ARiS – Roger Federer racked up a record-equaling 59th career win at the French Open on Sunday while Serena and Venus Williams edged closer to a third-round sister showdown.

Federer kicked off his 16th consecutive Roland Garros with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 win over Slovakia’s Lukas Lacko, his first victory since becoming a father of twins for the second time. the 32-year-old Swiss, who won his only Paris title in 2009, was watched by wife Mirka and older twins Myla and Charlene but not threeweek old Lenny and Leo. Sunday’s triumph was also his 59th at Roland Garros, tying eight-time cham-

pion Rafael Nadal as the tournament’s all-time win specialist.

Federer was never troubled by Lacko, the world number 88 who has not won a claycourt match for three years.

He hit 40 winners and goes on to face Diego Schwartzman of Argentina for a place in the last 32. “i’m happy i got off to a good start,” said the 17-time major winner. “there’s always that little feeling that if you don’t feel well, if the opponent plays great, whatever happens so you could lose early. So i was happy seeing early signs out of the match that i was actually playing well and i was going to get my chances.”

SPORTS 15

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014 CELEBRATION. Serge Ibaka (9) of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates late in the second half against the San Antonio Spurs during Game Three of the Western Conference Finals of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Monday (PHL Time) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

BACK WITH A VENGEANCE t

BLOCK. Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka (9) gets up to block a shot by San Antonio Spurs forward Tim Duncan (21) in the first quarter of Game 3.

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HUNDER beat Spurs 10697, cut deficit to 2-1 OKLAHOMA City (AP) -- Serge ibaka pointed to the sky, soaking in the cheers from the adoring home crowd moments before coming out of a game that just a few days earlier, he never imagined he could play.

He scored 15 points in a dramatic return from what was thought to be a season-ending left calf strain, helping the Oklahoma City thunder beat the San Antonio Spurs 106-97 on Sunday night in Game 3 of the Western Conference finals. ibaka started after missing the first two games of the series. the thunder originally said he would miss the rest of the playoffs, but changed course Friday.

His presence helped the thunder dominate and cut the Spurs’ lead in the series to 2-1.

Oklahoma City coach Scott Brooks took ibaka out with 3:17 remaining and the thunder ahead by 20. ‘’When you talk about a teammate, that’s everything you want in a teammate,’’ thunder forward Kevin Durant said. ‘’i gained so much more respect for Serge for sacrificing himself for the team. Regardless of what happened tonight, that’s something you want beside you.’’ ibaka made six of seven shots and was a threat that gave Durant and Russell Westbrook relief. Westbrook had 26

points, eight rebounds and seven assists, and Durant added 25 points and 10 rebounds.

On defense, ibaka was a strong physical presence who blocked and altered shots and used his still formidable mobility to close out on shooters.

He had seven rebounds, four blocks and a seemingly endless amount of energy. ‘’Serge has put so much work in throughout the season that missing a couple of days didn’t hurt him,’’ Westbrook said. ‘’tonight, he jumped right back into where he was.’’

Manu Ginobili scored 23 points and tim Duncan added 16 points and eight rebounds for the Spurs.

Game 4 is tuesday night at Oklahoma City. the thunder outrebounded the Spurs 52-36 after losing the battle of the boards in the first two games. San Antonio, which shot at least 50 percent in the first two games, shot just 40 percent on Sunday night. the first two games looked like a layup drill for the Spurs. this time, they were forced to reset numerous times. the passes were not as quick or as easy. ‘’i was very disappointed that we didn’t come out with more of a foot in the neck sort of attitude,’’ San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich said. ‘’they killed us on the boards, they beat us in 50-50 balls and that’s very disappointing to me.’’

the national team aside from the players that we loaned to them, sana makatulong,” said Guiao.

According to Guiao, the example of Marcus Douthit, an American player earlier given Filipino citizenship to reinforce the Gilas Pilipinas national team, was a big key in getting the law-

makers’ nod to do the same for Blatche.

“During the hearing, that was one of the issues. the congressmen were really concerned.

Ayaw nilang maging cheap yung pagbibigay ng Philippine citizenship, that’s their ultimate concern. they want anybody who’s grant-

San Antonio won Game 2 112-77, leaving the thunder humiliated. ‘’i knew that we were a better team than losing by 30,’’ Brooks said. ‘’it’s not us. it was us that night, but we’re a much better team than that. i have a lot of respect for San Antonio, but they’re not that much better than us.’’ things were different from the start with ibaka’s return.

Brooks also inserted speedy Reggie Jackson into the starting lineup in thabo Sefolosha’s place. Jackson finished with 15 points. ‘’We bounced back tonight.

We always talk about that bounce-back ability and we had that tonight,’’ Brooks said. the crowd roared when ibaka’s name was announced during pregame introductions, and it got even louder when he started playing. He had eight points, three rebounds and two blocks in just over six minutes of play in the first quarter. twice in the final minute of the first half, Ginobili hit 3-pointers, and both times, Westbrook answered with a 3-pointer. the last one, with 0.6 seconds left, gave the thunder a 57-53 lead. Oklahoma City shot 56 percent in the first half but turned the ball over 12 times. Ginobili had 20 points and made 5 of 7 3-pointers before the break to keep the Spurs close.

With Blatche, Guiao hopes for Gilas’small miracles

S a congressman for the first district of Pampanga, Rain or Shine coach yeng Guiao was instrumental to pass the measure to confer Filipino citizenship to NBA big man Andray Blatche in the House of Representatives. “i was co-sponsor of the bill

while the main sponsor was Cong.

Robbie Puno. But even if he did not ask me, i would volunteer.

During the committee hearing, there were some misgivings by some congressmen, but we were able to convince them. Robbie did a good job,” Guiao told interAksyon.com in an exclusive inter-

view.

For the bill to be passed into law, a counterpart measure needs to be approved in the Senate. the bill is expected to be approved on third reading this week. “i guess malapit nang matapos yung proseso, at least that’s also part of our contribution to

ed that privilege and honor to value it. isa doon sa mga sinasabi nila is to embrace the culture and the example was (Marcus) Douthit na naging Kuya na nga sa mga national team players natin. May precedent and maganda naman.

Na-embrace rin ni Douthit yung Filipino culture and way of life.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 7 ISSUE 51 • TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

Ateneo settles for second By neilWin JoSeph l. BRaVo njb@edgedavao.net

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tENEO de Davao University settled for second place in the 2014 St. Stephen’s invitational Basketball tournament in Binondo, Manila over the weekend afetr bowing to a tall Chiang Kai Shek College 86-56 in the finals. the Blazing Dragons, 9-time Baden Powell champions, unveiled a complete line-up which has a ceiling of at least 6-feet to turn the tables around the Davao champions who earlier dealt the Dragons a sound beating in the eliminations. the Blue Knights were looking for another upset but the Dragons came out roaring from the get go. Not even the vaunted run and gun style of play of the Blue Knights could overcome the tremendous height and heft disadvantage.

Nonetheless, Ateneo coach Miggy Solitaria commended his boys for the gritty effort. ‘’the boys played tough and they never gave up the fight until the final buzzer. in the end, they (Dragons) were just too much for us and they are very experi-

RUNNERS-UP. The Ateneo de Davao University Blue Knights receive their second place trophy in the 2014 St. Stephen’s Invitational Basketball Tournament in Binondo, Manila. (FB Photo) enced,’’ said Solitaria. the Blue Knights, supported by city sports con-

sultant Glenn Escandor, were in Manila for the entire summer to hold training

camp for the coming school season. Ateneo finished the eliminations of the six-team

field with a 3-2 win-loss card and advanced to the semifinals where they upset Chong

Hoa High School 88-85 in overtime to earn a crack at the title against the Dragons.