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IN BLOOM. A worker harvest chrysanthemums at the King Toto Flower Farm of the Puentespina Farms in the hinterland village of Carmen in Davao City ahead of this year’s All Souls’ Day celebration. (KEITH BACONGCO)
I’M DONE WITH CUSSING: RODY EDGE By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA
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O more cussing. This was the vow made by President Duterte to God and the Filipino people in a Davao news conference upon his return from his three-day state visit to Japan. According to the President, he heard a voice on board the aircraft as everybody was fast asleep. “Everybody was asleep, snoring, but a voice said that, ‘You know, if you don’t stop epithets, I will bring this plane down now,’” he narrated. Mr. Duterte said that he even asked the voice who he was, and it was later on when he realized that it was God
speaking to him. “So, I promise God to -not to express [my thoughts through] slang, cuss words and everything,” he said. The President pointed out that a promise made to God is also a promise made to the Filipino people. This is the reason, he added, why as President of the Republic, he must keep his word, and do away with his habit of cursing. To recall, Mr. Duterte has thrown expletives at the Pope for causing a gridlock in Manila; at President Obama and the United States government for raising the issue of extra
judicial killings (EJKs) against him; and the European Union (EU) and United Nations (UN) for also questioning the spate of EJKs in the country. When asked if the public can expect him to stop cursing the United Nations, US, EU and Senator Leila De Lima, he exclaimed, “There is always a time for everything.” “If you know me, ask anyone who really knows me. There’s always a time, there’s always a timing, a time for everything, a time to be a foul mouthed...I do not want anyone reading my mind,” he said. Mr. Duterte is known for his profanity-laced language,
which has drawn sharp criticism from various sectors who contend that a leader of such stature as the President should be more circumspect in his choice of words. The President, however, has previously explained that his manner of speaking is in fact part of his strategy to keep his opponent off-balanced, and make them guess his next move. In an interview during the campaign trail, Mr. Duterte said that cussing is his way of getting across his message to the people, and demonstrating that he is just an ordinary Joe just like them.
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GETTING READY. A man paints the ossuaries of his departed loved ones at the Wireless Public Cemetery in Mahapo Hills, Davao City yesterday. Many Dabawenyos have started cleaning up the tombs and ossuaries of their departed loved ones as they prepare for this year’s All Souls’ Day celebration. LeanDaval Jr.
Gen – Z convention draws health care professionals By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS
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N a bid to address key concerns confronting millenials, health professionals and other stakeholders in the health sector participated in the first Developmental and Adolescent Medicine Convention last Oct. 28 at the SMX Convention Center in Lanang, Davao City. Dubbed as “Unraveling the Mysteries of Generation Z,” the convention was spearheaded by Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) – Pediatrics Department, in collaboration with the Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC) – Adolescent Medicine Section and the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral
Pediatrics. Dr. Mike Manalaysay stressed the timeliness of the event, as he explained that technological innovation is a huge factor in influencing the behavior of children and adolescents. The convention, he added, is a perfect avenue to discuss concerns facing the current generation and recommend effective ways to address them. “It is the first time for Davao to conduct such a convention as the Department of Health (DOH) pushed us to do such,” Manalaysay noted. According to SPMC Chief
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Rody congratulates Versoza for Ms. Int’l win By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA
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RESIDENT Duterte has expressed elation over the win of Filipina Kylie Versoza as Miss International 2016 last Oct 27, Thursday, at the Tokyo Dome City Hall, in Tokyo Japan. The President said he was pleased with the honor Versoza has brought to the country, adding she has become another source of pride for the Filipino people. “Well, of course, I am happy,” he said. “I am always happy if our beautiful women win all the titles sa (pageant)
--- kasi Filipino tayo eh.” Mr. Duterte took note of the numerous victories of Filipina beauty queens around the world, which definitely qualifies them as class acts. The President said that he is looking forward to meeting Versoza to personally congratulate her for her victory. “I’d like to congratulate the Miss International. Mabuhay ka at I’d like to meet her just to congratulate her personally,” Duterte said. Versoza, 24, hails from Ba-
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Davao City gov’t launches hotline for abused kids By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS and RIA VALDEZ
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O honor the memory of a child who was beaten up to death by his stepfather a few months ago, the City Government on Friday launched a hotline to address the issue of child abuse. According to Atty. Raul Nadela, chief of staff of City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, the Kean Gabriel hotline operates 24/7 and may be reached by calling or texting 0908-8184-444. Nadela noted the hotline was inspired by Kean Gabriel who could have celebrated his fourth birthday on Oct. 29. Police investigations revealed that Kean Gabriel’s 21-year-old stepfather stuffed
him into a sack and placed on top of a cabinet inside the family’s one-room house in Matina Pangi. The sack fell from the cabinet to the floor. Kean died from multiple head injuries. Authorities learned that Kean’s mother only watched as events unfolded, and did nothing to save her son. In a statement, Mayor Duterte-Carpio emphasized that no child deserves such abuse or neglect. City Social Services and Development Office (CSSDO) chief Malou Bermudo, who was also at the event’s launch, revealed the mayor wanted
the anti-child abuse hotline to be multi-sectoral. “The Kean Gabriel Hotline is manned by a group of social workers, police officers, health professionals, and paralegals,” Bermudo added. Juenalyn Pablo, head of the Quick Response Team for Children Center (QRTCC), said the center’s 25 employees attended a five-day training on how to receive calls, counselling, therapeutic voice and resiliency, and stress managementt. Meanwhile, Capt. Eliza Ramirez of the Davao City Police Office - Women and Children’s Desk, said her office has
assigned three policewomen to help man the hotline. Ramirez said her staff have been trained to practice gender sensitivity when handling cases, and have also taken a refresher course on child-related laws. “If there are urgent cases, these policewomen will coordinate with the nearest police station and use arms if necessary,” she said. Ramirez explained the center’s response would depend on the nature of the case, as the responding team must also coordinate with members of a special group in the area
Department of General Surgery of the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) in Cebu City rendered free medical services during the three-day surgical mission at the Siargao District Hospital in the town of Dapa from Oct. 25 to 28. The mission was facilitated by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte, with the aim of providing quality health services to poor residents in
the island. Governor Sol Matugas said the surgeries that were conducted by 15 medical specialists, including the medicines given to the patients, were all free of charge. The specialists included nine doctors which specialized in general surgery, three on anaesthesiology, one on internal medicine, and two on obstetrics and gynecology. The medical team was led
by Dr. Rey Risner Obenza and Dr. Catherine Joyce Magno. Four nurses from VSMMC also joined the medical mission. Matugas said the medical mission in Siargao was the 4th since the medical activity was launched in 2013, and has provided free medical care and services to thousands of residents in the island and in the entire province of Surigao del
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Surgical mission in Siargao Island lauded By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ
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adlopez0920@gmail.com
ARIOUS sectors in Siargao Island, especially those whose family members are in dire need of surgical operations but have been constrained due to the lack of finances, have lauded a recent three-day medical mission that provided free surgery to more than a hundred patients in the island. The provincial government of Surigao del Norte said 15 medical specialists from the
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PH, Japan ties solid: Rody
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RESIDENT Duterte cited the excellent ties between the Philippines and Japan, saying that he and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have reached agreements on a range of issues that aim to further strengthen the partnership between both countries. The President arrived from his three-day state visit to Japan on Thursday evening at the Davao International Airport and announced the productive and specific gains of the state visit in the areas of economic, socio-political, security and defense cooperation. He added that the Philippines and Japan will further harness their strengths for economic growth, as he recognized the importance of vibrant political and defense exchanges to build a stable and secure environment in the
regions of Asia and Southeast Asia. “In this regard, enhancing capabilities in maritime security and maritime domain awareness is a key priority. Japan will play a vital role in modernizing the Philippines’ capacities as a nation with maritime interests to protect,” President Duterte emphasized. He said the acquisition of more maritime and air capability assets are crucial in addressing traditional and emerging threats to the Philippines, including piracy, criminality at sea and terrorism, as well as in responding to disasters. The President, however, pointed out that economic cooperation remained the top agenda of the three-day state visit to Japan as he sought
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HOME. President Duterte gestures while delivering his speech during his arrival from a state visit in Japan at the Davao International Airport in Davao City on Thursday evening. Lean Daval Jr.
CBCP revives ‘Undas Online’ By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS
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HE Catholic’s Bishop Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has reactivated ‘Undas Online’ in time for this year’s observance of All Saints’ and All Soul’s Days on Nov. 1 and 2. According to Davao City Archbishop Romulo Valles, the online resource aims to help Catholics – particularly Filipinos abroad – who cannot per-
sonally go to their respective parishes to request for masses to be celebrated for family members who have passed away. Valles explained the Catholic faithful can log on to the website www.undasonline. com, click on ‘Prayer Request,’ and list down the names of their dearly departed whom they wish to offer mass for.
“Masses will be held in the CBCP chapel in Intramuros,” he said. The prelate added the Archdiocese of Davao will also hold masses for the deceased starting Nov. 1. Valles said there is also a button in the website which parish goers can click on if they wish to make a donation or give mass stipends, which
will be turned over to the priests who will be celebrating mass. He, however, stressed that these donations are not obligatory. The Undas Online website also offers prayers and catechesis on the significance and liturgical meaning of the celebration of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, among others.
vices to the community. Ongkingco also shared the challenges faced by the organization during the year, as well as the efforts carried out by its member to overcome these concerns. These efforts, he said, have resulted in significant gains, most especially in the areas of civic engagements, linkages and resource mobilization. Ongkingco also reported on YMCA-Davao’s major achievements for this year. These include the 45th installation of officers and directors of YMCA-Davao, and the conduct and sponsorship
of sports events that aimed to encourage the active participation of the youth. The group also carried out the following programs and projects: “Operation Tuli;” YMCA feeding program; donation of trash bins to a Badjao community in Davao City; conduct of medical missions; participation to the Davao Peace Fair; outreach program for the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) at the UCCP Haran. Under the leadership of President Ongkingco, YMCA Davao also prioritized the development of the members of the board, officers and staff,
with the conduct of the APD Mid-Year Conference in Dumaguete City; the Mindanao Region Lay Leaders’ and Staff Planning Conference in Davao City; the Lay and Youth Forum in Tagum City; and the National Leaders’ Conference in Cebu City. Nine qualified Life Corporate Members of YMCA-Davao filed their candidacy for Board of Directors during the conference, which included Antonio M. Ajero, editor-in-chief of EDGE Davao, Lucrecio A. Arizola, Albor V. Batao Jr., Rizaldo R. Gonzales, Isagani G. Javier,
YMCA Davao holds 45 annual elections M th
By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ adlopez0920@gmail.com
EMBERS of the Young Men’s Christian Association of Davao (YMCA-Davao) converged at the YMCA Multi-Purpose Hall on Saturday, October 29 for their 45th annual corporate meeting and election of oard of Directors. More than a hundred members participated in the yearly event where the group’s treasurer and president delivered their annual reports. In his message, YMCA-Davao president Engr. Fernando s. Ongkingco Jr. said the YMCA is honoured to be given a chance to contribute its ser-
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Members of YMCA-Davao cast their votes during the 45th annual corporate meeting and election of Board of Directors held on Saturday at the YMCA MultiPurpose Hall in Davao City. (Alexander D. Lopez)
Surigao Norte intensifies drive against illegal drugs
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HE provincial government of Surigao del Norte on Thursday said it will intensify its drive against the illicit drug trade in the province with the issuance of an Executive Order by Governor Sol Matugas creating the Provincial Anti-Drug Management Team (PADMT). The team, as stipulated in the order, will support the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other concerned agencies in the implementation of “Oplan Tokhang,” especially in handling the increasing number of drug dependents who have voluntarily yielded to authorities. Governor Matugas said these drug dependents have expressed their intention to reform, and therefore need immediate assistance through treatment and rehabilitation. PADMT, which will be headed by the governor, will oversee the supervision and implementation of the an-
ti-drug contingency plan of the province. The group will be composed of various teams, including those who will be incharge of the surrenderees’ assessment, education, and community-based treatment. The provincial government said in a statement on Thursday that PADMT’s community-based treatment and assessment teams have already completed their training, together with their municipal-level counterparts, and are now preparing to pilot the program in the town of Claver by November of this year. The statement added Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial, during her recent visit to the province, supported the request of Governor Matugas for the construction of a 100-bed capacity Siargao Island Rehabilitation Center. The proposed center will
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President to corrupt officials:“I will be harsh”
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RESIDENT Duterte has warned anew that he will be harsh against those who are involved in graft and corruption. Speaking upon his arrival at the Davao International Airport from a three-day state visit to Japan on Thursday evening, the President said corruption continues to pull the country down. “It’s time to stop,” President Duterte said, emphasizing that he was referring to both government and private officials who involved in graft and corruption. The President zeroed in on certain officials of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), whom he said, have been involved in corrupt practices. “No special privilege this time,” he stressed, as he referred to those who flaunt lavish lifestyles due to their partic-
ipation in illegal activities. The President said he will also direct the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct investigations and lifestyle checks on government personnel. “Corruption has to go,” he stressed. President Duterte also underscored his administration’s all out drive against graft and corruption which is in line with his goal to emancipate the Filipino people from poverty, and improve the economy of the country. He noted that if government resources could only be utilized up to the last centavo for government programs, projects and services, the lives of Filipinos will be better in the next two years. “There will be monitoring every day. I will give you a clean government,” the President said. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ
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TSI to set-up ash-producing coop by 2017 By RIA VALDEZ
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HERMA South, Inc. (TSI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower, plans to establish an independent community-based cooperative that will produce, market and supply fly ash to construction firms by 2017. This was recently announced by Jason Magnaye, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) manager of TSI. According to Magnaye, fly ash is a product of coal combustion and is composed of fine particles that are driven out of the boiler of a coal-fired power plant. He explained that fly ash is a very good alternative to cement and can be used to produce high-quality bricks. “We would not let this fly ash pollute the air,” said Magnaye. He pointed out that by manufacturing bricks made of fly ash, TSI would help establish an industry that would mitigate the possible harmful effects of pollution, and ensure the protection of the environment. “TSI is doing its job to care for the environment,” stressed Magnaye. In the meantime, the TSI executive bared his company’s goal of planting around nine million trees by 2020. He said that for this year, TSI targets to plant at least
80,000 seedlings within the power facility’s host communities. Magnaye said 2,669 indigenous trees have been planted as part of the Aboitiz Group’s simultaneous tree planting activity called “Aboitiz Passion for Agri-forestation and Reforestation for Keeps” (APARK) last July 2016. The volunteers, he said, planted narra, molave, and mahogany seedlings in a 2.4 area in Marilog, Davao City. The tree planting event was participated by almost 100 volunteers from TSI, the Matigsalug Coucil of Elders Marilog District Davao City Inc.(MACOEMADDACI), Barangay Office of Marilog Proper, Davao City Ploice Station 12, and the Bravo Company 84th Infantry Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The activity was undertaken in partnership with TSI’s Carbon Sink Management Program (CSMP) partner and the MACOEMADDACI. In the meantime, Magnaye urged the public to visit TSI’s Energy Education Center (EEC) that is located at the plant site of TSI’s 300-MW Davao Baseload Power Plant of in Binugao, Toril. In explaining the rationale behind the establishment of
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FLOWERS FROM MINDANAO. A worker sorts newly-harvested chrysanthemums at the King Toto Flower Farm of the Puentespina Farms in the hinterland village of Carmen in Davao City. Most of these flowers are shipped to Manila in time for the All Souls Day celebration. (KEITH BACONGCO)
SSS chair backs P2-K pension hike
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EW Social Security System (SSS) Commission Chairman Amado D. Valdez on Friday expressed his support to the implementation of the P2,000 monthly pension increase of the retirees. However, despite this positive development, Valdez cited funding considerations. “We understand the need for higher SSS pensions. However, merely mandating to grant
an across-the-board pension increase without any mention of how exactly the system will sustain it over the long term may not suffice,” Valdez said in a press conference Friday. He said that an additional P56 billion on the first year would be required to implement the P2,000 pension increase that will fund the 12-monthly pensions and 13th month pensions of more than
two million SSS pensioners. Based on SSS actuarial studies, Valdez explained that in order to implement the P2,000 pension hike, there must be a corresponding increase in contribution rate, government subsidy or a combination of both as options for funding the pension. In line with this, Valdez proposed six options that can be utilized to implement the in-
Five-star Dusit Thani Residences to be an ‘Oasis in Davao City’
crease, and further enhance the system’s efficiency in managing SSS spending. The first option will be implemented in the form of P500 installment increase per year for four consecutive years. “This option provides a P500 hike for all pensioners in four consecutive years starting 2017 until the P2,000 is provided by 2020,” Valdez said.
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The Torre Lorenzo- Dusit International partnership’s southern venture to usher in a new era of luxury living in Mindanao An oasis in the middle of the city “The area around Dusit Thani Residences is surrounded by breathtaking views of greenery, of banana plantations and tall coconut trees, and floating in the brilliantly blue Davao gulf. Each component of DTR’s design and architecture – from the structure of the building, to the layout of each space, down to the choice of colors inside the structure –were carefully chosen to perfectly complement the beauty that Davao and its culture already holds,” explains Architect Bong Recio, principal of Rchitects, Inc., the architectural and engineering firm behind Dusit Thani Residences. With inspiration drawn directly from the surrounding landscape and the city’s cultural roots, the fluidity of the components breathes life into Dusit Thani
Residences’ promise of a resort-like residential and hotel sanctuary that pays homage to the Southern culture, which is easily an experience unlike what one can already find in the city. “The story starts as soon as you make the decision to visit the estate. The arrival is quite dramatic… a slow rise to the grounds, a brilliant and relaxing cul de sac to the side, with a lush canopy overhead. You are greeted by an open reception against a backdrop of the lush landscape, swimming pool and a bar that welcomes you. All at once, you are taken to another world – one that compels you to explore further,” he expresses. The architecture has a distinctly Asian feel, punctuated by varying southern design expressions.“Despite it being one of the tallest
18 April 2016 – Now rising and scheduled to open in the second half of2018 in Lanang is Davao City’s first five-star residential and resort development, the Dusit Thani Residences (DTR). Designed to celebrate the nature that surrounds it by respected firm Rchitects, Inc. for Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation (TDLC) in partnership with Dusit Thani International, DTR is expected to raise the bar in residential and hospitality developments in Davao City.
buildings in the residential area, we made it more ‘friendly’ through terraced levels, balconies, and the use of earth tones. Our guest rooms are oriented towards the Davao Gulf to afford guests the best view of the ocean. We extended landscaping all the way to Maryknoll Street, the access road, and incorporated retail components on the ground level. I believe that DTR’s presence will rejuvenate the whole
area,” Recio.
adds
Architect
Becoming the premier Davao destination From the sprawling landscape that frames DTR’s receiving lobby and the174 residential units with indulgent views of the city, to its own boulevard lined with high-end restaurants and first-class amenities, each element lends to the developer’s vision of creating the
perfect community for its guests. “Dusit Thani Residences will be making numerous milestones with its entry in bustling Davao,” says Tomas Lorenzo, CEO of developer Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation. “It will be the very first mixed-use residence and hotel development, as well as the first luxuryresort-like accommodation right in the heart of Davao City.It is a place that will
blend work and leisure seamlessly with the combination of the finest amenities and worldrenowned exceptional service that is distinctly Dusit. We will have a first-class destination that Davao can proudly call its own.” For more information: Allen de Vera - Sales Director, DDH&R http://www.dtrdavao.com Email: dtrdavaosales@ torrelorenzo.com
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Stating the obvious
OW it can be told. The leftist Bayan was right all along in its impression of United States Ambassador Philip Goldberg. Three years ago, Bayan warned that US ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg was expelled from Bolivia in 2008 for allegedly conspiring against the government of President Evo Morales. In allaying its fears of Goldberg’s reputation, Bayan noted that Goldberg served as ambassador to Bolivia from 2006-2008. Bolivian President Evo Morales later ordered Goldberg to leave Bolivia, accusing him of backing opposition groups which have been defying his rule. Bayan had said that Goldberg’s appointment as US ambassador to Manila “may signal intensified US intervention in PH affairs as the US moves more troops and ships towards Asia under its strategic pivot.” Bayan warned the Aquino government then that it should be concerned with Goldberg’s past, unless of course Aquino has no problems at all with US intervention. That perhaps was demonstrated clearly as then DFA Secretary Albert del Rosario had only good words for Goldberg. Goldberg’s track record in the intelligence community along with allegations of intervention was seen by Bayan as a crucial event as the US was trying to expand its presence in Asia and in the Philippines in
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particular. He is Washington’s point man and he will exert all efforts to ensure that the US will gain greater access to their former bases as well as various other facilities throughout the country. During the election period, Goldberg made comments on then candidate Rodrigo Duterte’s rape joke and the President will now never forget that as the one that sparked it all. President Duterte has made it clear that it was Goldberg’s ‘interference’ that started his dismay over the Americans. Goldberg likewise made a mistake during the last election campaign when the US envoy met all the presidential candidates except for Duterte. Last week, Goldberg was at it again. He divulged that Transport Secretary Art Tugade and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano made ‘unannounced’ trips to China last June. This recent antic by Goldberg again sparked discussions of US intervention and spying of government movements. Which leads us to ask whether or not Goldberg’s actions are sanctioned by Washington. Then again, it would lead us to a clearer conclusion as Washington remains mum on Goldberg’s actions and statements. Washington’s silence should be explained. ANTONIO M. AJERO NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Editor in Chief Managing Editor SONNY L. MENDOZA Associate Editor
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URING the 2016 Annual Conference of the Economy and Environment Program for Southeast Asia (EEPSEA) held in Manila recently, several books and briefings were distributed to participants. One of the books that caught my interest is entitled, “Environment and Natural Resources: Trade-Offs and Management Options.” Published by WorldFish (formerly known as International Center for Living Aquatic Resources Management), it contains about 150 pages. “The environmental problems of Southeast Asia are many, wide-ranging and growing in severity,” wrote Dr. Herminia A. Francisco, EEPSEA’s director, in the book’s introduction. “A fixed natural resource capital, a growing population coupled with the tendency toward urbanization, rapid economic growth, and weak environmental governance all contributed to – and continue to exacerbate – the sad state of the region’s environment.” There are 14 case studies presented in the book which are divided into four parts. The Philippines has only three cases: two on coastal fishery ecosystems and another one on water pollution. Among the three cases, I was more interested with “Fish kill due to the mismanagement of aquaculture: A teaching case,” written by Zenaida M. Sumalde, a professor of economics at the University of the Philippines at Los Baños. Although the Philippines has more than 7,000 islands and fish is the second staple
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Trade-offs
food of Filipinos – after THINK ON THESE! rice – many are now engaged in aquaculture. “The contribution of aquaculture to total fishery production in the Henrylito D. Tacio Philippines henrytacio@gmail.com increased rapidly from 1997 to 2008, turning it into a significant food production sector with a mean growth rate of 8.6% per annum,” the paper said. But then, the economic contribution of the aquaculture subsector is greatly threatened by unsustainable practices. And this is where the trade-off becomes apparent. “Mismanagement has led to fish kill, which negatively affect economic gains made from aquaculture farming,” the paper noted. Perhaps the worst fish kill recorded in the country was that of what had happened in Bolinao, Pangasinan from February 1-3, 2002. Bangus growers lost about P600 million worth of fish. In 2008, Taal Lake was hit by a massive fish kill, with losses estimated to reach P4 million. Three years later another fish kill took place in Taal Lake with estimated losses of P63.70 million. Also in 2011, a fish kill in Anda, Pangasinan left 500 tons of
VANTAGE POINTS
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fish valued at P57.50 million to be wasted away. More often than not, operators blame climate change for the fish kill. But in reality, they are to be blamed for what had happened. “Water-quality testing results point to low dissolved oxygen and overcrowding as the contributory causes of fish kill,” the paper noted. Here’s how it happens: High numbers of fish pens and fish cages that exceed the carrying capacity of the water bodies they occupy. In order to increase the harvest, operators also stock fish beyond the recommended number of fish per area and feed them beyond the optimal recommendation. The overfeeding leads to waste, especially during cold weather when fish do not need to eat as much. The result: fish kill. Aside from affecting economic gains negatively, “fish kills also lowers consumer demand for fish for several weeks (because of the fear that dead fish are still being sold in the market).” “This drop in consumer demand affects the market price of the commodity, thereby affecting the income of aquaculture producers in other areas,” the paper said. “In addition, fish in the wild are affected and small fishers end up with a very small catch or not catch at all.” Another paper that’s very interesting was the one written by Mao Xianqiang, a professor at the Beijing Normal University. I’m sure Davao City residents will find the paper interesting, too. The title: “Sub-
stituting natural gas for coal: Is this a good choice for China?” Chinese cities, including Beijing, face serious air pollution caused by the burning of coal. That’s why the paper recommends the use of natural gas, a high-quality energy source. “It is very efficient and has a low pollutant content and emissions,” the paper noted. The hitch is: natural gas is expensive. In comparison, coal is cheap. “Substituting natural gas for coal requires a large expenditure, as consumers need to either convert their coal boiler into a natural gas boiler, or replace the old piece of equipment with a new one,” the paper said. There are several other problems. Urban household consumers, for instance, cannot afford the installation fee (amounts to 70-80% of total consumer cost in the first year of switching from coal to natural gas). Another one is the high capital costs of the natural gas pipeline system. There are several other thought-provoking questions which the book tries to answer. Protected area or development project? Mangrove protection or ecotourism development? Forest or people or both? Is there a way to restore the devastated mangroves after typhoons? To kill or not to kill the elephants? Very controversial questions, indeed. And yes, the author(s) of each question try to give win-win solutions. Indeed, the case studies presented in the book can be used for teaching and training.
that our experiences are worth more than others. What we went through is more life-changing than some, or that we know better than those we, however unintentionally, implicitly judge. Our lives being less superfluous than those around us. We really cannot totally rid ourselves of our own biases. So embedded in our psyches, like a cancer, spreading its vileness even after we think the operation was a success. Exceptions, though they happen far less than we always hope for, do come forth once in a while. These are the ones we must continue to enshrine and lay up to our children as something to emulate, to look up to as characters of inspiration. Understanding our own weaknesses; that we are not better than anyone else; that we are indeed humans, and as such so prone to errors and foibles, will, hopefully, spur our children to a better view of how things should be. Not just follow the crowd. Or, let the crowd dictate our paths. And later, point a finger at something, or someone, when things do not go as it was thought it should have gone. Because, even ‘going with the crowd’ is a choice. Because, in the end, it all falls back to us.
Thankfully, the baby puppy (Maru) did not need to wear that Cone of Shame for more than a day. He kind of knew, we thought, that if he did go down there and try to appease the shadow of his nether regions, that, he would have to suffer the inconvenience of the dreaded cone. He learned enough not to make the same mistake. Which we, it must be confessed, has not really learned enough of yet. Even at this age. And, continues to hope, that even if we find our fading memories slowly tumbling away from us, we will continue to have the strength to at least remember to try to go on learning, even if it’s only to get off having to wear our own private Cone of Shame. And, as Mr. Frazier has said to me so many times, when we had to ask the question why, “Things are what they are, Miss Margot. We do what we have to do.” (Mindanawon Abroad is MindaNews’ effort to link up with Mindanawons overseas who would like to share their experiences in their adopted countries. Margot Marfori is an author and visual artist from Davao City. She is currently based in Henderson, Nevada.)
Lola got’s lutong bahay in America: The Cone of Shame
A
MONTH ago, our baby puppy was neutered. This is a requirement here in America. When he came home from the vet, his head hung low, his eyes looked liked he was saying, “You’ll never believe what kind of day I just had.” And, without stopping to greet us with so much as a paw on the knee, he purposely walked quickly to the bedroom, jumped on the bed and with a great, big sigh of what seemed like relief, closed his eyes to take a snooze. The anesthesia was still in the system, we guessed. With this most momentous event in the puppy’s life, he had to wear a cone around his head, to prevent him from being able to lick his crotchety wounds. We tried to capture the look he gave us when we put that cone around his neck. Truly heartbreaking, sad and made us think that he must know what just happened to him. Mr. Frazier says that this thing he had around his neck was called The Cone of Shame. It made us think of who was supposed to be ashamed, in actual fact. The reason being that, Maru, our baby puppy, did not choose to have himself neutered. It was his humans that decided he had to be.
MINDAVIEWS BY MARGOT MARFORI We always had the notion that, to be ashamed was the result of some bad choices we made. That, if we had made better decisions, the sense of shame would hardly be an outcome. In short, we make our own bed. The realization of having made our own bed, though, does not always come. For many, we believe, it kind of hovers like a black cumuli above their heads. Getting heavy like a burgeoning storm cloud, forcing to zap the uninspiring head with a lighting bolt to jolt it to its senses. The world around us seems to need that zap of thunder and lightning. To jolt it out of its chaos and formless politics. Here, or there, the changes have not been what was hoped for. Instead, a sense of fear and froth is encouraged out in the open, to thrive in the bliss of its ignorance, of consequences farther than itself. The root of our own self-centered awareness - the thought that we have better faculties than others. We like to think
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Japan buying additional 20M boxes of PH bananas H
Buyers avail of Esdevco month-end sales promo
By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ
A
adlopez0920@gmail.com
DEAL to supply 20 million boxes of Cavendish bananas to Japan that will bring in an estimated P5 billion income to the Philippines annually was formally inked in Tokyo, Japan on Wednesday, Secretary Manny Pinol of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said. The deal, Pinol added, was made possible with the help of House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and will usher the development of more or less 7,000 hectares of banana farms in former conflict areas in Mindanao (CAAM). The development of THE said banana farms will be
supported by Farmind Corp., a Japanese company and IS expected to generate around 14,000 local jobs. “This project was referred to me by House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez right after I assumed office as Secretary of Agriculture,” Pinol said, adding the deal was among those signed by President Duterte during the three-day state visit to Japan. “Speaker Alvarez referred to me the proposed project two months ago and I received a briefing from his staff on the intention of Farmind president Tatstuo Horiuchi to provide livelihood agrarian reform ben-
Esdevco’s brisk sales during month-end promo
eficiaries, as well as former rebels, to support the President’s peace efforts,” Pinol added. The agriculture secretary said that Speaker Alvarez also asked Farmind on how it could assist the country, especially the rebel returnees and the beneficiaries of the agrarian reform program. He also inquired if the company could commit to buy fruits from the Philippines at a good price. The agriculture secretary emphasized that Philippine bananas dominate the Japanese market, supplying as much as 90 percent of the
country’s total requirements. However, he noted that in recent years, bananas from Ecuador have penetrated Japan and have gained a foothold in the country. “Currently, the Philippines only holds 75 percent of the banana supply in Japan, and this is mainly because the low prices of oil have allowed Ecuador to bring its bananas to Japan at a lower transport cost,” he said. Piñol also expressed optimism the signing of the Farmind supply contract will once again allow Philippine bananas to once again dominate the Japan market.
OMEBUYERS took advantage of the Esdevco Realty Corporation’s October Ender sales event for its prime proect Matina Enclaves. Esdevco project head Gerald Kent Garces said the October Ender was a successful venue where big discounts and freebies were given to buyers who availed of the said event. Although he did not disclose details, Garces said considerable sales were closed during the event. The October Month-End Celebration was held at the Matina Enclaves Showroom, Unit 11 Genesis 88 Arcade, Ecowest Drive in Ecoland, Davao City. With the brisk sales of Matina Enclaves’ condominium projects, there are now but limited units left for Building 5/E. “Those who are interest-
ed should make their reservations now,” said Garces. In recent months, Davao City has been experiencing a boom in the property market prodded by the victory of former Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte as the country’s President last May. Matina Enclaves’ Building 5/E infused 230 additional units to its current inventory. Building 5 units are composed of a combination of Studio, 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedroom and 3-Bedroom units). Building 4 is set for construction by mid next year while its turn-over has been set by mid 2019. Building 5 is also penciled for construction by the third quarter next year and its turnover eyed on the last quarter of 2019. Meantime, construction of Matina Enclaves’ Building 1/B is set for turnover by December this year.
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Filipina elegance defined Emilia Sitjar Jewellery celebrates a milestone
MARCO POLO’S JADE ROOM WAS FILLED WITH AUSPICIOUS CHATTER last Oct. 12 as Durianburg’s premier jeweler, Emilia Sitjar Jewellery, held its 25th Anniversary Jewellery Show. With the theme “Poetic Elegance: The Filipinoiserie Collection,” the silver anniversary event showcased pieces that reflected the timeless, beauty, elegance and grace of Filipino women.
As the show started, one could hear the subdued ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’ from the enthralled guests, as models dressed by top Davao couturier Edgar Buyan sashayed down the runway sporting select pieces of the eye-catching jewellery collection. The room was hushed when VIP guest models Bianca Barertto-Uy, Stefanie Bautista, and Caroline Taojo made their way down the catwalk to the rhythm of classic Filipino pop music. The diamonds, pearls, and coloured stones set in gold glittered in their full splendour. “The collection is inspired not Bianca Barretto-Uy
Caroline Taojo.
“
the pieces were not merely casual jewellery but transcended to that of works of art that are made to be cherished and treasured. Stefanie Bautista. only by the materials used for jewellery the Filipino women love such as pearls, coral, noble metals and shells, but the set highlights the kind and quality of lives Filipino women have lived through the years.” said Emilia Sitjar Jewellery’s Emil Sitjar, “We also found ourselves taking cue from vintage pieces, redesigning and reworking them to a more contemporary old-meets-new, eastmeets-west feel. Thus, the collection is
Emilia Sitjar
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FOOD
Lechon Haus roasts at SM City Dav The much-loved lechon house in Visayas opens its first branch in Mindanao at SM City Davao this month.
Lechon Haus® is a Filipino quick-serve restaurant that serves juicy, mouth-watering and crunchy Lechon Belly and Lechon Manok. Lechon Haus® Lechon Belly comes in original and spicy options. The Lechon Manok is a 30 year recipe of naturally pinoy taste. Their Lechoneros roast everything inside the store to guarantee freshness. Lechon Haus® also serves other favorite Filipino dishes including Lechon Sigang, Lechon Sisig, Garlic Kang Kong, Halo Halo, Buko Pandan among other things. A new creation called the Pan De Lechon is a double (2) slider sandwich made of crispy sweet Man-
tou Buns filled with Lechon Belly. The Mansi Twist (another Lechon Haus® original creation) – best paired with the Lechon Meals for a salty-sour-sweet explosion in your mouth. Mansi
Twist and Lechon Meals are a match made in Heaven! Coca-Cola® products are also served in the stores. The restaurant features an open-view grill area where you can see
the Lechoneros Lechon Belly a Manok, two o sought after dis available fresh daily at Lechon across the Phili
CTOBER 30 - 31, 2016
avao
s in action. and Lechon of the most shes are now hly roasted Haus® stores ippines. Ang
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Spooky and petrifying Halloween at SM Lanang Premier Loads of Halloween fun are in store for mallgoers on October 30 to 31, 2016 at SM Lanang Premier. Families and furry little friends are sure to enjoy thrilling activities at the region’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination.
Kids ages 4 to 12 years old are invited to come dressed in their spookiest or most creative costumes yet for a Halloween Costume Contest on October 31, 3pm, at the SMX Lobby. Participants can join 3 categories – Hallowking, Hallowqueen, and Beast Mode – and get the chance to win SM Gift Certificates worth Php 3,000 for the 1st Prize, Php 2,000 for the 2nd Prize and Php 1,000 for the 3rd Prize per category. On October 31, 4pm, participating kiddos can also join the mall-wide Trick-or-Treat parade to go store-hopping in search for yummy treats. To sign up for both activities, shoppers only need to present P1,000 single or accumulated purchase receipts from October 15 to 31 at designated registration booths. Deadline of registration is on October
31, 1pm at The Fountain Court grounds. As a pet-friendly mall, SM Lanang Premier has planned out Halloween activities for dog lovers and their dear pets. On October 30, 4pm, the Petrifying Halloween Costume and Photo Contests are happening at The Fountain Court grounds. Dog owners can doll up their canine friends in anime, fairy tale and spooky garbs to enter the Petrifying Costume Contest. Up for grabs are P5,000 worth of SM Gift Certificates and Sponsors’ prizes for the grand prize. Meanwhile, photography enthusiasts are invited to submit their pet-related photo entries for the Petrify-
ing Halloween Photo Contest happening also on Sunday. Participants can get the chance to win P3,000 SM gift certificates and sponsors’ freebies for the 1st prize. Both Petrifying Halloween activities are co-presented by the Davao Dog Lovers Community (DDLC). Registration fee is P250 at designated booth at SM Lanang Premier Upper Ground Level on weekends. Proceeds of the activity will go to DDCL’s humanitarian activities. Join the spooky Halloween fun at SM Lanang Premier! For more information, check out SM Lanang Premier on Facebook and Twitter for event updates.
Bagong Paborito! Meals start at an affordable 95 pesos with an option for unlimited rice. #Bellybellygood Lechon Haus® Ang Lechon ng Bayan is located at the second floor of the main mall.
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also about bringing the best of Filipino culture and influence to the modern global stage.” Definitely, much work was put into highlighting the silver anniversary collection, as the pieces were not merely casual jewellery, but also equaled or even transcended works of art that are cherished and treasured for their beauty and elegance. Inspired by the rise of nationalism and Pinoy pride, the collection was also heavily influenced by the evolving Filipino way of living. “From the old world recreation of piano playing and wellguarded family recipes, to a modern woman who successfully mixes her busy profession with afternoon teas; from the love of embroidery, veils, and filigree , to women who love simple silhouettes, but employ statement accents - these are our inspirations.” added Emil. In her speech, company founder Emilia Sitjar recalled the story of Emilia Sitjar Jewellery and its humble beginnings. She shared how she, a public school teacher, who gambled her “earlyretirement” money 25 years ago to fulfil a dream of providing Davao top quality, intricately designed jewellery pieces that are made to be loved and cherished through generations. Congratulations to Emilia Sitjar Jewellery for another elegant and fashionable event. The Sitjar family. Santi, Emil, Emilia, Eileen, and Jet.
Annie Lim, Mylene Aquino, Dyna Baricuatro, Lucie Jeng, Helen Alvarez and Debbie Hao.
Fanfan Ong, Ingrid Taojo, Malouchi Gahol, Jenny Floirendo and Mia Chuchay Sison and Carine Bacani. Floirendo.
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NEWS EDGEDAVAO PH signs deal with Japan to boost Coast Guard’s capabilities
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who have been assigned to assist authorities. She, however, said the case must first be validated before appropriate measures are carried out to help the victims. Bermudo pointed out that abuse can be defined as physical, emotional, and psychological. She said that after an initial report on the case is made, the child is immediately brought to a hospital for a medical examination. This, Bermudo said, would determine the nature of the abuse and its impact on the child victim. She added the attending physicians would examine the child’s bruises, while psychologists will look into the his or her emotional well-being. Bermudo said that social
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workers will be assigned to take care of the needs of the child, as his or her parents will not be allowed to intervene. Nadela said that anyone with personal knowledge on abuses committed against children could file a case against the perpetrators. The complaints, he added, could also emanate from a police or witness report. The prosecutor’s office will be in charge of the perpetrators, while the CSSDO will handle the victims. “The fine is really big,” said Nadela regarding the penalty to be imposed on the perpetrators. He said that it is through these efforts that the City Government will ensure the safety and protection of children in Davao.
guio City, and is a graduate of Business Management at the Ateneo de Manila University. She first joined the Bb. Pilipinas pageant in 2015 and was among the top 15 candidates. Versoza once again participated the Philippines’ premier beauty tilt, and was eventually crowned as Miss Philippines International 2016. Other winners of Ms. International 2016 included Miss
Australia who was crowned 1st runner-up, Miss Indonesia, 2nd runner-up; Miss Nicaragua, 3rd runner-up; and Miss USA, 4th runner-up. The five-foot-foot Versoza is the sixth Filipina to bring home the crown coveted Miss International after Bea Santiago (2013), Precious Lara Quigaman (2005), Mimilanie Marquez (1979), Aurora Pijuan (1970) and Gemma Teresa Cruz (1964).
Benjamin R. Lao, Antonio B. Partoza Jr., Ulysses Y. Solis and Manuel S. Tagud. Only six of the candidates will be chosen to sit in the board. Ajero and Javier were tied in the top spot after the elec-
tion, garnering 32 votes each followed by Albor with 29 votes, Partoza with 26 votes, Solis with 25 votes and Tagud with 24. Robert John Ajing was also elected as the youth director of YMCA-Davao.
The second option pertains to the issuance of a P2,000 increase to be implemented yearly, based on the age bracket prioritizing the oldest pensioners. “The new retirees have enough savings unlike the older ones. That’s why we want them to receive the increased pension first,” he stressed. Valdez, on the other hand, said the third option as similar to the second, but it divided the pensioners into first and second batches, where the second batch of pensioners will receive the increase a year after the first batch gets it. The SSS fourth option relies on a provident fund by which the retiree can withdraw after five years. “On the fourth option, we create a voluntary provident fund for those who are in the higher bracket. For those who want their money will be on the provident fund, we will not release it if they want it to grow further,” he said. The fifth option is giving P2,000 increase yearly and on a pension-amount-received basis by separated five groups of pensioners. The sixth option is the same with the fifth, only that there is a P1,000 increase. “The last options is a reconfiguration of the two others so we will make it four and five. It’s
a take-off or hybrid of the two others. The fund life under the fifth and sixth options are still under study,” he said. The SSS official clarified the House Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization that has approved P2,000 monthly pension increase for SSS members is still trying to decide which of these options will be the most effective. “I believe that the lawmakers are also aware of repercussions of steep benefit increases without the corresponding revenues.” He said. He added the commission will decided on what option to adapt during the SSS commissioners’ discussion on Nov. 7, 2016. “We will still continue to look for ways to further enhance the system’s efficiency and prudently manage SSS spending so we can reserve more funds for higher benefits,” he stated. From 1980 to 2002, SSS pension increases of up to 20 percent were implemented a total of 19 times. There were instances when two increases were made within the same year, while the contribution rate remained pegged at 8.4 percent for the same 23year period which has consequently shortened the life of the fund. (PNA)
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By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA
F
INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez has signed a P6.4 billion loan agreement with the Japanese government to finance the purchase of
Philippine Coast Guard vessels. Dominguez said the Philippine government will acquire the new vessels in line with President Duterte’s goal of en-
Norte. The governor also expressed his gratitude for the support given by other government agencies and other groups to the event. The office of Representative Bingo Matugas of Surigao del Norte 1st district also joined the three-day medical mission and provided free medicines to the patients. A total of 24 major operations were conducted during the three-day mission that
included Hysterectomy (3), Hernioplasty (5), Hemorrhiodectomy (2), Thyroidectomy (10), Parotidectomy (1), and Myomectomy (3) operations. A total of 70 patients had also undergone minor cyst excisions during the mission, the provincial government added. Governor Matugas also announced that a similar mission will also be conducted in December of this year at the provincial gymnasium in Surigao City.
Dr. Leopoldo Vega, the two-day convention serves as a platform for various health practitioners to exchange views and acquire a better understanding of the current generation. Vega also cited the impact of “unregulated” technology on the development of children. “Children’s attachment to gadgets decreases their mobility. Hence there is a chance that they will have obesity,” he pointed out. Vega underscored the need to understand how the current generation thinks, and understand what their culture is all about since the youth of
today are more tech-savy and less engaged in outdoor and social activities. The convention was also attended by experts from the field of Developmental Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, who shared their views on how to better understand the today’s youth. The proceeds of the twoday convention will benefit the SPMC – Pediatrics Department’s Anak Kaugmaon Foundation Inc. – an association that provided financial assistance to pediatric patients from the marginalized sector since 1997.
accommodate qualified drug dependents for treatment and also provide other health services in the island. Since the start of the allout war against illegal drugs launched by the administration of President Duterte, a large number of drug dependents in Surigao del Norte surrendered to authorities and pledged to turn away from the use and peddling of prohibited substances. Based on a report from Surigao PNP, P6,373,133.98 worth of illegal drugs have already been confiscated during a series of police operations from January to July of this year. With the intensified Oplan Tokhang, which was carried out from July 1 to 29 of this year, a total of 4,382 drug-us-
ers and 153 drug pushers voluntarily surrendered to the provincial PNP. Of the total number of pushers who surrendered, 14 were considered hostile and denied they were into illegal drug trade, the PNP report disclosed. The on-going drive against illegal drugs in Surigao del Norte is also being supported by Representative Bingo Matugas of the First Legislative District. In July of this year, Congressman Matugas filed a bill that seeks to give the PNP’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) subpoena powers that will help in investigations related to the anti-drug campaign of the administration. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ
the EEC, he said that Sebastian Lacson, TSI president, wants the public to better understand the energy sector through interactive and visual displays, as energy education is not easily understandable and usually takes more time to appreciate. Magnaye added that through the EEC, TSI will be able to demonstrate to the public that it has been doing its part to ensure that the company’s operations strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Visits to the center, he said,
can be made through appointment and should be done five working days prior to the visit. Magnaye said there are four slots the guests can choose from: 9:00am to 10:00am; 10:30am to 11:30am; 1:30pm to 2:30pm; 3:00pm to 4:00pm. He added the EEC can cater to only two tours per day, with each visit accommodating a maximum of 30 persons. For queries, bookings and reservations, please contact the EEC through the numbers 244-6516 or 244-6500. The center can be e-mailed at energyeducationcenter@aboitiz. com.
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suring the safety and protection of Filipinos against external threats. In particular, he said the vessels will be utilized by the Coast Guard to man and protect the country’s sea lanes. “He (Duterte) wants all the citizens to be safe, so these coast guard vessels are going to used against illegal fishing to make sure that our borders are safe,” Dominguez said. The finance chief said the “soft loan” will be payable for 40 years. Dominguez explained the said loan is a very good deal for the country, as the interest payment is very low, and more importantly, will help enhance the navigation capabilities of the Coast Guard. He also revealed the Philippine government also plans to purchase a fast vessel that will be capable of going after smugglers in the high seas. Dominguez noted the 10 coast guard vessels which Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida had earlier promised to give to the Philippines is part of the multi-billion loan agreement. Meanwhile, the finance secretary also signed a Memoran-
dum of Understanding (MOU) with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) that aims to help strengthen peace and security efforts in the country. “There was also an MOU we signed with JICA to help us win the peace process and also agribusiness and small farmer financing,” he said. Dominguez said the Japanese government has been very supportive of the Philippine government efforts to push forward the peace process in the country, particularly in Mindanao’s conflict-affected areas. He said that through the MOU, the Japanese government has agreed to increase the irrigation facilities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). “Pace is not only signing a document that we will not shoot each other, we have to provide opportunities, job opportunities, income opportunities for those who want to come back to the fold,” Dominguez said. He said that the Philippine government will be spending P8 trillion in the next six years for infrastructure projects in areas that are considered to be hotbeds of insurgency.
greater government partnerships to create an enabling environment for business. “I encouraged private businesses in Japan to invest in the Philippines,” he said. Business deals were also signed during the state visit that included investments in manufacturing and agriculture. The deals, President Duterte added, are seen to generate a considerable number of jobs, as Japan remains the country’s top trading partner. Among the deals the country sealed during the visit was the supply of around 20 million boxes of Philippine cavendish bananas to Japan with an estimated value of P5 billion, as announced by Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Manny Pinol. The deal, Pinol said, will also create 14,000 jobs in the country especially in Mindanao where 7,000 hectares of banana farms are targeted to be developed based on the contract the agreement.
the Philippines,” the President emphasized, describing the recent state visit as “another defining moment for the solid and strategic partnership between our countries.” The Philippine-Japan relationship “stands on unshakeable and firm ground and cemented with mutual trust and respect,” the President said, adding this can be viewed as an exemplary partnership that is expected to further strengthen in the coming years. “These are the relations we value, as we seek to implement our independent foreign policy consistent with our Constitution, protective of our national interests and beneficial to our people,” he added.
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Support to inclusive growth President Duterte also emphasized the need to harness the Official Development Assistance (ODA) from Japan to support inclusive growth and sustainable development in the country. “Japan is our number one ODA partner and under JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), high-impact projects benefiting both our urban and rural areas will be undertaken,” the President said. He added Japan has continued to support the Philippine government’s peace and development efforts in Mindanao. “In all my interactions in Japan, it was clear to me and to everyone that Japan is, and will always be, a true friend of
On South China Sea President Duterte and Prime Minister Abe agreed on the need to adhere to the rule of law, particularly in dealing with issues surround the South China Sea dispute. “As countries that share the values of democracy, adherence to the rule of law and peaceful settlement of disputes, the Philippines and Japan agreed to work closely to advance a rules-based regime to maintain stability and security in our region,” the President said. He emphasized that all countries in Asia and Southeast Asia have a stake in the South China Sea. “Both our Governments committed to ensure the freedom of navigation and overflight in these waters,” he added. President Duterte also pointed out that bilateral and multilateral venues will ensure that commitments and responsibilities have been complied with under international law, including those under the 1982 UNCLOS. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ
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EDGEDAVAO
Davao City prepares for Undas T
HE Davao City Government has urged residents to commemorate Undas in solemnity. This was stressed by City Assistant Administrator for
operations Atty. Lawrence Batinding, as he urged cemetery and memorial park goers to avoid bringing devices that would create noise and disrupt the peace in these places.
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
He assured residents they can visit the cemeteries at night since the city government has installed sufficient lamp posts to light up dark areas. “Let’s make it a solemn commemoration, so we pray and pay respect to our dearly departed,” Batinding said. Joel Santos, strategic intelligence assistance of the City Transport and Traffic Management Office warned motorists to be ready to deal with the heavy flow traffic at the Wireless Cemetery area since six burial grounds are located there. He said the road to the
Wireless Cemetery is narrow compared to that along MacArthur Highway which has several lanes en route to the Davao Memorial Park. “That’s why we have imposed a one-way scheme in going to the Wireless Cemetery area,” Santos said. Joseph Fernandez, chief of the Economic Enterprise Division of the City Government of Davao, stressed the need to rehabilitate the city’s cemeteries due to its rising population. He said that except for the Wireless Cemetery, all public cemeteries in the city need to be rehabilitated. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 177 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 30 - 31, 2016
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VOL. 9 ISSUE 177 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 30 - 31, 2016
EDGEDAVAO
SPORTS 15
Throwback: Ginebra’s two unforgettable championships 1991: Rudy Distrito’s“Hailmary Shot”
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HERE was unfinished business between Shell and Ginebra when the two teams met in the finals of the 1991 First Conference. The previous year, the two squads met in the PBA’s season-opening tournament, a controversial finals series that ended in a tumultuous Game Six that saw the 65ers walking out of the game. Shell was leading, 62-47, with less than three minutes in the second quarter, and Añejo felt like it was getting the raw end of the referees’ calls. Robert Jaworski and the rest of Añejo headed to the locker room and never returned. The PBA slapped the team a hefty P550,000 fine. It was providential that the two franchises would clash again a year later. Shell had retained its import, Bobby Parks, but lost veteran leader Arnie Tuadles to Great Taste. Ginebra beefed up its lineup by signing Philip Cezar from free agency, and was getting back top backcourt defender Leo Isaac, who missed the previous year’s series because of injury. The Gins also featured
Jervis Cole, a more offensive-minded import. Shell established its supremacy early in the series, winning Game One through the collective effort of former University of the Philippines stars Benjie Paras and Ronnie Magsanoc. Ginebra came back strong in Game Two, with Jaworski leading a fourth-quarter comeback. The Living Legend scored the last 10 points in regulation for Ginebra, capped by a trademark barreling drive that resulted in a three-point play off Magsanoc. Jaworski continued his onslaught in overtime, forcing Magsanoc to foul out, and leading Ginebra to the 125-114 victory. The 45-year-old Jaworski ended the game with 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Shell won the next two games, including a 127-125 overtime victory that gave it a 3-1 edge. Despite the big hole, Ginebra remained unbowed under Jaworski’s leadership. Ginebra dismantled Shell in Game Five, 116-90, highlighted by an incredible 32-0 run in the fourth
“villain” Distrito had one superb role reversal. As Ginebra was on a twogame winning streak after falling 1-3, playing coach Robert Jaworski’s wards had this chance to make history: being the first team to come from that overwhelming series deficit to win a title. But their adversary that night, Shell Rimula-X, surely won’t allow to let it slip off their hands. It was a nip and tuck affair. A high-scoring, intensely fought, close game that can’t be decided until that fateful last five seconds. With the score tied at 102-all, Jaworski called on his versatile, fearless trooper to one endgame play for the ages. With his teammates spread-out to arrange the isolation play, Distrito, who was at the top of the key, surprised his defender, Ronnie Magsanoc, with speedy cut towards the shaded line. Beating Magsanoc in the dash towards the basket, Distrito received a sharp, precise inbounds pass from Jaworski. Distrito then surged with a devil-may-care drive against the towering outstretched arms of the double teaming Benjie Paras and Jojo Martin. The trickster that he is, Distrito broke his stride towards the basket, leaving his tall defenders bewildered, and instead leaped for a fade-
away jumper. And the ball went in, igniting a tremor in the ULTRA caused by the ecstatic and frivolous folk of Barangay Ginebra rejoicing in unison at that epic moment. Distrito himself screamed in joy over his accomplishment as an equally ecstatic Jaworski hugged him in elation. But the game wasn’t over. After Distrito made that shot, nearly everyone forgot there was one second remaining in the clock. Shell coach Arlene Rodriguez called for time and devised their own final attempt at glory. But unlike Ginebra’s previous play, Shell’s ensuing last-second strategy was somewhat predictable and expected. Romeo dela Rosa heaved the ball to Magsanoc, who streaked towards the three-point area at the left flank. And as he tried to do a difficult turnaround shot from beyond the arc, Ginebra import Jervis Cole’s long arms swatted the ball away, preserving the Ginebra’s 2-point lead as time expired, 104-102, and allowing the never-say-die team to clinch its second championship at the time.” That shot is still fresh on the mind of Commissioner Maxey, and yes, only trueblue Ginebra fans remember that shot by heart.
quarter to break the game wide open. Shell fans were confident heading into Game Six, because they felt their team simply “rested” in Game Five. True enough, Shell established command of the game early, leading by 14 points in the second quarter. But Ginebra gnawed at the lead, and pressured Shell to commit one uncharacteristic error after another. Buoyed by cheers from the ULTRA crowd, Jaworski and Ginebra walked out victorious, 123-119,
four seconds left and the game tied at 102, Paras blocked a Chito Loyzaga drive, sending the ball careening out of bounds. Jaworski sued for time and drew up a play for Distrito. Jaworski inbounded the ball to the waiting Distrito, who drove for quickly to the basket. He was forced to alter his shot, falling away to avoid the outstretched arms of Paras and Jojo Martin.
BEST SHOT... FROM 16
capped by two free throws by Distrito and a monster dunk by Cole in the final seconds. Suddenly, it was down to one game for all the marbles. Game Seven was held on a Sunday. ULTRA was packed to the rafters as Ginebra fans came out in droves, anticipating no less than a third championship for the team. But if fans thought Shell players would be jittery, they were disappointed. Shell zoomed ahead led by Parks, Magsanoc, and Paras. Jaworski had to play extra minutes to make sure that the game would not get out of reach for Ginebra. The Big J masterfully orchestrated Ginebra’s plays, which were mostly anchored on Cole. In one memorable play, Paras was about to pick up a loose ball, only to be shocked to see Jaworski diving to the floor to tap the ball to the Ginebra import, who responded with a thunderous slam dunk. It was the never-say-die spirit at its finest. Ginebra kept the game close, with the leading changing hands now and then. With
Distrito’s “Hail Mary” was answered as the ball miraculously found its way inside the basket, as the crowd exploded with a deafening roar. It was bedlam at ULTRA, but there was still one second left for Shell to tie the game. In the ensuing play Magsanoc got himself open for a three-point shot — or so he thought. But Cole came flying out of nowhere to block the attempt, preserving the historic Ginebra victory. Jaworski won Best Player honors, finishing with 13 points, seven rebounds, and six assists in another sensational championship performance that will be remembered as the greatest finals game in PBA history. 1997: Bal David’s magical shot History was stacked against Robert Jaworski when his Gordon’s Gin Boars went up against the formidable Alaska Milkmen in the 1997 Commissioner’s Cup. Jaworski had not beaten Tim Cone in two previous finals matchups, and the Milkmen was in the midst of their dominant run.
Alaska flexed just enough muscle to get the first finals berth, while Gordon’s Gin had to go through the wringer in a sudden-death game against San Miguel Beer that went into double overtime, 106-100. The Milkmen were reinforced by former Pepsi import Kevin Holland. Gordon’s Gin meanwhile, brought in Chris King as a late replacement for the high-flying Tyrone Hopkins, who was given the pink slip at the end of the elims despite the Boars’ 6-3 card. Jaworski felt that he needed a more complete player to reinforce the team, so while Hopkins was no slouch, Jaworski pulled the trigger on the import change. Their marathon duel with the Beermen just three days before the start of the finals had Boars fans worried. But Jaworski had some tricks up his sleeve. He kept himself on the bench all game, relying on speedy Bal David and sniper Pido Jarencio to quarterback the team. Jaworski also assigned sophomore center Marlou Aquino to cover Holland in the post one-on-one. In the first game, Aquino even outscored Holland, 24-21, while King had a triple-double to lead Gordon’s Gin to a surprise 99-89 victory. Game Two turned out to be a pivotal game. With his confidence oozing, King went for a slam at the end of the third quarter, but suffered a hamstring injury in the play. King had to be subbed out, allowing the Milkmen to grab control. With Alaska ahead 95-93, Jaworski sent King back into the game, and the import responded by nailing a dagger three-pointer that inspired Gordon’s Gin to a 102-96 victory. Jaworski and co. surged to a 2-0 lead, but a dark cloud hung over Ginebra fans because of the injury to King, who was a doubtful
starter in Game Three. But Gordon’s locals stepped up to the challenge. With the hampered King playing just 15 minutes, Jarencio and reserve Terry Saldana went to work. Jarencio sizzled all night long with seven three-pointers for 23 points, while Saldana did a solid 26-minute relief job, scoring 10 points and hauling down 12 rebounds while outrebounding the entire Alaska team in the third quarter. With 1:20 remaining and Alaska ahead, 86-84, Jarencio sank his seventh trey to put Gordon’s ahead, 87-86, the same score when the buzzer sounded. Jarencio’s seven treys was one short of the PBA record owned by Jaworski, which he established way back in 1980. Alaska battled back to win the next two games, 108-90 and 86-81, primarily through the heroics of Jojo Lastimosa. With pressure mounting, Jaworski summoned every single ounce of his players’ collective strength to focus on Game Six. The Living Legend wanted his players to give everything and play like there was no tomorrow. The players responded, as four locals backstopped King with twin digits. After taking a 46-44 lead at the half, Gordon’s Gin turned the game into a rout, exploded for 33 points while limiting Alaska to just five. Gordon’s took a 7949 lead going into the fourth quarter, and wound up with the 105-79 victory. “Pinagpaguran namin ito. Hindi ito drawing o chamba. Our focus to win was there and I’m glad that everyone responded to the challenge. If they just use their minds, it would be our biggest weapon. It’s just a matter of being focused and the boys were able to accomplish that, said Jaworski after copping his 4th title as a playing coach of the franchise.
16 EDGEDAVAO Sports
VOL. 9 ISSUE 177 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, OCTOBER 30 - 31, 2016
BEST SHOT EVER
PSC Commissioner Maxey thinks Distrito’s winning shot in 1991 ranks higher than Brownlee’s three in 2016 By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO
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njb@edgedavao.net
SC Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey is a dyed-in-the-wool Ginebra fan. If there is any other person I know more passionate than this former sportswriter-turned-sports official, there is only one but he has passed away. His father, Ram Maxey. Thus, when GInebra San Miguel ended eight years of title drought to win this year’s PBA Governor’s Cup Finals in an emphatic Game 6 victory, I thought of
Charles more than any other to get a few thoughts from. However, his busy schedule got in the way and the questions I dropped on his social media account stayed there unanswered for days. But when it came, it was worth the wait. Charles had gotten home to Davao from his work at the government sports agency and he threw in some bottles at the grave of his father. The late Ram may have also celebrated in heaven and
knocked a few bottles of his favorite San Miguel Beer Lite. I asked Charles a few questions but I’ll highlight the one that really impacted hard. Was Justin Brownlee’s buzzer-beating three-point shot better than Bal David’s heave in the 1997 championship against San Miguel? Charles was quick to say: “The Brownlee dagger was definitely much bigger than Bal David’s near mid-court heave.” But it did not end there. Both Brownlee’s buzzer beater and David’s miracle heave were no better than another Ginebra championship shot. “But I still rank Rudy Distrito’s Game 7 two-point conversion back in 1991 as the biggest shot of all,” he dropped that ‘bomb.’ All of a sudden, I was thrown back to Google what happened in 1991 and there GINEBRA FANS. PSC Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey celebrates it was archived in Youtube— Ginebra’s championship at the grave of his late father and no. 1 Ginebra fan that 1991 “Hailmary shot” by the man called “The DestroyRam.
BEST SHOT EVER 1. 1991 PBA REINFORCED FINALS GAME 7. Rudy Distrito’s “Hailmary Shot” 2. 2016 PBA GOVERNOR’S CUP FINALS GAME 6. Justin Brownlee’s buzzer-beater three. 3. 1997 PBA FINALS GAME 7. Bal David’s “miracle heave.” er.”
Distrito was the unlikely hero of that championship back in 1991. As a ballplayer, Distrito is widely known for his defense more than his offense. That defense with a capital D that does a lot of damage not only to the other team’s offense but to be quite literally, to the life and limb of the
man he is defending. He won’t be called “The Destroyer” for nothing. But in this game, Distrito was the unlikely hero. This was Game 7 of the PBA Reinforced Finals played at the ULTRA on May 19, 1991. Distrito drove to the lane leaving his guard Ronnie Magsanoc after a sweet crossover but he was met by a phalanx of
defenders among them Benjie Paras and he threw the ball up before falling. The rest, as they say, is history. Let’s recall that “hailmary shot” as graphically described in an article published by sports.abscbn.com. “On that hot and humid night on May 19, 1991, the
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