Edge Davao 8 Issue 70 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES

www.edgedavao.net

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

Serena, Sharapova collide Sports P16

NATIONAL CHEERLEADING CHAMPS. Reigning National Cheerleading champion National University Pep Squad members arrive at the Green Windows Dormitel yesterday. They will perform today in SM City Davao during the opening of the Davao University Fair. Athena Jillian Bravo

AND NOW, FAKE PANCIT BIHON?

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR. abf@edgedavao.net

FTER fake rice, here comes the fake bihon. The new food scare surfaced yesterday after City Health Office (CHO) sanitation chief Robert Oconer revealed they were able to get hold of fake bihon or Chinese rice noodle which was being sold in a public market in Calinan. Bihon, made from rice flour, is a popular Chinese noodle and a favorite among Filipinos. “This was bought by a barangay captain in third district,” Oconer said during the city council’s joint committee hearing on fake rice yesterday. Oconer said that the fake bihon was turned over by a barangay capatain to their office last Friday. Oconer did not divulge the identity of the barangay captain. “Niluto niya po pero di niya

makain-kain, dumudulas lang sa bunganga niya (Even he or she cooked it still cannot be chewed, it will just slide in the mouth,)” he said. He said his office will submit the sample to Food and Drug Agency (FDA) to ascertain whether it is a synthetic or fake rice noodle. Oconer said that he is still waiting for the advised of the barnagay official because he told the former to give the specific location of the store. He said fake bihon was allegedly bought in Calinan Public Market but the barangay official can no longer recall the exact

FAND, 10

NFA: No fake rice, only ‘rice in disguise’ D ESPITE the widespread scare brought by the socalled fake rice controversy, there is no synthetic rice or fake rice after all in Davao City. This was the concluding report of the National Food Authority (NFA) and the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) on Wednesday. The alleged f a k e

rice incident in Matina Aplaya that was reported in the media, according to the NFA Davao and SITG was an isolated case. However, they brought in another plate to the table--rice in disguise. One that’s made of corn. “The in-

cident is one in a million that is why we can say that it is an isolated case,” NFA-Davao City manager Virgilio Alerta said at a press briefing following yesterday’s joint Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) c o m -

mittee hearing on the reported fake rice. Alerta also presented to the committee hearing a plateful of yellowish rice purportedly that of corn staple and shaped like rice grains.

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

SP HEARING ON FAKE RICE. City Agriculture Office (CAO) head Rocelio Tabay covers his face with his hands while Davao City Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) team leader Chief Inspector Warren Dablo presents the result of their initial investigation during the City Council’s committees on food and agriculture, and health held a joint hearing to investigate the alleged proliferation of “fake rice” in Davao City at the Councilors’ lounge of Sangguniang Panlungsod yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

BOC: No smuggled rice in city

HERE’S no smuggled rice in Davao City, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) assured the public yesterday. In a press briefing yesterday after the City Council hearing on the reported fake rice, BOC-Customs Police Office Leonard George Carillo said they have not received any reports that smuggled rice from China has reached the city. Carillo said BOC-Davao City did not even know the operation of BOC and National Food Authority (NFA) in Manila which seized 1,561 kilos of rice from China. “We are not privy with what happened in Manila but definitely there is no presence of smuggled rice in Davao City,“ Carillo said. He said the BOC in the city cannot operate just like that BOC and NFA did against some retailers in Binondo,

WHAT THE?

Manila last Monday. It is not their mandate to conduct inspection in the markets because their office is only tasked to monitor the shipments, according to Carillo. Carillo said the BOC was able to inspect and verify the rice shipments from Manila last week in line with the precautionary measures for the possible proliferation of fake rice in the city or even the region. The inspection was conducted in coordination with the NFA as this is the agency tasked to validate documents of the shipments. BOC Port of Davao law division head lawyer Jose O. Lagac Jr. said BOC-Davao is closely monitoring with the incoming shipments. “Here in Davao City, we are vigilantly monitoring the incoming shipments including the local,” Lagac said.

TALE OF FAKE RICE

It is already two week when the news of possible proliferation of fake rice in Davao City exploded that even the whole country was struck. But, this panic is not new to our fellow Asians since this buzz already created noise all over the continent since last summer. In the article of munchies.vice.com posted on May 22, 2015, story fake rice has been circulated in South Korea, China, Singapore, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. It looks like a real rice, but stays hard even after it is cooked. According to the website, the rice is allegedly made of a mixture of white and sweet potatoes—with a core of synthetic resin—is being sold as real rice. In many versions of the tale, the resin is poisonous.

Davao safest city in the world now By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

AVAO City is ranked first as the safest city in the world for this week with 75.23% safety Index according to numbeo.com. Numbeo.com is a website that contributes data about cities and countries in the world. Davao City got 82.72% on safety walking alone on daylight and 75.96% on safety walking alone during night time. The city also got a low rat-

ing on crime level at 21.95%. Davao City Police Office (DCPO) lauded the effort of the leaders of Davao City for its latest achievement. DCPO Spokesperson Chief Inspector Milgrace Driz, said that the city became safe due to the collaboration of all government units and with the support of the Local Government Unit. A significant decrease of crime volume was also noted for the 1st semester of 2015

DAUNTING CHALLENGE

compared to the same period the previous year. Driz said that the city recorded 6,869 crime volume from January to June this year is much lower than the 8,397 crimes recorded in the same period last year. The solution efficiency also increased. For the first semester, DCPO recorded 76.01% crime solution efficiency, higher than 55.50% last year. “The reason of the de-

crease of crime volume in the city is because of the maximum deployment of our security personnel all over the city,” Driz said. “City Director Sr. Supt. Vicente Danao also directed all police station commanders to solve the case in their area of responsibility within 24 hours,” she added. On May, the city ranked 9 as the safest city in the world base on numbeo.com and the safest city in Southeast Asia.

New PDEA 11 chief to make Davao drug-free By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

HE newly-installed Davao Region director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has vowed to make Davao City and the whole region drugfree. “We will hit hard on the high impact operations and high value targets,” new PDEA 11 director Adzhar Albani said

after the turn-over of command ceremony on Tuesday night. Albani said he will run after the big supply of illegal drugs in the city and the region. He said that wherever the source of illegal drugs come even if it is outside Davao Region, PDEA 11 will still run

over it to stop the delivery going to his area of responsibility. PDEA 11, Albani said, will also coordinate with outgoing director Emerson Rosales, who was also installed new PDEA director in Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Albani said that it would be easier for him to work with

since Rosales vowed to break the source of illegal drugs allegedly in some parts of ARMM. He said aside from coordination with Rosales, it would be also easier for him to work because of the coordination of different law enforcement agencies in the region.

FDAUNTING, 10

NEWS EDGEDAVAO IN SEARCH FOR NEXT DAVNOR GOVERNOR

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

Left to right: GOV. RODOLFO DEL ROSARIO, VICE GOV. BABY SUAYBAGUIO, FORMER REP. TONYBOY FLOIRENDO, REP. ANTHONY DERL ROSARIO, RODNEY DEL ROSARIO

Group considers Suaybaguio for DN guv, Rodney for IGaCoS

Tonyboy to reclaim House seat; AGR as is, RDR to be adviser

S of yesterday, the possible lineup of provincial, congressional district and city candidates of the ruling Liberal Party in Davao del Norte appears to favor Vice Gov. Victorio “Baby” Suaybaguio for provincial governor to succeed incumbent Gov. Rodolfo “RDR” del Rosario who is in his third and final term as governor. This was learned from sources privy to a closed-

door meeting last Tuesday in Tagum City to discuss the final ticket of the group headed by Governor del Rosario himself. The exclusive gathering was attended by RDR, Antonio “Tonyboy” R. Floriendo Jr. or known as TBF, Rep. Antonio Garcia del Rosario (AGR) and Suaybaguio. As of yesterday, Suaybaguio will be fielded for governor, Tonyboy will run again for congressman of the Second

District, AGR to run for re-election as congressman for the 1st district, while businessman Rodolfo G. “Rodney” del Rosario Jr. will be the group’s candidate for mayor of the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) reportedly against whoever is fielded by the group of incumbent Mayor Aniano “Aning” Antalan. The source told Edge Davao that Governor del Rosario has decided to become the

adviser of the group. The first announcement attributed to congressman Tonyboy was that Rodney would become the candidate for governor. The second announcement stated that it would be Rep. AGR who will be fielded with Suaybaguio running for congressman. As of this writing yesterday afternoon, former congressman Floirendo was re-

FGROUP, 10

Orig: No intention to privatize DCWD A

Rotarians endorse bulk water project

HIGH-RANKING OFFICER of Aboitiz Power Corp. and Apo-Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (AAII) assured Dabawenyos Tuesday that there is no intention at all to privatize the operation of the Davao City Water District (DCWD), currently a government-owned and –controlled

corporation (GOCC). The assurance was made by Manuel M. “Bobby” Orig, first vice president for Mindanao of Aboitiz and director of Apo-Agua, which will build and operate the Davao City Bulk Water Project, during a presentation before the 70-member Rotary Club of

NEW PDEA 11 CHIEF. Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 11 outgoing director Emerson R. Rosales (left) exchanges pleasantries with incoming director Adzhar A. Albani (right) during Tuesday night’s turn-over

East Davao last Tuesday noon. The presentation was jointly conducted by ApoAgua and officials of the DCWD, headed by Assistant General Manager Mildred Aviles. Also on hand to explain the technical and legal aspects of the project were engineer Ronald Munoz and

lawyer Bernardo B. Delima Jr., DCWD spokesperson. The Apo-Agua company which was formed by Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) and JVACC will buld that bulk water supply system at the cost of P10 billion, while the DCWD will construct its own

FORIG, 10

of command ceremony at Camp Leonor Domingo in Davao City. PDEA deputy director general for administration Asec Rene M. Orbe administered the turn over ceremony. Lean Daval Jr.

Felonia’s bid for transfer to Camp Crame denied By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 16 junked the motion for the direct transfer of the custody of former Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) Chief Supt. Leonardo Felonia to his mother unit at Camp Crame, Quezon City. RTC Branch 16 Judge Emmanuel Carpio, in his order dated July 7, denied for the meantime the transfer of Felonia as the Supreme Court has yet to rule on his petition to transfer venue of his trial. “Comsidering that the arraignment of accused P/Supt. Leonardo A. Felonia is set on July 30, 2015 at 8:30 am and the Supreme Court has yet to rule on the Petition for Change Venue of accused Leonardo A. Felonia, the court in the meantime denies the transfer the

place of his detention from Davao City to Camp Crame, Quezon City,” Carpio said in his order. Davao City police Office (DCPO) Director Sr. Supt. Vicente Danao wrote a letter to the court assuring they have the facility to detain Felonia. “Please be informed that the DCPO detention facility consisting of two detention cells is secure enough to handle a high profile detainee like Police Superintendent Felonia,” Danao said. “We also have enough personnel to secure not only the detention facility but also the camp where it is located and have the experience and proven track record of high profile detainees,” he added.

FFELONIA’S, 10

Hall of Justice, City Hall not accessible to PWDs By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Davao City Hall and Hall of Justice in Ecoland are among the government offices in the city that are not accessible to people with disabilities (PWDs). “I remember myself being carried upstairs because the City Hall doesn’t have any ramp,” a dismayed Naprey Almario, founder of Beao requested the management of the Hall of Justice for an installation of facilities that promote accessibility like ramp, bars, or elevator. However, their appeal fell on deaf ears. Crippled at very young age because of a disease, Almario said government offices here are supposed to be on the frontline in implementing the Accessibility Law or the Batas Pambansa Bilang 334. Under the law, certain buildings, institutions, establishments and public utilities are required to install facilities like sidewalks, ramps, railings and the like to enhance mobility of disabled people. Seated in a wheel chair for almost two decades, Almario

said one of his advocacies is the promotion of accessibility in either private or public building to PWDs. Almario lauded the high compliance rate of private establishments and building here. He said the City Engineer’s Office is requiring these facilities before approving the applications of some buildings here. “There were some compliant establishments and buildings in Davao City because the management secured to have ramps, bars as well as elevator,” Almario said. “But not all are compliant with the right design.” He said there were building and establishments that put these facilities just for compliance and not for the enhancement of PWD’s mobility. “There were doors and even elevators that are not big enough to let wheel chairs pass through,” he said. Almario also said there are also ramps here that are angled unsafe for passing PWDs and thus are accident prone.

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EDGEDAVAO

4 SUBURBIA

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

JOB KIOSK. DOLE Davao regional director Joffrey M. Suyao (5th from left) and Cong. Karlo B. Nograles (4th from left) leads the cutting of ribbon during the ceremonial turn-over of DOLE’s Job Search Kiosk to the Office of the first congressional districtof Davao City. They are flanked by DOLE officials and barangay captains of the first district.

DOLE 11 rolls out T’nalak Festival 2015 Job Search Kiosk Weaving towards excellence and world class experience J F

OR more than a decade, it has been a debate in the Executive and Legislative whether the South Cotabato T’nalak Festival Organizers will change the course of celebrating the festival to make it more colorful and more festive just like the other Filipino Festivals or to retain it as it is to preserve the real essence of celebrating the T’nalak Festival, and that is to preserve the culture that the T’boli Dream weaver’s had brought us. During the Ecumenical Service sponsored by the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts with the Provincial Government of South Cotabato for the late Lang Dulay, Governor Daisy Avance Fuentes proudly announced in public that the province will retain the real essence of the Tnalak culture although there

will be some greater improvement towards handling the said event. Gov. Fuentes also emphasized the importance of discovering the process of T’nalak weaving, a traditional masterpiece feted as the ultimate cultural emblem of the province. This year, T’nalak Festival is now on its 16th Year of Celebration and South Cotabato will also be celebrating their 49th Foundation Anniversary with the theme, “Sharing our Best with the World”.Here are some facts and activities that will give you more reasons why South Cotabato is considered as one of the BEST in the WORLD. Tourism. The Land of Dreamweavers is a perfect tourism destination for those who are looking for extreme adventures, nature trips and

a look-out for an emerging getaway in the Philippine Archipelago. Nice People. South Cotabato is not only composed of Rich Natural Resources and Tourism spots but also Naturally Loving People. Arts and Culture. South Cotabato is well known to be a place where T’boli women weave their colored abaca fibers into intricate and vibrant patterns. That’s the best Art that the province can offer aside from its rich natural resources. A renowned dreamweaver, the Late Lang Dulay opened the Manlilikha ng Bayan Center to focus on the preservation of the art of Tboli Textile weaving by training other T’boli weavers. Luscious Food. Since South Cotabato is a melting pot in the Region, it is also composed of different de-

licious and extraordinary meals from the different people living on it. Just like in Lake Sebu wherein one can enjoy the Fresh SUgbang Tilapia while riding on a River Cruise, Tantangan that features the Tasty Pinakbet of the Ilocanos and of course, the Fresh Buko Halo Halo of the Illonggos. Awesome Climate. South Cotabato enjoys a mild and pleasant climate with no pronounce dry or wet season and is practically free from typhoon. Kaleidoscopic Events. South Cotabato offers a complex set of events that you can enjoy with. Everyday, you can enjoy the series of jams and gigs that will make you WOW. So what are you waiting for, Go and have a trip in South Cotabato! Dahil sa South Cotabato, Abanse ka!

SCHOLARSHIP program has been launched by the city government to support needy but deserving students. EDUKAR or the Edukasyon para sa Kabus na Residente sa General Santos (education for the poor residents of General Santos) is the scholarship program initiated by the city government to aid the poor, indigent students in the city in getting their college degrees. The scholarship program is a brainchild of City Mayor Ronnel Rivera. EDUKAR aims to extend the reach and quality of educational services given by the city government. The Sangguniang Panlungsod also helped institutionalize the EDUKAR Program to as-

sure its continuity by passing a resolution in support of it. “Every time I visit the schools here in the city for my PTA and armchair donation program, I always see children who were not able to finish their studies because of financial constraints,” Mayor Rivera said. “I want every student in Gensan to attain equal opportunity in education.” EDUKAR grants a qualified student full scholarship which entitles him/ her to free tuition and other miscellaneous fees in any college course and school he/ she will enroll in. Other perks like book allowance and monthly stipends are also included in the EDUKAR Program. EDUKAR has a P1.3 mil-

lion budget for now. The AKLAT (Alay sa Kabataang General Lahat ng Aruga at Talino) Office headed by Philip Pabelic facilitates the screening of the applicants for the scholarship program. The AKLAT office is located in the left wing of the Oval Gymnasium. There are already 36 students who are enrolled in the EDUKAR scholarship program. One of them is Jared Pinayao, 20, a Blaan indigent, and currently a 4th year nursing student at Brokenshire College. According to his mother Sophia Pinayao, 53, they feared that Jared cannot finish his study in a private school in such an economically demanding course after his father died.

His father, an agriculturist, was the only one who supported Jared and his older brother in their studies. “I was really hopeless, but I kept my faith that someone will help us,” Sophia lamented in vernacular. “That’s why I am thankful to the EDUKAR Program of Mayor Rivera because it really encouraged Jared to finish his degree.” Jared’s dream, according to his mother, is to become a proud Blaan nurse. Pabelic said Jared’s case was special, since the EDUKAR Program does not cater to nursing courses. But after a thorough review, they considered Jared and enrolled him in the EDUKAR Program. (Gensan CPIO/ Ian John M. Lagare)

Gensan launches scholarship program A

OB hunting has become convenient and high-tech. This is after the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) rolls out its Job Search Kiosk in key locations across the country. The Job Search Kiosk is an information portal housed in an ATM-type, stand-alone equipment with a touch-screen panel, which provides information on local/overseas job opportunities and other employment related information. It helps job seekers to fast-track access to relevant information on job openings, hiring requirements of employers or upgrade, their skills through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) programs and Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) career guides. In Davao Region a total of 11 kiosks will be deployed in key cities and municipalities including, Davao, Tagum, Island Garden City of Samal, Mati, Digos, Nabunturan and other strategic locations. Among the recipient also is the office of first congressional district under Congressman Karlo B. Nograles. The installation is in support to employment facilitation the office has been doing through its job fair activities. “We at the Department are finding ways to make job hunting easier tapping stateof-the-art technology,” DOLE Davao regional director Jof-

frey M. Suyao said during the recent turn-over of kiosk at the first congressional district office. “We have leveled up our services to our constituents. Before, we provided medical and health services, and training and education. Now we also included employment facilitation which is upgraded with this hightech Job Search Kiosk from DOLE,” Cong. Karlo Nograles said. “We will bring this kiosk to the barangays to put the equipment to its full use making it a sort of satellite office providing employment facilitation,” Nograles added. “Our job fairs before only posted Davao City job vacancy, with the kiosk you can now view and apply to job vacancies in Manila, Cebu or other major cities in the country and even abroad,” Nograles said. “You can also verify if recruiters are registered or not to avoid being victimized by illegal recruiters,” he added. Aside from DOLE services, it also hosts information from Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Overseas Workers Development Administration (OWWA), and Technical Education and skills development Authority (TESDA).(DOLE XI)

5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

Militants reject port project Transportation Sec. Abaya to attend forum tomorrow

By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

HE strong opposition against the P17-billion Davao Sasa Port modernization project has snowballed with various militant groups joining the fray and expressing their disapproval of the plan set to be implemented by the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) under a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme. This developed as stakeholders in Davao City who earlier raised a howl against such a project with a gargantuan cost have intensified their campaign in asking the DOTC and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to hold the public bidding in abeyance and review the modernization plan. Peter T.2 Laviña, a former city councilor who was the first one to question the project, said stakeholders had a meeting at the Seda Hotel Tuesday afternoon to map out their plan of actions. They are asking the DOTC to conduct consultations and hear their pleas. Laviña said the stakeholders want the Sasa Port not to be developed purely as container port and hub. They also want DOTC to review its

design and cost estimate, retain and bulk and break-bulk cargo services and to take into consideration the existence of private and new ports around the Davao Gulf. Aside from these, the stakeholders also want DOTC to put up cruise tourism passenger facilities in the port, upgrade the parola area instead of relocating informal settlers who depend on the port for their employment and livelihood, respect the existing contracts of port handlers, consider the traffic congestion in the Sasa District and return the supervision of the port development to the PPA. Laviña said militant groups like the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), Kadamay, Gabriela and the Kawagib Moro human rights group also attended the meeting to air their strong opposition to the project. “They said they are not anti-development but they oppose the government’s PPP scheme because they are anti-Filipino and anti-people. They also expressed apprehension about the adverse impact on the project on Sasa settlers and the environment,”

Laviña said. Pilar Braga, a Konsumo Dabaw advocate and also former councillor, called on the

national government “to be sensitive to the sentiments of consumers who will eventually shoulder the burden of

the overpriced Sasa Port PPP project.” She told the multi-stakeholders consultation at that

the high cost of the development will result in high port charges and fees which would

FMILITANTS, 10

OVERLOADED. Scavengers are forced to sit atop collected cardboard boxes as their vehicle is overloaded with scraps and other recyclable materials while traversing along Roxas Avenue in Davao City on their way to a junkshop. Lean Daval Jr.

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

Body to boost palm oil sector Mayor Duterte signs EO No. 20 on July 2

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

AYOR Rodrigo R. Duterte has formed a body that will help boost the palm oil industry in Davao City. Dutere signed on July 2 Executive Order (EO) No. 20 Series of 2015 creating the Davao City Palm Oil Development Council and establishing a sustainable palm oil industry flagship project. The order aims to provide funds for the sustain-

able development of the palm oil industry in the city to encourage more investments in manufacturing, research and technological innovation of the product. The fund of the project will be provided by the city government and the private sectors. “The prospects are brighter for the palm oil industry in Davao City,” the Duterte said in the EO.

HE BankoSentral ng Pilipinas encouraged young Dabawenyos to be “kiddie savers” and open their savings account early as it opened the 11-day Money Matters for Kids Exhibit at the BSP-Davao building Monday. BSP financial consumer protection department director (FCPD) lawyer Prudence Angelita A. Kasala said in a press conference said that it is very important for young Filipinos to understand the value of money and the importance of saving it. “It is very important to teach kids to have the habit of spending wisely and saving even before reaching the age of seven,” Kasala said, adding that ages 7 and below are the kid’s formative years. FCPD deputy director Dottie M. Bernas said only 31.3 percent of young and adult

Filipinos have opened bank accounts for saving. “Mostly of those that have saving accounts are aged 25 and above,” Bernastold reporters in a press conference yesterday. To increase Filipino and kiddie savers, BSP has partnered with members of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines to offer “Kiddie savings” services. Among its commercial bank partners are Banco Oro, Bank of Philippine Island, East West Bank, Development Bank of the Philippines, Land Bank of the Philippines, Allied Bank, China Bank Savings and Maybank, among others. Kasala said another project recently launched by the BSP is the “Project Bro.” The Project Bro was developed by BSP-FCPD for Grade 1

BSP urges children to save in banks T

FBSP, 10

New Zealand company taps Davao firm for project

EW Zealand’s largest website development company ZEALD (www.zeald.com) has tapped Davao-based Next BPO Solutions, Inc. for the establishment of its offshore project support team here in Davao City. Under the service agreement signed by the two companies recently, Next BPO Solutions will form a dedicated team for Zeald for the roles such as web designers, web developers, online marketing specialists, project coordinators and technical support staff. “The team will be hired by Next BPO Solutions as its direct employees to be assigned as dedicated offshore staff for Zeald,” Next BPO Solutions Inc. president and chief executive officer Xavier Eric B. Manalastas said in a statement. Manalastas said Zeald opted for Davao City after reviewing other centers from the National Capital Region

(NCR) and Cebu City. As part of its review process, Zeald sent one of its officers to personally visit the facilities of its potential service providers and meet with their respective management teams. Zeald selected Next BPO Solutions to be its service partner after its thorough review and due diligence, he said. “We like Davao City, its environment and people. We believe that the partner we choose and the team we will hire will fit well with our company’s culture. We are committed and looking to be here for the long-term,” said Andrew Forsyth, CFO of Zeald. Manalastas said the Next BPO Solutions is now hiring to fill the roles as Zeald expects the team to be ready to start within July 2015. Potential candidates are currently undergoing screening and testing processes while interested applicants

FNEW ZEALAND, 10

Under the EO, districts of Paquibato and Marilog are already identified by some investors as potential areas for oil palm plantations. “Investors have expressed interests to pour investments for palm oil production which could amount to staggering capital,” the EO said. The order further said that the possible investment

in the two districts might be a possible ‘catalyst’ for the economic activity of the socalled ‘rebel infested areas.’ It stated that prioritizing oil palm as the main crop in farm lands will help reduce poverty in the country as well as improve the agricultural exportation. “To ensure success of palm oil farming, local government units support is needed for technology dis-

LIVELIHOOD. DSWD Assistant Regional Director for Operations Rebecca A. Santamaria [2nd from left] awards the Php 11 million cheque for the implementation of Enhanced Skills Training on Abaca Production for Pantawid families and disaster survivors in Boston, Davao Oriental. LGU Boston was led by Mayor Rebecco B. Rosit Sr. during the recent Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement and Ceremonial Turnover in the town.

semination and constructing of farm to milling roads as well as application of technology on good agricultural practices,” Duterte stated in the EO. With the industry development, oil palm industry continues to generate job for the farmers with an estimate of about 300,000 farmers in the country will benefit by 2023. “The surging demand

for palm oil in the international and domestic market is driven by the discovery of its uses,” the EO also said. The Philippine Palm Oil Development Council Inc. (PPDCI) has urged to invest in the expansion of the palm oil industry in the country. A report of World Bank in 2012 cited the significant role of oil palm in reducing poverty in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia.

Also in photo are LGU and DSWD Officials as well as some DSWD program beneficiaries. Implemented through the DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program, PhilFIDA will conduct the training and provide the technician while LGU Boston will do the monitoring. Program beneficiaries will then be providing the area and DSWD will supply the planting materials. (DSWD/jrd/ ccd)

SMEs ask gov’t help in getting TRO on coco levy funds lifted By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

XPORTS and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Davao City is urging the government to appeal to the Supreme Court for the lifting of temporary restraining order (TRO) it issued against two presidential orders aiming the management of the multi-billion peso coco levy funds. Philippine Exporters Confederation (Philexport) Davao president Ferdinand Y. Marañon told Edge Davao yesterday theywill submit a resolution containing their urgent request through Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization (PAFSAM) Secretary Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan during the Mindanao Exporters Congress AND Trade Expo slated July 23 to

25 at the SMXLanang Convention Center. Marañon said the resolution calls for the lifting of Executive Order 179 and EO 180 signed last March at Malacañang to end the 40-year struggle and call of coconut farmers. Under E.O. 179 and 180, Aquino authorized the inventory and management of the P71-billion coconut levy fund by different instructed government agencies. The two presidential orders aim to improve coconut farm productivity, develop coconut-based enterprises, and increase the income of coconut farmers through the coco levy fund. The EO 179 “provides for the inventory, privatization and transfer coco levy assets

in favor of government.”EO 180, meanwhile, mandates the transfer of the funds to government for an “Integrated Coconut Industry Roadmap Program” However, the high court issued a TRO “directing Aquino and the Presidential Commission on Good Governance to stop the effects of Executive Order 179 and180” almost three months after the orders were inked. SC issued the TRO as an action on a petition filed by the Confederation of Coconut Farmers Organization of the Philippines, which argued that the executive orders were “rushed” and would expose the fund to plunder.” The P71-billioon Coco Levy Fund, which represents the share formerly owned by

the San Miguel Corporation that was declared by the Supreme Court as government’s belonging in 2012, can be used in rehabilitating the coconut industry here. “The Coco Levy Fund is necessary in reviving the coconut industry in Mindanao,” Marañon said, adding that coconut trees here have to replanted and rehabilitated because of old age. He earlier said that the oldness of some trees here decreases the production rate of each coconut trees as low as 20 percent. Marañon said that rehabilitating the coconut plantations here will further increase Mindanao’s production of coconut which is the country’s top export commodity.

INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

FOOD

EDGEDAVAO

Downtown Davao dining at DOWNTOWN Durianburg is seeing a resurgence of places to wine and dine, and although Primo Bar and Grille might not be youngest pub in the block, it has certainly kept up with the times by updating itself as well as its menu.

PRIMO

Primo’s new appetisers.

I was able to have a bite of Primo’s newest creations thanks to an invite from Karla who organised a food tasting for some food bloggers as well as friends in the media. Inside, little has changed in Primo’s look. There are sports memorabilia as well as huge high definition TVs which stream the latest and hottest sports channels. The space is still intimate and cozy

“We wanted to integrate fresh new ideas into dishes that we believe give great value as well as create a unique Dabawenyo dining experience,” with a hint of sporty flair. What has changed though is its menu. Primo Bar and Grille’s manager Alex Tiaoqui says they updated the menu to cater to requests of regular guests as well as to add something new to taste at Primo. “We wanted to integrate fresh new ideas into dishes that we believe give great value as well as create a unique Dabawenyo dining experience,” says Alex. New appetisers on Primo’s updated menu include Sizzing Beef Tendon, beef ligaments braised until gelatinous and served with gravy; Tuna Sashimi Diablo, fresh tuna loin prepared with sesame, coconut milk, and spices; Cheese Stick Flautas, cheesy mozzarella wrapped and fried served with tomato salsa; and Mushrooms and Chorizo. “The appetisers also serve as tapas when the sun goes down.” adds Alex. Primo also introduced new pasta dishes such as their Shrimp Diavel and Pesto Linguini. There are also new pizza combinations such as the Seafood Supremo

The vibe inside Primo is fun and casual with huge HD TVs to ensure diners never miss a beat during the gaming season. Getting served Primo’s famous Seafood Supremo pizza.

which pairs well with a light lager beer. “We also wanted to complete the dining experience by offering new wellmade desserts such as our Banaffle and Mango Jubilee Waffles,” Alex said. Regulars to Primo need not fret though as favourites such as Primo’s famous steaks, grilled specials, as well as their famous beer and liquor deals can still be found on the menu. I even heard that they offer shots of premium spirits for only Php99 in addition to ev-

ery order of a dish during happy hour. Primo Cafe and Grille is located at the corner of General Luna and Camus Street, right beside the Ducati and KTM showrooms and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For reservations one can call them up at (082) 321-7766. Follow me on instagram or on Twitter at @kennethkingong for more travel stories, foodie finds, and happenings in, Primo’s new Pesto Linguini. around, and beyond Durianburg.

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

FOOD

Spicy, spicier, spiciest at Gangnam Davao DO YOU want to travel in an instant? Easy. Go on a food adventure. It’s no secret that Davao city is one treasure trove of food establishments, cafes and restaurants that serve an array of delicious and beautiful dishes from all over the world. From every corner, you are sure to find a food haven that will bring you more than enough satisfaction to last you for days. Gangnam Davao Café and Restaurant is one delectable gem that’s a must try and visit. It’s open 24 hours and has been serving the people of Davao for a time now. Since its opening in 2015, many have become patrons and regulars because of their cosy interiors, friendly staff and of course, delicious food. Their menu is quite extensive that could verily overwhelm the hungry in you. Don’t go on a panic mode and order anything. Instead, ask their friendly staff to help you with your order. You can go mild spicy to red spicy depending on your tolerance. If you think you can’t indulge in a Korean cuisine feast, then you can always

go safe with their salads and pasta dishes. A piece of advice? TAKE YOUR TIME. Here’s a short list of favourites that you may want to try when out on a food adventure. Have your appetite with you and enjoy an international feast without the travel expenses. Oh and don’t be shy with their appetizers! Spicy Rice Cake – Always been a lover of this Korean street food, the bland taste of rice cake and spicy sauce is a perfect combination that warrants a piece of your wet wipes. Warning though, it could get really spicy after each bite. But, it’s worth it! Seafood Pasta- Not your typical Korean dish but

Spicy Seafood Noodle.

Since its opening in 2015, many have become patrons and regulars because of their cosy interiors, friendly staff and of course, delicious food.

Gangnam’s version of bulgogi. The gang at Gangnam Davao.

Smoked Tuna Salad

Gungnam’s giant halo-halo.

is something that you’ll enjoy munching on. You can share it with friends or gobble it on your own. Any which way, you’ll love this pasta dish to crumbs. Seafood Pancake – If you want a variety, then this is perfect for you. Find pieces of shrimp, squid rings and vegetables on every bite. Eaten as an

appetizer, it’s best for sharing. Spicy Seafood Noodle Soup – Quite red on the outside, it’s big bowl seafood and noodle. Eat in an instant and enjoy the savoury depths of flavour with every scoop. Salad – Festive and fragrant, an unconventional addition to their spice

laden menu. This is best to cool down your fiery tongue. Bulgogi – A favourite and more mainstream of their dishes, it’s simple yet filled with flavours. The glass noodles and strips of vegetable add another texture to the meaty goodness of the beef. Green Tea, Mango and

Macchiato – Their selection of drinks, frappes and shakes are perfect cool down’s. Love their sweet flavours that compliments well with any of their spicy dishes. Giant Halo-Halo – A best seller, this bowl of flavoured ice, whipped cream and ice cream is a one conversation piece dessert. Do you want to go Koren? Visit Gangnam Davao at Karpentrade Building, McArthur Highway, Matina, Davao City. For reservations, you can call them at (082) 296 0519. Like and browse their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/gangnamindavao Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit. Tag me on instagram @herroyalheiress for your delicious food finds!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo reunite in GMA’s My Faithful Husband

THIS August, award-winning artists – Kapuso leading lady Jennylyn Mercado and drama king Dennis Trillo return to primetime TV and reunite in GMA Network’s upcoming series My Faithful Husband. The series will showcase the undeniable onscreen chemistry of Jennylyn and Dennis as they play the roles of Mel and Emman.

Emman (Dennis) is a devoted and doting husband to Mel and father to their children. He is willing to do anything for his family. Meanwhile, Mel (Jennylyn) is a kind, loving, hardworking and ambitious woman. She is married to Emman but after seeing her former boyfriend again, she suddenly gets confused about her feelings. Both Jennylyn and Dennis are excited to work together again and assure their fans and viewers that they will love the intriguing and interesting story of My Faithful Husband. “Sana magustuhan niyo kasi maganda yung istorya nito. Kakaiba siya sa mga dati naming ginawa kaya interesting. Excited akong makatrabaho siya [Dennis] kasi matagal din kaming hindi nagkasama. Titing-

Gerald Napoles, Aaron Yanga, Rexy Evert, Timmy Cruz, Snooky Serna, Noni Buencamino and Rio Locsin. My Faithful Husband, created by the GMA Drama group, is supervised by the Executivein-Charge of Production Lilybeth G. Rasonable; VP for Drama Redgie A. Magno; AVP for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; Pro-

nan ko kung paano ang magiging atake namin sa bawat eksena pero I think, comfortable na naman kami sa isa’t isa,” says Jennylyn. “Maganda tong show

na gagawin namin. Maganda yung kwento niya, magaling yung mga kasama naming artista, at magaling yung director. Atsaka pinaghandaan talaga

gram Manager Helen Rose S. Sese; and Executive Producer Rebya Upalda. Under the helm of Bb. Joyce Bernal, with the help of creative director Roy Iglesias, creative consultant RJ Nuevas, and head writer Suzette Doctolero, My Faithful Husband is set to premiere this August on GMA Telebabad.

namin ng husto para buuin tong show namin,” shares Dennis. My Faithful Husband also stars Mikael Daez, Louise delos Reyes, Kevin Santos, Jade Lopez,

Yeng Constantino performs live at SM City General Santos SM CITY General Santos brings the crowd to the live performance of the first Grand Star Dreamer of Pinoy Dream Academy and the country’s pop-rock princess, Yeng Constantino. The pop-rock singersongwriter promotes her fifth studio album, All About Love which is the first-full Filipino Album released on Spotify. All About Love Album is Constantino’s attempt to tackle new genres beyond her mostly poprock image, and served

as a prelude to her wedding with her fellow musician, Yan Asuncion. The 10-track album includes two songs originally composed by Yeng, three songs written and composed by her husband, Yan, and the other songs by some of her favorite composers in local music industry. Catch Yeng Constantino performing live at SM City General Santos on July 18, 2015, 7pm at The Fountain Court. To get a free VIP pass, simply purchase her album, All About Love available at The Fountain Court starting 4pm.

July 8 – 14, 2015

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

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

MINIONS 3D Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin, Sandra Bullock PG

12:30 | 2:45 | 5:00 | 7:15 | 9:30 LFS

THE BREAKUP PLAYLIST Sarah Geronimo, Piolo Pascual PG

R-16

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

MINIONS Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin, Sandra Bullock PG

11:35 | 1:40 | 3:45 | 5:50 | 7:55 | 10:00 LFS

EDGEDAVAO

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

EVENT

True Value debuts contemporary home interior store True Home

THE DESTINATION of choice when it comes to home improvement, True Value is launching its home furnishings store True Home, guaranteed to hold a curated assortment of high-quality on-trend interiors at reasonable prices. Home design enthusiasts are sure to find True Home as the newest haven for home interior essentials. True Home is a welcome addition to the homeware scene with its selection of décor from international names that offer utmost comfort, function and style.

Be bowled over the store brimming with products divided by type and style for all the fundamental areas of the home. Equip the kitchen with sleek and efficient gadgets from brands such as Jamie Oliver and Lipper kitchen gadgets, KitchenAid mixers, Lodge cast iron and Scanpan cookware, Epicurean and Architec cutting boards and Cuisinart small kitchen appliances. Make every meal satisfying with an impressive tablescape made possible with modish plates, silverware and serve ware from Mikasa, Libbey, Pfaltzgraff and Bombay, and Schott

True Value’s home furnishings division, True Home, has something to offer for everyone. It is the haven for items that are guaranteed to add personality and dimension to even the most stylish homes. Zwiesel, to name a few. As for the most personal rooms in the house, True Home has all decors to create the perfect sanctuary for all lifestyles. Achieve the relaxing and serene bedroom one would love to retreat to with luxuri-

ous pillows and sheets from Kassatex fine linens. Surround the bath with elegant bathroom accessories from Avanti towels, Zenith and Umbra, for that hotel-style comfort at home. True Home is replete with all sorts of knickknacks from WALLPOPS wall decal, Yankee candles, Vidivi and Mediterranea vases, Umbra frames and Nextime clocks to give character to just about every corner of the house. It also offers customers the option of maximizing their space in style with functional and well-designed storage solutions for all organization needs. They can choose from the array of pieces from Elfa organizing system, Neext and Sterilite storage solutions, Simple Human and Brabantia trash bins. “We’re very excited to open Filipinos to a new

line of home accessories for the improvement of their homes. We believe that a beautiful home radiates to its dwellers as well, and we want everyone to know that there is something for everyone here in True Home,” said True Value General Manager Stanley Co.

Get lost in a seemingly endless array of home decors of suitably high and consistent quality that will enhance every nook of every home.

Turn visions of your dream home into reality with classic and contemporary pieces from True Home. Visit the nearest True Home and see how you can spice up your home. True Home is open at the 3rd level of Greenbelt 5 and 3rd level of Robinsons Magnolia.

7 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

Rural development:

Where are the hanging fruits?

By DR. ROLANDO T. DY

HE Philippine poverty headcount was 25.8 percent in 2014. But rural poverty is near 40 percent. Nearly 20 million out of 100 million earn below P50 a day. Philippine rural poverty has been stuck at nearly 40 percent for decades. By contrast, Thailand reduced its own from 40 percent in 1970s to only 10 percent in 2000s. Malaysia reported rural poverty in Malaysia falling from 58.7% in 1970 to 12.4% in 1999 (ADB, 2006). Vietnam’s rural poverty rate fell from 66.4 percent in 1993 to 25 percent in 2004 (Nguyen, Trung et al 2006). NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan pronounced in early 2015: “we target to reduce income poverty to 19 percent by 2016, which, ad-

mittedly, will fall short of the Millennium Development Goals target of 16.6 by 2015 (or one-half of the poverty incidence of about 33 percent in 1991)(FOCAP, 2015).This is a tough challenge coming from 25.8 percent in 2014. Poverty exit strategies can vary from country to country. There is no one size fits all strategy. However, low farm yield would be one of the main causes. Compare Philippine average productivity with ASEAN peer averages as well as “best practice” yields in the Philippines. The comparators include rice, corn, coconut, sugarcane, cassava, coffee, cacao and rubber. The sources of data are The Food and Agriculture Organization, and industry key informants. Caven-

Comparative Farm Yields; ASEAN (c. 2013)

Coffee Robusta

Irrigated Rice

Yellow corn

Coconut

Sugarcane

Asean “best” average

5.6 Viet Nam

4.8 Indon

9.6 Viet Nam

75 Thailand

1.8 kg/tree Viet Nam

Upside, % Ave to Ave

+30

+17

+120

+25

+260

Philippine average

Best practice Filipino farm

4.3

8.0

4.1

8.5

4.3

Sources: FAO, Mars development center (Davao), Industry experts. Yield in ton/hectare unless otherwise stated dish banana and pineapple are excluded as the Philippine yields are at the top or near it. Rice. The average Philippine irrigated yield was 4.3 tons palay per hectare (ha) in 2013 as compared to best ASEAN yield of 5.6 ton per ha in Viet Nam. The upside if the Philippines matches Viet Nam’s average is +30 percent. There are Filipino hybrid rice farms getting up to 8 ton per ha but few and far between. Yellow Corn. The Philippine average has reached 4.1 ton per ha versus 4.8 tons per ha for Indonesia. The upside is +17 percent. There are good farms using Bt corn that yields up to 8.5

tons a ha. Coconut. The average Philippine yield is 4.5 tons nuts per ha , or about 40 nuts per tree. This is less than half of Vietnam’s yield, and only a fourth of the new hybrids. Sugarcane. The Philippine yield is about 60 ton per ha as compared to 75 tons per ha for Thailand. The “best-of-class” farms in Negros gets 100 to 120 tons per ha. Coffee. Philippines yield is at best 0.5 kilos beans per tree as compared to near 2 kilos per tree in Vietnam. Nestle Philippines claims that with its certified seedlings, yield of 1.5 kilo per tree is attain-

able. According to Western Highlands Agro-Forestry Scientific and Technical Institute (WASI) Director, Dr. Le Ngoc Bau, WASI has carried out research and cross-bred and sorted successfully nine varieties of robusta coffee with a high output from 4.2 tons to 7 tons of beans per hectare. Newly planted clones (TR Series) from WASI Center can reach 4 to 6 kilos per tree Cacao. The average Philippine yield is 0.5 kilos per tree. Good practice farms, according to Mars experts can reach 2 to 3 kilos per tree. Cassava. The average Philippine productivity

140

Cacao

Cassava

n.a.

22 Indon

1,730 kg/ha Viet Nam

+300

+100

+150

0.5 kg /tree

0.5kg/tree

1.5

is 11 tons per ha versus 22 tons for Indonesia and Thailand. The new Rayong clone can yield 50 to 60 tons per ha at field level in Mindanao. Cassava is processed into feed, alcohol and starch. Rubber. The average Philippine yield is about 600 kilos dry rubber per ha versus 1,730 per ha in Vietnam. This translates to about 2 kilos per tree for the former and 4.5 kilos per tree for the latter. A best practice farm in Makilala, North Cotabato can yield 5 to 7 kilos per tree average. Given market demand and potential farm incomes and poverty reduction impact, the next president

should know which commodities would be given full support. Productivity has strategic implications on farm incomes, investments, agri-processing industries, and exports. Can the Philippines harvest the low hanging fruits? ------------------------

The author is Professor, University of Asia and the Pacific, and Vice President of Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food, Inc. Dr. Dy is from Davao City and finished secondary education at the Davao City High School. He grew up in Little Panay, Panabo City.

Rubber

600 kg/ha

2,500

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

EDITORIAL Daunting challenge

UST like those before him, the newly-installed director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for Region XI has vowed to come out swinging against those involved in illegal drugs in Davao City and the rest of the Davao Region. Adzhar Albani, the new PDEA 11 director, immediately dished out fighting and encouraging statements one can expect from somebody tasked not only to eradicate illegal drugs in this part of the land but run after those behind the illegal drugs trade, prosecute them and put them behind bars for good. Such is the bravado of Albani, the replacement of Emerson Rosales, who himself got a new assignment as the new director of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). “We will hit hard on the high impact operations and high value targets,” Albani said after the turn-over of command ceremony at the Davao City Police Office in Camp Domingo Leonor on Tuesday night. The new PDEA 11 chief also emphasized during the turn-over

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that he will run after the big supply of illegal drugs in the city and the region. Well, there’s actually nothing new when PDEA heads speak about their thrusts and programs the moment they set foot on another location, or accept a new assignment. After all, they are expected to immediately issue warnings to those involve in the illegal drugs trade, sort of making their presence felt right away. Having a PDEA chief who vows to make the city and the region drug-free is someone who deserves support, but Albani knows he has to perform and translate his words into action to really satisfy the public. In Davao City, where the illegal drugs trade remains prevalent despite the city government’s no-nonsense drive against this nefarious activity, Albani will surely have his hands full. He has a daunting task at hand, and all we can do at the moment is hope that he gets the job done.

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EDGEDAVAO

HE ability to communicate is one of the most fundamental aspects of our being human and the foundation on which much of our civilization is built. Yet it is also one of those things that we take for granted in our daily interactions with other people. Simply because most of us learned to talk when we were still toddlers, we automatically assume that we’re already good at it. Unfortunately the history of human conflict shows that this isn’t exactly true. Most wars are the direct result of some form of breakdown in the communication process at the highest - and presumably the most responsible - levels of government, leading to incalculable misery and suffering for everyone else. All communication happens on two levels, the Object and the Relationship. Object-level is when you make statements about things, such as when you say a ball is round, or a girl is beautiful. While Relationship-level conversations happen when you discuss the same things in relation to something else, as in the ball being rounder than another ball, or the girl being more beautiful than another girl. But because most people are unaware of the existence of these levels in communication, misunderstandings on even the most harmless comments can easily deteriorate into arguments. Take the case for example, of a wife asking her husband if she looks fat in the dress

HAT is a friend? “A single soul in two bodies” was how philosopher Aristotle described a friend. To Len Wein, a friend is “someone who is there for you when he’d rather be anywhere else.” Father Jerome Cummings considers a friend as the person who “who knows us, but loves us anyway.” Ralph Waldo Emerson believes a friend is “the masterpiece of nature.” But the definition I like most is the one which Dinah Craik (author of 1859’s A Life for a Life) penned: “A friend is one to whom one may pour out all the contents of one’s heart chaff and grain, together. Knowing that the gentlest of hands will take and sift it, keep what’s worth keeping and blow the rest away.” The old song “No Man Is an Island” is true! People need people. Those who try to prove they don’t need others set themselves up for failure or disappointment in life. As Kahlil Gibran wrote in The Prophet: “Your friend is your needs answered. He is your field which you sow with love and reap with thanksgiving. And he is your board and your fireside. For you come to him with your hunger, and you seek him for peace.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds, “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.” One of the most famous stories of friendship in the Bible was the one between David and Jonathan. The account begins in First Samuel 18:1

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

VANTAGE POINTS

Honey, do I look fat in this dress? that she’s wearing. On the Object-level, this is just a simple yes or no question, something that any observant 3-year old can easily answer. H o w e v e r, on the much deeper Relationship-level, where whatever the husband says has a direct relation to his wife’s sense of well-being, things can become a bit more complicated. If he thinks that she isn’t fat, then he can genuinely say so and she would be happy. But if he does think she looks fat and fears that saying so might hurt her feelings, then a simple yes or no isn’t so simple anymore. Now before we talk about how we can resolve their dilemma, let’s leave the happy couple for a moment and look at how the same situation can occur in other areas of our lives. Whether it’s at work or with our family and friends, we don’t really have to look far for examples. The fact is, for most of us miscommunication has become so commonplace in our relationships that we don’t even notice it - much less put in the effort of trying to understand its underlying causes.

But then, if we are serious about wanting to improve our lot in life (as we should), we need to lose the blinders and really start looking deeper into this particular aspect of how we live. We need to understand the process of communication and the reasons it goes haywire so we can fix it when it does. On this, one of the more important concepts we need to learn is that, while communicating at the Object-level can be a zero-sum game - that is if one person is right, the other is necessarily wrong - this cannot be applied at the Relationship-level. If even just one of the parties involved in the communication process does not get this, and insists that any outcome must be framed within the context of total victory or defeat, then a successful resolution of the conflict would not be possible. What is worse is that, while individuals may be afflicted with this zero-sum communication bias, tragically it is more common - and much more magnified - among groups of individuals. This is the reason why nations go to war over issues that should have been perfectly solvable if only people understood that we can communicate peace just as easily as we can make war. Former US President George W. Bush famously illustrated this kind of mentality with his “if you are not with us, you are against us” position at the start of the second Gulf War, and we continue to see the same in the South China

sea stand-off, the debate on same-sex marriage, and a million other complex issues that are being presented in shades of just black and white. So now, going back to our earlier example, the solution to the husband’s problem - and other similar problems - depends on the kind of relationship he and his wife have built over the years. And this in turn has a lot to do with how they have learned to communicate with each other. Escape from a zero-sum game is only possible when all parties learn how to show respect, trust, tolerance, and fairness.

just after David THINK ON THESE! had defeated Goliath. “Now it came about when he (David) had finished speaking to Saul, that the soul of Jonathan (Saul’s son) was knit to the soul of Henrylito D. Tacio David, and Jonhenrytacio@gmail.com athan loved him as himself.” In Out of Solitude, Henri Nouwen pointed out, “When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing, and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares.” History is also replete with stories of friends. From the Philippines, I could think of the friendship between our national hero Jose Rizal and Ferdinand Blumentritt, a German teacher and a secondary school principal. Blumentritt was among the foremost experts on the Philippines of his day, although he never visited the country.

“In prosperity, our friends know us; in adversity, we know our friends,” J. Churton Collins said. This statement reminds me of a story that happened in the United States. Out of Miami come many sad stories of Cuban refugees who had to abandon their homes, businesses, professions – all that they knew and loved – in order to preserve their rights as free men. Hundreds were bidding for every available job, no matter how menial. One such incident concerns a man who had been a high official in Cuba’s customs and immigration service. He had applied for work at a Miami hotel, hoping to be taken on as a bellboy or a dishwasher. The manager, who had been several times to Cuba, happened to recognize him. “Say, weren’t you once in the Cuban customs office?” the manager asked and the man acknowledged that he had been. “I was right, you are really that person,” the manager said. “Three years ago, I visited Cuba, and had a terrible time with the customs department. Everything I said to the officials only seemed to make things worse for me. Then a perfectly strange official came along and straightened them and me out. That man was you, wasn’t it?” The Cuban guy replied affirmatively. “When I found out I wasn’t going to jail,” the manager continued, “I was so grateful I offered you US$100. But you said you’d rather have a friend.” The Cuban smiled and nodded at the memory. “Well,” the American hotel manager said, “you have a friend. And this hotel is your home as long as you need one. Friendship works both ways.”

“We cannot tell the precise moment when friendship is formed,” James Boswell once said. “As in filling a vessel drop by drop, there is at last a drop which makes it run over. So in a series of acts of kindness there is, at last, one which makes the heart run over.” It’s no wonder why several songs about friends and friendship have been written. Burt Bacharach wrote this famous sung by Dionne Warwick: “And if I should ever go away, well then close your eyes and try to feel the way we do today. And then if you can remember: Keep smiling, keep shining knowing you can always count on me, for sure. That’s what friends are for. For good times and bad times, I’ll be on your side forever more. That’s what friends are for.” Another favorite song most people usually sing is this: “When you’re down and troubled and you need a helping hand. And nothing, nothing is going right. Close your eyes and think of me. And soon I will be there to brighten up even your darkest nights. You just call out my name. And you know wherever I am, I’ll come running to see you again. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, all you have to do is call. And I’ll be there, yeah, yeah, yeah, you’ve got a friend.” James Taylor popularized this song way back in the 1970s. “A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails,” Donna Roberts said.” C.S. Lewis also stated, “Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art.... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.”

Thoughts on friendship

------A final thought on the issue of same sex marriage and its applicability in the Philippines, for those who insist on making this a religious issue, remember that the government guarantees all citizens the right to equal protection of the law. Last I checked, this refers to the constitution and not the ten commandments. If you don’t believe they should be married in eyes of your god, that is your right. But if they want to legalize their partnership before the law, I say let them. People have done worse things for less reasons than love. ---To read more of my ramblings, please visit my webpages at www.mindanation.com and www.infinitemonkees.com

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

SC asked to stop new gun license, permit fees Orig... FROM 3

HE Gun Owners Action (Go Act) on Wednesday asked the Supreme Court (SC) to stop the Philippine National Police (PNP) from imposing new fees and charges for firearms license and permits. The gun owners group filed a petition for prohibition and asked the SC to issue an immediate temporary restraining order (TRO) and status quo ante order against the current implementation by the PNP of an alleged excessive firearms licensing fee.

According to the counsel of GO-ACT, Atty. Rodrigo Moreno, the PNP is now collecting excessive fee for gun licensing which appears to be a “revenue generation” of the PNP which is a blatant violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act of 2013”. Under R.A. No. 10591, all individual firearms owners are required to secure a License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF). An LTOPF is classified from Type 1 to Type 5, depending on the

store where he purchased the fake noodle. “It was bought by his personnel. I told him to go back to our office and bring that person so that it we can ask him,” he said. Two weeks ago, the fake rice issue exploded after Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte said in his weekly program he will run after anyone caught selling the fake rice. The issue caught nationwide attention and was trending online two weeks ago. Duterte then said that

he will force the traders to eat the alleged fake rice once caught selling it in the market. He said he will not hesitate to punish those responsible specially if someone dies as a result of this unscrupulous act. The mayor said anyone is presumed to be the suspect once caught the illegal item in his or her possession. The NFA and the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) have declared the fake rice issue close after it found that the case is an isolated one.

“This is the only one we’ve seen,” Alerta was quoted as saying in another forum last Tuesday in his office. Alerta was refering to the rice variety known as Rico Corn Rice which is an alternative to rice grains. According to Philippine Leading Infinite Logistics Inc., Rico Corn Rice is an alternative staple food for persons with diabetes in order to control its blood sugar level. During yesterday’s hearing, the SITG, formed to investigate the reported proliferation of fake rice in the city, reported that samples from different rice mills and sources that were submitted for test to the NFA turned out to be wellmilled rice. Alerta said that the Bureau of Customs (BoC) also told them there was no rice importation coming from China that reached the Davao port. He said the angle food handling is the nearest possibility why the rice submitted by Carmencita Grinio of Matina Aplaya last June 26 turned out to be positive on the contamination of Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP). According to greenfacts. org, DBP is used in a wide range of products for everyday use such as plastics, paints, inks and cosmetics. Its widespread use has raised some concerns on the safety of this compound. Alerta said that based on the investigation of the SITG, the rice was cooked on June 20 and was out of the rice cooker on June 23. Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Davao City head Police Chief Inspector Warren Dablo, speaking in behalf of the SITG, said his group also went to investigate and took samples from the retailers of Grinio. CIDG-Davao was tasked by the SITG to gather facts and information on the issue of fake rice proliferation in the city.

Dablo said Grinio bought the rice in Cabantian and Matina Aplaya. He said his team was able to talk with the retailers and took samples from their display. The NFA proved that the samples were well-milled rice. He said the retailers pointed that the source of the retailers came from the rice millers in Tagum City, Davao Del Norte and Bansalan, Davao Del Sur. Dablo said his team inspected the rice miller in Tagum City and took 11 varieties of rice tested and found negative with contaminants since all were well-milled rice. The NFA, he added, also found negative on the rice in Bansalan. Dablo also received reports there was fake rice in Sta.Cruz, Davao Del Sur. It also turned out to be well-milled rice. He said the report in Mintal, Davao City was also found negative with contaminants. “Only one incident in Matina Aplaya that shocked the nation,” Dablo said in the committee hearing presided by councilors Marissa Salvador-Abella and Mary Joselle Villafuerte, chairs of the SP committee on food and agriculture and health, respectively. Dablo said his team interviewed Grinio and her fatherin-law on the alleged fake rice. Dablo said the family cooked the rice on June 20. The rice was removed from the rice cooker, placed inside a plastic cellophane and then was refrigerated for three days. On June 23, the father-inlaw of Grinio took the rice out of the refrigerator and left it in the veranda for three to five hours. “This is another angle of contamination because we cannot prove it was synthetic,” Dablo said. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

AND... FROM 1

NFA... FROM 1

number of firearms a person wishes to own and possess. Moreno clarified that they do not oppose the collection of fees for gun licensing and permit to carry of the gun owners. He added that what they are questioning is the excessive fees set by the PNP. Aside from a TRO, the petitioners also asked the SC to order the PNP to proceed with the processing and issuance of gun licenses and permits for the gun owners without additional fees while the case is pending.

The PNP has formulated a schedule of fees and charges for such licenses and permits. For an LTOPF, the charge is Php1,000 to Php10,000, depending on the LTOPF Type applied for. This is payable every two years. Likewise, the petitioners also asked the SC to declare as “unconstitutional” the fees currently being imposed by the PNP for firearms licenses and permits, since they are tantamount to a tax measure which only Congress can prescribe. (PNA)

“I think my assignment here in Davao is considered as good assignment because my previous assignments were very stressful,” Albani said. Albani said although there are many joint illegal drug operations in his previous assignments, he considers coordination of all law enforcement agencies in the operation is still better.

The political climate in the region will also help his operations succeed as political will help to eradicate illegal drugs, according to him. Before being installed as new director of PDEA 11, Albani was the head of PDEA Calabrazon and in other parts of Mindanao. He was assigned in Regions 9, 10, 12, ARMM and Caraga Region.

portedly presiding a caucus of leaders of the Second District to consider the candidate for

vice governor, as well as the lineup of candidates for members of the provincial board.

Daunting... FROM 2

Group... FROM 3

Hall... FROM 3

Toilets are also among the concerns of PWDs which he described as “unfriendly to PWDs.” “We cannot simply count with hour hand how many establishments here truly follow the law because there’s so many of them,” he added.

As part the celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week next week, Almario said the there’s still a need to raise the bar in Davao when it comes to compliance to the law as well as awareness to the needs of PWDs.

to 10 students from both public and private schools across the country. In a BSP statement, Project Bro is BSP’s savings campaign for kids and teens in which students will be engaged in fun-filled activities and interactive talks about the value of spending wisely, saving, and benefits of opening a bank account. “After the learning session, the team will track the students saving’s habit by closely coordinating with teachers and school officials for the

purpose of encouraging the youngsters to open and grow savings in a “Kiddie savings” account.” Meanwhile, the 11-day exhibit which will last until July 17 will be attended by about 4,000 young students from both public and private schools in Davao City. The Money Matters for Kids Exhibit, first in Mindanao, will teach students on the importance of the concept of money, concept of spending it wisely and be able to save it. CHENEEN R. CAPON

may still submit their resumes and portfolios to nbpo@careers.nextbposolutions.com. “What excites candidates to be a part of the Zeald team here in Davao City is that they get to work in Philippine Time Zone as opposed to having on a graveyard shift,” Manalastas said. Zeald is a full-service website design company, pas-

sionate about designing and developing websites that are easy to manage, grow with its clients’ business, and generate results. Zeald has designed and developed websites for thousands of small to medium businesses since 2001; its team are specialists in innovative website design and eCommerce websites. Cheneen R. Capon

BSP... FROM 6

New Zealand... FROM 6

system to receive and distribute the water at the cost of another P2 billion. “For the assurance of everyone, the joint venture partners guarantee that they have no intention now or in the future to privatize the operations of the water district,” Orig told Rotarians headed by Dr. Oscar Escudero, adding that “first of all, it cannot be done because it is against the law.” He said “its primary objective is to help secure the long term viability of DCWD by strengthening its capacity to effectivity serve the over ever-growing needs of water of Dabaenyos. Orig said that the bulk water project is needed now because currently DCWD is able to serve only 108 of the

city. He said another reason is that the city’s capacity to replenish its water supply from underground source is facing tremendous pressure. Thirdly, he said the project will enable Davao City to avoid suffering Cebu City’s current grave problem of salinization wherein saltwater intrusion has reached five kilometers into its aquifers. Orig warned that water demand in Davao City is projected to surpass supply in 2018, what with the city’s population of 1.53 million growing at an average rate of 2.41 percent. One motion of past president Jesse Fortich approved unanimously a resolution endorsing the bulk water project. ANTONIO M. AJERO

Based on the order, DCPO is directed to take custody of Felonia. Danao was also directed to secure his safety physically and psychologically. On June 26, the court ordered National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to take

custody of Felonia during the pendecy of the case. However, NBI Regional director Lawyer Dante Gierran refused to take Felonia’s custody for the reason that they do not have the capacity to handle a high profile detainee.

be passed on by shippers to consumers. “We will all suffer if we allow this to happen,” Braga warned. Laviña said Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) president Antonio dela Cruz had confirmed that no less than Transportation and Communication Sec. Joseph Emilio Abaya will attend the Sasa Port project forum on July 10 at Park Inn. Representatives from the PPA, National Economic Development Authority and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will also be on hand during the forum organized by the DCCCII.

Regional Development Council (RDC) XI conditional Resolution No. 118 passed last December 16, 2014. The resolution required the following conditions which were not met when the DOTC announced the bid of the Sasa Port project on April 10, 2015: a.) the acquisition of 6.2 hectares; b.) ensure appropriate payment of these lots and rights-of-way; c) specify in the project Terms of Reference (TOR) who will pay real property tax; d) ensure proper relocation/resettlement of informal settlers affected by the project; and ensure that concerned parties shall benefit including port operators and port users in the form of better and affordable services, and opportunities for sustainable employment and entrepreneurial activities of the people of the Davao Region.

Felonia’s... FROM 3

Militants... FROM 5

Laviña said that after the July 10 forum, Compostela Valley Vice Gov. Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora will pursue his motion for the review of the

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

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

Bulalo:

11 CULTURE & ARTS

The soup that satisfies cravings

Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

LONG with adobo, “lechon,” “sisig,” “crispy pata,” “kare-kare” and several others, “bulalo” has been listed by the Cable News Network as one of the fifty Filipino foods that define the Philippines. “Despite the perennial heat, Filipinos often enjoy sipping piping hot ‘bulalo’ soup,” authors Maida Pineda and Candice Lopez-Quimpo wrote. “The broth is rich with flavors seeped from the beef after boiling for hours.” “Bulalo” is native to the Southern Luzon region of the Philippines. However, many references have evolved regarding its origin. One source says it originated from Batangas where you can find the many versions of the dish. Other reference contends it actually came from Tagaytay City, where there are a lot of raised cows. Actually, “bulalo” is a soup dish consisting of beef shanks and bone marrow. Originally, it is cooked by simply by stewing the beef shanks and bone marrow with added salt and pepper to season. Today, there are several variations of “bulalo,” depending on the ingredients that are added like oxtail and the vegetables added such as corn, banana, string beans, onions, cabbage, pechay, garlic, ginger, potato, or carrots. “Bulalo” is so popular among Filipinos that those who are living in foreign countries now are longing to eat it again. If you happen in Bangkok, there’s New Mabuhay Restaurant in Phetburi Soi 19 where you can have the real thing. A plus is that its beef for the “bulalo” is certified organic. In an interview with Siam Pinoy, owner Romy Polito said: “Unlike other beef that’s available in the market, ours come from a seller certified by an internationally qualified body that sells beef that has not been injected by antibiotics or any form of chemical agent. And we do our marketing at midnight, to assure that we get the first pick, because that’s when the meat is fresh!” “Bulalo” is too good that for those with health problems, they must be aware of the consequences when eating it. One food write cautioned: “Bulalo is not among the healthiest foods of Filipino’s line of goodies. In fact, I would not suggest this dish if you are watching your calorie intake or advised by your doctor not to eat anything high in cholesterol. However, if you are one of the lucky ones that do not have any diet restrictions, by all means enjoy this dish.” If you can’t find any “bulalo” in your place, why don’t you prepare it yourself? In her blog, Connie Veneracion shared this tip: “Bulalo can mean any of three things: one, the marrow in the bone of the beef shank; two, the cut of the beef, that is, bone-in beef shank; or three, the soup itself which consists of the bone-in beef shank and vegetables.” According to Veneracion, the soup is a simple dish to prepare, really; but the flavorful broth and the texture of the meat make it a treat. “If you intend to cook beef shank as bulalo, ask the butcher to chop the shank in such a way that you have one large piece with one end open — the chopped end — while the other end, the one where the leg had been cut off right on the joint, remains closed,” she suggested. For practical reason and to make life easy, the best alternative in stewing the beef shank and beef marrow bones is by using pressure cooker. Doing so will not only accelerate the cooking process but also save you a lot of time and effort as

well. The website of Filipino Food Recipes lists the following that you need to buy before cooking your own “bulalo”: beef shanks with bone marrow, potatoes, celery, corn on the cob, leeks (optional), and pechay or “bok choy.” In the pantry, you need the following: carrots, garlic, onion, salt, and whole peppercorns. Now, you’re ready to cook your own “bulalo.” Prepare these ingredients: 6-7 pounds of beef shanks with bone marrow, 1 head garlic (cut), 1 large onion (cubed), 2 carrots (roughly cut), 2 stalks celery (roughly cut), 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns, 1 tablespoon salt, leeks (optional), 2-3 potatoes (cubed), 2 corn on the cob (cut in 1 1/2 inch), and 2 stalks pechay or “bok choy.” You need one gallon of water or just enough to cover the meat. Cooking time is about 2-3 hours. Below is the instruction: 1. Using a deep pot, boil the water with the beef, remove the scum that will float on top. 2. Add the garlic, onion, carrots, and celery and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until beef is tender, adding more water to keep the meat and veggies submerged. 3. Put in the potatoes, corn and leeks and simmer for another 20 minutes or until potatoes and corns are already tender. 4. Season with salt as needed, then add the Pechay and turn the heat off. 5. Serve the hot “bulalo” with rice and a dipping sauce of calamansi or lemon with fish sauce.

Despite the perennial heat, Filipinos often enjoy sipping piping hot ‘bulalo’ soup

If you have a “bulalo” soup that is too greasy, chances are that it is most likely because of the cut of beef that was cooked with the marrow. Use a small fine sieve to remove the scum that floats on the surface when you first boil the beef. This way, you remove much of the scum without taking a lot of the liquid out. Another tip from the experts: Turn the heat off once you add the pechay or “bok choy” to keep the bright green color of the vegetable. The residual heat is enough to cook the vegetable. If you decide to cook with leeks, just trim off the roots and the tough dark green leaves, then cut stalk horizontally in the center and wash thoroughly to rinse off the sand and dirt in between the stalk layers. Unknown to many Filipinos, it is believed that “bulalo” has the same effect as the chicken soup to relieve coughs and colds. In addition, boiling the bones for few hours extracts necessary minerals from it to help support bone, heart and muscle health. Happy eating!

12 CLASSIFIED

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 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

GO BOLD

• All text • Telephone Number (bigger point size) • Bold Header Price: 100.00

GO COLOUR • Background • Text Price: 175.00

ADD-ON • Pictures/Logos • Graphic Elements Price: 230.00

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

NEWS 13

EDGEDAVAO

2 soldiers wounded in clash with NPAs By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

WO soldiers were wounded following an hour of encounter with members of the New People’s Army (NPA)in New Bataan Compostela Valley Tuesday afternoon, the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) reported. The skirmish took place

in Barangay Andap at around 4:25 p.m. The soldiers are now in stable condition while a follow-up operation was launched by the military against the fleeing rebels. EastMinCom said witnesses in the area reported to 66th Infantry Battalion (66IB) that there were at

least nine rebels wounded during the firefight, but were carried away by their companions during their escape. Lt. Col. Gulbert Roy Ruiz, 66IB commander, said that they are already receiving reports from the civilians about the presence of CPP-

NPA extortion group in the area. “The people were already fed up with the bandit’s extortion activities. This is another big blow to the CPP-NPA,” Ruiz said. Soldiers recovered nine high powered firearms after the fight. These are six M16

rifles, an M4, an AK-47 and an M14 rifle. There are already 105 firearms recovered from the NPA rebels since January of this year. Meanwhile, EastMinCom Lt. Gen. Aurelio B. Baladad directed Lt. Col. Ruiz to look for the wounded NPA

members for medical treatedment. “We are also concerned about the wounded NPA members. We have a brandnew ambulance here at EASTMINCOM that can help them reach to the hospital for their immediate treatment,” Lt. Gen. Baladad said.

ment decided to terminate the search and retrieval activities following the final validation of deaths and survivors. Relieved PCG Eastern Visayas District Commander Capt. Pedro Tinampay said the data from the local government, private groups and national government have been reconciled to come up with official count.

“All passengers are accounted for and there are no more missing passengers. Search and retrieval operation is now officially terminated,” said Tinampay on his last day as PCG head of the region. Asked for his reaction about the order of their national headquarters to relieve him, he said “only God know.” He declined to answer other media questions related to the sacking issue. The PCG headquarters also ordered the removal of Coast Guard Ormoc City station commander Lt. Adonis Aniasco and three members of a boarding team who checked the vessel prior to departure. Their relief was to prevent them from influencing ongoing probe of the sea mishap off the waters of Ormoc City on July 2. (PNA)

Ormoc tragedy death toll climbs to 62; search, retrieval operation ends

UTHORITIES have ended the search and retrieval operation of casualties of ill-fated M/B Kim Nirvana-B as death toll rose to 62 with 158 survivors, bringing the official passengers count to 200. In a meeting Tuesday night, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police, Philippine Red Cross, and Ormoc city govern-

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

14 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

Marco Polo Davao K9 team tops canine course and bomb-sniffing evaluation L

AST June 16 to24, the Marco Polo Davao K9 Team joined the first Canine Handlers Crash Course (CHCC) conducted by PNP Supervisory Offices for Security and Investigation Agency (SOSIA) Training Team headed by PSSUPT Dominador Lolatubod at the Fireball Security Training Center. The eight (8) day training program was intended to improve the skills and capability of K-9 Handlers in Mindanao. Out of the 33 participants from Regions X, XI and XII, the three (3) canine handlers of Marco Polo Davao, Arne! 0. Febria, Bennie M. Lumague, and Alejandro Capucong Jr., have earned the first, second and fifth places respectively in the course. On the Explosive Detection Test, one of the hotels’ bomb-sniffing dogs named “Tabasco” (a Labrador Retriever) has emerged as number one (1) in ranking based on evaluation.

Tabasco, a Labrador Retiever, tops the canine evalution for bomb-sniffing

Marco Polo K9 Team

Alejandro Capucong Jr and Tabasco poses with MPD GM Dottie Cronin

Short power interruptions on July 11 and 12

AVAO Light and Power Co. will implement two sets of switching power interruptions on July 11 and 12 affecting customers connected to its Victoria Feeder 1, Ecoland Feeder 2, Puan feeder 1 and Calinan & Tugbok Substations. The first set of power interruptions will be for 15-minutes only on July 11, from 3:00

a.m. to 3:15 a.m. and from 6:45 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. affecting Victoria Feeder 1 and Ecoland Feeder 2. The switching of loads will be necessary to avoid longer power interruption during the relocation of poles along Bacaca road to facilitate DPWH’s road widening project and DCWD’s upgrading works. Customers affected by

these service disruptions are those along J.P. Laurel Avenue from El Bajada Hotel going to Redemptorist Church and from Bacaca corner Diversion road up to underpass in Milan Buhangin. Areas along Maa road going to Magtuod and to Monteritz and from Las Terrazas to Langub will also be affected by these power interruptions.

Meanwhile, on July 12, two 30-minute power interruptions, from 3:00 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. and from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., will be experienced by customers connected to Davao Light’s Tugbok and Calinan Substations. This is necessary to facilitate the rehabilitation of revenue metering equipment in the National Grid Corporation of the Phil-

ippines’ substation in Mintal. Specifically affected are those from Mintal Public Market going to areas of Tugbok, Calinan, Baguio District and other nearby areas along Davao-Bukidnon Highway. However, customers connected to Puan feeder 1, which is from Mercury Drug Ulas going to Mintal, will only experience the second 30-minute

service disruption, which is from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.. Davao Light apologizes for the inconvenience of these scheduled power interruptions. But it will exert all efforts to restore electric service as scheduled or earlier. However, there may be instances where restoration may extend beyond the schedule due to unavoidable circumstances.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 70 • THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

NU Pep Squad to open SM City Davao University Fair

AAP’S cheerdance competition defending champions, the National University Pep Squad, will be opening SM City Davao’s University Fair today at the Annex Event Center. The NU Pep Squad bagged their second consecutive UAAP crown in 2014 where they awed the crowd with a seamless Native American-themed performance at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The University Fair will run for three days. It will host a powerhouse collection of academic and technical institutions from around the country. Among the participating schools are the Ateneo de Zamboanga and Ateneo

de Cagayan de Oro (Xavier University), International Academy for Film and Television (Bigfoot) from Cebu, Dumaguete’s Silliman University, Manila’s National University, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, Mapua College of Technology, University of Santo Tomas and SoFA Design Institute. Davao-based schools are also set to showcase their programs—Ateneo de Davao University, Davao Doctor’s College, University of Immaculate Conception, Fashion Institute of Design and Arts, Institute of International Culinary and Hospitality Entrepreneurship, Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation, MOST Insti-

tute of Davao, Philippine Women’s College, University of Mindanao and the University of the Philippines in Mindanao. Forums on trends in employment, effects of ASEAN integration in education, and non-diploma opportunities will be offered as well as talks about scholarship programs. On Saturday, the Junior Chamber International will be hosting the career forum with resource persons from various fields and industries. Catch the UP Pep Squad and more exciting activities at the University Fair. For block bookings and inquiries, interested schools may contact 297.6998.

talk and agree to terms before then. Coming off the bench last season, Ginobili averaged 10.5 points, 4.2 assists and 3.0 rebounds a game. His c a re e r averages, all with the Spurs, a r e

14.3 points, 4.0 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals a game. The Spurs lost to the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of last season’s NBA playoffs, prompting Ginobili to consider retirement. But Ginobili said Duncan’s decision would factor into his choice and Duncan agreed to return last week. San Antonio also picked up free agent star LaMarcus Aldridge, who tweeted Saturday he was joining the Spurs after nine seasons with Portland.

SPORTS15

Ginobili back, West signs for Spurs

ANU Ginobili, who helped Argentina win 2004 Olympic gold and contributed to four NBA titles by the San Antonio Spurs, confirmed Monday he will return to the Spurs next season. The 37-year-old guard even had a mention for teammate Tim Duncan in his Twitter announcement that he would be back for a 14th NBA campaign, saying: “Happy to announce that I’m coming back next season. #gospursgo #TDwouldvemissedmetoomuch.” The Spurs received more good news later Monday with a reported deal for free agent forward David West, a two-time NBA All-Star who spent the past four seasons at Indiana after eight more with New Orleans. No contracts can be signed until Thursday, when salary cap limits for the 2015-16 season will be made official, but teams and players can

BACK WITH THE SPURS. Manu Ginobili of Argentina returns after an injury.

Ginobili, named the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year in 2008 when he went to more of a reserve role, was a major player for Argentina’s gold medal run at the Athens Games, the only time US men with NBA talent failed to win Olympic gold. The South American standout helped the Spurs win NBA titles in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2014, when San Antonio defeated a LeBron James-led Miami Heat side in the final.

PRO-AM. Businessman Boy Tan pitches from around the green during the pro-am tournament of the ICTSI Golf Tour leg at the Apo Golf and Country Club. Boy Lim

Jason Pagara added to Dubai card

ESPONDING to the clamor of the large community of Filipino boxing fans in Dubai, the famed ALA Promotions and the giant broadcast network ABS-CBN along with widely watched TFC, The Filipino Channel, have added light welterweight Jason Pagara to the fight card at the International Trade Center in Dubai for its second blockbuster presentation in the United Arab Emirates. Jason’s younger brother, undefeated IBF Intercontinental junior featherweight champion “Prince” Albert Pagara will battle Mexico’s Jesus “Chito” Rios in the main event. Because of the turn-away crowd in their last promotion ALA and ABS-CBN have secured a bigger venue within the sprawling International

Trade Center to the delight of predominantly Filipino fight fans eager to get a glimpse of the promising “Prince” Albert Pagara who is ranked No. 7 in the world by the IBF and No. 12 by the WBC and the younger brother of talented light welterweight Jason “El Nino” Pagara. ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer reasoned that because of the tremendous response of Filipinos in Dubai and other parts of the UAE they decided to also feature Jason Pagara although they haven’t finalized an opponent as yet but hope to do so by this weekend. The 26 year old Jason Pagara has a record of 35-2 with 22 knockouts and is the reigning WBO International super lightweight champion

who won the vacant title with a 6th round TKO over rugged Rosbel Montoya of Mexico in a rematch on August 18, 2012. In a fight card titled “Fists of Fury” the WBO International junior welterweight champion Jason “El Nino” Pagara demolished hardened Mexican challenger Cesar “El Dolar” Chavez to score a crushing 2nd round TKO when referee Bruce McTavish called a halt to the massacre at 1:56 of the round. Pagara who is ranked No. 4 in the world by the WBO ripped a right to the ribs of Chavez in the opening round followed by a glancing right to the head that dropped the Mexican who beat the count only to be sent to the canvas again with a flurry of punches to the ribs. Although the game

ager Cameron Dunkin had spoken to him about the Quigg fight after the British boxer’s handlers showed interest in facing Donaire. Quigg himself said on Sky Sports TV that Donaire “has been making noises that he’d like to fight me” and indicated that it could be the easier fight to make than a showdown with Carl Frampton. Quigg added that after he does his job against Martinez then he’d be ready to discuss a Donaire fight.

Both Donaire and Quigg are heavily favored to win although Quigg returns to the ring after a lengthy layoff following a unanimous decision over Hidenori Otake in his fifth title defense on November 22, 2014 before he underwent surgery on his right hand one month later. Donaire said his manager Cameron Dunkin had spoken to the handlers of Quigg who are reportedly “very interested “ in making the fight happen, prompting Donaire to state “that will be good.”

Donaire lined up for WBA title fight

OP Rank promoter Bob Arum has big plans for five division world champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire should be put on an impressive showing against former European champion Anthony Settoul in Macau on July 18. Arum told us that should WBA super bantamweight champion Scott Quigg also win against Kiko Martinez in his title defense on the same day and “all goes well we might do a big fight in Dubai.” He said Donaire’s man-

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports

MAJOR COLLISION Serena meets rival Sharapova in semis S

ERENA Williams survived a scare to book a Wimbledon semi-final showdown with old rival Maria Sharapova as the world number one battled back to defeat Victoria Azarenka 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 on Tuesday. Williams was in danger of a shock quarter-final exit after a slow start on Centre Court, but the five-time Wimbledon champion eventually battered 23rd seed Azarenka into submission in two hours and three minutes with a barrage of 43 winners and 14 aces. The 33-year-old American, aiming to win her fourth successive Grand Slam title and 21st in total, will face world number four Sharapova on Thursday holding a 17-2 lead in their head to head record. Serena has won all four of her semi-final meetings with Sharapova and defeated the Russian in their previous Wimbledon clash in the last 16 in 2010. “It’s been up and down. But somehow I’m still alive. I don’t know how,” said Serena, who famously lost to the teenage Sharapova in the 2004 Wimbledon final. “Maria’s been playing really well. I saw her match today. She’s such a fighter and it’s always good to see her doing well. “We haven’t played each other at Wimbledon in a while but I look forward to it. I just really don’t have anything to lose.” After an awkward family reunion in the previous round when she defeated sister Venus in a subdued encounter, Serena was back to her usual shrieking and fist-pumping as she over-powered twotime Australian Open winner Azarenka, who has now lost 17 of their 20 meetings.

Serena’s gritty fightback extended her remarkable winning run at Grand Slams to 26 matches and her 2015 record to a blistering 37-1. Despite her inconsistent display, Williams, who has won nine of her 11 Wimbledon quarter-finals, remains on course to hold all four major titles at once and is also in the hunt to clinch the calendar Grand Slam by a woman since Steffi Graf in 1988. She will be heavily favoured to reach an eighth Wimbledon final given her dominance against Sharapova, who will need every trick up her sleeve to beat the American for the first time in 11 years. - Gamesmanship Five-time Grand Slam winner Sharapova was forced to swat away claims of gamesmanship during her hardfought 6-3, 6-7 (3/7), 6-2 last eight victory over Coco Vandeweghe. She took two hours and 45 minutes before finally defeating unseeded Vandeweghe to reach her fifth Wimbledon semi-final and her first since 2011. But the 28-year-old w a s accused of unsporting

behaviour by Vandeweghe, who was unhappy that Sharapova was moving during the American’s service action. “She (the umpire) said she didn’t believe she was doing it during the motion. I strongly disagreed. Towards the later end of the second set, I said if she has a problem speaking to

Maria, if she’s too scared to do it, I had no problem speaking to her,” Vandeweghe said. “What I felt from her moving around in between my serving motion was not, I don’t think, sportsmanlike. I try to play as fair as I can.” But Sharapova insisted she was doing nothing out of the ordinary. “It is what it is. What she said, I’m not going to argue against her words,” she said. The other semi-final pits 2012 Wimbledon runner-up Agnieszka Radwanska against 20th seed Garbine Muguruza. Radwanska, the Polish 13th seed, defeated American 21st seed Madison Keys 7-6 (7/3), 3-6, 6-3 on Court One. The 26-year-old will be making her fourth Grand Slam semi-final appearance and her third at Wimbledon. “It cannot be any better. I’m just so happy I could stay in that match. It was very tight,” Radwanska said. “I’m so happy to be in another semi-final.” Muguruza beat Swiss 15th seed Timea Bacsinszky 7-5, 6-3 to become the first Spanish woman to make the Wimbledon

semi-finals since Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario in 1997. The 21-yearold, born in Venezuela but raised as a tennis prodigy in Barcelona, had never before made the semi-finals of a Grand Slam.

VOL. VOL. 8 ISSUE 8 ISSUE 7070 • THURSDAY,A • THURSDAY,JULY JULY9,9,2015 2015 Maria Sharapova (right) will try to end an 11-year drought against rival Serena Williams (below).