Edge Davao 8 Issue 4

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

YOUNG RECYCLERS. A group of young children scavenges for used plastic bottles, scraps, and other recyclable materials from a pile of trash which they will later sell to a nearby junk shop along Quimpo Boulevard in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

NOT FEASIBLE Pulong hits UPMin Sports Complex project over land claims INSIDE EDGE

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte believes the proposed City Sports Complex inside the University of the Philippines Mindanao (UPMin) in Bago Oshiro, Mintal is not feasible due to the problems of the claimants living in the area.

In an interview yesterday, Paolo told reporters that the settlers in the area were

already there even before UPMin came to the area in 1995.

“Ang lisod man gud ana kay sige lang sila storya sa P200 million, actually, P8 billion na nga project. So, karon sa P200 million sa akong pagkabalo mo counterpart pa gyud ang na P100 million, asa man ta mamunit anang P100 million (The difficult part is, they are talking about P200 mil-

lion when actually the project costs P8 billion. Now as far as I know, in the P200 million, the city will give a counterpart P100 million. Where can we get P100 million)?,” he said.

He said if the national government will allocate a P200 million budget for the sports complex, then it should just give it to the city government and let it find a place for the

project outside of UPMin where a lot of claimants will be affected.

“Kalapad aning Davao City.

Pwede man siguro ta mamalit na lang og yuta. Tagpila lang man ng 20 hectares (Davao City is very wide. It would be easy to purchase land. Twenty hectares won’t cost that much),” he said.

FNOT FEASIBLE, 10

LOOK WHO’S PICKING MANNY? Sports P16

2 THE BIG NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

FIRE AID. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte distributes financial assistance to fire victims of Barangay 23-C Boulevard at the Jose Rizal Elementary School which they made as their temporary shelter on Monday afternoon. Lean Daval Jr.

DCPO reports lower crime volume during 1st quarter

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AVAO City Police Office (DCPO) recorded a lower crime volume for the first quarter of 2015 compared with the same period last year.

For the first quarter of 2015, the DCPO registered 3,846 crimes, lower than the 4,043 during the same period last year.

The lower crime volume was recorded by the authorities despite the additional items in the crime statistics.

Among the crimes added in the police statistics were reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, physical injury, and Republic Act 9262 locally known as the Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC).

In an interview, DCPO spokesperson Senior Inspector Milgrace Driz said the low-

er crime volume indicates that the police doubled their efforts in solving crimes.

“Mas gamay ang crimes karon tungod kay nag double effort ang kapulisan nato, nag pamatuod sad ni nga mas daghan og accomplishment karon kaysa last year,” she said.

Driz also acknowledged the help of the community through the “Isumbong Mo Kay CD (City Director)” hotline.

“Pasalamat ta sa public kay tungod sa ilahang mga information mas daghan ta og accomplishment, mas dali maka respond ang mga police sa mga criminality,” she said.

The crime solution efficiency also increased from 57.2 percent for the first quarter last year to 74.44 perdent for the same period this year.

Funny Pearl A. Gajunera

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte said he will provide a relocation area to the families that had been living under the Governor Generoso Bridges I and II in Bankerohan if the contractors of the Davao City Water District’s (DCWD)’s pipr bridge fomally recommend that they not be allowed to return.

“Kung di nako na dayunon kinahanglan naa koy ihatag nila na lain, may kapalit para walay samok (If I cannot ful-

fill my promise, I need to give them something else so there would be no conflict),” the mayor told reporters on Monday.

The informal settlers had refused to leave the area to allow for the construction of the pipe bridge. Duterte had to step in and promise that they would be allowed to return after the construction is complete.

“Di man pud gud sila mohawa (They would not leave the area) so I had to. I do not

want break promises to the people,” he said.

Duterte also asked the contractors to write him a formal letter regarding the matter. “If they will request for it, then we will consider, but it has to be done formally because we will be forcing people out of the way,” he said.

He said neither the contractors nor the DCWD told him there would be a problem on the maintenance of the pipes if the informal settlers return to the area.

“They never raised the issue. Dapat ana nasultihan ko nila (They should have told me) right after I uttered this (promise) in public so that I could have corrected it immediately,” he said.

Duterte said if the settlers cannot return under the bridge, he will provide them a relocation area in exchange.

DCWD spokesperson Bernardo Delima earlier told Edge Davao that the consortium of RD Policarpio & Co., Inc., Alla-

bo, Naga Zamboanga Sibugay.

Gucela said Adana was eating together with her family members when three gunmen wearing bonnet masks barged in and forcibly took the mayor.

He said the gunmen dragged Andana to the shore and forced her to board on a motorized banca that sped to the high seas.

He said they have already coordinated with other law enforcement units to help them track down the mayor’s whereabouts. (PNA)

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte asked the victims of the April 1 fire in Quezon Boulevard to let the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) finish the tagging of the access road in the area before returning.

Speaking to the fire victims last Monday afternoon at the Jose P. Rizal Elementary School, Duterte said he had ordered the CEO to enter the area to survey the appro-

priate measurement of the road that will be used during emergencies.

“Paunaha una ang gobyerno pagsulod... Ang gusto sa kapitan (Barangay Captain of 23-C Alimodin Usman) nga tagaan og lugway ang goberno para buhatan og mga dalan, buhatan og agi-anan para og samba ko nga naa na puy sunog makasulod na dayon ang bombero (Let the government enter

the area first... the barangay captain wants to build an access road in the area so that in case another fire breaks out the fire trucks can easily respond),” he said.

“Niadto man gud wala kasulod ang bombero kay dikit-dikit man mo wala nay kaagihan (When the fire occurred last week the firetrucks could not enter because the houses were too close to each other),” he add-

ed.

Police, military track down abducted Zambo Sibugay mayor

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OLICE and military authorities are tracking down the whereabouts of a lady town mayor seized by gunmen, believed to be kidnappers, in the nearby province of Zamboanga Sibugay.

Senior Supt. Jose Bayani Gucela, Zamboanga Sibugay police director, said troops were immediately deployed to pursue the gunmen after they seized Mayor Gemma Andana of Naga municipality.

Gucela said Andana was seized around 9:15 p.m. Monday in Barangay Taytay Manu-

Duterte to provide relocation area for informal bridge settlers

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

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abf@edgedavao.net

Duterte to fire victims: Let CEO finish access road tag D

FDUTERTE, 10

Duterte assured the house owners that places where their houses had been built before the fire would be given back to them.

He said after the appropriate lots are allotted to the access road, the CEO will divide the area for the house owners.

“Katong maagian sa dalan... irog lang gamay. Bale,

FDUTERTE TO FIRE, 10

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

ROLL CALL. Newly-installed Indigenous Peoples (IP) representative to the City Council Councilor Bai Halila Sudagar raises her hand as her name is called during yesterday’s regular session roll call at Sangguniang Panlungsod Session Hall. Lean Daval Jr.

NEWS 3

Lower food prices pull down inflation L

OWER food prices, primarily rice and meat, pulled down headline inflation to 2.4 percent in March 2015 from 2.5 percent in the previous month and from 3.9 percent in March 2014, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said Tuesday.

“The easing annual growth rate of rice prices was supported by favorable total rice stocks inventory. Food inflation could have been lower if not for the relatively higher prices of vegetables and fish, which is due in part to the likely shift in consumers’ preferences given the onset of the Lenten season,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.

He added that the slower upward adjustments in food prices also benefited from the firm commitment of local

bread producers to cut down the prices of bread as transportation and production costs declined due to cheaper fuel.

Meanwhile, inflation among non-food items rose slightly to 0.9 percent in March 2015 from 0.6 percent in the previous month, mainly due to softer declines in the price indices of electricity, gas and other fuels price and operation of personal transport equipment.

On the other hand, core inflation, which excludes selected volatile food and energy prices, inched up to 2.7 percent in March 2015 from 2.5 percent in February 2015, albeit slower compared to the 2.8 percent registered in the same period a year ago. It averaged at 2.5 percent in January to March 2015.

Overall, headline inflation

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has released an initial grant of P24 million for the rehabilitation and upgrading of a priority farm-to-market road in Malapatan town in Sarangani Province.

Sarangani Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon said Tuesday the grant will fund the initial phase of the 8.1-kilometer Lun Masla-Kinam road concreting project in Malapatan.

Such funding will be utilized for a 2.6-kilometer stretch of the road, which leads to vast agricultural production areas in Barangay Kinam and other upland villages in Malapatan, he said.

“We’re very grateful to the national government for this grant as it will help a lot

in the development of the area,” the governor said.

Solon said the DA approved such funding under the infrastructure development component of its food security program.

He said the project will mainly be funded by the DA grant and additional counterpart funds from the municipal and provincial governments.

It will be supervised by the provincial government, through the Provincial Engineer’s Office (PEO), in coordination with the DA. Engr. Jerry Belbider, Sarangani PEO head, said the DA regional office has already approved the project’s plan and issued a certifica-

Coast Guard gives Indonesian ship Sarangani gets P24-M grant owner 21 days to take hijacked ship for farm road rehab, upgrade T

By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

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HE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) 11 has given the Indonesian shipping company and its insurer until April 21 to decide on the fate of the hijacked Indonesian oil tanker that has been abandoned in Mati City.

“We gave the vessel owner and its insurer until April 21 to decide concerning the removal of M/T (motortanker) Rehobot, otherwise we will issue a salvage order permit to a salvage company for the removal of the vessel,” Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Southeastern Mindanao commander Commodore Joselito F. Dela Cruz told edge Davao in a text message yesterday.

Dela Cruz said M/T Reho-

bot has been stuck in the water off Mati City near Barangay Cabuaya since February 8.

He expressed fear that the vessel could leak the remaining used oil it was carrying into the waters and destroy the rich marine biodiversity in the area.

He said the vessel was carrying one million metric tons of diesel when it was hijacked by pirates.

“All of its diesel fuel cargo was taken by Indonesian pirates when it was hijacked in the Indonesian Sea near North Sulawesi. Only used oil was left,” he said Dela Cruz said although an oil spill would be minimal, it would still be better if the

PCG can keep it from happening.

An earlier report said the 68-meter Indonesian vessel was hijacked last January by allegedly Filipino-speaking pirates near the near Paraitan Lembeh Island in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Captain Ridwaan Balati, the vessel’s skipper, told investigators that the hijackers, who arrived in a wooden boat, were armed with guns and machetes and were communicating in English and Filipino, the report added.

Dela Cruz, however, denied the allegation during the Kapehan sa Dabaw last Monday. He said the pirates involved were not Filipinos but

HE Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC) in a forum held yesterday in Quezon City reiterated its support for the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in its current form and called on Congress for its immediate passage.‎ “It is our desire that peace, justice, and righteousness will reign not only in Mindanao but across the country and the world,” announced PCEC National Director Designate Bishop Noel Pantoja. He said that their network has been praying for the success of the Bangsamoro peace process.

The PCEC is a network of denominations, church-

es, mission groups, and para-church organizations nationwide established in 1964.

It is currently composed of more or less 32,000 ecclesiastical groups and is known to support progressive measures such as the reproductive health law and the freedom of information bill.

Pantoja shared that they believe some sectors in society used the Mamasapano incident last Jan. 25 to forward their personal politics and agenda. “We reject all irresponsible conjectures that use Mamasapano to forward their selfish agendas. We call for justice and support all in-

STRESS DEBRIEFING. Children affected by the Wednesday evening fire in Barangay 23-C Boulevard undergo stress debriefing conducted by personnel from the City Social Service and Development Office (CSSDO) to help them

PCEC declares support to BBL T

FPCEC, 10

were probably Indonesians.

“Sea robbery is not rampant in this part of the country,” he added.

In his text message to Edge Davao, Dela Cruz said the PCG has also not received reports that Filipinos were behind the hijacking.

At the same time, dela Cruz said Southern Mindanao has become a dumping area for hijacked ships.

“This is not the first time we received a report similar of the hijacked vessel in Mati City,” he said. “There were also hijacked vessels stuck in the waters in General Santos City, Zamboanga Peninsula, and as far as Surigao del Sur,” he added.

FLOWER, 10

FSARANGANI, 10

overcome the traumatic experience they went through. Some of the fire victims are temporarily staying at the Jose Rizal Elementary School along Suazo Street in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Tagum City holds Investment Forum I

NVESTORS in the City of Tagum were convened during the holding of the 2nd Tagum City Annual Investment Stakeholders Forum on March 30, 2015 at the Big 8 Corporate Hotel, Tagum City for the discussion of methods and avenues towards improving the competitiveness of the city’s investment climate.

During the forum which was initiated by the City Government of Tagum through the City Investment Promotion Office (CIPO), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao del Norte OIC Romeo L. Castañada tackled the advantages and effects of being integrated in the ASEAN Economic Community.

The challenges of the business sector in achieving competitiveness were delivered by Nenita R. Malbas, CPA, MBA, of the Tagum City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. Other guests speakers were also tapped to talk on various topics in relation to the accessibility of energy and water resources in the local government and its importance on a range of investment potentials that could be established in the city.

The Department of Energy’s Chief Science Research Specialist Nilo J. Geroche spoke of the country’s Energy Reform Agenda as well as the programs of the Department of Energy, including its rural electrification projects.

Romeo Montenegro of Mindanao Development Authority and Elvie C. Merquita of the Global Green Corpora-

tion presented to the group the different Investment Opportunities on Power, Energy and Electrification and the exploration of the Sustainable Energy Sources like the Waste to Energy Program.

DANECO’s Engr. Nielo Japay disclosed the electric cooperative’s programs and projects that are being implemented to address the prevailing power shortage or rotational brown-outs in Tagum City, while Ms. Marie Jane Clavero, MM of Tagum Water District presented the strategies, programs and projects to answer the increasing demand for water in the city.

Lastly, the programs and projects of the City Government that are being implemented to promote competitiveness as well as the Investment Inflows are also presented at the forum, through the City Planning and Development Office-in- Charge Arturo Manigo, Also present at the event were Hon. Macario Bermudez, II, Hon. Nicandro Suaybaguio, Jr., Hon. Eva Lorraine Estabillo, Hon. Fernand Bordios, Acting City Budget Officer Arcadia Ylanan, City Engineer Roosevelt Corporal, Business and Licensing Head Noemi Cacayorin, Research Head Lucia Damolo, City Architect Julius Imboy, City Accountant Ramil Tiu, as well as the Barangay Chairpersons of Magugpo South, Magugpo North, Canocotan, Magdum, Liboganon, and New Balanban and other public servants of the local government. (Richi D. Gulle of CIO Tagum)

OPEN FORUM. Invited speakers of the Investment Forum organized by the City Government of Tagum through the City Investments Promotion Office participate in an open forum moderated by Ricardo Enriquez. Photo by Jay Apostol of CIO Tagum

Davao del Norte SP seeks gun ban for 2015 Palaro

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HE Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao del Norte approved an urgent resolution on Monday requesting national authorities to effect a special gun ban in the province from April 15 to May 15, 2015 to assure the safety of athletes and other participants in the 2015 Palarong Pambansa to be held on May 3 to 9.

The resolution, addressed to President Benigno Aquino, was earlier recommended by Davao del

Norte provincial police director Superintendent Samuel Gadingan.

This year’s Palaro, to be hosted by Davao del Norte, is the 58th edition of the annual multi-sporting event for Filipino student-athletes.

Governor Rodolfo del Rosario has estimated that the provincial government invested a total of P500 million from its own coffers on sports facilities that the Palarong Pambansa would be using.

He said although he still has to make an audi, the amount would have to factor in the P350-million development of the modern provincial sports complex and provincial government’s expenditures on sports facilities since two years ago.

As the Palarong Pambansa in Tagum City approaches, the provincial government has been fast-tracking completion of additional facilities inside

Magdum barangay captain gives accomplishment report

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REPORT. Magdum, Tagum City Punong Barangay Maria Teresa Rey-Reambonanza delivers her accomplishment report her State of the Barangay Address (SOBA) last March 29, 2015 during the Barangay General Assembly. Photo by Leo Timogan of CIO Tagum

the provincial sports complex such as additional tennis courts, bleachers, and football fields.

The 11-hectare sports complex, fronting the main Capitol compound, is where most of the Palaro sports competitions will be held.

The baseball games, however, will be played on a 4.82-hectare land owned by the Tagum-based LYR Group of Companies in Barangay Canocotan. Cha Monforte, Correspondent

UNONG Barangay Maria Teresa Rey-Reambonanza of Barangay Magdum, Tagum City delivered her State of the Barangay Address (SOBA) to around 1,600 constituents on March 29, 2015 during the Barangay General Assembly, where she reported the significant accomplishments as the highest official in the barangay.

The first Punong Barangay to conduct this year’s Barangay General Assembly, Reambonanza’s SOBA gave emphasis on the 2014 Second Semester accomplishments and the Financial Report of the barangay to promote and ensure transparency in the operations

of the Barangay Government.

It is also geared to brace people’s support for the development and implementation of the various programs and projects for the community’s general welfare.

Mayor Allan L. Rellon, who graced the Barangay Assembly, extended his congratulations and assured the people of his all-out support to the various undertakings of Reambonanza and her Barangay Council and happily announced that Magdum General Assembly will be showcased to other barangays in terms of its preparations and style of rendering reports.

PR - Barangay Magdum

EDGEDAVAO

5 ECONOMY

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Marina: DavSur has potential in shipbuilding

By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

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AVAO del Sur has huge potential to excel in the shipbuilding industry in this part of Mindanao, an of-

ficial from the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) said.

“We are promoting areas suitable for shipbuilding like

PRODUCTIVITY OLYMPICS. City Mayor’s Office (CMO) chief of staff lawyer Nathaniel Dalumpines (rightmost), who represented Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte, labor representative Virginia T. Camus (second from right), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) 11 director and Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) 11 vice chair Maria Lourdes D. Lim (third from right), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 11

Sta. Maria and other parts of Davao del Sur to shipbuilding investors,” Marina 11 director Felisa Orongan said during last

Monday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao Annex.

Orongan is hopeful that investors would be able to

director and RTWPB 11 vice chair Ma. Belenda Q. Ambi (fourth from right), and management representative Rulfo V. Asis (partly hidden) watch the video presentation for the 2015 Productivity Olympics during the program’s official launch yesterday at Grand Men Seng Hotel. Productivity Olympics is a biennial national competition for best productivity improvement programs of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide. Lean Daval Jr.

consider the huge potential of Davao del Sur as an investment area for the multi-billion shipbuilding industry.

“We are promoting that industry because as we all know, Philippines is the number 4 in ship building country in the world. Although the disparity between the Philippines and the third in the list is huge, our standing in this specific industry is still significant,” she said.

Marina 11, Orongan said, is just waiting for the formal letter of intent from Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu), Inc.(THICI) which could expand its shipyard here.

“Cebu, where their operation is located, is already saturated. I told them during the recent shipbuilding seminar that if the company really wants to expand their yard, the Davao region has space and potential,” she said.

Based on the official website of the province of Davao del Sur, a shipbuilding company is interested in investing $1.15 billion for a construction of a shipyear and ship building operation in Malalag and Tubalan Cove, Malita.

Earlier, Davao del Sur governor Claude Bautista said two foreign-based ship building companies expressed interest on expanding operation on his area.

However, Orongan said her office has not received any formal letter of intent from any investors from this industry.

Bautista said Hanjin Heavy Industries Corporation Philippines (HHIC Phil.), a South Korean shipyard, will be expanding its ship building capabilities in the Philippines.

Hanjin will start its expansion works next year in Davao del Sur. “It is part of the company’s expansion process overseas,” Bautista told Edge Davao.

HHIC Phil will put up a shipyard in a 272 hectares industrial park in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Along with the Korean shipbuilder, a Japanese shipbuilder is also eyeing to put up a yard in Malita, Davao del Sur. Baustista estimated that the operation of the two companies would employ 40,000 workers.

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Megaworld sets P285.8-B Capex until ‘19 P

ROPERTY giant Megaworld, the country’s leading developer of integrated urban townships and the no. 1 business process outsourcing (BPO) office landlord and developer, is allocating P285.8-billion for its 5-year capital spending program until 2019 to develop its various townships all over the country.

The new capital expenditure (CAPEX) is a new adjustment to capital spending as it supersedes the five-year CAPEX of P230-billion that was announced last year.

“We have adjusted our capital spending to pave the way for the expansion of offerings

in our existing townships and for the new additional township projects that we recently announced,” said Francisco Canuto, senior vice president and corporate information officer, Megaworld.

At the start of 2015, Megaworld announced that it is aggressively expanding its township footprint across the country with an additional five to be launched this year. The company ended 2014 with 15 township developments launched namely: Eastwood City in Quezon City, (18.5 hectares), which holds the distinction of being the country’s first cyberpark; Newport

Creation of ASEAN aviation regulatory authority urged

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IRASIA Bhd Group Chief Executive Officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes has called for ASEAN countries to band together and form a regulatory authority to ensure civilian aviation safety.

“It is a great opportunity for the region to come together and create something like the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and have a strong regulatory authority,” he told reporters at Wisma Tune’s official opening here today.

He said the establishment of such authority was important, especially as it was tough for all 10 countries to get the necessary skills and budgets.

The responsibilities of EASA should include conducting analysis and research of safety, authorizing foreign operators, as well as, the approv-

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in the boundaries of Cavite and Laguna (561 hectares); Davao Park District in Lanang, Davao City (11 hectares); Alabang West in Las Pinas City (62 hectares) and SuntrustEcotown in Tanza, Cavite (350 hectares) that were launched only last year.

“Certainly, we have sufficient land bank and landholdings that will sustain our plans to further expand and grow our townships all over the Philippines. While we continue to create and expand our mixed-use communities in Metro Manila, we will also expand our presence in the provinces especially in major

growth centers,” Canuto added.

This year, Megaworld is allocating P65-billion pesos to build more residential and hotel projects, office buildings as well as malls and commercial centers inside its integrated urban townships.

Seventy-four percent (74%) of capital spending for the year will be for development projects, mostly in townships, while 26% will be for land acquisition and property investments.

The Megaworld Group, which also includes its subsidiaries Suntrust Properties, Inc., Empire East Land Hold-

ings, Inc. and Global-Estate Resorts, Inc., is set to launch 22 residential projectsin Metro Manila, Laguna, Batangas, Boracay, Iloilo and Bacolod.

The group is also launching three (3) hotel towers in BoracayNewcoast, ten (10) office towers in McKinley West, McKinley Hill, Eastwood City, Woodside City, Davao Park District, and Southwoods City; and three malls and commercial centers across its townships all over the country.

In 2014, Megaworld Group has completed 16 residential projects and five BPO office towers with retail components.

al of organisations involved in the design, manufacture and maintenance of aeronautical products.

He was responding to a question on the restrictions imposed on Thailand-registered airlines by Japan, South Korea and China due to safety concerns highlighted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

He said the ban would not have any impact on Thai AirAsia as its routes were limited to destinations of within fourhour radius.

On a possible initial public offerings, Fernandes said Tune Talk Sdn Bhd and Tune Hotels Regional Services Sdn Bhd would be the next candidates, but, there was no timeline in place for the exercise to be implemented. (PNA/ Bernama)

BSP on the lookout for impact of geopolitical dev’t on inflation HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is confident of within-target inflation for 2015 but is monitoring geopolitical events overseas due to its impact on the rate of price increases.

This as inflation rate last March slightly went down to 2.4 percent from month-ago’s 2.5 percent.

This brought the average inflation rate in the first quarter of the year to 2.4 percent, at the lower half of the government’s two to four percent target for by this year up to 2018.

In an SMS to reporters Tuesday, BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. noted that last month’s inflation rate is within the central bank’s 2.1-2.9 percent projection for the month. “(This) supports our view of within-target inflation over the policy horizon,” he said.

Relatively, core inflation, which excludes volatile items like food and oil, went up slightly to 2.7 percent from last month’s 2.5 percent.

Amid the uptick in core inflation, the central bank

City in Pasay City (25 hectares), which is the home of Resorts World Manila; McKinley Hill (50 hectares), McKinley West (34.5 hectares), Uptown Bonifacio (15.4 hectares) and Forbes Town Center (5 hectares), all in Fort Bonifacio; The Mactan Newtown in Cebu (28.8 hectares); Iloilo Business Park in Mandurriao, Iloilo City (72 hectares); BoracayNewcoast in Boracay Island (150 hectares) and Twin Lakes in Tagaytay (1,300 hectares) of Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. (GERI), a subsidiary of Megaworld; as well as Woodside City in Pasig City (12.3 hectares); Southwoods City

chief cited that “the indices for housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels continued to post negative annual rates.”

Thus, he said that “the BSP remains watchful, particularly of movements in commodity prices and any shifts in market sentiment due to geopolitical developments.”

“At the moment, the view is that the stance of monetary policy remains appropriate, but we are ready to make adjustments as and if warranted,” he added.

Earlier, Standard Chartered Bank economist Jeff Ng projected a drop in the March 2015 inflation to 2.4 percent “due to the fall in domestic energy prices.”

“Inflation likely remained anchored owing to steady core inflation as most components of core inflation were stable,” he said.

“We expect inflation to remain benign at 2.2 percent for most of 2015, although it may rebound in fourth quarter owing to an unfavourable base effect and if oil prices recover,” he added. (PNA)

NEW SSS OFFICE. Top SSS and government officials led by (foreground, from left) Lapasan Branch Head Valentine Q. Viajar-Aunzo, SSS Senior Vice President for Visayas-Mindanao Group Eddie Jara, Cagayan De Oro City Hon. Mayor Oscar Moreno, SSS Assistant Vice President and Officer in Charge for Northern Mindanao Division Atty. Edwin Alo and SSS Presi-

dent and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros Jr. attend the blessing of the new office. Also in photo are (from left) Barangay Lapasan Chairman Omar Labuntog, SSS Senior Vice President for Administration Group May Catherince Ciriaco and SSS Northern Mindanao Cluster Legal Unit Head Atty. Raul Cinco.

SSS opens new office in Northern Mindanao

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ROUND 7,600 members of the Social Security System (SSS) in Cagayan de Oro City now have easier and more convenient access to SSS services with the opening of the new SSS Lapasan office, the

30th full-service SSS branch in Mindanao.

Located at the ground floor of the Market City building in Agora Complex, SSS Lapasan branch is expected to attract 50 percent more potential

members in the Eastern part of Cagayan de Oro City.

Top SSS top officials and local government executives were on hand during the branch inauguration and blessing last February 12.

DOT: Phl must-see destinations in travel IG accounts

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OME of the Philippines’ must-see destinations were featured on various travel and tourism Instagram (IG) accounts last week, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said on Monday.

According to the DOT, New York-based magazine Travel + Leisure featured a photo of the Shangri-la Boracay and Perth Beach Resort in Sipalay, Negros Occidental on its official IG account,

@travelandleisure just last weekend.

Travel guide book Lonely Planet meanwhile featured the Hapao rice terraces in Ifugao on its official IG account, @lonelyplanet, describing the place to be perfect for a Holy Week.

In London’s official IG travel account, @London, the Royal Albert Hall with London’s iconic red bus carrying the department’s #VisitPhil-

ippines2015 ads were also featured.

Meanwhile, film producer, Joshua Cowan (@JoshZoo) has also featured photos of the rice terraces which are stills going to be used for an upcoming JacksGap video feature of the Philippines.

JacksGap is a British YouTube channel run by twins Jack and Finn Harries.

Finally, travel influencer Beautiful Destinations

(@BeautifulDestinations) founder Jeremy Jauncey featured the Pangulasian Island in El Nido in his Best Destinations bucket list.

DOT for its part, welcomed the inclusion of these destinations and expressed confidence that more of the country’s tourist spots be featured in other IG accounts in the coming days, especially during its peak summer season. (PNA)

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

7 ENVIRONMENT

When breathing fresh air is no longer easy

By HENRYLITO D. TACIO

M

A-A barangay captain Olivia B. Cal recently filed a complaint against Safecon Industries Inc. and Filmix, which are operating in his area of responsibility.

The two companies, according to a report published in a local daily, “allegedly caused air pollution.” As a result, some residents have experienced skin Air pollution from power plant (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

rashes while others suffered respiratory diseases.

If proven that the two companies are really emitting air pollutants, it would just be the tip of the iceberg. Actually, most of the polluted air comes from motor vehicles. As early as 2009, Edge Davao reported on the worsening air pollution in Davao City.

Air pollution in the sky (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Causes and effects of air pollution (from Wikipedia)

As a matter of fact, “air pollution in Davao City is even worse than in Metro Manila,” said the report, which quoted Engr. Manuel T. Jamonir of the University of the Philippines-Mindanao.

In a presentation before the Rotary Club of East Davao during its 18th regular meeting, Jamonir presented figures from an air quality survey conducted by the Environmental Management Bureau, a line agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The survey showed Davao City’s worsening air quality standard. “In terms of Total Suspended Air Particulates (TSAP), Metro Manila had 132 micrograms per normal cubic meter as of 2008,” the report said. As per DENR, the acceptable standard is pegged at 90 micrograms.

“As early as 2004, however, figures recorded in Davao City were already higher than in Metro Manila. In that year, monitoring stations placed

in Agdao showed 335 micrograms while along Quirino and J.P. Laurel avenues, the figures were 249 and 185 micrograms, respectively,” the report further stated.

Breathing polluted air is bad for your health. The late Dr. Juan M. Flavier, during his stint as health secretary, said: “Among the jeepney drivers plying along EDSA, 33 percent have acute bronchitis.”

Even those who ride in air-conditioned vehicles are not spared from breathing air pollutants like lead (which comes mainly from burning leaded gasoline).

“A study conducted by the College of Public Health found that there is hardly any difference in the level of lead in blood and in the frequency of respiratory diseases among jeepney drivers, drivers of air-conditioned buses, and people exposed to polluted air in traffic. So, it doesn’t mean that when we ride in air-conditioned buses, we have already escaped from pollution,” said

Dr. Nelia Cortez-Maramba of the University of the Philippines Department of Pharmacology.

Many air pollutants – a mix of gases, droplets, and particles – are able to pass through the lungs into the bloodstream and are eventually transported to the heart and the entire body through blood vessels.

“Because the cardiovascular system is dependent on the functioning of the respiratory system, it is also indirectly affected by the deleterious effects of the pollution on the lungs,” explains the Geneva-based World Health Organization (WHO).

A study published in Lancet showed that those living near a major road have a higher risk of dying than the rest of the population. It concluded that long-term exposure to traffic-released air pollution may shorten life expectancy.

Other studies also revealed that heart attacks, life-threatening heart rhythms, and thickening of the blood can also be traced to exposure to air pollution. “To make it clear: all these bodily changes spell doom for the Filipinos living in Metro Manila (and other highly-urbanized centers),” warned Dr. Willie T. Ong, a cardiologist who writes a regular column for a national daily.

Perhaps not too many know that air pollution is tied to high blood pressure in pregnancy. Statistics showed that women develop high blood pressure during about one in ten pregnancies. Having socalled gestational hypertension makes it more likely that a woman will need a cesarean section, that she will give birth early and that her baby will be born small.

“Our results suggest air pollution does have some impact on the risk of gestational hypertension,” said epidemiologist Dr. Xiaohui Xu, who led the study at the University of Florida in Gainesville. “This could have some subsequent effects on both maternal and fetal health.”

Smoking has been cited as the primary culprit of lung cancer. But it’s not only smoking that can cause lung cancer -- even polluted air. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) said that outdoor air pollution increases the risk of developing lung cancer.

In a report released a couple of years back, IARC classified diesel engine exhaust as well as some specific substances found in air pollution as carcinogenic.

“Although the risk of developing lung cancer due to air pollution is relatively much lower compared to smoking, it is a risk factor that needs to be addressed,” pointed out Dr. En-

rique T. Ona when he was still the head of the Department of Health.

“No matter how small it may be, considering that practically everyone living in Metro Manila and other big cities are exposed to it, it may be considered a significant risk factor of lung cancer across the whole population affecting a big number of our countrymen,” Dr. Ona added.

Air pollution kills. A global study listed air pollution as one of the top 10 killers in the world, according to a report by the Asian Scientist. In the Philippines, over four percent of all deaths are attributed to air pollution, according to a report released by the World Bank.

Meanwhile, DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said the requirement for cleaner fuel and stricter emission standards was part of government efforts to improve air quality in the country, particularly Metro Manila.

This is the main reason why he issued DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 201514, which provides the new vehicle emission standards to be complied with by new and in-use vehicles starting July 1.

The Order also enjoins the Department of Energy to ensure the availability of Euro 4 fuels by this date.

Considered the cleaner fuel, Euro 4 has sulfur content of only 50 parts per million (ppm) for both diesel and gasoline, compared with 500 ppm for Euro 2. Benzene in Euro 4 gasoline, on the other hand, is only 1 percent by volume compared to 5 percent in Euro 2.

“Low sulfur fuels will lead to reduced emissions of particulate matter. This particulate matter, along with other pollutants, can penetrate deeply into sensitive parts of the lungs and can worsen existing respiratory and heart diseases,” the environment chief explained in the department’s website.

Indeed, every little bit counts in the fight against air pollution. A study in Europe has found that even very small cuts in pollution can benefit health. One recent study from Harvard University found that people living in cities where air pollution decreased in recent years saw their life expectancy increase an average of five months as a result of cleaner air.

Fresh air is invigorating. In his monthly column in Health and Lifestyle, Richard G. Mendoza wrote: “Good quality clean air may usually be found in abundance in natural outdoor environments, especially around evergreen trees, green plants in mountains and forests, near moving waters such as lakes, oceans, rivers, waterfalls, and after rain.”

8

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

EDITORIAL Just doing our job

I

F there’s anything that has characterized the Aquino administration from Day One, it is that it has a penchant for blaming others for whatever ails the nation – or itself. In the early days of the Benigno Aquino III presidency, such buck-passing was understandable and even acceptable. After all, the county had just gone through nine years under the leadership of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and it was under her term that numerous scandals and controversies exploded. These range from allegations of cheating in the 2004 presidential elections to accusations of corruption in the highest levels of government. The net effect was the awful mess that Aquino inherited when he stepped in in 2010, and the people were only too happy to give him leeway as he set out to make things right for the country.

But to play the blame game this late into his presidency – with little more than a year left in his term – is no longer acceptable for the President. At this point, any debacle the administration experiences must necessarily rest squarely on the shoulders of the chief executive himself. To blame someone else for an official misfortune is to take the short and easy path – not the straight

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one. Which is why the Palace’s statement blaming the media for the drastic drop in the President’s approval ratings leaves such a bad taste in the mouth.

The media, after all, are merely communicators, tellers of the truth in a world where obfuscation is the name of the game. While there are admittedly some practitioners who have questionable ethics and can be paid to attack or defend anyone (a practice called AC-DC – or attack collect, defend collect), the vast majority are professionals who are literally just doing their job. And that job is to inform the people of what their government is doing, be it good or bad, dignified or scandalous, beneficial or downright criminal. If government does it, it is the people’s right to know it.

Besides, Mr. Aquino is one of the biggest beneficiaries of an active media industry. Had it not been for media coverage, he would not have been propelled into the national stage. And had it not been for the numerous reports on the scandals that rocked the Arroyo administration, there would have been no reason for the people to vote for him. Do not blame the media, Mr. President. We are just doing our job.

ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

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

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

The color of friendship

A SINGLE soul in two bodies” was how philosopher Aristotle described friendship. To Len Wein, a friend is “someone who is there for you when he’d rather be anywhere else.”

Fr. Jerome Cummings considers a friend as the person who “who knows us, but loves us anyway.” Ralph Waldo Emerson believes a friend is “the masterpiece of nature.”

But the definition I like most is the one which Dinah Craik (author of 1859’s A Life for a Life) penned: “A friend is one to whom one may pour out all the contents of one’s heart chaff and grain, together. Knowing that the gentlest of hands will take and sift it, keep what’s worth keeping and blow the rest away.”

Recently, I got an email from a friend. He forwarded me a thought that is not only inspirational but also loaded with lessons in life. The author is unknown but the title itself is captivating: “The color of friendship.”

I read it – with much gusto – trying to figure out what color I am as a friend. At the end of the piece, I surmised that whatever color we want to be, we will always be a friend. Read on…

Once upon a time the colors of the world started to quarrel. All claimed that they were the best, the most important, the most useful and the favorite of them all.

Green said: “Clearly I am the most important.

I am the sign of life and of hope. I was chosen for grass, trees and leaves. Without me, all animals would die. Look over the countryside and you will see that I am in the majority.”

It reminds me of the song, “Green, green grass of home.”

Blue interrupted: “You only think about the earth, but consider the sky and the sea. It is the water that is the basis of life and drawn up by the clouds from the deep sea. The sky gives space and peace and serenity. Without my peace, you would all be nothing.”

Now, I know THINK ON THESE! why sky is blue.

Yellow chuckled: “You are all so serious. I bring laughter, gaiety, and warmth into the world. The sun is yellow, the moon is yellow, and the stars are yellow. Every time Henrylito D. Tacio you look at a sunhenrytacio@gmail.com flower, the whole world starts to smile. Without me there would be no fun.”

Sing with me that song all over again, “Tie a yellow ribbon ‘round the old oak tree…”

Orange started next to blow her trumpet: “I am the color of health and strength. I may be scarce, but I am precious for I serve the needs of human life. I carry the most important vitamins.

Think of carrots, pumpkins, oranges, mangoes, and papayas. I don’t hang around all the time, but when I fill the sky at sunrise or sunset, my beauty is so striking that no one gives another thought to any of you.”

Remember “Orange”, a song performed

by Irish comedian David O’Doherty?

Red could stand it no longer he shouted out: “I am the ruler of all of you. I am blood – life’s blood! I am the color of danger and of bravery. I am willing to fight for a cause. I bring fire into the blood. Without me, the earth would be as empty as the moon. I am the color of passion and of love, the red rose, the poinsettia and the poppy.”

Which song we should sing: “Woman in Red” or “Red River Valley”?

Purple rose up to his full height; he was very tall and spoke with great pomp: “I am the color

of royalty and power. Kings, chiefs, and bishops have always chosen me for I am the sign of authority and wisdom. People do not question me!

They listen and obey.”

Purple rain was what comes to mind!

Finally Indigo spoke, much more quietly than all the others, but with just as much determination: “Think of me. I am the color of silence.

You hardly notice me, but without me you all become superficial. I represent thought and reflection, twilight and deep water. You need me for balance and contrast, for prayer and inner peace.”

And so the colors went on boasting, each convinced of his or her own superiority. Their fight became louder and louder. Suddenly there was a startling flash of bright lightning thunder rolled and boomed. Rain started to pour down relentlessly. The colors crouched down in fear, drawing close to one another for comfort.

In the midst of the clamor, God began to speak: “You foolish colors, fighting amongst yourselves, each trying to dominate the rest.

Don’t you know that you were each made for a special purpose, unique and different? Join hands with one another and come to me.”

Doing as they were told, the colors united and joined hands. God continued: “From now on, when it rains, each of you will stretch across the sky in a great bow of color as a reminder that you can all live in peace. The rainbow is a sign of hope for tomorrow.”

And so, whenever a good rain washes the world, and a rainbow appears in the sky, let us remember to appreciate one another.

“A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails,” Donna Roberts said. C.S. Lewis also stated, “Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art....

It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.”

Development focus would moderate obsessive politics

M

IDDLE and upper class citizens ought to show more interest and participation in local governing activities, even if only to show agreement or disapproval of what’s going on.

Their failure to participate in the governing process deprives the community of an essential condition for good governance: citizen involvement, cooperation, and the enthusiasm generated by both.

If they represent, say, 50 percent of the populace, it means the community’s government enjoys only half of its citizenry’s mandate, subtracting the same proportion from its confidence or will to move decisively.

As a consequence, the onus of assuring good governance for the community falls upon the shoulders of the less privileged, less educated, and less technologically-endowed sectors. ***** This effectively polarizes the community between the poor and needy (who do participate and show up in community meetings), and the comfortable and affluent (who are perennially absent or negligent).

This dichotomy between the needy and the endowed has been reflected by the turnout in the synchronized barangay elections. One searches in vain for the lawyers, doctors, engineers, bankers, even priests and educators; they don’t show up!

Professionals are conspicuously absent except for a few who happen to be officials of the barangay. It is the less privileged who are present in abundance. A sad spectacle.

Only the needy are there. Those who can help alleviate their needs—with ideas, programs, technology, or resources—are absent. So the Barangay Assembly’s potential as a problem-solving forum and legislative governing body (parlia-

THE WORM’S EYEVIEW

BY MANNY VALDEHUESA ment) for the community is severely limited. ***** As for the larger implications, although local autonomy is a national policy, the government of the community cannot operate autonomously because it is in no position to consolidate its social and economic capital. With only a portion of the community present, its problems cannot be addressed effectively, its opportunities untapped by the entrepreneurial class.

Lets face it: Only a community that is able to mobilize and collaborate can exemplify autonomy as a workable setup. Without the cooperation and assistance of affluent citizens, the rest of the community is left helpless, unable to progress.

Lacking multi-sectoral collaboration, development becomes an elusive goal.

All sectors must be in on the act in the barangay, not just its needy. Otherwise it cannot be said that our Republic is anchored upon the sovereignty and authority of all of our people, not just some.

The good thing about multi-sectoral collaboration is, it becomes possible to initiate community-based reforms by consensus. When people congregate to tackle a development-oriented agenda, politicking, rivalry, or power play would make no sense. ***** This communitarian approach induces people’s concerns to revolve around the issue of how to mobilize or develop the communal resources to bring about progress for everyone.

Then would come into play the question of

how to engage the talents and energies found in the neighborhoods, including the need to engage idle manpower or the unemployed so they won’t be forced into criminality for lack of productive things to do.

Mobilizing for progress would make people realize that development—not political power per se—is the proper object of governance. People find it easier to realize that considerations such as pedigree or popularity are peripheral.

The community can then focus on the task of seeking the competent and the dedicated to manage its programs if it is to progress and attain prosperity. This pragmatic sense ought to reign in our barangays in order to neutralize vanity politics and celebrity-driven ambition. ***** Advocacy groups ought to expose pretentious public service as unseemly, fostering a no-nonsense standard for public officials.

Then perhaps well demonstrated ability command a higher premium in politics than theatrics, gimmickry, or demagoguery.

In the course of time, this sense of discrimination in selecting officials for their ability, commitment, or conviction will spill over to other barangays and spiral up to higher levels.

And that’s when national politics, being dependent on the barangays, may then attain a higher sophistication.

(Manny is former UNESCO regional director for Asia-Pacific; secretary-general, Southeast Asia Publishers Association; director, Development Academy of Philippines; member, Philippine Mission to the UN; vice chair, Local Government Academy; member, Cory Government’s Peace Panel; awardee, PPI-UNICEF outstanding columnist. Author of books on governance, he is national chairman/convenor of Gising Barangay Movement Inc. valdehuesa@gmail.com)

VANTAGE POINTS

9

How many Chinese engineers?

T

H E MY TWO CENTS’ islandwide blackout in the wee hours of E a s t e r Sunday 2015 was the anticlimax to John Tria what was a ecisouth@gmail.com solemn and reflective Easter weekend. The sudden warmth of our marital bed roused me from my sleep and as I looked on the horizon to see only the familiar lights of those establishments I knew had their own power generators.

Brownout! Of course, I thought it to be a temporary trip of the utility lasting no more than an hour. It extended till the sunrise, leading me to check my mobile internet for any news. Mindanao-wide. The whole island grid. Hala!

The above narrative may be amusing, but my subsequent readings remind me of a few facts that were rather disturbing: As an outcome of the Electricity Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) Law, what was once the exclusive mandate of the National Power Corporation to generate and distribute electric power throughout the country is now broken up into several entities. Our electric distribution utilities like Davao Light and electric cooperatives like DANECO used to buy power from NAPOCOR. Nowadays, power is obtained from The National Transmission Corporation (TRANSCO), the government corporation that now owns the distribution assets (the grid), which is, in turn, run and managed by a contractor. The explanation is clear in the TRANSCO website: “Since March 1, 2003, TransCo operated and managed the power transmission system that links power plants to the electric distribution utilities nationwide. The same law mandated the privatization of TransCo through an outright sale or management concession agreement. Following a public bidding conducted in December 2007, the TransCo concession was awarded to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), which eventually secured a congressional franchise to operate the transmission network through Republic Act No. 9511. On January 15, 2009, TransCo turned over the management and operation of its nationwide transmission system to NGCP. Ownership of all transmission assets however, remains with TransCo.” With our grid under the management of a private company (which can be partly foreign owned), it is clear that in case of a grid wide power interruption, we should take TransCo and the NGCP to task. The presence of a private contractor ought to bring in capital and technology to improve services and prevent such blackouts. But has it? This is the second such island wide blackout in the last two years.

Now, that private entity managing our national grid on behalf of TransCo happens to have a foreign investor, in this case, the State Grid Corporation of China.

Would that be a problem given our current territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea? These are some of the questions worth asking at this point. Thus, we come to the next questions: How many Chinese engineers manage our grid? How many Chinese engineers does it take to solve the blackout? You are all invited to ask these and seek your answers. After all, this is your grid, and your electricity.

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

FOCUSED. Residents living in the vicinity of the University of the Philippines-Mindanao (UPMin) listen intently as the proposed Davao City Sports Complex is discussed by the city councilors and UPMin represented by legal counsel lawyer Edwin Mendoza during yesterday’s regular session at Sangguniang Panlungsod. The residents are strongly opposing the planned joint project of the city government of Davao and UPMin. Lean Daval Jr.

Lower... FROM 3

Not feasible... FROM 1

Duterte... FROM 2

In yesterday’s regular City Council session, the item titled “Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to be executed by the City Government of Davao and UP, relative to the intention of both parties to establish a sports complex at the latter’s Mintal Campus” was referred back to the committee level due to the problem with the claimants.

During the discussion yesterday, it was found that there is already an existing ordinance for the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the city and UPMin in 1997 for the establishment of the Elias B.

Lopez Sports Complex in the area. It did not materialize due to the problem with the claimants.

Councilor Victorio Advincula Jr. said Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte and former UP president Emil Q. Javier signed the MOA in 1997.

Councilor Diosdado Mahipus asked lawyer Edwin Mendoza, legal counsel of UP Mindanao, if the Board of Regents of UP honored the MOA in 1997.

Mendoza replied that board did not make a resolution adopting the MOA between the city and UP on the proposed sports complex in 1997.

do Construction Co., Inc., and TGV Builders, Inc. were asking to fence off the area under the bridge because it can be difficult for DCWD to work on the maintenance if there are structures under the bridge.

He said the proposal is still pending because it is the city

government that will approve the fencing off of the area.

He said the DCWD will endorse the proposal to the City Mayor’s Office through city administrator Jesus Melchor V. Quitain for the approval of the fencing plan in Bankerohan.

pila lang na ka metro, siguro dili kaabot usa’g tunga... ayaw lang kaayog reklamo (The houses that will be affected by the access road... just move a little. We only need a meter and a half at most. Just don’t complain,” he said.

Duterte said he will give CEO until Friday to finish the lot allocation for the access road and the division of lots for the house owners.

He said for the meantime, he will continue to provide food assistance to the victims until they can go back in their area.

Duterte led the distribution of the total P974,000 financial assistance to the

195 fire victims at Barangay 23-C. Among the structures that were burned down was the iconic Luz Kinilaw Place.

Based on the report of City Social Service and Development Office (CSSDO), a total of 39 houses were destroyed while five were damaged. There were 24 sharers, 53 renters, and 72 boarders.

The house owners whose houses where destroyed received P10,000 assistance while owners whose houses where damaged received P5,000 assistance. The renters and sharers received P5,000 while the boarders received P3,000. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

tion regarding the availability of the allotted funds.

He said the project’s bidding was conducted last week by DA Region 12 in Koronadal City.

“We will implement the project as soon as its contract is finalized and awarded to the winning bidder,” he said.

Aside from the food security grant, Belbider said they have submitted a proposal to DA for an additional P50

million funding to facilitate the completion of the road project.

He said they specifically sought for the inclusion of the project into the infrastructure development component of the Philippine Rural Development Program.

Belbider said the additional funding will cover the concreting of the remaining 5.5 kilometers of the road project. (PNA)

vestigations. We also support the all-out peace movement being put forward.”

Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Negotiating Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal, who were present at the event, echoed the message of Pantoja.

“If we are unable to mend the fault lines among our people, then our way toward the future will be most defi-

nitely difficult. We may have different religions but only one God. I hope all faiths and their leaders can help guide us all to become one people,” beseeched Deles.

Iqbal added that the “the MILF assures all, in sha Allah, that no one in the Bangsamoro will be discriminated against based on religion.”

Pantoja also pledged that the PCEC will continue its support and active participation in the peace process.

(PNA)

Duterte to fire... FROM 2

Sarangani... FROM 3

PCEC... FROM 3

for the first three months of 2015 averaged 2.4 percent, which is still within the inflation target range of 2.0 to 4.0 percent set by the NEDA Board Development Budget Coordination Committee for 2015.

“Inflation remained low and stable in the first three months of the year in line with expectations over the policy horizon, which is likely to support consumption growth,” said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General.

Balisacan noted that a relatively stable peso, given the country’s strong external position on the back of strong remittances, rising BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) earnings and FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) inflows, ample international reserves, and a manageable level of external debt contribute to stable domestic prices.

“The continuing decline in international oil prices is also a positive development

for the country considering our dependence on imported oil,” he added.

Inflation in the National Capital Region (NCR) decelerated to 1.9 percent in March 2015 from 2.2 percent in February 2015 and 2.9 percent in the same period a year ago.

This is accounted for by slower inflation in several major commodity groups including food and non-alcoholic beverages. Outside NCR, inflation remained stable at 2.6 percent, slower than the 4.2 percent recorded in the previous year.

“Our overall inflation outlook remains well- anchored as policies continue to be supportive of a stable inflation rate. While the current episode of mild El Niño and power woes still pose risks to inflation, the continuing efforts to ensure that appropriate policy actions are implemented are expected to temper inflationary pressures over the near to medium term,” said Balisacan. (PNA)

Sony, Warner Bros., ABS-CBN, GMA Network, Regal Entertainment, and Viva Communications across their computers, smartphones and tablets.

The growth of the telco’s mobile data business will also draw support from the continuing network upgrade and expansion of its LTE TDD and LTE-FDD footprint. To enhance its wireless network infrastructure, Globe is activating more cell sites with the LTE-TDD and LTE-FDD ultra broadband access technologies for a more pervasive Long Term Evolu-

tion (LTE) coverage to ensure reliable and fast mobile internet service for its customers.

The telco also underscored its own brand of “sustainable revolution,” driving cost and efficiencies, leading to the company’s operational excellence and optimized profitability. It also trumpeted the “cultural revolution” by Globe employees whose invaluable contributions have propelled the company to a position of leadership not only in the Philippines, but also in the rest of the world.

Globe Telecom... FROM 11

11 ICT HUB

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

New FB HQ ‘finished ahead of schedule and under budget’ F

ACEBOOK founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg yesterday said the new Facebook building in Menlo Park, California is the first building in Silicon Valley to have been finished ahead of schedule and under budget – even though it was designed by famous architect Frank Gehry.

In a post in his Facebook timeline yesterday, Zuckerberg said Gehry – known for his design of iconic buildings like the Guggenheim Museum in Spain and the Louis Vuitton Foundation building in Paris – approached him when the company first announced that it was adding a building to its campus.

“Frank Gehry reached out and asked to design it. He really believes in our mission to connect the world,” Zuckerberg said.

“But even though we all loved his architecture, we initially said no. We figured he would be very expensive and that would send the wrong signal about our culture,” he added.

But Zuckerberg said Gehry came back to them “and said we should go get other bids and that he would beat them all – and he did.”

The new Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park, California

A photo of an early model of the building sitting inside the actual building

O

Zuckerberg said he soon learned that most building construction wastes a lot of materials and time due to poor planning. “Frank has designed special software to assist in his architecture, so he’s very efficient,” he said.

He said in the end, the Facebook building finished ahead of schedule and under budget.

“It’s the only construction project I’ve ever heard of achieving this. It ended up costing us much less than any other major developments planned in Silicon Valley and taking way less time to build,” he added.

Facebook moved to its new building on March 31. In a post on that day, Zuckerberg said the company’s goal was “to create the perfect engineering space for our teams to work together.”

“We wanted our space to create the same sense of community and connection among

our teams that we try to enable with our services across the world. To do this, we designed the largest open floor plan in the world – a single room that fits thousands of people,” he said.

“There are lots of small spaces where people can work together, and it’s easy for people to move around and collaborate with anyone here. On the roof is a 9-acre park with walking trails and many outdoor spaces to sit and work,” he added.

Zuckerberg said the building itself is “pretty simple and isn’t fancy.”

“That’s on purpose. We want our space to feel like a work in progress. When you enter our buildings, we want you to feel how much left there is to be done in our mission to connect the world,” he said.

Edge Davao

Globe Telecom jumps to industry leadership

N the strength of a remarkable company performance in 2014, Globe Telecom has established leadership in the Philippine mobile industry on multiple business fronts, making it the Number One mobile brand in the country.

“Against mounting odds, we maintained a defiant and fighting stance against a longtime industry giant to achieve a phenomenal financial feat.

From being a challenger brand, Globe has successfully waged a revolution in all fronts, from digital, technological and business, all the way to our corporate culture as well as making our financial growth sustainable in the long run,” said Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu. “The numbers reveal that we have already gained foothold in leadership in the local telco industry. We plan to sustain our momentum for the long haul as our driving force to continuously provide Filipinos with innovative products and services that will cater to their digital lifestyle,” Cu added.

In a statement, Globe said as early as the fourth quarter of 2013 it had already made significant headway in taking over the leadership position over its rival company in postpaid and mobile data businesses in terms of consolidated

mobile revenue market share, continuously widening its gap as of the same period in 2014.

Meanwhile, its prepaid value brand TM has reached a virtual deadlock with Sun Cellular in the same category in terms of consolidated revenue market share.

The company disclosed during its Annual Stockholders’ Meeting yesterday that it achieved milestone-setting financial feats last year, bannered by a new high of P99-billion consolidated service revenues, besting the previous mark of P90.5 billion in 2013 representing a 9 percent yearon-year growth. It also generated in 2014 a core net profit growth of 25 percent to a record level of P14.5 billion and registered total consolidated earnings before interest, taxes, deductions, and amortization (EBITDA) of P39 billion, 8 percent higher than 2013.

These were driven by the solid performance of its business segments amid sustained demand for data connectivity in its mobile and broadband businesses.

During the proceedings, the company also mentioned that its share price reached a new all-time high, closing at P 2,140 per share, up 22.3 percent from P 1,750 at the beginning of the year.

Mobile revenues, which

contributed 79 percent of consolidated revenues, grew 7 percent year-on-year from the prior year’s P72.8 billion to P78.1 billion in 2014. Mobile voice revenues, which accounted for 44 percent of total mobile service revenues, posted a year-on-year increase of 7 percent. Mobile SMS, which accounted for 37 percent of total mobile service revenues, closed the year at P29.1 billion, 1 percent above from P28.8 billion of end 2013, driven by the continued popularity of bucket and unlimited promotions.

Globe closed the year with a total mobile subscriber base of 44.0 million, up 14 percent from 38.5 million subscribers last year. Fourth quarter’s gross subscriber acquisitions registered a quarterly-high of 10.1 million subscribers, 14 percent higher than last quarter.

In postpaid business, Globe claimed the top spot hinged on revenue market share, the new global standard for leadership claim and a reliable measure of market leadership used for telecommunications around the world. The company dominated this aspect in 2014 bolstered by P29.9 billion in revenues, as well as a 58 percent market share in a two-player environment, versus that of its two rivals which tallied P21.7 billion for a combined 42 per-

cent revenue market share.

To sustain market leadership this year, Globe continues to revolutionize the postpaid segment with the new myLifestyle Plan to enhance the digital lifestyle experience of its customers who have harnessed data and content usage on their phones starting at P499 a month, with built-in unlimited calls and texts to Globe and TM. These come with premium freebies, Globe Cloud and Gadget Care. Other variants available are Surf Packs for mobile internet browsing with Spotify and NBA League Pass bundles, Lifestyle Packs for a richer data experience through music, productivity, life, shopping and social apps, as well as Classic

Packs for extra calls and texts, both local and international.

In the mobile data front, Globe maintains its superior stance in the industry with revenues and data traffic growing faster than competition, powered by partnerships with global content providers such as Facebook, Viber, Spotify, NBA, and online entertainment service HOOQ, as well as better network performance to provide faster and more seamless browsing experience to enrich the Filipino digital lifestyle.

The modernized Globe network also carried a higher volume of data traffic equivalent to 87,000 terabytes of data, a 270 percent jump from the year before because of the

NUMBER ONE. (From left) Globe Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Gil Genio, Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu, and Globe Senior Vice President for Consumer

surge in mobile browsing and higher smartphone penetration among its customers. Mobile browsing and other data revenues generated P14.3 billion in 2014, 23 percent higher than the previous year. These figures were higher than competition which stood at P8.1 billion, giving Globe the upper hand in revenue market share with 64 percent.

Sustaining its digital roadmap for 2015, Globe unveiled its partnership with HOOQ to enable access to thousands of movies and TV shows from international and local content providers. Filipinos can access over 10,000 movies and TV shows including titles from

FGLOBE TELECOM, 10

Mobile Marketing Issa Cabreira give the “number one” sign during a press conference yesterday after the Globe Telecom Annual Stockholders’ Meeting in Manila.

12 CLASSIFIED

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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

INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

TRAVEL

ERIKA SORIANOMATA

Humabi in white makes the perfect pair to Erika’s M&S Collection ensemble—knitted top in Flame, white jeggings & black & white scarf.

A vision with a mission

Photography: Paul Borromeo Styling: Meg Sta. Ines - Hernandez & Otoi Mercado Outfits: Marks & Spencer Shot on location at Marks & Spencer & SM Lanang Premier

A

Empowered by instincts, talents and a nurturing heart, the moms of today have become more sensible in managing their time and priorities, while, in the same manner, keeping space for their own personal growth and fulfillment.

good number of moms, especially nowadays, make parenting look picture perfect in their own ways and means. How they fashion their day to day affairs to meet goals and oversee family needs is definitely no easy task.

Empowered by instincts, talents and a nurturing heart, the moms of today have become more sensible in managing their time and priorities, while, in the same manner, keeping space for their own personal growth and fulfillment. Erika Soriano - Mata is one of those remarkably stylish mothers who is also fast becoming a household name because of her charity work and special mission in bringing faith closer to the homes and hearts of every family.

For this fashion set we shot for Marks and Spencer, I had the pleasure of meeting Erika in person and become witness to her graciousness and ease despite the humid and unkind weather. Erika and I had a couple of chats online for a separate story I wrote for this same column last year, but I never had the chance of talking to her face to face. It was definitely a treat for me to finally meet her as she proved to be as nice as I thought she would be and she acted like she was no different from any other individual of different

walks of life. She posed like a pro, yet never talked with airs nor a hint of superiority. She was like sunshine in the room, always beaming and never complaining. She’s the type who sees the good in other people and never hesitates to throw in a compliment or a good word to anyone around.

No wonder people just naturally gravitate towards her. She beams with so much positivity and faith in humanity that no one could miss out her presence, even online.

She is an inspiration, a vision not only of beauty from the outside, but also from within. It was such as breeze working with this generous soul.

METRO MOM A4

Erika pairs her ivory Humabi bag with Marks & Spencer’s Per Una lace top in silver & French Navy colored jersey pants in, with M&S Collection necklace.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

UP AND ABOUT

MX3 awarded at Geneva

By Dr. Edwin Bien BONJOUR! It was the universal greeting that we will hear for the next four days in Geneva, Switzerland as our lady bosses prepare to receive the most prestigious international award for DMI and MX3 so far. Something like our Mabuhay! – but instead of leis and sarong, it was long gowns and black tie.

Instead of our colorful jeepneys, it was Bugattis and Ferraris. Owners, CEO’s, high ranking officers and representatives of the most successful businesses and products from around 90 countries were there to receive the same awards. What an experience.

THE JOURNEY It was a long arduous flight but well worth it.

Especially for Mesdames (I learned a bit of French there) Emilia and Gina Marie who endured a 2 hour flight from Davao to Manila, about 8 hours from Manila to Dubai, a 3 hour stop over and another 7 hours from Dubai to Geneva. We checked in at the Intercontinental Hotel, the same venue where the gala night will be held. There wasn’t enough time, and energy to roam around even if we arrived a half day early. The temperature was at 2 – 6 °C with cold winds and rains in the afternoon which is common occurrence near the Swiss Alps. The people were relaxed and friendly, although having a bit of difficulty communicating in English. The bus transpo is free for hotel guests (I never saw anyone paying or showing a prepaid card to the driver) and long (about 3 full sized bus

compared to ours here) and on time. We failed to visit the famous United Nations building although our BMW taxi driver was willing to show it to us on our way back.

THE EVENTS March 21st, Saturday the next day is our appointment for orientation with Ms. Marina, a Russian-Spanish personnel of BID (Business Initiative Directions). This is headed by Mr. Jose Prieto, President and CEO, the award giving body which has been evaluating companies from all over the world for 29 years. We were given the programme for the television interview

by Imarpress, another group founded in 1983 with 26 publication agreements and 3 gold pins for the 17th international convention.

March 22nd Sunday is the day of reckoning. We started at 10:30am with all the participants given

The DMI Medical Supply Co. Inc- MX3. was represented by the Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Emilia G. Mendoza and the writer. a 10 minute opportunity to come up the stage and introduce their company, products and or services.

It is surprising to hear that many were in the vicinity of hundred million dollar sales monthly from Africa, Australia, the USA, North and South America, Europe and Asia. We are proud to note that despite many successful businesses we have here, especially in the food supplement category, DMI is the only company to be awarded from the Philippines.

Hear, hear!

THE SELECTION PROCESS How are the candidates selected? The members for

the International Committee for Selections are responsible for the search of companies. The committee is made up of leaders from more than 90 countries who meet annually in London, Paris, New York, Frankfurt and Geneva. Their votes are analyzed against results obtained from the internet as well as information from the Chambers of Commerce, embassies and media.

What are the criteria?

The BID CQE Awards must be backed by at least five of the following qualities present in company strategy: Customer Satisfaction, Innovation, Research & Develop-

ment, Continuing Education, Post Sales Service, Environment and Ecology, Business Excellence, TQM Implementation, Profitability, Permanent Growth, Brand & Marketing Leadership, Management for ISO 9001. Upon careful analysis of proposals, a final written confirmation is made for the nomination of the award.

THE FRUITS OF OUR LABOR The recognition is called the Gold Category for the Century International Quality Era awards – in their own words, “presented to companies or organizations in different countries throughout the

world that further their reputation and position by implementing and promoting quality culture.”

We are beaming with pride and honor as we listen to a workshop around 1:30 pm with Mr. H. Miller, a well known speaker from the USA and later on interviewed for television by the event host. Of course we gave glory to God – the wisdom to follow the right directions, the perseverance amidst the many challenges, the resources and the product itself, all comes from Him. We also gave thanks to all the people behind the success of this company as well as the clients who trusted MX3.

THE GALA NIGHT The gala dinner was spectacular with many wearing the traditional dresses of their countries.

I regret I wasn’t able to come in barong but instead opted for the conservative suit. The food is European and great. The ambience is formal and glitters come from the chandeliers and bejeweled ladies. Madam Emilia went up the stage in her resplendent jusi to give thanks to everyone.

Madam Gina came in elegant black gown and went up the stage with the other iron ladies from different countries for photo ops.

And me? I was the proud cameraman, and occasional spokesperson.

Waterfront Hotels welcome latest innovation TO CONTINUOUSLY take the lead in the country’s hospitality industry despite the tenacious competition, Waterfront Hotels and Casinos introduce its latest innovation in service, the PressReader, which allows guests to find out the latest and hottest news direct from their favorite information provider from anywhere in the world.

KIDS SUPER SHOE SALE HAPPENING NOW TIL’ APRIL 30! Up to 50% OFF on the cutest and trendiest pairs of shoes for your little ones. Also, get one Php 100.00 Jollibee Gift Certificate for a minimum of Php 2,500.00 single-receipt purchase from the Children’s Shoes Department. Head to the nearest SM Store now! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and use the hastag #SMKidsSuperShoesSale #SMShoesAndBags

With PressReader, Waterfront’s guest may gain access to prominent magazines such as Time, Elle, Vouge, and a lot more. Also, keep updated with current events as top newspaper publications like The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Toronto Star, and so much more are available on Press-

Reader.

“In pursuance of our motto to improve our products and services for guests’ satisfaction, Waterfront has endeavored once again to think of how we can make the hotel experience of our guests better. This is giving more premium to our services by giving them the convenience of being up-to-date with not only the latest news on current events but on other interests as well such as fashion, gardening, technology, etc. a wide array of categories for their reading pleasure,” Maria Socorro Cotelo, Corporate Planning Director of Waterfront Hotels and Casinos, shared.

“We continue to look for the latest technology to enhance our services that are geared towards guests’ satisfac-

tion, always in the look out of new innovations for our guests’ convenience and heighten their hotel experience at the Waterfront,” she added.

Cisitors and guests of Waterfront Hotel and Casinos’ properties in Manila, Cebu and Davao may personalize their PRessReader home feeds with content sources and categories that they personally want such as Business, Entertainment. Sports, Editorial, etc. With this new and hi-tech innovation by Waterfront, guests never miss important and interesting news as popular and trending topics from every corner of the world are found at the app’s home feed stories.

PressReader is without a doubt the most featurerich and entertaining

newspaper and magazine reading App guests may ever use. With this innovation, Waterfront Hotels and Casinos keep their guests connected and updated on any topic under the sun.

Also with PressReader, guests may automaticcaly align with the beginning of an article using the app’s SmartZoom feature; get your favorite publications delivered to you automatically; read publications using the attention grabbing horizontal reading stream, SmartFlow; share your opinion by supporting or opposing a story; and adjust the article’s font size and type The PressReader is now available for download at www.pressreader.com on your smartphones, tablets and eReaders.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

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ENTERTAINMENT

ABS-CBN regional brings biggest Kapamilya Stars to provinces SOME of the brightest stars of ABS-CBN drew smiles and warmed the hearts of numerous locals and tourists who joined ABS-CBN Regional’s “Kapamilya Karavans” that happened in the first quarter of 2015 during the biggest, most colorful annual festivities in the country.

In January, Kim Chiu, Maja Salvador, Enchong Dee, and Zanjoe Marudo flew to Cebu in celebration of the Sinulog Festival. They entertained almost 7,000 people who filled up The Terraces in Ayala Center. ABS-CBN Regional also took part in the Sinulog 2015 Grand Parade that showcased Kim, Maja, and Enchong in a colorful float.

Kapamilya stars also spread cheers in Iloilo and Batangas for the Dinagyang and Lipa City festival, respectively.

Almost 5,000 Ilonggo fans gathered at Robinsons Iloilo for the “Kapamilya Karavan” that was graced by Maja and Sam Milby; while Richard Yap, Angeline Quinto, and Joseph Marco joined more than

4,000 Batangueños in celebrating the Lipa City Festival.

After the Sinulog, Dinagyang and Lipa City festivals in January, ABSCBN Regional traveled to Baguio and Davao in March to bring the “Kapamilya Karavan” experience to locals and tourists who joined the Panagbenga Festival and Araw ng Dabaw (Day of Davao).

ABS-CBN stars, led by Primetime King Coco Martin, heated up the spirit of Kapamilya fans who filled Baguio’s Burnham Park for the “Panagbenga Kapamilya Karavan.”

A sea of about 22,000 people flocked to the

dez, and Brace Arquiza.

Lastly, ABS-CBN Regional also threw a special celebration of Araw ng Dabaw featuring “Dream Dad” stars Zanjoe, Beauty and Baby who greeted “Magandang Buhay!” (Beautiful Life) to over 5,000 people who gathered at SM City Davao Parking Lot C. Romance filled the gathering with the sweet serenades of Enchong; and “Inday Bote” leading men Matteo Guidicelli and Kean Cipriano.

“Kapamilya Karavan”

“Panagbenga Kapamilya Karavan” that served as the kick-off event of the year-long celebration of the 20th anniversary of ABS-CBN Baguio. The program also featured performances from “Dream Dad” stars Zanjoe, Beauty Gonzales, and Jana “Baby” Agoncillo; “Bagito” stars

is dedicated to all Kapamilya viewers who continuously make ABS-CBN the undisputed number one TV network nationwide. It is spearheaded by ABSCBN Regional (formerly known as the ABS-CBN Regional Group), which is the nationwide TV and radio network of ABSCBN Corporation.

For more Kapamilya stories and happenings in the regions, log on to www.abs-cbnnews.com, www.choosephils.com, and www.iwantv.com. ph.

Nash Aguas, Alexa Ilacad, and Ella Cruz; “Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita” teen cast members Jane Oineza, Jerome Ponce, Loisa Andalio, and Joshua Garcia; and Star Music’s pop boyband Gimme 5 composed of Nash, Joaquin Reyes, John Immanuel Bermundo, Grae Fernan-

MJ Lastimosa portrays herself in MMK BINIBINING PILIPINAS-UNIVERSE 2014 Mary Jean “MJ” Lastimosa will portray herself in the upcoming episode of ABS-CBN’s “Maalaala Mo Kaya” which will feature her colorful story.

Discover this Saturday (April 11) the personal battle that MJ had won even before her career in beauty pageants flourished. How did the young MJ strive for her dreams without her parents beside her? Who inspired her to become a fighter in life?

Joining MJ in her first “MMK” are Isabel Oli, Sofia Millares, Veyda Inoval, Ronnie Lazaro, Cherie Gil, Encar Benedicto, JunJun Quitana, Kyline Alcantara, and Bianca Bentulan. It is

directed by Emmanuel Palo and written by Benson Logronio. “MMK” is led by business unit head Malou Santos and creative manager Mel

Mendoza-del Rosario.

Capturing the hearts of Filipino viewers all over the world for the past 23 years, “Maalaala Mo Kaya” has legions

of fans from different generations who cried, laughed, fell in love, and got inspired through the real-life narratives of the show’s letter-senders.

Don’t miss the longest-running drama anthology in Asia, “MMK” every Saturday, 7:15PM, after “Home Sweetie Home” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to MMK.abs-cbn.com, follow @MMKOfficial on Twitter, and “like” Facebook.com/MMKOfficial.

Tweet your thoughts about this Saturday’s episode by using the hashtag #MMKForTheWin. Meanwhile, viewers may also catch up on full episodes and past episodes of “MMK” through ABS-CBNmobile. For more information, please go to www. abscbnmobile.com.

April 6-14, 2015

YOU'RE MY BOSS Toni Gonzaga, Coco Martin PG

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

FURIOUS 7 Vin Diesel, Paul Walker PG

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

SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER Tom Kenny, Bill Fagerbakke G

R-16

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

HOME Rihanna, Jim Parsons G

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

TRAVEL METRO MOM A1 A bag full of hope Erika, I’d say, is one who is highly regarded in the society. She is meek and humble, charming and pleasant, but what lies beneath the graceful, well-dressed exterior is an even more admirable characteristic. Erika is a champion to a women’s livelihood program and to young scholars.

Married to Dr. Richard Mata and a mother to three kids, 14-year old Patricia, 9-year old Amanda, the youngest, Rich, who is 5, Erika skillfully juggles family and personal time.

Outside her family duties, Erika gives inspirational talks on parenting, marriage, even fashion, and her advocacy—Humabi, a social enterprise that focuses on maximizing improvements in human and environmental wellbeing.

The production of Humabi bags doesn’t only help the weavers in their livelihood program, but puts young children to school as well. “Every buyer gets to help both the student scholars and the mothers in the correctional facility with their purchase. A portion of the sale will go to these two

groups,” she said.

Humabi is a fashion accessory that aims to reach Classes A, B and C. However, the “tie box” material for bags may not be popular to the upper class and fashionistas. But with modish and appealing designs, good packaging and the right exposure, Erika believes that it will reach the target market and will receive its due appreciation.

“I designed the bags to have an elegant look similar to those expensive signature bags,” Erika said of the bag that comes in both basic hues and bright colors, the wooden handles wrapped in printed scarlet.

With the endorsement by the brand ambassadors— professionals, wellheeled women and mothers, the Humabi bag was given the publicity mileage it initially needed, a move that boosted the bag’s stature to a “must have fashion accessory”.

Another market Erika wants to tap are the women with kind hearts, women who can go beyond the look and utility of a well-designed handbag and understand and appreciate the benefits of their purchase, which is to help both the women and the young scholars.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Complementing Erika’s Marks & Spencer garb—Per Una ¾ jersey top in dusted pink, M&S Collection black jeggings & Autograph necklace— is her black Humabi bag.

Since the launching of the Humabi bag, Erika shared that sales have been good. Retail shops saw the potential of the product and put the bags on their shelves.

Erika bares another good news, “We are getting good traffic in our

website (www.humabibags.com) as well as out social media sites, Facebook and Instagram (humabibags). We didn’t expect to achieve all these in just a few months, but I do believe people get to appreciate both the product and the advocacy.”

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS

13

3 suspected NPAs nabbed in Bukidnon

T

HE local police have arrested three suspected rebels of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) during a random checkpoint in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, the police reported Tuesday.

Police Senior Inspector Vic Falcones said that the police identified the suspects as Charlito Balagahan, Jovito Anlagan, Sr. and Jovito Anlagan, Jr., all of Libona, Bukidnon.

Seized from the suspects was a caliber .45 pistols and other modified firearm of unknown caliber, and seven live bullets of the .45 caliber pistol.

Falcones said that the suspects were collared when the Nissan Terrano vehicle they were riding was flagged down and checked during a random checkpoint in Alae, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

He said that Balagahan was the driver of the vehicle while the Anlagans were the passengers. “The suspects failed to show documents to prove ownership of the gun,” Falcones said.

According to Falcones, the suspects are in the list of the police files as NPA rebels.

The seized firearms are now in the custody of the Manolo Fortich Police Station while the suspects are detained pending the filing of charges against them, Falcones said. (PNA)

Villagers along the coastal village of Brgy 76A, Davao City take a dip in the sea amid the trash lining the beach on Easter Sunday. MindaNews photo by Keith Bacongco

14 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

ADDU Nursing pioneers celebrate 10th year

T

HEY’RE all over the world now.

That’s how you describe the pioneering batch of Ateneo de Davao University’s Nursing class of 2005.

They’re in the land Down Under, they’re in the land of Milk and Honey, they’re in Canada, Middle East, Japan, Europe, Norway, Singapore.

Oh, the list could go longer and longer. In short, they are as far as your GPS could reach. It’s worth mentioning too that some of these bunch of pioneers now hold key

positions in the health care industry.

Now, after a decade of going their own ways and finding their own sunshine, the pioneers come home and converge for their first decade of providing care the world over.

The red-letter days fall on April 10 and 11 (Friday and Saturday) with the first activity setting the tone of the celebration. As if providing care in their respective work environments is not enough, these men and

women of Batch 2005 embarks on humanitarian and charitable activities to kick off the anniversary. The event, initiated by the Ateneo Nursing Alumni Association, Inc., will be held this Friday.

“We make sure that we start the celebration by reaching out to the communities,” said Batch 2005 president Mae Cathleen Sia, RN. The Batch’s Interim Board of Directors are composed of Kaye Ancheta, RN, Joyce Gascon, RN, Noeh Jani,

RN, Alalaine Viduya-Martin, RN, Nicel Tiu-Caralos,RN, Cion Torres, RN, Joan SiaSiao, RN, Ma. Wella Badilles-Chiu, Marriane Lorico-Martirez, RN and Jigger Givela, RN. The charity event’s beneficiaries are the Archdiocesan Nourishment Center headed by Msgr. Paul Cuison, Founder and Spiritual Director, Southern Philippines Medical Center’s - House of Hope under Dr. Mae Concepcion Dolendo and Institute of Psychology and Behavioural

Medicine formerly known as Davao Mental Hospital under chairperson Dr. Bihildis C. Mabunga.

On Saturday, Batch 2005 members let their hair down for a Denim and White Ball at the Top of the Apo beginning at 6 p.m. The exclusive affair will be styled by Sangalor Cordero of Evo Productions with Davao’s king of spin, DJ Torch Gacuma. A stand-up comic act is expected to spice up the night with Morgana and Kinita.

The Batch 2005 10th

year celebration is supported by McDonald’s Davao Bajada branch through Ms. Chemaima Belleza, Local Store Marketing Coordinator, Crocs Australia through Ms. Clare Cooney, NCCC Mall Davao through Ms. Sharlene Lim, Screengraph with Mr. Lito Uy, Bioessence Facial and Spa, Permex producer and exporter corporation through Mr. Jaydrick Yap, Cecil’s Snack Inn through Mr. Martin Guino-o and Edge Davao as official media partner. (NJB)

UM is first school in the region with DRRM Resource Center

T

HE University of Mindanao became the first school in Davao region with a fully-equipped resource center on Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) that opened Wednesday.

Supported by the Scaling Up Resilience in Governance (SURGE), OXFAM, Christian Aid, Handicap International, and Plan International, the Inclusive Community- based DRR Regional Resource Center will provide information materials on the different types of calamities, whether man-made or natural, that occur in the country and how to prepare for it and the procedures to undertake following a disaster.

“The University of Mindanao is the only academic partner for this resource hub.

The others are in the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management offices in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley, with another set to open at the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management office (CDRRMO),” said Sitti Apadan, director for the school’s Community Extension Center.

Plans for the partnership started in November last year, with the other resource centers in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley set to open

on April 20, and the CDRRMO resource hub to open in May. “The other three centers will contain all the same instructional and information materials that are found here in UM,” said Myra G. Julia, project manager for SURGE. The resource center does not only contain information on what to do in times of disaster and how to cope with its effects, but also historical data on past calamities that

have occurred in the country.

“The hub is open even to the public, if they want to learn about the history behind calamities such as Typhoon Pablo, and the like,” said Apadan.

Apadan added that in partnering with UM, a Master’s Program in DRRM under the Management course is also in the works.

“The curriculum will still be ironed out between the

school and CDRRMC, but there are now certification programs for DRRM offered

by UM,” she said.

An important feature of the center is the information materials provided that highlight the vulnerability of certain sectors in times of disaster, specifically the elderly, women, children, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities, and what can be done to mitigate the effects of

disasters for these sectors.

“Awareness on disasters is important for everybody because it helps us become more resilient, and how to respond in times of disaster,” said Apadan.

Regional director for the Office of the Civil Defense Loreto Rirao said the continued information dissemination on the course of action during different types of disaster was important in order to

mainstream information to all kinds of people.

“Part of mainstreaming information on DRRM is to continually make materials available to the public,” said Rirao.

The turnover ceremony was attended by representatives from the SURGE and its partners, as well as school officials including Pedro B. San Jose, Executive Vice President for Academics.

Matigsalug tribe and MACOEMADDACI members witness the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon led by Marilog Proper Punong Barangay Purificacion Suyko (center in dark blue), Matigsalug Deputy Mayor Datu Carlito Guinto (left from center), and MACOEMADDACI President Datu Juanito Mandahay (far right) and TSI FVP Charles A. Gamo (right from center).

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

SPORTS 15

EDGEDAVAO

Emar, ACD cagers banner E8 DC tankers for Palaro Palaro-bound team

S

TANDOUTS of the Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) champion teams Emar and Assumption College of Davao will carry the cudgels for the region with a few reinforcements from the other schools in the coming secondary boys and girls basketball in the Palarong Pambansa on May 3-9 in Tagum City.

The boys team is composed of Castro John Mharc Castro, Arman Demmigaya, Judel Ric Fuentes, Allan Dave Magallanes, Justine Jake Perry Rosete and Kenneth Rurac. They will be reinforced

by Louie Jay Batoon of Ford Academy of Davao, Archiel Escalante of Agro, Kent Fred Segura and Troy Orlan Zamora of Cor Jesu College, Ralph Deligero and Brix Pablo of Mati Polytechnic College. Coach is

Arturo Montalban.

ACD is bannered by Gypsy Canuto, Ma. Mikaela Castillo, Fergelyl Janeo, Roxanne Lara, Lee Dominique Sario and Jennierose Anne Zuñiga. They will be reinforced

by Rossini Briana Espinas of Holy Cross of Davao College, Angelica Pamolino of Daniel Aguinaldo HS, Celeste Dizon of Compostela NHS, Riza Mae Gonzales of AO Floirendo NHS-Panabo, Nemarie Dawn Saberon of Matanao NHS, Digos and Leslie Joy Tagalog of Samal NHS. Coach is Daniel Colango of ACD while the chaperon is Ma. Rachel Mangrobang.

Meanwhile, host Tagum City will represent Davraa in the secondary boys and girls volleyball competition.

The boy’s squad is composed of Joseph Gerard Ale-

gado, Ben Ralph Bagajo, Recel Albert Celis, Frank Jasper Gallardo, Benedict Jay Ledres, Charlie James Lamsin, Francis Clark Rimpos and Daryl Rio of the University of Mindanao Tagum.

They are reinforced by John Henry Mag-aso of Davao City NHS, Geraint Bacon and Rex Paler of P. Lorenzo NHSDavao, Angel Gabriel Alba of Ateneo de Davao University, Coach is Reselio Celis.

The girls’ team will be represented by Tagum City NHS’

Guenevere Cabrera, Isabel Celis, Ivy Kate Lozada, May Luna, Valerie Mesiona, Maxinne Tayag and Mari John Villanueva of UM Tagum, Jeminarh Ruth Maliza of Temple Christian School of Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, Samantha Nicole Dizon, Allia Paula Maspiñas and Fujimoto Takako of Ateneo de Davao University. Myllyn Que is coach.

ORMER flyweight title challenger Milan Melindo has begun working with strength and conditioning coach Nick Curson in preparation for his mandatory title fight against IBF light flyweight champion Javier Mendoza on May 9 in Mexico.

Renowned boxing patron Tony Aldeguer informed the New Standard/boxingmirror. com that Melindo and trainer Edito “Ala” Villamor who are

in California will be joined by WBO light flyweight champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino world champion on April 20 as Nietes will begin his US preparation for his mandatory title defense against Franciso Rodriguez Jr on July 7 in Cebu.

Melindo is doing his strength and conditioning routines at Curson’s gym in Redondo Beach, California

and training at the Wild Card Gym of Freddie Roach for what Aldeguer referred to as “a big fight.”

A former flyweight challenger, Melindo decided to drop down to light flyweight which is no problem for him.

His trainers said they had watched fight tapes of Mendoza who likes to keep coming forward which suits the counter-punching style of Melindo who has a record of only

one loss as against 32 wins with 12 knockouts.

The 27 year old Melindo’s loss was to tough and talented Juan Franisco Estrada who had earlier won the WBO and WBA titles from two division champion Brian Viloria at the Cotai Arena in Macau on April 6, 2013 via a split decision.

Melindo dropped a twelve round unanimous decision to Estrada on July 27, 2013 also in Macau.

OU can now stay updated with the latest news on the long-awaited showdown be- tween Pinoy Pride Manny Pac-

quiao and the undefeated Floyd Mayweather, Jr. as Talk ‘N Text and Internet.org by Facebook have teamed up to offer access to ESPN and SPIN.PH on your mobile phone without charges.

ESPN is the main digital provider of sport news worldwide, while SPIN.PH is the leading sports hub of Filipinos. Both online sites offer the latest updates on what is dubbed as the ‘Fight of the Century” between Pacquiao and Mayweather on May 2, as well as other sports news, features and commen-

taries.

ESPN and SPIN.PH are among the 24 websites, including Facebook and Messenger, that you can now access for free within the Internet. org app using your Talk ‘N Text-powered phone.

Access ESPN and Spin.PH content for free through Facebook’s Internet.org app and Talk ‘N Text “With Talk ‘N Text and Facebook’s Internet.org app, subscribers can easily be one with the rest of the country in

supporting our very own ‘Pambansang Kamao,’ reading sports updates, features, and commentaries on the biggest fight of his life – free of mobile data charges,” said Charles A. Lim, Executive Vice President and Wireless Consumer Division Head of Smart and Sun. Users can also get real-time updates, join online discussions, and cheer for Pacquiao using Facebook and Messenger, which can also be accessed for free through the Internet.org app.

gloves back in 1955, a standout C.V that has stood as the best around for almost six decades since.

Now, who’s got the next best undefeated record?

It’s 50-0. But with 1 draw.

That’s Ricardo Lopez’s record. The ‘Little Red’ was 47-0 like Floyd Mayweather when he fought unbeaten Nicaraguan Rosendo Alvarez in defence of his WBC and WBA titles at the Plaza de Toros in Mexico City in 1998.

After being put down for the first time in his career, Lopez earned a draw once the bout was stopped due to a cut caused by an accidental

LET’S GET IT ON

though what would have been the most perfect record in history was lost.

Alright, so we’re down to Mayweather to break that record by Rocky Marciano.

Now, you know why he is so engrossed in staying unbeaten throughout his career.

In February 10, 1990, then undefeated and undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson was knocked out by underdog Buster Douglas at the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan in what was to be boxing’s biggest upset at that time. Tyson was 37-0 at that time and no one in this planet even gave Buster

Get FREE Pacquiao-Mayweather fight updates Y

Q

UICK here, boxing fans.

Is Floyd Mayweather’s 47-0 the best unbeaten record in boxing?

Eeenk. No. The best undefeated record remains that 49-0.

Now, who’s record is that?

Rocky Marciano. Yes, the legendary Rocky Marciano a.k.a. ‘The Brockton Blockbuster’ retired and died with his 49-0 intact. Unblemished.

The former world heavyweight champion Marciano amassed the most victories in retirement (without a draw) when ‘The Brockton Blockbuster’ hung up his

Rocky Marciano

Neil Bravo headbutt - ending his hopes of moving one victory closer to Marciano on 48-0.

‘Little Red’ later on hung up his gloves with a superb 51-0-1, 38 KO record, al-

San Pedro College and Katrina Nicole Aguelo of Stella Maris Academy, The other Davraa swimmers are John Troy Albano, Lorenz Dale Pacana, Fritz Jun Rodriguez, Elson Jake Rodriguez, Shania Liv Asiseo, Thea Reina Angelyc Cucharo and Joana Michelle Latayan of Tagum City and Jomarie Berja, Kyle Pajarito, Alhaber Saimodin and Rusel Aro of Davao Oriental.

Jerry Kasim and Alden Hipolito were named delegation coaches while Judith Bumanglag is the official chaperone.

AVAO Region has been tagged this early as as one of the early favorites in the secondary boxing event of this year’s Palarong Pambansa slated on May 3-9 in Tagum City.

The Davraa squad is composed of Panabo NHS’ Christian Betonio, Jiple Jay Cabrera and John Benedict Cadavido, Compostela Valley’s Jave Laurence Arguelles and Anibongan NHS-Carmen’s John Michael Diocares. Coach is Jonas Jerusalem of Panabo City.

Betonio, Cabrera and Cadavido are all part of the Barangay Una boxing program of former Congressman Tonyboy Floirendo and current 2nd District Representative Anton Lagdameo.

Cadavido is a two-time gold medalist in Batang Pinoy while Cabrera is a Palaro veteran.

“The boys have trained hard for this,” said coach Dick Varron,

a former national team and Arafura Games gold medalist.

Region 12, however, is also a team to watch composed of three fighters from the home of 8-world division champion Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao.

They are Dennis Dave Cosina and Jayson Mama of Dadiangas North High School and Chris Russu Laurente of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges of Gensan.

Their two other teammates from Region12 are Kenneth Equinan of Libertad National High School of Surallah and Richard Sequino of Polomolok NHS of South Cotabato.

Region 10, on the other hand, will be bannered by Mark Vincent Cailing and Ronilo Layasan Jr., both of Maigo NHS; Regemelyn Namocatcat of East Gusa-Cagayan de Oro, Aljum Pelesio of Molugan NHS of El Salvador City and Diosdado Tabac Jr. of Bukidnon.

OTO-X Davao and Phoenix Petroleum Phils. Inc. recently renewed their partnership for this year in the promotion of the exciting sport of motocross in the country.

Moto-X Davao and Phoenix Petroleum signed the memorandum of agreement at the Hotel Tropicana. Moto-X Davao was represented by its founder Norben “Bok” Mata while Phoenix had vice-president for External Affairs, Business Development and Securityy Atty. Raymond Zorilla.

It was witnessed by Phoenix Lubricants National Sales Manager Desi Enrico V. Maala and Von Homer Oro of Phoenix Lubricants..

“We’re very glad and honored to renew our partnership

with Phoenix Petroleum,” said Mata.

Moto-X Davao, a motorcycle sports organization based in Davao City promotes motorcycling as a viable sport thru racing and travel tour both on road and enduro, trail rides and road racing.

Moto-X Davao organizes motocross activities, events mostly tied-up with the local government units in the celebration of thei towns, cities, municipalities foundation and fiestas.

Moto-X Davao is also duly recognized by the City Government and City Tourism of Davao and has been organizing the annual Araw ng Dabaw and Kadayawan Festival motocross races held in March and August, respectively.

Mindanao boxers favored in Palaro

Melindo begins work with Curson

F

IGHT swimmers from Davao City will banner the Region 11 or the Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) in the forthcoming Palarong Pambansa 2015 on May 3-9 in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

At the forefront of Davraa’s campaign are Bianca Korinne Trinidad, Sophia Danica Trinidad and Pia Alessandra Ballos of Ateneo de Davao University, Dave Jones Andebor of Brokenshire College, Juan Antonio Mendoza of Precious International School, Beatriz Ianne Laolao of Davao Central High School, Chyll Bea Amparo of

D

MotoX Davao, Phoenix renew partnership

M

Douglas a Chinaman’s chance to win. The betting odds was at a ridiculous 42-1.

That was 25 years ago.

Will history repeat itself?

Will the ‘Marciano Barrier’ be finally broken?

We’ll get to know that on May 2.

Can Manny bring on the Marciano Barrier to Mayweather? Will the Filipino boxing champ do a Buster Douglas?

Imagine this and this is whay Floyd is salivating--a win could give the American a clear run to a defining moment probably in 2016.

Imagine the television net-

works scrambling to sign the five-weight world champion for the rights to his bid to break Marciano’s record.

Now you know too why Amir Khan is smiling. His former stablemate and sparring partner Manny is trying to prevent Floyd from breaking Marciano’s record. If he fails, it’s Khan’s time to get the chance to stop Floyd from going 50-0.

Manny now needs Rocky Marciano to rise from his grave and team up to stop Floyd from his run up to history.

This only gets more interesting.

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 8 ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

PALARO MEDAL HOPES Davao City netters lead DAVRAA’s Palaro campaign D

AVAO City will be sending eight tennis players who will carry the fight for Davao Region in the 2015

Palarong Pambansa slated May 3-9 in Tagum City.

Top-rated junior players Shaira Hope Rivera of Sta. Ana

National High School, Danna Mariella Abad and, Nicole Ann Bautista of Ateneo de Davao University will lead the

six players who are entered in the secondary division. They will be joined by Jomari Justin Guira, Jaffary Cariga of Davao Jones Academy and Rachel Patricia Velez of Precious International School.

Elvin Centillas of A.O. Floirendo NHS of Panabo City and Christian Lopez of N. Villarica NHS of Samal Island complete the line-up in the secondary division.

SANHS’ Nennete Morales and Marivic Salvador were named coaches while Grelie

PALARO BOUND. Davao City’s Shaira Hope Rivera (second from left) with coach Marivic G. Loquinario and teammate Trisha Velez.

Mae Catamco is the chaperone.

The secondary squad are eyeing a medal finish in tennis.

In the elementary division, the team is composed of John David Velez of Precious International-Davao, Jessica Carcueva of Toril ES-Davao, Khobe Dumlao of AO Floirendo ES-Panabo, Ronald Gilhang Jr. of Rizal ES-Panabo, Jorez Gabriel Pantujan of St. Michael School of Padada, Hanna Amazona, Sandra Geollegue and Alexis Joy Geollegue of Banaybanay CES-Davao Oriental and Maria Angelica Candia of Malita ES. Leah Grace Lao was named coach.

DC also has seven badminton players in the secondary division. They Richie Jude Olayta of Davao

City NHS, Mary Grace Chicote, Dianne Jean Navarro and Estarco Bacalso III of Talomo NHS, Maxine Aura delos Santos, Sofia Milen Enriquez, Sofia Saladaga and Rolie Otamis of Ateneo de Davao University.

Their other teammates for Region 11 are Roland Escano of Sta. Cruz NHS of Davao del Sur, John Arl Parantar of Digos NHS and Celine Ethelle Tolentino of Mirafuentes Academy of Tagum City.

The Region 11 table tennis team is composed of Alfred Cantil, Christian Jay Caong, Ray Maambong of Panabo, Jhoanna Rutch Patriarca, Caressha Kaye Bernaldez, Kyla Cielo Bernaldez and Karen Paquera, of Panabo, Dan Hill Monares of Tagum and Linday Marie Darlo of Davao City.

Coach is Raul Landiza and chaperon is Reina del Real.

Sports icons pick Manny

F

AMOUS sports personalities from the world of boxing, mixed martial arts, basketball and football pick Manny Pacquiao to beat Floyd Mayweather Jr. in the fight of the century on May 2.

Retired boxer and the most recent undisputed world heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis chose the Filipino boxing hero over the American in their Las Vegas fight. Another former boxer Winky Wright, recognized as the undisputed champion at light-middleweight, knows how to fight world champions, and he said Pacquiao is hard to beat, even by the undefeated Mayweather.

Professional and retired mixed martial artists from all over the world also picked the People’s Champ to win the megafight. No less than the biggest names in MMA histo-

ry – former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Light Heavyweight Champion Chuck Lidell; Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and UFC champion BJ Penn; Canadian mixed martial artist and former three-time Welterweight Champion of the UFC Georges St-Pierre; former collegiate and Greco-Roman wrestlerRandy Couture; and professional wrestler and former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett, all believe that Pacquiao’s speed will overwhelm Mayweather.

Six-time world champion, former professional mixed martial artist, and former professional wrestler, American actor Dave Batista, who is half-Filipino, is rooting for his kababayan, the Pambansang Kamao.

Of course, Asian mixed martial artists Cung Lee of Vietnam, and Filipino-Ameri-

can UFC middleweight champion Mark Munoz, are confident that the Pacman will make it.

Even in the field of basketball, which Pacquiao also plays, he is the runaway winner. The National Basketball Association (NBA)’s most famous stars, Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James and Kevin Love, Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant, Chicago Bulls’ Paul Gasol, Washington Wizards’ Paul Pierce, and Minnesota Timberwolves’ Kevin Garnett, all agree that Manny deserves this pride.

Ron Artest or Metta World Peace, who plays for Pallacanestro Cantù of the Italian League, approves of the choice of former American football safety in the National Football League Ken Hamlin, who said that Pacquiao is his bet in the coming fight.

ALL FOR MANNY. MMA stars Georges St. Pierre and Chuck Lidell, and former heavyweight boxing champion Lennox Lewis.