Edge Davao 8 Issue 170

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

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MAGUINDANAO MASSACRE: 6 YEARS AFTER

2 COVER STORY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

NEVER FORGET

By JON JOAQUIN jon@edgedavao.net

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OR veteran journalist Stella Estremera, these two words are as applicable to the atrocities during the martial law regime as to the Ampatuan massacre, which is marking its sixth anniversary on Monday, November 23.

“Never forget,” she replied in answer to a student who had asked for her statement on the sixth anniversary of the massacre. The occasion was the sixth Davao Media Freedom Day, held as part of the yearly commemoration of the massacre in Sitio Masalay, Barangay Salman, Ampatuan, Maguindanao that claimed the lives of 58 people, 32 of them journalists.

The massacre was the single deadliest day for journalists in history and gave birth to the annual Davao Media Freedom Day. This year, the activities were held on November 21 at the University of Mindanao (UM).

“It has been six years and yet nothing has happened yet,” Estremera said, noting that the case has been moving too slowly and justice has still eluded the victims’ families.

She urged the participants, around 200 students from various universities in Davao City, to make use of social media to remind the people that the massacre has yet to be resolved.

For his part, Karlon Rama of the Peace and Conflict Journalism Network (Pecojon) said after six years, journalists now need to ask “new questions” that would give better information to the people. He said everyone by now knows what happened on November 23, 2009 in Ampatuan town, and the people now need to know why the justice system is moving so slowly to resolve the matter.

Looking back The victims of the massacre had been in a convoy heading to the provincial capital of Sharrif Aguak to fille candidacy papers for Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu for the May 10, 2010 national election. Mangudadatu was running for the position of provincial governor against Andal Ampatuan Jr., one of the sons of incumbent Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. In an article she wrote in the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)’s report after its International Solidarity Mission in November last year, then-National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) chair Rowena Paraan gave the following account: “Already fearing the Ampatuan clan would interfere, Toto Mangudadatu arranged for his wife, sisters and two female lawyers to travel in a convoy to file his candidacy papers. It was believed that in accordance with Muslim tradition, no harm would come to the women. Prior to departure, the family had

also sought a military escort for the convoy from the commander of the 6th Infantry Division, Major General Alfredo Cayton.

Instead, he assured them that the road was clear and safe, and that the Philippine National Police (PNP) was deployed along it.

“The convoy of six vehicles headed off from the Mangudadatu compound at 9 a.m. One hour later at 10 a.m., as it was approaching Ampatuan Town, the group was stopped at a checkpoint roadblock at Sitio Malating, Barangay Salman, by members of the PNP and about 100 armed men allegedly led

by Andal Ampatuan Jr. Mixed in with the original convoy were now two other vehicles with six people, unwittingly caught up in the cavalcade in the process of overtaking the slower vehicles.

“The convoy and more than 20 vehicles belonging to the gunmen were diverted west, on to a rough side road and along a ridgeline for about 2.5

kilometers to Sitio Masalay, a knoll with a steep drop-off. They arrived at about 10.30 a.m. At that site, a back-hoe belonging to the provincial government, its engine casing stamped with the words: “Property of the province of Maguindanao – Gov. Datu Andal Ampatuan Sr.,” had already dug three pits between 1.5 meters and 3.5 meters deep.

“Over the next hour the armed men massacred 58 people, including 15 women. They were shot in batches of about 10 with some still in their vehicles. The back-hoe had earlier been carried on a transporter to the checkpoint, and then driven up the side road to the site to dig the holes. It was also used to begin burying the bodies and vehicles before its engine burnt out.”

Slow justice system According to the IFJ, a total of 193 people have been accused of being part of the massacre. Eighteen of the accused carry the Ampatuan surname, including clan patriarch Andal

Ampatuan Sr. who died on July 18, 2015 of liver cancer. Other Ampatuan family members on the list are Zaldy Ampatuan (the former governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) and former Datu Unsay town mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. The IFJ said that at the time of the fifth anniversary of the massacre last year, at least 118 people had been arrested and arraigned although 84 of them have still not been captured. The trial, which began in January 2010, “has been characterized by lengthy legal argument from prosecutors, delaying tactics by defense lawyers, bribery accusations and a sorry lack of updates for the families of the massacre victims.”

At least four potential state witnesses have been killed since the trial’s start. Witnesses and even some policemen “continue to fear for their safety as their status in the Witness Protection Program

remains unclear. The Justice Department has repeatedly assured the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) that sufficient money has been released by the Office of the President for this trial, however there have been instances of scheduled witnesses failing to appear, reportedly due to lack of funds,” the IFJ said.

Press freedom?

For Estremera and Rama, the massacre as well as other attacks on journalists and the journalism profession itself means there is virtually no freedom of the press in the country. Journalists are still being threatened with bodily harm and with the possibility of being imprisoned for libel. They agreed that while there is no state-sponsored censorship in the Philippines, libel remains a criminal offense with a corresponding penal provision.

IFJ, for its part, noted that

at least 34 journalists have been killed since the Ampatuan massacre. And since 1986 when the People Power uprising against the Marcos dictatorship brought democratic institutions back to the Philippines, 172 media workers have been killed. President Aquino, the group said, has been “unsupportive,” and on several occasions has said the reasons journalists are killed in the Philippines are not always due to their media work.

“The main challenge for the NUJP and the media community is to put justice for the victims of the Ampatuan Massacre issue at the top of the national government’s agenda,” Paraan said in her IFJ article.

“The murderers must be held to account. But just as importantly, we need to restore public interest on the issue and strengthen the people’s resolve in demanding justice and asserting the democratic rights to free expression and a free press.” Jon Joaquin

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4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

Sketch of van bomber released

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) released the possible image of the suspect in the UV Express van bombing last November 18.

DCPO spokesperson Chief Inspector Milgrace Driz presented to reporters the facial composite of the suspect.

Driz said according to a witness, the suspect stands 5’1” to 5’2” in height, is of medium built, aged between 35 and 40, and with white complexion.

She said based on the Close Circuit Television

(CCTV) footage obtained by the Special Investigating Task Group (SITG) UV Express, the suspect was wearing a black jacket, blue jeans, and a black ball cap during the time he was seen by some witnesses.

Driz, however, did not give the identity and background of the suspect since the investigation is still ongoing.

“Please report immediately and Dial 911 or Isumbong mo kang CD DCPO text Hotline 09258233276,” she said.

Driz said the team is looking into the extortion and personal grudge over illegal van

terminals as possible angles.

Driz has earlier said the van driver, identified as Herman Daag, and the son of the van owner told her that some groups from Pikit, North Cotabato were extorting money from the owner.

Driz also said it is possible that the bomb was planted by people disgruntled by Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte’s earlier order to dismantle all illegal terminals in the city.

The improvised explosive device went off inside a moving passenger van around 9:45 a.m. of November 18

along Eco West Drive, Ecoland.

The white PUV bearing a plate number MVW 553 had unloaded passengers at the SM City Davao van terminal and was traversing the area when the bomb exploded from its rear section.

No one was killed in the blast but the van’s helper, identified as Tata Basañes, sustained minor injuries when he was hit by shrapnel in the nape.

Some cars parked in the area were also hit by the fragments of the IED.

al Center-Almendras Gym. This after 13 former employees and the wife of Francis Zobieta, a Toyota employee who was killed last November 12, asked the help of the mayor because four of their colleagues had been killed since their dismissal in 2011.

The 13 along with the wife of Zobieta were accompanied by their counsel lawyer Martin Delgra who set the appoint-

ment with Duterte.

“We come here requesting the assistance of our good mayor to give justice on killing of Zobieta,” Delgra said.

Delgra said the other colleagues of Zobieta also asked for the help of the mayor because they were afraid that one of them would be the next victim.

He said Zobieta was working at the Grand Regal Hotel

as purchasing officer before he was killed by unidentified gunmen.

“Sila pud nahadlok kay dili lang si Francis ang ilang gitumba naa pa puy pipila nila ka kauban ang gitumba (These people are also afraid because it is not only Francis who was killed but other former workmates as well),” he said.

Delgra said he could not

liant student of the Ateneo de Davao College in the 70s, Fernando T. Esperon, Nicanor R. Gonzales Jr., Ma. Socorro B. Par, Ester Resabal-Kintanar, Cecilio A. Reyes and Roberto C. Salac.

Unverified reports said that Salac was a priest who was killed somewhere in Compostela Province.

A graduate of the Davao City High School, the late Evella was editor in chief of the Atenews, Ateneo college paper, at the same time that she was

president of the school student council, considered a rare feat up to this time.

The honorees also include four from Luzon and another four from the Visayas. They are Edgardo R. Cupino, Ernesto D. Lacbao, Horacio R. Morales Jr. and Antero G. Santos from Luzon, and Vicenter L. Beloria, Elberto Espinas, Napoleon P. Lorca and Rolando P. Lorca from the Visayas.

Morales, who later became secretary of the Department of

Agrarian Reform (DAR) during the Joseph Estrada presidency, was once married to a Dabawenya.

Ildefonso “Ildie” V. Bontia, younger brother of Evella, of Grand Regal Hotel Davao, told Edge Davao he will attend the Annual Celebration of Martyrs and Heroes under the Marcos dictatorship at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, November 30, on invitation of Ma. Cristina V. Rodriquez, Bantayog Foundation executive director. AMA

Duterte to Toyota Cars Davao: Guerrero replaces Baladad as head of EastMinCom Explain deaths of ex-workers Composite of UV express bombing suspect

F

ORMER Task Force Davao commander Major General Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero is the new Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) commander, replacing Lieutenant General Aurelio B. Baladad who reached the mandatory retirement age.

Guerrero assumed the position in a turn-over ceremony last Saturday.

In statement, Guerrero said he will continue what Baladad has started in the areas of Eastern Mindanao.

Guerrero was the commanding officer of Task Force Davao in 2011.

He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maharlika” Class of 1984. He is the former commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division based in Capiz province.

Before his assumption as the 3rd Infantry Division Com-

mander, he was the 46th Chief of Staff of the Philippine Army from August 1, 2013 to September 6, 2014.

His other assignments include Senior Military Assistant to the President of the Republic of the Philippines; Deputy to the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Philippine Army; Chief of Central Monitoring Station, G2, Philippine Army; Deputy Chief for Training, G3, Philippine Army; Commander, Task Force Lapu-lapu, Presidential Security Group; Commander, Presidential Guard Battalion, Presidential Security Group; Commander, Presidential Escort Battalion, Presidential Security Group; Commander, 61st Infantry Battalion; and Chief of Staff, 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

He was also the Operations Officer of the Philippine Battalion sent as part of the

F GUERRERO, 13

Davao Oriental is first and only malaria-free province of R-11

D

AVAO ORIENTAL was officially declared by the Department of Health (DOH) as the first and only malaria-free province in the entire Region 11.

At the awarding ceremony held in Davao City last Monday, DOH Region 11 Director Abdullah B. Dumama, Jr., lauded Davao Oriental for this yet another unprecedented feat in public health.

Dr. Dumama said that based on a disease-free assessment criteria set by the National Malaria Control and Elimination Program, Davao Oriental has achieved zero cases of malaria for five consecutive years, which became the major basis for this recognition.

Dr. Joy Sanico, Provincial Health Officer I, said this status was attained by Davao Oriental after years of efforts to control the disease.

She listed several strategies adopted by the Provin-

cial Health Office in fighting malaria, which include among others: early detection and prompt treatment, case surveillance, capability-building among municipal health workers, and increasing public awareness through extensive information, education, and communication campaign, among many others.

She also highlighted the distribution of treated mosquito nets and eliminating nesting grounds of mosquitos as effective ways of preventing the spreading of malaria disease. “In the prevention of diseases, our actions should not be passive, they should be active,” said Sanico.

Sanico attributed this feat to the strong collaboration between the stakeholders advocating in stamping out endemic diseases. Among them are the provincial and municipal health offices, the DOH and non-government organi-

D

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte has asked the owner of Toyota Cars Davao to either deny or admit to allegations of involvement in the killings of former employees.

“I think it behooves on Toyota to come up with an explanation if they have something to tell,” Duterte said in an interview on Thursday evening at Davao City Recreation-

F DUTERTE, 13

7 Mindanao martyrs to be added to wall of remembrance on Nov. 30 S

EVEN heroes of Mindanao, including at least two Dabawenyos, “who lived and died in defiance to the repressive regime” of the dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos will be among 15 martyrs and heroes whose names will be added to the list in the Walls of Remembrance at the Bantayog Memorial Center on Quezon Ave. near corner Edsa, Diliman, Quezon City on November 30.

The heroes from Mindanao are Evella V. Bontia, a bril-

DOUBLE TIME. Workers double their efforts to finish the huge drainage rehabilitation project at the junction of Tionko and E. Quirino Avenues that has been

F DAVAO, 13 causing inconvenience to motorists and residents in the area. Lean Daval Jr.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

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7-13, 1963, in order to resolve the issues affecting the Sabah claim, the Manila Accord was signed on July 31, 1963 by Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, and this included a joint statement by all three parties.

Throughout the negotiation, tension was high between the successor state (Malaysia) and the claimant country (Philip-

6

when they themselves admit that these compatriots of ours have been long-time residents of Sabah. Reports had been received in this Chamber that our nationals, when arrested by [the Malaysians], are quarantined in dark places and allowed to thrive on very little food and treated like ordinary criminals.

That is the way our nationals are

world that there is no such thing as an opposition I Sabah, neither in Brunei or Sarawak, hence the administration, even if it is the last thing it will do on earth, will not waste one centavo for an opposition that does not exist.”

This statement came just few days before the UN-sponsored electoral exercise was conducted in the contested ter-

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

Rep. Constancio B. Maglana and the Sultan Kiram II of Sulu (from www.mb.com.ph)

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE EXTENSION OF THE TENDER OFFER FOR SHARES OF

DAVAO DOCTORS HOSPITAL (CLINICA HILARIO), INC. Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, Inc. (“MPHHI”) (formerly Neptune Stroika Holdings, Inc.), hereby announces that its offer to acquire the remaining 587,154 common shares of Davao Doctors Hospital (Clinica Hilario), Inc. (“DDH”) which comprise approximately 65.18% of the total outstanding shares of DDH, is extended from its original deadline of 5:00 p.m. of November 19, 2015 to 5:00 pm of December 19, 2015. The Securities and Exchange Commission approved MPHHI’s request for extension of the Tender Offer Period in its letter dated November 6, 2015, and received by MPHHI on November 13, 2015

Except for the extension of the deadline of the Tender Offer and the corresponding adjustment of the start of the Settlement Date as indicated above, all the other terms and conditions of the Tender Offer as published remain unchanged.

The offer period is extended to give DDH shareholders more time to consider the offer and clarify some terms, and prepare the necessary documentary requirements.

Each stockholder of DDH is advised to read the full terms and conditions of the Tender Offer and SEC Form 19-1. Inquiries and requests for assistance and copies of SEC Form 19-1 may be directed to the Tender Offer Agent, whose address and telephone numbers are indicated above.

For more information and for inquiries regarding the tender you may contact the Tender Offer Agent as follows:

Atty. Dominador Maphilindo O. Carrillo SyCip Salazar Hernandez and Gatmaitan Law Offices The Penthouse, 17/F, Landco Corporate Centre J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City 8000 Telephone No. : (6382) 221-3917 Correspondingly, the start of the Settlement Date Email Address : dmocarrillo@syciplaw.com will also be moved to December 21, 2015.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

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EDGEDAVAO

8 ECONOMY

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

City warns of fake inspectors

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

USINESS establishments in Davao City, beware.

The Business Bureau has warned of fake inspectors going around presenting themselves as city government workers, especially during renewal period.

“We’re busy during renewal period of business permit in January until March.

We cannot afford to send our personnel outside for random inspection,” Business Bureau chief lawyer Lawrence Bantiding said in a recent press conference.

Bantiding confirmed the presence of fake inspectors presenting themselves to business establishments as bureau

staff.

These fake inspectors are even possessing fake bureau IDs, according to him.

Business owners, Bantiding said, should check the IDs of alleged inspector to ensure whether they are legitimate or not.

“Our IDs are changed every year with a validity period to ensure that only those renewed employees will have the IDs,” he said.

The Business Bureau will be changing its ID next year.

Meanwhile, the office has set next year’s business permit renewal from January 3 to January 20.

F CITY, 13

Problem identification, unity key to development - Aquino

M

EMBER economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) could easily overcome challenges through the proper identification of problems, as well as by working together with other economies, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday (Nov. 18).

In his remarks during the opening of the 2015 APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) dialogue with APEC Leaders, President Aquino, who chairs the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, shared his experiences in surmounting challenges as president.

“Regardless of the sector you belong to, the work of innovation begins with the correct appreciation of the problem, which leads to the correct

crafting of the solution,” he told the ABAC members and the APEC leaders.

“Policymakers must provide the environment that nurtures this. In turn, this requires the inputs from our business colleagues to maximize the synergy between us.”

The President also recognized the role of the private sector in this endeavor.

He said the closer economies work together, the more intelligently, efficiently, and swiftly they can evolve to meet the challenges of the increasingly globalized world.

“In my experience as President, I have seen how such partnerships revolutionize the lives of our countrymen and their communities for the bet-

F PROBLEM, 13

THANKSGIVING. SM Lanang Premier marketing manager Irish F. Carreon (left) gives details of the forthcoming mall-wide Thanksgiving special promotions on November 25 to 30 during FAST Fridays at SM Lanang

Premier. Also in photo is SM Store marketing manager Angel Lungtad, who announced the Thanksgiving Day Sale on November 25. Lean Daval Jr.

100 participants in Startup Weekend A

ROUND 100 participants composed of start-ups and students from different universities and colleges in Davao City have gathered for this year’s three-day Startup Weekend Davao (SWD) 2015 which started last Friday at PLDTSmart Business Center, PLDT Bldg., C. Bangoy Sr. St., Davao City.

“Startup Weekend is a 54hour event that aims to bring together local technopreneurs, developers, designers and business professionals to come together to share their ideas, form teams, build products and launch startup com-

panies,” said Dulce Rose Lada, global facilitator at Startup Weekend Davao and COO at TechTalks.ph.

Now in its fourth year, SW Davao gathered around 100 participants to host an environment that will bring together skilled and creative people together to tackle local problems through the use of technology.

“Startups can help solve problems such as social inequality, financial literacy and healthcare provisions,” said Angel Abella, vice president of Startup Davao.

SWD 2015 will also highlight the role of startups in

79 accounts opened with accumulated P39, 303.77 deposits in the Main Office including some branches.

Of the services applied, 33 accounts were opened on Birthdays Savings with P8, 650 combined deposits, 10 on Christmas Savings with P3, 140 total deposits, 30 on GA-

SAKA with P21, 213.77 gathered savings, 5 on Vacation Savings with P1, 300 collected deposits, and 1 on Double your Money with 5, 000 lump sum deposit.

As discussed in the formal launching program, the products feature varied rates, deposits, modes of payment, interests, and terms.

For Birthday, Christmas, and Vacation Savings, a member can open any account for self or for nominee/s with P210.00 initial deposit inclusive of passbook. Minimum deposit per month is P 100.00, unlimited accounts me be enrolled, and deposits can be withdrawn as Birthday, Christmas, or the planned vacation nears with 2% interest per annum.

Meanwhile, GASAKA offers P500.00 initial deposit for members who have at least P2, 000 in share capital with P100.00 minimum deposit per month and unlimited account offering. Minimum term is 5 years or on the 18th birthday of a nominee with 6% an-

boosting the Philippine economy.

“The Philippine startup ecosystem is still in its infancy, however, by 2020 the aim is to achieve at least 500 Philippine startups with a cumulative valuation of $2 Billion,” Abella said while citing the Philippine Roadmap for Digital Startups.

According to industry estimates, as of 2015, there are around 100 startups with $40 M in funding, 250 founders and 1,700 highly-skilled jobs created.

According to Lada, past Startup Weekends have taught past participants about

the local and global startup industry and gave insights on what Filipino businesses need to compete internationally.

“Most especially, the event encouraged participants to build their own startups and, from there, build a synergetic community of startup movers and shakers,” she added.

The winning ideas from local SW events will then be joining the Global Startup Battle (GSB). The top three teams in each city will compete in two regional rounds. Two regional winners from six regions will then face off against other teams to become the

F 100, 13

5 new savings products attract TC member-savers Noy lauded for efforts

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AGUM Cooperative launched five new savings products on November 9, Monday.

Leveling up its deposit services, Tagum Coop welcomes Birthday, Vacation, Christmas, GASAKA (Gasa Alang SA KAugmaon), and Double your Money savings to

its Savings and Credit Group (SCG) business.

Upon its launching, several members took the chance to open at least one account on the new offerings which feature affordable deposit amounts and high interests.

In just few hours of the launching, there were already

F 5 NEW, 13

to revive rubber sector R UBBER industry leaders lauded the Aquino government for giving the industry the needed support and serious intervention to save the industry.

Rhodora Dela Cruz Medalla, president of the Philippines Rubber Industry Association (PRIA), said, “I think it is only now that this sector has been given serious intervention from the government” just in time that the industry is on a down side because the price of raw product remains at the bottom.

Medalla said the government now has been doing serious advocacy among farmers on producing quality rubber products. She said the government has to find ways to help the farmers at this time and strengthen advocacy on good agriculture practices.

She cited for instance that the stocks of cuplump are laden with dirt hence it could not fetch a good price. “It is important that the products follow quality standards in order to meet the desired requirement of the buyer and will get a higher price,” she said.

Dr. Abdul Aziz Bin S.A. Kadir, secretary general of the International Rubber Research and Development Board earlier said that the rubber industry consists of

about 11 million tons in the world market.

He said about 50,000 products are derived from rubber and rubber is an important commodity. Kadir however said that while the price of rubber is affected by the global economy, it is important that players must sustain the quality of production.

He said with an improved economy there will be more demand of the product otherwise we’ll just wake up not being able to deliver and lost the opportunity.

Meanwhile, the industry sector in the Philippines has identified several challenges such as the lack of quality planting materials deterring production expansion; the absence of rubber research development center/institute and low productivity due to obsolete production technology and low quality rubber; the non-recognition of Standard Philippine Rubber (SPR) in the international market; weak manufacturing sector, low price of natural rubber, lack of marketing research and assistance for rubber products. The lack of promotional activities for rubber products both in the domestic and international markets was identified as another challenge. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO

9 HEALTH

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

C

HARLIE Sheen was only 20 when he came to the Philippines. It was the beginning of the People Power and he and other young actors were doing the filming of Oliver Stone’s Platoon. His performance earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor and became one of Hollywood’s bankable actors.

Sheen also starred in Wall Street (1987), Young Guns (1988), Eight Men Out (1988), Major League (1989), Hot Shots! (1991), and The Three Musketeers (1993). He was supposed to star in Born on the Fourth of July (1989) but it went eventually to Tom Cruise.

But it was his stint as a middle-aged womanizing bachelor on the sitcom Two and a Half Men, which made him America’s highest paid TV actor. In 2011, Sheen set a new Guinness World Record for Twitter as the “Fastest Time to Reach 1 Million Followers” (adding an average of 129,000 new followers per day as well as the Guinness record for “Highest Paid TV Actor Per Episode – Current” at $1.25 million.

Last Wednesday (November 18), he made news around the world when he admitted that he’s HIV-positive. In an exclusive TODAY Show interview, he said that “he has known of his condition for about four years but does not know how he contracted the virus.”

“I am here to admit that I am in fact HIV-positive,” the 50-year-old actor said on the NBC morning talk show. “It’s a hard three letters to absorb, you know? It’s a turning point in one’s life.”

HIV is an acronym for human immunodeficiency virus, an infectious particle that is too small to be seen with the naked eye or even a conventional light microscope. Bacteria are 1/1000 of a millimeter and can be seen with a light microscope. But with its HIV, it is 1/10000 of a millimeter in diameter and can only be seen with an electron microscope.

HIV causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the most severe form of HIV infection. “A person with HIV infection is considered to have AIDS when at least one complicating illness develops or his ability to defend against infection significantly declines,” The Merck Manual of Medical Information says.

Here’s how HIV invades the human body, according to the Merck manual: “The HIV progressively destroys some types of white blood cells called lymphocytes, which are important part of the body’s immune defenses. When lymphocytes are destroyed, the body becomes susceptible to attack by many other infectious organisms.”

The Merck manual claims that many of the complications of HIV infection, including death, “are usually the result of these other infections and not of the HIV infection itself.”

HIV is considered a retrovirus, which like many other viruses stores its genetic information as RNA rather than as DNA. “When the virus enters a targeted host cell, it releases its RNA and an enzyme (reverse transcriptase), and then makes DNA using the viral RNA as pattern,” the Merck manual ex-

plains. “The viral DNA is then incorporated into the host cell DNA. This reverses the pattern of human cells, which copy RNA from the pattern of human DNA (thus the term “retro” for “backward”).”

Other RNA viruses, such as polio or measles, do not make DNA copies but simply copy their own RNA. “Each time a host cell divides, it makes a new copy of the integrated viral DNA along with its own genes. The viral DNA can either lie latent (hidden) and do no damage or activate to take over the functions of the cell, causing the cell to produce new viruses. These new viruses are released from the infected cells to invade other cells.”

The transmission of HIV requires contact with a body fluid that contains the virus or infected cells, according to the Merck manual. Virtually, it is present in all body tissues and organs including the brain and spinal cord. “HIV can appear in nearly any body fluid, but transmission mainly comes from blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk,” it said.

Although low concentrations of HIV are also present in tears, urine, and saliva, transmission from these fluids is extremely rare. If ever a person gets HIV through kissing, he or she needs to imbibe 32 liters of an infected person’s saliva, according to Health Action Information Network (HAIN). “That would be enough saliva to fill up the gasoline tank of sixby-six truck. And the transfer should happen in one kissing session!” HAIN said.

Generally, HIV is transmitted in the following ways: · Sexual contact with an infected person, during which the mucous membrane lining of the mouth, vagina, penis, or rectum is exposed to contaminated body fluids. This usually happens when unprotected sex is practiced. · Injection or infusion of contaminated blood, as occurs with blood transfusions, the sharing of needles, or an accidental prick from an HIV-contaminated needle. · Transfer of the virus from an infected mother to a child before birth, during birth, or after birth through the mother’s milk.

“Susceptibility to HIV infection increases when the skin or a mucous membrane is torn or damaged -- even minimally -- as can happen during vigorous vaginal or anal intercourse,” the Merck manual states.

Sexual transmission of HIV is more likely if either partner has herpes, syphilis, or another sexually transmitted disease (STD) that produces breaks

F HEALTH, 13

Understanding HIV, the virus the causes AIDS

By Henrylito D. Tacio

It’s TIME to CHANGE THE GAME. Your ads come to life with vivid, clear, crisp colors.

Get the value for your money and don’t settle for an aweful copy on a badly printed space.

Advertise wisely.

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

As creative as you can get.

EDGEDAVAO

10 VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

EDITORIAL Victims twice over

W

HETHER we like it or not, the Philippines will be remembered for being the site of the worst attack on journalists in history. On November 23, 2009, in the sitio of Masalay, Barangay Salman, Ampatuan, Maguindanao, 58 people, 32 of them journalists, were killed by alleged followers of then-Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. In one fell swoop, the massacre elevated the Philippines to the number one spot as the deadliest place in which to work as a journalist, overtaking countries like Iraq and Afghanistan which at the time were undergoing conflicts much deeper than our country. What made it particularly abhorrent was that it was carried out allegedly by the ruling clan which exercised complete control over the province. Indeed, in the aftermath of the massacre a total of 18 accused were surnamed Ampatuan, including clan patriarch Andal Ampatuan Sr. who died on July 18, 2015 of liver cancer. Other Ampatuan family members on the list are Zaldy Ampatuan (the former governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) and former Datu Unsay town mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. One of the most disturbing aspects of the massacre was how easily the perpetrators had carried it out, as if they knew they were never going to be made accountable for it. With what can only be described as cold and calculated moves, the victims — who were in a convoy for the filing of the

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ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

KENNETH IRVING K. ONG ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO CHENEEN R. CAPON MEGHANN STA. INES Reporters NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN Lifestyle FUNNY PEARL GAJUNERA LEANDRO S. DAVAL JR. CHA MONFORTE ARLENE D. PASAJE Photography Correspondents Cartoons Columnists: MA. TERESA L. UNGSON • EDCER C. ESCUDERO • AURELIO A. PEÑA • ZHAUN ORTEGA • BERNADETTE “ADDIE” B. Columnists: CARLOS MUNDA • HENRYLITO D. TACIO • B. EDCER C. SR., ESCUDERO • ATTY. EMILY ZEN CHUA •ANGELO GREGORIO G. DELIGERO BORBON • MARY ANN “ADI” C. QUISIDO • LEANDRO DAVAL • NIKKI GOTIANSE-TAN • NICASIO AGUSTIN • EMILY • JOHN CARLO TRIA • VIDA MIAEconomic S. VALVERDE • Economic “GICO” G.• DAYANGIRANG ZEN CHUA • CARLOS MUNDA Analyst: ENRICO Analysts: “GICO” G.ENRICO DAYANGIRANG JONALLIER M. PEREZ

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certificate of candidacy of Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu — were taken out of their vehicles and herded into an open area in the town of Ampatuan where they were systematically executed. According to witnesses, some of the victims had to watch as their companions were slaughtered before their very eyes. The terror they must have felt as they waited for the same thing to happen to them is completely unimaginable. And then with equal calm, the murderers began burying the victims in a pit, using a now-infamous backhoe with the words “Property of the province of Maguindanao – Gov. Datu Andal Ampatuan Sr.” — once more indicating that they fully expected never to be caught and punished for the crime.

The impunity with which the massacre was carried out is utterly appalling, but just as appalling is the speed — or rather the lack of it — with which the legal case is inching along. It has been six years since that dreadful day and today little is to be shown in terms of legal battles that had been won. Indeed, the patriarch himself, Andal Sr., has already escaped justice, dying of liver cancer well before he could even be tried for his alleged masterminding of the massacre. And the way things are going, it will take many many years before the victims and their families ever get the justice they badly deserve. They are, in a very real sense, being victimized all over again by a seemingly uncaring government and a flawed justice system.

AGUSTIN V. MIAGAN JR Circulation

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HAIR

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

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The mane event at

PHILOSOPHIE

LOOKING GOOD is an art, the right style, clothes and accessories contribute every little bit to becoming a fierce fashionista, but the crowning glory of any fashionable look is a fabulous head of hair.

With a passion to provide the best head of hair for Dabawenyo urbanites, world-renowned creative hair artist, Jing Monis, opened Hair Philosophie Salon by Jing Monis at the second floor of the Abreeza Mall’s Corporate Center wing in a star-studded event last November 17.

The hair stylist of the stars, Jing has a who-iswho list of clientele from showbiz and fashion including Judy Ann Santos, Phoemela Branda, Nichole Baranda, Daniel

Matsunaga, Paul Jake Castillo, KZ Tandingan, Kaye Abad, and Paul Jake Castillo to mention a few.

“Jing is actually not new to Davao as he regularly holds styling appointments here every two months,” said Jing’s Davao business partner Janna Pimentel-Calma, “The demand for Jing’s services grew so much that we decided to open a full-service salon to offer the best when it comes to

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

UP AND ABOUT

TOP: Globe ambassadors Suzi Gamboa and DJ Mars Miranda.

LEFT: Globe Senior Advisor for Consumer Business Dan Horan welcomes everyone to the Globe iPhone 6s and 6s Plus launch.

Globe offers complete digital experience with iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus postpaid plans

Chief Finace Officer Albert de Larrazabal, SVP for Consumer Mobile Marketing Issa Cabreira, Senior Advisor for Consumer Business Dan Horan, Globe Platinum ambassador Tessa Prieto-Valdes, and VP for Postpaid Business Erli Valdez

UNDISPUTED number one postpaid brand Globe Telecom has unveiled its bestever offers for the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, giving customers the most complete digital experience with a fullpacked postpaid plan bundle with a lower monthly plan at a shorter contract period.

Globe SVP for Consumer Mobile Marketing Issa Cabreira shares how customers can get the new iPhones from Globe The iPhone 6s 16GB will be available on Plan 1799 with P450 monthly cashout while iPhone 6s Plus 16GB will be available on Plan 1799 with P650 monthly cashout, both on a 24-month contract period.

With Plan 1799, customers can enjoy a best-value postpaid plan package with bigger data allocation and free access to exclusive content for a complete digital experience. Under the postpaid plan bundle, customers get 10GB* of mobile data per month for worry-free connectivity, access to non-stop music, movies, and games with free access to Spotify Premium, HOOQ and top mobile games for 3 months, free access to Facebook, Viber and Instagram for 24 months, and unlimited calls to Globe and TM and unlimited texts to all networks all for 24 months.

Customers also get exclusive deals together with their postpaid plans that include free Gadget Care for 30 days; free 1GB of Globe Cloud storage for 24 months; and P500 discount on digital connectors from Globe for every P1500 purchase at the Globe Store**. Bonus deals also await new postpaid customers through the G Deals App, an all-in-one app that showcases offerings from various

deal sites. These deals include P600 voucher for Hotel Quickly, P200 voucher for GrabCar, no transaction fees for GMovies ticket bookings, and food treats from partner establishments booked via restaurant reservation app sEATs. “We are very excited to be offering the new iPhones in the Philippines once again with our unbeatable offers for the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus to cater to the burgeoning shift to the digital lifestyle. With our innovative offerings that showcase a lower monthly plan at a shorter lockup period, customers can maximize the features of the new iPhones with more than double the data allocation for uninterrupted surfing and free access to music, movies and games.

Completing the best digital experience in a postpaid plan is an entire 24-month free access to the world’s top social networking and messaging sites as well as unlimited calls to Globe and TM and unlimited texts to all networks. We have also added freebies such as discount vouchers

and exclusive freebies for an iPhone experience defi-

nitely made more wonderful,” said Globe Senior Vice President for Consumer Mobile Marketing Issa Cabreira. iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus bring a powerful new dimension to iPhone’s revolutionary Multi-Touch interface with 3D Touch, which senses force to enable intuitive new ways

to access features and interact with content. The new iPhones introduce a transformative new approach to photography called Live Photos, bringing still images to life by capturing a moment in motion. Live Photos, 3D Touch, 12-megapixel iSight camera, 5-megapixel FaceTime HD camera with Retina Flash and more are powered by the Apple-designed A9 chip, the most advanced chip ever in a smartphone, delivering faster performance and great battery life. iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are designed with Retina HD displays made from the strongest glass on any smartphone and 7000 series aluminum, the same alloy used in the aerospace industry, in gorgeous metallic finishes that now include rose gold.

To know more about how to get the new iPhone 6s and 6s Plus from Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph/ iPhone6s. For more information on the iPhone, visit www.apple.com/iphone.

PROUDLY PHILIPPINE-MADE. The Caraboom, a non-electronic amplifier made of rattan and other indigenous Philippine materials, will be a gift from mobile leader Smart Communications to each of the APEC Head of Economies when they visit the country next week. Designed by Cebu-based furniture manufacturer and exporter Pacific Traders & Manufacturing Corporation, the Caraboom showcases world-class Filipino artistry and innovation. Presenting the Caraboom to Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. is Smart Public Affairs Group head Ramon R. Isberto.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

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ENTERTAINMENT

Lone animated film entry hailed as Best Film at Cinema One Originals DIRECTOR Carl Joseph Papa’s touching animated drama film “Manang Biring,” the only animated entry in this year’s Cinema One Originals, was recognized as the Best Film at the 2015 Cinema One Originals awards night.

“Manang Biring” also won in two other categories namely Best Music and the Champion Bughaw Award.

Carl’s animated film revolves around Manang Biring, a terminally ill old lady diagnosed with stage four breast cancer who gets an unexpected letter from a dear loved one who wants to reunite with her for Christmas.

“I just entered ‘Manang Biring’ in Cinema One Originals because I wanted to fulfill our team’s dream to make a full-length animated film,” Carl said. He elaborated, “I am thankful to Cinema One Originals for giving us a chance to make our project. I hope our film will be screened in more cinemas in the Philippines.”

Meanwhile, director Ralston Jover’s “Hamog,” a story on the lives of four street children who suddenly get caught in a web of consecutive and unforeseen tragedies, reaped four recognitions including Best Editing, Best Supporting Actor, Best Actress, and the coveted Jury Award.

Young stars Therese Malvar and Bor Lentejas also captured the crowd’s attention at the awards

Lentejas, Hamog Best Director: Dayang Asu, Bor Ocampo Best Screenplay: Miss Bulalacao, Ara Chawdhury Best Cinematography: Dayang Asu (Albert Banzon) Audience Choice: Baka Siguro Yata, Joel Ferrer Best Sound: Bukod

night when they were hailed as the Best Actress and Best Supporting Actor of the festival, outshining seasoned actors in their respective categories.

The two newcomers from “Hamog” were speechless.

Therese, 15, who cried onstage as she accepted her second best actress award in her career, credited direk Ralston for her awardwinning performance.

“My role in ‘Hamog’ is serious.

I’m very thankful to direk Ralston for his help and mentorship for me to do well,” Therese shared.

She added, “I did not expect this at all. I did not even prepare a good speech. I’m just thankful to my management, my parents, and to God.” The awards night also paid tribute to Rox Lee, Joey Agbayani, Mike and Johnny Alcazaren, Nick Deocampo, and Raymond Red,

Kang Pinagpala (Jess Carlos) Best Music: Manang Biring (Dinno Christopher Parafina) Best Editing: Hamog (Charliebebs Gohetia) Best Production Design: Bukod Kang Pinagpala (Harley Alcasid) Champion Bughaw Award: Manang Biring

the pillars of Philippine alternative cinema.

Cinema One Originals is an annual film festival that allows talented Filipino storytellers to showcase their stories through film for 11 years. It is a local independent film festival of Cinema One, one of the cable channels of Creative Programs, Inc., a subsidiary of ABS-CBN. The following are the winners at the 2015 Cinema One Originals festival: Jury Prize winner: Hamog, Ralston Jover Best Film: Manang Biring, Carl Joseph Papa Best Actress: Therese Malvar, Hamog Best Actor: Dino Patrano, Baka Siguro Yata Best Supporting Actress: Chai Fonacier, Miss Bulalacao Best Supporting Actor: Bor

Maine Mendoza is now a Bench endorser Maine Mendoza is the newest face of Filipino lifestyle and clothing chain Bench. The news was made official by the company’s founder Ben Chan through an Instagram post.

For the Chinese-Filipino businessman, adding the Yaya Dub actress to the star-studded lineup of his celebrity endorsers was a response to the customers’ wishes.

“It’s official! We listen to the clamoring crowd and so we heeded! The right time has come to announce that Maine Mendoza is part of the Bench roster!” he wrote.

He gave the actress-host a warm welcome and urged supporters to watch for what they’ve been cooking up.

“Welcome to the BENCH family! Watch out for our latest campaign coming up soon,” he added.

Stars who endorse the brand include Solenn Heussaff, Marian Rivera, Carla Abellana, Tom Rodriguez and Dennis Trillo.

November 18 – 24, 2015

WANG FAM Pokwang, Benjie Paras PG

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

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY 2 3D Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson PG

1:00 | 3:45 | 6:30 | 9:15 LFS

SPECTRE/ *THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY 2 PG/*PG

Daniel Craig, Christoph Waltz/ *Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson 11:45 | 2:30 LFS / *5:20 | 8:00 LFS

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY 2 Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson PG

11:20 | 2:00 | 4:40 | 7:20 | 10:00 LFS

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EVENT URBANISSIMO A1 hair cutting, styling, and treatments.”

Janna also revealed that the entire Davao team trained in Manila to ensure that the highest quality salon service as well as the latest hair technologies and styles are also carried over to Davao.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

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L

ET’S briefly look at the ASEAN and the EU pharmaceutical markets:

ASEAN – The pharmaceutical industry in most ASEAN markets is growing and dynamic. This growth is driven by several factors including the emergence of more efficient healthcare systems that are expanding access for consumers. The Philippines is a good example as the Aquino administration is making use of the ‘sin tax’ revenues to achieve nationwide health coverage. In 2015 the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) will commence; the integration has started already and will drive expanding healthcare services and goods throughout ASEAN with more partnerships being formed, and greater cooperation in research and development being encouraged. The European pharmaceutical sector stands ready to be a collaborative partner.

European Union – The EU is the second largest market for pharmaceutical sales worldwide, and the pharmaceutical industry in the EU represents the 5th largest industrial sector amounting to 3.5% of total manufacturing production. In 2011, the sector invested Euro 27.5 billion in R&D in Europe.

Europe is also a major player in other healthcare products, such as equipment, diagnostics and services.

“H

ELPING, fixing, and serving represent three different ways of seeing life,” wrote American author Rachel Naomi Remen. “When you help, you see life as weak. When you fix, you see life as broken. When you serve, you see life as whole. Fixing and helping may be the work of the ego, and service the work of the soul.”

And in some instances, the service you render to others may bring you to higher position in life. Such was the story related by Fulton Oursler: One stormy night, an elderly man and his wife entered the lobby of a small hotel in Philadelphia. The couple had no baggage.

“We know that all the places are filled up,” said the man. “But can you possibly give us a room here?”

The clerk replied that there were three conventions in town, and there are no more accommodations anywhere.

“Every guest room is taken,” he explained.

“But still I simply can’t send a nice couple like you out into the rain at one o’clock in the morning. Would you perhaps be willing to sleep in my room? Oh, I’ll make out just fi ne; don’t worry about me.”

The next morning, as he paid his bill, the elderly man said to the clerk: “You are the kind of manager who should be the boss of the best hotel in the United States. Maybe someday I’ll build one for you!”

The clerk laughed. And he laughed again when, after two years had passed, he received a letter containing a round-trip ticket to New York and a request that he called upon his guest of that rainy night.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

VANTAGE POINTS

11

Healthcare Sector EUROPE BIZ

S u s tainable access to innovative healthcare and continued advancement in research and development of Henry J. Schumacher innovative biopharmaceuticals are critical components for economic growth in the EU and ASEAN. ASEAN leaders identified healthcare as one of the 12 priority sectors to help drive ASEAN integration and creation of the ASEAN Economic Community. ASEAN health ministers have also emphasized that health development is a shared responsibility and must involve greater participation from all groups. EU business commends this commitment for collaboration among governments and the private sector.

Patient safety and producing quality medicines is the foundation of the EU pharmaceutical industry, but necessary, burdensome, or inconsistent regulations impede or delay access to medicines in ASEAN member states.

Market access restrictions in the form

of preferential procurement and listing procedures affect the ability of bring innovative products to market.

Inadequate intellectual property protection and enforcement have a detrimental impact on the availability of safe medicines, and create potential health hazards to consumers.

The EU pharmaceutical industry will continue to support the ongoing reforms and act as a partner of local and regional health authorities to deliver on their healthcare goals.

Key recommendations: - The EU pharmaceutical industry recommends greater and more frequent private sector consultation in advance of the development of domestic regulations, and that private sector issues be more frequently addressed at the ASEAN level.

- The industry recommends clear and transparent procurement or listing procedures for biopharmaceuticals that recognize the value of innovation, rather than create disincentives for access to innovative medicines.

- The EU pharma industry urges ASEAN governments to prioritize IPR protection and develop initiatives to reduce the delays and backlogs that exist in granting patents.

- The industry recommends greater in-

The EU research-based pharmaceutical industry remains committed to cooperation to achieve the common goals of enhancing trade and improving access to innovative high quality healthcare in the Region. In the Philippines, the industry is committed to work closely with the Department of Health and the Food & Drug Administration to bring better and safer products faster to Filipino patients. The European Chamber of the Philippines (ECCP) just concluded a highly interactive Healthcare Forum between government and the private sector, involving technical assistance experts provided by the European Union, which resulted in the decision of DOH USec. Kenneth Hartigan-Go to have these dialogues on a monthly basis, starting December 8.

peace, and in generosity. For these things, these are not mere words, but acts, which go all the way, right up to their last breath. Even their death is a gift, and resurrection is born from this kind of death.”

Richelle E. Goodrich, author of Smile Anyway: Quotes, Verse, & Grumblings for Every Day of the Year, says service is more than just a smile. “(Service) is an acknowledging wave, a reaching handshake, a friendly wink, and a warm hug. It’s these simple acts that matter most, because the greatest service to a human soul has always been the kindness of recognition.”

Nobel Peace Prize winner Mother Teresa said it best: “At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, and how many great things we have done.

We will be judged by ‘I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me. I was homeless, and you took me in.’”

Hannah More, an English religious writer and philanthropist, says that even a smallest act you do is a great service to the person who receives it. “One kernel is felt in a hogshead; one drop of water helps to swell the ocean; a spark of fire help to give light to the world. None are too small, too feeble, too poor to be of service. Think of this and act,” she points out.

There was this doctor who had never refused a call either for rich or for poor. But now, he was tired and retired. Then, one midnight, he received a call.

“Have you any money,” the doctor inquired. “Certainly,” the man from other end

replied.

“Then to go the new doctor,” the retired physician said very politely. “I’m too old to get out of bed for anyone who can pay for it.”

“Service is the measure of greatness; it always has been true; it is true today, and it always will be true, that he is greatest who does the most of good,” said American orator and politician William Jennings Bryan.

Criss Jami, author of Killosophy, once wrote: “A man who goes into a restaurant and blatantly disrespects the servers shows a strong discontent with his own being.

Deep down he knows that restaurant service is the closest thing he will ever experience to being served like a king.”

That’s why when you serve others, do it with open heart and gladness. A businesswoman stopped at a coffee shop and ordered a cup of coffee. The waitress grudgingly delivered it and asked, “Anything else?”

“Yes,” said the businesswoman. “I’d like some sugar, cream, a spoon, a napkin, and a saucer for the cup.”

“Well, aren’t you the demanding one,” snapped the waitress.

“Look at it from my point of view,” said the businesswoman. “You served a cup of coffee and made five mistakes.”

American minister Marion G. Romney reiterated: “We lose our life by serving and lifting others. By so doing we experience the only true and lasting happiness. Service is not something we endure on this earth so we can earn the right to live in the celestial kingdom. Service is the very fiber of which an exalted life in the celestial kingdom is made.”

To serve others

In the meTHINK ON THESE! tropolis, the old man led the young clerk to the corner of Fifth Avenue and Thirty-Fourth Street and pointed to a vast new building there, a palace of reddish stone, with Henrylito D. Tacio turrets and henrytacio@gmail.com watchtowers, like a castle from fairyland cleaving the New York sky.

“That,” the declared, “is the hotel I have just built for you to manage.”

As if hit by lightning, the young man, George C. Boldt, stood fixed to the ground. His benefactor was William Waldorf Astor and the hotel, the most famous of its day, the original Waldorf-Astoria.

A lot of famous people have said something about service. India’s Mahatma Gandhi once said: “Service which is rendered without joy helps neither the servant nor the served. But all other pleasures and possessions pale into nothingness before service which is rendered in a spirit of joy.”

In Compassion and Meditation: The Spiritual Dynamic between Buddhism and Christianity, author Jean-Yves Leloup wrote: “If you are a Buddhist, inspire yourself by thinking of the bodhisattva. If you are a Christian, think of the Christ, who came not to be served by others but to serve them in joy, in

ter-ministerial coordination at the ASEAN and domestic level so that trade, health, economic matters can be effectively and cohesively addressed.

- The EU pharmaceutical industry recognizes that ASEAN member countries take the threat of counterfeit and substandard medicine seriously, and recommend greater collaboration among all healthcare stakeholders be developed regionally to address this growing cross-border issue and promote awareness among consumers.

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12 ICT HUB

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

From digital friend to ‘frenemy’ 29% takes a device into the bathroom, despite the risk of being hacked and spied on

R

ESEARCH by Kaspersky Lab and B2B International shows that the relationship between users and their digital devices is often closer than between best friends, with 29% taking them into the bathroom and 25% sharing secrets with their device that they don’t want anyone else to know.

However, this trust could be leaving users at risk as devices can be hacked and private information exposed to the world.

The study found that the overwhelming majority of people (87%) store important, confidential and sometimes irreplaceable information on their smartphones, including passwords, messages, photos, contacts, files and more.

One in four says their device carries sensitive information they wouldn’t want anyone else to see.

Further, these devices are carried and used everywhere, including at work (52%), in a car (41%), on public transport (39%), in bed (58%) and

even in the bathroom (29%).

Outside the home, these devices face potential risks that include damage, loss and theft, but also hacking by cyber-criminals intent on stealing data or even spying on the user. Devices that are used on open Wi-Fi networks are particularly vulnerable to attack.

However, few people take action to reduce their risk. Our study found that just 26% of users adapt their online activity when on an insecure public Wi-Fi network, despite the fact that hackers can easily intercept data and passwords.

Only around half (47%) takes advantage of the security features that come with the device, such as remote blocks or find-my-device capability.

The impact of not protecting the devices we carry with us can be far-reaching.

According to the study, a quarter of those whose device had been lost or stolen discovered that personal or secret information had been leaked.

But it doesn’t follow that

users are automatically more secure once at home. Here, they face different and sometimes greater risks, particularly in sensitive places such as bedrooms and bathrooms, when a hacked device could easily turn the webcam on the user.

“The bond of trust between users and their devices can lead them to forget about security. It’s hard to imagine that something we carry close to us at all times and turn to for everything, could ever become a threat. But it can, and does happen. A digital friend can become a digital frenemy,” said Victor Yablokov, Head of Mobile Product Line at Kaspersky Lab. “A failure to appreciate the potential risks and to protect our devices and information accordingly could mean the loss of confidential information, money and even our identities. The device camera that we use to look out onto the world can be hacked and used to look into our world instead. Security is simply not an optional extra,” he warned.

To ensure a digital friend doesn’t transform into a digital frenemy, Kaspersky Lab recommends that people always set strong passwords for devices and for their online accounts, install a trusted security software and take care when accessing websites and downloading apps, particularly over insecure Wi-Fi networks.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

Duterte... FROM 4

give more details since there is an ongoing theft and qualified theft case against the former employees.

Duterte said the 13 employees including Zobieta were allegedly dismissed by the company because they failed to remit the commission income.

The mayor said he was not saying the allegation was true but this must also not be disre-

garded.

He said an investigation should be conducted to clear things.

Duterte said he will let the wife of Zobieta and the other workmates to choose which investigating agency will conduct the probe, whether the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) or the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

zations.

In addition, she also named the Philippine Army as an active partner in helping reach remote areas – which are otherwise impossible to reach by health workers. Aside from helping in the malaria program, the soldiers, said Sanico, are active in the conduct of medical outreach programs, construction of toilets in the communities, as well as in the conduct sputum test for the early detection of tuberculosis cases, among others.

Meanwhile, aside from attaining zero malaria cases in a five-year period, other basis in achieving a malaria-free status include a functional laboratory, stocks of insecticides, equipment and other supplies needed in times of outbreak.

Sanico said that eliminating the malaria burden is an impressive achievement but the great challenge now lies in the sustainability of the program in the communities.

She noted, however, that with the strengthened health

programs of the provincial government, under the leadership of Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon, she is positive that this status will be sustained.

Other significant milestones attained by the province in terms of health include achieving the lowest malnutrition rate in the region, the construction of new Barangay Health Stations, and the establishment of a sophisticated, state-of-the-art Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center equipped with facilities that cater the health needs of the poor constituents of the province.

Other municipalities in Davao Oriental that also received recognition as malaria-free include Caraga, Cateel, Governor Generoso, Tarragona, and the City of Mati. The towns of Baganga, Banaybanay, Boston, Lupon, Manay, and San Isidro, on the other hand, have maintained their malaria-free status. By Karen Lou Deloso/ Photo by Yon Maybuena

More than 30,000 business establishments are expected to renew their business permit in next year’s One-Stop-Shop renewal of Mayor’s Permit in two different venues- Sanguniang Panglunsod (SP) Building and in the NCCC Mall of Davao in Matina.

“We intended to start on a Sunday to ensure that we will be able to give our business owners ample time to renew their Mayor’s Permits,” Bantiding said in the recent I-Speak media forum.

The Business Bureau will be implementing different weekly schedule for each venue.

For those clients in both the SP building and NCCC Mall, the bureau will be catering its clients from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m only during weekends.

However, the bureau will be operating from 8:00 a.m. in the morning until 7:30 p.m. on the first week which will be from January 4 to 8 in SP and

will be extended up to 9:00 p.m. the following week starting from January 11 to 15.

On January 18 and 19, the personnel of the business bureau will be catering up to 9:00 p.m. and up to 12 midnight on the last day which is on January 20.

Meanwhile, clients who resort of renewing their business permits at the NCCC Mall of Davao should be in the area from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the first week.

The following week, the business bureau will be extending it operation until 7:30 p.m. from January 4 to 8; and until 9:00 p.m from January 11 to 15 and 16 and 17.

Clients will be catered until 10 p.m. on the last day of renewal on January 20.

Bantiding said the business owners can still renew their permits even beyond January 20, but they will pay 25 percent penalty from their gross sales tax.

nual interest.

Double your Money in 10 years is a limited offering in which a member can open a minimum of P5, 000.00 and a maximum of P 5, 000, 000.00 lump sum deposit and after 10 years, member’s money doubles. This promo ends on May 31, 2016.

General Manager Juris D. Perez who led the launching told the members that

Tagum Cooperative “remains committed to serve all the members” through addressing their needs and planning more ways to improve their living conditions.

Mrs. Lucia Dagpin, one of the firsts to open an account on GASAKA, expressed her happiness as she considered the product a big help to her granddaughter in the future.

(Tagum Cooperative)

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Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies in Region XI (ARENA XI) President and DPWH XI Regional Director Mariano R. Alquiza leads in the ceremonial toss during the opening of the 2015 ARENA XI Sportsfest.

Attended by the various heads of national agencies in the region, the said

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sporting activity will be held every Thursday and Friday until its culmination and awarding ceremonies in December. The event speaks for the commitment of all the ARENA member-agencies for unity and friendship among public servants.

United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor.

The change of command was presided by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff General Hernando Iriberri.

The ceremony last Saturday also marked the retirement of Baladad after 39 years

of service to the AFP. Baladad has received awards and recognitions from both military and civilian sectors for his excellent generalship, leadership and management as Commander of EastMinCom. He also received the Philippine Legion of Honor from

President Benigno S. Aquino III. “These are all compliments of what we have done for the betterment of the people we serve; these also highlight the accomplishments of EastMinCom,“ he said.

“Yes we have done a lot in Eastern Mindanao in or-

der to win the peace and we can always be proud of that.

We have accomplished more than the higher headquarters expectation because we have worked hand-in-hand with civilian stakeholders, local police and local government units,” he added. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

GSB Champ.

Winning teams move into an online video pitch competition for a chance to win prizes designed to help their startup idea succeed.

The panel of judges are Joey Limjap, Vice President & Head of ICT Research and Development of PLDT; Ernie Tomas Jr.,Chief of the Investment Promotions Division of the Mindanao Development Authority; Eric Clark Su, CEO and Co-founder at Lifebit; John Naranjo, CEO & Founder at Ingenuity; Rica Villanueva-Gadi, Managing Director at New Options Worldwide Outsourcing Services.

Mentors for the event are: Timmy de Jesus, Country Manager for the Philippines at JFDI.Asia - Joyful Frog Digital Incubator; Eddie Ybañez, CEO and Co-Founder at MiCab; Gilmar Padua, CEO at Infinityhub. com; Eliza Kirsten, President, Creative Director & Owner of Illumedia; Glorypearl Dy, CEO & Founder at SwitoTwins, Inc.; Marvin Te, Creative Director at Plainly Simple Studios; Franch Maverick Arellano Lorilla, COO and Co-Founder, Heat Stress Analyzer by CloudFarm; and Jan Rey Altivo, CEO and Co-Founder, Heat Stress Analyzer by CloudFarm.

CHENEEN R. CAPON

ter,” he said.

The Chief Executive mentioned Nestle’s NESCAFÉ Plan and the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program with local fast food chain Jollibee and rural communities. The program has helped train farmers to be more knowledgeable about farming.

With big companies working with the sector that provides them the ingredients, quality control is also enhanced, he said, adding that in turn, farmers learn more, earn more, and are assured of stable income.

“This is a win-win situation. What is ignited here, and later reinforces, is a virtuous cycle of efficiency and shared growth,” he noted.

“To my mind, such efforts are representative of what ABAC and the rest of the APEC Community do for our region: to inspire a sense of possibility and optimism, which gives birth to innovations and new pathways in business, economics, and governance.”

In this regard, evolution borne of innovation takes place, he said, adding that by evolving, economies become more efficient and eventually competitive.

President Aquino said that as APEC leaders face various challenges with the business community, he hopes this would be the next step towards a Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific (FTAAP), a region-wide growth through services and the expansion of infrastructure finance.

He also said he expects the meetings to promote the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), sustainable development, as well as rule of law.

“In all our discussions, may we invite our leaders and ABAC representatives to share your thoughts and insights in an open and friendly manner, which has become the hallmark of this gathering,” he said of the scheduled ABAC meeting with APEC Leaders. (PCOO News Release)

in the skin or inflammation of the genitals. “However, HIV can be transmitted even if neither partner has other STDs or obvious breaks in the skin,” it says.

HIV transmission also can occur during oral sex, “although it is far less common than during vaginal or anal intercourse,” the Merck manual informs.

HIV is relatively fragile and can be easily killed by household disinfectants. But once it is inside the human body, there is no way a person can eliminate the dreaded virus.

An information sheet circulated by the Department of Health (DOH) said HIV antibodies do not kill the AIDS virus. The antibodies and HIV remain in the bloodstream of a person until the rest of his or her life. Only a special blood test can detect whether a person is HIV-positive.

Unlike flu, which already gives you the symptoms the following day after acquiring it, HIV infection can show no symptoms for several years.

Studies have shown that it could be as short as three years or as long as 12 years.

Symptoms differ widely from country to country. In most cases, AIDS starts with flu-like symptoms that resemble mononucleosis (the socalled kissing disease). These may persist for two weeks to a few months after HIV enters the body.

“After the first stage,” says The Medical Advisor: The Complete Guide to Alternative and Conventional Treatments, “symptoms may disappear for several years. How the AIDS patient takes care of himself or herself during this time is extremely important, because HIV is multiplying in the body, slowly at first and then rapid-

ly. As the virus systematically destroys the cells that fight off infection, the immune system begins to fail and the patient becomes vulnerable to various illnesses and tumors.”

Among the diseases that affect people with HIV include tuberculosis (TB), Kaposi’s sarcoma (a tumor primarily affecting the skin), pneumonia, herpes, shingles and weight loss. “Many complications of HIV infection, including death, are usually the result of these other infections and not of the HIV infection itself,” the Merck manual states.

Health experts say condom use is one of the most effective ways of stopping the spread of HIV. But most Catholic priests are against it because they said condom promotion is “dangerous and ineffective.”

One priest said the most effective way to prevent the spread of the virus was to have a change in sexual behavior.

The idea of “safe sex,” he said, lulls men and women into complacency, thinking that using condoms would protect them from the disease. Instead, the Catholic Church encourages “men and women to live morally upright lives, and to practice marital fidelity and chastity within and outside marriage.”

Health experts say a diagnosis of AIDS should not be taken as an immediate death sentence. “With proper care, the AIDS sufferer can stave off the worst symptoms and live a productive life for many years,” The Medical Advisor points out.

On why film actor Sheen has gone public, he said: “I accept this condition not as a curse or scourge, but rather as an opportunity and a challenge. An opportunity to help others. A challenge to better myself.”

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Ford PH unveils new look Explorer Sport T

HE new Ford Explorer Sport arrives in the Philippines with more smart technologies powered by the ground-breaking EcoBoost engine technology. The new Explorer Sport delivers an ideal combination of form and function that has redefined yet again how the industry will think about the sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment.

Innovative, high-performance and fun-to-drive, the new Explorer Sport is the latest member to join Ford Philippines’ vast SUV lineup; currently the largest offering in the market today.

“The new Explorer Sport continues to lead the way in innovation, power and performance in a smart vehicle that you would want in an SUV,” said Kay Hart, managing director, Ford Philippines.

The new Explorer Sport has been updated inside and out to offer a more comfortable driving experience that complements its new rugged look.

Customers can enjoy the tuned suspension and will benefit from its unique steering gear, front and rear springs, struts and rear

dampers for a more dynamic driving experience, all while sitting high on 20-inch Machined Aluminum Wheels with Painted Pockets offering an improved ride and handling.

Interior changes include new door seals, an enhanced sound package with engine sub-frame mounts specially tuned to reduce vibration.

The new Explorer Sport’s aggressive yet sophisticated hood badge grabs attention.

The design of the high gloss black grille speaks of confidence in every movement.

Outside, the new Explorer Sport exudes ruggedness with its robust design. The heightened grille and LED headlamps paired with a new closed-off lower roof rack and a new rear spoiler help to improve aerodynamics.

The new Explorer Sport is equipped with even more smart technologies designed to further enhance both the driver and passengers’ ride experience, such as a front 180-degree camera with washer, front part assist, smart-charging USB ports, and a hands-free liftgate.

The new Explorer Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter

twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 delivering 370 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 475 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. The

new Explorer Sport is also mated with 6-Speed SelectShift Automatic for a smoother driving experience.

The new 3.5-liter Explorer Sport will be available in all Ford dealerships nationwide this month, at a price of PhP

2,819,000. It comes in three elegant colors: Tuxedo Black, White Platinum, and Magnetic Metallic.

Toyota launches all-new 2016 Innova T OYOTA revealed the final piece of the IMV puzzle with the Indonesian launch of the allnew 2016 Innova. And like the Hilux and the Fortuner which were revealed before it, it successfully levels up the game in every aspect imaginable from design to drivetrain to sophistication. This could very well be the Filipino family’s next default choice.

Designed under the tagline, “The Legend Reborn”, the all-new Innova is developed with a completely new platform that’s far removed from the first-generation model. It starts out with a more sophisticated exterior that’s bolder and athletic than before. It takes on the Toyota family look with its “Keen Look and Under Priority” stance. The front-end is dominated with a large grille that goes all the way to the bumper flanked by available LED headlights. 16inch wheels and tires are now standard equipment with the highest grade model (Q) getting 17’s. Higher trim models also have side mirror turn signal repeaters with puddle lamps while the range-topper gets a soft closing rear hatch (Smart Close Back Door).

Inside, the Innova gets an interior that’s much closer to a passenger car than a commercial vehicle. Keeping its

8-seater capacity (now with headrests for all occupants), the Innova’s cockpit is highly reminiscent of the Hilux and Fortuner with its asymmetrical design. Available features include a high-resolution LCD display sandwiched between the LED-backlit gauges, a four-spoke steering wheel with multi-function controls, one-touch power windows for all, a touchscreen audio system with smartphone mirroring, automatic climate control, Bluetooth with voice command, and even interior ambient lighting. Other notable comfort features of the new Innova include front seat back trays, one-touch tumble second row, and a keyless en-

try system with push button engine start/stop.

Measuring in at 4,735 x 1,830 x 1,795 (L x W x H, in mm), the Innova keeps almost the same dimensions as the current model. However, it gets an entirely new drivetrain for more power and refinement on the road.

Gasoline engine variants get a 2.0-liter Dual VVT-i engine (1TR-FE) generating a healthy 139 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 183 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. For the diesel-fed variants, it gets the same 2GD-FTV engine found in the Hilux. The 2.4-liter engine outs 149 horsepower at 3,400 rpm and 343 Nm of torque at

1,200 to 2,800 rpm. Manual transmission models get five forward ratios while automatic have the privilege of a 6-speed automatic with sequential shift override.

True to its role as a family vehicle, the all-new Toyota Innova is standard (at least in Indonesia) with three airbags with higher trim models getting seven airbags. ABS with EBD is now standard while Hill Assist Control and Vehicle Stability Control are available features on the highest trim. ISOFIX child seat anchors are now standard.

The all-new Toyota Innova is expected to land in the Philippines sometime early to mid 2016.

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EDGEDAVAO Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial Region Branch 11, Davao City

SPEC. PROC.NO.11-791-12 IN THE MATTER OF THE SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED ROBERT KILMAR, ADELAIDA KILMAR & RENARD ROY KILMAR, Petitioners

x----------------------------------------------------------/ AMENDED ORDER

BY THIS verified SECOND AMENDED PETITION and for the reasons therein stated, the above-named petitioners, assisted by counsel seek for an Order of this Court to apportion, divide and award the estate specifically the bank accounts (08063073-342 for Bank of Montreal and 293-1-500239-9 for Standard Chartered Bank ), RRIF with Bank of Montreal Financial Group with Account No. 013336286 and Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-179317 of the Register of Deeds of Davao City of the petitioners who are the legal heirs of the deceased Robert Kilmar.

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, the same is hereby SET for continuation of hearing before this Court , sitting at the Hall of Justice, Candelaria St., Ecoland, Matina, Davao City, on May 21 2013 at 8:30 in the morning, at which place , date and time, and interested person may appear and show cause, if any, why the same should not be granted.

Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioners once a week for three (3) successive weeks in a newspaper published in the City of Davao and of general circulation in the said city and the provinces of DAVAO as determined by raffle in accordance with law.

Furnish each with copy of the petition and of this Order the Register of Deeds of Davao City and the City Legal Office of Davao City as counsel for the City of Davao.

SO ORDERED

March 4, 2013, Davao City Philippines. ( SGD ) VIRGINIA HOFILEÑA EUROPA PRISIDING JUDGE

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EDGEDAVAO Sports 19 Que moves within striking distance VOL. 8 ISSUE 170 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22 - 23, 2015

O

UT of nowhere, Angelo Que of the Philippines shot up to contender status with an early tee off for a less-windy morning at the Masters course.

The three-time Asian champion fired a solid six-under 66, bogey-free, to move up within striking distance of the title with an 8-under total 208 in the third round of the $1M RW Manila Masters at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club.

Firing a pair of 71s in the first two rounds, Que birdied the 5th from 30 feet then picked up in the last nine holes by canning five birdies. He almost chipped in for eagle on the 18th that would have given him a 9-under total in 54 holes.

“I like where I am now. I’m trailing but I’m up there now,” said Que, who was two strokes back

CELEBRATION TIME. Rachel Ann Daquis takes a lift from teammate Aby Maraño after the Petron Blaze Spikers defeated Cignal to advance to the finals of the PSL Grand Prix. Volleyball PH photo

from current leaders Jbe Kruger of South Africa and Hung Chien-Yao of Chinese Taipei.

“With less wind, it became easier,” he also said.

Also, solid putting served the Filipino well. He made 25 putts overall including just 11 at the back nine.

“Coach Bong Lopez told me through phone before the third day to roll my shoulders more when I putt. It was something that I haven’t done lately. I went back to that basic stroke and it worked wonders f o r me today,” he stated.

SHOWDOWN It’s Petron against Foton in PSL Grand Prix Finals D

EFENDING champion Petron eliminated Cignal, 25-20, 26-24, 20-25, 25-13, in their knockout semifinal on Thursday night in the Philippine Super Liga Grand Prix at The Arena in San Juan.

The win enabled the Blaze Spikers to arrange a title showdown with Foton, which earlier subdued Philips Golds in the other do-or-die semis, 25-18, 26-24, 18-25, 20-25, 15-8.

Brazilian import Rupia Inck made 20 points while Rachel Anne Daquis and Dindin Santiago-Manabat added 14 and 12 markers, respectively, as Petron stayed on course for a third consecutive title that will match Philippine Army’s record in the three year-old league.

“Gusto naming maggrand slam kaya pinipilit namin na ma-achieve ‘yun,” said Petron coach George Pascua.

But the veteran mentor was quick to add that the road to hat-trick is far from easy because of the high-cal-

iber field in this tournament.

“Ito na (ang pinaka mahirap na conference) kasi lahat ng teams unpredictable kasi balanced lahat depende na lang sa desire ng bawat team ‘yun na manalo kasi hindi mo pwedeng sabihin ito mahina, ito malakas,” he said.

The best-of-three finals starts on Thursday.

Pascua believes that their championship experience is their biggest advantage over first-time finalist Foton.

“Good team ang Foton pero experience-wise medyo angat kami doon kasi veterans na itong mga players ko and kasi first time nilang umano (makarating)

ng finals. Hopefully magamit namin ang advantage namin sa kanila,” he said.

American reinforcements Amanda Anderson and Ariel Usher finished with 20 and 18 points, respectively, for Cignal, which will face Philips Gold in the classification match for third on Saturday.

MEMORIAL GOLF. King Rivas, Janice Cañedo Rivas, Joie Shyne Cañedo Loreto and Jhong Loreto pose during the awarding rites of the 1st Jun Cañedo Memorial Golf Tournament at the Rancho Palos Verdes. Boy Lim

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