Edge Davao 8 Issue 65 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

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INSIDE EDGE

Rody orders barangay caps to stop illegal recruitment P2 Parago fired first: military P3

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

REAL OR FAKE? A member of the National food Authority (NFA) inspection team examines rice sold in a dealership store at the Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City yesterday. NFA is conducting inspections in all public markets and rice dealerships after reports that fake rice from China has infiltrated Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

DCPO: WE HAVE TO WAIT FOR NFA No warehouse crackdown until NFA finishes lab tests on synthetic rice By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) yesterday said it could not implement a inspection of all rice warehouses in the city pending the National Food Authority (NFA)’s laboratory test on the seized suspected

fake rice. That means, the police will have to wait at least for another week--just about enough time for a warehouse to be emptied of goods in case it contains any contraband like fake rice.

Speaking in yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media conference, DCPO spokesperson Senior Inspector Milgrace C. Driz said based on the meeting of DCPO director Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao Jr. with NFA and

City Agriculture Office (CAO) officials last Monday, the test result will determine whether or not the rice seized in Matina Aplaya was fake. Driz said the NFA told Danao the result of the rice

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3 wheels, anyone? INdulge! A1

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

DIGGING UP. Workers excavate a portion of the road outside the Davao City Hall for the pilot project on the proposed underground cabling system in the city yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

AFP: With Parago gone, NPA to weaken in Davao Region

HE military on Monday claimed that the killing of rebel leader Leoncio Pitao, popularly known as Commander Parago Sandoval, is a big blow to the communist movement as it will further weaken the New People’s Army in the region. But for the communist rebels, Pitao’s death will only further fuel the courage and determination of the NPA guerrillas to pursue revolution in the countryside. Gen. Eduardo Año, commander of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, said in a news conference on Monday that Pitao’s men have already separated from the main unit following the series of clashes since early June. Pitao was killed in an encounter with government troops in his known stronghold in the hinterlands of Paquibato District last Sunday. Año believes that the death of Pitao was a big blow

WHAT THE?

to the NPA fronts operating in the hinterlands of the city and Davao del Norte. “This is going to be the fall of the NPAs in the Davao Region,” he said. He added that Pitao’s death can cause a huge setback in the entire hierarchy of the communist movement in the region. Pitao’s group, the First Pulang Bagani Company of the NPA, is the toughest front in the area, the military official admitted. Lt. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Eastern Mindanao Command, claimed that even before the death of the top NPA leader, many cadres have already left the guerilla movement and returned to the fold of the law. Baladad cited the Army’s data stating that 220 NPA rebels have been neutralized since January until June, which he broke down into 38 killed, 42

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O you know that some individuals who claim never to have felt romantic love suffer from hypopituitarism? Hypopituitarism means diminished hormone secretion by the pituitary gland, causing dwarfism in children and premature aging in adults. This is a rare disease that doesn’t allow a person to feel the rapture of love. - facts. randomhistory.com

Rody orders barangay caps to stop illegal recruitment By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte warned barangay captains that they will be held liable if some of their constituents fall victim to human traffickers. Duterte made the statement after getting reports that some illegal recruiters are mobilizing in the barangays

to recruit workers for work abroad. “I want it stopped,” he said. Duterte said he would also kill illegal recruiters if he catches them operating in the city. He said the barangay captains play a vital role in identifying the recruiters in their

respective areas. “This government does not start with the city, it starts in the barangays,” he said. The mayor said he will conduct a seminar for barangay captains for them to enforce the law to apprehend illegal recruiters working in their areas. Duterte said he does not

want to hear that there are Dabawenyos who have been recruited illegally and have become slaves in other countries. “It really hurts to know that our countrymen are working there 24 hours a day as slaves,” he said. Last year, the Regional

In an interview yesterday after the AFP-PNP Press Corps media conference, PDEA 11 director Emerson Rosales said his office is monitoring some officials who have possible involvement with illegal drug pushers.

“We have been continuously monitoring some of them. However, we cannot tag them yet as drug pushers,” Rosales said. Rosales said so far only barangay officials have been identified and arrested in

PDEA’s previous operations. He said the PDEA will intensify its intelligence operations to track down the politicians who are receiving money from illegal drugs. “Kung meron tayong naki-

sistant Ombudsman Asryman Rafanan announced that Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales recently signed a resolution finding probable cause to file charges against Ducut, former Reps. Rodolfo “Ruffy” Biazon (Muntinlupa), Marc Douglas Cagas IV (Davao Del Sur), Ariel Olaño (Davao Del Norte), Rodolfo Valencia (Ori-

ental Mindoro), and Arthur Pingoy Jr. (South Cotabato). Ducut is also a former congresswoman of Pampanga. The resolution arose from the second batch of complaints filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) against several lawmakers in connection with their alleged misallocation of their PDAF or pork

barrel to the fake foundations supposedly owned by alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles. Napoles, the alleged “brains” behind the PhP10-billion pork barrel and the PhP900-million Malampaya Fund scams, is also named as co-accused of Ducut and the

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PDEA on edge over narco-politics T

HREE months before the filing of Certificates of Candidacy for the 2016 election, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is now monitoring the activities of possible narco-politicians in Region 11.

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Ombudsman recommends graft raps vs. former Rep. Cagas, 5 others T

HE Office of the Ombudsman has recommended the filing of graft cases against Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chief Zenaida Ducut and five former congressmen in connection with the alleged Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam. In a press conference, As-

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

FIRST SHOT. Lieutenant Colonel Francis Carter Sibal, commander of Civil Military Operations Battalion of the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division, says NPA leader Leoncio Pitao, aka Kumander Parago, fired the first shot at

soldiers, resulting in a firefight that caused his death. Sibal and Davao City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson Chief Inspector Milgrace Driz graced yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

Parago fired first: military

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE 10th Infantry Division denied allegations that New People’s Army (NPA) leader Leoncio Pitao alias Kumander Parago was killed while undergoing medical treatment on Sunday afternoon in Paquibao District, Davao City. 10th ID Civil Military Office (CMO) Chief Lieutenant Colonel Francis Sibal said Pitao fired at the soldiers first, resulting in an encounter that ultimately led to his death. The NPA has claimed that Parago was killed while being treated for an illness. It also said the soldiers killed his medic, identified as Vanessa Limpag Alias Kyle. Sibal, however, said Parago and his medic exchanged fire with the military for about 20 minutes. “The military reported that

NEWS 3

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it was a legitimate encounter. There was a firefight between the two groups, the group of Parago and the group of our Philippine Army,” Sibal said. “If you really know Parago, he is on insulin day and night. That’s why he always has his medic with him,” he added. In a press statement, NPA’s spokesperson Rigoberto F. Sanchez said Parago died in a raid while getting treatment for his diabetes. Sanchez also claimed Limpag had already raised her hands and shouted that she was a medic when she was shot by the military. Sibal, however, said Limpag was armed with an M16 rifle when the encounter happened. “They fired at our soldiers and there was a firefight. It

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VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION. Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon hands over an award to regional director Mariano Alquiza of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Region 11 for his valuable contribution to the development of Davao Oriental, particularly in the field of infrastructure

EASIER. Davao City Traffic and Transport Management Office (CTTMO) head Rhodelio Poliquit (left)says it’s easier to function with the newly created agency despite it broader responsibility since it was broken down into six

divisions. Poliquit and Traffic Group chief Superintendent Antonino Ibot (right) were guests at the AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

CTTMO interim head ready for broader work By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Traffic and Transport Management Office (CTTMO) interim head Rhodelio Poliquit said he can still function with his newly created office despite its broader responsibilities. Speaking in yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media conference, Poliquit said the work will still be manageable since six divisions have been created under the CTTMO. The CTTMO replaced the Traffic Management Center (TMC) after Mayor

Rodrigo R. Duterte signed an executive order giving it much broader powers and responsibilities. Under the executive order, the CTTMO will manage not just the traffic flow of the city but also its transportation system. It will also rationalize the existing transport operations and administer all traffic engineering services, traffic enforcement operations, traffic and transport planning, regulations and franchising, transport facilities management, and traffic management program.

support and services that benefited the thousands of residents in the area. The award was given on the occasion of the 48th Foundation Anniversary of the province yesterday, a celebration shared with Davao del Norte and Davao del Sur. DPWH 11 PIO

CTTMO will also institute a “no-physical contact apprehension” policy on violators with the use of technology. Poliquit enumerated the six divisions under the CTTMO: Traffic Engineering and Infrastructure Division (TEID), Traffic Enforcement and Street Management Division (TSMD), Transport Planning and Management Division (TPMD), Facilities Management and Operations Division (FMOD), Administrative and Support Division (ASD), and Motorized

Vehicle Franchising and Regulatory Division (MVFRD). “Although the work load of the new office has increased, the six divisions will make the work easier since the role of each division is identified,” he said. Poliquit said the CTTMO will now have regular positions since it is already an office with a vital role in the city. He said as interim head, he already drafted some provisions for the six divisions for easy transition flow.

HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) assured the City Council that its road works will be done during nighttime to avoid traffic inconvenience. This after councilor Rachel P. Zozobrado-Nagayo criticized the DCWD and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the inconvenience being caused by road constructions and repairs they are undertaking. “We deeply appreciate the comments of Councilor Zozobrado. Be assured that her suggestions will be taken care of,” DCWD spokesperson Bernardo Delima said in a text message. Delima said that all pipe laying projects that will excavate the roads will be done from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. the fol-

lowing day. “We have instructed our contractors to work during nighttime,” he said. Delima said the DCWD has an ongoing project in Bacaca and will have a pipe laying project along Mamay Road. “If works are necessary during daytime, it will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. only to avoid rush hour,” he said. Delima said DCWD is coordinating with City Traffic and Transport Management Office (CTTMO) head Rhodelio Poliquit who assured them the traffic flow near their road works will be managed. “As to our leak repair works, these are things we cannot delay because it will prolong water interruptions. We put traffic devices (to re-

DCWD moves road works to nighttime T

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4 ECONOMY

VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

TIEZA alots P250M for T’boli complex T HE national government is investing around P250 million for the development of a world-class ecotourism complex in T’boli town in South Cotabato. Nelly Nita Dillera, Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 12 director, said Wednesday such funding was committed by the Tourism Infrastructure Economic Zone Authority (TIEZA), which recently approved the implementation starting this year of the Hidak Falls Ecotourism Project in Sitio Blangas, Barangay Kematu in T’boli. Dubbed as “sanctuary in the greenwoods,” she said the site will be developed as a highend tourist destination featuring a tree adventure theme and will be complete with tourism facilities and amenities. During the project’s ground breaking on Tuesday, Dillera said the project will be implemented in three phases as designed by the Geiser Maclang Marketing Communications, Inc.

She said the first phase will involve the establishment of a visitor receiving center in Barangay Kematu. The second phase will focus on the development of the “sanctuary in the greenwoods” facilities, she said. “For the third phase, we will be putting up a floating bamboo bed spa by the waterfalls,” she said. TIEZA, through the DOT12, released an initial P2.5 million to the municipal government of T’boli to facilitate the necessary preparatory works for the project. Rodel Hilado, T’boli municipal tourism officer, lauded the DOT-12 for facilitating the adoption of the project by TIEZA. He said their municipality is “very blessed” for being a recipient of the project, which is expected to draw more foreign and local tourists to the area. “T’boli has so many attractions to offer, and we are happy that the DOT is helping us in

Halal ordinance changes pushed Higher excise taxes STREET ART. A local artist shows off his art works which he sells for P3,500 each along Quimpo Boulevard in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) committee on arts and culture is pushing for the amendment of the 2010 Halal ordinance to boost Davao City’s competitiveness in the multi-billion dollar industry of Halal worldwide. “We envisioned Davao City as a Halal-friendly city in this part of Mindanao with the amendment of the Halal ordinance,” said Councilor Mabel Sunga-Acosta, committee chair. Acosta said once approved, the amended Halal ordinance will be stricter. She said the amendments also aims to support young Muslim entrepreneurs who wanted to invest in Davao City. The amendment is supposed

to create a Halal-friendly environment for both investors and visiting tourists. Acosta said among the salient feature of the proposed amendment is the requirement of food establishments serving Halal food like restaurants, eateries, fast-food chains, function halls, school and university canteens to secure a Halal certification from accredited certifying bodies by the National Commission for Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) before posting Halal within their premise or incorporating the “Halal” on business name. Another proposal is the included in the proposal is the stricter implementation of categorization of Haram meat or forbidden animals like pigs and “animals that have been

killed by strangling or by a violent blow or by a headlong fall” and Halal meat in food establishments. One of the amendments, Acosta added, is the inclusion of the participation of the City Health Office (CHO) in inspecting food establishments offering Halal-processed food and beverages “whether they have complied with the requirements of this ordinance and other laws related to this ordinance.” “We will be still gathering proposals from other Muslim groups and organizations that could be included in the proposed amendment,” she said. Under the existing ordinance, violating food establishments could be charged and penalized with a monetary fine

of up to P5,000 and closure of the business establishment. “We will gather comments from stakeholders whether there’s a need to increase the penalty for violators,” Acosta said. The lady councilor from the first district said she is targeting for the proposal to be discussed for the first reading on next week’s regular council session on Tuesday and immediately have the committee hearing the next day. “I hope the amendment will be passed before July 15 where it is targeted to be presented to stakeholders at the 1st Mindanao Halal Festival,” Acosta said. The Halal festival will be on July 15 and 16 at the Abreeza Ayala Mall.

and promote the business interest of, and provide global linkages for its members and the Davao business community, a statement sent to EDGE Davao said. During the Regional Development Council (RDC) XI meeting last June 24 where DOTC assistant secretary Jaime Fortunato Caringal of the Department ofTransportation and Communication (DoTC) made a presentation of the Sasa Modernization Project, several concerns and issues were raised. The DCCCII has invited Secretary Joseph Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya of the Depart-

ment of Transportation and Communication (DoTC) and Secretary Rogelio L. Singson of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to speak during the forum. Also invited were Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) general manager Juan C. Sta. Ana, and National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) director-general Arsenio M. Balisacan as part of the esteemed panelists. On the other hand, the reactors will be composed of representatives from Filipinas Port Services (FilPort) and the Davao Integrated Port Services & Stevedoring Cor-

poration (DIPSSCOR), which are both currently providing cargo-handling services in Sasa Port, A representative from the ANFLOCOR Group of Companies which operates the Davao International Container Terminal or DICT in Panabo will also participate, as well as those from the Hijo International Ports Services (HIPS) jointly operated by Hijo Resources Corp. and ICTSI. The forum is expected to be graced not just by members of DCCCII, but the rest of the stakeholders of the Davao Region. Cheneen R. Capon

Forum on Sasa port modernization, July 10

HE Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) will hold a forum on the controversial P17-billion Sasa Port Modernization Project on July 10 at the Park Inn by Radisson in Lanang. The DCCCII-led forum aims to enlighten the Davao Stakeholders on the proposed 17-B project by the Department of Transportation and Communication (DoTC). The forum will also serve as an avenue for further clarifications and deeper inquisition with regards to the parties involved, as the organization’s mission is to uphold

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fail to cut smoking D ESPITE the higher excise taxes on cigarettes, R. A. No.10351 or the “Excise Tax Reform Law of 2012” has failed to considerably reduce smoking incidence, particularly among the youth, Rep. Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona said. “There are no less than 20 million smokers today in the Philippines, the same number of smokers in 2011, prior to the tax increase,” Madrona (Lone District, Romblon) revealed. Madrona, chair of the House Committee on Accounts, is author of HB 5013 entitled “An Act to prevent youth access to tobacco by mandating a minimum cigarette price,” or “The Minimum Cigarette Price Law,” now under consideration by the House Committee on Trade and Industry. He noted that in a survey commissioned by the Department of Health (DOH), the Social Weather Station (SWS) reported that while there was a reduction in cigarette consumption in some socio-economic classes and age groups, the overall smoking incidence had not significantly decreased since R.A. 10351 came into effect. Based on the same survey, Madrona said, 45 percent of smokers merely switched to cheaper brands when taxes were increased. “Undoubtedly, this is due to the proliferation of super cheap or discount brands in the market,” he said, adding that when a cigarette pack or

stick is sold very cheap, smokers, including the youth, have easy access to affordable cigarettes, resulting in the lack of change in overall smoking incidence. Madrona said under the new tax structure, any cigarette manufacturer that sells products below the tax it pays to the government is not operating in the spirit of achieving the intents of RA 10351, which is to reduce the overall smoking incidence especially among the youth. He insisted that while the newly-enacted Graphic Health Warning Law or RA 10643 aims to further discourage youth smoking by attaching scary pictures on cigarette packs, it needs to be complemented by some form of price discipline. “This is because a young smoker needs to buy or have a face-to-face encounter with a graphic-laden cigarette pack before the desired impact of the law is achieved,” Madrona added. With his proposed minimum price scheme, Madrona surmised that the mere recitation of the minimum cigarette price would be enough for a young smoker to reconsider and realize that buying cheap is no longer a pocket-friendly option. Under HB 5013, setting a minimum cigarette price (MCP) per pack of cigarettes will decisively deny youth access to cheap affordable cigarettes and support the beneficial health impact of the excise tax reform law. (PNA)

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EDGEDAVAO

THE ECONOMY

First Halal Festival set July 15-16 By CHENEEN R. CAPON crc@edgedavao.net

ROUND 30 suppliers of Halal products from all over Mindanao will participate in the two-day exhibition

of the 1st Halal Festival on July 15 to 16 at the Abreeza Ayala Mall. “Exhibitors will be showcasing Halal food,

apparel, fashion accessories, investment techniques, talents and other products and services that are Halal certified,” event

organizer and Escider Inc. president Mims Ayunan said in yesterday’s Club 888 media forum at the Marco Polo Davao.

HALAL FEST. Escider, Inc. president and chief executive officer Mims Ayunan says around 30 suppliers of Halal products from all over Mindanao will participate in the two-day exhibition of the 1st Halal Festival on July 15 to 16 at the Abreeza Ayala Mall. Ayunan was joined by Councilor Mabel Sunga-Acosta in yesterday’s Club 888 Forum at The Marco Polo, Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

Ayunan said aside from the exhibition, the first Halal festival will also serve as venue for education about the real Halal practices, what it means and to improve business integrity through values perpetuated by truly Halal role models. There were misconception on Halal products among Muslim and non Muslim. “Companies who want to be Halal certified can also attend the festival and get in touch with the certifying bodies and organizations that can help them push their brand further,” Ayunan said. Escider Inc. vice president Syed Kamal Reza said the Davao Muslim Ulama Halal Certifying and Monitoring Agency Inc. from Davao City is now processing its application to be accredited by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) as a regional Halal certifying body in this part of Mindanao.

As of May 3, NCMF has accredited three certifying bodies nationwide, including two in Mindanao, namely the Mindanao Halal Authority (MINHA) Inc. from General Santos City and Muslim Mindanao Halal Certification Board (MMHCB) Inc. of Cotabato City. Reza said establishments selling Halal products should be certified to be more competitive in the global market since certification is crucial in catering the Muslim population. Aside from exhibition and information dissemination, there will be also a food festival showcasing cuisines of the six Muslim tribes in Mindanao. There will be a competition on the first Mindanao-wide Qur’an memorization competition, according to Reza. Winners of the event will receive monetary price and an all-expense paid pilgrimage trip to Mecca next year.

EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

Duterte’s call

VER the peacemaker, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte has called for a temporary ceasefire between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the New People’s Army (NPA), at least during the wake of fallen rebel leader Leoncio Pitao alias Kumander Parago. Duterte made the call when he visited the wake of Parago a couple of nights ago to pay his last respects to the legendary leader, his friend who was killed together with his medical aide in a military raid Sunday afternoon in the hinterlands of Paquibato District. The local chief executive even went to the extent of assuring NPA rebels they will not be arrested if they visit the wake of Parago anytime and view his remains, provided they do not have standing warrants of arrest. This gesture of goodwill by Duterte to Parago’s followers in particular and to the communist movement in general speaks of what kind of a mayor he is. But more importantly, Duterte’s act is timely for this will defuse the tension now

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brewing between the AFP and NPA as result of the death of Parago, leader of the Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) 1 Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC). No less than the AFP has announced it expects the NPA to stage retaliatory attacks in the aftermath of Parago’s death, but was also quick to give assurance that government troops are prepared to repel any assault that will come their way. Of course, the AFP and even the PNP can always say they are always prepared for any eventuality, but the trouble with skirmishes between government troops and the rebels is that innocent civilians get caught in the crossfire most of the time. If they don’t end up getting hit by bullets, civilians – many of them women and children – are forced to flee their homes every time the shooting starts in an encounter. We don’t want this to happen, not in this city which has enjoyed peace for a long time now. We hope both the AFP and NPA will heed Duterte’s call. ANTONIO M. AJERO Editor in Chief

NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Managing Editor

AGAPITO JOAQUIN JR. Associate Editor

CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY Consultant

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

EDGEDAVAO Actor Gerald Anderson samples the Tricity bike.

wheels, anyone? Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc., recently launched the three-wheeled Yamaha Tricity with a two-day grand test ride last June 27 and 27 at the open parking area of SM City Davao where Dabawenyos got to know more the Yamaha-Exclusive Leaning Multi-Wheel system of LMW which allows two front wheels to adjust independently to different road conditions. From ten in the morning to eight in the evening, Yamaha Tricity test rides were conducted for interested Dabawenyos all under the supervision of Yamaha certified instructors. Participants would go through a detailed briefing of a custom course that showcases the superior ride quality and stability of the new bike. Aside from the outdoor activities, Yamaha also setup a Rev station inside the mall where the public can learn about the LMW and the Tricity. The Yamaha Tricity was conceptualized by Yamaha with the idea of it being “Smart for All”, a creation that was in pursuit of “Refined Dynamism”, Yamaha’s own design philosophy. The design elements of the machine reflect its modernity and elegance, giving an impression of dynamic movement, a look of confident intelli-

gence that beautifully envelops the rider. The highlight of the event was a special appearance by Gerald Anderson who took the Yamaha Tricity around the test ride track drawing a crowdof enthusiasts, club members, and the general public who wanted to be part of the exciting and historic event. The 2-day event brings Yamaha’s world class excellence that will ignite the passion of every rider.

The Mindanao leg is the final stop of the Yamaha Tricity’s Philippine launch. With the introduction of a new level elegance, originality, and comfort the Yamaha Tricity re-defines new standards of Filipino personal mobility. Yamaha models with motorcycle exhibits

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

◄ Park Inn by Radisson Davao’s Chef Nicanor Tacan, the hotel’s representative for the Quickfire Category live competition at the MCF last June 27, 2015 Park Inn by Radisson Davao’s Representatives (from the left - Chef Nicanor Tacan, Chef Randy Montejo ,Chef Jovanni Medel) ►

◄ Park Inn by Radisson Davao’s Kitchen & F&B Team during the Grand opening of MCF 2015

Park Inn by Radisson Davao joins 12th Mindanao Culinary Festival PARK INN by Radisson Davao’s kitchen team won a bronze medal on the Quickfire Salad Category at the recently concluded 12th Mindanao Culinary Festival held at the Atrium of SM Lanang Premier last

June 25 to June 27, 2015. The 12th Mindanao Culinary Festival, in partnership with Les Touques Blanches (LTB) Philippines, was well attended by the Philippines’ reputable chefs such as

chefs Jose Gamboa, Fernando Aracama, Norbert Gandler, Penk Ching Tan, Jackie Ang Po, Nancy Lumen-Reyes, Buddy Trinidad, Michael Yap, Jerome Valencia, Brando Santos, Dan Basilio, Jem Ray-

mundo, Carlo Miguel and James Antolin, who was the overall head of the Culinary Event Competition. “We are very proud of our Kitchen team for their creativity and skills” says Pavan Kakar, General

Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Davao. “They have shown great teamwork and collaboration throughout the competition. The event was surely competitive and challenging.”

▲ Pavan Kakar , Park Inn Davao’s General Manager together with the hotels’s representative chefs

iPhone 6s pictures, features leaked FIRST GLIMPSE? Blog 9to5Mac says the iPhone 6s will be unveiled in September, and will look almost identical externally to the current iPhone 6 and 6s.

APPLE’S next iPhone will look almost identical to the current version at first glance, it has been claimed. However, the handset, expected to be called the 6s and the 6s Plus, they will have a radical overhaul internally – and a new pressure sensitive screen. 9to5Mac claims these images are the first of the phone, which is expected to be unveiled in September

and go on sale soon after. “For fall 2015, Apple is preparing an ‘S’ iPhone upgrade that superficially preserves the exterior designs of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, but includes a collection of major internal changes,” the site says. “As expected, these photos show that the nextgeneration iPhone will have a rear design identical to that of the current iPhone, similar

to the transition from the iPhone 5 to iPhone 5S.” The leaks come just days after Apple began manufacturing the next iPhone According to Apple, “In addition to recognizing touch, Apple Watch senses force, adding a new dimension to the user interface. Force Touch uses tiny electrodes around the flexible Retina display to distinguish between a light tap and a

deep press, and trigger stant access to a range contextually specific c trols. With Force Tou pressing firmly on the scr brings up additional cont in apps like Messages, Mu and Calendar. It also lets select different watch fa pause or end a worko search an address in Ma and more. Force Touch is most significant new sens capability since MultiTouc

Zuckerberg reveals upcoming Facebook features in Q&A IN HIS latest written question-and-answer session on his Facebook page, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg talked about several features the company is currently working on. He also answered queries from users related to health, science, and the future of Facebook. Zuckerberg talked about the company’s efforts in the artificial intelligence (AI) field. On being asked to detail more on the AI initiatives that Facebook is involved in, he replied, “Most of our AI research is focused on understanding the meaning of what people share.” Zuckerberg explained that if a user shared an image that includes his friend, Facebook should make sure that the friend sees it. Similarly, if a user

posted an image of dog and shared a post about politics, Facebook should show the post to people who like dogs and politics. “In order to do this really well, our goal is to build AI systems that are better than humans at our primary senses: vision, listening, etc. For vision, we’re building systems that can recognize everything that’s in an image or a video. This includes people, objects, scenes, etc. These systems need to understand the context of the images and videos as well as whatever is in them,” he said. Facebook is also working on translating speech to text alongside text between any languages to answer user queries. He said, “For listening and language, we’re focusing on translating speech to

text, text between any languages, and also being able to answer any natural language question you ask. This is a pretty basic overview. There’s a lot more we’re doing and I’m looking forward to sharing more soon.” On being asked about Internet.org, Zuckerberg replied, “We’re working on two main paths: First, we’re working on partnerships with operators to deliver free basic Internet services around the world. This is already live in more than a dozen countries and more than one billion people can already access these free basic Internet services. We have many more launches planned around the world as well. Second, we’re working on new technologies that can extend In-

ternet connectivity even further. The main three things we’re working on are drones, satellites and lasers.” He added that ‘Internet for all’ can contribute to jobs, education, health, and communication. Responding to a query about Facebook’s future, Zuckerberg cited a few new trends in communication that the company is working, on including virtual reality and augmented reality. “One day, I believe we’ll be able to send full rich thoughts to each other directly using technology. You’ll just be able to think of something and your friends will immediately be able to experience it too if you’d like. This would be the ultimate communication technology,” he said.

r ine of conuch, reen trols usic, you aces, out, aps, s the sing ch.”

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Movies not to miss in July US government in “Ghost Protocol” but still being able to save the world from a terrorist threat, the IMF are now going to be faced their deadliest mission yet; their survival from a rival organisation whose sole mission is to wipe out the IMF. Returning to form the IMF is Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Jeremy Renner, and Ving Rames, with Rebecca

JULY may be Raya month, but cinemas this year aren’t going to be choked full of local movies. Already on the release schedule are three major blockbusters that are more than enough to keep you occupied for the month, but there is certainly plenty more where they came from. July has turned out to be a good month for those looking for horror, comedy and coming-of-age romances. So take a look at what’s for your selection after breaking fast or to enjoy your Raya holiday for July!

Ted 2 If there is one thing that has defined Seth MacFarlane’s involvement in feature films is that him being the voice of a fluffy teddy bear is more popular than seeing him in person. After MacFarlane’s second feature “A Million Ways to Die in the West” had a slow death in the box office, he is best on following up with a sequel with the pot-smoking plush toy. “Ted 2” will pick up with Ted’s marriage to his girlfriend, but he is not allowed to have a baby until he can prove he is a person in the American civil court. While we would undoubtedly love the Mark Wahlberg and Ted pair, having Amanda Seyfried replacing Mila Kunis as the new female lead would keep us from complaining. If we were delighted by the surprise appearances in “Ted”, then this sequel is also bringing in a laughing list of cameos from Morgan Freeman, Liam Neeson to John Slattery. General Release Date: 2 July Dark Places Since “Gone Girl”, Gillian Flynn’s novels have become a new well of thrillers to mine from for its shock value and dark plots. “Dark Places” is her second novel being adapted to the big screen, but her involvement in this adaptation pretty much ends there. While director Gilles Paquet-Brenner is no David Fincher, he does have in his favour a solid cast. Starring Charlize Theron (who has rekindled her fame after “Mad Max: Fury Road”) as the sole survivor of a shooting that murdered her mother and sister, she testified against her brother for pulling the trigger on behalf of a satanic cult. She would be confronted by Nicholas Hoult (also last seen in “Fury Road”) as a member of amateur crime investigators, who points out that the evidence doesn’t add up and she may have put the blame on the wrong person. The impressive cast list doesn’t end there too, with Christina Hendricks, Chloe Grace Moretz and Tye Sheridan fitting into the picture, and if Gilliam’s first novel is any

indication, it’s going to be one twisted picture as each piece of the puzzle fits. General Release Date: 2 July Marvel’s Ant-Man The Marvel Phase 2 comes to an end, not from the last hurrah of the original Avengers in “Age of Ultron”, but from the tiniest superhero to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe canon. When small-time thief Scott Lang manages to break into the lab of scientist Hank Pym, he is given a chance to redeem himself if he is willing to don on the suit as Ant-Man. “Ant-Man” will officially be the first superhero to be introduced in the upcoming Phase 3 of Marvel Stu-

dios that will be bringing in a new batch of superheroes to our screens in the near future. Initially to be directed by Edgar Wright, Wright was later replaced by Peyton Reed (who last directed “Yes Man”), while the suit would be changing hands from Michael Douglas as Hank Pym to Paul Rudd’s Scott Lang. The cast is supported by Evangeline Liliy and Michael Peña and Corey Stoll will be the nemesis in his yellowjacket suit. General Release Date: 16 July Ju-On 4: The Final Curse Since 2002’s “Ju-On: The Grudge”, the “Ju-On” series has had a long run that

lasted up to seven movies as of its latest in 2014. Now that hints of the origins of the white-skinned boy origins have started to emerge in “The Beginning of the End”, the franchise is finally ready to wrap up its reign of terror in cinemas. Set after the events when elementary school teacher Yui Shono disappeared after entering into the Saeki household, her sister Mai sets out to find her missing sister and the cause of her disappearance. As the last installment of this long running series, this is most obviously a mustsee for fans who have followed through every movie, and the premise gets even more mysterious when the entire house containing the vengeful spirits is removed

entirely. That is one added mystery to solve and perhaps we can finally put our spirits to rest whenever we hear the slow croaking from here on. General Release Date: 9 July Paper Towns The adaptation of author John Green’s novel “The Fault In Our Stars” might turn out to be too sappy for those who haven’t read his work, but this next adaptation should be able to show that Green is an author who can get into the mind of his young audience and readers. When Quentin “Q” Jacobsen’s childhood friend and neighbour, Margo,

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Ferguson being the new face who has information for the team. Director Christopher McQuarie will be on the helm this time around, but this is already his second directorial collaboration with Tom Cruise, and he certainly won’t be toning down the high risk stunt as evident in the trailer. General Release Date: 30 July

climbs into his room one night and asks him to accompany on a revenge spree in the middle of the night, Q gladly takes this risky opportunity to reconnect with the girl that has drifted apart from him. The following day, Margo is nowhere to be found and is presumed missing. When Q starts finding clues that are left behind by Margo to find her, Q decides to go on a road-trip to bring her back, as he slowly uncovers more about Margo and himself. While Josh Boone is not returning to direct this second adaptation, the screenplay is still being adapted by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber. As for the direction, that duty has been given to Jack Schreier, who is not a complete unknown for the work he had done with the rather impressive “Robot and Frank”, so we know that things are in good hands. Also, changing is the less than star-driven

cast that “The Fault in Our Stars” had with its leading starlings, instead Nat Wolff who became our favourite blind would be looking for his lost love, to be played by uprising newcomer Cara Delevingne. General Release Date: 23 July Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation The year of the spy continues with its next entry for the genre in July. After getting a clever and hilarious poke on the genre from Paul Feig’s “Spy”, it’s time to switch it back to high gear with “Mission:Impossible Rogue Nation”. After being formally disavowed by the

July 1 – 5, 2015

JURASSIC WORLD Chris Pratt, Judy Greer PG

11:40 | 2:15 | 4:50 | 7:25 | 10:00 LFS

MAX Josh Wiggins, Thomas Haden Church G

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

THE BREAKUP PLAYLIST Sarah Geronimo, Piolo Pascual PG

R-16

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

TERMINATOR GENISYS J.K. Simmons, Emilia Clarke, Jai Courtney PG

11:40 | 2:15 | 4:50 | 7:25 | 10:00 LFS

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EVENT

Northpoint launches 5th condo building NORTHPOINT will unveil its fifth condominium building, Bradford, in a grand lay claim to being a pine of Liverpool. These are wide struction includes another launch this evening at the Waterfront Insular Hotel in Lanang, Davao City. estate, with hundreds of im- openings that allow in natu- level to the two-storey strucNorthpoint is Vista Residences’ landmark condominium development that presently has three buildings, with the fourth, Liverpool, to be constructed soon. Bradford, a ten-story structure, is going to be North-

point’s last building. “That means this is the last chance for homebuyers to own a piece of Northpoint and live its enviably charming lifestyle,” said Anna Mae dela Pena, Marketing Head of Camella Davao, Vista

Residences’ sister company. Dela Pena said that Northpoint’s unique features make it a desirable home for those looking to live a good life. It is the only condominium development in the region that can

ported Caribbean pine trees currently growing on its grounds. One of Northloint’s most vital features is that it is built on solid bedrock, giving the condo towers a solid foundation. The grounds are also filled with sturdy pines that can grow up to a hundred feet tall, providing protection from harsh winds and rain and preventing topsoil erosion. The Caribbean pines are not only functional, they also lend a graceful beauty to Northpoint’s overall appeal. The pines are augmented by lush plant life, preserved olden Acacia trees, and meticulously landscaped grounds. The verdant outdoors is brought inside the buildings with its indoor garden at the atrium and the Sky Courts

ral light and cool breeze and give homeowners an expansive vista of all the greenery. Upping the ante of condo living in Northpoint is its lifestyle center, a commercial development that will feature high-end retail stores, a top brand coffee shop, specialty shops, fine dining restaurants, and other interesting lifestyle options. It goes without saying the Northpoint’s prime location, premier address, and world-class facilities and amenities make it a viable property investment, whether homeowners live in their condo units or take in tenants. Its value continue to appreciate, especially with the current renovation of the clubhouse called Wakefield Manor. The ongoing con-

ture to accommodate a bigger function hall. The clubhouse’s enhancement will enable it to accommodate the growing number of residents in Northpoint. With its strategic location, deluxe amenities, and modern condominiums ensconced within a lush, healthful environment, Northpoint is clearly in a league of its own. Bradford will give Northpoint more condo units such as studios and units with one, two, and three bedrooms that will fit the discriminating tastes of homebuyers. For more information on Northpoint, visit the Camella offices at Delgar Bldg (across Northpoint), JP Laurel Avenue, Bajada, or call 2263100.

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Not fast and furious

UICK, speedy, sudden, fleeting, rapid, swift, hasty, high-speed, prompt, expeditious, and immediate. These words came into my mind while I was reading a story forwarded to me by a friend via e-mail. It happened I presumed in the United States but it can also happen here. Please read it slowly (at a snail’s pace, so to speak) and contemplate: A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street, going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag’s side door! He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown. The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car shouting, “What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That’s a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?” The young boy was apologetic. “Please, mister, please, I’m sorry but I didn’t know what else to do,” he pleaded. “I threw the brick because no one else would stop…” Now, with tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. “It’s my brother,” he said. “He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can’t lift him up.” Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, “Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He’s hurt and he’s too heavy for me.” Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the

Dear Atty. Zen,

them when they are gone.” Robert Updegraff also said, “To get all there is out of living, we must employ our time wisely, never being in too much of a hurry to stop and sip life, but never losing our sense of the enormous value of a minute.” This haste thing is a creation of man. As one Irish proverb puts it, “God made time, but man made haste.” Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu echoed the same sentiment: “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” Saint Francis de Sales advised: “Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.” When was the last time you talked with your loved ones? When was the last time you had a heart-to-heart talk with your children? When was the last time you hear the pleadings of your inner self? If you can’t recall it now, it’s because you were always busy and in a hurry? Why in a hurry, anyway? I was reminded by the words of C.EM. Joad, who said, “It has been left to our generation to discover that you can move heaven and earth to save five minutes and then not have the faintest idea what to do with them when you have saved them.” Today, God whispers in your soul and speaks to your heart. Sometimes when you don’t have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at us (just what happened to young executive). It’s your choice to listen or not. God didn’t promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way. Read these final words very slowly and let it sink in: If God brings you to it; He will bring you through it.

sion of Paternity” ZENSIBILITIES you rendered on the child’s birth certificate and the court may compel the parties to undergo deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA testing to show the paternity of the child (Supreme Court Resolution 10-022007 or Rule on Emily Zen Chua DNA Evidences). If the court would order the parties to undergo the DNA test, then there is no need to procure the consent of the couple. But if you would do this outside of a court proceeding, the consent of the mother of the child and the child would need to be procured first. You are right; DNA testing is only done in Manila. DNA Test Philippines on their website http://dnatestph.com/index.html shows that the cost for a court-approved paternity test is around P27,500. They can lower their rate to P15,000 if the result will not be used in a court proceeding. On the other hand, St. Luke’s Medical Center likewise conducts said test but the fee is around P25,388.00 for each test – and they would need to test the father, the child, and the mother. In both DNA Test Philippine and St. Luke’s Medical Center, you, the child, and the mother of the child would have to go to their office in Quezon City since they need to personally take the sample themselves. The court is quite strict in appreciating the DNA test result. This might be the reason why St. Luke’s Medical Center requires a court order before they will conduct the test. This is found in Section 7 of Supreme Court Resolution 10-022007 which provides that, “In assessing the probative value of the DNA evidence presented, the court shall consider the following: (a) The chain of custody... and the possibility of contamination of the samples; (b) The DNA testing methodology...; (c) The forensic DNA laboratory...; and (d)

The reliability of the testing result, as hereinafter provided.” The result of this test is treated as part of the evidence of your case, as such, its validity can be questioned by the other party. The doctor who conducted the test would need to testify in court and you would need to likewise pay for the doctor’s appearance fee in court. In appreciating the result of the DNA test, Section 9 of Supreme Court Resolution 10-02-2007 provides that, “DNA results that exclude the putative parent from paternity shall be conclusive proof of non-paternity. If the value of the Probability of Paternity is less than 99.9%, the results of the DNA testing shall be considered as corroborative evidence. If the value of the Probability of Paternity is 99.9% or higher, there shall be a disputable presumption of paternity.” (underlining mine) In other words, in appreciating the case, the court would likewise consider the other evidences presented by the parties. Doubting Dad, it seems that your best recourse is to prepare for the future instead of dwelling in the past. If you have admitted the child’s paternity on his or her birth certificate, then your first step is to question the legitimacy of the child. But to do this, you would need to admit that you have relations with the mother of the child in open court. As such, your family and the public would know about your illicit extramarital affairs. In addition, you would subject yourself to the risk that your family might likewise file cases against you. If you have not admitted your paternity on the child’s birth certificate, then you have the option to stop giving support to the child. The mother of the child may file a civil case for support or a criminal case under Republic Act 9262 or “Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004” against you. In both of these cases, you can raise as defence that you are not the father of the child. The opinion rendered by the author does not constitute a lawyer-client relationship. Please send your comments and questions to EmilyZen@ ezlawdavao.com.

Betrayed boyfriend

I am 50 years old and a very married man. I caught my girlfriend in bed with another man. She admitted she had betrayed me since four years ago. This led me to doubt whether I am the real father of her three-year old son I had been giving financial support to from the start. I want to check if he is really my child through a DNA test. What does the law say? Do I need to get permission from the authorities? I heard that DNA test is available only in Manila. Please give me an idea of the cost. Supposing the DNA test proves that he is not my child, what should be my next moves? Can I sue my girlfriend for hoodwinking me into supporting the child? Can I sue for damages or demand for a refund? Thank you. Doubting Dad Dear Doubting Dad,

wheelchair, then THINK ON THESE! took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. “Thank you and may God bless you,” the grateful child Henrylito D. Tacio told the stranger. henrytacio@gmail.com Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home. It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door. He kept the dent there to remind him of this message: “Don’t go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!” Today, we live in a world where everything seems to happen in a wink of an eye. We want things to be done quickly. We want our food instant. We like our meetings to end immediately. Movies have to be short and fast. Speeches have to be prompt and also entertaining. Matthew Arnold was right when he said, “This strange disease of modern life, with its sick hurry, its divided aims.” Perhaps the words of George Eliot should remind us all: “The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us, and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know

I know you are having a very difficult time right now smarting for the pain caused by your girlfriend’s betrayal. I am not condoning this clearly illegal and immoral relationship, but I do recognize the deep pain caused by a betrayal of someone very close to you. Unfortunately, due to the circumstances surrounding your relationship with your girlfriend, it may be difficult for you to seek redress under the law. It may be difficult to sue your girlfriend for reimbursement of the support you gave to a child that is not related to you. In the first place, she can easily raise the defense that she herself was convinced that you have sired the child. And even if the DNA test will show that the child is not your own child, there is no law prohibiting you from support the child. As such, asking your girlfriend to refund you for all of your expenses is difficult. In the event that you have recognized the child as your own by filling up the “Affidavit of Acknowledgment/Admission of Paternity” found at the back of the birth certificate, you have the option to question the legitimacy of the child. You may want to file a case to withdraw the “Admis-

VANTAGE POINTS

Rematch of the decade “I AM ready!” boomed DILG secretary Mar Roxas. “I will not back down!” boasted Vice President Jejomar Binay. Now the stage is set for the rematch of the decade – the battle royale – between two political warriors with contrasting lifestyle, leadership technique, temper, and vision for the nation. They first exchanged blows in 2010 in pursuit of the vice presidency. Now, six years later, they are after the biggest political plum – the presidency. Their first confrontation was subdued, virtually listless, had little excitement, and almost zero fanfare. That was because the main event was Noynoy (again) and Manny (Villar). But in 2016, the people can expect a lot of fireworks and exchange of bombs. Binay is a brawler who doesn’t back down even when badly hurt. He is an astute operator and master politician. Roxas is a counter puncher who throws crisp jabs, uppercuts, and right crosses. He waits for his opponent to commit a mistake and then pounces on him relentlessly. The major issues against both Binay and Roxas are quite simple. Against Roxas, the issue is incompetence which he exposed unwittingly during the typhoon Yolanda tragedy, and in the Mamasapano massacre early this year. He bungled his job as head of rescue operation. Against Binay, the issue is corruption brought to public awareness by a former political squire. Binay has been local government kingpin for decades, MMDA Chief, and Noynoy’s housing czar, and incompetence has never been an issue against him. In 2010, the heavily favored Roxas lost steam at the homestretch and the underdog Binay beat him with plenty to spare. Binay’s stunning come-from-behind victory gave him a headstart in the 2016 presidential derby. In 2016, Binay won’t be the underdog. It’s Roxas who is, chiefly because of his poor performance in all opinion surveys. Between now and May 2016, many things can happen that may change the country’s political landscape. Possible scenario: Binay is finally charged with plunder, and Roxas gets a boost from P-Noy’s endorsement as LP official bet for Malacanang. A dark horse for President? None so far.

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10 NEWS

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TIGHT SECURITY. A security guard of The Royal Mandaya Hotel inspects the bags and luggage of visitors at the entrance of the hotel yesterday. Business establishments are implementing strict security measures due to reports that the New People’s Army (NPA) will launch massive attacks after Kumander Parago was killed last Sunday. Lean Daval Jr.

PDEA: Bigger drug haul this year By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HILIPPINE Drug Enforcement agency (PDEA) 11 confiscated more illegal drugs from January to June this year than during the same period last year. In a press conference yesterday, PDEA 11 regional director Emerson Rosales said that his office seized “a significant volume of illegal drugs” for the

two quarters of 2015. Rosales said PDEA seized a total of 3.3 kilos of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) from January to June this year, twice the 1.7 kilos it seized during the same period last year. He also said PDEA seized nine kilos of marijuana this year. “It is good to note that we

have a bigger volume of seized drugs for the two quarters of 2015,” Rosales said. He also said 549 persons were apprehended.in the 336 operations PDEA 11 conducted during the first two quarters. “We are targeting the main drug groups and sources right now, not just the small time drug runners,” he said.

Rosales said most of the drug supplies in Davao City come from Central Mindanao, whose supply, in turn, comes from Metro Manila. Rosales said 40 percent of the barangays in Region 11 are considered drug-affected. He also said his office has monitored several barangay officials involved in illegal drug activities.

HE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 12 has generated around P705 million in savings in the implementation of various infrastructure this year in parts of the region. In a press conference, DPWH 12 regional director Reynaldo Tamayo said such savings were the result of their strict adherence to the transparency principle in all processes involved in terms of project implementation. Tamayo specifically cited the conduct of competitive bidding as set in Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act. “We we’re able to reduce the actual cost of the projects from their approved budgets

because of competitive and transparent bidding,” Tamayo said. Through competitive bidding, he said they were able to eliminate “fixings” in the awarding of the projects to contractors. Aside from the transparent bidding process, Tamayo said they also generated some savings through the proper designing and planning of the projects. The DPWH central office had approved around P9.2 billion worth of projects, mostly road expansion and upgrading, for the region this year. As of Tuesday, the official said they already accomplished 32.7 percent of the 514 projects that were lined

up for implementation in the area this year. Tamayo said they returned last Monday, June 29, their savings this year to the Department of Budget and Management. But he said they are currently preparing some projects proposals for the possible realignment of the returned funds. Last year, he said they were able to implement a number of additional projects out of the P200-million savings that they generated. In 2013, the agency accumulated some P33.46 million in savings from the implementation of various tourism road projects in the region. The DPWH-12 had allocated some P340.89 million

for the implementation of five tourism road projects under its 2013 infrastructure program. “Promoting the right project at the right cost, with the right quality and righton-time implementation is always the policy (of DPWH12),” Tamayo said. Along with the adoption of such policy, he said they enforced reforms in the bidding process and implementation of the projects in line with the principle of good governance and the anti-corruption efforts of the national government. These reforms are also in consonance with the “tuwid na daan” advocacy of President Benigno S. Aquino III, he added. (PNA)

making sure that they will be properly developed and promoted,” he said. Mansueto dela Peña, Kematu barangay chair, expressed gratefulness over the government’s resolve to develop the area for tourism. “This will surely bring in more livelihood and other socio-economic opportunities to our constituents,” he said. Earlier this month, the

local government of T’boli also launched the Lamhaku El Kini hot spring complex in Barangay Lamhaku . The improvement of Sitio Kule, the take-off area to T’boli’s Lake Holon is also underway. The municipal government initially purchased 15 All-Terrain Vehicles and renovated the children’s playground at the town plaza as part of its priority tourism initiatives.(PNA)

kitang drug money for political campaign as early as hindi pa nagaganapang election i-arrest na natin (If we see politicians using drug money for their political campaign, we will arrest them immediately),” he said. Rosales said no narco-pol-

itician was arrested in the last election although there were reports that some politicians were involved in drugs. Rosales however, said drug money does not influence politics in the region. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

was a legitimate encounter,” he said. Sibal said no one can replace the iconic Parago, whose leadership is “different” from

that of other NPA leaders. He said there will be a leadership vacuum that would lead to the NPA’s ultimate downfall in Southern Mindanao.

DPWH 12 generates P705-M savings T

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might be released after a week. She said Danao already ordered an investigation to track the source of the rice and who distributed it in the city. “We are still digging deeper if this is fake rice or synthetic rice. Let’s wait for the result (of the test),” she said. Driz said the DCPO is closely monitoring the flow of rice in the city in coordination with NFA and CAO as Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte wants to fast-track the investigation. NFA provincial manager Virgilio Alerta had earlier confirmed that fake rice has reached the city. In an interview with EDGE Davao last Monday, Alerta said a certain Carmen Grenio, a resident of Matina Aplaya, turned

over a sample of the alleged fake rice last Friday. He said the rice was bought by Grenio’s sister-inlaw in a store in Cabantian and was cooked by Grenio. However, he said the alleged fake rice still needs to be tested in the NFA laboratory in Manila to further identify its composition and to find out whether it is edible or not. Alerta said the rice was allegedly sold to the store by a distributor from Bansalan, Davao del Sur. But when the NFC checked the distributors’ warehouse nothing has found. Duterte earlier warned importers and retailers against selling synthetic rice in the city, saying he will force these people to eat it.

arrested and 140 others surrendered. The data further showed 127 firearms have been recovered. From 29 guerrilla fronts in the second quarter of 2014, the military was able to dismantle five guerilla fronts in the second quarter this year in its area of responsibility, Baladad said. He said that from these figures, it goes to show that the rebel movement is weakening. Eastern Mindanao Command covers the provinces of

Agusan, Davao, Compostela and Surigao. Simon Santiago, NPA’s spokesperson in Davao Region, refuted the military claims, saying that the death of Pitao will not weaken the communist movement in the region. In a text message to MindaNews, Santiago added that the slain rebel leader has been revered as an icon not just among the ranks of the guerrillas but also among the people in the countryside. (Keith Bacongco / MindaNews)

Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (RIACAT) in Davao Region revealed that the number of convictions from 2010 to 2014 increased to nine from just three convictions from 2003 to 2010. Duterte, however, said country’s Tier Two ranking in the US Department of State on Diplomacy in Action has not

changed despite the intensive campaign of the government against human trafficking. Tier Two refers to countries whose governments do not fully comply with Trafficking Victims Protection Act’s minimum standards but are making significant efforts to bring themselves into compliance of standards.

five former lawmakers in all the cases. Morales said that the resolution is not yet executory as the respondents may still file their motions for reconsideration. Also indicted along with Ducut and the five former lawmakers, according to Rafanan, are some other officials of the ERC, Department of Budget and Management, Technology Resource Center, National Agri-Business Corporation, and officials of government implementing agencies that had allegedly served as conduits for the misuse of PDAF. Meanwhile, Morales said that the indictment of Ducut (an administration ally) and Biazon (a member of the ruling Liberal Party) “... is an argument to the criticism that we are enforcing selective justice.” The Ombudsman said that

more cases may be filed with the Sandiganbayan in connection with the pork barrel scam. However, Morales said that it is difficult to process the cases on the third batch of PDAF scam because whistle-blower Benhur Luy was not included. ”That shouldn’t deter us from continuing the probe,” Morales said. Likewise, Morales said that the dismissal order against former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director General Alan Purisima “is the best argument against selective justice” allegation. Morales stressed that the Ombudsman’s dismissal of former PNP Chief Purisima is “immediately executory.” She pointed out, however, that Purisima can still file a motion for reconsideration on his dismissal. (PNA)

duce traffic jams),” he said. He said the restoration of excavated roads is done

right away in accordance with DPWH standards. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

AFP... FROM 2

Rody... FROM 2

Ombudsman... FROM 2

DCWD... FROM 3

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

11 ENVIRONMENT

Saving Agusan marsh Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

HEN someone tells you Agusan Marsh, what comes into your mind immediately? Lolong, that’s what. When it was still alive, Lolong -which measured 20 feet and three inches -- was listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest crocodile in captivity. It was caught in a Magsagangsang Creek in barangay Nueva Era of Bunawan, which was part of Agusan Marsh. Agusan Marsh harbors the most diverse assemblage of reptiles and amphibians and supports the largest remaining population of the estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) and is also believed to harbor the endangered Philippine crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis). Agusan Marsh was declared a protected area by former President Fidel V. Ramos. It is home to unique and pristine habitats like the sago and “peat swamp forest.” In the very heart of the marsh is a semi-permanent lake where many square kilometers of lily pads, hyacinths and other aquatic plants spread out like an enormous green quilt. The United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has declared some 42,000 hectares of the marshlands as a “world heritage center” due to “its floral and faunal diversity with seven habitat types.” The website of the Society for the Conservation of the Philippine Wetlands gives us this brief information: “Agusan Marsh is one of the most ecologically significant wetlands in the Philippines. Found in the heart of Mindanao’s Agusan Basin, this vast expanse of marsh covers an area roughly the size of Metro Manila. It contains nearly 15 percent of the nation’s fresh water resources in the form of swamp forests.” Agusan Marsh, which spans 14,835.989 hectares, covers eight Agusan del Sur municipalities. Aside from Bunawan, the seven others are Talacogon, San Francisco, Rosario, Sta. Josefa, Veruela, Loreto and La Paz. Recently, I joined a group of journalists from Davao City to visit Sabang Gibong, a barangay of Talacogon. It is located about 40 kilometers away from the town proper. Our mission: to cover the turning over of 10 brand new computers donated by the Aboitiz Foundation to Sabang Gibong Elementary School. “Sabang” means “juncture” or “crossroad,” and we were to visit the place where a tributary river called Gibong joins the main Agusan River. Our invitation said that the travel time from Talacogon tobarangay Sabang Gibong was two hours. But one of the teachers who accompanied us told that it’s actually three hours to reach the place. It was an exhausting trip. There were 14 of us in the boat. There were no seats available so we had to sit at the sides of the boat. We didn’t have the luxury of stretching ourselves since there was not

The floating houses of barangay Sabang Gibong

Elementary pupils learning how to use the computers

Roy M. Renconada, Aboitiz’s senior account officer

The two schools of Sabang Gibong

Small bancas like this are used by pupils to go to school when the water rises during the rainy season

Lolong, touted to be the largest crocodile in captivity when it was still alive enough space. We couldn’t even stand or answer the call of nature. To survive the ordeal, we had to divert our attention to the beauty that surrounded us during the travel. We took photos of floating houses which caught our fancy. One interesting thing we found out is that people have comfort rooms a few meters away from the houses. “I am sure the excreta go

to the river,” someone commented. We laughed. As stated earlier, the houses are built on top of a raft. We saw some women washing clothes while there were others who took a bath. We really don’t how deep the river is because no one knows. Other things that caught our attention: water hyacinth, man bathing his

carabao, crops (corn and cassava) growing near the river bank, gully erosion, some floating logs, and boats that were carrying some passengers. Exactly three hours after we left Talacogon, we arrived at barangay Sabang Gibong. What welcomed us was a totally different world. We were surprised that there is a community, mostly ethnic Manobos, thriving in the area. These people have made their permanent homes deep within the marsh, living on floating homes. The small houses, which are linked to each other with a few ropes, are made of bamboo and nipa lashed to hard wood logs. These freely rise or fall with the level of the marsh itself. Here, extreme weather is the norm.

“For four months -- from September to December -- this barangay is under water,” said Emely D. Sumipao, the teacherin-charge of Sabang Gibong Elementary School. “But despite this, classes continue.” A father or mother usually brings their children to the school via a small banca (outrigger). In some instances, children themselves paddle the banca in going to school. That’s what 9-year-old Carlo Curato is doing. The fourthgrade pupil brings with him his sister, who is still in kinder. According to Sumipao, there are only three teachers and one volunteer doing the task of educating the almost 100 pupils in a limited space. One teacher teaches two grades in each classroom. Despite of the lack of school supplies and a classroom shared between different ages, students were eager to learn. The teachers consider the hardships they are facing as challenges. But the biggest problem they encounter is coming to the place. “It’s about 40 kilometers away from the town proper,” said Sumipao. “The boat fare is about P100.” Sumipao is not a resident of the place. She comes to the place on Sunday afternoon and leaves every Friday afternoon. “At first, it was hard,” she said. “But I learned to love the place, especially the children who are willing to learn how to read and write.” For several years now, residents living in floating houses have been grappling with darkness every night. But thanks to the Barangay Line Enhancement Program (BLEP) and Sitio Electrification Program (SEP) implemented by Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc., the marshland barangay finally has electricity. “We are very happy that finally we have electricity which we had been wanting through the years,” said Felipa S. Goloran, the barangay captain. As part of the corporate social responsibility of Aboitiz Power Corporation, it donated 10 units of brand new computer. “We want the pupils of this barangay to be at par with those growing up in the town proper,” says Roy M. Renconada, Aboitiz’s senior account officer. Meanwhile, the unique ecosystem of Agusan Marsh is being threatened by a wide range of issues and problems to wit: pollution from mining upstream, wildlife and timber poaching and unregulated in-migration. “Exotic and invasive species have been introduced (intentionally and unintentionally),” the SCPW said. “Erosion and siltation due to mining operations and deforestation occurring largely upstream adversely affect organisms in the marsh and even the coastal areas downstream of Agusan River. In-migration has also increased adding more pressure to the marsh ecosystem. Poor management of solid wastes, lack of proper sanitation facilities, and lack of potable water supply are also critical concerns as they add to the pressure on the marsh.”

12 CLASSIFIED

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

GENERAL SANTOS CITY MARKETING OFFICE EDMUND D. RENDON Marketing Specialist Mobile: (Smart) 0930-669-3018 MANILA MARKETING OFFICE ANGELICA R. GARCIA Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509 DAVAO CITY MAIN OFFICE JOCELYN S. PANES Director of Sales Door 14 ALCREJ Bldg., Quirino Ave., Davao City Tel: (082) 224-1413 Telefax: (082) 221-3601

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EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

Korean student in Bacolod under observation for suspected MERS-CoV NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) 40641 under Loyola Contract No(s). 906145-8 issued to ALEJANDRO U. CINCO, JR. 52112 under Loyola Contract No(s). 481493-5 issued to REMBERTO ABA-A were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void. 7/2,9,16

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT SALE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANNIE T. ARANJUEZ has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT SALE executed among her heirs per Doc. No.321; Page No.65; Book No. 105; Series of 2015, of the NOTARY PUBLIC FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN

6/18.25.7/02

KOREAN student has been placed under observation at the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH) here for suspected

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus (MERSCoV) case after manifesting symptoms of this viral disease. Dr. Carmela Gensoli of the City Health Office

said the Korean national was initially confined at a private hospital, but the patient was transferred Tuesday to the CLMMRH, a Department of Health (DOH) hospital.

Swab samples were taken from the patient for laboratory test at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Metro Manila. The patient, who arrived in Bacolod last June 26, manifested MERS-CoV like symptoms like fever, coughing, and sore throat since June 29. The apartment where the Korean national is staying is also under close monitoring, Gensoli said. Dr. Julius Drilon, CLMMRH chief, said the hospital has been preparing for patients suspected to have MERSCoV. He added that a fouryear-old child was voluntarily checked in at the hospital by her parents also for suspected MERSCoV. They family just arrived from the Middle East. However, the child was released after she was tested negative of the virus.(PNA)

14 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

Globe Telecom postpaid market share hits 57.8 percent

Phl’s IT/BPM, ICT G ripe for investment R

ECENT developments and policy changes in Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT/BPM) in the Philippines are making the country ripe for investment and poising it to ride a new wave of revolution in information and communications technology (ICT). This was the message of government officials and business leaders who traveled to San Francisco for a conference entitled “Invest in the Philippines: Asia’s Bright Spot,” the third and final leg of a high level trade and investment mission to the United States on June 29, 2015. In his remarks, Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. pointed out that the IT/ BPM and ICT industries in the Philippines are very

much alive and have been a strong driving force in the Philippine economy. “The choice of San Francisco as the third city of this historic High Level Trade and Economic Mission to the United States is very appropriate. San Francisco, and Silicon Valley in particular, is the heartland of innovation and technology. And the importance of information and communications technology, which this city breathes and lives, is one that is not lost on the Philippines,” said Ambassador Cuisia. The envoy added, “The first wave of the information and communications technology revolution transformed the Philippine semi-conductor industry into one of the most important segment of our economy. Today, the IT/BPM industry has

been the fastest growing industry in the Philippines in the last ten years. In 2011, we overtook India to become the number one outsourcing destination for voice support. And the Philippines is second only to India as a global outsourcing destination, specifically in the areas of healthcare and software.” However, the Philippines is still facing challenges in the IT/BPM and ICT industries. According to keynote speaker Diosdado Banatao, Managing Partner of Tallwood Venture Capital, a main challenge that remains for the country is infrastructure building in ICT, particularly the lack of internet bandwidth, which he also noted as an area of opportunity for investments. The government is addressing these issues

Cuisia

through legislature aimed at reforming the country, boosting economic growth, and creating an environment conducive to investment. Senate President Franklin M. Drilon, who participated in the San Francisco Conference, shared the Congressional agenda for the last year of the Aquino administration, which is to pass the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act in order to institutionalize reforms and best practices, amend the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Charter to strengthen its regulatory power, and approve the Customs Modernization Law to achieve trade facilitation and logistics efficiency. According to Senator Drilon, a bill to create the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is also on its way. On June 2, the Senate approved the third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2686, which mandated the creation of the DICT. The bill would effectively create the agency charged with developing, planning, and promoting the government’s ICT agenda, as well as speed up the industry’s growth and competiveness by enhancing the country’s technology linkages with ICT firms abroad. The House version is currently being debated at the committee level.

PhilHealth to launch Alaga Ka in Davao A

ROUND one thousand Modified Conditional Cash Transfer – Indigenous Peoples (MCCT-IP) beneficiaries are expected to benefit from PhilHealth’s intensive information drive for poor families dubbed Alaga Ka, Para Sa Maayos Na Buhay, on July 3 at Upper Kibalang, Marilog Proper, Davao City. Alaga Ka, otherwise known as Alamin at Gamitin Para sa Kalusugan is a multi-sectoral campaign of the agency in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), dedicated to providing 14.7 million indigent members and their families with greater access to health care services.

According to PhilHealth, the identification and enrollment of indigent families to the government’s health insurance program is not the tail end of the project. The goal is to increase awareness and utilization of benefits in the poor sector, especially among IP beneficiaries and those in remote areas. Since its nationwide launch in 2014, Alaga Ka has been making the rounds in the region and the agency is delighted to bring the program to more poor families in the city with the support of the City Government of Davao. The Alaga Ka campaign basically aims to provide its beneficiaries with a clear un-

derstanding of their rights to quality health care benefits and knowing how, when and where to use them. Hence, this one-day activity will involve an orientation on PhilHealth’s Benepisyong TSeKap, an expanded primary care benefit package which covers preventive services, screening tests and outpatient medicines for particular illnesses and other benefits for maternal and infant health, malaria and tuberculosis treatment, among others. Also highlighting the activity is the allocation of PhilHealth’s Per Family Payment (PFP) worth 2.1 million pesos to the local government which will be used to improve

facilities, purchase medicines, pay for the health care professionals forTSeKap package providers and generally, to sustain the availment of indigent members to the primary care services. Other agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), City Social Services and Development Office (CSSDO), Local Civil Registry (LCR) and City Health Office (CHO) will also be present during the ground activity to extend their respective services. /Kleah Dublin, PRO XI

LOBE Telecom said it has gained the top spot in the postpaid segment based on revenue market share, the global metric used in determining market leadership across telcos worldwide. In a statement, Globe said it posted postpaid revenues of P7.8 billion in the first quarter of 2015 against Smart’s P3.3 billion and Sun’s P2.4 billion. Globe said its postpaid revenues grew by 11 percent against Sun’s 10 percent growth from previous year’s levels. The statement said the revenue figures show Globe has cornered the mobile postpaid segment with revenue market share of 57.8 percent, leaving Smart with a 24.6 percent revenue share and Sun with a 17.6 percent revenue share, the company’s statement said. Globe senior advisor for consumer business Dan Horan said the telco has been consistently growing its postpaid business both in number of customers and in average revenue per user (ARPU), an important indicator of customer preference and stickiness to the network. “Clearly, mobile postpaid is a segment that Globe has

long dominated over many years. Since 2012, Globe led the mobile postpaid business with a consistent revenue market share of 58 percent on a two-player market. Our leadership in the postpaid business is clearly unprecedented, underpinned by sustained growth in this segment and our breakthrough offers and innovations attracting new customers,” Horan said. Globe recently launched the new postpaid myLifestyle Plan, allowing customers to fully embrace the digital experience with data and exciting content using mobile phones. Erli Valdez, vice president for postpaid business at Globe, said the myLifestyle Plan “was a significant growth driver of postpaid revenues and customer base in the first quarter of 2015 as it perfectly caters to our customers’ digital lifestyles.” “With the myLifestyle Plan, they get a postpaid plan made for the way they live today, giving them a full smartphone experience with focus on data usage. The myLifestyle Plan is set to become an invaluable life tool to allow our customers to enjoy a world of digital content that is built the way they live now,” Valdez added.

Lunch is served: Preparing healthy baon

HE opening of the school year is a new start for everyone. Mothers, for their part, must make sure that everything is in order. Aside from ticking off the usual checklist of school supplies and uniform, mothers should also prepare for the back to school baon, ensuring that their kids eat the right meals to keep them healthy in school as they brave another year of education. “Mothers must make sure their children get the perfect start. Such preparations include planning in advance for their healthy baon,” says RJ Buenaventura, Philips General Manager for Personal Health. He says that the task can be daunting for mommies if they don’t have the right partners. Buenaventura explains, “Indeed, having the right kitchen tools for one’s back-to-school preparations can make a huge difference.” And because school cafeteria food may not always be healthy, most moms prefer to prepare home cooked baon for their kids. Towards this end, Philips, the world’s no. 1 home cooking and food preparation appliance brand according to Euromonitor International, offers a line of helpful kitchen appliances. “With these tools, both mother and child can definitely breeze through the back-toschool jitters with flying colors,” promises RJ. Nowadays, mothers have to consider the taste of the food as much as its nutritional value.

Philips Airfryer for instance, can cook delicious fried food with 80% less fat. It has a unique Rapid Air Technology that enables home chefs to fry with air to make food, which is crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. For healthy fruit drinks, salads, dressing or vegetable dishes, mothers can use the Philips Avance Collection Blender. This kitchen tool can handle just about anything from fruits and vegetables to ice. Its multi-speed function will help moms blend, crush and cut for perfectly smooth blending and any consistency they want, says Reah Ronsayro, Business Development Manager for Kitchen and Domestic Appliances. The Philips Avance Collection Juicer can help mommies make healthy drinks for the little ones, as well. This product, Ronsayro explains, extracts more juice from fruit and vegetables with an innovative quick clean sieve and has an integrated pulp container that allows the consumer to clean the products easier.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 65 • THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

SPORTS15

EDGEDAVAO

PINOY PRIDE 31. Francisco “Chihuas” Rodriguez (left photo) has arrived early for his July 11 fight against longest reigning Filipino world champion Donnie Nietes (right photo in action against Gilberto Parra).

Rodriguez arrives early for Nietes fight M

ANDATORY challenger Francisco “Chihuas” Rodriguez (172-1, 11 KOs) travelled Sunday to the Philippines where he’ll challenge Donnie “Ahas” Nietes (35-1-4, 21 KOs) for the WBO flyweight championship on July 11 at the Waterfront Hotel Casino in Cebu City, providing fight fans a glimpse of how seriously he’s pursuing the quest to become the first

fighter to beat the longest reigning Filipino world champion. Rodriguez, a former IBF/ WBO minimumweight champion, who won the minimumweight title beating Nietes’ good friend and stablemate Merlito “Tiger” Sabillo via a 10th round TKO, has prompted Nietes to train harder than ever before and has vowed to avenge the loss of Sabillo.

Rodriguez reportedly left for the Philippines two weeks early to adapt to the time and climate. Nietes who was also the WBO minimum weight champion before moving up and winning the light flyweight title against Raul Garcia Hirales in Bacolod City, will be making the 12th defense of his crown against Rodriguez. He won the minimum weight title on

September 30, 2007, and now has the longest world title run in Filipino history having surpassed the record set by the late great Gabriel “Flash” Elorde who reigned as world junior lightweight champion foe almost seven and a half years. There’s been tremendous interest generated in the Nietes title defense after the Filipino appeared peeved by

US moves to World Cup finals A

N inspired performance from Carli Lloyd lifted the United States into their second straight Women’s World Cup final with a 2-0 win over top-ranked Germany on Tuesday. In a battle between the world’s top two teams, the United States largely dominated in front of 51,000 largely US supporters at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium. In a dramatic second half, Germany’s Celia Sasic missed a penalty kick on 60 minutes before Lloyd opened nine minutes later from the spot with defender Kelley O’Hara sealing victory with her first-ever goal

for the Americans six minutes from time. “I came here to win this thing not just be a participant that played in a World Cup,” warned the 32-year-old Lloyd, who was wearing the captain’s armband. “It’s a good feeling. I’ve a really confident feeling in us winning it.” The United States, winners in 1991 and 1999 and ranked second in the world, will play either defending champions Japan or England for the title in Vancouver on July 5. Japan beat the Americans in a dramatic penalty shootout to take the title four years

ago. “We’re in a World Cup final, one opponent stands in our way and for me it doesn’t matter who it is,” said US coach Jill Ellis. “We’ll take either (England or Japan). That sounds arrogant.” The Americans dominated the first half, with forward Alex Morgan having the best chance to open but Nadine Angerer held firm in the Germany goal. A second effort from Morgan from close range also failed to find the target. - ‘Not dangerous enough’ After the break, Germa-

United States’ Tobin Heath, left, has a shot blocked by Germany’s Tabea Kemme (22) during the first half of a semifinal in the Women’s World Cup soccer

ny’s Anja Mittag headed wide but on the hour mark the European champions had a golden chance when US defender Julie Johnston pulled down Alexandra Popp as the midfielder slipped in on the blindside. Sasic, the tournament’s top scorer with six goals, send the shot low and just wide of Hope Solo in the US goal, to tears of relief from a distraught Johnston. The Americans were then awarded a contested penalty when Morgan was brought down by defender Annike Krahn in a tackle that looked outside the box. And Lloyd made no mistake, stepping up and sending the ball into the corner of the net for her third goal in as many games as Angerer dived the opposite way. The USA’s all-time leading goalscorer, Abby Wambach, came on 10 minutes from time in place of Megan Rapinoe. And minutes later, Lloyd pulled clear of her marker to run down the field, crossing to O’Hara, who entered in the 75th minute. O’Hara fired in the winner from close range, dumping former two-time winners Germany. “It was clearly outside of the area and it can be seen quite clearly on television,” said Germany coach Silvia Neid of the penalty awarded against them. “I’m very sad about it but I can’t change it.” Germany had been bidding for a record third title and to match their men’s team who won the World Cup in Brazil last year.

the cocky stance of Rodriguez and vowed to shut his mouth on July 11 after Rodriguez suffered a slight ankle sprain and forced the “Pinoy Pride XXXI” fight card to be pushed back by one week. In a forum post on Fight News, David John Trehane of Bangkok said “eight years holding and defending a world title is tremendous. If only a bigger fight was avail-

able to showcase his talent. A fight with WBC champion Wanheng Menayothin of Thailand would be a real treat for boxing fans. Maybe even in a third country like Macau. Boxing is in need of fights like this.” Brad Stemp commented, “I think this will be a terrific fight. Very real chance of an upset to end the wonderful reign of Nietes.”

Tab’s list already with the PBA

ASKETBALL fans are anticipating – and speculating about – the announcement of Philippine national men’s basketball coach Tab Baldwin’s list of players in the 26-man pool for the FIBA Asia Championship. Baldwin, the veteran bench tactician, clarified that the Gilas Pilipinas list had already been submitted to the PBA, and it will be up to the league to make it public once details are ironed out. “The PBA will announce the list, as I understand it, after we’ve met with all the owners and we haven’t done that,” Baldwin said. “The PBA has the list and they have it and that’s been on the record for quite some time.” According to Baldwin, the list had already been submitted to the PBA by the end of the second conference and the international basketball veteran coach is hopping to have some progress to be able to start preparing for the coming FIBA Asia Championship, which will be held late September. Baldwin said the list will comprise of the same players that fans will pretty much expect. “Maybe one or two surprises, but I don’t think there’s gonna be a lot of surprises. I think we have fairly astute basketball fans and coaches and players and I think most coaches know the players in the PBA who are the caliber players who can help the national team,” he added. “There’s one or two possible surprises in there, but again, maybe not, most people will predict the same way like the things I would see.” Earlier, Baldwin said that

players who previously suited up for Gilas Pilipinas are likely to be included in the pool while not closing the door on the possibility of including players from the cadet team who stood out in the SEA Games. The Gilas coaching staff and management are going to meet this week to finalize the program, which includes the schedule over the next six weeks. They’ve been vocal about the European camp in Turkey and a possible return stint to the William Jones Cup. “We’re going to meet this week and hope everything that has been proposed, the schedules that have been made and set will be finalized and approved. I’m very hopeful for that. We worked hard to get a good program. But everything has to come down to budget. It comes down to the approval of the management. If we can get there across, I’ll be very happy. If we can’t, we’ll make some adjustments and I don’t know what these adjustments will be,” said Baldwin. As soon as the season ends, the players who will be selected will immediately buckle down to work, with the exception of players who will see action in the finals. “I don’t believe in easy, but they’ll have some time off,” the coach said. “Probably, for the guys playing in the finals, but we have six to seven weeks to prepare, and that’s a pretty limited time frame for the first year program of the national team — new coach and a new program. Those guys who are nursing injuries, we’ll have to take care of them in the first week or so of training. but I’m not the guy who really believes in putting ceilings on the players.”

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

BANISHING BOUCHARD

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Canadian star booted out early in Wimby, fined for black bra E UGENIE Bouchard basically followed the Wimbledon dress code on Tuesday. She wore a white dress over a white sports bra and stood in white tennis shoes. But the 21-year-old Canadian also wore a black sports bra underneath the white sports bra, and there’s no getting a small detail like that past the notoriously-strict All England Club. The straps of the black

bra barely peaked out on her shoulder blades, and that was enough for chair umpire to slap the 2014 runner-up with a dresscode violation. The rules were updated in 2014 to clarify that: “white does not include off-white or cream” and allowing only “a single trim of color no wider than one centimeter.” The almost-all-white rule now explicitly covers caps, headbands, bandannas, wristbands, shoes and

even “any undergarments that either are or can be visible during play (including due to perspiration).” The club doesn’t turn a blind eye for anyone: Roger Federer was banned from wearing tennis shoes with an orange sole in 2013. The violation was the least of Bouchard’s worries on Tuesday, as the 12th-seed lost to Chinese qualifier Duan Ying-Ying in straight sets.

Federer, Kvitova feast on starters

HEN Roger Federer’s game flows at Wimbledon and his opponent knows his place you half expect him to slide into a deckchair at changeovers, pour cream on to some strawberries and tuck in. It was like that on Centre Court on Tuesday as the King of Cool began his quest for an eighth title at the All England Club with a nonchalant dismantling of Bosnia’s Damir Dzumhur. With the mercury soaring into the high 80s Fahrenheit as London prepares for a heatwave, spectators were spared the full glare of the mid-afternoon sun thanks to the welcome shade offered by the partly-extended roof. For 88th-ranked Dzumhur there was no escape from the dazzling shot-making of the Swiss maestro who won 6-1 6-3 6-3. It was a similar story earlier as reigning women’s champion Petra Kvitova scorched the grass with some searing serves in a 35-minute demolition of Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens. She dropped only one point on serve in a commanding firstround show of force that augurs well for her chances of repeating her title charge of 12 months ago when she blew Eugenie Bouchard away in a one-sided final. German 10th seed Angelique Kerber also caught fire, thrashing compatriot Carina Witthoeft 6-0 6-0 to record the third so-called ‘double bagel’ in the women’s singles so far, the most since 1996. It was not all one-way traffic for fancied players though. Third seed Simona Halep checked out 5-7 6-4 6-3 in round one against 106th-ranked Slovakian Jana Cepelova to become the highest-profile casualty so far. Last year’s runner-up Bouchard’s fall from grace continued as

she was bundled out by China’s Duan Yingying. TRICKY MOMENTS By contrast, all of the top 16 men’s seeds are still alive. Britain’s number three seed Andy Murray had some tricky moments before overcoming Kazakh Mikhail Kukushkin 6-4 7-6(3) 6-4 -- dropping serve three times in the second set. Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who 2013 champion Murray could play in the last 16, needed five sets to scramble past Luxembourg leftie Gilles Muller. With umbrellas popping up around the grounds, for shade not falling raindrops, London’s hottest day of the year so far seemed to agree with Spain’s twice former champion Rafa Nadal. Lurking in the draw as 10th seed after a poor year, the 29-year-old bludgeoned Brazil’s Thomaz Bellucci 6-4 6-2 6-4. World number two Federer, starting his 63rd consecutive grand slam, which he firmly believes can deliver a long-awaited 18th title, was given carte blanche to go through his exquisite repertoire against the willing Dzumhur -- a player whose first tennis shots were forged in bomb-ravaged Sarajevo. The 23-year-old Dzumhur pushed Federer harder at the French Open this year, but looked like he had turned up uninvited to a Federer garden party on the world’s most famous lawn at times. He at least finally made Federer sweat, but not much as the free-swinging Swiss fired off graceful winners and raced through service games in the blink of an eye. “I’m sure in some crazy way he’s also enjoying himself, he can

look back and say I played on Centre,” F e d e r e r, who has earned $90 million in prize money compared to the

$500,000 banked by his opponent, told reporters. NADAL IMPROVING Nadal supporters insist that but for injuries he would already have matched Federer’s grand slam haul rather than be three short, though they would struggle to argue that their man makes winning look as easy as his great rival. But there were hints on Tuesday against Bellucci that Nadal is returning to the kind of form that saw him beat Federer in an epic 2008 final and then regain the title in 2010. “For me the conditions were great. It’s difficult to think about a better day to play tennis here in Wimbledon,” said the Spaniard.

BOOTED OUT. 12th seed Eugenie Bouchard of Canada is out of the Wimbledon and fined for violating the all-white rule of the tournament.