Edge Davao 9 Issue 167

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EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 167 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16 - 17, 2016

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Serving a seamless society

CAROLING. A young Badjao boy performs a Christmas song by beating an improvised drum set made from recycled PVC pipes before asking for loose coins from motorists near the traffic light along E. Quirino Avenue in Davao City over the weekend. Lean Daval Jr.

JESS: ALL MUST SHARE TO ACHIEVE PEACE

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

T

O highlight the role of various groups in achieving long lasting peace, the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace Process (OPAPP) conducted a “National Peace-building Conversations” at the Royal Mandaya Hotel on Saturday, October 15.

The activity will open “new tables” for multi-sectoral groups to participate in the on-going peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), OPAPP secretary Jesus Dureza said.

The GPH and NDFP concluded the second round of their talks on Monday, October

10 in Oslo, Norway.

Peace advocates and various groups in the country lauded the outcomes of the second round of talks especially in reaching on the common drafts for the framework and outlines of the substantive agenda on socioeconomic, political and constitutional reforms, and the end of hostilities and disposition of forces.

“We want to see the development coming from the ground as we want to see inclusive work,” Dureza added.

He said that the GPH wants to address the concerns of everyone as a group to monitor and act on the problems one step at a time.

He also mentioned that they will meet the Indigenous

People (IPs) and other Bangsamoro communities in the country.

Dureza emphasized that both GPH as a whole and the NDFP must respond to the needs of all the sectors involved as people empowerment is important.

He also encouraged everyone to do their own share to make sure that the roadmap, frameworks and mechanisms agreed in the peace talk will succeed.

“Everyone cannot oversimplify peace talks because it [process] is not an easy task,” he explained, as implementation part is the most difficult part of the process.

On the other hand, OPAPP has tapped the National Com-

mission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) to implement things a little bit faster.

NCMF Chief Executive Yasmin Busran-Lao said people’s participation is very important in peace process.

Busran-Lao is confident that genuine and lasting peace in Mindanao will be achieved under Duterte’s administration.

“It is important not to lose the momentum of peace process from the previous up to the present administration,” she explained in Tagalog.

Busran-Lao pointed out that nothing will happen if people will not follow rules and agreements and that peace comes from the hearts of the people.

PH coffee has declined through time, DA moves to save industry

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) is now crafting key strategies to combat the issues that are confronting the coffee industry in the country.

Undersecretary for High Value Crops Evelyn Lavina told the coffee growers and other stakeholder that DA has included coffee as one of the top priorities of the agency.

Lavina, who served as the keynote speaker during the opening of the National Coffee Summit at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang

last Wednesday said that DA is has also made coffee as one of the country’s “golden crops” alongside cacao, corn, coconut and rice.

The undersecretary traced back to1800s when Philippine coffee was one of the best in the world in terms of quality and one of the largest producers and exporters.

“It was even uplisted in 1950s,” said Lavina.

However, the she stated that in 1990’s to 2000, coffee production was reduced due to price depression in the

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WITH BUSINESSMEN. President Duterte is greeted by businessmen upon his arrival at the 42nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo at Marriott Hotel in Pasay City on Thursday evening. KING RODRIGUEZ/Presidential Photo

NHA, city gov’t sign MOA to build 200 Davao houses

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

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HE City Government and National Housing Authority (NHA) on Friday signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to build more houses that will benefit around 200 families in Davao City.

The proposed housing units will soon rise in Los Amigos Relocation Site located at Tugbok District, Davao City.

Engr. Oscar Sayman represented the NHA Region 11 office during the signing of the agreement with the City Council.

As agreed, the NHA will undertake the role of build-

ing, improving, and integrating communities that will embrace housing development, resettlement and delineation of government and private sector participations.

The MOA also stated that NHA will build more than 200 housing units together with the city government.

NHA will also organize communities into a neighbourhood, to create and mold its community leaders towards self-governance.

The MOA also stated that residents in the relocation site will soon have a holistic, dignified, integrated, and sustainable community life.

PDEA-12 agents dismantle drug den during GenSan raid

A

NTI-DRUG operatives dismantled an alleged drug den in a raid at a crowded community here on Thursday afternoon.

Lyndon Aspacio, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 12 director, said they discovered the drug den following a buy-bust operation in Purok 8, Silway Fatima in Barangay Dadiangas West that led to the arrest of two suspected drug pushers.

He said they initially arrested suspect Randy Robledo, 35, at around 3:38 p.m. after selling a sachet of suspected metamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu to PDEA agent who posed as a buyer.

The suspect yielded a sachet of suspected shabu worth weighing about 0.3 grams and P200 buy-bust money, he said.

In a subsequent search at Robledo’s house, he said they found another small sachet of suspected shabu, two bamboo sealers, three improvised lighters, two improvised aluminum needles, four improvised aluminum tooters, a piece of aluminum foil strip, four crumpled aluminum foil strips with suspected shabu residues, a piece of blade, a pack of empty cellophane, a pair of scissors and five P20 bills.

Aspacio said they arrested Robledo’s father Eduardo, 61,

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IP groups calls for formation of independent peace panel

By RIA VALDEZ

A

GROUP in Indigenous Peoples (IPs) on Friday called on the government for the formation of an independent peace panel to ensure the participation of the IPs in the on-going peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

The group called HUSAY, a partnership among 3 major IP network in Mindanao saw the need for Lumad participation in the continuing peace process that would serve as the 3rd independent panel.

HUSAY is composed of Lumad Mindanaw People’s Federation (LMPF), the Katawhang Lumad Council of

the Mindanao Peoples Peace Movement (KL-MPPM) and the Mindanao IP Peace Forum (MIPPF).

Timuay Bandara of HUSAY said, “We need representation in peace talks,” said Timuay Bandara of Husay, citing that some issues the organization wanted to raise to the peace talks are the call to end war, the investigation of circumstances of violence and sanctions for these deeds, and the customized interventions toward peace and reconciliation.

“We are open to talk with these military groups,” Bandara added.

Elmalyn Abatayo, another leader from HUSAY emphasized that their organiza-

tion would also like to raise the social services that were deprived to them especially in terms of education and medical attention while Matikadong Bernardo, another leader added that their group is currently misrepresented into the peace process.

“The NCIP (National Commission of Indigenous Peoples) didn’t even reach out to our community,” Bernardo said, adding that various lumad groups are currently misinterpreted and confused of being paramilitary groups for using the names of the tribes for themselves.

Bandara also questioned the NCIP’s implementation of the Indigenous Peoples’

Rights Act (IPRA) and in using lumad customary practices as basis of implementation of IPRA instead of the lumad’s customary laws.

Customary laws, Bandara explained, include their belief of closeness with nature, their system of livelihood and their justice system.

Another lapse in the IPRA as pointed out by Bandara is the right to ancestral domain on which he claimed that IPs are proposing for the “one tribe, one territory” policy.

He said HUSAY is now organizing intertribal activities and agreements for the 33 IP groups in Mindanao for a consensus on reformatting the provisions IPRA that will be based on customary laws.

Asec David assigned OIC of DOT 11 E

Secretary Teo wants more projects in Davao, Mindanao

DEN L. David, Davaobased assistant secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT), is designated officer-in-charge of the DOT Region 11 in concurrent capacity, pending the appointment of a permanent regional director.

This was bared by Tourism Secretary Wanda T. Teo Saturday night in a phone talk with Edge Davao editor Antonio M. Ajero.

The Tourism secretary also granted Ajero a one-on-one interview Saturday noon covering a wide range of tourism topics.

She said that during her watch, she’ll see to it that Davao and other parts of Mindanao will get their due share in the development of tourism projects.

She specially mentioned

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Asec Eden L. David and Secretary Wanda T. Teo

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DOJ donates Php 1 M to Davao victim blast

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TRAFFIC WOES. Motorists and the riding public endure the inconvenience and traffic congestion brought by the road construction in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur that’s going on for a couple of months now. Lean Daval Jr.

HE Office of Justice Secretary Vitaliano N. Aguirre II deposited the total amount of Php 1 million to the bank account of the City Government of Davao City for the survivors and the families of those who died in the Davao Blast.

Aguirre spearheaded the fund raising for the victims by being the first to contribute to the fund within 24 hours from the blast. To date, the alleged perpetrators of the dastardly act have already been apprehended and are now facing criminal charges at the DOJ. Subsequent to the deposit, raised from the generosity of donors from the DoJ and its attached agencies who requested anonymity, Aguirre wrote a letter addressed to Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio of Davao City which contained the following: On behalf of the Depart-

ment of Justice family, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy for the lives that were lost on the night of the Davao City blast. Our prayers and thoughts are with all the victims and family during that horrible night and up to the present.

To show our sincerest concern for the people of Davao, we have spearheaded a Davao Blast Fund Drive to help the victims and their families recover from unspeakable tragedy. Through the generosity of some individuals, we were able to pull together the amount of PHP 1,000,000.

“We hope that this amount would be of great help to the victims and their family. Peace and harmony shall be prayed for the City of Davao and we shall endeavor earnestly to serve justice for them,” Aguirre said in a letter.

(PNA)

Davao councilors laud Gov. Nelson wants road GRP-NDFP peace talks for DavOr-ComVal towns

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

T

HE City Council on Friday has expressed elation after the Philippine Government (GPH) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) agreed to further discuss the peace talks in Oslo, Norway.

“We are extremely happy with the progress of the current administration on peace talks in Oslo,” chairperson on International Relations Antoi-

nette Principe said in the special council session on Friday, adding that peace is now within reach.

The second round of peace negotiations lasted for four days that started last October 6 and ended on Monday, October 10.

Principe hoped that both the committees will move forward in a positive direction to bring peace to the country.

She also cited the seriousness of the GRP and NDFP panels in reaching a comprehensive agreement to finally end the armed conflict through dialogue as peace is vital to revive the economy.

Principe also believes that restoration of peace through dialogue is the best option for the country.

She was also glad that one of her fellow colleague, Attor-

ney Angela Librado-Trinidad, is also included in the dialogue process and is fully in touch with the government committee to assist in bringing about a positive outcome.

Meanwhile, Third District Councilor Conrado Baluran has also lauded the on-going the peace talks, saying that he is also optimistic and happy about the process now that two

ago, the Filipino nation was exhilarated by the news delivered by the president that the country will be open to more international opportunities including the said competition of beauties.

However, several weeks

ago, reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach has admitted that it is not yet 100% sure that the pageant will be hosted by the Philippines but the queen assured that she is “working hard” on it.

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Secretary Teo confirms hosting of Miss Universe 2017

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

T

HE most prestigious pageant in the universe will be held in the Philippines.

In her speech before stakeholders, public and private organizations and local government units (LGU’s) during the

Regional Tourism Assembly at the Waterfront Insular Hotel on Thursday, Department of Tourism Wanda Teo has confirmed that Philippines will be the official host of Miss Universe 2017.

Tracing back three months

DOH boosts campaign against tobacco’s harm

T

HE Department of Health (DOH) took a step forward further in its campaign in reducing the prevalence of smoking in the country by launching a national television advertisement campaign that highlights the health and economic harms caused by smoking to families.

The TV ad campaign was launched through a partnership with Vital Strategies at the DOH Media Relations Unit in Tayuman, Sta. Cruz, Manila.

“In cooperation with our partners Vital Strategies, we are launching the multi-media campaign of ‘Mahalin ang Sarili at ang Pamilya, Paninigarilyo Itigil na (Protect Yourself and Family, Stop Smoking),” DOH Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial said during the

event.

She added that the anti-smoking campaign ad is the first of its kind “where our appeal is for the smokers to quit smoking.”

The commercial, which will air in the country’s national television networks, will be 15- and 30-seconder.

It shows a father, sick with cancer and bedridden as a result of tobacco-causing illness, whose daughter has to quit her studies to help support the family.

Through the commercial, the family’s anguish can be felt by viewers as they watch the father’s physical pain and emotional guilt over the daughter’s loss of her happy, successful school days.

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OVERNOR Nelson Dayanghirang pinned hopes on the construction of a national highway connecting Baganga, Davao Oriental and New Bataan, Compostela Valley in order to spur the economy in the area.

Speaking to reporters during the 18th Serbisyo Caravan on Friday held at Barangay Binondo, he said that his administration has opened several access roads in the province to ensure that goods produced by local farmers reach the cities, consequently giving them the opportunity of fair market price.

Dayanghirang said the Baganga-New Bataan national highway will reduce travel time to two and a half hours to Davao City.

The current situation requires commuters five hours

to reach Davao City from Baganga via Mati City, of the province.

“We can also promote our tourist destinations here if many roads are opened,” he said.

Dayanghirang revealed that he is also working on the roads linking Barangay Sobrecarey in Caraga, Davao Oriental to Maragusan, Compostela Valley and the coastal road connecting Tarragona town to Mati City.

“With these roads, we can also help the agricultural sector in marketing their produce to bigger markets.

Brig. General Casiano Monilla, assistant commander of the 10th Infantry Division, said farmers in between Baganga and New Bataan complain about expensive farm inputs and cheaper price set for their yield. (PNA)

TIGHTER MEASURES. A security staff inspects the bag of a guest at the entrance of the Waterfront Insular Hotel yesterday. Tighter security measures are being undertaken by establishments in the city to ensure the safety of their guests. Lean Daval Jr.

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ComVal strengthens CLIP program A

S part of the efforts on Peace & Development in the province, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Compostela Valley, in coordination with the provincial government conducted the “Comprehensive Local Integration Program Review, Evaluation and Operational Planning Workshop “ held at the Park Inn by Radisson

Davao, Lanang, Davao City last October 6 – 8, 2016.

The three-day seminar discussed relevant topics and concerns as DILG provincial director Noel C. Duarte spearheaded the presentation and discussions on the revised guidelines for the implementation of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) or the Joint Memorandum Circular 2016-02 of the

agency.

CLIP is a peace-building and social protection program of the DILG with the aim of extending hel to former rebels to re-integrate into their communities as they decide to abandon armed struggle.

Under the CLIP program is a provision of financial and livelihood assistance to the returning former rebels.

The Philippine Army also joined the three-day seminar where Captain Rey Vergel Annogui of the 100st Infantry Brigade discussed about identifying and knowing the former rebels and other CLIP protocols.

On the side of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Supt. Julius A. Borja also explained about CLIP implementing guidelines for the

disposition of firearms, explosives and ammunition.

Other discussions during the seminar include common legal charges and addressing legal service and security for former rebels discussed by the provincial prosecutor Atty. Lina Lou R. Veloso.

A special topic on the local integration program for former rebels who are considered minors was also pre-

Gov’t brings services closer to DavOr people

T ULAT SA BAYAN. Malungon Mayor Atty. Maria Theresa Constantino delivers her “Ulat sa Bayan: First 100 Days’ Report” on October 10. Mayor Constantino works hand-in-hand with the provincial government headed

by Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon for a God-centered leadership and her development thrust for the municipality to become an agro businesstourism hub in Davao-SOCSARGEN Growth Corridor. (PIO Photo)

Davao Oriental strengthens fight against drugs

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EEDING the government’s call of putting an end to the alarming illicit drug problem that has been plaguing the country, the provincial government of Davao Oriental together with other stakeholders are set to strengthen the implementation of strategies which have made positive inroads towards defeating drug menace in the area.

Davao Oriental’s Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), during its first executive committee meeting last October 11 had already presented the progress and accomplishments of their bullish crusade against illegal drugs.

Provincial Director of the Davao Oriental Provincial Police Office (DOPPO) PSSUPT Harry Espela said that the police have been intensifying their operations through “Project Double Barrel”.

He added that a total of 6,788 persons who are involved in drug use have already surrendered to the police.

From January to October of this year, Espela said, that the joint operatives of the police, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine Army have conducted a total of 84 operations, of which 127 were arrested and 106 cases were filed.

He also told the council that they have confiscated illegal drugs, consisting of mar-

ijuana and ‘shabu’, with a total value of P 3.9 million.

Serious on its mandate to curb the illegal drug trade, the PDEA in the province also reported that aside from anti-drug interventions such as buy-bust operations, the agency has also been intensifying its awareness and information campaigns through conducting series of lectures, seminars and symposiums such as enhancing effectiveness in law enforcers in investigation, prosecution of narcotics operation, trainers’ training on anti-illegal drug advocacy campaign, drug awareness seminars and support to law enforcement seminar.

In cooperation with the provincial government, PDEA has also conducted random drug test on the employees of the provincial capitol, sending the clear message that the government pushes a clean institution that is worthy to be called a role-model in the society.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Yvette T. Sunga also emphasized the government efforts to mobilize all agencies in the fight against drugs, including the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPATs) to serve as force multipliers in the campaign.

Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, on the other hand stressed the need of strengthening the cooperation

among all members of the PADAC in combating the trade and trafficking of drugs.

“It is very crucial that we give attention and provide solutions that will address this problem in order to secure the future of the next generation,” the governor said.

While the number of drug users who surrendered to the authorities is quite staggering—which emphasizes the gravity of the problem that has already penetrated deep into the society, Governor Dayanghirang bared during the executive meeting that the plan

about putting up a rehabilitation center in the province to cater the large number of drug users is already making headway as the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce offered to shoulder the construction of the rehabilitation facility in a lot that will be provided by the Provincial Government.

The Provincial Health Office also proposed for a screening, assessment and rehabilitation tool for ‘drug reformists’ based on the Department of Health’s management system.

The DOH in the area added

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INTENSIFIED CAMPAIGN. Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang is keen to strengthen the anti-illegal drug campaign in the province that will involve other stakeholders down into village levels to ensure the eradication of such menace in the area. (PIO Photo)

sented by Preciosa BH. Toledo, a social worker from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The workshop WAS aimed to provide a unified understanding of the operational strategies and commitment of all program focal agencies in Compostela Valley that include the local government, the army and the PNP. (PR)

HOUSANDS of residents in three far-flung villages in Baganga town in the Province of Davao Oriental have received free goods and services through a government project that bids to bring care and services closer to the people.

The 18th Serbisyo Caravan organized by the Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies (ARENA) in partnership with the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental and Municipal Government of Baganga, became a venue in the delivery of various services such as medical and dental services; distribution of food packs, medicines and school supplies; turn-over of cash assistance, seedlings and fingerlings; legal consultations; and scholarship applications, among many others to theimpoverished remote villagesof Binondo, Mahanob and Batawan, which are among the many areas hard-hit by the devastating typhoon Pablo in 2012.

Residents of these villages trooped at the barangay gymnasium during the two-day activity held on October 1314to avail of these ‘precious’ services. They described the Serbisyo Caravan as a very welcome project that has truly touched their lives as it offers services closer to their homes.

They say that the government’s move of reaching out to their community has saved them a lot of time and money as they don’t have to travel long distances down to the regional center or in the city to avail of these services.

Resident LuisitaMangguiob, during the Serbisyo Caravan, has availed of the Department of Trade and Industry’s skills trainings on amacan-weaving. “I am really happy that I have availed of this training program as this could open up new opportunity for me in terms of livelihood,” she said. “I am so glad that government services have reached our area since we are so far away from town. It means a lot to us having received such care from our government. It’s like having a one-stop shop of government services right here at our doorsteps where we couldcommunicate many of our concerns as well as receive government assistance,” she added.

Nelson Matibay, a resident

and leader of a nearby sitio who has received rice assistance said he is thankful that he and scores of others from their small sitiowere given assistance by the government.

“Today, I have seen how government agencies have worked together and came a long way just to provide us their services. We do appreciate that a lot,” he said.

The ARENA is a group composed of regional, city and provincial directors and other heads of national government agencies as well as the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division based in Davao Region.

The 701st Brigade of the Philippine Army, through its troops in the 67th Brigade thathave been working at the grassroots level, has pushed for the conduct of this year’s Serbisyo Caravan in Davao Oriental. Having a firm grasp and understanding of the plight of the people in the hinterlands, the military has recommended these three identified barangays to become the venue of this year’s Serbisyo Caravan.

701st Brigade Commander Col. Bienvenido R. Datuin, Jr.said that based on theneeds assessment surveythat the military has conducted, these villages turned out to be amongthe areas that need the most help from the government.

Brigadier General Casiano C.Monilla, Assistant Division Commander of the 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, expressed his thanks to the ARENA for heeding the military’s call to pool and bring the sundry services of the government in these identified villages. He said that the military’s efforts in reaching out to the communities through the Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP) serves asthe key to convey to the government agencies the urgent needs of the people.

Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang says he is very thankful to the ARENA for choosing his province to benefit on these overwhelming services which are very much-needed by the impoverished families in these hinterland villages. Healso thanked the Philippine Army for paving the way in making this activity possible. He said the project is one of the best ways for the government to effectively win

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Smart/PLDT launches biggest LTE promo

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MART/PLDT launched their biggest and cheapest LTE promo with the new and improved LTE sim with 6 months of free data for only P40.

During the launch of Project Eagle Junior yesterday at the PLDT gym, Gia Palafox, Head of Distributor Sales group of Smart, announced that their LTE sim had the fastest speed amongst the competitors along with more cell sites in the city.

Project Eagle Junior will have booths in NCCC Mall of Davao, Gaisano Grand Mall, and SM Lanang Premiere where they would feature Smart’s newest promos including the first low-priced LTE Phone, the 0+Presto 700 which costs P2,188 pesos and inclusive of 6 months data.

“That is P1,635 worth of discount,” said Palafox. Other promos include the Special Student Plan 399 (sim only) with more volume allocation, 1GB mobile data, Unli all-net SMS, and 20 minute calls; Smart Bro Plan 499 with up to 6GB monthly data and comes with an LTE Pocket Wifi; and the Special Flexibundle offer with 2GB data for only 150/30days.

The promo is valid at the mall booths only.

Jasmine Curtis-Smith, endorser of Smart, will also be in Gaisano Grand for the launch

where people can avail premium items by loading P50 to their phone such as a VR headset and a Stylus kit.

“Curtis-Smith will also give loads to customers,” said Palafox. People can also avail of big discounts with other Smart and PLDT products in the three malls.

Cherry Porras from the Smart Engineering Team also gave an update on the network’s reframing which started in July last year.

As of now, the network had expanded its spectro-zone for network signal to far-flung areas in Calinan and Tugbok as well as in Panabo City in Davao del Norte and Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur. “We targeted the indoor network coverage,” Porras said, adding that their 2G network has increased by 16%, 45% for 3G. There is also 5 times more indoor coverage from the LTE and that network will reach its optimal performance on the targeted date of October 31, 2016.

Palafox also told reporters that there are 1.3 million Smart subscribers in Davao alone and their current goal is to make their subscribers experience world class internet service.

The network plans to increase their mobile data users from 10% to 30% by end of the year. RIA VALDEZ

7 ECONOMY

Mati City promotes container gardening

By RIA VALDEZ

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HE local government of Mati City now strengthens its drive to promote backyard gardening airmed to support the daily food need of households in the area.

Vice Mayor Glenda Rabat-Gayta told reporters on Friday that the city government has spearheaded the teaching of Urban Container Gardening (UCG) to households in Mati City under the Barangay Integration for Development and Action (BIDA) program.

Gayta serves as program director of BIDA program that is extending efforts to encourage households in the city, including those in its villages to adopt the UCG which she also described as a type of farming and home gardening.

The vice mayor added that BIDA targeted three Home Owner Associations (HOA) during the implementation of its first cycle of the activity

from January to May this year.

During the period, the program recorded a success rate of 62% with 48 home owners adopting the gardening method out of the 77 homeowners who voluntarily enrolled.

Urban Container Gardening, she said will entitle households to produce fruits or vegetable in special recycled containers and materials in their own backyard or land for their own personal consumption.

Agriculture consultant Perfecto “Jojo” Rom who serves as the speaker of the workshops and primary tutor on UGC also told reporters of the success of the implementation of the first phase of the program.

“We teach household how to convert waste materials for a social value,” Rom said, citing as an example the use of juice tetra packs as pots to grow onions, calling the same as “Zesto Onions.”

He added that other possible containers like used plastic bottles and boxes of juice packs can also be used for different seeds that households wanted to plant.

By maximizing the small spaces in their houses and lots, household will not only get food to eat but also earn from UCG system of gardening, Rom explained.

He also emphasized the advantages that households can get from UCG given that said gardening system is convenient, economical and environmentally friendly.

Establishing one’s UCG is not difficult since all that the system require are recyclable containers, a location that has access to a minimum of six hours of sunlight daily and a soil mixture of three parts of loam soil, one-part composted manure, and one-part carbonized rice hull or coconut coir dust or washed river sand.

The success of the implementation of UCG in Mati City was also lauded by MarilouTarona, a representative of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP).

Tarona said Mati City has succeeded in implementing the vital provisions of Republic Act 7279 or the Urban Development and House Act and the mandates stipulated in Executive Order No. 42 series of 2014 which is known as the Establishment of Green Communities with Agri-industry based components for youth, women, organizations, and the urban poor sector.

She said that PCUP will continue its partnership with the city government of Mati to further strengthen the implementation of the program and reach more households.

The efforts, Tarona added, is also in line with President Duterte’s call to alleviate the Filipino families from poverty.

Agriculture, development leaders highlight need for climate action

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N the occasion of World Food Day, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) calls on countries to accelerate efforts that will enable agriculture and food systems to adapt to climate change. The Organization warns that inaction could result in millions of people more suffering from hunger and poverty by 2030.

“Climate change is one of the most complex challenges of our time but it is not without a solution. The agriculture sector in the Philippines is particularly at high risk, given the country’s geographic location,” said José Luis Fernández, FAO Representative in the Philippines.

World Food Day observance in the Philippines Joining over 150 countries in commemorating World Food Day and shedding a spotlight on this crucial issue, officials and employees of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its attached agencies on Friday, October 14 renewed their pledge to respond to the evolving needs of the sector and those who depend on it for food security and livelihood.

“We are urged to find practical and viable action plans towards food security and sufficiency amidst the looming effects of climate change. In recent years, our food producers have been gravely affected by extreme weather conditions and its erratic patterns. The DA has been proactively pushing for solutions and measures that seek to boost the resilience

of Filipino farmers against weather extremes, including prolonged droughts and severe floods,” said DA Undersecretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat who spoke on behalf of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol at a commemorative ceremony held at the Quezon Memorial Circle.

United Nations Resident Representative Ola Almgren who was also present at the event reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting the Government in its efforts to combat climate change and in the overall development of the agriculture sector, which directly relate to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by UN member states.

“On this World Food Day, UN agencies in the Philippines are one with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in supporting the Government and its partners to take a holistic, collaborative and integrated approach to climate change, food security and equitable social and economic development. Agriculture and climate change adaptation figure prominently in the United Nations Development Assistance Framework for the Philippines,” Almgren said.

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, DA Assistant Secretary for Planning and Project Development Lerey Panes, Assistant Secretary Leandro Gazmin and UN World Food Programme Country Director ad interim Martin Bettelley were also present at the ceremonies.

F AGRICULTURE, 13

CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL. Cacao Industry Development Association in Mindanao, Inc. (Cidami) executive director Valente Turtur (leftmost) and SM City Davao general manager Lynette Lopez (rightmost) lead the breaking

of chocolate block ceremony to mark the opening of the 3rd Chocolate Festival at the Annex of SM City Davao over the weekend. They were joined by representatives from exhibiting companies. Lean Daval Jr.

DOF: PRRD fully committed to‘inclusive growth’agenda

F

INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has assured foreign credit rating institutions that President Duterte remains “fully engaged” in implementing his 10-point socioeconomic agenda focused on inclusive growth, while vigorously carrying out his other priority goals of eliminating crime and corruption and forging lasting peace within the country and with its neighbors.

Meeting with officials from international credit rater Moody’s Investor Service, Dominguez urged them not to be distracted by the political noise generated by the President’s non-traditional type of governance, as Mr. Duterte remains fully committed to keeping the economy on its upward trajectory and making growth inclusive for all Filipinos.

“If you talk about the political noise, yes, there is. It’s inevitable for someone who’s shaking up the tree. It’s inevitable because of

the personality of the President and people not used to this type of governance. But he’s fully engaged in [the administration’s] economic agenda,” Dominguez told Moody’s officials.

Moody’s was represented in the meeting by Christian de Guzman, vice president and senior credit officer; Atsi Sheth, managing director; and Matthew Circosta, associate analyst, all of the Sovereign Risk Group.

Dominguez told Moody’s executives that the Duterte administration would carry out its inclusive growth agenda while building on the economic gains of the past administrations and exercising fiscal responsibility.

Moody’s currently rates the Philippines as Baa2, an investment grade rating with a stable outlook. This credit rating is higher than what Moody’s has given Vietnam and India.

Dominguez informed them that President Duterte has been meeting with congressional

leaders to push a key component of his 10-point socioeconomic agenda, which is the overhaul of the tax system by introducing sweeping reforms in tax policy and administration.

The tax reform plan being proposed by the Department of Finance (DOF), the first component of which was already submitted to the Congress last Sept. 26 also aims to ease the tax burden on wage earners and the middle class as well as protect the country’s vulnerable sectors, while raising enough revenues to accelerate spending on infrastructure, human capital, social protection and agricultural modernization.

He pointed out that the first package of the proposed tax reform program was completed and submitted to the Congress less than 90 days into the Duterte administration.

Dominguez said that even before he was sworn into office, Mr. Duterte and his economic

team already buckled down to work by holding extensive consultations with the business community and civil society organizations to help come up with the administration’s 10-point socioeconomic agenda.

He said that the next thing that President Duterte plans to do is to hold consultations with mayors, governors and other local chief executives “to basically hear what they want, and to tell them what we want; and what we want is no corruption and no crime.”

Dominguez informed Moody’s officials that President Duterte’s paramount goal is to bring down the poverty rate, which has been stuck at 26 percent, to 17 percent by the time he steps aside in 2022.

He pointed out, though, that reducing the poverty rate cannot be accomplished unless the President also focuses on his two other priority goals, which is to transform the country into

F DOF, 10

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 167 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16 - 17, 2016

EDITORIAL

Another war to fight

O

THER than a nagging problem in our war against illegal drugs, we have another war to fight—it’s called Zika.

Yes, the dreaded Zika virus has reached the country. The Department of Health on October 14 reported a total of 17 locally-transmitted cases of Zika virus in the Philippines.

Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial reported two new cases on Friday, one each from Makati City and Mandaluyong City.

The demographics of the 17 total cases come from 4 regions: National Capital Region, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, and Central Visayas. They are distributed as follows: Iloilo City - 11 cases; Oton, Iloilo - 1 case; Cebu City - 1 case (pregnant); Makati City - 1 case; Mandaluyong City - 1 case; Muntinlupa City - 1 case; and Antipolo City, Rizal - 1 case.

This mosquito-borne virus, however, may have been here all the while as an unnamed disease until lately when threat of the virus became globally widespread.

The Philippines, being a tropical country, is one of the identified risk areas of the virus. This also includes other countries in Southeast Asia aside from Mexico, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, Oceania, and parts of Africa.

Zika Virus infection is caused by the Zika Virus (ZIKV) belonging to the Flaviviridae family. The virus is primarily transmitted by infected daytime biting female Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes which are typically active from dawn to dusk. There is evidence that Zika Virus is also transmitted by other mosquitoes belonging to the Aedes genus.

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Thee 17 cases in the country at the moment sounds alarming. Add to that the increased threat of the spread of the virus with the onset of the rainy season and the frequency of typhoons at this time of the year.

Like the problem on drugs, this is no ordinary war. We cannot wait until the spread of the virus grows to epidemic proportions.

The Department of Health (DOH) has stepped up information dissemination campaign on Zika virus. It is also imperative that people know what to do to prevent the spread of the disease.

Here is a basic prevention checklist: Cover the drums, pails, and other waste containers at all times; clean and replace the water in flower vases once a week; cover the holes around the house with soil or sand; remove or pierce old tires that are being used as roof supports, also those tires placed around the house that might hold water; flip-over empty bottles, jars, tin cans and other items that can collect and hold water; clean and remove water on dish racks and other household items that can hold water.

As self protection measures, it is also important to know how to defend one’s self from the virus like using mosquito repellants to avoid mosquito bites; using mosquito nets when sleeping at daytime; and wearing long sleeves or clothes that will protect your skin from mosquito bites.

These are but a few basic things which every individual can contribute to the collective protection and prevention from the dreaded disease.

At the end of the day, we look back at the practical means of being shielded from the disease—forewarned is forearmed.

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9

Simple is beautiful

“H

APPINESS,” said British fiction writer Rosamunde Pilcher, “is making the most of what you have.”

When people start to want those things which they cannot have, complications arise. A wife wants a new house while the husband desires to have a new car. The daughter looks forward having a two-week vacation in another country while the son yearns for a new computer with latest gadgets.

If these longings can be met, then tears and sadness ensue. A fight is bound to happen along the way. Can a person live a simple life and live happily? “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated,” Confucius stated. “As you simplify your life,” Henry David Thoreau explained, “the laws of the universe will be simpler; solitude will not be solitude, poverty will not be poverty, nor weakness weakness.”

So why make such a big fuss on making simple things complicated? “One reason why people have difficulty in getting across their idea is because they use more words than needed,” says a sage. “I know. I have done so too many times to count. I keep babbling on and on about something for far too long and fill the air with too many words.”

In some instances, that can be a good and enjoyable thing. But more often than not, talking about things which most people will have a hard time understanding what you are talking about is just a way to feed your own ego and keep the spotlight on yourself for as long as possible. “A lot of the time I think it can be useful to simplify and try to use fewer words,” the sage finally admits.

Keep it short and simple. That was also the advice of Rev. Harold R. Watson, the former director of the Davao-based Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) and recipient of the 1985

T

VOL. 9 ISSUE 167 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16 - 17, 2016

Ramon Mag- THINK ON THESE! saysay Award for peace and international understanding. He is a believer of E.F. Schumacher, the man behind the bestselling, Small is Beautiful. “Any intelligent fool can make Henrylito D. Tacio things bigger, henrytacio@gmail.com more complex, and more violent,” Schumacher said. “It takes a touch of genius - and a lot of courage - to move in the opposite direction.”

Coming from the United States, Watson introduced modern technologies in 19-hectare farm in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. But smallscale farmers don’t know how to use those tractors, drip irrigations, and artificial insemination, among others. Watson changed his strategy. He talked with the farmers and learned what they already knew. And from there, he developed what can be done to help them. “It takes technical people to make things complicated but a wise man to make complicated things simple and workable,” he said.

Hearing Watson talk, I was reminded of the words of American industrialist Lee Iacocca: “You can have brilliant ideas, but if you can’t get them across, your ideas won’t get you anywhere.” Well, look at those technical papers and reports. Do people read them? Most of them are in university

or public libraries gathering dust. Indeed, what a waste of valuable information.

“The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak,” master painter and pioneering educator Hans Hofmann reminds. To which the great novelist Ernest Hemingway adds, “My aim is to put down on paper what I see and what I feel in the best and simplest way.”

If these famous people can do things in simple manner, why can’t we? “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” Italian painter Leonardo Da Vinci once said. “Be content with what you have, rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.”

That’s what Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu said.

Know who you are and your standing in life. “Knowing your purpose simplifies your life,” wrote Rick Warren, the author of the bestselling The Purpose-Driven Life. “It defines what you do and what you don’t do. Your purpose becomes the standard you use to evaluate which activities are essential and which aren’t.”

More often than not, all of us want to be a star, to be the center of attraction. But only few people can become an overnight star. So, if you can’t be a star, then be a tree. But be a tree that bears fruit. And if you cannot be a tree, then be contented of being a grass. Don’t settle, however, of being just a grass. If possible, be the best grass of all grasses. Simple enough, isn’t it?

Why make things so complicated? Karen Jogerst, author of If I Could Just Get Organized!, suggests, “Take a few things off your plate and take a vacation, get some sleep, eat better, drink less coffee, resolve any conflicts weighing on your mind, get some exercise, get away by yourself once in a while, take off a few pounds, read a good book, and

stop and smell the roses.”

Now, let’s go back to words. Simpler words are easier to understand: use flood instead of inundate, kiss instead of osculate, woman instead of dowager. Write to express not to impress, my editor thundered. “In the beginning was the word,” John 1:1 stated.

It came to pass that the heart, the brain and the tongue agreed that they would not make any more simple words. “Those simple words only weigh me down and make me soft,” the heart said. “Today, everyone must use complex words.”

The brain added, “Great ideas, formulas, speculation – these are the things that produce results. Simple words are only a waste of time.”

The tongue agreed: “I specialize in technical terms, foreign words, and great speeches. I can’t be bothered any longer with simple words.”

So the heart began to send only complex and harsh words to the tongue. The brain produced only learned words and the tongue made great speeches. No more simple words came from the lips. After that decision, the world became empty, cold, and hopeless.

But there were some people who remembered the simple words. They started to search for them in past history. At first, they were afraid of being laughed at. But interestingly, the simple words, with their built-in joy, began to pass from mouth to mouth, from head to head, from heart to heart, and in no time they won wide circulation. And the world became a friendlier place to live again.

Do you want to know what those simple words are? Among them are: Thanks! Welcome! Please! Keep up the good work! May I help you? Don’t quit! I’m sorry! Take care! That’s excellent! I miss you! I love you! God bless you!

place.

Then President Benigno Simeon Aquino III issued the EO on the BTC in December 2012. The BTC members were named in February, work started in April and the draft law was submitted to Malcanang on April 22, 2014. The Office of the President reviewed the draft and returned it to the MILF which rejected the proposed revised draft for allegedly rendering the future Bangsamoro less than the ARMM it was supposed to replace.

The FAB provides that the BBL submitted by the BTC “shall be certified as an urgent bill by the President.”

Congress adjourned in early February this year without passing the BBL. Santiago said that after the meeting in KL, the panels have met twice – in late August in Davao City and in late September in Manila. They will meet again on October 24 to 25 in Davao.

“We discussed the contents of the EO on the BTC at the Waterfront meeting in late August. And it went through some revisions after that meeting,” she said.

Santiago also said that this week, three of its panel members “have been in Cotabato meeting with our MILF counterparts on the Mindanao Trust Fund, TOR of the Implementing Panels, ways forward with the Normalization track” MILF peace implementing panel chair told MindaNews that they “finalized the drarft EO” during the meeting in Manila.

“It is in the GPH court now and we, too, are waiting,” he said, adding that, in the meantime, “the various teams created by the panels are meeting to discuss various issues such as normalization trust

fund, TOR (terms of reference) of the implementing panels, political detainees and amnesty, civilian protection component of the IMT (International Monitoring Team), and other urgent businesses.

GPH, MILF implementing panels await EO on Bangsamoro Transition Commission

HE peace implementing panels of the government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are awaiting the signing of the Executive Order on the creation of the 21-member Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) that would draft the law for the Bangsamoro, the new autonomous political entity that would replace the 26-year old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

GPH panel chair Irene Santiago told MindNews the EO “has been submitted to the Executive Secretary’s office and we hope that it will be ready for the President’s signature soon after all legal processes have been complied with.”

The Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed four years ago today – on October 15, 2012 -- provides for the creation of an all-Moro, MILF-led 15-member BTC tasked to draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). Of the 15, seven will be selected by the government, eight, including the chair, shall be selected by the MILF. The FAB is part of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that the government and MILF signed on March 27, 2014.

The parties agreed during their meeting in Kuala Lumpur on August 13 and 14, their first under the Duterte administration, to increase the number of members from 15 to 21, 10 from the government side, 11 from the MILF. The FAB provides that the BTC is to be created through an EO “and supported by congressional resolutions.”

In their “peace and development roadmap,” both parties are eyeing July 2017 as the target date for submission of the draft law. Between now and

MINDAVIEWS

BY CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS July 2017, there are only nine months left within which to draft the law if the target for submission is to be met.

The FAB lists the functions of the BTC as follows: to work on the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law with provisions consistent with all agreements entered and that may be entered into by the Parties; to work on proposals to amend the Philippine Constitution for the purpose of accommodating and entrenching in the constitution the agreements of the Parties whenever necessary without derogating from any prior peace agreements; and to coordinate whenever necessary development programs in Bangsamoro communities in conjunction with the MILF Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) and other agencies.

ARMM abolished; BTA takes over The FAB provides that the ARMM is deemed abolished upon the promulgation and ratification of the BBL. The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) then takes over until the election and assumption of the members of the Bangsamoro legislative assembly and the formation of the Bangsamoro government.

The ministerial form and Cabinet system of government shall commence once the BTA is in

MNLF TPresident Duterte has repeatedly said he would meet with his friend, Nur Misuari, founding chair of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) with whom the government signed the 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement.

The MNLF has repeatedly said the 1996 agreement has not been fully implemented.

But the effects of the warrant of arrest issued against Misuari have yet to be suspended. Misuari is still classified as a fugitive. He has a pending warrant for his arrest along with 59 others on charges of rebellion and violation of Republic Act 9851 or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and other Crimes against Humanity following the September 2013 stand-off in Zamboanga City between his followers and government troops that left 104 persons dead, 192 injured and 110,000 of its 807,000 population displaced.

On October 4, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza told MindaNews that they are “still awaiting outcomes on the legal status of Misuari which, he said, the Justice Department is now addressing.”

A faction of the MNLF under Muslimin Sema of Maguindanao has agreed to be part of the BTC that would draft the new Bangsamoro law. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

10 NEWS PH... FROM 1

global market, forcing the local farmers to shift to other crops.

She also expressed her gratitude Philippine Coffee Board Inc. or PCBI for “developing consciousness” to save the coffee industry in the country.

DA’s initiatives Among the initiatives that DA are undertaking include the Area Expansion Program particularly the eyeing on provision of quality planting materials and establishment, maintenance and rehabilitation of coffee nurseries and the establishment of clonal gardens.

Other efforts being done by the agency to support the coffee industry also include extension support through the conduct of trainings, information and advocacy campaign; postharvest/value-adding

and product development by providing processing and post-harvesting equipment to farmers, and establishing community-based processing facilities.

The DA also include in their list research and development programs such as land resources evaluation and suitability assessment of strategic production areas for coffee and cacao, and production and processing of premium quality coffee liquor and packaging development for the niche high end market.

Lastly, the agency will move for the regulatory support program to farmers by providing assistance to plant quarantine, accreditation of plant nurseries, plant material certification, support for pest and diseases monitoring, product standards and development.

Lavina also encouraged the farmers to develop innovations to enhance their coffee quality and catch up with the rising demand for coffee.

“There is now a rise in the demand of organic (green) coffee due to its slimming benefits,” added the undersecretary.

She also assured the coffee growers that the agency will eye better ways of facilitating farmers’ success to cheap financing, reducing logistics and processing cost and increasing value adding, increasing the coffee standards, improving research and many others.

Lavina stressed of the agency’s track of “going elementary” by encouraging the farmers’ children to engage in farming, aside from DA’s effort to coordinate with the Department of Education (DepEd) in promoting farming in the education curriculum.

political prisoners who were recently freed, Fortunato Tuna and Simeon Santiago, have already joined the discussions in Oslo.

“We hope that GPH and NDF will resolve all outstanding issues to establish peace and stability in the country,” he added.

With the commercial, the viewers can think deeply on the consequences of tobacco smoking as they watch how the daughter wonders why her father used tobacco and asked what “will happen to her and her future.”

“This will airs starting Sunday and will run for four weeks in the national television,” said Kaloi Garcia, communications manager of Vital Strategies.

He added that they make use of the TV ad campaign because it is proven worldwide that TV is the most effective channel.

Garcia said they will also use the social media platform to popularize the anti-smoking campaign.

According to DOH data, tobacco use in the country had been very high in the last few years but it showed a decline in 2015. (PNA)

that the office is also rolling out trainings on the assessment of patients to the health and social workers in municipal levels that will provide assessment from barangay levels.

Drug user’s admission to a rehabilitation facility will depend on the severity of his or her condition, Dr. Herminigeilda B. Nartates, the provincial health officer of Davao Oriental said, adding that in some cases, patients may not be admit-

ted but instead catered in an out-patient rehab facility.

Nartates stated further that the government’s Aftercare Program is also being developed that can provide holistic recovery and support and guidance to prevent relapse into drug use.

The program, she added, can cater services consisting of medical, psycho-social and economic programs to drug reformists. (PR)

The decline The undersecretary reported that Mindanao accounts for 75% of the country’s total coffee production, nesting to four of the top five producers in the country namely Sultan Kudarat, Compostela Valley, Davao City and Bukidnon.

“But areas involving in production continue to decline to 3.28% from 117,500 hectares in 2014 to 113,600 hectares in 2015,” said Lavina.

The undersecretary said that valuable production declined by 4.30%, from 75,000 metric tons in 2014 to 72,300 in 2015.

This is due to lack of access to financing and low productivity.

“But the biggest impediment is the continuing depression of coffee prices in the world market,” stated Lavina.

Councilors... FROM 4 DOH... FROM 4

Davao... FROM 6

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 167 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16 - 17, 2016

Davao Oriental, whose tourism development is covered by a special law.

Teo said she will closely coordinate with congressmen and local government officials in planning for tourism projects that would result in livelihood opportunities of rural folks.

The DOT has lined up several multi-million tourism infrastructure projects whose list she directed Asec David to release to members of the media for immediate dissemination.

Teo said she would be hands-on in promoting the country to tourists and tour operators. She said she had found meeting foreign travel and tours operators and agencies personally an effective way in convincing them to organize Philippine-bound tours.

She said she also found President Rodrigo R. Duter-

te an excellent selling point to foreign tourists. This is the reason why she expected an increase of arrivals in Davao.

Finding Davao City not in the itinerary of travel tours, Secretary Teo would insist in including the area and upon being told that President Duterte comes from Davao, the tour operators usually revise their activities to include Davao City.

She said several projects are lined up to address lingering challenges in the country’s tourism industry, including the lack of toilet facilities along Philippine highways specially in Mindanao, adding that the DOT will devise incentives to convince eateries and gasoline stations along the highways to provide adequate toilet facilities.

She said this has been done in the Luzon and Visayas areas, so there is no reason it cannot be done in Mindanao.

a law-abiding society by eliminating crime and corruption, and ensuring lasting peace within the country and with its neighbors.

Poverty reduction requires massive investments in infrastructure, human capital and so-

cial protection, and “doing something that no other government has done, which is to implement the Reproductive Health Law,” regardless of the expected opposition from some sectors, Dominguez said. (PR)

the heart of the people especially those living in vulnerable areas.

Baganga Mayor Arturo Monday told the residents of the three barangays to take advantage of the opportunity to avail of these services. He said that they are very lucky to have been chosen as the recipients of this year’s Serbisyo Caravan. “Among all the places in the region, we have been hand-picked to avail of these many services,” he said, while underlining the military’s role in pushing for this program to happen here.

ARENA President, Regional Director Engr. Mariano R. Alquiza of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), said that the Serbisyo Caravan is the government’s way of providing care to the people especially those in the marginalized sector.

As part of its long-term intervention through sustainable projects, the ARENA led by Alquiza has conducted a forum with local officials to discuss the other needs of the community that the government could address. He said this aims to build a progressive community wherein all the residents will have shared benefits on the development.“We only envision one thing – a progressive society where people are heard, seen and felt because these senses will open wide range of extending help, whether in service in making action that will benefit not just one interest but the collective goal in the need of the public,” he said.

Piloted in 2011 in the Province of Davao Oriental, the ARENA Serbisyo Caravan has already reached many parts of Davao Region in the past six years. The Serbisyo Caravan in the region, said Alquiza, has

been lauded in the national level as it is the only one existingthroughout the country.

This year’s Serbisyo Caravan saw the participation of thirty-six government agencies who brought along with them goods and services provided by their hosts of personnel and staff.

DOF... FROM 7

Gov’t... FROM 6

PARTICIPATING AGENCIES During the two-day Serbisyo Caravan, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has distributed 2,000 cacao seedlings to 265 beneficiaries as part of its National Greening Program (NGP) and has provided advocacy lectures on the protection of caves and wetlands.

The Department of Agriculture has distributed various farm inputs worth to P2.5 million which consists of cacao seedlings, cassava bundles, OPV corn seeds, and assorted vegetable seeds, among many others.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has distributed 40,000 tilapia fingerlings to resident fishpond operators. The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PFIDA) has conducted farms survey and training on abaca production and quality enhancement. The Department of Agrarian Reform facilitated the enrollment of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries to the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC).

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) turned over checks amounting to a total of P888,000.00 to 163 farmers. The Department of Trade and Industry conducted skills training on amacan weaving and productivity skills training on rubber production and processing, among others.

PDEA-12... FROM 2 who reportedly runs the drug den.

He said they also nabbed an alleged client of the drug den identified as Felicito Perez, 40, a resident of Zone 5 in Barangay Bula.

“Most of the illegal drug users in the area use Robledo’s house for pot session in exchange for P20 as payment,” Aspacio said.

He said the three suspects are currently detained at the PDEA-12 headquarters here.

The younger Robledo

would be charged for violation of Section 5 of sale of dangerous drugs under Article II of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Eduardo Robledo will face charges for violation of Section 6 or being an owner of a drug den, and Section 12 or possession of drug paraphernalia, while Perez will be charged for violation of Section 7 or a visitor of a den and Section 11 or possession of dangerous drugs, Article II of RA 9165. (PNA)

The uncertainties continue to rise as protests were raised by women groups to oppose the event to be held in the country.

Accusations through letters being circulated in the social media alleging of President Duterte’s “objectionable, scandalous, demeaning and sexist attitude” are being made as basis of protests by certain women’s groups preventing the pageant to happen in the Philippines.

The letter, signed by 50 women activists such as civic leader Loida Nicolas Lewis and

Rappler columnist and Professor Sylvia Claudio pointed out that actions such as the brutal shaming and rape jokes are clear manifestation of disrespect to womankind.

But all of the negative reports and accusations being spread were negated with the recent announcement of Secretary Teo. The announcement also confirmed the approval of the planned series of tours and events to be held in many parts of the country such as the cultural fashion show tour of the candidates in Mindanao.

The Department of Health (DOH) offered medical examination and dental checkup and extraction, distributed medicines, and conducted health information drive.The Philippine National Police, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Philippine Coast Guard offered consultation and dental services. The PhilHealthfacilitated processing of membership of residents and printed Philhealth ID’s to those members without ID. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has distributed foodpacks to 4,000 families; provided assistive device wheelchair, crutches and quad crane; turned over check amounting to P 3.2 million check for supplemental feeding of some 2,487 children; provided corn mill machine and corn mill building; and turned over social pension check for 118 pensioners.

The Department of Education provided school supplies and learning kits while the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) conducted training induction program, skills mapping, and free haircut and massage.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) conducted information dissemination on scholarship grant and grant-in Aid Programs. The Philippine Science High School conducted information drive on their institution’s programs.The Department of Energy (DOE) has distributed compact fluorescent lamp to 1,200 households.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has facilitated student permit license applications, motor vehicle inspection and emission testing which was done separately at the

Baganga Municipal Gym. The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) has conducted legal consultation. The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has provided IEC material and legal assistance on local governance and distributed checks to rebel returnees.

The Department of Justice has disseminated information on their programs.

The Profession Regulation Commission (PRC) in collaboration with the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometry, Inc. have distributed 3,000 pieces of pencils and conducted free eye screening and provided free eye glasses to 100 beneficiaries.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) distributed Rice Mongo Sesame ready-to-cook food blend and demonstrated production of dishwashing liquid and powdered laundry soap. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) turned over three units of mobile corn mill.

The Philippine Ports Authority distributed flyers, pamphlets on Violence Against Women and their Children and Anti-Human Trafficking. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has conducted Anti-Drug Abuse Lecture. The Commission on Elections has released voter’s ID. The Philippine Army has provided security, logistic support, and support in the preparation, on top of their role as the key agency in making this Serbisyo Caravan realized here.

The agencies who have participated in the Serbisyo Caravan, said Alquiza, have proved that through collaboration, the government can truly bring its services closer to the people. (Karen Lou Deloso)

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A celebration of music and life

By Henrylito D. Tacio EARLY THIS YEAR, the University of Mindanao Chorale (UMC) left the country to compete in the prestigious choral competition in Singapore. About 29 choirs from all over the world joined the Orientale Concentus, which was organized in 2008 with the aim of promoting culture and arts through choral music.

Among the countries represented were Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and the Philippines.

At the end of the competition, UMC garnered the grand prix. “The feeling is so surreal,” says Peter Ian C. Buaya, the choirmaster extraordinaire who headed the group. “We didn’t expect (to win the grand prix) because other contenders are so good, too.

Last Saturday, October 8, after ten years of conducting choir, Buaya finally had his first concert aptly titled, “Kumpas: Isang Dekadang Musika ni Peter Ian Buaya.”

The two-hour concert, which was held at the Mini-CAP auditorium, was fully-packed. Aside from the UMC, it also featured Buaya’s two other choirs: Voices of the South Children’s Choir and Sta. Cecilia Chorale.

After the much-applauded opening number – with the three choirs singing together – the concert started

with four songs from the Sta. Cecilia Chorale. Just when we thought Buaya is just a great choir director, we were completely wrong.

He sang the highlypitched “This is the moment” (the centerpiece of Frank Wildhorn and Steve Cuden’s musical “Jekyll & Hyde”) in the beginning with the chorale ending the song with much fervor. By the way, the concert happened at the night that he turned 34!

“Love Story” (the theme song of the movie that made a lot of people cry during the 1970s) followed and then with “One Friend” (popularized by Dan Seals).

The choral ended its production number with the heart-wrenching “One Day More,” a song from the award-winning musical play, “Les Misérables.”

The Voices of the South Children’s Choir rendered three songs: “Alleluia Fanfare,” “Pongpong” and the nationalistic “Piliin Mo ang Pilipinas” (which made me joined silently humming

“

Just when we thought Buaya is just a great choir director, we were completely wrong.

during the presentation).

There was a 10-minute break after the two choirs sang.

When the much-awaited UMC took the center stage, the audience were not only captivated by the quality and range of their voices but were also mesmerized by the harmony and the messages of the songs.

The chorale had a Disney love medley for its opening salvo: “I See the Light” from “Tangled,” “You’ll Be in My Heart” from “Tarzan” and “Go the Distance” for “Hercules”) The second song, “Wind Beneath My Wings,” was a good choice as a follow-

up.

The rendition was so powerful that Grammy award-winning Bette Midler came to mind (she recorded the song in 1988 for the soundtrack to the film “Beaches”).

The next song was based on Léo Delibes’ “The Flower Duet” and popularized by an award-winning British Airways commercial.

Yes, you’re right – it’s “Yanni’s Aria.”

The fourth song was sort of extra romantic as it was dedicated to his loving, whom he described as “very understanding.” The song, “Ngayon at Kailan-

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Empowering the youth through education and sp

By Ke Photo

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ports

COCA-COLA FEMSA, the argest franchise of Coca-coa in the world, together with undacion Real Madrid and ANAKK-Sta. Cruz Assoiation launched its Social ports School last October 7 n Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

Believing in the importance of ultivating life skills and positive abits among children, the program hich was spearheaded by Fundaon Real Madrid and sponsored y Coca-cola FEMSA aims to instil ood values and uplift the outlook disadvantaged children through otball and will provide them with jump off point for re-integration in he future.

“We believe in the importance cultivating life skills and positive abits especially for the underpriviged youth” said Coca-cola FEMSA hilippines corporate affairs dictor Jorenz Tañada said that the ompany is fully supporting the rogram.

“We aim for their socio-educaonal development,” said Pablo anauan, ANAKK-Sta. Cruz excutive director. “Along with Cocaola FEMSA, we have also created artnerships with DSWD, as well as arents of the kids to create a venue here they can grow up as well-

ANNAK-Sta. Cruz Association executive director Pablo Tanuan, Sta Cruz administrator Mark Cagas and CocaCola FEMSA corporate affairs head Jorenz Tanada. rounded people.

The Social Sports Program is a partnership with Fundacion Real Madrid whereby coaches of the Real Madrid football team fly to the Philippines annually to teach local instructors the fundamentals of football. According to Tanauan, having the kids regularly practive football provides not only a safe place for them to spend their time, but also gives them a sense of purpose and confidence.

Aside from helping the youth develop with the help of playing football, ANAKK-Sta. Cruz Association also provides sessions that teach them technical skills such as organic farming, motorcycle mechanism, and other topics that will equip them with skills that are sure to be of help in the future.

“We are not moulding star athletes here but instead, we are moulding future productive and

empowered individuals,” added Mr. Tanauan.

“Exposing children to environments that foster camaraderie, good habits, values, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle will enable them to grow into responsible individuals in their community,” beamed Mr. Tañada.

The Social Sports Program is also being implemented in Bacolod and Batangas in Partnership with the Roxas Foundation.

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man” (literally translated, “Now and Forever”), was popularized by Basil Valdez and then by Sharon Cuneta. He himself sang the first three stanzas of the song.

The finale song was “Better world,” made famous by Smoky Mountain. The first two lines said it all: “I dream that one day our voices will somehow fill the earth with joy forever. I dream that someday our wishes will somehow soon come true…”

When asked why he selected those songs, Buaya replied: “For Sta. Cecilia Chorale, the songs were about friendship and standard songs. The songs of the children’s choir were suited for kids while the UMC sang songs about achieving the goal.”

He also said during the opening: “Each song is carefully chosen not just to ‘come up with a program to wow the audience but to tell a story.

These are personally handpicked because I can relate to each one in so many levels.”

The following sang soprano: Juliet Bahala, Lois Layne Ramos, Maylona Librea, Karla Mae Angel Makiling, Dawn Faye Dela Cruz and Keith Irish Metillo. The altos were composed of Elaine May Samson, Czabae Gay Baybay, Kisha Le Rivera, Ivy Luh Portillo, Evegail Ybanez, April Jean Cabrera, Rima Magoncia and Lady Ann Ayon.

There were six tenors: Jan Karlo Gotas, Daniel Arno Hiquiana, John Lesther Tibay, Dale Vincent Soliva, Christian Dominique Garay, and Jayford Jorolan. The singing basses

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Three former UMC members, who have already graduated from college and now working, joined the concert. These were Darwin Gevero, Athena Rae De Guzman and Lea Rivero.

During the opening, Buaya said

these words: “Allow me to share with you the many things I learned in this community. The wisdom I gained not just by aging graciously but also in the countless pains and successes, troubles and smiles, almost endless rehearsals, and meeting dreamers over the years will be revealed part by part.”

And he did that during the concert!

11 COMPETITIVE EDGE

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Esdevco open house held The Rotary Club of Waling-Waling Davao celebrates October 13 as World Sight Day. A student of Jose P. Rizal Elementary School receives free eyeglasses after undergoing eye sight exam.

E

SDEVCO Realty Corp. hed its monthly Open House event for its initial venture Matina Enclaves on October 14 at its Showroom along Ecowest Drive in Ecoland.

The Open House successfully yielded sales of the Matina Enclaves condominium units and at the end of the day, Building 4/D was declared fully sold out.

“It was a very successful day in terms of sales and we finally sold out Building 4/D,” said Gerald Kent Garces, project head of the Matina Enclaves.

With the status of Building 4/D fully sold out, the only remaining units on sale are from that of Building 5/E which also has a few remaining units left.

Since opening sales last year, the Matina Enclaves has

since sold out three of its condominium buildings—a testament of the market’s strong response to the project.

Garces cited the efforts of its sales representatives for the sales yield during the last Open House.

“We would like to congratulate all the sellers for a job well done,” said Garces.

Those who closed deals during the Open House were

Rebecca De Leon, Reynold Barber, Flora Mae Magallon of Leuterio Realty, Solomon Banez, Charity Furog, Joice Reyes, Jocelyn Bernal of Davao Dragon Realty, Febry Rose Peralta of Mega Pacific, Nestor Granado, and Ruby Lopez of Lapidez Realty.

The Matina Enclaves is a sprawling mixed use real estate development located in Ecoland, Davao City. (NJB)

RCWWD celebrates world sight day T HE Rotary Club of Waling-Waling Davao (RCWWD) celebrated World Sight Day with partner agencies on October 13, 2016.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Stronger Together”, symbolizing the collaborated efforts of different government agencies and other professional and social organizations namely: Department of Health - RO XI, Davao City Health Office, Southern Philippine Medical Center, Phil-Health Regional Office XI, Department of Education - RO XI, Department of Social Welfare & Development, RCWWD, Davao Society of Ophthalmology, Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists, Inc., Davao Doctors College - Optometry Department, Mindanao Medical Foundation College - Optometry Department, UCCP Social Concerns Foundation, Inc., Maharlika Charity Foundation, Inc., Davao Jubilee Foundation, and the Lions Club International, District 301-E, Mindanao.

The celebration started with the wreath laying ceremony at the Rizal Park at 8:00 AM where guests and partners gathered around the statue of Dr. Jose P. Rizal for whom the celebration was committed in view of his professional dedication to Optometry.The wreath laying was headed by Dr. Jovina Sandra Dela Victoria, president of the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists, Inc. Welcoming the participants was Davao City health officer Dr. Josephine J. Villafuerte while Dr. Abdullah B. Dumama Jr., assistant secretary of health, Mindanao Cluster and Regional Director of DOH RO-XI, gave an inspirational message.

The ribbon cutting ceremony for the World Sight Day Gallery followed at the lobby of the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The gallery featured tarpaulins of the event’s engaging partners and the screening area for the cataract examination and consultation, which was offered for free to the pub-

lic courtesy of the UCCP Social Concerns Foundation, Inc. Davao City administrator Atty.

Zuleika T. Lopez graced the said ceremony. The RCWWD headed by its president, Estela Maribel T. Vilela discussed some possible partnerships with the local government on its upcoming projects. RCWWD also signified its continued support for the annual Word Sight Day celebration under the Prevention of Blindness Program of the Department of Health observed last August 1, 2016 with the theme: “No More Avoidable Blindness” where RCWWD members joined the motorcade parade and health forum.

RCWWD members then joined the other partners at Jose P. Rizal Elementary School in D. Suazo Street for the School Children Vision Screening. This school was chosen primarily for its symbolic representation of the late Dr. Jose P. Rizal. In line with the objective of reducing the prevalence of visual disability in children, the Department of Education in partnership with DOH has already mandated the implementation of this program in schools particularly in the grade one level for early and timely intervention to treat visually disabled children. The children found to have eye sight problems during the examination conducted were recommended to wear eye glasses that were fitted to them at the site. These were donated by the DOH RO XI and the UCCP Social Concerns Foundation, Inc. The eye examination was conducted by the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists, Inc. The World Sight Day celebration was indeed a very fulfilling event that forged a partnership with both the public and private sector. RCWWD looks forward to a more productive collaboration with its partners in achieving more in terms of avoiding blindness particularly among the marginalized sector.(Rtn. Marilou M. Baarde)

Songspell to stage‘Tagumpay’concert at SMX on Nov. 5

S

ONGSPELL Philippines Inc. will be bringing its world-renowned performances to local audience when it stages the Tagumpay Homecoming Concert on November 5 at the SMX Convention Center.

Songspell, a Davao-based musical and cultural ensemble, recently held a smashing performance in New York last May and will be bringing their widely-acclaimed act at home.

The concert will help raise funds for the street chil-

dren of San Pedro in Davao City.

The Songspell Philippines received a standing ovation in New York City at the end of its three-hour show of Filipino culture and musical talents.

The 26-member Songspell showcased their best of Broadway music and OPM songs to the delight of the US audience.

“I couldn’t help but sing on my seat when they started singing Basil Valdez’s ‘Nais kong maihip ng hangin...’ And

they ended their stint with ‘Tagumpay Nating Lahat,’’ said producer Ria Serrano in an interview after the US concert.

The concert was held at Cathedral High School in Midtown Manhattan. The group also performed in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Connecticut.

According to Miguel Braganza and Ria Serrano, producers of the show, the group will return in 2018 for another U.S. concert tour.

In prior years, Songspell had performed in 14 other states of the U.S. They also marched in the June 5 Philippine Independence Day parade in New York City.

Tickets to the concert are available at Sun Life GREPA Office at Plaza de Luisa Building, Philippine Women’s University, and Muzik’s Kool in Damosa, Lanang.

Tickets are pegged at P150, P300, P500, and P1,000. (NJB)

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 167 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 16 - 17, 2016

Agriculture... FROM 7 Way forward

FAO has commended the Government for building a solid foundation for advancing its work on climate change adap-

NOTICE OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given by LOYOLA PLANS CONSOLIDATED INC. that CERTIFICATE OF FULL PAYMENT No.(s) under LOYOLA PLAN ISSUED TO THE FOLLOWING PLANHOLDERS, TO WIT: PH NAME

CFP NO.

CONTRACT NO.

1. REYNALDO P. BAJADO

21041311

192395-3

2. EVANGELINE T. BAJADO

21041312

192396-4

67064

575286-0

3. LORETO C. LORIA

were lost. Any transaction entered into shall be null and void.

10/17,24,31

13

EDGEDAVAO tion and disaster risk reduction.

In spite of being one of the most disaster-prone countries, the Philippines remains to be a leading example in building institutional capacities for managing and reducing risks to natural hazards and climate change. This was further solidified by the participation of the Philippine delegation led by Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol at the Agriculture Ministers’ Conference of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) held in Peru last September, where the Philippines was applauded for its presentation on world food supply amidst climate change.

Moving forward with its shared priorities, FAO and DA, along with other agencies, are currently working together to improve strategic climate risk management and to accelerate the uptake of risk reduction practices across the policy and industry level, down to farming and fishing communities. FAO and DA are also at the forefront of promoting climate-smart technologies in addition to investing in more efficient systems and technologies for data collection and analysis, evidenced-based planning and decision-making on food and nutrition security and disaster response. (FAO)

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Fil-German Lehnert in finals S

ECOND seed Filipino-German Katharina Lehnert fought back from a first-set deficit to reach the singles final of the International Tennis Federation (ITF)-Thailand Women’s Pro Circuit on Saturday.

The 22-year-old Lehnert, who was born in Brauschweig City in the state of Lower Saxony in Germany, pulled off a 6-7(5), 6-0, 6-1 victory over third seed Chinese Guo Hanyu in their semifinal encounter at Hua Hin’s True

Arena hard court.

Ranked No. 515 in the world, Lehnert will meet unseeded Chinese Li Yuxian in the championship round where the winner will earn USD1,568 while the runner-up will get USD980.

Li defeated sixth seed Nudnida Luangnam of Thailand, 7-6(6), 6-4. On her way to the final, she eliminated fourth-seeded compatriot Zhao Di in the first round, 6-3, 7-6(4), and No. 5 Thai Bunyawi Thamchaiwat in the

quarterfinal, 1-6, 6-4, 6-2.

The 19-year-old Li is making her second final appearance since losing to Australian Abbie Myers in the fifth leg of the ITFEgypt Circuit two years ago.

Lehnert, who is playing in her 22nd tournament this year, has won four singles titles and three doubles titles since turning professional in 2008. She is a member of the RP Federation Cup team.

Meanwhile, the top-seed-

SPORTS 15 FINALIST. FilipinoGerman netter Katharina Lehnert is in the finals of the ITF Thailand.

ed pair of Thai Nudnida Luangnam and Chinese Zhang Yukun won the doubles title after posting a 6-2, 6-3 victory over second seeds Chinese Guo Hanyu and Lu Jiaxi.

Luangnam and Zhang shared the USD637 cash prize while Guo and Lu received USD343. (PNA)

Finally, Cavs sign up Smith T

HERE was never really any doubt that J.R. Smith would come back to the Cleveland Cavaliers for the 201617 season, but the unrestricted free agent’s continued lack of a contract still had the potential to create issues for the NBA’s defending champio n s . Never f e a r,

though, because the mercurial wing will be in uniform to accept his title ring at Quicken Loans Arena on October 25.

Smith and the Cavaliers have agreed to terms on a four-year, $57-million deal that will keep him under contract in Cleveland for the bulk of his remaining career. ESPN’s Marc Stein was the first to report the news on Twitter, including that the deal is guaranteed for $45 million over the first three years. As clarified by Jon Krawcynski of the Associated Press, the $57 million figure will come

SMILE IS BACK. At last, J.R. whelming Eastern Conference Smith can wear that smile favorite to likely league doorback on. (Getty Images) mat. It’s not clear how seriously Smith considered the Sixers, but their interest was apparently enough to bring the two sides together on a long-term deal.

Smith and his family proto Smith if he fessed their excitement in a vidplays four full sea- eo shortly after the news broke.

They also announced that sons.

Although Smith Smith’s wife Jewel is pregnant always seemed des- with their second child: .@TheRealJRSmith and tined to come family are beyond thrilled to be back to Cleveland, negotia- back with the @cavs but also tions stretched have some other BIG news to out well past the share.

Congratulations to the opening weeks o f free agency in Smiths on both bits of news.

July as player and After bouncing around several team could not teams and gaining a reputareach an agree- tion as an unserious malconment.

According tent, Smith has found a home to Stein, t h e with the Cavs and noticeably d e a l g o t matured as a professional and done Friday person. He spoke about his because another journey in his press conferfranchise made a push to sign ence following the Cavs’ Game 7 victory over the Golden State Smith: ESPN sources say a hard Warriors last June with a depth push from Sixers GM Bryan of feeling that few players have Colangelo for J.R. Smith helped ever matched. It remains one of sparked Friday’s talks with the the most affecting moments of what will be remembered as an Cavs to get a deal done — Marc Stein (@ES- especially emotional championPNSteinLine) October 15, 2016 ship celebration.

It figures that Smith’s It’s a big drop from over-

teammate LeBron James will also be pretty happy about this news.

Two weeks ago, LeBron implored the team to get a deal done with J.R. and expressed disappointment that his team has been without a major piece of the puzzlie for the second training camp in a row. While Tristan Thompson’s extended holdout last year did not derail the Cavs on their quest for a title, the frustration was understandable. Thankfully, Smith got the deal done seven days before Thompson did in 2015 and will soon join back up with his teammates. It shouldn’t take much adjustment — Smith, James, and others were spotted together at a Cleveland Indians playoff game last week.

Smith’s deal will cost the Cavaliers and owner Dan Gilbert much more than his reported $15 million salary in 2016-17.

The Cavs were already over the luxury tax threshold and will now have to pay the especially punitive repeater tax. The exact cost will not yet be known, but the franchise’s luxury tax could be more than $40 million for this season alone.

the mandatory random drug test initiated by the WBC in cooperation with VADA, the Volunteer Anti Doping Association headed by Dr. Margaret Goodman.

Prince Albert is determined to recover from that unexpected loss and return to his winning ways while his older brother, Jason “El Niño” Pagara (39-2, 24KOs) who is

ranked No. 1 junior welterweight is hoping for an impressive win and a possible title shot down the road.

Also, three of ALA Boxing Gym’s most promising young Leo Santisima, former amateur standout KJ Cataraja, and WBO Oriental Bantamweight champion Jimmy Paypa will also see action in the undercard.

Melindo gets another title shot S

TYLISH ALA Promotions boxer Milan Melindo is fit and ready for his IBF flyweight Interim title fight against Thailand’s Fahlan Sakkreerin in another classic fight card in the widely acclaimed “Pinoy Pride” 39 series at the Cebu Coliseum in Cebu on November 26.

ALA Gym’s head trainer and former world title contender Edito “Ala” Villamor told The Manila Standard that Melindo was in fine shape and had looked good in sparring against promising youngster CJ Cataraja who will also see action on the undercard.

Melindo who is ranked No.6 by the IBF and has a record of 34-2 with 12 knockouts has long wanted a title shot against the No.3 ranked Thai Sakkreerin Jr who has a record of 31-4-1 with 16 knockouts.

Melindo was disappointed that his scheduled rematch with Javier Mendoza of Mexico last May was cancelled when

Mendoza backed out due to injury.

Melindo stepped up against another Mexican, Maximo Mendoza and scored a technical decision win in Bacolod City last May. Even more interesting is the fight of previously unbeaten “Prince” Albert Pagara (26-1,18KOs) who recently lost to Cesar Juarez of Mexico via knockout for the WBO Inter-continental super bantamweight title in San Mateo, California USA last July.

There were those, including this reporter wondered how Juarez who previously engaged five division world super bantamweight champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire in a brutal battle came back after being knocked down early in the fight to win by an 8th round knockout.

In fact Juarez is one of the World Boxing Council ranked fighters who has been dropped from the ratings after he failed to sign up for

TITLE SHOT. ALA Boxing Stable’s Milan Melindo will have another crack at the IBF title on November 26 in Cebu.

PHL dragon boat team to compete in China

T

HE Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) is sending its elite team to China for the 2nd International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) World Cup scheduled on October 19-24.

Paddlers from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard make up the contingent which will see action in the tournament to be held in Wujin district in the coastal province of Jiangshu.

The members of the Cobra-PDBF Elite Team are Ma. Ailene Padrones, Josette Deriada, Mitchelle Faye Pabulayan, Honeylyn Leonardo, Alejandra Orola, Emilou Babanto, Mary Ann Huganas and Jean Roma Naing of the Philippine Air Force; Alex Sumagaysay, Nelson Dela Noche, Alberto Hugo, Edward Balbuena and Lovelyn Robosa of the Philippine

Navy; and Raymond Morales, Almonte Honrad, Jerby Deriada, Florence Caro, Rolando Isidro, Joseph Acosta and Bruce Gontinas of the Philippine Coast Guard.

PDBF president Marcia Cristobal will accompany the Filipino paddlers as team manager, while former national athlete Judith Pagsuyuin Hakim is also joining the trip as umpire of the tournament organized by the IDBF, which is the world governing body in the sport.

Hakim was a member of the Philippine team which competed in the 1st World Cup held two years ago in Fuzhou, the capital of China’s Fujian province.

In the 2014 edition, the Philippines won the 100-meter and 500-meter events to finish second to overall champion China, which ruled the 200-meter, 400-meter and 200-km. events. (PNA)

quiao’s 21-year experience in the sport.

In the early part of his training, Pacquiao’s strength and conditioning coach Justin Fortune noticed that Pacquaio has made significant improvement on his speed and power compared to what he saw during his third encounter with Timothy Bradley.

“I’ve been on the job for only a week, but this I can tell you, Manny has improved a lot since we last work together last April for the Timothy Bradley III fight,” Fortune said in an interview.

“He’s lot stronger now and faster,” he added.

Fortune’s observation that Pacquiao is now faster and stronger following the Bradley fight would validate Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach’s claim that Pacquiao lost to Mayweather mainly

because of his injury.

The Bradley fight was first for Pacquiao since he underwent a surgery a few days after his historic fight against Floyd Mayweather last year.

While Pacquiao failed to knock out Bradley, Reyes said “he was surprisingly faster and with more punching power compared to his performance in the Mayweather fight.”

“This goes to show that he has fully recovered from his injury and if he can surpass his performance in the Bradley fight, there is no reason why he will lose to Vargas,” Reyes said.

Pacquiao is coming out of retirement he declared after the Bradley fight. Now a Senator, Pacquiao is still looking for his first knockout win in six years, a spell that has cast doubts on his punching power.

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Boxing analyst says Pacquiao’s speed, power too much for Vargas

By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

W

njb@edgedavao.net

E heard this before, we hear it again.

Pacquiao’s speed and power is just too much.

You can fill in the blank connecting that sentence to whoever is Pacquiao’s next foe.

It’s a hackneyed line whenever the Filipino eight-time world champion fights.

And then things like his knockout power is back and he will go for a knockdown in the fight.

All these aren’t new anymore but if it will help sell the fight, then the drumbeaters will do everything to sell a not so good matchup into a mustsee one.

It does not come so surprising when boxing analyst Leo Reyes of Digital Journal said Pacquiao’s newly restored speed and power following his successful shoulder surgery last year will be too much for

Jessie Vargas to take.

Pacquiao and the reigning world welterweight champion Jesse Vargas face each other in the ring on Nov. 5 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Reyes wrote in an article posted at Philboxing.com that while Vargas is confident he will emerge victorious over Pacquiao on Nov. 5, odds makers say otherwise.

Three weeks ago, Pacquiao was a 10-1 favorite to win and the odds barely changed three weeks before flight night.

“The only possible way for Vargas to win is by way of lucky punch similar to what Juan Manuel Marquez did to Pacquiao in 2012 when the Filipino fighting senator was knocked out seconds before the end of the sixth round. Pacquiao was leading on all scorecards when the unexpected knockout happened,” wrote Reyes.

However, Reyes believes Vargas is a good boxer.

“Otherwise he won’t become the WBO welterweight champion,” he said.

However, Reyes believes Vargas’ skill and experience pales in comparison with Pac-

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