Edge Davao 8 Issue 39

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

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ALL LINED UP. High School enrollees form a long queue near the school cashier office under the searing heat of the afternoon sun during the second day of enrollment at the Davao City National High School yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

TOUGH TALK FAVORS RODY

Mayor Duterte’s controversial statement is winning public approval INSIDE EDGE

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

T

njb@edgedavao.net

HE more controversial Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte talks, the more titillated the public gets.

In the midst of yet another brewing talk of his involvement to summary killings in Davao City following a controversial statement the tough-talking executive said in his latest broadcast, the camp of Mayor Duterte says

he is standing by his word.

Not surprisingly, public reaction seemed to favor Duterte.

This is what he said in his radio program on Sunday: “They are saying that I am the DDS. Yes, it’s true.”

The remark detonated like a bomb shortly therafter and for someone being considered as a strong bet for

the presidency in 2016, the unbrodled comment could be a PR nightmare for his drumbeaters. However, his camp is not fazed. They call it a calculated risk.

Flirting with his involvement with the dreaded Davao Death Squad (DDS), Duterte appeared to have poked the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and Justice Sec-

retary Leila de Lima on the unsettled issue.

“Takot si De Lima na tatakbo si Duterte bilang Presidente,” a post on Rody Duterte for President Movement International facebook page read.

“Oh, now the protector of those criminals are talking,” said a post on ANC 24/7 face-

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ROCKETS WIN GAME 4, STAY ALIVE IN SERIES Sports P15

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

THE LIST. Mayor Rodrigo Duterte listens to his Executive Assistant Christopher “Bong” Go as the trusted-aid shows the list of security troops who rendered extraordinary service in the recent Palarong Pambansa held in Davao del Norte as Gov. Rodolfo Del Rosario looks on at the Davao del Norte GSP Conference Hall on Saturday (Photo by Kiwi Bulaclac/CMO)

Sasa Port issue reaches Senate

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

HE controversial P17 billion Sasa Port modernization project has already reached the Senate for possible investigation.

Speaking in yesterday’s regular City Council session, councilor Danilo C. Dayanghirang said Senator Serge Osmeña III is interested in making inquiry on the allegedly overpriced project, which is being undertaken by the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC)

as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project.

“I was informed that Senator Osmeña invited some individuals from Davao to go to Manila, including Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), to share information in aid of legislation,” Dayanghirang said.

He said Osmeña was prompted to call people from the city after learning of the

ENATOR Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. today said he is willing to talk to anyone, including with President Benigno Aquino III, for a genuine discussion on how to iron out the kinks in the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law to ensure it would lead to lasting peace in Muslim Mindanao.

But count him out if it is merely meant to muscle the

Senate into passing Malacanang’s version of BBL, Marcos stressed.

Malacanang earlier said the President is willing to meet with the senators to discuss BBL with them, as he had done before with members of the House of Representatives ad hoc committee.

“As I said before, it we are going to discuss with the

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Rotating blackouts now 1.5-hour long D

AVAO Light and Power Company (DLPC) yesterday said it increased the duration of the rotational blackouts within its franchise from one hour to a maximum of 1.5 hours starting yesterday due to the much lower power supply coming from the Mindanao Grid.

In a statement, DLPC said the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) advised it only yesterday that there is “a further reduction of the capability of

the National Power Corporation’s (NPC) Agus and Pulangi hydro-electric power plants.”

“This is the result of the now very low water elevation due to no rain or the lack of it which has forced the NPC to decrease its supply allocation to Davao Light and other electric utilities in Mindanao,” DLPC said.

The company said as of yesterday, NPC through NGCP only allocated about 194 MW to Davao Light from last week’s allocation of about 241 MW of power. “This is

way lower than the Davao Light’s contracted supply with NPC of 279 MW,” it said.

DLPC corporate communications officer Ross Luga said with the decreased power allocation by the NPC, “the only option remaining is to stretch the duration of the rotating outages.”

“This is to avoid total collapse of the entire Mindanao transmission grid which happens when the demand for power exceeds the available supply,” he said.

Luga said DLPC will go

on with this measure until further advice from the NGCP to lift its implementation is received.

He said DLPC will optimize the power being generated from facilities where it has supply agreements with such as Therma Marine, Inc., Hedcor Sibulan and Talomo in order mitigate the impact of the power shortage It will continue to run its standby Bajada Power Plant and activate the Interruptible Load Program as part of its contingency measure.

the reference to the Tripoli Agreement in the BBL could lead to the question: Which would prevail, the BBL or the treaty which is the Tripoli Agreement?” Duterte asked.

In the Tripoli Agreement of 1976, a total of 13 provinces were included in the areas of Moro Autonomy. These are Basilan, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Lanao del Norte, Tawi-tawi,

Lanao del Sur, Zamboanga del Sur, Davao del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Palawan and Maguindanao.

However, in the succeeding plebiscites, eight of the provinces--Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Davao del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, South Cotaba-

Marcos to meet Rody to Palace: Don’t railroad BBL President on BBL S D FMARCOS, 10

By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday warned the Aquino administration against attempting to railroad approval of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), saying such move will only do more harm than good to the country.

Speaking before hundreds of barangay captains in Sibalom in the province of

Antique for a forum on federalism, Duterte expressed alarm at the reference to the Tripoli Agreement, a treaty signed between the Philippine government and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) under Nur Misuari in Tripoli, Libya during the Marcos years.

“We are now faced with a convoluted situation where

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

KEYNOTE SPEAKER. 2014 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Randy H. Halasan (third from left) receives a plaque of recognition following the delivery of his keynote address in the opening ceremony of the 64th Philippine Regional Convention of the Y’s Men International held on May 8 to 10, 2015 at the

Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao. Presenting the award are (from left) Asia Area President Yaz Okano of Japan, Regional Director Jun Rosalem, and host club President Joval Valenzuela Jr. BERT NIÑAL SR.

Rainwater collection system of marts ok’d

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HE Sangguniang Panglungsod ng Dabaw has approved an ordinance for the installation of a rainwater collection system in the market places in Tibungco and Bunawan.

The ordinance grants Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to enter into and to sign for in behalf of the city government a contract with the Department of Public Works and Highways in putting up the rainwater collection system.

Councilor Leonardo Avila III, chair of the committee on the environment who authors the ordinance said the measure is anchored on the Republic Act 6616 which provides the construction of water wells, rainwater collectors, development of springs and rehabilitation of the existing water wells in all barangays in the country and authorizes the DPWH for the construction of the aforementioned facilities.

He said the office of the Mayor has identified the Tibungco Public Market and the Bunawan Public Market as the first recipients of the project.

Avila said as cited by the DPWH on the memorandum of agreement, these projects must be installed in public buildings with no existing water supply or where the source of water is limited.

He said the operation and maintenance of the rain water collection system will be shouldered by the recipient public building.

“The memorandum of agreement will be signed by the DPWH district engineer and the city government through Mayor Duterte for the construction of a rainwater collection system for two barangay public markets which have no water supply,” Avila.

He also explained that the DPWH will provide funding requirements for the construction of the project while the city government will ensure that the rainwater collection system will be properly used and protected from all types of destructive agents.

Avila said the project is timely since the city already has its own rainwater collection ordinance. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)

Aid to 15,000 studes to continue: Ibuyan Tagum bids to host

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

BSP nat’l jamboree D

T

AGUM City Mayor Allan Rellon conveyed recently the city government’s intention to host the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) National Jamboree on October this year.

During the BSP National Council Convention on May 20-22 at Big 8 Corporate Hotel, Tagum City, Mayor Rellon declared that the City Government of Tagum is 100% ready to host the national scouting jamboree and to

welcome its around 10,000 participants.

In a video presented

by Mayor Rellon, the jamboree will take place in the 31-hectare Energy Park in Brgy. Apokon, which was also the venue of the BSP One Mindanao Jamboree last year.

According to the video, the energy park features a challenge valley for endurance activity, huge arena for

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abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan Sr. yesterday said the financial assistance program for students in the city initiated by his office will be continued even after his third and last term ends next year.

In an interview, Ibuyan told reporters that more than 15,000 recipients of his Rody Sagop Bata Para sa Kaugmaon Program will still receive assistance even when he leaves office.

He said the project will be implemented by the City Social Service and Development Office (CSSDO) using

his Annual Development Fund (ADF) which he has not used up.

Ibuyan, however, said there would be a greater chance of the financial assistance being continued if his son Edgar Ibuyan Jr., who is now barangay captain of Barangay 5-A, becomes councilor.

His program gives P500 for elementary students and P700 for high school students for their PTA and miscellaneous contributions in public schools.

Ibuyan said the program also give P2,500 cash assis-

tance to college students in both private and public schools.

“This program is our way to encourage all children to go to school,” he said.

He said there is no maintaining grade under this program as long as the students show interest to finish its studies.

Ibuyan said he received P3 million per year in ADF during his first term, for a total of P9 million which he used for educational assistance.

Starting his second term,

DCWD uses solar power for new reservoir facility

D

First solar powered DCWD facility. Installed four 250-watts solar panels are enough to supply the needed energy requirement of the new twin reservoirs for Riverside Water Supply System.

however, he received only P2 million each year which he also earmarked for education.

He said the program is also supported by Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte as part of the social service program of the city.

Ibuyan said in 2014 the program supported a total of 14,218 students in 281 schools in the city. Of these, 18,432 were elementary pupils in 138 schools, 3,855 were high school students in 86 schools, and 1,931 were college students in 57 colleges and universities.

AVAO City Water District will soon start operating its twin reservoirs with a total capacity of 1,360 cubic meters at Barangay Cuchon in Tugbok District to expand water service and improve water supply of existing water connections in Riverside Water Supply System.

DCWD general manager Edwin V. Regalado said that the reservoir will be the first of DCWD’s facilities to operate using solar power. Since it is the first of its kind, it is still subject to further observations.

However, upon initial assessment, DCWD’s investment on solar panel in this project is considerably much cheaper as compared to applying for pole installation from the

Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) and clearing of obstructions. DCWD opted to use alternative source of energy because of unavailability of DLPC lines in the area.

In addition, DCWD also estimates to save on electric cost based on computed return of investment for said facility compared to six years computed bill which would amount to P47,520 every year.

The four 250-watts solar panels are attached to the roof of the reservoir’s guard house and generate one kilowatt of direct current power. The generated power will then be delivered to the 3KVA inverter / charger which will charge the four 200AHr battery and invert the direct current pro-

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EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

German firm to conduct railway study

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

A

crc@edgedavao.net

GERMAN company will conduct the feasibility study of the proposed Mindanao-wide Railway System by next year, an official of Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said.

“We’re just waiting for the board resolution from the German firm, which has given a grant by an international donor agency,” MinDA Undersecretary Janet Lopoz told Edge Davao on Saturday.

The Mindanao Railway System (MRS) is a project consisting of six segments that will span the entire Mindanao, providing a dramatic bid to boost the economic development of a research-rich region, Lopoz said.

The railway is also circumferential in length traversing a series of cities and provinces from one point to another.

The German firm will be tapping local and international consultants, who will assist it in conducting segmented feasibility studies in different proposed area where the railways system will be established.

Lopoz said the railway system will be running from Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, Bukidnon, Butuan, Davao, General Santos, Cotabato and looped in Pagadian, Zamboanga del Sur and Osamiz, Misamis Occidental

and back to Zamboanga.

“There have been feasibility studies conducted but this is the first study on the feasibility of a Mindanao-wide railway system,” Lopoz said. “The FS is important to be conducted because this will show proof to possible investors who wanted to implement the project, which I believed that will be in segmented form (of implementation).”

It is necessary to develop a railway system for Mindanao to improve its logistic and infrastructure sector which is contributing to the competitiveness of industries here, according to Lopoz.

“We see the importance of this railway system especially with the Asean integration where there will be a lot of consolidation of commodities. From different part of Mindanao,” she said.

Lopoz went on to explain that the railway system may not be relevant years ago because of low cargo traffic but it now went up to more than a hundred percent.

“We need to review the studies,” she said.

The costing and the timeline of the completion of this project will be determined once the feasibility study for this proposed project, which has been a dream for Mindanao since the early 1990s, is done.

UNIFORM SHOPPING. A mother buys a school necktie from a makeshift store outside the Davao City National High School yesterday for her daughter who is an incoming Grade 7 student. Lean Daval Jr.

BIMP-Eaga cable system third phase laying over starts next year--MinDA T

HE third phase of the laying over of the 5,092 kilometer Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, PhilippinesEast Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Submarine Terrestrial (Best) Cable System will start next year.

The laying over of cable by land started two months ago in Brunei, which was the jump point of the interconnection project across BIMP-EAGA regions, Mindanao Development Authority executive director Janet Lopoz told Edge Davao.

The Best Cable System, initiated by Best Cable Corporation Pte. Ltd. (BCC), “is a regional high bandwidth fiber optics cable system that allows telecommunication connectivity in the BIMP-EAGA region with the rest of the ASEAN and Asian countries, particularly

Singapore, Hong Kong and US.” Lopoz said the 5,092 kilometer high bandwidth cable system links BIMP-EAGA region specifically Brunei, Sabah, Malaysia, Southern Philippines and Kalimantan of Indonesia, with extension to Guam, and to connect with the US and the rest of Asean countries.

The cable system will be constructed by the China National Technical Import and Export Corporation (CNTIC) in partnership with the NMV Development Corporation of Canada, which entered into a Memorandum of Understanding in May 2014, in Davao.

The project is expected to be operational by next year and has an initial capacity of 2.4 terabytes per second.

“This will be a very big

boost to the internet connection of at least Mindanao because we have a source of redundancy of high speed internet connectivity. At present, our internet connection is dependent on Hawaii so if something happens there at least we have a back-up,” Lopoz said.

She said the stronger internet connection, aside from boosting the ICT sector of Mindanao, will also bring down the internet connection rate because internet provider companies here will have another competitor.

“What we heard is our local cable network operators are talking to the group already. I think Globe (Telecom) is talking with them already,” Lopoz said. CHENEEN R. CAPON

HE country’s imports of goods in first quarter of this year has reached USD 15.68 billion, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Tuesday.

Imports bill in January to March period declined by 4.1 percent from USD 16.35 billion worth of imports in the same period in 2014.

Imports of goods slowed down in Q1 2015 after its value decreased by 13.1 percent in January and another 6.8 percent decline in March.

Only in February the country’s imports increased by 10.2

percent.

In Q1 2015, electronic products remained the top imported goods accounting for USD 4.38 billion of the total imports bill. Electronics imports in Q1 2015 had an increment of 14.1 percent from USD 3.84 billion in Q1 2014.

Mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials imports in Q1 this year was the second largest amounting to USD 2.08 billion. It dropped by 39.1 percent from Q1 2014’s imports value of USD 3.41 billion.

Also, imports of transport equipment decreased by 17.5

percent to USD 1.46 billion in Q1 this year from USD 1.77 billion in Q1 last year.

On the other hand, the country’s fourth and fifth largest imports in the said period posted a positive growth.

Imports of industrial machinery and equipment increased by 7.4 percent to USD 817.68 million while imports value of other food and live animals jumped by 10.2 percent to USD 543.4 million.

Meanwhile, top imports source for the Philippines in Q1 2015 remains China which

Phl imports reach $15.7B in Q1 T

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P290M for farm-to-market roads

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

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crc@edgedavao.net

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) 11 has listed five subprojects in the pipeline and to be funded under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) for the Davao Region.

“All of these subprojects are farm to market roads (FMR) with a total cost of P289.66 million,” DA 11 assistant regional director for operations Maria Febe T.

Orbe said during the Davao Business Forum at Derm Path in SM City Davao yesterday.

Under the six-year program which has a P27.5 billion fund source from World Bank, national government and local government units, the LGUs will be the proponent of projects which will be approved by National Project Coordination Office.

For Davao del Norte,

Orbe said the FMR project in Panabo City with a total cost of 56.93 million for the rehabilitation of Little Panay-Katipunan- KasilakFMR was the only subproject bidded out by the LGU but not yet awarded.

“We expect the construction to start by next month,” Orbe said.

Meanwhile, the second and third subprojects for Davao del Norte for the mu-

nicipality of Asuncion entitled rehabilitation of SitioVisayas- Binancian FMR and costing P78.85 million, and the FMR project in San Isidro entitled rehabilitation of Poblacion Datu Balong- Park Mamalian worth P31.125 are already up for bidding to interested contractors since May 21.

The province of Davao Oriental has two of the five projects which consisted of

the rehabilitation of Mikit FMR, with bridge in the municipality of Baganga worth P52.28 million and the construction of the LamiawanPSCG bridge worth P64.47 million were still both completing the requirement of the NPCO. Orbe said a total of 21 subprojects are being reviewed by the NPCO for funding that will be implemented by the partner and

Phl to boost construction ties with European group

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GOING TRADITIONAL. It may be a digital world, but this shirt trader proves that traditional silkscreen printing of school monograms can still be effective. His stall is just outside the Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Central Elementary School along Ponciano Reyes Street in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

APEC trade ministers endorse action agenda on MSME firms T

RADE ministers from the 21 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) members agreed to endorse to their leaders the adoption of an action agenda that will foster the participation of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the regional and global economy.

APEC trade ministers considered the ‘Boracay Action Agenda’ an action-oriented initiative that supports the forum’s ongoing work to address the barriers face by MSMEs in international trade and facilitate their access to regional and global markets with a strengthened focus on micro and small enterprises.

“We will complement APEC’s initiatives on promoting SMEs’ participation in GVCs (global value chains) with an agenda that will support micro and small enterprises as direct exporters,”

they said in a statement issued here after the two-day APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting.

To advance APEC’s efforts on MSME internationalization, they agreed to recommend innovative actions on trade facilitation, e-commerce, financing and institutional support.

APEC trade ministers support initiatives to facilitate access of these companies to free trade agreements (FTA) or regional trade agreement (RTA) by simplifying and streamlining rules of origin procedural and documentary requirements.

They said actions to streamline customs-related rules and regulations and assist in the compliance of MSMEs; and measures to widen financing options and develop infrastructure to facilitate lending to them are also imperative.

Trade ministers also un-

derscored the important role of the information communications technology (ICT) and e-commerce in expanding internationalization opportunities for micro and small enterprises providing goods and services.

“We welcome strengthened information sharing and stronger coordination across relevant APEC fora to enhance complementary of projects and initiatives and promote efficient use of resources in implementing the Boracay Action Agenda,” they added.

SMEs are considered engines of growth and employment in the APEC region.

Over 97 percent of businesses in APEC are SMEs, providing jobs to more than half of the workers in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Philippines has been strongly advocating for the interests of MSMEs in global and regional trade.

In a press briefing, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo noted that dismantling trade barriers is a continuing effort for APEC economies.

“But I think the significant thing that was achieved in this MRT is that they put a little more focus in terms of assisting micro and small enterprises. We will continue the work in terms of pursuing more activities in strengthening the participation of MSMEs in global value chains,” said Domingo, also APEC 2015 MRT Chair.

During the two-day MRT held here, the 21 APEC trade ministers also discussed matters that seek to enhance the regional economic integration agenda such as efforts in line with the achievement of the Bogor Goals and APEC’s work on the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. (PNA/PCOO News Release)

proponent LGU. The PRDP, an offshoot of the Mindanao Rural Development Project, is a sixyear national government platform that is designed to establish a modern, climate resilient, market-oriented agri-fisheries sector.

The project’s purpose is to provide provision of infrastructure, facilities, and technologies to raise productivity and competitiveness.

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through Philippine Overseas Construction Board (POCB) conducted a consultation meeting with the stakeholders from the construction industry to formulate requests and offers lists particularly in the construction sector.

This is for the on-going negotiations on the free trade agreement (FTA) between the Philippines and the European Free Trade Association (PHEFTA).

Speakers from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC), and the Department of Energy (DOE) were invited to give background on the PHEFTA FTA, areas of expertise of the EFTA, construction opportunities in the EFTA Member States, updates on the existing laws and regulations on renewable energy.

Undersecretary Prudencio M. Reyes, Jr., the Supervising Undersecretary for Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines (CIAP), expressed support to the endeavors of POCB and NEDA, FTSC and DOE to link with EFTA member states and seize business opportunities in construction and energy infrastructure development.

The following initial request list to the EFTA Member States was formulated at the end of the meeting: General Construction Work for Buildings; General Construction Work for Civil Engineering; Installation and Assembly Work; Building Completion and Finishing Work; Pre-Erection Work at Construction Site; Foundation Work, concrete work, steel bending and erection; Special Trade Construction Work; Architectural, Engineering, Integrated Engineering, Urban Planning and Landscape Architectural Services.

Engr. Sonia T. Valdeavilla, Officer-in-Charge of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines (CIAP), an attached agency of the DTI, proposed to include also in the request list for the construction sector the following: consultancy, management, design, engineering services, and skilled workers.

POCB requested for the removal of restrictions and improved commitment in general construction work for buildings, general construction works for civil engineering installation and assembly work, building completion and finishing work, and site investigation and demolition works in the initial request

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PCCI backs Phl-Chile FTA

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HE country’s largest business organization, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), supports the exploration of the Philippines and Chile to enter into a free trade agreement (FTA) to boost economic ties between the two countries.

PCCI said it hopes that the FTA will be formally negotiated on the sideline of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM) in November this year in which Chile’s President Michelle BacheletJeria, along with other Asia Pacific leaders, is expected to visit the Philippines as it hosts APEC 2015.

PCCI President Alfredo

M. Yao has met Chile’s Vice Minister Andres Rebolledo Tuesday and had an exchange of views in the bilateral agreement.

Both parties expressed their optimism for the bilateral trade deal between the Philippines and Chile to move forward developments in investments, standards on labor and environment, and competition rules, among others.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and its counterpart in Chile already initiated consultations for the FTA. According to DTI, twoway trade of the Philippines and Chile was only at USD73 million in 2014. (PNA)

INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

WOMEN

Kat with a purr-pose HUMANS have always found a connection with pets. Like family, they reciprocate your care and affection and keep you company no matter the time of day.

Next time you consider getting a new pet, instead of buying, why not adopt a cat and open your home to one that needs it?

Twenty-seven year old Katrina Kae Carriedo hails from a family of pet lovers.

All her life, she has always been surrounded by animals of different breed and kind. When she hit her twenties, she took interest in caring for homeless cats after she rescued one from the streets. Driven by her love for felines, Kat put together The Kats Closet --- a non-profit initiative which aims to give stray cats a second in life.

Kat started by borrowing a Php10,000 from her sister to sustain her new found calling. She also designed shirts and sold them to fund health and medical care for her rescued cats. With whatever she made, she used them to get the cats spayed or neuterd and given initial shots ---- all ready for a responsible adoption.

“I don’t charge a huge

amount for adoption fees,” explains Kat. “The fee is actually very minimal, just enough to fuel my projects and next set of rescues.

What matters to us is the quality of life and attention that families can give our cats. I’m very selective.

I want to be sure the cats will be with responsible families.”

Before the cats are set out for adoption, they are restored back to top health condition. With the help of some interns and veterinarians, Kat was able to mount a health and care project that catered to some 80 felines. “With the successful turnout, I became even more con-

Kat takes time out with one of her cats.

Kat designed these shirts to raise funds.

vinced to pursue this advocacy and organize other events to help raise awareness in the community.”

“We gladly welcome volunteers. We believe in collaborative effort, how it can move mountains and shake the world to its core. Stray pets are indicative of society’s problems in responsible pet care and sanitation. We need to realize that stray cats deserve better treatment.

Acceptance and commitment are important. They go hand in hand in making a purr-fect life for our cats.”

Anyone can take part of this meaningful cause by donating cash or buying The Kats Closet shirts at Doc Bayani’s Animal Wellness Clinic. For more information and inquiries, follow @thekatcloset on Instagram and Facebook.

Kat (in white shirt) together with Doc Bayani and other vet volunteers during the Feline The Heat Of Summer event.

Rescued cats are treated and readied for adoption.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

EVENT

Sangria-toasting ceremony (from left): host Marissa Tionko of Hijos de Davao, Monica Asuncion of Archipelago 7107 by Barrio Fiesta, SM Lanang Premier Mall Manager Mary Therese Lapeña-Manalo, SM Supermalls AVP for Marketing (Mindanao) Russel Alaba, Vince and Tricie Arcenas of Sangria was served generously at the launch held at The Fountain Court Cellar de Boca, Miggy Laurel of Bistro Selera, DOT-XI Regional Director Roberto Alabado and Honorary Consul Francisco Genaro Lon of the Spanish of SM Lanang Premier.

Consulate.

A feast of Spanish cuisine at SM Lanang Premier

CREATING timely cultural events that had never been done in the metro, SM Lanang Premier organized an event inspired by the world’s largest food congress, the Madrid Fusión Manila, on April 24 to 26, 2015.

The said event – Tapas Y Sangria – was a gastronomic feast that celebrated elements of Spanish cuisine. Held at the 2nd Level of The Fountain Court, it paid tribute to the Madrid Fusión, which brought together the most innovative chefs from around the world to share their talents and expertise for the very first time in Manila at the SMX Convention Center.

Tapas Y Sangria, as the name suggests, puts the spotlight on the Tapas, a wide variety of appetizers and snacks, and Sangria, a fruit-based wine with its heritage well rooted in Spain. The event offered a venue where Spanish cuisine is accentuated and made accessible to mallgoers, Davaoeños and tourists alike.

No less than Honorary Consul to Spain Francisco Genaro Lon and wife Genette Lon, and the Department of Tourism-XI

Regional Director Roberto Alabado III graced the Tapas Y Sangria launch together with Malaysian Consul General Abdullah Zawawi Tahir and Japanese Consul and Director Tomoko Dodo.

Hijos de Davao led by its driving force and former secretary, Atty. Rose Cabaguio and current Vice President Amy Diano and the Ikebana International Davao Chapter 133 headed by its President Piedad Reina-Roman and former President Danney Barnett, both Latinas, were present to show support for the said event.

SM officials led by SM Supermalls AVP for Operations (Mindanao) Debby Go, AVP for Marketing (Mindanao) Russel Alaba, SM Lanang Premier Mall Manager Mary Therese Lapeña-Manalo and SM Lanang Premier Assistant Mall Manager Jerome Yeo gave the guests a warm welcome.

Restaurateur Miggy Laurel presents the unique tapas dishes of Bistro Selera.

Mindanao SM Supermalls AVP for Marketing Russel Alaba welcomes the guests at the Tapas Y Sangria launch.

Mindanao SM Supermalls AVP for Operations Debby Go (2nd from left) Guests enjoy a night of Spanish culinary and musical feast at SM and AVP for Marketing Russel Alaba share a moment with friends.

Lanang Premier’s Tapas Y Sangria.

Guests enjoyed the program, which was hosted

by Hijos de Davao’s Public Relations Officer Marissa Salonga-Tionko and included acoustic Spanish repertoire performances

by Anna Cortes and paso

doble dances.

The highlight of the event was the spread of tapas dishes and sangria concoctions by Cellar de Boca, Bistro Selera and Archipelago 7107 by Barrio Fiesta. Bistro Selera

owner Googie Sanga, Cellar de Boca owner Vince Arcenas and Archipelago 7107 by Barrio Fiesta manager Monica Asuncion described the respective offerings of each restaurant before these were

served to the guests.

The Tapas Y Sangria at SM Lanang Premier was conducted in support for the Department of Tourism’s Visit Davao Fun Sale and Flavors of the Philippines campaign.

Atty. Rose Cabaguio, Bong Alba, and Marie Tionko of Hijos de Davao at the Tapas Consul and Director Tomoko Dodo and Alona Seguera of the President Piedad Reina-Roman, Amelia Valle and Genette Lon of Ikebana Y Sangria launch.

Consulate of Japan in Davao City.

International Davao Chapter.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Anticipation rises as countdown to Kapusong Pinoy Vancouver and Anaheim begins WITH only a few days left before the Kapusong Pinoy fever hits Canada and the US, Philippine Comedy Queen Ai-Ai delas Alas together with Christian Bautista, Alden Richards, Jonalyn Viray and Betong Sumaya is busy preparing for GMA Pinoy TV’s Kapusong Pinoy Vancouver and Kapusong Pinoy Anaheim happening next weekend.

“Mga Kapuso sa Los Angeles at Vancouver, malapit na malapit na po tayong magsama-sama para i-celebrate ang 10th anniversary ng GMA Pinoy TV! Ngayon pa lang po ay mag-tweet na tayo at mag-post using the hashtag #Sampuso,” says Ai-Ai, who currently stars in the romantic-comedy series Let the Love Begin.

The returning Kapuso is looking forward to bringing the Kapuso experience to her kababayan abroad as they commemorate GMA Pinoy TV’s ten years of touching hearts across the globe.

“Wag kayong mawawala diyan dahil sabay-sabay nating mae-experience ang saya bilang proud Pinoy at proud Kapuso!” she adds.

Rehearsals are underway for the two shows that both promise to be as memorable as they

tional Grove of Anaheim in California. City National Grove of Anaheim is located on 2200 East Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA. Gates open at 6:30 PM. For tickets, please call 310-989-4523 or 310986-1665.

For updates on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events,

are entertaining.

Christian Bautista, who stars in the upcoming Kapuso drama series My Mother’s Secret and regularly appears in GMA’s variety program Sunday All Stars, is also filled with excitement for the upcoming show.

“After the long wait it’s finally here! We’re excited to finally go to Canada and the US for the GMA Pinoy TV shows. I’m also very excited to perform with Ms. Ai-Ai again. So get ready! It’s gonna be fun!” he exclaims.

Meanwhile, Kapuso leading man Alden Richards is equally pumped up to perform before his fellow Filipinos. “Ilang tulog na lang at makakasama na namin ang ating mga Kapuso sa Vancouver at Anaheim. We’ve been preparing for the shows and are very excited to give them a fun-

filled Kapuso concert experience!” shares Alden, who recently joined the country’s longest-running noon time show Eat Bulaga as one of its hosts.

As GMA Pinoy TV pays tribute to its loyal subscribers over the past decade, audiences will be treated to a night of nonstop fun, laughter and music. There will also be games and surprises, as

visit the website www. g m a n e t wo rk .co m / in ternational, Facebook pages www.facebook. com/GMAPinoyTV, www. facebook.com/gmalifetv, and www.facebook.com/ gmanewsinternational, Twitter pages @gmapinoytv, @gma_lifetv, and @gmanewstvintl and Instagram account @gmapinoytv.

well as a meet and greet session, where fans can have their photos taken with the Kapuso artists, following each show.

In association with Unit Blue Design & Media Production Services, GMA Pinoy TV’s Kapusong Pinoy Vancouver will be held on May 29 at The Orpheum Theatre in Vancouver, Canada.

Gates open at 7:00 PM. For tickets, please call (604) 365-6068 in Vancouver, (778) 713-0376 in New Westminster, (778) 829-4489 in Tri-cities, (604) 588-6397 in Surrey, and (604) 504-5991 in Fraser Valley.

Meanwhile, GMA Pinoy TV in association with Polaris Media & Marketing will stage Kapusong Pinoy Anaheim on May 31 at the City Na-

Lyca: I’m happy to be able to help my family A year after being named the grand winner of “The Voice Kids,” Lyca Gairanod is still living her dream. Now a grade 3 student, she is busy juggling her studies and performing in gigs.

Early this month, she performed as a special guest in the concert of her former coach Sarah Geronimo in Canada, one of the many places she has been to to sing for people.

“I have gained a lot of friends and my family’s life has gotten better. I’m happy to be able to help my family. All my dreams came true, and I’m thankful to God that He helped me all the way,” said Lyca, who started making a living by scavenging junk before joining “The Voice Kids.”

Aside from the house and lot she got for winning “The Voice Kids,” she has also provided her

family with a car.

Besides singing, Lyca also has her eyes on acting. In fact, her performance in her “MMK” life story was well received, and even convinced her to try it again.

“I really want to act, but my schedule can’t accommodate it.

But I will accept whatever projects they give me,” she shared.

Aside from gigs and TV guestings, she is also busy with school.

Lyca is also excited for the second season of “The Voice Kids” that will start airing this June. As the country waits for the next grand winner, Lyca offers some advice to those who want to pursue a career in music: “It’s free to dream, so just dream on. Whether you win or lose, congratulations still. The Lord will still be there for you.”

She added, “Always be kind.

Never forget your family. Pray before singing. And remain humble.”

Don’t miss the premiere of “The Voice Kids” Season 2 this June on ABS-CBN. For updates on the program, visit thevoice.abscbn.com, like www.facebook. com/thevoiceabscbn, or follow @ thevoiceabscbn on Twitter and @ abscbnthevoice on Instagram.

May 22-26, 2015

MAD MAX: FURY ROAD Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult R16

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

PITCH PERFECT 2 Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson PG

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

TOMORROWLAND George Clooney, Britt Robertson PG

R-16

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

SPY Melissa McCarthy, Jason Statham R13

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

STYLE

Sunny in Miami with Original Penguin SS15 FOR Spring/Summer 2015, Original Penguin takes its inspiration from the energetic and glamorous Magic City itself: late 1950s Miami Beach. Driving down iconic Ocean Drive in South Beach, a bright motel sign flashing neon pink alongside a lone palm tree is emblematic of this season’s collection. The color palette blends chromatic reds and vibrant greens with a splash of aqua and soft pinks, providing a contrast reminiscent of the saturated colors of beachfront homes, set against the soft pastel colors of Miami Beach’s art-deco streets. Foliage prints taken straight from the rows of breezy palms round out this springtime escape.

As the heat begins to build, the collection moves poolside and takes on a tone of modern preppiness, mixing chambrays with seersucker and vintage-floral prints. Loungechair stripes are reflected on short-sleeved wovens with bold lines of coral, molten lava and elm green.

Iconic polos are refreshed this season with playful stripes, while geo-printed knits deliver graphical elements, with both styles

paying homage to the active lifestyle embodied by this season’s mix. For the guy who embraces more refined style cues, a seersucker suit in sky blue and a vintage-floral printed suit keeps him sophisticated, yet cool, before retiring for an evening of casual rooftop games.

Photographed by Street Style photographer Justin Chung and styled by Grant Woolhead, the new advertising campaign was

captured in Miami Beach on Ocean Drive and at the Betsy Hotel, allowing Original Penguin to present a modernized take on 1950s glamor. The ad campaign also features models Josiah Hawley, Romain Julien and two new faces from Ford Models - Sterling Petersen and Ryan Allan.

The Original Penguin store in Davao is located at the second level of the Abreeza Mall.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

SotoGrande pioneers condotel investment in Davao M

ORE and more people are discovering the prolific investment opportunities in the nature-rich and progressive Davao City.

Listed by the Finance Direct Investment (FDI) magazine of the Financial Times Group as one of the Top 10 Asian Cities of the Future, Davao has become one of the Philippines’ major centers of trade, commerce and industry.

Moreover, the metropolis’ leisurely vibe, affordable cost of living, and safe and secure atmosphere make it an attractive

living proposition both for single professionals and for families. One choosing a place to call home in Davao City should be able to take advantage of all these benefits.

Sta. Lucia Land, Inc., one of the leading real estate developers in the country, combines the best of comfort, business and leisure with the pioneering SotoGrande located at the heart of Davao Riverfront Corporate City – a premier residential community also developed by Sta. Lucia.

SotoGrande, the first con-

7 PROPERTY

dominium-hotel (condotel) in Davao, has more to offer homeowners than fine homes. The condotel’s elegant 20 floors, 360-unit residence will bring end-users comfort and convenience, and property investors with income earning assets.

Investment benefits SotoGrande takes property investment to the next level in Davao City with its offering of a condotel leasing or rental. A SotoGrande unit has the potential to give good quarterly returns

An artist’s illustration shows the SotoGrande façade – Davao’s first condotel development that combines the best of comfort, business and leisure.

An artist’s illustrations of SotoGrande’s elegant unit and lobby are reminiscent of five-star hotels – only combined with the benefits of condominium investment.

Near SotoGrande are renowned tourist attractions such as the Davao Crocodile Park that showcases a state-of-the-art crocodile farming system in the Philippines. when leased or rented out because of the influx of both foreign and domestic tourists in Davao throughout the year.

There is also a big demand for housing for executives whose factories or businesses are located in the industrial estates of the metropolis.

Guaranteeing a “worry free” investment for unit owners, Sta. Lucia Hotel Management Group will take care of the leasing of the hotel rooms, their maintenance, refurbishActual photos of the spacious Ranchos Palos Verdes show how the sports and country club is the ideal ment and improvement as place for families who want to bask in the leisurely spirit and vibe of Davao City. well as their operating expens-

es, real property taxes, association dues, common area charges, utilities, insurance and other related expenses, for a property management fee of as low as 30%.

But even if particular unit is not leased or used, owners still get quarterly dividends in Net Room Revenue generated from all hotel units.

Aside from quarterly dividends, unit owners can enjoy 30 room nights free every year with an option to use 3 nights per year at any other Sta. Lucia hotel.

At the centre of quality living SotoGrande is at the heart of Davao Riverfront Corporate City – Sta. Lucia’s 60-hectare, premier residential community at Ma-a, Davao.

The condotel’s prime location puts it at the centre where relaxation, accessibility and convenience meet. SotoGrande is only ten minutes away from the Davao International Airport. Within the vicinity are renowned tourist attractions such as the Crocodile Park, Davao Butterfly House, and Tribu K’ Mindanawan Cultural Village.

Homeseekers who uphold traditional family values will appreciate the convenience of a prestigious academic institution, St. Paul’s College, integrated within Riverfront. Residents can also limitlessly enjoy the amenities and facilities at the exclusive Rancho Palos Verdes Sports and Country Club—the pioneering one-stop sports and recreation centre in Davao, also developed

by Sta. Lucia.

SotoGrande boasts of the finest amenities and world-class hospitality service that are the hallmarks of Sta. Lucia’s residential developments. In keeping with the laidback, leisure countryside lifestyle of Davao being a famed tourist destination, facilities such as swimming pools, poolside bar, piano bar, coffee lounge and restaurant, among other relaxation facilities, are available for the enjoyment of hotel unit owners and guests.

To know more about SotoGrande, call (82) 282-4441, +63918-925-13-55, +63917-309-1725, or visit the SotoGrande Facebook page https://www.facebook. com/SGDavaoCity.

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

I

Clear our roads

T’S not often that we cite the same person in this space two days in a row, but we make an exception in the case of Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago. First it was about the country’s educational system, which she said needs to be overhauled in order to cater to the poor who need it the most; next up is the transport system, which she said is “worsening” and needs some drastic measures if we are to have some relief on the road. She trained her sights on jeepney drivers whose lack of discipline she squarely blamed for the traffic jams that hit not just Metro Manila but other key cities in the country as well. Even Davao City gets its share of traffic problems, and residents agree that they are mostly caused by jeepney and other public utility drivers who show little regard for traffic rules in their quest to earn an income.

Perhaps it is understandable that public utility drivers habitually flout the law because earning a living through driving can be a slow and arduous process. This prompts them to stop anywhere to load passengers, even in areas that are designated as no loading and unloading zones, and often even while the rest

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of traffic is moving along. Their weaving in and out of the roads causes a slowdown behind them that grows exponentially, causing traffic jams that frustrate other motorists and passengers who are in a hurry to get somewhere.

As the joke goes, public utility drivers are not in a hurry because they are already at work, but what they do not realize is that slow-moving traffic adversely affects them also. A slow turnaround means less income for them, and moving slowly uses up more fuel. More than that, traffic jams cause a slowdown in overall economic activity as goods and people take their time getting to where they need to be. If productivity is low, the economy also suffers -- which is bad news for everyone, including the drivers.

Senator Santiago has proposed stiff punishment for drivers who disobey road rules, and we seriously hope the authorities are ready to impose them. The problem has never actually been the laws because God knows we have enough of them; it is in their implementation that government is always found wanting.

Let us hope the good senator’s proposal would spur both drivers and traffic enforcers to clear our roads.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

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EDGEDAVAO

W

What the heck is peace and why are some people willing to go to war for it? (Part 2)

HICH is why there are many who are for peace.

Not “at all cost,” but if the price is reasonable then why not? The questions is, what price are we willing to pay for peace?

What exactly is “reasonable” and for whom?

Is there really a common ground from where we can deal fairly, equally, and equitably with all parties?

Personally, I am still on the fence on this one. Recalling what I mentioned earlier, the problem is just too complex and the issues too diverse for any one solution to work. There is “right” on both sides, and also much that is wrong in either to make this a simple choice between black-or-white. The complete context of the problem still escapes me, and so meaning and the ultimate solution is likewise hard to come by.

But even with my lack of complete understanding, one thing that is abundantly clear to me is that living in willful or malicious ignorance is an even worse situation to be in. Not knowing should be a cause to search, not to attack blindly. And yet this is precisely what many of our countrymen stand on, an aggressively contrarian view based on nothing more than an incomplete picture – or worse a deliberate distortion – of the Mindanao landscape.

Since Mamasapano, a place that 99.99 per-

S

VOL. 8 ISSUE 38 • TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2015

TARTING June 1, the regional office of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) – a line agency of the Department of Agriculture – will again implement the fishing ban in Davao Gulf. The 3-month ban and will end on August 31.

According to a news report, the fishing ban is being implemented “to increase fish production by five percent.” BFAR 11 Director Fatma Idris was quoted as saying that the “5% target fish yield would be around 78.442 metric tons.”

The fishing ban started last year after the signing of a joint administrative order between the BFAR 11 and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the maritime group of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Studies have shown that the spawning season of the Davao Gulf’s pelagic fishes starts from June until September.

Davao Gulf, with an area of 308,000 hectares, cuts into the island of Mindanao from Philippine Sea. The World Wildlife Fund considers Davao Gulf as one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. Diverse coral reefs, different mangrove species, cetaceans and a host of invertebrates contribute to the natural diversity of the gulf.

Davao Gulf is Southern Mindanao’s fishing ground. In fact, it is the 10th major fishing ground in the country. As such, “Davao Gulf is a critical resource supporting the economies of six coastal cities and 18 coastal municipalities,” says the Davao Gulf Management Council (DGMC), composed of all the local government units surrounding the gulf.

The fishing ban was implemented when it was found Davao Gulf to have already reached and exceeded the so-called maximum sustainable yield (MSY). In addition, there was also a decline in the catch of small pelagic fishes.

In this year’s fishing ban, BFAR 11 “aims to increase production of small pelagic fishes.” Among those identified species are bullet tuna (locally known as pirit), frigate tuna (tulingan), big-eyed scad (matambaka), round scad (galunggong),

cent of Filipinos would not have been able to locate on a map if their lives depended on it, everyone and his uncle is now an expert on Mindanao. People who otherwise would be happily preoccupied with the latest twists and turns in the love life of Agnes and that guy with the blond hair now suddenly feel the urge to flood the comments section with such gems as “Philippines for the Filipinos. Do not give Mindanao to the Muslims,” and “BBL is create biggest problem.”

On its own these demonstrations of “wit and wisdom” aren’t really a problem, in fact for those who believe in the infallibility of the democratic process these should even be a cause for celebration. A triumph for the amateur pundits and their digital soapbox, dispensing insult and approbation with equal disregard to the facts.

No, the real bad guys here are those who deliberately play on the fears of others – fears based on an ignorance and misunderstanding – in order to pursue a political agenda that has

nothing to do with a genuine desire to have peace. People like Sen. Alan Cayetano, whose ambition-fueled tirades against the BBL would otherwise be acceptable if only it wasn’t so transparently self-serving.

And while this deliberate politicization of the BBL by Cayetano and his team is a mere exercise in campaign propaganda, there are real costs on the ground – on the people who have to dodge the bombs and bullets to eke out a marginal living from an already miserable life.

Just to be clear, on the question of whether or not the BBL is the silver bullet that will end all the conflicts, I don’t believe it is. And anyone who argues that it will is just as deluded as Cayetano. The BBL is just one more in the millions steps we have taken, and the million more that we may have to take to keep this journey towards peace going. We have to have faith in the process, even if we don’t in the personalities involved.

In the end the BBL or any other measure we take in the name of peace is only worth as much as the effort we put into making it work.

We each hold a piece of the puzzle that completes the picture. And it is only when we are able to come together and share our hopes and dreams that the jumbled images of peace, of war, of Mindanao, becomes clear and understandable.

and sardines.

THINK ON THESE! Aside from not catching those fishes, the order also bans the usage of fishing gears. These include bagnets, fine mesh nets and ring nets in fishing “because these tools can Henrylito D. Tacio catch even the henrytacio@gmail.com small growing fishes,” according to an Edge Davao dispatch.

Fish provides more than half of the protein requirement of almost all Filipinos. But in recent years, the average annual consumption has declined from 37 kilos to just 30 kilos. “Unless we look for other sources of protein, the food intake of Filipinos will be greatly affected,” said a government official.

And so it came to pass that the wealth of oceans, once considered boundless, has proven finite. Touted as “the poor man’s protein,” fish is now a resource coveted -- and fought over by countries.

“We are running out of fish and running out of time. For a country known for marine biodiversity, there are very few fish left to catch,” Vince Cinches, Oceans Campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia, was quoted as saying.

“Like the other vital resources such as forests, Philippine fisheries are about to collapse,” deplored Roy C. Alimoane, the director of Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC), a non-government organization based in Davao del Sur. The collapse of major fishing grounds in the country would mean uprooting 38,000 fishermen each year. “The fish is getting scarcer,” said a father of six. “We all have children, grandchildren.

We have to think of the future!”

The condition of open sea access -- that exists both for international vessels on the high seas and for domestic fleets within their own coun-

tries’ exclusive economic zones -- is generally regarded as the major reason for the sad state of the ocean.

In the Philippines, 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.

“All over the country, whatever coastal province you visit, you see the same plight - desolate stretches of shoreline completely stripped of mangrove cover and now totally exposed to the pounding of the ocean’s waves,” a marine environmentalist deplored.

Experts are very worried at this prospect as mangroves 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.

“Overfishing is the primary cause of dwindling fish population,” notes Peter Weber in his book, Net Loss: Fish, Jobs and the Marine Environment.

Along with fishing pressure, general degradation of coastal environments has influenced the steep decline of fishstock. Population growth and urbanization along shorelines lead to greater municipal, industrial and agricultural waste discharge and pollution.

Marine experts claim that all fishing activities depend on a fragile resource base which, if mismanaged and overexploited, can easily collapse. “Overfishing is the primary cause of dwindling fish population,” notes Peter Weber in his book, Net Loss: Fish, Jobs and the Marine Environment.

Fishing ban is one possible solution to the problem. “Given the decline of fishery resources, there has to be a closed season in Davao Gulf,” Councilor Leo Avila III pointed out. “Expect that by the end of this year, we will be able to replenish the stock of small pelagic fishes.”

A closed season

VANTAGE POINTS

9

Phl, rubber stamp of Malaysia?

B

I NAY aides h a d billions in bank accounts, says AMLC – headline.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has revealed that VP Binay aides Gerardo Limlingan and Ediviges Baloloy had individual and joint bank accounts amounting to billions of pesos from 2004-2014.

The two were allegedly known Binay aides during his long tenure as Makati City Mayor. They are suspected “bagmen” of Binay. They had repeatedly ignored Senate summons. The Senate had issued arrest orders for them.

The government must rein them in before they commit “hara-kiri” and effectively save Binay’s neck.

Limlingan’s and Baloloy’s lawyer claims that the two are legitimate highly successful businessmen, and that the billions they have in the backs are legitimate, legal earnings.

AMLC believes otherwise.

------ 000 ------

A MERE RUBBER STAMP Mr. Benigno Aquino III wants Congress to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law by June 11. He urged the Senate to follow the Lower House’s overwhelming pro-BBL voting.

Why the rush? What’s so urgent about the BBL’s passage? Why hurry as if voting on it is a matter of life and death for the Filipino people and nation?

If the June 11 deadline is not met, what will happen to Mindanao, to Visayas, to Luzon, to Metro Manila?

What will happen to the MILF, to the Muslims in the proposed autonomous region? Will the MILF resume their terroristic activities – bombing public markets, burning towns, ambushing government troops?

These are questions that only time can provide credible answers.

Meanwhile, there are talks that a final peace pact with the MILF would earn Mr. Aquino a nomination for the Nobel Prize for peace.

Expectedly, Malacanan simply dismissed such talks as mischievous canard.

------ 000 ------

President Noynoy’s choice lapdogs in the Lower House have given the BBL a rousing 50-17 majority victory.

But here’s an alarming information that came out of the social media.

Jose Romero, a former Philippine ambassador to Rome, had disclosed in his social media post that the BBL is the handiwork of top Malaysian legal brains.

If true, then the MILF played a dirty trick on the Philippine negotiating panel by insisting that the BBL be approved in toto. Our legislature is being reduced to a rubber stamp.

If the BBL is a total Malaysian legal piece of legislation which the MILF wants our lawmakers to swallow, then not a single word of it came from the unsuspecting stupid minds of our legislators.

I tell you, it’s not only anomalous, but a grand shame, and a slap on the faces of those 50 P-noy puppets.

10 NEWS TOUGH... FROM 1 book page.

In a statement released to media yesterday, Duterte’s camp said that “as a presidential hopeful, Mayor Duterte knows fully well the consequences of his public pronouncements. And gauging by his hair-raising statements, it seems he is ready to face the issue squarely when challenged by anyone.”

“It is a calculated risk on the part of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to admit that he is behind the Davao Death Squad (DDS) and his statement that if ever he wins the presidency, he would kill all criminals which he claimed make the lives of Filipinos miserable,” the statement said.

Duterte’s statement reopened talks of his involvement with the DDS--an issue which Secretary De Lima as former CHR chair failed to substantially prove when they conducted a probe on Duterte during the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

According to De Lima, Duterte may be held liable for confessing he has links to the Davao Death Squad. Duterte’s camp said this could be De Lima’s “revenge” after she failed to substantiate the alleged “killing fields” in Davao. De Lima is saying it is “simply unacceptable” because it would

send a wrong signal to the international human rights community.

“She never shuts her mouth,” a post on ANC 24-7 read in reaction to De Lima’s statement.

According to Duterte’s camp, while the Mayor’s bold statement was annoying to the CHR and De Lima, public reaction seemed to favor Duterte.

“Public reaction was not surprising. A big majority of radio listeners are apparently scared and disturbed with the deteriorating peace and order situation in the country whether in the urban areas or country sides. They want drastic action against crime and corruption and this is perhaps the reason they still support Mayor Duterte’s tough stance though his statement sounds scary and alarming to human rights groups. This is the result when hapless and hopeless citizens see the government’s weakness in addressing the issue of criminality and peace and order,” the statement read.

Duterte’s camp believed that the public looked up to somebody like Duterte “to change the situation, the status quo, where heinous crimes like rape, murder, drug trafficking, unabated smuggling are the normal occurrence in our midst.”

DCCCII resolution issued last week calling for an investigation on the matter.

The DCCCII had expressed its outright rejection of the project in a strongly-worded position and demanded that the national government place the bidding process on hold and revisit the study and recommendation made by the Development Bank of the Philippines-International Finance Corporation (DBP-IFC).

“We urge everyone, the local government, the City Council of Davao to continue its probe and the Congress to look into this matter with sincere consideration to the well-being of the people of Davao City and the whole Davao Region,” read part of the draft of the position paper of the DCCCII headed by Board chair John Y. Gaisano and president Antonio T. dela Cruz.

Dayanghirang said he was “very grateful that Senator Osmeña will be bringing this out in the Senate.”

He also said according to Gaisano, the Sasa Port modernization will be detrimental to the business sector because the cost of using it would increase since the project will be built from a loan.

“The (loan) will be paid

by the stakeholders who will be using the port,” he said.

Dayanghirang also said the DOTC, without coordination with the city government, purchased a relocation site in Barangay Mahayag in Bunawan District for those who will be affected by the project.

“The area is not suitable for residential use since it is in an industrial zone, which is a violation to our zoning ordinance” he said.

Dayanghirang said the question is why the DOTC is in a hurry to do the project and why it did not coordinate properly with the city government.

Last week in Davao City, DOTC Undersecretary Rene K. Limcaoco defended the project by saying that the P17 billion bid price is just the “estimated cost of the conceptual design.”

He said the winning bidder is not required to implement the modernization project at the P17 billion bid price. It could be lower depending on the bidder and its respective design, he added.

Limcaoco said three companies have already bought bid documents for P300,000.

One of them is San Miguel Corporation (SMC). With a report of Cheneen R. Capon

Sasa... FROM 2

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

DCWD... FROM 4

Marcos... FROM 2 President the various issues directly related to BBL and if he has suggestions for us we would certainly listen because his inputs are important,” said Marcos, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Government, in a radio interview.

“But it’s another matter entirely if it’s only for political maneuvering, as what was done with the House of Representatives. Then, I don’t think I should be part of that; I don’t want to be involved in anything like that,” he added.

Marcos noted that before meeting with the President, the House ad hoc committee had agreed to line up amendments to address flaws in BBL. But after the meeting the committee swiftly approved the passage of a new version of BBL, discarding changes the panel agreed upon earlier.

He said the reason why many people believe the passage of BBL was railroaded in the House ad hoc committee was spurred by reports that an LP (Liberal Party) version was given to the panel and lawmakers were told to take it or leave it.

As far as he is concerned, Marcos said his committee will do its best to address the issues raised against BBL, including constitutional issues, practical administrative concerns, and power sharing, and the issue of inclusivity among others.

Marcos said it is inevitable that any version of BBL Congress approves and signed by the President will be challenged before the Supreme Court so his panel is doing it’s best to ensure the BBL version they will recommend will stand any constitutional challenge.

“That’s what we are doing and it’s not an easy process.

So, why are we being rushed?

There is no deadline in the law, there is no deadline in the Framework Agreement, there was no deadline anywhere but suddenly there was this June 11 deadline,” Marcos said.

Marcos said BBL is important and complicated as it involves the lives of the people of Muslim Mindanao and the threat of war hanging over them so it is the duty of lawmakers to ensure they would pass the best version possible.

Marcos earlier said his panel would also seek to address the “shocking revelation” that BBL was drafted without consultation with major stakeholders, including the Moro National Liberation Front, the Sultanates, the indigenous people, and the chief executives in core areas of Bangsamoro territory and adjacent localities.

In Monday’s hearing, for example, Marcos said the testimonies from representatives of the sultanates showed there was no consultation with them and that the proceedings afforded them for the first time to put their views forward on the proposed BBL. Marcos said none of the sultanates authorized the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to represent them.

Likewise, Marcos said the draft BBL do not contain specific provisions allowing the sultanates to continue their governance in accordance with their ancient ways.

The Sultanates have asked the committee to include provisions in BBL creating a body to help preserve their unique history, culture and tradition, as well as guaranteed seats in the Bangsamoro parliament, appointed similar to sectoral representatives.

duced to alternating current which is the requirement of the electrical system at the site. Said generated energy is enough to power the operation of the reservoirs.

The solar panel project

which costs PhP 262,925 was completed by Araw Power Systems Philippines January this year while site development done by DCWD was completed first quarter this year. (Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod)

congregation venue, and gazebos for lectures, including three building for comfort rooms, aviary section and city nursery.

The video added that the some of the rooms of the Tagum City National Trade School, which was just adjacent to the energy park, can be used as billeting quarters.

The city government also offered the 31-hectare Botanical Garden in Brgy.

Magdum, Hijo Forest in Brgy.

Madaum and Liboganon River for trekking and other fun activities.

As to security and safety, Rellon said that the systems were in place as being attested by the different national activities held in Tagum City

like the Palarong Pambansa.

“The security and contingency plans used during the recently held Palarong Pambansa will be still be in place for the scouting jamboree,” he said.

Rellon added that the jamboree will make Tagum known to the Philippine and to the world in the field of scouting.

“Of course, Tagum will be known to comply with national and international standard on holding scouting jamboree,” he stated.

Rellon bared that he will make a follow-up on the next national council meeting, since he will sit as the regional head by that time, on their bid. (PIA11, Michael Uy)

accounted for 15.1 percent or USD 2.38 billion of the country’s total imports bill. Imports from China increased by 3.0 percent from USD 2.31 billion last year.

Imports from United States of America shared 10.6 percent in the country’s total imports. The Philippines imported USD 1.67 billion worth of goods from the USA in Q1 2015 which is 4.4 percent

higher than its imports bill in Q1 2014 of USD 1.59 billion.

Other top imports partners of the Philippines in Q1 this year include Japan (USD 1.3 billion), South Korea (USD 1.03 billion), Singapore (USD 1.21 billion), Taiwan (USD 1.14 billion), Thailand (USD 941.1 million), Germany (USD 886 million), Malaysia (USD 707.6 million), and Indonesia (USD 702.4 million). (PNA)

to, North Cotabato and Palawan--refused to join the Moro Autonomous region.

“Does this mean that these eight provinces which earlier rejected their inclusion in the Moro autonomous region would now have to go through another plebiscite again to determine whether they would like to join the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region?” Duterte again asked in a statement sent to the media Tuesday afternoon.

The local chief executive warned Malacañang not to rush the approval of the BBL and in the process create a chaotic situation in the future.

“This early, we are already seeing signs that the peace which we have promised that Filipino people, especially those from Mindanao, may not come that easy,” said Duterte who has always been supportive of the peace talks with rebel groups, including the New People’s Army (NPA).

He cited the position of the Sultanate of Sulu whose representatives have opposed the inclusion of the Sultanate in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and even accused the MILF of betraying

the Sultanate by working closely with Malaysia.

The Sultanate of Sulu is claiming ownership of Sabah, a portion of the island of Borneo, which the Sultanate said was awarded to the Sulu of Sulu following the latter’s help to the Sultan of Brunei to quell an uprising.

“Let me repeat my warning that what is good for the Muslims of Central Mindanao, primarily the Maguindanaos, Maranaos, Iranuns and Kagans, may not be acceptable to the Tausugs, Yakans, and Samals. These are entirely two different Moro nations,” Duterte said.

The BBL, he said, should be thoroughly reviewed by the Senate so that the measure would ultimately result in peace and not another round of conflict in the Southern Philippines.

Duterte, who is advocating a shift to Federalism from the current Unitary Presidential form, has proposed the creation instead of two Federal Moro States, one for the Muslims of the main island of Mindanao and the other for the Muslims in the islands southwest of the Philippines.

list.

tary Prudencio Reyes, Jr. The consultation meeting was participated by owners, officers, representatives from the construction industry, consultancy, management, design, contractors, materials, suppliers industry and professional organizations.

(PNA)

Rody... FROM 2

Tagum... FROM 4

Phl imports... FROM 5

Phl... FROM 6

“The aim of the consultation/workshop is to improve the deals that the Philippines could request and offer in its trade agreement with EFTA member states as well as to the possibility of conducting construction outbound missions,” said DTI Undersecre-

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late SPS. ANICETO QUIÑONES and NENA GORRES QUIÑONES has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT executed among their heirs per Doc. No.334; Page No.68; Book No. XIII; Series of 2014, of the NOTARY PUBLIC IRA R.CALATRAVA-VALENZUELA 5/27/6/3/10

11 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

Coconuts to be made into copra

There’s more to coconut than just copra Text and Photos By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

A

LTHOUGH not a native of the Philippines, coconut is considered God’s gift to Filipinos. One historian wrote: “A man sleeps in the shade of the tree. He is awakened when a nut falls, drinks the water, and eats some of the meat.

He then feeds the rest of the meat to the chickens, which produce eggs, milk, and meat. The leaves provide thatch for the roof and walls of his coconut hut, and are also woven into hats, baskets, and mats.”

From the air, the Philippines looks like a country filled with coconut trees.

After all, some 3,562 million hectares of coconut trees are planted all over the country.

“Coconut provides vital economic support to the rural communities, with over 3.4 million farmers directly benefiting from the industry,” reports the Laguna-based Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).

The Philippines is the world’s second largest producer of coconut products after Indonesia. But the Philippines is the top exporter of coconut products (about 64 percent of the world’s copra and coconut oil comes from the country).

Copra or dried coconut meat is the main product of coconuts. It has high oil content, as much as 64 percent. Coconut oil, which is the most readily digested

Benjamin Lao

among all fats of general use in the entire world, furnishes about 9,500 calories of energy per kilo.

But there’s more to coconut than just copra and coconut oil. In the past, there was the nata de coco (which became a craze in Japan a few years back). Another one that became a global phenomenon is virgin coconut oil, which the New York Times described as having a “haunting, nutty, vanilla flavour” that also has a touch of sweetness that works well with baked goods, pastries, and sautés.

In recent years, there’s buko juice, which in the United States is called coco water. “Because of its nutrients, because it is natural and environment friendly, it is becoming the new natural sports drink in America and is now a hundred-million-dollar industry,” President Benigno Aquino III once reported.

“The coconut water has lots of health nutrients and uses,” the PCAARRD said. “It is among the purest of all waters. It has no cholesterol but contains more electrolytes than any fruit or vegetable juice or sports drink currently available in the market. It contains trace amounts of copper, phosphorus, and sulfur which help correct electrolyte imbalances.”

In Davao, some farmers are also rediscovering the health benefits of coconut -- plus knowing these can be

a good source of income for them. In the town of Bansalan, about 85 kilometers away from Davao City, there is a farmer who makes money out of his coconuts.

Benjamin R. Lao, president and chief executive officer of the Lao Integrated Farms, Inc., uses coconut to produce coco sugar. He does not only sell his coco products in his hometown and nearby areas but also export them to other countries.

According to him, the profit of using a coconut tree for coco sugar is almost three times than when the same tree is used for making copra.

In a period of three months, one coconut tree can produce 25 nuts, he said.

Only one kilo of copra can be produced from 5 nuts. At P35 per kilo, the gross sales amounts to P175. The net income you get is only P95 from one coconut trees after deducting the expenses amounting to P80.

In comparison, one coconut tree can be rented at P90 for three months. If a tree is tapped for toddy and make it into coco sugar, the net income is P270. “See the difference?” Lao asked.

“It is not enough that we plant the most number of coconut trees or produce the highest number of nuts,” commented Dr. Patricio S. Faylon, the PCAARRD executive director. “It is getting the highest value and benefits from this crop that matters most. The best way to do

this is to transform the nuts and other coconut parts into high-value products.”

Coco sugar is considered a safe and healthy sweetener due to its low glycemic index (GI) of 35. It is rich in phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and chlorine. As an “invert sugar,” it can be a valuable sweetener in food and pharmaceutical preparations and can be used as substitute for honey and sweetener for infant foods.

“Its health benefits have been recognized by highly discriminating and health-conscious market,” PCAARRD said. “Demand for the product is continuously increasing and is expected to further increase due to the number of health-conscious individuals within and outside the country.”

“Coconut sap sugar is not only sweet but even more nutritious than cane sugar,” pointed out Lao, whose product lines also include coconut sap honey, coconut syrup, and coconut sap drink. His coco sugar is also being sold in the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada.

On value adding, Lao shared these words: “(It) is an important component in a farming system. For instance, if you have goats, you must know how to produce fresh milk and having other saleable products from the animals. In the case of coconut, don’t think only of copra because when it is cheaper, you can always have another

Health coco products from Lao Integrated Farm

Processing coco sugar product to sell.”

Aside from coconut, the Lao Integrated Farm is also teeming with various fruits like lanzones (more than a thousand trees), durian (700 trees), mangosteen, and rambutan. “I bought them one at a time from my salary as a government employee,” said Lao, who used to work as immigration officer.

In his farm, you won’t see his farm workers using chemical pesticides. “I had a tragic experience with chemical pesticides when I was still a teenager while cultivating rice in our farm located at the neighboring barangay,” he revealed.

Instead, he recommends using Eman (the name of the barangay where his farm is located), which stands for “epektibo, mura, at natural” (effective, cheap, and natural). “This is a concoction composed of fresh goats’

manure, kakawate, makabuhay, and hot pepper,” he informed. “These are soaked together for 48 hours and after that the concoction is ready for application.”

Lao said Eman is effective in repelling plant pests and diseases. In addition, it is also a good course of foliar fertilizer. “We are committed to help preserve our environment. We want to teach Filipino farmers the right way of farming through natural method and that is by not using commercial fertilizer or pesticides,” he said.

People who have been to his farm described it as a haven. You don’t see only livestock and crops but ornamentals as well. “It’s nice to see beautiful flowers underneath the trees,” he explained. “Also, the flowers serve as breeding areas for beneficial insects like spiders and dragonflies.”

12 ICT HUB EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

Apple promotes Ive to chief design officer

D

ESIGN guru Jony Ive, who has been responsible for the minimalist characteristics of several Apple products over the years, has been promoted by the company.

Ive, who has served as Apple’s senior vice president of design for several years, has been named to the newly created position of chief design officer, according to a memo sent to company employees by Apple CEO Tim Cook.

In his new position, Ive will still be in charge of the company’s hardware and software design teams, but some of his day-today managerial responsibilities will be handed off to two new leaders of each department on July 1, according to the memo, which was published by 9to5mac.

While Ive focuses on other tasks such as the design of Apple’s retail stores and the company’s new campus in Cupertino, California, his managerial duties will be delegated to Richard Howarth, the new VP of Industrial Design and focus on hardware, and Alan Dye, Apple’s new VP of User Interface Design.

Apple confirmed the memo’s authenticity, saying it was thrilled to announce Ive’s appointment to the newly created post.

“In this new role, he will focus entirely on cur-

IT Solutions and services company iXBASE will now be able to utilize GCash’s reliable payroll disbursement solution to better serve their partners and customers. In this photo are (from left) iXBASE COO Adonnis Jañala, iXBASE CEO Leo Marquez, together with GXI Sales Issuance Director Albert Antig and GXI Regional Sales Manager King Katalbas.

Jony Ive (Photo from apple.com) rent design projects, new ideas and future initiatives,” Apple said in a statement.

Ive, 48, joined Apple as a full-time employee in 1992 and became its chief of industrial design after Apple co-founder Steve Jobs returned to the company in 1997. Under Ive’s direction, Apple’s put out a list of iconic products including the iMac, iPod, and iPad. Considered close friends, Jobs and Ive often ate lunch together and collaborated on different Apple products. Jobs also held the design wizard in high esteem, and Ive was considered to be on a short list of candidates to replace Jobs when he retired before his death in 2011.

Ive’s design responsibilities were expanded in 2012 to include software when he was put in charge of a new department called Human Interface.

The word “industrial” was trimmed from his title in 2013.

GCash payroll system powers IT company L

EADING mobile money service GCash has partnered with IT solutions and services firm iXBASE to enable the company with reliable payroll solutions for funds disbursement.

GCash is powered by G-Xchange, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Globe Telecom.

With GCash, iXBASE can now effectually release funds to its over 20,000 customers using an easy, secure, and hassle-free platform. “With our growing solutions portfolio that now includes payroll disbursement, we are privileged to be helping our partners grow their footprint and benefit their employees and stakeholders,” shares G-Xchange, Inc. President & CEO Xavier Marzan.

GCash remains to play an important role in national socio-economic develop-

ment with a 60% increase in customer base for its GCash Payroll segment, providing partner companies with a modern payroll solution that allows employers to easily disburse salaries, loans, allowances, and commissions.

Employees also get access to the rest of the GCash mobile money suite of services such as buying load, sending money to others, and paying bills, among others. iXBASE Inc. CEO, Leo Marquez, enthuses, “Our company remains steadfast in its commitment to provide lasting linkages and advancements to benefit customers we serve. Our partnership with GCash helps us provide reliable funds disbursement facility and payment solutions and we look forward to extending this service to more companies nationwide.”

iXBase Incorporated is a company that has consistently providing quality IT solutions and services, equipped with a team of professional and highly skilled programmers and engineers. The company develops, innovates and customize system specifically to cooperatives, rural banks and other financial institutions integrating the latest available technologies applicable to banking solutions. It has developed a platform that uses the industry standard messaging format, iX360, and MTM financial gateway.

It has also evolve four main products, i.e. Web Based Core Banking Solution named as iX360CBS; Mobile Banking Integrations; and Social Performance Management Solution (SPMS). Web Based Point Of Sale named as iXSIMS. Customers can access GCash in 3 ways – using their

GCash Payroll Card for withdrawal and purchases from local sites, via the Globe Menu *143#, or via GCash Mobile App for mobile money services. The app is available for iOS, Android and Blackberry devices.

To know more about GCash and their latest portfolio of products and services visit http://www.globe.com. ph/gcash, or visit a Globe store nearest you.

The report, based on a document leaked by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden, said the plan aimed to step up surveillance efforts on smartphones.

The plan appeared to

have been discussed at meetings involving the intelligence services in 2011 and 2012, according to the classified document.

The project called “Irritant Horn” would allow the agencies to hijack data connections to app stores and surreptitiously implant malicious software on smartphones that would allow for data to be harvested.

The intelligence agencies could also use the spyware to send misinformation to targets to confuse potential adversaries, according to the report.

The Intercept said the plan was motivated in part by concerns about the possibility of “another Arab Spring,” or the spread of popular movements.

The agencies were particularly interested in the Africa region, especially Senegal, Su-

dan, and the Congo but also targeted app store servers in France, Cuba, Morocco, Switzerland, Bahamas, the Netherlands, and Russia.

At the time, the Google app store was called Android Market. It is now known as Google Play.

In developing the plan, the agencies found weaknesses in UC Browser, an app owned

by Alibaba Group which is popular in China and India to browse the Internet and is used by some 500 million people worldwide.

The document was also published in Canada by CBC News, which said the aim of the plan was to collect data on suspected terrorists and other intelligence targets, including their online search queries, SIM card numbers, device IDs and the location of the smartphone.

In one case, according

to the CBC, analysts found a foreign military using the UC Browser app to communicate covertly about its operations in Western countries.

There was no immediate comment on the report following AFP queries to the NSA. Google and Samsung both declined comment. Earlier this year, a Google security report said fewer than one percent of Android devices had a potentially harmful app installed, with the number even lower for those using official Google channels.

The report is the latest based on leaked documents from Snowden describing vast programs by NSA and other services to scoop up data in the search for terrorists.

The leaks starting in 2013 shocked many Americans and US allies and have led to calls for reform of laws governing US data collection.

For more information, please contact: Yoly C. Crisanto Head, Corporate Communications Globe Telecom, Inc. Email Address: gtcorpcomm@ globe.com.ph Globe Press Room: www.globe. com.ph/press-room Twitter: @talk2GLOBE │ Facebook: www.facebook. com/globeph

NSA‘planned to hack Google’s app store to implant malware on phones’

T

HE US National Security Agency developed plans to hack into data links to app stores operated by Google and Samsung to plant spyware on smartphones, a media report said Thursday.

The online news site The Intercept said US intelligence developed the plan with allies in Britain, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, a group known as the “Five Eyes” alliance.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

COMPETITIVE EDGE

13

Seda features Japanese food and buffet S

EDA Abreeza offers a new taste as Seda Nuvali’s Executive Sous Chef Danny Gallardo shares his Japanese cuisine expertise to Davaoenos. Chef Danny comes over to Seda Abreeza on May 25 to 30, 2015 for the Japanese Food Festival. This event is part of the urban lifestyle hotel chain’s Seda Chef Exchange Program which enables the Head Chef of each Seda Hotel to visit another of its own and share their expertise in the food industry.

For the last week of May, Seda Abreeza’s Misto will have a specialJapanese

lunch and dinner menu for its guests. The Japanese set menu serveschoicesamong pork, beef, chicken,seafood, or vegetables along with tuna or salmon sashimi, miso soup, Japanese rice and fruit platter for Php 780 nett. Ala carte meals are also available starting at Php 300 nett.

By May 29, Japanese food lovers may indulge in a Japanese Dinner Buffet at Php 980 nett for adults and Php 680 nett for kids. ThebuffetshowcasesJapanesefavoritesfromappetizersdowntodesserts.The event aims to give guests a complete Jap-

anese dining experience as Seda Abreeza incorporates a Japanese-themed vibe, from decorations to costumes and service quality.

Chef Danny has spent about 26 splendid years of his life creating numerous dishes for countless 5-star hotels and restaurants.He associates his expertise in the Japanese cuisine back on his first stint in a Japanese restaurant. He was widely surrounded by Japanese chefs, which stirred his interest. His skills in Japanese cuisine and buffet took him places as Saipan, Dubai,

Ukraine, and India.

The week-long festivity also includes the Seda Rewards Members Japanese Dinner Party on May 28th.

Members will know easy but fun ways of creating Japanese food favorites through a cooking demo by Chef Danny Gallardo. This is Seda Abreeza’s way of giving back to its loyal bookers.

Neil Llanes, TalentadongPinoy defending champion whose Asia’s Got Talent audition video hit a million in YouTube, will grace both the Seda Rewards event and the Japanese Dinner Buffet.

JAPANESE FAIR. Seda Abreeza manager Kennedy Kapulong introduces Seda Nuvali’s Executive Sous Chef Danny Gallardo who shared his Japanese cuisine expertise to Davao media. Neil Bravo

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DAVAO CITY MAIN OFFICE

GENERAL SANTOS CITY MARKETING OFFICE

Director of Sales

Marketing Specialist

JOCELYN S. PANES

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

EDMUND P. RENDON

General Santos City

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

MANILA MARKETING OFFICE

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

EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015

SPORTS AMBASSADOR. Alex Tan, former PBA player, announces the coming of the Sports Ambassadors basketball team during yesterday’s SCOOP Forum at the Royal Mandaya Hotel. The Ambassadorsd will play here from June 7-15, 2015. Boy Lim

15

DAVAO CHALLENGE. Mark Anthony Lagmay shows the poster of the forthcoming Thunderbird Davao Challenge during yesterday’s SCOOP Forum at the Royal Mandaya Hotel. Boy Lim

Top breeders in Thunderbird Davao Challenge M

INDANAO’S finest gamefowl breeders will battle it out for the Thunderbird Mindanao All-Star 5-Cock Derby during the much-anticipated Thunderbird Davao Challenge set on June 6 at the New Davao Matina Gallera in Davao City.

The Mindanao All-Stars will feature topnotch breeders Gov. Eddiebong Plaza, Gov. Claude Baustista, Alex Macariola, Dorie Du, Balong Espinosa, Tata Sala, Kap. Romeo Baquirel, Mario Bantilan,

Christian Saldivar, Lyndon Tabuada, Bryan Blanco, Herman Cantuba, Maning Eva, James Fuentes, Jojie Tiu, Jun Bacolod, Isidoro “B1” Uy, Larry Rubinos/Greg de Carlos, Boy Oncada and Sammy Uy. The Thunderbird Davao Challenge will be the first-ever “double derby” with two 5-cock derbies to be held within each other -- the Thunderbird National All-Star 5-Cock Derby and the Thunderbird Mindanao All-Star 5-Cock Derby.

“These two derbies will be matched separately, will have two separate fight programs and two separate scoreboards.

The derby will start with Fight#1 of the Thunderbird National All-Star Derby, followed by Fight#1 of the Thunderbird Mindanao All-Star 5-Cock Derby, then Fight#2 of the National All-Star followed

by Fight#2 of the Mindanao All-Star, and so on and so forth,” said Mark Anthony Lagmay, Thunderbird Southern Mindanao team leader, during

yesterday’s SCOOP Forum at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.

“It’s history in the making when this big event is held in Davao City from June 4 - 7,” said Lagmay.

First staged in 2010, the Thunderbird Challenge is a yearly-held 4-cock derby among Thunderbird Power Feeds & Thunderbird Powervet’s elite endorsers aimed to promote cockfighting and local tourism, thus it has been held in the country’s most popular travel destinations : Boracay in

2010, Palawan in 2011, Dakak, Dapitan in 2012, Bohol in 2013 and Ilocos Region in 2014.

In the Thunderbird National All-Star 5-Cock Derby, the impressive line-up of entries include cocking greats Engr. Sonny Lagon, Nene Abello, Lancey dela Torre, Pol Estrellado, Rey Briones, Nestor Vendivil, Mayor Bobby Clemente, Cong. Lawrence Wacnang, Joey Sy, Pao Malvar, Mayor Jesry Palmares, Bebot Monsanto, Bernie Tacoy, Winnie Codilla, Mayor Baba Yap,

former Gov. Baham Mitra, Joe Laureno, Engr. Sonnie Magtibay, Tol Mariano, Lino Mariano, Tan Brothers (Jun, Bobot & Bong), Bugsky Ngsuy, Bentoy Sy, Manny Dalipe and Bebot Uy. A sidelight to this year’s Thunderbird Davao Challenge is the staging of several medical missions, as Thunderbird Cares, in cooperation with Mr. Jun Bacolod conduct medical, dental and optical services in Panabo, in Bgy. Mattina Aplaya, Davao City and in Bgy. Makato, Makilala, North Cotabato.

VERBALL Columbia Computer Center finally tasted its first win with a rousing 84 – 77 decision against City Mayors Office in Game No. 19 of their Basketball Friendly Series at the Davao City Recreation Center Almendras Gym on May 12.

De Guzman led five double-digit scorers with 17 as the Everball ended its 18game losing streak.

Balisalisa and Chavez chipped in 13 baskets apiece as Suarez and Francisco added 10 each for the Everball Columbia that at length got

its act together.

Christopher “Bong” Go put up his usual numbers coming through with 30 points, including six triples.

But the supporting casts were miserably missing as the City Hall dribblers dropped its first game in 19 outings.

It was only JR De Guzman managed to deliver and backstop Go with 14.

Everball Columbia was superb in both ends of the floor as they showed efficiency in their offense on top of excellent defensive plays.

STAYING ALIVE E Harden torches 45 as Rockets win Game 4

W

HEN Golden State’s Stephen Curry crashed into Trevor Ariza’s shoulder, was upended and sent flying toward the court on Monday night against Houston, it felt like forever before he landed.

“That was the worst (fall ever) because you’re in the air for a long time,” Curry said. “And not knowing how you’re going to hit the floor, knowing that it’s going to happen, it’s inevitable, but you’re up there just trying to brace yourself.”

The MVP was able to return to Game 4 of the Western Conference finals after the spill but the Warriors couldn’t overcome a big deficit, as James Harden scored 45 points in the Rockets’ 128-115 victory.

Curry said he went through the concussion protocol before returning.

THE DIFFERENCE. James Harden of the Houston Rockets torched the hoops with 45 points “It was all minor in Game 4. stuff compared to how it

looked,” Curry said. “But I’ll get some good rest (Monday night) and be ready to go ... since it happened to now, nothing has gotten worse.”

The collision came when Curry jumped in the air as Ariza was about to go up for a shot midway through the second quarter. Ariza saw him and stopped abruptly, causing the spill. Curry’s head hit the court and it propelled him up and back onto the floor, where he remained for several minutes.

Curry looked dazed as he was attended to before slowly getting up and walking off the court.

“In the seconds afterward, it’s just a scary feeling, hearing all those voices saying: ‘Take your time,’” Curry said. “You just want to gather yourself, regroup and trust the process.”

It wasn’t only frightening for him. His coaches and teammates were all worried when they saw the hard fall.

Everball snaps CMO run

Sharapova, Murray post first round wins

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ARIA Sharapova got back in the groove at her happiest hunting ground while Andy Murray’s growing love of clay blossomed as both posted easy first-round wins at the French Open on Monday.

Defending champion Sharapova was nursing a cold but opened her bid for a third Roland Garros title in four years with a 6-2 6-4 victory over Estonian Kaia Kanepi on a breezy Court Phillipe Chatrier.

Men’s third seed Murray then took his winning streak on the red dust to 11 matches by overpowering Argentine

lucky loser Facundo Arguello 6-3 6-3 6-1, maintaining his unbeaten run since marrying long-term partner Kim Sears.

Sharapova, who was also champion in 2012 and runner-up in 2013 despite an intense dislike for the surface earlier in her illustrious career, produced her usual power tennis to ease through to the second round.

It was not a perfect performance, perhaps due to the cough that was troubling her, but she never looked in danger as she set up a meeting with fellow Russian Vitalia Diatchenko.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 39 • WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015