Edge Davao 8 Issue 95 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

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NO LAYING OF ARMS Joma to Rody: Don’t act like the others EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

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Serving a seamless society

TOPNOTCHERS. Councilor Maria Belen Sunga-Acosta, chair of the City Council’s committee on education, chats with the July 2015 Social Worker Licensure Examination topnotchers paying a courtesy call during yesterday’s regular session at the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The topnotchers are STEP scholars of the city government: Nikki Alburo, 5th placer; Christine Fontecha, 6th placer; Dizza Padayao, 7th placer; Marivic Niere, 7th placer; and Hedda Librea, 9th placer. Lean Daval Jr.

By JON JOAQUIN

INSIDE EDGE

jon@edgedavao.net

OMMUNIST Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria “Joma” Sison has cautioned Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte from calling

on the CPP and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), to give up the armed struggle. Instead, Sison said he was reminding Duterte that he

should “not sound like (President Benigno) Aquino and (Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita) Deles by demanding the surrender of the

NPA even before his becoming president.” Duterte last week said he told Sison in a telephone con-

FNO LAYING, 10

Quakes rock Bohol, Davao Oriental P2

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

THE WAIT. Councilors wait to have a quorum as their colleagues arrive late for yesterday’s regular session at the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The session started 20 minutes late. Lean Daval Jr.

AFP: No misquote Fil-Am youth group of UN rapporteur By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday stood on its claim that United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons Chaloka Beyani made the statement that the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) staying in the UCCP-Haran compound have been manipulated by progressive groups. In an interview, Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) spokesperson Colonel Eduardo Gubat said Beyani really uttered the words, “I

think they (IPs) got manipulated” during his exit briefing to government agencies at the New World Hotel in Makati City on July 31 on the conclusion of his official visit to the Philippines from July 21 to 31. EastMinCom commander Lieutenant General Aurelio Baladad has gotten flak for claiming that Beyani made the statement, which directly contradicted Beyani’s own printed statement issued on July 31. In that statement, Beyani said the IPs described to him

FAFP, 10

Quakes rock Bohol, Davao Oriental A

MAGNITUDE 4.2 earthquake shook Bohol in Central Visayas region on Tuesday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). In its bulletin, Phivolcs said the quake occurred at 4:19 a.m. and the epicenter was traced at two kilometers northeast of Cortes in Bohol. Phivolcs said that Intensity 4 was felt in Cortes, Bohol; Maribojoc and Antequera, Bohol; Intensity 3 in Tagbilaran City, Loon, Balilihan, San Isidro, Corella, Sikatuna and Loboc, also in Bohol; and Intensity 2 in Tubigon, Alburquerque, Bohol; Argao and Sibonga, Cebu; and Intensity 1

in Cebu City The quake, which was tectonic in origin, had a depth of six kilometers. Less than an hour later, at 5:04 a.m., a magnitude 3.5 quake jolted Davao Oriental province with epicenter traced at 33 kilometers southeast of Governor Generoso town. The quake, which was tectonic in origin, had a depth of 46 kilometers. Phivolcs said there was no casualty or damage reported and no aftershocks were expected from both tremors. The Philippines lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where 20 to 25 earthquakes per day – mostly imperceptible – are common, Phivolcs said. (PNA)

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

ARTICIPANTS of the International Solidarity Mission (ISM) denied the claims of the military that the Indigenous People (IP) evacuees in United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP)-Haran are being used by militants for profit. “If lumad evacuations are profitable, then thousands of lumad evacuees should have already sprouted all over the country,” Chrissi Fabro, national coordinator of Fil-Am

(Filipino American) youth and student relief network, KapitalsigKabataan Network said in yesterday’s regular session of the City Council. Fabro was invited to speak during the privilege speech of councilor Antoinette G. Principe-Castrodes. “We should be grateful that IPs in UCCP Haran have braved the hurdles of coming to the city and have been steadfast in exposing the rotten cause of the AFP as a pro-

tector of land-grabbing foreign corporations,” she said. Fabro said the culture of impunity “reigns supreme in Mindanao as state elements freely subject lP populations to harassment, divestment of properties, physical assault, and other violations.” “This we have concluded after speaking with the people in militarized areas here in Mindanao,” she said. Fabro said her group visited the 700 lumad evacuees

during their stay in the city for the Mindanao-wide all youth conference dubbed “Pangiyakkil Mindanao Youth shout out for ecological justice and human rights” on August 8 to 10. “From these fascist actions, evacuation towards urban centers becomes the first step of these people to achieve justice for themselves. To malign these efforts as a ‘profit-making schemes’ does not help the victims at all. It only

on TV,” Zarate, who hails from Davao City, said in a statement. “But it makes us wonder where Mar Roxas is pulling all the money from. Fifteen seconds on a primetime commercial spot can go upwards from P250,000, while 30 seconds on TV can go upwards from half a million. His TV placements early in the game makes questioning his fund sources a valid point,” he said. “The 2015 budget was

described as an elections budget, as it was padded here and there to provide the administration substantial fuel for their campaign train. The DILG for example, with Mar Roxas in the stern, has a whopping P154.5 billion budget in 2015,” he said. Zarate said the DILG was given funds for housing and irrigation which are “outside its mandate.” “((Budget) Secretary Flor-

encio Abad cleverly crafted the 2015 budget to service the allies of the administration. Are we seeing the people’s money in the campaign ads of Mar Roxas?” he added. Zarate said the large sums of money in strategic departments and the revolving definition of savings go hand in hand in ensuring money for LP campaign kitties. “We saw it last year and

FFIL-AM, 10

Solon questions fund source for Roxas’ ‘campaign ads’ By JON JOAQUIN jon@edgedavao.net

AYAN Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate yesterday questioned the sources of the campaign funds of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary and Liberal Party (LP) standard bearer Mar Roxas. “It seems that they are really bent on building up a more masa image for Mar Roxas, as his face is conspicuous on TV morning shows and with all his campaign ads

FZARATE, 10

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EDGEDAVAO

4 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Councilor urges more support for Davao Gulf fishing ban By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

RUSH. Construction workers rush to finish the underground cabling system in City Hall Drive which is now at the concreting stage a week before the start of Kadayawan sa Davao 2015. Lean Daval Jr.

DCWD Bulk Water Project given 3 lawmakers’ nod T

HE Bulk Water Project of the Davao City Water District (DCWD) was favorably endorsed by all three Congressional Representatives of Dava City. DCWD board director Serafin C. Ledesma Jr. said First District Rep. Karlo Nograles and Second District Rep. Mylene Garcia-Albano jointly aired their approval after the two-hour technical presentations were made by DCWD and its joint venture partner Apo Agua Infrastructura at Seda Abreeza Hotel last Friday. Ledesma said Third District Rep. Isidro Ungab, who could not attend the presentation because it coincided with the Calinan fiesta celebration, sent his endorsement through a text message. “Yes, with all my support, I endorse the bulk water proj-

ect of DCWD as this will allow our vital aquifers in Dumoy to be recharged,” Ledesma quoted Ungab as saying. “Harnessing surface water resources from our rivers for domestic household consumption is now also a common practice among many countries worldwide,” Ungab added. He said he is fully abreast about the bulk water project of DCWD and is happy that its implementation in about to start. Nograles, for his part, said that he appreciates the efforts of DCWD and Apo Agua in insuring that the city will have a sustainable water supply up to 2030 and beyond. Garcia-Albano, whose political constituents had been clamoring for potable water, welcomed the project but

North Cotabato cops arrest 4 suspected BIFF hit men

OLICE authorities here, acting on a tip from a civilian informant, arrested on Monday four persons, believed to be “hit men” of an outlawed Moro armed group, for possession of unlicensed firearms. The suspects were arrested at a checkpoint in Barangay Bagontapay, Mlang, North Cotabato past 3 p.m., Mlang police chief Senior Inspector Jenamiel Tonacao said. Tonacao identified the individuals as Notke Talaga Makmod, 30, of Barangay Kabuling, Pandag, Maguindanao; Norjehad Manday Utto, 31; Faizal Utto, 19; and Bilay Utto, all from Datu Paglas, Maguindanao. The suspects, who all claimed to be farmers from

Maguindanao, could not say why they had high powered firearms in their possession. Police officers confiscated from Makmod and Norjehad two unlicensed 9 mm pistols with 19 bullets while Faisal yielded a cal. 45 pistol with 17 bullets. Also, a homemade Uzi machine pistol with seven bullets was collected from Bilay. Tonacao said the suspects were on board separate motorbikes when they were flagged down at a police checkpoint. They yielded guns when frisked. Before the suspects were arrested, the authorities received an intelligence report about a possible entry to

expressed surprise at why there seems to be too many processes that DCWD has to go through. “I have my own sets of questions but the presentations made by DCWD and Apo Agua are quite thorough and comprehensive I need not raise them anymore,” she said. The only question she raised was the need for an exemption of DCWD from the implementing rules and regulations of the Watershed Code of the city. DCWD Board Chairman Ed Bangayan explained that the water district itself helped in the crafting of the code that bans projects in the conservation area that includes Tamugan river, which is targeted to be the source of the raw water for the bulk water project.

He said the code was for the conservation of the water resources and aquifers of the city and for these to be utilized only to sustain the supply of water to the city consumers. In a related development, Garcia-Albano said she was excited to know that the quality of the water supply in Barangay Cabantian will be radically improved with the cutover of the water system treatment facilities through a reverse osmosis technology. DCWD, she said, is presently replacing the pump to one that is capable of drawing much bigger volume of water after which unwanted elements will be flushed out. Quality water similar to Dumoy water is scheduled to be released to Cabantian consumers on August 18, she said. Antonio M. Ajero

abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City Councilor Rachel Zozobrado urged the city government add more support to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 11’s Closed Season for Pelagic Fishing in the Davao Gulf. “Let us not only commend BFAR for its aggressive campaign against illegal fishing and in the implementation at the Closed Fishing Season,” Zozobrado said in her privilege speech during yesterday’s regular session. She said the Closed Fishing Season can help sustain the rich natural resources of the gulf. “If we want to take part in the national government‘s call for inclusive growth then we can contribute by helping in the campaign for the implementation at the closed season in our region,” she said. She said prior to the im-

plementation of the Closed Season, Davao Gulf has seen a deficiency in the region‘s fish supply because of overfishing. “This has prompted the agency to push for the closed fishing season in the Davao Gulf,” she said. Zozobrado said the declaration of the Closed Season is based on Administrative Circular No. 2 (JAO 02-2014) issued in 2014 by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of interior and Local Government. She said the Closed Season is a three-month fishing ban in the Davao Gulf from June to August of every year. It is being implemented to protect the pelagic fishes since this period is their spawning season. Zozobrado said the increase in the number of businesses and economic activities

FZOZOBRADO, 10

Police will no longer ‘rescue’IPs in Haran

HE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) will not conduct another “rescue operation” for the Indigenous People (IP) evacuees in United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP)-Haran and will let the group stay there. In an interview, DCPO spokesperson Senior Inspector Milgrace Driz there will be no inter-agency rescue operation to send the IPs back home. “It is now the UCCP’s responsibility to send the Lumads to their home. We will not initiate any inter-agency involvement to send these people back home,” she said. Driz said based on the information she got, the IPs will be out of Haran by August 10 to 12. “Kung dili pa sila manguli, siguro magstay pa sila diha sa

Haran. Pero kung ganahan sila, mobalhin na pud sila sa laing lugar (If they will not return home, they might still stay in Haran. If they like, they can transfer another place in the city),” she said. Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte earlier asked the police and military not to force the IPs out of Haran to avoid any untoward incident. Duterte said the IPs and their support groups promised him that they would go out of Haran on August 10. Police had tried to enter the Haran compound on July 23 in an attempt to “rescue” the IPs who it said were being held there against their will by progressive groups. The DCPO said it based its operation on the report of

FPOLICE, 10

SMILE. A staff member of the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) takes a photo of a street vendor applying for a Mayor’s ID at Rizal Park yesterday.

FNORTH, 10 All ambulant vendors in the city are required by the city government to get the ID so they will be allowed to continue with their businesses. Lean Daval Jr.

5 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

NEDA cites need for infra dev’t to cope with ASEAN integration W

ITH the advent of ASEAN economic integration, the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) regional office here cited the importance of infrastructure development in order for the Philippines to get at par with the neighboring Southeast Asia countries. NEDA regional director Severino Santos said that with the free flow of goods, services, investment capital and skilled labor, the enhancement of infra-

structures are among the vital factors needed to cope up with the challenges and opportunities of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). “The roads, airports, seaports are the platforms where the economic activities are being done. Those are the access needed for the movement of goods, services, investment capital and people from the Philippines to our neighboring ASEAN countries. Thus, improved and upgraded infrastructures are

keys for our country to be competitive in the ASEAN region,” Santos said. Aside from skilled workers, he said that Central Luzon has an edge to confront the challenges of ASEAN integration. ”Here in Central Luzon, we have the Clark airport and Subic seaport. Those are important gateways which we can use to directly participate in the ASEAN

economic community,” he said. With the economic integration, the NEDA official also said that there is big potentials for the ASEAN countries to be competitive in the world markets like North America and Europe. Thus, he asked the residents in Central Luzon to utilize their full potentials to cope with the challenges of ASEAN economic inte-

gration. The NEDA, together with other concerned government agencies, have been conducting series of lectures to stakeholders in Central Luzon in preparation for the impending ASEAN economic integration. The ASEAN integration sets in motion the creation of an ASEAN Economic Community (AEC),

a single market spanning the 10-nation bloc that includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The integration is envisioned to usher in a freer flow of goods, services, investment and skilled labor in Southeast Asia with trade barriers out of the way. (PNA)

6 THE ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Buiness Bureau told: Monitor spas By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

HE Davao Wellness and Spa Association has requested the Business Bureau to intensify its monitoring on the compliance of spas and wellness estabishments in Davao City. Davao Wellness and Spa Association vice president Cherry Al-ag said hundreds of spas in Davao operate without the license and hire massage therapists who are not licensed by the Department of Health (DOH).

“The association wanted to mainstream all those offering massage services,” Al-ag told Edge Davao. She said the Business Bureau has the list of these establishments operating without the proper permits and qualified therapist. “This is part of our effort to promote public safety in the areas of wellness and spa,” Al-Ag said, adding that reports have reached their association that there were

ENATOR Chiz Escudero said the Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) P43.5-billion budget request for 2016 should allow it to field more trains, end long queues at MRT stations and start the long-delayed line extension projects, since almost 41 percent of the agency’s proposed spending plan is earmarked for the rail sector. Escudero, who was former chair of the Senate Committee on Finance until he resigned on July 28 out of “delicadeza,” said that based on the DOTC request, it plans to spend some P15.7 billion to address the problems plaguing not just the MRT, but the Philippine National Railways (PNR) and the LRT, as well. According to Escudero, it is only right to attach “measurable performance” to every peso that the DOTC is asking in taxpayers’ money to

subsidize the rail operations. “The DOTC says it will speed up transfer time in stations from 10 minutes this year to 5 minutes next year. Ang una ngang dapat itanong 10 minutes nga lang ba ang waiting time sa MRT ngayon?“ Escudero said. The DOTC also vowed that overloading in MRT trains would go down to 157 percent from to 171 percent. “Is this decrease in load factor doable or drawing lang? Ilang bagong train ba ang parating para masabi natin na maiibsan na ang siksikan?“ the senator added. These pledges are among the MRT-related performance indicators the DOTC has spelled out in the national budget. With these deliverables, the DOTC is asking Congress to appropriate P7.09 billion in

HILIPPINE exports fell for the third consecutive month despite the recovery of the electronics sector in June 2015, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). “Weak external demand continues to affect the country’s external trade performance, particularly for the merchandise exports sector. Year-to-date outcome, in terms of both value and volume, suggests fragility in the demand, particularly in major trading partners,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported today that the country’s merchandise exports declined by 3.3 percent in June 2015 from the same period last year on account of lower revenues from total agro-based and mineral products. The value of exports in June 2015 dropped from US$5.5 billion last year to US$5.3 billion. “This decline reflects a still fragile global economy that is felt across the region. Most of the major economies in East and Southeast Asia also reg-

istered negative export performance in June 2015, with only Vietnam and PR (People’s Republic) China in the positive territory,” said Balisacan. On a positive note, the country’s higher sales of exported manufactured goods (3.4%), particularly electronics, and petroleum tempered the exports decline during the month. The electronics sector gained momentum as exports of electronic products rose by 9.5 percent during the month, buoyed by semiconductors (16.9%). This is a strong reversal from the year-on-year reduction of 7.5 percent last month. “The country’s relatively strong semiconductor exports emulated the progress in the global semiconductors market as worldwide sales continued to expand at its 26th consecutive month, as reported by Semiconductors Industry Association,” the Cabinet official said. Meanwhile, revenues from the country’s agricultural exports continued to fall in June 2015, marking its fifth consecutive month of

Chiz: DOTC to spend P16.7 billion for MRT S

some massage establishments here that offer “extra service.” The DOH issued Administrative Order 2010-0034, dated Dec. 10, 2010, that aims to regulate the practice of massage therapy to ensure that only those qualified are allowed to enter the regulated profession. Under the order, those who passed the licensure examination “is a holder of a valid Certificate of Registration

FPHL, 10

reau the monitoring the compliance of spa and wellness establishments to Presidential Decree 856 or the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines. Under the decree, massage is defined as “a method wherein the superficial soft parts of the body are rubbed or stroked or kneaded for remedial or aesthetic or hygienic purposes.” A massage clinic, meanwhile, is an establishment where massage is adminis-

tered to customers. Al-ag said aside from the lack of business permit, some spas and wellness centers in Davao City also do not have any sanitary permit from the local health authority. A provision under the Chapter 8 of the coded said that Spa and wellness operators are also mandated to secure that their masseur and massage attendants have up-to date health certificates from the health authority.

NOW OPEN. Cristalle B. Henares (third from right), daughter of renowned dermatologist Vicky Belo, and Abreeza Mall operations manager Janice A. Parreño (third from left) lead the ribbon cutting ceremony during the opening of Belo Festival fair dubbed Fes Ti Vale at the activity center of Abreeza Mall on Monday night. Lean Daval Jr.

100 MSMEs in Mindanao Trade Expo

Phl exports continue A to decline in June‘15 P FCHIZ, 10

(COR) and license for massage therapists issued by the DOH Committee of Examiners for massage therapy (CEMT)” However, a moraturium of the order was ordered since February 2015 until 2017. The three-year moratorium will allow the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to allow massage therapists to secure certification from it. Al-Ag said the association proposed to the Business Bu-

TOTAL of 100 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMES) representing various sectors from all over Mindanao will be showcasing their products and services during the Mindanao Trade Expo (MTE) 2015 on August 14 to 20 at Abreeza Mall Activity Center. The week-long trade fair, which is alongside the Kadayawan celebration, is said to be a gallery of craftsmanship of local skills and talents of designers, highly competitive products and potentials from the abundant raw materials found in the island. MTE Foundation, Inc. (MTEFI) president Rosevic del Rosario-Cembrano said the exhibit will continue to be a platform for locally-produced products to get promoted and noticed by institutional buyers. For 20 years, MTE has already cornered around P1.3 billion of cash, booked and under negotiation sales, and promoted a total of 2,545 MSMEs. “This is already the 20th year of MTE. Through the years, it has sustained its commitment to continuously provide an avenue for Mind-

anao products to expand their market. In fact, a number of our MSMEs here have found their institutional markets by joining MTE,” she said. Yvette’s Bags has been among the so-called “MTE babies” that have graduated to become exporters at a larger scale. To date, Yvette Mari Celi’s world-class creations have already been hitting the shelves of stores in Europe and other Asian countries. Apart from becoming a marketing arm of MSMEs, MTE has also been a vehicle for continued development since prior to the actual exhibit, participating entrepreneurs have to undergo a series of capability enhancement workshops and handson trainings that are aimed at encouraging them to further improve their products as they maintain their growth. “When we talk of capability building and enhancement program for our MSMEs, it means that we will give them enough guidance as our experts mentor them. Also, there are trainings to improve their entrepreneurial skills as well as their products,” the business leader noted. MTEFI identified four pri-

ority raw materials to be developed for 2015 until 2016, namely, water hyacinth, bamboo, coconut and abaca fiber and how these are magically transformed into high-quality arts and craft, home décor, houseware, gifts, fashion and furniture. “Through MTE 2015, we shall be able to launch the potentials of water hyacinth in Carmen, Davao del Norte. This will probably solve the flooding problem in the area especially that the lake will already be cleaned up by coming up with world-class products out of the water hyacinth,” she said. The raw materials showcase, on the other hand, will give the show’s visitors a better understanding on the usage and development of water hyacinth: from raw and semi-processed to fully-processed materials ready for product development. ASEAN.org stated that “ASEAN, through the establishment of the AEC, is committed to enable businesses to fully tap on the potential of the region as an integrated and single investment destination.” It further added: “Rather

than having 10 fragmented economies, ASEAN is creating a single market that will allow investors to increase their market reach to a total of 600 million, compared to only a minimum of half a million people or maximum of 240 million if they are to access only the market of one ASEAN country.” “There are so many opportunities to tap, only if the government and private sector would continuously work together. If without each other’s support, we will lag behind our ASEAN neighbors,” Del Rosario-Cembrano said. Special events like the design competition and handson livelihood training will likewise take place. “We really want our MSMEs to get the kind of trainings that they truly need so that they will be more than prepared to face the international challenges especially with the ASEAN Integration,” she said. MTE 2015 is supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), local government unit (LGU) of Davao City, Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and Abreeza Ayala Mall.

INdulge! Art in the

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

EDGEDAVAO

EVENT

CITY’S HEART

The lobby of the Marco Polo Davao was abuzz with activity last August 10 with the launch of the hotel’s Kadayawan Art Exhibit which featured young Dabawenyo designers and their creations as well as photographic scenes of life and living in Davao City by the Camera Club of Davao “This (exhibit) also serves as a prelude to the many activities that we will be part of during this festive season,” said Marco Polo Davao’s general manager Dottie Wurgler-Cronin.

URBANISSIMO A4

Wilson Limon.

Windell Mira.

Joji Ilagan-Bian, Nicole Bian, and Marco Polo general manager Dottie Wurgler-Cronin. Windell Mira, Jun Artajo, and Wilson Limon.

Lala Chua.

Xioti Chiu.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

UP AND ABOUT

AirAsia celebrates 300 million guests milestone

Celebratory fares on 3 million AirAsia seats up for grabs from as low as P300.00, all-in! AIRASIA, the world’s best low cost airline for seven consecutive years, today reached another milestone with 300 million guests flown. The milestone was commemorated with a string of celebrations starting from Terminal 3, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, to The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place.

Jodie Lazuardie, a 30-yearold Art Director based in Jakarta was the lucky guest who booked the 300 millionth AirAsia seat. Jodie’s flight booking from Kuala Lumpur to Jakarta earned him a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a hefty 3 million BIG Points from AirAsia’s loyalty programme, also known as AirAsia BIG. Upon landing in Jakarta, Jodie was treated to a Red Carpet experience which included a private pick up from the plane, fast-track immigration clearance and priority baggage handling, all the while being escorted by a group of AirAsia cabin crew. Jodie was also driven from the airport to The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place by a private chauffeur, where he was warmly welcomed by AirAsia Group’s management team. Among those present to welcome the 300 millionth guest were Co-Founder and Group CEO of AirAsia Tony Fernandes, Co-Founder and Group CEO of AirAsia X Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, CEO of AirAsia Indonesia Sunu Widyatmoko, CEO of Indonesia AirAsia X Dendy Kurniawan,

(Middle) Tony Fernandes carrying the lucky 300 million guest, Jodie Lazuardie. CEO of Malaysia AirAsia Aireen Omar, Acting CEO of AirAsia X Benyamin Ismail, CEO of Thai AirAsia Tassapon Bijleveld, CEO of Thai AirAsia X Nadda Buranasiri, Chairman of Philippines AirAsia Maan Hontiveros and Alice Goh, CEO of AirAsia BIG. Tony Fernandes and Alice Goh presented the 3 million BIG Points to Jodie, which can be used to redeem any flights within AirAsia’s extensive network. For instance, one return Jakarta – Singapore flight requires 13,000 points while Bali – Melbourne requires 60,000 points. The 3 million BIG Points will enable AirAsia’s 300-millionth guest to redeem hundreds of free flights to any AirAsia destination. AirAsia reached its 100-millionth milestone in October

2010, and celebrated the 200-millionth mark three years later in September 2013. In a little less than two years, the number of guests flown across the group has grown to 300 million. Commenting on the achievement, Tony Fernandes said, “We are delighted to be here today to welcome our 300-millionth guest. When we started AirAsia fourteen years ago, we merely had two aircraft in operation supported by 250 staff across five destinations in Malaysia. Today, we have established operations in 5 countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, and India with over 17,000 Allstars. We paint the sky red everyday with 199 aircraft flying to over 100 destinations in 22 countries. It took hard work

and sheer determination to get to where we are today and together, we will continue to revolutionize air travel, to serve the underserved, and most importantly, to give back to the communities in which we operate.” Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, Co-founder and Group CEO of AirAsia X said, “AirAsia has made flying affordable for millions of people and has turned millions of dreams into reality – a pledge we will continue to enshrine. Today, our dream of flying 300 million guests has come true with the support of our loyal guests. We are committed to continue putting our guests at the core of everything we do, and to consistently innovate in making their travel experience hassle-free and enjoyable. We hope to con-

nect more places, more people, and more communities through AirAsia and AirAsia X’s low fares and unmatched route connectivity.” To celebrate the 300 million guests milestone, AirAsia Group announced celebratory fares on 3 million seats from as low as P300.00, all-in fare and one way. Guests can fly to many exciting destinations across Asia and Australia, such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Maldives, Manila, Hyderabad, Seoul, Osaka, Tokyo, Melbourne and Sydney. The promo seats are now up for grabs online at www. airasia.com until 16 August 2015 for travel period from 15 February 2016 until 31 August 2016. The celebratory fares are also available on AirAsia mobile Application that can be downloaded via iPhone and Android, and mobile sites mobile.airasia. com. AirAsia BIG Members can also redeem the promotional flights from 460 BIG Points. Members with insufficient BIG Points can also opt to pay with BIG Points plus Cash option or even transfer points to or from friends and families who are BIG members. BIG Members can also use BIG Points to redeem for inflight meals and baggage during the redemption booking. To redeem, please visit airasiabig.com For more information on latest news about AirAsia’s promotions and activities, follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AirAsiaPhilippines) and Twitter (www. twitter.com/AirAsiaPh).

The motion of innovation in Cebu

YAMAHA MOTOR PHILIPPINES, Inc. delivered another stellar showcase in the form of their International Motorshow, this time in the City of Cebu. The event is centered on the industry shaking technology that is the Yamaha Blue Coreengine, a creation that offers more power with less fuel which is now available in the Philippines. Specifically, it is equipped on 3 different units that were on display in the Motorshow. First, the Mio i 125, a refreshing combination of power and lightness accented by a stunning design that will make the rider feel extraordinary. GET CRAZY WITH TOON SHOES. Get up to 50% OFF The unit was made availon your favorite character brands at the Toon Shoe able to the public in the form of Craze happening at all The SM Stores nationwide a free test ride that took place in

from August 1 – 31, 2015.

the covered parking area of SM City Cebu. Next is the Mio Soul i 125, this unit has a bolder design with an aggressive front face for a daunting presence on the road. Last of Blue Core trio is the NMAX, another addition to the max series that is now equipped with the latest in fuel efficiency; it also gives the rider a sense of comfort in any lifestyle allowing them to enjoy the vast sceneries in Cebu. That would not be the only products on display; the R-Series that consists of the YZF- R1, R3,and R15 was also in the venue; The Super Tenere, MT-09, T-MAX, and Bolt of the Big Bike Category which is eagerly awaited by riders in the country. A new trend that just arrived this year,

the Yamaha Tricity powered by the Leaning Multi Wheel technology was there alongside the AT units. Marine products were also present with Wave Runner and Outboard Motors; the Yamaha Power products had a complete lineup of generators for everyone to see. The displays weren’t the only attractions because there was a selfie promo where guests are asked to upload their selfies alongside Yamaha products to their facebook page with the hashtag #YMPHmotorshow2015 to receive a motion of innovation lanyard. That wouldn’t be the only freebie, because guests only needed to register to receive a free Yamaha Tote Bag, 360 Magazine,

and stickers. The event was not short of exclusive entertainment with performances by Ballet Manila, Jessy Mendiola, and Yeng Constantino; plus a special appearance by Robi Domingo. In addition to that exclusivity, the Yamaha Club offered the brand new membership card that can be claimed on the same day of registration; a benefit that was only available during the event days. It was 4 days of excitement and exhilaration presented with ingenuity that redefines the landscape of the motor industry that is spearheaded by breakthrough technology that challenges the limits of the riding lifestyle; one that is recreated by Yamaha.

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EDGEDAVAO

INdulge! A3

ENTERTAINMENT

Young stars make theater debut in No Filter: Let’s Talk About Me THREE Kapuso stars took some time off from their television and film commitments as they explore another medium: theater.

No Filter: Let’s Talk About Me is an “an original monologue series by millennials for millennials about millennials.” According to The Sandbox Collective, this is their first ever original production that they have created to voice out the millennials’ experiences, thoughts, and behavior on stage. It also exposes why the Generation Y are so keen on using social media as a way of venting their opinions. Kapuso stars Lauren Young, Mikael Daez, and Saab Magalona are first timers but have already claimed their places in theater with their performances. According to Saab, theater was a great place to hone her craft and get rid of her stage fright. She said, “It’s been such a work-

shop for me and also being part of a theater play and having had the chance to do it with Sandbox collective and in this particular show na it’s an original. We were all working on it as it happened, n othin g w a s really set in

thing; it just made me feel na you know you’re not just acting, you’re also like beginning.” Meanwhile, Lauren admits that she appreciates the guidance she got in theater acting. “I think it’s a totally different process kasi p ar an g

stone. It was really a collaborative

with theater, they give you more time and there’s much more guidance when it comes to the work that you’re doing. So that’s what I really like.” Lauren revealed that this project made her love acting once again. “I’ve been acting since I was like 11. I’m 21-years-old already and I’m losing my passion with my art and it [felt like] work suddenly. And now, I’m so happy that I’m slowly [going] back to loving what I do for a living again.” Mikael disclosed the difference of acting on television and in theater. He said, “It’s just so different and in the sense that it made

me appreciate acting in general just more because they attack it from a different point of view. They process and use and analyze the text.” He added, “It’s so interesting for me because I came from TV and that’s the only

thing I’ve learned. I’ve been in TV for four and a half years and there’s this some sort of pressure to learn something new. So over the last month and a half, two months, it’s such a big learning experience. I really appreciate it.”

Ahron Villena shares secret to fit body in ‘Sports U’ KAPAMILYA ACTOR Ahron Villena, who stars as one of the cast members of ABS-CBN hottest primetime series ”Pasion De Amor,” recently let “Sports U” take a look in his training regimen. Watch him in action this Thursday’s (August 13). Also, get to know more about the story of Blue Chiong, a fourteen-year old triathlete who took part and finished in the top 20 out of 180 participants in the Alaska Iron Kid race recently held in Cebu. Blue suffers from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is also a cancer survivor. For a young man facing those roadblocks, Blue performed admirably as well

as keeping himself in tip-top shape. Dyan Castillejo, meanwhile, was invited to be part of the Adventure Tourism event held at the SMX Convention Center, where she taught students who attended various exercises to keep their bodies fit and their health at the best possible level. “Sports U” aims to promote athletes who have inspiring stories to share and may possibly become future sports stars of the country. It also promotes fitness and healthy lifestyle by looking into how celebrities stay in shape. Tune in to “Sports U” this Thursday (August 13), 4:30 PM on ABS-CBN. Follow their Facebook page at http://facebook. com/SportsUtv and official Twitter account (@SportsUTV) for more updates.

August 12, 2015

FANTASTIC 4 Miles Teller, Kate Mara, Michael B. Jordan PG

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

THE LOVE AFFAIR Bea Alonzo, Dawn Zulueta, Richard Gomez R13

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

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE 5 Tom Cruise, Rebecca Ferguson, Jeremy Renner

R-16

11:20 | 2:00 | 4:40 | 7:20 | 10:00 LFS

ANT-MAN Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas PG

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

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge! EVENT

URBANISSIMO A1

Department of Tourism XI director Robbie Alabado together with Marco Polo Davao’s Sarah Mama

Wilson Limon.

Officers and members of the Camera Club of Davao.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Lala Chua, Emi Englis, and Xioti Chiu.

The event also featured a short fashion show featuring the clothes of designers Jinnue Artajo, Xioti Chiu, Lala Chua, Windell Mira, Andi Amora, Mandy Velasco, Nickole Rule, Jozel Ignes, and Wilson Limon. Bamboo fitted minaudières designed by Shiela Damalerio as well as the latest collection of accessories by Crystal Seas were also showcased. Looking towards the future of Davao’s design culture, conceptual transformable fashion pieces by the Philippine Women’s Fashion and Industrial Design Programs students headed by Emi Englis were also paraded during the evening’s short fashion show. All the fabulous design pieces are viewable by the public at the lobby of the Marco Polo Davao throughout the Kadayawan season with select pieces available for purchase so I would recommend a quick visit to the Heart of Davao to check out what Durinburg’s designers have to offer. Follow me on Instagram or on Twitter at @kennethkingong for more travel stories, foodie finds, and happenings in, around and beyond Durianburg.

Minaudieres by Shiela Damalerio.

Nikole Rule.

Claude and Tess Le Niendre together with Crystal Seas’ mother and daughter tandem of Mae and Carmela Alcantara.

7 AGRITRENDS

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Azolla

Ipil-ipil leaves

Rediscovering those natural fertilizers Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

N recent years, Filipino farmers have been using commercial fertilizer because they believe it will augment their income. They are told that by putting synthetic fertilizer, production from their farm will be boosted. Unknowingly, commercial fertilizer is an additional cost to growing crops. But there are fertilizers that farmers can use without spending their hard-earned money. In fact, these fertilizers are available all year round and for free. Unfortunately, they are not given much attention by farmers. In fact, some of them may consider them as wastes and of no value at all. But at the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) Foundation, Inc., azolla and nitrogen-fixing shrubs like ipil-ipil are being turn into fertilizer. “We found that by growing them in our farm, we can lessen our expenses,” says Roy C. Alimoane, who directs the non-government organization based in the southern part of the Philippines. Nitrogen is one of the most essential elements needed by plants for their growth. Take the case of rice. “Any rice plant, modern or traditional, requires one kilogram of nitrogen to produce 15 to 20 kilograms of grain,” said the Laguna-based International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). “Most tropical soils imbibe sufficient nitrogen naturally to grow about one ton or 1.5 tons of rice per year. To augment yields above that, nitrogen must be provided.” Nitrogen is abundant in the earth’s atmosphere. But only very few plants can assimilate nitrogen directly from the atmosphere; most plants obtain their nitrogen from complex compounds in the soil. Farmers can add fertilizers to the soil that may organic (composed of organic matter) or inorganic (made of

simple, inorganic chemicals or minerals).

Azolla In the 11th century, farmers in the Kingdom of Dai Viet grew the dinky water fern in their rice fields. They did not know about nitrogen – the most critical requirement for plant growth – but they knew the fern made their rice grew better. For hundreds of years, the descendants of those ancient Vietnamese and Chinese farmers used the water fern – now known as azolla – to fertilize their crops. Today, it is being followed by some farmers in Asia. The use of azolla as a fertilizer was first promoted in the Philippines in the early 1980s. Studies show that rice yields in plots with azolla were higher than those without by more than a ton in the same cropping period. Anabaena azollae, a bluegreen alga that thrives in the cavities of azolla leaves can fix or draw nitrogen from the air. Azolla floats on the water between rice plants. When it dies and is incorporated into the soil, decomposition releases the nitrogen. “Farmers who grow azolla are actually growing their own fertilizers,” Alimoane says. Azolla contains 4 percent nitrogen on a dry weight basis (dry weight is 5 percent of fresh weight); 0.5-0.9 percent phosphorus; and 2-4.5 percent potassium. For only three hours, Alimoane claims, a farmer can grow adequate azolla to increase yields equivalent to that produced by 30-60 kilograms of nitrogen fertilizer per hectare. Residual soil nitrogen is increased. Ipil-ipil About 60% of the country’s total land area of 30 million hectares is considered uplands. Most of these are

susceptible to soil erosion. One of the best methods to arrest erosion is to plant nitrogen-fixing trees like ipilipil (known scientifically as Leucaena leucocephala). Fortunately, ipil-ipil can also be a natural source of fertilizer as its foliage rivals manure in nitrogen content. One study showed that ipilipil leaves were comparable to ammonium sulfate in supplying the nitrogen requirement of rice plants in flooded and non-flooded soil conditions. Corn grain yields were equally as high whether fertilized with herbage from intercropped ipil-ipil in single hedgerows or with commercial fertilizer. But there’s more to ipil-ipil than just fertilizer. Its aggressive root system “breaks up impervious subsoil layers, improving moisture penetration and decreasing surface runoff,” to quote the US National Academy of Science report. “Nutrients from deep strata are gradually deposited on the surface through decay of the leaves and other plant parts; soil organisms increase, topsoil humus rebuilds.” At the MBRLC, leaves of ipil-ipil are used as green manure for vegetable crops grown in its Food Always In The Home (FAITH) gardens. The leaves are placed inside the basket or trench composts. In addition, it is used as a hedgerow species to control erosion in its famous Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT) and its three other modifications. The multifarious uses of ipil-ipil have known by the innovative farmers in Naalad, Cebu. Leucaena: Promising Forage and Tree Crops for the Tropics reports: “For over 50 years, they have used Leucaena for erosion control, soil reclamation, and fertilization on extremely deep, rocky hillsides. “They plant blocks of

Ipil-ipil tree

Azolla ready to be used their land with Leucaena to control erosion and provide soil improvement. Some of the leaves are harvested, dried, and sold as leaf meal to local feed millers; almost, most households keep goats that are fed Leucaena mixed with coconut and banana leaves. After 3-6 years, the blocks with Leucaena are cleared (large pieces of the wood are sold for fuel) while an equal number are seeded with Leucaena and left fallow…” As feeds The MBRLC also uses ipil-ipil as feed for their goats as it is very high crude in protein. Generally, the young stem and leaves can be dried and pulverized into leaf and stem meal. However, when it is used as fresh-cut forage, it is given to goats together

with other forages like madre de cacao and the two introduced species, Flemingia macrophylla and Desmodium rensonii. Agricultural journalist Rudy A. Fernandez, in an article which appeared in Philippine Star noted: “Ipil-ipil has so far been the best known source of leaf meal because of its high nutritive value. In fact, in the early 1980s, growing ipil-ipil for its leaves developed into a cottage industry in Central and Eastern Visayas and northern Luzon.” Azolla is also a good feed for livestock. It is very rich in proteins, essential amino acids, vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin B12 and BetaCarotene), growth promoter intermediaries and minerals like calcium, phosphorous, potassium, ferrous, copper,

and magnesium, among others. On a dry weight basis, azolla contains 25-35 percent protein, 10-15 percent minerals, and 7-10 percent of amino acids, bio-active substances and bio-polymers. The carbohydrate and fat content of azolla is very low. “We raise azolla in our ponds using nets,” says Alimoane. “Every afternoon, we collect them and use them as feed for our tilapia. In only a matter of minutes, the azolla are immediately gone. Tilapia loves to eat them.” Azolla can also be used as feed for dairy cattle, pigs, ducks, and chickens. Studies reported of increases in milk production, weight of broiler chickens and egg production of layers when these are fed with azolla as compared to conventional feed.

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

EDITORIAL

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

The spin

O what’s the truth behind the supposed statement of United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons Chaloka Beyani virtually exonerating the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) from allegations of violating human rights and accusing progressive groups of “manipulating” the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) staying at the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP)-Haran compound? Beyani had given an exit briefing on July 31 at the New World Hotel in Makati City on July 31 on the conclusion of his official visit to the Philippines from July 21 to 31, and the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom)’s version of portions of the speech is that Beyani said the IPs “got manipulated” by progressive groups into evacuating from their homes and camping out in Haran. In a press release dated August 7, 2015, the EastMinCom also quoted Beyani as saying it is “quite clear” that “neither the AFP nor the PNP has responsibility primarily into what happened.” Armed with the alleged sound bytes, the EastMinCom said it “welcomed” Beyani’s “constructive” statements which it will use as a “guide us in carrying out our mandate as protector of the people.” The problem is that the supposed glowing review flies directly in the face of the official statement Beyani himself gave on his official visit. To recall, the Special Rapporteur, who visited the Haran evacuees on July 26, said the displaced IPs made it clear that it is the military’s presence and that of the paramilitary groups in their communities that continues to create anxiety among the indigenous communities. He also said the community wishes to return to its

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lands “but stressed to me that they will only feel safe to do so if the long-term militarization of their region comes to an end and they can return with guarantees of safety, dignity and protection.” This was further brought home by Beyani’s media officer Graham Fox, who said he did “not recognize the quotes attributed to Mr. Beyani by the AFP.” Fox also said it is Beyani’s understanding, based on firsthand interviews, that the IPs “relocated freely in response to the militarization of their areas and forced recruitment into paramilitary groups operating under the auspices of the AFP.” That alone should settle the matter since the clarification was made by Beyani’s very own media officer. The AFP, however, is not satisfied and dared Fox to have the UN Rapporteur himself make the disclaimer. EastMinCom spokesperson Colonel Eduardo Gubat, who made the dare, should probably brush up on his protocol and organizational structures. A media officer is always presumed to speak on behalf of his or her superior, and any statement made is taken as being made by the principal. If he doubts Fox, then Gubat should look at his own position and realize that by the same token, none of what he says is acceptable since he is only a spokesperson. The jury, of course, is still out on this matter because the AFP claims that there is a recording of Beyani’s off-script remarks. But given the official statement he has already made, as well as Fox’s own disclaimer, it would be safe to say that the spin the military placed has backfired, and it has a lot of explaining to do in order to set things straight.

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EDGEDAVAO

S companies scramble for a larger share of the internet pie, more and more are turning to online marketing gurus and tech savants to help them get to the top of the search engine listings and stay there. But as they turn to the experts, very few of the executives who run these companies take the time to actually understand how it’s done. Sure, they might know terms like “content marketing” or “search engine optimization,” but ask how these concepts come together in drawing larger, more engaged audiences to the their sites and you get nothing. Search engines have always been the backbone of internet marketing, allowing companies and customers to find each other in the vastness of cyberspace. So for those who want to get to the top and stay there, understanding how it works is essential. This is especially true since search engines are constantly changing. They evolve the same way people do, they learn, they adapt, they become more efficient. Today’s search engines, led by Google, have very little in common with the technology used by those that came – and went – before. In response to these changes, which today are largely driven by the overwhelming influence of social media, companies must also modify their SEO strategies to take advantage of the new search parameters. They should stop focusing on single keywords and search rankings and instead look towards providing better content that promotes engagement with their brand, product, or service. This strategy of relationship building yields higher profits over the long term.

“

TRAFFICKING in persons is a complex problem and trafficking modes and patterns continue to evolve over time as perpetrators of the crime seek to outflank policies and regulations of government. We have already improved the law. The vital step now is to strengthen enforcement and prosecution.” -- Senator Loren Legarda

*** If he had his own way, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte wishes harsher punishment for human traffickers. Like drug trafficking, he wants it to be punishable by death. Duterte said those words after learning of two human trafficking incidents in the city. “Although we have strict policies (against human trafficking), I want more proactive action coming from government,” the city mayor was quoted as saying by Philippine Star. But it’s not only in Davao City that human trafficking is being reported. It is also rampant in other parts of Davao Region, particularly Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur and Compostela Valley. Alexander D. Lopez, in a news report which appeared in Manila Bulletin last year, said that the number of human trafficking cases is alarmingly increasing in the region. His source of information was Regional Director Priscilla Razon of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Razon quoted a report from the Inter-Agency Council Against Human Trafficking (IACAT) that from January to November in 2014, about 98 cases of human trafficking were recorded. It was a sizable jump from the 13 the agency recorded the previous year.

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VANTAGE POINTS

Optimizing your SEO Another old school (and not in a good way) SEO strategy was to write content for the search engine with little or no regard to the actual needs of those visiting the sites. This is the kind of thinking that creates badly written copy filled with multiple, often redundant, keywords and phrases. But for the new value-centered sites, the premium is on content that the client can actually use. And it isn’t always necessary (or even advisable) to make a sales pitch. Sometimes just being there for your clients make them trust you more when they actually need to make a purchase. Clearly today’s internet is not like what it was five, even just two years ago. Because of the explosion of social media, people are no longer content with being passive receivers of whatever marketing or advertising messages are out there. People are now actively looking to interact and participate in the process. And so for companies that want to build a stronger online brand, to paraphrase a famous line from one of my favorite movies, “if you build it well, they will come.” --While on the topic of SEOs, another common misconception is the idea that it is a

must-have for any on-line marketing strategy to succeed. Despite evidence to the contrary, many people still believe that the “holy grail” of on-line presence is the number one spot on Google or Yahoo searches, and they gear their campaigns accordingly. But the fact is, SEOs don’t always work the same for every company, and being on top of the search engines shouldn’t be the default goal for every company on the internet. Just take B2B companies or brands for example. For them there is a premium on good relationships, and their online efforts would be better spent on identifying and engaging with specific target clients. In my experience, this is especially true in the Philippines where who you know is much more important than what you know, and no amount of SEO can equal a business partner with a well-connected uncle or cousin. --I was reading a post on rappler.com about the agony of the families of those who were lost in Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, and as I got to the end, there was a graph that caught my attention. It showed that 38% of the people who read the story were “happy.” About what wasn’t very clear since it was mostly about the emotional turmoil the families of the victims are going through. And unless most of those who read the story are sadists, it seems unlikely that that was what brought them joy. This attempt to understand the feelings of people as they engage with online content is just one of the latest trends in trying to add a personal layer in our interaction with web-

sites. Just like the ubiquitous “Like” button on Facebook, more and more companies try to reach out to and connect with their customers on an emotional level. But while the effort is there, there is still a lot to be improved in the execution. Most of the channels for interaction are still untested, clumsy, and yield inconsistent results. Also, they are prone to abuse by people who don’t really have anything constructive to add to the conversation yet insist on weighing in on every topic. --Speaking of being untested, clumsy, and inconsistent – Sen. Grace Poe certainly put her foot in it recently when she asked Sec. Mar Roxas to step aside and run for VP to give way for her own presidential ambitions. Judging from the mostly negative comments from netizens, who are of course the country’s new purveyors of common sense and decency, she just lost a good deal of her underdog, below-the-radar appeal with her combative remarks. To be fair, though, even with all the constant needling from Binay and his minions, the heavy handed presence of her rumored handler, Chiz Escudero, and the snide remarks from Roxas’ Liberal party allies, she has held up with a lot of equanimity and, well... grace. Which is why it is also entirely possible that Poe’s comments, though coming from her own mouth, may not have been hers to begin with. Which may or may not be a good thing. Oh well, such is the lot of the Pinoy voter in 2016 – we can only pray that Mayor Duterte can save the day.

“We have THINK ON THESE! been intensifying our campaign against trafficking in persons because the most vulnerable victims are the children who are helpless and need to be provided with pro- Henrylito D. Tacio tective services,” Lopez quoted henrytacio@gmail.com Razon as saying. It will be recalled that in December 2013, a Regional Trial Court judge in Davao City handed the first conviction for Attempted Qualified Trafficking in Persons. Justice Secretary Leila M. De Lima, IACAT chairperson, said the conviction “shows the extensiveness of the new anti-trafficking law with the inclusion of the attempted stage in connection with the offense.” Some observers said that human trafficking is a significant issue in the country and it is often controlled by organized crime syndicates. Most believe that human trafficking is “a crime against humanity.” A report published in 2004 by the Vatican stated: “The Philippines has a serious trafficking problem of women and children illegally recruited into the tourist industry for sexual exploitation. Destinations within the country are Metro Manila, Angeles City, Olongapo City, towns in Bulacan, Batangas, Cebu City, Davao and Cagayan de Oro City and other sex tourist resorts such as Puerto Galera, which is notorious, Pagsanjan, La-

guna, San Fernando Pampanga, and many beach resorts throughout the country. The promise of recruiters offers women and children attractive jobs in the country or abroad, and instead they are coerced and forced and controlled into the sex industry for tourists.” In an effort to deal with the problem, the Philippines passed Republic Act 9208, more popularly known as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, a penal law against human trafficking, sex tourism, sex slavery and child prostitution. The enactment of Republic Act 10364, otherwise known as the Expanded Human Trafficking Act of 2013, has given more teeth to the Philippine campaign to eradicate the evils of human trafficking. The expanded RA has included the mere attempt to traffic as a punishable offense, whereas previously, exploitative purposes must first be settled before an offender is punished. In observance of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons last July 30, Senator Loren Legarda underscored the need to strengthen the implementation of the R.A. 10364 to address the problem of human trafficking and other forms of modern-day slavery. “Thousands of Filipinos fall prey to human traffickers each year. Behind these numbers are stories of individuals whose freedom of choice is impaired by desperation or helplessness, thus rendering them vulnerable to exploitation. Victims are subjected to forced labor, domestic servitude and forced marriage, organ removal and sale, sex trade, and exploitation of children,” Legarda, principal sponsor of the law, pointed out. Recently, US Secretary of State John Kerry released the 2015 Trafficking in Persons Report in

Washington, D.C. The report, it is said, “provides the most comprehensive information on government efforts around the world to combat modern slavery.” On its three-tier ranking system, the Philippines got Tier 2, the same grade it received in 2014. This simply means the country “is yet to fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in person (TIP),” to quote the words of Business Mirror reporter Recto Mercene. But since the government is doing its best to curtail human trafficking, it received commendation from the US State Department. In fact, it praised the Philippine government for “demonstrating increased law enforcement efforts.” In a statement, the US Embassy said: “The US government recognized the efforts of the Government of the Philippines to bring justice to victims and expedite prosecutions.” According to the statement, 54 human traffickers were convicted. This was an increase from 31 the previous year. “We recognize the government of the Philippines’s progress on trafficking in persons, and we look forward to continuing our close cooperation to tackle this regional and global issue. As part of our global efforts to combat human trafficking, the US government is committed to working with the government of the Philippines to prevent trafficking activities, to prosecute perpetrators, and to protect victims,“ the statement pointed out. And as the editorial of EDGE Davao puts it: “Much still has to be done in the fight against human trafficking, but it can be won if we all work against it. And the first step is understanding what it is.”

Understanding human trafficking

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

NO LAYING... FROM 1

versation that he would consider running for President if the communists agree to lay down their arms. Seeking to clarify that phone conversation, Sison, in a post on his website dated August 10, 2015, printed the full text of an interview he gave to the Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Delfin “Sonny” Mallari in which he said he appreciates Duterte’s desire to end the armed conflict as soon as possible “even before he runs for president.” “The GPH-NDFP (Philippine government and National Democratic Front of the Philippines) peace negotiations are a way to address the roots of the armed conflict and make the social, economic and political agreements for a just and lasting peace,” Sison told Mallari. “But the peace process is two-sided. Aquino and Deles are still in control of the GPH side. Unlike Mayor Duterte, they are not eager to have any kind of ceasefire or truce on some substantive basis that is satisfactory and beneficial to the people,” he added. Sison said he presumes that “if and when” Duterte becomes president, he will “retain his desire to end the armed conflict, accelerate the peace process and give way to a just and lasting peace.” But he also said this does

not mean he was endorsing Duterte’s candidacy and rejecting Vice President Jejomar Binay, Secretary Mar Roxas, and Senator Grace Poe. Sison said the main purpose of his statement was “to gently tell Mayor Duterte” that he (Sison) is not the sole key to the end of the armed conflict between the forces of the GPH and NDFP. He said his statement was also intended to remind Duterte that Aquino and Deles “are the obstruction to a just peace” and that “hypothetically he could end such obstruction if he would win the election.” “There are two well-organized sides in the armed conflict. The civil war is a two-sided phenomenon. And the peace process to settle it is also two sided. It is the Aquino regime that is blocking the way to a just and lasting peace through peace negotiations and comprehensive agreements on social, economic and political reforms,” he said. Sison said the government “keeps on violating existing agreements by wantonly killing suspected revolutionaries, collecting hundreds of political prisoners, preconditioning the peace negotiations with disrespect for and noncompliance with said agreements and arrogantly demanding the surrender of the revolutionary movement.”

their concerns “including their alleged forced recruitment into paramilitary groups, known as Alamara, under the auspices of the AFP and harassment in the context of the on-going conflict between the AFP and the NPA.” But in a statement dated August 7, 2015, Baladad said Beyani during the briefing reported “his perceived manipulation of the Indigenous Peoples in Talaingod and Kapalong of Davao Norte who are now in Haran, UCCP, Davao City.” This was the exact quote of Beyani as sent by EastMinCom in its press release dated August 7, 2015: “When we asked them about the circumstances in which why they left their areas they say they were at risked of force recruitment into alamara and the movements to that area was in protest in relation to the presence of alamara. So, they wanted to make a point that was what happened. But i have been there for some time, i think they got manipulated.” Journalist Inday Espina-Varona sought the office of Beyani for clarification and posted on her Facebook timeline the response of Beyani’s media officer Graham Fox, who said he does “not recog-

nize the quotes attributed to Mr. Beyani by the AFP.” “I also note that the Special Rapporteur was explicit in his discussions with the AFP representatives on multiple occasions that the persons concerned should under no circumstances be considered to fall into the category of trafficked persons,” Fox said. “It is the Special Rapporteur’s understanding, based on firsthand interviews with the indigenous peoples in Haran, that they relocated to this facility freely in response to the militarization of their areas and forced recruitment into paramilitary groups operating under the auspices of the AFP,” he added. Fox said the AFP statement is “a gross misrepresentation of the position of the Special Rapporteur.” Gubat, however, brushed Fox’s statement aside and said it is Beyani himself who should make the clarification. “UN Rapporteur Beyani should be the one to disclaim it because he was the one who made that statement. He was the one making the statement, while it was not made into public it was in his extemporaneous speech in the report he made,” Gubat said.

Mlang, North Cotabato of a four-man hit squad. Investigations are on going to determine if the group belongs to a hit squad of outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), which the Army blamed for the series of attacks and liqui-

dation against civilian members of the military along the Maguindanao-North Cotabato highways. They are now detained at Mlang Police Station and charges for illegal possession of firearms are being prepared against them. (PNA)

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CUTTING UP. A butcher prepares standard cuts of chicken meat at a stall inside the Agdao Public Market meat section yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Fil-Am... FROM 2

adds pain and insult to these people,” Fabio added. She said IP leaders in UCCP Haran have time and time again spoken that their evacuation is by their own free will. “‘Our visit to communities of the victims adds strength to the claims of voluntary action on their pan to seek sanctuary here in Davao City,” she said. Fabro, together with 25 international young environment advocates and human rights defenders, immersed themselves in different Lumad

communities affected by development aggression and militarization in five regions of Mindanao from August 2 to 7 as part of the ISM 2015. “We witnessed the lack of social services like education in lumad communities, that’s why they built their own schools. And worse, these schools are subjected encampments and attacks by government forces, the same government that failed to respect their basic rights in the first place,” Fabro said.

along the Davao Gull has affected the condition of the gulf. She said Davao Gulf is a rich fishing ground and has one of the most diverse marine ecosystems not only in the country but in the whole world. Zozobrado said the World Wildlife Foundation reported that the Davao Gulf is home to a variety of reef and mangrove species as well as endangered species such as sea cows or dugongs and leatherback turtle which are listed in the Convention on the International

Trade of Endangered Species (CITES). “Davao Gulf is classified as the 10th major fishing ground in the country and is a critical source of livelihood for five coastal cities and 18 coastal municipalities,” she said. “Let us hope that a few years from now. We will be able to see the fruits of our involvement in this campaign by seeing an increase not only in the supply of fish in the region but also in the improvement of the lives of the fisherfolks,” she added.

double-digit decline for the year. The value of outward shipments of agro-based products fell by 24.9 percent on account of lower revenues from fruits and vegetables, sugar and coconut products and other agro products. Similarly, exports of mineral products decreased by 26.2 percent in June 2015 due to lower earnings from copper metal and other mineral products. Also, mineral product exports to the country’s top markets posted steep declines in June 2015, particularly China, Switzerland and Thailand. “In addition to the frail demand from major economies, the country’s recent external trade performance is also partly due to an abundant supply of industrial commodities, thus revenues from mineral and agro-based exports are seen to continue to decline in the short-term due to falling prices,” said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General. Nonetheless, he remains hopeful as positive economic developments in the United States are expected to add momentum to exports growth

particularly in consumer goods, given strong employment figures. “In addition to domestic policies that support exports growth such as product innovations, improvements in bureaucratic procedures and industrial infrastructure, both the government and the private sector should intensify programs to diversify export products,” said Balisacan. In addition to exports diversification, he also emphasized on tapping opportunities in the ASEAN bloc and exploring trade opportunities in other emerging markets to take advantage of their increasing consumer base. “While these options require more time to be realized, propping up domestic demand should be supported to counter external imbalances. The government should fast track projects intended to make the business climate more conducive for investments and employment generation, as well as policies designed to increase the purchasing power of consumers,” he said.

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Zarate... FROM 2

we see it again in the budget deliberations this year how the executive is pooling funds in local government units and in LP allies in the bureaucracy. Funds for local government units increased five-fold in the 2016 National Expenditures

Program, because it is common knowledge among politicians that LGUs, up to the barangay level, are the base in ensuring electoral victories for national candidates especially in presidential races,” he said.

tribal leaders that there was “a continuing crime” being committed inside the compound which needed urgent action by the inter-agency body headed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the Department of Health (DOH), and the DCPO’s Women and Children’s Protection Desk. The police said there had been reports of suicides and other incidents in the compound. A four-year-old child and her mother also allegedly escaped from Haran and was brought to the DSWD. The Police Regional Office (PRO) 11, for its part, accused progressive groups of exploit-

ing the IPs to get funds from international communities and to multiply their forces during rallies. But Gabriela Party-list Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan said the accusation was “very irresponsible.” Ilagan said the police should present proof that progressive groups are exploiting IPs. 10th Infantry Division spokesperson Lieutenant Alex Caballes admitted that the police and military have no documentary evidence on the allegation. Caballes said that the allegation was based on previous experience encountered by the authorities. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

MRT-related expenses broken down as follows: P1.96 billion for operation and maintenance; P1.5 billion for rehabilitation and capacity expansion; and P3.63 billion as subsidy for “mass transport.” The latter would cover deficiencies in “settling prior and current years’ obligations for equity rental, maintenance fees and others obligations” in case “farebox revenues” are insufficient to cover those, Escudero said, explaining the special budget provision the DOTC wants to govern its use. Escudero said the “Senate’s strict scrutiny of rail-related appropriations should extend to other lines kasi hindi lang naman sa MRT mahaba ang pila at may aberya ang mga tren.” One such firm is the Philippine National Railways (PNR), whose performance guarantee is to provide “safe and reliable rail services for the Metro South Commuter Services,” the line running from Tutuban, Manila to Calamba, Laguna. The government is asking P1.32 billion in operating sub-

sidy for the PNR for 2016. Another budgetary subsidy – to the tune of P1.42 billion – is being set aside for the Light Rail Transportation Authority (LRTA), with the promise that the agency will field one train every 3 to 4 minutes during peak hours in its Roosevelt-Baclaran Line 1 and one every 5 to 6 minutes in its Pasig-Recto Line. “Kaya dapat itong mga pangakong ito ilagay sa tarpaulin sa bawat istasyon. Because these promises are not just made to Congress but to taxpayers who, by their payments, fund the national budget,” Escudero said. The amount requested for LRTA is on top of the P6.75 billion “construction budget” the DOTC is requesting for various LRT extension projects, such as P1.62 billion for the LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension Project and P2.9 billion for the LRT Line 2 Extension Project. The DOTC is seeking P43.5 billion for its 2016 spending plan. This does not include, however, budget subsidies to state corporations.

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11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Global Pinoy Center calls for story concept entries

Monsanto, GK turn over farm plots to 413 families M

ONSANTO and Gawad Kalinga recently turned over 413 farm plots to farming families in 19 sites all over Mindanao, Philippines. The project, dubbed as Bayan-Anihan (or community harvest), is a GK program aiming to support families through the setup of backyard farming. Each family takes care of a farm plot, which gives them the alternative of growing their own vegetables and fruits common to their households’ meal preparation. Monsanto’s support has helped set up farm plots spread out in 19 sites nearby established GK villages. The formal turn-over of the project was held in Catigan, Davao del Sur which is one of the sites where more than 30 families benefitted

from Monsanto’s health insurance and food sufficiency programs. “Monsanto has been supporting poverty-alleviation mechanisms, specifically projects which address the critical issue of poverty and hunger. We have been working closely with Gawad Kalinga in helping more communities to achieve sustainable and sufficient sustenance,” said Chris Samuel, CE APAC Regional Lead. Meanwhile, Maria Leonora Pitogo, one of the program’s beneficiaries expressed her gratitude to Monsanto for its health insurance program. Pitogo is a young mother who recently gave birth to her second child.“Monsanto’s health program allowed me to give birth with proper medical attention. My family is also able

to get nutritious food from the vegetable farms which Monsanto helped set up. This is very important for us because I am breastfeeding my child and need to eat nutritious food. I am so grateful to Monsanto for providing us the chance to fight poverty and hunger,” she said. Monsanto has been partnering with Gawad Kalinga since 2011 beginning with the Bayan-Anihan project in North Luzon where Monsanto and GK built vegetable farms in 18 sites. When typhoon Haiyan hit the Visayas Region in 2013, Monsanto worked with Gawad Kalinga to build 54 houses and repair 174 homes of corn farming families. The Bayan-anihan program in Mindanao is to reach out to impoverished communities in the Davao region to help them address

poverty and hunger. “We are happy to have partnered with Gawad Kalinga and be actively involved in transforming the lives of so many farming families all over the Philippines,” Samuel said. More than 70 percent of the 2,500 Gawad Kalinga communities are into agriculture. Two councilors of Davao City – Councilor Marissa Salvador-Abella who chairs the Davao City Council’s Committee on Agriculture and Councilor Antoinette Principe-Castrodes who chairs the Committee on International Relations – attended the event and commended Monsanto and GK for the work done to effectively address poverty and hunger. Also in attendance were City Agriculturist Rocelio Tabay and his staff.

M Supermall’s corporate social responsibility program for OFWs and migrant workers Global Pinoy Center calls for story concepts for the Anak OFW Videofest. The Anak OFW Videofest is a project of the IMPACT Creative Organization for Development & Empowerment (IMPACT CODE) Inc., in cooperation with the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants-Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (ECMI-CBCP) along with other government and private agencies. The activity aims to reach out and empower the OFW family members nationwide. The films are envisioned to inspire and create awareness on the realities of migration and the issues that need to be addressed especially for the families left behind. There are several ways to join the festival. The first way is through the Collab programs where story concepts are submitted. Winning entries shall be interpreted by collaborating with independent filmmakers. Exemplary works will be recognized in the Awards Night and selected films will be used for Advocacy CineForums in schools and universities. Another way to join is by submitting independently produced short films related to the festival theme. The top 5 entries will be selected as among the finalists for the Anak OFW Film Fest Awards.

The organizers are looking for feature stories that are moving, ground-breaking and fascinating. It may be inspired by true events but taken from a new perspective and conveys good values or an advocacy that imparts something to think about. The proposed concept must revolve around the theme “Anak OFW- reflections of our realities, dreams and triumphs.” All family members, ages 15-25, of an OFW Global Pinoy cardholder are eligible to join. They only need to submit the concept electronically together with the entry form to anakofwvideofest@gmail.com. Concept story must be original and unpublished, and must not exceed 1500 words in MS Word format (1.5 spaced, Times New Roman, font size 12). Submission of entries is open until 6PM of August 30. Proponents of the winning stories will receive a special gift from SM Global Pinoy Center as well as acknowledgement in the film credits. Winner will also be invited to the Anak OFW Videofest press conference, the premiere night and the awards night. He or she could win the Best Story in the festival. Winning entries to the Anak OFW Videofest will be screened in SM Cinemas and will be shown locally and abroad. Interested parties may call SM Supermalls Global Pinoy Centers for inquiries on other competition details.

Chinese company bags deal for Phl solar power project

CHINESE company has bagged an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) agreement with a Philippine green energy developer for the construction of a 14.5 MW solar power project. China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (China Sunergy), a specialized solar cell and module manufacturer, said its subsidiary, China Sunergy-Solar International Ltd., entered into the EPC agreement with YH Green Energy, Inc. According to data from the Department of Energy (DOE), YH Green Energy Inc. has a pending solar application for a 12-MW project in Hermosa, Bataan. China Sunergy said the construction of the project will begin in the third quarter of 2015 and is expected to be fully operational in the first quarter of 2016.

China Sunergy chair and CEO Tingxiu Lu said his company is “delighted to cooperate with YH Green Energy on the construction of the solar power project.” “We believe that this transaction demonstrates our solar project experience, expansion in the southeast Asia market as well as our capability of providing solar energy solutions on a global basis, which positions us well in the steady growth of green energy industry in the years to come,” he said. According to its website, China Sunergy was founded in 2004 and designs, manufactures, and delivers high efficiency solar cells and modules to the world from its production centers based in China and Turkey. China Sunergy also invests in high potential solar projects.

GOING SOLAR. An array of solar panels provided by China Sunergy. File photo from the company’s website.

12 CLASSIFIED

EDGEDAVAO

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 GENERAL SANTOS CITY MARKETING OFFICE EDMUND D. RENDON Marketing Specialist Mobile: (Smart) 0909-424-7990 MANILA MARKETING OFFICE ANGELICA R. GARCIA Marketing Manager 97-1 Bayanbayanan Ave., Marikina Heights, Marikina City Tel: (02) 654-3509

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MARJORIE BOLOYJIMLANI has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT executed among her heirs per Doc. No. 450; Page No. 90; Book No. 106; Series of 2015, of the NOTARY PUBLIC FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN 7/29.8/05.8/12

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF DECEASED PERSON

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANGELITO B. COSICO has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF DECEASED PERSON executed among his heirs per Doc. No.426; Page No.86; Book No. 106; Series of 2015, of the NOTARY PUBLIC FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN 7/29;8/05;8/12

EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 13

ARMM hosts festival of traditional Moro food T

RADITIONAL food and delicacies that distinguish the tribal groups in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao were featured in a festival here over the weekend. Dubbed “Food Festival,” the seven Moro tribes showcased their culinary delights in an event at the Cultural Village inside the ARMM compound.

Visitors, mostly local officials and ordinary villagers visited, shared, and tasted food at the Iranun village, which presented the traditional “pagana”. Visitors were treated like special guests regardless of their status in life. “Foods are everywhere, fruits too, how lovely to spend time here,” said one of the visitors from Manila on a business

trip who dropped by the replica villages. “Only here in ARMM food festival,” he said of the food from Iranun village that included Muslim delicacies “Pyurs,” “Amik,” “Piaparan” and many more. As the guests partook of food, local artists performed a “kulintang” musical together with a Muslim dance troupe.

Nearby a Tausug village offered fruits and sea foods. It featured in traditional food from Sulu known as “Tiyula Itum,” “Daral”, “Putli Mandi,” “Pasong” among others. Visitors were also treated with traditional Tausug dance and music. There were Maguindanao, Maranao, Sama, Teduday, and Yakan villages too that showed replicas of traditional houses. One can tour and visit the ARMM through miniature villages where customs, traditions and traditional food are put forward. “Through these miniature villages one can identify a tribe because of the food, color, traditional dress and delicacies. We treat visitors like sultans,” Mayor Kits Guro of Matanog, Maguinanao said as he pointed to the Iranun village. Mims Ayupan, a food chef judge, said visiting the replica villages was like visiting the entire ARMM. The cultural village was the brainchild of ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman to show to the world the rich culture of the tribal groups in the region. (Ferdinandh Cabrera/MindaNews)

14 EDGEDAVAO Sports

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

EXTRA POUNDAGE TRMH-CMO tabs Beau Belga, Ferriols, Macapagal By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

K D KADAYAWAN 2015 INVITATIONAL

njb@edgedavao.net

ERE comes the other half of ‘Extra Rice.’ Former Pilipinas Gilas pool mainstay Beau Belga will bring his perimeter shooting and physicality to the local cagedom when he suits up for former champion The Royal Mandaya Hotel-City Mayor’s Office in the 2015 Kadayawan Commercial Invitational beginning Friday at the Davao City Recreation Center. TRMH-CMO team owner Glenn Escandor told Edge Davao yesterday that the 6-5 Rain Or Shine mastodon in the PBA has confirmed his stint in the annual cagefest organized by the Duterte Basketball League (DBL) and sanctioned by Samahang Basketball Pilipinas (SBP) Region 11. “Beau has committed to play for us and we are glad to have his services for this tournament. He will sure be an advantage inside the paint which is a position we are weak at in the last local tournaments,” said Escandor. Belga, recently named to the Gilas training pool by national team coach Tab Baldwin, was picked by TRMH-CMO over Alaska Milk muscleman Vic Manuel who went to Goldstar Hardware. Belga will be backed up by Meralco forward John Ferriols and sweet-shooting Meralco triggerman Mark Macapagal. The team’s foreign

import will be the comebacking Mike Harry, a burly 6-7 slotman who also played last year for the TRMH-CMO squad co-managed by Bong Go, executive assistant of Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte. Also returning for TRMHCMO are 6-9 giant Mark Andaya and 6-3 shooting guard Jojo

Tangkay—both former pros with rich experience on Davao hoopdom. Escandor also bared that Rey Josol will be the man on the bench for the Hoteliers replacing Miggy Solitaria who will serve as assistant while former coach Ronel Leuterio is the coaching consultant.

EX PROS. Mark Macapagal (left) and John Ferriols (right))

BIG BEAU. Beau Belga will bring his heft and experience to the TRMH-CMO fold.

SPORTS15

EDGEDAVAO

ALL PINOY VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

K D KADAYAWAN 2015 INVITATIONAL

Goldstar bares line-up for Kadayawan cagefest

THE MUSCLEMAN. Vic Manuel in phoo guarded by Marc Pingris of Purefoods Star.

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

EFENDING champion Goldstar will be parading a different flavor this time around. Quite bizarre for the Hardwaremen to anchor their title retention bid on a line-up sans a foreign import. “Yes, we are going all-Filipino this time. Different team but with the same core of players,” Goldstar coach Ice Gravador told Edge Davao in an interview yesterday. Goldstar will parade Alaska Milk power forward Vic Manuel as the cornerstone of its championship bid with Letran’s Eric Rodriguez, former Barako Bull Leo Najorda and former Pacman standout Jay Collado as chief back-ups forming their ‘Fantastic Four’ combo. Gravador also bared the Goldstar locals composed of

former PBA standouts Pong Escobal and Marlon Basco, ace quarterback Leomer Losentes, Jay Cabañog, Epe Retuerto, Gryan Mendoza, Jano Eman, and Bong Bulac. “We don’t know our chances this year, but we have prepared for this earlier with our core players although I have yet to see our imports play together,” the multi-titled Gravador said. Manuel is fresh from play-

ing a key role in Alaska’s championship series against San Miguel Beer in the PBA Governors’ Cup where he battled the likes of Junmar Fajardo and Arwind Santos in the middle. Gravador

downplayed their chances but vowed to play their usual intense system. He singled out the MP Pacman squad of Sarangani congressman Manny Pacquiao as the tournament darkhorse

after he was t o l d that the Pacman squad will use some of the players from PBA squad Kia which Pacquiao is coaching. Meantime, Montaña Pawn-

shop will be bannered by locals Glenn Manlangit, Don Adrneo, Dondon Taguina, Edgar Awitin, Poloy Fernandez and Biboy Clavel and two standouts from Jose Maria College. The Pawnbrokers will parade three ‘imports’ in Landry Sanjo of Southwestern University, Kia Carnival’s Fil-Am player Hans Thielle, and Cebuano wingman Ferdinand Lusboc.

Kadayawan hoopfest More woes as Blatche is injured opens at DCRC Friday S

OUR teams led by Araw ng Davao titlist and defending champion Goldstar Hardware battle it out for the 2015 Kadayawan Commercial Invitational which raises its curtains on Friday at the Davao City Recreation Center. Aside from the title favorite Goldstar, tournament director Rico Biliran announced on Monday that the three other squads taking part in the annual cagefest sanctioned by the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP) and organized by the Duterte Basketball League (DBL) are former champion The Royal Mandaya Hotel-City Mayor’s Office (CMO), Montaña Pawnshop and visiting MP Pacman of boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao. “They will play single round elimination and top two teams will square off for the title on August 16,” Biliran said. Cash prizes at stake are P100,000 for the champion, P60,000 for the first

runner-up, P40,000 for the second runner-up and P30,000 for the third runner-up. Goldstar will be bannered by four ‘imports’ according to coach Ice Gravador in an interview with Edge Davao yesterday (see separate story). The Goldstar locals will be composed of former PBA standouts Pong Escobal and Marlon Basco, ace quarterback Leomer Losentes, Jay Cabañog, Epe Retuerto, Gryan Mendoza, Jano Eman, and Bong Bulac. Montaña Pawnshop will also rely on locals Glenn Manlangit, Don Adrneo, Dondon Taguina, Edgar Awitin, Poloy Fernandez and Biboy Clavel and two standouts from Jose Maria College. The Pawnbrokers will parade three ‘imports’ in Landry Sanjo of Southwestern University, Kia Carnival’s Fil-Am player Hans Thielle, and Cebuano wingman Ferdinand Lusboc. NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

TILL working his way back into shape, Philippine national men’s basketball team naturalized player Andray Blatche became the latest player to be placed on the injured list after complaining of nagging pain in the groin area during the team’s practice on Monday at the Meralco gym. Just a few minutes into practice, Blatche needed to be

attended to by Gilas Pilipinas conditioning coach Dexter Aseron. The former Brooklyn Nets center could lift his right knee with ease but struggled to raise the opposite knee with pain holding him back. Blatche also had a noticeable limp while walking and was pulled out of practice early by Gilas coach Tab Baldwin. “He’s got pain in his lower

stomach, upper groin area and we have to get it check out and see what it is,” Baldwin told sportswriters. “It’s nagging him. He can’t really extend when he’s running. So because we don’t know what it is, I don’t want to aggravate it any further so I told him to stay out of practice.” The last time Blatche saw ingame action was in February this year while playing in the Chinese Basketball Association. He arrived in the country packing some extra weight after his long break from high-level competition. A few days ago, he needed to

skip a practice session as he struggled to adjust to the time zone and felt under the weather. Baldwin, a veteran of the international scene, isn’t panicking despite the injuries although he is concerned about the effect the absence of players will have on their preparations. “It’s common that you get a lot of minor injuries and guys will recover from it. JC (Intal) will recover and Matt (Ganuelas-Rosser) is already back from his knocked on the ears. Guys won’t be out long, but we really do need a lot of deeper bench than what we got right now,” he said.

Radwanska slips 7 spots in WTA rankings

INJURED. Gilas’ naturalized player Andray Blatche.

OLAND’S Agnieszka Radwanska was the big loser in WTA rankings published August 10, falling seven places to 14th after her quarter-final exit in Stanford. Czech Lucie Safarova moved into seventh spot without raising a racket, while her compatriot Karolina Pliskova climbed three places to eighth after making the final in Stanford. Serena Williams retains her healthy lead ahead of Russian Maria Sharapova and Romanian Simona Halep. WTA rankings publish August 10 1. Serena Williams (USA) 12,371 pts 2. Maria Sharapova (RUS) 6,386 3. Simona Halep (ROM) 5,151 4. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 4,995 5. Caroline Wozniacki (DEN) 4,905 6. Ana Ivanovic (SER) 3,706

7. Lucie Safarova (CZE) 3,465 (+1) 8. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 3,335 (+3) 9. Garbine Muguruza (ESP) 3,315 10. Carla Suárez Navarro (ESP) 3,195 11. Angelique Kerber (GER) 3,150 (+3) 12. Ekaterina Makarova (RUS) 2,920 13. Timea Bacsinszky (SUI) 2,920 14. Agnieszka Radwanska (POL) 2,760 (-7) 15. Elina Svitolina(UKR) 2,370 (+5) 16. Andrea Petkovic (GER) 2,350 (+1) 17. Sara Errani (ITA) 2,320 (-1) 18. Samantha Stosur (AUS) 2,295 (+3) 19. Madison Keys (USA) 2,275 (-1) 20. Belinda Bencic (SUI) 2,090 (+2)

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 95 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015