Edge Davao 9 Issue 100 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 100 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, JULY 15 - 16, 2016

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Serving a seamless society

PRO-TRIBES. A young Matigsalog child performs an ethnic dance with her mother during one of the gatherings of their tribe in Salumay in Marilog District, Davao City. Acting Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte said that the events during the Kadayawan sa Davao Festival should highlight the plight of the 11 tribes of Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

PNP ASKS AGENCIES: JOIN WAR ON DRUGS Creation of inter-agency body sought By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Philippine National Police is proposing to create an Inter Agency Committee on Anti-illegal Drugs (IACAD), in order to intensify their campaign in suppressing drugs in 3 to 6 month period, said Chief Directorate for Operation Chief Supt. Camilo Cascolan said.

The IACAD will be composed of the Department of Education (DepEd), PNP, Department of Justice (DOJ) Department of Health (DOH) and the Local Government Units (LGUs). Cascolan said that the different agencies will have a specific function that will help

in suppressing illegal drugs in the country. “In the proposal, the awareness of the ill-effects of illegal drugs will be headed by the DepEd, law enforcement is with the PNP, prosecution will be headed by the DOJ, the rehabilitations of the drug victims will be covered by the

DOH and the alternative development or livelihood projects of the surrenderees will be handled by the LGUs,” Cascolan pointed out. He added that the alternative development will help those people who were previously involved in drugs to

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EDGEDAVAO Sports

BIRDIE BINGE Late birdie binge gives Ella even par round, climbs to 13th P15

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BOOTLEG BEATLES. The Bootleg Beatles performs a rendition of The Beatles’ Love Me Do song during a news conference at Park Inn by Radisson Davao yesterday afternoon. The band will perform before Dabawenyos tonight at SMX Convention Center. Lean Daval Jr.

14 security guards charged with slay of Bukidnon tribal farmers

OURTEEN private security guards believed responsible in the shooting to death of three tribal farmers in Bukidnon would be criminally charged, a police officer said Wednesday. Sr. police officer Lorecito Pitogo, an investigator at the Sumilao police station, said that the 14 security personnel would be charged with multiple murder and multiple frustrated murder for the killing of the three tribal members in Sumilao, Bukidnon last Tuesday. The shooting of the three farmers and the wounding of three others happened inside a ranch owned by RAMCAR, a private corporation in the village of Lupiagan, Sumilao town, Bukidnon last Tuesday

morning, Pitogo said. Police identified the fatalities as Raymar Mayantao, a resident of San Vicente, Sumilao; Rogen Sindangan, San Miguel, Baungon; and Cenon Nacaytona, Impalutao, Impasug-Ong; all of Bukidnon province. The wounded were identified as Albert Mayantao, Ely Dalito, and a 15-year-old female, all from Sumilao. Pitogo said that one of the suspects identified as Jonathan Ursaiz, the head guard of the Tagbagane Security Agency, was arrested shortly after the shooting. Initial police investigation showed the victims were with a group of about 50 individuals, headed by Bae Merlita

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Resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal to continue: Lorenzana

EPARTMENT of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said resupply missions to the Philippine Marine Corps contingent in Ayungin Shoal will continue. He made this statement Wednesday after noting that the scheduled resupply for Ayungin Shoal, slated for last week, was cancelled due to the impending ruling of the United Nations Permanent Court of Arbitration. Lorenzana said the mission was scrubbed to avoid giving the impression that the Philippines is trying to provoke China. “There was a scheduled resupply sometime last week, but

we postponed it because of the impending ruling to avoid giving the impression that we are trying to provoke China. I don’t know when the next resupply will be but definitely we are going there to resupply them by any means,” the DND chief stressed. The Philippines has Marine units deployed in Ayungin Shoal, Pagasa (Thitu) Island, Lawak (Nanshan) Island, Parola (Northeast Cay) Island, Patag (Flat) Island, Kota (Loaita) Island, Rizal (Commodore) Reef, Likas (West York) Island, and Panata (Lankiam Cay) Island. At 5 p.m. July 12 (Manila time), the United Nations Permanent Court of Arbitration

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Military welcomes probe on Lumad leader’s killing By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Philippine Army welcomed the recent pronouncement made by Davao City Acting Mayor Paolo Duterte to conduct thorough investigations on the killing of Datu Ruben Labawan, one of the Ata-Manobo tribal leaders in Paquibato District. “The tribe and other sectors are now seeking justice for Datu Labawan’s killing,” Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division told the EDGE Davao in a phone interview on Thursday afternoon. Datu Labawan and his

companion were gunned down last July 6 in Panabo City after attending a meeting with other tribal leaders in Davao region and government line agencies. The New People’s Army (NPA) admitted responsibility to the killing of Labawan in a statement they sent to the media. Batchar said it is the task of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct investigation on Labawan’s killing. The army, he added, can also provide vital information that will help those who will handle the probe. On Thursday, Vice Mayor

Duterte said he wanted the City Council of Davao and the PNP “to dig deeper” into the killing of Labawan. The vice mayor paid a visit to Labawan’s wake at the Almendras Gym on Thursday morning where he also met the tribal leader’s family and members of the tribe. He also ordered the Committee on Civil, Political and Human Rights of the city council to facilitate its own investigation on the killing. The committee is chaired by Councilor Antoinette Principe-Castrodes. “The leaders of Davao

City knew the contributions of Labawan to the tribal communities in Paquibato District,” Batchar pointed out, adding that investigation by the city government to seek justice for the leader’s death is appropriate. Batchar also assured that the army is doing its best to prevent the feared “pangayaw” or purging in the area. The 10th ID earlier condemned the killing of Labawan, saying that the leader’s death is a great loss to the tribal communities in Paquibato District whom he served religiously in many years.

guard and it is not easy to enter without the approval of the management. “In entering those subdivisions, you need to have an access from the management, but we are now looking into the legalities of entering these subdivisions,” he added. Cascolan though said that they are not taking lightly the people living in the slum area, but he admitted that it is easier to talk to them than the elites. Meanwhile, Cascolan said that all Chief of Police will be evaluated weekly on their per-

formance of “Tokhang” operations. He said that PNP Chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa himself will lead the evaluation. “If their performance will be low, in a matter of 6 weeks they will be relieved,” Cascolan said. He added that they are currently targeting to reduce all drug activities including personalities by 50% in a span of 3 months and by the 6th month, all drug activities will be eliminated in the country.

PNP looking into legal implications of‘Tokhang’ops By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Chief Directorate for Operation of the Philippine National Police, Chief Supt. Camilo Cascolan to the media in a press conference that as of the moment, the massive anti illegal drugs campaign called “Tokhang” only covered the slum areas in the country. The reason, Cascolan emphasized is that the PNP leadership is still studying the legal basis of entering those highend subdivisions. He said that the PNP already has a group tasked to

conduct “Tokhang” operations in big subdivisions however they were ordered to stand-by while the legal basis on their actions is still being determined. “There are already groups in the PNP that will knock and plead to these areas (high-end subdivisions). We are already considering it, we just want to have a legal basis first,” Cascolan pointed out. He further explained that the biggest subdivision where the rich lives are covered by a boundary of their own security

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Pulong demands probe on Labawan’s death D

AVAO City acting Mayor Paolo Duterte wants the City Council and the Philippine National Police to dig deeper into the killing of tribal leader Ruben Labawan. Labawan, one of the Ata-Manobo leaders in Davao City, was killed in Panabo on July 6. The New People’s Army owned up the killing. He was buried Thursday (July 14) afternoon. Duterte, who visited the wake of Labawan at the Almendras Gym Thursday

morning, assured the family of the slain tribal leader of the city government’s support. The Acting Mayor ordered the Committee on Civil, Political and Human Rights of the city council, chaired by lawyer Antoinette Principe-Castrodes, to conduct the investigation. He also asked the Police to do its own probe. He said he received reports that the Panabo police failed to appropriately respond to the incident.

Acting Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte visits the wake of Datu Ruben A. Labawan at the Davao City Recreation Center Thursday morning. Labawan was killed by the New

“Naay mga estorya nga gitarong pagresponde sa mga pulis didto sa lugar kung asa nahitabo -- nga pila lang ka-metro ang gilay-on nila. I am also asking the PNP to also investigate this para maklaro sa atong mga kaigsoonang lumad ug para maklaro sa iyang mga kabanay,” he said. “Muhangyo pod ko nga atong paspasan ang imbestigasyon para makab-ot dayon ang hustisya para kay Datu Labawan.” Duterte, who described

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People’s Army. Duterte offers assistance to the wife of the slain tribal leader and condemned the killing. (CIO)

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USAID gives grants to combat human trafficking and support to biodiversity

HE U.S. Embassy Manila’s United States Agency for International Development (USAID) awarded seven new grants to support local organizations combating human trafficking and protecting the environment. Through its Philippine-American Fund (Phil-Am Fund), USAID initiated partnerships with BALAOD Mindanaw, Inc. and the Fellowship for Organizing Endeavors, Inc. to extend assistance to victims of trafficking in Cagayan De Oro and Cebu City. The grants were signed days after the U.S. State Department announced the Philippines’ elevation to Tier 1 status in the annual Trafficking In Persons Report. For the first time, the country fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination

of trafficking, as defined by the U.S. Trafficking Victims Protection Act. Five biodiversity conservation partnerships were also signed. The local grantees are Haribon Foundation, PATH Foundation Philippines, Soil and Water Conservation Foundation, South Pacific Integrated Area Development Foundation,and TanggolKalikasan. With USAID support, these organizations will work to improve management of biodiversity resources in close to 200,000hectares of terrestrial and coastal areas in Oriental Mindoro, Quezon, Cebu and Southern Leyte. Launched in September 2013, the Phil-Am Fund is a five-year, Php984 million ($24 million) project that supports

Stations (SWS) survey which shows a whopping 84% of Filipinos trust President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. Andanar added, “This is a positive sign. It is very encouraging to know that people trust the President, more heartwarming for the President is the fact that the young people of this country entrust their future to his able leader-

ship.” The President enjoys the highest “excellent” public trusting among 18-24 years old. The President’s overall net trust rating increased by 53 points from the moderate +26 taken last May. “People’s expectations are high. They have placed their and the country’s hope to the President making Mr. Duterte

the People’s President.” “Everyone, from the President down to his official family, will therefore work double time and channel their energies to transform the lives of our people. Our people deserve no less,” Andanar ended. The SWS survey employed face-to-face interviews among 1,200 respondents nationwide. (PNA)

Abella said in an ambush media interview on Wednesday. Later in the afternoon, Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Vitallano Aguirre confirmed to the media through text that Supreme Court (SC) Associate Justices Antonio Carpio and Francis Jardeleza and former Solicitor General Florin Hilbay were present in the Cabinet meeting. The three law experts were part of the top-caliber

Philippine team to the oral arguments on the country’s arbitration case in The Hague in July last year. President Rodrigo Duterte presided the Cabinet meeting and the President was very responsible in welcoming the United Nation’s arbitral tribunal decision, according to Abella. Abella said Malacanang opted to be cautious in issuing statement, echoing the

call of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to treat the ruling with restraint and sobriety. ”Let us wait for the right response at the right time,” Abella told the media. Last Tuesday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Martin Andanar said it would take five days to complete a thorough interpretation of the 500-page ruling. (PNA)

NEW VOTERS. College students flock to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) 11 officein Davao City to inquire about the voters’ registration for the October 31 Barangay and SangguniangKabataan election which will start tomorrow. Lean Daval Jr.

Solon seeks probe on country’s food security

SABELA Rep. Rodolfo Albano III asked today for a congressional probe into the state of food and nutrition security and persistent malnutrition problem in the country. In House Resolution 35, Albano urged proper Committees to conduct an inquiry and invite the appropriate government departments to identify the causes of the unchanging patterns of malnutrition in the country. “The House body should make recommendations, bearing in mind that nutritional well-being is a function of food and nutrition security in the country,” Albano said. Citing the 1996 World Food Summit (WFS), Albano said the international body has defined food security as food availability, food access, food utilization and stability. Albano said food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. He said the Philippines is a signatory to the 2000 Mil-

lennium Declaration, which led to the development of the time-bound Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as a global agenda of development for 2015. He said the Food and Nutrition Research Institute’s National Nutrition Surveys from 1989-2013 show the prevalence of malnutrition among children 0-59 months. Albano said wasting increased from 6.2% in 1989 to 7.9% in 2013, stunting is still high at 30.3% in 2013 although it decreased from 44.7% in 1989 and underweight has declined from 27.4% in 1989 to 19.9% in 2013. He said the FNRI National Nutrition Surveys from 2003 to 2013 show that among children from 5 to 10 years old, malnutrition is prevalent. He said wasting remains unchanged since 2003 (7.4%) to 2013 (8.6%), stunting has been at a high of 36.4% in 2003 to 29.9% in 2013 and underweight has not declined significantly – from 32.1% in 2003 to 29.1% in 2013. Albano said the Philippines experienced increases

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Balutan accepts Duterte’s assignment to head BuCor

AJ. GEN. Alexander Balutan will retire early from the Philippine Marines after he accepted the offer of the administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to head the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor). Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Vitaliano N. Aguirre II has confirmed that effective Aug. 1, 2016, Balutan will assume office as the new BuCor Chief. Balutan was supposed to retire from the Philippine Marines in October, however, Aguirre said, he took it upon himself to retire early because of the call of duty to head the BuCor.

According to Aguirre, he has earlier recommended Balutan to President Duterte due to his good track record. Balutan was a member of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1983. He fought in the bloody conflict in Central Mindanao in 2000. He was a witness in the alleged electoral fraud in 2004 and had also been vocal in his sentiments on the issue of the pork barrel fund scam. Balutan even posted on the Facebook when he stated that the pork barrel fund should have been used instead to solve the long-standing armed conflict in the country. (PNA)

Rody Presidency off to an excellent start “T HE mandate is clear and unequivocal: It is mandate for change, and government cannot be stopped from its promise of reforming society by getting rid of drugs, criminality and corruption.” Thus said Communications Secretary Martin Andanar in reaction to the June 24-June 27 Social Weather

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Legal experts attend Cabinet meeting T

HE members of the Philippine delegation to The Hague, Netherlands attended a Cabinet meeting in Malacanang last Tuesday night following the Arbitral Tribunal’s ruling on the Philippines’ arbitration case against China over the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea. ”We did have. There were some experts there,” Presidential spokesperson Ernesto

DENGUE CASES. City Health Office (CHO) head Dr. Josephine Villafuertebares that dengue cases in Davao City have increased resulting to the death of 18 individuals as of this month. Villafuerte graced yesterday’s I-Speak media forum at City Hall. Lean Daval Jr.

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‘Czar’in fight vs. red tape named A SENIOR finance undersecretary was named “Anti-Red Tape Czar” on Tuesday to speed up transactions in the tax and customs bureaus, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez said. Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran was tasked to “dramatically reduce the number of steps and documentary requirements” in the Department of Finance and its attached agencies, Dominguez told a business forum. “This will include paying taxes, getting tax refunds, acquiring tax exemption certificates, getting imports released, shipping out exports, registering a business and getting appointments with public officials,” he said. Dominguez added the government would “cut redundancy” in government processes to improve the delivery of basic services and infrastructure. These include amend-

ing the procurement law to streamline processes, simplifying permit requirements for infrastructure projects, creating a “prioritization list” for projects, delineating the delivery between national and local projects and improving the absorptive capacity of key agencies, he said. Beltran has been finance undersecretary since 2005. He is also the department’s concurrent chief economist. He rose from the ranks in the department, starting as a researcher in 1978. Beltran graduated from the University of the Philippines School of Economics in 1977 and later took his masters in economics at the University of Colorado and masters in development economics from William College. President Rodrigo Duterte promised a crackdown on red tape and flip-flopping government policies on his first day in office. (DOF)

Recto: Drive vs red tape must include all agencies, LGUs

ENATOR Ralph Recto on Tuesday (July 12) said the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte to slash red tape should cover not only national government agencies but local governments where citizens pay for assorted permits and licenses every year. ”The reduction of requirements and the speeding up of the processing for government-issued documents must be bureaucracy-wide to cover national agencies, LGUs and government corporations,” Recto said in a press statement. Recto noted that red tape costs the country Php140 billion yearly in opportunity losses, “and that’s for businesses alone.” The World Bank, which made the estimate in October last year, ranked the Philippines a low 95th among 189 economies in the field of overall ease of doing business. Recto said “permits, licenses, documents, fines, fees and charges” have long been “a profit center” for the government. “It is a multi-billion peso industry.” “If we incur heavy losses from vehicular traffic, ganoon din sa slow movement of papers,” he added. “National government income from “fees and charges” is expected to hit Php39 billion this year. Overall, non-tax revenues, including remitted profits of some government corporations, is forecast to reach Php152 billion by year-end. In addition, local governments are expected to collect Php112.4 billion in real property and other taxes plus Php45.23 billion in “regulatory and service” fees. In business taxes alone, cities and towns are expected to rake in about Php47. 5 billion

this year, Recto said. These huge earnings, Recto stressed, should prompt government “to continuously innovate so that red tape is cut and the process is made shorter. That’s one dividend the paying public is entitled to.” In requesting permits from government, “the rule should be ‘keep it simple’ and ‘less is more.’” Recto said the Duterte administration should assign an “anti-red tape czar” who should “wield a big chainsaw in hacking away the thicket of regulations that choke efficiency.” While he lauded the appointment of Department of Finance (DOF) Undersecretary Gil Beltran as the agency’s anti-red tape czar, “his mandate covers DOF agencies like BIR and BOC only.” “We want someone with a bureaucracy-wide mandate. Kasama national and local, pati ang government corporations,” Recto said in reaction to Beltran’s designation by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez. “The first thing that this official should do is conduct an inventory of rules and then install benchmarks to be followed,” the senator said. The lawmaker batted for a “singular national timetable” to be followed in government transactions. “The speed by which a business permit will come out in the NCR should be the same in Mindanao.” To be fed in the shredder, he said, were unnecessary and frivolous requirements. A major blow against red tape was to lengthen validity of government licenses and lessen the frequency that these needed to be renewed, Recto said.

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Mega Harbour project to make Philippines’ biggest city bigger T

HE Philippines’ largest city by land area stands to become even bigger by another two square kilometers, or 200 hectares, to a total of 2,446 square kms. The additional two square kilometers will come from a reclamation project that will turn Davao City’s coast across Poblacion and Agdao Districts into a modern but green port city with its own sprawling central business district. The Port City will thus become Davao’s iconic landmark in its role as the capital of the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines (BIMP) East Asia Growth Area (EAGA), according to chairman Reghis M. Romero II of Mega Harbour Port and Development Inc., the developer and signatory to the joint-venture agreement inked at SMX Davao last June 21 with then Mayor and President-Elect Rodrigo Duterte. “The Port City is envisioned to make Davao an international trade, invest-

ment and tourism hub, usher in development to the rest of Mindanao, and serve the sub-regional economic requirements of the BIMP-EAGA,” Romero pointed out. The project will be a fitting counterpart to the rise of the Davao City International Airport as an international hub resulting from the Open Skies policy involving all members of the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). “As such, Davao will have two international gateways – both by land and by sea – making it a full-fledged global destination for trade, investments and tourism and a major player in ASEAN’s regional economy,” Romero added. “Such developments will expand the economy of, not only Davao, but also of the rest of Mindanao because of the city’s role as the center of commerce in the region. Economic activity and productivity will spill over regionwide and generate employment

and livelihood at an unprecedented scale, riding high on President Duterte’s vision of a federal system of government,” Romero explained. Federalism will raise the share of local governments in the national revenues from business income and sales taxes and increase their powers in charting their own economic development and direction. “Thus, we can see Davao City becoming a major contributor to the growth of the GDP (gross domestic product), while making economic progress directly benefit the poor and marginalized,” Romero said, referring to the social and environmental components of the Port City project as consistent with President Duterte’s economic blueprint of a federalized national development. “We will not wait for economic progress to trickle down to the poor. Progress will begin with the poor by improving their quality of life through the provision of po-

table water and power supply, a quality road network, flood control system, sanitation facilities, a green and pollution-free environment and promotion of entrepreneurial activities, among others, as integral components of the Port City project,” Romero explained as he pointed to the coastal communities of Poblacion and Agdao districts up to Barangay Bukana as the target beneficiaries. Constituting those communities are some 3,500 households or around 20,000 people, who will also benefit from the employment opportunities that will be generated by Mega Harbour’s Port City project. The country’s first and only port city developer, Mega Harbour is a subsidiary of the R-II Group of Companies, whose track record includes port operations and management, low-cost housing, and township and property development and administration, among others.

BIG TUNA. A fish trader unloads huge tuna onto his stall at Bankerohan Public Market in Davao City yesterday. Tuna still floods the public markets of Davao City despite the three-month fishing ban in Davao Gulf. Lean Daval Jr.

DPWH expands GenSan circumferential road network

HE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Region 12 has integrated a vital road here into the city’s 19.6-kilometer circumferential road network. Engr. Reynaldo Tamayo Sr., DPWH Region 12 director, said Thursday the road from the junction of the Digos-Makar highway to the junction of the Filipino-American Friendship Avenue has been declared by their central office as part of the national road network. He said the move, which mainly expanded the coverage of the circumferential road, was based on Department Order No. 140 issued last June 27. It will form part of the northern segment of the circumferential road and will be

under the supervision of the South Cotabato II District Engineering Office, he said. “Its declaration as part of the primary road network will result to additional budgets for future maintenance activities like asphalting and other improvements, such as widening and construction of additional lanes, upgrading of road shoulders, and the installation of drainage systems and guardrails,” he said. DPWH-12 opened the P1.135-billion road network’s northern section last April following the full completion of its two vital component -- the Silway bridge and the expansion of a portion of the 10.5-kilometer road section in Barangay Apopong here.

The northern section starts from the diversion road along the Digos-Makar highway in Barangay Katangawan and stretches to the Sinawal road along the General Santos-Isulan highway in Barangay Apopong. The circumferential road stretches to the western part of the city through the diversion road in Barangays Apopong and Sinawal to the city airport road in Barangay Fatima. The construction of the diversion road from the city airport to the fishport complex in Barangay Tambler is currently ongoing. Tamayo earlier said the full completion of the circumferential road is expected to bring economic impact through easy

facilitation of transporting of goods to and from the seaport, fishport and the city airport. It will serve as road artery in transporting goods and passengers leading to Sarangani province, Davao del Sur and Davao City, he said. The Mindanao Development Authority had pushed for the inclusion of the project in the national government’s priority infrastructure investments in Region 12 due to its potential economic benefits. He added that the circumferential road will mainly connect various agribusiness production areas in the city to various markets as well as provide better access and movement for products coming from other parts of the region. (PNA)

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LBP is‘Best Agribusiness, CSR Bank’in the Philippines

KADAYAWAN. Kadayawan sa Davao 2016 co-chair Art Boncato gives updates reporters on the preparations and the schedule of events for this year’s festival during yesterday’s I-Speak media forum at City Hall. Lean Daval Jr.

Region 11 miners practice responsible mining: Lao M

INING companies operating in the Davao Region are practicing responsible mining, said Vicente T. Lao, chairman of the Mindanao Business Council (MBC) which helped in organizing the high-level cabinet presentation of the 10-point economic agenda of the Rodrigo R. Duterte administration at the SMX Convention Center at the SM Lanang Premier. The President himself spoke at the culmination of the June

20-21 business consultation attended by the country’s top capitalists and business executives eager to know the new administration’s economic thrusts. Lao said mining operators and owners of mining firms in Southern Mindanao have grouped themselves together to promote responsible mining. The group is called Association of Responsible Mining Operators in Region 11 (ARMOR 11), whose founding chairman is Lao. Lao recently

relinquished his position as ARMOR founding chairman to lawyer Rodulfo Palma of Apex , who will continue the advocacies of ARMOR 11. The other members of the group are SMI, Holcim, Nadecor, Mt. Sinai, Amcor, Aldevinco, Pacific Mabuhay and King Eagle, according to Rolando “Chug” Torres, executive director of MBC, which acts as secretariat of ARMOR 11. “We can assure DENR Secretary Gina Lopez that our group will not

be problem to her,” Lao told Edge Davao Tuesday. He however suggested strongly that the DENR review the number of current requirements that miners and mining companies have to follow. “The requirements are so many, some might just just turn into opportunies to make money by corrupt enforcers of the DENR,” Lao said hinting that such a practice existed during the old administration. AMA

ORE than one billion pesos in investments is being poured into this municipality in Siargao Island known as the “surfing capital of the Philippines.” Mayor Jaime P. Rusillon told MindaNews on Tuesday that these are mostly tourism-related businesses. He said one of the big ticket investments this year is the construction of a wakeboarding facility. “There is a corporation that purchased a large property early this year and they are set for the construction of the wakeboarding sports facility,” the mayor said, adding that he recently issued permit so the firm can start construction. Wakeboarding is a sport

wherein one rides a board similar to a surfboard and performing acrobatic maneuvers while being towed by a motorboat. Aside from wakeboarding, other investments include purchases of land properties as well as building resorts and other tourism-related businesses. “I’m hoping for more capital investments in the second half of the year,” Rusillon said. He said that in the past few months, more than 20 new businesses with multimillion-peso investments have opened in the town. “Resorts and restaurants have been sprouting like mushrooms, you can virtually see the boom of constructions

around the town,” the mayor said. Rusillon pointed out that in the last three years, more than a billion pesos from the tourism industry have been spent every year in the municipality. General Luna’s resorts have already reached 80. The mayor noted that no other town in all of Caraga Region has this much number of resorts. Rusillon said that the investments have great impact on the local economy, providing more job opportunities for residents. “It trickles down to the local economy. This means more job opportunities in the town,” he added.

General Luna, known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, is considered as the tourism hub of Caraga Region. Foreign and local tourists who have been visiting the town from time to time have noticed how this island has been reshaped because of the influx of tourists. “Local people relied much on fishing and coconut farming in the past 10 years. But now [Siargao] has transformed its economy solidly on tourism,” said British national George Kirk. Rusillon pointed out that the farming sector has already been surpassed by the tourism industry in terms of income generated. (MINDANEWS)

eryone focused on weaker fundamentals and now markets are seeing sudden covering. Moreover, oil prices were supported by a weaker U.S. dollar. The dollar index, which tracks the greenback against six major peers, was down

0.10 percent at 96.479 in late trading. A weaker greenback increased investor sentiment, which made the dollar-denominated oil more attractive for holders of other currencies. The West Texas Interme-

diate for August delivery added USD 2.04 to settle at USD 46.80 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, while Brent crude for September delivery gained USD 2.22 to close at USD 48.47 a barrel on the London ICE Futures Exchange. (PNA/Xinhua)

P1 billion in investments being poured into‘surfing capital’ M

Oil prices rally on technical correction

IL prices rebounded as much as 4 percent on Tuesday from twomonth lows in the previous session as investors were covering short positions. Analysts said the market has gotten really short over the past two weeks with ev-

ANDBANK was named “Best Agribusiness Bank” in the Philippines by London-based Global Banking & Finance Review magazine for its financing programs that contribute to improving agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and promoting agri-entrepreneurship, as well as for its initiatives to promote financial inclusion. The Bank was also named “Best CSR Bank” in the Philippines for its corporate social responsibility programs that focus on livelihood, education, environment protection, and disaster response. Philippine Ambassador to the UK Evan P. Garcia joined LANDBANK President and CEO Gilda E. Pico in receiving the awards in a ceremony held at the London Stock Exchange, congratulating the bank on the government’s behalf for the prestigious recognition. “We thank Global Banking & Finance Review for these awards, which assure us that we are on the right track in our continuing journey towards enabling growth in the coun-

tryside and becoming the best partner of our fellow Filipinos in improving their lives,” Pico said. LANDBANK remains the largest formal credit institution in the rural areas with continued expansion of its loan portfolio in favor of its mandated and priority sectors, which include farmers and fishers, microenterprises and SMES, agri- and aqua- businesses. It is also the biggest credit provider to the local government sector, financing projects in agri- and aqua-infrastructure, agri-business, schools and hospitals, farm-to-market roads, and other development projects. Global Banking & Finance Review is a London-based online and print magazine covering news analysis on banking, finance, wealth management, trading, business, and technology. Since 2011, the Global Banking & Finance Review Awards has been recognizing companies that demonstrate innovation, achievement, and strategy in particular areas of expertise and excellence within the financial industry. (LBP)

HSBC sees PHL’s current account surplus to end at 1.3% of GDP

N economist of banking giant HSBC sees continued surpluses in the Philippines’ current account despite the government’s decision to increase budget deficit cap. In a briefing Thursday, Joseph Incalcaterra said he forecasts current account surplus to end at 1.3 percent of domestic output this year and 0.9 percent by 2017. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) current account assumption for 2016 is USD 5.8 billion or about 1.9 percent of GDP. Central bank data show that as of end-March 2016, the country’s current account surplus amounts to USD 447.15 million, which is about 0.65 percent of GDP. In end-2015, the country’s current account surplus amounted to USD 8.4 billion and accounted for about 2.9 percent of GDP. Incalcaterra said moderation of the country’s current account surplus was not bad since “it’s a reflection of the government’s infrastructure investments.”

He also does not see this reversing to a deficit given the contribution of the remittances sent by Filipinos overseas, even with its declining share in domestic growth; and revenues from the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. ”It’s a reflection of very good growth story,” he said. The Duterte administration has increased the state’s budget gap ceiling to three percent of gross domestic product (GDP) from the previous administration’s two percent cap in line with its plan to further increase infrastructure spending. Incalcaterra is open to the possibility that current account surplus may go down to about 0.5 percent of domestic output if the higher infrastructure investment plan of the government is met along with the rise of prices of oil in the international market to as much as USD 100 per barrel from the current USD 44 per barrel level. HSBC recently upgraded its 2016 growth forecast for the Philippines to 6.3 percent,

HE Philippine peso gained against the greenback Wednesday due to profit-taking and below-expected rise in US’ wholesale inventories for May 2016. It finished the trade at P47.21, better than the P47.32 Tuesday, which a trader traced partly to the 0.1 percent rise of wholesale inventories in the world’s largest economy in the fifth month this year. Market expected a 0.2 percent rise. The trader said recent rally of the greenback make some

investors unload holdings and corporate demand has waned after they have finished their purchases for the month. With this, the peso opened the trade at P47.22, an improvement from the P47.35 a day ago. It traded between P47.32 and P47.17, resulting to an average of P47.24. Volume of trade reached US$ 598 million, lower than day-ago’s US$ 711.2 million. The currency pair is seen to trade between P47.20 and P47.40 Thursday. (PNA)

F HSBC, 10

Peso gains vs. USD on profit-taking

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 100 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, JULY 15 - 16, 2016

7 BIGGER PICTURE

Yes, real men do cry! By Henrylito D. Tacio

URING a one-onone interview with television host Boy Abunda recently, Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa cried when the former read aloud the latter’s Father’s Day letter to his “Papa Doro.” This happened in an episode of “The Bottomline.” The chief of the Philippine National Police is known for his tough-asnail image but when the TV host read the letter which he posted in his Facebook account, he shed some tears. “No, brave men do cry,” he answered when asked if he was not afraid the people see him emotional. “Because if you’re a person without a heart, you’re not human,” explained “Bato” -- as he is popularly known. “You can’t be brave without a heart. Because your bravery can’t have any basis if you don’t have heart.” Crying is something that everyone does; it’s a normal part of life. But if a man cries, it’s a different story. “The issue is that too many times and unnecessarily some people associate men crying with being weak, effeminate, or gay,” S.L. Young wrote in his blog.” The projection conveyed is that a man is somehow less than whole if any or too much emotion is displayed.” Early this year, American President Barack Obama shed a tear while discussing gun violence in the United States. “The questions that immediately emerged were related to whether it’s appropriate for a country’s leader to display emotion,” Young wrote. “These comments were made as if being emotional or crying would somehow diminish the power of or respect for the man and the office. An alternative view is that it represents caring and compassion, along with a display of a lack of ego, strength, confidence, and self-awareness.” But why do women cry more than men? Writing for “Live Science,” Tia Ghose explained: “The river of tears dividing men and women may have a biological basis. Women’s higher levels of the hormone prolactin (which is involved in breast-feeding) may spur

them to tears, whereas men’s higher testosterone levels may inhibit tears, one theory holds. In fact, one 1998 study in the journal Cornea found that premenopausal women with lower levels of prolactin and higher testosterone levels shed fewer tears than women with high prolactin and low testosterone. And until puberty, with its hormonal onslaught that affects boys and girls very differently, both sexes cry about equally, according to a 2002 study in the “British Journal of Developmental

“Because if you’re a person without a heart, you’re not human,” explained “Bato” -- as he is popularly known. “You can’t be brave without a heart. Because your bravery can’t have any basis if you don’t have heart.” Psychology.” “Jesus wept.” With this statement, as recorded in John 11:35, the myth that only women cry has been shattered. Yes, men do cry – as what the crying crop has shown. History is replete with stories of men who cried in public, as compiled by the authors of The Book of Lists II. Hollywood film actor Patrick Swayze, in the middle of a 1988 televised interview with Barbara Walters, expressed regret that his father had not lived to see him became a star in his own right. As he recalled his dad with fondness, he burst into tears. “It’s like a water faucet when I talk about him,” he explained later on, “because I have so many things I wanted to say to him.” American football player Dexter Manley cried in public twice. The first one was in 1989 be-

fore the US Senate Subcommittee on Education telling his experience on growing up with a learning disability. “I felt I was normal,” he said, with tears in rolling in his eyes, “but I was told I was dumb and stupid.” The second time was when, during a press conference, he failed a drug test that forced his retirement from football. Another religious leader who cried in public unabashedly was Jimmy Swaggart. On February 21, 1988, the American evangelist, tears stream-

dential candidate. Watching this performance, Nixon’s college drama coach, Albert Upton, who had taught the future politician how to cry remarked, “Here goes my actor.” Throughout literature, crying has been enshrined as romantic, good, and noble. Charles Dickens assures us: “Heaven knows we need never be ashamed of our tears, for they are rain upon the blinding dust of earth, overlying our hard hearts.” What happens when we cry? Just under the

duce sensations that give us the urge to cry for joy, sorrow, anger, frustration, depression, bitterness, disappointment, failure or success, and the like. “Crying is a wonderful release - especially if you know what you’re crying about,” says Dr. Robert Jaffe, a marriage and family therapist in Sherman Oaks, California. If your world is a little bit stressful, yell or cry. It’s not always possible in the typical office, but in some situations - a private office or your car, for instance - a purely emo-

History has stories of famous people shedding tears dictated by their emotions. American baseball player, at a press conference to announce his retirement in 1989, tried to read a prepared statement, but broke down and cried when he said, “Some eighteen years ago, I left Dayton, Ohio, with two very bad knees and a dream to become a major-league baseball player. I thank God the dream came true.” Fifth Roman emperor Nero (Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus), remembered for his cruelties, unstable character, and persecution of Christians, reportedly shed crocodile tears. That was when he put to death his mother, and also when he murdered his wife Octavia. In his blog, Young asked some men why they cry. Robert Meredith answered: “It’s not healthy if you don’t cry; screw what other people think! And so what if I might

ing down his face, confessed before a crowd of 6,000 and on television to having committed “a sin,” later revealed to be the hiring of prostitutes. In 1972, a lot of Filipinos probably cried when Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law. In other side of the world that year, American senator Edmund Muskie was the leading contender for the Democratic Party presidential nomination. However, his campaign was derailed when, angered by a vicious attack on his wife by New Hampshire newspaper editor William Loeb, he began weeping during a speech. It was later revealed that the newspaper attack was part of a “dirty tricks” campaign orchestrated by Richard Nixon’s reelection committee. Let’s talk about Nixon. During a 1977 television interview, he told David Frost, “I never cry – except in public.” Nixon’s most famous public weep occurred in 1952 after he made his notorious “Checkers speech” and Dwight David Eisenhower decided to allow him to remain on the Republic ticket as the vice-presi-

eyelids are small glands which produce fluids that cleanse and lubricate our eyes. When triggered by our emotions, the involuntary nervous system may signal these glands to produce excess fluid, or tears. There are many reasons why people cry. Our various emotions pro-

tional outburst is perfectly acceptable. Screaming or crying, says Dr. Emmet Miller, medical director of the Cancer Support and Education Center in Menlo Park, California and one of America’s recognized experts on stress, “can provide a release for the emotions generating the stress you’re feeling.”

break out in tears for reasons others might not be aware. Who cares; who are they to judge?! And I dare anyone to question my manhood! We need to stop using double standards and try to understand each other.” Yes, boys don’t cry but brave men, do! (Photos taken from the net)

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 100 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, JULY 15 - 16, 2016

EDITORIAL

Contradicting one’s oath

HE list is out. There are 23 mayors who are involved in the illegal drugs trade who will be immediately investigated. If you base that on the number of mayors heading local government units in the land, 23 mayors is a small fraction of a whole that’s numbering 1,634 (as of 2013 figures). However, we are not running percentages here. The list will tell us that if you have that number of local chief executives involved in illegal drugs, then we have a problem. The numbers do multiply depending on the area of these localities under the power of these erring executives. The list will tell us why in the world these executives were never in the radar of the police or the Department of Interior and Local Government headed by no less than the former Secretary Mar Roxas who bragged during the campaign period that he knows there is drugs in Davao City and he can show the way where to buy?

EDGEDAVAO

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Why would it take a President Duterte to reveal the list. For sure, if indeed the charges are true, these mayors have been in the business for a period of time and are using their office to protect the illegal drugs trade. Now, how do we deal with the so-called big fishes who are caught or proven positive in their involvement? Will the Duterte administration also crack its whip hard on these people? That is the question now. The biggest menace belong to those whose roles are either significantly large or otherwise ironic like the mayors who contradict the contract they have with the electorate to protect them from the ills of the society, drugs being among the top of the list. Having contradicted their oath, it is only proper that they be handed down the penalties the law has prescribed for their acts. Swiftly as it can be.

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ILL Davao City, the fastest growing urban center in the country next to NCR, suffer the same fate as Metro Manila as far as traffic problems are concerned? According to statistics gathered by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, some P2.6 B of income is lost daily due to the exasperating monstrous EDSA traffic mess. Urban planners and policy-makers will agree that the continuing traffic standstill in Metro Manila is mainly caused by the mishandling of the voluminous pedestrian and vehicle congestion. Luckily, Davao City is not yet deeply enmeshed at this stage. This is exacerbated by migration, weak law enforcement, uncouth motorists and jaywalking commuters alike, the illegal operation of thousands of ‘colorum’ buses, street diggings and repairs and the concentration also of thousands of business and companies therein. Oh, boy! Despite limited liveable space, residents, students, employees and other members of the working class prefer and persist to stay put within the vicinity because of the practical wisdom that it saves them transport fare, effort and time by being close to their respective places of work. Can’t blame

N the course of our researches, certain historical claims and puzzles pop up and need deeper appreciation, especially when they are oddly put up against a historical backdrop. For years, since Davao history has attracted so much attention from the academe, researchers have used different lenses in understanding past events that affect public understanding of name-places. One that draws curiosity is Mintal, a barangay situated twenty-two kilometers west of the city’s central business district (CBD), which has been honored with different names. Depending on claimants, Mintal, a combination of Datu Intal and Japanese migrant Mishiro, has been alternately called ‘Little Tokyo’ or ‘Little Nagasaki.’ More popularly, it was known in prewar period as Davao-Kuo, the equivalent of ‘Little Tokyo’. Why was the village known as ‘Little Nagasaki’? After whom was it named? Is it in honor of Nagasaki, the largest city of Nagasaki Prefecture on the island of Kyushu in Japan or is it after the place where Japanese migrants in Mintal originated? To understand the possible provenance of the ‘Little Nagasaki’ sobriquet, let’s familiarize ourselves with certain historical nuggets. First, Nagasaki, during World War II, is the region where the plutonium bomb nicknamed ‘Fat Man’ was dropped on Aug. 9, 1945 from the Boeing B-29 Superfortress Bockscar under US Major Charles Sweeney, killing anywhere between 39,000–80,000 people. This ignominious event forever etched the name

VOL. 9 ISSUE 100 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, JULY 15 - 16, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

Solving traffic woes Moves during the M a r c o s years to decongest the exploding human and vehicular traffic were overtaken by Fred C. Lumba succeeding historical events. One that sticks out was the plan to disperse industries to the provinces, particularly to the south and north of Luzon, including the Visayas and Mindanao. However, as trade and commerce was only flourishing for companies in the National Capital Region, businessmen elected to put up their offices and warehouses inside the metropolis. Only when the expressways to the north and south ends were constructed did investors move out of MM to nearby provinces where they discovered, to their great relief, that labor was cheap and travelling time and distance were both short and reasonable. In the early sixties, vehicular and pe-

destrian traffic issues were then only the concern of the City of Manila. Business was thriving and focused only in the twin premier commercial districts of Escolta and Avenida Rizal frequented by the intelligentsia, the rich and the famous. EDSA was then the asphalted and dusty stretch of Highway 54 and was only being mulled yet by government authorities. When the Ayala family started engineering the Makati area, tall edifices and skyscrapers mushroomed, creating a skyline that resembled New York City. Escolta and Avenida Rizal went dry as office concessionaires and tenants transferred to Makati (then not yet a city). Transport Sec. Arthur Tugade has volunteered the idea that Clark International Airport be utilized as the second port of entry to accommodate the onrushing foreign air traffic. Good idea. If sooner realized, Tugade said the volume of passenger and vehicular traffic around NAIA will definitely decrease, thus effectively decongesting narrow passageways around Paranaque, Makati, Pasay and Makati, even Las Pinas, Muntinlupa, Taguig and Manila itself. Tugade, Duterte’s San Beda law classmate, recommended also the construction

of bus terminals each in the southern and northern boundaries for loading and unloading provincial passengers. Today, talks about giving Pres. Duterte emergency powers to fast-track solving these traffic ills are being met with alacrity in Congress. Well and good. Duterte has also ordered a 24/7 work schedule for all public construction projects. My own take is that urban planners should decipher alternate routes by constructing freeways (like in Los Angeles) to free choke points, relocate and disperse schools and educational institutions, industries and manufacturing companies to Central and Northern Luzon, Bicol, Visayas and Mindanao to discourage the suffocating migration to Metro Manila. Adding more train lines (cargo and passenger) as necessary to beef up mass transport facilities (as in London and Japan) will surely ease the troubles Metro Manilans are encountering now. The sad road experiences in Metro Manila today are a lesson Davao City policy-makers can learn from. But at the rate Davao City is being run today, you can say it is in very good hands. Halleluiah!(Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) God bless the Philippines!

of the city in FAST BACKWARD the annals of world history. Long before this destructive episode occurred, Nagasaki was the center of Portuguese and Dutch Antonio V. Figueroa influence for three centuries (16th-19th) and was deemed as a cosmopolitan port in contemporary art and literature. It was also the center of Roman Catholicism in Japan, where the ‘Martyrs of Nagasaki’ died by crucifixion on Feb. 5, 1597. Both the atomic bombing and the mass crucifixion in Nagasaki could not have been the basis in giving Mintal its exotic ‘Little Nagasaki’ pet name. The place-name Mintal was popularized in the second decade of American rule, a good three decades before the war. Another interesting story loosely tied to Nagasaki was that of Australia-born Masue Masuda, daughter of migrants Umejiro Masuda and Moyo Facumori, who arrived in Manila in 1916. After her parents failed in their retail business, they returned to Nagasaki in 1920 with two of her siblings. Left alone to fend for her own in Manila, she decided to join an elder sister in Davao who had married a Japanese photographer. In Davao, Masue, who had a Tokyo High-

er Normal School diploma, taught Nihingo to the children of plantation workers. Later, after her father died, her mother and two siblings migrated to Davao. At this time, the sea route from Davao to Nagasaki was already a well traveled course for Japanese migrant seeking jobs in abaca plantations in Davao. During the war, Masue, who later married a Filipino named Vicente Almazan, acted as interpreter of the Kempe-tai, the wicked Japanese police, in the process saving hundreds of Filipinos from imperial brutality. She was baptized Elizabeth Almazan in the Catholic Church on Dec. 7, 1948 and settled with her family in San Nicolas, Zambales, where she died. Is it possible that Masuda’s influence as a former Nagasaki resident and long-time Nihongo mentor in Davao has some relevance to the naming of Mintal as ‘Little Nagasaki?’ But the unanswered question is: Where actually did she contribute to the barangay that encourage villagers to honor him? If she was assigned in Mintal, was she so impressive as to convince the local residents to give Mintal, home to a strong pre-war Okinawan migrant population, the moniker of ‘Little Nagasaki?’ That gray area deserves deeper research. Another interesting Nagasaki twist may be found in President Jose P. Laurel’s speech delivered in a Davao City public square on March 19, 1944 where he mentioned a certain Gen. Nagasaki as the counterpart of Gen. Paulino Santos (yes, after whom a city is named),

who was appointed by the Japanese as commissioner of Mindanao and Sulu. In his declaration, Laurel acknowledged Gen. Nagasaki as the one “who brought peace to Baguio within a short time, and who became so like a father to the people of that city that they cried when they left them to come to Davao.” This heartwarming description of a compassionate Japanese general was surely a welcome respite for the Davao population that was subjected to war brutalities and vicious treatments for over a year after the Japanese invaded the city in December 1941. A search in the official list of World War II Japanese generals, however, did not yield any Gen. Nagasaki. Hypothetically, pending more researches on the iconic Japanese military officer, Gen. Nagasaki could have acted the way he did while assigned in Baguio. The lachrymal parting he witnessed before accepting his Davao assignment could have convinced him that empathy, more than anything else, endears a leader to his subalterns. But the question remains: Was Gen. Nagasaki’s short-lived stay in Davao City enough to convince local residents to honor him? Did he stay long enough, if ever, to influence the people of Mintal to give the village the second name of ‘Little Nagasaki?’ That’s a long shot, but history has its own ways of appreciating events and preserving them for posterity. Meanwhile, the search for the ‘true’ Nagasaki continues.

‘em.

SPECKS OF LIFE

‘Little Nagasaki’

10 NEWS PNP... FROM 1

change their lives and will also encourage them not to go back to their illegal activities. The police provincial directors are also encouraged to coordinate with the LGUs to establish rehabilitation centers for the big numbers of surrenderees to be accommodated. Cascolan admitted that they are not expecting the increasing numbers of surrenderees in which as of 5 pm on July 12 has already ballooned to 59, 973 drug users and pushers who have turned themselves to the authorities. “To be honest, we are not expecting these numbers of surenderees, but it only

means that the campaign on suppressing drugs in 3 to 6 months is effective and that the community is with us in achieving this goal,” Cascolan said. Cascolan also assured the parents who will surrender that their children will be taken care of, as the Department of Social welfare and Development will take place as a substitute parent to their children. High Value targets who will surrender will also have to undergo an extra judicial confession in which they will identify their strategies in peddling illegal drugs and their connections.

Mayantao, of Inalsahan Indigenous People Organization (IPO) who forcibly entered the Umalag Farms Inc. premises by digging under the fence and put up a tent inside. Once they had entered the compound, around 14 security personnel of the Tagbagane security agency con-

fronted the farmers, which resulted in a heated argument followed by the shooting of the farmers. Law enforcers recovered three 12-gauge shotguns at the crime scene, shotgun cartridge, one .38 caliber pistol and a scythe near the body of one of the victims. (PNA)

handed down its decision on the case which invalidated China’s claim over its “historic rights” to the disputed waters, stressing that its ‘Nine-DashLine’ claim has no legal basis. The ruling also added that China violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone through meddling with Philippine fishing

and oil exploration in the region, allowing the illegal entry of Chinese fishermen into the disputed waters and causing harm to marine environment in the region through its massive reclamation activities. Such actions, according to the tribunal, had also caused the escalation of tension between the two parties. (PNA)

in gross food production in all sectors, except vegetables, since 1990 with rice and corn production far surpassing all other sectors combined. Albano said the climate change is making climate disasters, such as floods and droughts, more frequent and intense; land and water more scarce and difficult to access; and increases in agricultural productivity even harder to achieve. “These impacts are increasing the risk of hunger and the breakdown of food systems. Without considerable efforts made to improve people’s climate resilience, it has been estimated that the risk of hunger and malnutrition could increase by up to 20 percent by 2050,” Albano said. He said the country is vulnerable to natural hazards like typhoons, flooding, landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic activities. “Disasters such as these plunge women, men, and children into poverty, hunger, and malnutrition,” he added. Albano said the achieve-

ment of food and nutrition security in the country requires a multi-sectoral approach that includes agriculture, agrarian reform, environment, trade, labor, transport and communications, public works, energy, education, health, and social welfare. Albano said there are at least 21 government agencies with mandates that directly and indirectly affect the production, provision, storage, transport, processing, marketing, research, and financing of food as well as the efforts towards ensuring that people are able to buy nutritious food but there is no single lead agency that is responsible and accountable for food and nutrition security in this country; He said the National Nutrition Council created by P.D. No. 491 in 1974 was mandated to integrate policies and programs of all agencies and instrumentalities of the government charged with the prosecution of existing law, policies, rules and regulations concerning nutrition. (PNA)

The administration’s policy pronouncement that the validity of driver’s licenses, passports be extended is a step in the right direction, said Recto, who for more than 10 years has been calling and proposing legislation lengthening the “shelf life” of government-is-

sued permits. Recto said Malacañang should also tap the newly-formed Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in spearheading the practice of online government transactions. (PNA)

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 100 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, JULY 15 - 16, 2016

14 security... FROM 2

Resupply... FROM 2

Solon... FROM 4

Recto... FROM 5

ELIMINATING DUST. A resident sprinkles water on a road to get rid of the dust caused by the excavation for the pipe lying project along Mabini Street in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

PNP-12 launches ‘Ugnayan sa Rehiyon Dose’

N a bid to enhance public awareness on its campaigns and initiatives, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-12 has launched a new information and education program in partnership with various government agencies and the private sector. Chief Supt. Cedrick Train, Region 12 police director, said the move is part of their efforts to further strengthen their collaboration and engagements with stakeholders within the region in line with their duties and mandates. Dubbed “Ugnayan sa Rehiyon Dose,” he said the initiative is a component of the PRO-12’s operational strategies in support of President

Rodrigo R. Duterte’s campaigns against criminality, illegal drugs and corruption. “This was conceptualized to provide a framework for partnership with the civil society and concerned stakeholders, and make them aware of what has been happening in our region in the areas of public safety, security and law enforcement,” Train said. Also known as Socsksargen, Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. The program was formally launched on Wednes-

Labawan as a leader who only wanted the good for his fellow lumads, also criticized the NPA. “Dili tanan tao gusto in-

yong mga binuhatan,” he said. “Naay mga tawo na ganahan ninyo ug naay mga tao na wala ganahi ninyo.” (CIO)

civil society organizations, cooperatives, social enterprises, and private companies in implementing innovative solutions that address the country’s development challenges. To date, USAID has awarded a total of 33 grants on biodiversity, economic growth, good governance, anti-trafficking in persons, and basic education.

The Phil-Am Fund administrator is the Gerry Roxas Foundation. The grant signing ceremony on July 5 was witnessed by Dr. Steve Andoseh, the director of USAID’s Office of Economic Development and Governance and Ms. Judy Araneta-Roxas, President of the Gerry Roxas Foundation.

from 5.9 percent as it sees the domestic economy to be among the strongest in the region. This was made on back of the Duterte administration’s bid to further increase infrastructure investment, the low inflation environment and robust private sector investment. ”We are very optimistic on the Philippines right now,” he said , noting that bottlenecks such as infrastructure spending, remain. The Philippines posted the

second highest growth in Asia in the first quarter of 2016 with a 6.9 percent output, next after India’s 7.6 percent and higher than China’s 6.7 percent expansion The economist said the government has to maximize the demographic dividends the country currently enjoys and ensure that employment increases to ensure sustained growth of the economy. ”It’s high time to see more aggressive policies,” he added. (PNA)

Pulong... FROM 3

USAID... FROM 4

HSBC... FROM 6

day following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the PRO-12 and the management of the SM City General Santos mall. It was signed by Train, representing the PRO-12, and assistant mall manager Hermon Hernandez for the SM City General Santos. Under the MOU, SM mall will host for free the monthly conduct of the “Ugnayan sa Rehiyon Dose” as part of its corporate social responsibility. It is scheduled every second Wednesday of the month and would be assisted by the Philippine Information Agency in Region 12. Train said the activity will adopt a “town hall

meeting” format and would also involve other government agencies and offices in the region. He said a forum will be held to facilitate exchanges and they provide data and updates about their activities. Train said they will invite community stakeholders, representatives from various sectors and the media participate in the exchanges. “We’re including the participation of other (government) agencies to promote transparency and set an integrated approach in terms of addressing various issues and concerns confronting our communities,” he said. (PNA)

electronic waste recovery and recycling program that aims to recover e-wastes from mobile phones and portable devices to promote proper disposal. Proceeds of P1P will also help build more Global Filipinos Schools across the Philippines.

Huawei has already turned over to Globe approximately 2000 kilograms of assorted e-wastes coming from old and decommissioned corporate assets and personal donations from employees since January this year.

Roxas Elementary School. This latest phase covered over 2000 students and was passionately facilitated by employee-volunteers, showing the continuing impactful partnership between WWF-Philippines and PascualLab. Concludes Bate: “It’s very

important for schools and households to be educated about environmental and health solutions. It’s also crucial for students, parents and teachers to be reminded that small lifestyle changes will benefit not just the planet – but ourselves.”

Huawei... FROM 11

Pascual... FROM 11

ERRATUM

In the March 05 and 13, 2016 issues of the Edge Davao the Notice for Publication of CCE-0678-2016 RA 10172 of SHERWIN M. ABINA it should be docketed as from “FEMALE” to “MALE” instead of “MALE” to “FEMALE” at Davao City.

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EVENT

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SKS Interiors representative Honey Rose Gumapac (2nd from L) recieving the Booth of the Year award from (L-R) Arch. Kathleen Villalon, Arch. Gerardo Digal, and Arch. Maryll Piastro.

Toilet & bath design evolves with American Standard’s Acacia E suite at the SKS booth.

SKS INTERIORS, INC. THE PREMIER TILE, BATH, AND KITCHEN SUPPLIER IN DAVAO CITY, bested over 70 exhibitors to win the coveted “Booth of the Year” award bestowed during the 16th Mindanao Design & Construction Fair held at the SM City Davao Annex Event Center last June 24-26, 2016. The highly anticipated construction event in Davao City was organized by the Arkiquest group, composed of professional members of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Davao Al-

pha Chapter. Criteria for judging of the best booth were: 1.) Creativity and Originality, 2.) Use of your product and images in your booth design, 3.) Booth staff’s friendliness and interaction with at-

SKS WINS BOOTH OF THE YEAR SKS booth visitors pose with the ‘Guest of Honor’.

Zaha Hadid tribute wall at the SKS booth.

Creative display with slabs of Technistone quartz surfaces.

Interactive cabinet featuring Hettich’s soft-closing hinges and drawer slides from Germany. tendees, 4.) Promotional giveways, 5.) Overall appearance and experience. Organizer and architect Kathleen Villalon explains: “SKS Interiors encompassed in their booth design all of our criteria and it undeniably showed by having almost 50% of the organization members vote for them.” Arkiquest member

Arch. Keith Querequincia observes: “Instead of plainly displaying the material, SKS showed the actual application of the material. It showed character of the material but (also) the aesthetic effect of the material as part of the whole construction.” Organizer Arch. Imee

SKS A4

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A festival of fruit

Marco Polo Davao introduces signature set meals AFTER THE SUCCESS OF THEIR SIGNATURE DRINKS CROSS-PROPERTY PROMOTION, Marco Polo Davao embarks on a culinary journey to highlight the featured fruit of its sister properties in the Philippines, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila and Marco Polo Plaza Cebu. Every month, a fruit will be featured as a key ingredient in the set menu of each property and for the month of July, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s Piña Mania set which highlights the Pineapple is on the menu at the Marco Polo Davao’s Polo Bistro. A sweet tropical fruit, the pineapple is highlighted in the three-course meal which includes Grilled tiger prawns with pineapple-mango salad

and tamarind vinaigrette dressing for appetizer, Boneless crispy pata stuffed with foie grass and

Personally, I liked the nice balance of acidity and sweetness of the Grilled tiger prawns with pineapple-mango salad and tamarind vinaigrette dressing, the pineapple added a nice rounded tartness that balanced out the brininess of the prawns.

topped with pineapple salsa for the main course and Pineapple tamale for dessert. Pineapple is a low-calorie and aromatic fruit ingredient which balances the flavor of the dish with its sweet-sour taste. “We are lucky in Davao that Mindanao produces some of the sweetest pineapples in the world. We invite our guests to have taste of the tropical flavors of our country through this set menu”, says Executive Chef Alex Destriza of

Marco Polo Davao. Personally, I liked the nice balance of acidity and sweetness of the Grilled tiger prawns with pineapple-mango salad and tamarind vinaigrette dressing, the pineapple added a nice rounded tartness that balanced out the brininess of the prawns. The artful balancing act, which is actually difficult when using pineapple is again reflected in the main dish. The rich fattiness of the Boneless crispy pata stuffed with foie grass is cut thanks to the pineapple salsa. My favorite dish of the set though is the Pineapple tamale, a crisp-baked pastry ‘tamale’ stuffed with pineapple and served with buko pandan flavored nata de coco, ripe golden mango, and a white chocolate coin. The signature fruitsbased set menu are available at Marco Polo Davao’s Polo Bistro for the entire month of July for Php1200.00 nett. The set menu is served with steamed rice and a choice of coffee, hot tea and regular iced tea for beverage.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Encantadia dazzles Davao, Cebu in back-to-back Kapuso Mall Shows A FEW DAYS BEFORE THE PILOT AIRING OF GMA’S MUCH ANTICIPATED PRIMETIME SERIES, Encantadia further stirs the public’s excitement by mounting successful Kapuso Mall Shows in Visayas and Mindanao. The cast of Encantadia, led by the Sang’gres themselves, went beyond the familiar turf of Manila and cast spell in Davao and Cebu. Fans met the much-talked about Kapuso celebrities Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, Sanya Lopez, and Glaiza de Castro, together with Rocco o and Ruru Madrid. Last June 26, around 6,000 Davaoeños gathered at the Gaisano Mall in Tagum City to warmly welcome the Encantadia stars. The following Sunday (July 3), Cebu also caught up with the Encantadia fever, with 7,000 Cebuanos eagerly convening at the South Town Centre in Talisay City. The actors who will play the keepers of the gems and warriors in the series were introduced one by one through an

audio visual presentation that also showed a teaser of the ground-breaking telefantasya. Each Kapuso star treated their fans to song and dance presentations. In Davao, Kylie enthralled the fans when she sang “Wag na Wag Mong Sasabihin” by Kitchie Nadal. The new Amihan also made Cebuanos feel they were indeed special when the

actress serenaded them with Paramore’s “Only Exception”. Gabbi, who will play the soft-spoken Alena, mesmerized the crowd when she sang Up Dharma Down’s “Tadhana” during the mall shows. Sanya thrilled the fans in Tagum City when she sang and danced to Fifth Hamony’s “Work from Home”. The Kapuso star, who will be Danaya in the

series, then tugged the hearts of the Cebu crowd when she sang Carol Banawa’s “Stay”. Glaiza proved to be as feisty her character Pirena, singing Lorde’s “Royals” during the Davao mall show. She also surprised the Cebuano crowd when she sang the Bisaya hit song “Hahasula” by Kurt Fick. Kapuso hunk Rocco, meanwhile, made the

audience sing and dance with his performance that featured Jason Derulo’s “Talk Dirty”. Meanwhile, young actor Ruru left the crowd swooning when he sang One Direction’s “Perfect”. Before the cast entertained their fans in Davao and Cebu, they also met the members of the local press together with Encantadia director Mark Reyes. The media eagerly asked Direk Mark about his experience in directing the requel, which the award-winning director happily shared. He also answered questions that pertain to the technical aspect of the series, allowing the press to take a closer look at the process of creating the multi-million peso project which boasts of massive set designs and amazing costumes. GMA Senior Assistant Vice President and Head of Regional Business Development Division

Oliver Amoroso said the successful Davao and Cebu mall shows is a clear indication of how excited the whole country is for Ecantadia. “We hope our Kapusong Davaoeños, Tagumeños, and Cebuanos enjoyed the Kapuso Mall Shows as much as the cast did. We know the stars are very busy with their tapings but we made it a point to really bring them to the regions because we know their fans are very excited to meet them,” Amoroso said. “We would like to thank all the fans who went to Tagum City in Davao Del Norte and Talisay City in Cebu to welcome the cast of Encantadia,” he added. To know more about the Network’s regional events, follow GMA on Facebook at www.facebook. com/gmanetwork and GMA Regional TV at w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / GMARegionalTV and on Twitter and Instagram via @GMARegionalTV.

Movies for teens air for free for SKY prepaid subscribers

Kathniel, Jadine bring cool in back-to-school season via free Sky movie marathons SQUEEZE IN SOME MOVIE-VIEWING sessions after studying as Pinoy teen movies “She’s Dating The Gangster,” “Talk Back and You’re Dead,” and “First Day High” become available to SKY prepaid subscribers for the whole month of July. The line up is headlined by the hit KathNiel teen flick “She’s Dating The Gangster,” where campus heartthrob and gangster Kenji (Daniel Padilla) and student Athena, (Kathryn Bernardo), agree to pretend as lovers to make Kenji’s ex girlfriend jealous and realize how playing the pretend game can make them fall deeply in love with each other. Adding to the campus ‘kilig’ movies

is JaDine’s hit movie “Talk Back and You’re Dead,” where Samantha (Nadine Lustre) falls in love with the unlikely guy, the hot-headed Top (James Reid), the leader of the so-called “Lucky 13” gang. See how they face the odds to make their relationship last forever. Completing the lineup of the free movie marathon is “First Day High” starring Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Maja Salvador, Geoff Eigenmann, and Jason Abalos who play college freshmen involved in the biggest mystery that the university has ever encountered. The free movie screening is available to SKYcable prepaid subscribers in Metro Manila, CAMANAVA/

Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, San Jose del Monte Bulacan, Bacolod, Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Dumaguete, General Santos, and Iloilo. Meanwhile, SKYdirect prepaid subscribers can catch all three movies anywhere in the country since signal is transmitted via satellite. To view the free movie marathon, SKYcable prepaid and SKYdirect prepaid subscribers should simply have load balance within July. SKY prepaid load may be purchased at SKYZones and SKY business centers, SM Store, Save More, SM Hypermart, Waltermart, Alfamart, Cebuana Lhuillier, Touch Pay (Mini Stop), ULoad, Bayad Center, 7-eleven and ECPAY outlets, Load Central partners (Netopia,

USSC, MLhuillier, 1Bro and SST Laptop) and at Load Xtreme. SKY aims to strengthen the bond of Filipino families nationwide by offering relevant and quality free movies to their prepaid subscribers. Catch all three teenoriented movies for free at home beginning July 1 airing back-to-back and commercial-free only to SKYcable prepaid and SKYdirect prepaid subscribers. To apply as a SKY subscriber, text APPLY <space> NAME to 23662 to become a SKYcable Prepaid subscriber or text SKY to 23668 to become a SKYdirect subscriber. To know more about SKYcable prepaid and SKYdirect, visit mysky.com.ph.

July 15-19, 2016

ICE AGE: COLLISION COURSE/ *DUKOT Jennifer Lopez, Simon Pegg/ *Enrique Gil, Shaina Magdayao Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

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

GHOSTBUSTERS Melissa McCarthy, Chris Hemsworth, Kristen Wiig Guaranteed Seating & One Time Viewing Only

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A4 INdulge! EVENT

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Soho in Beijing, these landmark buildings also use high quality German designed door hardware by Dorma. Seng concludes, “SKS dedicates this win to our “unorthodox” President Rodrigo Duterte, and to the architecture and design professional who employs “unorthodox” thinking to envision a sustainable Davao City as an exemplar of responsible and high quality construction for the ASEAN region and beyond!”

SKS A1

Lim relates her experience: “The staff are there to welcome and demonstrate products. They listened to what people (were) asking and answered when asked.” With the theme: “Visions of Change”, the SKS booth was designed to echo the sentiments of the whole country as it faced transition to a government led by Davao’s own Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte. SKS Marketing Manager Mark Seng says, “We are forecasting a swift and sustained expansion of the construction in-

Mariwasa Digital HD Tile Gallery by SKS.

DAVAO PARTNER ESTABLISHMENT Participants in the Arkiquest Talk Show (L-R) Arch. Keith Querequincia, Arch. Maryll Piastro, Arch. Brian Birrey, Arch. Janina Gantuangco, Mark Seng of SKS, Lani Hernandez of ArkiCeramica. dustry of Mindanao with the election of President Duterte. Inspired by his example, SKS also wanted to use this exhibit as a tool to educate the public about world-class construction materials and by giving them a “Vision” of what the future of Davao may be.” The SKS booth highlighted the latest offerings from top international brands: Dorma - German door hardware, American Standard - Acacia Evolution toilet and bath fixtures, Kent Floors - vinyl and laminated floor-

ing, Hettich - cabinetry fittings from Germany, Technistone - Quartz Surfaces from Czech Republic, Meilleur - 3D wall panels, and Mariwasa the Filipino ceramic tile company celebrating 50 years in the market. SKS also paid tribute to the late Pritzker prizewinning Architect, Dame Zaha Hadid through museum-inspired wall graphics. Showcasing Hadid’s groundbreaking works such as the Phaeno Science Center in Wolfsburg, Riverside Museum in Glasgow, and Galaxy

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MATINA ENCLAVES PROJECT. Construction of the first building of The Residences, the condominium sector of the mixed use Matina Enclaves real estate project of the Escandor Development Corporation (Esdevco). The Matina Enclaves’ first three buildings have been fully sold out while only a remaining few units are left for Building 4.

Pascual Laboratories, WWF promote environment and health solutions G A

Huawei turns over 100 laptops for Globe’s Filipino schools program

STUDY from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows how climate change can spread vector-borne diseases like malaria. Climate change causes 6% of global malaria cases and many communities in Asia and Africa will suffer from new disease outbreaks. In the Philippines, flooding caused by excessive rainfall and typhoons had spurred rising incidences of dengue and leptospirosis. Since 2012, leading environmental solutions-provider World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Philippines) and top Filipino pharmaceutical company Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab) through the company’s SEED (Sowing to Empower, Educate and Develop) CSR initiative, have been instilling climate change and health solutions through a revitalized education program headed by WWF’s Environmental Education (EE) unit. The program has taught over 6400 students, engaged 1405 parents, trained 32 teachers and covered 10 schools. Kalakasan, Kalikasan is a multiyear EE program that establishes the link between climate change and wellness, highlighting simple ways for Filipinos to protect their health while minimizing their ecological impacts. “Many diseases stem from changing weather patterns,” explains WWF EE Unit Head Ruel Bate. “Strong rains can turn ditches into stagnant

pools, which can be prime breeding spots for mosquitoes that carry viruses like dengue. Identifying practical solutions to these problems – like clearing areas in our homes which can become breeding grounds for insects or ridding our homes of anything which can gather standing water – are effective climate adaptation measures. Our aim is simple – to promote better health through a healthy environment.” A typical session involves teaching students about the importance of washing their hands to prevent the transfer of diseases. The activities also instill the importance of physical exercise like playing outdoors; eating nutritious food and supplementing these with vitamins; and drinking eight glasses of water daily. The beneficiaries learn about ridding houses against possible pests and disease-causing insects, the impacts of climate change on the environment and on human health; and utilizing organic, herbal medicine as a

solution to illnesses such as cough. The program started as a means of educating students and quickly expanded to teaching households. From 2015 to 2016, the program was further enhanced – replacing old multimedia materials with new visual aids. Sessions are now conducted in classrooms where PascualLab employee-volunteers take on a bigger role in helping to teach the kids. Says PascualLab Corporate Communications Director Mia Pascual Cenzon, “PascualLab’s mission is to provide the most family-friendly health and wellness products in every community where we are present. As we aim to build strong, healthy families, we think that one of the ways we can achieve this is by caring for our environment. We share WWF’s belief that there is a direct relation to the state of every Filipino’s health, and the way we treat our Earth. Not only do we want to be part of the solution through our products, but we also want to take

Before the distribution of meals, Adlawan and Baloyo conducted presentations and lectures regarding the products and services of Tagum Cooperative and inputs on family budgeting and financial counseling. Adlawan also presented a short orientation on the outreach program of the cooperative including its history, vision and mission. The distribution of Lomi and bread immediately started after an hour of lectures and presentations. Coastal villagers in Purok

Cabugan mostly rely their sources of income from fishing and coconut farming. One of those who benefited from the food distribution was 89 year old Diosdado Kapampangan who expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the help brought about by Tagum Cooperative to their community. “Nalipay me ugmaayoug blessed kaayo me saGinoo kay gihikapniyaangkasing-kasingsaTagum Coop arontabangan me ngamgakabusdiri (We feel so happy and blessed by God for He touched Tagum Coop

our work a step further and take an active part in educating others about climate change and its effects on health.” “I want to believe that our efforts in Kalakasan, Kalikasan helped children understand how our small actions greatly affect nature. I hope that one day, the example of at least one of our students will also be mirrored by his or her family, creating new stewards of nature,” adds Rea Calingasan, one of PascualLab’s employee-volunteers. Phase one of Kalakasan, Kalikasan was completed in 2012 where two schools were reached: Krus na Ligas Elementary School and Esteban Abada Elementary School. The phase covered 955 elementary students and parents plus a dozen teachers. In 2013, the program’s second phase reached four public elementary schools – Esteban Abada, Batasan Hills, Old Balara and Kamuning. It taught 1805 students and trained 20 teachers. The third phase, which happened in2014, covered 1285 students and three schools: Esteban Abada Elementary School, Sto. Cristo Elementary School and the Old Balara Elementary School. The recently-concluded fourth phase retained two elementary schools – Sto. Cristo and Kamuning, while adding two more: Tomas Morato Elementary School and General

F PASCUAL, 10

Coastal villagers receive free‘lomi’from Tagum Coop

AGUM Cooperative recently visited a coastal area in Purok Cabugan, Barangay Busaon, Tagum City to give free Lomi (noodle soup) and bread to the residents as part of the cooperative’s annual outreach activity that kicked off last July 7. Bringing big pots and paper bags, the team led by Vice Chairperson Fe J. Adlawan and Director Miriam R. Baloyo travelled for more than 30 minutes from downtown Tagum City to bring the nutritious meals for the locales especially for their children.

to help us, needy in here)” Kapampangan, who has been a resident in the area for 42 years said. The giving of free Lomi and bread in the area will continue every first Wednesday of the month until December when a Christmas Party for the beneficiaries will be facilitated by Tagum Cooperative. The activity is part of the annual program of the cooperative aimed to provide lectures and nutritious meals to selected rural and remote areas in Tagum City and nearby towns.

LOBAL information and communications technology solutions provider Huawei Technologies Philippines, Inc. supports the Global Filipino Schools Program of Globe Telecom, Inc. and Ayala Foundation, Inc. as it turns over 100 laptops for use of public elementary schools under the program. While Globe provides internet access to both teachers and students in GFS schools, additional devices such as the donated laptops are needed to allow more students to explore the internet and learn applications which are critical in ushering 21st century learning in public schools. “It is Huawei’s commitment to bridge the digital divide where everyone can link up and openly collaborate. At the same time, we continue to work with our customers and partners like Globe to build a better connected world. Through this donation, we hope to give an opportunity to teachers and students in different parts of the Philippines to enjoy high-quality educational materials right at their fingertips,” said Jacky Gao, Huawei Philippines Chief Executive Officer. Fernando Esguerra, Globe Director for Citizenship said: “Globe believes in the power of technology to forward 21st century learning in public schools nationwide.We want to improve the digital skills among the teachers and students particularly in using technology and computer software, thus, this donation from

Huawei would be of great help in increasing student engagement in the classroom and in enabling them to develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication.” There are currently 20 public schools across the country which have been transformed into GFS centers of excellence even as Globe continues to forge partnerships with the regional offices of the Department of Education to scale the program and cover all 221 school divisions nationwide within a five-year period. So far, GFS has benefited 41,038 students and 7,227 public school teachers who have been trained as Global Filipino Teachers. AFI serves as the implementing arm of Globe this year for eight schools under GFS which include the beneficiaries of the donation such as Sta. Cruz Elementary School in Albay and Center of Excellence in Public Elementary Education (CENTEX) Batangas, among others. “We wish to thank Globe and Huawei for this valuable partnership which will enable us to serve more young people through various tools and techniques. Technology is indeed a great enabler and with these gifts from Huawei, more young minds will enjoy the wonders of information and creative learning,” said RuelMaranan, President of AFI. Aside from providing support to the education advocacy of Globe, Huawei also adopted the latter’s Project 1 Phone

F HUAWEI, 10

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DavOr ex-mayor gets T 6-10 years for graft F

ORMER Banganga, Davao Oriental Mayor Gerry Morales was sentenced to six to 10 years’ imprisonment after the Sandiganbayan found him guilty beyond reasonable doubt of violating Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Morales was also perpetually disqualified from holding public office. In a 21-page ruling, the Sandiganbayan Second Division upheld the findings of the Office of the Ombudsman that the accused gave unwarranted

Fisherfolk group calls for peaceful, principled resolution of WPS issue

preference through manifest partiality to STRB Auto Repair Shop, represented by the brother of the accused, after the prosecution established that the municipality purchased oil and grease worth P92,760 from STRB in September 2001 without public bidding. It was shown during trial that Morales approved the purchase shortly after assuming office in July 2001. The 2004 Commission on Audit (COA) Report showed that the purchase lacked the requisite documents, STRB

had no business permit and the transaction was fraught with conflict of interest as the business was owned by the mayor’s brother. Associate Justice Napoleon Inoturan said that “the accused allowed his brother to directly transact with the Municipality of Banganga. Despite the fact that STRB was not an exclusive dealer of oil, fuel and lubricants but only an independent dealer, and despite the irregularities in, and incompleteness of the requirements and inadequate documentation, the transaction with STRB was

facilitated, smoothly processed and immediately approved, due to the active intervention of the accused. This clearly shows that accused mayor was not only remiss in his duties under the Local Government Code, but undoubtedly gave unwarranted preference to STRB Auto Repair Shop.” The Sandiganbayan dismissed Morales’ defense that the purchase was made through an exclusive dealer and that there was an urgent need to procure the items for lack of evidentiary proof. (PNA)

women have stayed in the four corners of their home taking care of their children and husband, resolutely doing never-ending domestic chores,” said DSWD XI Regional Director Mercedita P. Jabagat. Director Jabagat said, “Through Kalahi-CIDSS, we get to help these women gain more skills beyond what they can perform in their homes. In the end, they feel fulfilled that somehow they are also capable and substantially contributing.” The program also provides opportunities for a leadership position to most women. This way, they get to hone their strengths, and improve their self-esteem, Director Jabagat added. “Joining Kalahi-CIDSS has given us this confidence that

we can learn about new things and make our lives better,” Lagarto said, adding that even though they are not paid, they get a lot of experience and learn so much from the experience. “Nag-pile mi sa mga hollow blocks, nagbayanihan mi sa paghakot sa mga materyales sa site. Ang sub-proyekto, among gisabutan sa mga volunteers diri nga dapat mahuman gyud namo kini sa takdang oras (We piled hollow blocks, we hauled construction materials to the site. We agreed among volunteers here that we should complete the sub-project on time).” Through the volunteer system, four community clusters (puroks) have been able to benefit from the sub-project. These puroks used to be prone to flooding. Hopefully, never

again would water overflow and flood homes when it rains hard in Katipunan. Women count Based on DSWD records, 55% of Kalahi-CIDSS community volunteers in Region XI are women -8,645 volunteers and laborers in the construction of community sub-projects. With this opportunity at their fingertips, women become more involved in Barangay Katipunan’s development. “I am thankful to Kalahi-CIDSS for its support in creating this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me and for other female community volunteers,” said Lagarto. Women in Barangay Katipunan have overcome the barriers and happily emerged as empowered game changers. (DSWD)

Elections are slated on October 31 of this year. Comelec-Panabo also reminded the public that registrants should be a resident of a barangay for at least six (6) months. Election Officer Atty. John Paul Cubero also informed the public that their office will also cater other transactions of voters that include change of status, correction of entries, as well as re-activa-

tion for those who have been deactivated and failed to vote for two consecutive elections. Cubero stressed that transfer voters are not allowed. Qualified to register for the upcoming polls, as stipulated in Comelec Resolution No. 10148 are the youths aged 15 to 30 years old, including those who will be turning 30-years-old by October this year.

Those who wish to run for elective positions during the SK polls, from SK Chairman to the seven members of SK councilors should be at least 18 to 24 years old. First-time voters are also encouraged by Comelec-Panabo to bring photo copies of their birth certificate and valid identification cards for verification purposes. (Jasmine Paras/ CIO Panabo)

Women group leads P2-M drainage project in DavNor

EAMING with confidence, 40 year-old Michelle Lagarto, along with her fellow women community volunteers, proudly shared how their lives changed through Kalahi-CIDSS. Lagarto and her fellow women volunteers in Barangay Katipunan here successfully led the construction of a P 2,119,839.00-worth 1,300 Linear Meter Drainage Canal through Kalahi-CIDSS NCDDP modality. Kalahi-CIDSS or Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services is one of the core programs of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) that aims to empower communities through enhanced participation in local governance and management of poverty alleviation projects. The program also promotes inclusion of women in paid physical labor, planning, and decision making for social development issues at the community level. Challenged Initially, the Kalahi-CIDSS program was a challenge to the women in Katipunan. “In the beginning, many women were hesitant to join since it is the first time that they would balance their tasks between the community and the home,” admitted Lagarto, a Kalahi-CIDSS volunteer for four years now. “For the longest time, most

Comelec Panabo starts list-up for barangay, SK polls

HE Commission on elections (Comelec) office in Panabo City will commence its 15-day voters’ registration activities for the upcoming Barangay and Sanguniang Kabataan (SK) elections. The registration will start today, July 15 until July 30 at the Panabo Multi-purpose Cultural and Sports Gym in Barangay JP Laurel. The Barangay and SK

HE militant fisherfolk group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya-Pilipinas) on Wednesday urged President Rodrigo Duterte to tighten control and claim on the disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS) even as it insisted that asserting Philippine rightful claim in the disputed area should be in any peaceful way possible. Salvador France, vice chairperson of Pamalakaya-Pilipinas, said that engaging in a violent war against China is the last thing the country wants. “Our fishers have been devastated as it is, and our natural resources in distraught. Active diplomacy through bilateral and multilateral talks with China and other claimants of the disputed waters is the best chance we have, provided these are founded upon the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the recent Hague decision, and advanced in mutual respect,” he said. On Tuesday, the International Permanent Court of Arbitration favored Philippines against the claim and actions of the Peoples Republic of China with respect to the South China Sea or West Philippine Sea. It ruled that China has no legal basis to claim historic rights to resources within the sea areas falling within its claimed nine-dash line. Through its 9-dash line assumption, China is aggressively claiming 90 percent of the South China Sea, through which about USD 5 trillion worth of ship-borne trade

passes every year and is a home to abundant marine products endowed with untapped oil and gas reserves The international tribunal also found China in violation of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), specifically with respect to the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), by interfering with fishing and petroleum operation, constructing artificial islands, and failing to prevent Chinese fishermen from fishing in the zone. “It is official, the West Philippine Sea is our and ours alone. This is a victory not only for us fisherfolk but also for us as a nation. We have stood up against the bullying and garnered support in the process,” France said. “The international tribunal’s decision is an initial victory for the Filipino people who have tirelessly fought for the national sovereignty and territorial integrity. We call on the Filipino people to remain steadfast on patriotism and nationalism in the name of defending the country from any aspects of foreign domination,” he said. However, the fisherfolk group said that the Philippines should also remain vigilant for possible aggressive responses from China as Beijing has repeatedly said that it won’t comply with the International Tribunal Court as it maintains its claim that South China Sea is an indisputable sovereignty. “We are now on the next stage of this battle. Until our fishers and our flag dominate the West Philippine Sea, this is far from over,” France said. (PNA)

Kidapawan execs lead police force on drug test

OP city officials here led on Thursday some 70 police personnel of the local police for a mandatory drug test to determine who is clean and who is not in the performance of their sworn duty to protect and serve public interest. City Mayor Joseph Evangelista and Vice Mayor Bernardo Piñol, together with members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod first submitted themselves to the drug test on efforts to encourage its police force to undergo the same assessment by submitting their urine samples before the police crime laboratory office. The measure was initiated following a short ceremony Thursday morning presided over by the mayor at the city hall. “The initiative aims to de-

termine the sincerity of police officers as peacekeepers and models of society as well,” Evangelista said. Evangelista was quick to add though that anyone who comes out “positive” for illegal drug use would not be automatically removed nor relieved from service but rather undergo the required drug rehabilitation procedure. “This examination is not intended to prosecute anybody but rather help him or her rehabilitate and resist drugs,” he said. Drug test results would be fully made available next week, Evangelista noted. Last year, the mayor also ordered a mandatory drug test to all city government employees where three came out positive and underwent rehabilitation treatment. (PNA)

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Why ‘4 o’clock habit’ is important T

HE Davao City Health Office (CHO) has urged the public to religiously observe the so-called ‘4 0’clock habit’ to avoid the dreaded dengue and the Japanese encephalitis viruses. Speaking at the weekly media forum iSpeak, Dr. Josephine Villafuerte, chief of CHO, said it is not only the deadly dengue virus that is posing threats to the public

but also culex mosquito, the type of mosquito that carries Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). “The problem with Culex mosquito is it breeds in dirty waters, so whether the water is clean or dirty, meron pa rin tayong problema,” she said. To prevent JEV, Villafuerte said it is best for the public to religiously practice the 4 o’clock habit, which

involves the cleaning of surroundings and the destruction of the mosquitoes’ breeding areas of mosquitoes. Villafuerte’s office has already recorded the first case of Japanese encephalitis in Davao. The patient was a 60-year-old person from Bacaca who has already been discharged from the hospi-

tal. However, Villafuerte said the patient is still suffering from neurological deficits. The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that JEV is a flavivirus related to dengue, yellow fever and West Nile viruses. “There is no cure for the disease,” WHO said. “Treatment is focused on relieving severe clinical signs and supporting the patient to over-

come the infection.” Symptoms of JEV infections, according to WHO “are mild (fever and headache) or without apparent symptoms, but approximately 1 in 250 infections results in severe clinical illness.” “Severe disease is characterized by rapid onset of high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, seizures, spastic pa-

ralysis and ultimately death. The case-fatality rate can be as high as 30 percent among those with disease symptoms,” it said. “Of those who survive, 20 percent to 30 percent suffer permanent intellectual, behavioral or neurological problems such as paralysis, recurrent seizures or the inability to speak,” WHO added. (CIO)

ALACANANG echoed on Wednesday (July 13) the call of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for restraint and sobriety after the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines’ arbitration case against China in the territorial dispute over the West Philippine Sea. ”If I had any comments,

this is basically, like I said, we are going by the official statement released by the DFA Secretary. And basically it is that we welcome the ruling. However, we proceed with caution, with restraint and sobriety,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said. With the much-awaiting ruling of the international arbitral tribunal on Tuesday,

Abella expressed confidence that “everything will be for the common good.” ”Especially for those who are directly involved, including the fishermen, but let us wait for the right response at the right time,” he said. In an official statement, DFA Secretary Perfecto Yasay said the Philippine law experts “are studying the award

with care and thoroughness that this significant outcome deserves.” ”In the meantime, we call on all those concerned to exercise restraint and sobriety,” Yasay said. When asked for President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s reaction to the ruling, Abella just said: “It was a very responsible response.” (PNA)

tion of public documents and violation of the Government Procurement Reform Act against Binay. The charges were in connection with the alleged overpriced Makati City Hall Building II amounting to PHP2.28 billion.

In October 2015, the Ombudsman found probable cause to file the cases before the Sandiganbayan against Binay and his son, former Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay, Jr. Likewise charged were

the 22 other local officials of Makati City. Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales earlier said that they can already file the cases against Binay once he is not anymore covered by immunity from suit as Vice President. (PNA)

Palace treats Arbitral Tribunal ruling‘with caution’

Ombudsman files graft raps vs. ex-VP Binay HE Office of the Ombudsman (Ombudsman) filed graft charges against former Vice President Jejomar “Jojo” Binay before the Sandiganbayan on Thursday. The Ombudsman filed charges for graft, falsifica-

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BIRDIE BINGE

EDGEDAVAO Sports 15 NEW ACQUISITION. Axel Doromal of Ateneo de Davao University scoots home for a layup against Ford Academy. Lean Daval Jr.

Late birdie binge gives Ella even par round, climbs to 13th By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

njb@edgedavao.net

AVAO’S golfing wonder girl Alessandra Christine Nagayo just showed she belongs in the big leagues. The 12-year old Nagayo went on a birdie-birdie-birdie binge on the closing out holes to rebound to an even par scorecard in the second round of the 2016 IMG Academy World Junior Golf Championships. Attacking the Bernardo Heights course in the backnine to get back on track after bogeys on holes 10, 11 and 15, Nagayo hit the green on the 129-yard par 3 16th and for the second straight day sank her birdie putt on the same hole. She also showed tremendous improvement on her long game with a birdie on the 449-yard par 5 17th before closing out with another birdie on the 344-yard par 4 18th. Nagayo opened her round with a bogey on the first hole but quickly recovered with a birdie on the next hole—the course’ssecondlongestpar5.Shematched

par from 3rd to 6th before bucking another bogey on the 7th which she also recovered by finishing her frontside route with a birdie 2 on the par 3 9th for a 36. Nagayo is now tied for 13th in the girls 11-12 division with a six over par after 36 holes. Borina Sutikto of Fremont, California took the solo lead after second straight 3 under par 69 and a -6 total 148. Tusabasa Kajitani of Japan is in close second with a 5 under par 149. Another Dabaweyo jungolfer Zeus Sara was not as lucky, however, falling to a fat 10 over par on Wednesday for a +16 total and a tie for 52nd place, 26 shots adrift. The IMG Academy Junior World Golf Championships is the largest international event in the world and is unique for its international representation and cultural diversity. The tournament has 1200 participants representing 54 countries and 42 states.

Phoenix gets Baguio for 3 future picks TOUGH TESTS Holy Child tests mettle of Ateneo, JMC vs. ACD TEAM STANDINGS W ATENEO 2 ASSUMPTION 2 HOLY CHILD 1 FORD 1 JMC 0 DJA 0

L 0 0 1 1 2 2

Schedule of games: Saturday, July 16, 2016 8:00:00 AM -- DJA VS. FORD 9:30:00 AM -- HCSD VS. ADDU 11:00:00 AM -- ACD VS. JMC

Sunday, July 17, 2016 8:00:00 AM -- FORD VS. HCSD 9:30:00 AM -- ACD VS. ADDU 11:00:00 AM -- JMC VS. DJA

EAGUE frontrunners Ateneo de Davao University and Assumption College of Davao will be tested to the hilt on Saturday at the resumption of te 216 The Royal Mandaya Hotel Cup at the Davao City Recreation Center. Ateneo and ACD swept their weekend assignments in the first week of action of this season opening tournament to take a share of the lead with identical 2-0 winloss cards. The Blue Knights claimed Ford Academy and Davao Jones as their first victims while the Warriors scalped the same teams. The Blue Knights unleashed its new tandem in skipper Francis Gabriel Escandor, last year’s MVP, and new acquisition Axel Doromal, who was last year’s scoring king. The deadly duo showed nice chemistry in

their first two outings together resulting in convincing wins for coach Miggy Solitaria’s charges. Assumption meantime bucked the loss of Doromal in the offseason but still showed they have the materials to contend for the title. Davao Jones Academy will meet Ford Academy in the first game at 8:00 am, followed by the Ateneo-Holy Child match at 9:30. ACD will meet JMC at 11:00. JMC, the tournament darkhorse, narrowly lost to Holy Child 68-69 on Sunday and will go all out for a win today against Assumption. Holy Child will also revive the old firepower against bitter rival Ateneo and should be no pushovers in their match. “It will be another interesting weekend,” said Neil Baquiran, tournament manager. NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO

N what could be the start of a rebuilding process for Alaska, the Aces dealt veteran guard Cyrus Baguio to Phoenix for a pair of future draft picks. The Aces sent Baguio along with 2017 2nd round pick for the Fuel Masters’ 2nd round picks in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The trade was approved by the PBA Commissioner’s Office on Wednesday. Baguio was reportedly told about the parting of ways between him and the Aces when the team held its weight training also on Wednesday. The decision to let go of one of the 30 Greatest Players in the history of the franchise

didn’t come easy, according to Alaska team manager Dicky Bachmann. “It is always hard to say goodbye to someone who has been with us for many years. We thank him for how well he represented the Alaska organization,” said Bachmann, who also serves as the Aces’ alternate governor in the PBA board. “We wish him well as he moves on to Phoenix, and we are grateful for being able to work with him for so long.” The high-flying wingman out of University of Santo Tomas is turning 36 next month, and the decision to deal him to the Fuel Masters is perceived by many as the slow rebuild-

WINNING THREE. The Royal Mandaya Hotel and Esdevco president Glenn Escandor (81) hit a three-point shot at the buzzer to lift his team Esdevco-Genesis past Premia Packaging Corporation in the ongoing 2016

ing process the Aces are set to undertake this conference leading to next season. Baguio had been a vital piece in the last two championships won by the proud franchise, one each for former coaches Tim Cone (2010 Fiesta Cup) and Luigi Trillo (2013 Commissioner’s Cup). Current Alaska mentor Alex Compton paid the highest respect to the soft-spoken Baguio, who he described as ‘the consummate professional at Alaska.’ “It has been a pleasure to coach him, and we appreciate all of the things he has brought to the team, including his leadership and scoring ability,” said Compton.

“We wish him the best as he moves on to Phoenix, and we are grateful for being able to work with him for so long.” Under Compton, Baguio made the finals four times but was never fortunate to bring home a title, especially in the last three conferences of the league including the recent Commissioner’s Cup. His trade to Phoenix is expected to pave the way for more playing time on Alaska’s young guns such as Rome dela Rosa and rookie Kevin Racal. Baguio is the second significant player Phoenix acquired during the season break after John Wilson and Ronjay Buenafe.

Escandor Group of Companies Basketball Tournament. Esdevco-Genesis, the defending champion, will now advance to the semifinals.

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