Edge Davao 9 Issue 150 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

P 15.00 • 20 PAGES ANTI-MARTIAL LAW MARCH. Progressive groups, indigenous peoples (IP) and marginalized sector of society stage a marching protest along the main thoroughfares of Davao City yesterday to commemorate the 44th anniversary of Martial Law. Lean Daval Jr.

MORE DRUGLORDS IMPLICATE DE LIMA 2 jail gang‘bosses’ name others involved By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ adlopez0920@gmail.com

ORE leaders of gangs inside the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) testified on the alleged involvement of Senator Leila De Lima with the illegal drug trade inside the facility, as the probe being undertaken by the House of Representatives entered its second day yesterday. Gang leaders Noel Martinez and Jaime Patcho told the members of the House Justice Committee that they were approached and asked by Jaybee Sebastian, also an inmate at

the NBP, to raise funds for De Lima who during that time was serving as the secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ). On the first day of the hearing, Sept. 20, it was inmate Herbert Colangco, a robbery convict who pinned down De Lima by telling the House panel that the former DOJ secretary was receiving P3 million a month since October of 2013. The monthly payment, Colangco said was in exchange

for allowing all illegal transactions inside the NBP, including prostitution and smuggling of contraband items such as drugs. Colangco also named Sebastian as the person who approached him and asked him to be a part of the illegal drug trade inside the prison facility to which he refused. But it was the offer of Joenel Sanchez, De Lima’s security aide that made him agree to join the narco drug inside the penitentiary, allegedly intend-

ed to financially support the senatorial bid of De Lima. Colangco said his group was selling around 10 kilos of methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” every month up to October 2014. Martinez on Wednesday particularly named Sebastian as the person who asked him to help raise funds for the senatorial bid of De Lima and to centralize the drug operations inside the NBP. Martinez is the command-

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Rustically familiar dishes

EDGEDAVAO Sports Will Nietes fight Casimiro? P14

2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

NEW DRUG LIST. President Duterte shows the latest list of personalities coming from the different branches of the government who are involved in the illegal drug trade during Sulong Pilipinas – Local Governance Dialogues. The event was attended by local officials from ARMM, Visayas and Mindanao at SMX Convention Center in Davao city on Tuesday night. Lean Daval Jr.

Rody chides EU Mindanao takes centerstage for reso on EJK in ‘Sulong Pilipinas’ workshop By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

RESIDENT DUTERTE has hit back at the European Union (EU) a few days after it released a resolution calling on the Philippine government to put an end to the spate of extrajudicial killing of suspected drug personalities in the country. Speaking before government officials of Visayas and Mindanao, the President lashed out at the European Union and said he only had a few words for the EU: “F_ck you!” The Chief Executive said he had read the statement of the EU’s condemnation on the killings in the Philippines.

“I read the condemnation of the EU against me, I will tell them f_ck you!” Duterte said. According to the President, the European bloc is making the appeal because of the atrocities its member countries have done in the past. He then then relate the Bud Dajo massacre in Jolo, wherein over 6,000 Moros were killed. “Assuming it is true (killings) how many did I kill? 1,700? Who are they? Criminals? You are calling it genocide? How many did they kill? 6,000?” he said. “I will repeat it f_ck you,” he

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By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

N line with the Duterte Administration’s aggressive campaign against illegal drugs, corruption and other forms of criminality in the country, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), in partnership with the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), has conducted a series of workshops dubbed “Sulong Pilipinas: Local Governance Dialogues.” The Mindanao leg was held yesterday at the SMX Convention Center and was attended by delegates comprised of provincial, municipal and city leaders from across the island region. The event, however, was not open to the press due to the confidentiality of the matters discussed by the partici-

pants. Among the speakers at the consultation were CABSEC Asst. Sec. Jonas Soriano who presented the government’s National Security and Social Development Agenda; DILG Sec. Ismael Sueno who introduced the agency’s plans, programs, and policy support for its local peace and order and anti-drug campaign; and DILG ASec. Roosque Calacat who talked about the MASA MASID Program. On the other hand, DILG USec. John Castriciones discussed the DILG’s Drug Rehabilitation Program, while and PNP Director General Ronald dela Rosa presented the National Peace and Order and Anti-illegal Drug Campaign. In an interview, Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Anga-

ra said the message he would be delivering during the consultation would emphasize the Senate’s support for local peace and order initiatives and other social development efforts. “Number one, suportado natin yung anti-drug campaign ng administration at secondly, open tayo to suggestions as to amend the local government code,” Angara said. The senator noted that the 25-year-old Local Government Code needs to be updated due to the concerns raised by local officials, which include funding, local autonomy and real property evaluation. The series of dialogues aimed to strengthen the ties between the local government units (LGUs) and the Philip-

with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the results of the peace pact should already be implemented. In her presentation, she commended President Duterte for allowing the release of 21 political prisoners who are members of the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP). Santiago recalled the situation during the past administrations wherein negotiations with the NDFP stalled for many years.

“The president [therefore] wants a convergence [between the] MILF and MNLF,” she said, explaining this was President Duterte’s main assignment to their committee. The two groups, Santiago pointed out, must unite and agree on one law. To achieve this goal, the Bangsamoro Transition Comisison (BTC) would call for a consultative assembly regarding the Bangsamoro Enabling Law, as the BBL still has to be

pine National Police, as well as mobilize community participation toward a more peaceful, safe and socially developed local governments. Moreover, these dialogues served as venue for all the key leaders in the provinces to discuss and craft action plans to improve the peace and order situation in their respective areas, as a prerequisite in promoting social development at the local level. The participants are expected to produce their action plans per province, which will be reported and consolidated by region by the end of the workshop. The outputs of the workshops will form part of the Sulong Pilipinas Action Plan (Peace and Order) to be presented in November, 2016.

51 groups participate in Davao Peace Fair ‘16 It’s time to implement peace accords - Inday Santiago

HIS year’s Davao Peace Fair was participated in by 51 organizations from Mindanao, which made it one of the most successful peace celebrations so far. This was according to Hope Fernandez of Global Impact, the lead organizer of the event. The Peace Fair themed “Sustainable Development Goals: 17 Goals to Transform Our World,” was held yesterday at the SM Annex Ecoland. In her welcome remarks, Fernandez explained the theme was adapted from the United Nations’ goals of erad-

icating poverty and hunger among other issues. “Development is integral to achieving peace,” said Fernandez who said these 17 goals would help achieve peace in the coming few years. Speaking at the same event, Brig. Gen. Icasiano Monilla said he was pleased with the ongoing peace negotiations between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Monilla said President Duterte, who visited their

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By RIA VALDEZ

“W

E are already in the stage of implementation. There should be no more negotiations.” This, according to Irene Santiago, chair of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) Implementing Panel for the Bangsamoro Accords, in her presentation of the Bangsamoro Peace Development Road Map during the Davao Peace Fair 2016. Santiago stressed that after 30 years of negotiations

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Irene “Inday” Santiago

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

PSSCC: Davao needs more CCTV cameras M

NEWS 3

EDGEDAVAO

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

ORE strategically placed closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. This, according to the Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC), is what Davao City needs to ensure the safety and protection of the people of Davao in light of the Sept. 2 Roxas night market bombing. Benito de Leon, head of the PSSCC, said that there is need for the City Government to procure more CCTV cameras and place them in strategic public areas. Speaking during Wednesday’s AFP-PNP press corps media forum, de Leon noted that the placement of these CCTVS “needs improvement” considering the increasing se-

curity threats being confronted by the city. “Aside from acquiring new CCTVs in the city, we will transfer some of the installed cameras from the less crowded to high convergence areas,” he said. According to de Leon, he has received several recommendations on where these CCTVs should be specifically installed, especially in places which do not have adequate coverage. “May mga CCTV cameras na hindi na functioning at may iba rin na kailangang irelocate since mataas ang volume ng crowd on some areas,” he explained. De Leon disclosed that the PSSCC will have a discussion

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NO MORE PRANK CALLS. Central 911 head Emmanuel Jaldon bares during this week’s edition of AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Ritz Hotel that the agency is eyeing a measure that would penalize prank callers.

Jaldon said prank calls to Central 911 have increased since the Roxas night market bomb explosion. Lean Daval Jr.

against 911 DILG wants brgy.-based Law prank callers eyed campaign against drugs T By RIA VALDEZ

HE national government is planning to implement a barangay-based program called “Masa-masid” (Citizen’s Watch) that is designed to complement President Duterte’s intensified campaign against the illegal drug trade, criminality, and corruption. This was revealed by Department of Interior and Local

Government Secretary Mike Sueno in his speech during the Bishop Ulama Conference last Sept. 19 at the Mergrande Resort, Davao City. “It is not only DILG who conceptualized this,” said Sueno, explaining that this initiative was developed through a partnership with the church (Christian and Catholic) and

Ulamas. According to Sueno, Masa-Masid is the umbrella organization for all barangays that are participating in the government’s peace and order campaign. “Any citizen could report a drug pusher or user, a rapist, or a corrupt barangay official,” explained Sueno.

Another objective of this program, he said, is to educate the youth on solid waste management who will then impart what they have learned to their parents. Sueno cited Kuala Lumpur as an example of a city which is implementing innovative and creative ways to encour-

(Republic Act 10742), and for the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to assure higher voter turnout. This is in line with the approval of the Senate and the

House of Representatives on third and final reading the bill seeking a one-year postponement of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK)

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Postponement needed to implement SK reforms By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

ENATOR Sonny Angara, chairman of the Senate Local Government Committee, said in his speech yesterday at the Sulong Pilipinas: Local Governance Di-

alogues at SMX Convention Center, the postponement of barangay and SK elections will allow more time for the full implementation of the recently enacted SK Reform Act

‘PROJECT DOUBLE BARREL 2. ‘Davao del Norte Provincial Police Office Deputy Provincial Director for Admin Superintendent Giusseppe Geralde talks about the planned “Project Double Barrel 2” which is the second phase of PNP

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HE Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC) has proposed a measure that would penalize those who would be making prank calls to 911. Emmanuel Jaldon, officer-in-charge of the Central 911, said in a press briefing on Wednesday the DRRMC will present the draft policy to the City Council and Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio in order to deter prank callers from abusing the said emergency hotline. “We have been receiving numerous prank calls since the night market blast happened,” Jaldon said. According to Jaldon , his office receives an average of 300 calls a day, which are all acted upon to ensure the safe-

War on illegal drugs now on second phase

Chief Dela Rosa’s “Oplan Double Barrel” that will focus on the so-called “highvalue” or “low-value” targets. Geralde made the disclosure during yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Ritz Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

ty and security of residents. However, the DRRMC chief wants to have a dialogue with the City Council due to the 40 percent rise in the number of prank calls made to 911. He explained these prank calls hamper 911’s quick response to emergencies, as they clog up the center’s dispatching system. Jaldon said that through system, which he hopes to be institutionalized through a city ordinance, the DRRMC will be able to go after prank callers and file the appropriate legal charges against them. “We will block the number such that the number can no longer access 911 after five calls unless the owner explains the reason for the prank call,” Jaldon said. Tiziana Celine S. Piatos

HE Philippine National Police’S (PNP) anti-illegal drug campaign which began last July and resulted in the surrender and arrest of thousands individuals reportedly involved in the narcotics trade is now on its second phase. Police Supt. Giusseppe Geralde, Davao del Norte police regional spokesman, said the Philippine National Police’s “Oplan Tokhang” has already been deactivated with the implementation of “Oplan Double Barrel.” According to Geralde, “Oplan Double Barrel’s” second phase will focus on “Project HVT/LVT” wherein police officers will focus their operations on so-called “high-value” or “low-value” targets. Meanwhile, Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Spokes-

person Police Senior Insp. Catherine dela Rey noted that “Oplan Double Barrel” is not only concerned in arresting the most number of alleged drug pushers and users. “We [police officers] are more focused on its impact [of illegal drugs] on the community,” dela Rey added. She said the PNP will also push for the establishment of more rehabilitation centers to help drug dependents recover and re-enter mainstream society, according to dela Rey. The police regional command is therefore urging those engaged in illegal-drug activities to surrender to law enforcers, Dela Rey said. She added it is better to surrender peacefully than be pursued by authorities under “Oplan Double Barre.l”

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4 SUBURBIA EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

320 Zambo City IDPs Bangsamoro people recall complete skills training

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said some 320 internally displaced persons (IDPs) on Tuesday completed different technical courses in Ozamis City. The IDPs who have undergone training on technical courses were among the thousands of people who were displaced in the 21-day September 2013 siege in this city. The DSWD regional office said in a statement the IDP-trainees were trained for two months in Our Lady of Triumph (OLT) Institute of Technology in Ozamis City. Of the 320 IDP-graduates, 154 were trained in carpentry and masonry while 136 for housekeeping. They have obtained actual work experience through the state-of-the-art facilities of the OLT Institute of Technology. The skills training program is initiated and funded by the regional office of the DSWD in partnership with the local government and

Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA), through the Disaster Rehabilitation Fund worth P17 million. The city government is also extending P2,000 financial assistance as counterpart for each family to support their other expenses, such as transportation and meals during their travel. The program has produced over 500 graduates since July this year, and graduates are immediately sent to Manila for job placement with the help of the OLT’s employment national and international partners. The graduation ceremony, which was held at the MGM Gymnasium in Ozamis City, was witnessed by DSWD Sec. Judy Taguiwalo, DSWD Regional Director Araceli Solamillo, DSWD Assistant Regional Director for Operations Consejo Usman, and representatives of TESDA, local government and partner employers. (PNA)

‘dark days’ of Martial Law G

OVERNOR Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) said Wednesday the Bangsamoro people still rememb the “dark days” of Martial Law, as they hope for a better future. He noted the country is commemorating today two important events in history that speak of contradictions the declaration of Martial Law by the late President Ferdinand Marcos - one of the darkest days in Philippine history - and the International Day of Peace. “Every year, on Sept. 21, we commemorate two events that speak of the contradictions we face as a nation,” Hataman said. “Today is the International Day of Peace, a day that speaks of humanity’s greatest hope at a time when the world is

wounded by conflict and injustice. Here in Philippines and especially in the far south, in the island of Mindanao, we know what it means to hope for lasting peace as we struggle for social justice,” Hataman said in a statement released here today. “Today, we also remember how, four decades and four years ago, the late Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law in the guise of securing peace in our land, unleashing upon our people a kind of violence and injustice unmatched in recent history,” said the regional governor who also fought military rule as a young student. “Such stark contrast between peace and conflict is one that our people continue to live with, in a constant attempt to remember our past as we realize a better future,” he said.

Hataman said the country is now faced with contradictions and the people know firsthand the meaning of triumph and struggle, the meaning of terror and peace. “Above all else these words carry more than meaning, because for us these words carry our nation’s history,” he stressed. Hataman said the Filipino people now value freedom as they honor the memory of those who struggled for the same freedom, many by offering their lives. He asked the people of ARMM to pray for those who offered blood so others gain freedom today. “Let us pay our respects to those who fought before us and have won small triumphs that lead us to the day of victory, a day when our people can

finally live lives free from fear and want. Let us ponder on the lessons passed onto us by generations of fighters and revolutionaries who dared to dream of just and lasting peace for our people,” he said. He also urged the Bangsamoro people “to pray for our children as we continue to fight for the future they deserve, one where they would not need to run away in fear for their lives or mourn a death without a body to bury.” “Today is a reminder of our troubled past, our continuing struggle in the present, and our promised future. Now, more than ever, let us not waver in our conviction and our commitment to just and lasting peace,” Hataman said. “This much we owe to our ancestors, to our children, and to ourselves.” (PNA)

Agusan del Sur, military to open drug rehab center

HE local government of Agusan del Sur and the Philippine Army camp of the said province will jointly operate a drug residential treatment and rehabilitation center (RTRC) right inside the camp compound of the 401st Army Brigade. The move was in response to the call of President Duterte to utilize military camps as drug rehabilitation centers for drug surrenderers. The drug residential treatment and rehabilitation center facility located at a three-hectare site right at the heart of the compound of the said army camp is set to be opened on Thursday afternoon, said the Army 401st Brigade commander Col. Cristobal Zaragoza in an interview. The RTRC was among the facilities inspected by 4ID “Diamond” Division Commander

Maj. Gen. Benjamin R. Madrigal during his recent visit to the area. ”This facility is constructed and will be operated by the provincial local government of this province headed by Gov. Adolph Edward G. Plaza to serve those drug-dependents or victims who surrendered in line with the president’s campaign against illegal drugs dubbed as the ‘double barrel’ program” Zaragoza said. The military official added the facility which can accommodate at least 60 clients may be the first of such kind in the country. Under this joint venture, the Philippine Army provided the site and will take charge of the security aspect, while the provincial government will take charge of the operational aspects of the said facility, according to Zaragoza. (PNA)

Army, MILF leaders vow to honor ceasefire accord

ILITARY and Moro rebel leaders agreed to continue observing the ceasefire agreement between the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Major Gen. Carlito Galvez, newly installed commander of the 6th Infantry Division based in Maguindanao and a known peace advocate, stepped inside the main camp of the MILF in Barangay Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao as a gesture of peace with MILF leaders. Since 2007, there has been no major skirmishes involving the military and the MILF in most parts of Mindanao where

the rebel movement operates. Galvez met with Al Mansoor Gambar, leader of the MILF’s military arm - the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) Tuesday morning and reiterated both sides’ commitment to continue harmonious relationship. Both Galvez and Gambar vowed to continue cooperation and joint operations against lawless elements and illegal drug personalities. Gambar said that with Galvez at the helm of the 6th Infantry Kampilan Division, peace is surely in the air. “His assumption to 6th ID

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CCT PAYOUT IN SARANGANI TOWN. Beneficiaries queue up during Day 2 of Pantawid Pamilya payout in Barangay Mabila gymnasium, Balut Island, municipality of Sarangani, Davao Occidental. Recipients are from barangays Patuko, Camalig, Laker and Camahual of Sarangani Island, and barangays Gomtago and Tucal of Balut Island. Day 1 grantees hail from Balut Island’s

six barangays –Batuganding, Konel, Lipol, Mabila, Tinina and Tagen. To date, over 2700 families in Sarangani town benefit from Pantawid Pamilya while the whole Davao Region has 233,094 families participating in the program. Under the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Indigenous Peoples (MCCT-IP), 29,556 families have also qualified in Region XI. (DSWD)

Troops cited for successful ops M

ILITARY officials on Wednesday honored soldiers for the successful recovery of high explosives, assorted rifles and machine gun following a brief encounter with outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao over the weekend. Major General Carlito Galvez, 6th Infantry Division commander lauded operating troops of the 57th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Colonel Jose Ambrosio and 601st Brigade Commander Colonel Cirilito Sobejana for preventing possible bombings in Maguindanao or nearby areas. Sobejana told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Wednesday that elements of 57th IB have received a tip from concerned citizens about the presence of heavily armed men in a remote sub-village of

Barangay Kauran, Ampatuan. Following intelligence verification, Rustia formed a team to verify the report Saturday afternoon. As government troops entered the village at past 4 p.m. they were fired at by armed men later identified to be members of the BIFF. A brief encounter occurred until the armed men fled deep into the forest, leaving behind a cache of firearms and explosives, some were unearth by operating troops. “They could be behind the bombings in Maguindanao against the military,” Sobejana said of the group in possession of mortars that included 60 mm, 81 mm mortars and six 105 howitzers. “Our investigation continues,” Sobejana said as he lauded citizens for alerting the military on the presence of armed men in their communities. “We

need people like them,” he added. About two hours after the Barangay Kauran, Ampatuan brief encounter, elements of the 1st Mechanized Brigade deactivated three improvised explosive devices left at the entrance to Hill 166 military camp in Barangay Meta, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao. “Obviously, it was meant for the military because it was planted at the road leading to an Army base,” Sobejana said. “Lucky enough, civilians reported their discovery to the military and prevented explosions that could harm commuters,” he added. In ceremonies held at 601st brigade headquarters, Galvez lauded the operating troops for the feat, saying it was expected of them as government military authorities. He also commended the civil-

ians and the intelligence operatives for their timely and prompt action. “You all deserved commendations, another job well done,” Galvez told 601st brigade operating troops for the successful ant-terrorist operation. “Can you imagine if these explosives were used by these lawless elements, not only against the military but civilians as well,” he said, pointing to recovered war materials at the 601st brigade headquarters. Sobejana said the seized high explosives were similar to IEDs set off by BIFF in Maguindanao in recent years. Recognizing the feat, Galvez awarded Bronze Cross Medals to Colonel Sobejana, Lt. Col. Rustia, Capt. Nasrula Sema, 1Lt. Redentor Dimayug,

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5 ECONOMY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

INVESTOR CONFIDENCE. Euro Towers Chief Operating Officer Maricar Encarnacion (center), Project Sales Manager Angel Zafra (leftmost), Construction and Development Group Director Engr. Roy Estanislao (second from left), Assistant City Administrator Atty. Tristan Dwight Domingo (second from right) and Housing and Land Use Regulatory

Board Regional Arbiter Atty. Norman Jacinto Doral lead the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon during the inaugural ceremony of the company’s sales office at the 3rd level of SM Lanang Premier in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

NGCP backs bill vs transmission woes S

Income Tax Reform Bill will pass – Sen. Angara By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) on Wednesday said it is supporting current efforts to enact a law that will criminalize the deliberate planting of trees and the construction of any structure within the rightof-way (ROW) clearances of power lines in the country. In a statement to the media, NGCP reiterated its support for the passage of the “Anti-Power Line Disturbance Act” with the hope that the 17th Congress will re-file the bill that was proposed in the previous Congress by House Representatives. NGCP also expressed op-

timism it will get the support of the present House Committee on Energy chaired by Representative Lord Allan Velasco of Marinduque and at the Senate Committee on Energy led by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian. Under the proposed bill, penalties will be imposed on person or persons planting trees and other vegetations, including the construction of structures within the ROW of all power transmission and distribution lines. The proposed law will also authorize the private grid-operator NGCP, distribution utilities, and electric cooperatives to immediately cut

or prune trees, and remove any obstruction found within the ROW of power lines. The proposed law, the NGCP added, is expected to eliminate substantial delays in NGCP’s project construction and regular maintenance activities, particularly with uncooperative landowners and claimants who maliciously plant trees and build structures within the ROW clearance, and demand exorbitant amounts before allowing NGCP access to the property. “Support in the form of legislation will ultimately be for the benefit of power consumers. The issue on settling ROW cases has delayed both

current and new projects of NGCP. It is also a recurring and worsening issue, especially in Mindanao and North Luzon. With the Act, we can expedite the process and improve our turn-around time. The sooner we can complete our projects and maintain our lines, the sooner we can provide secure and reliable power transmission services to the people. We are appealing for the support of our Congress and Senate Committees on Energy by refiling the bill and pushing for its expedited enactment into law,” the NGCP pointed out in the statement. NGCP is a privately

rate of P15,000 in the past few years. Space rentals also account for 15 to 18 percent of gross sales of a franchise business, according to the business group. “We are looking at how they can be friendly especially to start ups. Start ups would like to go to malls because of the captured market. Your critical mass is there,” Bartolome said. “When you talk of malls, the concern really is big rentals. We’ve been deliberating this issue in many years and of

course this is beyond our control because these are private individuals running the show,” he added. AFFI Executive Director Raffy Cañare said the industry aims to hold dialogues with the government, particularly the legislative branch to address the concern on rental rates. Cañare said AFFI has tapped the office of Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who is the chair of Senate Committee on Economic Affairs, to create a law that will monitor and standardize space rentals in malls. “For start up businesses

and for those who want to expand their concept, the mall would be viable because that’s where you put traffic. But sooner or later you will feel the heaviness of the cost,” AFFI Executive Vice President Ricardo Cuna stressed. “So we tell our members the avenue is big. We don’t have to keep on squeezing ourselves in big malls. Go to community malls, medium malls to surpass issue on rentals,” added Cuna. Moreover, AFFI is optimistic that the local franchise industry will continue its growth

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Franchise group seeks law to regulate mall rental rates

HE Association of Filipino Franchisers, Inc. (AFFI) is seeking support from legislators to come up with a law that will regulate rental rates for spaces in malls. In a press conference in Makati City Wednesday, AFFI Chairman of the Board Armando Bartolome said increasing rental rates in malls has been a challenge to franchise businesses, particularly for start ups. For instance, average rent for a space of six square meters is currently at P25,000 to P35,000 per month from its

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ENATE Ways and Means Committee Chair Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara expressed confidence on the passage of the Income Tax Reform Bill he filed in the Upper House. In an interview after delivering his speech at the Sulong Pilipinas 2016: Local Government Dialogues, Angara said his Senate Bill 129, which aims to provide an automatic adjustment in the tax schedule every three years using the consumer price index so that inflation will no longer result in tax increases, has gained positive feedback from the government. “Inaantay na lang namin ang proposal ng Department of Finance at uumpisahan na natin ang mga pagdinig dyan. (We are just waiting for the proposal of Department of Finance and then we will start the hearing on that matter.)”, said Angara. The senator stressed his commitment to reform the existing income tax law, pointing out that it has been out of date since its passage in 1997. “Meron tayong mga bagong teacher eh, ang laki laki ng buwis na binabayad, bagong sundalo, bagong pulis. Yung mga pangkaraniwang tao ba eh, parang nag trato natin milyunaryo.”, said Angara. Under Angara’s Senate Bill 129, workers earning below P70,000 annual taxable income or approximately P14,000 monthly gross income will be exempted from paying taxes, dissolving the first three brackets under the present tax code.

Meanwhile, those earning P20,000 to P30,000 monthly will move to a lower bracket and will be taxed from the current 25 percent to 20 percent. The lower tax rates will result in higher take-home pay with savings from tax of more than P10,000 a year. The top tax bracket, on the other hand, will be increased from an annual taxable income of P500,000 or approximately P60,000 monthly gross income to P1.25 million annual income or those earning more than P100,000 a month. “In effect, we are easing the tax burden of our workers as most of them will be pulled back to their original tax brackets in 1997. Tinatama lang po natin ang sistema na magreresulta sa mas malaking take-home pay para sa ating mga manggagawa,” the senator said in a separate statement. Aside from SB 129, Angara has also filed SB 130 and SB 317 which seeks to lower personal and corporate income tax rates, respectively, to 25 percent to make the Philippines more competitive as the country holds the highest income tax rates in the ASEAN region. The senator’s bill is in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s promise during his first state of the nation address that his administration will push for the lowering of income tax rates. Duterte’s 10-point economic agenda include instituting progressive tax reform and more effective collection, indexing taxes to inflation.

6 ECONOMY

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

Spain backs PHL infra, tax reform programs

HE government of Spain has expressed its full support to the Duterte administration’s 10-point socioeconomic agenda, particularly on the implementation of tax reforms and accelerating infrastructure spending as effective tools to help realize its goal of making growth inclusive for all Filipinos. In a meeting with Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Spanish Ambassador to Manila Luis Antonio Calvo Castaño also congratulated the Philippine government for its “progressive” and “on-point” tax reform program that aims to reduce personal and corporate income tax rates while raising fresh revenues to bankroll social protection programs for society’s most vulnerable sectors. Ambassador Castaño said the Spanish government is “very encouraged by the 10-point socioeconomic agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte,” as he pointed out that the “promotion of social rights is the key to the development of the country.” He also said that Spanish companies are interested in investing in the Philippines’ infrastructure buildup, particularly rail projects, pointing out that Spain has the second largest high-speed railway network in the world next to China. In the hour-long meeting, Dominguez informed the Ambassador that one of the priority goals of the administration is to reduce the poverty rate in the country from last year’s 26 percent to 17 percent by the time President Duterte steps aside in 2022 by increasing infrastructure spending outside Metro Manila that would not only connect communities but also create meaningful jobs; vigorously implementing the Reproductive Health law; and boosting agricultural productivity, among other initiatives. The Philippine government’s plan to raise infrastructure spending from 3 percent to 5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) would be complemented by efforts urging Congress to propose amendments that would lift the Constitution’s economic restrictions, Dominguez said. On developing a law-abiding country as another priority

goal of the government, Dominguez said the Duterte administration envisions “a society where law is respected and where authority is followed, but freedom is still active.” He also informed the Spanish ambassador of the government’s ongoing peace efforts with insurgent groups in the country. In explaining the proposed tax reform program of the Department of Finance (DOF), Dominguez told the Ambassador that the primary goal is to cut personal and corporate income taxes, while, at the same time, simplifying and improving tax administration, adjusting fuel excise taxes, imposing a sugar tax as a health measure and plugging leakages in Value Added Tax (VAT) exemptions. Ambassador Castaño, for his part, pointed out that DOF’s tax plan is “on point, progressive and would help ease the burden of the middle class and vulnerable sectors.” Dominguez and Castaño also discussed the proposed signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Economic and Financial Cooperation between the Philippine government and the Kingdom of Spain, which aims to explore cooperation between the two countries in various fields such as agriculture, industry, energy and services, water infrastructure, climate finance, environmental economics and disaster risk finance. The DOF secretary expressed his appreciation for Spain’s disaster preparedness and response project in Albay, which involves the rehabilitation of hospitals and setting up a well-equipped disaster preparedness and evacuation center in the province, and broached the possibility that this initiative could be replicated nationwide. A proposed project to be funded by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) through a combination of grants and loans aims to replicate the Albay initiative in at least 14 provinces. The initial list includes Cagayan, Isabela, Pangasinan, Quezon, Zambales, Camarines Sur, Benguet, Abra, Iloilo, Capiz, Southern Leyte, Davao Oriental, Surigao del Sur, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.

P50-B fixed-rate bond program of SMIC okayed

HE Board of Directors of SM Investments Corporation (SMIC) has approved the issuance of fixed-rate bond amounting to P50 billion, the company disclosed to the Philippine Stock Exchange Wednesday. SMIC plans to offer the debt securities under a three-year shelf registration facility of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The Henry Sy-led list-

ed firm will initially issue a P15-billion worth of fixedrate bond later this year. Its Board of Directors also approved oversubscription option of P5 billion on the initial issuance of the fixed-rate bond. “The Board of Directors also authorized the management to negotiate and finalize the terms and conditions, including pricing, tenor and any increase in issuance amount,” SMIC added. (PNA)

DAREDEVIL. A lineman from a company commissioned by a telecommunications firm seems to be having a hard time installing a cable due to the tangled overhead telephone wires and cables along C.M. Recto Avenue in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Responsible mining symposium opens By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE 22nd Annual Mining Symposium will be held from Sept. 22 and 23 at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang, Davao City, with the theme “Responsible Mining: Friend or Foe?” The upcoming symposium will be sponsored by the Mindanao Association of Mining Engineers (MAEM) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Davao region (MGB11). The event will commence through a parade that will be joined by participants to the symposium, Engr. Alexis Baligos, president of MAEM

said. According to Baligod, said parade will be dubbed as “Solidarity Parade of the Stakeholders for Responsible Mineral Development and Environment.” Participants to the twoday activity, he said, will include all stakeholders of the mineral development industry particularly members of host communities, indigenous peoples, families of the mine workers and mine contractors, suppliers, members of the academe, students taking up the courses on the environment, geology, metallur-

gical and mining engineering, the professional group sector, non-government organizations and the religious sector. A manifesto will be signed after the parade in support of the government’s call for responsible mining, Baligod added. During the symposium, speakers, will present technical papers on the latest mining technologies, environment, community development and academic research. The celebration will also coincide with the 25th founding anniversary of MAEM which was initially concep-

tualized by Engrs. ConstancioPaye, Jr., Edgar Martinez and the late Noel Villaflor when there were no active mining engineers association in Mindanao at that time, Engr. Baligod said in a statement to the media on Wednesday. “Today, MAEM has grown into a big organization of engineers and associate members working in the minerals development industry particularly in the field of geothermal, oil and gas, metallic, coal, aggregates and construction. The members are mostly based in Mindanao and from the other parts of the country,” he added.

ed Gender Development Division (IGDD), said the program has already established and identified active participants and beneficiaries from community-based organized women, barangay-cased micro-entrepreneurs, and some members of the Indigenous Peoples. “It would be a total waste to let an advantageous pro-

gram evaporate when we have interested participants and recipients,” Mandin said. MTD, she said, is designed to empower women and be a partner of local government in pursuing social change through jobs creation. She added that MTD has conducted various trainings even before it was shelved

some three years ago. MTD also has a number of specially designed carts strategically located in prominent places and establishments around the city to promote products: handicrafts, food, etc. Mandin said the program will definitely boost Mayor Inday Sara Duterte’s agenda against poverty. CIO

keep its credit rating well within the investment grade scale, which has transcended change in political leadership, is a testament that the country’s economic gains have been built from deeply rooted structural and sound policy reforms over the years,” Tetangco said. “Through the continued conduct of sound monetary policy and prudent bank supervision, as well as efficient management of the country’s external accounts, the BSP will help make sure

these economic gains are further enhanced moving forward,” he added. S&P, in a statement, said its ratings on the country “reflect our assessment of its lower middle-income economy and rising uncertainties surrounding the stability, predictability and accountability of its new government.” “Offsetting these weaknesses is the Philippines’ strong external

Revival of women entrepreneurship program eyed

WOMEN’S group is pushing for the revival of “Mag-Negosyo Ta ‘Day,” a program aimed at developing social entrepreneurship of Dabawenyas instead of being passive recipients of financial assistance from the local government. Former MTD management staff head Lorna B. Mandin, chief of the Integrat-

Sound policy reforms buoy PHL’s credit rating -- Tetangco

USTAINED policy and structural reforms continue to support the Philippines investment grade ratings, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. said. This after Standard and Poor’s Global Ratings (S&P) on Wednesday affirmed its ‘BBB’ rating with ‘Stable’ outlook on the country’s long-term rating. The ‘A-2’ short-term sovereign rating and ‘axA/axA-2’ ASEAN regional scale rating were also affirmed. “The Philippines’ ability to

F SOUND, 10

7 BIGGER PICTURE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

Underwater experience

in Samal Island

Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO Additional Photos by DARRELL D. BLATCHLEY

“T

HE Pearl of the Orient Seas.” That is how some historians called the Philippines. Its landscape is beautiful, the people are friendly, and the foods are delicious. What a person wants to see, the Philippines has them.

“Images of dreamy beaches and crystal waters surely dominate our perception of the Philippines, but the landscapes are many and varied, from coral atolls to mountain ranges, from sand beaches to vast tracts of dense tropical rainforest,” wrote Lindsay Bennett, author of “Philippines.” With 7,107 islands, the Philippines has one of the longest coastlines in the world – estimated at 36,289 kilometers. As such, diving in this country is not only awesome but spectacular. “The waters of the Philippines have more varied diving opportunities than just about anywhere else in the world,” wrote Bennett. “Shallow seas and coastal waters make up much of the country’s offshore territory, where more corals proliferate than anywhere else.” According to Bennett, the country is an excellent place to learn to dive at it has professional English-speaking instruction certified by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). “The basic level of PADI qualification is the ‘Open Water Diver’ course which, once successfully completed, allows you to dive in the sea or in lakes without an instructor,” she wrote. In Mindanao, the country’s second largest island, the Island Garden City of Samal – composed of seven islands – is one of best diving sites because of its unspoiled beauty. “A little paradise on earth” is how people described the place. Located in the heart of the Davao Gulf, Samal City is physically not connected to the mainland although it is only 900 meters east of Davao City. It has a stretch of over 118 kilometers of continuous coastline and with an extensive mountain range at the eastern coast, a number of isolated hills and uneven distribution of lowlands. “The water is crystal clear throughout the coastline, which varies in terrain from gently sloping sand beaches to steep cliffs and rock for-

mations,” the brochure of the Davao regional office of the Department of Tourism states. “The colors of the coastline at the beach areas transform itself from the green lush vegetation of coconut trees, to the white sandy beaches, to the dark blue color of the sea, with its deep waters and coral reefs.” Carlos R. Munda, Jr., a diving enthusiast and instructor from Davao who also writes as a columnist of EDGE Davao has this to say: “Samal Island is strategically located in one of the most dive-friendly locations in the world.” Though relatively unknown outside a small circle of diving enthusiasts, the waters surrounding the island “is a treasure trove of dive sites for every kind of underwater adventure.” He cites two comparisons: “From World War II-era Japanese wrecks and sheer drop offs and spectacular sea mounts to rival the best that Tubattaha has to offer, to the rarest and most curious-looking critters this side of Lembeh – all these can be found when diving in Samal.” Tubbataha is actually an atoll coral reef located in the Sulu Sea; it is a marine sanctuary protected as Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. Lembeh, on the other hand is a strait found in North Sulawesi,

Indonesia; it is home of pygmy seahorses, hairy frogfish, stargazers, and wunderpuses. But more than the great sites, diving in Samal Island is even spectacular because of its great weather. “Unlike most of the other popular dive destinations in the country, divers can enjoy the watery beauty of Samal all year ‘round,” Munda says. “No storms or typhoons to ruin that well-planned dive.” If Samal Island is really that great as a diving site, so why it is not popular among divers? The simple answer: geography. “Like the proverbial double-edged sword, Samal’s location away from the typhoons that ravage most of the Philippines also places it away from the country’s capital Metro Manila,” Munda explains. “This translates to less exposure to national and international media outlets, which serve as bibles for most of the world’s travelers.” There are many places in Samal which can be considered a haven for divers. Take the case of Pearl Farm Beach Resort, nestled on the quiet west coast of the Samal Island. Aside from having a dominating view over the Davao Gulf, excellent diving can be had right in front of the resort. The natural haven, which has been declared a marine

sanctuary, offers spectacular diving amongst the huge shoals of fish and giant “taklobo” clams, without the need for tedious boat rides. Just 60 meters away from the resort are two sunken Japanese World War II ships that await discovery. “If you ever get the chance to dive at the Pearl Farm Resort, you will see what the best of the Davao Gulf has to offer,” says Darrel Blatchley, who once plunged at the diving site of the resort. “Fishing is strictly prohibited so the fish are plentiful and big. The fish are not afraid of you so they come in close as if they want to say hi!” Among those that he saw while diving were the parrot fish, trigger fish, barracuda, and the poisonous but impressive lion fish. Blatchley had been fortunate to dive on the resort’s newest attraction: a small airplane that was towed out and sunk to create an artificial reef. However, Samal City has a multitude of dive sites to suit all tastes. The Big Ligid island, for instance, has two beautiful sites: Ligid Caves and Pinnacle Point. The website of the South Shore Divers shares this information: “These famous dive sites are not for the faint of heart, this is an advanced dive with sometimes very strong and unpredictable currents. Exactly the conditions that attract the many yellow fin tunas and dolphins to this ridge.” The website tells what happens when you dive at the two sites: “For the Pinnacle Point, the dive will start along

either side of the ridge, depending upon the currents. The drop is about 15m to 25m slowly moving through each 3 coral shelf points there you will see the wall with marvelous arrangements of gorgonian fans, blue corals, whip corals, scarlet sea fan and staghorn corals. Most likely you will encounter jacks, big-eye trevally, fusilier, butterfly fish, harlequin sweetlips, and even sting rays and whitetip sharks.” The Ligid Caves is another awesome experience: “(It has) rugged limestone cracks and fissures (which) makes such unforgettable destination. Inside the cave, divers will encounter marine life suitable in this environment – mostly spotted reef crab, anemone crab, octopus, cardinal fishes and crinoid shrimps are some of the common residents.” Along the coast of Talicud Island is the Dapia Reef. The Philippines Tourist Destination gives this information: “(The site) gives you the opportunity to experience the glory of marine life. It … offers view of daia reef, ox-eye scud, cabbage coral, hawksbill turtles and barrel spinges and different kinds of fish species.” Another Talicud wonder is the Babu Santa Minwall Dive Site. The website, davaoboard. com, offers this idea: “At 60 feet or roughly 20 meters we see the rocky walls and fasci-

nating coral formations, some jutting out of the walls. There are more to see at a depth of 30 meters. We see a clear visual of the cove naturally carved and the exciting scenes underneath. But a must-see part is the rich and gorgeous tunicates jutting from it. “At 40 meters, parrot fish begin to show themselves. A dive is very revealing when done at night. More deep sea creatures roam around, like swarms of tropical fish.” Whether people know it or not, the shores and shoals of Samal continue to hold its secrets. “Like a well-written mystery novel,” Munda rhapsodizes, “it offers small tantalizing hints and a few seductive glimpses of the natural riches that lies within – not too much that it becomes boring, but just enough to draw people in. Hidden beneath the white-capped waves, it waits for those willing to try something new, willing to go beyond the ordinary and explore the underwater wonders of Samal Island.”

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

Poetic justice?

F it were any coincidence, Senator Leila De Lima was ceremoniously ousted from the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Justice on the very same day former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo left for Munich, Germany for a medical treatment. Flashback to 2011. Then Justice Secretary Leila De Lima overturned the Supreme Court and barred GMA from leaving the country to seek medical attention overseas for her degenerative spine condition. She literally threw her weight and blocked the former president’s path. In the past administration, De Lima was the harbinger of political prosecution by a president who went after GMA in vindictive fashion. That injustice to GMA was corrected after the United Nations ruled Arroyo’s arrest and detention was arbitrary, illegal, violation of her basic human rights, and a violation of international law. Fast forward to present. Senator De Lima was ousted last Monday from her chairmanship of the Justice Committee. She had been literally throwing her weight around again trying to persecute President Duterte for the bloody anti-drugs campaign. Now, she cries foul and invoke the UN and human rights in her continued attack on President Duterte. De Lima had said the GMA matter was an internal dispute and that

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the UN should not interfere. Now, the table has been reversed. It is her calling out to UN for help even as the issue here is largely an internal matter. When she blocked Arroyo who was on a wheelchair and in pain at the airport, did De Lima think about Arroyo’s human rights? Ironically, it s now her who is crying for her human rights. The laws of karma may have finally caught up with her. At the House of Representatives, the hearing on her alleged involvement in the proliferation of illegal drugs and benefitting from it is shaping up to be a more damning probe that could unearth who De Lima really is in the illegal drugs picture. De Lima’s world is constricting fast she could find herself facing all her demons soon. At the Senate’s voting for her ouster, only four came to her side, 16 went against her. That should alarm her. Even her comrades are getting fewer and fewer. It’s only in the movies but just for kicks, a day could come when De Lima had to do a GMA and leave the country and who does she find at the airport departure area blocking her path? Not even her former master, her partymates, and her shawls can save her. ANTONIO M. AJERO NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Editor in Chief Managing Editor SONNY L. MENDOZA Associate Editor

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EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

Tax reforms and broadening the tax base (Part 2)

ENERAL goal of the DOF-proposed tax reforms Of late, the new leadership of the Department of Finance (DOF) has embarked on a tax reform program with the general goal of introducing progressive tax reform packages to increase revenue collections while alleviating the tax burden on the middle class and vulnerable sectors. This is the ideal mix to generate financial resources amid much poverty. Previous governments have endeavored to raise collections alone while paying little attention to the vulnerable like the school janitor. Our tax systems are currently being reviewed with stakeholders to determine how it can be made for equitable, and how we can make sure that those who can afford to pay are given the responsibility for shouldering the bigger tax burden. This is part of broadening the tax base- to

VOL. 9 ISSUE 145 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2016

reach those MY TWO CENTS’ who can afford to pay more, rather than exact a bigger burden on those from whom it is easier to collect. John Tria Salaried ecisouth@gmail.com workers like the school janitor have their taxes witheld on a monthly basis, while the oncologist is only taxes for those incomes where receipts are issued, or for income otherwise declared where taxes are withheld. Thus, of the total income, only a portion of this is subject to the income tax. Others non receipted will escape taxation. Reform packages have received

support Already, multilateral institutions such as the World Bank have expressed support for the reform measures. The World Bank, for one, has taken notice. According to World Bank Country Director Mara Warwick, these reforms can be “game changers” that could improve transparency, monitoring and efficiency in tax administration, which could in turn further expand tax base. The World Bank’s support offer came after Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez had explained to its officials the “transformative” reforms that the current new administration plans to implement to, among others bring down the poverty rate from 26 percent in 2015 to 17 percent by the time the President steps aside in 2022.Lower poverty measn more can participate in the economy, making

current 6.9 GDP growth “inclusive”, and broadening the base for more taxes in the future from the right sources. This makes tax generation more equitable and sustainable. The ability to generate more taxes from more sectors while reducing poverty is a goal we must strive for, as it will be the bedrock of sustained economic growth, fueled by internal consumption and revenue generation, rather than external borrowings. With that, our country’s credit ratings are sure to remain solid, less affected by perceived political strife and instability. assuring equally solid growth and low interest rates. Thus, it matters that we monitor how current proposals of the Duterte government will fix the tax system, plug the loopholes, remove red tape and make it more equitable to, among others lift the poor. Stay tuned to these.

ons performing in a circus. Jaybee Sebastian was singularly pointed to as the number one drug lord inside the NBP as each of the drug convicts described his “rise to notoriety” due to his close personal relations with De Lima when the latter was holding the post of Secretary of Justice in the PNoy administration. The picture painted by the testimonies of Colangco et al showed just how extensive the drug menace has been in existence which, in a way, was proven by the surrender of more than 700,000 drug users all over the country following the launching of the anti-drugs war by newly-elected Pres. Rodrigo Duterte. Sebastian was the only drug lord among those called as the “Bilibid 19” who was not transferred to the NBI cells. Colangco stressed that for the nine months that the “Bilibid 19” were confined at the NBI, Sebastian enjoyed no competition from rival drug chieftains that enabled him to amass a largesse all for himself. Colangco et al also established the

link between Sebastian and De Lima, including monetary contributions to the latter’s political run for the senate in the May 2016 elections which was then being collected by Sebastian for eventual turn-over to the former SOJ. Wow, this scenario is making my hair stand on ends. It is scary, to say the least. Parents who love their children and desire that they grow up to be law=abiding citizens and not stray should narrate these revelations. These are grim reminders of the great risks and dangers all Filipinos will go through if they are not curb in time. The Philippines is lucky that we have elected a President who is serious in pursuing his anti-drugs, anti-crime and anti-corruption agenda. This is the right time to cleanse our society of the dregs and unnecessary burdens confronting us. But we need a leader who is immovable, a leader who is unafraid, a leader who is politically willed. (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) God bless the Philippines!

Evidence too damning, too damaging

HE House of Representatives panel that conducted two straight days of probing on the proliferation of illegal drugs at the New Bilibid Prisons has hit a gold mine. Resource persons like drug lord Herbert Colangco, retired police officer and convicted kidnapper Rodolfo Magleo, NBI agent Jovencio Ablen, Jr., former Bureau of Corrections acting director Rafael Ragos and three others gave almost synchronized testimonies that pointed to Sen. Leila De Lima as allegedly “responsible” for the proliferation of illegal drugs at the state penitentiary. Sen. Ping Lacson, himself a former PNP chief, initially assessed the testimonies as damning enough to file a criminal information against the lady senator in any court of law. The public who was able to watch and listen to the proceedings on TV, I would also surmised, would have formed a similar conclusion as the recitation of facts was verifiable. The affidavits submitted by all the

resource SPECKS OF LIFE persons, in particular, Colangco, Ablen and Ragos, were all meticulous in details. Fred C. Lumba I only h e a r d these stories - the formation of groups that held sway inside the NBP - from friends who themselves heard it from some other sources which make them pure hearsay. Yesterday, as I watched in bated breath, the proceedings came as smoothly as water cascading from a mountain source, without a hitch even as several panel members made individual manifestations here and there. Panel chairman Rep. Reynaldo Umali steered the session like he were the masked horse-riding Zorro holding his whip, and making the “Federales” toe the line like tamed li-

10 NEWS

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

Multiple... FROM 1 er of Genuine Ilocano Group inside the NBP with more or less 2,200 members. Patcho, who heads the Batman gang in NBP, also admitted to the House panel that he was approached by Sebastian to take part in the illegal drug trade to bankroll the senatorial campaign of De Lima. He said their illegal drug operations lasted for about four to five months. Murder convict Jojo Baligad, a member of Batang City Jail also told the panel that he had remitted a total of P3.8 million not just to De Lima but also to other former executives of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor). The remittances were made from January 2013 to September 2014, he said, adding that De Lima received a total of P1.5 million; former BuCor Director Franklin Bucayu got P1.7 million; while BuCor officer-in-charge Rafael Ragos was given P600,000. PSG man involved The Presidential Security Group (PSG), through Lt. Col. Michael T. Aquino, Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations (CMO), on Wednesday issued a statement

regarding the involvement of Sgt. Jonel Sanchez whose name was mentioned by the gang members during the hearing. The statement said Sanchez is a member of PSG who was detailed to then DOJ Secretary De Lima during the past administration. “The command requested for his reassignment outside PSG effective 01 July 2016. However he is still securing pertinent papers in the unit for his new assignment,” the PSG statement said. Upon learning of his involvement through the House probe on De Lima, the PSG said the command immediately conducted an investigation on Sanchez last Sept. 18, 2016. “To ensure his safety, PSG has placed Sgt. Sanchez confined to barracks for investigation. The command cannot give further details as of this time since we do not want to pre-empt the investigation that is being undertaken by the House of Representatives,” the statement added. The PSG said it remains steadfast in its mission to protect the President of the Philippines and the first family with the highest sense of integrity, loyalty and patriotism.

added. Prior to Duterte’s statement, Presidential Communication Office secretary Martin Andanar emphasized that carrying out extra-judicial killings is not a policy of the Duterte administration. “The call of the European Parliament to launch an immediate investigation is already being addressed as President Duterte has already instructed authorities to look into these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Andanar said. In its five-page resolution passed last Sept. 15, EU law-

makers voiced grave concern over the high number of drug suspects that have been killed during police operations and by vigilantes since the Duterte Administration launched its aggressive anti-illegal drug campaign in June. The EU Parliament has likewise instructed its EU delegation in the Philippines and the embassies of 28 European countries in the country to look after human rights abuses that have been allegedly committed following President Duterte’s declaration of a “state of national emergency on account of lawlessness” on Sept. 3.

As of Sept. 28, a total of 23,467 drug personalities from Davao del Norte and Davao City have surrendered

to police and local authorities under the intensified anti-illegal drug campaign led by the PNP. Tiziana Celine S. Piatos

age volunteerism among the youth. He added the program will encourage students at the elementary and high school levels to clean the streets in their barangays and plant trees as well. “For barangays in Manila, we would encourage them to clean the esteros too,” said Sueno. The DILG secretary revealed that another key aspect of the Masa-masid program is the establishment of four major drug rehabilitation centers – one in Mindanao, another in the Visayas, and two in Luzon.

These centers, Sueno said, would help address the problem of congestion in jails, which are now filled up with around 700,000 drug surrenderees. In the meantime, Sueno commended the bishops and ulamas for carrying out faithbased initiatives that aim to help these drug surrenderees turn a new leaf and live productive lives. He cited the municipality of Marbel, in South Cotabato, where schools and churches were used as venues to rehabilitate drug surrenderers who are about 90 percent Catholic.

position, which features rising foreign exchange reserves and low and declining external debt,” it said. The government’s budget

gap is seen to average at 1 percent of domestic output this year even as the government further strengthens its anti-poverty programs.

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SECURITY UPDATES. Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia, commander of the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division gives updates on the Philippine Army’s “Oplan Bayanihan” and the ceasefire between the government

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camp last Tuesday, has been instrumental in moving the peace talks forward. In light of the Sept 2 Roxas nigh market bombing incident, Monilla called on the various sectors of the community to play a more active role in the peace process. “Let us help Davao soar to aspire,” he said. “We hope to celebrate peace not just monthly.” Meanwhile, Roland Asunscion, assistant secretary of the Office of the Presidential Adviser of the Peace Process (OPAPP), said “The OPAPP plans to collaborate with people on the ground to hear their voices.” Asunscion pointed out that although the national government is leading the peace negotiations, it is crucial to obtain the inputs of various stakeholders from the island-region. He also noted that President Duterte is the first president of the Philippines to recognize the grievances and the

historical injustices that have been committed against the Bangsamoro people. This is the reason why, he said, the President wants the peace process to be as inclusive as possible so that it will mirror the sentiments of the Bangsamoro. According to Asunscion, the President is looking forward to genuine and long-lasting peace with the MILF and MNLF and wants the peace agreements to be immediately implemented once they are finalized. “But signing the agreements would be a waste if people could not feel the peace,” said Asuncion. He then called on members of civil society and other concerned government agencies to closely work with OPAPP with regards to current peace-building efforts. The one-day day peace fair also included a forum that aimed to develop a “Road Map for Peace.” Ria Valdez

approved by Congress. “It is still a basic law,” she added, saying the BBL already carried “too much weight.” Santiago said this enabling law would be presented to Congress after the BTC conventions. “Let the Moros win,” said Santiago in reference to the deprivation the Moros have been subjected during this drawn-out peace negotiations. “We always think we are losing when we are giving,” she added. Santiago said the Moros

feel fortunate have a president, who for the first time, wants to correct the historical injustices against them. Meanwhile, the GPH chair also cited the latest Global Peace index wherein the Philippines ranked 134th out of 163 countries. She therefore emphasized the need for formation of attitudes and institutions that create and sustain peace. With the current inroads in the peace process, Santiago is hopeful that the country’s ranking in the said index would go up.

with the members of the City Government regarding the proposed CCTV project.

“We will have a budget hearing in the City Council next week,” de Leon said.

It’s time... FROM 2

PSSCC... FROM 3

The debt rater projects that the government’s fiscal deficit will result to the drop of about 18 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) of the net general government debt burden in 2019 from its peak of 28 percent of GDP in 2010 and this, it said “rep-

resents a ratings strength.” With this the credit rater said “the rising pressure on the Philippines’ institutional and governance settings has the potential to hamper the ability to develop and implement swift policy responses.” (PNA)

forces and the New People’s Army (NPA) during this week’s edition of AFPPNP Press Corps media forum at The Ritz Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

Postponement... FROM 3 elections. The Duterte administration has pointed out that pushing through with the barangay and SK polls this year could break the momentum of the government’s war against drugs, criminality and corruption due to the temporary bans and restrictions in government projects, processes and appointments. In an interview, Anggara expressed optimism the campaign against the illegal drug trade will continue to gain momentum. The senator also expressed his gratitude to the House of Representatives for the adaption of the full version of the Senate blll. Senate Bill 1112 aims to move the twin elections, originally scheduled on Oct. 31, to the fourth Monday of October or Oct. 23 next year. Among the salient amendments to the bill include a provision that states subsequent synchronized barangay and SK elections will be held on the second Monday of 2020 and every three years thereafter, since voter turnouts are higher when elections are held during summer. The bill provides that due to the postponement, the term of incumbent barangay

officials will be extended for a year unless they are removed or suspended from office. “There must be safeguards that while incumbent barangay officials will remain in office, the postponement will not hinder the removal or suspension of officials facing charges especially those involved in drug cases,” Angara said. Under the measure, the construction or maintenance of barangay-funded roads and bridges, and the appointment or hiring of new employees, creation of new position, promotion, or giving of salary increases, remuneration or privileges in the barangay will be prohibited for 10 days immediately preceding the election. SB 1112 also mandates the Sangguniang Barangay to use the SK Fund, equivalent to 10 percent of the barangay’s general fund as provided under the SK Reform Act, only for youth development and empowerment programs until the new SK officials have been elected. “Inuulit ko po, hindi natin isinasantabi ang karapatang bumoto ng bawat botante. Pansamantala lamang namin itong ipagpapaliban para mas maisayos at gawing mas makabuluhan ang eleksyon sa bansa,” the senator said.

owned corporation in charge of operating, maintaining, and developing the country’s power grid. The company transmits high-voltage electricity through power superhighways that include the interconnected system of transmission lines, towers, substations, and related assets.

NGCP holds a 25-year concession contract to operate the country’s power transmission network and is comprised of Monte Oro Grid Resources Corp. led by Henry Sy, Jr., Calaca High Power Corporation led by Robert Coyiuto, Jr., and the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) as technical partner.

with new venues for franchise businesses like condominiums and other communities outside malls. Filipino franchise companies are also looking at global expansion. Currently, 16 Filipino franchisors have global presence

including Aquabest, Crystal Clear, Eat Bulaga, Figaro, Fiorgelato, Goto King, Lay Bare, Mang Inasal, Potato Corner, Julie’s Bakeshop. Binalot, Ferinos bibingka, Nasa Water, Reyes Hair Company International, Adobo Connection, and Acquasuisse. (PNA)

NGCP... FROM 5

Franchise... FROM 5

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

FOOD

Rustically familiar dishes IF YOU THINK DINING OUT JUST MEANS FOOD, then you’re mistaken. Yes, food is not the end all, be all of any dining experience. It’s the adventure. The people you are with. The laughter and jokes you share while dining. Be it at a frequented restaurant or cafe or a new food joint, it’s always the good mixture people, place and food that makes a great dining experience. Rustic Kitchen is one restaurant/cafe that I love because it offers a different dining experience. The ambiance in the resto is very relaxing. The place offers a sense of familiarity and comfort even during your first visit. And the food? It always hits the spot. Now, with its new location at the heart of downtown Davao, there’s no more reason not to drop by and try out its offerings. Menu wise, I don’t have any particular favourite. And yes, they offer staples – lots of it. I love that even though the dishes on their menu are familiar to the palate, they offer a certain twist. This is one of the many reasons why I love Rustic Kitchen; with every single bite, you feel as if you are drawn to your comfort zone. Here’s a list of my favorite staples. What’s yours? Steak Nachos. Their version of this snack staple is one to look forward to. The crunchy nachos, rich cheese, medley of salsa and jalapeno plus the smoky sweetness of steak is nothing but perfection. Aside from the big, bold flavours, their serving is also generous. Love the crunch on every bite. Spicy Chicken Burger & Rustic Kitchen Burger. Burger lovers rejoice. Their burgers are big, perfect for sharing and very moist. It’s not as stacked as the others but the flavours are rich, bold and very entic-

ing. No need to add any other condiment – this is good on its own. Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This is a new favourite. Chicken and cheese in a plate is always the best. The chicken is tender and juicy despite the frying. The gooey cheese on top adds another level of depth. It’s not nakaka-umay. This particular dish is also best for sharing. Buffalo Wings. Deep fried wings with a hefty coating of thick sweet and spicy sauce is all you need to end just about any day. It’s finger licking good too. I personally love that the pieces are big and is ma- Bulalo Special. Craving for soup? sarap to the bones. You would too. Then, this is what you need to order. This Filipino classic is one Seared Beef and Mushroom. Say of the many reasons why Rustic goodbye to boring seared beef. Kitchen is a must visit dining place. Here’s a dish that’ll have you crav- The clear rich soup is bursting with ing in for more. Juicy beef topped flavors, which makes it an ultimate with rich, creamy mushroom sauce comfort food. And the beef? Persimply goes beyond anyone’s ex- fectly cooked. This dish is packed pectations. Each bite is so tender with beef chunks that would satisfy you wouldn’t think you eating beef. even those with a giant’s appetite. Rustic Kitchen is located at And you can eat it with or without Door 4&5 Legaspi Suites, Davao rice! City. For inquiries, you may call Seafood with Pesto Cream. Any- 09173232571/ 082 327 3165. It is thing with pesto, I love. This par- open from 11am-10pm (Mondays ticular dish has so many levels of to Thursdays) and 11am-10.30pm flavours, you’d love to dissect each (Fridays and Saturdays). You can one -- one bite at a time. The mar- check out their Facebook page at riage of flavours certainly gives this Rustickitchenrestaurant. Follow my messy food affair at dish that distinct taste that’s pertheroyalchefeats.wordpress.com or fect any time of the day. on Instagram @iamleebai.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 20

PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

FOOD

A mid-autumn feast The Festival is considered the second biggest holiday in China after the Chinese New Year, as families come together for a sumptuous feast highlighted by the ever-popular and calorie-packed mooncake.

LAST SEPT. 15 WAS A SPECIAL DAY FOR DABAWENYOS OF CHINESE DESCENT AS IT MARKED THE 15TH DAY OF THE 8TH LUNAR MONTH, WHICH IS MORE POPULARLY KNOWN AS THE MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL.

Although the festival is not as widely celebrated in Durianburg, members of the Chinese community regularly meet in small groups to eat, catch-up, and play a traditional dice game where mooncakes are among the main prizes. In recognition of Davao’s Chinese residents, one of the city’s premiere hotels took part in the festival, as it offered seasonal treats and perks for diners. The Waterfront Insular Davao kickedoff its Mid-Autumn Feast with a spread of Asian fusion dishes masterfully designed by the hotel’s executive chef Victor Baranga and his team. The Rock Sugar and Shrimp was the star of the lunch at Cafe Uno, as well as the Fried Chicken Wings with Rock Sugar Glaze, whose balance of sweetness and saltiness made it an awesome delight. Mooncakes made by Chef Benoit Laboureux, Group Pastry Chef for Waterfront Hotels and Casinos with non-traditional mooncake flavors such as Ube Rum, Puto Cheese and Coconut Dry Mango were also served.

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t around Durianburg I recommend that diners taste the Ube Rum flavor as its creamy ube rum paste best compliments the chewy pas-

try crush. After the heavy lunch,

Urbanissimo A4

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

Serving a seamless society

EDGEDAVAO GENSAN PARTNERS

EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge! FOOD ENTERTAINMENT Urbanissimo A2 Mid-Autumn dinner was hosted by the Marco Polo Davao at the Lotus Court. Fresh from his week-long training at the Marco Polo Guangzou, Executive Chef Alex Destriza was not at all shy to show off new dishes and techniques which have made him a popular figure in the hotel’s signature Cantonese Restaurant. On Chef Alex’s menu was Peking Duck, Beef with XO Sauce, Homemade Tofu with Mushrooms, and as well as Suckling Pig. The wonderful spread also featured various flavors of “butchi,” sesame-covered glutenous rice balls that are stuffed with either mung bean paste, durian, dark chocolate, or my favorite, lotus seed paste. The highlight of the evening though was when Marco Polo Davao General Manager Dottie Würgler-Cronin handed out boxes of Marco Polo’s signature mooncakes which were flown in directly from Hong Kong. “These mooncakes are available throughout all Marco Polo properties worldwide because we want everyone to taste the authentic fla-

vors of mooncakes.” Dottie announed. As I peeked into the box of exquisitely packaged mooncakes, it remembered that each mooncake

literally packed close to a thousand calories. But at that instant, I didn’t seem to care. I knew that each and every calorie was worth it!

September 15 – 16, 2016 only

BARCELONA: A LOVE UNTOLD Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla Guaranteed Seating & One Time View ing Only

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

Matina Enclaves holds open house T

HE Matina Enclaves held another well-attended Monthly Open House for September at its Showroom and Marketing Center at Genesis 88 Building along Ecowest Drive.

Held last September 16, the Monthly Open House gathered prospective clients of the initial real estate venture of homegrown developer Escamdor Development Corporation (Esdevco).

Project head Gerald Kent Garces led the Matina Enclaves sales and marketing team in welcoming the clients and stakeholders to the said event. Meantime, Esdevco Realty Corporation feted its top-per-

forming sellers for their impressive client service and productive sales. They are Vilma Romero of Leuterio Realty, Ryan Sayson of Leuterio Realty, Catherine Bagaub of Mega Pacific Realty, and Fara Diaz of

Founded in 1986, CARD Inc. facilitates community-based activities that promote social development and improvement in the quality of life among its one million members in 970 branches all over the Philippines. Accredited as a servicing partner agent in 2012, CARD Inc. has facilitated the approval of 16,235 applications for SSS registration as of the 2nd quarter of

2016. CARD Inc. also became a SSS collecting partner agent in 2015 which recorded a total remittance of nearly P13 million as of June 2016. As a valuable SSS partner, it offered new channels for SSS payments and encouraged active SSS membership among community members in far-flung areas nationwide. Photo shows CARD Inc. Deputy Executive Director Joc-

elyn D. Dequito (center) and Compliance Officer Constancio B. La Rosa Jr. (3rd from right) receive the certificate of special citation from (L-R) Social Security Commission members Daniel L. Edralin, Eva B. Arcos, Diana Pardo-Aguilar and Bienvenido E. Laguesma and SSS Assistant Vice President for Cooperatives and Informal Sector Department Ma. Nympha M. Ragel. (SSS)

Leuterio Realty. Matina Enclaves is a mixed use real estate project located at Ecoland in Davao City. The gated complex features three residential segments—The Plains, The Courtyard and The

Residences (condominium). It boasts of such amenities as multi-function clubhouse, Olympic-size pool, an the soon-to-be constructed Arcadia, a sports and recreational complex.

SSS recognizes CARD Inc. as excellent partner DCWD announces service

HE Social Security System (SSS) conferred a special citation on the Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (CARD) Inc. for its exemplary performance as a collecting and servicing partner agent of SSS during the Balikat ng Bayan Awards, which coincided with the SSS 59th anniversary program, held last Sept. 2 at the SSS Main Office in Diliman, Quezon City.

Geeks on a Beach gets bigger and better on its 4th year

HE Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) international tech confab, recently held in Panglao, Bohol last August 2526, has gotten bigger and better on its fourth and present year. Soaring high from its debut in Boracay in 2013, this year’s GOAB made a new breakthrough with its partnership with the iconic US-based tech accelerator Techstars and Facebook’s internet.org “free internet” advocacy. “The Techstars Asia-Pacific Summit, a private gathering of 100 startup weekend leaders in the region, was held in the same venue two days prior to GOAB. This year’s GOAB also featured stronger ties with StartupPH. org, a newly formed umbrella organization of advocates for Philippine startups and tech industry. StartupPH.org includes the core group that completed

the Philippine Startup Roadmap in 2015. ” said Tina Amper, TechTalks.ph Founder and GOAB organizer. “Apart from the wider participation of the international community with delegates from the US, Singapore, Malaysia, among others, the recently concluded GOAB was also marked by stronger government support with the inspiring presence of Senator Bam Aquino and Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto,” added Amper. Senator Aquino is a strong proponent of the PH startup bill. Meanwhile, key government supporters from previous GOAB is now part of the newly installed Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Monchito Ibrahim, who was previous head of the now defunct Department of Science and Tech-

nology Information and Communication Technology Office oversaw the crafting of the PH Startup Roadmap in consultation with the startup community, is now Program Director of DICT’s eInnovation. With the theme “Empowering startups, leading change”, GOAB is organized by TechTalks.ph, co-organized by Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), and co-presented by PLDT SME Nation, Smart, Smart DevNet, Ideaspace and PLDT Innolab. GOAB was held in partnership with Bohol Provincial Government and Bohol ICT Council. Major organizational partners are Internet.org by Facebook and FbStart from Facebook. This year’s official airline partner is Philippines AirAsia. Silver Sponsors are Zalora, Myni-

mo, Teradoor, Pouch Nation, A Space, Infocomm Investments, and South Palms Resorts Panglao, while Bronze Sponsors are Yoyo Holdings, Payoneer, Eurekloud, USAID-STRIDE, US Embassy, Launchgarage, StarTechUp Inc., Eastern Communications, RTI International, Piktochart, Office of Senator Bam Aquino, Microsoft, Intel, Uniform Solutions, Department of Tourism and Be Grand Resort Bohol. GOAB organizational partners are Philippines Software Industry Association, National ICT Confederation of the Philippines, UP CebuInit.org, CedFIT. org, Game Developers Association of the Philippines, Digital Commerce Association of the Philippines, Developers Connect, STAC Silicon Valley and GoNegosyo. GOAB media partners are

F GEEKS, 12

interruptions: Sept 24 -25

HE Davao City Water District (DCWD) has scheduled two separate water service interruptions to facilitate the completion of the water facility’s ongoing service improvement projects, the water facility announced in a statement. The first service interruption is scheduled from 8:00 pm of Sept. 24 until 2 pm of Sept. 25, and will affect the following areas in Mintal: Mintal Proper, SamulcoVillage, Camella Cerritos Expansion, Sitio Cawa-Cawa, Ma-a Foundry, Small Village, NAPOLCOM in Mintal, and other immediate environs. DCWD’s crew will install a bypass line for the proposed District Metered Area at Mintal Proper in Tugbok District. Once completed, this project will help reduce non-revenue water. The second interruption will be from 9:00 pm of Sept 24, until 5 pm of Sept 25. The affected areas include those that are being serviced by Line 2 of the Dumoy Water Supply System(WSS), which include: Ma-a (from Emerald Village to Carlos P. Garcia Highway and from Shell Gasoline Station to Ma-a Bridge); Buhangin (from J.P Laurel Avenue to Tigatto Road including DDF Mandug; from Crossing Milan to Villa Park Subd.; and, from Ma-a Bridge to Camp Catitipan including Ciudad de Esperanza with Dumoy WSS connections, AFP Mutual Homes and Davao International Airport); Poblacion: Barangays 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13, left portion of Quirino Avenue (from Bankerohan Public Market to corner J.P. Laurel Avenue), Madapo Hills, Marfori Heights environs, Circumferential Road, and Bacaca Road; J.P. Laurel Avenue and immediate environs (from corner Sta. Avenue to Davao-Agusan Road); Cabaguio (fromDECO

Machine Shop to J.P. Laurel Avenue); Angliongto/Mamay Road and immediate environs (from corner J.P. Laurel Avenue to Carlos P. Garcia Highway); some areas in Lanang, Pampanga and Sasa (from Lanang to Km. 12 including Doña Asuncion Subd.,Summerhill Village, Guadalupe Village, Insular Village I, Fortune Executive Homes, NovaTierra Village, Belen Homes, Pampanga Executive Homes, San Roque Village, Don LorenzoHomes, Bolton Village, Doña Pilar Village, Southern Homes, Doña Paz Village, Hacienda Village, Old Airport Road, Doña Aurelia Village, Lougemar Village, Marla Compound, DoñaSalud, Bel-Air Subd., and Mercedes Village); and, Panacan: Crystal Meadows, Tierra Verde Village, Doña Caridad Subd., De Guzman Village, EMI Ville Homes, Empress Subd., Tierra Niño Village, DPWH Depot, PMPC Village, Landmark I, II and III, San Juan Village and Vista Verde I and II. This service interruption will give way to the tapping of the newly installed 350-mm diameter steel pipe to the existing 700-mm diameter steel pipe along Crossing Ulas that aims to provide additional water supply to the Dumoy WSS. DCWD management has asked for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected customers, and advised them to store enough water for their needs. Water supply may be restored earlier if work goes smoothly, or at a later time if unforeseen problems arise. In case the resumption of water supply will take longer than scheduled in the far north and elevated areas, the DCWD has assigned delivery trucks to augment the water supply needs of residents in the affected areas. Customers are advised to call DCWD Central

F DCWD, 12

12 NEWS EDGEDAVAO Syria: Attack on humanitarian convoy is an attack on humanity T

HE Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) are outraged by last night’s horrific attack on a SARC warehouse and an aid convoy in Orem Al Kubra (Big Orem) in rural Aleppo. Around twenty civilians and one SARC staff member were killed, as they were unloading trucks carrying vital humanitarian aid. Much of the aid was destroyed. The attack deprives thousands of civilians of much-needed

Geeks... FROM 11 Auza.Net, Tech in Asia, Geeks in Cambodia, Hubnob.tv, InnoPub Media, Mytechisland.com, Zerothreetwo.com, Jumpstart Magazine, Mobile Ecosystem Forum, Asian Journal Publications, Balikbayan Magazine, Innovation is Everywhere, e27, Newsdesk Asia, WazzupPilipinas, Esooped.com, Istorya.net, Expat Philippines, PayPerClick. ph, TopTen.ph, Escooped.com, Istorya.net, Expat Philippines, PayPerClick.ph, TopTen.ph and Our Awesome Planet. GOAB supporters are Islands, Hybridigm, Innovantage, Skyeye Inc., Purple Cow, Amun Ini Beach Resort and Havaianas.

food and medical assistance. “We’re totally devastated by the deaths of so many people, including one of our colleagues, the director of our sub-branch, Omar Barakat. He was a committed and brave member of our family of staff and volunteers, working relentlessly to alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people. It is totally unacceptable that our staff and volunteers continue to pay such a high price because of the ongoing fighting,” said the SARC President, Dr Abdulrahman Attar. “From what we know of yesterday’s attack, there has GOAB founding sponsors are Smart, Smart Bro, Smart Devnet, Ideaspace, Mynimo.com, Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, STAC Silicon Valley, Islands, Istorya.net, GT Cosmetics, Chef on Demand and Ng Khai Development Corporation. GOAB is powered by Sym. ph. GOAB branding by HappyGaraje, and PR management by PR Works. “GOAB is still playing a major role in the evolution and growth of the Philippine startup ecosystem, especially in gathering together the thriving innovation communities across the archipelago,” said David Overton, CEO

been a flagrant violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), which is totally unacceptable. Failing to respect and protect humanitarian workers and structures might have serious repercussions on ongoing humanitarian operations in the country, hence depriving millions of people from aid essential to their survival”, said Peter Maurer, the ICRC President. “Today, the Red Cross and Red Crescent is in mourning. In solidarity with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, we are calling on the international community to ensure the protection of humanitarian

of Sym.ph and Chief GOAB Geek. “This year’s GOAB continues the tradition of offering a unique combination featuring the latest tech developments and bringing together the best minds in the startup world while maintaining a fun and chill atmosphere by the beach,” added Overton. The two-day tech confab was held in the Bellevue Hotel in Panglao, Bohol. “It was a total experience. The knowledge imparted by the fantastic speakers, the networking opportunities with the bustling geek community, and of course the fun-filled, scenic, yet environmentally-friendly Bellevue Hotel,” said Amper. Participants were presented with jam-packed sessions featur-

aid workers and volunteers. We are not part of this conflict,” said Tadateru Konoé, the President of the IFRC. Syria is one of the most dangerous conflicts for humanitarian workers in the world. During the past six years, 54 staff and volunteers of SARC have lost their lives whilst carrying out their duties. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement repeats its demand that all parties to the conflict adhere to the rules of international humanitarian law, which includes protecting aid workers. (ICRC)

ing a wide variety of topics ranging from launching your startup, funding options, digital marketing, the latest trends in tech and social media, UX/UI design, drones and various topics in software programming. The agenda provided many opportunities for collaboration amongst attendees and speakers enabling deeper connections amongst them. What makes GOAB unique is the easy availability of attendees to connect and the 2-day or 48hour opportunity to mingle since many of the attendees stayed in the conference hotel or nearby. So participants saw each other at breakfast, at the conference, at dinner, at after-dinner socials, and back again on the second day. “Whether they are an in-

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

Troops... FROM 4 Private First Class Mario de Emoy. Also awarded with the Military Merit Medal were 1Lt. Jano Cyrill Reyes, 2Lt. Guillermo Pablo, 2Lt. Reynaldo Maglasang and PFC Ryant Abella.

Galvez also awarded the Military Merit Medal with bronze Spearhead Device to 2Lt. Cenar Malana, Staff Sgt. Renante Bolivar, Corporals Alger Alipuyo and Archie Dema-ala and PFC Adrian Ganancial. (PNA)

was a clear indication of government’s determination to have peace in the island,” Gambar said.

Galvez, on the other hand, stressed the need to continue cooperation and respect for the agreement. (PNA)

Information Unit /Call Center 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293), 0927-7988966, 0925-5113293 and 09084410653 to get updates on the schedule of water deliveries, and for other queries and complaints pertaining to DCWD

services. They may also visit the DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) for the latest daily water updates. (Katrina Belen M. Roble-DCWD)

Army... FROM 4

DCWD... FROM 11

vestor, or CEO, or anybody at the event, everyone was just an arms reach away.” said a tech attendee. Some of the biggest names in the international tech and startup scene were there: Techstars co-founder and managing partner David Brown, Startup Weekend co-founder Marc Nager, Chris McCann of Greylock Partners,Crowdsourcing Week founder and CEO Epi Ludvik Nekaj, 500 Startups Managing Partner/Investor Khailee Ng, 500 Startups corporate innovation director Arnaud Bonzom, Zalora Philippines Managing Director Constantine Robertz, PLDT SME Nation head Mitch Locsin, Ideaspace.ph Managing Director Diane Eustaquio, TechTalks chief

content officer Robert Cristobal, Citrix principal UX designer Philip McKay, and STAC Silicon Valley president Cristina Laskowski. “GOAB happened because of the people that supported us and the quality of people who attended. GOAB is a “destination” conference so people have to plan in advance to attend. As such, the participants were eager to learn, ready to do business, and open to connecting with each other. Many came prepared and pre-researched the speakers and companies presenting as they were looking for business leads or funding for their startups. One entrepreneur indicated that he already secured two large business opportunities and that was just day one.

13 MOTORING

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

The Honda BR-V goes on tour H

ONDA Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), Honda’s automobile business unit in the Philippines, will display the AllNew BR-V, Honda’s newest 7-seater SUV, at select malls and Honda dealerships beginning September 20, 2016. After its official debut in the 6th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) at World Trade Center Manila, customers who want to see the All-New BR-V in the metal, check out its interior, and know more about its features can drop by the following venues

September 20-21: Honda Cars Carmona - 1.5 S CVT September 20-21: Honda Cars Calamba - 1.5 V Navi CVT September 23-25: Lucky Chinatown Mall - 1.5 V Navi CVT September 27-28: Honda Cars Manila Bay - 1.5 V Navi CVT September 27-28: Honda Cars Kalookan - 1.5 S CVT September 30-October 2: Honda Cars Rizal - 1.5 S CVT September 30-October 2: Honda Cars San Pablo - 1.5 V Navi CVT

The All-New BR-V Nationwide Tour will allow customers to see and experience the All-New BR-V’s spacious 7-seating capacity, masculine exterior design, conveniently-sized body, advanced features, and topnotch safety technology. The All-New BR-V is available in two variants, namely, the entry-level 1.5 S CVT and the top of the line 1.5 V Navi CVT. Interested customers can reserve the All-New BR-V at any of the 34 Honda dealerships nationwide. Deliveries will begin in December 2016.

Toyota Motors PH launches Hilux TRD and Fortuner TRD

ITH Toyota Motor Philippines serving as the country’s official distributor of TRD parts, it’s only appropriate that they give their best-selling Fortuner and Hilux the full-on racy treatment. Well, that’s exactly what happened when Toyota showed off the 2017 Toyota Hilux TRD and Fortuner TRD at the Philippine International Motor Show. Though the 2016 Hilux has been available with TRD parts since its launch, the popularity of the package has lead Toyota to offer it as a new trim line that commands a P 164,000 premium over the stock truck. Of course, that’s assuming you’re willing to spend on a G variant—since it’s the only grade that can be transformable to a TRD. In short, opt for the TRD transfor-

mation, and you’re looking at the following prices: P 1,372,000 (4x2 TRD M/T), P 1,447,000 (4x2 TRD A/T), P 1,719,000 (4x4 TRD M/T), and P 1,849,000 (4x4 TRD A/T). Alongside the Hilux TRD, Toyota showed off the 2017 Toyota Fortuner TRD as well. Carrying a brand new appearance package that’s far removed from the Thai-market TRD Sportivo, this upgraded Fortuner isn’t just all show and no go. In fact, Toyota is offering an extensive line of performance parts for their popular 7-seater SUV as well. It’s essentially capable across the line with the exception of the

sports oil filter which cannot be installed in the gasoline engine variant. With parts shipping to its nationwide dealership network starting the third week of September (essentially, now), you can get some juicy parts like a sport suspension kit (P 132,900), sports brake pads (P 8,000), and many more. Some might find the TRD parts a bit pricey compared to the aftermarket competition, but you also have to take note that opting for these genuine parts and accessories will not void your warranty. So, essentially, you are paying for peace of mind.

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NO WAY Will Nietes fight Casimiro? A

WORLD title showdown between Johnriel Casimero and Donnie Nietes? While it may look good on papers, the fight is not exactly feasible. Promoter Sammy Gelo-Ani said

pitting two distinguished Filipino fighters in a championship bout won’t do any good for a country that doesn’t exactly enjoy a surplus of world boxing champions at present. “The fight would be good, but as a promoter, I don’t see it happening,”

said Gelo-Ani, who handles Casimero, the reigning International Boxing Federation

(IBF) flyweight title holder. The possibility of the two facing each other in the ring was raised following Nietes’ recent decision to vacant the World Boxing Organization (WBO) light-flyweight crown and move up in weight, in the hope of earning a shot at former

Junior PH netters advance in Singapore A

LEXANDRA Eala and Melanie Faye Dizon ruled the Cebuana Lhuillier Girls’ Tennis Challenge at the Valle Verde Country Club to gain slots in the WTA Future Stars Tournament Asia-Pacific leg in Singapore. Eala won the Under-14 title after beating Miles Vitaliano, 6-0, 7-5, while Dizon beat Carlyn Bless Guarde, 6-1, 6-2,

in the U-16 division. The Asia-Pacific meet is set in October. The Valle Verde meet featured 16 top junior netters in the country. “I’d like to thank and congratulate all the participants, most especially the two champions of the Cebuana Lhuillier WTA Future Stars qualifying tournament, for giving us such

exciting matches,” said Philippine Tennis Association chairman and Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier. “As a tennis patron, it was very inspiring to witness the talents and skills of these young tennis players. It’s about time that we take home the WTA crown, and there’s definitely a good chance for this

goal to be realized this year,” said Lhuillier. In the U-14 semifinals, Eala beat Bliss Bayking, 6-0, 6-2, while Vitaliano overcame Macie Carlos, 7-6, 6-2, in a three-hour duel. Dizon downed Mary Aubrey Calma, 6-3, 2-6, 6-2, as Guarde ousted Gennifer Pagente, 6-3, 6-3, in the U-16 semifinals.

in the all-time list of trophy winners with five titles. Leicester has much bigger priorities this season. Aside from attempting to retain its Premier League title, Claudio Ranieri’s team are in the Champions League for the first time and likely will not be too concerned about exiting a competition of the least importance. Japan forward Shinji Okazaki took advantage of defensive errors to score twice for Leicester at King Power Stadium, but the hosts were undermanned in extra time after Marcin Wasilewski collected his second yellow card in the 89th for elbowing Diego Costa in the face. Fabregas’ two goals send a message to Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, who has marginalized the Spain midfielder at the start of the season. Here’s a look at other results in the third round on Tuesday, as Premier League teams fared differently against lower-league opposition after rotating their starting lineups:

EVERTON 0, NORWICH 2 Everton failed to transfer its strong Premier League form to the League Cup by losing to second-tier Norwich, which played almost a complete reserve team. Steven Naismith, a former Everton player, and Norwich double their lead in spectacular style as one of the Murphy twins, Josh, spins with his back to goal maybe 18 yards out, unleashes a left-footed strike that whizzes in off the underside of the bar!Josh Murphy were the scorers. Everton has been the surprise of the Premier League so far, currently sitting in second place after an unbeaten start that includes four wins from five games. The team’s last piece of major silverware came in 1995. NOTTINGHAM FOREST 0, ARSENAL 4 Lucas Perez, a recent signing from Spanish side Deportivo La Coruna, scored twice in the second half for his first goals for Arsenal. Granit Xhaka scored from

long range — as he did against Hull in the Premier League on Saturday — to put Arsenal ahead and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain wrapped up the victory for a visiting team featuring a mix of youth-team players and fringe squad members. BOURNEMOUTH 2, PRESTON 3 Bournemouth joined Everton in exiting the competition, meaning six Premier League teams have been eliminated so far. Danish striker Simon Makienok scored a hat trick for second-tier Preston, with his second goal coming in the 85th minute to take the game into extra time and his third clinching the win in the 111th minute. Fresh off a heavy defeat at Manchester City, Bournemouth played an entire second-string team. In games between League Championship teams, Reading won 2-1 at Brighton, Leeds won 1-0 at home to Blackburn, and Newcastle beat Wolverhampton Wanderers, 2-0.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 150 • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

DREAM FIGHT. Fellow world flyweight champions Johnriel Casimiro (below, left) and Donnie Nietes (top, right) fighting against each other would not be good for Philippine boxing.

WBO and World Boxing Association (WBA) flyweight king Juan Estrada of Mexico. But by doing so, Nietes also opens the prospect of meeting the 26-yearold Casimero, who just a week ago retained his 112-lbs. title with a 10th round TKO of Briton Charlie Edwards. Gelo-Ani however, wouldn’t have none of it. “We’d rather fight someone else. We don’t want to pit a Filipino champion against another Filipino,” said the former personnel of Cebu-based ALA Promotions, who had a hand in making Nietes a world champion back in 2007. “Mahirap kasi unti na nga

lang yung world champions natin, tapos sila pa ang maglalaban. Maganda sana, pero I’d rather not have it.” Casimero, 26, is also against the idea of clashing with his former sparring partner, who is set to meet former world champion Edgar Sosa this Saturday (Sunday, Manila time) at the StubHub Center in Carson, California in his debut at flyweight.

Fabregas’brace keys Chelsea win

ITH no European competitions clogging up their schedules, Chelsea and Liverpool are placing more importance on the English League Cup than usual this season. They both advanced to the last 16 on Tuesday — but took different routes. Chelsea came from two goals behind at Premier League champion Leicester, taking an end-to-end game to extra time at 2-2 thanks to goals from defenders Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta before Cesc Fabregas’ double clinched a 4-2 win. Liverpool had it much easier, dispatching second-tier Derby in a 3-0 victory with Ragnar Klavan, Philippe Coutinho and Divock Origi scoring the goals. Chelsea and Liverpool both rested key players but still fielded strong lineups in a bid to stay alive in one of three competitions they’ll enter this season. Liverpool is a record eight-time League Cup winner, while Chelsea is joint-second

TRIGGERMAN. Axel Doromal of Ateneo de Davao University fired 25 points in the finals of the 2016 DACS Basketball Tournament against his former team Assumption Collegge of Davao. Doromal’s timely hits in the final period keyed Ateneo’s 74-66 win. Tetet Blanco

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CLEAN RAFA

Nadal denies illegal doping after latest hacking

PANISH tennis star Rafael Nadal has denied accusations of illegal doping after being named in the latest series of leaks by the Russian hacker group calling itself ‘Fancy Bears’. The group claims to have breached the files of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and uncovered the identities of athletes permitted to take prohibited products for supposedly therapeutic reasons. Speaking at an event in Zaragoza, Nadal admitted he had taken such products, but insisted he had done nothing wrong. Nadal

has suffered a series of injuries in recent years. “The two times the leak mentions in 2009 and 2012, I was taking medication for my knees and it was with authorization (from WADA) and if you have permission to take something, then it is not illegal,” he said. Nadal also insisted that the issue should “not be taken out of context”. “We have the best possible anti-doping control in tennis and I have 100 percent faith in the Agency which controls it and the other players are also clean,” said

I’M CLEAN. Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal has denied accusations of illegal doping.

Nadal, who admitted that the situation would be better if the medications taken were made public, rather than being kept private, as is the case now. “It would benefit everyone if the results were known when tests are taken because everything would be transparent and that is what we all want. Sport not only has to be clean, but it has to be seen to be clean. That way we would end all of the speculation,” he concluded. (PNA/Xinhua)

Perlas topples Singapore 69-43

HE Philippine national women’s basketball team bucked a slow start before its defense picked up as they hammered out a convincing 69-43 win over Singapore at the start of the SEABA Women’s Championship at the Bukit Serindit Indoor Stadium here. The Filipinas, whose program is being backed by Blackwater Women, tightened up their defense in the second pe-

riod to turn the tables on their Singaporean counterparts. Their pressing defense forced their rivals to 14 turnovers in the second period alone, allowing Perlas Pilipinas to score 16 points off their errors. Chak Cabinbin, one of the team’s newest inclusions, and Camille Sambile, sparked the team’s breakaway. The pint-size but shifty guard Cabinbin scored 13

points after two quarters while Sambile, a mainstay of this program, had eight of her 10 in the second period alone. They helped the Philippines in a backbreaking 21-4 run as Perlas Pilipinas led 46-27 at the half. Cabinbin, MVP of the WNCAA several times, led the way for Perlas Pilipinas with 16 points while Sambile contributed 10. Allana Lim chipped

ROUSING DEBUT. The Perlas PIlipinas women’s national team considers Malaysia as its mmost formidable foe.

in nine points while Cindy Resultay contributed eight boards for the run and gun Filipinas, who limited the usually deadshot Singaporeans to just 28-percent shooting from the field. “We were a little bit sluggish. We came here 1:30 p.m. and it was like siesta time,” said Perlas Pilipinas head coach Patrick Aquino. “But I’ve told the players, you’ve got to work hard from start to finish and you can’t have that kind of start from teams like Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.” Perlas Pilipinas opened the game tight, allowing Singapore to score six straight points, but as soon as the Filipinas worked double-time on the defensive end, they were able to dictate the tempo of the match. After giving up 18 points in the first quarter, Perlas made terrific defensive stands, giving up nine, nine and seven points in the last three periods. Singapore only scored 16 points in the entire second half as the Philippines pushed their lead to as high as 28 points in the rout. Next in line for the Philippines is Laos, which it battles Wednesday night at 6 p.m.

Mighty Sports begins Merlion Cup campaign

FTER a successful William Jones Cup stint, Philippines-Mighty Sports vies for another international title as it gets into action in the Merlion Cup starting yesterday in Singapore. Mighty Sports opens its campaign against Korean club Samsung Thunders at 8:00 p.m. The Philippine club, which won the Jones Cup last July, is parading yet another stacked roster that makes it one of the favorites in the tournament. Leading Mighty Sports are former Gilas Pilipinas naturalized player Marcus Douthit, former two-time UAAP MVP Kiefer Ravena, GlobalPort Batang Pier veteran Joseph

Yeo and former NBA veteran Al Thornton. Douthit is making his comeback in the court after almost a one-year hiatus. He played as the Philippines’ naturalized player in elite international competitions from 2010 to 2015. Ravena is joining Mighty Sports straight from the United States where he just tried out for NBA D-League squad Texas Legends, while Yeo is coming off a stint in the PBA Governors’ Cup where his Batang Pier was eliminated early. Thornton is one of the players back in the Mighty Sports roster following its Jones Cup sweep. The team also retained the services of Dewarick Spen-

cer, Hamady N’Diaye and Jason Brickman. Rounding up the lineup are retired PBA player TY Tang, former UP Fighting Maroons member Edrick Ferrer, Matthew Wright, Jason Deutchman, MERLION CUP. Kiefer Ravena (left) and Marcus Douthit ex-NU Bull- (right) will lead Mighty Sports. dogs guard vitational basketball tournaGelo Alolino and brothers Raphael and Gab ment based in Singapore to be played for the first time this Banal. The Merlion Cup is an in- year after two decades.

Fielding key in PAL Ladies Interclub F

IELDING will play a major role this year as the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Ladies Interclub, which tees off on Oct. 4 at chilly Camp John Hay in Baguio, is now set over four days with each player to play just two rounds. Patterning the tournament to the Seniors division, PAL made a change in the format, making team skippers think more about fielding unlike in the past when one team can go full steam ahead each day. Eight players make up a team and four will play in a day with only the top three scores counting as Manila Southwoods-Masters shoots to extend its unprecedented reign in the centerpiece Championship Division to six. Pauline del Rosario, a talent many see as ripe for the pros, will be spearheading SW-Masters, which will miss the services of Abegail Arevalo, last year’s individual champion in Bacolod, next month because of studies in the United States at San Jose State. Mikhaela Fortuna and Sofia Chabon, a pair of talented teenagers who have had a lot of international success, are the other big guns playing for SW-Masters. The others in the roster are Annika Guangko, Claire Ong, Andrea Pineda,

Serafina Kim and the veteran Lora Roberto. Cebu Country Club and Del Monte will again try to unseat the Carmona-based lasses, with Cebu CC also to miss the services of its top performer last year, Lois Kaye Go, who is also in the US on a golf scholarship. But that doesn’t mean that Cebu CC doesn’t pack a punch as sisters Irina and Junia Gabasa and Japanese nationals Riko and Ryoko Nagai take the cudgels for CCC. Mark Kim Hong, Catrina Martinez, Jyra Mae Wong and Crystal Faith Superal-Neri are the others completing the Cebu CC roster. Del Monte, however, will be parading a relatively unknown team that is being groomed for future success even as a total of 32 teams will be seeing action in four total divisions counting the Founders, Sportswriters and Friendship brackets. Major sponsors of the 72hole championship include Solar Entertainment Corp., Airbus, Business Mirror, Mareco Broadcasting Network, People Asia and Manila Broadcasting Corp. Other backers are Philippine Daily Inquirer, Fonterra, Mega Fiber, Mastercard, Tanduay Distillers and Zalora.

RESURGENT Caroline Wozniacki advanced to the second round of the Pan Pacific Open on Tuesday while gaining revenge over Belinda Bencic for last year’s semifinal defeat. Continuing the form that took her to the U.S. Open semifinals, Wozniacki hit 10 aces in the 6-2, 5-7, 6-1 win over Bencic to set up a second-round meeting with fourth-seeded Carla Suarez

Navarro. The result ended a run of four straight defeats for Wozniacki against the Swiss player. Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan upset fifth-seeded Madison Keys of the United States 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7) while facing down 15 aces, and sixth-seeded Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia ousted Lucie Safarova of the Czech Republic 4-6, 6-1, 7-5 on a drop shot after 2 1/2 hours.

Wozniacki advances to second round in Tokyo A

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