Edge Davao 9 Issue 154

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

www.edgedavao.net

Serving a seamless society

INFRA TASK FORCE. A porter walks by a row of massive culverts which will be used in the drainage rehabilitation project in Bankerohan, Davao City yesterday. The city government of Davao planned to create a task force to fast track the projects which caused traffic congestions in the city’s main thoroughfares. Lean Daval Jr.

LAND ROW BEHIND MASSACRE OF 3

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

UTHORITIES are now conducting a manhunt against one of the suspects who were allegedly responsible for killing three family members yesterday in Purok 5, Baracatan, Toril District, Davao City.

Barangay officials in Baracatan identified the victims as couple Carlita and Percival Edar, both in their 50s, and their 12year old son John Casser Edar.

One of the suspects, Romulo Teleron has been arrested, while the other suspect, identified as Nilo Teleron, is being pursued by authorities.

Both Nilo and Romulo are brothers of the victim

Carlita.

According to barangay officials, a possible motive behind the massacre could be the land dispute between Carlita and her siblings Nilo and Romulo.

In an interview in a local radio station in Davao City, Barangay Captain Danilo Rambid said Carlita and Nilo were supposed to appear at the Barangay Hall for a hearing on a child abuse case filed by Carlita against Nilo.

During the radio interview, Carlita accused Nilo of abusing her 12 year old son John Casser.

Aside from the barangay case involving Carlita’s son, Rambid said the elderly woman and her

siblings are also embroiled in a land dispute which has been lodged at a local court.

Initial reports by the police said the couple and their son were sleeping when the perpetrators forcibly entered their residence at around 1:00 a.m. on Tuesday.

Percival was hacked in the neck by the suspects but still managed to run outside their house and ask for help.

His dead body was recovered outside their residence.

Carlita sustained a gunshot wound in the face, while her son John Casser sustained a hack wound in the neck.

Yolanda aftermath caravan visits in Davao City

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

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N a creative expression to raise awareness to combat human trafficking, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with Inter Agency Council Against Trafficking in Persons (IACATP), launched a photo exhibit entitled “Deeper Scars” at 2nd floor lobby Marco Polo Hotel yesterday.

The exhibit features a col-

EDGEDAVAO

BIGGER PICTURE

lection of photos of human trafficking survivors and the vulnerable situation of communities recovering from the devastation of the super typhoon.

Aside from raising awareness and prevention of the deviation, the project highlights the need for recovery and reintegration assistance for the victims of human trafficking, not only in the form of liveli-

Daku Island: Next tourism hot spot in Siargao P12

hood support but also through psychological support for the victims, their families and their communities.

Mmulti-awarded photojournalist, Vicente Jaime “Veejay” Villafranca, documented these post-Haiyan stories of human trafficking and shared his collection to the public to increase awareness on human

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EDGEDAVAO Sports Clarkson excited of new-look Lakers P15

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

PEACE WARRIORS. President Duterte exchanges banter with National Democratic Front peace panel chair Luis Jalandoni in a meeting held in Malacañan’s State Dining Room on September 26. Also in the photo are Government of the Philippines chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III (3rd from right) and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza (2nd from right). ROBINSON NIÑAL/PPD

TFD intensifies terror ‘Bato’told to run after brains awareness campaign behind arms deal with ASG L I

EADERS of tribal communities and officials of different barangays in Davao City spent the whole Saturday studying terrorism and how they can help avert terror attacks.

The forum, which was an initiative of Task Force Davao and the local government of Davao City, was attended by around 500 officials from the 182 barangays.

The event, which was held at the Ritz Hotel, aimed to educate community leaders on the threats of terrorism and recognize their roles in preventing terror attacks from happening.

Task Force Davao has upped its campaign against terrorism following the Sept. 2 bomb attack that killed 15 peo-

ple and wounded 69 others.

Saturday’s forum was also attended by security experts that briefed the tribal leaders and community officials on terrorism-related issues.

Col. Erwin Bernard Neri, newly-installed TFD chief, said public involvement plays an important role in helping secure the city from terrorists.

“When I assumed the post as the commander of Task Force Davao, one of my objectives was to rally the support of the community and help our anti-terrorism campaign,” Neri said.

“By raising the level of awareness, we can also raise the level of their vigilance,” he added.

ILIPINO communities in the United States support President Duterte despite the noise at home, Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said Tuesday after visiting different locations in the US with high concentrations of Filipinos.

“The Filipino communities in San Francisco, Washington, and New York have shown very positive responses to the President,” he said in a press briefing in Malacañang.

“They are highly commit-

ted to the President. They are very, very supportive and despite a little bit of noise, they continue to be very upbeat about what’s happening in the Philippines and continue to support the programs of the President,” he added.

Asked if the Filipino communities in the US are alarmed by the recent statements of the President, Abella said Filipino-Americans understand the sentiments of President Duterte.

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By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ adlopez0920@gmail.com

F the ammunitions recently recovered by authorities from a gunrunning group supplying guns and ammos to the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) came from the government’s arsenal, then Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa should dig deeper in his investigations to find out who are men and women behind the sale.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Dela Rosa said the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) busted a gunrunning syndicate that led to the capture of four men, including their alleged leader in a raid conducted last Saturday,

Sept. 24 in Barangay West Crame, Quezon City.

The CIDG also recovered a cache of high-powered firearms and ammunitions with an estimated value of P6 million.

The seized firearms include M-23 grenade launchers, M-16 rifles and around 1,000 ammunitions.

Dela Rosa identified the arrested suspects as Unding Kenneth Isa, Hadja Risdimona Isa, Aljamer Akarab Mandih and Hurbin Ali Sahibu.

Their leader, Unding Kenneth Isa is a defeated vice-gubernatorial candidate from the province of Sulu, the reports added.

“Isa and a certain aka Wahid, both natives of Indangan, Sulu in Mindanao were reported as leaders of gunrunning group who supplies and delivers high-powered guns to the ASG, warlords and even politicians from Manila to Jolo, Sulu,” Dela Rosa said during the press conference on Tuesday.

He added that Isa’s group and some ASG members have been in Manila since August 2016 to purchase a cache of guns, explosives’ components and ammunitions upon orders of an unidentified ASG commander.

The seized guns and ammos are supposed to be used in the strengthening of the

ASG’s armaments in their fight against the government forces, and the intensification of their kidnapping activities and bombing operations, dela Rosa said.

The PNP chief also confirmed that most of the seized ammos were traced back to the government arsenal.

“Most of the ammunitions were traced back to the government arsenal. All others are still being traced kung saan ito galing,” dela Rosa said.

Angry netizens said the connections of the suspects inside the government must be identified and prosecuted.

“They receive salaries

as Cebu and Cagayan de Oro, these areas should be included in President Duterte’s emergency powers.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) submitted on Sept. 2 a proposed bill to the Senate that seeks to provide emergency powers to the President for up to three years.

Under the bill, P1.2 trillion worth of infrastructure projects will be carried out by the national government, through

the the DOTr to address traffic congestion particularly in Metro Manila and other urbanized cities in the country.

While other urbanized cities are mentioned in the said bill, the list of projects proposed under the emergency powers is only “exclusive for Metro Manila.”

The proposed Traffic and Congestion Crisis Act of 2016 acknowledges that the traffic and congestion crisis in Met-

Filipino-Americans back Rody - Abella Dad wants Davao to be in Rody’s transport emergency powers F A F FILIPINO, 10

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By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

DAVAO City councilor has proposed to include Metro Davao and other highly urbanized cities in the Philippines in the areas that would be covered by the emergency powers being sought for President Duterte in order to resolve the country’s traffic woes.

Councilor Danny Dayanghirang made the recommendation yesterday during the regular Sangguniang Panglungsod session wherein

he bared his plans to write to House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and lobby for the inclusion of Metro Davao in the scope of the President’s proposed emergency powers.

In an interview, Dayanghirang said he will pass a resolution regarding his proposal, as he also wants to gather inputs from his fellow councilors.

He explained that considering the worsening traffic conditions in Davao City and other urban areas such

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EDGEDAVAO

NEWS 3

Bonguyan wants law for solo parents

By RIA VALDEZ

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CITY councillor wants single parents in the city to exercise their rights and avail of privileges in accordance with RA 8972 or the Solo Parents Welfare Act. “Most of them don’t even know their rights,” said Councilor Cherry Bonguyan in her privilege speech during yesterday’s regular session.

She cited 2013 figures from the National Statistics Office (NSO) which showed that out of 98.39 million Filipinos, 14 million are solo parents, which is almost 14% of the entire country’s population.

Bonguyan noted that although these figures weren’t that “alarming,” she encour-

Davao City Council to improve guidelines of Lingap Program

ages single parents to take advantage of the services being offered under RA 8972.

The law was promulgated in November 2000, while its IRR was approved in April 2002.

Under RA 8972, the benefits and privileges of solo parents should be provided by the Department of Social

Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other NGOs. This assistance package includes programs for livelihood, self-employment, and health and social services.

As of August 13, 2010, the RA includes the following benefits: 10% discount for all purchases of clothing and clothing materials for their

children from birth up to two years; 15% for all purchases of baby’s milk, food and food supplements;15%discount for all purchases of medicines and other medical supplements/supplies for the child; and basic personal exemption from individual income tax.

In order to avail these services, Bonguyan said par-

ents must apply for a solo parent ID card from the City Social Welfare Development (CSWD) office.

Once the ID has been issued, the parent can immediately avail of the services from the concerned agencies.

“These services may not be much, but it can be a head start,” said Bonguyan.

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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HE Davao City Council has called on the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) to work closely with the legislative body with regards to the implementation of Davao City government’s Lingap Program.

This developed after Councilor Joselle Villafuerte invited SPMC officials to the City Council to present project proposals that aim to improve the city’s medical and hospitalization program.

It had come to Villafuerte’s attention that some barangay liaison officers would issue medical prescriptions with doctors’ signatures and sell them to patients.

During yesterday’s regular session at the City Council,

Dr. Leopoldo Vega, medical chief of SPMC, presented proposals that aim to enhance the city’s delivery of medical services, He also promised to coordinate with the City Council regarding the proposal’s future implementation.

Vega explained that the authorized representative of patients must secure a guarantee letter for immediate family members.

“The representative must also include the result of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and hospital bills in the medical coverage,” Vega added.

“We will have a closer coordination with the city coun-

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HEIGHTENED SECURITY. A group of Philippine Navy personnel conducts foot patrol along R. Magsaysay Avenue in Davao City as part of the heightened security measures being undertaken by authorities after the bombing incident at Roxas night market three weeks ago. Lean Daval Jr.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

Stop blaming Rody for stock market losses - Rep. Nograles

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LOBAL market forces is the main culprit behind the series of drops in the Philippine Stock Market and has nothing to do with President Duterte’s anti-drug war policy and his alleged verbal attacks against western leaders, House Appropriations Committee Chair and Davao City Congressman Karlo Alexei Nograles today said in a statement.

Nograles also stressed the stock market should not be used as a gauge to measure the country’s economic health as he pointed out that portfolio investments are naturally unpredictable as investors are in a constant hunt for more profitable stocks.

“Portfolio investments should not be used to gauge the economy because there are many factors that affect the stock market that’s not necessarily reflective of a country’s economic position.

The country’s economic viability as a location for investment is more closely reflected by its inflows of foreign direct investments which is expected to grow even stronger once the administration has succeeded in winning the fight against crime and drugs.

Peace and order is a key consideration for FDI locators,” Nograles said.

Nograles said the hiccups in the stock market for the past several weeks is influenced by the anticipation of monetary policy tightening in the US that prompted portfolio investors to reconfigure their portfolio allocations.

Nograles cited the position of Philippine Association of Stock Brokers and

Dealers Inc. President Vivian Yuchengco who said that foreign selling of Philippine stocks even before the ruckus about President Duterte’s war against drugs and his alleged verbal attack against US President Barack Obama to prove that the movement in the stock market is market driven.

Nograles said the country’s economic fundamentals remain very strong and with President Duterte’s commitment to bring order in the streets and finally end the country’s multi-pronged insurgency problem, the Philippines will emerge stronger as one of Asia’s primary hub for FDIs. Nograles also expressed confidence the country’s economy will get a much-needed stimulus with the early passage of the P3.35 Trillion General Appropriations Act of 2017 and the granting of emergency powers for President Duterte to solve Metro Manila’s traffic problem which is one of the major turn-offs among FDI locators.

The 2017 GAA is now in the final stage of debates in the House of Representatives fter Nograles presented the budget bill for plenary approval last Monday.

“The national expenditure program is not only a budget for change. Large portions of the budget are for infrastructure projects that would expand the country’s investment potentials in other regions including Mindanao which has long been neglected in terms of development,” Nograles said.

SAGE. A fortune teller uses cards to predict the future of a client during a session on fortune telling inside a school canteen in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Councilor lauds Dabawenyos for most child-friendly city win

By RIA VALDEZ

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OUNCILOR Avegayle Ortiz, chairperson of the City Council’s Women, Children, and Family Relations, congratulated the people and local government of Davao for winning the Most Child-Friendly City award under the highly urbanized city category for the fifth time since 1998.

In her privilege speech during yesterday’s regular Sangguniang Bayan regular session, Ortiz stressed the award is a testament to how the city and its people have

fected the country’s youth, but their parents as well.

By winning the award, she said, Davao City has shown the battle against the illegal drug trade can be won with the support of all members of the community.

Ortiz cited President Duterte, whose campaign against the illicit drug trade when he was still the mayor of Davao, laid the foundation wherein the city was able to win the Most Child-Friendly for the fifth time.

She said that with all the criticisms being hurled at the President, “I hope those senators would listen to him (President).”

Ortiz pointed out that through President Duterte’s leadership, the Philippines would be looked upon as a child-friendly country.

The councillor also noted in her speech that Bryg.

Mintal, headed by Brgy.

Chairperson Ramon Bargamento, has been declared the most child-friendly barangay in Davao City.

paign that aims to promote “RICEponsibility” among Filipinos.

In support of the promotion campaign #Brown4Good Challenge, Councilor Avegayle Ortiz cited PhilRice and Department of Agriculture (DA)’s report that consumption of brown rice can help solve malnourishment, hun-

ger, and low income among local farmers.

Councilor Ortiz explained that brown rice has higher contents of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants compared to regular milled white rice.

“DA and health experts say the nutritional contents of brown rice help prevent dia-

betes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer,” she pointed out.

Councilor Ortiz encouraged the public to support the #BROWN4good Project by ordering brown rice in restaurants or cooking it at home, then posting a picture with the hashtag #BROWN4good and #Region11 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

lic relations section chief, said project proposals include geonet production and marketing, rice processing and trading, seaweeds production and marketing, cardava production and marketing, banana consolidation and marketing, bangus production and marketing and abaca production and marketing.

During the deliberation, Presilda said OIC Regional Executive Director and RPAB Chair Renato Manantan emphasized that PGs should have the capacity to carry out the projects and even ensure their sustainability to get approval from the board.

“The projects should not only benefit the direct beneficiaries but should also become a venue to enable communities to alleviate poverty that even after the project has ended, people will continue to live and prosper,” Manantan said.

PRDP, a six-year national government platform for inclusive, value-oriented and climate resilient agricultural and fisheries sector, has been known to have championed measures on transparency and accountability.

Presilda said the municipality of Cortes, which is the lone proponent for infrastructure component during the

deliberation also received an endorsement from the RPAB with four subprojects amounting to P22.6 million.

These include the construction of 6 watch towers, 9 papag dryers, 5 units all-weather dryers, and a warehouse with solar dryer. ”These sub-projects will not only help our fishers and seasoned farmers but will also sustain the protection of our marine protected areas and fish sanctuaries and would eventually create employment for our people,” said Coastal Resource Management Officer Vincent Duenas of Cortes, Surigao del Sur. (PNA)

ensured protection of the rights and welfare of children.

She also thanked non-government organizations, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Education (DepEd), and other concerned government agencies which have helped promote the rights of children.

According to Ortiz, the drug menace has been a major social concern that has not only adversely af-

Water service interruption Davao City Council joins #Brown4Good challenge in some Obrero areas T slated September 30

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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AVAO City Water District advises of a water service interruption on September 30, 2016 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM affecting these areas in Obrero: portion of Torrres Street (from corners Vinzon to Del Pilar streets); portion of Vinzon Street (from corners Torres Street to Dacudao Avenue); portion of Villamor Street (from corners Torres Street to Dacudao Avenue); portion of Del Pilar Street (from corners Torres Street to Dacudao Avenue); portion of Tahimik Street (from corners Torres Street to Dacudao Avenue) and right portion of Dacudao Avenue (from Vinzon Street going to Del Pilar Street).

This water service interruption is needed for the tapping of the newly installed 100mm diameter Polyvinyl Chloride Pipeline to the existing 150mm diameter Mortar Lined Cement Coated Steel Pipeline for the mainline improvement at Tahimik Street

in Bo. Obrero. Once completed, said project will allow for accommodation of additional service connections.

The DCWD management asks for the understanding and cooperation of would-be affected customers. They are also advised to store enough water prior to the scheduled water interruption. Water supply may be restored earlier if work goes smoothly or later if unforeseen problems arise.

The general public may visit DCWD website (www. davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) or call the Central Information Unit / Call Center through the 24-hour hotline 297-DCWD (3293) and press “1” on their phone dial to listen to latest daily water updates. They may also call / text 0927-7988966, 0925-5113293 and 09084410653 for other updates, complaints, queries and matters pertaining to DCWD services. (Jamae G. Dela Cruz)

HE Davao City Council is urging the public to eat brown rice because it is healthy and helps the country attain rice self-sufficiency.

Inspired by 2013’s National Year of Rice, the “Be RICEponsible” of Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) is an advocacy cam-

P102-M worth of PRDP agri projects in Caraga

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FTER a thorough deliberation, the Regional Project Advisory Board (RPAB) of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in the Caraga region has approved and endorsed for funding P102 million worth of sub-projects (SP) from different proponent groups (PGs).

Nineteen of the SPs amounting to a total of P80 million are under the Enterprise Development portfolio that aims to increase farmers’ individual income and benefit the various associations and cooperatives.

Emmylou Presilda, DA Caraga information and pub-

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

Finance dept’s P21.3B budget endorsed for House approval

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HE House committee on appropriations has endorsed for congressional approval the P21.3-billion budget of the Department of Finance (DOF) and its attached agencies for 2017, which, according to the panel, will help the new administration accomplish its primary objective of inclusive growth as provided for under President Duterte’s 10-point socioeconomic agenda.

House appropriations subcommittee chairperson Rep. Luis Raymund “LRay” Villafuerte saidon Monday that the DOF and its attached agencies, including the Bureaus of Internal Revenue (BIR) and of Customs (BOC) , play “pivotal roles” in helping the Duterte administration implement programs designed to lift 10 million Filipinos out of poverty and transform the Philippines into an upper middle-income country by 2022.

“Funding the budget of the DOF, which is the government’s main agency in charge of revenue generation, is also important in keeping on track the Duterte administration’s long-term goal of eradicating extreme poverty in one generation or by 2040 and making the Philippines a high-income country by that time,” Villafuerte said in his sponsorship speech Villafuerte said on the floor that the total budget of the

DOF and its attached agencies for 2017 amounts to P21.301 billion, up by 16 percent from P18.413 billion in last year’s General Appropriations Act. The period of interpellation on the 2017 DOF budget plan was finished on Monday night.

The budget of the DOF proper notably dropped from P2.6 billion in 2016 to P1.6 billion in 2017, following the cancellation of the plan to build a new building for the Department, Villafuerte said.

As for the DOF-attached agencies, the BIR has the largest allocated budget with the proposed amount of P8.6 billion, which is only 0.5% of its program P1.8-trillion collections in 2017.

The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) budget, at P6.461 billion, represents an increase of 288% from the previous year’s budget.

This budget increase is the result of the P4.6-billion increase in BTR’s capital outlays, owing to capital subscriptions to foreign financial institutions, including the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

The proposed BOC budget totals P3.6 billion, which represents an increase of P990 million or 38% more than its year-ago outlay, and is only 0.8% of the total 2017 BOC program revenues of P467 billion.

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Underground cabling project now on second phase -- CEO

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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HE implementation of the multi-million peso underground cabling project, an initiative of the City Government of Davao in collaboration with the Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC), is now on its second phase.

According to Davao City

Engineers Office (CEO) Officer-in-Charge Engr. Dominic Joseph Felizarta, phase two of the cabling project will be carried out along Quirino Avenue and San Pedro Street.

“The project aims to get rid of the unsightly overhead wires in the city’s skyline view,” Felizarta explained.

Felizarta said the City Council wants to put all of Davao’s distribution systems underground.

He explained it will take about five to six years for the wiring system to be to completed, as it is being undertaken in phases.

Felizarta said the wirings

of DLPC, Davao City Water District, Traffic Management Center, telecommunication and cable companies, and other private businesses have already been inspected to ensure the project’s implementation will not affect the operations of the said establishments.

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PRICE HIKE. A fuel pump attendant serves a customer at a gasoline station along E. Quirino Avenue in Davao City yesterday. Major and independent oil companies implemented another round of pump price hike of both gasoline and diesel by P0.25 per liter yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

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PhilConstruct 2016:

Great beginnings for small players

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

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N this era of fast-paced change comes the rise of a wide array of technologies that improve the day-to-day lives of people.

Such breakthroughs also provide substantial economic gains for communities which utilize and maximize their benefits.

The recent PhilConstruct Mindanao Expo held early this month at the SMX Convention Center provided a glimpse of these life-changing technologies.

The expo featured a wide range of products for the construction, manufacturing and print industry.

In particular, the event showcased a new class of exhibitors that aim to be recognized for their new, worldclass products.

Island Premium Paints Island Premium Paints is a relatively new player in the construction and advertising business.

It is homegrown brand that offers a variety of paints that are more affordable compared to more prominent foreign paint brands.

The company assures the public that it can compete with more prominent foreign brands.

A Cebu-based company, Island Paints is gaining a wider clientele, as its products aim to meet the Filipino’s taste and budget.

The company has in fact started to make its mark in the industry, as it has partnered with established real-estate companies that are implementing major projects such as the Aeon Towers and Matina Enclaves in Davao City.

According to the Brand Officer Lendice Marie A. Cal, the company is eyeing Visayas and Mindanao to be the focus of their expansion plans.

Avolution In the meantime, Avolu-

tion, a prime mover in advertising technology featured its wide range of digital products including Light Emitting Diode (LED), video boards (indoor and outdoor) and digital signages.

The Manila-based company plans to expand in Davao City by bringing in its relatively new digital signage technology which has a emerging, growign market here.

Pooreun Meanwhile, Korean owned company Pooreun is also a new player in the house furnishing business.

Over the past five years, the company has established its name as a reliable supplier of UPVC in residential areas in Davao which include Primeland and Santos Land.

It has also partnered with Bluejaz Beach Resort in Samal Island, and caters to clients outside the region such as Cotabato City and Iloilo City.

This year, the company plans to expand its range products to include cabinets and Korean furniture.

VEI Tubo Juice Corner For its part, VEI Tubo Juice Corner showcased a more convenient way of extracting juice from sugar cane.

It is a Davao-based store that has participated in various agriculture expositions in the region.

The store displays its product at the Lanang Weekend Market.

Bundy Wine Another new player is Bundy Wine, which offers a wide range of wine products that are made from tropical fruits found in the Philippines such as rambutan, mangga, lomboy, tambis, guyabano, and mangosteen.

According to its personnel, the company has been a regular supplier of wines to Kul-

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Island Premium Paints booth with Ms. Lendice Cal, manager

20 mining firms face suspension TUNA KING. A fish vendor prepares to slice fresh tuna at his stall at Agdao Public Market in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Latest DENR audit results out

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ adlopez0920@gmail.com

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ITH the completion of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) audit and investigations, it has recommended the suspension of at least 20 mining firms operating in the country.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, the DENR said the most common violations committed by the 20 mining firms include siltation, dust, no tree-cutting permits and the use of unsystematic mining methods.

“I want to make it clear I have no beef with the mining industry but I am vehe-

mently against the adverse effects that may happen that are happening in some of the situations. The commitment must be for the common good,” DENR Secretary Gina Lopez told reporters during the briefing.

Sec. Lopez said the mining companies will be given a show cause order and will be asked to answer within seven days upon receiving the said order.

According to DENR Undersecretary Leo Jasareno, the suspended mining companies include: Libjo Mining Corporation; AAM-Phil Nat-

ural Resources Exploration and Development Corporation - Parcel 1 and Parcel 2B; Krominco Incorporated; Carrascal Nickel Corporation; Marcventures Mining and Development Corporation “For a hundred years, we turned a blind eye. I don’t even blame it on the mining industry; it’s because we at DENR have been lax,” Lopez added.

Jasareno announced during the briefing the names of 11 mining companies that are not recommended for suspension, but will be ordered to correct infractions in their

mining operations.

These companies include: Philex Mining Corporation The DENR will continue monitoring the operations of the 11 mining firms to ensure that infractions on their operations are corrected, Jasareno added.

Lopez disclosed she will meet with representatives of the concerned mining firms on Thursday, Sept. 29.

She said that what the country needs now is a mining industry that is much more committed to the common good of communities and the people.

into account the country’s economic fundamentals over the last few years and the years ahead.

“When investors come in, I’m talking about FDIs, not the portfolio investments, they look at the long picture, the big picture, not the shortterm volatilities,” he explained.

“They don’t look at day-to-day or week-to-week or month-tomonth changes.”

Balisacan believes that short-term political events can only affect investments when these impact the real sector.

“At the very least, they might (adopt) wait-and-see attitude but they are very, very pragmatic people. They can say they can make money despite the political (events),” he

added.

Meanwhile, Balisacan, now the chairman of the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), said the Commission had started a comprehensive national competition policy review to identify anti-competitive measures and practices in the various industries of the economy.

Balisacan said the study focusing on the activities of the PCC in the near to medium term was expected to be completed by the first quarter of next year.

He added the Commission was currently reviewing and investigating 65 merger and acquisition deals.

PCC Commissioner Stella Luz Quimbo said the compa-

nies belong to various sectors of the economy, including banks, consumer goods and some pharmaceuticals.

“These are both offshore and onshore. Some are pretty big (deals) at over a trillion pesos,” she said in an interview.

Balisacan identified anti-competitive measures adopted by various sectors among the key constraints hindering the growth of businesses and the Philippine economy.

PCC is an independent quasi-judicial body created to promote and maintain market competition by regulating anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominant position and anti-competitive mergers and acquisitions. (PNA)

PHL economic fundamentals strong -Balisacan

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HE Philippine economic fundamentals remain solid to attract foreign direct investments (FDIs) even amid issues of extra-judicial killings, said former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan on Tuesday.

“So far, the economic fundamentals are solid… Now, we have so many sectors that are growing and providing sources of foreign exchange.

Remittances are very strong (and) tourism; foreign investments are coming in,” he told reporters.

Balisacan, former director general of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), noted that foreign investors pour in their money into the country, taking

EDGEDAVAO

7 SUBURBIA Gov. Matugas to join 2nd round of Cuba study tour VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

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adlopez0920@gmail.com

OCAL officials from Mindanao will join the second batch of Philippine public servants who will visit Cuba to learn the health system and programs of the country that are known to be among the best in the world.

Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol Matugas said she will be flying to Cuba on the last

week of this month (September), together with the provincial health officer, the regional director of the Department of Health (DOH) in CARAGA and four mayors from the province.

“We will personally see, study and experience the primary health care program of Cuba,” Governor Matugas said.

She added that good practices in health programs in Cuba can be replicated in the country especially in the provinces.

The governor also lauded the continued support of the DOH to the province of Surigao del Norte, especially in the implementation of preventive health programs and projects.

SOLAR LIGHTS. Kalahi-CIDSS and Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries stand tall and grateful beside a Kalahi-CIDSS solar led street light sub-project in barangay Camahual, Sarangani Island, Municipality of Sarangani, Davao Occidental.

The project which also covers installation of 220 units low-cost solar home lighting and 10 more solar led street lights costs Php 1,837,577.00 and benefits some 220 households in the island barangay. To date, Sarangani town has started five Kalahi-CIDSS sub-projects such as road rehabilitation, classroom and solar lighting. (DSWD)

Legal office probes 5 Zambo City gov’t workers for substance abuse

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HE City Legal Office, upon orders of Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, is now in the process of conducting a preliminary investigation on five city government employees found positive for illegal substance use.

Atty. Sam Mariano, assistant city legal officer, said the respondents, whose names were withheld, were given ample time to answer under oath the memorandum order given them.

“When our office received the endorsement from the city mayor, a memorandum order

was issued to the respondents, who have five days within which to file their answer under oath,” Mariano said.

Mariano explained that under the present circumstances when five city government employees were found positive for drugs, the mayor, being the local chief executive and disciplining authority, has the power to form or designate a particular official to commence the necessary administrative investigations.

He said Atty. Novelin Ong was designated in-charge of the case against the five city government employees.

In effect, Mariano said the case of five City Hall employees found positive for drugs is now under preliminary investigation.

He further said Ong will have 10 days within which to submit his recommendations to the city mayor upon conclusion of the investigation.

The five city government employees were found positive for use of illegal drugs in a surprise drug test ordered by Salazar through Executive Order BC-188.

The positive results of the initial drug tests on the five

F LEGAL, 10

“We will focus on preventive programs and I thank Secretary Ubial (Pauline Jean Rosell-Ubial) for her support to our community health program,” Gov. Matugas said.

She is particularly concerned with the dengue and zika viruses, as they have proven to be fatal, especially among children.

Matugas said the num-

ber of dengue in Surigao del Norte is not yet alarming except except for cases recorded in the town of San Benito.

“We want to strengthen our preventive measures on diseases and this can be done if we have a functional barangay health workers and centers,” she emphasized.

She noted that barangay

health workers are the ones who can be relied upon to respond to people’s needs especially in remote areas.

The trip and study to Cuba, she added, will help Surigao del Norte strengthen its barangay health program.

“We need to make our barangay health programs functional and effective,” the governor said.

ORKERS in the private sector in Region 12 will receive an additional P20 increase in their daily wages effective Oct. 9.

Albert Gutib, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 12 director, said Tuesday the National Wages and Productivity Commission has already approved Wage Order No. RBXII-19, which sets the daily minimum wage in the region to as high as P295.

He said they published the new wage order on Sept. 24 in a regional publication based in Cotabato City.

The wage adjustment will officially take effect 15 days after the publication of Wage Order No. RBXII-19, he said.

“Effective Oct. 9, workers in the non-agriculture sector will receive a daily wage of P295 while those in the agriculture, retail and services sec-

tor will get P277,” he said in a statement.

The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) of Region 12 approved the new wage order last Sept. 9.

The previous wage order, RB XII-18, took effect on Aug. 1, 2014 and set the daily wage rates in Region 12 to P275 for non-agriculture workers, P257 for agriculture workers and P255 for those in retail and service establishments.

Also known as Soccsksargen, Region 12 is comprised of the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

Under the new wage order, Gutib said the previous P5 cost of living allowance was integrated into the minimum basic wage rates.

He said it also simplified

the sectoral or industry classification of local workers from three to two.

The wage rates were set for workers in the non-agriculture sector and those in agriculture, retail and service sectors, he said.

Jessie dela Cruz, RTWPB-12 secretary, said the board considered the need to adjust the current wage rates since the last increase was set two years ago.

He said they earlier launched a series of consultations for the wage increase after the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines submitted a proposal in late April for a P143 adjustment.

Dela Cruz said the board also considered in its decision the region’s socio-economic condition, restoration analysis on the purchasing power of the peso, effects of the changes in the consumer price indices and the inflation rate. (PNA)

Before the procurement teams would be deployed, Linao said the agency will initially assess the prevailing buying prices in selected areas.

She said the identification of the sites will be based on data from the National Irrigation Administration, which indicates the cropping pattern or calendar and the areas with foreseen bulk palay harvests.

Citing their latest assessment, she said the palay buying prices presently stands at P18 a kilo for the wet stocks.

But the agribusiness section of the South Cotabato Office of the Provincial Agriculturist reported that the buying prices in some areas already dropped to around P15 to P16 per kilo.

It said local traders blamed the situation to the prevailing rainy weather and the declining buying prices in Davao City.

The NFA’s buying prices

for palay remain at P17.70 per kilo for members of farmers’ organizations, associations and groups, and P17.40 for the individual farmers.

Based on the current production systems, farmers reportedly gain around P5 for every kilo of palay.

Linao said they usually intervene when the palay buying prices drop to around P14 to P15 a kilo.

She said their experience showed that most private traders adjust their buying prices when their mobile procurement teams are in place.

But she reiterated that the agency’s palay procurement program is not meant to compete with the private traders.

“We’re here to support our farmers. Our mandate is to ensure the stability of palay buying prices and the availability of enough rice supplies in our markets,” she added. (PNA)

P20-wage hike for R-12 private workers to take effect by Oct. 9 W

NFA to deploy mobile palay buying teams in SouthCot T

HE National Food Authority (NFA) is set to deploy mobile procurement teams in parts of South Cotabato province in preparation for the projected peak of the palay harvest season next month.

Janette Linao, acting provincial manager of NFA-South Cotabato, said Tuesday the procurement teams will be assigned in areas within the province’s 10 towns and lone city where bulk palay harvests are expected.

She said the move is mainly aimed to offset the anticipated drop in local palay buying prices when the harvests will begin to peak.

“Based on previous trends, the buying prices of private traders significantly drop during the peak harvest season. So, we will come in to offer better prices to our farmers,” she said.

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

EDITORIAL

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Davao City, child-friendliest

OR the fifth time, Davao City got the Presidential Award for the most child-friendly highly-urbanized city.

The same award was received by the city on the years, 1998, 1999, 2013, and 2014, and for that Davao City is now a Hallof-Famer in this category.

President Duterte must be very proud when he personally presented the award on Monday to the officials of Davao City in Malacañang.

His daughter, Mayor Sara Carpio, said “the award was a proof that the programs and projects intended for the protection of the rights and welfare of the children of the city are yielding positive results.”

The award came at the heels of the fatal bombing in a night market in Roxas Avenue that killed 15 people and left scores injured.

It also came at a time when Davao City is being bashed on social media questioning its award as one of the safest cities in the world.

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With the award comes the challenge to keep Davao City a place worthy to be called ideal for children.

Among the major challenge is keeping children away from the menace of illegal drugs. Recently, a report said there are more than 20,000 children in the country are involved in drugs. In Davao Region alone, there are 1,988 kids who are reportedly into drugs.

Pushing drugs, according to reports, is the worst form of child labor.

While we celebrate this award, there is also the accompanying responsibility to influence and motivate other LGUs to push for local programs, projects and legislations aimed at advancing the welfare of children and of protecting them from the ills of the society like illegal drugs.

As a hall-of-famer, it is imperative upon Davao City to bring its best practices to other LGUs in the hope that collectively, the Philippines can benefit from its initiatives.

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EDGEDAVAO

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ICKNAMED the ‘Arsenic’, after the chemical element that can cause rapid poisoning and death, Arsenio H. Lacson, the journalist, was tough, uncompromising, and acerbic. Long before Davao City was gifted the sound leadership and caustic tongue of then mayor, now president, Rodrigo R. Duterte, Manila’s Lacson, as city mayor, gave the capital city its golden age. To the people of his generation, Lacson was the ‘best president’ the country never had.

Even with his own Hispanized profanities, Lacson, regarded as ‘the most hardboiled and cynical newspaperman’, would have shared many of the platforms of President Duterte. His English mastery and the clarity of his elocutions were witty, barbed and sarcastic.

A scion of an affluent Ilonggo family, he employed the pen to argue issues, used broadcast in exposing anomalies, and courageously defended public office without the ploy of doubletalk and pretense, with no fear to argue in favor of rights and freedoms.

Better still, being a lawyer, he used figures of speeches in driving home his message, often hard and jarring. He called the chief of police of Manila ‘Horizontal Manny’ and ‘Manny The Muscles’ because of his built and physique, and ‘Big Cauliflower’, due to his big ears. He did not spare sitting presidents from his cynicism. He did not believe in extrajudicial killings.

In his commentary against his future rival in the mayoralty, he wrote: “Chief of Police Manuel dela Fuente definitely does not

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

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Discourse of the ‘Arsenic’ possess any FAST BACKWARD special talent that qualifies him for the job. Like [his predecessor] Bobby Tuason, who loves to play cops and robbers but doesn’t know Antonio V. Figueroa how, The Muscles is no policeman. And like Tuason, the only thing he’ll ever catch is a cold.”

The allegory of the ‘rust’ is one of Lacson’s favorite metaphors. In ‘Iron That Has Turned To Rust’, published in the October 25, 1952 issue of The Dilliman Star, unmistakably underscores his use of comparative language. He wrote: “As a nation and as a people we seem to have lost the high ideals. As a nation and as a people, we stern to have renounced the high responsibility for the preservation of those broad freedoms on which our system of government rests, and for which all just governments exist to secure. As a nation and as a people, we seem to have lost to resist the abuses and the corruption of those who would turn back the clock and reproduce in this country the rule of Feudal Spain or Fascist Japan.

“How do you think our people have reacted to the kind of government officials whom we now have way back in 1898. The Philippines then was young, and Filipinos had not yet learned to bend the knee. Life

was not so sweet, nor animal comfort so dear as to be purchased at the price of abject slavery.

“But today, it seems to me that the harsh, virile bloodstream of our ancestors no longer flows in our veins that the iron in us has become complete rust, that the Filipino is Filipino no more, and that on his bones a different people. God forbid that this should be so, for the day may yet come when we may have to fight again for our liberties and our unalienable rights as our ancestors once did.

“The day may yet come, I repeat, when we may have to set up barricades right on the streets and fight, for fight we must when constitutional processes are no longer possible, since our whole history speaks this truth with trumpet voice, that it is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees.

“It has been truly said that people get the kind of government they want. Some may find it difficult to reconcile this statement with the fact that while the majority of the people want good government, many communities are burdened with corrupt municipal administrations. The statement that all citizens want good, clean government is as false as the claim that all citizens want bad government. The question is why are they not getting it? The answer is simple. When a community fails to enjoy good municipal government it is because those citizens who most need honest and efficient government are not organized effectively to secure it.

“It is not to the-credit of big business that governments be servile to their interests. They do not seek a government for the benefit of all the people, and as a class their

interest lies elsewhere than with the cause of honest government. They may attempt to deny this, but actual experience justifies the indictment.

“Can the gamblers, brothel keepers and racketeers or the landlords who profit from their activities, be appealed to for support? Obviously not. They live on graft and exploitation of the masses. Good government should mean that a city is a safe place in which to rear children and build happy homes. If the people are victimized by games of chance, they are not getting the best kind of municipal government.”

He lectured the journalists on their task knowing fully that as a media personality himself, there are professional parameters that cannot be sacrificed for dubious reasons. If he called the spade a spade, here is his take of the role the journalists should play: “Honest newsmen have a definite mission to perform, but ours seem to be the voice crying in the wilderness. At times, it is a discouraging job trying to arouse the conscience of the people since the people themselves apparently will not stir. It cannot be that patriotism, honor and decency have become fools’ gold, and that the men and women who believe in them are fools. It cannot be that we have lost the courage and high ideals of braver days; it cannot be that the iron has dissolved in our souls. I refuse to believe that the Filipino is a Filipino no more and that on his bones dwell a different people.”

Today, this kind of Fourth Estate heroes has become an endangered species.

weight Ortiz.

TIMELY and TIMELESS When Donnie ‘Ahas’ Nietes similarly decided to go up from junior flyweight to flyweight, some pessimistic analysts thought Nietes would suffer DIOSCORO the ill-fate of VICENTINO Elorde. Nietes proved them wrong for he reduced the former world champion Edgar Sosa into a student in a boxing clinic to win the WBO international crown.

Manny ’Pacman’ Pacquiao, another southpaw like Elorde, left a unique set of footprints in the world of boxing which is quite impossible to equal or surpass at least in the foreseeable future. Starting to box at an early age, Manny emerged from the dusts

of Dadiangas to rise through the ladder from junior flyweight to the extreme superwelter to post the unprecedented record of 8-division champion and many times best and most exciting fighter on the planet.

Like his namesake videogame cartoon character, ‘Pacman’ which gobbles up anything that came its way to gain points, Pacman Pacquiao demolished every fighter on the ring, including the then holder of the highest 6-weight division champ, Oscar ‘Golden Boy’ dela Hoya in an embarrassing one-sided fight. He is the only boxer whose taped own song backgrounds his entrance to the ring.

The three boxing legends – ‘Elorde’, Pacquiao and Nietes – have many admirable virtues in common. They are humble and simple despite immense world popularity.

Elorde would stay calm and tolerate the public indignation when an unpopular decision favored him. Pacquiao would pray fervently at his corner before and after each bout, a conspicuous spirituality that is being emu-

lated by some boxers since Pacquiao practiced it. When other grandstanding boxers would showboat, run around the ring, climb on the rope bragging and instigating the crowed to cheer for them, Elorde, Pacquiao and Nietes would avoid media highlights except post-fight interview where they would not glorify themselves but admire whatever ability their opponents have.

Outside the ring, he is a no-nonsense, active participant in the senate committee hearings. Recently, he surprised the committee members and observers with his practical down-to-earth questions, prompting committee presiding officer, Senator Dick Gordon to quip, “If all lawyers are like Mr. Manny Pacquiao, this country would be a lot better.” A few minutes later he is seen in workout training for his November fight with Jessie Vargas.

No wonder they are on the apex of success always because by humbling themselves to the lowest MOUND, they are raised to the highest GROUND.

The legendary Elorde, Pacquiao and Nietes in boxing

HE timeliness and timelessness of the outstanding world boxing achievements of Gabriel ‘Flash’ Elorde, Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao and Donnie ‘Ahas’ Nietes are worth preserving in the world book of records from which the upcoming boxing potentials can learn lessons.

Gabriel ‘Flash’ Elorde held the longest world record reign in junior lightweight for SEVEN years from 1960 – 1966. His record was broken by Donnie ‘Ahas’ Nietes who has been holding the junior flyweight belt for EIGHT years until now.

Elorde, a southpaw vagrant bootblack from Bogo, Cebu, lorded it over the square arena for seven years until he decided to go up to a heavier lightweight to face Carlos Ortiz of Panama. He was leading on points from round 1-10 but ran out of wind in the 12th. Heavier divisions then from lightweight to heavy go for 15 rounds. The referee stopped the fight on the 14th to save the weary Elorde from the imminent punishment from the bigger and regular light-

10 NEWS Yolanda... FROM 1

trafficking.

Aside from the pictures displayed, a video of his work also be viewed on youtube. com which describes the journey of the photojournalist in the crafting of his story.

Brochures and other information and education materials containing relevant data on IOM and IACATP’s advocacies are also available at the exhibit.

The exhibit has been travelling for one year around the Visayas, particularly in Tacloban, Ormoc and Cebu, and now is in Davao, the hometown of

President Duterte.

According to Romina “Beng” Sta. Clara, National Gender Focal Person and National Program Coordinator of Migrants Assistance Program (MAP), the photo exhibit has been scheduled for a day, as it will also visit Cotabato and other parts of Mindanao in the coming weeks and months.

The caravan exhibit will initially focus on Visayas and Mindanao due to the large number of cases of human trafficking in these areas before going northwards to Luzon.

from the government yet they can still afford to steal firearms and ammunitions and sold these to terrorists who kill innocent civilians and soldiers,” one of the netizens said.

Dela Rosa revealed the group is reportedly using a private vehicle and a roll-on-rolloff (RORO) vessel in shipping the guns and ammunitions from Manila to Mindanao.

“We suspect na meron talaga silang contact within the government arsenal. Paano makalabas ang mga bala na ito kung wala silang contact,” the PNP chief added.

In the same press conference, CIDG Acting Director Supt. Roel Obusan said Isa was already investigated after the raid, but refused to name his connections in the government.

Obusan added that Isa feared for the safety of his family who are still in Sulu.

“Taga Indangan, Sulu kasi itong ating suspect. Sulu is a stronghold of the ASG. Ang kanilang families ay doon, kaya out of fear of being taken out of revenge ayaw niyang i-divulge yong mga buyers niya,” Obusan said.

Neri said they will continue to conduct anti-terrorism forums among different sectors in Davao City.

“We have to raise and develop the culture of awareness, preparedness, and responsiveness of the people,” he said. CIO

cil once the updated memorandum of agreement (MOA) will be updated and implemented,” Vega said.

The SPMC chief said he also wants to make sure the MOA doesn’t go against the development plan of the Lingap Program.

“There will also be close coordination not only with the city government, but also with the other sectors involved since wala masyadong

updates regarding the MOA,” Vega said, adding the guidelines for the Lingap Program was last updated in 2001.

In the meantime, Councilor Joselle Villafuerte also proposed the establishment of a city-run pharmacy laboratory that would cater to the needs of local residents who cannot afford private medical care.

“We will have a hearing regarding this proposal this year,” Villafuerte said.

The budget of the Securities and Exchange Commission stands at P646 million, representing a slight increase of 2% from the 2016 budget of P635 million.

This budget increase for the SEC is mostly because of the procurement of computer software to support e-government initiatives.

The remaining five DOF-attached agencies—the Bureau of Local Government Finance, the Central Board of Assessment Appeals, the National Tax Research Center, Privatization Management Office, and Insurance Commission—have a combined budget of P387.6 million, representing an increase of P76 million or 24% from last year’s allocation.

Such a budget hike stems from an increase in the outlay for Personnel Services, resulting from the implementation of the second tranche of the Salary Standardization Law. Villafuerte said in his spon-

sorship speech that to realize the President’s goal of making growth inclusive as well as investment-led, the government needs to invest massively in infrastructure, education, health, and social services.

“The administration aims to lift 10 million Filipinos out of poverty by 2022, so that our country is on track to eradicate extreme poverty by 2040.

When the President’s term ends in 2022, the Philippines will have become an upper middle-income country with a per-capita income of $4,000.

In one generation, or by 2040, the country will have become a high-income country with a per-capita income of $12,000,” Villafuerte said.

“We believe that with Congress’s support of the Department of Finance’s budget, we can truly achieve inclusive growth for our country, and fund the President’s social commitments,” Villafuerte added. (DOF)

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

Ka Freddie, beauteous partner and company mobbed by IGACOS employees

K

A Freddie Aguilar and his company including his beauteous partner Jovie, two of Ka Freddie’s sons and staffers made a courtesy call to IGACOS City Mayor Al David Uy Tuesday morning at the City Hall in Peñaplata District.

Aguilar and Jovie ended as mobbed by City Hall employees, many of whom asked for selfie shots with them.

Aguilar had a gig at Davao City the other night and they were accommodated to sleep in a resort in the island.

During their talk lasting

Dad... FROM 2

ro Manila and other highly urbanized cities and areas in the country have assumed the “nature and magnitude of a national emergency.”

The proposed bill cites Metro Manila as the area consisting of the National Capital Region, and the adjacent provinces, while also mentioning Metro Cebu and Metro Davao as examples of other highly urbanized cities where traffic and congestion also need to be immediately addressed.

Dayanghirang said the City Council needs to identify critical infrastructure projects in Davao that will be included in the President’s emergency powers.

He further noted that Davao, being one of the highly-urbanized cities in the Philippines, should be included in the list of areas that would be prioritized in terms of infrastructure development within the next six years as a strategy to fast track the city’s development.

“With the increasing volume of motor vehicles plying inadequate roads and highways in the country, in-

about an hour, Ka Freddie informed the mayor and Vice Mayor Orly Amit that currently he is not yet sitting as the chair of the National Commission for Culture and From right: IGACOS Mayor Al David Uy, Ka Freddie Aguilar, Jovie, Vice Mayor Orly Amit and Ka Arts, saying Freddie’s son that presidential appointees ing late October for him to be Bill to convert NCCA as the Deof the past administration are the NCCA chair, and for the partment of Arts and Culture clinging to their posts. meantime he was appointed as under the Duterte administraBut he said he can wait for the chairman of the Commis- tion. their term to end on the com- sion of the Filipino Language.

Before he left, Mayor Uy Ka Freddie said he is bent invited him to grace the next to make change and reform to year’s foundation day celebrathe NCCA. tion of IGACOS every March He said he and his staff 7. Cha Monforte, Corresponcreasing air passenger traffic beyond the capacity of the have already proposed House dent country’s existing terminals, and heavy congestion of ports, Philippine transportation inFROM 2 frastructure has been unable to keep up with the demands “Surprisingly, they are very regarding Philippines-US relaof a rising economy and grow- grounded and they seem to tions, saying the country is not ing population,” the draft bill understand very instinctively veering away from its commitsubmitted to Congress read. kung saan nanggagaling ang ments with Washington.

“These result in severe Presidente (where the PresExplaining the President’s disruption of normal Filipino ident is coming from). They position, Yasay said, “He simfamily life and in billion-peso seem to have a firm grasp, a ply wants to undertake an inloss in terms of overall pro- firm understanding of where dependent foreign policy, that ductivity, health risks and so- he is coming from,” he said. we are part of an international cial costs,” the draft bill added.

Abella also reported about community and that the ConThe proposed emergen- the meeting between the Pres- stitution in fact mandates that cy powers for the President ident and members of the Na- we should have amity amongst also seek to exempt the De- tional Democratic Front (NDF), all nations, particularly with partment of Transportation including the Tiamzons, at the China, our neighbor.”

(DOTr) from procurement ac- Palace on Monday night.

In the same press briefing, tivities as a measure to accelHe described Monday’s Budget Secretary Benjamin erate the implementation key event as a “meet-and-greet” Diokno said that despite the infrastructure projects. between the President and domestic noise, the PhilipEarlier reports quoted members of the NDF. pines is still in a good position Senator Grace Poe as saying The members of the leftist to attract investment and grow that a speedy procurement group thanked the President economically. process could be a solution for releasing their consultants, The Philippine economy is to the nation’s transportation according to Abella. in good shape, Diokno said. crisis.

They also expressed willIt is the fastest growing Poe, the Senate’s chair on ingness to cooperate in the economy in Asia together with Committee on Public Services, President’s socioeconomic re- China and India, he said, addsaid a report on the issue will forms so long as both parties ing the country’s inflation rate be submitted to the plenary agree with whatever reforms has been reined in.

by November. should be discussed.

Diokno said the govern“They also hope that there ment can also borrow money will be no cancellation of the at extraordinarily very low FROM 5 peace talks and they are all rates, noting that the DuterSangguniang Panlungsod (SP) very enthusiastic about the te administration has a good progress of the current peace 10-point agenda for developbuilding last April 2016. ment.

The project is anchored talks,” he added.

Meanwhile, Foreign Af“So we focus on the ecoon Davao City’s Ordinance No. fairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay, nomic fundamentals. They are 0177 - 14 series of 2014 which states that “all electrical and who joined the press brief- pretty good. So, if I were an intelecommunication wires and ing in Malacañang, clarified vestor, I’ll see the forest not the cables within the vicinity of President Duterte’s statement trees,” he said. (PNA) City Hall and the City Council will be placed underground.”

FROM 6 Meanwhile, Councilor It is written and edited to Danny Dayanghirang said in an tura, an arts and crafts store inform, entertain, occasionally interview yesterday during the located at SM Malls.

Considered a pride of Ba- educate, and provide a forum regular City Council Session at the Sangguniang Panglung- yugan City, Agusan del Sur, for international thinkers.

According to Dante Ofisod that the legislative body these wines are very affordanga, Foreign Post circulation will update the said ordinance able at P150 per bottle.

It will soon find its way manager, the paper has won mandating all utility providers in Davao City to be buried un- to the shelves of wine stores the respect and loyalty of the across the globe. international community due derground. to its the editorial content and Foreign Post format.

Another interesting exhibAlthough most of the comSalazar for appropriate action. itor during the expo was the panies that participated in this Salazar said the issuance Foreign Post, a Filipino publi- year’s PhilConstruct Mindof E.O. BC-188 is in response cation that targets members of anao Expo are relatively new to the call of President Duterte the international community players, the main goal of these “to unite our efforts in curbing such as foreign residents, ex- businesses is to provide qualithe illegal drug problem in the pats, internationally-oriented ty products and services to its Filipinos, and foreign visitors.

Filipino customers. country.” (PNA)

Filipino...

Underground...

“There will be more space in our city once the posts are removed,” Felizarta said, citing Cebu as an area where the establishment of an underground cabling system was made a priority of the local government.

Setting wires underground, he pointed out, make utility services like power and cable TV less susceptible to extreme weather conditions and more business-friendly.

It can be recalled that the Davao City Wires and Cable (WAC) technical team completed the burying of electrical and communication wires between City Hall and the

Legal... FROM 7

employees were confirmed “positive” during the confirmatory tests conducted in Manila.

Dr. Rodelin Agbulos, city health officer, disclosed the results of the confirmatory tests were submitted last week to

PhilConstruct...

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

STYLE

Through the kaleidoscope Rajo Laurel’s Cruise 2016 collection INSPIRED BY THE 1980’S “ONCEHATED” DESIGN MOVEMENT CALLED MEMPHIS, Rajo Laurel features dizzying graphics and abstract shapes in Cruise 2016 Collection of House of Laurel dubbed Magpie Memphis. Box finished and structured silhouettes in vivid hues of chiffon, silk and crepe show case the exuberant side of fashion that will beyond doubt challenge every shopper’s styling game. The collection’s vibe brings back the joyful yester years of Rajo Laurel’s teenage past that he has brought now for everyone to love.

The Magpie Memphis collection is a big leap from the clean, minimalist vibes of The Monast spring / summer 2016 collection. The neutral color palette that reflects the mood of The Monast transitioned to bright colors and exuberant prints of Magpie Memphis. The calm vibe has become busy.

Yet, both collections share common denominators with their well-balanced scale and genre.

The Monast was launched in March 2016 and Magpie Memphis was launched in July 2016 and are available at House of Laurel, Rajo! store and soon at the upcoming Davao Trunk Show on October 8 and 9, 2016 at the Dusit Thani Residence showroom at Lanang, Davao City.

EDGEDAVAO

A2 INdulge!

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 201

PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

EVENT

POGI meets Ms. Unive

UM CBAE hosts Extreme Mak HUSBAND AND WIFE TEAM- ARDY ROBERTO & MIRIAM QUIAMBAO- ROBERTO LED 1,300 STUDENTS TO ANALYZE THEIR PERSONAL SKILLS, values and interests, develop leadership skills and create a meaningful plan that will help make a difference in their lives. Business students from the University of Mindanao- Main, University of Mindanao- Digos and University of Immaculate Conception converged last Saturday, September 17, 2016 at the CAP Auditorium, Anda St., Davao City for the Regional Leadership Conference for Business Students with its theme: EXTREME MAKEOVER.

Ardy, a best-selling author, an award-winning entrepreneur and soughtafter speaker shared a talk on ‘LEAD WITH LIFE”. It’s a call for leading with Love, Integrity, Faith and Expectations of Excellence. He also shared briefly about being POGI- Purity, Obedience, Gentleness and Intense.

Miriam, on the other

hand, delighted the audience and brought the house down with her and Ardy’s amazing love story. It was a story of God’s funny involvement in their lives, him being a widower and “not her type” and she being a celebrity and a potential for being a “high maintenance” girlfriend, if ever.

On the more seri-

16

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erse:

EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

keover

ous side, Miriam shared her journey from her glory days as having been the Philippines’ representative to the Miss Universe, coming home making her country proud when she was chosen as the 1st Runner up and then soaring as a media personality. She provided a picture of what “success” seemed to

be. .. her fairy tale marriage and living a luxurious life, that turned out to be a broken dream and experiencing many more failures after that.

Miriam inspired the students on how she was able to pick up the pieces and turned a defeat into victory by God’s grace and rose again to where she is now. “ I t helped me become more open minded and more considerate and understanding of others’ situation. I realized that i have some of the qualities/values of a leader, but i don’t

know how to show/execute it.”

Joanne Duplito One of the meaningful exercise we had during the conference is visioning ourselves 10 years from now. That activity gave me so much hope for my future and realized what I really want. I should not lose sight of my goals. Therefore, my daily decisions in life is based on how I see myself 10 years from now. Anelyn N. Miro Learn while having fun.

This is how the Extreme Makeover Leadership Conference was. With our speakers: Ardy Roberto and Miriam Quiambao-Roberto, I extremely enjoyed every minute of it and learned much from them.

Emil Ross Paul Hordista Stories are relevant and I can surely make use of my learnings to put my life back on the right track.” Nathaniel Isidor

PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

Serving a seamless society

EDGE DAVAO GENSAN PARTNERS

A4 INdulge!

UP AND ABOUT ENTERTAINMENT

EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

Musical.ly seals partnership with Globe MUSICAL.LY, THE CURRENTLY RATED #1 MUSIC VIDEO COMMUNITY seals its first ever telco partnership with the Philippines’ #1 mobile brand, Globe. Musical.ly is the world’s fastest growing online video community for creating, sharing and discovering 15-second videos.

With this collaboration, Musical.ly and Globe aim to give the best online experience to customers through easy access to a platform that allows creation of original content, and published by users themselves.

“We are delighted to have this partnership with Musical.ly because their platform combines 2 of the biggest things that Filipinos love – music and original video creation.

There are countless trending videos online showcasing how talented Filipinos express themselves through original content and Musical.ly will be an enjoyable platform for that,” says Globe Chief Commercial Officer, Albert de Larrazabal.

Musical.ly US President, Alex Hofmann also said that, “This partnership with Globe sets a global trend for us at Musical.ly. With a partnership focusing on consumer content, Musical.ly is sure to be the future of creation and engagement.

With Globe we hope to provide a more seamless access to more Filipinos so they can enjoy the app right on their favorite device.”

On the Musical.ly app, community members are called musers who are young, creative and enthusiastic individuals who love to express themselves through social media.

They create the trend by creating viral materials that create traffic and trending topics on sites such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

The app allows users to shoot and upload their own material using Musical.ly’s online library of the best hits from a wide variety of music genres like hip-hop, as well as themes such as comedy and movie clips with each lasting for about 15 seconds.

With a following that continues to grow organically since its launch in August 2014, Musical.ly now has over 100 million users globally and create over 10 million new musicals every day! It is currently ranked #1

in the app chart in more than 19 countries including US, UK, and Germany. It is also consistently within the top 50 apps in the App Store and Google Playstore since 2015.

Globe customers can enjoy and try the Musical.ly app for FREE via Globe Switch as part of its exclusive hot deals. As a special launch treat, for a limited time only, Globe is giving the first 500,000 Globe Switch users free 7 days access to the app of their choice! Users can avail of the “Special Launch Day Treat” option under the OFFERS tab to choose their free app.

Globe Switch is free and available for download on Google Playstore.

To learn more about Globe Prepaid and its latest offers, visitwww.globe. com.ph/Prepaid. Globe Switch is also available for TM subscribers.

Waterfront Insular Hotel signs MOA with cancer foundation

WATERFRONT INSULAR HOTEL DAVAO has entered into a memorandum of agreement with the AMUMA Cancer Support Group Foundation, Inc. to advocate Breast Cancer Awareness this October, being the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The partnership was signed by Hotel Manager Bryan Lasala and Organization President Mae Hipolito during the Hermes Club forum hosted at the Vinta Bar last September 23, 2016. Witnesses include Bella Sarenas,

former president of the organization, Dr. Jose Beltran, current president of the Davao Cancer Society and Mr. Efren Elbanbuena, forum facilitator and director of the Philippine Information Agency.

Under the agreement, part of the proceeds generated from the hotel’s signature pink promotions in rooms and dining will be given to the foundation as the sole beneficiary of the project. AMUMA is a local aid organization that supports cancer patients through various activities like hospice care, home

visitations, empowerment sessions, awareness programs, occasional health screenings and more.

In part of the hotel’s Corporate Social Responsibility, the ‘Pink Matters’ campaign is a month-long initiative to raise both awareness and funds in the fight against the most prevalent cancer today.

Among the group of Waterfront Hotels and Casinos, Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao is the second property to have this campaign following Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

September 22 – 27, 2016

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

Matina Enclaves: A lifestyle rich in amenities

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO njb@edgedavao.net

N

OTHING best describes the Matina Enclaves than a lifestyle that’s rich in amenities.

With approximately over eight hectares of spectacular amenities cutting across three developments— The Courtyard, The Plains (subdivision type homes) and The Residences (condominium), including the sports and recreation oasis Arcadia, this mixed use masterpiece feature amenities not ordinarily built in every real estate residential projects.

The Matina Enclaves is an exception.

Being one of mixed housing types, the

vast estate feature tree-dotted walkways that offer that rustic suburban feel where families interact in a small community.

There’s also the clubhouse where everyone can converge from the old to the young. A poker room for the adults and children’s play areas for kids.

Basking in the sun while taking a dip in the pool is for everyone all year round.

And when the night sets in, everyone can just holler around and star-gaze or pop a bottle of shiraz.

For the more active lifestyle in you, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a Euro-style swimming pool and

more, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained and active, right at home.

Whether you’re looking to entertain friends over dinner on the outdoor dining area, host a movie night in the theatre room, or take the kids for a play-date at the children’s splash-

pool, the Matina Enclaves community offers the luxury of having these amenities in your own community.

And while it’s easy to enjoy the amenities at Matina Enclaves, everyone must not forget that there is a multitude of things to do in the surrounding neighbourhood—walk around the walkways, jump across the street to the Arcadia, a high-end recreational and sports center where traditional leisure sports from bowling to billiards meet the extremes in boxing and MMA. For the golfing buddies, the nearby Davao City Golf Club is just a few steps away.

It’s a neighborhood that enriches your home.

And yes, lest we forget. You are living and enjoying all these in the heart of the city.

If that is not amazing, what could be?

12 BIGGER PICTURE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016 White sands, the cool, clean and pristine waters dominate every inch of Daku Island’s beaches that attract thousands of tourists to come, visit and stay in the island every year.

Daku Island:

Next tourism hot spot in Siargao Texts and Photos by ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

N

O DOUBT, Siargao Island now is among the top destinations of foreign and local tourists in the country.

The island, a gem of Surigao del Norte province, is drawing thousands of visitors every year especially during the Holy Week and the staging of two mayor international sports in the country - the Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament and the Siargao International Surfing Cup. More than 7,000 visitors trooped to General Luna town this September alone to witness the on-going 22nd Siargao International Surfing Cup that was formally opened last Sept. 23.

Of the total number of visitors, more than 2,000 are foreign tourists, some of whom are professional surfers who will compete in the

prestigious surfing competition that will end on Sept. 29.

Local and foreign tourists who visit General Luna every year do not leave the town without stepping into its three sought-after islets, namely the Naked Island, Daku Island and Guyam Island.

Of the three, it is the Daku Island, with an approximate area of 30 hectares, that is being developed by the local and provincial government in Surigao del Norte to be the next tourist destination in Siargao.

“We envision Daku Island to become another Boracay in the country because of its strong potential for tourism industry,” said Mayor Jaime Rusillon of General Luna.

The island is gifted with white sand beaches and two surfing areas

that are now being visited by surfers from the country and around the world.

Rusillon said Daku Island is one of the 19 barangays of General Luna populated by more or less 80 households.

To equip the island with facilities that will cater the needs of visitors, the provincial government of Surigao del Norte established last year a P3-million tourism center building.

“We thank Governor Sol Matugas for the construction of this tourism center. Visitors to the island utilize this center as a dining area and a place to rest for those who opt to stay overnight,” said Daku Island

A woman from Daku Island harvest long-spined Fishing the seawaters that surround Daku Island for more than black sea urchin locally known as “tajum”.

40 years, Eduardo Cometa, 60, shows off his catch of the day.

Barangay Chairperson Imelda Antipasado Gaña.

Tourism development is

among the priorities of Gov. Matugas in Surigao del Norte especially in Siargao Island

where the radars of fishing and surfing enthusiasts worldwide

F BIGGER PICTURE, 13

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas has set tourism development as among the priorities in the province, particularly in Siargao Island as two Mayor Jaime P. Rusillon is optimistic that Daku Island will become the next international events, the gamefishing and surfing are held in the island every tourism hub in Siargao. year that attracts thousands of local and foreign visitors.

BIGGER PICTURE... FROM 12 are geared to.

But Daku Island is special, said Mayor Rusillon, adding the place is considered as the stop-over of island hoppers from the Naked Island to eat, splash into its cool and clear waters, and rest before proceeding to Guyam Island and then back to the mainland Siargao.

Gaña said around 200 to 300 local and foreign visitors come to Daku Island everyday but the peak season of tourist arrival in the island is during the Holy Week when they cater to around 1,000 visitors daily from the months of April to June.

She said that aside from the tourism center, the island has also more than 30 cottages strategically situated along white sand beaches and are available for rent to visitors.

There are tourists who bring with them tents and stay for a night in the island, while others just stay in the cottages and in the tourism center Gaña said. “They are safe here to stay. We always assure of their safety especially at night time,” she added.

Cable system to power Daku Island Daku Island was provided with 22 units of solar power street lights and one unit solar power charging system.

The solar project with a total cost of P845,509.000 was implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through its KALAHI-CIDDS program.

A power generator, provided by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte

13

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is also helping the residents in the island.

But the present sources of power could not provide enough services to the people in the island, as a resident said electricity is only available up to 9:00 in the evening.

To further prepare Daku Island as the next tourism hub in the area, the Department of Energy (DOE) with the support of the provincial government and the 1st congressional district, is set to implement a P36 million underwater cable project from the mainland Siargao.

Mayor Rusillon said the project was already bided out last January of this year.

“We are expecting the start of the construction of the project this year,” Rusillon said, adding that investors who are into hotel and restaurant businesses have already signified their intentions to pour in capital into Daku Is-

land once the supply of electricity in the area is stabilized.

If the underwater cable is completed, Rusillon said Daku Island will source out its power and electricity from the Siargao Electric Cooperative or SIARELCO.

Biggest fish sanctuary Rusillon said that Daku Island is also home to the biggest fish sanctuary in the CARAGA region (Region XIII) that continue to provide livelihood and support to hundreds of fisherfolks living in the area.

The mayor said the fish sanctuary has a total area of 580 hectares that was developed and funded by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) with the support of the local and provincial governments.

“Maayo kay nay fish sanctuary nga moseguro sa among panginabuhian (It is good that

there is that fish sanctuary that assures us of our livelihood),” said 60-year old fisherman Eduardo Cometa.

Cometa said he has been fishing around the Daku Island for nearly 40 years now.

Catch vary from day to day, Cometa added, as he expressed gratitude to the municipal and provincial leaders for the support they have provided to the fisherfolks of Daku Island.

Barangay Chairperson Gaña also confirmed the supply of fish and other marine products in Daku Island re-

main abundant.

To ensure the sustainability of the area’s marine resources, the local government is also intensifying its campaign against illegal fishing particularly the use of dynamite.

“We are watching our marine resources here especially in the sanctuary. Authorities and fisherfolks are active in the campaign against the use of dynamite and other illegal fishing methods that will destroy our sources of food and livelihood,” Mayor Rusillon said.

The P3-million tourism center in Daku Island that serves as dining, resting and an overnight sanctuary.

A welcoming site at Daku Island.

14 COMPETITIVE EDGE Study shows it pays DOST 11 scholar-graduate ranks to be a digital leader 4th in electrical engineering test O O EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

NLY one in five business executives is a Digital Leader, a new study conducted by Oxford Economics and sponsored by SAP SE (NYSE: SAP) shows.

A new class of leaders is emerging that embraces a digital mind-set and reports stronger business outcomes as a result.

The Leaders 2020 study is based on survey results from more than 4,000 executives and employees in 21 countries.

The research identifies the characteristics of organizations that are succeeding in the digital economy.

The majority of organizations could benefit from adopting the digital leadership practices identified in the research.

Here’s why it pays to be a Digital Leader: Stronger financial performance: Seventy-six percent of executives characterized in the study as Digital Leaders report strong revenue and profit growth, compared to 55 percent of all other executives surveyed.

Satisfied and engaged employees: Digital Leaders have employees who are more likely to be satisfied (87 percent) at their work, compared to 63 percent of all other respondents.

An inclusive culture and strong leadership pipeline: Digital Leaders have employees who are more likely to stay in the job even if given the chance to leave, 21 percentage points higher than all other respondents.

“It’s clear that a different kind of leadership is required to succeed in the digital economy,” said Mike Ettling, president of SAP SuccessFactors.

“People, particularly millennials and the generations behind them, expect more inclusive and social leaders, more diversity at the leadership level, and less hierarchy,” Ettling explained.

“Technology plays a role in giving us, as leaders, access to insights needed to make decisions quickly, and to attract and develop the next set of leaders,” he added.

According to the study, today’s Digital Leaders: Simplify decision making: Four out of five (80 percent) Digital Leaders make decisions that are data-driven, and nearly two out of three (63 percent) report that their organizations are capable of making decisions in real time, compared to only 55 percent and 46 percent respectively of others surveyed. Digital Leaders are

more likely to be transparent and to distribute decision making throughout the organization.

Prioritize diversity and inclusion: Organizations leading in the digital economy are more likely to see more diversity in the workforce at midlevel management, and have a higher proportion of female employees than other companies.

These companies are also more likely to have diversity programs (46 percent versus 38 percent of all companies), recognize diversity’s positive impact on culture (66 percent versus 37 percent) and equate increased diversity to financial performance (37 percent versus 29 percent).

Despite some organizations outperforming their peers in this category, the study found room for improvement among all levels of leadership.

Only 39 percent of employees believed their company has effective diversity programs in place, while less than half (49 percent) of executives believe that leadership recognizes the importance of diversity, and has taken steps to develop it.

Listen to younger executives: The study found that millennials are quickly occupying corporate leadership positions, as 17 percent of the senior executives in the study are classified as millennials.

Millennial leaders are more pessimistic than other executives about their organization’s digital readiness.

These younger executives ranked their organization’s leadership skills between 15 and 23 percentage points lower than non-millennial executives across a variety of attributes, including facilitating collaboration, managing diversity, providing feedback and discouraging bureaucracy.

Millennials will soon make up 50 percent of the workforce, so they will have a powerful voice to shift corporate culture. What they say really matters. And they are saying: Time for change.

“These findings should serve as a wake-up call for business leaders,” said Edward Cone, deputy director of Thought Leadership at Oxford Economics, who oversaw the research program.

“Your employees, your younger executives and your financial results are all sending you a clear message about the importance of updating and upgrading leadership skills for the digital age. It’s time to listen and lead — or get out of the way.”

UT of the 3,709 examinees who took the recent Electrical Engineering Licensure Examination, four Department of Science and Technology - XI (DOST-XI) scholar-graduates were among the 2,525 who passed.

The achievement was especially overwhelming for Kevin T. Cabante, as he ranked fourth with a rating of 90.20% in the recently held exams.

“Overwhelmed and happy, kay wala ko nag expect kay daghan gud mi nag take ug exam,” narrated Cabante when he learned that he was one of the board topnotchers.

Cabante was a model of hard work, dedication and persistence in college. As a scholar, he graduated as Magna Cum Laude from the University of Southeastern Philippines and held various leadership positions in the

TOPNOTCHER. Eduardo P. Tesorero, ARD- FASD, and Mirasol G. Domingo, ARD-TSSD, award Engr. Kevin Cabante the medal of excellence for being one of the DOST XI Scholar-Graduates who completed their studies with honors. university’s student council. “[It was] both challenging and happy, kay kailangan mag maintain ug grades kay lahi ang prestige as a DOST scholar,” said Cabante.

Now armed with a en-

gineering degree – and a board passer to boot - Cabante wants to start working in his chosen field and gain the necessary experience and insights. He also envisions to be part of the academe in the

future.

Aside from Cabante, Myla Pauline F. Gallentes, Jessa A. Ibañez, and Edmund A. Narra also passed the 2016 EE Board Exam. (DOST XI S&T PROMOTIONS)

new technology into the classroom, for both the obvious, physical reasons, such as lighter physical loads versus heavy books and notebooks, as well as for technological benefits,” Abaquin explained.

“Mobile learning supports the learning process rather than being integral to it. Mobile learning can also be a useful add-on tool for students with special needs. It can be used as a ‘hook’ to re-engage disaffected youth,” Chet Alviz, Head of SMACS (Social, Mobile, Analytics, Cloud and Security) added.

For the eLearning App, there will be a package options such as app-only, app with SIM, as well as tablet bundles.

More than a Learning Management System (LMS), the SMART eLearning program creates an end-to-end Digital Campus Experience. SMART is set to roll out the eLearning program with select schools.

The whole suite offers PLDT iGate, SMART WiFi, SMART M2M SIMs, SMART Prepaid SIMs, customized website with eCommerce capability to help establish on-

line presence, Vehicle and Personnel trackers for the school transport as well as for student use, customized App, including evolved learning solutions such as SMART’s eLearning LMS and Microsoft Office 365.

All these can be accessed by authorized teachers, admin, and students in and out of the campus.

“We are very pleased to have included in our service portfolio an educational digital tool that not only benefits students, but also the entire school ecosystem. Parents, for example, will be able to gain access to their child’s developmental progress. Educators, on the other hand, will be able to freely interact with both students and parents on the more important aspects of today’s learning experience,” added Nico Alcoseba, Head of PLDT’s Disruptive Business Group.

PLDT Enterprise stressed digital technology-backed education is rising, as it believes the Philippines has a high potential for growth in eLearning adoption. Ambient Insight, an international market research firm that specializes in eLearn-

ing and Mobile Learning, said in a statement that in Asia alone, the market for learning and training programs supported by electronic technology is expected to reach $11.5 billion by 2016, or more than twice the $5.2 billion in 2011.

The two countries with the highest growth rates in the world are Vietnam and Malaysia, respectively at 44.3 percent and 39.4 percent. Also in the top 10 are Romania and China. The Asian region is also known for a high adoption in mobile technology, due to proliferation of low priced mobile devices.

Currently, the Philippines ranks at seventh place in terms of growth rate in e-learning.

The country joins Thailand, India,Kenya, Slovakia, and Azerbaijan with growth rates of between 30 percent and 35 percent.

This shows that the Philippines is well on the way towards adapting eLearning for educational institutions – and even in businesses. SMART’s goal is to be at the forefront of that digital change, at home, at work, and school.

one P888 VAT-exempted coupon. Present this receipt to the forecourt crew of Go Hotels Lanang and get one coupon valid for one room only and maximum of 2 nights stay.

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For more information about the promo, visit www. gohotels.com.ph.

PLDT Enterprise rolls out eLearning program

P

LDT Enterprise, via their Digital Mobility team, leads innovation in eLearning or digital technology-backed education as it recently launched SMART’s new eLearning Program for the academe and training institutions. This consists of a suite of products that leverage the benefits of internet-based technologies in schools.

This erases the perception that many people have of technology such as gadgets as mere distractions to students’ studies. The products in this suite are specifically developed to benefit not only students and teachers, but also administrators, parents, among many others.

“Our view is that the devices will serve more as effective study aids, and act less as distractions,” said Gio Abaquin, Head of Digital Mobility, Disruptive Business Group (DBG), the emerging technologies business unit of PLDT Enterprise.

“Today’s millennials have learned to accept the role that devices play in their daily lives.

It is important to bring in this

Gas up and Go with Go Hotels and Phoenix

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O celebrate the recent opening of Go Hotels Lanang-Davao, Go Hotels and its first joint venture partner Phoenix Petroleum, invite travelers to avail of their Gas Up an Go promo.

For every minimum of 800 pesos single fuel purchase in selected Phoenix branches, motorists can get

EDGEDAVAO Sports 15

VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016

SPORTS UPGRADE

Escandor hopes to empower coaches, trainors, young athletes

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

L

njb@edgedavao.net

IKE his boss, newly-appointed Presidential Assistant for Sports Glenn Escandor says he is ready to roll up his sleeves and work.

“I am excited to serve the country. It’s a different feeling when you are called upon to serve and not to work and earn,” said the Dabawenyo sportsman-business tycoon who will be serving pro bono.

Escandor, also the regional director for the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP), said he will discuss with the President his proposal for a nationwide sports training programs for coaches, trainors, and young athletes.

“It’s a very basic program, nothing new, but we will revisit what we are beginning to forget. Kids are no longer playing in parks. They are either playing computer games or engaged in unproductive time. This is where the dangers of illegal drugs set in,” he said.

HIS SPORTS AIDE. President Rodrigo Duterte (left) and Presidential Assistant for Sports Glenn Escandor (right).

“It’s time we have more people teaching kids how to play, and if we are lucky, we could even discover some who would be future sports stars of this country,” Escandor said.

He has yet to meet the

Ramirez gives Philippines 2nd gold in Asian Beach Games

F

ORMER judoka Annie Ramirez gave the Philippines its second gold medal after dominating the women’s -55kg division in the jiu-jitsu event on Monday night at the 5th Asian Beach Games in Danang City, Vietnam.

Ramirez defeated Thai Siramol Deepudsa in the final to duplicate her feat in the 2014 edition in Phuket, Thailand where she won the gold in the -60kg division.

On her way to the final, Ramirez beat Angelina Filippova of Turkmenistan in the quarterfinal and Lea Farhat of Libya in the semifinal.

Ramirez won two golds in the 2nd Jiu-Jitsu Regional Championships South East & East Asia held in Hanoi, Vietnam last June. She was named Most Valuable Player twice while playing for the University of Santo Tomas judo team in the UAAP. “Overwhelming passion and love for country, I witnessed for myself how Annie and the rest of team who competed yesterday and days before that prepared and were dead set to make it happen. Without even saying, you can tell with her demeanor and overall energy that Annie was out to duplicate her achievement in Phuket,” said Philippine delegation Chef de Mission Karen Tanchanco-Caballero in an interview

on Tuesday morning.

“I can only try to reciprocate the passion and hunger of our athletes to bring honor to our country in this competition. Truly enriching and humbling. I feel so honored to be of service to these fine, grounded and determined national athletes and officials,” added the official, who is also president of the Philippine Amateur Sepak Takraw Association.

The jiu-jitsu team has contributed five medals, including Margarita Ochoa’s gold in the women’s -45kg division, to the Philippine campaign in the tournament organized by the Olympic Council of Asia. Bronze winners were Gian Taylor Dee (silver, men’s -62kg), Jenina Kaila Napolis (bronze, women’s -55kg) and Apryl Jessica Eppinger (bronze, women’s -62kg).

The other bronze medalists were Lloyd Dennis Catipon (men’s -73kg), Helen Dawa (women’s -52kg) and Jenielou Mosquesda (women’s -57kg) in Kurash; Philip Delarmino (men’s bantamweight 51-54kg), Jonathan Polosan (men’s light welterweight 60-63.5kg) and Jay Harold Gregorio (men’s middleweight 71-75kg) in Muay; and the women’s trio of Josefina Maat, Gelyn Evora and Deseree Autor in sepak takraw. (PNA)

President to discuss the Presidential sports agenda but he said he has things readied just in case he will be called.

“Let’s help the President.

He is working hard for us. It’s time we show him our support,” the young sports leader

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added.

Escandor is the second Dabawenyo appointed by the President to the sports portfolio. Earlier, Phoenix Petroleum Philippines CEO Dennis Uy was appointed as Presidential Adviser for Sports.

Pacquiao off to U.S. on Oct. 22 for training

E

IGHT-DIVISION world champion Manny Pacquiao and his team are scheduled to fly to the United States on Oct. 22 to continue his training for his comeback fight against Mexican-American World Boxing Organization welterweight titlist Jessie Vagas on November 5 at the Thomas & Mack Center inside the University of Las Vegas-Nevada.

“Mabilis ang improvement ni Manny sa training. Mga 75 percent na siguro nasa condition si Manny. Pero, magdagdag pa kami ng sparring partners sa kanya (Manny has improved fast in the training.

Manny is in good condition maybe about 75 percent. But we will add sparring partners for him),” said assistant trainer Raides “Nonoy” Neri last Monday at Elorde Boxing Gym of the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Aside from local lightweight contender Leopoldo Doronio, Team Pacquiao is also getting the services of WBC Eurasia Pacific Boxing Council welterweight champion Sonny Katiandagho (10-1-0-6Kos) of General Santos City.

“Mas mataas si (Sonny is

taller) Sonny at 5 foot 8,” said assistant coach Jonathan Penalosa. Vargas stands at 5-foot10 while Pacquiao is only 5’6.

Meanwhile, chief trainer Freddie Roach is also arriving together with unbeaten junior-welterweight Jose Ramirez (17-0-0-12Kos) to be a sparring partner of Pacquiao.

Strength and conditioning coach Justin Fortune has already arrived earlier last Monday.

He has reportedly increased the load of the morning roadwork aspect as to include sprinting to improve leg power and speed.

Fortune also said at that Pacquiao is “now stronger and faster.”

Pacquiao regularly trains at the Elorde Boxing Gym in SM Moa from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. after his office work at the Senate.

The 37-year-old Pacquiao (58-6-2-38KOs) is the first professional boxer elected as Senator of the Philippines. He announced his retirement after winning via a unanimous decision against American Timothy Bradley to win the vacant WBO International welterweight title last April 9 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. (PNA)

These are exciting times for us.

We’ve got a lot of work to do, but we’ve got a lot of room to grow.”

The Lakers have missed the playoffs in three straight seasons for the first time in franchise history, and coach Luke Walton isn’t primarily concerned about ending that skid as he installs his system and attempts to mold a cohesive team for the first time in his own career.

The former Golden State assistant and Lakers forward doesn’t share Bryant’s binary belief that every season is either a championship

campaign or an utter failure.

“Patience will definitely be important,” said the 36-yearold Walton, who is four months younger than Lakers forward Metta World Peace. “As we set our foundation, it’s important that we don’t let whether or not we’re winning games take us from that path. We need to stay the course and see the big picture.”

Bryant’s final season was a traveling carnival devoted to showcasing the largely beloved star, with teammates reflexively deferring to him as the losses mounted. Nobody will defer to anybody else in the game plan envisioned by Walton, whose flowing offensive plan is welcomed by the Lakers’ top draft picks over the previous three years: Julius Randle, Russell and Brandon Ingram.

Clarkson excited of new-look Lakers

ICK Young took a long look around the Los Angeles Lakers’ bustling practice gym on Monday (Tuesday, Manila time), surveying the large gathering of cameras, reporters and teammates with a sardonic smile.

“It’s kind of boring in here,” the veteran guard said.

For all the hubbub and optimism around the Lakers as they returned for a new season, the LA native realized something was missing.

For the first time since 1995, the Lakers are heading into training camp without Kobe Bryant.

The third-leading scorer in NBA history is ensconced in retirement in Orange County, his 60-point farewell game fading into legend with each passing week. Bryant left behind a franchise that must return from a team-worst 17-65 season with a new coach, several new players and a young core seeking an identity.

“It was all about K o b e ,” point guard D’Angelo YOUNG LAKERS. Focus will be on youngsters led

by D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson as the Lakers enter the post-Kobe era. AP

Russell said of his rookie season. “Now it’s a different headline. It’s about the young guys.”

The Lakers have been working out together constantly for more than two weeks, but they still have plenty of team-building work to do this week at training camp in Santa Barbara.

“I think it’s going to be fun,” said guard Jordan Clarkson, who got a four-year, $50 million contract extension in July.

“We’ve got a young, talented group of guys coming t o gethe r .

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 154 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2016