Edge Davao 8 Issue 111 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

www.edgedavao.net

PAYOFF

Soldiers in Lumad girl’s rape ‘paid’family to withdraw case

INSIDE EDGE

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DCPO turns over Ali murder probe to NBI 15-minute power interruptions today

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

N official of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 yesterday confirmed that the suspects in the rape of a 14-year-old Lumad girl from Talaingod, Davao del Norte were members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Deputy Regional Director for Operation (DRDO) Senior Superintendent Aaron Aquino also confirmed that the two soldiers – whom he identified only as “Galot” and “Daniel” – had paid the family of the victim a total of P63,200 for the dropping of the charges. Speaking to reporters in yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media briefing, Aquino said the victim’s parents had

demanded the amount in exchange for withdrawing the case. The settlement was made in front of the barangay captain of Barangay Palma Gil in Talaingod where the victim lives. “It came out that the two suspects alias Galot and Daniel were all soldiers. However, the rape case was not filed against the the two suspects because of the agreement made by the two parties,” Aquino said. He added, however, that a rape case was filed against a third suspect on August 24 before the Regional Trial Court. The identity of the accused, however, is not known and

FPAYOFF, 10

See a doctor before using sex enhancer By CHENEEN R. CAPON

EPARTMENT of Health (DOH) 11 regional director Abdullah Dumama Jr. yesterday reminded users of sex enhancement medication to see a doctor first before using them. “Dapat bago gumamit nito, nakita tayo ng doctor. Nakapagpatingin tayo

sa puso. Kelangan kasi matantya yung readiness natin sa epekto kasi lahat ito lahat may side effects (We must see a doctor before we use it. We have to have our heart checked. We need to see if we are ready for the side effects),” Dumama told reporters in an interview yesterday.

FSEE, 2

EDGEDAVAO Sports

Gilas thumps Japan 75-60 Page 16

HEALTH HAZARDS AND FOOD HANDLING. Unmindful of the hazards of heavy smoke, an unprotected corn trader transfers freshly-boiled corn into a container along San Pedro Extension in Davao City yesterday. Despite the hazards of the business and the less stringent food handling, boiled corn is one of the most sought after street foods sold around Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

LOOK MA, NO HARNESS. A construction worker hangs on a rope ladder without a safety harness while doing a repainting job at the 17-level The Marco Polo Davao yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

PRO 11 cleansing DCPO turns over Ali ranks of drug users By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 is serious in its campaign to cleanse all police units in the region of illegal drugs. Speaking in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press corps media briefing, PRO 11 deputy regional director Senior Superintendent Aaron Aquino said regional police director Chief Superintendent Wendy Rosario conducted mandatory drug tests on all officials and staff last week. “We just want to show to the public that we are

starting to cleanse not only to the ranks of ordinary police but also the officials,” he said. Aquino said he has already ordered the Regional Intelligence Group to strengthen its investigation of police applicants. He said the whole PRO 11 wants to identify police officers involved in drugs so that these people can be automatically charged and dismissed from the service. National Police Commission (Napolcom)

murder probe to NBI T

HE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has taken its hands off the murder case of former Pacific Xtreme Combat (PXC) champion Ale Cali. “We handed over all the information and documents to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI),” DCPO spokesperson Chief Inspector Milgrace Driz said in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press

corps media briefing. Driz said the NBI will now be the lead agency that will handle the case since all the affidavits gathered by DCPO have already been submitted to it. She said before Cali was shot dead on August 16, the victim sought the help of the NBI due to threats he had received. Cali was killed at around 10:45 a.m. on Au-

gust 16 outside his gray Honda Fit car which was parked at the shoulder of MacArthur Highway. According to a witness, the victim came out of the car and opened the left back door when a gunman walked up from behind him and shot him three times. The gunman fled southward on board a waiting black Honda Wave motorcycle driven

by another person. The DCPO had earlier said it is looking at the angle of a love triangle in Ali’s killing NBI regional director Dante Gieran told EDGE Davao in an earlier phone interview that NBI agent lawyer Arcelito Albao is seeking a female doctor believed to be part of the police theory of a possible “love triangle. (ABFJ)

Cops fast-track probe on Pamana killing See a doctor before using sex enhancer T FPRO, 10

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. AND CHENEEN R. CAPON

FROM 1

He gave the advice after a non-uniformed personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) identified only as “Rico” was found dead in a motel in Barangay Matina Aplaya at around 8 p.m. last Monday. Based on an earlier report, Rico enter the motel around 5:15 p.m last Monday and experienced cardiac arrest at around 8 p.m. which caused his death. Reports said the victim took “male enhancement pills” before engaging in sexual in-

tercourse with an unnamed woman. Dumama under the law doctor’s prescription is necessary before a patient can buy sex enhancement medication from the pharmacy. Herbal sex enhancers, however, can be bought in pharmacies even without doctor prescription. “I cannot speak for herbal sex enhancers because it is approved by the Food and Drugs Administration and there is no therapeutic claim,” Dumama said.

HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 will fast-track the investigation on the killing of Pamana, the three-year old Philippine Eagle released last June 12 in the municipality San Isidro in Davao Oriental but was found dead two months later. Speaking in yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media briefing at The Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases, PRO 11 deputy regional director for operations Senior Superintendent Aaron Aquino said he already ordered the Davao Oriental Provincial Police Office (DOPPO) to hasten the probe on the

death of Pamana because there is a Senate inquiry on the case. “We need some inputs with this and I am pressuring our police in Davao Oriental to expedite the investigation and to finally resolve the problem,” he said. Aquino said the police are coordinating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 11 and other stakeholders for the fast resolution of the case. He said the police are looking into the possibility that Pamana was shot by a visiting hunter. “Maybe the hunter saw Pamana in a tree and

did not recognize that it was a Philippine Eagle and only thought it was just a big bird,” Aquino said. DENR 11 regional director Joselin Marcus Fragada, however, said Pamana was not killed for sport but “for some other reasons.” Fragada said the DENR is going to have a meeting this Friday to get the facts on the death of Pamana. He said based on the map, Pamana was not in her habitat, which possibly caused the eagle’s death. Fragada said the corpse of Pamana was found about 1.5 kilome-

ters away from where she was released last May. He said the more than P600,000 reward pledged by different individuals and organizations would help identify the eagle’s killer. Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) executive director Dennis Salvador told EDGE Davao said he has information on a possible “new angle” on the death of Pamana. “The case is in the hands of the police. We have the information but we have yet to filter it,” he said. Salvador refused to disclose further information. however.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

4 NEWS

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

DPWH helping LGUs in projects

T TEEN HEALTH. National Youth Commissioner Percival Cendaña discusses the importance of making health services accessible to teenagers. Cendaña spoke during a youth forum at the Brokenshire Resort yesterday. Cheneen R. Capon

HE Department Of Public Works and Highways will continue assisting local government units (LGUs) and other government agencies in various infrastructure projects for as long its budget allows it. This was the assurance of DPWH Regional Director Mariano Alquiza and District Engineer Fernando Ongkingko Jr. during a press briefing. Alquiza said that aside from it roads, bridges, flyovers, overpasses, river control and other projects, funded under the department’s multi-billion peso annual appropriation, the

DPWH also undertakes construction of school buildings, farms to market roads, waterworks systems that used to be the sole responsibility of the Department of Health, Department of Tourism, Department of Agrarian Reform and city, municipal and provincial governments. Lately, the DPWH has been deeply involved in the so-called convergence projects with the DOT on horizontal and vertical structures in tourism destinations, Alquiza said. One example of these is the circumferential road in the Island Garden City of Samal

Brokenshire launches 15-minute power teen health program interruption today

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

HE Brokenshire Memorial Hospital yesterday launched its teen health program, the first of its kind in Davao Region. “With a holistic approach, the management of Brokenshire Hospital aims to provide a teen-friendly environment in our hospital which will hopefully improve adolescent health-seeking behavior,” program-in-charge Dr. Tessa Mae J. Bonguyan said during the launch at Brokenshire Resort. Bonguyan said specific health services on general health care, reproductive health, counseling, and birth delivery packages will be provided under the specialized teen program.

The hospital has provided a counseling space for the program located at the Brokenshire Women Center which will be manned by doctors of different specialization and trained nurses. Brokenshire Hospital envisions that the program will help the government in addressing teen issues like pre-marital sex, teen pregnancy, and engagement in risky sexual behavior which may lead to being infected with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Bonguyan said the hospital started to implement the program in key areas like the emergency room where teenagers can approach health of-

AMRECO starts drive against privatization

ficers like doctors and nurses who are trained on how to handle teen patients. “We would like to eliminate the current practice wherein teens become afraid of seeking health services because of discrimination and judgment,” she added. National Youth Commission (NYC) commissioner Percival Cendaña lauded the effort of the hospital in improving the healthcare services of teens, who he describe as one of the most vulnerable sectors of the pollution. “We welcome all initiatives of all sectors for the health and wellbeing of young people. There was a time when we thought this was the

business of government, but actually, investing on young people requires multi-sectoral investment. We are very happy that Brokenshire has taken this positive step towards taking youth health seriously,” Cendaña said. He said young people have concrete needs that have to be responded to. “The young population is known to be the sector that has highest unmet needs, especially on reproductive health service.” He said teens up to 19 years old have the highest vulnerability to risky sexual behavior that can lead to pregnancy and acquiring sexually transmitted diseases.

FBROKEN, 10

AVAO Light and Power Co. will implement a 15-minute power interruption on September 3, Thursday, anytime between 4:00 a.m. to 4:30 a.m., affecting customers connected to its Panacan and Ecoland Substations. This service disruption is necessary to facilitate the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ Preventive Maintenance and Servicing on its 50MVA Bunawan Substation affecting the above mentioned substations. To keep power interruptions at the barest minimum, Davao Light will temporarily transfer the loads of the affected substations to nearby substa-

FDPWH, 10

tions. Specifically affected are customers from COA office going to crossing Panacan up to Holcim Ilang including areas of Sasa and Panacan proper. Also to experience this interruption are customers in the entire area of Ecoland including Magtuod, Langub and Maa. Davao Light apologizes for the inconvenience of this scheduled power interruption. But it will exert all efforts to restore electric service as scheduled or earlier. However, there may be instances where restoration may extend beyond the schedule due to unavoidable circumstances.

By Vanessa Kate F. Madrazo ADDU Intern

SSOCIATION of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AMRECO) has launched a campaigns against the plan of the National Power Corporation (NPC) – Power Sector Assets Management and Liabilities (PSALM) to privatize the administration contract of the Independent Power Producers (IPPA) or STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI). Serio Bagooc, AMRECO spokesperson said that Mindanao cooperatives are demanding for amendments in the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA), which paved the way for privatizing the Government Owned and Operated Companies (GOCCs) under the power sector. Speaking during the Club 888 media forum in Marco

Polo Davao yesterday, Bagooc said that they want to defer to three years the bidding for the administration of coal-fired power plants in STEAG IPPA supposed to be due this November 25. “If it will be privatized now, other distribution utilities like Davao Light will be pushed to the wall to contract out power supply from that power plant because there’s no other available power plant working,” Bagooc said. The primary argument about the privatization happening this year discusses the current market structure in the power industry in the context of the current power shortage. Bagooc said that in Mindanao, SPI is the only opera-

REWARD. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 11 regional director Joselin Marcus Fragada says the reward of more than P600, 000 will

FAMRECO, 10 help fast-track the identification of the killer of Philippine Eagle Pamana last month. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

EDGEDAVAO

5 ECONOMY

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

PEZA: Asian firms can make Phl gateway to EU

Gov’t told: Defer coal A plant privatization By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

HE Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperative (AMRECO) has asked government to defer for three years the privatization of the STEAG coal-fired power plant operations in Misamis Oriental. Sergio Dagooc, AMRECO president, said privatizing the Independent Power Producer Administrator (IPPA) contract of the coal plant will hurt consumers as this would mean an increase in electricity rates. “We are not opposing the privatization, but what we are campaigning is to defer the privatization for three years,” Dagooc said in yesterday’s regular Club 888 forum at Marco

Polo Davao. Dagooc said the electric cooperative’s proposal for the deferment of the privatization plan was contained in a letter it sent to the National Power Corporation (NPC) and Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM). PSALM is a government-owned and controlled corporation created to privatize NPC generation assets, real estate and other disposable assets. PSALM was created under Republic Act (RA) 9136 or known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2000. Dagooc cited the sad experienced when the government privatized the Mt. Apo Geo-

thermal Plant which spiked power rates,. “We will be forced to contract out the capacities of the power plant,” he said. The NCP-PSALM had initially scheduled the bidding for the privatization in September this year, but moved this to November. Dagooc said if the NPCPSALM will not hear their plea for a three-year deferment they have no other recourse but to seek legal remedies and file appropriate charges. “We are not opposing because that (privatization) is in the law. We are just asking a deferment of three years,” he said. Dagooc, meanwhile, as-

sailed Senator Sergio Osmeña III, author of EPIRA, for the failure of the law to protect consumers, specifically those from Mindanao like him. “Bisag ipapusil pa ko ni Senator Osmeña karun (Even if Senator Osmeña will have me shot now),” Dagooc said. The AMRECO head said he will also campaign against Osmeña in the coming elections to show his displeasure to the senator. “He does not deserve reelection,” Dagooc said. “This is a concern of Mindanao,” he added. (With Vanessa Kate F. Madrazo, Jessa Mariestela P. Putong and Prince Simon Canda/AdDU Interns)

SIAN companies can make the Philippines as their gateway to European Union (EU) market through taking advantage of the benefits of EU Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+). Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) spokesperson Elmer San Pascual said the investment promotion agency (IPA) is actively promoting the EU GSP+ benefits given to the country December last year and to other ASEAN members and Asian neighbors. The EU GSP+ grants the Philippines zero tariff on 6,274 goods exported to EU which makes products manufactured in the country more competitive in the EU market. “We’re telling them that the cost of doing business for products exported to EU is more competitive if they invested here in the Philippines with the benefits of EU GSP+,” said

San Pascual. Aside from the EU GSP+, the PEZA official mentioned that the country’s labor market remains an attractive factor for companies to invest here. “We’re telling them that we are an economy with young population and peaceful labor market,” San Pascual noted. He cited that the Philippines recorded the lowest number of strikes in the past years. In 2014, the country only posted two labor strikes compared to China’s 1,379. In 2013, there was only one labor strikes in the Philippines against Thailand with 11, Indonesia with 239, Vietnam with 327, and China with 656. Meanwhile, PEZA approved 360 projects in the first seven months of 2015 amounting to PHP103 billion. PEZA is an investment promotion agency for export enterprises. (PNA)

Business group pushes for inclusive biz climate

T DEFERMENT. Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperative (AMRECO) president Sergio Dagooc says his group has asked government to defer the privatization of the STEAG coal-fired power plant operations in Misamis Orientalfor three

years.Dagooc graced yesterday’s Club 888 media forum at The Marco Polo, Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

NorCot wants cloud seeding operations ahead of El Nino T

HE North Cotabato provincial government has recommended the conduct of cloud seeding operations ahead of the El Nino phenomenon or dry spell which is expected to start this month. The measure aims to cushion the impact of the dry spell and maintain agriculture productivity of local corn and palay farmers, Gov. Emmylou Mendoza said in her speech during Tuesday’s

culminating program of the province’s 101st foundation anniversary highlighted by Kalivungan Festival. Mendoza said she will meet with agriculture and disaster management officials of the province to tackle preparations for the coming drought which experts said could be worse than the 1997-1998 El Nino. She said the water levels in creeks and rivers have decreased

that’s why she wanted cloud seeding to start this month. The provincial government has already started food security projects early this year in Makilala, Arakan and Aleosan towns. The projects have a budget of P62 million and include the construction of farm-tomarket roads, multi-purpose solar drying facilities and feed mills. In 2014, North Cota-

bato was adjudged the top producer of rice in Region 12 with a production of 518,000 metric tons and second top corn producer with an output of 592,171 MT. North Cotabato has been known as the fruit basket of the Philippines. It also produces high value crops like banana, rubber, oil palm in addition to corn and palay, its major crops. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/ MindaNews)

HE country’s largest business group, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) eyes inclusive business climate by supporting the local businesses. PCCI Honorary Chairman Sergio Ortiz-Luis, during the Tourism Investment Forum in Pasay City on Tuesday, said the business group is proactive for the growth of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Ortiz-Luis cited PCCI’s initiatives to support local SMEs which include its Business Matrix Program (BMP) that targets to link SMEs to big companies in the country as well as to improve access to finance; infrastructure development; food security efforts; strengthening the education system; and its Green Philippines Island of Sustainability (GPIoS) aiming for sustainable industrial development of Metro Manila and Region IV-A, “In the area of infrastructure development, we have been very vocal with our advocacy to prioritize critical infrastructure projects that are urgently needed and can generate the highest impact,” Ortiz-Luis said. “These include power generation and transmission, water supply, seam-

less road network, airport development and flood mitigation. This is even made more critical given the impact of climate change which is expected to bring in more heavy rains in the country,” he added. “Private sector is also involved in promoting and tapping corporate social responsibility programs of companies, particularly the large ones, to generate more and better-quality jobs especially for the middle class,” he noted. The PCCI executive said the strengthened collaboration among private sector, government, and other stakeholders will help the country to be globally competitive by improving the quality and productivity of SMEs. Ortiz-Luis said the country can overcome the middle-income trap by having an inclusive business climate. “A poorer country may not have as much resources, but can still benefit if it uses its limited resources efficiently to help uplift the lives of its people,” he said. “Towards this goal, we commit to work with government to hurdle the bumps along the narrow road to inclusive and sustainable progress,” he added. (PNA)

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

DATE exhibitors earn over P600M

XHIBITORS of Davao Agri Trade Expo (DATE) earned a total of P613.170 million in sales from 2010 to 2014. Records from the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCCII) revealed that the highest revenue was in 2012 at P233.439 million in sales from livestock, poultry, and agricultural produce. It was also in 2012 the group first held the event,

touted as the biggest agribusiness expo in Mindanao, at the 7,835-square meter and 5,000-seater SMX Convention Center Davao at the SM Lanang Premier. The chamber is also eyeing to surpass the income generated three years ago, bringing the target to P300 million this year. The 17th DATE will be held on September 25 to 27, 2015 at the SMX Convention Center with 170

HE Police Regional Office-12 deployed additional police personnel in parts of the city in connection with Tuesday’s opening of the city’s week-long 47th foundation anniversary celebration and 17th Tuna Festival. Supt. Edgar Yago, operations chief of the city police office, said at least 615 police officers and non-commissioned personnel will secure various venues and the lined up events for the festivities until Sept. 6. He said the PRO-12 augmented the city police’s security operations for the festival with personnel from the regional training school, regional office and the regional police public safety battalion. Troops from the Philippine Army-led Joint Task Force GenSan, barangay policemen and members of volunteer group Magdalo were also deployed in the main festival venues, especially at the city’s oval plaza grounds. “We’re on red alert right

now and rest assured that we’re doing everything to make sure that the celebrations will be smooth, orderly and peaceful,” Yago said. The official said the security deployment at the oval plaza and other festival venues will be on 24-hour basis that will be divided in three shifts. He said they have also installed closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in each of the six entry and exit points of the oval plaza, eight at the carnival area and two at the security command post. There are existing CCTV cameras in strategic areas of the streets surrounding the oval plaza grounds, he said. Yago said they have set up a monitoring station for the installed CCTVs at their command post, which also serves as the base of standby personnel from the City Health Office, Red Cross and the Bureau of Fire Protection. The festival, which is

Tuna Festival opens T

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booths displaying various agricultural products and technology from Davao Region. Organizers are coming up with same topic as 2012 in preparation for the Asean Economic Community (AEC), which will take effect by end of this year. “When we say AEC, we become a single market, meaning there’s zero tariff among member nations,” Wilfredo Teves, DCCCII vice president for agricul-

GARDEN BY THE BAY. The Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases sales and marketing consultant Shiela Alforque along with marketing and communication assistant Jemar Manriquez promote their sister restaurant Garden by the Bay, which will be also featured in the Visit Davao Fun Sale 2016. Alforque said

projects to make their dreams as trade, investment and tourism hub a reality. These included the upgrading of the airport terminal “which we hope to become operational very soon” as well as the opening of the seaport that further boost accessibility and “has provided our people and goods direct connectivity to Cebu.” This year’s 24th MinBizCon is the second to be held in this city. The first was in 2008. “Those who were here before or who were able to visit a few years ago can attest to the rapid growth of our city in terms of local economic development, better public infrastructures, more and better hotels options, more places to see and more things to do and experience,” Uy added. This year’s MinBizCon is anchored on the theme “Winning the ASEAN, Gaining the Global Market.” (PNA)

opportunity waiting for the poultry industry in the Asean. “Kaysa padad-an tag karne dire, better kung kita ang magpadala sa atong produkto (Instead of us importing meat, it would be better if we export our products,” he said. He told the local hog and poultry raisers to take advantage of being free from dreaded diseases such as bird flu and foot-

and-mouth diseases that have been plaguing some Asean neighbors. He said six trade attachés from Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Dubai, and Thailand will also participate in the three-day expo to discuss how products of each of these countries can penetrate the market. “The culture of each market is different,” Teves said. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

the restaurant is in a ‘yacht like boat’ in Mary Knoll, Lanang where people experience luxury while visiting Vanishing Island in the Island Garden City of Samal. Armando B .Fenequito Jr.

Amended fisheries law to ensure conservation of marine resources

MinBizCon in Dipolog I HE city government sees the holding of the Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) as a special opportunity to showcase the local products and other investment opportunities. Mayor Evelyn Uy made this declaration Wednesday as the three-day 24th MinBizCon opened here, gathering business leaders and stakeholders from the different parts of Mindanao as well as from other parts of the country. “I consider the holding of the conference in our city as a special opportunity for us to showcase what we can offer you in terms of trade, investment and tourism,” Uy said. Uy said this city is a small place in terms of sheer size “but our people have big dreams”, citing they envisioned to become the center of outdoor sports of the south by year 2020. She said they have undertaken improvement

ture, said. He added local exporters must take advantage of greater opportunities offered by AEC. He noted that among the livestock industry players only a few have made it to the global market. “These are the things that the government and the private sector must work on. Our plan is to how to be able to bring the products out,” he said. Teves cited a bigger

N view of the recent fish holiday declared by a group of fish traders, fisherfolk and fish port workers from Navotas City, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) stressed on Wednesday that the newly-amended Fisheries Code is aimed at ensuring the sustainability and conservation of the country’s fishery resources and not meant to curtail legitimate fishing activities. BFAR Director Asis Perez said that while the government recognizes the sentiments of the fisheries sector, particularly the fisherfolk, it is also the government’s role to ensure the sustainable utilization of the fishery resources. “The agency shares the fisherfolk’s interest to make sure that there is continuous fishing and consistent growth in the industry. BFAR, however, believes that this would only be possible if we prevent all forms of activities that jeopardize the sustainability of our marine and aquatic resources,” he said. Among the amendments being contested by the group from Navotas were the fishing prohibition “beyond 15 kilometers (of the bay) from the

shoreline,” the prohibition of the use of nets and other “active gear” in fishing, and the delimitation of the amount of fish to be caught in allowable areas. They were also contesting the imposition of new fees and fines under the amended Fisheries Code. They argue that the amendments practically prohibit them from fishing in Manila Bay and would lead to fewer catch. However, Perez said that the amendments to the Fisheries Code are intended to deter, prevent and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities. He noted that the government is only hastening the full and proper implementation of the already existing regulations in Republic Act No. 8550 in such a way that R.A. 10654 will enact its deterrent effect against those engaged in illegal and unsustainable fishing practices. “The sanctions as stated in the amendments aim to hit only those who are willingly, intentionally and willfully violating the law and never those who abide by it,” he stressed. “In fact, the amendments

will benefit the fisheries sector because we ensure the elimination of destructive forms of fishing that will lead to an improved yet sustainable utilization of the fishery resources,” Perez said. The BFAR chief likewise stressed that over the years, government programs and initiatives are backed by only one ultimate goal -- to eliminate all forms of unsustainable resource use. “Unsustainable use of our marine and aquatic resources compromises not only the environment but also the long-term livelihood and employment of around 1.8 million people who depend on fisheries resources. The improvement and interventions, which we are putting in place, are necessary to help the sector move forward to sustainable fishing,” Perez said. In addition, the government official said that initiatives being instituted by the government precede the country’s commitments and regional obligations to the international community as well as global market requirements. “This, however, will only be fully realized if we put into

law fair and reasonable provisions that would ensure that our resources are protected from all forms of abuse,” he said. He assured that the government is maintaining its position to support the growth of the fishing industry -- from all scales to every subsector. “We are working so as to attain inclusive growth; that may every stakeholder reap the fruit of progress and no one is left behind. It is the government’s role to protect the livelihood of the Filipino fisherfolk but it is also the government’s responsibility to ensure the sustainability and conservation of our fishery resources,” the BFAR chief said. “The government has always believed in the strength of partnership it has forged with the fisheries sector. This reminds us all that this is a fight against illegal practices that threaten our fishery resources and never should it become a cause for disunity between the government and the fisheries sector. By improving the fishery’s control system, we protect the interests of the whole nation,” he added. (PNA)

INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

Childhood favorites at Em’s Pasta and Rolls TO CAP my homegrown food tour for this year’s 30th Kadayawan celebration, here’s something that not only Davaoenos can relate to – Em’s Pasta and Rolls, Cotabato city pride.

It’s no secret -- I’m one to always grab a food, eat and pretend I’m Jamie Oliver on the hunt for the next best food masterpiece. I love the thrill of savouring something new and making my palate dance with excitement. Yes, I am a foodie. Always am; always will be. Em’s Pasta and Rolls is synonymous to and with my childhood. Growing up in Cotabato City, we were treated to an array of delicious food choices that only Cotabatenos can serve. It was like growing up with your own Willy Wonka factory – right at your own backyard. Although I live some 10 minutes away from the heart of downtown Cotabato, it did not – in any way – hindered our spur of the moment cravings. Baked spaghetti – is how I will always remember Em’s Pasta and Rolls. Their version is simply divine. Every slice and bite is packed with everything you would want a spaghetti to have. Not to mention, the cheese on top is as heavenly as your first love. Yes, I fell in love with their baked spaghetti since I can remember. Now, years after, Em’s Pasta and Rolls transferred to Davao and has since been making the residents, visitors and everyone else happy with every meal they serve. Since the transfer, Em’s has since become a favourite for many –

specially the students and yuppies near the area. At Em’s, you get to enjoy your meal. It’s not an intimidating dining place; actually, it has a homey feel to it. It’s a quaint shop, yes, but their food is more than enough to make you order everything that they have to offer. Aside from their baked spaghetti, I am true-blue Em’s fresh lumpia fanatic. I love how uncomplicated their fresh lumpia is. It may not be as big as the others, but this one is packed up until the last bite. The vegetables inside compliment the soft lumpia wrapper like two peas in a pod. Another of my favorite is their puffy empanada. Well, the chicken empanada, that is. You see, they have EMSpienada in durian and spaghetti. Although I am in love with all their flavours, I am just

so in love with their chicken version. Everything at EM’s is something that you’ll want to have on a daily basis. Not only are they delicious, they too are right on the budget. Also, Em’s is not just about their snackable munchies, they also serve rice meals for you to enjoy. Em’s Pasta and Rolls is located at F. Torres Street, Davao City. For orders and reservations, you can call them at 082 226 8268. They take walk-ins, takeouts and catering services. They are open Mondays to Saturdays 8:30am to 8:30pm. You can like their Facebook page at www. facebook.com/pages/EmsPasta-Rolls/. Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit. Tag me on instagram @herroyalheiress for your deliciousfood finds!

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge! UP AND ABOUT

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

Smart unveils unbeatable plans for the hottest Samsung smartphones

LEADING mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has unveiled its unbeatable postpaid offers for the much anticipated Samsung Galaxy Note 5 and Galaxy S6 Edge Plus, aimed at giving you a much bigger Smart Life experience.

Plus with Surf Plus Plan 1999, which packs a supersized 9GB of data allowance, 150 minutes of calls and 200 texts to all networks, plus your choice of free app every month – be it Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Spinnr, among many others. As an added perk, all new and recontracting subscribers for Plans 799 and above get a month’s subscription to Smart Life Entertainment Bundle 299 for free. This gives you an additional 1.5GB of data for streaming your favorite movies and TV shows on iFlix or on Fox via Viewstream, plus access to a host of other apps like YouTube, Snapchat, Google, and FBMessenger. The free bundle also comes with 50 minutes of calls

The Samsung Galaxy Note 5 is available under the fully consumable and customizable AllIn Plan 1200, with a one-time cash-out of P15,576 or P649 per month via credit card under a contract of 24 months. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Edge Plus is available under the feature-packed Surf Plus Plan 1999 under a contract of 24 months, with a one-time cash-out of P7,500.

Beyond Cutting-edge technology “Both the Galaxy Note 5 and the Galaxy S6 Edge Plus are the embodiment of style-meetsfunction-meets-cutting-edge technology, and you can make the most of their amazing features only with the country’s biggest and most advanced network,” said Kathy Carag, Smart Postpaid marketing head. “For sure, with these latest flagship devices, you can experience the Smart Life and enjoy the widest breadth of mobile content and offers that only our robust network can deliver – from your choice of apps, games, music, movies and more

all at your fingertips.” Galaxy Note 5 at All-In Plan 1200 With All-In Plan 1200, you can maximize the features of the Galaxy Note 5 by choosing from over 30 Flexibundles reflecting your passion, lifestyle and communication needs. For example, you can consume your All-In Plan 1200 by

subscribing to Big Bytes 799 to enjoy 4.5GB data for all your surfing needs, as well as Trinet Plus 399, which gives you 500 minutes of calls to Smart, Sun, TNT and PLDT landline, and 2000 texts to all networks. Galaxy S6 Edge Plus at Surf Plus Plan 1999 On the other hand, you can optimize your Galaxy S6 Edge

to Smart and TNT; and 500 texts to all networks – on top of the inclusions of your existing plan. You get all these when you apply for your plan on or before September 30, 2015 only. Tens of thousands of new Smart Postpaid subscribers Smart expects these latest Samsung devices to sustain its remarkable growth in the first half of the year as tens of thousands of new subscribers signed up to enjoy Smart Postpaid’s attractive device and content bundles, backed by the country’s widest LTE network. Unveiled during Samsung’s Unpacked Event at the New York Lincoln Center last Aug.13, both the Samsung Galaxy Note 5 and the Galaxy S6 Edge Plus feature a gorgeous 5.7-inch Quad High Definition screen, a 16-megapixel rear and 5-megapixel front camera, Dual-SIM feature and a 64-bit Octa-Core processor running the latest Android operating system Lollipop. Be the first to get hold of the Samsung Note 5 and Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Plus by signing up at http://smart.com.ph/postpaid/phones/SamsungNote5. To stay updated on the latest Smart Postpaid offers, log on to smart.com.ph and follow Smart’s official accounts on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ SmartCommunications) and Twitter (@SMARTCares) for updates.

TheKATcloset set Halloween cat spay, neuter event CAT LOVERS in Davao City should prepare for another fantastic event for their beloved puspins (pusang pinoys) as the Kat Closet together with Pets First Veterinary Clinic owned by Dr. Joanna Mercader holds The Iring: Halloween spay and neuter cat event this coming October 4, 2015. Aimed at responsible cat ownership, The Iring is offers discounted spay and neutering services by highly-skilled team of veterinarians composed of Dr. Bayani Vandenbroeck of DBAWC and Dr. Hyacinth Pugoy of Paw’s Palace.

Instead of the usual Php1,000 to hpP6,000 operation costs, the event offers the services for only P500 with free initial deworming and

anti-rabies shots. Interested puspin owners can fill out a coupon available at www.facebook.com/thekatcloset whether and drop off their cat or cats at Pet’s First Veterinary Clinic located at J.P. Cabaguio Avenue from 8am to 6pm. The service is open exclusively for puspins, male and female, but not for imported cat breeds and is on a first come first served basis. For more information on The Iring: Halloween spay and neuter cat event, interested parties or sponsors may check out www.facebook.com/ thekatcloset. You can also support The Iring by buying theKatCloset’s shirtsbecause when you buy a tee you save a kit-tee.

Moms and Dads, enjoy up to 50% OFF on great fashion finds at the SM Babies Sale. Happening from September 1 to October 4 at all The SM Stores nationwide. Hurry, stock up on your baby’s must-haves now.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Kim and Xian star in ‘Must Date the Playboy’ THE most-awaited movie made for mobile can now be enjoyed starting August 31! In this first offer of StarFlix, ABS-CBNmobile and Star Cinema has joined forces for Must Date The Playboy to bring together the blockbuster tandem of Direk Mae Cruz, Kim Chiu, and Xian Lim, along with Jessy Mendiola and Matt Evans on iWant TV. Must Date The Playboy is based on the popular Wattpad series novel of the same title. The movie will have four parts that will be made available every Monday on the iWant TV app of ABS-CBNmobile. The movie series has

already been trending on social media sites because of the story, which is the first under StarFlix. This is the third time that Kim, Xian, and Direk Mae will be working on a movie. Direk Mae said that Must Date The Playboy will show more mature acting from Kim, Xian, and Jessy. There will be a lot of unforgettable and intense scenes that fans can expect every week. Jessy Mendiola, who has made a comeback in movies, plays villain in this movie. It’s her first attempt to do so and it has been a refreshing role for her. So it’s really a new experience for all viewers. The good thing about this is that fans don’t have to queue up just to

watch. For only P10, all ABSCBNmobile prepaid subscribers and ABS-CBNmobile MHP subscribers can now watch the movie. They only need the iWant TV app in their smartphones. They can just text “iWantv10” to 2135 so they can watch anywhere, anytime, and watch it again and again on 3G and WiFi. No need for additional internet load. Aside from Must Date

The Playboy, other movies of KimXi such as Bride For Rent, Past Tense and Bakit Hindi Ka Crush ng Crush Mo will be available on the iWant TV app. Even the muchloved teleseryes such as Binondo Girl and Ina, Kapatid, Anak will be available. All these at no extra charge with the iWantv10 access pass. For more information on ABS-CBNmobile, please visit www.abscbnmobile.com

Juan Tamad is GMA’s newest comedy hit KAPUSO comedian Sef Cadayona is a major success in his first title role as Juan Tamad.

Sef’s modern day rendition of Juan Tamad piloted last Sunday, August 23, with an 18.4 percent NUTAM (National Urban Television Audience Measurement) household rating – far ahead of ABS CBN competition Luv U which rated 11.9 percent – according to Nielsen TV Audience Measurement overnight ratings data. Juan Tamad utilized a slew of special effects and animation, increasing the number of young viewers for this timeslot, while the familiar story about the lazy boy from Philippine folklore kept housewives and older viewers tuned in. The pilot episode, entitled Juan and the Girl Next Door, was also a trending topic on Twitter – with netizens noting that Sef tickled their funny bones and that the show was a feel-good stress reliever. Juan Tamad’s first episode focused on Juan’s huge crush on his next door neighbor Marie, played by the beautiful Max Collins. Juan signed up for a political science course just to become Marie’s classmate. But his lazy ways turned college life into an epic fail. Juan dropped out but was too afraid to tell his OFW father Tatay George (RoiVinzon). This coming episode, Juan’s Nanay Siony (played by Marissa Sanchez) uses Juan’s erstwhile tuition money to enter a networking business. Juan warns her against this, to no avail. Nanay Siony turns friends, neighbors and even her catty rival Candy (played by Melanie Marquez) into her business partners. Jaclyn Jose guest stars as the marketing whiz who sells Nanay Siony on Miracle Powder … which turns out to not be so miraculous after all. Juan Tamad’s sophomore episode is a riot and it airs this Sunday afternoon, only on GMA7.

September 2 – 8, 2015

THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED Ed Skrein, Ray Stevenson, Gabriella Wright R13

12:00 | 2:00 | 4:00 | 6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

PIXELS Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Michelle Monaghan PG

12:20 | 2:45 | 5:10 | 7:35 | 10:00 LFS

INSIDE OUT/ *HITMAN: AGENT 47 Diane Lane, Amy Poehler, Mindy Kaling / *Zachary Quinto, Rupert Friend PG/*R13

R-16

11:30 | 1:40 | 3:50 LFS / *6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

EX WITH BENEFITS Derek Ramsay, Coleen Garcia R13

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge! EVENT

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

A motor revolution By Kenneth Irving Ong

THE Activity Center of the Abreeza Mall was the venue of the final leg of Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc.’s Yamaha International Motorshow. With the theme of Motion of Innovation, the show features Yamaha’s latest Blue Core engine as well as latest line of bikes for every kind of lifestyle. The Blue Core engine is a fusion of maximum performance and fuel economy that enables a superior ride; the introduction of the engine is touted to be the start of a new era for the company with a series of products featuring the Blue Core designed to delight the commuters, racers and hobbyists. Aside from shedding a spotlight on the Blue Core Engine, Yamaha introduced two new motorbikes, the Sniper 150 Mxi and the SZ, in a colourful and exciting presentation featuring Manila’s Airdance on the first day of

the motorshow last August 28. The brand new Sniper 150 Mxi promises to give riders in Davao a renewed sense of speed and superiority that will make them royalty on the road. Riders will standout not just because of the excellence in performance but also the cutting edge design that is inspired by Yamaha’s global standard in racing. Meanwhile, the new SZ is rebuilt to be sportier and grittier. Giving riders a cutting edge toughness and boldness while adding upgraded fuel

Models pose together with the all new Yamaha SZ. efficiency that enables SZ owners more action whatever their adventure may be. Also featured is the Big Bike category which will become available later this year. The Off-Road

Category with Serow 250 and XTZ 125 which are perfect for beyond the asphalt adventures; Yamaha’s power products, generators that give absolute power; and the Automatic Category that has one for every type of personality. The even became more exciting with the Suzuki ladies and the arrival of PBB host, Robi Domingo who was more than game to show the latest line of Suzuki bikes to the crowd. The three-day event also saw the participation of actress Jessy Mendiola and a special performance from Dabawenya KZ Tandingan who gave a performance that entertained everyone. The Davao leg of the The Yamaha International Motorshow complete is the climax of an epic journey around the country; a display of world class excellence has come full circle in the Philippines.

The all new Yamaha Sniper 150MX.

Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc.’s president Toru Osugi welcomed guests to the Davao leg of the Yamaha International Motorshow.

EDGEDAVAO

7 ENVIRONMENT

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

Dining with danger: Lethal weapon By HENRYLITO D. TACIO Photos courtesy of SeaWeb

“

Cyanide fishing is illegal in most countries, but poor law enforcement capabilities and high levels of corruption have allowed the use of cyanide fishing in the Philippines to continue.” – Jason Enrigues, “Rape and Plunder: The Tropical Fish Business in the Philippines” *** “Cyanide fishing may not be as rampant as in the 1970s and 1980s, it is still being done in the Philippines,” said Dr. Alan White, who used to be the chief of party of the Coastal Resource Management Project in Central Visayas. He now serves as senior scientist based in Hawaii of the Asia-Pacific Program of the Nature Conservancy. “I believe that most cyanide used presently is for food fish and it is difficult to know how wide spread its use is,” Dr. White pointed out. “It is still a major problem in Palawan and other areas where the live food fish trade is important.” Dennis Calvan, executive director of NGOs (non-government organizations) for Fisheries Reform, told Business Mirror that about 150,000 kilograms of sodium cyanide are sold every year. There are actually two types of cyanide: organic (called nitrites) and inorganic (salts of hydrocyanic acid, a volatile weak acid). Both are highly toxic. The lethal sodium cyanide was first widely used in the extraction of gold and silver. Soon, its use was extended to include the catching of a variety of tropical fish. Although the origin of cyanide fishing can be traced from the Philippines, it is actually an American invention. A certain Bridges first used sodium cyanide to stun and capture tropical fish in 1958 in Illinois. A Filipino aquarium fish collector picked up the practice, which soon spread throughout the country in no time. By 1962, Earl Kennedy, American fish exporter from the Philippines, was surprised by a sudden increase in aquarium fish from Lubang island off Batangas. “When local collectors started using cyanide, we didn’t realize at once what was happening,” Kennedy was quoted as saying. “We were happy that there was so much supply for everybody, and there was an export boom. But after a while, we smelled something fishy. Then we found out that the collectors were using cyanide.” The Philippines, touted to the Pearl of the Orient Seas, is home to 70 percent of the world’s ornamental fish. According to a study done in 1981, some 200 of the 2,177

(First of Two Parts)

tropical fish species found in the country are exported. “Cyanide fisheries expanded to the live reef food fisheries (LRFF) in the 1970s and over the next two decades it spread throughout Southeast Asia and into the Pacific islands,” says Andrew Bruckner, an American coral reef ecologist who works closely with government and nongovernment groups in the United States. “Cyanide fishing has been confirmed in 15 countries.” Although cyanide fishing is illegal, still a lot of fishermen do so. The reason: money. Michael Fabinyi, a researcher with Australia’s James Cook University who studied the live reef fish trade in Palawan province for several years, cites the case of leopard coral grouper. “From approximately 50 cents per kilo in the late ’80s when the trade began,” he pointed out during the 12th International Coral Reef Symposium in Cairns, Australia, “the price of leopard coral grouper has risen gradually and consistently. In 2011, a good-sized leopard coral grouper in good condition fetches a price of between P700 and P1,000 per kilo for fishermen.” Sixty percent of those live reef fish are imported into Hong Kong and the remainder destined for China, Taiwan, Japan and other Asian markets. In Hong Kong, the annual trade in reef fish is worth US$1 billion. “It is easy in Hong Kong to see large tanks of reef fish,” Prof. Yvonne Sadovy, of the University of Hong Kong says. “Hong Kong is the center of this type of trade.” According to Bruckner, the total retail value of the live reef food fish was around $350 million per year from 1997 to 2001. “By 2002, it increased to about $486 million for Hong Kong and $810 million for the entire trade,” he says. “Individual fish can sell for up to $180 per kilogram, depending on species, taste, texture, availability and time of year.” Gasping fish To capture these highly-priced reef fish, Filipino fishermen use sodium cyanide, a salt-like broad spectrum poison which has found worldwide application in fumigating, electroplating and mining industries. “You place a puck-sized lump of cyanide in the bottom of a squeeze bottle,” Nong Mario, a fisherman from Davao, explained. “You fill it with water and then spray the contents on a coral reef. Then you scoop up the gasping fish as they come rushing out of their holes.” Cyanide fishing is harmful because it is “a deadly

Live fish poison not only to people and fish, but also to other marine animals like corals,” says Dr. Rafael D. Guerrero, a national scientist who used to head the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development. Researchers estimate that more than a million kilograms of cyanide have been squirted onto Philippine reefs alone over the last half century. A study commissioned by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the Department of Agriculture in 1982 established that two applications of cyanide on coral reefs four months apart caused high coral polyp mortality. “Unlike blast fishing, which reduces corals into rubble,” marine scientist Vaughan R. Pratt said, “cyanide keeps coral structures intact, but dead.” Endangered coral reefs Corals are fragile creatures that host microscopic organisms on which larger creatures feed and provide shelter for a variety of marine life like fish, lobsters, octopi, eels, and turtles. “The Philippines has 22,500 square kilometers of coral reef area, which represents 9 percent of the global total, making it the country with the third-largest reef area in the world (after Australia and Indonesia),” noted Reefs at Risk Revisited in the Coral Triangle. The Philippines is home to 464 species of hard corals. But most of them are critically threatened. Coral reefs deemed to be in “poor” condition rose from 33 per cent in the 1980s to 40 per cent in the most recent estimates,

Coral reefs according to Dr. Theresa Mundita Lim, director of the Biodiversity Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Coral reefs that are in “excellent” condition also further reduced to one per cent from the already dismal statistics of five per cent in the 1980s. “These practices are criminal,” commented JacquesYves Cousteau after visiting Palawan to examine reefs destroyed by cyanide fishing. “They attack the natural productive environment which allows the renewal of marine resources. Destroying coral today is destroying tomorrow’s fishes.” Not all reef fish caught end up being eaten. “As many as 75 percent of fish collected with cyanide die within hours of collection, and another 30 percent of the survivors die prior to export. In addition, more than half of those fish

Aquarium fish exported may die shortly after arrival in the area of destination due to a combination of the poisons used in the capture and the stress associated with handling and transport,” reports Bruckner “(Cyanide fishing) is illegal, so people should just stop doing it,” urges Dr. Arnel “AA” Yaptinchay, director of the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines. “There may be short term gains now but we have to really think the

serious repercussions for the future generation. Remember this: no reef, no fish.” Some believe that banning the export of live reef fish is one possible solution to the problem. Davao City Councilor Leonardo Avila III thinks otherwise. “As long as there are Chinese/Filipino restaurants willing to buy at a good price for live fish, and customers willing to pay for it, there will always be cyanide fishing,” he says.

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

EDITORIAL Bring development outside the capital

HE huge traffic problem in Metro Manila, which was worsened by the four-day Iglesia ni Cristo rally on EDS,A is only a symptom of a much larger problem, one that requires a decisive albeit perhaps unpopular solution. For as long as the Philippines has been a country, power has emanated from the nation’s capital, and because that is so everything else has gravitated towards the center. Government offices, businesses, commercial establishments, and the general population — all these have come together in the National Capital Region (NCR) simply because it is more convenient. Investors, in particular, have traditionally shunned the regions because getting permits and other requirements takes much longer there since these have to go through the central offices. In cases where their operations are located outside of the capital, their main offices are still located in the Metro. The net result is that wealth — and all the ills that go along with it — are disproportionately concentrated in one area. The Philippines should learn from the neighboring country of Indonesia, which is currently implementing an ambitious program to create more urban areas outside of the capital Jakarta. Under its current leader President Joko Widodo, huge amounts are being earmarked for infrastructure such as roads and bridges so that development can expand

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outside of the current central areas. While the road to this development is not smooth, Indonesia is at least showing that it knows that the future no longer belongs to an over-centralized government. Development must begin in the outskirts so that those living outside the capital share in the benefits of the nation’s wealth. It also relieves the central areas of overcrowding. For an archipelagic country, that is indeed the only way to go. Which is why it boggles the mind why the Philippines still insists on keeping the power — and the money — in the center. Current government policy is still over-centralized, with decisions having to be made in the national capital even if those affected live hundreds of kilometers away. Worse, the taxes that the regions collect are first utilized in Metro Manila — as evidenced by the roads, bridges, skyways, and railway transit systems that litter the capital — before a small pittance is allowed to return. Many of those in Metro Manila themselves are unwilling to let development spread to other areas, but what they do not realize is that their problem with traffic — arguably the most disruptive for their lives as citizens — is a direct result of this over-centralization. Bring development to the regions and the rest — including traffic — will flow out.

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

What do you do when someone threatens you?

F you’ve been following the news lately then you’ve probably heard of the public demonstration that was held along one of the country’s busiest thoroughfares, causing massive traffic jams that brought Manila’s already perennially gridlocked streets to a standstill for more than seven hours. The rally was called by the leaders of the Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ), a small but politically influential religious sect, in response to the government’s move to investigate the church organization after some church members filed a case for kidnapping and illegal detention. Reading from the flood of (mostly angry) posts on social media, it was clear that many Filipinos felt that the mass action was designed to force the government to abandon the investigation. Using its numbers like a sledgehammer, the Iglesia threatened to smash the political careers of all those who would dare go against them. Looking at the whole situation, there so many takeaways that I intend to write a series of articles that might offer insights into the general topics of (1) Threat Management, (2) Crisis Communication, and (3) the more Philippine-centric topic of Understanding the Filipino Political Culture.

VANTAGE POINTS

Y trying to dodge every issue against her, Grace Poe has succeeded in showing us her true capabilities, colors, and manner. Unfortunately, the more she opens her mouth, the more it seems like she is talking through her hat, and the smarter she tries to sound, the weaker she reveals herself to be. The few months before the filing of the certificate of candidacy are interesting and sensitive times, as these months are when political alliances are cemented, funds are being prepared, commitments are being formed. A presidential campaign does not start after the certificate is filed. Rather, it is cultivated long before. Grace can’t handle the truth On the itchy and nagging citizenship issue, it is clear that she has a difficult time explaining how renouncing citizenship at one point on her life and reacquiring it recently even qualifies her to be a senator, since, if assuming she can prove that she is a natural born Filipino, she is required ten years of residency before you can

Threat Management T h re a t s are a normal o c c u r re n c e in our life. From parents threatening to ground their children for misbehavior, and bosses threatening to fire erring employees, to teachers threatening to flunk failing students, and spouses threatening their cheating partners with divorce. The severity of the threat lies in what we are being asked to do, and the consequences of not doing it. But no matter what these conditions are, there are always three elements to a threat. 1. It must be convincing or believable, at least enough so that it can be taken seriously. In most cases this has to do with the credibility of the one making the threat, in carrying out the promised consequence. The threat of serious bodily harm will always have more weight coming from a known criminal than, say, your boss or your teacher. Threats are also more believ-

able when people perceive that there is no way to turn back from a course of action. Such as disabling the disarm function of a bomb, or burning the bridges behind you. These are signs that the threatener is fully committed to what he plans to do. In order neutralize this factor, one has to be more convincing than the other person. Like playing a game of chicken, the one being threatened must make the person believe that either (a) he does not care about the consequences, or (b) the retaliation is going to be far worse and more painful if the threat is carried out. 2. It must reach the threatened party. This one is pretty obvious. A threat that is not received by the party being threatened, cannot be a threat. Therefore, the way to use this in negating a threat is by making it impossible to deliver. There are many ways we can do this, much of it learned while we were teenagers dealing with our parents. We can feign ignorance, be deliberately inattentive, pretend not to understand the language, fall asleep, get drunk, or any other act that would convince the other party that you have not understood, and therefore cannot comply, with the threat. 3. What is being asked must be

something that is doable for the threatened party. A person cannot be threatened to do something that is clearly impossible for him, such as walking on water or flying to the moon. No amount of threats can make you comply with these demands, and so they are useless. Given this fact, even if a threat is believable and is received by the party being threatened, it may still be eliminated simply by convincing the one making the threat that it is beyond the realm of possibility. From the standpoint of someone who works in communications, these guidelines on threat avoidance and threat elimination can offer ways to diffuse difficult conversations. This is particularly true in cases where logic may not be as effective, such as when emotions are running high, or malice has already been introduced into the equation. ----In my next piece, I will be tackling the lessons in Crisis Communications from this same event. If you want to get an update on when it comes out, please follow me on LinkedIn, or maybe I can invite you to connect and be part of my network. Either way, I would be happy to share whatever insights I may have with all of you.

file your canMY TWO CENTS’ didacy for President. M o r e over, the attached issue of whether or not she is a foundling in the legal John Tria definition ecisouth@gmail.com still remains unanswered. Reading Emil Jurado’s column yesterday in the Manila Standard, the inconsistencies emerge from the information she supplied to the Comelec when she filed her candidacy in 2010, questions she has to answer. She tried to deflect the issue by mirroring it on Jesse Robredo’s own citizenship issue, as the latter’s father was ethnic Chinese. But Jesse Robredo was born in the Philippines and never renounced his citizenship. Thus, his Filipino citizenship is consistent. Poe cannot handle it because she is not as clear about it as Jesse Robredo was, and has

a complicated set of papers to explain. Grace isn’t clear about who she really is, much less where she stands As opposed to Mar Roxas, Jejomar Binay, and Rodrigo Duterte, Grace’s record in politics is still a book waiting to be written. While she may have impressed some in her handling of the Mamasapano hearings, and has topped recent presidential surveys, the task of leadership of a country in transition goes far beyond saying the right things and getting the strong sound bites at the right time. It may open our eyes to her capabilities, but I’m afraid that with the current crop of presidentiables, she is a neophyte with nothing else than a hope and a potential compared to rest of the contenders, who have cultivated a track record and an image, and a point of leadership focus in case they win. Grace has a weak start Grace has so far talked only about herself, and has left others to defend her in public discussions about her. When you enter a campaign trying to

answer questions about your person, or justifying your qualifications, the legitimacy of your candidacy, or trying to explain away your lack of such, then you are campaigning from a position of weakness. The other contenders have a head start since they have already cultivated an image and an agenda. Even Erap Estrada had one designed for him by Reli German. Grace has neither. Her recent responses in the Iglesia ni Cristo rallies have cemented a disdain for her from many quarters. Thus, let’s expect the survey numbers to go down. Unfortunately for her, the internet and social media savvy electorate will always try to find the truth behind the facts, and is sensitive to fraud beneath the facade. The 90-day campaign period is not a fleeting 2 weeks. It is a long time within which the candidates will be vetted no end. With nothing more than a smile and a few minutes of impressive fame at this point in her career, the prospective campaign trail will be a rocky one.

The states of Grace

10 NEWS Tuna... FROM 6

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co-organized by the city government and the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority-General Santos Fish Port Complex, had a soft opening last Aug. 15 but the highlights were set from Sept. 1 to 6. Minor activities were lined up at the oval plaza and other parts of the city until Sept. 15. After the highlight of the celebration on Sept. 6, Yago said they will maintain a security strength of 249 personnel at the oval plaza. Meantime, Carlos Hagosojos, 17th Tuna Festival director, said eight entities will compete in the tuna

float parade, which is slated before the grand opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. He said the opening ceremony will include a light and sounds show, balloon show, fireworks display and cultural shows from 235 performers. It will be highlighted by the ceremonial cutting of a whole yellowfin tuna, which will be offered to the public by 100 chefs. City Councilor Shanee Llido Pestano, chair of the council’s tourism committee, said they will also formally unveil the certificate for the Guinness record achieved by the city for the

“world’s largest fish display.” The city government received earlier his month the certificate for such feat, which was achieved on Sept. 11, 2014. The world record bid was the highlight of the city’s 46th charter anniversary celebration and 16th Tuna Festival last year. The Guinness certificate read: “The largest fish display consists of 25,594.49 kg (56,426 lb 3 oz) of yellowfin tuna and was achieved by the City of General Santos, South Cotabato, Philippines.” (MindaNews)

tional power plant in status quo which means that should the bid happen soon, it can possibly create a monopoly in the industry and in effect raise electricity rates. “Tataas ang generation costs, and the more na tataas ang VAT,” Bagooc said. Current-

ly, electricity is taxed 12 percent through the value-added tax (VAT). They argue that the costs will increase and this in effect will harm the consumers primarily. In the resolution that they attached with the signature

campaign, they said that, “the increase in power rates has detrimental effects in the economic lives of Mindanao residents, and the economy in general due to negative impacts in the commercial and industrial sectors.” They made a parallel to the

AMRECO... FROM 4

CONFIRMATION. 1003rd Brigade commander Colonel Ricardo Nepomuceno (left) admits that the suspects in the rape of a 14-year-ld Lumad from Talaingod, Davao del Norte are members of the military. Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 deputy regional director for operations

DPWH... FROM 4

Senior Superintendent Aaron Aquino (right) says the police will still file a rape case against the alleged perpetrators in spite of a settlement reached by the two parties.Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

PAYOFF... FROM 1 was listed only as John Doe. “We still don’t have the identification of this alias John Doe, but we are still investigating the matter. The parents and the victim cannot give identification of the suspect. Maybe we will conduct a police lineup one of these days to identify the suspect,” Aquino said. Aquino said based on a copy of the agreement, the third suspect is also a member of the AFP. Aquino, however, said the Philippine National Police (PNP) gave assurance that charges will be filed against the soldiers even in the absence of a complaint from the victim and her parents. Aquino said the PNP will serve as the complainant in the

privatization of Mt. Apo IPPA where when the NPC-MinGen power plants were pegged at an average of P3/kWh, it increased the rates of geothermal plants and effectively increased the mixed rates to P5/kWh. They predict that the same thing will happen for STEAG IPPA. What AMRECO wants is to first distribute the capacity to generate electricity before bidding ensues. Bagooc said that currently, commercial operations are occurring in several companies including Aboitiz whose power plant is now testing a 150 kilowatt second unit. They want to do this to reduce the possibility of a monopoly and incentivize power suppliers to keep their prices affordable because a competition exists. In the event that AMRECO’s concerns will not be considered, Bagooc said they are to file charges on the grounds of national patrimony and unconstitutionality of the privatization. He said that, “no law shall be passed detrimental to the citizens of the PH.” The SSIPPA Privaization Campaign, spearheaded by AMRECO calls for the gathering of 200,000 signatures for the 200,000 kilowatts.

(IGaCoS) which has been allotted the biggest budget for a single project of its kind. He said that in 2014, the DPWH pursued 31 tourism convergence projects in Region 11, and another 31 projects in 2015. Ongkingko also reported that at the moment the DPWH district engineer’s office is pursuing several projects for the local gov-

ernment of Davao City. Ongkingko said that among these are drainage projects in the city’s main thoroughfares designed to combat street flooding. He said some P190 million worth of these projects are now ongoing. Ongkingko appealed to city residents, motorists and commuters for the temporary inconvenience they are suffering due to these

projects. On the other hand, Regional Director Alquiza bared that due to the high absorption capacity displayed by the DPWH 11 during through the years, its annual budget has been increasing every year. Absorption capacity refers to the ability of a government agency to fast-tract projects and used its annual budget . It is only the reason why

the DPWH has been given more projects on schoolbuildings, roads, bridges and other structures that used to be assigned to other agencies, Alquiza said. The DPWH regional director said he doesn’t mind if LGU leaders and political grab the credit for projects built by the DPWH. “What matters is that the public good is served,” he said. AMA

Aprovincial director lawyer Francis Brion said there is still nothing to worry about in the region because only a few police officers are involved in illegal drugs. Brion said Napolcom 11 only recorded 22 criminal cases this year against police officers and most of them are related to illegal

drugs and abuse of authority. He said incidents of possible corruption due to the “padrino” system are “very minimal” in the region because PRO 11 strictly complies with the standards. For administrative case, Brion said around half of the cases filed against

police officers are for violation of Republic Act No 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) law. “These are the common violations committed by our police,” he said. Briones said this includes failure to support their spouses and children and threats towards their

wife. He said of the total pending cases, eight are in the Office of Ombudsman, one is before Regional Appellate Board (RAB), 10 are in the Napolcom, 13 are in the People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB), and 75 are in Regional Internal Affairs Service (RIAS).

PRO... FROM 2

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015 case. He said the documents are now being prepared for the filing of charges against “Galot” and “Daniel” some time next week. For his part,103rd Brigade Commander Colonel Ricardo Nepomuceno also confirmed that the rape suspects are members of the AFP but refused to identify them since no case has been filed against them. Nepomuceno said the suspects admitted that they paid the family but denied that they had raped the girl. “Apparently here was an extortion attempt by the

mother. The mother was saying that if they would not pay the amount they will sue the soldiers and will destroy the entire Army unit,” Nepomuceno said. “According to them, the only reason they settled the amount is because they were threatened by the mother,” he added. Nepomuceno said he welcomes the investigation of the PNP and that the military is willing to cooperate in order to solve the case. He also said the military does not tolerate crimes committed by soldiers.

Department of Health (DOH) 11 Center for Health Development head Dr. Raquel D. Montejo said 18 percent of the women in Davao Region who gave birth from January to June this year were teenagers. For his part, DOH 11 regional director Dr. Abdullah Dumama Jr. said the cases of early pregnancy among teens is “already alarming.” “This is

not good,” he added. Dumama said his office is planning to replicate Brokenshire Hospital’s teen health program in the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City and in the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) in Tagum City as well as in barangays where teen health centers can be established.

Broken... FROM 2

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao city

Petition for Renewal of Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a TH FREIGHT TRUCK Service CRYSL FAYE V. ORTEGA. Petitioner Case No. 2010-XI-01070

x- - - - - - - - -- - - -----x NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a TH FREIGHT TRUCK service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY and from said place to any point in Region XI accessible to motor vehicle traffic and vice versa with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on December 20, 2015. In the petition filed on August 26, 2015, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on SEPTEMBER 16, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time. This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence. WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 26th day of August 2015 at Davao City. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao city

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service RUBEN S. PUGADO. Petitioner

Case No.2013-XI-00626

x- - - - - - - - -- - - -----x NOTICE OF HEARING

Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular Service on the route: MANUEL GUIANGA and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on September 21, 2015. In the petition filed on August 25, 2015, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on SEPTEMBER 16, 2015 at 09:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time.

This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence. WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 25th day of August 2015 at Davao City. TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

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MinDA, PIDS join in policy research S

TATE think thank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) are set to begin a new development partnership this September as the Philippine bureaucracy celebrates the 13th Development Policy Research Month (DPRM). On September 4, PIDS president Dr. Gilberto Llanto and MinDA chair Undersecretary Lualhati Antonino will sign an agreement that will promote policy research and knowledge sharing in support of Mindanao’s development needs, facilitate access to policy studies and materials produced by higher education institutions (HEIs) in Mindanao, and establish the Mindanao Knowledge Research and Policy Center (MKRPC). “This partnership has a lot of potential in creating synergies for the development of Mindanao. Given the Institute’s limited financial, human, and technical resources, we cannot cover the entire Philippines to effectively carry out our mandate. We need to multiply ourselves. We see MinDA as an excellent partner in promoting evidence-based policy-

making at the local level and in increasing the relevance of our policy studies,” Llanto said. Created by Republic Act No. 9996 in 2010, Davao-based MinDA is the only Mindanao-wide body mandated to integrate a development framework and provide strategic directions for Mindanao that are consistent with the peace and development initiatives of the national government. It also aims to promote, coordinate, and facilitate the active and extensive participation of all sectors in Mindanao to promote inclusive development for the region. Prior to its creation, MinDA was known as the Mindanao Economic Development Council of MEDCO, which was established in 1992. The signing ceremony will be held at the Waterfront Insular Hotel in Davao City and will also include a public presentation of the Mindanao Development Report and soft launch of the MKRPC whose components include a knowledge portal of development research and policy studies conducted by government agencies and HEIs in Mindanao. The idea of develop-

ing a knowledge portal was inspired by the PIDS’ SocioEconomic Research Portal for the Philippines (SERP-P) project, an online database of socioeconomic studies produced by PIDS and 52 member-institutions comprising the SERP-P Network that includes MinDA. The PIDS, through its SERP-P team composed of Dr. Sheila Siar and Mr. Mark Vin Aranas, will help MinDA set up the MKRPC knowledge portal. An orientation on open access and how to develop a SERP-P-like portal for Mindanao will be conducted by Siar and Aranas on September 3. To mark the DPRM celebration, a press conference will also be held on September 4. This year’s DPRM theme “Effective Regulations for Sustainable Growth” is aimed at giving emphasis on regulatory issues and the critical need to build a formal regulatory management system that is backed by research evidence and systematic assessment of proposed policies and regulations before they are implemented. Resource speakers include Llanto, Antonio, and heads of local regulatory bodies in Davao City. The DPRM is celebrat-

ed across the country every September by virtue of Malacanang Proclamation No. 247 issued on September 02, 2002. It aims to promote and draw nationwide awareness on the importance of policy research in the formulation of national development plans, programs, and policies. The proclamation also designated the PIDS as the lead government agency in the observance of the DPRM. A policy forum titled “Advance Mindanao: Toward Sustainable Economic Development and Balance Ecosystems” will cap the whole-day affair, which is expected to bring together more than 150 participants from the government, academe, business, and civil society sectors in Davao City. Oscar Picazo, senior health research consultant at PIDS, will present his paper on “Green and Gold: Promoting Eco-adventure and Cultural Tourism for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth.” Meanwhile, researchers from MinDA will share the findings and policy implications of their paper on “Developing Payment for Ecosystem Services Mechanism for River Basin Organizations in Mindanao.”

geographic location; Data Center Colocation, which provides managed space for lease for servers and IT-equipment that run mission-critical systems; and Mobility solutions that power Philam Life agents’ mobile applications. “Globe Business and Philam Life have a longstanding relationship that stems from a common goal of providing excellent service to our customers. With this partnership, we provide tailor-fit solutions

to boost Philam’s operational effectiveness and efficiency,” Globe Senior Vice President for Enterprise Group Nikko Acosta said. Philam Life CEO J. Axel Bromley affirmed the partnership, saying, “We are happy to have found a reliable service provider in Globe Business to support us in fulfilling our commitment to offer the right plans and the right solutions to our customers and provide service in

the most efficient way.” Globe Business offers communications solutions that match the needs of Philam Life for security, mobility, IT integration, connectivity and cost-efficiency. Data Center Management is comprised of Colocation and LAN-based Internet, where colocation provides managed space for lease for customer’s servers & IT equipment that run mission-critical systems in a secure environment.

Philam Life, Globe renew partnership P

HILAM Life, the country’s premier life insurance company, recently renewed its partnership with Globe Business, the information and communication technology (ICT) arm of Globe Telecom. With the partnership, Philam Life gets access to a number of ICT solutions offered by Globe Business, including Data Services, which enables data access on demand to users regardless of their

Philam Life renews its partnership with Globe Business, Globe Telecom’s ICT arm, to address its growing connectivity requirements for more efficient operations. Leading the contract signing are Globe SVP for Enterprise Group

Nikko Acosta (2nd from left) and Philam Life CEO J. Axel Bromley (2nd from right), together with Globe Business VP for Sales Dion Asencio (left) and Philam Life Head of Information Technology Nilo Zantua (right).

(From left) SEC Commissioner Manuel Huberto B. Gaite, GAMC President Richard S. Lim, and PIFA Trustee Augusto M. Cosio Jr.

Grepalife dollar fund among top performing mutual funds

REPALIFE Dollar Bond Fund (GDBF), a mutual fund managed by the Grepalife Asset Management Corporation (GAMC), bagged performance awards from the Philippine Investment Funds Association. GDBF was recognized as one of 2014’s top 3 Foreign Currency-denominated Bond Funds in terms of its 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year returns. The award was given during PIFA’s 9th Annual Awards Night on July 3, 2015. “This recognition is a testament to the effectiveness of our investment team in managing our mutual fund products,” said Richard Lim, President of Grepalife Asset Management Corporation. “It clearly reflects the sound and pragmatic investment strategies the

company has employed to optimize the earning potential of our clients’ money given the challenges in the global financial market,” Lim added. Based on year-end 2014 results, GDBF posted an average annualized return of 5.56 percent over the last 5 years, placing GDBF among the best-performing foreign currency-denominated bond funds in the industry, according to the PIFA audited reports. Its 1-year and 3-year performance even generated a minimum of 6.00 percent per year for each period. “We find value in implementing customer-centric fund management strategies with the objective of producing consistent and competitive returns at every investment stage.” Lim said.

US, Phl to push value in public procurement

HE U.S. Trade and Development Agency, in cooperation with the Philippine Government Procurement Policy Board’s Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO), yesterday kicked off a three-day procurement workshop under USTDA’s Global Procurement Initiative: Understanding Best Value (GPI). As part of the GPI Procurement Assistance Program, USTDA will provide training and technical assistance to help the Philippine government incorporate life-cycle cost analysis and value for money elements into its procurement practices, which will help increase international competition and facilitate improved procurement outcomes for infrastructure projects in the Philippines. “This program is an invaluable step in strengthening economic cooperation between the United States and the Philippines,” said Michael Klecheski, Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy, Manila. “The program supports all the efforts of the Government of the Philippines to promote transparency and good governance, with the

overarching goal of obtaining the best value and quality for government funds.” The three-day workshop, which was developed in collaboration with GPPB-TSO, is providing training to 50 public procurement officials from GPPB-TSO and otherPhilippine government departments. Led by USTDA, the workshop will include sessions taught by the George Washington University Law School’s Government Procurement Law Program and technical specialists in the transportation sector. It willfocus on how to obtain the best value for the Government of the Philippines in civil worksby incorporating tools such as life-cycle cost analyses, total cost of ownership and savings over timeinto its procurement practices. The Procurement Assistance Program will advance the Government of the Philippines’ 2016 agenda to reform public procurement and increase infrastructure spending. It also supports USTDA’s goal of leveling the playing field for U.S. companies seeking to compete in large-scale infrastructure tenders around the world.

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COCO COLLECTION. A truckload of coconut husks are collected by members of the Malingao Community Service Multipurpose Cooperative (MCOCO) in their

village and around neighboring ones to be processed into coco coir, which are then made into geo-nets and baled fiber. Jay Rosas

bought by MCOCO from the twining households. “I applied as a weaver in the (processing) plant after I took part in the training,” she said. Her husband also works at MCOCO as truck driver. Juaskin used to sell snack items before, which she said, does not ensure a steady income. “I am really thankful of this project because it gave us opportunity to earn. “Before, the women here used to just gossip. But now, every Saturday, they look forward to a sure income.” She earns P200 in a day for weaving geonets, which can be finished in three days. Value for coco A roll of geonet measures 1 foot and 50 meters long and sold at P1,850. According to MCOCO’s operations manager Cerilo Apao, demand for geonets has been increas-

ing devices, and a vehicle to transport and collect the fibers to and from households. Part of the fund was used to purchase twining machines for a few households. But after DTI learned of the project’s potential, they added more than 200 twining machines to benefit 300 households, even including those outside Malingao. “We really provided equity for this project because we have seen its impact in the community,” Malingao village chief Leoncio Bagol said. “Even other barangays want to be engaged and are requesting twining machines from us.” Aside from providing employment opportunities, he also attributed to the growing enterprise the reduction of petty crimes like theft in their area. A boost to coco enterprise Bagol is optimistic with the entry of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP),

Villagers weave better future with coco coir T

UBOD, Lanao del Norte – Myrna Unabia, 34, begins her day cooking rice or boiling root crops for the day’s consumption. When not tending to her garden, or collecting copra, she usually stays idle at home. But roughly a year ago, she started rolling a twining machine after her usual morning chores that lets her produce around 50 to 60 rolls of coco twine in a day, her sister or mother joining her daily routine. Every Saturday, these rolls are bought at a processing center, which is also the one delivering the coco coir she uses for twining at the start of the week. From husks to coir Coco coir is produced from coconut husks, which used to be just strewn around the vast coconut fields of Barangay Malingao in Tubod, Lanao del Norte. But the village cooperative has found a way to make productive use of the waste. Enjoining

households, they are slowly turning it into a promising enterprise. According to village chief Leoncio Bagol, 95 percent of Malingao’s 600-hectare land area is planted to coconut. Today, these husks are collected by a truck weekly and delivered to the coco coir processing center of the Malingao Community Service Multipurpose Cooperative or MCOCO, where Unabia is among one of the 300 people supplying the twines, earning them around P1,200 to P1,800 per week. “This project has been a great relief to us. Now we can earn at the comfort of our own homes,” Unabia, a mother of five, said. “I can easily shell out money when my children have school needs,” she added. Another resident of Malingao, 33-year-old Rachel Juaskin, has advanced from coco twining to weaving geo-nets, which is the product made from coco twines

EXTRA INCOME. Women in barangay Malingao like Myrna Unabia (left) busy produce coco twines as additional source of income for their family. Jay Rosas

GEONETS. Rachel Juaskin (left) started earning out of weaving geonets made of coco coir processed by the Malingao Community Service Multipurpose Cooperative (MCOCO). Jay Rosas

ing ever since they started producing. “As long as there is no power interruption, we can produce up to 70 rolls (of geonets) per month,” he said. MCOCO is also producing baled fiber from half of the coco coir which are not made into geonets. Apao said that majority of the 70 bundles of baled fiber they produce weekly is exported to a Chinese buyer. Geonets are being used by agencies like DPWH for areas that need slope protection. MCOCO has buyers from Surigao, Manila and nearby provinces. Baled fiber is usually used as raw material for furniture. MCOCO is a recipient of one of the big-ticket livelihood projects under the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP). The P3.5-million funding support was used to build the processing center and to acquire the decorticating machine used to process the husks into fiber, baling machine for the baled fiber, weav-

BALED OUT. A pile of baled fiber made out of coco coir is ready for export. Jay Rosas

which identifies coconut as one of the priority commodities for enterprise development ventures. “We have some many orders and we can’t keep up with the demand. We hope that with PRDP, we can provide more twining machines and build another processing facility to keep up with the demand,” Bagol said. MCOCO’s records show that production of geonets rose from 5 rolls in May 2014 to 50 rolls September, while baled fiber production increased from 1,800 kilos to 3,200 kilos in the same period. Through Lanao del Norte’s local government unit and the provincial agriculture office, they submitted a business proposal that aims to expand their production to be able to meet the demand for the said coconut by-products. To make the product more competitive, MCOCO also acquired quality certification from DOST. The PRDP proposal also includes developing coco peat (dust from the processed fiber) into organic fertilizer. For Juaskin and Unabia, the proposed project expansion would be good news to other households not only in Malingao but to other villages. “I hope that this project continues to prosper so that we could sustain our livelihood.” Juaskin said. (Jay M. Rosas, PRDP Mindanao)

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EDGEDAVAO

Living in iconic hi-tech homes I

MAGINE this. You are away on a business trip. You needed to open the drapes to your living room for some sunshine, or to check if you have locked all doors. With a touch on your gadget, you do all that a thousand miles away in James Bond fashion. That’s just among the story homebuyers of Aeon Towers will tell friends and associates. Aeon Towers, the iconic mixed use high-rise venture of homegrown real estate player FTC Group of Companies, is designed to have its units work just that using state-of-the-art smart homes technology. Combine that with autobahn speed connectivity and one will never feel far from home. Another out-of-thisworld feature of Aeon Towers is its design which will unmistakably become the icon of Davao architecture much like the Marina Bay Sands of Singapore. It has a ship-like top that’s actually an infinity pool on the skydeck complete with restaurants and offices. This amazing 33-level skyscraper is sure to launch thousands of selfies and photographs once completed in 2016.

The entire project consists of condominium homes, a luxury hotel, restaurants, shops, jogging alley, BPO center, and multi-level basement carpark. “It’s going to be the signature look of Davao’s skyline,” said FTC Group of Companies president and CEO Ian Cruz,

the brainchild of Aeon Towers’ design and amenities. Cruz said they envisioned the Aeon Towers to be not just an ordinary highrise building but an iconic structure that’s going to remind everyone that it is assocated with Davao whenever it is seen on social media and even on post cards. “It is something you can make as a

An artist’s rendition of the Aeon Towers Skydeck.

design for souvenir items and take home whenever you come to Davao. Right now, everyone is pretty excited and it shows in the way our sales are moving,” said marketing manager Gen Marchan. “Wouldn’t you want to be living in this iconic structure?” Sales of the condominium units, according to Marchan, have been brisk despite the tough competition in the

fast-growing condominium market. “Considering that we are up against big names in the industry, we have been doing well so far and even the competition is noticing it,” said Marchan. Aeon Towers marketing and sales team regularly holds Investors’ Night and Open House activities. Interested buyers may visit the Aeon Towers Showroom at J.P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City.

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DAVAO CITY MAIN OFFICE JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel: (082) 224-1413 Telefax: (082) 221-3601 GENERAL SANTOS CITY MARKETING OFFICE EDMUND D. RENDON Marketing Specialist Mobile: (Smart) 0909-424-7990 MANILA MARKETING OFFICE ANGELICA R. GARCIA Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

EXPLOSION Big endgame onslaught gives Gilas win over Japan By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO One big explosion in the fourth period sucked the life out of a fighting Japan as Gilas Pilipinas turned an otherwise close match into a blowout for its second straight win and a 3-1 record overall in the 37th Jones Cup at the Xinchuang Gymnasium in New Taipei City, Taiwan. The final score of 75-60 was hardly reflective of the arduous battle the Gilas had to go through three excruciating quarters of basketball against the taller Japanese. The Philippines went to the lemontime break holding a precarious 29-25 lead and were evened up after the third quarter at 44-all.

Terrence Romeo held his own against the Japanese in the closing minutes of the third and big man Moala Tautuaa took over in the fourth period asserting his might with two vicious dunks that broke the backs of the Japanese. Gary David, Jayson Castro, Ranidel de Ocampo and Gabe Norwood finished off Japan with four triples in succession that doused cold water on the Japanese shooters who went for threes in desperation in the dying minutes. The victory was the second for the Filipinos after a heartbreaking loss to South Korea on their second outing. Gilas now has a 3-1 win-loss card in a tie with victims Russia and Taipei. Undefeated Iran (4-0) was playing USA (1-3) as of

hen a government office holds an activity and “selects” those who will cover the event, wouldn’t you wonder why? This is actually what came up to my mind when the city sports office held the second edition of the Davao City Collegiate League or DCCL just around the time of the Kadayawan Festival last month. The first DCCL was held last December at the University of Mindanao Gym with television network ABS-CBN as partner and Smart Telecommunications as sponsor. The second DCCL came less than a year after the first one which is ordinarily not the way annual sports competitions are done. In the second DCCL, ABS-CBN is no longer a partner in the undertaking

presstime. The Filipinos and the Iranians meet today in a much-anticipated duel of two of the tournament’s early favorites. On Tuesday, Gilas pulled off a huge victory, handing erstwhile unbeaten Russian club Spartak Primorye its first loss, 8571. Russia (3-1) held victories over the USA team and New Zealand’s Wellington Saints and Gilas Pilipinas’ tormentors South Korea heading into the game but could not get the job done against a sharp and balanced Philippine squad in this one. Gilas had five different players in double figures, led by veteran Ranidel De Ocampo’s 13 – all in

William Jones Cup Standings Iran 4-0 Russia 3-1 Taiwan 3-1 Philippines 3-1 S.Korea 2-2 N.Zealand 1-2 USA 1-3 Taiwan B 0-3 Japan 0-3

the second half – and Te r r e n c e Romeo’s 11 markers.

Federer eases into second round

OGER Federer glided to victory on another hot, steamy day at the U.S. BIG GAME. Step- Open, the envy of a clutch of men’s players made to work ping up for Gilas Pilipinas are Moala overtime on Tuesday at the seaTautuaa (top) and son’s final grand slam. Terrence Romeo Federer, who has been in (left). sizzling form since reaching the Wimbledon finals, dashed past 34th-ranked Leonardo Mayer of Argentina 6-1 6-2 6-2 to launch his campaign for a sixth U.S. Open crown and first slam title since the 2012 Wimbledon. “I got off to a good start and he was a bit shaky. I was very happy,” said Federer. “My serve got better and better as the match went on. Conditions are fast, so I was

Hidden facts in the DCCL

and UM no longer the venue. If you will ask me, I will direct you to ABS-CBN (Mr. Andy Rara) and UM (President Dr. Guillermo Torres Jr.) to answer the question. Going back to the first DCCL, the city government reportedly bankrolled the event to the tune of P235,000. With that amount, how in the world would you need a private sponsor like Smart Telecommunications? If at all this was a government undertaking and funded by public funds, why would you have to tap on private sponsors. Details of the Smart sponsorship were never made public and we were left guessing what would it be. The opportunity to ask Smart came in the second DCCL. The organizers this

time guested on the I-Speak

LET’S GET IT ON

Neil Bravo weekly forum organized by the City Information Office. As a government activity, the good officer-in-charge Mr. William “Butch” Ramirez or representatives from the city sports office were expected to be there. However, I was told that only the representative of Smart and two schools were

around. I wonder why nobody from the city sports office was around in an activity spearheaded by it. Instead, a Smart representative announced the event with the two school reps. In that presscon, the Smart officer said they are not giving cash but only “in-kind.” Given that, it is presumed again that the city government funded the second DCCL. So why must our good sports officials run to a private sponsor for some “in kind” sponsorship when it could fund the whole thing? In short, why do you have to commercialize a government program that apparently could stand on its own? What made matters complicated is that there is also an Inter-Collegiate basketball

tournament that is part of the calendar of events of the 2015 Kadayawan Festival. The tournament, managed by Rico Biliran of the City Mayor’s Office, is the official collegiate basketball event for the Kadayawan. So why put up a second DCCL when there is already a basketball for Kadayawan? Isn’t that a duplication? Granting that the city sports office’s budget for the second DCCL is the same as the first (P235,000), that would only mean an “overkill” for basketball, thereby jeopardizing other sports events which could have also mounted their respective competitions. This invites a lot of questions that needed answers from both the private sponsor and government side. For transparency sake, may

trying to play fast-court tennis and it worked very well today.” The 34-year-old Swiss, looking cool in the 90-plus degree heat after his light, firstround exertions, next faces either Marcos Baghdatis of Cyprus or Belgian Steve Darcis. Others were sorely tested. Three players in the bottom half of the men’s draw had to go the distance in the severe heat at Flushing Meadows, including French 11th seed Gilles Simon, who looked to have iced victory after taking a 6-2 6-4 3-0 lead over American Donald Young. But the Frenchman stumbled, and the 26-year-old American, once hailed as the next great U.S. player, saw an opportunity and turned the match upside down for a 2-6 4-6 6-4 6-4 6-4 win.

we ask Smart if can they can give a detailed sponsorship of the DCCL if that is “in kind”? For example, how many SIM cards, phones, balls or shirts are they giving and the cash equivalent of these items. For the city sports office, can Mr. Ramirez inform us in the name of government transparency how much the office is spending for the first and second DCCL? It’s a simple request but since the sports office has been silent and evasive to the point of choosing whom to invite in this event, we will be patiently awaiting answers from you. How much are you spending and how much are you receiving from Smart? These questions merit straightforward and honest answers. The ball is in your hands.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 8 ISSUE 111 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

ACD Warriors off to rousing start

STRONG MOVE. Ateneo de Davao University forward Francis Gabriel Escandor scores through a defender from the University of the Immaculate Conception during the 2015 DACS basketball tournament at the UIC Gym. Ateneo won this one. Lean Daval Jr.

ASTLY improved Assumption College of Davao notched twin victories to launch its campaign on a high note in the 12th Gaisano Grand Cup inter-school basketball tournament which opened over the weekend at the Gaisano Skygym. ACD won its girls and junior boys assignments against separate rivals with coach Rolando Sancho calling the shots. The ACD Warriors first defeated the Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School, 72-24 in the girl’s division then later demolished Davao Jones Academy in the Junior Boys Division 1, 93-59. The Lady Warriors defended well against DRANHS resulting to fastbreaks off defensive stops. ACD exploded a 16-3 run then added a 15-6 bomb to widen their lead by 22 points, 31-9 at the end of the first half. ACD continued with the running game and double-teaming defense in the third quarter, 49-15 and never looked back. Jypsy Mae Canuto topscored for

ACD with 18 points while Lee Sario and Heart Donor chipped in 13 and 11, respectively. Christy Tiu added 9. Mary Jane Dayandayan led DRANHS with five points. ACD also displayed an unstoppable running game and sticky defense against the Division I newcomer DJA Maroon Falcons of Coach Rael Diaz. DJA fought in the first quarter by trailing only six points, 19-25. But ACD came back stronger in the next canto that forced DJA to commit more errors resulting to 29-7 run and a 30 point lead by the Warriors, 56-26. BJ Sumugat exploded for 34 points, 17 in the second quarter for ACD. Axel Doromal and Cris Marvin Vistal had 16 and 12. Jovel Bante had 16 for DJA followed by John Riel Magbanua with 12. Gaisano Grand Citi Mall store operations manager Karen Kleen Babia welcomed all the 96 participating teams for the Mini, Cadet, Junior Boys Division I and II, Junior Girls, College

Men and Women. Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Regional Director Regino “Boy” Cua also graced the event. “We’re happy of the huge turnout this year. We even have pending teams, who still want to join,” said Cua. This year’s GG Cup is supported by Safeguard, Rexona, Master and Head & Shoulders. The boxscores: (1st game) ACD (72) – Canuto 18, Sario 13, Donor 11, Tiu 9, Vicente 6, Lara 6, Calustre 3, Jo 2, Dela Cuesta 2. DRANHS (24) – Dayandayang 5, Gerago 4, Evasitas 3, Clapanao 3, Dela Cruz 3, Galendez 2, Bansig 2, Carrera 2. Quarters: 16-3, 31-9, 4915, 72-24 (2nd game) ACD (93) – Sumugat 34, Doromal 16, Vistal 12, De Loyola 6, Bacante 6, Batao 6, Penion 4, Malano 3, Yucamco 2, Presbitero 2. DJA (59) – Bante 16, Magbanua 12, Ocay 9, Palero 8, Saladio 5, Aludo 5, Silva 4. Quarters: 25-19, 54-26, 76-41, 93-59