Edge Davao 8 Issue 222

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PUBLIC INTEREST. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte says his approval or veto of the amendment to the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) will depend on whether or not it will serve public interest.

Duterte made the statement during a brief interview with media at Seda Abreeza Hotel on Monday night. Lean Daval Jr.

VETO POSSIBLE? Duterte to study veto of CLUP amendment EDGEDAVAO Sports

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte will study the possibility of vetoing the amendment of the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) removing the 10 percent green space in socialized housing subdivision.

In an interview Monday night at Seda Abreeza Hotel, Duterte said he will weigh the matter to see it if the amendment will not compromise public interest.

He said if the amendment proves to be beneficial to the city, he will not oppose it.

Duterte, however, said the provision in City Ordinance no.

0546 of 2013 or the City Land Use Plan 2013-2022 allocating an area for green space is a good set up.

“The intention is good because it is for trees,” he said.

Earlier, environment groups expressed their opposition to the approval of the proposal to remove the additional 10 percent green space allocation of the total land area of a subdivision development project.

The 10 percent in the ex-

isting ordinance is an addition to the existing requirement of allocating 30 percent open space for leisure and recreation area of a subdivision.

In the committee report of councilor Bernard Al-ag, land developers requested that the additional 10 percent open space requirement be removed because it is burdensome and expensive for them.

The developers instead proposed that the provision for green space be implemented in the sidewalk strips or back areas of home lots and

not a separate area.

Architect Jim Palma of Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) said if the concern of the developers is that the 10 percent allotted for the green space will be wasted, the city government should set a standard on how the space is to be used.

Palma said he sees the issue as a design, management, and enforcement issue of not properly using of the space.

He said if the developers will move the trees to the side-

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Gilas coach predicts ‘epic’ PBA Game 7 P16

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

POWER STRUCTURE. Therma South, Inc. (TSI)’s coal-fired power plant towers along the coastline in Binugao, Toril. The power plant’s second 150-megawatt unit started its commercial operations yesterday, adding power to the grid and hopefully lessening the blackouts Mindanao has been experiencing due to El Niño. Lean Daval Jr.

Fire destroys sugarcane plantations in North Cot

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ORE than P1 million worth of sugarcane plantations were turned to ashes in a forest fire that hit two North Cotabato towns Sunday that authorities believe were caused by cigarettes thrown carelessly by smokers, fire officials said.

The first fire hit a more than two-hectare sugarcane plantation in Barangay Ladtingan, Pikit, North Cotabato, according to Senior Fire Officer SFO4 Ricardo Chekarin of Pikit Bureau of Fire Protection.

He said the fire was believed to have been triggered by lighted cigarette thrown by an unidentified smoker on dried grass beside the plantation at about 10 a.m.

Almost at the same time,

another grass fire hit a sugarcane plantation in Barangay Kilada, Matalam, North Cotabato.

According to North Cotabato Fire Marshall Chief Inspector Ibrahim Guiamelon, the grass fire quickly spread to a nearby sugarcane plantation.

Fire fighters successfully prevented the fire from reaching residential areas in the village.

Guiamelon said more than P400,000 worth of sugarcane plants were destroyed in the 2-hectare forest fire.

Guiamelon appealed to the public, especially smokers, to avoid throwing lighted cigarettes “because the surrounding is considered flammable

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JICA-backed plan sets projects for Mindanao peace and dev’t

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HE Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) outlined 26 anchor projects for peace and development in Mindanao under the final draft of the proposed Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) 2 or the Medium- to Long-Term Development Plan.

The Development Plan is among components of JICA’s Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for the Bangsamoro and is meant to act as useful reference or guide for the future development undertaking not just in the proposed Bangsamoro area but also in other Mindanao

regions.

This week, BDA and the JICA study team presented the final draft to local and international stakeholders at a seminar in Manila.

“Regardless of the outcome of the peace process, JICA assures strong support and committed assistance towards achieving peace and development in the Mindanao region,” said JICA Chief Representative Noriaki Niwa.

Through BDP 2, JICA looks forward to continue working closely with the Philippine government, stakeholders and other development partners in realizing balanced and equi-

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Dado: Nothing illegal in CLUP amendment

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City councilor Diosdado Mahipus yesterday said there was nothing illegal in the proceedings that amended the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) removing the additional 10 percent buffer area for green space.

This after Ateneo de Davao University-Community Engagement and Advocacy Council (AdDU-UCEAC) executive secretary lawyer Arnold C. Abejaron said the procedure was illegal because a provision in City Ordinance no. 0546 of 2013 or the City Land Use Plan 20132022 specifies that the Local

Zoning Review Committee (LZRC) should be convened first before it is amended.

Mahipus, however, said the LZRC is just a recommending body and cannot supersede the power of the City Council.

“Kung recommending body ka lang you only recommend (If you are only a recommending body then all you can do is recommend).

Whether you will recommend or not, the City Council would not even care,” he said.

Mahipus said there is also flaw in the interpretation of the provision of the review committee because there is

nothing to review if the Council has not yet introduced an amendment.

“I do not blame the other councilors before, but there is a saying that the water cannot rise above the source. The City Council is the lawmaking body, nganong naay review committee diha na maoy magbuot-buot (why would there be a review committee that wants to intervene),” he said.

Mahipus said in the legislative process, the proposed ordinance should always start and end in the City Council and not in any committee.

Mahipus also asked environment groups to look at the

issue objectively because the amendment is for the people who want to avail themselves of low-cost socialized housing.

“Kinsa pa may magpahimo’g balay para sa mga pobre kay gidugang naman pud na nimo ng 10 percent (No developers would build houses for the poor if you add 10 percent there),” he said.

“Wala nay pobre na makakuha’g balay kay himuon ani ron pareha na sa Woodridge, pareha na sa Ladislawa og Insular na pwede na ibaligya og tag P20,000 kada metros quadrados (The poor will not

have been a dream come true for the Bangsamoro people who have suffered marginalization for years. “[The] Bangsamoro Basic Law would have uplifted our lives. Now even our dreams are no longer there,” she said.

Najmah Arcadio Batugan, an 18-year-old education student of the Khadijah Muhammad Islamic Academy in Marawi City, said she could not understand where the prejudice and bias against the Bangsamoro people came from.

“There is so much similarities in our two people.

Why can’t they accept that the Moro people are their neighbors. If my parents can do it, why cant we?,” Batugan said.

She said her mother is a Christian and his father is a Muslim and she lived in both worlds in Dipolog and Marawi cities.

Former House member Benasing Macarambon Jr. said there was so much disappointment in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City after Congress failed to pass the BBL.

Macarambon said they were hoping Aquino could influence Congress into passing the BBL not the Basic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region or BLBAR. “I told my people that President Aquino should not be blamed for this but they are no longer listening. They think that President Aquino did not fulfill his end of the bargain in the agreement he signed with the MILF,” he said.

In a manifesto, the Marawi-based Ranao Confed-

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Marawi residents blame Aquino for BBL’s death

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ESIDENTS here blamed President Benigno Aquino for the failure of Congress to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law before it adjourns next week.

In a rally on Monday, some residents said Aquino did not do enough to convince the lawmakers to pass the bill.

Numbering around 5,000, they minced no words in criticizing the president, even shouting “Noynoy, traydor ka,” (Noynoy, you’re a traitor).

An old woman cried to reporters that the law would

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Low pressure, no water in some areas Feb 6-7

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TAX TIME. A foreigner joins a flock of people getting either an occupational or community tax certificate at the ground floor of the Sangguniang Panlungsod yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) yesterday announced that areas served by the Dumoy Water Supply System (WSS) will experience low water pressure to no water on two schedules because of power interruptions scheduled by Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC).

The first schedule is from 11:00 p.m. of February 5 until 10:00 a.m. of February 6 while the second schedule is from 11:00 p.m. of February 6 until 10:00 a.m. of February 7.

Specific areas affected are entire Talomo, Ulas, Bangkal, Matina, Matina Aplaya, Ecoland, Ma-a, Langub, Downtown, Bo. Obrero, Agdao, Madapo, Marfori, San Rafael, Circumferential Road, Bacaca and immediate environs, Bajada, Lanang and Bo. Pampanga; some areas in Bago Aplaya (Gulfview Executive Homes, Versari Village

and Sto. Niño Village), Sasa until Km. 12, Buhangin (from J.P Laurel Avenue to Panorama Homes, from Crossing Milan to Holy Trinity and from Ma-a Bridge to DPWH Panacan) and Panacan areas with Dumoy WSS connections (ICSa.m.A, SAPAHA, Landmark 1, DPWH Depot and Philippine Naval Forces).

Some production wells under Dumoy WSS will be affected by Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC)’s power interruptions needed to facilitate the re-conductoring of its primary lines from Purok 2 to Bago Gallera Barangay Hall on Schedule 1 and erection of concrete poles near live lines and revision of standard construction to cater new line for DCWD supply on Schedule 2.

Although the power cuts are shorter in duration, DCWD

DDING to a string of benefits that increase Filipinos’ access to alternate family planning methods, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) now covers benefit package for subdermal implant used for contraception.

According to Department of Health (DOH) Administrative Order 2015-0006, these subdermal implants are small tubes, the size of a matchstick, which are inserted under the skin of the upper arm of women, producing progestin-only hormones that inhibit ovulation and prevent pregnancy for three years. The procedure is also known for its rapid reversibility.

In a circular issued by PhilHealth, the package which is worth P3,000 covers the procedure including pre and post counselling, drugs and sup-

plies, professional fee and use of the facility. It can be availed of in accredited hospitals, primary care facilities, birthing homes or maternity clinics, and ambulatory surgical clinics and must be performed by accredited professionals who have acquired a Certificate of Training from DOH. As with other benefits availment, the process of availing this package requires the member to have sufficient and regular payment of premium contributions. For those under the indigent, Kasambahay and senior citizen categories of PhilHealth, the No Balance Billing policy also applies.

PhilHealth further specified that the package can be availed every 730 days which is equivalent to two years; the agency shall cover availments starting January 1, 2016. Kleah Dublin-PHIC XI

PhilHealth covers package for contraceptive implant

Duterte’s Vatican visit A will be after elections M

AYOR Rodrigo Duterte has confirmed that he will visit Vatican City, seat of the Holy See, but that the trip will be done after the elections.

Duterte made the confirmation in Tagaytay City Sunday to correct earlier reports that said that he was scheduled to seek an audience with Pope Francis before the campaign period starts.

The Vatican visit was presented to Duterte by his close friends following a backlash when he uttered a cuss word on November 30 as he talked

about the monstrous traffic jam during the visit of Pope Francis in Manila earlier in the year.

“Ayaw kung pumunta doon (ngayon) kasi tapos na ako nag-apologize kasi baka sabihin nila nag-drama lang ako (I won’t go there [now] because I have already apologized and they might say I’m merely staging a drama)” Duterte said last Sunday.

Duterte, however, vowed to go to the Vatican after the election “whether I win or lose to ask for pardon.”

After setting the record

HE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) mobilized on Tuesday all its chapters and volunteers nationwide to lead and encourage the people to maintain and practice cleanliness and eliminate all possible areas where mosquitoes can breed.

The call for mobilization came amid health advisories and alerts on Zika fever that have been issued by health authorities all over the world, including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization (WHO), Department of Health (DOH), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

“While there here have been no reported cases of Zika

fever in the country yet, the disease is spread by a mosquito (Aedes aegypti) which is present in the Philippines and is also the cause of dengue fever and chikungunya fever,” said PRC Chairman Richard Gordon.

On Monday, WHO said the recent cluster of microcephaly cases and other neurological disorders reported in Brazil constituted a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

The announcement came after WHO convened its first Emergency Committee meeting in Geneva on Zika virus.

The Zika virus outbreak in some countries of the Americas, notably Brazil, has been associated with a steep increase in the birth of babies

PRC alerts chapters, volunteers on Zika T

FPRC, 10

on the Vatican visit during the Tagaytay sortie, Duterte went back to his advocacy against drugs, crime, and corruption.

He was taken aback by the unusual approval for his cussing which had gotten him in trouble with conservative and religious sectors.

“Kung murahan ang election, panalo na ako (If the election is about cussing, I will win),” he said, sending the crowd into laughter.

He also apologized for his Cebuano accent, saying “hindi ako masyadong marunong

mag-Tagalog,” which was again met with laughter.

Duterte, however, turned serious towards the end, discussing a wide range of topics covering his platform, including agriculture, peace talks with rebel groups, and the economy.

Duterte, who was introduced by his running mate Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, acknowledged the presence of senatorial candidates Dionisio Santiago, Susan Ople, Dante Liban, Sandra Cam, and Francis Tolentino. CHITO FUENTES

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SENTIMENTS. Ecoteneo director Carmela Santos expresses the sentiments and concerns of the public on the amendment in the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) that removes the 10-percent green space requirement in housing subdivisions. Santos was present during yesterday’s regular City Council session. Lean Daval Jr.

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Hike in fresh milk yield pushed

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE National Dairy Authority (NDA) in Davao Region is eyeing to increase Mindanao’s ready-todrink fresh milk production by 20 percent this year in a bid to get a sizeable share of the P86 billion local milk industry.

“Of the 20 million liters (L)total milk produced last year, Mindanao only contributed a total of 6 million liters from more than 7,000 heads

of dairy cows in the island-region,” NDA department manager Marilyn Mabale said in Monday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex.

Domestic demand for last year nationwide reached to a total of 305 million liters, with majority of these coming from import, according to Mabale.

Domestic import of dairy milks accounted the third largest agriculture import of

the country, next to rice and wheat.

Mabale said Northern Mindanao remains the biggest producer of fresh milk in Mindanao with its over 5,000 dairy cows, followed by Southern Mindanao with only 2,300 dairy cows imported from New Zealand.

In Southern Mindanao, processing centers are located in Calinan in Davao City, producing 4,000 liters per days

and in New Corella in Davao del Norte which has a daily production of only 500 liters.

“None of the fresh milk processed here goes to the national market. It is not even enough to meet the city’s increasing demand,” Mabale said.

She added that many communities here with malnourished children are among the areas here that needs fresh milk supply to address

nutritional deficiency.

Even the fresh milk produce in major production units in Luzon like the provinces of Batangas, Laguna and Quezon also goes to the domestic market.

“The NDA is only targeting to supply the local requirement of ready-to-drink fresh milk of the country,” Mabale said. One in every three glasses of milk is produced locally.

To increase production

Davao LGU luring more tourist arrivals in 2016

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MINI-STREET MARKET. Vendors sell goods like used shoes, street food, school supplies, and even cell phone load outside the Sangguniang Panlungsod where foot traffic is high. Lean Daval Jr.

Davao City gets 72% of coal plant tax

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE city government of Davao will now get around 72 percent of the local business tax (LBT) from the operations of coal-fired power plant of Therema South Inc. (TSI), with the remaining 28 percent going to the municipality of Sta. Cruz.

This was the final total percentage on tax for both the localities after the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Davao on Tuesday approved on third and final reading the ordinance giving the Davao LGU 60 percent and Sta. Cruz 40 percent of the remaining 70 percent LBT.

The plant of Therma South Inc., a subsidiary of AboitizPower, is mainly occupying a lot in Binugao, which is part of Davao City, and a portion in Inawayan, Sta. Cruz.

Councilor Danilo C. Dayanghiran, the SP chair of the committee on finance, ways and means, and appropriation, said 100 percent of the 30 percent LBT will automatically go to the Davao LGU because the company’s main office located here.

“Mao na ang balaod. Na wherever the principal is located, automatic 30 percent (It is stipulated in the law. Wher-

ever the principal office is located, the 30 percent LBT will automatically go to the city or municipality),” he said.

Dayanghirang said the municipality of Sta. Cruz had accepted the sharing proposed by the city government of Davao as this is already reasonable enough.

“Luoy man pud kung kuhaon nato kay ang pantalan didto sa ilaha, ang dome tua sa ilaha.

Ug dili pud tagaan og permit ang TSI dili pud sila ka-operate because part of the operation is located in Sta. Cruz (It would be not fair if we get all of it because the port and dome are

located in their area. If the TSI is not also given permit by Sta. Cruz, the plant cannot operate),” he said.

Sta. Cruz Mayor Joel Ray Lopez had accepted the proposed 60-40 percent sharing scheme between the city and the municipality from the remaining 70 percent business tax out of the operations of the 300 megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant.

Lopez described the proposal made earlier by Dayanghirang as “already fair enough.” since Davao holds the larger percentage of the area where

commissioning that lasted several months.

The second unit was delayed for commercial operations by 10 months due to the Holy Week blackout last year, affecting its synchronization to the grid.

TSI president and chief operating officer Sebastian Lacson said “The commercial operations of the Unit 2 could not have come at a better time as Mindanao suffers

from power supply problems brought about by El Nino. TSI will provide much needed baseload power for our customers, hopefully contributing to the long term solution of the Mindanao power problem.”

The power plant will supply its capacity to 20 electric cooperatives and distribution utilities in the Davao region, Cotabato provinces, Sultan Kudarat,

Agusan provinces, Surigao provinces, Zamboanga provinces, parts of Bukidnon and parts of Misamis.

Aboitiz Power also bared the energy passed off to its customers during the testing had a discounted rate.

TSI declared commercial operations of its first unit on Sept. 18, 2015.

The 300-MW power plant, located in Davao, cost Php 35 billion. (PNA)

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TSI to help ease El Nino impact on Mindanao grid

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HERMA South Inc., a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corp., will help ease the impact of El Nino on Mindanao grid as it starts full commercial operations of its second plant Tuesday.

According to a statement from Aboitiz Power on Monday, the commercial operations of its second 150-megawatt (MW) unit will start at 12:00 a.m. after its successful testing and

in Mindanao, she said some investors here imported dairy cows from New Zealand through NDA. Mabale said a Bukidnon-based livestock raiser will raise a total of 400 additional dairy cows. Another raiser will also buy 50 for a farm in Mati in Davao Oriental.

Aside from adding new dairy cows, she said NDA will be also improving efficiency in its production units.

HE City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) is targeting a 10 percent increase in tourist arrivals in Davao as the city becomes a prime destination for meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions (MICE) in Mindanao.

“We’ve been actively campaigning for our MICE incentive programs,” CTOO chief Lisette C. Marques told reporters in an interview last Monday.

Stakeholders of the city’s MICE industry, she said, are already preparing for the convention of the Philippine Veterinarian Medical Association this month which will draw more than 1,500 participants.

Not only is the city gearing up for local conventions as it will be hosting next year’s Asian Raptor Conference which will draw 200 international guests.

Base on records from the Department of Tourism (DOT) 11, Davao City recorded a tourist arrival of 1, 2999,357 visitors or 66 percent of the region’s total tourist arrival from January to September 2015 of 1,983,573 tourists. DOT 11 said more than 90% of Davao Region’s tourist arrivals were from domestic travellers.

Earlier, tourism regional director Roberto Alabado III

said the national conventions held in Davao City shared significantly in the uptrend of tourist arrivals here in 2015.

“Tayo lang ang meron nito (We are the only one to have this kind of activity),” Alabado said.

The agency has also established incentives for those who were not able to hold their events here.

He added that the region has become a preferred destination for MICE, attributing this to the availability of convention centers that can host big events.

Airline partners have also been tapped to offer discounts for organizers who aim to hold the MICE events here.

Alabado said DOT was looking into partnerships with allied industries, such as hotels and other accommodation areas.

Under the two-year program, MICE activities with as low as 300 up to 2,500 participants and above will receive incentives based on the number of delegates.

The DOT and the MICE execom have designed a incentive program that will make Davao City a prime choice for MICE events and one of the prime tourist destinations in the country. CHENEEN R. CAPON

Mindanao entreps prepare for M. East investment trip

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EVERAL entrepreneurs in Mindanao are gearing up for the second Mindanao Investment trip to the Middle East in October this year, exporter and business leader Vicente T. Lao announced.

“We will be visiting counties like Dubai, Iran, and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) during the visit,” Lao told reporters in Monday’s interview.

CIS countries consist of 10 formerly Soviet Republics: Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.

“A lot of these areas have a huge potential for the agriculture products of Mindanao,” Lao said, adding the strategic

location of Dubai can be Mindanao’s gateway to other Middle Eastern countries.

The lifting of economic sanctions in Iran can also benefit the country.

“Iran is a very huge market. It has the money,” Lao said.

“If the Philippines can sell in Iran, then it can seize the opportunity posted by these countries,” he added.

Mindanao is already exporting agriculture products like banana in Iran for many years, but was affected by the sanction before.

Aside from the Philippines, he said other nations in the Southeast Asia should also look on the Iran market as its next destinations for its goods

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Some of the mangroves are fast disappearing.

Where have all our fish gone?

Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO (Second of Three Parts)

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IVE man a fish, so goes a very popular saying, and he will eat fish for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will fish for his lifetime.

“If we don’t watch out, this adage may soon become obsolete,” warns Roy C. Alimoane, director of the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. “We are already fishing our waters to the limit.”

“Like the other vital resources such as forests, Philippine fisheries are about to collapse -- a victim of the almost unabated ‘plunder of the commons,’” Alimoane added.

As defined, the commons encompasses unoccupied land and all waters which are considered God-given set of resources for the people to consume as much as needed.

But these resources appear to have been abused to the point of exhaustion.

According to fishery experts, all fishing activities

depend on a fragile resource base which, if mismanaged and overexploited, can easily collapse.

While the Philippines is home to the world’s second largest coral reef ecosystem, only 1-2.5% of the reefs are still intact and 60% are heavily damaged. “The destruction of our coral reefs can greatly reduce fish production, thus endangering the fish supply in the country,” said Letecia Ramos-Shahani when she was still with the senate.

An estimated 10-15 per cent of the total fisheries come from coral reefs. About 80-90 per cent of the income of small island communities comes from fisheries. “Coral reef fish yields range from 20 to 25 metric tons per square kilometer per year for healthy reefs,” says Dr. Angel C. Alcala, former environment secretary.

Mangroves are not spared from destruction. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said that most of the remaining vegetated mangrove areas in

Catch fish like this is no longer feasible these days.

the country today are second growth, containing other than the original species.

Marine experts are very worried about mangrove’s disappearance as they are home to 68 species of fish (including bangus, kitan, tilapia, eel and mullet, to name a few), 54 species of crustaceans (shrimps, prawns and crabs), and 56 species of gastropods.

“Fish use the spaces under the mass of prop roots of mangrove trees as ‘delivery rooms,’ and the offspring of many marine species spend their growing period in the mangrove swamps before moving on to the open said,” explained Dr. Rafael D. Guerrero III, former executive director of the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), a line agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA), attributes the decline of fish catch in the country to the continuous use of cyanide and dynamite, which both destroy coral reefs.

Although outlawed, dynamite fishing is still rampant.

Dennis Calvan, executive director of NGOs (non-government organizations) for Fisheries Reform, told Business

Mirror that on a single day an average of 10,000 blasts occur in various parts of the country.

Dynamite fishing is well documented in the country that it has even been mentioned by Ernst Jünger in his book, Storm of Steel.

“Dynamite or blast fishing became rampant in the Philippines after the Second World War,” wrote Gregg Yan, communication officer of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). “American soldiers would sometimes lob grenades into shoals of fish, providing local fishing communities with a lucrative new means of instantly increasing their catches.”

Unfortunately, it’s an incredibly destructive practice.

“These days, blast fishermen use powdered ammonium nitrate (usually from fertilizer), kerosene and small pebbles, which are packed inside a glass bottle and covered with a blasting cap,” Yan wrote. “New designs integrate long metal rods which absorb sound and act as sinkers.”

The impact underwater is devastating. “A single blast’s shockwave typically travels at about 1500 meters per second (the length of 15 football fields), killing or maiming every fish in range and often liq-

Coral reefs in most parts of the country are already destroyed.

uefying their internal organs,” Yan wrote. “The fish are then collected either by divers using hookah air compressors where an on board engine pumps air through a garden hose, or using nets.”

Researchers believe that destructive fishing practices like blast fishing are one of the biggest threats to the coral reef ecosystems. “Coral reefs that may have taken thousands of years to grow are reduced to rubble in a matter of seconds, obscured by wafting clouds of silt,” Yan wrote.

The result: low fish catch.

“The damaged coral reefs from blast fishing lead to instant declines in fish species wealth and quantity,” Wikipedia continues. “Explosives used in blast fishing not only kill fish but also destroy coral skeletons, creating unbalanced coral rubble. The elimination of the fish also eliminates the resilience of the coral reefs to climate change, further hindering their recovery.”

Several studies have shown that single blasts cause reefs to recover over 5-10 years, while widespread blasting, as often practiced, “transforms these biodiverse ecosystems into continuous unstable rubble.”

Meanwhile, Calvan said about 150,000 kilograms of sodium cyanide are sold every year. “Cyanide fishing may not be as rampant as in the 1970s and 1980s, it is being done in the Philippines,” says Dr. Alan White, senior scientist of the Asia-Pacific Program of the Nature Conservancy.

When sodium cyanide is dissolved in water, it is transformed into hydrocyanic acid.

“This acid is readily absorbed by fish through its gills,” explained Dr. Guerrero. “Cyanide reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and this incapacitates fish.”

While cyanide fishing is economically feasible, it is environmentally destructive.

Like dynamite fishing, it also annihilates coral reefs.

The late Jacques-Yves Cousteau commented after visiting a coastal island in the northern Philippines to examine reefs destroyed by cyanide fishing: “These practices are criminal. They attack the natural productive environment which allows the renewal of marine resources.”

Although the Philippine waters still have fisheries, climate change may further aggravate the problem the country is now facing. “At least three quarters of the globe’s key fishing grounds may become seriously impacted by changes in circulation as a result of the ocean’s natural pumping systems fading and falling,” a report from the United Nations said.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration physicist Josefino Comiso told Philippine media some years back that rising temperatures could reach a point where “various living creatures” would start to die in large numbers. “Such temperatures would vary from species to species,” he said. “But the deaths of these creatures would gravely affect the food supply chain.” -- (To be concluded)

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EDITORIAL Consult the people

I

T almost went by unnoticed because the “consultations” were done without the presence of environment groups and other stakeholders who have much to say about it, but now the amendment to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) removing the additional 10 percent allocation for green space in housing subdivisions is being scrutinized and opposed by a broad sector of society. In the first place, as Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) Media Center executive secretary lawyer Arnold C. Abejaron pointed out, City Ordinance no. 0546 of 2013 or the City Land Use Plan 2013-2022 specifies that the Local Zoning Review Committee (LZRC) should be convened first before it is amended. That this was not followed is already a red flag and gives rise to suspicion that vested interests had been at work to slip the amendment through without consulting other sectors. Secondly, one wonders how such an amendment that seeks to destroy instead of build up the environment had a chance of being passed in a city like Davao which has already learned its lesson in past calamities brought on by the lack of trees in our surroundings.

Indeed, the 10 percent allocation for green space is not intended as mere decoration for subdivisions: it was placed there in addition to the 30 percent allocation for open space because the city knows that the

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more trees there are, the better for the environment and for the people.

The 30 percent, after all, is there for roads, parks, and other recreational purposes, and an additional area was deemed important because it would be planted exclusively to trees. It may be burdensome to the subdivision developers, but only in terms of finances; the removal of that 10 percent allocation would be a massive burden on the people in the long run as we suffer the consequence of tearing down more trees and further reducing our green cover.

Councilor Diosdado Mahipus has reasoned that the City Council had the poor in its heart when it amended the CLUP: without it, he said, housing cost would skyrocket and the poor would not be able to afford houses. But surely those who crafted the CLUP had already taken this into consideration, knowing that there are always ways to implement something as vital as this. Besides, it is far more important to save the environment now than deal with the damage later, when it is too late. One hopes that Mayor Rodrigo Duterte would study the matter thoroughly and, as he has said, use public interest as basis for vetoing it. He now has the chance to do what the Council failed to do: consult the people who will be severely affected by the amendment.

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T

HERE are good news and there are bad news. There are always two sides of a coin. You either see things hall-full or half-empty. And you either accept the positive side or negative side of life.

One of the good news I received in my e-mail recently was a press release from the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) which said: “Free Wi-Fi Project Goes Nationwide.”

“The DOST - Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Office’s Free Wi-Fi Internet Access in Public places project will be including class one and two municipalities in its roll out, in order to better reach the class three to six municipalities which were the original target beneficiaries of the project,” the press release said.

According to the report, the decision to include class one and two municipalities initially stemmed from the low participation in the procurement of providers for the original 967 beneficiary municipalities.

One of the reasons cited by the providers was the low price of allocated budget for contract for the various municipalities.

“We intend to increase the budget allocation for municipal connectivity for the project, by around 50%, likewise, we will also be including class one and two municipalities in order to better reach classes three to six, the ones who need Internet connectivity the most,” pointed out ICT undersecretary Louis Casambre.

Currently, the total number of beneficiary municipalities stands at 1,435.

Casambre further stated that providers would need to upgrade and expand their communications infrastructure in order

M

ILLIONS of Filipinos – adults and young alike – have been mesmerized into believing (not thinking) that the Philippines can achieve greatness in the world stage of basketball. Naah. In Asia alone, we are pushed against the wall when the Chinese, the Koreans and the Japanese battle us.

The basketball media hype is so strong that it envelops the soul, body and mind of the basketball millions to become fanatical followers of the sport.

Yes, it is true we were once kings in Asia. But that was sixty years ago when the Chinese from Mainland China were still isolated from the free world. Yes, it is also true we placed third in the 1954 World Championships but that was when height and heft were not yet the vital elements employed in the sport.

Today, we are a sorry heap of awestruck day-dreamers hopelessly aiming to get into the elite Olympic circle. Remember the trashing we got from China in 1990 where the Philippine team bannered and coached by ex-PBA great Robert Jaworski scored only half of what the Chinese did?

Just like in tennis, when power serving was not yet in vogue, Filipino netters like

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Free wi-fi

VANTAGE POINTS

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to serve far flung THINK ON THESE! areas. With class one and two municipalities included, it would be easier for them to reach the poorer communities.

“Tenders are currently being Henrylito D. Tacio prepared for the henrytacio@gmail.com new municipalities with the new budget, and they should be available within the month,” Casambre said.

The Project Management Team reported that 1.6 billion pesos was added to the 2015 unobligated funds for the 2016 budget.

“The Free Wi-Fi in public places project will install wireless Internet access points in public places such as, town plazas, parks, government offices, health units, and transport terminals including train stations, seaports and airports,” the press release said.

Studies conducted by the World Bank showed that every 10% increase in broadband Internet penetrations translates to 1.38 percent increase in a country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth.

With the increased budget, DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo is hopeful the industry will better participate in the program.

“We are looking forward to providing connectivity through our private sector partners especially in the rural areas. With Internet connectivity readily available, their lives can be enhanced with better access to weather information, education, agricul-

tural resources, commerce, e-government services, as well as employment, through online jobs” he said.

Wi-Fi is, commercially used at least as early as August 1999 and was coined by brand-consulting firm Interbrand Corporation, is a local area wireless computer networking technology that allows electronic devices to connect to the network.

The name is often written as WiFi or Wifi, but these are not approved by the Wi-Fi Alliance.

In the past, the Wi-Fi Alliance used the “nonsense” advertising slogan: “The Standard for Wireless Fidelity.” This was before the brand name was invented; it leads to the misconception that Wi-Fi was an abbreviation of “Wireless Fidelity.”

However, non-Wi-Fi technologies intended for fixed points exist. Motorola Canopy, for one, is usually described as fixed wireless. Alternative wireless technologies include mobile phone standards, such as 2G, 3G, 4G or LTE. Many devices can use Wi-Fi, to name a few: personal computers, video-game consoles, smartphones, digital cameras, tablet computers and digital audio players. These can connect to a network resource such as the Internet via a wireless network access point.

“Such an access point (or hotspot) has a range of about 20 meters (66 feet) indoors and a greater range outdoors,” Wikipedia says. “Hotspot coverage can be as small as a single room with walls that block radio waves, or as large as many square kilometers achieved by using multiple overlapping access points.”

In some instances, Wi-Fi can be less secure than wired connections. The reason:

an intruder does not need a physical connection. “Web pages that use TLS are secure, but unencrypted internet access can easily be detected by intruders,” Wikipedia explains. “Because of this, Wi-Fi has adopted various encryption technologies.”

Now, let’s talk about internet, also often referred to as the Net, as a short form of network. “The term Internet, when used to refer to the specific global system of interconnected Internet Protocol networks, is a proper noun and may be written with an initial capital letter,” Wikipedia says. “In common use and the media, it is often not capitalized, viz. the internet. Some guides specify that the word should be capitalized when used as a noun, but not capitalized when used as an adjective.”

Going back to history: As early as 1849, the word “internetted” was used uncapitalized as an adjective, meaning Interconnected or interwoven. The designers of early computer networks used internet both as a noun and as a verb in shorthand form of internetwork or internetworking, meaning interconnecting computer networks. In a news report published in Business Mirror, Lorenz S. Marasigan said one-half of the country’s population has now access to Internet. This is good news as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can now expand their businesses through the Web. “There are over 95,000 small to medium enterprises in the country, with each and every one having the potential to grow and compete on a global scale,” Reynaldo R. Huergas, president of the IP Converge Data Services, Inc. was quoted as saying. “With a wide assortment of online tools now within reach, there is no better time to be an SME than today.”

the legendSPECKS OF LIFE ary Felicisimo Ampon, Johnny Jose and the Deyro brothers gave their rivals a run for the money and consequently put the Fred C. Lumba Philippines in the world map.

Now, as you have observed our home grown tennis players have been relegated in the lower group of the Davis Cup competition.

Today, our misguided concentration and focus on basketball have deprived aspiring potential Filipino athletes from looking into and trying other sports because they have been taught to believe that basketball is the ONLY sport where they can shine and achieve success.

Our sports policies – no, thanks to the hibernating and stagnating Philippine Sports Commission and its cohort, the

Philippine Olympic Committee – have not been appropriately rationalized.

Sports where the Filipinos have a legitimate shot at the gold medal are not fully supported financially. Given the opportunity, we can win Olympic golds in boxing, gymnastics, archery, shooting, weightlifting, judo, wrestling, long distance running and other events where height and heft are not vital ingredients.

National sports associations (NSAs) have long been complaining of the irrational approaches the PSC has been taking.

Everytime there is a regional or world sports competition abroad, the retinue of non-sports figures to suddenly grow in numbers.

The PSC has since its inception in 1990 been funding with taxpayers money junkets disguised as national teams. The wives of team officials, sometimes even ‘yayas’ (nannies) are included in the national delegation as escorts and chaperones. To do this, the POC must justify and increase the number of participating athletes to pro-rate the number of team officials and coaches.

It is incumbent upon the PSC to properly educate the Filipino people as to what

particular sports can the Filipino have the legitimate chance for the gold. The problem is that our mind-set has been trained to accept a silver medal (consuelo de bobo) as if it were itself a near gold finish.

No one remembers a runner up finish.

Only the names of champions are etched in the pedestal of greatness.

All Filipinos collectively are longing and yearning for a Filipino athlete to win the elusive Olympc gold medal. But if the government sports agency is as neglectful and laid-back as the Malacanang tenant, all these will remain wishful thinking.

We should forget basketball. It is idiotic to even imagine that Filipinos will one day beat the US team for the Olympic gold. That “heroic” performance against the best in the last FIBA World Championships went pfft because we just did not have the right materials to match powerhouses from Europe, South America and other regions. We were dreaming and we still are.

Let us instead realistically train our sights in other fields where the Filipino can compete for the gold, not aim for the silver.

Let us not settle for the crumbs. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.)

God bless the Philippines!

Over emphasis on basketball

10 NEWS

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due to the dry spell.”

Residents are also advised to take extra care in setting on fire garbage because it may trigger grass fire.

In Lanao del Sur, the grass fire that hit several hectares of forests in the mountains of Butig were intentional, according to Secretary Kahal Kedtag of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENRARMM) Kedtag told reporters that the bush fire was intentionally

carried out by owners to save costs in cutting cogon grass.

Kedtag appealed to lot owners in the region to do away with the traditional “kaingin” (slash and burn) system because it is very dangerous with the dry spell at its peak in the region.

The provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi that compose ARMM are among the areas identified by state weather bureau to experience extreme heat during the first quarter of 2016. (PNA)

eration for Peace said the non-passage of the draft BBL was “deliberate” and blamed “anti-BBL” legislators for it.

The group singled out Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, chair of the committee on the BBL; Zamboanga City Rep. Celso Lobregat; and

senators Ferdinand Marcos Jr; Peter Cayetano and Grace Poe. “They demonstrated their irrational, insensitive and flawed judgment of the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people,” the group led by Datu Musa Sultan said. (Froilan Gallardo/MindaNews)

needs additional time for re-switching on of the affected facilities, pressure build up and line delivery, thus the longer duration of water service interruptions.

DCWD general manager Edwin V. Regalado asks for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected customers. He also advises them to store enough water prior to the scheduled water interruptions. Water supply may be restored earlier if work goes smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise.

The general public may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) or call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293) and press “1” on their phone dial to listen to latest daily water updates. They may also call / text 0927-7988966, 0925-5113293 and 09084410653 for other updates, complaints, queries and matters pertaining to DCWD services. (Jamae G. Dela Cruz)

the plant was erected.

Aside from the LBT that will be derived from the TSI operations, the Davao LGU will also get the 66.6 percent of the 70 percent LBT of Black and Veatch (BVIP) engineering service provider of the firm.

The Black and Veatch

(BVIP) was providing engineering consultancy in the construction of the coal-fired power plant.

The 33.33 percent of the 70 percent will go to Sta. Cruz and the remaining 30 percent will go to Makati City where the firm is registered.

and products.

“Iran is a major importer because it doesn’t have enough production areas,” Lao said.

Agriculture products of the Philippines can be sold to Iran like fruits, vegetables, and value-added products.

Aside from bench-marking and market study, he also said there will be selling and business matching during the investment mission.

“We will try to close deal with supermarkets there to carry our products,” Lao said.

He is also eyeing to export Peking duck to Dubai

where his company Maharlika Agro-Marine Venture recently secured Halal certification from its Ministry of Environment Water, which allows the firm to Dubai, and countries like Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Qatar and Oman.

The first investment trip to Middle East took place three years ago where some of Mindanao-based exporters closed export deals with businessmen from Saudi Arabia and Dubai.

“We’re expecting to close deals in this year’s trip,” Lao said. CHENEEN R. CAPON

od January 22 to 31 in this city.

The city agriculture report said that 672.28 of the 716.07 hectares are beyond recovery.

The El Niño phenomenon also prompted the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) to impose rationing as this city’s

water level at source dropped lower than the normal elevation.

The normal water level is 74.20 meters while the latest water elevation at ZCWD’s diversion dam is measured at 74.04 meters. (PNA)

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BLOCK. Abreeza Mall general manager Luigi Escano gives updates on the access road blockage at the back of the mall made by a certain Coronel family which is currently claiming a 1,000-square meter property, including a portion of the road. Lean Daval Jr.

DSWD Davao bags 3 nat’l awards T HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office here nipped three awards during the recent awards ceremonies in celebration of the Department’s 65th Founding Anniversary held at DSWD National Office in Quezon City last

Wednesday.

Gemma Dolor Dela Cruz, DSWD Team Leader of Davao Oriental was adjudged Best Public Servant; Team Sta. Maria of Davao Occidental was named Best Functional Municipal Action Team; while DSWD Davao City District 2 Action Team was cited implementer

walks, a standard should be put in place because the green space in the sidewalks is “very inadequate.”

Palma said green space is important because it fosters community involvement, stewardship, and ownership.

“It also promotes wellness, mental health, and physical health,” he added.

He said in the existing law which mandates 30 percent of allocation for open space, only a small portion will be used for green space because most of it will go to roads, parks, and other recreational areas.

Palma said the 10 percent green space can also address a lot of issues such as flooding and climate change.

table development for all the people of Mindanao.

Taking off from the BDP 1 Study prepared for the transitional period, BDP 2 identified anchor projects including support for agricultural cooperatives; road rehabilitation and upgrading; ports and airport improvement; Greater Cotabato City urban infrastructure; communal irrigation; economic corridor development; economic zones; abaca, coco coir and sugar industrial cluster development; agri-based projects (goat farming, mixed field crops); seed production center; halal industry promotion; open market; cold chain facilities; community-based forest and coastal management; mini hydro-power development as well as Mindanao river basin integrated watershed and flood management projects.

Such projects derive from the 16 programs in BDP 2 within the development agenda of broad-based inclusive growth, pump-priming, alternative

socio-economy and enhanced resources management initiatives to ensure inclusive development in Bangsamoro.

JICA noted consultations with Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Regional Government, Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA) and existing government set-up of ARMM will help ensure effective and sustainable implementation of development projects.

BDP 2 aims to create 550,000 additional jobs in Mindanao by 2022 and a 7.4 percent annual GDP. Japan is a strategic development partner of the Philippines.

Through JICA, Japan has been supporting the peace and development process in the region since 2002 with assistance to the ARMM Social Fund for Peace and Development.

Since then, Japan’s official development assistance to Mindanao totaled some 15.1 billion yen. (PNA)

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of Best Convergence Initiative.

DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman presented the plaques and cash prize to all winners including those coming from the national office and other regions.

The three winners will be recognized again during the regional anniversary com-

memoration on February 16th together with the DSWD XI Loyalty Awardees and outstanding development partners.

Theme for this year is DSWD @65: Mga Kuwentong Tagumpay, Tungo sa Masaganang Pagbabago. (DSWD/ Carmela C. Duron)

be able to afford their own house because the developers will price their houses like Woodridge, Ladislawa, and Insular whose value is P20,000 per square meter), ” he added.

He said that City Council wants to make the houses affordable for the poor people who want to own a house.

“We are now making sure that it will not be a burden to the developers,” he said.

Mahipus also pointed out that even if the 10 percent requirement is removed, the green space will be incorporated in the remaining 30 percent open space.

Meanwhile, AdDU president Fr. Joel Tabora S.J. also expressed his message to city councilors in a letter which was read by Ecoteneo executive director Carmela Santos

yesterday during the privilege speech of councilor Ma. Belen Acosta in yesterday’s regular Council session.

In the letter, Tabora said green spaces are “essential and not optional in an enlightened urban institution such as Davao.”

He said developers should “respect the genius of experts who can design projects that are not like those in Manila, but those worthy of Davao, which does not alienate the quality of life of Dabawenyos.”

Tabora said there should be dialogue between people living in the city, the people’s representatives sitting in power, and investors from Manila “so that together we can create a quality of life not reduced to a graveyard of cement and stones.”

with abnormally small heads and in cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome.

Health authorities say the complications in newborn babies can be a lifelong disability that can stress the whole health system.

Currently, there is still no vaccine for the Zika virus, and it is said that once a person is infected by it, the virus remains in the bloodstream of the affected individual, which can potentially affect the blood situation in the country.

Gordon also called on people who have gone to areas affected by the Zika virus and intend to donate blood to inform the blood service facility about this particular information.

“We also advise them to defer giving blood one month after they arrive from areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission. The PRC also advises deferring unnecessary travel to countries affected by the Zika virus,” Gordon added.

(PNA)

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

EDGEDAVAO WOMEN

Passion cooks

FINANCE AND ART may not seem like natural bedfellows, but to budding creative and certified financial advisor Tutti Vishendas, they’re not worlds apart.

Niña Luchi Ariane Vishendas Galang, or “Tutti” for short, is a multi-faceted career woman who wears different hats, embraces her strengths, and finds comfort and stillness in her being. There’s a certain magnetism in her personality and character, her immeasurable talent and competency in various fields, which naturally draw the attention and interest towards her.

More than just a pretty face, she takes the corporate world in her own fashion and follows her bliss in visual and culinary arts.

While she considers art and lettering as her form of leisure, she also puts her skills to good use in decorating her own brand of pastries and cakes.

Life figures At the time I met Tutti about 5 years ago, she was in charge of marketing for an international fashion and accessory line. Long before she joined the prestigious yet challenging world of retail, her first entry into the corporate world saw her in the same field as her parents’. “My first post was in the banking industry, having been influenced by my parents who used to be bankers as well.”

In between posts, she took on the role of financial advisor for AXA Life and is now celebrating her 8th year with the company.

“My job in AXA as a Financial Advisor has been the most

fulfilling career I’ve had. Noble and rewarding altogether, it feels like you are turning a customer into family --- one deal at a time.

And that’s what’s important at the end of the day. You hold your clients together not only because of what you sell, but because they associate themselves with the service and sincerity you offer them. Addressing your clients’ needs is important, but being able to connect with them on a long haul is a non-negotiable imperative.”

“I regard myself as someone who’s inherently congenial, always making my daily encounters with clients, friends, colleagues, and family a meaningful experience because I find inspiration by listening to their stories.”

Living it out loud Art and calligraphy have always factored into Tutti’s life, and she continues to practice painting and calligraphy to this

day. “I believe I was born an artist. As they say, ‘Once an artist, always an artist.’ As a child, I’ve always been interested in visual, literary, and performing arts.

In school, I remember participating in most activities which required singing and dancing, writing or painting. It’s something that helped me strike balance between academics and extra-curricular even at such a young age. And I guess it’s also how I’ve been trained to breathe in between pressure and toxicity later on in life.”

“Calligraphy for me is a lifestyle, and I seem to take it with me anywhere: from exams to reports to handwritten greeting cards, poetry, and love notes. It’s something I guess I naturally have in my hands, so no matter what pen or brush I hold, I would almost always end up with a decorative penmanship.”

“With painting, I guess I’ve honed my creative process over time --- from a spontaneous mess to something that’s less ephemeral, more soulful. I now choose my concept and medium more carefully so much so that the audience actually feels what emotions I put into it, and they are able to connect with the artwork as I have related myself with it.”

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UP AND ABOUT

The evolution of paper

MOLESKINE launches a new solution that simplifies the creative process of using both paper and digital workflows.

Unveiled at Adobe MAX, The Creativity Conference, Adobe and Moleskine are offering users an Adobe Creative Cloud branded Moleskine notebook (Creative Cloud connected) for sketching and a mobile companion app to capture the drawings, allowing them to be worked on further in Adobe Photoshop CC or Adobe Illustrator CC. These tools and services are powered by the Adobe Creative SDK, a new software toolkit that allows companies to seamlessly connect their projects and services to Adobe Creative Cloud, giving users the possibility to experience a continuum between analog and digital in the design and image capturing process. The new toolset condenses the creative process into a few simple steps and provides a solution that offers an unprecedented level of integration from start to finish.

Users draw in the Moleskine Smart Notebook (Creative Cloud connected) and capture their creations using the companion app (free, iPhone only), powered by the Adobe Creative SDK. The page markers in the corners of the notebook assist the preprocessing and the optimization of the image. The image is then synced to Adobe Creative Cloud

in two different file formats (jpg and svg) and can be opened and edited in Adobe Photoshop® CC or Adobe Illustrator® CC for the final stages of the process.

The initial stages of the creative process often occur offline, out of the studio or in transit. As a portable, uncomplicated object, the Moleskine notebook can be used anytime, anywhere and especially on the move. Sketching on paper is immediate, and can even be done on a crowded train. Many creative thinkers say their best ideas come to them when they’re on the move. Now

they can continue working on them as soon as they get into the studio.

For the first time ever, the creative’s tools are integrated into a unified ecosystem that bridges analog and digital for a more seamless experience from start to finish. The notebook provides the blank space needed to capture the first spark of inspiration, wherever and whenever it falls. No need for wires, wifi or a desk.

Maria Sebregondi, VP of Brand Equity and Communication said, “We don’t see a conflict

between digital and analog tools.

With our fans actively posting their Moleskine creations online, for us the digital realm is another open platform for creativity and self- expression. Rather than make our fans choose between analog and digital, they should be able to navigate both seamlessly.”

Scott Belsky, Vice President Creative Cloud Ecosystem and Behance at Adobe said, “Adobe is committed to providing products and services that simplify the creative process from concept to production. Our

collaboration with Moleskine helps facilitate this process, with tools for sketching on paper and then refining the project digitally. With today’s launch, we are looking forward to seeing all the incredible work that is created with this simplified workflow.”

The Moleskine Smart Notebook, Creative Cloud connected is available online at store.lifestylebrands.com.ph, at Apple Premium Resellers Power Mac Center and iStudio, as well as at Chimes Specialty Store. The iPhone app is available for free download on the App Store.

Celebrate CNY with Feng Shui Master Marites Allen THIS YEAR OF THE FIRE MONKEY, attract good fortune. Get some tips on how to bring luck into your life at SM Lanang Premier this Chinese New Year, from February 1 to 8.

On Wednesday, February 3, 5 pm, visit the region’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination and listen to the fortune forecast of international Feng Shui master Marites Allen at the Atrium.

Discover your general outlook for your horoscope this year as well as your luck in romance, wealth, health and career from Allen.

Find out also your lucky days and colors, and the auspicious charms and amulets you can wear from the worldrenowned Feng Shui expert.

Allen, the President and CEO of World of Feng Shui (WOFS) Philippines, is the Feng Shui consultant of choice of top executives and prominent personalities in media, entertainment in public office in the country and overseas. She has written several books,

conducted seminars for top corporations and graced numerous television and radio programs providing fortune forecast and astrological readings.

Allen is also a member of the prestigious Feng Shui Societies of London, Singapore and the World of Feng Shui Malaysia.

Come and celebrate the Lunar New Year at SM Lanang Premier. Starting February 1 to 8, visit the Money Tree at the Atrium and get a lucky Ang Pao for every P500 singlereceipt purchase from SM Markets. Avail also of free desserts or treats at select restaurants.

For a glimpse of Chinese cultural traditions, catch the exciting Lion and Dragon Dance on February 8 at the Atrium and the Wushu Exhibition on February 6, 4 pm, at The Fountain Court grounds.

There’s also a Chinese Food Bazaar, where you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious Chinese food, from February 4 to 8 at the Atrium.

For more details, contact 285-0943 or visit SM Lanang Premier on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for event updates.

ENJOY GREAT DISCOUNTS ON SM ACCESSORIES WATCHES SALE EVENT and get additional 10% off on all watches when you visit us with your SM Advantage, SM Prestige, BDO Rewards, or Mom Card. Check out brands like Fossil, Casio, Timex, Michael Kors, Philip Stein, and a lot more! Hurry and head on to The SM Store branch near you! Promo runs from February 4-21.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Pauleen Luna thanks family and organizers for wedding success ANY WEDDING C E L E B R AT I O N wouldn’t be perfect without a team who works together to make that day special.

Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Sotto!

Kapuso star Pauleen Luna gushed about her successful wedding day with her husband Vic Sotto and expressed her gratitude towards the people who were part of it.

“First, thank you Father God for being so faithful! We are never lost when we are in you!

Secondly, thank you to my parents, my brother, to Vic’s children and to his brothers for being so supportive and for all the love! We love you!” she said on Instagram.

The wedding was a dream come true for the couple for having both of their families and friends’ blessings.

Poleng continued, “Thank you to our entourage, you have been with us through this whole journey,

now!”

The bride was also thankful to her photographers and videographers for capturing one of the most important events of her life. “To my love Jason Magbanua, thank you for the awesome wedding video and to Oly [Ruiz] of Metrophoto for capturing THIS BEAUTIFUL MOMENT! You are awesome!” we are grateful! To our Ninongs and Ninangs, thank you for taking the responsibility of being our mentor and guide.

To Eat Bulaga, [thank you] for giving us the floor to share this special moment with all our Dabarkads! [Thank you also] to Father Jeffrey Quintela for being our officiating priest and friend!”

The newlyweds felt the celebration run smoothly because of their wedding organizers so she took the chance to acknowledge the amazing team she

worked with.

The actress-TV host thanked, “To our wedding coordinator, Miss Rita Neri of [Rita Neri Event Planners], thank you for making life easier for us! [You’re] always so efficient.

To Francis Libiran, thank you for making us our clothes for the wedding!”

Pauleen looked beautiful on her most awaited day and it was topped with sophisticated hair and makeup, “To my makeup artist Mickey See, [thank you] for making me feel

Lastly, she gave thanks to the families and friends who attended her wedding, “Thank you for driving all the way to the South to celebrate this most important day! I know I missed some people, but THANK YOU!!! We are so blessed to be able to work with all of you!

Thank you for making our wedding a success!

GOD BLESS!”

and look pretty on our special day [as well as] to Jay Wee for making my hair look beautiful!”

Aside from the wedding proper, the banquet was also to die for. She mentioned, “Thank you Audrey and Kaye of Bizu, our guests are extremely happy with the food!

To Miss Jacqui of Rue Bourbon, everyone had a BLAST because of your premium mobile bar!

To Chef Tony’s [Popcorn Philippines], thank you for the complimentary giveaways, we’re munching on them right

Celine Dion to honor late husband with celebration of life service in Las Vegas CÉLINE DION is ready to return to the Las Vegas stage for a very special reason.

E! News has learned the singer will appear at The Colosseum inside Las Vegas’ Caesars Palace Wednesday evening for a celebration of life service honoring husband René Angélil.

While details remain tight-lip, we can confirm Celine has no plans to talk or perform during the ceremony. Instead, guests will honor the proud husband and father who died on Jan. 14 after battling cancer.

“My family and I are deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support from so many people who have touched our lives during these past few days,” read a letter posted on Celine’s website after his death. “We have felt your

love for René, and your prayers and compassion have helped us during this most difficult time... more than you’ll ever know. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Celine and her children honored René on Jan. 22 with a funeral where the couple’s son

René-Charles delivered a touching speech to attendees.

“Fifteen years is not a long time for a son to get to know his father,” he told the crowd. “You left me now with enough good memories of you to share with my younger brothers. As they grow

older without you being around, I’ll make sure to pass on what I’ve learned from you.”

He added, “You are a tough act to follow but with our help everything is going to be fine. Dad, I promise you here that we’re all going to live up to your standards.”

Celine has also been mourning the recent loss of her brother Daniel who passed away from cancer just two days after her husband’s death.

Through the pain, the singer has found comfort in fans and family. As a result, she is expected to resume her residency in Las Vegas on Feb. 23.

“Her heart is broken,” a source shared with E! News at the time of her family members’ deaths.

“She is devastated but trying to be as strong as possible. Her world has changed but she is taking it day by day.”

February 3-4, 2016

LAKBAY2LOVE Dennis Trillo, Solenn Heussaff PG

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

EVERYTHING ABOUT HER Vilma Santos, Angel Locsin, Xian Lim PG

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

THE REVENANT Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy R16

1:00 | 4:00 | 7:00 | 10:00 LFS

13 HOURS/ *THE BOY James Badge Dale, John Krasinski/ *Lauren Cohan, Rupert Evans R13/*R13

12:00 | 3:00 LFS / *6:00 | 8:00 | 10:00 LFS

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

WOMEN METRO MOM A1

Bakeology On this side, Tutti works as a cake artist for a line of cakes and pastries, a venture she shares with her sister.

“Bakeology is a home-based baking business which my sister and I set up in October last year. After her stint as a ‘chef mom’ for a global food brand, we decided to continue to share her flair for cooking and baking to those with an appetite for the good life. She’d bake and I’d decorate the cakes. It’s a perfect arrangement because she was diligent in the kitchen, while I am ecstatic about art and creating masterpieces out of any-

thing. My sister and I learned the art of baking primarily because of family tradition and experience. I was excited in starting with this business, driven with the objective of turning another one of my passions into an enjoyable and edible experience. Here, I learned that one can always start messy, but with enough passion to do better, every recipe eventually becomes a tasteful art.”

“Our bestsellers include Matchawacallit (Japanese Green Tea), Strawberries & Champagne, Deep Dark Chocolate, Blueberry Galaxy, Banana Walnut, Peach Mango Medley, Java Prune, Chocolate

Peppermint, Scarlett J. (our version of Red Velvet), and Pink Lemonade. The same flavors are available for both cupcakes and cakes. Since inception, our customers keep coming back for the Deep Dark Chocolate and Strawberry variants – both being sinfully rich in taste and generous in our signature cream

cheese frosting. The other ones appeal to those with a unique, adventurous palette. We customize though according to our customers’ request. Everything is possible at Bakeology and we put our customers’ wants first at all times. Our cakes are celebrated by customers because we infuse both flavor and art into

them. Every piece is old-fashioned yet distinct, nostalgic yet full of surprises. We mostly play with mom’s recipes, and add a hint of what’s new and stylish.”

Bakeology offers free delivery in Davao City for a minimum order of 3 dozens of cupcakes or 1 whole cake. For orders, call 09285204897.

EDGEDAVAO

11 ICT HUB

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

CompTIA welcomes DLSU to academy partner program

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OMPTIA, the nonprofit trade association for the technology industry and the leading provider of vendor-neutral skills certifications for the world’s tech workforce, today welcomed De La Salle University as the newest member of its CompTIA Authorized Partner Program for Academy Partners in the Philippines.

Dr. Merlin Teodosia Suarez, Dean of the College of Computer Studies, at De La Salle University and Dennis Kwok, Vice President, Asia Pacific, CompTIA, recently launched the partnership at the university’s campus in Manilla.

With this collaboration, De La Salle University students can graduate with both an academic degree and internationally-recognized IT skills credentials from CompTIA. “This partnership with CompTIA will surely strengthen our Computing Curriculum even more,” Suarez said. “We are excited as we share the same objective with CompTIA – to give our students the right foundation leading to a rewarding career in the fast-growing field of information technology.”

The partnership between De La Salle University and CompTIA occurs at an opportune time. CompTIA’s 2015 report International Technology Adoption & Workforce Trends Study found that 68 percent of business and IT executives said technology is important or very important to their organization’s success. That figure is projected to rise to 76 percent over the next two years.

“More than ever technology is critical to business success, and virtually every company and industry needs workers educated, trained and certified in the latest technology skills,” Kwok said. “CompTIA certifications are at the forefront of validating skills in cloud computing, mobility, networking, security, storage and other mission-critical technologies. Employers worldwide recognize and rely on CompTIA certifications when hiring IT professionals.”

Hiring managers and HR professionals believe having IT job candidates with industry certifications saves time and resources in evaluating applicants, ensures a candidate’s credibility and demonstrates that they have a baseline set of knowledge.

Once hired, certified IT workers get up to speed more quickly, are more likely to stay with the company long term, have a higher likelihood of being promoted and generally perform better than non-certified IT staff.

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Consumers undermine online security by sharing passwords

EARLY half (44 percent) of Internet users admit having shared their passwords with somebody or left them visible for people to see, according to the findings of Kaspersky Lab’s recent consumer surveys, one of which has 1,394 respondents from the Philippines.

This demonstrates a lack of cyber-savviness and could make it easy for cybercriminals to unlock and gain access into the online lives of consumers.

When asked about the importance of passwords, respondents were more likely to think strong passwords were necessary for the online services they valued most highly.

The studies found that according to consumers, the sites most in need of strong passwords were online

banking (54 percent), email (44 percent) and social media sites (24 percent).

The list of the top three most important applications was almost identical, at 53 percent for online banking, 43 percent for email and 21 percent for social media sites.

Consumers also believe that online shopping and payment applications require strong passwords, but don’t place the same value on these sites.

Just 29 percent considered online shopping to be a personally important service, although over a third (38 percent) felt it warranted a strong password.

In addition, 29 percent agreed that online payment systems needed a strong password, with slightly fewer 23 percent regarding these services as personally

valuable.

More worrying is the fact that although consumers agreed that online financial transactions require a strong password, over a quarter (29 percent) think there is no need to have additional protection for their personal credentials when using these services.

They expect the brands they shop with to provide all the protection they need.

Putting their personal information at even greater risk, a third (33 percent) of Internet users also admit to freely sharing passwords with family members.

44 percent have both shared passwords and left them visible to others. One in ten (11 percent) share passwords with friends and a surprising 6 percent with colleagues.

And, with over a third (38

ZenFone Max: Smartphone with massive screen and massive battery

A

SUS recently launched the new ZenFone Max (ZC550KL), which has an incredibly-long-lasting, high-capacity 5000mAh lithium-polymer battery that gives users an unprecedented amount of mobile freedom. With capabilities of staying longer than most smartphones, the ZenFone Max has a standby mode of 38 days, or 37.5 hours of 3G talk time, or 32.5 hours of Wi-Fi Browsing, or 22.6 hours of video playback.

ZenFone Max has a bright and clear 5.5-inch HD IPS display with wide viewing angles,

protected by the latest Corning Gorilla Glass 4 for unrivalled scratch-resistance, strength and everyday durability. On top of this, its back cover stands out with its leather finish texture for maximum grip.

At the heart of ZenFone Max is a powerful yet power-efficient 64-bit Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor with up to 2GB of RAM. ZenFone Max also features 13MP Rear /5MP Front PixelMaster cameras with a wide

percent) of consumers using only one email address for all of their needs, sharing that password with others could prove costly.

Should it get into the wrong hands, this password could unlock all information stored on that email address.

“Consumers need to be more cyber-savvy about passwords. Once shared, it is very difficult to know exactly where your password will end up. Our research shows that there is a real disconnect between the understanding of why we need strong passwords and the action people take to keep them safe. No one would expect a friend or family member to knowingly divulge a password, but by sharing passwords, consumers are increasing the risk of them falling into the wrong hands,” said David Emm, Principal Security Research-

f/2.0 aperture.

The rear camera also boasts laser auto-focus for sharp, near-instant shots with 0.03 focusing speed and dual LED tone flash for natural photos under the dark.

ZenFone Max also functions

er at Kaspersky Lab. This could give cybercriminals easy access to personal and financial information and hacked accounts can be used to distribute malicious links and files, harming others. At worst, entire identities could be put at risk.

Even the most complex password is weak if it’s visible to others, so keep it to yourself,” he added.

To help users maintain the integrity of their passwords, Kaspersky Password Manager (a part of Kaspersky Total Security – Multi-Device) provides an extra layer of protection by securely storing all passwords and synchronizing them across all devices. The product remembers and generates strong passwords and has auto-logging capabilities for safer access to valuable applications, accounts and websites.

a s a power bank through its USB OTG capabilities to charge other phones and micro usb devices – a very useful feature when outside and no power outlets are available.

The ZenFone Max (ZC550KL) is now available in all authorized re-sellers nationwide for P8,495.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING A leading distributor of Irrigation System, Agricultural Machinery, Generator and Heavy Equipment immediately needs sales personnel to complement its staff, with the following qualifications: 1. Licensed Agricultural Engineers or Licensed Mechanical Engineers; 2. Male or female, 24-35 years old; 3. Background knowledge or sales experience in agricultural machinery, irrigation system, generators or heavy equipment is an advantage; 4. Must be willing to travel within the island of Mindanao.

Interested applicants should submit application letter, bio-data and transcript of records to:

INTERNATIONAL HEAVY EQUIPMENT CORPORATION

Km. 7 McArthur Highway, Bangkal, Davao City Tel. Nos.: 285-0685; 297-5851 Fax No.: 2975849 Email add: info@ihecdavao.com, info@ihec.com.ph

HIGH TECH RITUAL. Bae Inatlawan Adelina Tarino of the Bukidnon tribe prepares the camera of her mobile phone during a ritual last week in Mount Kitanglad in Impasugong. The ritual, attended by leaders from the Higaonon, Bukidnon and Talaandig tribes, is an offering to Magbabaya (Supreme Being) and spirits of the mountain range.

MindaNews photo by H. Marcos C. Mordeno

PAGASA sets cloud seeding operations in Zambo City T HE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is conducting cloud seeding operations to mitigate the impact of the El Niño phenomenon in this city.

Vicente Manalo, PAGASA acting administrator, said the cloud seeding operation is scheduled to be held starting February 15 until 28.

It will be in collaboration with the Philippine Air Force and Bureau of Soils and Water

Management (BSWM) using science-based technology.

Manalo, in a letter to Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, said the cloud seeding operation is aimed “to modify the weather and to mitigate the impacts of the present El Niño especially on natural water resources for sustainable domestic and industrial water supply, agriculture, power generation and the likes.”

The PAGASA is conducting cloud seeding operations throughout the country, and is

focused on areas severely affected by the El Niño.

The state weather bureau’s mobile equipment such the Doppler radar and upper air will be installed in strategic areas in this city for the duration of the cloud seeding operations.

The Office of the City Agriculture reported that the El Niño had affected 716.07 hectares of farmland translating to PHP12.979 million of various crops damaged from the peri-

FPAGASA, 10

14 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

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Northpoint as pine estate A hidden oasis in the city

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ISIT Northpoint, Vista Residences’ landmark condominium development in Davao, and take in the majestic sight of hundreds of Caribbean pine trees, one you will not find elsewhere in the city.

There are hundreds of these hardy pines currently growing tall on its verdant grounds.

These aromatic trees are a variety imported from New Zealand, nurtured in nurseries, and transplanted in this British colonial themed condo community.

These pines come from a hardy variety that enables it to endure nature’s elements.

As evergreen trees, these Caribbean pines can grow up to 30 meters tall, providing comfortable shade from a fiercely shining sun, and serving as a natural barrier against heavy rains or harsh winds.

This helps provide added protection to the condo buildings, and contributes to keeping the structures cool, resulting to a comfortable indoor temperature that its residents can enjoy. With skyrocketing power cost, it is a boon to be able to save on electricity by using less air-conditioning.

When unit owners walk among these pines, enjoying its fresh scent and cool shade, they cannot help but feel pleased knowing that they are in the middle of the city and yet get to enjoy such an oasis. It’s like taking a European vacation right within their condo community, giving their mood and disposition an instant boost.

The tree roots can help compact the soil and hold it in place, stopping soil erosion and helping keep sloping ground more stable. They also support a small ecosystem of animals like birds and other small wildlife, making its immediate environment as healthy as it should be.

The height and girth of the trees block off the din from the city’s traffic, and provide a natural screen from prying eyes. As the trees mature, the pine groves grow bigger and denser, providing more privacy for each condo building.

Northpoint unit owners will benefit from the constant supply of fresh oxygen emanating from these trees, as well as a cleaner air quality within its environs owing to the trees’ absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Unit owners on the highest floors of Northpoint’s taller buildings can savor the beautiful sight of a green canopy of pines from their wide windows, contrasted against the azure waters of Davao Gulf from the distance. It is a rare sight in Davao, one that positively impacts Northpoint’s property value.

To know how to get your own piece of this pinefilled vista in Northpoint, visit the Camella offices at 2/F Delgar Building, J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City, call 226-3100 and 221-0716, or check out www.camella. com.ph.

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

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

Advertise wisely.

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

As creative as you can get.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

SPORTS15

EDGEDAVAO

Cavs rip Pacers in OT C

LEVELAND’S Kyrie Irving spent the break between regulation and overtime urging his teammates to close out Monday night.

He spent the next 5 minutes demonstrating what he meant.

The All-Star guard scored six of his 25 points in overtime and made four free throws in the final minute to help the Cavaliers pull out a 111-106 victory over the Pacers for their fifth straight win and their first in Indianapolis in six years. ‘’We gave ourselves a chance, now it was time to lock in and do what we were supposed to do,’’ Irving said, describing the animated conversation. ‘’We got stops and, obviously, they were making shots so it was going to be tough down the stretch, but we just wanted to get out and run.’’

While the Cavs didn’t exactly run away in overtime, Irving made sure they had the upper hand.

He had plenty of help, too.

LeBron James finished with 24 points, 12 rebounds and six assists, though he scored only seven points after hurting his right shoulder in the third quarter. The fourtime MVP continued playing with what he called a stinger and made an 11-foot jumper with 1:40 left in overtime to finally give the Cavs the lead for good.

Kevin Love and J.R. Smith each scored 19 points, while Tristan Thompson finished with 14 points and 12 rebounds - marking the seventh time this season all five Cleveland starters reached double

figures.

Irving delivered the game’s biggest plays, scoring four straight in overtime to finally give Cleveland a threepoint lead, and the free throws that essentially sealed it. ‘’We’re just learning how to win, that’s all,’’ James said. ‘’We’re learning how to win in tough situations and tonight was one of those.’’

It sure didn’t look like the game would be too tough after the Cavs shot 61.9 percent in the first half and took a 60-49 halftime lead.

But Indiana rallied by limiting the surging Cavs to just 15 points in the third quarter as it took a 79-75 lead.

They didn’t trail again until James’ layup with 1:16 left in regulation made it 94-93, but they retook the lead on George Hill’s 3-pointer and had a chance to win it when Monta Ellis badly missed a midrange jumper at the buzzer.

That’s when Irving spoke up and the game turned.

Love opened the overtime with a 3 and after James’ jumper made it 105-104, the Pacers never led again.

Hill matched his season-high with 23 points and rookie Myles Turner recorded his first double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds.

Turner also had four blocks, including one late in the fourth quarter when he stuffed the driving James at the rim.

It just wasn’t enough against the defending Eastern Conference champs. ‘’It’s frustrating, but I’m encouraged,’’ coach Frank Vogel said. ‘’Our two best scorers had off shooting nights and we still had a chance to beat the best team in the East.’’

LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket against Paul George of the Indiana Pacers on Monday at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Nuggets end Raptors’11-game winning streak T HE Toronto Raptors were ready for Danilo Gallinari.

They didn’t have an answer for Nikola Jokic.

The rookie center had 27 points and 14 rebounds, and the Denver Nuggets ended Toronto’s 11-game winning streak with a 112-93 victory over the Raptors on Monday night.

Jokic’s totals were season highs. He had 23 points and 12 rebounds against San Antonio on Nov. 28 and now has four dou-

ble-doubles in his past five games.

The 20-year-old Serbian has surpassed even his own expectations for this season. ‘’When I came here I didn’t think I would play,’’ he said. ‘’Now I have trust from the coach.’’

His effort Monday eased the burden on Gallinari, Denver’s leading scorer. Gallinari had just 13 points on 4-of-7 shooting and let Jokic dominate Toronto. ‘’He had a good game. I’m very happy for him,’’ Gallinari said. ‘’I

told him the challenge is for him to do that every night.’’

Will Barton scored 20 points and Randy Foye had 16 for the Nuggets, who swept the season series. They won in Toronto on Dec. 3 to stop an eight-game losing streak.

The Raptors entered with the NBA’s longest current winning streak but couldn’t duplicate the success they had in January.

They led by one midway through the second quarter but trailed by

Brazil issues Olympics warning as WHO declares Zika emergency

B

LIONEL Messi

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Messi will not play at Rio Olympics

IONEL Messi will not chase a second Olympic soccer gold medal at the Rio de Janeiro Games in August, Argentina coach Gerardo Martino said on Monday.

Martino added he did not want the Barcelona forward, who will captain Argentina at the Centennial Copa America in the United States in June, to suffer burnout after a demanding season.

He can take three overage players in his under-23 squad to the Rio Games but Messi, who helped Argentina win their second Olympic football title in Beijing in 2008, will not be one of them.

“Messi won’t go to the Olympic Games because there is a lot of competition for the national team this year,” Martino said with World Cup qualifiers also in mind.

double digits for most of the second half.

A frustrated Dwane Casey emerged from the locker room after the game with a crumpled boxscore. ‘’You can describe it any way you want to,’’ the Toronto coach said. ‘’That was a stinker. That was one of our worst performances of the year. We played like we were playing in mud. You can blame it on the altitude, whatever it was.

We stunk.’’

RAZIL warned pregnant women Monday to stay away from the Olympics after the World Health Organization declared an international emergency over the Zika virus, blamed for causing a surge in brain-damaged babies.

The UN health body said that a surge in cases of microcephaly -- a devastating condition in which a baby is born with an abnormally small head and brain -- was likely caused by the mosquito-borne virus, and declared the situation a “public health emergency of international concern.”

That prompted an unprecedented warning from Brazil, just six months from the Olympics opening ceremony on August 5 in Rio de Janeiro.

“The risk, which I would say is serious, is for pregnant women. It is clearly not advisable for you (to travel to the Games) because you don’t want to take that risk,” said President Dilma Rousseff’s chief of staff, Jaques Wagner.

Wagner sought to downplay fears for Olympic athletes and fans who are not expectant mothers.

“I understand that no one needs to be afraid if you are not pregnant,” he said.

However, some health officials also blame the Zika virus for causing Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare disorder in which the immune system attacks the nervous system, causing weakness and

sometimes paralysis.

That syndrome directly affects Zika patients themselves.

Most recover, but the syndrome is sometimes deadly.

Zika was first detected in Uganda in 1947, but it was considered a relatively mild disease until the current outbreak was declared in Latin America last year.

Brazil was the first country to sound the alarm on the apparent link with birth defects, after health authorities noticed a surge in babies born with microcephaly.

It has since become the worst affected country, with some 4,000 suspected cases of microcephaly, of which 270 have been confirmed, up from 147 in 2014.

The WHO said that French Polynesia had also seen a spike in microcephaly cases during a Zika outbreak there two years ago.

The outbreak has sown panic in the Americas, where the WHO says it is “spreading explosively”and predicts up to four million Zika cases this year alone.

Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Jamaica and Puerto Rico have warned women not to get pregnant, while the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised expectant mothers against traveling to affected countries.

The WHO is under pressure to move swiftly to tackle Zika, after admitting it was slow to respond to the recent Ebola outbreak that ravaged parts of west Africa.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 8 ISSUE 222 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Duterte Cup tees off March 12 One-day golf tournament to raise funds for Rody’s campaign A

ONE day golf tournament to raise funds for the presidential bid of Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte will be staged simultaneously in three different Davao City courses on March 12 with around 700 players from Mindanao expected to see action.

Dubbed “Palo Para sa

Tunay na Pagbababo (Swing for Genuine Change),” the Araw ng Davao Duterte golf tournament will have three divisions—A (0-9), B (1018) and C (19-27)—and will utilize the One Ball Twosome format using the Modified Stableford system of scoring.

Golfers competing in the tournament organized by

supporters of Duterte in coordination with various professional groups and golf clubs and associations in the city may choose to play in any of the three courses—Apo Gold and Country Club, Rancho Palos Verdes Golf and Country Club and Davao City Golf Club.

Aside from Davao players, golfers from the neighboring

provinces and localities like General Santos City, Marbel, Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro have also been invited to participate in the event.

The Afternoon Golfers Association Davao Inc. or AGAD is the lead organizer of the worthwhile golfing endeavor to support Duterte’s presidential run and his aspira-

and Sunday Riders.

The Davao event is actually the kick-off leg of the golf tournament for Duterte’s presidential bid. Support groups will also launch similar events of this endeavor in Manila and Cebu to help finance the presidential bid of the charismatic leader from the South.

the fourth quarter of Game 6 to force the do-or-die game.

“You really have to admire the courage of San Miguel to fight back from down 0-3,” he said. “It’s so easy to give up in those situations, I can tell you.”

“Everybody knew they were capable of that, but still – doing it is something else,” he stressed.

Baldwin, however, made it clear that the top-seeded Alaska Aces should not be underestimated even after they failed to be the first team to register a sweep of the defending champions of a conference.

“This Alaska team – if there’s something that they can do, they defy expectations every time,” he said.

“So I think Game 7 is gonna be an absolute epic,” he added.

READ: Fajardo dominates Alaska in fourth, SMB forces Game 7 Moreover, Baldwin is not worried about San Miguel center June Mar Fajardo, who played in Game

5 and 6 after suffering a knee injury in their semifinal series against Rain or Shine. SMB head coach Leo Austria initially said Fajardo will return if the series reached a seventh game, but Fajardo surprisingly suited up in Game 5.

The center came off the bench, played 16 minutes and 29 seconds, and finished with 13 points. In Game 6, he played 22 minutes and 10 seconds – again as a reserve – and had 16 points and seven rebounds.

“San Miguel takes great care of (Fajardo),” Baldwin said. “He wouldn’t be out there playing if he wasn’t ready to play.”

“And you know, if the injury recurs, it recurs. That’s life. This is sports, that happens. But I’m not worried about that,” he added.

Fajardo, a two-time PBA MVP and the Best Player of the Conference in the 2016 PBA Philippine Cup, will likely be the centerpiece of the Gilas Pilipinas squad that will compete in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Manila in July.

Gilas coach predicts ‘epic’ PBA Game 7

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Will San Miguel become the first team to complete a comeback from a 0-3 series deficit? Josh Albelda, ABS-CBN Sports

tions to bring real change in the land. Other private groups and clubs initially throwing their full backing to the tournament are JCI Movement, Rotary Club, Lions, Kiwanis, Pogi Boys, TGIS, Fore the Boys, Brgy. Maingay, BULLDOG, Metro Davao Sports Associations, Eagle Masters, Lanang Boys, GVoyz, SPOSA

ATIONAL team and Ateneo de Manila University head coach Tab Baldwin is expecting an “absolutely epic” Game 7 between San Miguel and Alaska when the two squads face off for the final time in the PBA Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Defending champion San Miguel has already made history.

After going down 0-3 in the series, they forced a winner-takesall Game 7 with a 100-89 win last Friday – becoming the first team in PBA history to do so.

“Great series, great series,” Baldwin told reporters during the Spin.ph Sportsman of the Year Awards Night last Saturday.

Baldwin, who is a consultant with the Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters, said he has to be neutral and refused to publicly declare which team he is rooting for.

Yet he made special mention of the fighting spirit of the Beermen, who won in overtime in Games 4 and 5 before dominating