VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
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‘I WILL NEVER CURSE MY POPE’ Rody says statement on traffic woes directed vs gov’t
EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society
By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY
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RESPECT. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte shows respect to Fr. Ranier Sranhe SVD by joining the prayer during the blessing and laying of the time capsule of Central Lab. Diabetes, Wellness, Heart and Kidneys Inc. last month along Elpidio Quirino Avenue. Duterte came under fire from his detractors recently for allegedly cursing Pope Francis during his proclamation by the PDP-Laban Monday in Manila. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.
AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte has clarified he was not cursing at Pope Francis but rather against government for its incompetence during his proclamation Monday by the Partido ng Demokratikong Pilipino-Laban ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) as its standard bearer for president in 2016. “I can never curse my Pope. I was cursing at the incompetence of government. If it was taken by some in that light, I sincerely apologize. I will continue to curse so our suffering nation takes action,” Duterte said reaction to criticisms hurled against him for allegedly cursing the Pope when he discussed about government’s failure to address the traffic problem during the papal’s visit to the Philippines in January. But, the camp of Duterte admitted the mayor was sad that some people have taken his speech as being disrespectful to the Pope and that he should have explained his point further. “Mayor Rody Duterte expressed sadness and regret that the part of his speech mentioning Pope Francis in relation to the monstrous traffic gridlock in January came across as being disrespectful to the person of His Holiness Pope Francis,” Duterte spokesperson Peter T. Laviña said in a statement issued Tuesday afternoon. “It was farthest from his mind and was never his intention. He acknowledges that he should have explained better his point on the matter of that monstrous traffic gridlock. He
also fully understands the reactions of many who, at the very least, are displeased and disappointed, at this unfortunate and regrettable incident,” Laviña added. During the PDP-Laban proclamation at the Century Park Sheraton Hotel, Duterte was cursing for the heavy traffic he himself experienced when Pope Francis arrived in the country early this year. He said it took him five hours to get to the airport. Laviña said Duterte’s strong statement on the incompetence of government to address the traffic problem in Metro Manila “was his expression of anger borne out of the helplessness of the millions of commuters suffering from this daily gridlock.” Some detractors of Duterte, however, were quick to ride on the issue by making it appear the mayor had said something bad against the Pope. One of them was Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, who wrote on his Twitter account: “Mayor Duterte, you can say all you want about politicians but you don’t curse my Pope Francis! #defendthepope.” Laviña said the mayor’s speech was taken out of context. “It was never intended to be directed to the person of His Holiness Pope Francis who has his utmost respect. It was out of exasperation at the inutility of the functionaries in government not only during that his-
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Comelec disqualifies Grace Poe
THE BIG NEWS P2
2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
Cayetano rescues Duterte anew
EMPTY CHAIRS. The front row seats inside the Sangguniang Panlungsod remain empty as the councilors occupying these have yet to arrive during yesterday’s regular session due to different personal reasons. Lean Daval Jr.
SC issues TRO vs Comelec’s ‘No Bio, No Boto’policy
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HE Supreme Court (SC) en banc on Tuesday issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the “No Bio, No Boto” policy of the Commission on Elections (Comelec). In a press conference, SC Public Information Office (PIO) Chief and Spokesman Atty. Theodore O. Te said “the Court resolved to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) effective immediately until further orders from the Court directing the respondent Comelec to desist from deactivating registered voters without biometric information.” Likewise, the SC ordered respondent Comelec to submit its comment within a non-extendible period of 10 days from notice. The SC also directed the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) to submit its comment
within the same non-extendible period as respondent Comelec. At the same time, the SC required the personal service on all parties by the Clerk of Court of the en banc. In a 32-page petition for certiorari and prohibition, Kabataan party-list Rep. James Mark Terry Ridon and other petitioners sought for the exercise of judicial review to assail the constitutionality of the deactivation of registration of voters without biometrics and enjoin the implementation of provisions of the Republic Act No. 10367 or “An Act Providing for Mandatory Biometrics Voter Registration.” The Kabataan party-list also sought for the nullification of Comelec Resolution No. 9721 dated June 26, 2013, Resolution No. 9863 dated
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Duterte in Taguig: Graft has to stop
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RAFT has to stop!” Mayor Rodrigo Duterte told a highly-partisan crowd in Taguig Sunday evening. Duterte decried the sickening bureaucracy that has bred a web of corruption in government which in turn is one major reason why the country is lagging behind its neighbors in terms of development. “Dito sa gobyerno…ano ka dito 48 signatures,” he gave as example to prove his point. With 48 signatures, he said the investor will have to fork over a significant amount particularly those involving economic enterprises and industries. He said that there transactions where investors shell out
P300,000 to P500,000 or even P2 million to P3 million for the needed document. The mayor also cited as example the processing of land clearances where there are so many signatures and payments before the title is releases. “I don’t care how you do it but I will just give you 72 hours,” Duterte said, citing his policy in Davao. After 72 hours, employees are no longer allowed to release the document which has to be forwarded to his office with an explanation on why it took more than three days to finish. The 2016 most-awaited presidential candidate who
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By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.
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abf@edgedavao.net
ERE comes Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano again to the rescue of Davao City Mayor Rodrgo R. Duterte. Cayetano on Tuesday defended Duterte from detractors over the mayor’s statement during his proclamation by the Partido ng Demokratikong Pilipino-Laban ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) proclamation Monday at the Century Park Sheraton Hotel in Manila. Duterte was assailing government for its failure to address the traffic problem in Metro Manila and shared his experience when he was hit by a monstrous traffic during the visit of Pope Francis in January. “Traffic ang minura ni Mayor Duterte hindi si (Mayor Duterte cursed the traffic not) Pope Francis. He was not directing his anger and frustration at the Pope, he was expressing the people’s frustration over the government’s incompetence in handling the metro’s worsening traffic sit-
uation and the daily suffering and inconvenience it causes,” Cayetano said in a statement. Cayetano said it is unfortunate that the Mayor’s statements were grossly taken out of context since Duterte deeply respects religious beliefs and the Filipino’s spirituality. “Those who know him can attest to this. He himself has a deep relationship with God. He doesn’t talk about it publicly but I know this personally having discovered this through my constant engagement with him,” he said. He said he understands Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Archbishop Soc Villegas’ statement on Duterte’s alleged remarks against the Pope. “Pope Francis is a man of God. He is loved and respected by millions of people, from different religious affiliations worldwide, Mayor Duterte included. But even Pope Francis would never allow people to
suffer at his expense,” he said. Cayetano reminded the public that the national debate should focus on how to change the country for the better. “We are here to change the country, not to change him,” he said. “Mayor Duterte’s environment and experience brought him up speaking tough, rough and uncensored. The Mayor came from a time and place of great conflict and suffering,” he added. Cayetano said while the Mayor’s words and statements were stronger than what is deemed socially accepted by some, and may rub some in the wrong way, the most important thing is, he is authentic and his heart is in the right place. He is who he is. “He will always fight for the people and never allow them to suffer,” he said. In an interview, Duterte said he was merely expressing the people’s outrage. He said it
was never his intention to hurt sensibilities or disrespect the Holy Father. The mayor said his anger is directed at the government and the 18 years of systemic neglect that has resulted in the suffering of the people. Cayetano also questioned the sincerity of Press Secretary Edwin Lacierda in defending the Pope. The senator said Lacierda himself justified the whitewashing of the hiding of the poor during the Pope’s visit in the country. He also said the government’s lack of action in defending the public from problems like the tanim-bala scam and the pilferage or taxing on balikbayan boxes are a disservice to Pope Francis’ faithful following. Cayetano said before Lacierda points an accusing finger at Mayor Duterte maybe he should look at his own backyard and see how the government’s flawed policies and in-
who is seeking the cancellation of Poe’s certificate of candidacy for president. The members of the division are Commissioners Al Parreño, Arthur Lim, and Sheriff Abas. Poe’s running mate, Sen. Francis Escudero, confirmed that she was disqualified by the Comelec second division, saying he received the information 10 minutes ago, but
did not provide additional details. According to Elamparo, Poe failed to meet the 10-year residency requirement mandated by the Constitution for a presidential candidate. The Comelec division said Poe became a resident only on July 2006 when she applied for dual citizenship. It said this would make her two months short of meeting the
10-year residency rule. Meanwhile, Poe’s lawyers insisted that she became a resident in May 2005. Poe’s camp said they will appeal the decision with the Comelec en banc. Elamparo’s petition was just one of the four petitions seeking to disqualify Poe from the presidential race. Amita O. Legaspi/KBK, GMA News
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Comelec division disqualifies Poe T
HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has disqualified Senator Grace Poe from the 2016 presidential race for not meeting the residency requirement of the Constitution for presidential candidates. In a report from GMA News Online, Comelec second division voted 3-0 in favor of the petition filed by lawyer Estrella Elamparo,
NEWS 3
EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
Zozobrado wants review of regulations on PUVs
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AVAO City Councilor Rachel Zozobrado filed a proposal before the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) to review regulation of the operations of public utility vehicles (PUVs) in the city specifically taxicabs. Zozobrado raised the concern before her colleagues after several taxi drivers complained about their operators who compel them to drive their units straight for days without any rest day at all. “The only time that they get a rest day is when they are able to find a relyebo or someone who can serve as their alternate driver. But even in this case, the taxi operators call their attention and reprimand them for being absent,” Zozobrado said in her privilege speech during the regular session yesterday. The lady councillor from the third district said the logic behind this situation is that the taxi operators want to get a steady income seven days a week the whole year through at the expense of the health and well-being of the taxi drivers and the safety of the passengers they ferry and the public in general. Some of these drivers, Zozobrado added, have complained that they are literally having sleepless nights over this and are fearful that sooner or later, their bodies will give
up or they will get into an accident whichever comes first. “Most taxi drivers drive their units 24 hours a day with several hours of shuteye. If they are mandated to continue this straight for weeks then there is a reason to worry not only about their health but also about our road safety,” she said. Last year, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte met with the taxi operators to clarify the issue on boundaries and the boundary system has been blamed for many accidents not only in this city but also in other parts of the country, according to Zozobrado. “Under the boundary system, taxi drivers generally pay from P1,000 to P1,200 as “boundary” to taxi operators for operating their taxi cabs for 12 hours use of the vehicle,” she said. She added that the daily income of the taxi drivers will depend on what remains after the boundary and gasoline expenses are deducted. With most of the taxi drivers in a hurry to meet their boundaries, they often get into accidents which do not only affect our commuters economically but, worse, it also endangers lives. Duterte had previously asked lawmakers to introduce measures that would fix the
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Olongapo RTC convicts Pemberton of homicide on Laude slay
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HE Olongapo City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 74 on Tuesday convicted United States Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton guilty beyond reasonable doubt of homicide for the killing of Filipino transgender Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude in 2014. In the ruling of Olongapo City RTC Branch 74 Presiding
Judge Roline Ginez Jabalde, which was read by Clerk of Court Atty. Gerry Gruspe, Pemberton was sentenced to suffer an imprisonment of from 6 to 12 years in a jail facility in the Philippines. The RTC also ordered Pemberton to pay the amount of Php50,000 for civil indemnities to the heirs of Laude. (PNA)
SHOW OF SUPPORT. Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre encourages Dabawenyos to wear blue and red ribbons every Friday until election day to show support to the presidential bid of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte. He made the announcement during yesterday’s regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod. Lean Daval Jr.
SP passes P182.7-M SB 4 on 2nd reading By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.
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abf@edgedavao.net
HE Davao City Council yesterday passed on second reading Supplemental Budget No. 4 amounting to P182.7 million. Included in the SB 4 is the P30.012 million allocation for the Christmas bonus for the City Government workers, although the guidelines have yet to be issued by the Department of Budget (DBM). Based on the report of the City Council’s committee on finance, ways and means, and appropriations headed by councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang, all of the 2,501 regular employees of the city will receive P12,000 each. Of the total bonus, P10,000 will be for the Productivity En-
hancement Incentive (PEI) and the P2,000 is for Productivity Incentive Benefits (PIB). “But these bonuses are still subject for the computation of DBM (Department of Budget and Management),” Dayanghirang said. The committee said in its report that the DBM has yet to release the guidelines on the grant of bonuses to the employees. “Disbursement of funds therefore shall be done only after receipt of guidelines and shall be subject to the existing accounting and auditing rules and procedures,” the committee report. Dayanghirang said his committee will hasten the pro-
cedure for SB 4 since the City Council only has a few more sessions before going on a short break. “We will finish this before the last session,” he said, adding it will probably be on December 14. Of the total budget, P120.142 million will go to the City Mayor’s Office for peace and order, Lingap project, Crisis Intervention, and Barangay Development project. The source of the additional budget for this year came from the savings in personal services, maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE), and the previous year’s adjustments. The city had savings of
Enrile on Duterte: ‘He just tells who he is’
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CARE. A young man patiently feeds an elderly man who appears to be his grandfather at a restaurant inside SM City Davao. Caring for loved ones especially the elders is one of the Filipino traits that is still practice by today’s generation. Lean Daval Jr.
P58.012 million form the personal services as of September 30. The city also had a savings from MOOE particularly, P288,000 from vice mayor’s office, P4 million from rehabilitation and maintenance of traffic signalization, P5 million from City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) and P2 million from People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB). The city had a total of P81.252 million savings from the previous year’s adjustment. The city government got savings from development fund with P32.092 million and economic enterprise with P2.124 million.
OR veteran lawmaker Juan Ponce Enrile, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte was just being true to himself when he admitted that he has two wives and two girlfriends and he cursed Pope Francis for causing much traffic during the latter’s visit in the country last January. ”He just tells who he is. He’s actually challenging the smoothness or roughness of the Philippine society,” Enrile, a 91-year-old senator, said in a media interview on Tuesday. During his proclamation as standard bearer by the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Laban ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) last Monday, Duterte said he will eliminate corruption and criminality and will push for
federal system of government. Duterte, however, was criticized particularly by the netizens for admitting he is a womanizer and for using profane and off-color words in expressing what he should do if elected president. ”You know Rody or Digong is very astute politician. You see, right now, everybody is curious about him. They talk about him and he wants that,” Enrile said. ”My impression is he’s a reluctant candidate but let the people judge. Let them render their judgment,” he added. PDP-Laban president Senator Aquilino ‘Koko’ Pimentel III defended Duterte, saying the curse words were not di-
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4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO
EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
Community unites for sustainable rehab “A
FTER typhoon Pablo badly hit our area in December 4, 2012, our community realized that the success of rehabilitation initiatives do not just depend on the funds produced by government, but how quickly and efficiently a community responds to such crisis,” shared Janet B. Diel, Barangay Chair and Kalahi-CIDSS Volunteer of Barangay Olaycon. Awarded as the barangay with the Most Improved Local Governance during the Kalahi-CIDSS 1st Regional Bayani Ka Awards in 2014, Olaycon villagers have proven that no tragedy could break them if they commit to be united especially in times of crisis.
Kalahi-CIDSS or Kapit-Bisig Laban sa KahirapanComprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services, is a community-driven development program of the Philippine Government aiming to empower people through sustainable development, enhanced participation in local governance, and management of poverty alleviation projects. “It was already dawn when I heard the wind rustling through the trees. I immediately went outside and checked the situation of my constituents. When I went back home, I wondered why it was suddenly so bright and windy, I realized then that I didn’t have a roof anymore,”
People involvement, preparation: Best response to disasters
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EOPLE participation in preparing for disasters as well as rigorous implementation of local disaster plans are the best ways to combat future disasters. This was affirmed by local officials and residents alike who experienced the intense ferocity of Typhoon Pablo in December 2012. The community should be involved in problem and project identification. The participatory community-based approach must be employed for them to appreciate their role in governance. They should be made aware of their responsibility and involvement in the plans. Transparency here is crucial too. The community down to the family must know what their government is doing, underscored Engr. Lolito P. Campos, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator of New Bataan. Beverly Jane B. Dela Peňa, New Bataan Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer pointed out the importance of preparedness. “We have to be ready with our early warning and communication facilities as well as our data. We should activate our housing council, revisit our zoning plan, enhance our systems like our records and database. We also need to strengthen the MDRRMC and BDRRMC.” Appropriate handling and coordination with disas-
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Community in action Despite the delay of implementation of Kalahi-CIDSS due to typhoon Pablo, the
community remained enthusiastic and cooperative when the implementation resumed in 2013. “As testament to their commitment, barangay assemblies boasted of 100% attendance and active participation in meetings,” said Joel B. Quiňo, former Area Coordinator of Kalahi-CIDSS in Monkayo. According to residents, the level of awareness and social preparation imparted to them prior to ‘Pablo’, strengthened their commitment and trust. In fact, their accomplishments exceeded their expectations. One of the most important and urgent projects carried out through Kalahi – CIDSS was the establishment of a potable
water system. With an estimated cost of P 645,000.00, the project was expected to cover four puroks. After careful implementation and imbued with the spirit of bayanihan, the projected number of puroks covered was doubled. Priorities were realigned, and those who had more resources didn’t hesitate to give way to those who were not faring well. Purok leaders mobilized volunteers to haul the pipes and other materials to save on labor cost. In the end, the project was able to serve the entire barangay. Through the ingenuity of community members, chal-
lenges were defeated and Olaycon became an icon for learning on post-calamity area rehabilitation. “The government needs to provide help that is sustainable. The community driven development (CDD) approach of Kalahi-CIDSS helped the victims rise after the typhoon. With DSWD’s initiative, the people were able to rebuild their lives and celebrate their newfound resilience,” Governor Arturo T. Uy said. “Because of Kalahi-CIDSS, the spirit of massive volunteerism heightened in our barangay. With this, we were able to effectively overcome the aftermath of Typhoon Pablo in our community,” Diel added.
ter responders like the international NGOs and other humanitarian communities must also be learned by the affected communities like theirs, she noted, adding that they were so overwhelmed by the droves of them entering their town and the nature of assistance they brought. Virgie G. Madino, 23, of Sitio Plateau, Barangay Andap said, “We have to prepare food or canned goods because whenever we need to vacate our place, we are always ready. It’s not good judgment to mount your preparation during the actual occurrence of disaster.”
Building up We need to be always prepared. We now conduct Disaster Preparedness and Management training in every barangay. Almost done now, UNDP is assisting us in formulating the CLUP (Comprehensive Land Use Plan) on which our disaster plan will be anchored, shared New Bataan Mayor Lorenzo L. Balbin Jr. More than 2400 families in New Bataan lost their homes and nearly 2000 perished while some went missing. For Mayor Eutropio S. Jayectin of Montevista, for people to really assimilate the lessons and attain genuine change, “We need to demonstrate to them what to do and
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Notorious ASG member arrested in Jolo, Sulu
OINT military and police operatives have arrested a notorious member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the province of Sulu, an official announced Tuesday. Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, Joint Task Group Sulu commander, identified the arrested ASG member as Mussin Luddin, listed as number nine most wanted person in the province.
Diel narrated. “I perfectly remember how our community rose after Pablo. Our leader, Janet, even when her home was hit by the typhoon badly, she was one of the first responders in repairing the damage caused by Pablo. She helped us without reservations, shared Pedro Bolonos, a volunteer in Kalahi-CIDSS. The implementation of Kalahi-CIDSS in the village unleashed the massive volunteerism spirit of the residents in Barangay Olaycon.
Arrojado aid Luddin was arrested around 3:10 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu. Arrojado said Luddin has a standing warrant of arrest for multiple murders and serious physical injuries. He said Luddin is a follower of the late Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Juhurin Husien. (PNA)
PASKUJUAN IN TAGUM. Tagum Mayor Allan L. Rellon (right) and DSWD 11 director Priscilla N. Razon lead the ribbon cutting ceremonies during the opening of the DSWD PaskuJuan Festival and Bazaar at the Tagum City Trade and Cultural Center on Sunday. Also in photo are (from left) DSWD
assistant director Ma. Vilia L. Vigil, Tagum City Councilor Allan D. Zulueta, DSWD planning chief Estrella D. Brigole, DSWD team leader for Davao Del Norte Ellen Nahial, and Tagum City Social Welfare and Development Officer Nora H. Lupiba. (DSWD)
South Cotabato allocates P20M peace and order fund for 2016 T
HE provincial government of South Cotabato has allocated around PHP20 million for the programs and activities next year of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC). Lailyn Ortiz, Department of the Interior and Local Government provincial director, said such funding was based on the budget for 2016 earlier endorsed by the PPOC to the local government. She said half of the allocation or around PHP10 million was set aside for the maintenance and other operating expenses of the council while
remaining PHP10 million will be used for the proposed activities of its members. “The major proposals include the purchase of barangay vehicles and patrol jeeps, and provision of livelihood assistance for the rebel returnees,” Ortiz said. The Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) proposed for the establishment of halfway house for rebel returnees. The facility will serve as venue where the returnees will be re-oriented and taught how to manage their livelihood projects before they return to their commu-
nities. “Aside from providing livelihood, we also take some personal concerns of the returnees so we need to have an established halfway house,” said Lt. Col. Ronald Jess Alcudia, 27IB commanding officer. For the Comprehensive Local Integration Program or CLIP, the council allotted an initial PHP100,000 as immediate assistance to the rebel returnees. Another PHP5 million was proposed for the rollout of various community organizing activities and to aug-
ment the allowances of local military auxiliary personnel. Alcudia said they will enlist additional auxiliary personnel next year to help secure around PHP10 billion worth of infrastructure projects that are being implemented in the province. The South Cotabato Rehabilitation and Detention Center or provincial jail proposed for the construction of an additional building to cater to its increasing detainees. The council also approved the allocation of around PHP6 million for the confidential fund next year. (PNA)
EDGEDAVAO
5 ECONOMY
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
BPM firm eyeing 800 workers By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net
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ORE opportunities are knocking on the door of job seekers in Davao as the IBEX Global Philippines targets to hire more than 800 new agents until April next year to cater its new
US-based client. “We will be hiring an additional of 1,800 employees both for Manila and Davao to cater our new client which is a big telecommunication company in US,” Resi Cayabyab,
ASIA CEO FORUM. Architect Jun Palafox (center) interacts with the audience on how to improve Davao City during yesterday Asia CEO forum held at The Marco Polo, Davao. Palafox, who discussed latest architectural trends and urban planning, was joined by fellow resource persons JLL Philippines
IBEX Global Philippines site director for Davao operation, told reporters at the sidelines of the Asia CEO Forum at the Marco Polo Davao. Cayabyab said IBEX will be providing pure technical
support to its client. It will be an additional telecommunications client which the firm is currently offering billing and customer service support. “Most of our newly hired are now on training,” Cayaby-
research, consulting and valuation head Claro Cordero (second from left), IBEX Global Davao site director Resi Cayabyab (seconnd from right) and Davao City Investment Promotions Center (DCIPC) officer in charge Ivan Cortez (rightmost). Lean Daval Jr.
ab said. The firm will be hiring more agents next year. Meanwhile, Cayabyab also said the operation of IBEX in davao will be expanding as it will add additional agent stations before the year ends. He said IBEX here will have a total of 1,100 agent stations by December 22 which will located in a space that used to be the Discovery Centrum in SM Lanang Premier. At present, he said IBEX here has a total of 620 seats of which 451 agent stations. Cayabyab said Davao City continues to be a destination for expansion of operation of business process management (BPM) firms because of the presence more BPM spaces and talents. He said the city has still untapped talent pool which can be employed by incoming BPO companies. In fact, results of a research conducted by IBEX here revealed than only 10,000 graduates from big colleges and universities here are hired by the BPM industry. “There are more emerging talents not only from the city
but also from nearby cities,” he added. “I think the basic requirement like having a college degree and English proficiency of the industry is met. The rate of hires among applicants is high,” he said. Cayabyab said what is more important to be attended is the negative perception of the graduates to the BPM industry. “The preferred industry of graduate in Manila is BPM industry but here in Davao it is still banking,” he said, adding the topmost concern of students here is being assigned to graveyard shift. “But if you think of the totality of the industry there is so much benefit in the BPM industry aside from high compensation and incentives,” Cayabyab said. Employees in the industry, he said, also enjoy faster appraisal of compensation and rewards. Compensation of some employees in IBEX Global here ranges from P18,000 to P25,000 depending on job assignment.
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EDGEDAVAO
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
2 universities eye Davao expansion By CHENEEN R. CAPON
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crc@edgedavao.net
WO Manila-based universities are eyeing to expand their operations in Davao City anytime soon, City Administrator Atty. Jesus Melchor V. Quitain said. The two schools--Lyceum of the Philippines University and Mapua Institute of Technology—want to establish school buildings in the Northern part of the city. “These are new investments that will change the
real estate sector of Davao City,” Quitain said in yesterday’s Asia CEO Forum at the Marco Polo Davao. Quitain said MAPUA has already acquired a 2.3 hectare area in Sasa, while LPU will be set up near the vicinity of the Francisco Bangoy International Airport. Quitain said the city continue to entice investors because of the good governance here as well as its stable peace
Davao lacks int’l grade warehouse D
AVAO City lacks international grade warehousing facilities to house the supply of goods for the consumption industry to take advantage of Davao’s strategic location, being the transit point in Mindanao to other countries in Asia. During the Asia CEO Forum at the Marco Polo Hotel Davao on Tuesday, Claro Cordero Jr., head of the research, consulting, and valuation of the Jones Lang LaSalle Philippines, Inc., told reporters that the presence of such facilities will further the growth of the local economy. “What limits the investors is lack of supply. Majority of those who will come are not heavy (manufacturing) but the logistics and warehouse,” he said. Cordero said there’s a market for international grade warehouses, considering that Davao is a high-evolving city and companies will need more of those for safekeeping of their goods. “More companies are coming here. Those are the infrastructures that we should be looking at,” he said. The executive also mentioned about the city’s advantage in the upcoming Asean Economic Community (AEC), discussing that for the
local economy to catch up with the possible influx of workforce, it has to improve the number of houses and other infrastructures to catch up with the growing demand. In his presentation, Cordero said the city has reached around 191,600 square meters of existing office supply, but an additional of 57,400 sq. m. is expected between the last quarter of 2015 and 2017, with the construction of new infrastructures. He added that the peace and order situation in the city is attractive to the new investors that makes Davao an ideal area for the expansion plans of foreign and national investors outside of Metro Manila next to Cebu City. Cordero added that putting up more business process outsourcing (BPO) spaces in the city will also help drive the growth, as the city has been “very much in the radar of the investors” being the repository of the big BPO companies expanding their operations outside of Manila. From the financial crisis in 1997 until 2003, he said the Philippines, particularly Manila, recovered because of the BPO investors who filled in the vacant office spaces since 2004. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)
HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Australian Government are set to launch a partnership project that will enhance the capacity of the DSWD in responding to natural disasters and other emergencies. The launch, which includes the groundbreaking for a new warehouse, will be held on December 3 at the National Resource Operations Center (NROC) in Pasay City. DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman and Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Bill Tweddell will lead the groundbreaking ceremo-
nies, signifying the start of the construction of the warehouse. They are also expected to make the announcement on the new partnership and what the public can expect from it. Other guests from partner agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other member-agencies of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) are expected to attend the ceremony. The DPWH will take the lead in the construction of the warehouse, which is expected to be finished within the first semester of 2016. (DSWD)
and order. The presence of CEO from different companies for the one-day forum, he said, signifies their confidence to the city as an investment destination despite the recent kidnapping accident that transpired in the Island Garden City of Samal last September. The first-ever Asia CEO Forum in Davao City aims to position the city as potential operation center for business
expansion in the country, aside from Cebu. The event was organized by Chalre Associates. Chalre Associates CEO Richard Mills said in a statement that the investment community is now exploring and looking into key cities outside Metro manila as potential areas of investment. “Davao City is fast progressing to become one of the major growth areas in the
country, and this has attracted the attention of global and multinational enterprises looking to expand their presence in this bustling region of the Philippines,” Mills said. Mills said the holding of the Asia CEO Forum serves “as a platform for business and industry leaders to know more about Davao, as well as engage in potential investment opportunities with the Mindanano business community across
sectors such as BPM, real estate, tourism, and agriculture.” Speakers who highlighted the city as an investment hub were Architect June Palafox, principal architect and urban planner of Palafox Associates; IBEX Global Philippines site director Resi Cayabyab who discussed the industry’s opportunity for growth and employment; Claro Cordero, head of research, consulting and valuation of JLL Philippines.
SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET. Davao City Councilor Bonifacio Militar asks City Accountant Rizalina Justol on the sources of fund for the proposed P182.7-million Supplemental Budget No. 4 in yesterday’s regular session of the City Council. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.
Tan’s Emperador buys Fundador P
HILIPPINE brandy giant Emperador Inc. has sealed a deal with Beam Suntory to acquire the company’s Spanish brandy and sherry business, including four liquor brands, for PHP13.8 billion. The acquisition includes the iconic brands of Fundador Pedro Domecq, the Philippines’ largest selling premium imported brandy brand; Terry Centenario, Spain’s no.
1 selling brandy; Tres Cepas, Equatorial Guinea’s no. 1 brandy; and Harveys, United Kingdom’s no. 1 selling sherry wine. “The acquisition further strengthens Emperador’s dominant position as the number one brandy company in the Philippines and in the world,” the company told the local bourse. The purchased assets include Bodegas Fundador,
known to be Spain’s largest and oldest brandy cellars established in 1730, as well as production facilities, ageing cellars, vineyards and state-ofthe-art blending and bottling facilities, in Jerez, Spain. Other assets also include a brandy distillery in Tomelloso, Spain with sufficient ageing inventory of brandy and sherry, which Emperador officials believe will drive the company’s future growth.
Emperador, Inc. president Winston Co said the acquisition of the Spanish assets and Fundador Brandy is expected to boost the company’s revenue and profit. “With the combined global reach of Whyte & Mackay and Fundador, our expanded product portfolio will have access to more than 100 countries around the world. In our pipeline are several proudly
LOCAL chapter of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) is planning to build a monument to Datu Bago, the local chieftain who initially fought Spanish encroachment in the 1800s. Ericson Europa UAP district director said the Datu Bago monument was conceptualized by a newly formed Datu Bago chapter, one of the UAP chapters in Davao City. «The group wanted to honor the person to whom the chapter was named so they thought of having a monument.» Europa said.
Being UAP members they are supporting initiatives of fellow UAP chapters. The group has asked the support of the City Government particularly the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) who is in-charge in the upkeep of parks and monuments in the city. CENRO head Engr. Elisa Madrazo in turn has asked the help of the Davao Historical Society Foundation as to where the monument will be placed. Engr. Manuel Mendros, DHSF board of director said that he will be recommending that the monument be
placed near the University of Immaculate Conception campus in Bankerohan, Mendros said that this was Datu Bago’s stronghold. Datu Bago was a chieftain from Sulu who fought the expeditionary force of Don Jose Oyanguren who wanted to officially establish Spanish authority and create a Christian settlement in Davao during the mid 19th century. Mendros said he is recommending that the group build a diorama type of monument to depict the battle between Oyanguren and Datu Bago. He estimates the monument could have an
area of at least 50 square meters. Currently there is no monument to Datu Bago who is widely regarded as a local hero for fighting Spanish colonization. Datu Bago was eventually vanquished in the battle and Oyanguren was able to build a settlement that became the nucleus of Davao City, one of the most progressive cities in the country. The monument project aims to enlist talented Davao artists in creating the monument. Europa said that the monument will be of no cost to the government. (PIA/RG Alama)
FTAN’S, 10
DSWD gets support Davao architects eye Datu Bago monument A T
EDGEDAVAO
7 HEALTH
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
Is cholesterol really bad for your health? Text and photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO
I
S cholesterol really bad for your health? Before answering that question, let’s talk first things first. “Cholesterol,” explains a booklet produced as an information service by Bristol-Myers Squibb (Philippines), Inc., “is a type of fat mainly produced by the liver and which is essential for your normal body functioning.” Without cholesterol, a person ceases to live. “You need it for hormones, DNA, and cell membranes,” Dr. Ian Graham, professor of cardiovascular medicine at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, toldReader’s Digest. If not for cholesterol, you won’t be able to read this as your brain couldn’t function. “Cholesterol is a normal and essential component of your body, and you need a certain amount of cholesterol in order for the body to make bile acids which aid in digestion, important hormones and vitamin D, and for the structure of cell membranes,” the booklet points out. Important hormones refer to estrogen, testosterone and cortisol. Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone and is responsible for development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. On the other hand, testosterone is a male sex hormone that is important for sexual and reproductive development. Meanwhile, cortisol influences, regulates or modulates many of the changes that occur in the body in response to stress. It was François Poulletier de la Salle who first identified cholesterol in solid form in gallstones in 1769.
However, it was not until 1815 that chemist Michel Eugène Chevreul named the compound “cholesterine.” Actually, the word comes from the Ancient Greek chole- (bile) and stereos (solid) followed by the chemical suffix -ol for an alcohol. “Cholesterol is both our friend and foe,” an article published by Medical News Today states. “At normal levels, it is an essential substance for the body’s normal functioning, but if levels in the blood get too high, it becomes a silent danger that puts us at risk of a heart attack.” Here’s the reason why, according to the booklet: “Excess cholesterol can build up in the walls of your arteries. Arteries supply blood to all organs, including the heart, and a significant build-up of cholesterol in an artery can cause a blockage, and your blood cannot flow properly.” Imagine what happens when you block the end of a garden hose with your fingers -- less water comes out and the pressure builds up. But wait, when your doctor tells you about your cholesterol levels, what does he actually means? Anita Bartholomew, in an article which appeared in Reader’s Digest, said the doctor is referring to the levels of several different types of particles of which cholesterol is just a part. “These tiny particles are called lipoproteins, because their exteriors are made up of proteins, while the interior contains the lipid cholesterol and a second lipid called triglyceride,” Bartholomew explained. Triglycerides make up most of the fat in the body.
The Merck Manual of Medical Information says there are different types of lipoproteins. “Each type has a different purpose and is broken down and excreted in a slight different way,” it explains. “Lipoproteins include chylomicrons, very low density lipoproteins (LVDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL).” LDL is considered the “bad” cholesterol as it increases the risk of atherosclerosis and thus the risk of heart attack and stroke. HDL is touted the “good” cholesterol as it help remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries. VLDL is downright ugly cholesterol as it greatly increases heart health risks. In general, a blood cholesterol level of lower than 5.5 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) is considered desirable. A level between 5.5 and 6.5 mmol/L is a moderate risk, particularly if associated with other “risk factors” such as smoking and high blood pressure (hypertension). However, these ranges should only be taken as a guide, and there is an ideal range for your age and sex. Older people tend to have higher levels than younger people, so a level that is normal for one person may be high for another. For most people, eating healthier foods is one of the first best step in getting cholesterol under control. Meat, cheese and egg yolks are sources of cholesterol. You also get cholesterol from animal foods, such as egg yolks, meat and cheese. Saturated fat (found in some meats, dairy products, chocolate, baked goods, and deep-fried and processed foods) also adds
Adobo
Burger cholesterol to the body. Trans fats, too, which are found in some fried and processed foods. “Cut back on the cholesterol and total fat — especially saturated and trans fats — that you eat,” the Mayo Clinic suggests. “Saturated fats, like those in meat, full-fat dairy products and some oils, raise your total cholesterol. Trans fats, which are sometimes found in margarines and store-bought cookies, crackers and cakes, are particularly bad for your cholesterol levels.” According to several stud-
ies, being overweight or obese can also lead to higher blood LDL levels. To manage this risk factor, experts recommend regular exercise and watching what goes into the tummy. But the primary cause of high cholesterol is genetic in origin. “This hereditary factor, which may be aggravated by high-cholesterol foods and saturated fats, causes the level of cholesterol in the blood to increase markedly,” the booklet says. “If you have a genetic predisposition to, it is even more important for you to pay more
attention to the risk factors for heart disease such as eating habits, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking and high blood pressure,” it adds. It should be pointed out that heart problems are not always related to high cholesterol, although the Geneva-based World Health Organization estimates that cholesterol is responsible for a third of coronary heart disease cases. “That’s significant, because cardiovascular disease is the number-one cause of death globally, accounting for more than 17.5 million deaths a year,” wrote Bartholomew. Pork
EDGEDAVAO
8 VANTAGE
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
EDITORIAL This country needs to know Rodrigo Duterte
I
S the Philippines ready for Mayor Duterte? That is the question. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s first official speech on Monday after declaring his bid for the Presidency formally introduced the feisty Mayor to the rest of the country. For those who are not used to Mayor Duterte or have heard him for the first time, his mouth spews fire. He delivers expletives like they are ordinary punctuations in the English language. When he was heard cursing the Pope, not a few self-declared moralists hit Duterte for disrespecting the head of the Roman Catholic Church. Just a few minutes after Duterte spoke, he was trending on social media. He virtually hogged all publicity. And if you know your politics, publicity whether good or bad, is still publicity. Those from the political rivals of the tough-talking Mayor
EDGEDAVAO
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immediately jumped the gun on Duterte in an obvious move to gain political leverage. This is a lesson for everyone. Mayor Duterte’s penchant for using expletives in statements and for being unbridled and raw in his comments is a trait unique of him. He does not hide anything when he speaks. After the stormy public reaction, Mayor Duterte was also calm and collected when he explained his side on the Pope issue. He admitted cursing the traffic problem but not the Pope. Monday’s salvo was only the introductory part of this country’s study of a man named Rodrigo Duterte. There will be several chapters in this getting-to-know-you episode. As soon as the rest of the country opens up their mind on Rodrigo Duterte, only then can the people understand the man everyone waited for this electoral race.
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EDGEDAVAO
“P
-NOY bashes China in Kuala Lumpur.” Tough talk. Well, with nine allied neighbors backing you up, who wouldn’t date talk tough to a bully. oooOooo “PH,Vietnam grow closer vs China.” Two Davids posturing against Goliath – this time, I don’t see the same biblical ending, not by a long slingshot.
oooOooo “BBL still among Senate priorities – Drilon.” I hope Sen. Frank Drilon would shut up. He has no moral authority to tell Mindanaoans what’s good for them and their future. oooOooo “Golden Marcos years a lie --- Roxas.” Where were you during the Martial
W
HEN God saw the misery of His people in Egypt, he asked a young man named Moses to lead them out of the clutch of Pharaoh. “I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people out of Egypt,” God told Moses. At first, the neophyte Moses declined. “Who am I?” he asked. But God insisted, “Lead my people.” And that was what terrified Moses. To lead the people out of Egypt and he never had any experienced at all. “A leader,” says Dr. John C. Maxwell, the leading authority on leadership, “is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.” Leonard Ravenhill in The Last Days Newsletter, shares the story of a group of tourists who were visiting a picturesque village. As they walked by, an old man sitting beside a fence, one tourist asked in a patronizing way, “Were any great men born in this village?” The old man looked at the tourist who inquired and told him bluntly: “Nope, only babies.” Putting in perspective the opinion of the old man, it simply means that being a leader is not discovered; it is developed. Those truly “born leaders” will always emerge; but, to stay on top of the game, natural leadership characteristics must be harnessed and enhanced. So, what are some of the traits that a leader should possess? First and foremost, he must have a character. A scorpion, being a poor swimmer, asked a turtle to carry him on his back across a river. “Are you mad?” exclaimed the turtle. “You’ll sting me while I’m swimming and I’ll drown.” “My dear turtle,” laughed the scorpion, “if I were to sting you, you would drown and I would go down with you. Now, where is the logic in that?” The
VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
VANTAGE POINTS
9
Headline talk Law years, Mr. Roxas?
oooOooo “US likely to patrol S. China Sea in December.” Uncle Sam really cares for Juan dela Cruz. A million thanks, Unc.
oooOooo “APEC more challenging than papal visit --- Security Force.” But of course! Protecting 21 world leaders – heads of state government is much better job than securing the safety of one world personality. One doesn’t need much brains to know the differ-
ence.
oooOooo P-Noy orders intensified operation vs Abu Sayyaf.” There they go again. Intensified operations have been conducted for years against this ragtag band of unlettered characters with embarrassing failure. Something massive and more serious air and ground offensives must be done without let-up. Those demons must be erased from the face of the earth.
oooOooo “Prosecutors rest case in massacre.” The prosecuting panel in the Maguindanao massacre that took place in 2009 has ended the presentation of evidence against 95 suspects facing 58 counts of murder. Let’s hope that no prosecutor would not rest in peace.”
“We can account for APEC’s Ph! O. B.” Malacañang gave assurance that the billions allocated for APEC will be fully accounted for. It better be. And make it public the soonest possible time, not after P-Noy steps down in June 30, 2016. Otherwise the suspicion that part of the money would go to Mar Roxas presidential bid. oooOooo “Phl – Japan defense equipment pact under negotiation.” Under the proposed pact, Japan will supply military equipment to the Philippines, and transfer of technology. Time indeed, heals wounds no matter how deep. 75 years ago, Japan conquered and ravaged the Philippines. Today, the two countries are the best of friends. Good will and genuine friendship have erased the bitter memories.
the important matters,” said Albert Einstein. The ultimate test of leaders’ credibility is whether they do what they say. Most politicians are not good leaders because they lack this specific trait of a good leader. After all, what they say is not what they do. “No one achieves and sustains success without discipline,” Dr. John C. Maxwell once said. And that includes being a leader. As Bertrand Russell puts it, “Nothing of importance is ever achieved without discipline. I feel myself sometimes not wholly in sympathy with some modern educational theorists, because I think that they underestimate the part that discipline plays. But the discipline you have in your life should be one determined by your own desires and your own needs, not put upon you by society or authority.” You may be talented, wealthy and famous, but without discipline, you cannot go far. As author H. Jackson Brown Jr. reiterated, “Talent without discipline is like an octopus on roller skates. There’s plenty of movement, but you never know if it’s going to be forward, backwards, or sideways.” A good leader should also have the ability to influence others. “The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority,” said Kenneth Blanchard, co-author of One-Minute Manager, said. John C. Maxwell, a famous author and speaker, agrees: “Leadership is influence.” John D. Rockefeller was known for his amazing business success, but he had a greater reputation among those who knew him as being a man who motivated his people. He had a sincere appreciation for others and was willing to accept failure if an honest attempt had been made at success.
When one of his partners, Edward T. Bedford, failed in a business venture, which cost Rockefeller’s company a million dollars, Rockefeller responded with a statement that has become classic in business lore. He didn’t criticize Bedford because he knew he had done his best. He did, however, call Bedford to his office. “I think it is honorable that you were able to salvage 60 percent of the money you invested in the South American venture,” Rockefeller told Bedford. “That’s not bad; in fact, it’s splendid. We don’t always do as well as that upstairs.” A good leader is also good in motivating others rather than manipulating them. In his book, Something to Smile About, Zig Ziglar gives us a thought-provoking comparison on both words: “Motivation occurs when you persuade others to take an action in their own best interests. Things such as people preparing their homework, accepting responsibility for their performance, and finishing their education are the results of motivation.” On the other hand, “manipulation is persuading others to take an action that is primarily for your benefit,” Ziglar explains. “Things such as selling an inferior product at an inflated price and working people overtime with no extra pay are examples of manipulation.” Walter Stevenson, who is known for his leadership, once pointed out: “If leadership is an art, then leaders are the artists, organizations are the easel, people are the canvas, ideas are the pigment, values are the frame, and vision is the thing that’s hung up at the gallery--the final outcome that’s so magical it tempts the audience to forget the messy process by which the result is fashioned, and lures them into a state of awe.”
Finding a true leader
turtle agreed, “ Y o u ’ r e THINK ON THESE! right. Hop in.” The scorpion climbed aboard and halfway across the river the scorpion gave the turtle a mighty Henrylito D. Tacio sting. As they both sank to henrytacio@gmail.com the bottom, the turtle resignedly said, “Do you mind if I ask you something? You said there’d be no logic in your stinging me. Why did you do it?” “It has nothing to do with logic,” the drowning scorpion sadly replied. “It’s just my character.” “Nearly all men can withstand adversity. If you truly want to test a man’s character, give him power,” said American president Abraham Lincoln. Character is what you do in the dark, D.L. Moody notes. And “there is no substitute for character,” reminds Robert A. Cook. “You can buy brains, but you cannot buy character.” Integrity is the second trait a leader must always possess. If what you say and what you do are the same, then you are a man of integrity. As American businessman and writer Max Depree points out: “Integrity in all things precedes all else. The open demonstration of integrity is essential; followers must be wholeheartedly convinced of their leader’s integrity. For leaders who live a public life, perceptions become a fact of life.” “Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with
oooOooo
10 NEWS I WILL... FROM 1
toric visit of Pope Francis but at the daily sufferings of all citizens in Metro Manila up to this moment,” Laviña said. Former North Cotabato governor Manny Piñol, one of Duterte’s staunch allies, said he was at the Sheraton when the mayor lashed at the government over the traffic problem. Piñol said he never heard Duterte cursing the Pope. “So much issue has been raised over the alleged disrespectful statement made by presidential candidate Rody Duterte against Pope Francis yesterday. I was there during the proclamation and I heard every word that he said because I was taking notes,” Piñol said in defending Duterte. “While the statement about the traffic and the Pope’s visit sounded awkward, it was obvious that the use of the cuss word which is a common street lingo was not directed at Pope Francis. It was merely an expression that comes almost naturally from Duterte’s mouth and peppers almost all of his public discourses,” he added. Laviña had earlier posted on his Facebook account to defend the mayor from his detractors. “Duterte critics are having a field day feasting on the traffic-Pope issue. They are trying to crucify him for standing up to the plight of the suffering people. The context when the mayor made the statement was not fully understood and is being obfuscated by his de-
tractors,” Laviña said. “Mayor Duterte was citing a litany of sufferings of the Filipinos exasperated by bad governance, including the inability to solve traffic highlighted by the recent Metro lockdown that #APECTED millions of commuters. He cited his own experience of enduring and suffering from a 5-hour trip during the Pope’s visit going to the airport,” he added. But both Piñol and Laviña said Duterte had no intention of cursing the Pope a he is also a Catholic. “Duterte is a Catholic who grew up with a chapel at their living room and went to schools ran by religious orders. And while he has issues with the church on reproductive health and abuse by members of the clergy, he certainly shows no irreverence to the church or the Pope,” Laviñ said. “Had the Pope, who rides public transport, known the Calvary of the Filipino commuters he would have understood the ire of the mayor, and forgiven him, in the spirit of Christ’s teachings, for this misunderstanding. But of course, Duterte critics are popish than the Bishop of Rome, and would continue lashing at the mayor for their political bias,” he added. Said Piñol: “Duterte, in spite of his human frailties and publicly admitted weaknesses, is a devout Catholic and I believe he would never show irreverence towards the Prince of his church, the Roman Catholic church.”
wage for taxi drivers. The mayor, however, admitted that this can only be done by Congress through legislation by reason of public policy. “Thus, taxi operators could not be forced to change the system. As expected, the taxi operators are against the proposed change since the boundary system is more favorable to them, although unfortunately, unfavorable to taxi drivers,” Zozobrado said. She is also hoping that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other concerned government agencies as well as the taxi operators and taxi drivers could help enlighten us on this matter. “It may be a valid or a baseless complaint, but we will never know until we get into the bottom of this,” Zozbrado said. The Supreme Court has reiterated in many cases such as National Labor Union against Dinglasan and Martinez vs National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) that there is an employer-employee relationship in the boundary system between taxi operators and taxi drivers, according to Zozobrado “The boundary system is a scheme by an owner/operator
engaged in transporting passengers as a common carrier to primarily govern the compensation of the driver, that is, the latter’s daily earnings are remitted to the owner or operator less the excess of the boundary which represents the driver’s compensation,” she said. Under this system, the perator exercises control and supervision over the driver and the fact that the driver does not receive fixed wages but only the excess of the “boundary” given to the owner is not sufficient to change the relationship between them. “Indubitably, the driver performs activities which are usually necessary or desirable in the usual business or trade of the owner/operator,” Zozobrado said. “While we agree that we cannot mandate the taxi operators to provide a fixed wage for the taxi drivers in lieu of the boundaries, we can at least make the lives of our taxi drivers a little better by making sure that their rights are not validated,” she added. Zozobrado added these are simple things that can slowly creep to become a major problem in society. “Let us fix this even before it endangers the lives of our fellow Dabawenyos,” she said. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.
Zozobrado... FROM 3
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VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015
Cayetano... FROM 2
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action have greatly disadvantaged Pope Francis’ flock here in the country. The PDP-Laban event proclaimed Duterte and Cayetano as its presidential and vice presidential candidates for the 2016 elections.
This was not the first time Cayetano had come to Duterte’s aid. The senator also defended the mayor when Liberal Party vice presidential aspirant Leni Robredo questioned Duterte’s approach against criminality in Davao City.
beat the deadline set for substitutions did not disappoint a loyal fan based that waited near midnight for his appearance. At its peak, the crowd estimate at the Taguig concert held at McKinley Hill was placed at more than 30,000. The bailiwick of his running mate, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, was entertained by volunteer musicians including Jimmy Bondoc, Paolo Santos, Luke Mejares and Thor who sang “Takbo” which was released in a last-ditch effort to prod Duterte to file before the deadline last Oct. 17. Also present were Davaobased musicians who compose the Musicians and Artists for Duterte (MAD) for Change several months back including Popong Landero and Jimmy Cabrera and folk icon Lolita Carbon. Professional basketball players Marc Pingris, Sonny Thoss, Jay-R Reyes, Cyrus Baguio, Mac Baracael, Willy Miller, Jun Cabato and Jobe Nkemacolam also appeared on stage and threw away free balls. The early birds arrived at the venue before the scheduled 4 pm and had considerably thinned when Duterte arrived at 10:50 pm. True to his rock-star reputation, escorts had a difficult time containing admirers who wanted to have selfies with the controversial mayor.
While the Duterte-Cayetano team-up was the last to be finalized, it got off to an auspicious start in Taguig. Unlike other candidates, the performers were all volunteers who are individually rooting for Duterte. There were also no bus-in crowds just to project perception of a bandwagon. Duterte has little need for that at this time, surprising surging on top of the heap in the National Capital Region where he was portrayed as very weak unlike his bailiwicks in Mindanao and two regions in the Visayas. There were no noticeable changes in Duterte’s speech, giving indications he has no intention of softening his image now that he has formalized his candidacy. In what is expected as the most unorthodox campaign, Duterte has sent jaded analysts shaking their heads and fanatical supporters shouting themselves hoarse in glee. With this phenomenal surge despite comping in late in the campaign and without the fabled political organization that others build up at least a year before election, Duterte can expect frightened rivals to fire at will. Duterte, however, wants to keep everyone guessing, promising a campaign that will rewrite Philippine presidential elections.
rectly to the Pope. ”It was so unfortunate that these undesirable curse words have been inserted in the same sentence that the Pope’s name was mentioned. It was an accident. So we hope for your understanding,” Pimentel said. Pimentel said the PDP-Laban will continue to fully support Duterte. ”Nothing has changed because we know already that it was his personality. He is year years old and we’re not expecting a new character. We just advised him to reduce curse words. A speech without curse words will no longer be a speech of Mayor Duterte,” Pimentel said. For his part, Duterte’s running mate Senator Alan
Peter Cayetano said the mayor’s curse words were directed at government failures, not at Pope Francis. ”Mayor Duterte cursed the traffic and not Pope Francis. He was not directing his anger and frustration at the Pope, he was expressing the people's frustration over the government's incompetence in handling the metro's worsening traffic situation and the daily suffering and inconvenience it causes," Cayetano said. In his speech, Duterte said he was stuck for five hours in traffic from his hotel to the airport during the papal visit. Cayetano said Duterte’s statement were grossly taken out of context. (PNA)
April 1, 2014 and Resolution No. 10013, all related to deactivation of voter registration records in the May 9, 2016 National and Local Elections, as directed by the assailed RA No. 10367. Assisted by legal counsel Atty. Krissy Conti, petitioners include Kabataan Partyist Rep. Terry Ridon and Kabataan Partylist president Marjohara Tucay, who are suing for and in behalf of the youth party, along with Sarah Elago, president of the National Union of Students of the Philippines; Vencer Crisostomo, chairperson of Anakbayan; Marc Lino Abila, national president of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines; Einstein Recedes, deputy secretary-general of Anakbayan; Charisse Bañez, chairperson of the League of Filipino Students; and aggrieved parties Arlene Clarisse Julve and Sining Marfori, both of whom stand to lose their right to vote due to the assailed law and implementing regulations. “Republic Act No. 10367 and its implementing regulations are unconstitutional as these impose an unconstitutional, additional substantive requirement imposed on the exercise of suffrage, thus violating Section 1, Article V of the 1987 Constitution,” the petitioners said. They noted that the 1987 Constitution explicitly states that “[n]o literacy, property, or other substantive requirement shall be imposed on the exercise of suffrage.” “In contravention of the above-stated constitutional provision, Republic Act No. 10367 and its implementing regulations imposed an additional substantive requirement for all voters, both old and new registrants, to submit for mandatory biometrics validation or risk being deactivated or removed precinct book of voters, thus effectively barring them from the exercise of their right to vote,” they added. “Further egregious is the fact that voters with active re-
cords according to Republic Act No. 8189, the antecedent Voters Registration Law of 1996, comprise bulk of those who will be deactivated. The deactivation of registered voters qualified under Republic Act No. 8189 is incompatible with the tenet that laws with penal sanctions should apply prospectively and not retrospectively,” they said. “Secondly, the biometrics validation gravely violates due process as it is an unreasonable deprivation of the constitutional right to vote for millions of Filipinos who have failed to register their biometric information despite existing and active registration – in effect a voter’s re-registration – for various reasons whether personal or institutional,” they added. The petitioners noted that despite Comelec’s “No Bio, No Boto” campaign, official data from the Comelec showed that only 3,599,906 registered voters have undergone the mandatory biometrics validation procedure as of Sept. 30, 2015. The Comelec also revealed that a total of 3,059,601 registered voters remain without biometrics data as of Sept. 30, 2015. According to the Comelec, this figure is equivalent to 5.86 percent of the total 52,239,488 registered voters for the 2016 national and local elections. “It is thus apparent that over three million registered voters stand to illegally lose their right of suffrage in the May 9, 2016 national and local elections without the benefit of due process due to the implementation of an additional requirement that is patently unconstitutional,” the petitioners argued. Just last month, the Kabataan party-list and several youth groups also filed a petition before the SC to question the Oct. 31, 2015 deadline for voters’ registration set by the Comelec. The SC has already ordered Comelec to comment on the said petition. (PNA)
Philippine-made products that we intend to introduce to the international markets starting next year,” he said. Last year, Emperador acquired Whyte and Mackay Limited, the world’s fifth larg-
est Scotch whiskey company. Among its prestigious brands are The Dalmore and Jura Single Malt Scotch Whiskies, Whyte & Mackay and John Barr Blended Scotch Whiskies and Vladivar Vodka. (PNA)
as leaders, we have to set a good example. We should be prepared always and follow policies as well. For instance, we have been bracing our communities’ capacities in disaster response to really build resilience. If people will not participate, it’s useless. We cannot achieve anything.” Compostela Valley Governor Arturo T. Uy pushed, “Disaster preparedness should be done as well as MGB zoning as to what areas should be ‘no build’ and should be vacated or those ‘high risk’ places. All must be trained to understand and heed public warning like that of PAGASA. Active and continuing collaboration between national and local governments is an edge too. But foremost, we need to improve and be more prepared since climate change is a reality.” Protection of the envi-
ronment should be prioritized too, he urged, adding that, they can work on improving more so they will be more prepared and more capable to confront future disaster experience. “After Typhoon Pablo, we were exposed to many things like camp coordination and camp management. It was an eye-opener, prompting us that we should always be on our toes, prepared and doing our part also,” said Josephine M. Frasco, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer of Compostela Valley. Through its myriad of programs and projects, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will continue to involve and empower people in the community to help them overcome the onslaught of future disasters.
Duterte... FROM 2
Enrile... FROM 3
Tan’s... FROM 6
People... FROM 4
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EDGEDAVAO WOMEN
“I find the pieces of M&S to be classic and of very good quality.” M&S Collection Tomato color long sleeve panel blouse & Classic Design Ponte bottom in grey. All accessories from M&S Collection: black elastic belt, black platform Court Shoes, black patent Side Bar Bag & Mini Glass Flower necklace.
“I learned to value the importance of dressing up to the occasion at an early age.” On Jackie, silver skinny belt over Blackberry Lurex tank top, black 3-button straight leg pants. All from M&S Collection.
Fashion: Marks & Spencer 2015 Holiday Collection available at SM Lanang Premier & Abreeza Mall Photography: Kenneth Hao Make up & Styling: Otoy Mercado Shot on location at the Dizon Ancestral Home
Dressing up
to the occasion THERE’S so much to love about Jackie Garcia – Dizon. This wife and mother of three has stayed fit and fabulous even at 53 and fashions the same grace and spunk as in her younger years. Her strong sense of individuality, level-headedness and love for adventure manifest not only in her accomplishments but also in the manner she carries herself, inside out. She maintains a good work-life balance, from a jam-packed schedule of social and civic duties and corporate responsibilities to family matters and an impressive fitness regimen. With a body and bearing like hers, she makes a perfect mannequin. If Jackie can make gym clothes look good, then imagine her in eveningwear, or in any other dress type for that matter. Stylish and proper, she always dresses right for any occasion. Here, she shares her journey through style. M: At what age were your allowed to join the Hijos de Davao ball? What was it like?
J: I was 8 years old when I attended my very first Hijos de Davao (HdD) Ball in 1970. The ball is held once a year to celebrate the feast of San Pedro, Davao City’s patron saint. This is one of the very few times where I would see all my relatives and family friends dressed in strictly formal and elegant attire. It was held at the Davao Insular Hotel, now Waterfront Davao, and the muse was my cousin, Maria Milagros G. Montemayor-Revilla. VIPs and celebrities would fly in
to attend the ball. The ladies who participated in the Rigodon de Honor looked so beautiful and regal in their intricately made Ternos. In those days, people really took the time and made a big effort to prepare for the ball. Months in advance, my mother, grandmother and aunts would fly us to Manila & order their gowns and Ternos from RT Paras or Aureo Alonso and my cousins and I would have our clothes made by Malou Veloso. M: At 19, you were chosen as the muse of the 18th HdD anniversary. Tell us about it. J: In 1981, after a one-year stint as a Rotary exchange student in the USA, I was chosen to be muse. I felt deeply honored & excited when I was informed. My
escort was Ricky Floirendo and Tito Alfonso “Boy” Guinoo made my ball gown. It was a white dress with light blue flowers and a detachable balloon skirt. It was one magical which night I will never forget. M: In 2014 you were elected the president for the 50th year of HdD, what was the celebration like? J: HdD’s golden anniversary was truly the grandest I have ever attended. The program started with the unveiling of our coffee table book project entitled “Witnessing Growth” which features 52 personalities who contributed to the growth of Davao City. For the Rigodon de Honor, the officers & members of the board decided to invite the past presidents and
muses to participate. M: It was said that the glamour was brought back on the golden year celebration. J: In the early 1980s, Davao City became infamous because of the insurgency problem happening in our region. Hence, the members preferred to keep a low profile. Since the celebration had already become a tradition, it was decided that it should not be broken. J: Now that Davao City has become world-class and one of the safest cities in Asia, Dabawenyos have a reason to celebrate without fear. The 50th year Grand Ball had 600 people in attendance, all elegantly garbed in their formal attire.
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EVENT
Seda Abreeza’s Angels of Hope THE HOLIDAY SEASON is officially in the air as Durianburg’s hotels start lighting up their lobbies in Christmas livery and one of the most exciting Christmas tree lighting events I have experienced so far was that of Seda Abreeza last November 27. The event which was held at the hotel’s lobby and Misto restaurant was attended by executives of the ANFLO Group, the consular corps, the hotel’s VIPs, business partners, as well as some of Durianburg’s movers and shakers. Seda Abreeza’s theme for this year’s holiday season revolves around the concept of Angels. As described by Communications Officer, Faith Dimaano, “angels represent beauty, goodness, protection, faith, hope and love. And it is because of these that we in Seda Abreeza decided to make it the theme for this yuletide season. These are the qualities the world needs. These are the qualities we want children to espouse. These qualities make human beings, like all of us,
be an angel for each and every one.” The night was also made more meaningful with the MOA signing for the “Little Angels of Hope” project initiated by Seda Abreeza and Ayala Business Club of Davao, for the benefit of Help Educate and Rear Orphans Foundation, Inc. or HERO Foundation. “Proceeds from sales of The Angels of Hope, which are available for purchase exclusively at
Seda, will go to the HERO Foundation to help them reach out and support more scholars,” says Seda Abreeza Hotel Manager Ken Kapulong, “Since many of
the beneficiaries of the HERO Foundation are from Mindanao, we decided that this is a good way to give back to the home community of Seda Abreeza.”
As the event concluded, Kapulong thanked everyone in his Christmas message. “The year 2015 has been a blessed one, and you, our dearest partners, are a big
part of what we have achieved this year. We have nothing but gratefulness in our hearts. We are sharing all these with you, as we move forward,” he said.
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STYLE Get comfy chic with pink flats .
A World of Flats: Fab flats from Parisian Shoes, Rusty Lopez, Hush Puppies and Jeffrey Campbell .
Men can go through the day’s activities with their trusted sneakers .
Two-toned boat shoes in hip colors for men .
Everyday is Shoe Day at SM SM started out with shoes when Founder and Chairman Henry Sy, Sr. opened his first Shoe Mart store in downtown Manila in 1958. He thought that if he could sell a pair of shoes to every Filipino, he could be a successful man.
He, of course, became more successful than he ever imagined. His shoe store has evolved into a retail giant, a chain of super malls, and one of the country’s largest conglomerates. Even today, SM continues to focus on footwear to serve a new generation of shoppers– updating its iconic Parisian brand, and bringing shoe shopping to a whole new level as the ultimate shoe destination with the widest selection of footwear for all ages and occasions. There is even the Shoe City in SM Makati, which is home to the country’s biggest shoe department. SM Shoes and Bags continues this legacy as it celebrates Everyday is Shoe Day beginning this October. And it’s the best time to explore your shoe Fun booties for the little fashionista.
obsession. What makes shoes special? Most women will tell you that they love their shoes because of the way they make them feel. Flats, heels, boots, sandals, pumps, platforms, wedges, strappy, laceups, peep-toes – a new pair of shoes has always had amazing effects. These can instantly refresh your look, or just make you feel incredibly sexy. “When you ask, what do women want? – the answer seems to be shoes,” says fashion historian Valerie Steele, director and chief curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. She adds that a stunning shoe is like a three dimensional piece of art. “Shoes are the creative, playful part of fashion. They have their own sculptural, artistic shape.” Shoes are forgiving. Shoes are loyal. Heels also elongate the leg, change your posture and elevate you. Sex and the City highlighted shoes and identity by mixing up an appreciation of shoes with an assertion of one’s identity as a stylish, successful,
and independent woman. For men, the power of shoes is in the steps they take. Shoes are as much about action as they take them to many places – from their first baby steps in booties, to school in sneakers, to the office in formal shoes, and to their favorite holiday place in weekend warrior style. And like family values, stories and traditions, a passion for shoes often passed through generations. That’s why kids today like wearing mini versions shoes just like Mom’s or Dad’s. Apart from exciting finds and discounts, SM Shoes and Bags further shares the shoe-love as it donates more than a hundred pairs of footwear daily to the less fortunate through the SM Foundation. C e l e b r a t e #EverydayisShoeDayatSM and get connected with SM Shoes and Bags by liking their Facebook page: SM Shoes and Bags and through Instagram and Twitter via @SMShoesandBags. Check out these accounts to avail of the Deals of the Day. Little girls join the shoe party with stylish boots.
December 2, 2015
THE LITTLE PRINCE Rachel McAdams, Mackenzie Foy, Paul Rudd G
12:00 | 2:00 | 4:00 | 6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS
A SECOND CHANCE Bea Alonzo, John Lloyd Cruz PG
12:00 | 2:30 | 5:00 | 7:30 | 10:00 LFS
KRAMPUS Allison Tolman, Toni Collette, Adam Scott R13
12:00 | 2:00 | 4:00 | 6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS
THE GOOD DINOSAUR/ *THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY 2 PG/*PG
Raymond Ochoa, Jeffrey Wright/ *Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson 12:30 | 2:30 | 5:30 LFS / *7:25 | 10:00 LFS
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WOMEN METRO MOM A1
M: How did the whole experience affect your fashion sense? J: Since I was exposed to the preparations required in attending those formal balls, I learned to value the importance of “dressing up to the occasion” at an early age. My grandmother, the late Doña Milagros Monteverde-Garcia even taught all her grandchildren right manners and proper conduct. As a young girl whose favorite movie was Cinderella, attending those balls surely made a great impact on me. At that time, it was more of “dressing up” rather than “dressing down”. M: What is your current style? J: At my age, I have become more of a casual & carefree person so I am more inclined to wearing long, casual dresses, long skirts & palazzos. I have already gotten rid of most of my business attires. Nowadays, I prefer to dress down. M: How about dressing up for the Holidays? J: I love to shop when I am abroad so my closets are always full. Whenever I shop, which can start early in the year, I already search for pieces to wear for the holidays and my birthday, which falls on the day after Christmas. Every year, the Garcia family celebrates Noche Buena together. Everyone— cousins, nephews and nieces—will fly to Davao for a reunion. We are a huge, close-knit family, spanning four generations, numbering more than 200 now. We have a special Mass at 5:30 af-
“I have already gotten rid of most of my business attires. Nowadays, I prefer to dress down.” Jackie wearing Color Block top & white 5-pocket jeggings, red Pashminetta scrarf. All from M&S Collection. ter which the program starts which lasts past midnight. This is a semiformal affair and unless we have a theme for that year, I always chose a dress that will not clash with the Christmas tree (LOL). We also celebrate New Year’s Eve together & this is always a formal occasion. When I was younger, Davao Insular Hotel used to hold a grand New Year’s Eve Ball & everyone who attended were also members of Hijos de Davao. Unfortunately, because families were getting bigger & the ballroom could not accommodate everyone, we had to hold our own parties separately. This year, the Hijos board members are planning to bring that back with the help of the next generation because they want everyone involved.
M: Any Marks & Spencer label in your closet? J: Oh yes! I have been a fan of Marks & Spencer ever since it opened its first outlet in the Philippines in the late 70s. The outlet was located in Rustan’s Makati and at that time it was called St. Michael’s and they sold the best quality undergarments and lingerie. Since the items in Rustan’s were limited then, every time I went to Hong Kong, my first stop would always be M&S at the Ocean Terminal. I like their collection, I find their pieces to be classic and of very good quality. I did and still do shop in M&S and I’m glad that they finally brought the brand here in Davao.
“I love to shop when I am abroad & when I do, I search for pieces to wear for the holidays & my birthday, which falls on the day after Christmas.” M&S Collection ensemble on Jackie: wide waist black belt on Dog Tooth Tunic & black Panel Techno Treggings.
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Ending violence against women The Philippine Commission on Women has suggested things that could help end violence against women and children such as telling people that VAW is never, never right or okay.
T
HE 18-day campaign to end “Violence Against Women" or VAW from Nov. 25 to Dec. 12 is a hot topic of primary concern around the world. This year, the campaign theme is “End VAW Now, It’s Our Duty” where stakeholders at the national, regional and local levels are encouraged to highlight topics and activities so that the public becomes aware of where and how to find help in facing the problem. Violence against the so-called “weaker sex” has branched out to violence against children as the young ones are also often the subject of physical and mental abuse by their parents, family members, kindred, peers, strangers and even people familiar to them. Data released by the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Desk show a 90 percent increase in the number of Anti-VAW cases filed as well as a 60 percent increase in the documented cases of sexual harassment from 2013 to 2014.
What is alarming is the continuous rise in number of cases of violence against women and children in the Philippines. As documented from 2013 to 2014, there were at least 76,749 cases of rape documented from 2000 to 2014, with children and minors comprising 70 percent of the victims. They were usually victims of physical or sexual abuse, mental and physical torture and trauma. The Philippine Commission on Women has suggested things that could help end violence against women and children such as telling people that VAW is never, never right or okay. First and foremost, make your home violence-free by behaving like human beings and employing proper decorum. Good manners and right conduct should be the norm in your abode. Parents, guardians authorities and family members must learn about VAW and what causes it and deal immediately with it before it becomes harmful. Then comes the encouragement and support for people who
work to end all forms of VAW in one’s community. Always and ever, respect for women and girls must be taught early at home which is the first teacher. For parents, raise your sons and daughters as equals and teach them the value of respect for all people and all ages as a natural way of living. Organize forums or sessions in your community, workplace or schools regarding violence against females. Educate boys and young men that masculinity should not mean degrading or abusing girls and women. Participate in online discussions and social media campaigns to create awareness of ending VAW and volunteer for its cause. For those who are married, discuss things with your partner and respect each other’s opinion. Don’t be intimidating or overwhelming in your opinion, but don’t be too timid in expressing it either. Talk with your partner, friends
and family on how you can support each other in stopping VAW if you have a problem in your own circle. Do not make fun out of VAW or use it as a material for comedy, but rather teach young girls and boys about it openly. Do not use disrespectful words, they become a reality, hurtful and cause shame to others who are not used to it. Besides, insults can cause death in the most inopportune time. Never judge people who have suffered from abuses brought about by VAW; you can never tell if you will be the next victim. And the most important is, never, never be quiet, silent and be fearful if you have been victimized by VAW. Someone must know the truth in order to help you. And last but not the least, men, especially, must not remain silent, never condone and never commit acts of VAW. After all, you were born of a mother, you may have a sister or siblings that are women whom you must protect. (PNA)
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Fate of BBL depends on Moro people’s assertion , says MILF peace negotiator
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HE future of the Bangsamoro Basic Law depends on the assertion of the Moro people for their rights, a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front said Monday. “Continue your assertion for the next 1,000 years... Thank you for your trust but this is not for us (peace panel). We’re not expecting rewards in this world. This is for the good of the people and Islam,” Prof. Abhoud Syed Lingga told members of Moro civil society groups in a gathering in Davao City. “Exhaust all local remedies. If the Supreme Court declares the FAB (Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro) and CAB (Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro) unconstitutional, it means we have to ask the international community to intervene,” Lingga said. Lingga, however, ex-
pressed fears radical elements would become more aggressive if Congress fails to pass a version of the BBL that’s acceptable to the MILF. “The MILF is committed to the peace process but this is not a guarantee because some sectors can just start something,” he said. He said that while a resumption of violence remains a possibility the peace panels will still be there. “They will not be disbanded until after an exit agreement is signed.” “There are still mechanisms that can contain violence if ever it recurs. But the MILF would be marginalized if the radicals become more aggressive and their narratives dominate,” he added. Lingga emphasized the [full] decommissioning of MILF fighters won’t happen without the passage of the BBL. “Decommissioning is tied
NOTICE OF LOSS
Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN issued to the following planholders, to wit; PH NAME CFP NO. CONTRACT NO. 1. VIRGILIO R. PANES 30075 295976-3 2. MARIA CELGA R. 21023010 188088-3 BRILLANTES were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.
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to the BBL,” he explained. Both peace panels have earlier clarified that decommissioning would depend on the progress in the implementation of the terms of the peace agreement. In June this year, during the initial decommissioning involving 75 high-powered and crew-served weapons as well as 75 MILF fighters, MILF chair Al Haj Ebrahim Murad reiterated that “we will only accept a BBL that is in compliance with the letter and spirit of the FAB and CAB and its annexes.” The Annex on Normalization to the CAB provides that upon the approval of the BBL, 30 percent of MILF forces and weapons would be decommissioned, 35 percent more in the third phase and the last 35 percent in the fourth phase. “Passing the law is the responsibility of government.
Mamasapano has no relationship with the BBL; it was purely a ceasefire violation as the SAF (Special Action Force) entered without coordination. I can’t understand why the BBL became collateral damage,” Lingga lamented. Lingga was referring to the encounter in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25 this year which left 44 SAF troopers, 17 MILF fighters and five civilians dead. Reports said that aside from the MILF, other armed groups also figured in the encounter. SAF members were on a mission to get Indonesian bomber Zulkipli bin Hir alias Marwan and his Filipino aide Abdulbasit Usman. Marwan was reported killed in the raid based on the DNA test done on one of his fingers that was cut off and sent to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (H. Marcos C. Mordeno / MindaNews)
NOTICE OF LOSS
Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No. (s) 100541 under Loyola Contract No(s). 1175121-1 issued to OSCAR P. NIERE No CO issued under Loyola Contract No(s). 564680-7 issued to BELDUA, MANUEL were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void. 12/1/8/15
Solon lauds AFP for winning hearts and minds of Pinoys
I
LOILO City Rep. Jerry Trenas on Tuesday lauded the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for doing extremely well in winning the hearts and minds of the people. Trenas cited the survey of US-based polling firm Gallup highlighting the people’s rising confidence towards the AFP, from a mere 72% when President Aquino assumed office in 2010 to 82-85% percent confidence rating in 2015. “As a result of internal and external threats, Philippines President Benigno Aquino III embarked on a military modernization effort shortly after taking office in 2010. This effort, along with military and government involvement in reconstruction after massive typhoons in the early 2010s, likely helped spur higher confidence in the military among the Filipino public,” stated the Gallup survey report entitled “Filipinos Give China’s Leadership Low Approval.” The Gallup report which centered on how Filipinos feel towards the leadership of China and that of the United States, was based on face-toface interviews with 1,001 adults in the Philippines, aged 15 and older, conducted May 2015. Trenas said that this Gallup report indicates that more and more Filipinos are beginning to appreciate the government’s effort to modernize the AFP with the acquisition of
new military assets that will definitely boost the military’s capability not only in securing the country’s borders but also in conducting internal security operations. Trenas said that Defense Secretary Volatire Gazmin and Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Hernando Iriberri should be credited for the AFP’s success restoring the people’s trust and confidence to the military because of their commitment in ensuring that the modernization program is finally being realized. “The AFP is winning the PR war under Secretary Gazmin and General Iriberri. Our people are now seeing the reforms in the AFP. They are beginning to see the difference when we had an Airforce that has nothing but air with no force and now that we actually have modern supersonic jets. They now appreciate the fact that we now have an increasing number of naval ships that can help us secure our maritime borders instead of relying on a worn out BRP Sierra Madre that was grounded at the Ayungin shoal and manned by Marines with nothing but rifles to defend themselves,” he said. “The AFP modernization program was launched two decades ago but it is only now under the Aquino administration that we are actually acquiring equipment to modernize our armed forces. ,” Trenas explained. (PNA)
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POWER PLAY Salud tenders resignation as CEO, President of PBA
F
ORMER PBA commissioner Chito Salud has resigned from his post as president and chief executive officer effective at the end of the month, league sources said on Tuesday. A league insider told sports portal Spin.ph that Salud tendered his resignation on Tuesday shortly upon his return from a vacation with his family in New Zealand amid a power play in the PBA ranks triggered by the appointment of Chito Narvasa as new commissioner. Salud resigned as commissioner last February but was prevailed upon by the league board to take on a new role as president and CEO under a power-sharing set-up where he was to stay in charge of all matters outside game-related issues, which was supposed to be the new commissioner’s sole domain. H o w e v e r, sources said the son of former
commissioner Rudy Salud has grown frustrated over the past few months as Narvasa’s role expanded, encroaching into what was supposed to be his turf. Over his first few months as commissioner, Narvasa has bypassed Salud in handing down key decisions, primarily the banning of Spin.ph contributing writer Snow Badua and Mahindra consultant Joe Lipa which insiders insisted should’ve been handled by Salud. The final straw, a source added, was Narvasa’s decision
to take over the marketing arm of the pro league which the league board has already approved. Sal u d w a s u n available f o r comment a t
OVERLAPPING? PBA President and CEO Chito Salud is reportedly going out of the league over conflicts with PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa.
posti n g time.
Petron forces rubber P
ETRON forced a rubber match for the Philippine Super Liga Grand Prix title after a 25-13, 25-21, 2325, 26-24 win over Foton on Monday at the Cuneta Astrodome. Rupia Inck had 25 points, while Aby Marano and Dindin Santiago-Manabat each had 16 points as the Blaze Spikers held off a late charge by the Tornadoes and kept alive their bid for a third straight title. Petron and Foton meet in the decider on Saturday afternoon at the Cuneta Astrodome. Petron coach George Pascua said championship experience played
a big factor for the Blaze Spikers, who were down 23-24 in the fourth set before engineering a comeback. “Malaking bagay din ’yung championship experience. Kita mo talaga sa crucial part of the game. Although nag-papractice kami, iba pa rin ’yung experience,” said Pascua. Lindsay Stalzer, the Tornadoes’ hero in the series opener, had 23 points, while Kathleen Messing and Jaja Santiago had 11 points each. The Tornadoes put up a gallant stand and looked set to stretch the match to a fifth set, but Inck took com-
DOWN GOES RACHEL. Rachel Ann Daquis of Petron Blaze falls on the floor after trying to dig the ball as teammate Ericka Adachi gets set to lend a hand. Top photo, Adachi dies a reverse return against Foton in Game 2 of the PSL Grand Prix Finals. Volleyball PH
mand and forced a 24-24 tie. Stalzer was blocked by Santiago-Manabat before Messing send her shot long. Petron also got a big boost from Jen Reyes, who tallied 25 excellent digs.
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Pinays suffer beating in Spike for Peace T
HAILAND clobbered Philippine A, 21-11, 21-9, in the main game of the Spike for Peace International Beach Volleyball Tournament at the Philsports Arena on Sunday. Varapatsorn Radarong and Tanarattha Udomchavee barely broke a sweat in disposing the Filipina pair of Charo Soriano and Alexa Micek. For Soriano though, the loss was a learning experience for her and Micek. “Marami kaming natu-
tunan from this game, we are a young team and this is just a blessing for us,” she said. Earlier, Philippine B also lost to Sweden in two sets, In the other late game, Japan blasted Brazil, 21-12, 21-15. Ayumi Kusano and Akiko Hasegawa, who are confident about their chance of winning the meet, showed no mercy on the Brazilian duo of Semirames Perazzo Ameral and Bruna Figueiredo.
SAND PLAYER. Alexa Micek tries to return the ball in this file photo. Micek paired with Cha Soriano for Team Philippines in Spike For Peace. The duo lost to Thailand.
ALA mulls blockbuster ‘Stars of the Future’card
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LA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer plans a blockbuster fight card titled “Stars of the Future” at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Cebu on February 27 featuring three of the young rising stars of the ALA Gym including Prince Albert Pagara, Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo, Kevin Jake “KJ” Cataraja and possibly Melvin Jerusalem. Prince Albert and Magsayo who were described by Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire and his father/trainer “Dodong” Donaire as “the future of Philippine boxing” put on a scintillating display in “Pinoy Pride 33” at the StubHub Center in Carson City, California with undefeated IBF International super bantamweight
champion Prince Albert and unbeaten IBF Youth world featherweight champion Magsayo scoring explosive victories over touted opponents. 21 year old Prince Albert won the vacant WBO Youth super bantamweight title with a 6th round knockout of highly fancied Nicaraguan William Gonzalez who was dropped in both the 2nd and 6th rounds before he was counted out at 2:20 of the sixth by referee Jack Reiss. 20 year old “Magnifico” Magsayo lived up to his name with a stunning 1st round knockout of Mexico’s Yardley Suarez to win the vacant IBF Youth featherweight title. 20 year old Kevin Jake “KJ” Cataraja followed up his 6th round KO win in his pro debut with a 4th
round TKO over Faris Nenggo when the fight was stopped after the Indonesian had a significant laceration on his left eyebrow which was caused by a punch. Nenggo had registered a big 4th round TKO win over former WBO minimumweight champion Merlito Sabillo and was expected to provide a stiff test for Cataraja who used
his hand-speed, terrific combinations and excellent movement to batter the Indonesian fighter. 21 year old Melvin Jerusalem who was unbeaten in eight fights with 7 knockouts hammered Philippine champion Cris Omayao to score a smashing 2nd round knockout to earn the admiration of fight fans at the Hoops Dome in Lapu Lapu City.
All set for MP Sports Challenge
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VERYTHING is set for the staging of the 3rd Manny Pacquiao Sports Challenge on December 4 to 8 in General Santos City. “We’re expecting more than 1,000 participants from the different local government units of Mindanao,” said Gen. Santos City Administrator Atty. Arnel Zapatos yesterday. The different events are boxing, basketball, volleyball, kickball, billiards, darts, badminton, tennis, table tennis and shooting. “Except for boxing, all the participants are government employees,” said Zapatos. Seeing action are the LGUs of Iligan, Tagum, Butuan, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Mati, Sarangani, Valencia of Bukidnon, Tawi-Tawi and General Santos City. Davao City is only joining the amateur boxing competition set at the Robinson’s Place.
There is also a separate division for the seven municipalities of Sarangani Province – Glan, Alabel, Malapatan, Malungon, Maasim, Maitum and Kiamba. “Congressman Manny Pacquiao’s purpose for this multisports event is to unite all the LGUs in Mindanao,” said Zapatos. It is organized by the MP Sports Association (MPSA) with Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel Pacquiao as the chairman. Gensan Mayor Ronnel Rivera is the vice-chairman while Zapatos is the Commissioner for Operations. The other commissioners are Board Member Elmer de Peralta (Finance), Board Member Cornelio Martinez Jr. (LGU), Kag. Dominador Lagare III (External Affairs), Atty. Anthony Dinnes Pantua (Grievances & Protest) and Brgy. Kap. Lorelie Pacquiao (Administration & Audit).
Undefeated Servania drops down in WBO ratings due to inactivity
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SILVER MEDALIST. Batang Pinoy 2015 Women’s Road Bike Category Silver Medalist Myra Regina Acedo.
ORMER No. 2 ranked WBO super bantamweight, undefeated Genesis Servania who was on the threshold of a world title fight has been dropped to No. 6 in the latest ratings because of inactivity. Servania who is unbeaten with a record of 26-0 with 11 knockouts was ranked higher than any other Filipino boxer including Noninto “The Filipino Flash” Donaire who faces Cesar Juarez of Mexico in what may well be a title fight should the WBO turn down the appeal of Guillermo Rigondeaux who was stripped of the title for inactivity.
We checked with ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer who said they can’t give Servania a fight because he showed up at the gym once and was terribly overweight and hasn’t reported for training since then. He said Servania has a live contract till August and they have no idea what his plans are. In his last fight on February 7, Servania scored a twelve round unanimous decision over Juan Luis Hernandez in Davao City but didn’t look impressive in his previous fight against Jose Cabrera in Dubai and was a disappointment to many of his fans.
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VOL. 8 ISSUE 177 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015