Edge Davao 8 Issue 1 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

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EDGEDAVAO

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Serving a seamless society

A CHILD’S PRAYER. A young boy offers a prayer to a statue of Jesus Christ on Holy Wednesday at San Pedro Cathedral in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

MORE DRUG ARRESTS DCPO: Drug-related arrests increase threefolds

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE number of drug violators arrested during the first three months of the year jumped more than threefolds over the same period last year. The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) recorded a total of 257 violators from January to March this year, three times higher than the 81 arrested violators in 2014. DCPO spokesperson Senior Inspector Milgrace Driz attributed the huge in-

crease to the intensified police operations against illegal drugs. She said police conducted 164 operations for the first quarter of 2015. “Authorities seized over P5.6 million worth of shabu for the first quarter and P28,338.88 worth of marijuana from our 164 operations this year,” she said. Early this year, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 intensified its campaign

against illegal drugs in the entire region. PRO 11 deputy regional director for operations Senior Superintendent Aaron Aquino said his office has updated its “most wanted” list on drug cases in the region. PRO 11 is on the move to hunt down big time illegal drug groups, he added. “We consolidated our effort (in identifying drug groups) at babanggain namin yung mga (and we

will hit hard on) drug groups sa Davao Region,” he said. Driz said Oplan Tok-tok Dala Hangyo (TokHang) campaign of former DCPO director Senior Superintendent Ronald dela Rosa is still being done at the station level in the hope of mitigating illegal drug activities. Under the program, police go the homes of suspected drug pushers to try to convince them to stop their illegal activities.

INSIDE EDGE

OF FOOD AND Indulge P15 CELEBRATIONS: EASTER UNMASKED

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

CHECK AND DOUBLE CHECK. Land Transportation Office (LTO) 11 personnel inspect the roadworthiness of province-bound buses at the Davao City Overland Terminal (DCOTT) yesterday to ensure the safety of the riding public. The effort was part of the agency’s Oplan Semana Santa. Lean Daval Jr.

More fires this year: BFP By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) 11 recorded a higher number of fire incidents in Region 11 in the month of March this year than during the same period last year. The agency recorded 117 cases for March this year, higher than the 110 cases last year. March, which is the start of the dry season, is marked as the national fire prevention month in the country. BFP 11 Assistant Director for Operation Fire Superintendent Sydney Besana said 55 of the 117 cases were grass fires

while 29 were residential. “Most cases of residential fires were caused by electrical short circuit. Last year it was also the main cause of fires,” he said. Of the 117 cases in the region, 55 were in Davao City, 20 were in Davao del Sur, 31 in Davao del Norte, 8 in Davao Oriental, and 3 in Compostela Valley Province. The amount of damaged totaled to P20,169,700 based on the submitted affidavits of loss by the fire victims. Besana said buying new

Dry spell damage to agri: P304M

HE dry spell can potentially result in P304 million worth of damages to corn and rice in the region, an official of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said. Based on the department’s data as of Monday, Remelyn R. Recoter, regional director of DA XI, said the El Niño phenomenon already affected 15,000 hectares of rice and 12,192 hectares of corn. The department began to monitor the impact of the

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long drought since the state weather bureau issued an advisory in December last year. “Majority of those that are affected are still on seedling and vegetative stages,” Recoter said. She said the department is presently assessing whether there are partially or totally damaged crops. “The dry spell could potentially result to P147 million worth of damages to corn and P157 million worth of damages to rice,” she

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Hefty fines await new plate violators By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

EW vehicle owners were warned that they face a fine of P5,000 if they do not attach the new plates on their vehicles. In an interview with Edge Davao yesterday, LTO 11 operations divisions chief Eleanor Calderon reminded new owners that they should not drive their vehicles if the new plates are not attached yet. She said if the vehicle was not registered since date of purchase, the owner will

fined the even bigger amount of P10,000. “We have so many plates available for brand new cars,” she said, adding the owners must claim the new plates from their respective car dealers. Calderon said all the vehicles purchased from February 16, 2014 up to the present need to have the new plates attached. “Kung dili nila mabutang ang plaka ana, pasabot ana wala nila gikuha kay wala gud

mi nagkulang (If they cannot attach the new plate, it simply means that they did not get it from the dealers since we did not lack in reminding them),” she said. Calderon said the LTO already distributed the new plates to the 19 car dealers in the region. The dealers also went to the LTO to get the new plates for their buyers. “Nahadlok sila kay grabe man ang pressure sa ilang mga buyers (They are afraid due to pressure from their

buyers),” she said. But former councilor Peter Laviña said in his family’s case, their car still has not been issued the new plate because Toyota Davao “insists it has not received our car plate.” “LTO, on the other hand claims all plates have been released… For this stupidity, we suffer… The common sense solution to this problem is simply to scrap this policy,” he said in a post on Facebook. Meanwhile, Calderon

(If they know or see people who are not from their barangay, they should question them and inform the authorities so that we can assess the identity of these people),” she said. Driz said everyone should be alert and vigilant to fight criminality this Holy Week. She said the households should also alert the barangay officials if they are going to

leave their houses. Driz said households should also inform the neighbors or even relatives just to ensure that someone is looking after their homes. She said that the DCPO also advised the people to unplug all the appliances to avoid the occurrence of fire. “Public safety is not only the concern of the PNP and

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Activate Holy Week patrols, barangay officials told

HE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) urged barangay officials to conduct patrols in their respective areas to secure every household as people will be out to participate in the religious activities for Holy Week. In an interview, DCPO spokesperson Chief Inspector Milgrace Driz told Edge Davao that the barangays should activate their tanods to roam

around their areas so that they will assure the safety of the houses against robbers who might take advantage of the observance of Holy Week. “Kung naa sila’y nahibal-an or nakita na mga tao nga dili siguro sa ilang barangay nagpuyo, dapat i-question na nila. Dapat i-inform na nila ang authorities with regards to that para ma-asses nato kung kinsa man ning mga tawhana

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

Tebow Cure to go full blast in May By CHENEEN R. CAPON

T HOSPITAL WITH A MISSION. Tebow CURE Hospital spiritual director Madel Dapit explains that the hospital’s primary focus is to offer treatment to physically challenged children especially the less fortunate ones. Dapit graced yesterday’s Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo, Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

crc@edgedavao.net

HE six-story Tebow CURE Hospital in Lanang, Davao City will go full blast in its mission of treating pediatric orthopedic cases in the Philippines by May. Speaking to reporters in yesterday’s Club 888 Forum at The Marco Polo, Davao, Tebow CURE Hospital spiritual director Madel Dapit said the hospital has already treated 50 cases since its soft opening in November last year. “We have received patients from Surigao, Agusan, Mindoro and as far as Palawan,” Dapit said. She said the hospital will focus on Mindanao because of the huge number of children with disabilities here as reflected by data of the Department of Health (DOH). Dapit also said Mindanao has a “special place” in the heart of the Tim Tebow Foundation because the parents of

professional football player Tim Tebow have been working as missionaries in the island region for a number of years. The hospital has a 30-bed capacity and specializes in pediatric orthopedic cases, especially club feet and hands. It also provides spiritual counseling to patients. “We provide life-changing surgery to children who are part of the marginalized society,” Dapit said. Indigent patients can avail themselves of subsidies. They can pay as low as P1,500 for bone surgery that costs P60,000. Patients are also allowed to use a playroom located on the fifth floor of the facility. The Tebow CURE Hospital is a partnership between the Tim Tebow Foundation and CURE Hospitals. CURE operates in 30 countries with 10 hospitals in 10 countries.

HE National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) are on top of the situation as they anticipate the entry of Typhoon Chedeng into the Philippine area of responsibility on Wednesday. The NDRRMC and PAGASA will provide timely warnings, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said. The NDRRMC has already informed all the departments and agencies involved about the incoming storm, Lacierda said, adding that each agency already knows what to do. He noted that preparations are underway on the part

of concerned local government units and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, which is responsible for the prepositioning of relief goods. “Lahat po ‘yan ay hinahanda naman,” Lacierda said. The Palace official assured the public that government response to the storm has begun with the scientific monitoring of the typhoon’s path. “Napatunayan naman ng PAGASA na maganda ang kanilang batting average sa pag-forecast ng typhoon path. So we will be able to anticipate and prepare for the incoming storm,” he said. According to PAGASA, Typhoon Chedeng is expected to enter the Philippine area of re-

Board only at DCOTT, ‘Chedeng’closely monitored LTO reminds travelers T By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

HE Land Transportation Office (LTO) 11 reminded all commuters who will go out of the city for Holy Week to board buses only at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) to ensure their safety. In an interview, LTO 11 operations division chief Eleanor S. Calderon told Edge Davao that

passengers should go to DCOTT because the buses there are legal and their safety will be ensured while travelling. “They should go to the legitimate terminals,” she said. Calderon said since last week the LTO has inspected more than 100 buses at the DCOTT to check their roadworthiness and franchises.

More aid for armed conflict evacuees

O securely address the needs of displaced families brought about by the ongoing armed conflict in Mindanao, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) continues to send additional food and non-food relief supplies in the affected areas. The DSWD provided P24.76 million worth of assistance in the 13 towns of Maguindanao; in Pikit and Matalam, North Cotabato; and in Bitaugan, Surigao del Sur where a clash between the military and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) occurred on February 27. The DSWD has also now included Brgy. Estado, Ma-

talam, North Cotabato and Monkayo, Compostela Valley as among the areas it continues to assist after armed conflicts ensued there on March 20 and March 24, respectively. The DSWD released the relief supplies either through the DSWD-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) or through concerned local government units (LGUs), as well as through the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH)-Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). A total of 27,178 families or 132,870 persons have been affected by the incident. Of this number, 20,078

She said the inspectors checked the chairs, seatbelts, and the conditions of the engines of each bus. Calderon said the commuters, for their part, must abide by the policy of the terminal and buses. She said there are buses that have policy on limiting the baggage of every passenger to avoid

overloading. Calderon also reminded the passengers to prepare for the rigors of travel. “The commuters should be equipped with food and medicines,” she said. She advised commuters to call the LTO hotline numbers 0918-9260-903 and 226-414 if they have complaints about their travel.

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STRICT SECURITY. Task Force Davao and Davao City Police Office (DCPO) operatives combine forces to check on the bags and belongings of commuters bound

FMORE AID, 10 for different provinces for the Lenten break at the entrance of the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal on Holy Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

FOR THE CHILDREN. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ headquarters is transformed into a magnificent Disneyland with full cast in attendance to entertain the children.

National Children’s Day spreads love and hope T

RCC 12 assists displaced families in NorCot

HE Children’s Joy Foundation once again spreads love and hope to thousands of children who will be able to partake of the joy brought by the much-awaited National Children’s Day (NCD) celebration come April 25. For the past nine years, Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy, the Executive Pastor of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, has made sure that NCD would be celebrated in a way that these children would enjoy a party in a Disneyland-like setting

at the Kingdom of Jesus Christ Headquarters in Catitipan, Davao City. And on April 25, these children will once again savor happiness with unlimited food, drinks, rides, and freebies served for free to all who will enter the Sonshine Land, where the Kingdom of Jesus Christ headquarters is transformed into a magnificent Disneyland with full cast in attendance to entertain the children. The NCD, now on its 10th year, was thought of by Quiboloy, who knew

how difficult it was to live in lack so he vowed to help the destitute children through the CFJ and in marking his birthday with the NCD dedicated to the little ones. “When the Almighty Father blessed me, I promised that I will give a large portion to the children. They are my heartbeat,” Quiboloy said. True to his promise, it has always been on top of his priorities to reach out to children. Thus, in 1998, he established the Children’s Joy Foundation,

Inc. with a noble mission to feed, clothe, shelter, and send to school three million children. And that eventually gave birth to the National Children’s Day. NCD is deemed to be the biggest birthday blowout ever for children. And through the years, NCD celebration expanded in a global scale including celebrations in Los Angeles, California in the United States; Vancouver, Canada; Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Dubai, London, as well as in other places.

Malanyaon cites women’s role in development

OVERNOR Corazon N. Malanyaon highlighted women’s significant role in the society, particularly in terms of development, during the recent Women’s Month Celebration held in Tagum City. Malanyaon, who was guest speaker during the event, cited world-renowned leaders whose leadership and actions improved the lives of many people.

“Everything women enjoy now is the result of our collective efforts and struggle,” she said. In her message, she stressed the need to further push for the protection and respect on women’s rights. She said that steps to boost efforts to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment must be taken seriously by the all stakeholders of the society. “I believe that women

should be accorded all the privileges befitting a woman and that men should never be denied the opportunity to perform their responsibility to accord us these privileges,” she said. In her province, Gov. Malanyaon took steps to improve women’s lives by implementing programs that would support them to learn, earn and take part in local decision-making. These programs cover the

sectors of livelihood, health, and agriculture, among many others. Through these programs, said the governor, ‘we boost opportunities for women’, thus empowering them. With the theme: “Juana, ang Desisyon mo ay Mahalaga sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw na!” she noted women’s huge influence in all aspects of development, particularly in politics and

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HE DOLE - Regional Coordinating Committee (RCC) in Region 12 led by Regional Director Ofelia B. Domingo facilitated a convergence outreach program “One Stop, Big Time Peace and Solidarity Assistance Hub” in this municipality on March 31, 2015. DOLE XII RD Domingo said the outreach program was aimed to help 875 families of Barangay Kabasalan affected by the recent armed conflict between the government forces and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). “We are here to help these affected families cope up and we just hope that through the assistance of the different DOLE attached agencies we can make a difference,” RD Do-

Malanyaon

mingo said. DOLE XII released a Certificate of Entitlement worth P500,000 , relief goods and food packs. RD Domingo said that with the certificate, affected families can avail of livelihood projects of their own choice. RCC XII member agencies which include OWWA, TESDA, NLRC, NCMB,POEA, ECC, PESO, OSHC, RTWPB, and NRCO also donated relief packs and services. Pikit Municipal Councilor Benhur Mudale expressed his gratitude to DOLE-RCC XII for the assistance given to displaced families who are now starting to rebuild their homes after the AFP’s all out offensive against the BIFF.

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

5 ECONOMY

DTI to generate 30K jobs in 2015 By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 11 is targeting to generate 30,000 jobs out of its programs this year. DTI-Davao City director Engr. Edwin Banquerigo said this year’s target increased after they surpassed their 2014 target of 25,000 jobs. Based on DTI 11’s 2014 yearend report, jobs generated last year for implementation of shared service facilities (SSFs) and Pablo rehabilitation project, for instance, reached 28,223 or 113 percent accomplishment. The trade and industry department was also able to establish 48 SSFs last year and assisted a total of 7,169 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“DTI 11 is targeting to assist 7,500 MSMEs and establish and maintain 65 SSFs this year,” Banquerigo said during the recent stakeholder’s consultation at The Marco Polo Davao. DTI 11 was able to facilitate 396 MSMEs regionwide for financial assistance. Banquerigo said DTI 11 is also targeting to assist 420 MSME for the facilitation of financial assistance. “We’re not the funding agency. We just assist MSMEs in finding financing body for loan and other financing products,” he said. DTI 11 will be also monitoring 2,300 firms, higher than the 2,026 monitored last year. Trade and industry re-

gional director Belinda Q. Ambi, meanwhile, said DTI 11 is working with a total of P131,798 million budget, including the allocation for SSFs. Ambi encouraged members of the different local government units (LGUs) to participate in bottoms up budgeting (BuB), a project of the government where projects are being proposed by LGUs based on their needs. This year will be the last year for the implementation of DTI’s SSFs program. SSFs is DTI’s program that assist organized MSMEs and cooperatives by providing post harvest facility or any equipment that will improve productivity and quality of the output.

CANDLES FOR THE FAITHFUL. A visually impaired vendor selling colorful candles waits for Catholic devotees outside San Pedro Cathedral on Holy Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

Rody hails coop’s honesty, integrity H

ONEST and integrity. These values are what Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte believe have prolonged the life of Tagum Cooperative, a Hall of Famer which has been operating for 48 years now. Giving his keynote speech during the 48th General Assembly of Tagum Cooperative,

Mayor Duterte lauded the officials and officers behind the cooperative which started in 1967 as a church-based organization with only 38 members. “It is honesty,” he said while telling stories about his million-worth of assistance given to some cooperatives which eventually became

55 individuals hired in Panabo Job Fair

IFTY five applicants were hired on the spot (HOTS) on Saturday (March 28) during the 14th Araw ng Panabo City – Job Fair at the Gaisano Grand Mall of Panabo. Among more than 300 applicants who joined the fair, 30 individuals landed jobs in overseas companies and 25 individuals in local establishments. According to the records of the Panabo City Public Employment Services Office (PESO), those people hired in overseas companies will work as cleaners, baby sitters and laundry helpers; while on local enterprises, they are hired as call center agents, therapists, mechanical engineers, sales assistants, cashiers, counter checkers, utility clerks, sales and relations officers. PESO Manager Cherelle Espinosa declared that among the job fairs of the city, this year’s charter day job fair obtained the most number of individuals hired on the spot.

“We already topped last year’s record, which is 39 HOTS that was achieved also during the Araw ng Panabo celebration last 2014,” Espinosa said. Espinosa said that the charter day job fair is one of the three major employment activities in the city annually, which averagely produced around 100-150 people directly hired on the spot. She said that the other two incoming job fairs for this year will be on July, in partnership with Brgy. New Visayas and the Davao del Norte State College and on October with UM Panabo College or Rotary Club of Central Panabo. Aside from the individuals hired on the spot, 144 applicants (73 for overseas and 71 for local companies) were scheduled for final interview. Meanwhile, the career fair was also participated by other government agencies for the civil registration and passporting services. (PIA11/ Michael Uy)

Land Bank branch moves to new office

FTER 24 years, Land Bank C.M. Recto is moving to a new office. Aurelia Bernasur, branch manager of Land Bank CM Recto says the move will effect a more efficient and convenient banking transactions for their clients. The new office is located in Oroderm City, a new commercial complex located in CM Recto (formerly Claveria Street), the modern commercial and business center aimed at reviving the once bustling thoroughfare features shopping centers, offices and restaurants. The modern 480-square meter branch office sports a spacious, well-lighted, clean and well-lighted bank which makes for a better working environment and conducive banking transactions. Also the main advantage of the new

branch is the presence of ample parking space. Also the new location is just across the old branch, making it easier for to locate from its previous building The soft opening held yesterday (March 30) was attended by various heads of national government and local government offices and also representatives from its private sector clients. Bernasur said aside from the physical transformation Land Bank is upgrading its systems particularly focusing on e-banking to declog its lobbies. Clients can now transact through the internet various banking facilities like the I-Access. The recent product the Mobilie Loan Saver enables clients to access Land Bank loan facility through their mobile phones. (PIA/RG Alama)

non-existent. In a separate interview with Tagum media, Duterte reiterated his views on how such cooperative was kept running for 48 years, twice the length of his public service for 23 years only. “It is always a matter of human integrity. The human there (in), their honesty and

integrity to make it run,” he said Duterte was asked for his advice to further sustain the Coop operation but he pegged his suggestion on honesty and integrity. “Daghan nako nahatagan ug millions (I have given millions to some) but it is always a question of honesty and

integrity. The Cooperative is only as good as the men and women running it. The honest men and women who serve it,” he said. Meanwhile, Duterte felt honored of the invitation of Tagum Cooperative to keynote its 48th General Assembly and that he also appreciated the warm welcome of its members

and officers. He took advantage of his speaking engagement to thank the Tagumenyos for the support they gave for his father, late Governor Vicente Duterte, who he said had never lost in Tagum during elections in the undivided Davao Province. (Jeanevive Duron-Abangan, PIA 11)

EASTER TREAT. The Marco Polo, Davao Food and Beverage Department officer in charge Voltaire Albaladejo and public relations assistant Sarah Mama promote this week’s Hip Hop Hooray Easter event and other upcoming promotions of the hotel during Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo, Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Hedcor, USAID empower Mt. Apo rangers H

EDCOR and USAID jointly organized an environmental law enforcement workshop aimed at improving forest conditions in Mt. Apo. “This sustainable roadmap workshop is one of our direct efforts in sustainability initiatives crafted for our partner communities,” Hedcor’s vice president for Mindanao operations Rolando Pacquiao said. Some 100 participants from Hedcor, B+Wiser, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Local Government of Barangay Sibulan and the Mount Apo Natural Park (MANP) forest rangers devel-

oped a roadmap for improving forest conditions through enhanced environmental law enforcement. Prior to the creation of the roadmap, the participants underwent a workshop held at Hedcor’s host communities in Sitio Pogpog, Sitio Tudaya and Barangay Sibulan proper in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. The forest area in and around Sibulan is within the MANP and is an important source of water supply for both domestic use and energy generation. Hedcor, with four generating hydropower plants in the area, started its reforestation

efforts in 2008. Since then, the 1,000-hectare land area within the Mt Apo Natural Park has already been covered. Hedcor is currently integrating environmental law enforcement to have a more positive impact on the wider landscape, which includes areas with high conservation values, such as those considered as habitats of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. Meanwhile, B+WISER is providing technical assistance in designing Forest Protection and Monitoring System to rehabilitate the forests. The technical assistance provided for this initiative is part of US-

AID’s restoration efforts which covers 78,000 hectares in the country. Hedcor’s direct result for its green practices, it is ISO-certified for Environment Management Systems and a recipient of Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Seal of Excellence. Hedcor is operating runof-river hydropower plants with a total installed capacity of 170MW for its 21 generating facilities across the country. For 37 years, Hedcor is continuously growing and developing more run-of-river plants to provide Cleanergy, its brand of clean and renewable energy.

other P3.5 Billion from the SSS. Under the program, the NG portion of the fund is interest free while the SSS portion charges a six percent interest or a blended rate of three percent for the borrower-member. Joint Circular No. 20121 signed by the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Finance, Government Service Insurance System, and SSS in September 2012 institutionalized the grant of affordable educational loans to qualified GSIS and SSS

members. “Now on its fourth year of implementation, we are happy to be part of this joint program of SSS and the national government since we are able to continue lending a hand to our members by defraying their children’s education expenses through Educ-Assist”, said Officer-In-Charge for Asset and Lending Management May Catherine Ciriaco. Majority or 97 percent of Educ-Assist beneficiaries are enrolled in degree courses.

Ciriaco clarified that SSS did not stop granting Educ-Assist loans. “We have allocated the loan fund to those who have applied so that their dependents - who are expected to be in school for four years in the case of a bachelor’s degree, or two years for vocational or technical courses - have a better chance to finish their studies,” she added. Interested SSS members could still apply for Educ-Assist but they will be included in the waiting

Nearly 65K students benefit from SSS Educ-Assist

TOTAL of 64,912 college or vocational-tech students have benefited from the Educational Assistance Loan Program (Educ-Assist), a joint program of the Social Security System (SSS) and the National Government (NG). The Educ-Assist was launched in 2012 based on SSS Circular No. 2012-010 issued on May 18, 2012. Its total fund allocation is P7 Billion, P3.5 Billion of which came from the national government and the

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

THE ECONOMY 7

HOLIDAY DESTINATION. Tourists start to arrive in Samal Island, Davao del Norte on Tuesday (31 March 2015). The island is the most popular tourist destination in the Davao Region during holidays. Mindanews Photo by Keith Bacongco

Installation of new water pipes starts By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) started replacing old main water pipes, mostly located in downtown Davao, in anticipation of the huge volume of water supply from the Tamugan Surface Water Development Project by 2020. “We’ve already started the replacement of the pipe

along Bacaca road since last year,” DCWD spokesperson lawyer Bernado de Lima said during the recent Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Annex. De Lima said the water utility corporation borrowed P2 billion from Development Bank of the Philippines (DBM) for the replacement of pipelines.

Close to 1M has. eyed for oil palm

HE Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) identified 959,000 hectares of lands as potential areas for oil palm investments. In the recent presentation made by Romeo M. Montenegro, MinDA director for investment promotion and public affairs, majority is in Caraga Region at 384,000 hectares followed by Northern Mindanao with 154,000 hectares and Region XII with 112,000 hectares. “Caraga has potential for production expansion of oil palm, nursery and manufacturing from oil to intermediate or final goods,” Montenegro said during the Davao City Oil Palm Investment Forum last week at Park Inn Hotel. He said that throughout the island about 60,000 hectares have been utilized for oil palm plantations. These plantations are operated by Agu-

mil, Kenram, Filipinas Palm Oil, Carmen Univanich, Aberdi, Zanorte and Bali Palm Oil. He said they are presently overcoming the challenges like addressing the “connectivity and accessibility difficulties, infrastructure development challenges, security and safety issues, accessing land resources and consolidation.” The World Wildlife Fund said in its website that monoculture like oil palm plantations can pose a “number of environmental impacts” including large-scale forest conversion and loss of critical habitats for endangered species. But Dr. Pablito P. Pamplona, board of director and secretary of Philippine Palm Oil Development Council, said in his presentation that the crop can be “a tool to help overcome soil erosion and poverty among upland dwellers.”

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De Lima said DCWD is targeting to start replacing the pipelines along Mamay Road this year. He said pipelines along Diversion Road, JP Laurel, R. Castillo, Sasa, Cabantian, Panacan, Lasang will be also replaced. “We will be building the bigger pipes beside the old

pipes so that we can continue servicing our clients,” de Lima said. DCWD is servicing to more than 190,000 clients in Davao City, with second district as the least serviced. De Lima said there was a need to replace the old main pipes because of the huge volume that will be pro-

duced by the big Tamugan project. The P10 billion bulk water treatment facility will be developed by DCWD’s joint venture partner JV Angeles Construction Corporation by 2016. It has a capacity to produce 109 million cubic liter of potable water that will

cater to the growing water demand of Davao City. “By 2020, DCWD is expecting that Davao City’s water requirement will reach 100 to 102 million cubic liter of drinking water yearly,” de Lima said. Davao City’s water requirement reached 96 million cubic liter last year.

WO community-based enterprises in Lake Sebu town in South Cotabato have received various machineries and equipment through an enterprise development initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Flora Gabuales, DTISouth Cotabato provincial director, said Wednesday the assistance is part of their continuing Shared Service Facility (SSF) program for emerging micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the area. She said the program mainly aims to provide machineries and equipment to qualified processors/manufacturers to help increase their production capacities, im-

prove the quality of their products and reduce their manufacturing costs. The recipients are the Cooperative of Women in Health and Development (COWHED) based in Sitio Tuko-fol of Baragay Poblacion and the Klowil Kem Kibun Organization Inc. (KKOI) of Sitio Lemkenidang Tablo, Barangay Lamdalag in Lake Sebu. Gabunales said COWHED received machineries and equipment worth P189,606 for their loom weaving and brass casting venture. She said it consisted of handloom equipment, air blower, bench grinder, brush and stainless steel table. The official said the KKOI got additional equipment worth P167,500 for

their T’boli handloom weaving project. It comprised a brand new handloom equipment and an electric highspeed sewing machine, she said. “These machineries and equipment were identified by the recipients as among their primary needs to facilitate the expansion of their ventures,” she said. The SSF program mainly aims to enhance the competitiveness of local priority industry clusters through the use of quality and productivity-enhancing machinery and equipment. The priority industry clusters covered by SSF program are abaca, bamboo, coconut coir, pineapple, kalamansi, milkfish,

tuna, seaweeds, fashion accessories, gifts, decors and housewares, metal works, renewable energy, cacao, dairy, coffee, muscovado, organic fertilizer and processed food. “It provides the necessary equipment to enterprising associations, cooperatives and industry groups of micro, small and medium enterprises that are experiencing operational bottlenecks due to inefficient, inappropriate and the lack of needed machinery,” Gabunales said. Through the SSF, she said the agency intends to develop priority and market-driven industries in support of the National Industry Cluster Capacity Enhancement Program. (PNA)

Lake Sebu community enterprises get aid from DTI T

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VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

EDITORIAL Keep safe in the Holy Week

HE country’s Catholic community begins its traditional Lenten break today. Although the Holy Week is a religious observance among Roman Catholic faithfuls, the Lenten break will be everyone’s respite from work regardless of belief. As everyone gets set to go to their respective destinations during the long holiday, it is best to heed the caution for a safe and relaxing break. First, there is a reason to be updated with the weather reports. There’s a storm (Chedeng) brewing ‘Chedeng’ was spotted on Monday 2,240 kilometers (km) east of Mindanao and was packing maximum sustained winds of 140 km per hour (kph) near the center and gusts of up to 170 kph. The typhoon was moving west at 23 kph. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), meantime, has declared that they are on top of the situation as they anticipate the entry of Typhoon Chedeng into the Philippine area of responsibility on Wednesday. In Davao, the ‘Oplan Semana Santa’ has been installed involving

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the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD), Office of Civil Defense, Central 911, and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. This will ensure the safety and security of Dabawenyos, as well as tourists visiting the city for the Lenten season. For everyone’s information, the DSWD has reactivated its Quick Response Team for Disaster Preparedness as well as 24/7 Posting of Staff for Skeletal Duty during the period of Holy Week Observance, 24/7 On Call Status of DSWD Provincial Action Teams and Municipal Action Teams, and 24/7 On Call Status for all DSWD vehicles. There is also a standby supply of family food packs at the Inter-Agency Relief Operations Center in Davao City. Food packs have also been prepositioned in DSWD satellite areas located in the four provinces -Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental and Davao del Sur. However, no matter how prepared our agencies are in case of emergencies and disasters, safety remains everyone’s foremost concern. In this travelling season, it pays to be ‘armed’ -- from getting our cars road-worthy, to packing emergency gadgets and equipment, and making sure we leave our homes secured and safe. Keep safe, everyone. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

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OES God still answer our prayers? To answer this timely question, allow me to share the story below sent to me by a friend via e-mail: At one time, Edward attended a Wednesday Bible study one late afternoon. The leader shared about listening to God and obeying the Lord’s voice. Edward couldn’t help but wonder, “Does God still speak to people today?” After the Bible study, Edward went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed what the group had just studied. Each one of them talked about how God had led them in different ways. But Edward was still questioning whether God still answer prayers. It was about seven o’clock at night when Edward started driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, “God, if you still speak to people speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey.” As he drove down the main street of his city, he had the strangest thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, “God is that you?” He didn’t get a reply and started on toward home. But again, the thought of buying a gallon of milk came into his mind. Edward thought about Samuel and how he didn’t recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel ran to Eli. “Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk.” It didn’t seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home. As he passed a not-so-busy street, he again felt the urge, “Turn down that street.” This is crazy, he thought, and drove on past the intersection. Again, he felt that he should turn down that not-so-busy street. At the next intersection, he turned back and headed down that street. Half-jokingly, he said out loud, “Okay, God, I will.” He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

VANTAGE POINTS

The gymnasium of the soul like he should THINK ON THESE! stop. He pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in semi-commercial area of the city. It wasn’t the best but it wasn’t the worst of neighborhoods either. The businesses Henrylito D. Tacio were closed and henrytacio@gmail.com most of the houses looked dark like the people were already in bed. Again, he sensed something, “Go and give the milk to the people in the house across the street.” Edward looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. “Lord, this is insane,” Edward said. “Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be mad and I will look stupid.” Again, he felt like he should go and give the milk. Finally, he opened the door, “Okay God, if this is you, I will go to the door and I will give them the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess that will count for something but if they don’t answer right away, I am out of here.” Edward walked across the street and knocked the door. He could hear some noise inside. A man’s voice yelled out, “Who is it? What do you want?” Then, the door opened before Edward could get away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn’t seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep.

“What is it?” the man inquired. Edward thrust out the gallon of milk, “Here, I brought this to you.” The man took the milk and went to the bedroom. Edward then saw a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man began speaking and half crying, “We were just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn’t have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking God to show me how to get some milk.” The wife in the kitchen yelled out, “I ask him to send an angel with some. Are you an angel?” Edward reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man’s hand. He turned and walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face. Now, he knew that God still answers prayers. Prayer is the gymnasium of the soul, says Samuel M. Zwemer. George Buttrick believes: Prayer is not a substitute for work, thinking, watching, suffering, or giving; prayer is a support for all other efforts. “Prayer is more than verbally filling in some requisition blank,” Billy Graham states. “It’s fellowship with God! It’s communion with the Lord through praising Him, rehearsing His promises, and then sharing our needs.” Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, one of America’s most influential inspiration authors, once sat with Madame Chiang Kai-shek. He listened to her attentively as she recounted the dangers of her life in China. Marveling at her undefeatable spirit, Dr. Peale asked how she managed to retain composure and hope throughout such a difficult ordeal. “It is the time I spend each morning with the Lord,” she replied. Dr. Peale was very curious. So, he asked her how much time daily she spent in prayer, and she

told him “it seemed to be from one to two hours every day.” “The most effective way to make use of the power of prayer is simply to pray,” Dr. Peale wrote in his book. “Reading about prayer, discussing about prayer, hearing about prayer will bring few results unless you actually pray. To use the power of prayer, pray; pray in depth and pray without ceasing.” When he was still alive, Father James Reuter, S.J. said what the Philippines needs is prayer. It’s “the only hope for the Philippines,” he said in an e-mail circulated by those who received it. “It’s time to gather God’s people on its knees to pray for the economic recovery and moral reformation of our nation,” he explained. But the question is: Is prayer really the answer to what is happening to our country today? Some actual events from history proved that it may be the solution we are looking for. England’s ascendancy to world power was preceded by the Reformation, a spiritual revival fuelled by intense prayers. The early American settlers built the foundation that would make it the most powerful nation today - a strong faith in God and a disciplined prayer life. Korea has emerged as a strong nation when other economies around it are faltering. Thanks to Reverend Paul Yongi Cho, who led the revival and prayer movement which swept across the country. Father Reuter urged: “If we humble ourselves and pray as a people, God will heal our land. By God’s grace, we may yet see a better future for our children. God bless and God save our country!” God promises: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sins, and will heal their land” (II Chronicles 7:14).

of indifference. We are accustomed to the suffering of others, it doesn’t concern us, it’s none of our business.” What have we allowed the world to turn us into? Globalized indifference enabled the cult of the self has emerged even more prominently. As social networks and the internet have brought us together, it seemingly has reinforced our individuality to the point of indifference. Self-love, self actualization, selfie. Nothing matters more than me, and everybody suffers through their own fault, and is free to be blamed for their own rut. We have become callous enough to blot out the reality that sometimes it is the system that fails the poor- a system that is brought about by the same indifference, that allows apathy to breed, and indifference to grow. Addressing indifference in the world requires us to live, and be, in solidarity with those who have less, and those who are spiritually weak. It requires us as a community and a society to engage those who are poor so that they can better participate in the systems that allow them to share and contribute to social wealth. In economic terms, when the majority who are poor consumers are able to afford life, it gives others the opportunity to live, when they find livelihood in producing for each other- their purchasing power driving the markets that consume the products made by society, creating wealth and livelihood in return. With this, the Caucasian man would have

better spent his words encouraging others to help others, participating in service activities, or pushing government to provide these services. Had he tried to understand where the boy was coming from- the life within his family, the lack of education and services, then perhaps the words uttered would have been more empowering, rather than demeaning. I hope the guy learned something from the seemingly insignificant poor little boy- to look beyond his own self, and his own biases and indifference. The glory of Lent is the Easter redemption, the act of overcoming our limitations, chief of which is material suffering and death. The material world is not the end of all existence, and that embracing our own suffering is key to overcoming it and finding our happiness. We cannot overcome, much less defeat, what we do not understand, which requires that we embrace it by experiencing it, especially as it happens to others. Those who master the reality of nothingness no longer seek to combat it by having more, but are content and happy with having less, having realized that the pursuit of happiness is not equated with having more than others, but in their ability to help others overcome their own struggles in life, economic, spiritual or otherwise. They become happy being one with others, rather than with themselves. What matters, therefore, is not the matter itself, but it’s the things other than matter, that give us contentment.

Lent and overcoming the Globalization of indifference

FTEN I encounter many who choose to be indifferent to the Lenten season message, dismissing Lent as something unnecessary, ungrounded, unfounded and baseless, even silly. Curiously, it was during one Lenten season that I chanced upon this middle aged Caucasian westerner, who was approached by a street child outside McDonald’s Damosa. The child motioned to ask for some money, putting his fingers to his mouth. The American said, “Well, boy you need a TRABAHOW, do you know what that is?” I’m not sure if the guy offered some alms, but hearing him callously tell a 6-year-old to work sparked my curiosity. Did this supposedly western educated man expect the little boy to obtain, much less hold, a job in order to feed himself? Such an attitude struck me as simply being highly indifferent to the little boy’s situation. Social inequality illustrated by stark poverty and extreme wealth creates an indifference against others that is equally rapacious in its desire to devour the spirits of the rich and the poor. Some with money sneer at those who have less. In turn, the “have nots” rebel against the fact that those others have more. While obviously different, the similarity of many rich and poor people s that most of the time, they both allow their lives to revolve, and be defined by how much money and material possessions they have, and see others in terms of how much material they possess. One can’t get enough of it and wants more than what others like him have, while the other seeks

to have his own MY TWO CENTS’ to combat the fears and realities of not having enough. Like them, we are tempted to see other people only in terms of what they mean to us in a materiJohn Tria al sense- what ecisouth@gmail.com and how much, or how little they have, or how much we can make or take from them. The interpersonal interactions and communication reduced to nothing more than functional transactions where some form of personal gain is obtained. The real danger is that forces us to see people in terms of what we can gain from them, rather than the uniqueness of the special creation that are other people. Pope Francis illustrated it clearly in his Homily in Lampedusa: “The culture of well-being, that makes us think of ourselves, that makes us insensitive to the cries of others, that makes us live in soap bubbles, that are beautiful but are nothing, are illusions of futility, of the transient, that brings indifference to others, that brings even the globalization of indifference. In this world of globalization we have fallen into a globalization

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appliances will not necessarily help decrease fire incidents since it is the wiring inside the house that should also be checked to prevent electrical short circuits. Meanwhile, Besana said there are still 11 municipalities in the region that do not have fire stations. These are San Isidro and Aurelio E. Dujali in Davao del Norte; Mawab in Compostela Valley Province; Boston, Caraga, and Tarragona

in Davao Oriental; and Malalag, Sta. Maria, Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, and Sarangani Island in Davao del Sur. Fire Officer 1 Victor Guerrero, public information officer (PIO) for Fire Safety Enforcement Branch of BFP 11, said the BFP assigned a central fire station for the municipalities without a fire station. “May Central Fire Station na naka assign sa bawat municipality na walang fire

station, mga 15 to 20 kilometers away yung mga central fire station, gaya sa San Isidro (Davao del Norte) sakop na yun ng (Municipality of) Asuncion,” Guerrero said. The national office of the BFP, for its part, purchased 486 fire trucks this year that will be distributed all over the country. Besana said he hopes the 11 municipalities without fire stations in Davao Region will each be allocated a truck.

said. Citing the projection made by Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), she said the El Niño phenomenon is expected to last until July. Below normal rainfall was projected to hit areas like Gov. Generoso in Davao Oriental and some areas in Davao del Sur. “But with the incoming Typhoon ‘Chedeng,’ we hope that the areas affected by El Niño will recover,” she said.

Pagasa said in its advisory as of 11 am Wednesday, the typhoon is “expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility between tonight until tomorrow morning.” In case there are partially or totally damaged crops, the DA XI said it has buffer stocks of seedlings on rice, corn and vegetables for distribution to the affected farmers. In Davao City alone, City Agriculturist Rocelio T. Tabay said earlier that the dry

spell could potentially damage about 7,000 hectares of crops especially in the farm lands at Paquibato, Marilog, Toril, Tugbok and Baguio Districts. This, Tabay said, could affect 11,151 farmers. To mitigate the impact of the dry spell, the City Agriculturist’s Office requested DA XI for a cloud seeding. Its proposal was still being evaluated by the Bureau of Soil and Water Management. (MindaNews)

families or 100,390 persons are inside 78 evacuation centers. The evacuation centers in Pikit have already closed, but 1,629 families or 8,145 persons who opted to stay with their relatives continue to receive relief assistance. The Social Welfare and Development (SWAD) Teams in the affected towns remain in close coordination with the LGUs for further assessment of the needs of the evacuees. While at the evacuation centers, evacuees are given psycho-social counseling and children-evacuees undergo play therapy sessions to lessen their trauma. Meanwhile, the Department is continuously providing aid to the families of the 44 Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) commandos who were slain in the Mamasapano, Maguindanao clash on January 25. To date, a total of P1,226,440 worth of food packs, burial assistance, educational assistance, and medical assistance have been provided to the families through

the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS). Concerned DSWD-Field Offices are currently expediting the assessment and processing of the livelihood and employment assistance to the qualified family members of the Fallen 44. DSWD offers them livelihood support suited to their skills. The DSWD also received the initial batch of nine proposals for livelihood assistance submitted by the families of the SAF 44 in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR); the Department is set to submit these to the Presidential Management Staff of the Office of the President. DSWD also provided P205,000 worth of burial and medical assistance to the civilians affected during the Mamasapano clash. On the other hand, DSWD continues to receive donations as an aid to the families of the slain PNP-SAF commandos. As of March 27, the Department has already received a total of P912,289.06. (DSWD)

AFP but of the people,” she said. Driz said the DCPO will concentrate on providing police visibility in all activity places and subdivisions so that criminals will have sec-

ond thoughts. She said the DCPO will deploy around 1,500 personnel and more than 890 members of the Barangay Peace and Order Units (BPOU) of the city. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

sponsibility (PAR) on Wednesday. ‘Chedeng’ was spotted on Monday 2,240 kilometers (km) east of Mindanao and was packing maximum sustained winds of 140 km per hour (kph) near the center and gusts of up to 170 kph. The ty-

phoon was moving west at 23 kph. The effects of the typhoon will not be immediately felt once it enters the PAR, PAGASA said, adding that rains may be felt in parts of Luzon and Visayas starting next week. (PCOO News Release)

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa tulong ng iba’t ibang ahensya na pinangungunahan ng DOLE, dahil po sa inyong presensya mararamdaman ng mga apektadong pamilya na sila ay mahalaga sa gobyerno,” Councilor Mudale said. Inta Mugawan, 35 , an evacuee and a father of 3 children also expressed his

thankfulness for the assistance given to them. “Halos lahat kami nawalan ng mahahalagang kagamitan sa aming mga bahay, kaya malaking tulong na rin sa amin ang inyong dinala. Umaasa din kami na patuloy na tutulong ang gobyerno sa amin,” Mudale said. END/ kturnos

economic endeavors. Held at Gaisano Mall in Tagum City, the celebratory event was hosted by the Tagum City Council of Women headed by its President Alma I. Uy. This celebration is held in commemoration of the International Women’s Day as declared by the United Nations to be celebrated in March as a way of recognizing women’s part in development. By celebrating the Women’s Month, Gov. Malanyaon said this as a clear manifes-

tation that all sectors in the country are recognizing the role and importance of women in Philippine society. Meanwhile, for the whole month of March, the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental also commemorated the Women’s Month Celebration in the different barangays and towns. During these celebrations, the governor challenged women to work for their own self development and encouraged them to become efficient leaders in their own community. PIO

“The truth is oil palm is more water efficient than most crops. It also creates higher rainfall to supply wa-

ter for rice production and the domestic needs of the lowland dwellers,” Pamplona said. (MindaNews)

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‘LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME.’ A Catholic faithful lets his infant son touch the statue of the Black Nazarene on Holy Wednesday at San Pedro Cathedral in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

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said there are around 500 new vehicles in the city that are exempted from the implementation of the law. These are those purchased from 2013 up to February 14, 2014 and still belong to the old design. Calderon said the LTO also has no available new plates for these 500 vehicles. “All our enforcers know these 500 exempted from the implementation of the no plate, no travel policy. They (owners) just show their registration and the vehicle must have a temporary plate for them not be fined,” she said. LTO 11 assistant region-

al director Macario Gonzaga had earlier said the “no plate, no travel” was supposed to be implemented last November but due to some problems – including the late arrival of the new plates – the LTO regional office asked the central office to defer it until the distribution of the new plates stabilizes. Last January, LTO 11 regional director Gomer Dy said he noticed the slow distribution of new plates because there are still a lot in the LTO stockroom. Dy said the new plates had arrived in June of last year but only a few vehicle owners have claimed them.

list. “Any unused allocation previously committed to the existing beneficiaries are applied to waitlisted applicants. We process the Educ-Assist application of those in the waiting list, once funds become available”, Ciriaco said. SSS has already disbursed over P2.7 billion nationwide from the Educ-Assist fund. Of the 3.5 billion NG share, P1.58 billion have been transmitted to SSS. For the year 2014, SSS has released over P 1.1 billion consisting of 72,451 loan availments. Under Educ-Assist, members can borrow up to P20,000 per semester or trimester for college degrees while maximum

loanable amount for vocational-tech course is P10,000 per semester or trimester. The repayment process of Educ-Assist will commence a year after the beneficiary’s graduation day or after 18 months for semestral courses or 15 months for trimestral and quarter-term courses from the scheduled last release date or from the date of last release for those who will not avail of the subsequent releases, whichever comes earlier. Borrowers for college degree programs are given five years to repay the loan, while for vocational-tech courses, the repayment timeline is three years.

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

Buenavist a

An island with a view

The island from a distance

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

HE Island Garden City of Samal is composed of several islands -- with Samal as the biggest among them all. You can’t go to the other islands unless you go first to Samal, which is home to some of the most beautiful beach resorts in the country, including Pearl Farm. Aside from Samal, I have been to other islands, particularly Talikud (which has been touted as the next Boracay) and Malipano. Another island I really want to go is the Vanishing Island, which emerges only during low tide. That may happen in the next few months. But last week, I had the opportunity of visiting Little Ligid Island (the adjacent island is called the Big Ligid) together with other journalists and bloggers based from Davao City. The four-hectare island is a perfect place to go this summer. It has a beautiful view, especially the one that is facing the Pacific Ocean. It’s no wonder why the owners -- the Ayalas -- named it The Island Buenavista (the latter comes from two Spanish words, buena for “good” and vista for “view”). If your dream this summer is swimming in a white sand beach with crystal clear waters and far from the madding crowd, then The Buenavista Island is a dream come true. As you loiter around the island, you can take refuge under the shade of coconut trees (they don’t bear nuts so you are safe wherever you go) and feel the sun-kissed cottony sands. The nonchalant breeze from the sea cools your warm body. Not far from the beach, you can enjoy watching the ecologically-fragile coral reefs. The waters teem with marine life,

which makes the island a remarkable haven for those who love diving. On a clear day, you can go at the gazebo and stay there while having communion with nature. Watch the adjacent island while sipping cold pineapple juice or eating some Filipino delicacies. As the day is set to end, take a glimpse of the pastel sunset. You can sit there and relax while gazing up to a velvet canopy of brilliant stars and silvery moon. Thanks to Brenda Ocampo, the marketing manager of this place and that of Eden Nature Park and Resort in Toril. Don’t be surprised; both are owned by the Ayalas of Davao. And don’t wonder if some of the houses and other fixtures have some semblance to those from Eden. It’s indeed a case of “from highlands to islands,” a tagline which the Davao regional office uses. Prof. Armando A. Mortejo, a professor from the Holy Cross of Davao City who visited the place for the first time, commented: “I fell in love with the island. (It is) very relaxing.” Gigie Agtay, another journalist who works abroad and just recently returned to Davao, considered the visit as a “stress reliever.” In her social media account, she explained: “Hindi alas stress ang oras ko ngayon.” Admittedly, I had been wanting to visit this island since fellow travelogue writer Jojie Alcantara described the place in an article which appeared in Mabuhay, the in-flight magazine of Philippine Air Lines, as sort of “Amanpulo,” the luxury beach hotel in Palawan where you can enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling on a private island.

The Island Buenavista is Davao region’s counterpart. For a fixed rate for one night (a maximum of 10 persons), you can have the whole island. Its brochure explains: “Here, we give a new dimension to the word ‘privacy’ and ‘exclusivity.’ When we say that the island is private and exclusive, we mean you own the island for a certain period you want. There’s nobody else on the island except you and the Buenavista staff.”

The brochure further states: “You can enjoy the whole island and you get to choose whom to enjoy it with because it is yours exclusively.” Going to The Island Buenavista from Davao City takes about almost an hour. Ferry from Sasa wharf to Babak in Samal takes about 15 minutes. Land transport from Babak to Anamarina, the exclusive jump-off, is 20 minutes. It takes another 15 minutes or so from Anamarina to the island.

The swimming is located at the center of the island

Coral reefs

The author in one of the beach huts

Fine white cottony sand

A perfect place for kayaking

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Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel: (082) 224-1413 Telefax: (082) 221-3601

EDMUND P. RENDON

General Santos City

Mobile: (Sun) 0925-357-3460 (Smart) 0907-202-3844

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

ANGELICA R. GARCIA Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Of Food and Celebrations:

Easter Unmasked

IN A COUNTRY where the Catholic faith is predominant, certain religious rites and traditions are celebrated momentously. One of these is Lent and Easter, which highlight the resurrection and suffering of Christ. Being of different faith does not make me ignorant when it comes to festivities like this. On the contrary, it allows me to understand the magnitude of how we perceive, receive, and accept the many facets of life. Talking about festivities would always redound to a delicious dialogue. Yes, we love to eat, to cook, and entertain. We appreciate the idea of being together and sharing a mouthful of homemade meals -from morning to lunch to snacks and dinner, we always find a reason to celebrate. Planning for an Easter menu is not that hard. For one, you have the World Wide Web plus the many available cookbooks that you could always turn to. Not to mention, you can always ask your parents or relatives to help you plan for one. Also, you can always experiment. Play with flavours and make a new favourite. Here are some Easter inspired munchies that will add colours and flavours to your celebration. Make it even more memorable by sharing them with kids and families in your neighbourhood. And don’t forget the whimsy packaging! Enjoy and Happy Easter to all! Rock My World Chocolate Chunky Bars With just 6 easy to find ingredients, you’ll surely

have a blast making these. Add your favourite nutty toppings for that hard to resist additional crunch. • In a clean dry bowl, break your chocolate in pieces (300g bittersweet chocolate) and melt – either microwave or stove top. Add softened salted butter (100g) and stir to incorporate. Remove from heat and set aside. • In a blender or food processor, pulse your cookies or biscuits (100g) – you can also smash using a rolling pin. Once done, add to the warm chocolate. Add mini marshmallows (50g) and crushed salted nuts (50g). Fold. • Pour the chocolate mixture in a tray and sprinkle with egg shaped chocolates or any other decoration of your liking. Refrigerate overnight.

Easter Cookies Always a staple, you can make it more personal by adding local ingredients and personal favourites. Colour them good and make them pop. • In a bowl, combine 1 ½ c all purpose flour, ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda and ¼ tsp salt. Mix to combine. • Using a mixer, in a bowl, add your ¼ c softened unsalted butter and ½ c granulated sugar. Beat well. Add 1 tsp pure vanilla extract and 1 large egg. Mix at low speed. • Place dough in a tray in between two sheets of parchment. Chill for an hour. • After 25 minutes, preheat your oven to 375® • Cut your dough in your desired shapes. Bake for 8 minutes or until the cookie edges turn brown. Cool. • Now, decorate! Swirl some melted chocolate, drizzle some preserves or jam or with colourful icing. Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit. Follow and tag me on instagram (@herroyalheiress) for your delicious food finds!

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

UP AND ABOUT

Desk makeover from SM Stationery Think Green and help the environment with this kraft paper desk set.

CREATIVE IDEAS can spice up our workspace and have a positive impact on the way we work. After all, we spend a lot of time in the office, and it would be a good idea to express ourselves in the way we decorate our desks.

Blue chevron stripes add energy and style to your desk.

Create a stylish ambiance in your office by adding modern accessories from SM Stationery. These deskmates mirror the latest fashion trends – cut outs, chevron prints, stripes; as well as advocacies like going green and eco-friendly. Organize your desk with fun and functional accessories and storage systems. Showcase the things you love by selecting picture frames to fit any décor from traditional to contemporary. Enhance office productivity by using tools that get the job done. Add uncommon objects that will open you to new ideas and experiences. But most of all - make it an inviting space for yourself as you work long hours, or for visitors who may drop by. The desk organizer set collection is available at selected SM Stationery section of the SM Stores. Also visit our website at www.stationery.com.ph

Preppie blue stripes print creates a friendly desk.

Chevron stripes are on-trend, and so is this red chevron desk set.

Desk Drama. This black metallic cutout set adds a sophisticated touch to your desk

Oriental floral prints give your desk a global vibe

Grand Regal Hotel joins Earth Hour 2015 LIGHTS at Grand Regal Hotel Davao were switched off by 8:30 PM as the hotel joined the whole world in a simultaneous activity to spread the global climate change awareness campaign. The building’s outside spotlights and main lobby were totally switched off, while the rest of the areas were dimmed. The usually well lighted lobby was illuminated with candles floating atop martini glasses placed on each table at the Champagne Bar,

Montmarté Café and the ones responsible will be held in France in the reception area of for sustaining life over December this year. the Front Office. the long haul. The first Grand Regal Hotel’s

March 28th was a Saturday with the usual weekend buffet dinner offering at the Champagne Bar. Guests were caught in awe, having dinner in candle light when the lights went down for an hour by 8:30 PM. Millions of citizens across continents were united in dimming the usually glittering nightline. The dazzle of bright lights hovering across cityscapes were toned down to show that inhabitants of this blue planet are

Earth Hour switch-off was done in Australia’s Sydney Harbour bridge and the Sydney Opera House in 2007, and is has since quickly gone global with over 170 countries and territories, more than 1,200 landmarks and close to 40 UNESCO world heritage sites. 2015’s Earth Hour comes as a prelude to the upcoming United Nations climate conference involving the international community on the issue of limiting global warning, which

prominent tower in the northern part of the city dimmed for the last 60 minutes following the 8:30 PM mark. And while citizens in Berlin lined up to spell out “Save Our Planet”, Kremlin shed its evening diamonds, the Empire State Building set a faint sparkle in the Manhattan nightsky, Grand Regal Hotel Davao put floating candles atop martini glasses to illuminate the darkness in the lobby for sparks of hope in stopping climate change.

FROM SMART STAGE TO THE WORLD. Smart Jump In Dance-Off 2 backto-back champions Sayawatha Dance Troupe of Miriam College High School share a light moment at Flight20, their fund-raising concert. The all-girl group is raising funds for their bid to represent the Philippines at the upcoming World Cheerleading Championship in Orlando, Florida on April 23-24. From winning the country’s largest student dance contest, the team is set to compete alongside the best cheerleading groups from over 80 countries. Smart Prepaid is backing Sayawatha’s journey to the world stage under its Jump In campaign, which urges the Filipino youth to pursue their dreams without fear or hesitation.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

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ENTERTAINMENT

Megan Young returns to the Kapuso Network STARSTRUCK II alumna and Miss World 2013 Megan Young returns to her home network as she inked a one-year exclusive contract with GMA Network last March 31.

Present during the contract signing were GMA Network’s Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon; President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr.; Entertainment TV’s Senior Vice President Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Vice President for Entertainment TV Marivin T. Arayata; Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Acuña-Magno; Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara; Assistant Vice President for Drama Productions Cheryl ChingSy; and Ms. World Philippines Vice Chairman & agent Arnold Vegafria. The beauty queen revealed her delight as she will be active again in showbiz with hosting stints and soap opera roles. “Masaya akong nagbabalik dahil I’ve grown so much as a person, as an artist, and now nandito na ulit ako, I can offer the people a better version of myself,” claims

Megan. Megan also talked about her relationship with fellow artists and staff, and how she misses most of those who have supported her from the start of her career. She also mentioned that she wants to go back to acting, “Namiss ko rin ang pag-act, kasi sa Miss World, hindi ka naman nag-a-act doon. Isa’t kalahating taon din akong nag-stop, kasi kailangan

siyempre yung concentration ko nasa Miss World. Pero ngayong nagbabalik, kailangan ko naman ulit mag-prepare for acting, kasi matagal din akong nawala.” During the contract signing held at the Boardroom of GMA Network, Atty. Gozon expressed his genuine support for Megan, “We are very glad and proud and honoured na tayo ang pinili ni Miss World. Kaya

maski saan siya nakarating, ang puso niya nasa Kapuso pa rin. At ang puso natin, nasa kanya rin. So we are lining up many things for Megan to do.” Mr. Duavit, in turn, shared that he is both glad and excited now that Megan is back with the Kapuso Network, “Nakakatuwa kapag ang isang nagsimula bilang Kapuso ay nagbabalik bilang Kapuso. And in Megan’s case, sa mga dumaang panahon, bukod sa Miss World, she also embodies or personifies certain values that are consistent with ours. So we’re very excited. Megan is versatile, she’s very professional at meron ng mga nakahanay na mga proyekto para sa kanya. So, welcome back kapuso, we’re all very proud of you. And very happy you’re back home.” Rasonable revealed some of Megan’s upcoming projects this year, “She will be co-hosting StarStruck with Dingdong Dantes, so that’s the first big project. And then there’s another one coming up. It’s a big primetime soap, but we’ll announce it when the time comes.”

COCO AND JULIA GO ON AN EASTER SUNDAY ADVENTURE IN “WANSAPANATAYM.” Primetime King Coco Martin and Kapamilya actress Julia Montes are set to take kids and families on a special adventure on Easter Sunday in the continuation of their “Wansapanataym” special “Yamishita’s Treasures.” As they become closer to each other, Yami (Coco) and Tanya (Julia) will get into big trouble now that the king of fairies is doing everything to find and punish Tanya. What will Yami do when he discovers that Tanya is a fairy? How will they be able to help each other when the prince of fairies Arkin (Arron Villaflor) comes to the world of humans and takes Yami’s brother Newton (Alonzo Muhlach) away?

Let’s Fiesta spends Easter in Dapitan THIS SUNDAY, April 5, GMA Regional TV’s travelogue show Let’s Fiesta celebrates Easter with a trip to the so-called Shrine City of the Philippines—Dapitan.

This small town in Zamboanga del Norte is known as the place where Jose Rizal was exiled. Kapuso host and comedian John Feir goes on a walking tour, exploring the places where Rizal set foot in Dapitan. John also visits the city’s popular tourist destinations, the world-renowned Dakak Park and Beach Resort and Gloria’s Fantasyland theme park. In the episode, John, through the help of Chef Effren Flores, learns how to prepare some of Dakak’s signature seafood dishes in butter sauce such as tiger prawns, lob-

April 4-5, 2015

YOU'RE MY BOSS Toni Gonzaga, Coco Martin PG

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

FURIOUS 7 Vin Diesel, Paul Walker PG

sters, and tahong. John also gets to try out some activities like wakeboarding, horseback riding, ATV, airsoft, zipline, and jetsurf. Let’s Fiesta airs ev-

ery Sunday, 7:00 am, via GMA’s regional stations in Ilocos, Bicol, Dagupan, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Davao, GenSan, and Cagayan de Oro. For more travel tips from GMA

Regional TV’s weekly travelogue program, follow Let’s Fiesta’s Facebook page and Twitter account via https://www.facebook.com/LetsFiesta and @LetsFiesta7, respectively.

10:40 | 1:30 | 4:20 | 7:10 | 10:00 LFS

SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER Tom Kenny, Bill Fagerbakke G

R-16

11:35 | 1:40 | 3:45 | 5:50 | 7:55 | 10:00 LFS

HOME / * FURIOUS 7 Rihanna, Jim Parsons / * Vin Diesel, Paul Walker G/ *PG

11:25 | 1:25 | 3:25 LFS / * 5:25 | 8:15 LFS

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

STYLE “THIS ONCE foggy farm land at the foot of the Mount Kitanglad is now a world class adventure destination not only in Mindanao but all throughout the Philippines.”

That’s what one scribe wrote of Dahilayan Adventure Park, which is located in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. Travel time from Davao City to the town proper is about 7 hours. It’s another 30-45 minutes going to the barangay where the park is situated. I had been to the place twice already. Recently, I returned because of its newest extreme ride, the Skytower Base Jump Ride. In his Facebook account, Engineer Elpedio Paras -- who owns the park -- describes it as “faster and safer than a bungee.” Base jumpers climb about 80 feet and walk the see through plank. A harness is placed in his body before he leaps out. The free fall is only about 30 feet and then after that, he goes slowly until he reaches below. “I have tried it,” says Ravi Michael P. Victorio, the flights operations manager of the park. “It was scary. In fact, I had some butterflies in my stomach. But I did it because I want to experience what happens when you do it.” Dahilayan Adventure Park, however, is known for its 840-meter cable zipline. It is touted to be the longest in Asia. Others may claim the record, but Zip Zone has dual cables which can carry two riders simultaneously. Total length of cables is 2,460 meters. “I never thought flying would really be this fun. I felt like I was Superman flying on top of the trees,” commented Armando A. Mortejo, a professor at the Holy Cross of Davao City who traveled all the way from Davao just to experience the extreme adventure. The launch point is 4,500 feet above sea level. The elevation drop is 100 meters with estimated speeds ranging from 60 to 80 kilometers per hour. The riders zoom through lush greenery of pine trees and bushes and stop at the Carrier-type flight deck that uses a special arresting gear system. Actually, there are two other dual ziplines – one at 320 meters, the other at 150meters. These two shorter ziplines were meant to get customers into action and make them lose their fear of the adventure. Once the two ziplines are taken and the person has no problem at all, he is ready for the 840-meter. A vehicle would bring all those who

An extreme experience

Dahilayan’s 300m zipline.

Text and Photos by Henrylito Tacio

want to take the challenge to the launch point. The ziplines were launched in 2009. Since then, a new extreme adventure is being introduced every year. In 2010, the Ropes Course was introduced. It’s a 12-stage high and low wire obstacle course complete with a multisided rockwall. “Aside from conquering your fear, this course can

also build your confidence level,” says Victorio. “If a group will do it, it brings camaraderie, trust and teamwork among those who will do it at our Tower of Power.” In 2011, Drop Zone Sky Wing came into existence. Here, riders are pulled by a windmill-powered winch up to 120 feet. Once on the top, one of the team pulls the release line located at

the back. In a split of a second, the two drop from the top and then swing like a pendulum. “This is the country’s first extreme pendulum swing of its kind,” Victorio says. In 2012, the Flying Lizard was added. This canopy glider moves through the trees, crawls along vines, and zips between tree trunks while the rider pedals along the high wire. “It’s a good exercise,” says

Mortejo, who pedals his way around to complete the 400-meter adventure. In 2013, another great ride -- called Phython Roller Zipride -- joined the growing list. Here, a rider zips, rattles, rolls, drops, swings, and bounces over 500 meters. “This is Asia’s first zipline roller coaster,” Victorio says. And now, about the prices. All three zip rides cost P600 but for the first two

short rides only, it’s P250. And if you want to do the 840-meters only, the cost is P500. Drop zone is P500 for single or P750 for tandem. Ropes Course is P200 per person while Flying Lizard is P250. The Python Roller Zipride is P300 and Skytower Base Jump Ride is P400. For further details, you can log on at its website: w w w.dahil ayanadventurepark.com.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO

Kapalong feted for T project excellence

Close to 1M has in Mindanao eyed for oil palm

EGIONAL Development Council (RDC) XI Chairperson Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario led the conferment of the CY 2014 Davao Region Excellence Awards in Project Implementation (DREAPI) to the Municipal Government of Kapalong in Davao del Norteduring the Council’s meeting on 19 March 2015 at the NEDA-RDC XI Center, Bangkal, Davao City. The award was received by Dr. Christie Jean V. Ganiera on behalf of Kapalong Mayor Edgardo L. Timbol. The CY 2014 DREAPI for the Social Development Sector was awarded to the Municipal Government of Kapalong for having demonstrated meritorious management pro-

cesses, particularly in adopting sound financial management and providing quality industry- needed education programs to its beneficiaries through the Establishment of Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences and Technology (KCAST) in Davao del Norte. As a local College, KCAST has provided quality industry-responsive educational programs administered and delivered by highly qualified, well-trained and self-renewing Faculty and Staff with adequate human and financial resources, and Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-compliant facilities where a vibrant institutional research culture runs across all disciplines

and where all stakeholders and members are respected, valued, nurtured, and challenged to lead in the development and implementation of collaborative community extension programs to improve the community. The DREAPI was initiated by the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) and established by the RDC XI through RDC XI Resolution No. 65 (s. 2011) asa vehicle for promoting transparent, accountable and good practices in project implementation in Davao Region. The DREAPI also seeks to recognize outstanding projectof implementing entities from among national agencies and local gov-

ernment units implementing programs/ projects in the economic, social, infrastructure and governance sectors and to highlight exemplary practices in program and project implementation in support of Davao Region’s development thrusts and directions for CYs 2014-2016. For CY 2015, the RPMC XI has issued the nomination call for this year’s Davao Region Excellence Awards in Project Implementation. All implementing agencies of the national government and local government units, as well as the private sector organizations are encouraged toparticipate in this project excellence award system of the Council (Orville B. Dipaling, PMED-NEDA XI).

ently overcoming the challenges like addressing the “connectivity and accessibility difficulties, infrastructure development challenges, security and safety issues, accessing land resources and consolidation.” The World Wildlife Fund said in its website that monoculture like oil palm plantations can pose a “number of environmental impacts” including large-scale forest conversion and loss of critical habitats for endangered species. But Dr. Pablito P. Pamplona, board of director and secretary of Philippine Palm Oil Development Council, said in his presentation that the crop can be “a tool to help overcome soil erosion and poverty among upland dwellers.” “The truth is oil palm is more water efficient than most crops. It also creates higher rainfall to supply water for rice production and the domestic needs of the lowland dwellers,” Pamplona said. (MindaNews)

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

Green Windows joins Davao Fun Sale G

REEN Windows Dormitel is joining the list of Davao establishments taking part in the Davao Fun Sale 2015 on April 3-17, 2015. “Yes we are joining. We will be included in their final listing which will be released this week. We are offering all hotel type rooms of Green Windows Dormitel and dorm type rooms (except backpacker room) at discounted rate from publish rate. All they need to do is to present their Visit Davao Fun Sale passport upon check in,” said MJ Escudero, marketing manager of FTC Towers which operates Green Windows Dormitel. “Also, for those who will avail our hotel rooms through BOOK ON LINE, we are selling it on PROMO RATE (which is lower than the discounted rate). VDSF promo is not included on BOOK ON LINE,” Escudero said. Green Windows Dormitel is one of Davao’s newest luxury dormi-

tel establishments. It is conveniently situated at the center of Davao’s commercial, medical and institutional area. Walking distance to Davao’s summit school of colleges and universities such as Davao Doctors College, Brokenshire College, University of Immaculate Conception, Rizal Memorial Colleges and University of Mindanao. Green Windows Dormitel is within easy access to various attractions, Shopping destinations, restaurants, pubs and offices in Davao City. It is also in close proximity to Davao City Hall and Davao City People’s Park. Green Windows Dormitel is suitable for back-packers, budget acomodation, bed spacers and for monthly stay. They have dormitory-type rooms with a per-person rate of Php 188.00/night (common room with 8 to 14 guests) and a per-room rate of Php 1,288.001,488.00/night (exclusive room for up to 4 guests).

formidable designs that mirrors the architect’s uncompromisingly high standard of excellence and professional aggressiveness, creating a total

experience of dynamic creativity and technical expertise. It will house a hotel, restaurants, fitness gym, shops, BPO and condominium units.

AEON Towers holds Investors Night

HE FTC Group of Companies hosted the well-attended AEON Towers Investors Night at its showroom last Saturday. Ian Cruz, president and CEO of FTC Group of Companies, welcomed the guests of the intimate party which the local developer regularly holds for its valued clients and would-be investors.The by-invitation-only event also featured mood music and discount offerings on all closed sales made on that day. “It’s AEON’s way of introducing the product to our clients in a manner where we serve them intimately and individually,” said Gen Marchan, marketing head of FTC Group of Companies. Last month, FTC also threw a party for its top-selling agents and sellers at Vikings Restaurant at the SM Lanang Premier.

The 33-level AEON Towers project is beamed as the center of Davao’s evolution--a structure that embodies the spirit of Davaoeños, towering over the Davao City landscape. When completed in 2016, Aeon Towers will become the tallest skyscraper in Mindanao. Located right at the heart of central business district, the AEON Towers stands among major educational centers, public service and health facilities, places of worship, business districts, commercial hubs and entertainment complex. It is within city access from the city’s major tourist attractions. To live there is to live right at the center, where everything is just within your reach. The AEON Towers exudes with the perfect balance between boldness and tradition, between a carefree life-

style and a progressive mindset. Now, one can finally experience state of the art condominium living in Davao’s tallest residential building.

Created, designed and conceptualized by Architect Dennis J. Litonjua, the mixed used revolutionary condominium tower offers a

VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

SPORTS 15

Djokovoc survives scare, Murray gets win no. 500 D

EFENDING champion Novak Djokovic survived a scare from Alexandr Dolgopolov on Tuesday to reach the Miami Open quarter-finals while Andy Murray won the 500th match of his career to reach the last eight. Djokovic was made to work for his 7-6(3) 7-5 6-0 win over world number 65 Dolgopolov. After dropping the first set the top-seeded Serbian found himself in even deeper trouble by falling behind 4-1 in the second and facing the threat of an unexpected early exit. But Djokovic dug deep to turn things around, breaking to get the set back on serve at 4-3 to the Ukrainian and then broke again for a 6-5 lead. Having seen his chance of an upset slip through his hands, Dolgopolov faded quickly and badly dropped the third set where a dominant Djokovic won 24 of 27 points. “I was literally a game or two from losing the match. I’m just happy to be able to bounce back,” said Djokovic. “These particular matches do help me in a certain way mentally to gain that confidence and self belief in a way that I never give up and battle till the last point, and it sends a message to the other players, as well,” he added. Djokovic, who is seeking a fifth title at Key Biscayne, will face Spaniard David Ferrer in the quarters.

World number four Murray beat South African Kevin Anderson 6-4 3-6 6-3 to become the 46th man in the Open Era to reach 500 career wins and the first British male. He is one of only nine active players to have reached the milestone. Anderson fought back well in the second but after trading early breaks in the third the Scot took control breaking his South African opponent again to grab a 3-1 advantage and never looked back. Murray will face Austrian Dominic Thiem, who reached his first Masters 1000 series quarter-final after beating France’s Adrian Mannarino 7-6(5) 4-6 7-5. Czech Tomas Berdych made it six quarter-finals out of six tournaments this year after he advanced when Frenchman Gael Monfils retired in the second set after a bad fall. Berdych was leading 6-3 3-2. Berdych will next face Argentine Juan Monaco, a 6-3 6-3 winner over Spaniard Fernando Verdasco. Japan’s Kei Nishikori, the fourth seed, beat Belgian David Goffin 6-1 6-2 and will face American John Isner, who beat Canada’s Milos Raonic in three tie-breaks. Isner trailed by a set and was 3-0 down in the second but emerged from the battle of two of the game’s biggest servers with a 6-7(3) 7-6(6) 7-6(5) victory.

5th Daba-Daba Ultimate on May 1-3

HE 5th Daba-Daba Ultimate Frisbee tournament gets going on May 1 to 3 at the Tionko field with a huge field of over 40 teams. “This will be the biggest so far with already 43 teams listed,” said Vergil Nelson Cañedo of the organizing Mulatto Outdoor Apparel at the SCOOP Session of The Royal Mandaya Hotel last Tuesday. Also present at the weekly public service sports program was Val Anthony Cimafranca of the defending champion Mulatto Team, ranked no. 3 in the

country. Mulatto, however, will get is biggest challenge as the current No. 1 Dumaguete team is coming to play in the annual event for Mixed teams. No. 2 Boracay Dragons has yet to confirm its participation. “Aside from the teams from Davao, we are also expecting other players from around the country including Manila and Cebu,” said Cañedo. Actor-host Derek Ramsey, who played for Mulatto two years ago, has also been invited.

Summer Badminton clinic at Holiday Gym and Spa

HE Pulumbarit Summer Badminton Clinic for Kids will open with its first batch on April 6-17 at the Holiday Spa and Gym in Davao City. Skye Dionela of the Pulumbarit Badminton Club announced the tournament during the the SCOOP Session of The Royal Mandaya Hotel last Tuesday. Also present at the weekly public service sports program was Jemmie Pearl Manongdo of PBC. Registration fee is P1,500 per student inclusive of the court fee, certificate and souvenir shirt.

Coach Leo Pulumbarit is a former member of the national badminton team and a veteran of national and international competitions including the Arafura Games held in Darwin, Australia. “Classes will be held every 1 to 3 p.m.,” Dionela said. The second batch is on April 20 to May 1 while the third and final batch is on May 4-14. There will also be a mini-tournament for all the participants. “This is also one way of discovering and developing new young players in Davao,” Manongdo said.

SCARY WIN. Novak Djokovic celebrates after his match against Alexandr Dolgopolov (not pictured) on day nine of the Miami Open at Crandon Park Tennis Center. Djokovic won 6-7 (3), 7-5, 6-0. Below, Andy Murray celebrates his 500th ATP win.

Venus falls in Miami

PAIN’S Carla Suarez Navarro came back from a dreadful first set to defeat threetimes Miami Open champion Venus Williams 0-6 6-1 7-5 at Key Biscayne on Tuesday and set up a semi-final clash with Germany’s ninth seed Andrea Petkovic. Petkovic booked her place in the last four after a 6-4 6-2 win over 14th seeded Czech Karolina Pliskova. Williams utterly dominated the first set, crushing the Spaniard 6-0 in less than half an hour but her opponent was able to regroup and battle back in impressive style. Suddenly regaining

her confidence Suarez Navarro won the first four games and went on to take the second set 6-1. The third set bucked the trend for one-sided exchanges until Suarez Navarro broke to go 5-4 up only for Venus to break back straight away. The Spaniard won the last two games however to continue an impressive season that has seen her reach two other semi-finals and make the last eight at Indian Wells for the first time. “It was a crazy match, crazy first two sets. Venus was unbelievable at the beginning. I started a bit nervous but even if you lose the first set you are

still in the competition and I am happy with the way I came back,” said Suarez Navarro. Williams said she had struggled to find consistency. “I just made a little too many errors and I was going for it the whole match. Towards the end just never found the happy medium between being aggressive and putting the ball in the court,” she said. Petkovic made a blistering start, going up 4-1 in the first set but the 23-year-old Pliskova powered her way back to 4-4 and then had three break points, all of which were saved. Petkovic, the 2011

Miami semi-finalist, won the next five games and wrapped up the match in one hour, 16 minutes. “I was playing really well at the start but I couldn’t see the ball on my serve with the sun on one side and I was struggling,” said Petkovic. “Karolina also started playing really well and I was a little lucky at the end of the first set. But then I got better and better from there,” she said. Wednesday’s quarter-finals see top seed Serena Williams take on Germany’s Sabine Lisicki while third-seed Romanian Simona Halep faces American Sloane Stephens.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 • THURSDAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - 4, 2015

Super Heroes Run at SM Lanang T

HE Super Heroes Super Fun Run 2015 is slated on April 26 at 5 a.m. in an out-and-back course at the SM Lanang Premiere. “This is a unique kind of fun run as you will be able to wear a singlet of your favorite super heroes like Superman, Batman, The Flash, Captain America, Spiderman, Supergirl and Batwoman,” said Karl Patrick

Acuña of the organizing Playmore Productions at the SCOOP Session of The Royal Mandaya Hotel last Tuesday. Race director Alex Sam of The Lead Pack said the categories are 3K and 5K with the turning points at Caltex and Waterfront Hotel in Lanang, respectively. Registration fees are P250 with singlet and P150 without singlet. The event is in

partnership with the Knights of Columbus and the Lead Pack in cooperation with the SM Lanang, GKK Margarita, Paintline and Nature’s Spring. Registration center is at 2nd floor near G-Factory SM Lanang and Sports Depot. “Proceeds will be donated for the renovation of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Chapel in Margarita Village in Bajada,” said Acuña.

Pacquiao vs Mayweather tickets for sale at SM Cinema Lanang

JR. NBA. An aspirant of the Jr. NBA Regional Camp in Davao last weekend shows off his skills during the exhibition games. Five ballers including two girls made it to the National Finals in Manila. Lean Daval Jr.

M Cinema has a treat in store for all boxing fans who want to watch the Battle for Greatness on May 3, 2015. Buy your ticket in

advance at SM Cinema to get a Pacquiao vs Mayweather t-shirt for free. Ticket prices are P600 for digital cinema and P1200 for IMAX. Promo is ongoing un-

til April 2. For inquiries, call SM Cinema Lanang at 285-2356. Check out SM Cinema on Facebook for event and promo updates.