Edge Davao 7 Issue 99

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Dabawenyo teacher wins Magsaysay Award

SHINES LIKE NOBEL

MARILOG TEACHER HONORED

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

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njb@edgedavao.net

Dabawenyo public school teacher who graced the cover of Edge Davao last year made it as one of the recipients of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award.

FMARILOG, 10

Ramon Magsaysay awardee Randy Halasan, a public school teacher in Pegalongan Elementary School in Sitio Pegalongan, Malamba, Marilog District, with Edge Davao executives and editorial team.

2 THE BIG NEWS Cops to help arrest smoking violators EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

hE Davao City Anti-Smoking Task Force will ask police stations to deploy one police officer in every public market to arrest smoking violators.

Anti-Smoking Task Force head Dr. Domilyn Villareiz said yesterday that her office received many reports of violation in the public markets.

“This is just to intensify the campaign in the markets in the next three months,” Villareiz said.

She said that aside from deploying a police in the market, they will also deputized the security of the public markets to issue the citation tickets.

“Para hindi na mahirapan yung security to issue the tickets,” Villareiz said.

“In case hindi magpakita ang, hindi ibalik nung violator ang ticket sila nayung mag file ng case sa korte,” Villareiz said.

She said that they are going deploy first in the six major markets and they will first focus in Toril Public Market since they received a lot of com-

plaints from this market.

“We will focus in the area kasi sabi ng ibang media na hindi naman na enforce ang anti-smoking and any ordinances sa Toril,” she said “Pag ilabay nimo ang imong sigarilyo... dalawang violations na,” The Anti-Smoking Task Force head said that they also coordinate their operation to the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in the markets.

She said that they are still to evaluate if the market can designate a common smoking area since all the facilities are utilized by the public.

“Medyo crowded ang palengke,” she said adding that based on the reports, most of the violators in the market are the vendors.

Villareiz said aside from the public markets they will also designate a police officers in the cockpits because they also received complaints of smoking violators in the said establishment.

CENRO urges barangays to be strict on solid waste

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hE Davao City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) urged barangay captains to strictly implement the solid waste disposal ordinance in their respective barangay.

According to CENRO head Eliza Madrazo, most of the barangays in the city are not effective in implementing the waste disposal ordinance.

Engineer Madrazo

said barangay officials fail to properly implement the city’s waste disposal ordinance. She stressed that the garbage segregation in every barangay has not been practiced anymore unlike the first implementation of the ordinance.

“Ambot kung unsay kuan nila na di nila ma monitor,” Madrazo told reporters in yesterday’s ‘I-Speak Media Forum.’

FCENRO, 10

MOVING FORWARD. Globe Telecom industry head of Mindanao, Florayda Garcia, and VisMin cluster head, Jon Andaya, say during a press briefing yesterday at The Marco Polo Davao that the company is innovating itself through

HOPEFULS. Beggars stand by outside the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) hoping to be invited for lunch during its fiesta celebration yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Davao Region posts 6.8% growth in 2013

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

AVAO Region posted a 6.8 percent economic growth in 2013 surpassing the 5.6 percent target in the same period but still lower than the7.4 percent growth recorded in 2012.

Speaking in the 2013 Report on Regional Economy-Davao Region, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) 11 regional director Maria Lourdes Lim said that this year is the second time that the region was able to surpass its economic growth target.

“The 2013 GRDP estimates are a confirmation that Davao region is truly resilient and that Dabawenyos have the capacity to recover quickly from calamities and to rise above difficult challenges,” Lim said during the presentation at the office of Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh) 11 yesterday.

Lim said that the banana industry of the agriculture sector, one of the most affected sector by the Typhoon Pablo in 2012, was able to recover 8 months after the

moving forward from connectivity provider to information and communications technology solutions. Lean Daval Jr.

devastation.

The RDC [Regional Development Council] is putting high priority on rehabilitation initiatives so that public investment will be channeled to Pablo rehabilitation programs,” she added.

“We are also pleased that the region has retained its position as Mindanao’s top economy in terms of GRDP value, a position we have enjoyed for the third consecutive year,” the director said.

She said that the on-going rehabilitation of the public and the pri-

vate sector contributed alot in the growth of gross regional domestic product (GRDP) of the region.

The region’s GRDP is 3.8 percent of the Philippines’ P6.76 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2013. however, the region came third in terms of growth rate in Mindanao. SOCCSKSARGEN region came first with 8.4 percent followed by the 7.8 percent growth rate of Caraga region.

Davao region’s total production of goods

FDAVAO, 10

Nonoy Garcia dies of heart attack, 82 M

ANUEL “Nonoy” M. Garcia, veteran lawmaker who worked for the construction of Francisco Bangoy International Airport, building of Mindanao’s first flyovers, establishment of the Philippine Science high School Mindanao campus and other landmark projects in Davao City, died of heart attack Thursday morning at the Rufino Cardinal Santos hospital in Mandaluyong City.

Manuel “Junboy” J. Garcia Jr., son of the deceased, said the lawmaker expired at 7 a.m. he

FNONOY, 10

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

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EDGEDAVAO

BIGGER PICTURE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

The living light of Pegalongan

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

“A good teacher is like a candle, it consumes itself to light the way for others.”-anonymous Randy halasan is a public school teacher. Five days a week, he goes to school, teach his students and at the end of each day, come home and prepare for another day. he wished life as a teacher is as simple as that.

For Randy, that description is only half the life he has embraced in his seven years as a public school teacher in Pegalongan Elementary School in Sitio Pegalongan, Malamba, Marilog District.

To get to Pegalongan, Randy travels two hours by bus, another hour by ‘habal-habal’ motorcycle, plus around four hours of trekking, which includes crossing two treacherous rivers—Simod River and Davao River--that at times go as high as his chest.

The rivers that sepa-

rate Pegalongan’s school and the communities spell life and death. Randy says many lives have been lost crossing the rivers including his very own.

Not even that stops Randy. he keeps pushing even if the journey to Pegalongan is life risking. In one of his treks to Marilog, he and some pupils almost lost their lives traversing the raging Davao River. It is a journey he has chosen to take with the community and his students, who also cross the chest-deep river everyday just to be educated.

This has been the life this 30-year old teacher from Mandug embraced ever since he got a teaching assignment. Even his student life was an uphill battle. Through sheer hardwork and determination, he

Editor’s Note: We are reprinting the story of public school teacher Randy Halasan who was named 2013 The Many Faces of a Teacher award from the Bato Balani Foundation. This story made it as finalist of the 2013 Globe Media Excellence Awards and although it did not win the best story of the year, it opened the world for teacher Randy to be noticed and eventually named as one of the recipients of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for 2014. kept his dreams of a college education by working parttime. he dreamt of becoming a doctor or a lawyer but poverty left him no choice but to pursue teaching.

He finished his Bachelor of Elementary Education at the University of Southeastern Philippines in 2003 and like most fresh graduates, was not able to immediately get a teaching position. he struggled through odd jobs to live from day to day while taking care of his mother, now 72. In 2006, he was assigned as a substitute teacher in Sixto Babao Elementary School in Tibungco and later in T. Awad Echevarria in Mandug. It was in January 8, 2007 when he was assigned as a permanent teacher in Pegalongan.

“My first grade that I taught is grade one and two and it’s a multi grade class and after that I transfer to grade five and six. I was their adviser when the school held its first closing exercise and it’s a memorable to me because I saw the happiness in their eyes the essence if you are already graduated,” Randy narrated.

For newbie teachers, being assigned in far-flung areas is expected. In the same breath, moving out of such an unenviable assignment is usually first and foremost in the minds of young tutors. After becoming a permanent teacher, they request to be transferred and leave their remote area assignment at the first opportunity.

Not Randy. he chose to stay at Peg-

alongan Elementary School where he became head Teacher on his sixth year.

When Teacher Randy first came to Sitio Pegalongan, he saw a different side of the city, far from the bright lights, crowded malls, fast-paced life and slow-moving traffic he has grown used to. he saw people whose only hope is on the fertile soil of Marilog, of anything that grows and can either be eaten or sold. he saw children go to school on foot, sleeping in class out of hunger or fatigue from walking to school and crossing high waters.

“When I became a permanent teacher and was assigned at Pegalongan Elementary School which is one of the farthest school in the Davao City, I said to myself that I will not stay long

of this school. I’m not happy here. Imagine a life without signal and electricity,” Randy recounted his early days in Pegalongan.

But all that changed in no time. “As the days passed by when I saw their needs and hunger for education and development I said to myself that I have to do something for the Matigsalug Tribe in Sitio Pegalongan. I felt happy and the belongingness as part of their family even I’m not a tribe.”

Pegalongan is a small sitio nestled in the middle of the mountains. After a great typhoon, tribal folks saw light shine from the area, thus it got its name.

That, too, is how Randy is like right now to the community--a light that shines and guides the community.

In his young teaching

FTHE LIVING LIGHT, 10

THEN AND NOW. This is Pegalongan Elementary School before (left) and now (right). From a one-classroom building when teacher Randy Halasan arrived in 2006 to two schoolbuildings by 2010.

THE ECONOMY 5

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

Industry posts accelerated growth

By VANNAH S. ANg

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vsa@edgedavao.net

AVAO Region’s Industry sector registered an increase in Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) from 9.5 percent in 2012 to 16.2 percent in 2013.

According to Maria Lourdes D. Lim., regional director of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region 11, the growth of industries surpassed the target of 4.8 percent. All of its subsectors posted double-digit growths.

The industry sector is divided into three subsectors, namely, manufacturing, construction, mining and quarrying, and electricity, gas, and water supply.

The growth rate of manufacturing, the second largest subsector, continues to accelerate from 15.7 percent in 2012 to 18.9 percent in 2013.

“It (manufacturing) contributed the biggest share at 20.1 percent and grew by 14.8 percent due to the strong performance of processing industries, such as cement, food, and

beverages, fertilizers and minerals,” Lim said.

In 2013, the value of commodity exports were estimated at US$1.99 billion with an increase of 31 percent compared to 2012 surpassing the region’s target of 10 percent. Bananas accounted for 44 percent of the total value of exports and remained as the top export commodity.

Construction also accelerated growth from 15.7 percent in 2012 to 18.9 percent in 2013.

“Construction activity was vigorous as the government pursued key infrastructure projects in the Pablo-affected areas for the rehabilitation of roads, bridges, school buildings, irrigation systems, and construction of core shelters. The government also completed the Davao del Norte Sports Complex, IGaCoS Circumferential Road, paving of Asuncion-San Isidro Laak Veruela Road, and Daang Maharlika during the year,” Lim said.

Private building con-

MINDANAO BUSINESS SOLUTIONS. Gil Genio, chief operation officer for Business International Markets of Globe Telecom, gives updates of Globe Business during the Mindanao Business Solutions attended by representa-

tives from the business sector of Davao City at The Marco Polo Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

struction increased by 70 percent, with non-residential and commercial projects reaching P22 billion. however, the construction of residential buildings decreased by 5 percent.

Mining and quarrying rebounded from a nega-

tive 59.8 percent in 2012 to an upturn of 17.9 percent in 2013.

Silver production posted a great amount of increase from negative 26.1 percent to 40.6 percent.

Electricity, gas, and water supply surged from

6.5 percent in 2012 to 16.4 percent in 2013.

“It improved due to further expansion of water utilities and increase in output of the energy sector. Relatedly, the EEI Power Corporation’s 15-megawatt peaking power plant In Tagum

deceleration in the growth rate for Davao Region’s AhFF sector from 0.4 percent in 2012 to negative 8 percent in 2013.

“The decline in AhFF was highly attributed to the devastation of Typhoon Pablo which resulted to the decrease in production of agricultural crops, particularly banana and coconut,” he said.

Maria Lourdes D. Lim, regional director of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region 11, said that the prospects for 2013 had been bright prior to Typhoon Pablo’s occurrence since the region posted a 7.4 percent economic growth in 2012.

“But given the tough post-Pablo scenario, the government deemed it fit

to downscale the region’s 2013 economic growth target to 5.6 percent,” she said.

Typhoon Pablo ravaged the production of largescale farms in Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, and Davao del Norte. The production of banana and coconut declined by 16 percent, rubber by 48 percent, abaca by 18 percent, palay by 6 percent, and sugarcane by 3 percent.

Palay production was also affected by the infestation of stem borers, rats, and black bugs in Compostela Valley and Davao del Sur. Coffee production declined by 35 percent as some of coffee bean plantations were shifted into banana plantations.

Corn production, however, increased by 14 per-

cent due to improved yield per hectare as a result of planting high quality seeds, expansion of area harvested, and sufficient rainfall.

There were also marginal increases in cacao, durian, and mango production.

“Nonetheless, Davao Region has maintained its position as the Philippines’ top producer of cacao at 79 percent, bananas at 42 percent, and coconut at 15 percent of the country’s total. The region also ranks as the country’s second highest producer of coffee and third in abaca,” Lim said.

The AhFF sector pulled down the regional GRDP growth rate by 1.4 percent. however, the industry and service sectors managed to accelerate it by 6.8 percent.

VSA

Davao City.

The proposed cassava granules production project will cost P36 million with a ready target market for the products.

“For Region 12, we have identified cassava as a priority commodity and it will be supported under PRDP’s enterprise development component,” said PRDP Deputy Program Director Arnel De Mesa.

De Mesa added that

coming up with business developments plans (BDP) would help determine which viable enterprises are going to be supported under the Investments in Rural Enterprises and Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity (I-REAP) component.

I-REAP aims to elevate agricultural production into the next levels of value chain by installing production and market

City was completed in December 2013 to cater to the power requirements of Davao del Norte,” Lim said. however, this subsector only contributed 1.1 percent to the GRDP compared to Northern Mindanao with 6.2 percent.

Decline in agri sector affects economic growth Business bureau to intensify D

avao Region managed to sustain economic growth despite the decline in agriculture last year, according to a latest report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Region XI. Davao Region’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) growth rate for 2013 is recorded at 6.8 percent, indicating a 0.6-percent decrease compared to 2012’s growth rate of 7.2 percent.

The regional GRDP growth rate is contributed by three main sectors, namely, the agriculture, hunting, forestry, and fishing (AhFF) sector, the industry sector, and the services sector.

According to Rosendo M. Aya-ay, regional head of PSA-RSCU 11, there was a

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P36-M cassava granules production project proposed under PRDP

OCAL government units have proposed a P36-million worth of enterprise development project for a cassava granules production in South Cotabato under the Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP).

Together with proponent groups, South Cotabato presented their business plan for cassava granules in a finalization workshop held recently in

support facilities.

“Business plans are also important management tools for the proponent groups in implementing the I-REAP component,” he added.

The proponent groups are composed of cooperatives and people’s organizations who will implement the project in their respective provinces. (Jay Rosas/ DA-MRDP)

campaign vs refilled butane

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

hE Business Bureau of Davao City will intensify its campaign against the refilled-butane sold in public markets and sari-sari stores.

Lawyer Lawrence Bantiding, officer-in-charge in the bureau, told reporters in an interview yesterday that they will intensify their inspection in the markets and establishments, and confiscate all the refilled-butane canisters.

“In the executive order the Business Bureau is tasked to confiscate those items,” Bantiding said referring to executive order 23 series of 2014.

Bantiding said that they will file charges against the peddlers based on the department circular order of the Department of Energy and the city executive order. he said the campaign will be for the protection and safety of every people.

“One of the punishable acts there is dealing with the refilled butane. Kasi one time use na siya na design ang canister,” Bantiding said. he said that all of the butane canister sold in the market are disposable and not refillable. he said that if the refilled butane canister is easy to notice if it is already tainted with rust and the seal is already broken.

“This is a prima facie evidence na refilled siya,” he said.

Bantiding urged the Public Market Supervisors and barangay captains in the city to inform their constituents that selling of refilled canisters are prohibited.

Last May 9, Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte issued the Executive Order (EO) No. 23 series of 2014 “An Order Creating a Multi-Agency Task Force to Properly Regulate and Ensure Safe Practices of Persons and Entities handling and/or Engage in Business Involving Flammable and Dangerous Chemicals and Other hazardous and Toxic Substances.”

The EO states that it has been deemed urgent and necessary to provide a mechanism for the close coordination and monitoring among government agencies, both local and national, that will ensure strict adherence to applicable and existing standards and other related laws relative to safe practices governing the proper handling of flammable and dangerous chemicals and other hazardous and toxic chemicals.

The order said that it has been observed that persons and entities handling and/or engaged in business involving flammable and dangerous chemicals and other hazardous and toxic substances have been remised with their duties on observing proper, correct, and safe practices to the detriment of public in general in the City of Davao.

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EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

EDITORIAL

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Foreign workers blues

ORE than 50 foreigners working on the construction of the coal-powered plant of the AboitizPower firm in barangay Binugao in Toril District, Davao City are in trouble for not having the work permit required by the government.

If the workers will be ordered deported by the Bureau of Immigration, the construction of the power plant would logically be delayed.

Obviously, the fault lies not in AboitizPower but in the contractor who hired the foreigners without seeing to it that their immigration documents are in order. Still the incident could have been avoided if AboitizPower exercised more vigilance and strict monitoring on the personnel involved. In sum, it was a lesson for all.

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The Immigration bureau personnel deserved to be congratulated for doing their job.

It is hoped that they will be as strict in the case of Chinese nationals working in the stores of Sta. Ana, especially in those foreign-owned establishments located within the so-called Chinatown. Rumors fly thick and fast that the illegal workers there are under the control of some local Chinese mafia collaborating with some smart (read corrupt) immigration agents who are on the take. We certainly hope this is not true at all.

On the other hand, Aboitiz should penalize their contractor for this costly faux pas. hopefully sanctions on cases such as these are covered by the contract.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. JOSEPH LAWRENCE P. GARCIA KENNETH IRVING K. ONG Photography Contributing Photographer Creative Solutions ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. AQUILES Z. ZONIO ARLENE D. PASAJE CHENEEN R. CAPON / VANNAH S. ANG Correspondent Cartoons Reporters

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

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

VANTAGE POINTS

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CRUCIBLE: Eidu l-fitr 2014: A Call to End the War in Gaza Country’s swelling [Eidu l-fitr khutbah delivered at the lawn garden of the Romulo Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman on 28 July 2014].

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SSALAMU alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.

All praise is due to Allah (SWT) the Lord of the Universe, the One who obliges his creation to follow his Command. he sets term or ajal to various ummah (communities) as he shows the signs in creation and in men until they know the Truth.

Today, we are on the day of Eidu l-fitr, the day of joy and happiness among believers. Their joy and happiness is simple; it is not measured with mere worldly gains. It transcends petty needs and desires. It connects with the guarantee assured on them in terms of their spiritual development. It is a guarantee [that is] part of the over-all logic of their ibadah or worship.

There is a known hadith (Prophetic saying) from Abu hurayrah (RA) where Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “the person who fasts in the Month of Ramadan with faith self scrutiny will have his part of sins remitted.”

This assurance is the source of their joy and happiness whenever the Ramadan ends and the Eidu l-fitr starts. It is a guarantee that every believer has been given. Note the hadith speaks of eimanan wakhtisaban – a faith with self-scrutiny.

In other words, it is something deeper; it should lead to one’s understanding of himself through deeper realization in the holy Month of Ramadan. It is not mechanical or simply to fulfill a ritual. It should make us scrutinize (ikhtisaban) ourselves and firm up our faith both in the holy Month of Ramadan and other months as well.

There is also a hadith from Abu al-Kudri, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “When a person fasts a day for the sake of Allah then Allah drives away the hell from him to distance of 70 years of travel.”

This is another guarantee given to the believers, a reason why they are joyful and happy in this day. Now, notice there is a physical distance identified here. But as we had narrated in several of our khutbah (discourse) last Ramadan, distance implies normative quest for nearness captured with the Qur’anic verse: “When My servants asked thee concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them) (Baqarah: 185).” It suggests that those who fast (saimun) should strive to become muqarrabun – those who are near to Allah (SWT).

In other words, distance implies relationship of nearness with Allah (SWT).

This guarantee is something that makes the believers happy and joyful in this day.

There is a another hadith from Sahl bin Said, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “there is a gate in Paradise known as Ar-rayyan, through which only fasting persons will enter in the Day of Judgment and no one else. It will be said: where are the fasting persons? They will come forward.

No one will enter that level of Paradise

MINDAVIEWS Julkipli Wadi except the people who engage in fasting.

After they have entered, the gate will be closed and no one else will enter thereafter.”

This is yet another guarantee and promise given to those successful saim who had done their fast with faith self-scrutiny (eimanan wakhtisaban). So, even if we say that our joy and happiness is simple, yet, the guarantee is immense. This is the importance of Eidu l-fitr and why we have to join hands and share our joy together, including our zakatu l-fitr (Eid charity) as we partake food and share our blessing together. This is our way to express our simple joy and happiness with other brothers and sisters.

There is another tradition of the Prophet (SAW) whenever Eidu l-fitr or Eidu l-adha comes. he would usually rally the sahabah (companions) to perform congregation and he would instruct them to engage in things like sharing their blessings and wealth, sharing their food, and addressing the problems of the community. This is an important social function of Ramadan and Eidu l-fitr. It is part of our task today. We have to show concern and discuss matters that the ummah (community) faces. And we have to do something to lessen the pangs of suffering and difficulty of oppressed quarters of the ummah.

This point is very important. As we know, Ramadan 2014 is punctuated with lots of challenges reflective with what the Qur’an refers to as ajal or some form of term or experience. The Qur’an says: “To any people is a term appointed. When their term is reached, not an hour can they cause delay nor an hour can they advance it (in anticipation) (A’raf: 34).”

While the notion of ajal speaks of term or some kind of an end of a particular event, it may also be broadened to include the challenges or problems that the ummah faces. We have seen it most vividly in the Middle East today – in Gaza, in Syria, in Libya, in Iraq, and other parts of the Muslim world. We pray that their ajal would lighten up that it would trigger the ummah to move forward and develop further.

The challenge of the ummah is such that it has become cyclical. The war in Gaza is not new. There had been series of war with the same intensity in the past. It is due to many reasons, although when we speak of ajal it is something inscrutable. We are not able to fully grasp or understand why a certain ummah or community would have to experience so severe a difficulty and why others are not. What is obvious to us is such, there are social, political and economic factors underlying the cyclical war in the Middle East.

If you have attended our Friday khut-

bah these past several months or years, we have discussed in some details the socio-political and economic factors that lead into the crisis in the Middle East and other parts of the Muslim world these days.

Yet, this should not become a reason for us to become cynical or pessimistic.

The ummah has long been the object of suspicion as they increase in number beyond the traditional domain of daru l-islam or the Muslim world. They have been perceived as threats in many quarters, as they also have problems with securing political stability and development among themselves. hence, many of them have to be subjected to manifold form of oppression like the Palestinians in Gaza and other parts of the Occupied territories. In other words, the suffering of the ummah is nothing new.

What is worrisome however is that, even as war is going on in many countries in the Middle East, we feel it is not simply the issue of violence that is at hand. It is the sense of humanity of people around the world that is put into question. We pray that the difficulty and suffering of the Palestinians in Gaza and other parts of the Occupied Territories be eased substantially. What we worry is not simply the brutality and violence inflicted against the Palestinians. What we are vey much concerned of is the silence of the international community and inaction of big powers where Israel’s impunity is already accepted as a new normal.

Violence is unsustainable. It is repugnant to human nature. Violence has to end because it strikes at the very heart of man’s sense of humanity towards life and other living creatures. It is self-defeating for certain groups of people to insist that they are the only ones who have the right to live. human right is universal. The right to life is the right of everyone.

Even how worse a criminal or killer is, there is a light in one’s heart. We do not know why there are people who are so heartless who could not see and feel the suffering of other people like the women and children in Gaza and other parts of the world. What is worrisome, too, is if we are not triggered to extend assistance and to help those suffering people in countries mentioned. Finally, what we worry is a new normal that would emerge out of inhuman acts of aggression and the extreme brutality done by other people against helpless civilians.

We pray that the people of Gaza and many parts of the Muslim world would be able to ease with their difficulty and suffering. We pray that the ummah would be awaken to extend assistance including the need to put their resources together so that they would be able to play their role effectively in the international community.

[MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. The author is Associate Professor of Islamic Studies, University of the Philippines].

population

I

T NEEDS NOT TO BE A PERMANENT ONE – Mention population boom and inevitably, the litany of problems begin: how many babies are born each year and how many children a married couple is capable of nurturing?

Can a small and poor country like the Philippines afford to provide the needs of 100 million people? Why was there obviously seemed a great deal of unwillingness on the part of government to fully implement and strictly carried out to the letter the approved Reproductive health Law? Advocates of the Rh Bill firmly believe it is the answer to the country’s burgeoning population and will bring great benefits to the Filipino people. The Philippines is now home to an estimated 100 million or more people with the birth of the 100 millionth Filipino just recently. It is now ranked the 12th most populous country in the world. With a population growth surging at accelerating pace, recent in-depth studies conducted by an independent research group showed that the country’s population is expected to increase to 147 million by 2045.

The government notably the previous administrations were actually ineffective in implementing their family planning and population control program because of some drawbacks. There are aggravating factors, for instance, it avoided a clash with the leadership of the influential Catholic Church who strongly condemned artificial method in birth control. Being a predominantly Catholic country, the past administrations all adhered to the dictation of Church hierarchy who is against any method controlling senseless birth.

The church leadership only promotes the rhythm procedure, which is persistently “violated” by both married and unmarried couples despite constant reminder from religious leaders. Certainly, the church leaders for all intents and purposes will not tolerate any government scheme that promotes the use of contraception. Their projection is even more terrifying. It relentlessly inculcate in the minds of the faithful that the Rh Bill is a government measure that promotes abortion.

Furthermore, they say it is an organized effort of the government, which they perceived as transplanting “anti-life and anti-family laws and practices” into our social order. But in reality, thousands of women yearly are estimated to have abortions to deal with the financial and emotional strain of unwanted pregnancy despite the fact that abortion is strictly prohibited and against the teachings of the Catholic Church. however, I would like to stress out it is not the entire membership of the Catholic Church that is against the Rh Bill because many followers are also advocates of the approved measure. Moreover, the reproductive health law respects the views of the church specifically its position on families and the preservation of the life of the unborn. Even with the Rh Bill now in effect, still nobody could prevent abortion not even the leaders of the church, but it would probably be minimized. how much more if there’s no alternatives where couples have the freedom to choose and avail of a family planning method of their choice?

Over population, more than anything else is straining the country’s resources.

So what has to be done? We should take a closer look at our present predicament and raise this dominant question: what isn’t going right in our country? Take note that high population growth outruns the country’s ability to build its economy and investment in infrastructure, which is why there is crushing poverty. It’s an old problem associated with joblessness, homelessness, landlessness, and food shortage, lack of shelter and medical care and illiteracy.

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

9

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

The living light... FFROM 4 tour of duty, something developed in the subconscious of Randy—education is not enough.

“Kung education lang talaga ang focus, kulang.

Kahit gaano ka pa kagaling magturo, kahit gaano ka pa kagaling mag visual aid, kahit anong technology ipakita mo, pero kung ang mga tao gutom, kung ang mga bata gutom, wala,” he said.

This is his conviction and the one big reason why he is so passionate about improving the livelihood of the people.

It wasn’t easy. here is a stranger who wanted to change how the world turns for Pegalongan’s Matigsalug community which literally means “people along the Salug River (now called the Davao River)”. Although often classified under the Manobo tribe, the Matigsalug is a distinct sub-group of indigenous peoples from the Manobos.

Randy had to sacrifice a lot of his time, which means staying in Pagalongan be-

yond his teaching duties.

Because the community is so remote, he chose to spend most of his weekends and summer vacations with the tribal folks. That means days and weeks of not being able to communicate with his family. The area does not have electricity and cellphone signal.

As he began to immerse himself in the community, he enjoined the tribe to help him establish the Pegalongan Farmers Association with the end view of making them become food sufficient. When he got there, they were only farming corn, mongo and root crops.

Randy asked help from agencies in the city so that the farmers can be trained on planting vegetables and durable crops. he also solicited seedlings to get the people start planting new crops.

In time, the community has nurseries and vegetable gardens in their backyards.

The projects he initiat-

ed in the community really helped. “Nung wala pang asosasyon, napakahirap ng buhay dito.” explains Camilo Pandia, Pegalangan Farmers Association president. he also developed a deeply-rooted bond with his students that he looked beyond them as his pupils.

Since Pegalongan only has an elementary level school, most of the children end up stopping after graduating from elementary because high school was very far.

Only a few move on to pursue high school education elsewhere.

This became a personal saga for Randy. his concern for the future of his students encouraged him to lobby for the establishment of a high school in the area so that there is something to look beyond after elementary education.

Randy’s love for Pegalongan has blossomed into a symbiotic relationship.

The young teacher soon became like one of Pega-

Randy halasan, whose story entitled “The Living Light of Pegalongan” was nominated as one of the finalists of the 2013 Globe Davao Media Excellence Awards, was chosen as among this year’s six awardees of the prestigious award considered as Asia’s Nobel Prize. halasan could be the first Dabawenyo to receive the award which was created in 1957.

The conferment of honors is set August 31 in Manila.

“I am very honored for this award. More than the honor, I look at it as another opportunity for the people in our community to realize their aspirations like potable water and hanging bridges,” said halasan after visiting Edge Davao’s editorial office yesterday.

The 31-year old product of the Unversity of Southeastern Philippines (USEP), who braves hours of travel in order to provide basic education to children of the Matigsalog tribe in a remote village in Davao City was recognized, according to organizers, for his “purposeful dedication in nurturing both his Matigsalog students and their community to transform their lives through quality education and sustainable livelihoods, in ways that respect their uniqueness and preserve their integrity as indigenous peoples in a modernizing Philippines.” halasan’s story published in Edge Davao on September 1-2 became the “eye-opener” for his family who did not favor

his assignment to the remote hinterlands of Pegalongan, some six hours and two rivers away from downtown Davao City. he went on to win 2013 “The Many Faces of a Teacher” award given by the Bato Balani Foundation.

Also among this year’s awardees are an influential Chinese journalist and a crusading environmental lawyer from China.

The Ramon Magsaysay Award, named after a Filipino president who was killed in a plane crash, was established in 1957 to honor people or groups who change communities for the better and is often described as Asia’s Nobel Prize.

Among this year’s six awardees is hu Shuli, 61, founder and editor of Caijing, a business magazine famed for its groundbreaking investigative reporting that has had a profound impact on China.

Its reports on illegal trading, “government cover-up of the true extent of the 2003 SARS epidemic,” and corporate fraud led to the ousting of high public officials, prosecution of business leaders, and stock market reforms, the foundation said. “hers is a journalism that works within the system but preserves the critical distance that is journalism’s strength,” the award citation said of hu.

Another winner was Chinese lawyer Wang Canfa, 55, founder of the Center for Legal Assistance to Pollution Vic-

tims, which has handled thousands of environmental complaints and beaten powerful industrialists in court.

Its efforts have also included training lawyers and judges, as well as drafting environmental laws and regulations, the foundation said.

“As long as we persist, the goal of establishing Chinese environmental rule of law will be achieved someday,” the award quoted Wang as saying.

Also honored were Indonesian anthropologist Saur Marlina Manurung, National Museum of Afghanistan director Omara Khan Masoudi and the Pakistani non-government group The Citizen’s Foundation.

Manurung, 42, was cited for “her ennobling passion to protect and improve the lives of Indonesia’s forest people” through jungle schools put up by her organization.

Masoudi, 66, was honored for saving some of the museum’s most precious objects from the “bombings, looting, and wilful destruction by the Taliban” insurgents of what they considered Afghanistan’s non-Muslim heritage.

The Citizens Foundation, organized by Pakistani business leaders, was honored for putting up schools that gave equal opportunities to girls in a country where education for women is anathema to some religious extremists.— (with a report from Agence France-Presse)

Marilog... FFROM 1

longan’s very own sons. Because of his dedication, he is well-loved and respected.

The tribal elders and other members of the tribe are very supportive of him.

One of the tribal leaders, Datu Pablo Dacao Sr. explains “Nung dumating si Sir Randy, malaki talaga nagbago. Bukod sa mga bata, buong community tinutulungan.”

Randy is not just a life teacher. In the classroom, he is also an effective and enterprising teacher. Despite the lack of materials, which is common in remote schools, he developed his pupils to be competitive in academic and non-academic endeavors and win in district competitions.

And now, it’s Randy’s turn to shine.

This year, as the National Teachers Month celebration nears, Bato Balani Foundation Inc. (BBFI) announces its finalists for this year’s The Many Faces of the Teacher (TMFT) advocacy campaign, and Randy

is one of two Dabawenyos who made it.

For his inspiring works, Randy could be one of four honorees who will be chosen and presented to the country as the ideals of commitment to mold the country’s youth and the community for other educators to emulate.

Davao’s unique breed of teachers has won the rare recognition in the past and the legacy of service by Dabawenyo teachers have been among the bright footnotes to the compilation of TMFT. In 2011, it told the story of Anabel Ponce Ungcad of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. her life purpose was to help her fellow Bagobos overcome illiteracy.

Ungcad, the first Bagobo to graduate from college, travels three kilometers on a habal-habal up a mountain to get to the school where she teaches. She also helped raise funds for the building of learning centers and the develop-

ment of basic literacy and livelihood programs for her tribe.

And for Randy’s predecessors in the lives of the Matigsalug tribal folks, Bryan Rex Carreon and Brimbhot Eyas have foregone the comforts of teaching in the plain lands and trek hours to help them.

Last year, the two teachers were honored for their work as a team at Dumalogdog Primary School in Davao City.

Bryan and Brimbhot slept on chairs in classrooms during the week and go home to their families on weekends. For unselfishly putting their school and their students above themselves, they were enshrined in the TMFT’s annals of teaching heroes.

Randy could be the next Dabawenyo hero teacher like Anabel, Bryan and Brimbhot. But that will have to wait. For now, he is the shining light after a storm—the living impersonation of Pegalongan.

“Kung mo ingon mi na dili namo kolektahon kasi wala na segregate, ang problema man pud gud namo unya kay magkalat pud kalsada,” Madrazo said adding that aside from the uncollected garbage , the scavengers also scatter in the waste in the road.

Madrazo asked the Department of Local Interior and Local Government (DILG) to send every barangay captain a memorandum reprimanding them of their duty.

“Serious pud unta ang barangay sa implementation kay ang siyudad wala man pud

nagkulanbg sa pag-ayuda sa ilaha,” Madrazo emphasized.

Madrazo said that if there are many violators will be issued by citation ticket, this could be additional revenues for the city and barangay because the half of the fine will go to the barangay.

She said that there are 5000 violators on their record.

The CENRO head said that if the waste segregation will be implemented in the barangays, the city could save from rentals of private hauler trucks collecting the garbage around the city.

Madrazo said that the

city spend much on garbage collection because they pay the trucks per kilometer. She cited an example in Calinan in which the city spends around P1 million a month to collect all the garbage in the whole district.

She said that the city will really spend much since their office has only three garbage collecting trucks; one compactor and two yellow six wheeler trucks.

Madrazo said that the city opted to hire a contractor to collect the garbage because it will be more expensive to buy more trucks. ABF

and services at constant 2,000 prices was valued at P258.5- billion with the services sector contributing 53 percent, followed by industry at 32 percent and agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing at 15 percent.

NEDA 11 is targeting

an economic growth of 7 percent by 2014 based on the updated plan.

“We are confident that we will be able to hit this year’s target because of the,” Lim said.

According to Lim, the region will be able to hit its target because of the pouring public invest-

ment for rehabilitation projects in Pablo affected areas.

She also said that the billion-worth power projects will largely contribute to Davao region’s GRDP this year, so as the boom in the real estate industry and construction sector. CRC

turned 82 last month.

The lawmaker first entered politics as city councilor of Davao City in the late 60’s. he also served as member of parliament of the Batasang Pambansa, and congressman of Davao City’s second district for three terms.

The managing partner of the Garcia Inigo de Guzman Law Firm, Nonoy was first president of the Davao City chapter president of

the Integrated Bar of the Philippines and was also one of the earliest presidents of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. he was identified with such other advocacies as the establishment of the University of Southeastern Philippines and the conservation of the Philippine Eagle whose foundation he led as chairman and treasurer for decades. his remains will

be brought next week to Davao City and buried here, where he was born to the late Mayor Leon Garcia Sr. and Milagros Monteverde.

As of last night, his remains lie in state at the Christ the King Church in Green Meadows, Quezon City.

The deceased is survived by wife Linda, sons Mariano, Manuel Jr., Dennis, Michael and Vincent, and daughters Mylene and Maryrose.

CENRO... FFROM 2

Davao... FFROM 2

Nonoy... FFROM 2

11 ENVIRONMENT

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

Riverbank reforestation launched

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

T

abf@edgedavao.net

hE Watershed Management Council (WMC) of Davao City launched yetsterday a reforestation project in the riverbanks of the tributaries inside Panigan-Tamugan watershed to protect its headwaters which will be the source of world-class drinking water.

In a statement, the Interface Development Interventions , Inc (IDIS) said that the project aims to rehabilitate the areas which are already delineated by WMC as critical conservation and

protection areas. IDIS is the non-government organization representative of WMC. The project also aims to cover eight watersheds in the city and at the end of the project year, incentives will be given to the best community-managed forest corridor.

“This initiative gathers stakeholders to plant trees along the banks of streams and rivers creating riparian forest corridors throughout the Panigan – Tamugan Watershed,” IDIS Execu-

tive Director Mary Ann Fuertes said in the statement.

Fuertes added that the riparian forest corridors are essentially buffer zones or easement banks in the rivers and streams which will serve as flood and erosion prevention.

“They are very important in forest ecology because not only do they prevent pesticide residues from reaching the rivers, they also serve as natural sponges which absorb excess run-off during heavy rains,”

Where have all our fish gone?

Fuertes stressed.

The project is funded by Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE) which will identify appropriate riverbank sites for tree growing in coordination with the riverbank communities and barangays.

“Endemic fruit trees will be prioritized in the tree growing activities with the communities being coached to take the lead in monitoring and evaluation, ” the statement stipulated.

Furtes said that the barangay volunteers

will be trained as ‘Bantay Bukid’ personnel who will help them to protect the forest corridors.

“Agro-forestry livelihood initiatives will also be implemented by the WMC so that communities can also generate additional income,” Fuertes said.

The initial areas identified fro the project are in the upland barangays of Tambobong, Tamugan, Wine, Gumalang and Tawan-tawan.

City Environment and Natural Resources

Office (CENRO) head Engr. Eliza Madrazo said that through this project the riverbanks will finally be highlighted for strategic impact in watershed management.

“It is my hope that all riverbanks, especially urban riverbanks will be eventually covered by this project,” Madrazo said.

The establishment of buffer zones along riverbanks is mandated by the Watershed Protection and Conservation and Management Ordinance of the city.

ya, the harvest numbers for the species have been falling. At the current rate of decline, the caraballas, bilong-bilong, molmol, and danggit may all disappear completely from Davao Gulf within a decade, the study said.

The matambaka, tamban and moro-moro are more resilient, but even they may disappear within a generation, it added.

But it’s not only in Davao Gulf that the situation is happening. Dr. Salome Bulayog, an associate professor of the department of economics at the Visayas State University, said the aquatic marine

resources of Sogod Bay in Southern Leyte have been deteriorating in recent years. home to a variety of fishes, Sogod Bay is a major fishing ground for the 11 municipalities that surround it. Mangko or frigate tuna (scientific name: Euthynnus affinis) is its major fishery resource. Seasonal influx of this shallow-water tuna species has provided food and livelihood to the people of Sogod and nearby municipalities.

“Frigate tuna used to abound in Sogod Bay and was a major source of income in the 70’s until the 90’s,” said Dr. Bulayog, who headed a study funded by EEPSEA. “But today, fishermen could hardly have fish catch.”

“Likewise, reef species population is also dwindling,” added the study, which was conducted in 1994 yet.

“Fishermen have to spend longer time to catch a kilogram of fish; some even have to farther from the shore.”

And so it came to pass that the wealth of oceans, once considered boundless, has proven finite. Touted as “the poor man’s protein,” fish is now a resource coveted -- and fought over by countries.

“We are running out of fish and running out of time. For a country known for marine biodiversity, there are very few fish left to catch,” Vince Cinch-

es, Oceans Campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia, was quoted as saying.

“Like the other vital resources such as forests, Philippine fisheries are about to collapse,” deplored Roy C. Alimoane, the director of Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC), a non-government organization based in Davao del Sur. The collapse of major fishing grounds in the country would mean uprooting 38,000 fishermen each year. “The fish is getting scarcer,” said a father of six. “We all have children, grandchildren. We have to think of the future!”

The condition of open sea access that exists both for international vessels on the high seas and for domestic fleets within their own countries’ exclusive economic zones is generally regarded as the major reason for the sad state of the ocean.

“Overfishing is the primary cause of dwindling fish population,” notes Peter Weber in his book, Net Loss: Fish, Jobs and the Marine Environment.

Along with fishing pressure, general degradation of coastal environments has influenced the steep decline of fish stock. Population growth and urbanization along shorelines lead to greater municipal, industrial and agricultural waste discharge and pollution.

Text and Photos by ARMANDO A. MORTEJO

I

N the past, Bago Aplaya used to be a haven of fish in Davao City. “When I was still younger,” 53-year-old Ronnie Estrera recalled, “we used to catch a lot of fish. But it’s the case anymore today.”

As he was talking, his son Dondon came home with one ice box full of fish.

The 19-year-old lad, however, lamented that the fish were getting smaller and fewer. In some instances, they were forced to fish farther south into the waters of Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur. “Fishers are already scarce in Bago Aplaya,” he said.

Bago Aplaya is part of Davao Gulf. With an area of 308,000 hectares, the gulf cuts into the island of Mindanao from Philippine Sea. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) considers Davao Gulf as one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. Diverse coral reefs, different mangrove species, cetaceans and a host of invertebrates contribute to the natural diversity of the gulf.

Unknowingly, Davao

Gulf is Southern Mindanao’s fishing ground. In fact, it is the 10th major fishing ground in the country. As such, “Davao Gulf is a critical resource supporting the economies of six coastal cities and 18 coastal municipalities,” says the Davao Gulf Management Council (DGMC), composed of all the local government units surrounding the gulf.

In order “to conserve marine resources and to secure the spawning period of pelagic fishes” in the gulf, the regional office of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) -- a line agency of the Department of Agriculture -- announced the start of the fishing ban in Davao Gulf last June 27. The 3-month ban will end on August 31.

In a press briefing held at the Philippine Information Agency, BFAR 11 Director Fatma Idris was quoted as saying that spawning season of the gulf’s pelagic fishes, based on their study, starts from June until September.

“There is what we call a maximum sustain-

able yield or MSY,” she explained. “Based on our research, Davao Gulf has already reached and exceeded the MSY and there was a decline in the catch of small pelagic fishes.” her statement confirmed a previous study undertaken by the World Fish Center. Since 2000, the volume and quality of the fish in the Davao Gulf have been found to be in constant decline. This was the findings of the 10-year study entitled “Strengthening Governance and Sustainability of Smallscale Fisheries Management in the Philippines: An Ecosystem-based Fisheries Management Approach in Davao Region.”

A collaborative effort of the BFAR, local government units and the regional office of the Department of Science and Technology, the decade-study looked at the volume and quality of the harvests of 10 commonly fished species in the gulf: matambaka, tamban, moro-moro, caraballas, bilong-bilong, lapulapu, danggit, molmol, talakitok, and maya-maya.

Except for maya-ma-

12 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

Worth P176.4 million

204 new classrooms completed in typhoon-hit Dav Oriental areas T

hE Department of Education and Department of Public Works and highways turned over an initial 204 new classrooms to public elementary and high schools in the typhoon-hit towns of Baganga and Cateel, Davao Oriental.

This was reported

by Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon, who said that teachers and students consider the new classrooms worth P176.4 million as symbols of new hope and new beginning for the education sector badly battered by typhoon Pablo which “washed out” many of their school buildings in 2012.

According to the DPWh assistant district engineer Alberto Cainghug, the national government had earmarked a total of P558 million for the construction 590 classrooms required in the entire first district, including the 204 classrooms just turned over.

A

“These [new classrooms] answer the long-pressing problem on the shortage of schoolrooms in the disaster-hit areas,” said Congressman Nelson Danyanghirang of the first district, who worked for the release of funds for these new infrastructures.

Implemented by the DPWh, the funding was sourced out from the Typhoon Pablo rehabilitation fund, which was coursed through the DepEd. As a result of the massive rehabilitation efforts of the government, Dayanghirang said there is a significant increase in the number of schools at present compared to the number of schools the district had before the disaster. he also reported that these new buildings were constructed and designed to be typhoon-resistant and can sustain strong winds of up to 250 kph.

“This modification is im-

DAVAO ORIENTAL. Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon and Rep. Nelson Dayanghirang lead the ceremonial ribbon cutting of one of the school buildings turned over by the Department of Education and Department of Public Works and Highways in Baganga. Joining them are Baganga Vice Mayor Ramona Olea, Mayor Arturo Monday, DepEd Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Feliciano Tamundong, Jr ., and Board Member Roland V. Lara

portant as we realize schools are the primary refuge of families during calamities,” he said.

Meanwhile, Governor Malanyaon congratulated the teachers and students, headed by DepEd Assistant

ship with the Jesus V. del Rosario Foundation, Inc. and EMCOR, Inc. headed by President Armando D. Enero. The AGAPP project does not only aim in giving support to children of poor families but also in training the teachers to have a better and more effective teaching approach, providing libraries and training facilities.

JVR Foundation , on the other hand, is the social arm of the JVR group of companies with members: EMCOR, KServico,

Kawasaki Motors, among others.. Living up to its corporate mission, it involves itself in programs that will bring about development of the country starting with the education and development of the youth through access to good education – scholarship, feeding program, teachers’ training, and these school buildings.

Enero expressed, “These projects are made possible through the patronage and support of the communities where

Schools Division Superintendent, Feliciano Tamundong, Jr., for the new classrooms that constitute a big

boost to the area’s education sector. By Karen Lou Deloso/ Photo by Eden Jhan Licayan

AGAPP- EMCOR/JVR donate four school buildings

GAPP- EMCOR/JVR Foundation formally turned over four school buildings as part of its community programs.

Reciepients of the buildings were Leling Elementary School in Davao del Sur, Malungon Central Elementary School in Saranggani Province, San Felipe Central Elementary School in Colon Maasim, Saranggani Province and Glan Central Elementary School in Glan, Saranggani Province.

Pinky A. Abellada, AGAPP Chairperson

headed the inauguration with hagonoy Mayor Ret. Gen. Franco Magno Calida, Punong Barangay Ronnie A. Deluao DEP-ED Officers, school officials and teachers, and the JVR Foundation/EMCOR officers.

The construction was made possible through the effort of the Ninoy & Cory Foundation (NCAF) and Aklat, Gabay at Aruga tungo sa Pagangat at Pag-asa (AGAPP) working group headed by the President’s sister Ms. Pinky Abellada in partner-

EMCOR operates and we are now sharing the benefits we gained with these noble projects that will benefit the underprivileged children who will eventually become the future leaders of our country. Through better school facilities, we would be able to give these children a more conducive place for learning”.

EMCOR is the leader in the business of retailing appliances, motorcycles and computers with 128 stores in Vis-Min

and the following are the store managers assigned in these areas--Elena Siangco for Digos, Roselle Cudal for GSC highway and Rudy Licanto for GSC Pendatun.

“It is hoped that these efforts of building classrooms for children will be duplicated in many parts of the country with this kind of partnership aiming to uplift the lives of Filipinos , maybe we cannot feel it much at present, but in the future, through the youth of today”, Mr. Enero added.

INdulge!

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Sharing family flavours Dabawenyo comfort food at The Big House

It was a rainy evening when I arrived. The Big House for a dinner hosted by my friend Oliver “Blogie” Robillo and his tita Didit Robillo-van der Linden. Once the ancestral home of the Robillo family, The Big House is now a quaint bed and breakfast being run by Didit consisting of eleven uniquely furnished rooms and an all-day dining restaurant. The restaurant is an alfresco affair that features dishes that Blogie and Didit used to enjoy while growing up. “we wanted to share our family recipes as well as the dishes we love and remember while growing up living in the house” beams Didit.

For starters we got to try The Big House’s signature appetisers, their Gambas, Lengua salpicao, and Big House salad.

The Gambas was mildly spicy and infused with the

flavour of garlic which I like, but the star of the appetisers would be the Lengua salpicao. similar to a traditional salpicao, the Lengua salpicao uses olive oil and heaping of garlic to wake one’s tastebuds. what makes The Big House’s dish special is that instead of using beef tenderloin, they decided to use beef tongue instead, allowing for a more tender experience that is still full of beefy goodness.

The Big House salad was a bright counterpoint to the other two appetisers as it was fresh and bright and served with a savoury oriental dressing. The main

flavour of the salad though is the spanish-style sardines which added a nice briny and lightly spicy punch to the greens.

The main courses were served promptly after we finished the appetisers.

The Big House’s Paella Valenciana was a festive treat that featured a cacophony of fresh shellfish served on saffron infused rice on a hot plate. Didit says her family used to serve this dish on special occasions. I love how the portion size of the dish is just right for two to three diners and for just Php200 is definitely an affordable treat. another of my favourite dish of the evening was the Beef Goulash which is a savoury beef stew that uses cardamom and other exotic near eastern spices which would easily make one ask for more servings of rice. “I love spices and I made sure to integrate these spices into the food we serve at The Big House’s restaurant to give another dimension to the food.” says Didit.

I really enjoyed dining at The Big House, the cozy comfort food they serve brings me back to the time when my family had our own dinners at my grandmother’s house.

The Big House is located along Juna Avenue, Juna Subdivision. For reservations, one can call 2857665, 09175000543 or 0925 882 4601.

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

A2 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT

Canon announces new President and CEO

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

Globe is official technology partner of IRONMAN 70.3 2014

Canon Marketing Philippines Inc. (CMPI) recently announced the appointment of Lim Kok Hin as the co mp any ’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Alan Chng, who now asLeaDInG telecomsumes his munications company post as Presitelecom is once dent and CEO of Canon Marketing Thailand. Globe again the official techLim officially took over last July 1, 2014.

Having been with Canon for more than twenty years, Lim held several management positions at Canon Malaysia from 1991 until 2006, when he was promoted as Senior Director of Business Imaging Solutions (BIS) at Canon Singapore Pte Ltd (CSPL). He became the Vice President of the BIS group for Southeast Asia in 2011, with overall responsibility for the Sales and Marketing of business imaging hardware and software solutions across 18 countries; these including subsidiaries in India, Malaysia, Thailand, and a representative office in Vietnam. In addition, Lim also served as the head of CSPL Domestic Business Operations and was in charge of the overall growth, sales, marketing and services of the Consumer Imaging & Information Products (CII) and BIS groups for the Singapore market.

Lim finds great satisfaction working with colleagues and partners as this drives deeper engagement with the business; and one of his greatest achievements is spearheading the launch of The Ambition Gap in 2010. The Ambition Gap is a program that looks to enable both individuals and companies to become more productive through opportunities provided by technology and create a bridge between expectations and actual goals and ambitions.

The Malaysian leader holds a degree in Economics from the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom. He is married with two children, an avid golfer, and enjoys a good read during his free time.

A 30-year Canon veteran, Lim joins Canon Philippines with an extensive, high level industry experience necessary to provide leadership and strategic vision that would take CMPI forward.

Pinoy hackers to fly to Silicon Valley

After hacking nonstop for 24 hours, a group of self-confessed geeks won the top prize at the AngelHack Manila coding competition which will send some of them to Silicon Valley for a chance to build a startup from the application they developed.

Team Quotable, which created an app allowing users to store and easily share text they have highlighted on their devices, won the AngelHack Global Spring Challenge’s local leg which was organized by Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) in partnership with US-based AngelHack.

In the photo are [from left to right] AngelHack community manager Kamrin Klauschie with Team Quotable composed of Emanuel Saringan, Riela Antonio, Luigi Dollosa, and Marlo la O’.

At Silicon Valley, the team’s representatives will be introduced to business incubators and investors who can help turn their hack into a market-ready product. Team Quotable also received gadgets, software inclusions, and service subscriptions from event partners Microsoft, Nokia, Opera Philippines, Chikka, Voyager Innovations, and Spinnr.

Hundreds of developers participated in the Manila leg of the global challenge, which was held in more than 30 cities worldwide.

nology partner of Ironman 70.3 Philippines which is set to take place in Mactan, Cebu on august 3, 2014 with about 2,500 participants from various parts of the country and abroad.

Globe, a strong supporter of Ironman 70.3 Philippines since it was introduced locally in 2009, will provide wiFi connectivity, laptops, tattoo sticks, and cash support to the game to ensure that organizers, athletes, and spectators can have a wonderful digital experience which they can share with the rest of the world. twelve of the participants belong to the Globe triathlon team which regularly competes in Ironman 70.3 Philippines since it started six years

ago. team Globe expects to better their personal best in the local premier event. “with the continued growth of the sport, we are seeing tough competition from veterans and newbies alike. But through the support from Human Relations as well as from various groups in Globe such as the Prepaid and Postpaid teams and the International Business Group, our employee athletes pose to give a good showing as they toe the line

with other multisport enthusiasts,” said team Captain elmer santiago.

This year’s event promises improvements on the swim course as well as transition areas to accommodate the larger field. The slight change on the bike route presents a new challenge while the ever scorching run course will further test the athletes’ stamina.

Ironman 70.3 is an international triathlon competition that takes place in

over 30 countries around the world. The event offers a unique racing opportunity to old and aspiring triathletes as it challenges them to stand out and be their best in three major endurance sports – swimming, biking, and running. Highly anticipated by over thousands of athletes and sport enthusiasts all over the world, Ironman 70.3 Philippines consists of a 1.9 km-swim, a 90-km bike, and a 21-km run.

SKYCable Takes Young Viewers to a World of Adventure and Entertainment Adventure…

Superheroes… Fun… and Learning! Enjoy great shows with SKYcable’s most diverse and widest selection of quality programs for kids. From action, fantasy, humor to information and entertainment, there’s definitely so much in store for the young viewers.

If your kid is a big superhero fan and dream of “saving the world”, then he will definitely be thrilled to discover the exciting realm of Toonami. Billed as “the ultimate home of the superhero”, adventure-seeking young viewers can expect total fun and excitement from all-time favorite iconic characters of Marvel, DC, Anime and a whole lot more! Your little superheroes are guaranteed to experience non-stop entertainment with Toonami’s program lineup featuring The Avengers, X-men, Superman, Batman and the rest of the gang, as they star in their own animated series.

Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, Hulk and the rest of the Avengers assemble in the action-packed series The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. The series is based on the Marvel Comic superhero team the Avengers as they face the world’s most dangerous super-villains.

Join Phineas and Ferb in their latest adventure with a special Star Wars-themed, one-hour episode on Disney Channel. Their intergalactic story begins a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away – in summer, where Phineas and Ferb are happily living on Tatooine. They find themselves thrust into a global rebellion when plans for blowing up the Death Star accidentally fall into their hands. Complicating matters, Stormtrooper Candace is intent on busting the Rebels and chases them across the galaxy in hopes of retrieving the Death Star plans.

Meanwhile, chaos erupts on the Death Star when Perry the Rebelpus is trapped in carbonite while trying to stop the Darth Enshmirtz from using his new “Sith-inator”. Ferb is accidentally caught in the crossfire of the “Sith-inator”, changing him into a full-fledged Sith.

Will Phineas and Ferb succeed in their mission? Tune in on August 17, Sunday, at 11AM and discover the twists and turns of Phineas and Ferb’s exciting “force-filled” adventure in Phineas and Ferb Star Wars.

For young Anime fans, check out Hero TV and enjoy its wide selection of popular and action-packed series. Be sure not to miss out the latest

season of the popular anime series Naruto 6. Based from a Japanese manga series, it tells of the story and adventures of Naruto, a young ninja who constantly searches for recognition and dreams of becoming the strongest and most recognized ninja of all.

Enjoy a dose of humorous action andjoin Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in their wild city adventures!

Leonardo, Michaelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael are four (4) pet turtles exposed to an alien chemical called mutagen, which caused them to undergo major physical transformations. Master Splinter raised the 4 ninja turtles and imparts to them his knowledge of ninjutsu. Together, they try to reckon with dark forces that attempt to use the mutagen to transform the world into villainous kinds.

Lego hit series Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu is another excitng TV show which young viewers will be thrilled to catch. Ninjago is featured on Cartoon Network in four one-hour specials. The first special will see the Ninjas called back into action as the spirit of the defeated Overlord has infected the electric grid of Ninjago.

Finally, for a daily dose of educational entertainment, watch Discovery Kids chan-

nel. Learning can be fun with shows promoting good values and features a wealth of information. Catch the Wild Kratts in their all-new animal adventure as they travel around the globe discovering different animal habitats.

Treat your kids to premium entertainment with SKYcable, the country’s leading cable TV provider, and discover more ways of enjoying your digital cable TV with the widest choice of over 190 channels, flexible subscription options via SELECT, iRECORD feature that records, pauses and rewinds live TV, and real-time coverage of sporting events and concerts via FREE VIEW and PAY-PERVIEW. For more information, go to www.mysky.com.ph, or call the Customer Service hotlines at (02) 381-0000 for Metro Manila, CAMANAVA, and Rizal; (046) 484-4701 for Cavite; (049) 534-2814 for Calamba, Binan and Sta. Rosa, Laguna; (02) 520-8560 for San Pedro, Laguna; (044) 693-5877 for Bulacan; (032) 421-1818 for Cebu; (082) 305-5456 for Davao; (074) 442-4841 for Baguio; (034) 432-0051 for Bacolod; (033) 300-1210 for Iloilo; (035) 2251010 for Dumaguete; and (083) 301-3134 for Gen. Santos City.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Miles and Khalil team up Pic of the day for the first time in “MMK”

KAPAMILYA teen stars Miles Ocampo and Khalil Ramos will team up for the first time in the upcoming episode of ABSCBN’s “Maalaala Mo Kaya” this Saturday (August 2).

They will play the characters of teenagers Che and Mark who have a “mutual understanding” relationship.

Although they are not officially in a romantic relationship, Che and Mark feel love and contentment in their lives. Everything seems to be perfect until Mark admits to Che that he has fallen in love with another girl who is pregnant with his child.

Che is heartbroken.

Is moving on possible for Che when everything constantly reminds her of Mark and their happy times together? Can she forgive someone who has given her so much joy but has caused so much

pain at the same time?

Also part of the episode are Ana Capri, Sofia Andres, Francis Magundayao, Mikylla Ramirez, and Claire Ruiz. It is directed by Raz de la Torre and written by Benson Logronio and Arah Jell Badayos. “MMK” is led by business unit head Malou Santos and creative manager Mel Mendoza-del

Rosario.

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

Don’t miss the longest-

running drama anthology in Asia, “MMK,” every Saturday, 8pm, after “The Voice Kids” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to MMK.abs-cbn.com, follow @MMKOfficial on Twitter, and “like” Facebook.com/MMKOfficial.

Tweet your thoughts about the episode by using the hashtag #MMKMovingOn.

What would Lea Michele on Sons of Anarchy look like exactly? This pic shows it. The Glee star was snapped on set of the hit FX drama series in her full get-up, which included a red and pink waitress uniform and cigarette in hand. Michele was caught smoking the cig while filming a scene from her upcoming guest appearance on the show. Michele will play Gertie, “an empathetic truck stop waitress and single mother, who connects with Gemma during a difficult time.”

Love triangle in Pepito Manaloto this Saturday THIS SATURDAY (August 2), a supposedly sisterly bonding between Elsa (Manilyn Reynes) and Elvie (Marissa Sanchez) turns out to be a riot because of Pepito Manaloto (Michael V.), bringing tons of excitement to the Kapuso viewers.

Elvie came from Australia to be reunited with her sister Elsa after a long time of being away from

each other. Being Elsa’s guest, Elvie will stay in their mansion while she is having her vacation in the country. While they are sharing stories with each other, Elsa will be surprised when she finds out that the real reason behind Elvie’s sudden visit is because she wants to move on from the divorce she had with her husband.

Because of this, Elsa will take care of her sister even more while she is with her. But things will turn upside down when she notices that Elvie shows interest on Pepito to the point that she already draws closer to him. Elsa gets fed up when she witnesses an instance when Pepito suddenly hugs Elvie whom he has mistaken

as his wife.

Will Elsa’s jealousy and anger lead to her separation with Pepito? Will she force Elvie to leave their mansion?

Don’t miss the thrilling love triangle in the hit Kapuso sitcom Pepito Manaloto: Ang Tunay na Kuwento on its new timeslot every Saturday right after 24 Oras Weekend on GMA 7.

Amazing discoveries continue in GMA 7’s Tropang Potchi this Saturday FUN and learning never stop in GMA Network’s Tropang Potchi this Saturday (August 2) as more astounding discoveries will be featured, igniting the viewers’ curiosity once again.

Join Lenlen (Lenlen Frial) and Tuks (Miggs Cuaderno) as they discover the different kinds of musical instruments made out of bamboo used by the Banda Kawayan, a unique ensemble of young students from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in Manila. Also, witness how Miggy (Miggy Jimenez), Nomer (Nomer Limatog), and Kyle (Kyle Ocampo) learn various magical tricks from Kent Oliver, an illusionist.

Kapuso actress Chynna Ortaleza is also set to bring added excitement to the viewers as she shares her passion for art journaling, a unique activity used to express one’s feelings involving colors and designs, which the kids will surely love.

Meanwhile, at the Tropang Potchi’s tambayan, Nomer celebrates his birthday with fun giant games. Miggy will also share the unique way of gift wrapping using paper towels.

Be part of the tropa’s fun-filled discoveries and get to learn new values this Saturday in the awardwinning children’s program Tropang Potchi, 9:10 AM only on GMA 7.

SHE'S DATING THE GANGSTER Daniel Padilla, Kathryn Bernardo PG 13

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

TROPHY WIFE Cristine Reyes, Derek Ramsay, Heart Evangelista, John Estrada R 13

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

DAWN OF THE PLANET OF THE APES Andy Serkis, Gary Oldman PG 13

R-16

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

HERCULES Dwayne Johnson R 13

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

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VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

FOOD

The Royal Chef’s July food finds Before we end the month of July, let me first take you on a gastronomical tour with some of my best food finds this month. From the simple pleasures of a freshly baked pasta goodness to a deliciously concocted milk drink, Davao is truly bursting with the best food places that will always keep you on your feet.

This month involved a couple of milk tea’s and pasta for me. Read on as I describe how my month long hunting went on.

One thing though, don’t blame me for getting hungry.

no confusions – just you and your senses having a great and relaxing time. taste of Home also serves other dishes, cakes and cookies. taste of Home is located at the Mts Compound.

Beef Lasagna from Taste of home Pasta and meat together is like lying on the beach, with the sun up and sipping a tall glass of champagne on a fine day. For me, that is. a self-confessed meat lover, I love the marriage of al dente pasta, cooked meat and red sauce in a plate.

This particular dish is divine! The smell, sight and taste is all worth every calorie intake. Don’t get me wrong, living healthy is a major lifestyle aim but, at the end of the

Dark Chocolate from Jelly CiTea Used to be skeptic of milk tea’s when it first hit the market. Thought it’ll be like sipping on some bitter milk. well, I was wrong – I am wrong. with the many flavors available, it is no wonder that the demand for milk tea’s skyrocketed a notch higher than expected.

More so, it too paved the way for some of the best milk tea’s to be discovered, tasted and loved by the likes of us.

Jelly Citea freshly brews tea leaves from taiwan and flavorings and ingredients that are all 100% natural and healthy. Of their many exciting flavors, I love their Dark Chocolate as it is not too sweet and just with the right bitterness. The milk and the tea creates a perfect balance as you take a sip after another. not to mention, Jelly Citea has one of the most quirky and fun interiors that will simply sweep you off your feet. when at Mts, head onto Jelly Citea and order a cup.

day, we just need that one particular food/meal/dish to brighten our gloomy and tiring day.

Personally, I love the simplicity of this dish – this is not complicated to appreciate. sometimes, the many flavors, herbs and spices confuse the palate of what to taste and indentify first. with this dish, you are able to savor and enjoy it at the same time. no complications,

Call: 224-0733 • Tionko St., Davao City

Alleycat’s Macha Milk Tea One fun way to end a tiring night is with the company of friends and

a tableful of food and drinks. Heading onto the downtown area, alleycat tea House is a perfect escapade to the usual late night of fun and laughter.

Here, you not only have your friends with you but some of the best milk tea’s in the whole of Davao.

From strawberry to macha, take you pick from their quirky menu board and await your order in a cold mason glass. what’s more, they also of-

fer some tasty cookies and hot off the pan meals that will surely take you on a magical journey. The best thing about alley Cat? It is affordable but the quality you get is more than what you have paid for!

Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit! Email me at leeb ay 4 57@ y a h o o. c o m (subject:RoyalChef) or tag me on instagram (herroyalheiress) for your delicious pics and food finds!

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DA 11-HVCDP conducts training on banana tissue culture T

hE Department of Agriculture DA 11- high Value Crops Development Program (DA XI- hVCDP) recently conducted the hands-on Nursery Management Operations Training of banana tissue culture for mass propagation in response to the scarcity of high-quality planting materials considering as staple food and addressing the need of Banana manufacturing products.

The training aims to upgrade and enhance the LGU technical personnel on their knowledge and skills in handling nursery management operations particularly banana tissue culture plantlets for the banana expansion area in the different coastal municipalities in region 11.

Also, to have an easy access of planting materials within the area thereby reducing the mortality rate in handling and transporting new plants.

About 25 Agricultural Technicians (ATs) from the different LGUS of Davao region attended the training, aiming to improve their knowledge and skills on the basic processes in raising tissue cultured banana.

During the training, the ATs had an observation tour

HANDS-ON. Agriculture technicians (ATs) plant banana plantlets during the Hands-on Nursery Management Operations Training of banana tissue culture at the Bureau of Plant Industry in Bago Oshiro, Tugbok, Davao City recently. to the Bureau of Plant Industry-Davao National Crops Research Development Center (BPI-DNCRDC) different projects, wherein they were exposed to some nursery

activity operation and management.

The participants were given information about the banana industry through series of presentations by

Melani A. Provido, Regional high Value Crops Development Program (hVCDP) Coordinator, Teofila S. Capirig, Regional Banana Focal Person, Dulthe E. Espirituoso,

Officer in-charge of Quarantine Service and Concepcion E. Soguilon, Chief of Tissue Laboratory.

DA 11 center chief for Regional Crop Protection

Center (RCPC) Dr. Susan Razo encouraged the participants to fully grasp the knowledge which they will get from the training. (Aggie Media Service)

14 CLASSIFIED

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Billiard Supplies

Phone Nos.

Cell Nos.

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BOSH STICKS Bosh officially re-signs with Heat VOL. 7 ISSUE 99 • FRIDAY -SATURDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 2014

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hRIS Bosh made it official on Wednesday, inking a new deal with the NBA’s Miami heat that was reportedly worth $118 million over five years.

After testing the free agent market, Bosh turned down a maximum offer from the houston Rockets to return to Miami, even as superstar team-mate LeBron James opted to return from Miami to the Cleve-

land Cavaliers.

“Chris Bosh is a twotime NBA champion and one of the most versatile big men in the league,” said Miami president Pat Riley. “his unique skill set makes him one of the best players in the game today.

“I’ve always felt he was committed to this organization, this staff and this city. I think he’s going to have the opportunity of a lifetime leading this team

next season and having the nine-time NBA All-Star back in the fold was a big key for us. We are very blessed to have him.”

Bosh, 30, joined Miami in 2010 to play alongside James and Dwyane Wade.

The trio helped Miami win two titles and become the third franchise to make the NBA Finals in four consecutive seasons.

All three opted out of their contracts last month

and James returned to his hometown team in Cleveland. Wade resigned with the heat to a twoyear contract earlier this month.

of the best teams from around the world, including squads from Europe, South America and Africa.

“Tab Baldwin will join us as early as Miami and there’s another coach and there’s another coach I’ve asked who’s an expert in African basketball. We’ll divulge his name when the time comes when he signs the contract,” Reyes told InterAksyon.com in an interview.

Baldwin, who has already joined the squad’s practices in the US, has sterling credentials, being a three-time Coach of the Year in the National Basketball League in New Zealand. he remains the winningest coach in the league’s history, having won five championships. he has also experienced plenty of success in the international scene,

having led New Zealand as far as the semifinals of the 2002 FIBA World Championships and the Lebanon team to the 2010 FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup crown.

“Tab Baldwin has been to three World Championships and one Olympics. he’s very familiar with those plays. For me, he’s the Middle East expert.

Alam na alam niya kung ano yung laro ng Jordan, Lebanon, Iran,” Reyes said.

The Filipino coach hopes to replicate his success with Baldwin on his side by building similar relationships with experts in other regions.

“I’ve asked another coach who is currently coaching in Africa and Europe to come and help us. hindi tayo magkukulang sa tulong,” added Reyes.

According to the coach, he’ll need every bit of help

h e c a n g e t from peop l e who have vast knowledge in international style of play.

“I will make sure that I will have ample African and South American help in this competition. hindi naman ako n a h i h i ya n g humingi ng tulong, na puntahan ko itong mga coaches na ito. humingi talaga ako ng tulong,” he added.

Chot gets some coaching lift C

hOT Reyes, the coach of the Philippine national men’s basketball team, has never been one to refrain from asking for help when he needs it.

In preparation for last year’s FIBA Asia Championships in Manila, Reyes sought the aid of former New Zealand national team coach Tab Baldwin in an overseas training camp.

Baldwin – who was also a coach of the Lebanon and Jordan national teams – ended up being such an instrumental part of the Philippines’ silver medal campaign that he remains part of the Gilas Pilipinas coaching team to this day.

But Reyes might need a little extra boost for the team’s campaign in the FIBA World Cup in Spain, where they will face some

BREWING RIVALRY

From Spratley’s to pool, it looks like Philippines has China for a rival

E

VEN in billiards, the Philippines has China for a rival on the

table.

After three days of round robin group play, in which 25 teams from all over the globe dueled in a veritable cavalcade of 8-ball, 9-ball and 10ball, the 2014 World Pool Team Championship has been whittled down to the Final 16—two Chinese teams are on top and a gritty Philippine side looks equally unbeatable.

All matches from here through Saturday will be single elimination, and you can bet your last Chinese Yuan that the tension and drama levels inside the Tongzhou Lhue high School arena in Beijing will

be thick and hot. For not only are the teams playing for $300,000 in prize money-with $80,000 going to the winning side— they are also competing for national pride. There’s something about wearing your country’s flag and having the backing and support of your fellow countrymen and teammates that takes this sport to a whole other dimension.

Leading the way in terms of support will be both China sides, both of whom completely waltzed through their group unscathed all week. But while the Chinese squads are certainly formidable on paper, they both have had absolutely no competition in their groups.

Each China side had what could be considered the easiest draws in the event. Now, however, that will all change. And while China 1—with Li he Wen, Wu Jiaqing, Chu Bing Chia, han Yu, and Chen Siming-- and China 2—with Liu haitao, Dang Ching hu, Wang Can, Fu Xiaofang, and Liu Shasha-- will probably advance at least to the quarters and perhaps further, it all comes with a caveat that other teams won’t have to deal with. The pressure from the home fans placed on both China teams will be massive.

The one team that won’t have to deal with that problem are the defending champions, Chi-

nese-Taipei. The Taiwanese, featuring a powerhouse lineup of Chang Jun Lin, Ko Pin Yi, hsu Kai Lun, Fu Che Wei, and female player Chou Cheih Yu, have been untouchable all week here in Beijing. They are playing in that quiet, smooth style that carried them to the title two years ago in this very same arena. Today in their last match of the group stage, the Taiwanese went up against Korea, which was fighting for survival. Although Taiwan was already guaranteed a spot in the Final 16, they showed no mercy on the Ga Young Kim-led Koreans, winning the sixmatch showdown easily, 5-1.

SPORTS 15 CHRIS BOSH. Another tour with Miami.

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Kadayawan Sportsfest opens today T

hE 29Th Kadayawan sa Dabaw Sportsfest will formally open today at 3 p.m. at the Davao City Recreation Center.

The organizers and participants of the 26 various sporting events will participate the opening salvo according to Butch Ramirez, officer-in-charge of the City Mayor’s Office-Sports Development Division (CMO-SDD).

City Administrator Melchor Quitain will give the welcome remarks while the search for the Mr. and Miss Teen Kadayawan Sports will also be held today.

Listed in the official calendar of this year’s Kadayawan sa Dabaw Sportsfest are arnis at Gaisano Grand Citimall (Aug. 29); aero marathon at Abreeza Mall (Aug. 23), commercial basketball at Almendras gym (Aug. 18-22); athletics at Davao City NhS oval

(TBA); collegiate basketball at Almendras gym (Aug. 2-28); billiards at Jacinto St. (Aug. 28-30); body building at Gaisano Citi Mall (Aug. 30); Daciba bowling at Dover Megalanes (Aug. 2, 10); SBC bowling at Fairlanes (Aug. 12,14,19,21 & 23); NCFP chess at NCCC Mall (Aug. 16); Tribal Games at People’s Park (Aug. 14); cycling at Brgy. Maa (Aug. 16); dama at Osmena Park (TBA); football (TBA) at Tionko; futsal at SM Lanang (weekdays); judo at hCDC Bajada (Aug. 30); karatedo at NCCC Mall (Aug. 30-31); kayaking at Lanang Aplaya Beach Resort (Aug. 23); lawn tennis on Aug. 9-17 (TBA); motocross at Davao Crocodile Park (Aug. 24); rugby at DCNhS oval (Aug. 16 and 23); softball at UM (Aug. 10, 17, 24); swimming at ADDU Matina (Aug. 23); tchoukball at SM Lanang (TB) and volleyball at Almendras gym (Aug. 29).

NO LOOK UP. Bobby Iñigo of Apo pitches from the apron on the 18th green in yesterday’s 5th Emcor Pro-Am Golf Championship at the Apo Golf and Country Club. Iñigo teamed up with pro golfer Rey Pagunsan.

Boy Lim