Edge Davao 9 Issue 182 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 182 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016

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Serving a seamless society

Photo courtesy of Jesus Jay Dureza

JESS: NUR KEY PLAYER IN PEACE PROCESS

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

ORO National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari will strengthen the process of realizing peace in Mindanao. This was the belief expressed by Secretary Jesus Dureza of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) on Satuday. Dureza said now that Misuari opted to come out, he will become one of the key players in the government’s efforts to pursue sustainable and comprehensive peace as the MNLF leader’s presence in the process will be significant given his capability of uniting various factions particularly in Muslim Mindanao. “Let’s also wait and see

how things will roll out,” said Dureza, adding that what is important now is to unify the members of the MNLF before the government will discuss the peace process with them. He also revealed that the government has allocated 11 slots for the Bangsamoro in the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and Misuari must organize a five-person panel to fill in their slot. Dureza also told reporters that the government may also consolidate all the agreements signed with the MNLF and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “All of these will be converged hopefully to enhance and amend the 24-point agenda of the ARMM Law which is

Republic Act 9054,” the presidential peace adviser said, hoping that they could input the harmonious provisions in all the agreements and come up with a new enabling law. He said a BTC will hopefully help expedite the passage of the new law in Congress. Misuari met with President Duterte on Thursday afternoon in Malacanang after he was brought in from Sulu by Dureza. The MNLF leader got temporary reprieve from prosecution of the criminal charges he is facing when Judge Rowena Modesto-San Pedro of RTC Branch 58 in Pasig City granted his motion last October 27. The suspension will last for six months from the time of

the issuance of the court order. Last October 14, Misuari filed a motion to suspend the proceedings on his case and the enforcement of the Warrants of Arrest (WAs) issued against him. He is facing several criminal charges after the infamous Zamboanga siege in September 2013 that killed around 200 people and displaced about 24,000 families. In his motion, that was also supported by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and OPAPP, Misuari prayed for the suspension of the hearings and the enforcement of WAs to allow him to attend peace talk sessions with the government. While in Malacanang last

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Cops probe killing of mayor inside jail

HE Philippine National Police’s (PNP) regional office in Eastern Visayas has formed a panel that will look into the shootout that ensued after police operatives served search warrants to detained Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa and fellow inmate, Raul Yap, in a sub-provincial jail in Leyte province early Saturday. ”As a matter of procedure, this incident will undergo investigation to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident,”

PNP spokesman Sr. Supt. Dionardo Carlos said on Saturday. Carlos said that Eastern Visayas Police regional director, Chief Supt. Elmer Beltejar, has constituted the panel that will look into the incident, which led to the death of Espinosa and Yap. A Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) team led by Chief Insp. Leo Laraga was serving Espinosa a search warrant for firearms and Yap a search warrant for

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THE PRESIDENT WITH LAWYERS. President Rodrigo Duterte, together with officers and members of Integrated Bar of the Philippines, poses for a group photo during the Regional Convention of IBP Greater Manila Chapter at Pandango Hall, Manila Hotel in Manila on Friday night. ROBINSON NIÑAL/ Presidential Photo

Sec. Mariano insists on House body to draft bill on land conversion review By RIA VALDEZ

“I

T is important to have an inventory of agricultural lands that are re-classified to residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.” This was the statement made to EDGE Davao by Secretary Rafael Mariano of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on Friday. Secretary Mariano, together with top officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Office of the Cabinet Secretary (OCS) were in Davao City and attended the two-day Food Security, Land Tenure and Environmental Protection Summit at the Waterfront Hotel in Davao City

that concluded last Friday, November 4. Mariano added that DAR also wanted to keep track if the purposes of the conversion of agricultural lands are appropriate. He added that the draft of the Executive Order (EO) for the two-year moratorium from conversion of agricultural lands has already been forwarded to the Office of the President. “It is up for the President when he would release the official Executive Order,” he pointed out. He added that the purpose of the moratorium is for DAR to review and re-asses the agricultural lands that are convert-

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DOH confirms total of 23 Zika cases in PHL

HE Department of Health (DOH) said on Friday there are now a total of 23 cases of Zika in the country. According to DOH Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial, there were 12 cases in Iloilo; three in Bacoor, Cavite; two in Mandaluyong City; and one each in Cebu, Muntinlupa, Antipolo, Quezon City, Calamba, and Las Pinas City. “No deaths have been reported,” she said. Meanwhile, Dr. Ubial said the case of the 22-year-old pregnant female in Cebu is

under normal condition and proceeding well based on the continuous monitoring of her pregnancy. The said pregnant woman has undergone regular ultrasound as part of the follow-up in her condition as well as that of her baby. Zika is being linked to microcephaly condition wherein the baby’s head and brain can appear small like the cases seen in Brazil. It is also currently being associated to other abnormalities such as blindness and hearing loss among infants. (PNA)

Rody’s emergency powers By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE House committee on transportation, particularly its technical working group (TWG) is set to convene next week to craft the substitute bill for the proposals to grant President Duterte with emergency powers to address traffic woes and other immediate concerns of the country. The House, in a statement on Saturday said the TWG will soon begin the drafting of the substitute bill after the committee facilitated a total of 10 marathon hearings on the matter. The committee is being chaired by Rep. Cesar Sarmiento of the Lone District of Catanduanes. The hearings, which were set in various areas in the country, including Davao City was

aimed to ensure that all sectors concerned were heard and consulted on the traffic issues and other concerns. The House said that there are 10 pending bills already filed at the committee, all are asking that President Duterte be granted emergency powers to address the traffic crisis in the Philippines. “While we have limited the scope of the bill to land transportation, this does not mean that the other sectors have no issues. They may not be under a traffic or congestion crisis but there is much to be improved in our maritime and aviation sectors,” Sarmiento said. He added that the TWG will have an easier task because the committee has now narrowed down the scope of the

proposed law to certain metropolitan areas, i.e., Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and Davao, and for the necessary projects to cover the land transport sector. The committee chair also wanted to fast-track deliberation on the proposal by running through the provisions of the bill and consulting guest stakeholders and offices concerned so that the traffic crisis can be resolved immediately and effectively. The committee, he added, will also deal with the effects of implementing the emergency powers bill on families and businesses that depend on the transport industry for their livelihood and will consider possible government solutions, such as setting up support mechanisms for those who

may be displaced. “These points will be considered in the final tenor of the Traffic Crisis Bill that this committee will approve,” he said. Sarmiento also reminded all agencies and stakeholders involved to immediately submit their position papers so that their concerns may be considered and included in the final output of the committee prior to plenary deliberations on the measure. The TWG, he added, is also expected to discuss the proposed funding requirement of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), as well as the agency’s projected timeline for the implementation of programs and projects they want included in the proposed traffic crisis bill.

an annual occurrence in these communities, said town disaster risk reduction and management officer, Eduardo Diesto. Datu Piang and Datu Salibo are catch basins of floodwaters flowing from Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Shariff Aguak, also in Maguindanao, which are located in higher grounds. “The floodwater is still rising because it is raining in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat,” Datu Piang resident Propes Salik, 39, a trisikad (passenger tricycle) driver.

Barangay Pagatin in Datu Saudi Ampatuan was also flooded, he said. Disaster officials said other low-lying towns were also flooded but the Office of Civil Defense in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OCD-ARMM) has yet to receive situational reports. Floods are perennial problems in at least 16 towns surrounding the vast Maguindanao marshland, also known as the Liguasan marsh. The marshland is a catch

basin of floods whenever heavy to moderate rains drench the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato and parts of Bukidnon. Prone to floods are the towns of Datu Piang, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Mamasapano, Sultan sa Barongis, SK Pendatun, Buluan, Mangudadatu, Pandag, Pagalungan, Datu Montawal, Sultan Mastura, Sultan Kudarat, Kabuntalan Mother and Northern Kabuntalan, all surrounding the Maguindanao marshland. (PNA)

Floods hit low-lying villages in Maguindanao

T least three towns in Maguindanao province were submerged in floodwaters following downpours spawned by a low-pressure area and the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) east of Mindanao, officials said Saturday. At least 28 villages in Datu Piang and Datu Salibo, both in Maguindanao, were knee-deep in floodwaters, according to provincial disaster officials. In Datu Piang, 16 low-lying villages have been inundated,

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Rody to sign inclusive BTC

VOL. 9 ISSUE 182 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

N line with the positive response of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairperson Nur Misuari to participate in the peace process, President Duterte said he will be signing an Executive Order (EO) for the creation of a “more inclusive” Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) on Monday, November 7. According to Irene Santiago, chairperson of the Philippine Government (GPH) joint implementing panel, the process in Mindanao is on track with both the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the MNLF on board for a more inclusive resolution to the conflict. “We are now willing to sit at the peace table and work together with the government to address the historical injustices committed against the Moro people,” Santiago said, adding that it is a welcome development. It can be recalled that presidential adviser on the peace process Secretary Jesus Dureza said that the BTC will have 21 members to accommodate the MNLF and the indigenous people (IPs). “We are re-crafting the Bangsamoro commission that creates a new bill that Congress will replace the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL),” Santiago explained. Santiago added that instead of 15 members in the BTC, they will again work for a new proposed bill in Congress that should include 21 members in the council that will include the MNLF, the IPs and other stakeholders. She said that the new en-

abling law will also take into account the 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the MNLF and the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) with the MILF. Meanwhile, the government has already sent invitation to MILF chair Murad Ebrahim for Monday’s signing of the EO for an expanded BTC. Dureza also told reporters that Misuari cannot attend the signing ceremony on the BTC. Dureza added that the government nominees to the BTC, aside from the three MNLF representatives, will include one representative each from the ARMM, the sultanates, Christians in the Bangsamoro territory, indigenous people and the youth. Dureza said the expanded BTC reflects the “inclusivity” the government is adopting in the peace talks. He said the government hopes that the new law replacing the ARMM will draw from the various agreements with the MNLF and MILF as well as the Indigenous Peoples Rights’ Act (IPRA). “Everyone can participate,” he explained. However, Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza said that, MNLF chairperson NurMisuari will not attend Monday’s signing of the executive order (EO) that will revise the draft the new Bangsamoro entity. To recall, Misuarimet with President Rodrigo Duterte at Malacanang Thursday after a Pasig court suspended his arrest warrant for the 2013 Zamboanga Siege to participate in the peace process.

ONLY SOLUTION. Private and public utility vehicles form a long queue along Magsaysay Avenue in Davao City due to the ongoing drainage system project which is seen as the only solution to the flooding in the area. Lean Daval Jr.

DA to rehab agri areas destroyed by calamities By RIA VALDEZ

Cayanan when interviewed by EDGE Davao. Cayanan was among the top officials present during the conduct of the two-day Food Security, Land Tenure and Environmental Protection Summit in Davao City that ended last Friday. He said that the country encounters an average of 19 typhoons per year and that three more are expected during this month.

The accumulated damages by typhoons Ferdie, Karen and Lawin to agricultural lands and crops already amounted to more than a billion. For super typhoon Lawin alone, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) said damage to agriculture has reached to P1,015,922,164.16. “We would continue our rehabilitation measures,” said Cayanan, adding that the agen-

cy will also ensure that the harvested rice would be safe to eat. In response to the memorandum of DA Secretary Manny Pinol ordering the National Food Authority (NFA) to buy rice and corn products affected by calamity, Cayanan assured that only safely recovered harvested crops would be bought by the NFA. “It is the job of the NFFA to ensure the quality of these products,” he said.

fter all that has been said and done, Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo on Thursday welcomed the latest announcement of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) confirming the 2016 Miss Universe pageant in Manila next year. Reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, on a taped video message from New York, broke the news that the Philippines will, indeed, play host to the much awaited international pageant on 30 January 2017.

Secretary Teo called this as “one proud moment for all Filipinos to bear witness to our reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of Cagayan de Oro City as she takes her final walk and passes on her crown to her successor, where else, but in her home country, the Philippines.” “We saw her journey on the Miss Universe stage, where she showcased to the world the characteristic Filipina beauty, intelligence, and grace under pressure. We celebrated her victorious win as

the third Miss Universe of the Philippines, after our more than four long decades of waiting,” the tourism chief recalled Wurtzbach’s win. She likewise thanked Wurtzbach for being “confidently beautiful with a heart” and more importantly for “lending her voice, as Miss Universe, to influence the youth in raising HIV awareness, among other things.” Cebu and Bohol are among the confirmed venues for the ancillary events, while the Department of Tourism (DOT)

assured that all three major islands of the Philippines— Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao— will be well represented and visited by the Miss Universe candidates. The Miss Universe 2016 in Manila is brought to us by the DOT, Miss Universe Organization, LCS Group headed by Gov. Chavit Singson & Architect Richelle Singson Michelle, in partnership with Okada Manila, SM Group of Companies, and Solar Entertainment Corporation, its broadcast partner. (PR)

HE Purple Ribbon for Reproductive Health Movement on Friday appealed to the Supreme Court (SC) to lift the temporary restraining order (TRO) limiting the full implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RPRH) Law. “The RPRH law gave poor families hope that their dream of a better future can be achieved. These hopes can only be realized if government fully and efficiently implements a comprehensive family planning program as mandated by

law,” the group said in a statement. The Purple Ribbon for RH Movement also launched a signature campaign urging the SC to act on the existing ban on the procurement and distribution of family planning commodities. The TRO restricts the Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) from “granting any and all pending applications for registration and/or recertification for reproductive products and supplies includ-

ing contraceptive drugs and devices.” The TRO also prevents the agencies from “procuring, selling, distributing, dispensing, or administering, advertising, and promoting the hormonal contraceptive Implanon and Implanon NXT”. The pro-RH group noted that the TRO affects 13.4 million Filipino women--6.1 million presently using contraceptives, and the 7.3 millions more who have unmet need for family planning. “Because of this TRO, no

new registration for contraceptives can be approved, and when approved, they can be appealed. New legal cases will ensue and delays will continue. Stocks will run out and contraceptives will no longer be available in the market. Even those with money to buy will not anymore have access to these vital commodities,” it said. The group also said that the TRO led to the alarming rise of teenage pregnancies, as well as deaths due to preventable pregnancy and childbirth-related complications. (PNA)

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has given assurance the agency will implement quick responses and rehabilitation measures to damaged crops due to the recent typhoons that hit the country and continuous heavy rains in parts of Mindanao. “We already informed farmers when they can plant again in those affected lands and regions in the country,” said DA Undersecretary Ariel

DOT confirms PHL hosting of Miss Universe 2016

Duterte unfazed A by coup plots P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said Friday he is unfazed by any coup attempt and mass demonstration against him, challenging those who are against his administration to run the government if they can. Speaking before members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) during their Regional Convention at the Manila Hotel, President Duterte said he is not worried about rallies and coup plots. “‘Yung ayaw sa akin, madali yan... (It is easy to deal with those who are against me...), no need for coup d’etat... you are wasting your bullet,” he said. The President said that if anyone is prepared to run the government, he can step down immediately. “Go to Malacañang (Palace), we’ll have coffee and I myself will swear you to run this Republic and solve the problem. Walang problema. (No problem.) Next year, there will be mass demonstration, for all

I care. Wala akong illusions. (I have no illusions.) Do not give me a reason to go out because you might get your wish,” President Duterte said. He however warned that the presidency is no easy task. “I cross the river at one o’clock in the afternoon and last night, (I) went back alas tres (at three o’clock). Araw-araw ‘yan ah. Kung ganyan naman trabahong ibibigay mo sa akin, I can only endure that much (That is every day. If this is the kind of work you are giving me, I can only endure that much),” the Chief Executive said. “Pagdating ko doon lahat ng Department may folder... (When I get there, the folders from the various departments are already there.) That is the work for the day and I read it until morning time, making marginal notes, disapproving and that is it,” he added. President Duterte said he will not allow anyone to commit a mistake if the country is at stake. (PNA)

SC urged to lift TRO on family plan supplies T

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BPI Family Auto Madness back in Davao, Cebu cities

PI Family Savings Bank is again all set to help fulfill another Filipino family’s dream of getting their own car as it brings its second wave of mall-based Auto Madness sorties to a complete circle in the cities of Davao and Cebu this week. The Davao leg will be held on Nov. 10-13 at the Abreeza Mall, while the Cebu event is scheduled to begin on Nov. 11 until Nov. 13 at Ayala Center Cebu. Davaoenos and Cebuanos who dream of having their own cars will have the chance to make it happen at the BPI Family Auto Madness, as BPI Family Savings Bank brings the car buying experience closer to everyone, with over 20 car models to choose from all

under one roof over. Owning your dream car is also made affordable through special rates and exclusive deals from BPI Family Auto Loan and partner car dealers. BPI Family Auto Loan enables you one to own your dream car the soonest possible time through expert financial advice from BPI Family Loan Advisors present in any of the BPI Family Auto Madness sites, fast and easy application process, and affordable monthly payment terms. With BPI Family Auto Madness, Davaoeno and Cebuano families may find the best way to make this Christmas season meaningful and complete. For more details about BPI Family Auto Loan, visit bpiloans.com.

DOST reiterates gov’t services that can help food businesses

HERE are a number of government programs and services which can help Filipinos start a food business or help them grow their existing food businesses. The Department of Science and Technology - Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), for instance, can help them come up with healthy food products, such as vegetable noodles, crunchy healthy snacks, high fiber fruit juices, fortified food, healthy street food (squash fish balls, squash maja), Pinoy foods such as instant pinakbet or laing, among others. For a list of food technologies, one may check out: http:// www.fnri.dost.gov.ph/images/ sources/List_FT.pdf For those who already have a business and want to improve the food packaging or shelf life of the products, they can visit the DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute’s (ITDI) website at http://www.itdi. dost.gov.ph. ITDI helps businesses with thermal processing studies, such as heat penetration test on canned and bottled products, heat distribution tests for retorts and corrective action and sterility tests. DOST-ITDI also does phys-

ico-chemical and microbiological analysis, as well as pilot plant setup and shelf life testing. “ITDI also has Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) that are available for short-term lease for start-up entrepreneurs to help them get familiarized with the technologies involved, enable them to produce product samples for market testing, and help them get more established before venturing on their own and set up their own production facility,” the DOST said. The agency also highlighted that these services are available in the provinces since DOST has regional offices to help in the technology needs of the entrepreneurs in the regions. “Every regional office has Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory that provides technical support to food manufacturing, trading and production sectors through the physico-chemical and microbiological tests it offers,” the agency stressed. The RSTL adopts and implements several quality assurance programs and quality control activities. Its equipment are calibrated and maintained; it also undergoes regular proficiency testing, continuous improvement of its facility, personnel training program, and other relevant standards. (PNA)

Admin to spend 5.4% of GDP in infra: Villar

HE Department of Public Works (DPWH) said that the Duterte government would be spending 5.4 percent of Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) in infrastructure. The figure is the highest in the last 47 years and unprecedented in past administrations. With this, DPWH Secretary Mark Villar has revealed the department’s five priority projects: (1) the Sta. Monica – Lawton – BGC Link Road Project, a 1.15 km bridge, roadway and viaduct structure, which will connect Lawton Avenue in Makati City to Sta. Monica, Fairlane, and Brixton in Pasig City

and Bonifacio Global City. (2) the UP – Miriam – Ateneo Viaduct, a 1,820 meter four lane permanent viaduct, which will reduce travel time in Katipunan and CP Garcia by 80 percent. (3) the NLEX-SLEX Connector Project, an 8 km four lane expressway from C3 Road in Caloocan City to PUP in Sta. Mesa, Manila, which is expected to reduce travel time between SLEX-NLEX from 2 hours to 30 minutes. (4) the Iloilo-Guimaras-Negros-Cebu Link Bridge, an interisland bridge project which would link the Visayan Islands of Panay, Guimaras, Negros and

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SM CITY CHRISTMAS EVENT. Councilor Avegayle Dalodo-Ortiz (5th from left), Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre (4th from left) and Robbie Alabado (3rd from left), together with SM Supermalls Mindanao Region assistant vice

president for marketing Russel Alaba (2nd from left) and SM City Davao general manager Lynette Lopez (4th from right), grace SM City Davao’s royal Christmas grand launch on Friday evening. Lean Daval Jr.

Senators to discuss 2017 budget Monday By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE 2017 General Appropriations Act (GAA) or the P3.35 trillion national budget for next year will be the top agenda of the Senate when it opens its regular session on Monday, November 7. In a statement, Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel said they are planning to pass their version of the bill on third and final reading by the last of November. The move, he added will ensure that the national budget, dubbed the “budget for

real change,” will be enacted into law before the year ends. “We will exert our best efforts to timely conduct our hearings and ensure the early passage of this most important piece of legislation,” Pimentel said. The 2017 GAA is 11.6 percent higher than the P3.002 trillion national budget this year, of which 40 percent, or an estimated at P1.345 trillion, has been earmarked for social services such as education, culture, health, social security, housing, land distri-

bution, among others. The Senate president added that they are also closely coordinating with the House of Representatives to ensure that the budget will be enacted into law as scheduled. The House version of the bill was already passed last October 17. Pimentel also emphasized that they will finish the other priority legislation which is the granting of emergency powers to President Duterte to address the traffic crisis particularly in Manila and oth-

er urban areas in the country. The measure also seeks to designate the transportation secretary as the Traffic Crisis Manager who will exercise overall land, air and sea traffic management and control. Other pending priority legislation that the Senate will work on include the proposed bill on ending “endo” or labor contractualization, the SIM Card Registration Act, Amendments to the Bank Secrecy Law and the bill adjusting the indexation of income tax rates, Pimentel said.

plementation of the 10-point Socioeconomic Agenda,” this year’s PDF will be held at the SMX Convention Center in Lanang, Davao City. Dominguez said this two-day forum will gather representatives from the national government, LGUs, the development partner community, civil society, academe, the Congress, business sector and other stakeholders. The PDF evolved from the Consultative Group meetings held every 18 months among the government and its international development partners, such as the World Bank and other global financial institutions. In 2004, while planning for the 2005 Consultative Group meeting, the government and the World Bank agreed to widen the participation of the forum by bringing in other stakeholders such as civil society, the private sector, academe and legislative representatives to join the dialogue. Following this agreement, the Consultative Group meeting was restructured as an ongoing forum for dialogue and the PDF process was launched. The last PDF formal meeting was held on Feb. 2013, also in

Davao City, with around 300 participants from government, international development partners, and other stakeholders. Dominguez said the forum offers business groups and other organizations such the Makati Business Club, “that also has been asking for an audience with the President,” the opportunity to take part in the dialogue and air their views on how best to sustain and achieve inclusive growth. “The Department of Finance is holding a Philippine Development Forum in Davao City onNovember 8 and 9 and I would like to invite all these groups to participate in the forum because there they can air their concerns and we can discuss the future direction of our country,” Dominguez said. Dominguez said the Philippines’ development partners, such as the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and other global financial institutions, along with civil society groups and representatives of foreign governments, are also invited to participate in the two-day forum. “In this forum….we can all discuss with the international and the local community the direction of the Philippine economy,” he said.

The PDF will tackle the following priorities: 1) macroeconomic and fiscal policies, including the DOF’s proposed tax reform program; 2) peace and development in Mindanao; and 3) infrastructure and competitiveness, including the development of science and technology, building an efficient transport network and improving the ease of doing business. These priorities also cover 4) rural development, including land administration and management and food security; and the 5) development of human capital, including social protection programs for the poorest of the poor and the implementation of the reproductive health law. Davao City was also the venue for the “Sulong Pilipinas Tungo sa Kaunlaran” consultative workshop organized by then-incoming Secretary Dominguez last June 20-21, ahead of the formal assumption to the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte to help the new Administration draw up the correct metrics or standards to later on measure whether Government has been meeting its socio-economic targets and, more importantly, whether such have been beneficial to poor and low-income families. (PR)

300 participants expected at PDF 2016 S

OME 300 from the national government, local government units (LGUs), the country’s development partners, civil society and other sectors are expected to gather in Davao City next week to take part in this year’s Philippines Development Forum (PDF), the primary mechanism of the government in facilitating substantive policy dialogues on its five-year reform agenda. The inputs from the participants in this year’s PDF will be incorporated in the five-year Philippine Development Plan now being completed by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), according to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III. Dominguez chairs the PDF consultative dialogue on Nov. 8-9 and Secretary Jesus Dureza of the peace process is his co-chairperson. The Five-Year Philippine Development Plan will outline the Duterte administration’s strategy in sustaining high growth and making its benefits felt by all Filipinos through accelerated spending in infrastructure, human capital development and social protection for the poorest of the poor. With the theme “Poverty Reduction through the Vigorous Im-

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‘Tokyo’ plan for Mintal awarded By ANTONIO M. AJERO

HERE IS no stopping the move of the government to develop Barangay Mintal in the third district of Davao City into a modern tourism spot called “Little Tokyo” of the Philippines. Ramon “Abay” Bargamento said Berkman Int’l Philippines, a famous urban planner, has started working on the master plan to develop Mintal into a modern-day tourism destination by recreating its image as the Little Tokyo of the Philippines. Bargamento said Berkman which also designed the master plan of Vigan and other tourist destinations in the country, won the bidding conducted by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) to develop the master plan of “Little Tokyo” at the cost of P10 million. He said the task involves the recreation of the Mintal Hospital, Mindanao’s biggest

hospital at the time, the Japanese cemery, school and other landmark institutions and agencies when the barangay was the most progressive area of Davao City due to the presence of big Japanese abaca plantations shortly before the outbreak of World War II when the Japanese population in Davao reportedly reached 25,000. Speaking on the side of the turnover by Japanese Rotarians of an ambulance unit for the barangay’s disasters and emergency response unit, Bargamento said a team from Berkman has already arrived in Davao City to have a look-see of the barangay for starters. City Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte who represented Mayor Sara D. Carpio in the turnover, also traced the beginnings of the move to establish Mintal as a Little Tokyo for tourism purposes. Dr. Villafuerte said it was

At right, a sketch map called little Tokyo dream. At left, Mintal Brgy. Capt. Ramon Bargamento and Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte her late husband, Councilor Louie Villafuerte who proposed the project ina privilege speech. Later, former Councilor Rachel Zozobrado-Nagayo, chairman of the committee on tourism, who

made the proposal formal in a resolution which the Davao City Council unanimously approved. Bargamento said that the Mintal local government unit is prepared to face the chal-

ince of Ilocos Sur, Region 1. It will irrigate about 5,000 hectares in five municipalities and will have an estimated project cost of PHP3.452 million; -- Ilocos Norte Irrigation Project covering the provinces of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur both in Region 1, and the province of Abra in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). The estimated Service Area of the PHP14,994.04 million project is 12,400 hectares; -- Tumaini River Multipurpose Project located in Cagayan province in Region 2. It will cover three municipalities of the province. The project will generate an estimated service area of 4,585 hectares and has an estimated project cost of PHP4,003.03 million; and -- Panay River Basin Integrated Development Project located in the provinces of Iloilo and Capiz in Region 6. The

PHP14,761.90 million project will benefit 19 municipalities and will irrigate an estimated service area of 28,000 hectares. Padernal stressed that the six projects’ feasibility studies are underway and should be fast-tracked as it is hoped that the proposed projects would be completed in two to four years. Counselor Yuan meanwhile asked the management to come up with a list of priority projects for the next six years. “We would like to request your project proposals and see which we can push through,” he noted. Padernal assured Yuan that NIA will surely work in parallel with NEDA, which is the prime agency coordinating with the China Exim Bank Financing. (PNA)

Chinese visit NIA for partnership C

HINESE Commercial Counselor Jin Yuan and Second Secretary Yang Ming from the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines recently held talks with the top management of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), led by Administrator Florencio F. Padernal to discuss a smooth future cooperation for the country’s irrigation sector. “We are glad that the Philippine President (Rodrigo) Duterte had a very successful state visit in China,” said Yuan. He emphasized that the next most important action of the economic partnership is substantial implementation. “We believe that your country (Philippines) is one of the most important economies in Asia,” he noted. Yuan further shared his meeting with the National Economic and Development

Authority (NEDA) to draw up a six-year economic plan for the Philippines. Padernal, for his part, briefly introduced NIA and its accomplishments for the past two years, including its hydropower initiatives. The six projects being proposed for funding were: -- Asbang Small Reservoir Impounding Project (SRIP), located in Davao del Sur province in Region 11. It will irrigate about 469 hectares and costs approximately PHP1.200 million; -- Bohol Northeast Basin Multipurpose Dam Project located in Bohol province, Region 7. It will irrigate an estimated 12,500 hectares covering six municipalities, and has an estimated cost of PHP4.134 million; -- Gregorio del Pilar Impounding Project in the prov-

WAITING FOR CUSTOMERS. Boredom is written all over the face of a sleepy young boy as he waits for customers in front of their makeshift store along Tionko Avenue in Davao City yesterday where his family’s handcrafted Christmas lanterns are on display. Lean Daval Jr.

lenges of a big tourism project such the Little Tokyo Japanese heritage site in Mintal. He said the preparations included several projects worth hundreds of millions of pesos which are either

completed or ongoing. He said most of the national projects were funded during the time of former congressman Isidro Ungab when he was chairman of the House committee on appropriations.

PWDs, seniors favor direct transfer program over VAT exemptions

NDIGENT elderly citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) prefer to get direct transfer in the form of social pensions or a health package rather than being exempted from paying the value added tax (VAT), which is a tax privilege that they said only affluent seniors with more money to spend get to enjoy under the current system. They, however, told senators that the VAT exemptions on essential items like medicines should stay as these are the only benefits they get from the current VAT law. The Department of Finance (DOF) is proposing to plug massive leakages under the VAT system by expanding its tax base through the removal of certain exemptions. This proposal is among the measures that the DOF needs to put in place to offset the revenue erosion arising from the key element of the first package of its comprehensive tax reform program, which is the lowering of personal income taxes. VAT exemptions for raw food, education and health care, including medicines, would be retained under the DOF proposal. The additional revenues collected from the lifting of the VAT exemptions for other goods and services would be used to expand targeted transfer and other social protection programs for the country’s vulnerable sectors, such as poor seniors and PWDs, the DOF said. In a recent hearing by the Senate Ways and Means Committee, representatives of PWDs and seniors’ organizations agreed that the removal of the VAT exemptions, except for medicines and other basic items, would not be detrimental to their welfare as long as the government puts in place social protection programs that would directly benefit them.

“I would say that since the trend would also be to reduce the personal income taxes, I do not think the abolition of VAT exemptions would be detrimental to the PWDs, since there will also be an equivalent lowering of income taxes and the promise of direct services that will be implemented,” said Jose Go Ranola of the Philippine Blind Union Inc. Ranola also told senators: “So it is my personal opinion, I am supporting this move to remove the VAT exemption.” Cris Migrino of the civil society group Coalition of Services of the Elderly (COSE) Inc. said that 70 percent of its members nationwide belong to the poorest of the poor, while only 30 percent can afford to spend for leisure goods, which is why the removal of VAT exemptions for seniors have “no meaningful impact” for the organization’s members. COSE is the umbrella organization of 135 associations representing the interests of elderly citizens nationwide. “Noong nalaman namin na yung VAT exemption ay na-retain doon sa medicine, natuwa kami roon dahil doon lang nakikinabang ang aming sector dahil mostly doon sa aming samahan ay 30 percent lang ang may kayang bumili, at 70 percent ay poorest of the poor. (When we learned that the VAT exemption will be retained for medicines, we were pleased because this is the only area where our sector benefits from the exemption, because in our organization,, only 30 percent can buy things, and 70 percent are from the poorest of the poor),” Migrino said. “There is no meaningful impact tungkol doon sa pagalis ng VAT [exemptions] sa amingsector (in removing the VAT [exemptions] from our sector),” Migrino told sena-

F PWDS, 10

EDGEDAVAO

7 SUBURBIA

VOL. 9 ISSUE 182 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016

DavNor honors RDR, 18th Kalindugan Festival school paper adviser showcases Mandaya culture F D ORMER Governor Rodolfo del Rosario and a retired school paper teacher received recently the Gawad Mantala Lifetime Achievement Award during the Davao del Norte’s celebration of the Press Freedom Month at the Robinsons Place Tagum. Governor Del Rosario gained the award being considered as the ‘man of the press’ in the province and even in the region. Since the old Del Rosario was suffering from an illness at the time of the ceremony, the award was accepted by his son, Board Member Rodney del Rosario. Aside from the former governor, retired teacher Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular Service.

Case No. 2002-XI-01936 ROSITA O. MATEO, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: CIRCULATION ROUTE 10 and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate wiil expire on August 12, 2017. In the petition filed on October 13, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on DECEMBER 5, 2016 at 09:40 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time. This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence. WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 14th day of October 2016 at Davao City. MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

Mayumi Pingzon also received the award for her contribution in moulding the future members of the media as a school paper adviser. One of the laudable achievements of Ms. Pingzon was her recognition as the best school paper adviser during her career. This is the second year that the provincial government recognized individuals in their contribution to press freedom in the province. Last year, Aurora Lozada, retired DXDN Radio broadcaster and now the station’s consultants, was the first person to receive the lifetime achievement award. (PIA11) Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service.

Case No. 2003-XI-01524-2 LUZMINDA P. ALFAR, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of FIVE (5) units, which Certificate will expire on September 4, 2017. In the petition filed on October 6, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on NOVEMBER 29, 2016 at 10:10 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 7th day of October 2016 at Davao City. MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

AVAO ORIENTAL – The Mandaya community of Sitio Sangab in the remote mountain village of Pichonin Caraga town has marked its 18th Kalindugan Festival last October 28-29, 2016, showcasing vibrant and authentic Mandaya culture and traditions. Replete with songs and dances showcasing the Madaya culture, the celebration has brought the Mandayas a sense of pride and identity over their deep-rooted cultural heritage. The annual festival aims to preserve the tribe’s customs, traditions and beliefs by instilling these to the community especially to the young generation. Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Approval of Sale and Transfer with Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment to operate a PUJDUAL Ordinary Regular Service. Case No. 2016-XI-01242 (2010-XI-00560) JANET S. NARA, Petitioner-Vendor

JESUS A. QUIBLAT, Petitioner-Vendee

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioners request authority for the Approval of Sale and Transfer executed by JANET S. NARA in favor of JESUS A. QUIBLAT of a Certificate of Public Convenience with Equipment issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ – DUAL Ordinary Regular service on the route: TIBUNGCO VIA R. CASTILLO and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on May 25, 2018. In the same petition filed on August 11, 2016, petitioners likewise request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on DECEMBER 5, 2016 at 10:10 a.m. at this office at the above address. At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑA-YÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-In-Charge, this 14th day of October 2016 at Davao City.

MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

During the festival, different local schools presented performances portraying their daily lives in the community, history and traditions in the form of dances and songs. Indigenous games and culinary contest featuring authentic Mandaya cuisines, among others were showcased during the celebration. Aside from showcasing its rich culture and traditions, the Kalindugan Festival which also means unity also became a celebration of brotherhood among the members of Mandaya tribe who are known for their strong bond, their drive for maintaining unity and in building strong connection within the tribe. Governor Dayanghirang, in a message conveyed by Provincial Tourism Officer Miguel Trocio, extended his congratulations to the Mandaya community in the celebration of their festival. He urged them, especially the youth, to contin-

ue protecting and conserving their culture, adding that the Provincial Government will continue to pour down support to community through the implementation of more development projects. Last week, Governor Dayanghirang during the Family Day and Medical Mission conducted in the area has announced several developments that the government is pouring down to Sitio Sangab and other nearby sitios, such as the turn-over of some initial 100 housing units to typhoon victims from the National Housing Authority. Boosting the area’s agricultural potential, Gov. Dayanghirang is set to recommend to the Department of Agriculture a P100 million road concreting project to Sangab. He said this investment would definitely make a difference in the socio-economic development and in the lives of the people here. Present during the event

was Caraga Mayor Alicia Mori. She encouraged the members of the community to continue fostering peace and unity. “We can achieve more development if we stay united,” she said, urging the Mandaya people here to help maintain peace in their community. Meanwhile, considering Davao Oriental’s rich history and culture, the province will launch next year a new festival in Davao Oriental dubbed as Kabilin or Heritage Festival, in which the Sangab Mandaya community will play a huge part of. The cultural festival is touted to become a veritable platform to promote peace and unity and encourage the preservation of Davao Oriental’s rich and diverse culture. The National Economic Development Authority, which thrusts in cultural development, is among the province’s partners in the national government towards cultural promotion and development. (PR)

sa New Corella is accredited na to provide programs and services sa atoang mga target clientele kaning mga Children in Conflict with the Law [This certificate of accreditation proves that our center, Bahay Pag-asa in New Corella, is accredited to provide programs and services to our target clientele… the Children in Conflict with the Law],” Padillo said. She added that among the five rehabilitation centers catering to CICL in Region XI, only Bahay Pag-asa Davao del Norte received the accreditation, owing to its adequate staffing, well implementation of the rehab programs and sufficient budget allotment that sets it above the others. “After the assessment, nakita nga ang Bahay Pag-asa Davao del Norte is well supported, well manned kay naa gyud tay klaro nga mga staff ug naa poy other staff sa province nga nagatutok pod sa ilaha in

providing technical assistance para mapadayon ang pagserbisyo aning Bahay Pag-asa [After the assessment, they have seen that Bahay Pag-asa Davao del Norte is well supported, well manned because we have designated staffs and there are other staffs from the province that monitor and provide technical assistance to sustain the service],” Padillo bared. Del Rosario assured the sustainability of the facility, reiterating the responsibility of the province to reform children who went astray. “It is our responsibility to provide our children the opportunities they need for them to realize and actualize their full potential,” he said. The certificate of accreditation is pursuant to Section 23 of Republic Act 4373, which requires social work agencies to be registered and accredited to regulate the operation and other purposes of such agencies. (PIO-DavNor)

Bahay Pag-asa DavNor gets DSWD accreditation B

AHAY Pag-asa Davao del Norte, a transformation center that primarily caters to Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL), is now accredited with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Governor Anthony del Rosario received the Certificate of Accreditation for the facility from DSWD-XI Center Coordinator Dahlia S. Padillo during the 2nd founding anniversary of the center in New Corella, Davao del Norte on September 1, 2016. Padillo said the accreditation will strengthen the role of the center, which is funded and managed by the provincial government, in providing short-term residential care to facilitate the restoration of the CICL and their reintegration to society. “Kadtong certificate of accreditation mao to ang nagpamatuod nga atoang center, kini atong Bahay Pag-asa diri

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

EDITORIAL

It’s not the age

E have seen great sportsmen come back after retiring. Count our very own Manny Pacquiao as the latest although the so-called “retirement” looked more like a simple “vacation” from boxing. Whatever the result is of the Filipino boxing legend’s fight against world champion Jessie Vargas (set on Sunday, a day after this writing), Manny will be counted as among those who defy age and come back to compete. There were many others before Manny in the world of boxing to have retired and came back. George Foreman returned to boxing when he was over 45 years old and 300 pounds and even won the world heavyweight title. Same thing with Evander Holyfield who came back at his 40s to become the first four-time world heavyweight champion. Larry Holmes returned and fought until way past 50 compiling a 15-2 win-loss record. Of late, it was Mexican legend Erik Morales, who had a dramatic trilogy with Manny, who returned and became his country’s first four-division champion at near 40 in 2011. And then there’s Manny Pacquiao. In basketball, the great comebacks were made by Michael Jordan who did it twice with Chicago and Washington and if we talk about another case of longevity, there’s our very own Sonny Jaworski who played until he was near 50. But is age really a factor in one’s performance? In these men’s cases, it also boiled down on basically three factors: One, physical condition; two, condition; and three, the will to do. Such is the same case we must put premium on our sports officials. And this is not the very fine example with the curious case of Mr. Jose “Peping” Cojuangco, president of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) for three terms or a total of

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12 years. The uncle of the former President Noy Aquino seemed to love his post so much he needs to be reminded that his sister Cory fought against a long-staying dictator and won. Cojuangco wants another term with the POC. He is 82 and according to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) charter, no one beyond 80 years old may run as head of a National Olympic Committee like the POC. However, Cojuangco insists he is still healthy and want to serve for more years. He promised to build a new sports training center which was the same promise he made on his first term and this country has yet to see even a blueprint of that plan. Which leads us to the three tests of longevity. Is he still physically strong? Only he knows. Mentally? He is probably showing forgetfulness that he had promised the sports training facility on his first term yet. Does he have “the will to do it”? Obviously, no. Anywhere you look at it, Cojuangco is no longer fit to continue to serve as POC president. Why he is insisting on it and why his supporters blindly think he can is putting the future of sports in this country several steps backwards. It does not help too that the representative of the IOC seem to favor Cojuangco despite a clear ground (age) for his disqualification and a protest over violation of code of ethics. Cojuangco is shielding his stubbornness to unduly perpetrate himself to office to the detriment of Philippine sports in the fact that the IOC is an independent body. It behooves upon the members of the POC, especially those supporting Cojuangco, to set aside personal interest and push forward with genuine reforms for sports. Change is the beat and that is the way to go. The only way to go. ANTONIO M. AJERO NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO Editor in Chief Managing Editor ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ Associate Editor

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HEN Moro National Liberation Front founding chairman Nur Misuari gained his temporary freedom after the government suspended the arrest warrant against him, he made a pledge to President Rodrigo R. Duterte. “Allow me to reiterate my sense of gratitude and my promise that should he need our cooperation in his campaign for peace, you can count on us,” he was quoted as saying in a nationally televised news conference. What is peace so elusive? No matter how world leaders work hard just to attain it, peace remains a dream, a wish come true. Even the Holy Bible is replete with stories of struggles, strife and dominions. Alfred Bernhard Nobel was the man who discovered dynamite. At the time of his death, he controlled factories for the manufacture of explosives in many parts of the world. However, his will provided that the major portion of his $9 million estate be set up as a fund to establish yearly prizes for merit in physics, chemistry, medicine and physiology, literature, and – yes, you’re right! – world peace. Its Asian counterpart – the Ramon Magsaysay Award – has added the word “peace” in its international understanding category. My former boss, Harold R. Watson, received the prestigious award in 1985. The Dalai Lama and

VOL. 9 ISSUE 182 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016

VANTAGE POINTS

Elusive peace Mother Teresa themselves THINK ON THESE! collected the same award before they were honored with the Nobel Peace Prize. But despite all the recent initiatives, peace is Henrylito D. Tacio elusive as ever. henrytacio@gmail.com “Do you know what astonished me most in the world?” asked French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. “(It’s) the inability of force to create anything. In the long run, the sword is always beaten by the spirit. Soldiers usually win battles and generals get the credit for them. You must not fight too often with one enemy, or you will teach him all your art of war. If they want peace, nations should avoid the pin-pricks that precede cannon shots.” “To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the acme of skill,” Sun Tzu in “The Art of War.” But why is peace so elusive? It is because the opposite of it is war?

War is not the solution to the problem, although war is going on in other parts of the world in order for them to attain peace. But peace can also be achieved if they lay down their arms. The Bible foresees: “They shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Check Isaiah 2:4 for that). “If you want to make peace, you don’t talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies,” Moshe Dayan advised. “Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding,” Ralph Waldo Emerson said. Hiro Mashima said the same thing in a different context. “If peace can only come through killing someone, then I don’t want it,” he pointed out. Hafast Abiola shares this idea: “Peace comes from being able to contribute the best that we have, and all that we are, toward creating a world that supports everyone. But it is also securing the space for others to contribute the best that they have and all that they are.” In an address before the United Nations on September 25, 1961, American President John F. Kennedy declared: “Mankind must put to an end to war – or war will put an end to mankind.”

If war is not the solution, then love must be the answer. “Love is our most unifying and empowering common spiritual denominator,” wrote Aberjhani in “Journey through the Power of the Rainbow: Quotations from a Life Made Out of Poetry.” “The more we ignore its potential to bring greater balance and deeper meaning to human existence, the more likely we are to continue to define history as one long inglorious record of man’s inhumanity to man.” James Marshall “Jimi” Hendrix, an American rock guitarist, singer and songwriter, believed in love, too, as the solution. “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace,” he said. Some lines of the song written by John Lennon comes in handy: “Imagine there’s no countries it isn’t hard to do. Nothing to kill or die for and no religion, too. Imagine all people living life in peace. You may say I’m a dreamer but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us and the world will be as one.” “Peace is present right here and now, in ourselves and in everything we do and see. Every breath we take, every step we take, can be filled with peace, joy and serenity. The question is whether or not we are in touch with it. We need only to be awake, alive in present moment,” wrote Thich Nhat Hanh in “Peace is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday.”

on March 3, Duterte greeting Misuari, whom he calls “Brother Nur,” a “happy birthday.” Misuari was born on March 3, 1939 in Kabigaan, Tapul, Sulu. “Little did I know, Brother Nur, by the grace of Allah, I became the President of the Republic and in the twilight of our years, we would be able to talk about the problem of our country, the revolution that you have led all these years and finally, understanding on a common ground with government,” said Duterte, who has repeatedly vowed to correct the historical injustices committed against the Bangamoro people,

the provisions of the CAB and the unimplemented provisions of the 1996 FPA. The Bangsamoro law is supposed to be drafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) whose membership under this new administration has been increased from 15 to 21 (10 nominated by government and 11 nominate by the MILF) to make it “more inclusive.” Under the roadmap, the MNLF factions are expected to be included in the new BTC. The MNLF Sema faction has agreed to participate in the BTC.

Nur and Digong: When brothers (and Presidents) meet

“I

WOULD like you to just say a few words… using the podium of the President of the Republic of the Philippines,” the 71-year old Mindanawon President Rodrigo Duterte told the 77-year old founding chair of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Nur Misuari after delivering a five-minute speech to announce to the nation the “great news.” “It is with great happiness that I announce to the nation that Chairman Nur Misuari, our brother who heads the MNLF, has finally decided to just accept my invitation for him to talk to us,” Duterte said in Malacanang’s Rizal Hall on Thursday afternoon. Duterte, whose grandmother was a Maranao, is the country’s 16th President, the first Mindanawon to lead the nation and the first with Moro blood. “Now I am so happy to be free again, owing to the initiative of our President,” said Misuari, who was introduced by the emcee as “President of the Bangsamoro Republik” during the 17thMNLF Bangsamoro Grand Summit Gathering on October 21, 2012 at the Crocodile Park here. In the same event, Misuari declared Davao City as the “official capital of the Bangamoro Republik.” Before he was presented to the Malacanang Press Corps on Thursday afternoon Misuari met for a few minutes with Duterte whom he described as “the man whom I respect and trust” and “this one single man who can provide solution to the problem of peace and order in our homeland.” He kissed Duterte’s cheeks thrice to thank him for his freedom, before taking over the Presidential podium to deliver what turned out to be a 22-minute speech. Duterte announced that Misuari’s pending warrant of arrest in 2013 has been “lifted now

MINDAVIEWS BY MARGOT MARFORI under my orders.” Court order It was the court that ordered Misuari’s temporary liberty. Judge Rowena Modesto-San Pedro of the Regional Trial Court in Pasig City granted Misuari’s motion to “suspend proceedings and enforcement of warrants of arrest” against him allow him “to attend peace talk sessions with the government.” The suspension is for for a period of six months from October 27, the date of the ruling. (see other story). Duterte said Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza “did the legwork.. to pave the way for Chairman Nur to come here… upon my invitation.” Brother Nur Dureza flew to Jolo early Thursday morning to hand over to Misuari a copy of the court order. Misuari joined Dureza on board a private jet that brought them to Manila and from there to Malacanang to meet with Duterte, Misuari’s personal friend. Duterte recalled that in Misuari’s last tour around Mindanao before the September 2013 Zamboanga City standoff between his MNLF forces and government forces, “I accepted you with open arms and I said that maybe someday we can finally talk about peace.” Misuari last met with Duterte at a function room at the Royal Mandaya Hotel here from 11:35 p.m. on March 2, 2013 until 12:05 a.m.

Bangsamoro peace roadmap He assured Misuari that “we will come up with the modality and then of course, how to place us in our proper homeland, our Mindanao, and that we will talk about the Bangsamoro Authority.” Duterte was apparently referring to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) which will be appointed by the President to govern the future Bangsamoro region once the plebiscite on the Bangsamoro law is ratified, and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is deemed abolished. The BTA will serve during the transition period, until the election of the first set of officials of the Bangsamoro. “We are ready for that, Brother Nur,” the President vowed. Duterte’s Bangsamoro peace roadmap is focusing on the convergence of the peace processes and the peace agreements signed by government with the MNLF — the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) – so that the law that would be passed would incorporate

Converge in Congress Misuari’s faction, however, apparently does not want to take part in the MILF-led BTC. In his speech, he belittled the MILF’s armed strength. “They only have a handful of people,” he said while maintaining the MNLF is “not a spent force.” Dureza told MindaNews in a text message Thursday evening that the GPH-MILF and GPH-MNLF tracks “will somehow converge in Congress without converging in the process.” He said the GPH-MILF track will pursue the BTC mode of drafting the proposed Bangsamoro law for submission to Congress while the GPH-MNLF-Misuari track will work for the “amendment/expansion/enhancement” of RA 9054, the law that amended RA 6734, the Organic Act creating the ARMM. Congress will then consolidate the bills to come up with the final draft of the Bangsamoro law. As these two tracks are moving, Congress will also convene as a constituent assembly to amend the Constitution to push for the shift to a federal form of government. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

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Thursday, Misuari said that he came to see President Duterte, the man whom he said he respected and trusted. President Duterte also lauded Misuari’s decision to come back to the negotiating table to talk peace.

“It is with great happiness that I announce to the nation that Chairman Nur Misuari, our brother who heads the MNLF has finally decided to just accept my invitation for him to talk to us,” the President said.

illegal drugs at the sub-provincial jail in Baybay City, Leyte at about 4:10 a.m. Saturday, when a brief shootout transpired between the team and the detainees. Carlos said the Eastern Visayas Regional Internal Affairs Service will also conduct its own investigation. The sub-provincial jail is managed by the provincial government of Leyte. The CIDG said a search warrant was served on Mayor Espinosa about 4 a.m. on Saturday for alleged illegal possession of firearms, when the mayor reportedly “fired upon the raiding team”. “The raid ensued in a firefight and resulted in the death of the subjects. It was purely a CIDG operation. The Scene of the Crime Operatives proceeded to the place of incident to process the crime scene,” said Philippine National Police (PNP) regional director, Chief Supt. Elmer Beltejar. Espinosa has been detained at the Leyte sub-provincial jail in this city after his arrest on Oct. 5 for illegal drugs and firearms charges. The mayor is the father of Kerwin Espinosa, allegedly the region’s top drug lord. It can be recalled that Espinosa surrendered to PNP Chief Dir. Gen. Ronald dela Rosa on Aug. 2, a few hours after President Rodrigo Duterte demanded for his and Kerwin’s surrender within 24 hours or face a “shoot on sight” order. After four days, dela Rosa kicked out Espinosa from his official residence after Kerwin failed to meet the deadline for him to surrender. He returned to his hometown on Aug. 16 and stayed at the town hall day and night for about a week before he asked for police protection. Driven by fear for his life, the mayor had temporarily held office at the town police station from Aug. 25 until his

arrest. Kerwin was recently arrested in Abu Dhabi.

tors led by Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, who chairs the ways and means committee. Migrino said that if the government would remove certain VAT exemptions, then it should channel the additional revenues collected from this to expand social pension benefits to seniors not yet covered by the program. COSE Executive Director Emily Beridico also said that tax exemptions benefit only seniors who are “better off” in life. She cited a UP Population Institute study showing that the implementation of the 20 percent discount for seniors in the purchase of medicines also benefit indigent seniors as much as elderly citizens

belonging to the middle and upper income class. “Sumasangayon kami na kung tatanggalin yung VAT exemption sa senior citizens, kapalitin exchange po na magkaroon ng comprehensive na magandang programa para sasector ng nakatatanda, katulad po ng universal social pension (We agree that if you remove the VAT exemptions for senior citizens, the trade off should be a comprehensive program for the elderly sector such as the universal social pension),” Beridico said. Migrino said expanding the social pension program for seniors would also make the country’s elderly feel a “sense of belonging” in society. (PR)

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Espinosa fought it out Police are processing the crime scene where operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) shot and killed detained Albuera, Leyte Mayor Rolando Espinosa and fellow inmate Raul Yap, who reportedly fought it out with the authorities at about 4:10 a.m. Saturday. According to CIDG-Eastern Visayas director, Sr. Supt. Melvin Marcos, the two were being served search warrants but they fought it out, hence, they were shot and killed in the process. The search warrant against Espinosa was for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 or the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act”, and against Raul Yap for violation of RA 9165 or the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002”. The search warrants were issued by Basey, Samar Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 30 Judge Tarcelo Sabarre Jr. Marcos said they could not yet determine how many gunshot wounds were sustained by Espinosa. Albuera Police chief, Chief Insp. Jovie Espinido earlier confirmed that the detained mayor was shot and killed inside his detention cell. According to Espinido, operatives of CIDG-Eastern Visayas served the search warrants at about 4 a.m. on Saturday. Espinosa was facing a case for illegal possession of firearms and illegal drugs and had been detained at the sub-provincial jail in Baybay City, Leyte since his arrest on October 5. His son, Kerwin Espinosa, who is also considered as a drug lord in the region, is currently detained in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (PNA)

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AFTERNOON NAP. A delivery man finds solace from the shades of trees and the cool breeze as he takes a nap along Tionko Avenue in Davao City yesterday afternoon. Lean Daval Jr.

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ed to other uses and lands that are re-classified to other purposes due to its modification. “We would also include agricultural lands that are under illegal and premature conversion,” Mariano stressed. The moratorium is also for the fulfilment to the Progressive Agrarian Reform Law of 1998 that preserves the agricultural rights of the farmers and for the country’s food security, the secretary added. “This moratorium will promote food security because it will ensure preservation,” he said. Mariano said more than 50,000 hectares that are supposedly allotted for rice irrigation have already been convert-

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Cebu (5) the Davao City Bypass Construction project, a 44.6 km tunnel and roadway structure, which would reduce travel time from Digos in Davao del Sur to Panabo in Davao del Norte by 55 minutes. Villar noted that a sustained increase in public infrastructure spending to 5 percent of GDP would add a total of 5-6 percent to GDP after 15 years, as he cited a study conducted by the International Monetary Fund. “At our highest – a maximum of 3.2 percent was pegged for infrastructure spending. This administration would like to raise the bar and address the deficit. It is the only way we could solve both traffic and flooding,” he said in a statement. He added, “Development has always been faster than our road and transportation networks. We’d like to catch up – and hopefully pre-empt it in the next six years.” In the 2015 IMF report, it found that the Philippines consistently had lower public investment than other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, averaging only 2.5 percent in 2000 to 2014. Likewise, the study pointed that public capital stock is also one of the lowest among ASEAN countries – at about 35 percent of GDP in 2013. Regional Average is pegged at 72 percent of GDP. “China and India has been spending at least 8 percent of their GDP in infrastructure spending. We’d like to catch up. Underspending would not be a problem of this administration,” he said. (PNA)

ed to other purposes and over 200,000 hectares of agricultural lands were already converted to other uses from 1998 to 2016. In the draft of the EO, Mariano said that DAR will spearhead the task force in the re-assessment of lands and quantify the land conversions’ impact on the land and food quality. DAR will also create the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the EO. The proposed moratorium on land conversion has already raised oppositions from the business sector. Mariano said that other sectors that will be affected by the moratorium have already sent their propositions to the

Office of the President.

Support from DA The Department of Agriculture (DA) will support the guidelines that will be set on the proposed two-year moratorium on the conversion of agricultural lands. This was the statement made by DA undersecretary Ariel Cayanan when interviewed by EDGE Davao on Friday. Cayanan was also present during the conduct of the twoday Food Security, Land Tenure and Environmental Protection Summit. “DA had always been responsible for issuing the eligibility and non-eligibility of the

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 11th Judicial Region Branch 33 Davao City

IN RE: PETITION FOR ADOPTION OF LUKE MIKHAEL CUGAL BALIDAN

SPOUSES MITCHELLE ANNE CUGAL OPPAL AND ZAHED AMIN OPPAL Petitioners

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service.

Case No. 2007-XI-00123 BERNARDO P. CASIA, Petitioner

SPL.PROC.CASE NO. R-DVO-16-04120-SP

X--------------------------------------------X

ORDER This is a verified petition for the adoption of Luke Mikhael Cugal Balindan, file by Spouses Mitchelle Anne Cugal Oppal and Zehed Amin Oppal, praying of this Honorable Court that upon due notice and hearing, judgment be rendered.

1. Declaring that the requirements of certification of the alien’s qualification to adopt in his country and of residency be waive since the alien petitioner is married to a Filipino citizen and seeks to adopt jointly with his Filipino spouse the illegitimate child of spouse; 2. Declaring that the minor child LUKE MIKHAEL CUGAL BALINDAN be freed from all legal obligations with respect to his biological father’

3. Declaring that the minor children, LUKE MIKHAEL CUGAL BALINDAN, who is the illegitimate biological child of petitioner Mitchelle Ann and is the step son of the petitioner Zahed, for all intents and purposes, be declared as the legitimate child of herein petitioners; 4. Ordering that the minor LUKE MIKHAEL CUGAL BALINDAN be known and registered in the civil registry as LUKE MIKHAEL CUGAL OPPAL; 5. Ordering the proper Civil Registrar and/or the Civil registrar of Isabela City to issue the proper Birth Certificate in accordance with law.

6. Declaring the petitioners to be exempt from the supervised trial custody as the petitioner Mitchelle is the biological mother og the child to be adopted, and Petitioner Zahed is married to a Mitchelle, a Filipino citizen and seeks to adopt jointly with his spouse the latter’s relative within the fourth (4th) degree of consanguinity pursuant to Section 15 c of the Rules on Adoption and the same would insure the best interest of the child to be adopted.

Finding the verified Petition to be sufficient in form and substance, set the preliminary conference of this petition on March 27, 2017 @ 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon and pretrial conference and hearing on April 27, 2017 @ 8:30 o’clock in the morning. Pursuant to Section 11, Article IV of the Domestic Adoption Act of 1998, petitioners are hereby directed to submit themselves to Ms. Lorelie Basillote. Social Worker of the Court for the preparation of the required case study, within ten (10) days from receipt of this order who is hereby directed to conduct a case study on minor LUKE MIKHAEL CUGAL BALINDAN, his biological parents and petitioner, and to submit reports (child study and home study reports) and recommendation thereon within thirty (30) days from receipt of this Order.

Pursuant to sec. 12 (5) of A.M. No. 02-6-02-SC, Ms Lorelie Bassillote, is likewise, directed to conduct coundeling sessions with the biological parents (if know) on the matter of adoption of the adoptee and to submit her report before the date of hearing. Petitioners are hereby directed to cause the publication of this Order at their expense, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation, which has been selected after a raffle, in the City and the four (4) provinces of Davao.

Likewise, petitioners are further directed to furnish the Office of the Solicitor General A copy of their petition and to submit proof of compliance thereto. Any person interested or who seeks to oppose the instant petition may appear to state why the petition should not be granted. SO ORDERED.

Davao City Philippines, September 26, 2016

re-classification of agricultural lands,” Palad pointed out, adding that the moratorium will also be lifted once the aims set by DAR on the EO are achieved. For now, Cayanan said, they are still waiting for the official EO that will be issued by President Duterte on the matter.

(SGD) LOPE L. CALLO Judge

Edge 11/7,14,21

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of SEVEN (7) units, which Certificate will expire on September 4, 2017. In the petition filed on October 6, 2016, petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on NOVEMBER 23, 2016 at 09:30 a.m. at this office at the above address.

At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time. This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/or oral evidence. WITNESS the Honorable TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ, Chief Transportation Development Officer/Officer-InCharge, this 3rd day of October 2016 at Davao City. MARIE JEAN A. JARALBA Administrative Officer IV Acting Administrative Officer V

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 182 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016

EVENT

The fun in Mati City’s Sambuokan

Text and Photos by Albert Egot, Jr

THE CITY OF MATI HAS SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDED THE WEEK-LONG CELEBRATION OF SAMBUOKAN FESTIVAL on October 24 to 30 but fun still continues as more tourists are still coming before the class and office resume on Nov 2.

The Sambuokan is a celebration of “Oneness” among Matinians around the globe. The festival highlights the recognition of its tribes and local products. Sambuokan also staged a brighter street dancing competition and a 2-day drag racing while Siakol, one of the long performing bands in the country rocked the stage of Baywalk Park in Mati. Aside from events, people enjoyed the fun in the sands of Dahican Beach where the annual national skimboarding took place along with other games like Beach Volleyball and Frisbee. Hotels in the city were all fully occupied which means more and more are loving the city of Mati every year. Tourists from other countries like Germany were also spotted mounting their tents and lived with the local surfers for couple of days. “We are the new matinians from Germany. Wish to live here forever” said a German surfer Nicholas Peirano. No doubt, Mati remains one of the most visited cities in Mindanao. Sambuokan Festival ended with a clean-up drive activity in Dahican beach headed by the Local Government Unit of Mati participated by the members of PNP, Philippine Navy, and volunteers from different non-government organizations to maintain the cleanliness in the shores of Mati.

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EVENT

Mintal gets ambulance from Jap BARANGAY MINTAL WHICH WAS ONCE A CENTER OF COMMERCE WHEN JAPANESE INDUSTRIALISTS, professionals and traders dominated business activities in Davao City shortly before the outbreak of World War II received Saturday morning an ambulance from Japanese philanthropists who are members of the Rotary Club of Wakayanagi, Japan.

The turnover was done in appropriate ceremonies attended by Dr. Atsushi Sasaki, past president and past assistant governor of RC Wakayanagi, main donor of the P950,000-ambulance unit, and Shuichi Fujino, current president of RC Wakanayagi to Dr. Mary Joselle Villafuerte, city councilor, on behalf of Mayor Sara D. Carpio. The beneficiary barangay was represented by Brgy Chairman Ramon “Abay” Bargamento II and members of the barangay council. Dr. Sasaki who had donated materials and cash through the Rotary Club of East Davao, including another ambulance in San Isidro, Davao Oriental, was accompanied by his spouse, Yumiko, and daughter Naomi. As a Rotarian, Sasaki said he wanted to help Dabawenyos in whatever way he can, including sending scholars to school through RC East Davao, which has administered college scholarships to about 20 brilliant but indigent students since the program began almost 2 decades ago. Lady Japanese Consul Tomoko Dodo, who like Dr. Sasaki is an honorary member of RC East Davao, spoke in behalf of the Japanese government and thanked the private sector in Japan and in Davao for

Turnover of the symbolic key to the ambulance by the Japanese donors to the city represented by Councilor Mary Joselle Villafuerte and Mintal Brgy. Capt. Ramon “Abay” Bargamento II. (From left) Dr. Atsushi Sasaki, Lady Japanese Consul Tomoko Dodo, RC Wakanayagi president Shuichi Fujino, Bargamento, councilor Dr. Mary Joselle Villafuerte, RC East Davao president Fred Yelinek (partly hidden), and members of the Mintal barangay council

Fr. Jovil Bonggay of M on the am

Y, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016

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panese Rotarians

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Japanese Consul Tomoko Dodo

Dr. Atsushi Sasaki, philanthropist, main donor of ambulance

Dr. Mary Joselle Villafuerte, city councilor

doing their share for the welfare of the needy. She likewise recalled the recent successful state visit of President Rodrigo R. Duterte, saying the President was able to talk to a lot of government leaders headed by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as well pillars of the private sector. Also present during the ceremonies were RI Past District Gov. Reynaldo “Boy” Reyes, RC East Davao president Fred Yelinek and other club current and past officers and their spouses. The ambulance will come in handy Mintal responders Mintal sprinklers holy water mbulance costing P945,000. for the barangay’s 911 responders for emergency cases and in times of disasters, said Brgy Capt. Abay Bargamento. The turned over ambulance was blessed by Fr. Jovil Bonggay, together with the newly completed building which will serve as operation center of the barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council.

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 182 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016

Globe Telecom enhances the Pokémon GO experience for Filipino gamers THE POKÉMON COMPANY, creators of one of the most popular entertainment properties in the world, Niantic, Inc., innovative developer and publisher of ‘real world games’, and Globe Telecom, the Philippines leading mobile brand, today have officially announced a new partnership.

“Pokémon GO fever has certainly taken over majority of Filipinos’ digital lifestyle. From walks to ‘lure parties’ the take-up on the mobile game continues to grow. We want to give our customers more reasons to enjoy the game, and the launch of new PokéStops and Gyms is just the start of our collaborative efforts,” says Globe Senior Advisor for Consumer Business, Dan Horan. Starting October 28, Pokémon GO trainers will find that Globe retail locations and charging stations have become PokéStops and Gyms in game, with more and more PokéStops sprouting across the country. To help spread more Pokémon GO joy, Globe will be working with its partners, namely Ayala malls, Puregold, Robinsons Malls and SM Supermalls. With this, players will be able to see more of these markers on their

Pokémon GO apps for more chances of catching Pokémon to expand their Pokédex. Globe will also ensure its customers have better accessibility to the app through different mobile offers. On Globe Prepaid’s leading GoSURF50 mobile promo, customers will be able to access Pokémon GO as one of the free apps within the bundle. Globe customers can also download the free Pokémon GO promo on the Globe Switch app. Included in the partnership are distribution rights

to Pokémon merchandise, including digital connectors, cool gadgets and a selection of apparel that is perfect for the holiday season. Globe held today the first ever Pokémon festival in the Philippines during Halloween weekend. Free and open to all, guests had a wonderful time meeting Pikachu, enjoying original Pokémon screening, costume contests and many more family surprises. Pokémon GO players also took part in walks and tours around BGC, Taguig.

Janella, Kapamilya singers take center stage in Disney concert JOIN JANELLA SALVADOR, Morissette, Tim Pavino, and other Kapamilya singers as they bring back memories and lead a magical night by singing some of the best and classic Disney songs in “Disney in Concert: Tale as Old as Time” this November 19 (Saturday), 8PM, and November 20 (Sunday), 3PM, at the Kia Theater. Don’t miss some of the best singers in the country, including Bituin Escalante, Tanya Manalang, Jef Flores, Arman Ferrer, and Julia and Talia Concio as they perform with ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of maestro Gerard Salonga, for a two-night concert filled with magical entertainment through songs that truly captivated audiences worldwide. Families will surely enjoy watching the performances of iconic Disney songs such as “Let It Go,” “Circle of Life,” “Friend Like Me,” “Reflection,” “Under The Sea,” Be Our Guest,” “Kiss The Girl,” “Do You Want To Build A Snowman,” and “For The First Time in Forever” from well-loved films like “Frozen,” “Tangled,” “Lion King,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Mulan,” “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “Cinderella.” Aside from the nostalgic music, viewers will also go down memory lane as unforgettable moments, plot twists, and scenes from Disney films that touched the hearts of audiences will be shown in high definition. With the musical celebration, the young and young at heart will surely be delighted as they remember their favorite Disney films growing up. For tickets, log on to www.ticketnetonline.ph.

VOL. 9 ISSUE 182 • SUNDAY - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2016 Republika Ng Pilipinas Lalawigan Ng Compostela Valley PAMAHALAANG BAYAN NG COMPOSTELA TANGGAPAN NG SANGGUNIANG BAYAN 19th COUNCIL 7th Regular Session September 5, 2016 ATTENDANCE: Present: Hon. Reynaldo Q. Castillo, Presiding Officer Hon. Levi S. Ebdao Hon. Danielo B. Pelegrino Hon. Rogelio P. Econar Hon. Miguel G. Vargas, Jr. Hon. Myrel V. Bangcasan Hon. Elmo A. Estandarte Hon. Harry C. Cabiling, ABC President Hon. Guillermo M. Blanco, IPMRepresentative

Vice Mayor SB Member SB Member SB Member SB Member SB Member SB Member SB Member SB Member

On Official Business : Hon. Alan M. Calalas Absent: Hon. Wilfredo C. Ang

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SB Member SB Member

Municipal Ordinance No. 2016 - 452 Sponsored by : Hon. Elmo A. Estandarte Hon. Myrel V. Bangcasan AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE USE, SALE, DISTRIBUTION AND ADVERTISEMENT OF CIGARETTES AND OTHER TOBACO PRODUCTS IN CERTAIN PLACES, IMPOSING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS HEREOF AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES Be it ordained as it is hereby ordained by the Sangguniang Bayan of Compostela, Compostela Valley that:

the other than smoker to tobacco smoke, the owner, proprietor, possessor, manager or administrator of such places shall establish smoking areas. All designated smoking areas shall at least have one (1) legible and visible sign posted, namely “SMOKING AREA” for the information and guidance of all concerned. Non-smoking areas shall likewise have at least one (1) legible and visible sign namely: “NO SMOKING AREA’’ or “NO SMOKING”. Section 7. Persons Liable. – Any person or entity who commits any of the prohibited acts stated herein; Section 8. Penalties. – The following penalties shall be imposed on violators of this ordinance, to wit: 1. First Offense .................... a fine of P 500.00 2. Second Offense ................ a fine of P 1,000.00 3. Third and Subsequent ..... a fine of P 2,500.00, or imprisonment for a period Offenses not exceeding thirty (30), days or both at the discretion of the court. - Revocation or suspension of business license or permit (in case of a business entity or establishment), if applicable. - Community Service. If a violator is unable to pay the fines imposed, he or she may choose to render community service. For every hour of community service rendered, his outstanding fine shall be reduced by an amount equivalent to triple the hourly minimum wage of the municipality. COMPROMISE PENALTIES: If the violator voluntarily admits the violation without need for a judicial proceeding, he/she may be collected immediately a fine as compromise penalty, to wit: 1. First Offense .................... a fine of P 400.00 2. Second Offense ................ a fine of P 800.00 3. Third and Subsequent ..... a fine of P 2,000.00, or community service if Offenses unable to pay the said compromise penalties. Section 9. Citation Ticket System.- Violators of this Ordinance shall be informed of their violations and the penalty associated with such violation by means of a Citation Ticket System;

Section 1. Title. - This Ordinance shall be known as the “Smoke Free Ordinance of the Municipality of Compostela.”

Section 10. Smokefree Task Force. – A Task Force shall be created to aid in the implementation, enforcement and monitoring of this Ordinance.

Section 2. Purpose. - To safeguard public health and ensure the well being of all its constituents by protecting them from the harmful effects of smoking and tobacco consumption.

The Task Force shall be composed of the following: 1. Local Chief Executive; 2. Chairperson, SB Committee on Health; 3. Business Permit and Licensing Officer; 4. Municipal Health Officer; 5. Representative/s of one or more civil organizations (CSO) designated by the Local Chief Executive; 6. Representative of the Philippine National Police (PNP); 7. Municipal Treasurer; and 8. President of the Liga ng mga Barangay (ABC);

Section 3. Coverage. – This Ordinance shall apply to all persons, whether natural or juridical, whether resident or not, and in all places, found within the territorial jurisdiction of the Municipality of Compostela, Province of Compostela Valley. Section 4. Definition of Terms. As used in this ordinance the following terms shall mean: Minor - refers to any person below eighteen (18) years old. Public conveyances - refers to modes of transportation servicing the general population such as but not limited to, elevators, airplanes, ships, jeepneys, buses, taxicabs, trains, light rail transits, tricycles and other similar vehicles. Public places - refers to enclosed or confined areas of all hospitals, medical clinics, schools, public transportation terminals and offices, and buildings such as private and public offices, recreational places, shopping malls, movie houses, hotels, restaurants and the likes. Smoking - refers to the act of carrying a lighted cigarette or other tobacco products, whether or not it is being inhaled or smoked. Tobacco - refers to agricultural components derived from tobacco plant, which are processed for use in the manufacturing of cigarettes and other tobacco products; Tobacco Products - refers to any product that consists of loose tobacco that contains nicotine and is intended for use in a cigarette, including any product containing tobacco and intended for smoking, sucking, chewing or snuffing or oral or nasal use, such as cigarettes and cigars; Workplace - means any place used by people during their employment or work, whether done for compensation or voluntarily, including all attached or associated places commonly used by the workers in the course of their work (for example, corridors, elevators, stairwells toilets, lobbies, lounges). Section 5. Prohibited Acts – The following acts are declared unlawful and prohibited by this Ordinance: a.) Smoking in enclosed or partially enclosed public places, workplaces, public conveyances, or other public places, as defined in Section 4, such as: a.1 Centers of youth activity such as playschools, preparatory schools, elementary schools, high schools, colleges and universities, youth hostels and recreational facilities for persons under eighteen (18) years old; a.2 Elevators and stairwells; a.3 Location in which fire hazards are present, including gas stations and storage areas for flammable liquids, gas, explosives or combustible materials; a.4 Within the buildings and premises of public and private hospitals. Medical, dental and optical clinics, health centers, nursing homes, dispensaries and laboratories; a.5 Public conveyance and public facilities including airport and ship terminals and train and bus stations, restaurant and conference halls, except for separate smoking areas; a.6 Food preparation areas; b.) Selling or distributing tobacco products in a school, public playgrounds or other facility frequented by minors, or within 100 meters from any point in the perimeter of these places; c.) Selling or distributing tobacco products to minors; and d.) Purchasing tobacco products from minors. Section 6. Designated Smoking And Non-Smoking Areas In all enclosed places that are open to the general public, private workplaces and other places not covered under the preceding section, where smoking may expose a person to

Section 12. Duties and Responsibilities of the Task Force. - The Task Force headed by the Local Chief Executive in coordination with the Municipal Health Officer, shall formulate the implementing rules and guidelines relative to the enforcement and implementation of this Ordinance, such as but not limited to the duties and responsibilities of the Smokefree Task Force. Section 13. Enforcement on Individuals. – Members of the PNP shall apprehend and issue Citation Tickets against persons caught smoking in places where such is prohibited. They shall forward copies of the tickets they issue violators to the Municipal Treasurer’s Office regularly, at least thrice a week. Section 14. Enforcement on Public Conveyances. – Members of the PNP and/or persons duly deputized by the Task Force shall inspect public conveyances during their regular hours of operation and shall issue Citation Tickets upon discovery of any violation of this Ordinance. They shall forward copies of the tickets they issue to the Municipal Treasurer’s Office regularly, at least thrice a week. Section 15. Enforcement on Establishments. – The inspection team to be appointed by the Local Chief Executive shall conduct inspections of establishments and buildings to determine their compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance. Regular inspections shall be conducted at least once every month or simultaneously with other regular inspections done by the (LGU), whichever is more frequent, during normal hours of operations of the establishment. The inspection team shall issue a Citation Ticket against the establishment upon finding of non-compliance with or of any violation of this Ordinance. The inspection team may apprehend individual violators and request the assistance of the PNP in doing so. Section 16. Repealing Clause. – All ordinance/s contrary to or inconsistent with this Ordinance is/are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. Section 17. Separability Clause. – If any part or provision of this Ordinance is declared unconstitutional or invalid, the same shall not affect the validity and effectivity of the other parts or provisions hereof. Section 18. Effectivity Clause. – This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a newspaper of local or general circulation or posting in at least two (2) conspicuous places in the Municipality of Compostela. UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED AND APPROVED. CERTIFIED CORRECT :

ATTESTED:

LUCIA R. HEBRA Secretary to the Sanggunian

ATTY. REYNALDO Q. CASTILLO Vice Mayor/Presiding Officer

APPROVED: LEMA P. BOLO, CPA Municipal Mayor On __________________

EDGEDAVAO Republika Ng Pilipinas Lalawigan Ng Compostela Valley PAMAHALAANG BAYAN NG COMPOSTELA TANGGAPAN NG SANGGUNIANG BAYAN 19th COUNCIL th 5 Regular Session August 22, 2016

ATTENDANCE: Present: Hon. Reynaldo Q. Castillo, Presiding Officer Vice Mayor Hon. Alan M. Calalas SB Member Hon. Levi S. Ebdao SB Member Hon. Wilfredo C. Ang SB Member Hon. Danielo B. Pelegrino SB Member Hon. Rogelio P. Econar SB Member Hon. Miguel G. Vargas, Jr. SB Member Hon. Myrel V. Bangcasan SB Member Hon. Elmo A. Estandarte SB Member Hon. Harry C. Cabiling, Liga ng mga Barangay Pres. SB Member Hon. Guillermo M. Blanco, IPMRepresentative SB Member Absent: None MUNICIPAL ORDINANCE NO. 2016 – 450 Sponsored by: All Members AN ORDINANCE RATIFYING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE PROPOSE LOAN IN THE AMOUNT OF P53,000,000.00 TO FUND THE PURCHASE OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF P33,000,000.00 AND CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC MARKET IN THE AMOUNT OF P20,000,000.00 BE IT ORDAINED by the Sangguniang Bayan of Compostela, Compostela Valley in session assembled that;

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Section 2. AUTHORITY OF THE MUNICIPAL MAYOR. The legislative authority is hereby granted to the Municipal Mayor to sign all documents pertaining to the loan and in behalf of the Municipality of Compostela, Compostela Valley. The Municipal Mayor shall also confirm, approve and ratify all previous representations, acts and warranties and all other terms and conditions of the loan. Section 3. ASSIGNMENT OF INTERNAL REVENUE. The Internal Revenue Allotment of the Municipality of Compostela, Compostela Valley is hereby assigned as collateral/security to the loan obtained from LANDBANK and declaring them to be available and not restricted by law of obligation. Section 4. ANNUAL ALLOCATION FOR DEBT SERVICING. That the Municipal Budget Officer, Municipal Accountant and the Municipal Treasurer are hereby directed to appropriate the necessary amount for loan repayment in the LGUs annual budget until the loan, interest and other charges are fully paid. Section 5. AUTHORITY TO LANDBANK TO SET-OFF AND/OR DEDUCT . The LANDBANK is hereby authorized to deduct for set-off and/or deduct amounts from any deposits of funds of the Local Government Unit with LANDBANK and apply the same to the payment of the loan or any portion thereof, or interest and penalties thereon as may be deemed necessary by LBP. Section 6. EFFECTIVITY. This ordinance shall take effect upon confirmation of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and upon publication in newspapers of local circulation. Enacted by the Sangguniang Bayan of Compostela, Compostela Valley this 22nd day of August 2016.

CERTIFIED CORRECT:

ATTESTED BY:

LUCIA R. HEBRA Secretary to the Sanggunian

ATTY. REYNALDO Q. CASTILLO Vice Mayor /Presiding Officer

Section 1. RATIFIED TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE LOAN: Section 1A. ACQUISITION OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT Amount

P33,000,000.00 or actual bid price, whichever is lower.

Loan Purpose

To Finance the acquisition of heavy equipment.

Interest Rate At prevailing LANDBANK lending rate at the time of the availment subject to quarterly re-pricing. Tenor

Seven (7) years inclusive of two (2) quarter grace period on principal.

Repayment of Principal

Payable in twenty six (26) equal quarterly amortizations to start at the end of the 3rd quarter from initial drawdown

Interest

Payable quarterly in arrears to start at the end of the 1st quarter from initial drawdown.

Drawdown

Lump sum or based on supplier’s pro-forma invoice/price quotation on equipment for financing. For local purchase, releases shall be based on accomplished Purchase Order subject to inspection by LANDBANK representative and completion of documentary requirements. Proceeds shall be directly credited to the LGU’s account maintained with LANDBANK. In case of importation, Letters of Credit shall be coursed through LANDBANK.

CONFORME:

HON. ALAN M. CALALAS SB Member

HON. LEVI S. EBDAO SB Member

HON. WILFREDO C. ANG SB Member

HON. DANIELO B. PELEGRINO SB Member

HON. ROGELIO P. ECONAR SB Member

HON. MIGUEL G. VARGAS, JR. SB Member

HON. MYREL V. BANGCASAN SB Member

HON. ELMO A. ESTANDARTE SB Member

HON. HARRY C. CABILING SB Member

HON. GUILLERMO M. BLANCO SB Member

Section 1B. CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC MARKET Amount

P 20,000,000.00 Million or actual bid price, whichever is lower.

Loan Purpose

To finance the construction of a 2-storey Public Market Building.

Interest Rate

At prevailing LANDBANK lending rate at the time of the availment subject to quarterly re-pricing.

Tenor

Ten (10) years inclusive of two (2)-year grace period on principal.

Repayment of Principal

Payable in thirty two (32) equal quarterly amortizations to start at the end of the 9th quarter from initial drawdown

Interest

Payable quarterly in arrears to start at the end of the 1st quarter from initial drawdown.

Drawdown

Releases shall be made upon completion of loan documentation and other pre-release documents to be credited to the LGU’s account with LANDBANK. Drawdowns shall be on staggered basis based on program of work accomplishment as validated by the appraiser, provided: 1) Submission of final design and estimate of the project approved by the Mayor or his authorized representative. 2) Initial loan release shall not exceed 15% of the construction cost upon completion of all documentary pre-release requirements. 3) Final release than shall not be lower than 10% of the approved loan and subject to 100% completion of the project.

APPROVED BY:

HON. LEMA P. BOLO Municipal Mayor On August 24, 2016

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Aeon Towers: Shaping up Davao’s skyline By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

njb@edgedavao.net

ITH the mushrooming of highrise condominiums along the busy J.P. Laurel business district, Davao’s skyline will soon be transformed into a neck-craning community. Erected just a few meters apart, these skyscrapers will soon be the testament of Davao’s booming economy and the shift of lifestyle of the locals from traditional to progressive and the influx of new migrants to the city.

But one building stands out from all these sprouting structures and that is because of its revolutionary design and iconic look. Add to that, too, the diversified segments of this piece of development. Aeon Towers, a masterpiece of new player FTC Group of Companies, will soon become the iconic structure of Davao’s skyline. At 33 levels and a glass-encased design with state-of-the-art features and a skydeck pool, Dabawenyos

are excited of the ‘arrival’ of Aeon Towers to their landscape. In its social media page, the premium property is described as “the center of Davao’s evolution. A structure that embodies the spirit of Dabawenyos, towering over the Davao City landscape.” Located right at the heart of Davao’s emerging CBD, Aeon Towers is couched along major academic institutions, public service and health facilities, places of

worship, business districts, commercial hubs and entertainment complex. As of October 29, Aeon Towers has finished 26 levels in its construction works. By the first week of November the 27th floor is already underway. That leaves only six levels left in its overall vertical construction. Aeon Towers’ emergence into the real estate market

strengthens Davao’s flourishing economy driven by the real estate industry. In recent years, the country’s major developers have expanded its projects to this Presidential hometown. Most of Aeon Towers’ neighboring construction projects are expansions of Manila-based real estate firms which are migrating from the megacity to this premier city down South. According to economic experts, “better business opportunities, lower costs of taxes and operations, plus the emergence of better Internet and mobile phone commu-

nications services, and better road networks make Davao a viable destination for investments.” Aeon Towers is considered nearly fully sold with but a few units left. It is schedule to top off by December and turn over by next year. The company hopes to fast track the turnover of the project and possibly move on to a next tower project. Most of the residential units have been sold out with just a few left in the inventory. “We are just winding up with our sales work and all we have to do now is wait for the building to be finished and turn it over. Then we think of the next project,” said FTC Group of Companies CEO and president Ian Y. Cruz. Aeon Towers is set to top off next month while the turnover is scheduled next year.

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

KORONADAL PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

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DISQUALIFICATION P

Sports leader wants IOC to DQ Cojuangco

HILIPPINE Football Federation president Mariano ‘Nonong’ Araneta has sought the disqualification of Jose ‘Peping’ Cojuangco from the presidential elections of the Philippine Olympic Committee. Araneta also filed a petition seeking the disqualification of longtime Cojuangco ally Joey Romasanta from the November 25 elections even as the POC election committee mulls over a protest over its decision to disqualify Cojuangco’s opponent, Ricky Vargas. In his letter-complaint, Araneta claimed the POC and its leader Cojuangco violated no less than the International Olympic Committee Code of Ethics by running for a fourth term as president of the POC in this month’s elections. Araneta also claimed CoFOR FRIENDS. Senator Manny Pacquiao spent around P50 million for tickets to friends and family members.

juangco violated an IOC organization provision issued December 12, 1999 that fixed the term of the president for eight years, renewable for four years only, or a total of 12 years in office. “As a Sportsman as he himself declares himself to be, President Cojuangco should have voluntarily refrained from running another term, even without any protest like this objection leveled upon him,” wrote Araneta. Araneta, an ally of Vargas, claimed the POC and Cojuangco were not able to define what an “active member” is, in clear violation, Araneta insisted, of Section 2.8 of the IOC Code of Ethics that state that “elections should be governed by clear, transparent, and fair rules.” Araneta also claimed that the “vague” nature of the term

“active member” is favorable to the incumbent or, in this case, Cojuangco. “In disqualifying candidates of Congressman Abraham Tolentino and Mr. Victorico P. Vargas, without due process, the POC, the Election Committee, and President Jose S. Cojuangco, Jr. are guilty of derailing the electoral process with the end in view of perpetuating the term of office of the incumbent President,” wrote Araneta. Araneta insisted Cojuangco also violated an IOC Code of Ethics referring to conflict of interests when he ran for president with his daughter Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski having a voting privilege being the IOC representative to the Philippines. “Mrs. Mikee is not at fault in this exercise. The violation lies only with the POC Presi-

WHOPPING TREAT

The cost of those 2,000 tickets? According to Pacquiao, over $1 million. That’s a lot of money to drop on tickets, but Pacquiao will make more than enough on this fight to cover that one million dollar price tag and make it not feel too painful. We can be sure that Pacquiao will have plenty of support in the ring at the Thomas & Mack Center on Saturday night when more than 10 percent of the tickets sold were purchased by him for his friends and family.

Lebron poised to pass Hakeem

EBRON James is poised to pass another milestone when the Cleveland Cavaliers visit the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night. James, who scored a season-high 30 points in a 128122 victory over the Boston Celtics on Thursday night, needs two points to surpass Hakeem Olajuwon’s total of 26,946 and vault into 10th place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. “It’s always humbling when you’re able to put yourself in any category with guys that laid the path for you and the rest of us,” James told reporters after the Boston game. James led Cleveland to its first NBA championship

PEPING COJUANGCO. Will his 12-year reign be extended or ended?

Murray nears no. 1 ranking

Manny bought $1M tickets F for friends and family

ANNY Pacquiao makes his return to the boxing ring on Saturday after a brief retirement when he takes on Jessie Vargas for the WBO welterweight title. Pacquiao’s “retirement” was shorter than the layoff some active fighters take between bouts, but Pacquiao is making sure everyone he knows gets a chance to see him fight. The Filipino superstar told TMZ Sports that he purchased 2,000 tickets for his family and friends for Saturday’s fight.

dent who filed his candidacy and has already counted the vote of her daughter in her favor,” wrote Araneta. In the same letter-complaint, Araneta also blasted Cojuangco as president of the equestrian association, and should be considered, Araneta believes, as not an “active member,” based on the NSA’s performance. “The NSA for Boxing has participated in international events and won more international events than the NSA of Equestrian. In that sense, Mr. Cojuangco is a less “Active Member” of POC and the General Assembly than Mr. Vargas,” Araneta said. As to his other complaint, Araneta claimed Romasanta is guilty of “forum shopping” for being the president of two NSAs namely the karatedo and volleyball associations.

last season and has the Cavaliers off to a 5-0 start, their best since they won their first eight games in 1976-77. He turns 32 on Dec. 30 and is in his 14th season but is playing as well as ever, averaging 22.4 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds. He is not the Cavs’ leading scorer, however. Kyrie Irving is averaging 26 points, which if maintained would be a career high. Kevin Love is chipping in 22 points per game, his best clip in his three seasons with Cleveland, and is doing more damage in the paint than previously. Ac- cording to Chris Fedor of Cleveland. com, 44.9 per-

cent of Love’s shot attempts came from 3-point range last season. This year that average is down to 33.3. Because Love is working inside, he is getting to the foul line more often. He has nailed 37 of 41 free throws to date, including 12 of 13 against Boston. He averaged 4.1 free throws attempts last season. L o v e scored a sea-

son-high 26 points against Boston, and Irving finished with 23. Six Cavaliers cracked double figures in all. “This is the best I’ve seen the Cavs play in November,” Boston coach Brad Stevens told Cleveland.com. “From what I’ve seen ... they’re way ahead of where they were the last two years.” The Sixers are 0-4, having lost 109-93 Wednesday in Charlotte while giving rookie center Joel Embiid a night off. Philadelphia lost its first 18 games last season and its first 17 the year before, and dropped 41 straight games in October/ November, dating back to an overtime victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Nov. 22, 2013.

OVERTAKING OLAJUWON. Soaring here for a dunk against Boston, Lebron James is heading to overtake Hakeem Olajuwon as the league’s 10th overall scoring leader.

IVE months after his first French Open title and completing a career Grand Slam in Paris, Novak Djokovic’s reign over men’s tennis could be about to end in the City of Lights. Djokovic, a three-time defending champion, lost in the Paris Masters quarterfinals on Friday, leaving his No. 1 ranking open to being snatched by Andy Murray. The British player can rise from No. 2 to 1 in the ATP list for the first time if he reaches the final. He needs one more win after beating Tomas Berdych, 7-6 (9), 7-5. His semifinal opponent will be No. 5 Milos Raonic, who defeated Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, 6-2, 7-6 (4). Murray was aware of Djokovic’s defeat when he took the court and was sometimes hesitant against Berdych. He rallied from 6-1 down in the tiebreak, and needed four match points to overcome the Czech. “Before the match there were a few more nerves maybe than there was earlier in the week,” Murray said. “But once I got out there, I didn’t feel any different to any other match. I didn’t play the match differently to how I would have played other matches, which is good. Tomorrow will probably be the same, probably.” So dominant on the Parisian red clay last June, Djokovic was far from his best on super-fast carpet and was beaten by Marin

Cilic 6-4, 7-6 (2), his first loss against the former US Open champion in 15 matchups. Djokovic made uncharacteristic mistakes from the baseline, called the tournament doctor during the first set, struggled on his serve, and destroyed his hopes of a comeback when he served for the second set at 5-4, hit two double faults, and was broken. He fought until the end though, saving two match points in the 12th game with a fine backhand volley and crosscourt forehand winner, the rare moments when he looked like his usual self. But Cilic, who struck nine aces overall, served extremely well to prevail in the tiebreaker and end Djokovic’s 17-match winning streak in Paris. “I wasn’t on the level that I could have been on,” Djokovic said. “I was also, in this kind of circumstances and with this level of play, in a good position to take the match into the third set, and then two double faults. Just in important moments I wasn’t able to deliver. He is a deserved winner.” Djokovic has held the top spot for 122 consecutive weeks. But after winning the French Open for the first time in June, his form has yo-yoed. He lost in the third round at Wimbledon, and in the first round of the Olympics. At the US Open, he won the first set in the final but Stan Wawrinka rallied to beat him.

MOVING UP. If he makes the final, Andy Murray, who has spent 76 weeks at No. 2, will become the 26th player to reach No. 1 since the rankings started in 1973.

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