Edge Davao 9 Issue 125

VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES STRENGTH IN NUMBERS. Tribe members use brute force to overwhelm their opposition in a tug of war game during the Lumadnong Dula held at the People’s Park in Davao City yesterday. “Dula Kadayawan” or tribal games is one of the main events of the 31st Kadayawan sa Davao that aimes to preserve the culture of the indigenous people which are slowly being forgotten. Lean Daval Jr.

THE FIRST 50 DAYS Duterte admin highlights achievements EDGEDAVAO Sports Paras wants to join Gilas 5.0 T

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Duterte Administration is on the right track, as President Duterte has pledged to bring about real and lasting change in the country.

This was the message of President Duterte for the Filipino people on Wednesday

when asked during a press conference in Manila about the achievements of his administration in its first 50 days.

It can be recalled that the Duterte government received a 91 percent trust rating in a survey conducted last month, proof that a majority of Filipi-

nos have high hopes that the Chief executive will be able to deliver on his promises.

In Davao City, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) secretary Martin Andanar together with presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella led a gathering of

various sectors at the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) to mark the Duterte administration’s first 50 days.

“Change has truly come.

Instead of waiting for the usual 100 days before, we are ready to present the milestones that

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Inside Edge

LTFRB chief: Heads will roll News Pg4

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

BEST OF MINDANAO. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) secretary Ramon Lopez checks out the bags and other products on display at the booth of the local government unit of San Isidro, Davao Oriental during the opening of Mindanao Trade Expo at the activity center of Abreeza Mall yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

NFA releases rice for flood victims V

ICTIMS of flooding due to continuous rains in Regions 1 and 3 had been receiving rice from the National Food Authority, through the local governments of Pampanga, Tarlac, Western Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur and Abra.

NFA Officer-in-Charge Tomas R. Escarez said that the food agency has a standing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with relief agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Office of Civil Defense and other concerned local government units (LGUs) for the supply of their rice requirements for relief operations during natural disasters, calamities and other emergencies.

Escarez said that NFA had already released since January a total of 649,212 bags of rice in 50 kilograms for the relief

operation of DSWD and LGUs across the country for victims of disasters and calamities, particularly the El Niño Phenomenon that hit the country from the last quarter of 2015, to the second quarter of this year.

The biggest volumes of rice were issued to Regions 10 for the provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental and Camiguin, and Region 12 for the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat for distribution to affected farmers and their families.

Escarez assured NFA’s readiness to respond anytime to provide the rice requirements of various relief agencies and LGUs. NFA Operations Centers, especially in affected areas, have been activated to

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Change is real during Rody’s first 50 days

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

R

adlopez0920@gmail.com

E P R E S E N TAT I V E S from various sectors in Davao gathered at the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) in Davao City yesterday to mark the 50th day of President Duterte as head of state, and to highlight the key achievements of his administration during the period.

The gathering was led by Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) secretary Martin Andanar, presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella and ADDU president Fr. Joel Tabora.

“Change has truly come.

Instead of waiting for the usual 100 days before, we

are ready to present the milestones that have been achieved under the 50 days old of leadership of President Duterte,” Sec. Andanar said in his remarks during the event.

Andanar noted that it is the first time in history of the country that change has been felt by the Filipino people in such a short period as promised by the Duterte government.

“Change is happening every day,” the secretary emphasized.

The participants to the gathering were welcomed by Fr. Tabora, as he lauded the accomplishments of the Duterte

administration during its first 50 days of office.

Tabora reminded the people of President Duterte’s campaign battle cry “Change is coming” which catapulted him into the highest office in the land.

“His campaign bannered the hope that change is coming. It is very clear to all that change is here,” Tabora said.

President Duterte’s acknowledgement that he owed his victory to the Filipino people “is a welcome sign that he is eager to report on his accomplishments and his concerns to the people,” he added.

The ADDU president not-

ed the event not only aims to showcase the gains of the Duterte administration in the first 50 days, but also to reflect on ways in which citizens can contribute to the task of nation building.

“The President has clearly stated that he cannot accomplish his goals on his own. He needs the participation of all Filipinos and Filipinas who love their country,” Tabora said.

Video presentations detailing the accomplishments of the Duterte administration in the first 50 days in office were also aired during the occasion.

“I doubt it (Duterte will reveal his source) because anything has got to do with intel gathering and anything that can ruin operations of our military or police, these are information that will be forbidden from public knowledge,” Andanar said.

He explained that Duterte has the right to reveal any validated information that he has on hand, since the President has immunity which ordinary citizens do not have.

“It is his prerogative as President. It is his duty to serve and protect. And under the Freedom of Information, infor-

mation that he knows to only the President can divulge such information. He has immunity, we do not have immunity on this table, neither have you had immunity,” he said.

Andanar added that Duterte’s disclosure on Delima does not necessarily mean the President will do the same to officials who question the anti-illegal drug campaign of his administration.

He recalled that the tension between President Duterte and Delima started way back when the former was still the mayor of Davao City and

PA scores militants FOI exceptions to be made public soon – Sec. Andanar for LNMB protests T

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

T

HE Philippine Army (PA) scored the 60 to 70 militant group members who conducted a 20-minute protest action outside the the “Libingan Ng Mga Bayani” (LNMB), Fort Bonifacio Taguig City---well smack in the arrival honors for deceased 28th Army commander Major Gen. Rodolfo Canieso Thursday morning.

“There is a proper time for everything. The protest actions conducted by the League of Filipino Students, Gabriela and others outside the LNMB

while (arrival honors) are taking place for the deceased (28th PA commander) Major Gen. Rodolfo Canieso and first Presidential Security Group commander of President Corazon C. Aquino this 11 a.m. is unacceptable,” PA spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said in Filipino.

Canieso succumbed to a massive stroke last July 31.

He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1957. He served as the 28th PA commander from Feb. 28,

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HE exceptions contained in the Freedom of Information (FOI) Executive Order signed by President Duterte last month will be released on August 28, according to Presidential Communications Office chief Sec. Martin Andanar.

Andanar bared during a media forum here that one of the restrictions would be related to intelligence gathering activities of the police and military.

The signing of the FOI E.O. has been hailed by various sectors, as it will provide citizens access to information on

all the activities undertaken by members of the executive department, including all national line agencies and local government units.

An FOI bill was submitted to Congress but was not acted upon until the end of former President Aquino’s term.

In the meantime, the PCCO chief was also asked if Duterte would be willing to reveal his sources concerning the latter’s revelation on Senator Leila Delima’s alleged immorality and use of narco-money.

He said that it is now the prerogative of Duterte if he will reveal his source or not.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

LTFRB chief: Heads will roll

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

H

EADS will roll in all regional offices of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), according to Presidential Communication Office (PCO) secretary Martin Andanar.

This developed after LTFRB chairperson Martin Delgra exposed the corrupt

practices taking place in the agency’s regional offices.

For instance, Delgra disclosed that the LTFRB’s regional offices have different rates for franchising, while in reality, clients do not actually need to pay a fee to secure a franchise.

“The President’s message has been very clear even from the start, that all corruption

must stop and it will not be tolerated under his term,” Andanar said.

He said that there will be no exemption in the government’s efforts to stamp out corruption in the bureaucracy.

On Monday, Delgra already warned that cases will be filed against LTFRB employees if it is proven that they have been

involved in anomalous transactions during their term of the office.

He disclosed that in the Cordillera Region, clients pay a P200 thousand fee to obtain a franchise, while in other regions, the price to own a franchise ranges from P14 thousand to a hundred thousand.

Delgra bared that the LT-

FRB will be carrying out a major revamp in all LTFRB offices to make sure that corruption will be wiped out at levels.

During a dialogue between Degra and LTFRB 11 employees, the latter admitted that they have accepted “gifts” to facilitate transactions, but were quick to explain that these deals happened before Presi-

dent Duterte assumed office.

The LTFRB chief said that he cannot understand the reason why people need to suffer whenever they secure permits from the agency.

He said that as a government office, the LTFRB must make sure that the burden of serving should be on the office and not with the people.

PNP to ink MOA with club owners T

HE Philippine National Police-National Capital Region Police Office (PNP-NCRPO) has set the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the owners of high end clubs in Metro Manila.

PNP-NCRPO Acting Director Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde said the MOA signing will be held on Wednesday, when they will present to PNP Chief Director General Ronaldo “Bato” Dela Rosa the contents of the MOA and the same can be amended if both parties would like to add some matters into the MOA. Through the MOA, Albayalde said the cooperation be-

tween the PNP and the club owners will be strengthened in a move to stop the transaction of party drugs in the clubs.

The MOA is also aimed at eliminating the bad image of big clubs as “haven” of party drugs syndicate.

Under the MOA, the PNP can assign two to three policemen in civilian attire to the clubs.

The same policemen will monitor and conduct surveillance against the syndicates involved in the proliferation of party drugs such as ecstacy and “fly high”, among others, to wealthy personalities who are patrons of high end clubs.

(PNA)

PNP Chief on Espinosa: He’ s didn’t fight back PCCO launches nat’l tabloid for the masses LUMAD ATHLETE. A lady lumad player attempts to hit her target with a bamboo stick during sisibow game, one of the tribal games played in yesterday’s “Dula Kadayawan” held at the People’s Park in Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

A

adlopez0920@gmail.com

NATIONAL tabloid dubbed “Mula sa Masa, Para sa Masa” was formally launched at the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) yesterday, coinciding with the commemoration of President Duterte’s 50 days in office.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) secretary Martin Andanar led the launching of the government-produced tabloid whose maiden issue

O

alive,” he said in Filipino.

“It’s like comparing a guava to an orange,” the PNP chief added, urging drug pushers and users to surrender and avoid the same fate as those who were killed under the current administration’s aggressive war on illegal drugs.

Espinosa had surrendered to the PNP and admitted that it was Kerwin who was involved in the illegal drug trade. Kerwin Espinosa has gone into hiding.

Also present at the hearing were officials of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) among others. (PNA)

carried the banner headline: “Duterte Wagi sa Giyera Kontra Droga”.

“This will be a bi-monthly tabloid,” Secretary Andanar said, adding the paper will be published by the PCOO, and aims to reach far-flung areas across the country.

Five thousand copies of the eight page issue have already been printed for distribution, the secretary added.

Andar explained the tab-

loid will be given out for free, as it aims to update the Filipino people on the various initiatives being carried out by the Duterte administration.

In particular, the “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” tabloid will feature updates on the activities, priorities, programs and accomplishments of the Duterte administration.

News on the economy and other pressing issues will

also be included in the paper, as well as showbiz news.

To ensure that copies of the tabloids will reach the barangays, Andanar said the PCOO will be utilizing the network of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) across the country.

Andanar also revealed that an on-line version of the tabloid called “News for Change” will also be launched within the next three weeks.

Land Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) said, “Why is it that IDIS who has always been vocal about their apparent concern about the welfare of farm workers are silent about the atrocities committed by these lawless elements? Why are they not indignant that these workers livelihood and well beings are being threatened by the rebels?”

According to a BusinessWorld Report, dozen burnings were carried out by the NPA from late January to February this year, almost the same as the total for the whole of 2015.

The attacks on plantations and companies are part of the rebels’ extortion activities.

“Are these NPA bombings and torching of farms and

equipment not an alarming immediate threat to lives and the environment?’” Maningo added.

Maningo is referring to Interface Development Interventions, a self-styled environment group calling out for the banning of aerial spraying in banana plantations.

Aerial spraying is a generally accepted agricultural practice by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations under certain limitations, which the banana industry is strictly adopting, otherwise its importers might stop buying from them. A multi-sectoral monitoring team that focused on banana plantations over-

sees the compliance of these regulations.

Anti aerial spraying advocates has recently resurfaced with recycled allegations after the issue has been resolved several years back.

All allegations have been refuted by scientists, farm workers and other residents around the plantations, claiming their environment have remained highly conducive for farming and raising animals.

Residents said they’ve been living healthy lives for more than three decades, even with the plantations employing aerial spray.

Court orders imprisonment of ex-PNP academy chief

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Displaced farm workers see NGOs as NPA allies VER 1,500 farm workers and employees have lost their jobs when Dole-Stanfilco, a multinational banana firm operating in Tagbina, Surigao del Sur has shut down its operations on its 400 hectare plantation. The company decided to close shop indefinitely after it has been subjected to a series of attacks by the rebel group of New People’s Army (NPA) for refusing to pay revolutionary taxes.

The severely affected and displaced farm workers are now asking where are the groups claiming to be for the people now that agricultural plantations are being attacked and it’s employees harassed.

Eduardo Maningo, a spokesman for the Agrarian

P

HILIPPINE National Police (PNP) Dir. Gen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa on Thursday insisted that the police were fair in their treatment of Albuera, Leyte Mayor Ronald Espinosa Sr., who along with his son Kerwin, has been linked to the illegal drug trade.

During a joint-hearing on the Duterte administration’s anti-narcotics campaign, dela Rosa denied that the PNP is being selective in its shoot-tokill order, saying that Mayor Espinosa was not shot because he did not resist arrest or fight back.

“Had he fought back, he could have been killed but he didn’t fight back, so now he’s

SAME GOALS “We can’t help but think

T

HE Sandiganbayan has ordered the arrest and immediate imprisonment of former Director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Academy Chief Superintendent Dionisio B. Coloma Jr. amidst claims of frail health .

This developed as he expresed his intention to surrender voluntarily and had filed a motion asking the anti-graft court not to issue a warrant of arrest in connection with his recent conviction with a graft charge in 2012.

Presiding Justice Amparo

Cabotaje-Tang and Associate Justices Sarah Jane T. Fernandez and Samuel R. Martirez of Sandiganbayan’s third Division has issued the Resolution released on Thursday, “as a logical consequence of the final judgment of the Supreme Court in 2014” sustaining the guilty verdict against Coloma.

This was after Sandiganbayan has based its decision to upheld the prosecution’s argument.

Coloma was convicted for an anomalous PHP5.73

5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

PH economy posts 7% growth in Q2

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

T

HE Philippine economy continues to expand, as the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew from 6.9 percent in the first quarter of 2016 to 7 percent in the second quarter making the country the fastest growing economy in Asia.

In a press conference dubbed “2nd Quarter 2016 Report on Philippine Economy” held at SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang, Davao City yesterday, Dr. Lisa Grace Bersales, national statistician of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the country’s growth is driven by the services sector, particularly trade, real estate and other related services.

According to Bernales, the services and industry sectors expanded by 8.4 percent and 6.9 percent respectively, which is higher than the first quarter growth rates of 6.7 percent and 6.1 percent posted by both sectors.

The services sector, which covers trade, real estate, renting and business activities and other services grew by 2.4 percent, which is higher than the 1.8% growth rate during the previous quarter of this year.

Meanwhile, manufacturing, construction and electricity, gas and water supply - which comprise the industry sector - grew by 1.1%, but

still less than the 1.7% growth posted in the previous quarter.

Agriculture recovery In the meantime, the agriculture sector, which comprises 7.9% of the country’s total GDP, declined by 3.7% in the first quarter of the year, mainly due to the El Niño phenomenon, The sector, however, bounced back and posted a 9 percent growth in the second quarter.

Among the crops adversely affected by the weather phenomenon include palay whose production declined by 6.1 percent, further slipping from the 3 percent drop it recorded last year; mango, which is down by 7.4 percent from its 8.2% percent; and corn, which declined by 10 percent from its negative growth of 16 percent.

On the other hand, other crops declined by 4.3 percent, down from its 16 percent contraction, as copra production declined by 7 percent, slipping from the negative 8 percent growth it posted a year ago.

Despite the sector’s decline, several sub-sectors contributed to the recovery of the agriculture sector in the second quarter of the year.

These include the livestock sub-sector which grew by 6.5 percent from 5.2 percent; agricultural services

DAVAO’S KING OF FRUITS. A fruit trader laughs as he opens a Durian for his customers at a stall along Magsaysay Avenue in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr. went up by 6.9 percent from 3.3 percent; and sugarcane which grew by 26.6 percent from 15.6 percent.

According to National Economic Development Authority director general Dr. Ernesto M. Pernia, there is possibility that the La Niña weather phenomenon will intensify between the months of August and October of this year, and is anticipated to adversely impact on the nation’s agriculture sector.

In response to this development, the Department of Agriculture is already crafting

an action plan that identifies the most vulnerable municipalities in the country, and is focusing on appropriate investments, preparedness, response, immediate recovery and rehabilitation that can be immediately carried out.

Pernia stressed that in order to avoid the rice shortages which happened in 2013 and 2015 due to natural calamities, there is a need to import rice while the commodity is still affordable in the international market.

He said the country will be

importing one million metric tons this year, and will be done in segments: 250,000 MT on the first import; 250,000 MT on the second import; and 500,000 on the third import to ensure that there will be a sufficient supply of rice until 2017.

Pernia explained that the slowdown in the growth of the agricultural sector is a natural phenomenon.

However, this can be minimized by implementing agricultural enhancement measures such as the improve-

Five-star Dusit Thani Residences to be an ‘Oasis in Davao City’

ment of infrastructure which include irrigation systems, farm to market roads, he said.

There is also a need to strengthen links between farmers and the market, he added.

All these efforts should be implemented as the agriculture department reaches out to major agriculture areas across the country.

Pernia assured the Filipino people that the government’s on peace and order campaign would help boost foreign and

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The Torre Lorenzo- Dusit International partnership’s southern venture to usher in a new era of luxury living in Mindanao Now rising and scheduled to open in the second half of2018 in Lanang is Davao City’s first five-star residential and resort development, the Dusit Thani Residences (DTR). Designed to celebrate the nature that surrounds it by respected firm Rchitects, Inc. for Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation (TDLC) in partnership with Dusit Thani International, DTR is expected to raise the bar in residential and hospitality developments in Davao City. towards the Davao Gulf to afford guests the best view of the ocean. We extended landscaping all the way to Maryknoll Street, the access road, and incorporated retail components on the ground level. I believe that DTR’s presence will rejuvenate the whole area,” adds Architect Recio.

Becoming the premier Davao destination

An oasis in the middle of the city “The area around Dusit Thani Residences is surrounded by breath-taking views of greenery, of banana plantations and tall coconut trees, and floating in the brilliantly blue Davao gulf. Each component of DTR’s design and architecture – from the structure of the building, to the layout of each space, down to the choice of colors inside the structure –were carefully chosen to perfectly complement the beauty that Davao and its culture already holds,” explains Architect Bong Recio, principal of Rchitects, Inc., the architectural and engineering firm behind Dusit Thani Residences.

With inspiration drawn directly from the surrounding landscape and the city’s cultural roots, the fluidity of the components breathes life into Dusit Thani Residences’ promise of a resort-like residential

and hotel sanctuary that pays homage to the Southern culture, which is easily an experience unlike what one can already find in the city.

“The story starts as soon as you make the decision to visit the estate. The arrival is quite dramatic… a slow rise to the grounds, a brilliant and relaxing cul de sac to the side, with a lush canopy overhead. You are greeted by an open reception against a backdrop of the lush landscape, swimming pool and a bar that welcomes you. All at once, you are taken to another world – one that compels you to explore further,” he expresses.

The architecture has a distinctly Asian feel, punctuated by varying southern design expressions.“Despite it being one of the tallest buildings in the residential area, we made it more ‘friendly’ through terraced levels, balconies, and the use of earth tones. Our guest rooms are oriented

From the sprawling landscape that frames DTR’s receiving lobby and the174 residential units with indulgent views of the city, to its own boulevard lined with high-end restaurants and first-class amenities, each element lends to the developer’s vision of creating the perfect community for its guests.

“Dusit Thani Residences will be making numerous milestones with its entry in bustling Davao,” says Tomas Lorenzo, CEO of developer Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation. “It will be the very first mixed-use residence and hotel development, as well as the first luxuryresort-like accommodation right in the heart of Davao City.It is a place that will blend work and leisure seamlessly with the combination of the finest amenities and world-renowned exceptional service that is distinctly Dusit. We will have a first-class destination that Davao can proudly call its own.”

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

EDITORIAL Choosing his battles

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RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has completed his first 50 days in office and thus far has been getting good reception from the Filipino people.

However, it may not be a perfect scorecard for the President.

As it is now, the biggest challenge to his administration is the extra-judicial killings which have been linked by detractors to the aggressive campaign against illegal drugs.

The international community has sent alarms ringing over the rash of killings happening in Metro Manila and elsewhere in the country.

There is also a feisty lady senator in Leila de Lima who has badgered the President and his men on the vigorous drive against illegal drugs.

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This particular mano a mano with Senator De Lima has gotten the goat of the President who has the knack of responding strongly to critics.

De Lima, it seems, is not backing down despite the harsh attacks from President Duterte. The probe on extra-judicial killings that she has initiated will continue.

If the President trusts his men on this drive and if he trusts himself on this, he should not worry about De Lima. Worrying would only expose a chink in the armor.

The gentleman that he is, President Duterte can serve his intentions well without having to go personal against De Lima.

After decades in public service, the President is known to be excellent in choosing his battles.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

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Saving famed rice terraces

HE famed rice terraces of Ifugao need immediate attention if this country were to hold on to something which has been a source of pride and food as well to the tribes of the Cordillera Provinces.”

That was what Secretary Emmanuel Piñol of the Department of Agriculture wrote in his Facebook account recently. He was on his way back to Manila from Apayao when he dropped by an organic farm in the town of Lumut, Ifugao for a quick dinner.

While eating, Congressman Baguilat and Governor Jose Mayam-o told Piñol “that unless government steps in to protect the rice terraces and make heirloom rice production profitable for the traditional farmers, the organic farming methods embraced by the natives for generations now would soon be just part of memory.”

But since the time was too short for them to discuss details, Piñol promised he would return and spend a night in Banaue.

“So, at dawn of August 31, I will take another 6-hour land trip to Ifugao to do my part in saving what is considered as one of the 7 Wonders of the World - the famed and historic rice terraces,” he wrote. “I will sit down with the leaders and farmers of Ifugao to discuss ways to save the rice terraces and help the farmers earn more from their farms.

When I was still in high school, I was totally enthralled by the rice terraces of Banaue. Historians said the rice terraces were ingenuously carved out of the mountains by the Ifugaos for rice farming. Archaeologists believe that the Ifugaos, who began constructing the terraces 20 centuries before Christ, migrated from Indo-China to Luzon.

“As an ethnic type, the Ifugao has disappeared, mingling with the autochtonous tribes that have inhabited the new land,” said

an article which THINK ON THESE! appeared in Clarin-Revista, a widely-circulated publication in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

“Not even his physical resemblance was preserved,” the article deplored. Henrylito D. Tacio “Actually, only henrytacio@gmail.com the name of the foreign voyagers remains, carried by the possible descendants, one of the many indigenous communities that occupy the area where they landed 4,000 years ago.”

The rice terraces, described as “the stairway to heaven,” are a living monument to the ingenuity of tribal Filipino farmers who have tilled the steep slopes for over 2,000 years. It is among the top 50 Wonders of the World and is listed on the roster of the World Heritage Sites of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) since 1995.

“A living cultural landscape of unparalleled beauty,” hailed UNESCO when it was conferred the World Heritage status.

Another UN agency, the Rome-based Food and Agriculture Organization, has designated the rice terraces as one of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems.

But the rice terraces are on the verge of total collapse due to erosion, climate change, flooding, human abandonment, and unplanned urban development. “To forget or wipe out or let go of a precious heritage like the 2,000-year-

old Banaue Rice Terraces is absurd,” wrote Cecilia S. Angeles in an article which appeared in “Manila Bulletin.” “It must be preserved. It must be saved!”

Aside from the Banaue, there are other rice terraces that can be found in the province; these are in Batad, Mayoyao, Hungduan, and Kiangan.

In agriculture, a terrace refers to a leveled section of a hilly cultivated area, designed as a method of soil conservation to slow or prevent the rapid surface runoff of irrigation water. Often such land forms into multiple terraces, giving a stepped appearance.

Terraced agricultural fields are common in Asia: on Himalayan foothills, Central and South China, Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi, Northern Indochina, the highlands of Pacific islands, including Hawaii, as well as on the Andes mountains of South America.

“But the Ifugao rice terraces are the most extensive,” wrote science journalist Paul Icamina, when he was still connected with the International Rice Research Institute. “If stretched end to end in a line, the Ifugao rice terraces measure 48,280.4 kilometers – about 10 times longer than the Great Wall of China or about half the earth’s circumference.”

The Ifugao rice terraces need to be saved.

I don’t what happened to it but a congressman once filed a bill -- House Bill Number 5692 or more commonly known as the “Ifugao Rice Terraces Rehabilitation Act.” “Over the years, the Ifugao Rice Terraces has been deteriorating due to natural disasters and human activities. If it is not safeguarded and conserved, it may become a mere part of humanity’s history rather than a valuable World Cultural Heritage. Its current state is a wake-up call for us to do something now,” the

bill said.

In the past, one of the pressing problems that caught the attention of the media was the earthworms which reproduce more with less water. Maurice Malanes, in an article which appeared in “Philippine Daily Inquirer,” wrote: “The more earthworms there are, the more water is lost. As the topsoil dries up with the lack of water, the earthworms go deeper into the soil to seek areas that are still moist. Water seeps through the holes earthworm bore, causing the soil and terrace walls to dry up and crack.”

A study conducted by Wilfredo Alangui of the Tebtebba Foundation, a global policy research center, traced the culprit of water problem to the denudation of the watershed in the province. “Tourism has encouraged the commercial production of woodcarvings and handicraft, and this helped deplete local forest resources,” the study said.

Because rice farming is no longer viable, farmers started losing interest in planting rice. “As farmers plant palay only once a year, the profit they gained is not even enough to support them the rest of the year,” lamented Orlando Mercado when he was still a senator.

“Thus, they abandon rice farming and seek other means of livelihood.”

Neglect has also played a big part. “Terrace walls are collapsing, ponds are eroded and weedy, and there is lack or absence of irrigation water,” commented Dr. Rogelio Concepcion in his report after doing a survey on the status of the terraces.

The economic and population boom has also augmented the degeneration of the rice terraces. Clusters of houses are expanding “like mushrooms near the paddies,” commented one observer.

(Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza delivered an extemporaneous speech at the launch Saturday of the implementation phase of the GPH-MILF’ Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro at the Unity Room 2 of the Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Copies of this piece, portions of which are similar to what he delivered, were distributed to the media by his staff).

PEACETALK

retary Perfecto Yasay, Jr., Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mike Sueno, and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. -- to show how committed this administration is to implement all government programs using the peace lens so peace dividends can be felt on the ground immediately.

We are also inspired by the presence of the governor of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Gov. Mujiv Hataman, which signifies ARMM’s commitment to work for the convergence of all the Bangsamoro peace agreements to make it truly inclusive with no group or sector left behind.

This implementing phase of the Bangsamoro peace process also marks the transition of the role of the Malaysian government as Third Party Facilitator of the successful peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the MILF towards that of a supporter of Bangsamoro development. This ceremony today is also a public recognition of the significant contribution of Malaysia to the Bangsamoro peace process. We sincerely thank them and invite them now to become

one of our Global Partners for Peace, joining the rest of our international development partners here present.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte, the first ever Mindanawon president of the Philippines, has given us a clear directive -- no more waiting, start implementing what can be done now while we are crafting a more inclusive enabling law. He also emphasized how it is important to make this implementing stage primarily an all-Filipino process consistent with the principles of self-determination and autonomy.

Because this government takes women seriously, the government implementing panel is being led by Ms. Irene “Inday” M. Santiago, who has been involved in the Bangsamoro peace process for almost 40 years.

With her leadership, we are assured that it will be an inclusive and transparent and, I believe, very fast implementing process. She is joined in the panel by our OPAPP executive team -- Undersecretary Diosita “Jojo” Andot, Undersecretary Nabil Tan, Assistant Secretary Dickson Hermoso, and Assistant Secretary Rolando Asuncion.

No more waiting. Start implementing

W

E are pleased to be back in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to launch a crucial phase of the Bangsamoro peace process -- the implementing phase.

We have agreed that the negotiations phase is over and now it is time to implement what we have agreed we will do. So today we are officially launching the implementing phase of the Bangsamoro peace agreements between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The Philippine government has come here in full force to demonstrate how serious we are in implementing all the peace agreements we have signed so far.

BY JESUS G. DUREZA We have no less than the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Pantaleon “Bebot” Alvarez, and the Majority Floor Leader, Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas, here with us as a testament that this Congress is a strong partner for peace not just for the Bangsamoro and Mindanao, but for the entire Philippines. By being present on day one, we are assured that the executive and the legislative branches are both on the same page as we implement our peace agreements. These congressional leaders will also make sure that the Bangsamoro enabling law will be in sync with the proposed shift to a federal system of government. In fact, we are envisioning that the new Bangsamoro government entity can be the pilot of a federal state that embodies meaningful autonomy. With their support, we have no doubt we will see an early enactment of an inclusive Bangsamoro enabling law.

We also have key members of the President’s Cabinet today -- Foreign Affairs Sec-

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Land Bank wins global quality excellence award

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AND Bank of the Philippines (LBP) has been named one of the winners in the Global Performance Excellence Awards (GPEA) bestowed by the Asia Pacific Quality Organization (APQO).

LBP was among 30 organizations from 10 Asian and Pacific Rim countries that were recognized as “exemplary organizations of worldclass quality performance.”

It received the Quest for Excellence Award under GPEA’s non-profit or government entity category.

APQO is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1985 by the national quality organizations to be a primary mover for quality and continuous improvement for goods and services and quality of life in the Asia Pacific Region.

Nominated by the Development Academy of the Philippines to participate in GPEA, LBP was cited for having demonstrated effective and systematic approaches to the overall requirements of the globally-accepted business

excellence framework.

“We are honored and grateful for this prestigious recognition, which affirms Land Bank’s commitment to quality management and business excellence. This award inspires us all the more to intensify our efforts to continue building a culture of excellence that translates to world class performance, and serve as role model for other organizations across countries,” said LBP Officer-in-Charge and Executive Vice President Cecilia Borromeo.

GPEA is an international recognition of national quality award recipients based on the Baldrige Criteria Framework of the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award, also known as the American Quality Award.

Now on its 16th year, GPEA assessments are done by trained Baldrige examiners and consultants of Fortune 500 corporations.

The awards will be presented at the 22nd APQO International Conference on Quality in Rotorua, New Zealand on Nov. 20-23, 2016. (PNA)

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Infra projects in Mindanao long overdue - NEDA chief

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

“W

HAT is intended for Mindanao is a long overdue,” NEDA Director Ernesto M. Pernia declared during the 2nd Quarter 2016 Report on Philippine Economy held yesterday at SMX Convention Center, Davao City.

This was in reaction to the assertion of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce of Industry (DCCCI), which lamented that Mindanao has long been deprived of much-needed infrastructure which could have boosted the region’s economy a long time

ago.

The DCCCI further noted that over the years, the national government has concentrated much of its infrastructure development in Metro manila and CALABARZON with the implementation of big ticket projects such as the NLEX, overpasses and others.

In response to these concerns, Pernia said the government plans to undertake “one huge project” - the highly-anticipated Mindanao Railway System which is scheduled to commence in 2017.

The railway system will be 2000 km long and will be built in two segments: the Davao-Northeast Mindanao section and the Northeast Mindanao-Cagayan de Oro section.

Pernia anticipates the rail project to be completed within ten years, a timeline which would go beyond Pres. Duterte’s six-year term.

Considering that Mindanao is an agricultural region and a burgeoning tourist destination, plans to implement big ticket infrastructure projects have become imperative,

he said.

Pernia added that a component of the national government’s medium term development is the section on investment planning which highlights the need to build key infrastructure projects such as seaports to boost trade and industry in the region.

With regards to funding for these infrastructure projects, Pernia stressed that money is not a problem due to the increasing number of foreign and local investors who have shown interest to fund these key projects.

Households, firms told to adopt solar energy

M

ORE households and business firms are urged to invest in solar technology which can create huge impacts in lowering electricity bills amid climate change.

Naderev Saño, Executive Director of Greenpeace Southeast Asia, said cost of investment on solar panel for homes of a middle-class family with five members can reach at least Php 50,000.

Saño said investment in solar technology, which has a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, can reduce electricity bills by 30 to 60 percent.

“The amount you spend in installation is about five years of electricity bills. After the fifth year, your electricity is free.

After 20 years, your electricity could be zero,” he said in an in-

terview on the sidelines of a forum on financing solar energy for houses and businesses.

For businesses, Saño said installation cost depends on their power consumption or load requirement.

He noted their electricity savings can reach at least 20 percent.

“Now is the best time to switch on the power of renewables for each home and business to be at the forefront of our fight against catastrophic climate change,” he added.

“Schools and even office buildings (are also urged to) install solar panel.”

At present, the Philippines produces 29 percent of its electricity through renewable sources, with the Department of Energy looking to raise it to

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PTT denies LNG venture in PHL

P

TT Philippines Corp., the local arm of Thai firm PTT Public Company Ltd. (PTTPCL), has clarified that it has no plans to invest in liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects in the country.

PTT Philippines said its five-year investment program worth PHP2.0 billion, which kicked off this year, focuses on expansion of oil and non-oil retail business only.

“An LNG investment in the Philippines is not incorporated in PTTPLC’s current business plan,” PTT Philippines President and CEO Sukanya Seriyothin said.

“But, energy sourcing and supply is one of PTT’s endeavors to sufficiently serve ASEAN appetite and we look

forward to an opportunity of cooperation to assist the needs of Philippines’ energy in the future,” she added.

She said the current business plan of the Thai firm is to strengthen its brand here by opening more stations.

PTT Philippines eyes to add 200 stations in Luzon and the Visayas in the next four years.

In the coming weeks, the company will open its biggest retail service station in SubicClark-Tarlac Expressway in Concepcion, Tarlac which will follow the concept of its first platinum station in Lucena, Quezon having a one-stopservice hub with gasoline, restaurants, coffee shop, and a high-end restroom called Restroom 20. (PNA)

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK. A vulcanizer working inside a vulcanizing shop is silhouetted by the scorching rays of the afternoon sun along Tionko Avenue in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

PDIC to continue processing claims of closed rural bank

T

HE Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) announced that deposit insurance claims from depositors of the closed Rural Bank of Amadeo (Cavite) Inc. may be filed at the PDIC Public Assistance Center, 3rd Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Ave. corner V.A. Rufino St., Makati City until May 14, 2018. Claims may also be filed by mail.

Rural Bank of Amadeo Inc., which was ordered closed on May 13, 2016, has PHP46.6 million in total estimated insured deposits involving 1,579

accounts. A total of PHP28.0 million in insured deposits covering 158 accounts was paid during the onsite claims settlement operations (CSO).

Another PHP11.3 million was settled thru postal money orders sent via registered mail to 1,263 accounts of depositors with balances of PHP100,000 and below where filing of claims was waived by PDIC. As of June 1, 2016, PDIC had yet to receive deposit insurance claims for PHP7.0 million covering 143 accounts. In

accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the said bank is on May 14, 2018. After said date, PDIC shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claim.

When filing deposit insurance claims at the PDIC Public Assistance Center, depositors are advised to present an original evidence of deposit and two valid photo-bearing IDs with signature. When filing claims through mail, the same set of documents, including a duly accomplished Claim Form, must

be enclosed. The Claim Form may be downloaded for free from the PDIC website, www. pdic.gov.ph.

Depositors who are below 18 years old should submit either a photocopy of their Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar as an additional requirement, with the Claim Form signed by the parent.

Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records

Php1.00 per share -- depleted from PhilWeb’s Wednesday’s share price of Php6.50 per share.

“Why 49 percent? This is simply to avoid PhilWeb being classified as a government-owned and controlled corporation, which would make the various applicable to GOCC’s result in making PhilWeb’s operations untenable,” said Ongpin.

“My only objective and consolation is that if PAGCOR agrees to accept this donation,

I would have saved the jobs and livelihood of some 6,000 people, including PhilWeb’s employees,” he stressed.

He also pointed out that under PAGCOR’s charter, aside from being a regulator, it can also operate gaming companies. In fact, PAGCOR operates several casinos nationwide.

“There is no reason which would prevent PAGCOR from being the largest shareholder of PhilWeb,” Ongpin said.

He likewise clarified that his decision to donate his

shares to PAGCOR “comes with no strings attached”.

As of 12 noon Wednesday, five bidders eye to buy Ongpin’s shares in PhilWeb. But Ongpin decided not to pursue selling his shares to any interested bidders as PAGCOR said last week that it will not renew PhilWeb’s license.

“I have decided that it is not appropriate, nor fair to the bidders, for me to award my shares to any of the bidders,”

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Ongpin offers to donate PhilWeb stake to PAGCOR

T

YCOON Roberto Ongpin has offered to donate majority of his shares in PhilWeb Corporation to Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) despite attracting five bidders for his 53.76 percent stake or about 771 million shares in the company.

In a letter to PAGCOR, Ongpin said he is donating 49 percent of his PhilWeb shares or sell it to the government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) at

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ARTS AND CULTURE

EDGEDAVAO

A French watercolor affair FRENCH FOOD AND ART CULTURE SEEMS TO BE A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN. Why, I couldn’t imagine a more perfect day than having a crepe in hand while being blissfully lost in the maze of Louvre artifacts!

Although Davao City is yet to become a fullfledged art city (we are working on that!), there are still a lot of art events and exhibits to be a part of for most months of the year—especially this Kadayawan season. And the Durian City’s local artists, as few Davaoeños may not be aware of, are world-class and have been internationally awarded!

One of those artists is Mr. Gilbert Miraflor, a Davao Watercolor Society member whose skills in the most dif-

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ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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Kapuso stars to gra IT WILL BE A WEEKEND OF S TA R-S T U DDE D TREATS as various Kapuso celebrities join this year’s Kadayawan Festival in Davao City.

On Saturday (August 20), the stars of the hit telefantasya Encantadia will banner the Kapuso Mall Show in Gaisano Mall Davao at 4 p.m. Sang’gres Kylie Padilla and Glaiza de Castro are sure to spread magic among their fans together with their Encantadia co-stars Ruru Madrid and Migo Adecer. Moreover, Davaoeños will swoon to GMA Artist Center’s James Wright as he joins the Encantadia stars that afternoon.

Prior to their mall show, the Kapuso stars will bring fun and entertainment to the residents of Barangay 23-C for a Kapuso Barangayan to be held at the barangay’s covered court at 1 p.m.

GMA will also be part of the Pamulak sa Kadayawan Float Parade on Sunday (August 21). The Encantadia cast will be on the Kapuso Float which will head on to Rizal Park from Magsaysay Street beginning 8 a.m.

The fun does not stop

here as more Kapuso stars are expected to join Davaoeños on their annual celebration of Davao City’s biggest festival.

Another Kapuso Mall Show will be held in Abreeza Mall at 4 p.m. featuring the stars of GMA shows Juan Happy Love Story, Sinungaling Mong Puso, and the upcoming drama series Someone to Watch Over Me. Kapuso actor Dennis Trillo, who stars in the sexy comedy series, Juan Happy Love Story, will be joined by his co-star, Kim Domingo.

Bringing fun and entertainment to Davaoeños as

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ace Kadayawan Fest ETC Paintensity goes to Kadayawan ENJOY THE FUSION OF HIGH-ENERGY MUSIC, ART, DANCE, AND PAINT in one spectacular party happening on August 20, Saturday, at SM Lanang Premier from 4 PM to 1 AM. Color the night to the beat of party music by top DJs featuring BadKiss, Martin Pulgar, Knoxville, and more!

well are the lead actors of GMA Afternoon Prime’s Sinungaling Mong Puso— Rhian Ramos, Rafael Rosell, and Kiko Estrada.

Award-winning actress Lovi Poe and Kapuso leading man Tom Rodriguez, meanwhile, are sure to make their fans happy as they join in to promote their forthcoming show on GMA. “The Kapuso Network is excited and proud to bring our GMA artists closer to the people who make their shows successful. The Kadayawan Festival is one of the many celebrations we look forward to be part

of every year. It is during such festivals that we are able to further give back to our Kapuso fans by letting them meet their favorite celebrities,” said Officer-inCharge of Regional TV Department Oliver Amoroso.

“We thank our Kapusong Dabawenyos for giving us a warm welcome every time we are here,” 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 www.facebook. com/GMARegionalTV and on Twitter and Instagram via @GMARegionalTV.

ETC is also giving away limited edition ETC Paintensit y shirt at the venue. Admission is FREE! For more details and updates, check out ETC on w w w. f a c e book .com/ etctv and on Twitter and Instagram via @ etc _channel.

Don’t miss out on the fun at #etcpaintensity2016!

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ficult medium of all (as so popularly perceived) is one of the greatest that Davao has ever known.

He has produced several solo and group exhibits in and out of the city, and in 2012 he was commissioned to paint a portrait of a crowned prince, Prince Salman, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Gilbert’s works, once familiar to an audience, will be unmistakable since he paints mostly women as his focal point; may it be a woman or women in a rice field or a mother and her child.

Even if there are rare occasions that he would create still life watercolors, Sir Gilbert’s strokes

and style are still very distinctive and recognizable. When asked about why women as being his mostly singular subject, he stated: “I really admire women and how they were made by God—soft and delicate but characteristically more resilient and strong-willed than men are. I am an advocate of women empowerment and I will never get tired of painting them, because in every work I discover and appreciate facets that is inspired in me by, of course, my wife.” Sir Gilbert even jokes about the fact that since he is a full-time artist with a family, every time he finishes a painting (he paints one a day!), he shows it to his wife and tells her that at least

one body part is inspired from her. “Honestly, I can do one painting, it doesn’t matter if it’s a few feet bigger, within a day— for both watercolor and acrylics on canvas. This is because of my technique and loose strokes. What takes up majority of my time is conceptualizing it in my mind,” he added.

His works are currently on display at Claude’s Le Café De Ville, located at the Oboza Heritage House in Rizal Street.

This is Gilbert Miraflor’s 4th one-man watercolor show for the Kadayawan Special that will run until the end of August. And since his impressionism and partly delicate abstract works compliment the French style and ambience of the restaurant,

HIYAS SA KADAYAWAN 2016 finalists with Hotel Manager Bryan Lasala during the closed door interview at Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao last August 17, Wednesday. Hiyas sa Kadayawan (Gem of the Kadayawan) is a celebration of the 11 indigenous tribes of Davao represented by their chosen candidates in an evening of cultural presentations. Scheduled on August 19, Friday, this is another highlight of the 31st Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival from August 15 to 21.

Tess Villanueva Le Neindre, Claude’s wife, has declared the place as the official home for the artist’s works and future exhibits.

Now, Davaoeños may not have the Louvre and the Mona Lisa, but dining at one of the finest restaurants in the city may just have you humming “La Vie En Rose” with a Bordeaux in one hand (or two) while admiring Sir Gilbert’s exceptional works.

As a post-script, there is another interesting art exhibit happening right now at Museo Dabawenyo by Davao’s contemporary figurative artists, titled: “Piguras”. It opened

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last August 11 and runs until September 7, 2016.

If you desire the classical

and old perspective style of painting, this is an exhibit worth visiting.

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have been achieved under the 50 days old of leadership of President Duterte,” Sec. Andanar said.

Fr. Joel Tabora, the ADDU president, welcomed the participants to the gathering, as he lauded the accomplishments of the national government under Duterte’s leadership.

“His (Duterte) campaign bannered the hope that change is coming. It is very clear to all that change is here,” Tabora said.

He also called on the Filipino people to support the administration by participating in the process of nation-building.

“The President has clearly stated that he cannot accomplish his goals on his own. He needs the participation of all Filipinos and Filipinas who love their country,” Tabora said.

Suppression of crimes and illegal drugs Leading the list of accomplishments of the Duterte administration are the inroads made in its campaign against criminality and illegal drugs.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the crime rate in July this year is 10 percent lower compared to the same period last year.

In its battle against illegal drugs, the PNP conducted 5,632 operations as of August 15 nationwide, which resulted in the arrest of 8,623 and the death of 612 suspects.

Moreover, the government’s intensified campaign against the illegal drug trade has also led to the surrender of thousands of drug dependents nationwide.

In the Davao region, more than 17,000 individuals who were reportedly involved in illegal drugs have surrendered to authorities since July.

President Duterte also named officials in various branches of government who are also allegedly involved in the narcotics trade.

Freedom of Information Within 23 days into office, President Duterte signed an Executive Order to implement the Freedom of Information (FOI).

The executive order is a vital achievement considering that transparency and good governance are the cornerstones of President Duterte’s administration.

“We expect a decline in corruption as government people become more prudent on what they do,” Andanar said.

throughs were achieved by the Duterte Administration in pushing forward the Mindanao peace process, particularly in ensuring the inclusion of the Bangsamoro people, in general, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in particular, in the peace negotiations.

Both the MNLF and the MILF have already signed peace agreements with the national government, but the implementation of these accords have yet to be fully realized.

On the other hand, the national government has resumed peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) - Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), and are set to resume formal negotiations in Oslo, Norway on August 22 this year.

President Duterte has expressed optimism that the peace talks will bear fruit, as he declared his willingness to “walk the extra mile” in order to resolve the root causes of insurgency in the country.

Support to OFWs Last August 15, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) opened a One-Stop Service Center for OFWs (OSSCO).

OSSCO will allow OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) to avail of frontline services offered by various national government line agencies.

DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the establishment of OSSCO is in response to the directive of President Duterte to make it easier for OFWs to avail of vital government services.

Bello said one-stop centers will also be set up in all regions across the country.

Launching of emergency hotlines The Duterte administration also launched earlier this month the 911 emergency response hotline aimed to combat crime and corruption.

The hotline will be open 24 hours for citizen complaints and an emergency calls.

Another line, the 8888 can also be accessed by citizens for other complaints.

Peace Process Meanwhile, major break-

On West Philippine Sea Despite the favourable ruling by the international court in The Hague on the continuing disputes in the West Philippine Sea, the Duterte administration was lauded for taking steps to commence bilateral talks with China.

Former President Ramos was tasked by the President to represent the national government in the Philippine-China

40 percent by 2020. The mainstream adoption of renewable energy will also result in creation of jobs.

Saño said solar power could contribute 2 to 4 percent to country’s electricity by 2020. It currently shares less than 1 percent to total energy mix.

“Potential and prospects

for solar power in the Philippines is very promising. Companies from the private sector are aggressive in promoting solar installations. Scale (of adoption) is extensive among households to businesses to commercial establishments up to solar farms. We believe this is a way in the future and solar will be big in the Philippines in

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EDGEDAVAO talks although the results of the meeting are yet to be disclosed.

On Mining In the meantime, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has intensified the auditing of mining companies operating in the country, particularly firms which reportedly have not complied with environmental laws and guidelines.

As of last month, the operations of at least four mining firms have been suspended by DENR secretary Gina Lopez for violating environmental safety standards.

Support to Sports The Duterte administration has also vowed to improve the government’s sports programs to encourage athletes to train hard and excel in local and international sporting competitions.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) plans to establish more sports facilities across the country in its bid to develop athletes starting from the grassroots level.

The government threw its full support behind the Filipino athletes who participated in the Rio Olympics, as weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz received P7 million in incentives after placing second in the competition.

On Federalism In the meantime, the President Duterte’s proposal for the shift to federalism is now gaining ground, as it has garnered the support not only of top government officials, but also from various sectors in across the country.

This show of support is attributed to President Duterte’s firm belief that federalism will help empower local governments, and spread the benefits of economic growth and development throughout the country.

Secretary Andanar also enumerated the other achievements of the Duterte administration in its first 50 days which include the third hosting of the prestigious Miss Universe pageant slated for next year; the appointment of leftist individuals to cabinet positions; the formation of a task force through an issuance of an administrative order that will address media killings; and the $2.4 billion infrastructure grant from Japan for the construction of a 38-kilometer railway from Manila to Bulacan.

“Change is happening every day. It feels like every day is a new day for a new Philippines. That is why we chose to tag it as the 50 First Days,” Andanar said. the coming years,” he added.

For his part, Solaric Corp.

President Mike de Guzman said the company has already installed solar to over 200 businesses and households.

Meanwhile, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is making available financial options for solar installations.

(PNA)

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latter was the country’s the Human Rights commissioner.

The two, Andanar said, were already engaged in a

word war when Delima began investigations linking Duterte to the operations of the socalled “Davao Death Squad.”

However, no cases were filed against Duterte after years of investigations conducted by the CHR.

1986 up to July 1, 1987.

The militants were in the area to protest President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s decision to bury former strongman Ferdi-

nand E. Marcos at the LNMB. Interment is tentatively scheduled on Sept. 18. “(We are asking) that they respect the LNMB as it is

the final resting place for our dead heroes and soldiers and give peace, solemnity, and respect for the families (visiting there),” he added. (PNA)

assist concerned agencies for the supply of their rice requirements.

“We have sufficient rice inventory that stands at 11.9 million bags as of August 12, 2016

stockpiled in our warehouses strategically located across the country,” Escarez added.

Meanwhile, Escarez also directed field offices nationwide to closely monitor the

supply and prices of rice in the market to prevent undue increases in the price of the staple especially in areas affected by the recent flooding due to the monsoon rains. (PNA)

million building contract in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, where he was charged of graft. The case stemmed from his aleged failure to pay in full a contractor in 2001 for the construction of the Philippine Public Safety College which was not completed and was supposed to be used as barracks.

Probes have shown that the project was only partially completed with an amount worth estimated at PHP3.18 million only, and is beyond the PHP5.73 million fund that was

paid out.

Coloma was sentenced to conviction to 6 years imprisonment with perpetual disqualification to hold public office. He was also denied to serve his jail sentence at the Davao Penal Colony, noting that a convicted individual cannot choose his place of incarceration.

The anti-graft court has directed the police from Tacurong to turn over Coloma to San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm in Zamboanga del Sur.

In the decision, the court found Coloma’s case to have caused undue injury to the Philippine Public Safety Fund that was originally intended to house around 50 personnel.

Investigations had shown that the actual construction was shortchanged from the expected amount of the construction. Coloma has elevated his case for reconsideration at the Supreme Court which sustained the Sandiganbayan’s decision in a ruling issued on September 24, 2014. (PNA)

that these groups are one with the rebels with the same goal – which is to shut down the banana industry of the country.

The workers are just poor collaterals,” Maningo laments.

A report was published in Biz-Buzz Inquirer a year ago citing that environmental groups pushing for the ban of aerial spraying is being financially backed by some organizations in Netherlands with vested interest in the banana growing and exporting industry in Indonesia, once a colony of the Netherlands.

PBGEA Executive Director Steve Antig said, “Those who are strongly advocating against the use of aerial spraying

should approach it with critical minds and scientific objectivity.”

The government should pay more attention to the insurgency problem because “it is driving the present and prospective investors away from Mindanao. Obviously, the closure of plantations will lead to unemployment and then poverty.”

The government will also lose the taxes collected through property taxes, business permits, VAT and income taxes, among others, derived from investments of the multinationals.

Antig added that, “those who are pushing for a ban on aerial spraying over banana

plantations and other agricultural crops should see for themselves how the industry is mindful of the health of the people and the protection of the environment.”

Banana plantations account for 83,000 hectares in Mindanao and at an average of four direct and indirect workers, the banana industry employs 332,000 workers. Together with the workers’ families, more than three million individuals are dependent on the banana export industry for their basic needs and self-esteem.

The industry also helps mold the future of two million children in Mindanao.

local investors especially in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, as part of the New Philippine Development Plan to be implemented from 2017 to 2022.

“Moving forward, despite the good numbers for the first semester of 2016, there is still a risk of seeing lower growth in the second half of the year.

This is a normal occurrence during election years.” said the NEDA director.

He added that what is im-

portant is that the government ensures smooth transition of power and commits to its agenda of maintaining consistent macroeconomic policies so that business and consumer confidence will remain strong.

“Also, we shouldn’t forget that we will need to continue the recovery efforts from the El Niño phenomenon to get the Agriculture sector back on its feet. Over the medium term, the administration is aiming

still for a steady acceleration of growth for seven to eight percent beyond this year,” Pernia said.

These efforts will be supported by sustained and deepened reforms including a comprehensive tax reform, sustained investment in infrastructure, easing of restrictions on foreign investments, reduction of the cost of doing business and strengthening of agro-industrial linkages.

are required to submit an original copy of a notarized Special Power of Attorney. In the case of a minor depositor, the Special Power of Attorney must be executed by the parent. The format of the Special Power of

Attorney may be downloaded from the PDIC website.

In addition, all depositors who have outstanding loans or payables to the bank have to coordinate with the duly authorized PDIC Loans officer

prior to the settlement of their deposit insurance claim.

The procedures and requirements for filing deposit insurance claims are likewise posted in the PDIC website.

(PNA)

he said.

Meanwhile, Ongpin’s remaining 4.7 percent shares will be donated to Ateneo de Manila University Jaime

V. Ongpin Scholarship Fund, named after his late brother but funded by the tycoon.

The situation has occurred after President Rodrigo Duter-

te said early this month that he will “destroy the oligarchs that are embedded in government” and cited PhilWeb’s Ongpin as one of them. (PNA)

PA scores... FROM 2 NFA... FROM 2

Court... FROM 4

Displaced... FROM 4

PH... FROM 5

PDIC... FROM 10

Ongpin... FROM 10

12 PROPERTY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Sales moving briskly for Matina Enclaves

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

E

njb@edgedavao.net

Enclaves.

The contract signing was also attended by Garces and Engr. John Ouano of Matina Enclaves and Engr.

Poypoy Canusa, Engr. Nino Canusa of Riezel.

Garces added that Building 1 of Matina Enclaves’ The Residences will be due for turnover on December.

M e a n time, latest construction update as of August 1 has 86 percent of the structural works already completed and 18 percent of the ceiling works are done. Interior planting has also reached 24 percent coverage, wall partition is already at 89 percent and the tile works CONTRACT SIGNING. Esdevco President Glenn Escandor and Riezel Landcare President Engr. Mendrado Canusa are shown here for the official contract signing of the at 13 percent.

For the construction of Buildings 2 and 3 of the Matina Enclaves’“The Residences”. Joining the contract signing are Engr. Poypoy Canusa, Engr. Nino Canusa, Project Director of Esdevco garbage Gerald Garces and Project Manager Engr. John Ouano.

SCANDOR Development Corporation (Esdevco) is riding the crest of the high demand for its condominium sector of its initial venture Matina Enclaves.

Project head Gerald Kent Garces said sales of the condominium units have been

moving briskly with the first four buildings of The Residences (condominium cluster of Matina Enclaves).

“We have sold out all four buildings and we are now selling Building 5,” said Garces.

Sales for Building 5 is also moving at a similar

pace as Building 4 which sold out in a span of just two months.

Interest in the Matina Enclaves has been high in recent months. The prroject became of national significance after President Rodrigo Duterte chose it to be his temporary office in June. He

still drops by for some functions at the property especially for personal meetings.

Recently, Esdevco president and CEO Glenn Y. Escandor and Engr. Mendrado Canusa, president of Riezel Landcare, signed the contract fr the construction of Buildings 2 and 3 of Matina

chute, Esdevco reported a 30 percent completion with fabrication on progress.

The Matina Enclaves’ adult and kiddie pools are also almost complete at 91 percent.

Over at the Building 2 construction, works have also been on schedule with the micropiling and bored piling have reached 98 percent complete.

Completion of piling works for Building 2 and the start of the structural works is due by August.

Meantime, Building 3 piling will start on the fourth quarter of 2016.

Across the street for the Arcadia project, the ongoing excavation and structural preparation has also started. Arcadia is a recreation and amusement complex complete with state-of-theart sports and physical fitness facilities.

Matina Enclaves is the initial venture into real estate development by the Escandor business empire under the Esdevco division.

The Davao-based conglomerate is also into security services, and hotel business.

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

13 COMPETITIVE EDGE

USeP grad ranks 10th in mining engr exams T

HE faculty, staff and students of the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), Davao City ranked tenth (10th) are beaming with pride, as Elma Jane Rapal, a graduate of the school’s College of Engineering, ranked 10th in the Mining Engineer Licensure Examination with a rating of 87.30.

Aside from Rapal’s achievement, it is also wor-

thy to note that USeP’s passing rate for first time board examinees is an impressive 93.35 percent (15/16). The national passing rate is 81.47 percent.

The licensure examinations were held from August 9-11 in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cebu and Legazpi.

The other new USeP mining engineers are: James Wilkins R. Asio; Jairus Everard D. Bumatay; Frely Ann

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE OF THE LATE GAUDIOSA ORAPA MAGNO

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late GAUDIOSA ORAPA MAGNO has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE executed among her heirs per Doc. No.161; PageNo.33; Book No. XII; Series of 2016, of the NOTARY PUBLIC JANIS LOUIS H. ESPARCIA. 8/5,12,19

B. Cristobal; Christer Glenn G. Dequitos; Wynlove C. Galagaran; Gianna Mae D. Gapasin; Samuel E. Guadalupe; Ernie L. Indiola; Ezra Angel R. Lalisan; Kim Leo B. Mañacap; Chiarah Mae N. Plaza; Liezel T. Salomon; Joje May Annely R. Tepait; and Kristoffer Jhon B. Villena.

It can be recalled that two of USeP mining engineering graduates placed seventh (7th) and eight (8th) in the

same examination last year.

This is the fourth batch of successful mining engineers USeP has produced over the years.

Most of the mining graduates are now employed in different mining companies and government agencies around the country, and hold various positions in environmental engineering, safety engineering, explosives engineering, underground mine operation

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JOSEFINA VDA. DE SEBALDA has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT executed among her heirs per Doc. No. 66; Page No. 14; Book No. 128; Series of 2016, of the NOTARY PUBLIC FATIMA IRENE T. ADIN. 8/12,19,26

and open pit operations.

These accomplishments are a testament to USeP’s excellent performance during government standardized exams.

USeP Tagum-Mabini campus was also listed as one of

the country’s top 10 teacher education institutions, based on the licensure examination performance study conducted by the Philippine Business for Education or PBED from 2009-2014. (MCPagkaliwagan-USeP)

DCWD collection centers open on August holidays

D

AVAO City Water District has announced that its Victoria Plaza, Felcris Centrale and SM Lanang Premier collection centers will be open to accept water bill payments during the following non-working holidays: August 19 for the Kadayawan Festival, August 21 for the Ninoy Aquino Day; August 22 for the Araw ng Pasasalamat; and August 29 for the National Heroes Day. However, its offices in Bajada, Matina, Ma-a and Felcris Toril will be closed on said dates.

Meanwhile, DCWD’s Victoria Plaza collection center will accept applications for new service connections and caters requests for other customer services aside from water bills payment.

Moreover, the water utility advised that due dates for

water bill payments falling on said dates remain as scheduled.

Other available services on the said dates are DCWD’s 24/7 Call Center to cater to customer queries, complaints, reports and requests and the emergency crews of DCWD’s Pipelines and Appurtenances Maintenance Department to attend to emergency pipeline leak repairs.

For updates, queries and matters pertaining to DCWD services, customers may contact the DCWD Central Information Unit / Call Center 24-hour hotlines 297-DCWD (3293), 0927-7988966, 09255113293 and 0908-4410653 or visit DCWD’s website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater).

(Katrina Belen M. Roble)

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EDGEDAVAO Sports 15

VOL. 9 ISSUE 125 • FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

NEW HERO Pacquiao lauds Diaz, vows cash windfall S

ENATOR Manny Pacquiao lauded weightlifting hero Hidilyn Diaz for bringing pride and honor to the country after her silver medal triumph in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

In a speech in the Senate on Wednesday, the boxing champion recognized the hardships the 25-year-old Zamboanga native who ended the Philip-

D

pines’ 20-year Olympic medal drought by placing second in the women’s 53kg weightlifting event.

“Alam kong hindi naging madali ang iyong paglalakbay patungo sa iyong kinalulugaran ngayon. Hinarap mo ang mga mabibigat na hamon at muntik nang sumuko. Gayunpaman, nagbunga ang iyong paghihi-

rap,” Pacquiao said.

“I personally congratulate you for being triumphant in the Olympics. The Philippines is very proud of you.”

Diaz on Wednesday paid a visit to the Senate which filed several resolutions commending Diaz.

“Pinatunayan ng ating kababayan na nagmula sa prob-

USA thumps Argentina

EFENDING champion United States and European champion Spain booked a Rio Olympic semi-final showdown of NBA stars with triumphs Wednesday while Australia, boasting four NBA champions, earned a lastfour date with Serbia.

Kevin Durant scored 27 points to power the Americans over Argentina 105-78, stretching their Olympic win streak to 23 games and their 10-year overall win streak to 74.

After their slimmest wins in the Olympic streak — threepoint group-stage triumphs over France and Serbia — the US millionaire lineup started slow but showed top form against a veteran foe.

“I think we got our swagger back,” US guard Paul George said. “We were confident shooting, we were aggressive, we kept our poise.”

Spain routed France 9267 to book a Friday semi-final rematch with a USA side that beat them 107-100 in the 2012 Olympic final and 118107 for 2008 gold.

“We face them everyday in the NBA,” Spain guard Ricky Rubio said. “We know how tough it’s going to be.”

Australia dumped Lithuania 90-64 as NBA title winners Patty Mills scored 24 points, Aron Baynes had 16 and Matthew Dellavedova added 15 to pace a Boomers side seeking a first Olympic medal.

“We have set the goal of winning the gold medal. Today was just another step in the journey,” Dellavedova said.

“We’re going to have to work hard for it but that’s

something we’re willing to do.”

Serbia edged Croatia 86-83 as Bogdan Bogdanovic scored 14 of his 18 points in a third-quarter fightback that gave his team the lead for good.

Croatia, led by Bojan Bogdanovic’s 28 points, pulled within 80-79 with 19 seconds remaining but Milos Teodosic and Nikola Jokic sank late free throws to secure Serbia’s victory and date with Australia.

Spain’s Nikola Mirotic scored 23 points but the Chicago Bulls forward will face fellow NBA defenders against the USA team the Spanish must oust for another chance at gold.

“We know it’s going to be a tough matchup,” Spain guard Jose Calderon said.

Argentina jumped ahead 19-9 after six minutes, relying on the game’s shortest man, 1.81m (5ft 11in) guard Facundo Campazzo, for eight points early.

D u rant shone but his teammates shot 3-of-12 from the floor and were outplayed before a timeout. Then everything changed.

‘It was incredible’

The US outscored Argentina 27-2 over the next six minutes to seize command at 3621, looki n g

ing Most Valuable Player honours from his homeland’s 2013 EuroBasket crown.

“I’m very proud of what we did,” Parker said. “I enjoyed it. The last 16 years have been great. I don’t regret one second.

“I take a lot of pride playing in this atmosphere. When we take some time to reflect on what we did, we can be proud.”

Parker, 34, and Ginobili, 39, each helped the Spurs win four NBA titles and lifted their national sides into global prominence.

“It has been an incredible era,” Ginobili said. “Something very important in your life is ending, and that means a lot,

makes me feel a little emotional.”

US star Carmelo Anthony and US coach Mike Krzyzewski delivered personal best wishes to Ginobili.

“When legends of the game show their respect, it has an extra value to it,” Ginobili said.

“They spared some very kind words. I truly appreciate it.”

Anthony said he praised Ginobili “not just to what he’s meant to the basketball in Argentina, but to that country as a whole. He has put in a lot of work and represented them in a great fashion. He’s put that country on his back over the years.”

Parker says his body can

MAIN MAN. Kevin Durant of the USA scores on a fadeaway over Manu Ginobili of Argentina.

Parker, Ginobili retire from int’l hoops

S

insya na may kakayahan tayong lumaban at manalo sa Olympic Games. Pinatunayan niya na ‘di sagabal ang pagsubok sa pagtupad ng mga pangarap,” Pacquiao said.

Earlier, Pacquiao promised to give a cash reward of “less than 5 million” to Diaz who has received other incentives from the government due to her feat.

TAR guards Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, NBA teammates for the San Antonio Spurs, bid emotional farewells to international play Wednesday after quarter-final losses at the Rio Olympics.

Spain defeated Parker and his French teammates 92-67 while Ginobili’s Argentina side was routed 105-78 by the US NBA stars.

“It has been an amazing run,” Ginobili said of a 20-year span topped by 2004 Olympic gold. “I’m very proud. Sad and happy.”

Parker achieved his goal of making France a champion, tak-

like the dominant force expected since the roster was named.

DeMarcus Cousins and Durant each scored nine points in the key span.

The USA led 56-40 at half-time and weren’t threatened in the second half, even though screaming Argentine and cheering US fans created an electric atmosphere.

“It was incredible,” Cousins said. “I’ve never been in a crowd like this before. At one point the building was shaking. That was unbelievable.”

George added: “This is really top five. This is amazing.

“We didn’t understand what they were saying but the environment was crazy.”

George had 17 points and Cousins 15. Luis Scola led Argentina with 15 points and 10 rebounds in his last interntional game.

Australia’s best Olympic finish is fourth, losing bronze medal games to the USA in 1988 and Lithuania in 1996 and 2000.

“We haven’t gotten the recognition on the world stage because we haven’t won anything. These guys are determined to change that,” Australia coach Andrej Lemanis said.

Led by eight from Mills, Australia outscored Lithuania 20-3 in a key span for a 3620 second-quarter lead and stayed securely ahead to the finish.

“We came out and threw the first punch,” Mills said.

“After that it was a matter of staying consistent and keeping them down.”

MORE COMMENDATIONS. Hidilyn Diaz at the Senate yesterday.

Paras can’t play in FIBA Asia

E

VEN if he wants to, Kobe Paras can’t play for Gilas Pilipinas 5.0 in the Fiba Asia Challenge Cup. This was confirmed on Thursday by Gilas team manager Butch Antonio, just hours after the 18-year-old prodigy posted a tweet hinting at his desire to play for the national team in the wake of the pullout of Rayray Parks and Kiefer Ravena from the side bound for the September 9-18 showpiece in Iran.

Antonio, who is also the deputy director for international affairs of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, explained that Paras was not part of the 24-man pool which SBP submitted to Fiba Asia for the Iran showpiece - and therefore cannot be named to the 12man lineup of Gilas.

“He’s not part of the pool kasi,” Antonio said, explaining the intricacies of the Fiba Asia rules on its tournaments.

Antonio nonetheless was pleased with Paras’ expressed desire to play for Gilas, saying it bodes well for the future of the national team, especially at this time when the SBP has gone back to the cadets program owing to Fiba’s new home-and-away format which runs in conflict with the schedule of the PBA. For his part, national coach Tab Baldwin declined to comment about the possibility of Paras joining the Fiba-Asia Challenge Cup team, saying emphatically, “I don’t react to tweets. Social

RETIRING. Tony Parker of France and Manu Ginobili of Argentina. no longer take the extra duty of international play and still be effective over the six-month NBA campaign.

“It was my last game,” Parker

said. “I’m not going to change my mind on that. It takes a toll.”

Ginobili was proud his body had held up so long.

“I’m proud of the longevity,

media isn’t always the most trustworthy thing. And I haven’t spoken personally to Kobe about this.”

The Gilas coach, however, said he looks forward to the day when the Creighton-bound player becomes available for Gilas.

“If it’s valid, we see Kobe as a part of Gilas moving forward as we see many of these young players. We look forward to every opportunity that Kobe will be available and might be able to come in to whatever level of Gilas he’s had to strengthen our program.

“We welcome the day that Kobe can come in and be part of the Gilas pool but specifically to that tweet, I really have n o c o m ment.”

NOT IN THE POOL. Kobe Paras wated to play in the Fiba Asia Challenge Cup but he was not in the official list submitted to FIBA. the way we played, all the things we accomplished, the friendships and the camaraderie we created,” Ginobili said. “To play this game at 39, it’s not something that happens often. It has been an amazing run.”

It’s the end of an era for both teams. France will also say goodbye to forward Florent Pietrus, 35, and forward Mickael Gelabale, 33.

“We wanted to give them a medal, but we won’t,” French center Rudy Gobert said. “These three have done a lot of great things for this team. Not the best way to go out, but we don’t forget what they have done.”

Argentina also says farewell to 36-year-old forwards Andres Nocioni and Luis Scola.

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