Edge Davao 9 Issue 213 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

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Serving a seamless society

COMFORTING PRESENCE. Edge Davao reporter Tiziana Celine Piatos tries her hand at comforting a weeping physically challenged child by gently rubbing her during the annual joint outreach program of sister companies Edge Davao and Zion Accuprint Publishing, Inc. in partnership with McDonald’s at Missionaries of Charity Home of Love in Juna Subdivision, Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

CEASE AND DESIST ORDER DAR issues CDO to compel Lapanday not to evict farmers Tourist influx seen : By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Department of Agrarian Reform on Thursday issued a Cease and Desist Order (CDO) against the Lapanday Foods Corporation as the controversy over land ownership in said banana plantation threatens to spill over into the New Year. The CDO, issued by DAR Secretary Rafael Mariano, ordered the prohibition against LFC and its security guards from forcibly evicting the members of the Madaum

Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association, Inc. (MARBAI) from the banana plantation. Members of MARBAI continued with their camping inside the banana plantation since last week. Seven of their members were wounded when the camping area was allegedly fired upon by the security guards of LFC on December 12. DAR’s order came out after MARBAI president Merly

Yu requested the agency to intervene in their case. In the issued CDO, DAR said that based on Section 46 of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Administrative Order (A.O.) No. 7, Series of 2014, a cease and desist order is issued “at any time prior to either the finality of the order of the Secretary or the perfection of an appeal, in cases where any party may suffer grave or irreparable damage.” Last week, Secretary Mari-

ano also called on Regional Director John Maruhom and Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Jocelyn Seno to secure police or military assistance to ensure that there will be no disturbance in the peaceful possession and occupation of the farmers in the 145-hectare banana plantation. DAR said that despite a final and executory December 15, 2015 decision ordered by

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Koreans rank first

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

HE Department of Tourism has reported yesterday that tourist arrivals in September 2016 has been 12.08% higher than

Beyond Comfort at Damosa’s modern Filipino restaurants

last year’s record for the same period. In a data given by the agency, the country has wel-

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2 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

TOP-LEVEL WELCOME. President Rodrigo R. Duterte is welcomed by Singapore Minister of National Development Lawrence Wong upon his arrival at the Changi Airport in Singapore yesterday morning. KING RODRIGUEZ/Presidential Photo

Col. Gapay assumes as TF Haribon commander By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

FFECTIVE December 15, the Joint Task Force Haribon in Davao City will have a new commander in the person of Col. Gilbert I. Gapay. Gapay will take the place of BGen. Ronnie Evangelista who will assume his new post as commander of the Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The turn-over of command will take place at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 15 in Naval Station, Panacan, Davao City. Col. Gapay, before his assignment to TF Haribon, was the former assistant division commander of the Mechanized Infantry Division and brigade commander of the Philippine Army in the provinces of Lanao in Mindanao. His assumption to lead

TF Haribon was welcomed by Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom). “His vast experience being assigned in various positions in the AFP is expected to infuse innovations and security concepts of Joint Task Force Haribon in securing Mega Davao,” Eastmincom spokesperson Major Ezra Balagtey said in a statement to the media. The command added that Col. Gapay is an aviator and armor officer and a member of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1986 where he graduated on top of his class. He will also serve as the concurrent deputy commander of Eastmincom. The TF Haribon was activated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in October this year with the purpose of expanding the security mea-

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DILG chief orders control of firecracker sale and use

HE Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) enjoined Thursday the Philippine National Police , Bureau of Fire Protection, and local government units to adopt advocacy campaigns and measures to prevent firecracker and firework-related injuries or death, and damage to properties during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Even as this developed, DILG Secretary Ismael Sueno ordered all concerned agencies to work together to regulate

and control the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices. “To keep Christmas and New Year celebrations safe for all Filipinos, all concerned agencies will have to be on their toes to see to it that all existing regulations on the sale and use of firecrackers will be complied with,” he said. He pointed out the consistent high statistics of injuries and fatalities emanating from

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Davao designers okay fashion show resked But pressed for visit of Ms U beauties to Davao By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

FFICIALS of the Davao Fashion and Design Council Foundation said they respected the decision of the Department of Tourism to postpone the cultural fashion show originally slated the SMX Convention Center in Davao City. “However, the Davao visit of the Miss Universe candidates should push through even without the cultural show event. The candidates should not be deprived of the experience and distinct hospitality of Dabawenyos,” DFDCFI further

stated. This developed after the announcement made by Department of Tourism Under Secretary Kat de Castro on her social media account postponing the cultural fashion show that was to start starting January 19. The announcement was made amidst the controversy arising after the DFDCFI expressed its sentiments on the decision of the Miss Universe pageant hosting committee to designate the “non-Mindananoan” designer Rene Salud in

dressing up the candidates participating in the cultural fashion show to be held in Davao City. In a statement posted by DFDCFI member Emi Englis on his Facebook account, DFDCFI emphasized their respect to the committee’s decision to cancel the show. Guesting during the Habi at Kape media forum at Abreeza Mall, Davao City on Wednesday, renowned international fashion designer Alfonso “Boy” Guino-o who is the group’s mentor expressed his disap-

pointment towards DOT on permitting showbiz designer Renee Salud to be the designer and overall director of the event. Guino-o pointed out that the fact that both Tourism secretary Wanda Teo and President Duterte are coming from Davao City, it is best that Mindanaoan designers will be showcased on the event. DFDCFI emphasized that with a lot of Davao-based designers renowned in the international arena, there would

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Duterte cited among world’s most powerful people Forbes mag also names Putin, Trump, Merkel, Xi, Pope Francis, Bill Gates

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte’s strong war on drugs has earned him a place as one of the Most Powerful People of 2016 by Forbes Magazine. According to the news reports, President Duterte ranked 70th in the 74 men and women named by the Forbes Magazine as individuals who made headlines worldwide. In response, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Martin Andanar said President Duterte has been using the immense power vested in him by the Constitution

with utmost responsibility “to promote the well-being of the people.” “The President launched an unprecedented anti-drug war that saw the surrender of more than 800,000 drug addicts and charted a new course in international relations with his pursuit of an independent foreign policy which means moving strongly and swiftly towards regional economic rebalancing for closer integration in Asia. The Philippines is forging closer ties with Asean, China, Japan and South Korea,” Andanar said in a press state-

ment. Aside from the President’s campaign against illegal drugs as well as criminal and corruption, Andanar said President Duterte has walked extra mile to achieve peace and made the Philippines’ economic growth the fastest among emerging Asian countries. “Much has been done in the first six months and much more will be done in the succeeding months and years,” Andanar said. “After all, the President’s heart is in the right place, and he has only the interests of the

Filipino people and the nation in his mind first and foremost,” he added. The Forbes Magazine listed Russian President Vladimir Putin as the most powerful person for the fourth consecutive year followed by US President-elect Donald Trump, German chancellor Angela Merkel, Chinese President Xi Jingping, Pope Francis, American economist Janet Yellen, world’s richest man Bill Gates, Larry Page of Google, Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi, and Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg. (PNA)

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New roads, routes for Davao City in 2017 By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

GRIDLOCK. A road construction at the junction of E. Quirino Avenue and Mabini Street causes heavy traffic build up in the area which is one of the main thoroughfares of Davao City. Lean Daval Jr.

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE city government of Davao said it will prioritize the construction of new roads and the opening of new routes next year in an effort to eliminate the traffic woes that residents and commuters experience in most of the thoroughfares in the city. In a statement on Thursday, the City Information Office of Davao City said the plan is already being considered by the Committee on Energy and Transportation in the Sangguniang Panlungsod chaired by Councilor Conrado Baluran. “These are all intended to decongest the heavy-traffic roads in Davao City,” the CIO added. Initial discussions regarding the plan were already facilitated between the city officials and Land Transportation and Regulatory Board chairperson Martin Delgra. In the same statement, Baluran also stressed that one

of the new routes will decongest the Matina Crossing area. “We really need to change the route in that area because of the volume of vehicles and the congestion that is happening in that area,” Baluran said. Another alternate route that will be the opened is in Ulas area that is expected to prevent vehicles from passing the Matina intersection. Alternate routes will also be made available for vehicles in the areas of Lanang and Catalunan Pequeño. “The development of an efficient transport system is one of the 10 priorities of the administration of Mayor Inday Sara Duterte,” the CIO said, adding that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) also intends to open new roads as it pursues a multibillion coastal road in the city. The project will cost around P34 billion.

ARMM stuck in bottom of HIV-infected regions in RP RP economy strong enough T

HE Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao remains at the bottom of the list among areas with cases of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), a Department of Health official said. This comes as the region’s prevalence rate of the disease and infection stayed still at less than one percent by the end of October this year. Despite these figures, the Infectious Diseases Cluster of the ARMM Department of Health warned citizens not to be complacent. “Whether we like it or not, we have HIV cases in ARMM,” Soraida Amilil, Cluster Head of IDC,” said. “Still, it is important for the public to be properly informed for their prevention and cure if we are to target zero HIV/AIDS case each year.” As of October this year, 13 cases of HIV have been report-

ed while none emerged as an AIDS case. DOH reported that 19 percent of the HIV cases come from the heterosexual demographics, while 81 percent come from the homosexual demographics - mainly from men who have sex with men and that 25 people in the Philippines are diagnosed with HIV on a daily basis. Dr. Usman added that people from ARMM who frequently travel to major urban centers are more vulnerable to HIV infection. In 2014, the region reported two AIDS cases, while seven were reported with HIV. Since 1984, the district’s Health Department has reported a total of 76 cases of HIV while 11 were reported to have led to AIDS. None of these cases were diagnosed within ARMM region as the rural health units’

Tagum school named ‘most punctual, honest’

HE Department of Education has presented the outstanding “We Advocate Time Consciousness and Honesty” (WATCH) schools award to Tagum City National Comprehensive High School in Davao del Norte for its religious promotion of punctuality and honesty. The education department, along with the Junior Chamber International Senate Philippines, and other government and non-government agencies, launched Project WATCH in 2008 to promote punctuality and honesty as essential to success in a person’s daily life. Department of Education Assistant Secretary Tonisito Umali has reminded learners to imbibe the values of punc-

tuality and honesty to prepare them better for their future and the betterment of the nation. Umali, during the awarding of Search for the Outstanding We Advocate Time Consciousness and Honesty (WATCH) Schools, highlighted the significance of this advocacy in inculcating the learners with proper values which promote self-respect and respect for other people’s time. He added that the concept of punctuality and being honest are fundamental values that everyone should recognize and that all should all instill in the minds of our youth. “What we are inculcating in the minds of children today will be reflected thirty or forty

F TAGUM, 13

still lack social hygiene clinics for HIV diagnostic testing, hence the cases were forwarded to the Regions of Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, and Davao who have the capability to do the screening. This is about to change in 2017 the IDC of DOH-ARMM noted. Amilil noted that this will change by 2017 as DOH-ARM has been working on the establishment of social hygiene clinics in the region to serve as satellite treatment centers for HIV. “It will be piloted in the province of Tawi-Tawi by 2017, and then in Sulu, being the farthest islands to the mainland,” she said, adding that the agency is currently complying with the requirements set for the treatment centers to be operational by next year. DOH-ARMM continues to

strengthen its HIV-AIDS Prevention and Control Program through campaigns that aim at educating the public, as well as to eliminate the stigma and discrimination associated with people living with HIV and AIDS. Doctors have been reiterating that the virus is not transmittable by merely socializing with them as it only thrives inside the body and cannot be transmitted by mere skin-to-skin contact. “Hindi ito dapat ikahiya,” Amilil said, noting it is not acquired only through unprotected sexual activities as 90 to 98 percent of the transmission is through blood transfusion, organ transplant, sharing used needles and needle pricks. There are also preventive measures for HIV leading to AIDS, and this is provided free to people living with HIV and AIDS, Amilil added.

to ride out US Fed hike: DOF

INANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III yesterday has voiced optimism that the country’s sound macroeconomic fundamentals coupled with the Duterte administration’s infrastructure buildup strategy will create enough fiscal and monetary buffers for the Philippines to ride out external shocks such as this latest move by the US Federal Reserve Board to raise interest rates. Dominguez assured the public and the business community that the government is maintaining its growth targets for the short and medium term, as its priority programs are on course to keep the Philippines as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and make sure growth becomes a truly inclusive one.

“This Federal Reserve hike has long been anticipated,” he said, “and that speculation over this move has been one major cause of the market jitters that have riled financial markets across the globe in recent weeks.” Hence, he said, this normalization of the interest rate regime in the US will likely have a calming effect on the markets in the long haul. Dominguez expressed confidence that “the domestic economy remains strong and is resilient enough to ride out the initial impact of such an external shock as the Fed hike, more so with its commitment to go full steam ahead on its aggressive infrastructure program that will be a major growth driver on the Duterte watch.” F RP, 11

GUARANTEED DEEP-FRY. A customer chooses from a pile of freshly deep-fried chicken at a roadside chicken house along San Pedro Street in Davao City. Roadside chicken eateries are popular choice among budget-conscious people in Davao City due to the affordability of the food offered. Lean Daval Jr.

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BSP sees limited dip in peso rates W

EAKNESS of the Philippine peso and the local bourse after the Federal Reserve’s decision to hike key rates on Thursday morning is as expected but Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. hoped this movement will be limited as the year ends. After the two-day meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee on Dec. 13-14, the Fed increased key rates by 25 basis points to between 0.5 percent and 0.75 percent, which has been widely expected by markets, after noting sustained economic improvements. For the day, the peso opened at 49.90, weaker than the previous day’s 49.82. It has traded between 49.95 and 49.88 as of 10:10 a.m. Also, all indices in the local bourse are in the red, with the main index, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi), down by 1.17 percent, or 81.07 points, to 6,847.7 points as of 10:32 a.m. Tetangco, in a text message to reporters, cited that since markets have priced in a 25 basis points increase

in the Fed’s key rates the focus would be more on the “Fed dot plot, which shows a more “hawkish” Fed than market first expected.” He, on the other hand, noted that “even then markets would likely not dwell too much on that because market also knows that those dots do change over time.” “I am hopeful the recent US dollar-Philippine peso movements have also factored these in and that any further movement during the balance of the year would only just be small refinements to bank positions,” he said. “Going forward, we’ll watch for indicators on how global markets judge the potential expansionary US fiscal policy, its impact on global demand, prices of global commodities and how these would affect our own domestic inflation and growth dynamics,” he added. The BSP’s policy-making Monetary Board (MB) will have its own rate setting meet Thursday next week, Dec. 22, and it is widely expected to keep key rates steady until at least the second quarter of 2017. Joann S. Villanueva (PNA)

Premium airport bus service expands to SM Mall of Asia complex

HE Ultimate Bus Experience (UBE) Express Airport service expanded its routes to the SM Mall of Asia Complex as part of its Entertainment City route. Officials of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), SM Prime Holdings Inc. and Aseana Properties Association launched Thursday the expanded premium airport bus shuttle service going to and from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 to 4. The Entertainment City route now includes stops at SM Corporate Office, Hotel 101, Shell Residences, SMX Convention Center, Conrad, Microtel, SM Mall of Asia Entertainment Mall, One E-Com Center and the Esplanade Seaside Terminal. “The expanded route service not only allows passengers going to and from the NAIA Complex to travel in comfort, convenience and safety at an affordable price, but also maximizes travel capacity in key locations to ease traffic going to the Complex,” DOTr Assistant Secre-

tary for Land Transportation Mark de Leon said. The UBE Express has state-of- the-art buses—the Mercedes-Benz MCV C120 Low-Entry model—that assures seating comfort for passengers especially for Persons with Disability (PWDs). The shuttle service also features online booking service, GPS tracking, a mobile tracking app, radio communications, on-board WiFi, CCTV cameras, the exclusive usage of Petron fuel and e-ticketing technology. Its brand new air-conditioned buses pick up and drop off passengers at designated points roughly every 30 minutes nearly round the clock. The UBE Express serves three routes: Makati, Roxas Boulevard, and Entertainment City traversing through a combination of hotels, malls and bus stops. DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade has earlier stated that the premium airport bus service seeks to decongest roads leading to NAIA and provide an alternative mode of transportation for commuters. (PNA)

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE. Escandor Development Corporation president Glenn Escandor delivers a message of inspiration and appreciation before the sellers and brokers of Matina Enclaves during the company’s Christmas party held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday evening. Lean Daval Jr.

World Bank forsees economic growth for PHL in 2016, 2017 T

HE World Bank has seen better economic growth for the Philippines in 2016 and 2017 as it upgraded its gross domestic product growth forecast for the country from its previous projections in World Bank Philippines Economic Update October 2016. The World Bank on Thursday announced that it hiked GDP growth projection for the Philippines at end-2016 to 6.8 percent from 6.4 percent in October. The World Bank is more

optimistic for the country’s economic outlook in 2017 as it increased its growth projection to 6.9 percent from 6.2 percent in its previous projection. GDP in 2018 is seen to grow at faster pace, expanding by 7.0 percent. According to World Bank, hiking the projection for end2016 is mainly due to the higher-than-expected GDP growth in the third quarter of the year at 7.1 percent, supported by robust investment and private consumption.

It added that the 2016 National Elections in the first half has also driven GDP growth for this year. “Recent economic trends illustrate the high confidence among investors and consumers, and provide the foundation for a more optimistic outlook for the remainder of 2016 and for 2017,” said World Bank Lead Economist for the Philippines Birgit Hansl. “The economy’s strong performance in October and November, and continued policy commitment to an increase

in public infrastructure spending are expected to carry the economy’s growth momentum over to 2017-2018,” she added. The World Bank noted that the continued growth in capital investment and implementation of large infrastructure projects will fuel the country’s economic growth in the next two years. These activities will also be backed by strong credit growth to households and remittances, the World Bank added. (PNA)

high-end of that range,” said Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director-General Ernesto M. Pernia in a media briefing. Pernia is optimistic about surpassing growth target of 6 to 7 percent for 2016 after GDP accelerated 7 percent in

the first three quarters, making the Philippines still one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia. He said GDP was projected to grow about 7 percent in October to December quarter. “Drivers are public spending, exports are picking up, consumption is still strong especially the coming holidays.

On the supply side, agriculture is expected to improve because of the rains; manufacturing is also picking up,” he added. Pernia also expects the Philippines to sustain its growth momentum next year and 2018 despite risks, with GDP growing 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent and 7 percent to 8 percent, respectively.

NEDA upbeat RP economy to grow

HE Philippine economy will likely grow close to 7 percent in the fourth quarter, bringing the full-year growth to the high-end of the government’s target for the year. “I would say quite safely that it (2016 growth) would be between 6.5 percent and 7 percent (or) maybe even on the

PAL’s 8TH B777. The eighth Boeing 777-300ER of Philippine Airlines arrived in Manila Dec. 13, completing PAL’s 777 fleet. With a fleet of 81 airplanes, PAL plans to fly to new destinations in 2017, including new routes from Clark starting Dec. 16. The 777 delivery team includes, front row from left, Second Officer Arthur Andrew Biyo, Capt. Royce Alexander Piczon, Laly

Paz, PAL manager-aircraft cabin development; Capt. Leo Ezquiel Bernabe; First Officer Rodelio Gabriel, Ryan James Manuel, senior ATS; back row, from left, Roderick Briones, CAAP inspector; Edwin Gandia, LTP inspector; Peter Gindap, LTP flight mechanic; and Ceasar Jimenez Jr., CAAP inspector.

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DOTr to unveil new barge / Ro-Ro terminal

GETTING ORGANIZED. A sidewalk vendor fixes her display of Christmas paper bags and wrappers at her makeshift stall along San Pedro Street in Davao City in preparation for brisk sale ahead. Lean Daval Jr.

Energy dept. clears grid impact study for 500-MW LNG-fired power barge T HE Department of Energy released last month the clearance for the grid impact study of Vires Energy Corp. for its 500-megawatt (MW) liquefied natural gas (LNG) power barge in Batangas. Data from the depart-

ment’s website show that it released the clearance for the project last November 24. The grid impact study, which is vital for its interconnection to the power grid, is one of the requirements to build a power plant. The department also said

it issued the clearance for the 32-MW SPC Power Barge 104, located in Subic, Zambales, last November 28. Natures Renewable Energy Development Corp. also received its clearance for the 24-MW Biogas power plant in Cagayan last November 25.

REPower Energy Development Corp. meanwhile received its clearance for the grid impact study for its 4.5-MW Sawaga river mini hydro power plant and its 6.2-MW Katipunan river mini hydro power plant on November 7. Both projects are located in Bukidnon. (PNA)

HE Philippines and Cambodia on Wednesday signed four contracts that are expected to boost the bilateral cooperation between the two Southeast Asian neighbors. The agreements, signed during the state visit of President Rodrigo Duterte in Cambodia, include two Memorandum of Agreements (MOA) concerning the cooperation in the field of labor and on sports cooperation. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation in combating transnational crime and Implementing Program of Tourism Cooperation of 2016-2020 were also reached between two countries. The Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Wanda Teo and the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Cambodia represent-

ed by Fr. Thong Khon signed an agreement that will start a series of programs that aims to revitalize tourism relations between the two countries. Also present in the signing at the Peace Palace in the country’s capital Phnom Pehn, were Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Secretaries Perfecto Yasay, Jr. (DFA), Silvestre Bello III (DOLE), Delfin Lorenzana (DND), Ramon Lopez (DTI) and Bong Go (PMS). Having forged an agreement, Teo said she expects a significant increase in the visitor arrivals from Cambodia, noting that this year’s January to August visitor arrivals from Cambodia registered a meager 2,381. On the other hand, the Philippines provided for a steady number of arrivals for the country. In 2015, the Philippines

can be accounted for 84,677 visitor arrivals to Cambodia, and for the first half of this year, the number is at 70,680. “Now is the best time to involve our Cambodian friends in our Tourism programs and initiatives. We would be happy to help them further as they promised to do the same for us,” Teo said. According to the Tourism Cooperation pact signed, air accessibility and route development will be given priority. “Coordination with respective airline companies and civil aviation authorities will be undertaken towards the launch of direct flights from Manila to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap,” Teo disclosed. The Tourism Cooperation Treaty between the two countries also stipulates the creation of a Joint working group that will serve as plat-

form for both countries to present their corresponding environmentally sustainable and socially responsible tourism development and cultural preservation programs, as well as, experiences in the governance of the tourism industry, enforcement of tourism laws and regulations, and conservation of cultural heritage sites. Teo said it also has been agreed upon that the 3rd Joint working group will meet in Siem Reap in June 2017 while the fourth meeting will take place in the Philippines in the last quarter of 2017. To strengthen awareness of tourism destinations and products in both countries, familiarization tours and exchange programs for tourism and hospitality students and professionals will be further enhanced, according to the agreement. (PNA)

equip OFWs with the information, resources, and support to create their own business plan for their families back home. It is a sustainable program designed to invest in the future and transform OFWs hardearned money into a family business. In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the

event was sponsored by the Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN) and the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers (PSME) Bahrain Chapter, in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy. Ms. Maria Judith Mereria, President of Concept Marketing Specialist Inc., served as the project coordinator, while Mr. Edwin Pasahol, DTI Spe-

cialist, was the Guest Speaker who conducted free training sessions on how to start a business. He also conducted entrepreneurial education activities for participants covering topics such as the business cycle, market supply and demand, selling, as well as preparing business plans. (PNA)

HE Department of Transportation (DOTr), through Secretary Arthur Tugade, has received and is studying a proposal to develop a common-user barge and RoRo terminal in the province of Cavite, Philippines. DOTr says that the proposal, submitted by International Container Terminal Services, Inc., is in line with the agency’s proposed national transport plan to move goods through nautical highways more efficiently. The Cavite Gateway Terminal (CGT), as it will be called, will support government initiatives to decongest Manila’s streets by reducing truck traffic on roads around the metropolitan area. CGT will be located within a six-hectare property in Tanza, Cavite. It will have a level of integration with other major Luzon port facilities for more cost-effective and time-bound access to the Cavite market for both inbound and outbound cargo. Cavite was identified as the prime location for such a project primarily because of the province’s high economic density. In addition to

the Cavite Export Processing Zone (CEPZ), which houses over 400 actively operating companies, there are multiple areas of planned development within Cavite that can justify ICTSI’s investment in a barge and Ro-Ro terminal that will cost upwards of USD 30 million. Phase 1 of CGT’s development will support a total throughput of 115,000 TEUs per year. The net effect of transshipping cargo from Manila’s ports to Cavite via barge and Ro-Ro equates to approximately 140,000 fewer truck trips plying city roads on an annual basis. Along with the terminal’s advantages to cargo owners, there are also sustainable environmental and social benefits to highlight. The reduction in traffic congestion leads to lower fuel consumption and a significant decrease in carbon emissions. The terminal will also present new employment opportunities, both direct and indirect, for the provincial labor pool. Succeeding phases of CGT will support a substantial increase in capacity and will be built to account for projected annual volume increases in the Cavite market.

ORE Cambodian tourists are expected to visit the Philippines in the coming years following the signing of a tourism pact between the two countries. This after the Philippine Department of Tourism and the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Cambodia signed an agreement that will start a series of programs meant to revitalize tourism relations between the two countries. It was signed by Tourism Secretaries Wanda Teo and Fr. Thong Khon, respectively The agreement, called the Implementing Program of Tourism Cooperation of 2016 to 2020, is one of the four contracts signed during President Rodrigo Duterte’s state visit to Cambodia. Under the agreement, air accessibility and route development will be given priority. Recent data from the DOT showed that, Cambodia registered 2, 381 tourist arrivals from January to August this year. Meanwhile, 70, 680 Filipinos visited Cambodia for the first half of this year. Last year, 84, 677 visitors visited Cambodia. “Now is the best time

to involve our Cambodian friends in our Tourism programs and initiatives. We would be happy to help them further as they promised to do the same for us,” Teo said. She further said that coordination with respective airline companies and civil aviation authorities will be done towards the launch of direct flights from Manila to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The agreement also mandates the creation of a joint working group that will serve as platform for both countries to present their respective tourism programs and experiences in the governance of the tourism industry, enforcement of tourism laws and regulations, and conservation of cultural heritage sites. Teo said that the Joint working group will meet in Siem Reap in June 2017 while another will take place in the Philippines in the last quarter of 2017. Familiarization tours and exchange programs for tourism and hospitality students and professionals will also be enhanced to strengthen awareness of tourism destinations and products in both countries. (PNA)

Increase in Cambodian tourists eyed after signing of tourism pact

Philippines, Cambodia sign 4 agreements T M

Global negosyo roadshow in Bahrain showcases business, investment opportunities for OFWs

ARIOUS business and investment opportunities for overseas Filipinos workers (OFWs) in Bahrain were showcased during the Global Negosyo Roadshow held recently at the Al Manzil Hotel, Juffair in Bahrain. The Global Negosyo Roadshow is a series of local and international events that aims to

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7 SUBURBIA

Tagum’s housing programs RP’s best T

HE City Government of Tagum made it again to the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council’s (HUDCC) roll of winners for this year’s search for Best LGU Practices, this time capturing the number one rank in the country. Held at Century Park Hotel, Manila on December 09, 2016, the National Drive Against Professional Squat-

ters and Squatting Syndicates (NDAPSSS) an inter-agency task force composed of 11 national government agencies as headed by HUDCC, bestowed the first place of the said search to LGU Tagum for its housing programs anchored on sound legislative actions, pragmatic policies, and the effective implementation of innovative anti-squatting programs and projects.

Vice Mayor Geterito Gementiza, MDMG led in receiving the plaque of recognition along with City Councilors Agripino Coquilla, Jr and Datu Damiano Cipro, and Engr. Bernardo Castor, head of the technical working group of the Local Housing Board as chaired by Mayor Allan Rellon. Aside from the plaque, Tagum City is also entitled to receive a 175,000-peso cash

prize. Notably, Tagum City was shortlisted to the said award for three years in a row. Last 2014, the city government was awarded with a special citation and on 2015 was recognized as second place. The consecutive wins of Tagum City are due to the impressive record sustained by the Local Housing Board in providing the Tagum constituency with

quality housing programs. Atty. Angel Olastro III, HUDCC’s Undersecretary, said that the housing and anti-squatting drive is one of the many tools of the government in ensuring a transparent and participatory administration. Meanwhile, Engr. Castor also shared to the crowd the best practices of Tagum’s housing board and the many programs implemented in the

BFP allots P11.8M for building new Koronadal fire station

Employees of the provincial government of Davao Oriental, clad in impressive attires, enjoyed this year’s Christmas fellowship dubbed as Seal of Good Local Governance – A tribute to Employees. The celebration also

recognized the great contributions of the 2,200-strong employees of the provincial government who are behind the achievements and successes of Davao Oriental in the past years. (DavOr PIO Photo)

P11-M agri products destroyed in North Cotabato

AT and black bug infestation in farming communities in Kabacan, North Cotabato have destroyed more than PHP11 million worth of agricultural crops from October to December this year, disaster officials today said. David Don Saure, Kabacan Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC), said seven of 24 villages have been affected by rat attacks and black bug infestation. Kabacan is North Cota-

bato’s rice producing town that earned recognition not only in the province but region-wide. It is more known as North Cotabato’s rice granary. Saure said the municipal agriculture office, in its assessment report, reported that the infestation has affected more than 500 hectares. It also affected 491 farm families in seven villages. Saure said as of Dec. 13, the total cost of damages to crops was pegged at

PHP11,420,942. With the situation, Saure said the MDRRMC has recommended to the office of Mayor Herlo Guzman and the town’s Sangguniang Bayan to place the entire town under state of calamity. Guzman said he was considering the MDRRMC recommendation and sought the help of town council members. Today, the town council will discuss the proposed declaration, Guzman said. Severely affected villages are Cuyapon, Dagupan,

Katidtuan, Lower Paatan, Malamote, Kilagasan and Aringay. Saure said other communities were also affected, not only by bugs and rat attacks but also floods due to frequent light to moderate rains. Last year, Kabacan had experience massive rat infestation that affected more than PHP24-M worth of crops. The local government also launched “rat tails for rice,” where farmers collect rat tails in exchange for a kilo of rice. (PNA)

executive order creating the Reorganization Committee tasked to carefully following steps and strategies on reorganizing its regular employees. “This will be a total reorganization. All regular employees must reapply upon the effectivity of the reorganization,” he said. Davin then directed all department heads to submit its final organizational structure with the principle of efficiency, dynamism and effectivity.

He said he will see to it that during the annual budget planning in 2017, the appropriations for the created positions will be already in place so that by the start of 2018, the reorganization takes effect. Pursuant to the provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991, every Local Government Unit (LGU) shall design and implement its own organizational structure and staffing pattern taking into consideration its priority needs,

service requirements, and financial capabilities consistent with the principles on simplicity, efficiency, economy, effectiveness, dynamism, and public accountability, subject to the minimum standards and guidelines prescribed by the Civil Service Commission. One of the civil service reform strategies that has been adopted and applied by the Philippine government is reorganization. (PNA)

Davao Sur town LGU to reorganize plantilla employees

HE local government of Magsaysay, Davao del Sur is set to reorganize its rank-and-file regular employees aimed at achieving effective and efficient delivery of services to its constituents. Mayor Arthur Davin said the immediate effect of the planned reorganization is the creation of more plantilla positions especially for those undermanned departments, and to dissolve unnecessary ones. Davin already issued an

city which were fastened in helping Tagumenyos who do not have permanent domiciles. Succeeding Tagum City’s rank is Angono, Rizal followed by Island Garden City of Samal. The LGUs that received the special citations were Kidapawan City, Malabon City, Tagaytay City and Municipality of Tanay. (Roy Banias/CIO Tagum)

HE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has allotted around P11.8 million for the construction of the city’s new fire station. Fire Sr. Insp. Reginald Legaste, city fire marshal, said Wednesday their central office has started the preparatory works and the bidding of the project, which is targeted to begin early next year. He said the project has already been posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System. “We’re currently waiting for the completion of the bidding process and the awarding of the project to the winning contractor,” he said. The official said the new fire station will be constructed at a 2,000-square meter lot donated by the city government located at the back of the Koronadal City Hall complex in Barangay Zone III. The current city fire station is located at a crowded corner of the Osmena Street and Alunan Avenue here in the city’s main commercial district.

The site is beside the city’s central public market and near the city police station and old city hall compound. Legaste said the present fire station has limited space and the adjacent streets are usually crowded. “The new fire station site has enough space to accommodate our fire trucks and ambulances,” he said. Based on the project’s specifications, he said the new fire station building will feature various modern amenities. Legaste lauded the city government, especially City Mayor Peter Miguel, for supporting the project. He said that aside from providing the site, the local government has also committed a counterpart funding of P2.5 million for the construction of the fire station building. The city government has been supporting the operations of the city fire station and had donated a fire truck and necessary equipment to beef up its capability. (PNA)

Registration, vaccination of pet dogs in GenSan pushed

ETERINARY personnel here are pushing for the full implementation by next year of the annual mandatory registration and vaccination for rabies of all pet dogs in the city. Dr. Emilio Gargara, chief of the animal health disease control division of the City Veterinary Office, said Wednesday the move is among the strategies that they adopted in line with their continuing efforts to totally eliminate the deadly rabies virus from the area. He said the mandatory registration and vaccination of pet dogs every year were provided for in Ordinance No. 2, series of 2009, or the city’s Responsible Pet Ownership Ordinance. “That has not been fully implemented yet but we have set it as one of our priority targets,” he said. The city government has not recorded a single case of human rabies infection and death since last year. But at least 22 pet dogs in

the area already tested positive of rabies since January based on data released by the Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Barangay Lagao here. Most of the dogs that were found positive of the virus were not vaccinated, strays and those aged three months and below. Rabies vaccination is only for dogs aged three months and above. Gargaran said the full implementation of the ordinance will mainly enhance the city’s rabies control and vaccination program. Starting 2017, he said they are aiming to cover 70 to 80 percent of the city’s estimated 60,000 dog population for rabies vaccination. Such figure is a significant improvement from their current average vaccination coverage of 30 percent or around 18,000 dogs. The World Health Organization has recommended that at least 80 percent of an area’s

F REGISTRATION, 11

8 VANTAGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

EDITORIAL

Prudence or propriety?

OME sectors are saying it is prudent for the organizers of the Miss Universe ancillary events to cancel the planned fashion show in Davao after local designers raised furor over the choice of a non-Mindanaoan to do the designs. On Wednesday, Tourism Undersecretary Kat de Castro formally called the event off to prevent any issues with the locals. She said they did try to talk to both parties—designated designer Renee Salud and the Davao group—but no one is giving in. You call it prudence? If you check on the meaning of the word, it says the exercise of care, caution or circumspection to avoid danger or risk. Is it really prudence that’s the solution here? There is another word and it is much close to prudence in the pages of the dictionary and in the real sense, its meaning. The word is propriety. Simply put, being proper or doing the proper thing. Propriety it is that pertains to the details or rules of behavior considered to be correct. What sets the two words apart is simple. Prudence is avoiding what is wrong while propriety is doing what is right. The organizers of this Miss Universe ancillary event must draw the line and decide judiciously. If they must accept a mistake or an imprudence, they must because it is part of their job.

EDGEDAVAO

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For many generations, the injustice done to the provincianos or the so-called “lesser kind” have caused Mindanaoans to live through the culture of imperialism. When President Rodrigo Duterte was elected, he chose to bring in the bright people from Mindanao to hold key positions in government. Even his photographers and communicators were mostly Mindanaoans. He knows they can do the job. Now here we go again with a showcase of Mindanao fashion, but we hire a Batangueno. Is that proper? Let’s go down to the intentions. What motivates a Batangas-born designer, albeit popular around the country, to do the Mindanao showcase? On the other hand, let’s ask ourselves what motivates Mindanao designers, Dabawenyos to be exact, to do the Davao show? Dabawenyo designers have been promoting Mindanao fashion, including the industry and the cultural heritage that come with it, for so long. They know every bit and detail of it because it comes with the territory. This is not just another thing that anyone else can do because he is popular. Remember when we all raised hell because the handlers of a Miss Universe candidate of ours commissioned a foreign designer to do the national costume? By cancelling the show, the organizers only further insulted Davao for why should they be prudent when they can choose to be proper?

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EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

Agriculture is critical to building the rural middle class (second of two parts)

GRI in GDP needs to be montored For one, we need to see just how much as a percentage of Gross Domestic product is given by agriculture. At present, it is about 9.49% of the estimated 311 billion dollar nominal Gross Domestic Product. In the 1970s it used to be around 20-30%. This means it currently gives us only about 30 billion dollars worth of the economy. The hope is that it can contribute much more and in that process, employ and provide income for millions more in the rural areas. As this component of GDP grows so will economic inclusivity and sustainability, since the growth of the economy is supported by enough food, keeping prices of these commodities stable and inflation low. Spike the growth in service sand indus-

2% over the past years. Any increase in this regions’ GRDP rates is welcome. Any rise in their Regional GDPs will be good for the country as a whole, sine it means sustained growth that fights poverty. Thus, without better farms, they don’t stand a chance of leaving their poor state.

GRDP levels help us know if wealth is spread around Another factor that helps us know if an economy is inclusive is Gross Regional Do-

mestic product or GRDP, which tells us how strong the growth in economes are on a regional basis. Higher growth rates indicate that the economy thrives. This is illuminated further by the fact that as far as the Regional Gross Domestic Product growth rates is concerned, three regions hit new and consistent highs: Bicol, for one, hit 8.4%, while Western Visayas and Davao follow closely at 8.3 and 7.9% respectively. These three exceed the 7.1 GDP growth rate of the country. This only means that more regions are contributing to the GDP effort rather than just the three regions that comprise greater Metro Manila. We hope to see this increase further. However, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao remains the poorest in the country with a constant GRDP rate of

assigned in FAST BACKWARD the Philippines at the time. Strong, in a report made in 1911, wrote: “The first Castilloa Antonio V. Figueroa brought into the islands was introduced by the San Rafael Plantation Co., of Basilan, in 1905, and has made phenomenal growth; some of the trees measuring 32 inches in circumference 1 yard from the ground, with a corresponding height and crown. Castilloa is perhaps the most handsome of the three rubbers now growing in the Province. “This rubber has not been planted so extensively as either of the other two, Daao District and Basilan having a few thousand. It is making wonderful growth in both localities, and will probably be more extensively planted. Castilloa has not been a general favorite in the East, as it does not come into bearing until 8 or 10 years of age and its rubber hardly up to the standard of either Para or Ceara. It is propagated from seed, and stands transplanting better than either Para or Ceara. It may be propagated by cutting but this is hardly practicable.” The establishment of rubber plantations was also recommended “on the Agusan River, in the subprovince of Butuan, in the subprovince of Bukidnon, in the Moro Province, and anywhere in the southern

half of Palawan without serious danger from heavy wind storms, and with all other conditions of climate and soil favorable.” This was contained in the 1911 report of the Bureau of Insular Affairs titled “Rubber-growing Industry of the Philippine Islands.” Aside from labor shortage that affected rubber plantations, the entry of foreign investments was sadly told by John A. Fowler, United States Trade Commissioner, in a speech delivered before the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines on May 29, 1923. “As far as I have been able to learn, there has been no positive action taken to attract this capital to the Philippine Islands, although there are ample lands available in Mindanao suitable for the production of rubber. The papers from the United States tell of positive action being taken by the authorities in Brazil to get this capital into their country. It is not a small matter to make the United States relatively independent for its rubber supply. It would involve the development of a million or more acres of rubber lands that would produce revenue for the local government to cover an important part of its annual expenses.” On the other hand, as foreign investments started to trickle into the islands to boost the rubber industry, Great Britain became a killjoy when it adopted a policy that imposed heavy levy on the rubber produced in the tropics. D.R. Williams, in an article ‘Investment in the Philippines,’ published in the September 1924 issue of The American Chamber

of Commerce Journal, wrote: “The possibilities of the Philippines as an investment field are unquestioned. They produce or co-produce practically every tropical product known to commerce. Importations by the United States from the tropics or semitropics for 1923 totalled $2,000,000,000… “Basilan… has its own controlled source of domestic supply, it will become the victim, with increased frequency, of the needs or cupidity of competitor nations more fortunately situated. A patent illustration of what portends was brought home to our people early in 1923, when Great Britain levied an export tax on rubber grown in her tropical possessions, with result that Americans learned-most of them for the first time-that while the United States consumes 75 per cent of the world supply of rubber, Great Britain controls 85 per cent of world production. “Of the tropical domains of the earth, 40.38 per cent, with area of 8,258,970 square miles, are independent; 9.00 per cent, with area of 12,167,970 square miles, are owned or administered by foreign powers, while but 0.62 per cent, with area of 125, 992 square miles (which includes the Philippines roughly 115,000 square miles) are owned by the United States. “Under existing conditions Philippine products have free entry to the United States, giving them this very considerable leeway over like products grown in and imported from foreign countries, insuring a permanent and to all intents unlimited market.”

try while leavMY TWO CENTS’ ing agriculture behind is a recipe for inflation, as food prices will go up, and with it will bring the cost of other goods and services. Strong John Tria a g r i c u l t u r e ecisouth@gmail.com helps keep inflation in check and the political climate stable.

War is bad for farming That said, enabling peace to work is good for agriculture. War makes planting, harvesting and distribution difficult. With this, it goes without saying that peaceful rural areas create more productive farms, which in turn, will produce more food and more jobs and income for the rural poor. Peace efforts also need to be monitored. They have a significant impact on agriculture. Follow me at facebook/johntriapage

Davao and Basilan as rubber capitals

HEN the American arrived in Mindanao, two of the regions that became focus of rubber (Castilloa elastica) propagation were Basilan and Davao. But it was in the former that large-scale planting of the tree species started under the auspices of Dr. James Walter Strong (1874-1950), a dental surgeon in the U.S. medical corps assigned in Basilan and later had two Filipina wives. The rubber tree is native to native Central America and South America. After his discharged from the Navy in 1906, Strong, who had a total of 13 children (including a stillborn) from two marriages, promptly established dental practice in Zamboanga City. It was during his professional stint as doctor that he met numerous scientists, including a noted botanist from the University of Santo Tomas, a certain Father Zamora (not the martyred one). Inspired by his conversation with the padre, Strong, acknowledged as the ‘father of the Philippine rubber industry,’ started experimenting with rubber plants and in 1910 established the Basilan Rubber Plantation as J.M. Menzi Corp. as partner. Seven years later, he sold his entire stocks to his partner and formed the American Rubber Co. using capital drawn from San Francisco, California, sources. As a model farm, the Strong plantation was frequently visited by Commonwealth president Manuel L. Quezon and his vice-president, Sergion Osmeña, Gehn. Douglas Macarthur, and the American governor-generals and high commissioners

10 COMPETITIVE EDGE EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

SSS eyes joint resolution on P2-K pension raise this year T

Globe creates new holiday traditions for most wonderful time of the year

RADITIONS are essential in every culture and create different experiences for everyone. For Filipinos, the Christmas season is one of the most celebrated traditions across the nation. As early as September, malls, establishments, and even homes are already decked out in holiday colors as families make plans for their usual Christmas activities. Whether it’s the annual Christmas Dinner, gift shopping, or traveling to wonderful destinations, the true meaning of the season is anchored on togetherness. Some may be miles apart but the love for each other brings everyone closer. Today’s digital lifestyle allows old traditions to be relived and made more exciting. Turn them into new ones by using the latest digital trends from Globe and let everyone create new memories for a lifetime, with the people who matter most. “Christmas is all about spreading cheer and creating new memories. We are happy to be part of every Filipino family’s celebration and enable them to create new traditions that will last them for many more holiday seasons to come,” says Globe President and CEO, Ernest Cu.

Personalized healthcare for your family Health is a bag full of wealth. Globe in partnership with Unilab brings fresh opportunities to ensure the wellness of your family no matter the distance. For Overseas Filipinos, they can purchase RiteMed medicines at Philippine prices and have it delivered to their dependents back home. Unilab leverages on the telco’s existing distribution points in Hong Kong that Filipinos can readily call or visit for their orders. Unilab’s retail partner MedExpress ensures the fulfillment of the orders. Globe also provides the international hotline support for its overseas customers. Convenience and health goes hand in hand with KonsultaMD, a 24/7 online health consultation service manned by licensed Filipino doctors. It’s accessible anytime, and you get legitimate answers to all your health questions. The comfort of knowing that your family’s health concerns can be answered anytime throughout the day or night, gives you peace of mind this holiday season. Overseas Filipinos can call up to 5 Globe numbers, unlimited for only

HK $129 for 30 days together with unlimited access to Filipino doctors for medical consultation. Staying in touch is also made more memorable through e-Gifting. With SariSariPH, Filipinos overseas can send e-gift cards via email and SMS to gift their families with special treats. Holiday binge-watching right on your mobile Globe gives new ways to enjoy mobile content from sports, entertainment, games and music. NBA for one, with its partnership with Twitter gives customers access to exclusive programs, streamed live on the social media site. Globe is the first advertising partner in Asia for the NBA Live programs that will exclusively air on Twitter. Watching movies and series are made more convenient too with Globe Studios and HOOQ. This collaboration brings the most-awaited, star-studded series, On The Job (OTJ). A spin-off from the original On The Job blockbuster hit by Erik Matti, the OTJ crime thriller series will be available on HOOQ early 2017. Globe also introduces its first step in offering digital learning to millions of its customers by supporting YouTube Kids -- a family-friendly app built with parents and children in mind. Families can now enjoy YouTube Kids with seamless connection from Globe, whether at home or on-the-go. You can bond with your kids and family right in the comforts of your own home. On gaming, the partnership with Globe and Niantic has resulted to 340 new Pokestops in select Globe reload stations and 241 gyms in Globe stores. Both companies continue to work closely to give customers an even richer Pokemon Go experience. Some of the things to look forward to include exciting Pokemon merchandise that will be available in Globe stores in time for Christmas. Finally, Globe also welcomes its latest partner, Tribe. Tribe currently offers live and on-demand content with a wide selection of Korean entertainment shows from KBS world and tvN, anime shows from Aniplus, LIVE e-Sports events via eGG channel, and action and Asian Thriller programs from KIX and Thrill channels. The brand aims to go beyond being just a platform for fans to watch their shows by creating immersive experiences for the differ-

F GLOBE, 12

HE Social Security System (SSS) expects the signing of the joint resolution from the House of Representatives and the Senate on the proposed pension increase before the Christmas break to pave the way for the release of the initial P1,000 benefit at the start of 2017. Social Security Commission (SSC) Chair Dean Amado D. Valdez said that in order for pensioners to receive the additional P1,000 in time for January 2017, SSS needs the formal approval of the proposal before the year ends, since pensions are disbursed to banks the month prior to their scheduled release. Dean Valdez explained that the joint resolution on the P2,000 pension increase would first have to be passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate, and then a Commission Resolution shall be sent to Malacañang

for the formal approval of President Rodrigo R. Duterte, before SSS can implement it. “SSS is also guided by the Department of Finance in ensuring that the implementation of the proposed pension increase will not drive the fund to the brink of bankruptcy. We are wary of possible criticisms for our support for the pension increase, and we don’t want to be seen as irresponsible,” Dean Valdez said. The SSS chair said that Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III is keen on ensuring that SSS funds would last at least until 2039. SSS funds are currently projected to last until 2042, but granting the entire P2,000 pension increase in 2017 will shorten fund life to only until 2025. “Based on our actuarial valuation of the proposed implementation of the initial P1,000 hike, SSS funds are projected to last until 2032.

However, we are optimistic in adding more years to our fund life, making it last until 2050 by 2022 should SSS succeed in the innovations it plans to undertake to shore up its revenues,” Dean Valdez said. Among the early measures targeted by the new SSS management to strengthen revenue intake include investing in infrastructure such as toll roads and railways and securing up to 25 percent of ownership in utility corporations. The agency has also tightened its monitoring of employers’ SSS compliance. SSS is also considering possible joint ventures with developers to maximize gains from SSS assets such as its five-hectare property in Quezon City at the corner of EDSA and East Avenue, part of which can be converted to a high-rise building for residential and commercial use. Dean Valdez said that the

East Avenue development will include a high-rise parking to help ease EDSA traffic. He said that SSS continues to work closely with legislators, whom he credited for acknowledging the rationale behind balancing the need to grant higher pensions with preserving the long-term viability of SSS funds for the benefit of currently-paying members who are future SSS pensioners. “The legislators have heeded the voice of the people who have been clamoring for the increase in SSS pensions. The same sentiment is shared by President Duterte, who understands that the current SSS pension amounts are inadequate to meet the financial needs of the country’s retirees,” Dean Valdez said. SSS has been consistent in providing better benefits to its members and pensioners while ensuring the sustainability of the fund.

ened to allow the employees to participate in their yearend evaluation activity. The collection centers’ regular working hours of 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM will resume on December 17, 2016 except for Felcris Toril which would resume

on December 19, 2016. For queries and further updates, the general public may visit DCWD website (www.davao-water.gov.ph) and official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/davaowater) or contact DCWD’s CIU/Call Center through

the 24-hour hotlines 297-DCWD (3293), 09277988966, 0925-5113293 and 0908-4410653. They may also course water service concerns especially leak reports to the CIU through the chat feature of DCWD website. (Jamae G. Dela Cruz)

Shortened working hours of DCWD collection centers

AVAO City Water District’s collection centers in Victoria Plaza, SM Lanang Premier, Felcris Centrale, and Felcris Toril will be open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on December 16, 2016. The working hours on said date will be short-

Smart deploys cell broadcast technology, complies with RA 10639

MART Communications has invested about P500 million in a messaging platform called cell broadcast technology to enable the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to

quickly send alert messages to mobile phone users in specific areas facing natural calamities or other emergencies. This is in compliance with Republic Act 10639 or “The Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act,” which mandates

telecoms services providers to send free mobile alerts during times of calamities. Shown in photo during a presentation of Smart’s new cell broadcast service, from left, are Deputy Commissioner Edgardo V. Cabarios, Depu-

ty Commissioner Delilah F. Deles, Commissioner Gamaliel A. Cordoba, Ramon R. Isberto, head of Smart Public Affairs; Atty. Joel Peneyra of PLDT Regulatory Group, and NTC Regulation Chief Engr. Imelda R. Walcien. (PR)

dent research conducted by the Top Employers Institute. The annual international research undertaken by the Institute recognizes leading employers around the world: those that provide excellent employee conditions, nurture and develop talent throughout

all levels of the organization, and which strive to continuously optimize employment practices. Takeda Philippines is one of the select companies to achieve the exclusive Top Employers Asia Pacific 2017 certification. Takeda has also been similarly certified in a

number of other countries in the region. “This is a significant milestone for Takeda in the Philippines,” said Gabriel Georgy, President and General Manager of Takeda Philippines. “We have focused on invest-

Takeda Philippines awarded 2017 Top Employer Status

AKEDA Healthcare Philippines, Inc. (Takeda Philippines) has been certified as a Top Employer for its outstanding employee offerings. The recognition comes from Top Employers Philippines and Top Employers Asia Pacific 2017 through indepen-

F TAKEDA, 13

INdulge!

VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

EDGEDAVAO FOOD

BEYOND COMFORT

at Damosa’s modern Filipino restaurants my, I mean. From students to yuppies even to CEOs, ask about Taps and they’ll surely have a story to tell. Of a favourite, maybe none. As everything is a favourite. Their menu is downright simple and straightforward – just like how we like it. Taps is tapsilog which is a Filipino breakfast staple. At Taps, what you get is a plate of stirfried garlic rice, fried meat or fish and egg. That’s it. All you need it choose from their menu and you’re all set. You can always have your order customised, just need to inform them upon ordering. Surely the joy of eating breakfast all throughout the day – and night.

By BAI FAUZIAH FATIMA SINSUAT AMBOLODTO PHILIPPINE CUISINE. Description of which cannot be detached from our culture, history and tradition. Described as a mixture of different cultures, a single Filipino dish depicts the colourful past of the country. That every plate of Filipino food reflects our love for food, family and life in general. At the Damosa compound, a gastronomic experience is not complete without visiting and dining at a Filipino restaurant. Who can say no to the aromatic and savoury dishes we’ve grown up with? Who can say no to a plate of flavours our palates love and crave for? I know I can’t. Let’s explore and revisit familiar flavours to our childhood. Join us as we treat ourselves to some modern Filipino restaurant best-sellers one bite at a time. Don’t forget to say goodbye to your diet. Cafe Amoree (at the Damosa Gateway) It’s more than a cafe -- it’s a Filipino food haven concealed with a coffee shop facade. From the outside, it looks more like a typical hang-out place for you and your besties. However, once you step inside, take a seat and ask for the menu, you’d be surprised on the many delectable Filipino dishes they have on their plate. Cafe Amoree serves an array of Filipino food choices you’d surely enjoy. From simple appetizers of Kinilaw na Tuna and Sinuglaw to plates of Pinakbet to chunky Beef Kaldereta and Grilled Tuna Belly, you won’t need to look elsewhere when your palate craves for something Pinoy. Aside from their savoury dishes, Cafe Amoree also serves sweet nibbles of cakes and fruit bites. Cap your meal with something hot or cold from their selection of decaf and non-decaf drink choices. Try their hot Caramel Macchiato, you’d thank me for sure. K-Twins (at the Damosa Gateway) Touring the country’s 7,000 plus islands will take

more than just your best pair of running shoes. Possible, yes, but if you’ll have the option of savouring regional dishes right where you are at, then that’ll be more than amazing. At K-Twins at the Damosa Gateway, you need not book a flight to Ilocos to have a plate (or two) of any Ilokano dish. Crispy bagnet, juicy Ilocos longganisa, plate of crispy dinuguan and poque-poque are just some of the dishes you’d find at K-Twins. But never leave without tasting in their signature crunchy

Binalot (at the Damosa Market Basket) From its name alone, Binalot is another Filipino restaurant that you must visit when in Damosa. Though serving typical local cuisine, their edge from the rest is that their dishes are downright Pinoy. Very representative of the Filipino’s love for food. Considered a concept dining place, Binalot packs a great deal of flavours onto their every dish or meal served. More so, despite the hefty serving of flavours and textures, Binalot is very affordable and is perfect for families and friends out for a meal.

nibble, Ilocos empanada (which can be ordered without the pork). Truly, Ilokano dishes at its finest. FCF - Filipino Comfort Food (at the Damosa Complex) It’s all about good, comfort food at FCF. True to its name, FCF is one of the best Filipino restaurants in the city with dishes that are not only delicious but will instantly remind you of your childhood. And of course, budget friendly. FCF’s menu is filled with Pinoy classic favourites. Go ahead and relax

with a bowl of hot Sinigang na Baka sa Bayabas or go salty with some Binagoongang Baboy with your family and friends. Want some crunch on your repertoire of dishes? Indulge with a plate of crunchy chicken skin any time of any day. Sweet cravings? Their version of Suman (with Latik) and Turon will surely have you craving for more. Taps (at the Damosa Market Basket) Taps will always have a special place in every Davaoeῆos heart – tum-

Dencio’s (at the Damosa Market Basket) Considered an institution in the city, Dencio’s is one of the most frequented Filipino restaurants all over the city. With branches spawning from all corners, you’d surely find a branch every time your tummy growls for some Filipino cuisine loving. Known for its delectable menu of local favourites, Dencio’s serves dishes that are reminiscent of the past and depicts of the country’s rich gastronomic culture. From simple appetisers to grilled meats to soups and noodles, Dencio’s will always have your back for an anytime indulgence. Not to mention, their rates are very affordable.

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Zamboanga film wins in 12th Mindanao Film Fest NOW SHOWING

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By HENRYLITO D. TACIO A SHORT FILM FROM ZAMBOANGA CITY WON the Best Film Award besting 57 other short films that were shown during the 12th Mindanao Film Festival (MFF) at the Cinema 6 of Gaisano Mall in Davao City.

“Entre Medio Del Fin” (In the Middle of the End), which tells the story of a young gay couple who took care of a pregnant woman in the hope FROM LEFT: NCCA Committee on Cinema member Dax Canedo, FDCP Exec. Director Will Fredo, FDCP Chair for a child only to be con- Liza Dino, Phil. Information Agency -XI regional director Efren F. Elbanbuena, MFF Festival Director Rudolph Alama and Assistant Festival Director Ivan Tadena. fronted by a reality when the woman tries to leave Cinematography had also with her boyfriend, was six nominees. The other adjudged winner among five contenders were the six contenders. “Makaakar,” “Kapit-os,” The other nominees “Dear Mama,” “Ma’am were “Makaakar,” “PanLa” and “Subang.” gaw,” “Dear Mama,” “The Soil of Dreams,” “Ma’am La” and “Bobby.” a full-length documen“Entre” also got the tary from Cagayan de Best Screenplay defeatOro which details the lives of river sand gatherers in the Cagayan de Oro River, was given the Best Documentary prize Ryanne Murcia, filmmaker from Zamboanga wins best film for his and the Sulyap Kultura short “Entre Medio del Fin” Award from the National ing two other nominees: nominees. “Fly Boy,” Commission for Culture “Ma’am La” and “Dear which was played in and Arts (NCAA) Mama.” “Amboy” was named Best The other nominees Ryanne Murcia, who Original Song. “Smile” for the category were: directed “Entre” was de- from “Huwag Na Lang” “Pagbarug Tu Pagtuon” feated by Jelford Teves and “Road to Zion” from and “Saranggola.” (“Makaakar”), who got “Halug” were also nomiAnimated short “Anithe Best Director trophy. nated. to” was given Special Jury They were the only two The Best Sound went Citation “for its impresdirectors nominated in to “Ma’am La” defeat- sive 3D animation which this category. ing two other nominees: highlights the potenAll in all, “Entre” re- “Ako Bahala Sa Imo” tials of 3D animation in ceived five nominations. and “Halug.” The same Mindanao.” “Panggaw” Two films – “Ma’am La” film took home the Best a film from Compostela and “Ako Bahala Sa Imo” Musical Score; the other Valley, was given Special – got seven nominations nominees were “Love” Jury Prize. each. “Dear Mama” like- and “Huwag Na Lang.” Jurors of the 12th MFF wise received five nomi“Ma’am La,” a college include film professor nations while “Makaa- thesis film, also won Best and current Metro Makar” and “Huwag Na Student Film for student nila Film Festival exLang” managed to take filmmaker Vince Sevilla- ecutive committee memfour nominations each. no. The two losing films: ber Edward Cabagnot, In the acting category, “Kapit-os” and “Subang.” award-winning internaGilbert Lloren Nunez “Dear Mama,” a tear- tional filmmaker Sheron (“Makaakar”) won the jerker, got the Best Pro- Dayoc and film academe Best Actor plum besting duction Design over Yam Palma. two other nominees: Ra- “Ako Bahala Sa Imo” and The awards night, held fael Abella, Jr. (“Bobby”) “Panun.” last Monday, was graced and Q Javier Tag-at (“Ako “Ako Bahala Sa Imo,” by Film Development Bahala Sa Imo.” which was in Tagum City Council of the PhilipMaria Laura Parapina during the Davao del pines (FDCP) chair Liza took home the Best Ac- Norte Film-A-Thon, a 24- Dino and FDCP Executress for her performance hour filmmaking race, tive-Director Will Fredo in “Panun.” The two oth- won best Guerrilla Fil- along with Philippine er nominees were Asha mathon Film. It also won Information Agency-XI Asha (“Ma’am La”) and three more awards: Best Regional Director Efren Ayesha (“Entre Medio del Editing, Best Cinematog- F. Elbanbuena and outFin”). raphy and Best Produc- going NCAA Committee In most categories, tion Value. on Cinema member Lou there were only three Like the Best Film, Best Raphael Canedo.

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the Provincial Agrarian Reform Adjudicator Jose Nilo Tillano in favor of the MARBAI farmers, still, the farmers were not installed inside the banana plantation. In October this year, Secretary Mariano, in a visit to MARBAI members who were already in a camp-out outside the gate of LFC, assured them that DAR would push for their peaceful installment into their landholdings. MARBAI farmers have been staging a camp-in protest at the banana plantation after successfully reclaiming the land last December 9, or six years after the LFC ousted them out from the area. MARBAI members are farmer beneficiaries who were given a collective Cer-

tificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) in 1996 under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). Each of the 159 farmers owns a 0.79-hectare piece of the banana plantation. MARBAI president Yu said that they were forced to enter a Banana Sales and Marketing Agreement with the LFC who buys their products for export. Unfortunately, she added, they were tricked into selling high-grade bananas which were poorly classified for a lower price, thus resulting to a measly Php2,000 monthly income. The agreement has caused the farmer beneficiaries to accumulate a debt of almost Php1 billion to the LFC, she lamented.

comed a total of 4,464,992 visitors, 481,365 visitors higher than the accumulated 3,983,627 arrivals in 2015, making DOT’s 6-million target arrivals on track. “The growth in tourism figures can be attributed to massive marketing campaigns of the tourism department to increase awareness on different Philippines destinations,” DOT Secretary Wanda Teo said. According to the agency, the unabated influx of Korean visitors helped drive up total tourist arrivals to 393,589 in September, up by 7.46 percent from the same period a year ago. DOT’s data released this week shows that Korean nationals constitute at least 115,147 visitors or 20.72 percent of the total tourist arrivals. The surge was also driven by growth rates from top source markets such as China, with an arrival contribution of 53,015, outranking the USA which provided 51,866 arrivals. Japan came fourth 43,525 arrivals. Trailing behind are Taiwan with 20,773 arrivals and Australia with 17,584 visitor count. “We are well underway to achieving our target of six

million international visitor arrival by the year’s end, thanks to the support of all stakeholders in the tourism sector,” DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo. Meanwhile, visitor receipts from January to September of 2016 spiked by 5.76 percent with Php 178.48 billion (or US$3.8 million) total versus the Php 168.75 billion earnings for the same period in 2015. Among the top markets, Canada registered the highest per capita expenditure. Canadian visitors spent an average of Php 76,670.97 during their stay, followed by visitors from the United Kingdom with per capita spending of Php 47,433.21. Korea came third with Php 43,963.64 per capita expenditure. To recall, during the Regional Tourism Assembly at Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao on October this year, DOT Secretary Wanda Teo stressed that despite the consistent increase of tourist arrivals in the Philippines, the Department of tourism will “not remain complacent” as she pointed out that the industry is volatile to “external shocks” such as terrorism, political instability, natural disasters and economic conditions.

Apart from filling the massive infrastructure backlog that has for decades now blunted the country’s global competitiveness as an investment haven, the government’s plan to spend a record P8 trillion on public infrastructure over the next six years will keep the domestic on its high growth path—and insulate it from external shocks,” he added. National Treasurer Roberto Tan also pointed out that “the rate hike has long been anticipated” and that “the market would have to digest the impact of this move,

including the foreseen three other rate increases for 2017 and expectation of new fiscal and economic policies of the Trump Presidency.” But like the finance secretary, Tan said: “We remain confident that despite these external developments and market volatility, the country’s fundamentals and economic resilience will carry us forward.” “This Administration will continue to pursue its economic agenda including aggressive investments in infrastructure and broadbased social services,” he added.

dog population be vaccinated annually for rabies. “That will be our annual target for the next five years,” Gargaran said.

The official said they proposed for additional funding next year to facilitate the expansion of the rabies vaccination program. (PNA)

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ROYAL PRESENCE. President Rodrigo R. Duterte shows a gesture of respect to King of Cambodia Norodom Sihamoni before the start of the State Banquet at the Peace Palace in Cambodia on Wednesday night. KING RODRIGUEZ/Presidential Photo

DND to probe presence of anti-aircraft guns in Spratlys EPARTMENT of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said they are now verifying reports that the People’s Republic of China have installed anti-aircraft guns and other weapons in disputed portions of the Spratly Islands.

“We are verifying (the report),” he said.”But if true it is a big concern for us and the international community who use the South China Sea lanes for trade.” He said the presence of anti-aircraft batteries in the area meant that the Chinese are militarizing the area.

be no reason to consider Mindanaoan designers in showcasing their craft in the global scene. At present DFDCFI has 11 members, eight of them are in Davao while three are abroad aside from a number of young artists being trained, a proof of the “vibrant and flourishing

fashion industry in the region”. Meanwhile, in a text message coming from DOT-XI regional office as advised by USec de Castro, the agency confirmed that the Davao tour of the candidates will be pushed through despite the cancellation of the cultural fashion show.

sures as Davao City is now becoming an alternative seat of the government. The task force will also secure other areas near Davao City, to include parts of Davao del Norte and the Island Garden City of Samal. It is also tasked to assist the Presidential Security Group in securing the Presi-

dent and other very important personalities during their regular visits and official businesses in Davao City and the nearby localities. It is composed of Task Force Davao, Task Force Samal, 84th Infantry Brigade, the Philippine Navy and the 11th Tactical Operations Group of the Philippine Air Force.

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EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANTONIO T. CATITIG who died on November 08, 2004 in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, Philippines has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS executed among his heirs, per Doc. No. 356; Page No. 73; Book No. LXIX; Series of 2016, of the NOTARY PUBLIC JOSEPH ANDREW L. CALUBAQUIB. 12/09,16,23, 2016

“Again if true this is not good,” he added. Earlier, the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative said that it has monitored the construction of hexagonal buildings in Fiery Cross, Mischief Reef, and Subi Reef, areas where China constructed artificial islands, and these

facilities seemed fitting with anti-aircraft guns and other weapons capable of shooting down aircraft or even cruise missiles. On the same artificial islands, China also constructed airfield capable of handling and supporting large military aircraft. (PNA)

the indiscriminate use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices despite the ban on their manufacture and sale. He urged city and municipal mayors to cause the enactment of an ordinance which regulates firecracker manufacture and use and promote an alternative form of revelry. “Mayors should also take the lead in the conduct of an information campaign within their localities on the dangers of fire due to the use of firecrackers as well as on the dangers of using polyvinyl chloride pipe or ‘boga’ and firearms,” he said. Barangay tanods are directed to conduct regular ‘ronda’ to assist the police in monitoring and ensuring that manufacturing, display center, and fire-

works exhibition are within the designated zones. The BFP and PNP shall ensure that no person shall manufacture, store, handle or use and firework material without securing a fire safety inspection certificate, joint inspection and seizure of prohibited firecrackers. “As we welcome the Yuletide Season, we in the national government sincerely wish each and every Filipino happy holidays. And most importantly, we in the DILG would like to ensure that there will be no disruption in the celebration of the nativity of Jesus Christ, that is why we are making sure that all necessary measures will be carried out for a safe and funfilled Christmas season,” Sueno added. (PNA)

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EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late BERNARDO N. FERNANDEZ

SR. has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE executed among his heirs, per Doc. No. 25; Page No. 5; Book No. LX; Series of

2016, of the NOTARY PUBLIC IRA R.

CALATRAVA-VALENZUELA 12/9/16/23

12 CULTURE AND ARTS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

Love among the ruins Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“T

HEN at the end of the road, like a sudden apparition, something out of a half-forgotten dream looms The Ruins. It takes your breath away. And it takes a long time to recover.” – Abe Florendo in article which appeared in Philippine Daily Inquirer *** Who never heard of the Ancient Rome arena, where gladiators’ fights were held. The historic monument, touted to be one of the most famous and well preserved monuments of the Romans, stands at the heart of modern Rome and attracts thousands of tourists every year. But why do people – particularly tourists – visit the area? Mary Jo Arnoldi, chair of the anthropology department at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, contends: “Ancient ruins give us a connection to the past that’s visceral. This was a real place, and you can walk through it.” Lynn Meskell, director of the Stanford Archaeology Center, adds, “Ruins represent human achievement writ large.” Such was also the idea of Raymund Javellana, the man who is trying to restore The Ruins, which is listed by oddee. com as “one 12 most fascinating ruins of the world,” to its former glory. A mansion actually, it is located in Talisay City in Negros Occidental. “I am so glad that it was not destroyed completely. With the blessings of The Lord, we were able to restore the mansion itself. I challenge people who keep on destroying the old structures to please stop and make some good use of it,” he said when he accepted the award for The Ruins as Best Destination (Heritage Sites category) at the first Choose Philippines Awards. The other nominees for the coveted recognition were Calle Crisologo in Vigan, the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, Paoay Church in Ilocos Norte, and Las Casas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan. But there is a very interesting story on how the mansion was being built and why it was ruined – although not completely. Love, so goes a line of a song, comes from the most unexpected places. That happened to

Mariano Ledesma Lacson, a sugar baron from Negros. The most-sought after bachelor was visiting Hong Kong together with a wealthy friend when he met Maria Braga, a Portuguese lady from Macau and daughter of a ship captain. He was smitten by her beauty. So, he courted her earnestly until she finally said yes. To make the long story short, they got married and he brought her to his ancestral house in Talisay, where they raised their family together. Children came after one another: Victoria, Rafael (who later became the governor of Negros Occidental), Mercedes, Natividad, Sofia, Felipe (who grew up and became a mayor of Talisay), Consolacion, Angelina, Ramon, and Eduardo. Maria was pregnant with her 11th child when she slipped in the bathroom. She was bleeding; her condition was so precarious that traveling outside of the house was out of question. Mariano summoned some of his men to get a resident doctor from a nearby town. He told them to use a horse-drawn carriage, then the fastest mode of transportation. This happened in 1920s and it would take 2 days to traverse the various sugar farms to Silay. So, by the time the doctor arrived, on the fourth day, Maria and her child were already dead. Mariano was totally devastated by the sudden death of the love of his life. He went into a depression for some time but knowing that he had still children that needed his attention, he tried to get out from his depression and focus instead of building a house in memory of his beloved wife. But before doing so, he consulted his father-in-law about the idea. When he knew about it, he fully supported the plans of his son-in-law. Being a ship captain, he carted many items from Europe and China -- ranging from machuca or handmade custom cement tiles, chandeliers, and china wares. He even brought with him some construction workers from China just to help build the mansion. A local builder by the name of Engineer Puentevella was entrusted to make the design

and building specifications. Mariano asked his son Felipe to supervise the construction and make sure that A-grade mixture of concrete was precisely poured. The marble-like effect of high-grade concrete can be felt by touching the posts and walls of what remains now of the mansion. The entire mansion has a floor area of 900 square meters: 450 square meters upstairs and 450 square meters on the lower ground. Ten rooms occupied the mansion: 8 rooms for children, a Master’s bedroom and a family room. The structure of the two-story mansion was of Italianate architecture as evidenced by its neo-Romanesque columns all around. It has a close semblance of the façade of the Carnegie Hall in New York City. “Since the engineer was a Filipino, it is believed the design came from that of Maria’s ancestral mansion which was given by her father to Mariano as sample,” an inflight magazine said. “The imprimatur of Maria’s father, a ship captain, is now clear from the shell-inspired décor all around the top edges of the mansion – the same ones that identified the homes of ship captains in New England at that time.” It took about three years to finish the Don Mariano Lacson Mansion. According to Javellana, it was built because of the husband’s devotion to his wife. He likens it to Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife. Proof of the unwavering love for his departed wife was the initials engraved on every post of the mansion. The 2 M’s, facing each other, stands for Mariano and Maria. At that time, the mansion was the largest residential structure ever built in the area. It was constructed at the center of the 440-hectare farm. The Lacson family lived in the mansion happily. But it was not “ever after” as Japanese forces invaded the country in December 1941 after Japan’s declaration of war upon the United States, which controlled the Philippines at the time and possessed important military bases. In anticipation of the war and not wanting to get caught in the middle of their 440-hectare farm, the Lacson family abandoned the mansion. They left behind all their furniture, china wares, home décor and some personal belongings, locked up the place, and left a caretaker to watch over the mansion. The American soldiers came to the place. Sensing that it might be used as headquarters of the Japanese troops, it was decided that it would be burned just other big houses in the area. While it took three years to build the mansion, it took only three days to consume all of its roofs, ceilings, two-inch wooden floors, doors and windows which were all made of hardwood of tindalo, narra, and kamagong. But the three-day inferno did not flatten the whole mansion. Thanks to its oversize steel bars and the meticulous way of pouring A-grade mixture of concrete, the skeletal frame remains. The four-tiered fountain in

front of the remains of the mansion makes it a perfect replica of the ancient homes with spacious gardens – like those you see in the old city of Savannah, Georgia in the United States. Joy Gallera Malaga, an independent writer who visited the place, wrote: “And most likely you would appreciate the mansion even if it was already reduced to its skeletal frame, or maybe it is its present condition that adds to its character and beauty. That’s the charm of old structures; it invites you to engage in an experience just by being there, getting to know it better through the stories it continues to tell.” Filipinos would have never seen The Ruins – which was abandoned for 67 years! – had it not been for Javellana, who happened to be one of Mariano’s great grandsons. Raymund is the son of Ramon, who was the son of Mercedes, the daughter of Mariano. Raymund had a travel agency in Manila when his mother requested him to come back to Negros and help her manage their sugar plantations. He now settles in Silay but in one of trips to Talisay, he saw the abandoned mansion, which is located in Hacienda Sta. Maria. He decided to make it as one of the province’s tourist attractions. At first, people he contacted were lukewarm about the idea. But Raymund pursued his plans. He might be thinking of that Hollywood movie in which one of the characters said, “If you build, they will come.” In January 2008, he opened The Ruins to the public. Thanks to social media, the exposure to local and national televisions, and write-ups that came in various publications, people flocked to the place. In the beginning, there were only 25,000 visitors a year; but last year, it went up 80,000 visitors. With the recent recognition, Javellana expects the visitors to further increase. Aside from being a tourist attraction, The Ruins is fast becoming known as a favorite venue for weddings and photo shoots. As the mansion was built because of love, Javellana has earmarked some areas: gazebo for marriage proposals, a church for weddings, and a reception area of banquets. There is also a hotel where guests can stay for the night. He is also planning of constructing a roof for the mansion as it is exposed to various elements. “We have to protect the structure from deterioration,” he said, adding that once the roof is done, all beams will be removed. “Renovation must complement with the mansion’s design,” Javellana pointed out.

Globe... FROM 10 ent communities through events, contests, and viewing parties for like-minded individuals to connect. Tribe is now available for a 30-day free trial and for just P30/ week or P69/month afterwards.

Last minute gift shopping done in a jiffy Gift-giving is a tradition that Filipinos make during the holidays. Everyone braves the streets of Manila with the crazy traffic and the long lines in the mall just to buy that perfect present. The holidays are made more festive through Globe myBusiness’ DigiMall, powered by Shopify. It’s now easier to purchase gifts for your family and friends through these online shops. Customer can browse through items even on mobile! Globe myBusiness will even help you start your very own online shop through its partnership with Shopify and its slew of digital solutions for the modern entrepreneur. Gift-giving is also made easier with wonderful holiday offers up for grabs with Globe Rewards points. Globe customers can easily purchase their favorite H&M items with up to 50% off on selected items from December 19 to December 31, 2016. Entrance to Palace Pool club events is also covered with Globe Rewards and customers can bring up to 2 guests each for free from December 15 to 31. One can also get Php200 off their GrabCar rides from November 25 to December 31 by using the promo code GLOBEREWARDS. Relive the Christmas classics right at home Nothing beats family time at home during Christmas. Create new ways to entertain your family and make them come home to wonderful with Globe Broadband. You can now create your own plan, or you can choose from all the bundles available. These bundles come with a device, whether it be a 40-inch Full-HD Smart TV, Chromecast, or Playstation 4. You can enjoy wonderful content such as Netflix, HOOQ, and NBA League Pass FREE for 6 months.

More wonderful experiences to share with the family On its second major collaboration, Globe LIVE and 9Works Theatrical bring to life Charles Dicken’s classic, A Christmas Carol. A timeless musical show, Menken & Ahren’s version of The Christmas Carol musical is set to give the audience an unforgettable show accompanied by a 23-piece orchestra. With its wonderful songs and touching story, Filipinos can now have a new holiday tradition to look forward to. Star Wars Rogue One is also set to be a certified hit as it premieres in theaters on December 15. Apart from exclusive block screenings, Star Wars fans can also dress in galactic fashion with the new limited Star Wars apparel only available at the Globe ICONIC store. Reservations are accepted as there are only limited pieces per design. Interested customers can just go to the Globe ICONIC store. With the confirmation of Coldplay’s concert, fans are in for some exciting on-ground events as the country counts down to the most awaited show on April 4, 2017. To start the Adventure of A Lifetime with Coldplay, Globe will host a series of #GlobeColdplay Sessions for everyone to experience Coldplay and their music in full technicolor with a day full of arts, activities, and performances from well-known artists in the music industry. Lastly, Filipinos are in for an exciting 2017 ahead as the leading internet television network, Netflix, will soon premiere the story of the turbulent lives of the characters in Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events. Globe Broadband customers get 6 months free access to bingewatch with friends and family. Customers who get a new myLifestyle postpaid plan with a Huawei GR3, P9, or Mate 8 also get 6 months free access. Globe makes new traditions this Christmas for you and your family. Make this holiday season truly wonderful.

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Tagum... FROM 4 years from now, as a lawyer, doctor, engineer, dentist or any profession they have chosen in the future,” Umali stated in Filipino. DepEd assistant secretary Tonisito Umali noted that the two values are vital to the future professions of students. “The concept of punctuality and honesty are basic values that we should all recognize, and that we should all instill in the minds of our youth,” he said in a release issued Thursday. “We don’t merely teach children, we develop the awareness of those who will make up our strong and excellent country in the future,” Umali added. He added that the concept of punctuality and being hon-

est are fundamental values that everyone should recognize and that all should all instill in the minds of our youth. “What we are inculcating in the minds of children today will be reflected thirty or forty years from now, as a lawyer, doctor, engineer, dentist or any profession they have chosen in the future,” Umali stated in Filipino. Furthermore, Umali emphasized that aside from honing the learners to become better citizens of this nation, this effort also leads to the development of a stronger country. “What we do today and the schools are not only teaching children; we are shaping the consciousness of the people who create a stable, effi-

cient, and great country in the future,” Umali added. The three best Project WATCH school implementers are Tagum City National Comprehensive High School, Sto. Niño Elementary School in Bulacan, and Cabarroguis National School of Arts and Trades in the Province of Quirino. The Project WATCH, launched in 2008, aims to undertake effective programs, projects, and other activities to enhance the importance of punctuality and honesty as elements of success in our daily lives. The DepEd, Junior Chamber International (JCI) Senate Philippines, and other government and non-government agencies are campaigning for this initiative. TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

ing in our staff, providing an environment that encourages learning and also put in place initiatives that will help our people develop and flourish in their careers. For an organization that has been operational for less than two years, this is something that we should be very proud of. Takeda is also delighted to be part of the exclusive and internationally renowned community of Top Employers in Asia Pacific.” The Top Employers Institute globally certifies excellence in the conditions that employers create for their people. It recently announced the overall results of this year’s research into the employee conditions of significant em-

ployers in the region. Crucial to the Top Employers process is that participating companies must meet the required high standards in the research in order to achieve the certification. In addition, organizations that achieve certification in at least four countries within the region are awarded the special Top Employers Asia Pacific 2017 recognition. The Top Employers Institute assessed Takeda Philippines employee offerings on the following criteria: • Talent Strategy • Workforce Planning • On-boarding • Learning & Development • Performance Management • Leadership Development

• Career & Succession Management • Compensation & Benefits • Culture David Plink, CEO of the Top Employers Institute: “Our extensive research concluded that Takeda Philippines forms part of a select group of employers that advance employee conditions worldwide. Their people are well taken care of. Now that they have received the Top Employers Asia Pacific 2017 certification, they can truly consider themselves at the top of an exclusive group of the world’s best employers.” To learn more about the Top Employers Institute and the Top Employers certification visit: www.top-employers.com.

Takeda... FROM 10

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 213 • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 17, 2016

WEIGHTLIFTING CAPITAL

P23-M weighlifting center to rise in Zambo

XPECT more Hidilyn Diazes to come from the city of Zamboanga, the country’s weightlifting capital. The national government is allocating P23-million to finance the construction of a weightlifting training center in Zamboanga City, the first one of its kind away from Metro Manila as regionalization

becomes the order of the day in sports development under the Duterte administration. Zamboanga City councilor Elbert Atilano, who is the Philippine Weightlifting Association vice president, said on Wednesday that the training center would be built inside the Joaquin F. Enriquez Jr. Memorial Sports Complex.

Atilano said a two-storey building will be constructed to house the weightlifting training center with complete equipment including a dormitory that could accommodate at least 32 athletes at one time. “The training center will enhance the performance of the (weightlifting) athletes since we

training center would start on the first quarter of 2017. Once completed, the training center will benefit more or less 100 Zamboangueño weightlifters. At present, the weightlifters from this city train at the weightlifting gym of a private university, the Universidad de Zamboanga. NJB with report from PNA

will have a good facility,” Atilano said. He said the construction of t h e

BRIGHT STARS. Olympic silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz (right) and 17year old prodigy Dessa delos Santos (left) are products of Zamboanga City’s weightlifting program.

s triple double lifts Minus Big 3, Cavs lose to Grizzlies by 3 Harden’ Houston to 8th straight win T J ROY Daniels scored 20 points and Marc Gasol had 17 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a 93-85 victory Wednesday night over the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers, who left their top three

scorers at home to rest. Tony Allen added 16 points, eight rebounds and three steals as Memphis won for the seventh time in eight games. The only loss during that stretch was a 110-89 defeat Tuesday night in Cleveland.

LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love did not make the trip for the Cavs, leaving an average of more than 70 points per game back in Cleveland. The result was the Cavaliers setting a season low for points and hitting only

nine 3-pointers - matching their fewest in a game this season. James Jones made three shots from outside the arc and led Cleveland with 15 points. Cavaliers rookie Kay Felder scored a season-high 14.

AMES Harden had a triple-double - 15 points, 14 assists and 11 rebounds in just three quarters to lead the Houston Rockets to their eighth straight win, 132-98 over the short-handed Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. Houston’s winning streak is the longest current one in the NBA and the team’s longest since 2014. It was Harden’s fifth triple-double this season and the 14th of his career, which

ties him with Hakeem Olajuwon for most in franchise history. Houston led by 15 points in the third quarter before using a 10-4 run to push it to 76-53 with about 7 minutes left in the quarter. The Rockets began to pour it on after that, outscoring the Kings 18-5 over the next 3 1/2 minutes to make it 94-58. Trevor Ariza scored the first five points in that span and capped it with a 3-pointer.

Tiger returning to Riviera

T BIG THREE. Kyrie Irving, Lebron James and Kevin Love did not join the trip to Memphis.

Nowitzki hints at retirement

BA star Dirk Nowitzki says he could retire as early as next year, but admits his dream is to play until 2018 and celebrate 20 years with the Dallas Mavericks. Nowitzki has played for the Mavericks since joining from DJK Wurzburg in 1998. The German was the NBA Finals’ MVP during the

team’s 2011 championship year and is a 13-time NBA All-Star, but at 38-year-old is coming to the end of his career. “If things don’t go so well and it hurts everywhere, it could be that 2017 will be the end,” the forward told German magazine Sport Bild. “Actually, my plan is to complete the 20 years and

play for Dallas until 2018. “But just because I have signed a two-year contract doesn’t automatically mean that I will play for two years. It could happen next year.” Nowitzki is currently struggling with a persistent Achilles tendon problem, has not played since November 25 and says he wants to speak to Mavericks’ bosses next summer

about his future. Meanwhile, the Mavericks are patiently waiting for Nowitzki to return having only played five matches of the 24 games in the current NBA season. Dallas beat Denver Nuggets 112-92 on Monday, but remain bottom of the SouthWest Division with six wins and 18 defeats.

IGER Woods is returning to Riviera Country Club for the first time since 2006 to play the Genesis Open in February. He announced Tuesday that he will play in the event from Feb. 13-19 that benefits his foundation. Riviera was the site of Woods’ PGA Tour debut in 1992 at age 16. He says he “weighed about 105 pounds and it was a life-changing moment for me.” It is the tournament Woods has played the most with-

RETURNING. For the first time since 2006, Tiger Woods will be playing in the Riviera Country Club.

out a victory, having gone 0-for-9, with eight of those events played at Riviera. The Tiger Woods Foundation, the PGA Tour and Genesis announced a partnership under which Woods’ TGR Live will manage the tournament at Riviera. Woods returned to competitive golf earlier this month for the first time since August 2015 at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. He hasn’t announced his 2017 playing schedule aside from Riviera.

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