Edge Davao 9 Issue 227 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 9 ISSUE 227 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2017

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

FINE-TUNING. A lineman from a firm commissioned by a telecommunications company adjusts the support cables of a just erected high-speed internet post at Sta. Ana Port which is part of the city government of Davao’s ongoing free internet access project in public parks around the city. The project is in partnership with the Department of Information and Communication Technology. Lean Daval Jr.

DAVAO ON RED ALERT After 158 inmates bolt Cotabato jail

18.75% increase for biz permits in Davao certain

By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

HE Davao City Police Office on Wednesday disclosed that the city has been placed under on full alert status following the jailbreak at the North Cotabato District Jail in Kidapawan City where 158 detainees escaped. In a press conference, DCPO spokesperson Catherine dela Rey echoed police chief Michael John Dubria’s directive that all police units in the city must conduct random checkpoints in case some of the escapees might have fled to Davao City.

Dela Rey said that the police station commanders under the DCPO have ordered to threat the jail break as a major concern since “most of the escapees had criminal cases filed against them in court.” “We take no chances given that the city is always a target of atrocities; hence both police and the community must remain vigilant,” De la Rey said. She also encouraged the residents to report to the authorities the presence of new and suspicious individuals in

their respective areas immediately to the nearest police station for the authorities to conduct checks and validation of their status. “Everyone is encouraged to report the pictures of new and suspicious individuals, and persons of interest there for us to always cross-check with all other police station commanders and in those photos posted in Kidapawan City to immediately fast-track the escapees,” he said. Leoncio Cirunay, director of the Office of Civil Defense -

Davao Region (OCD XI) added that the authorities are responsible for bringing the respondents back to the jail. Cirunay pointed out that the city’s security would be reinforced by members of Philippine National Police, Task Force Davao and Joint Task Force Haribon. “The OCD will intervene if the incident will have dire consequences that will affect a large number of people,” Cirunay said, adding that their department is also monitoring the situation.

By JERMAINE L. DELA CRUZ

ITH the annual renewal period set from January 2 to 20, the Davao City business bureau division revealed it was expecting a significant increase in the number of business permits to be issued

in 2017. City Business Bureau officer-in-charge Atty. Marisa M. Marasigan-Torentera told Edge Davao said on Wednesday that as of January 20, 2016, the agency has record-

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 227 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2017

DERILECTION. Driving a motorcycle without a helmet is not a problem in Tibungco, Davao City as traffic enforcers from the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), Traffic Group and Land Transportation Office (LTO) 11 don’t bother to apprehend violators in the area. Lean Daval Jr.

DSWD bares implementation of medicine assistance program By ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

adlopez0920@gmail.com

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development on Tuesday announced the implementation of the medicine assistance program in line with the earlier pronouncement made by President Duterte that he will allocate P1 billion for medicine assistance for indigent patients through the department. DSWD secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo has released Memorandum Circular No. 16 which mobilizes DSWD Field Offices III, VI, VII, XI and the National Capital Region to provide medicine assistance to indigent patients/clients, pending Malacanang’s fund transfer. Taguiwalo explained that

the Department of Health has an ongoing free medicine program for indigents called Medical Assistance Program, a program of the DOH intended to provide medical assistance to patients seeking consultations, rehabilitation, and examination or otherwise confined in government hospitals. The DSWD, she added, provides medical assistance to indigent patients it is Assistance to Individuals in Crisis. “Pres. Duterte, very much aware of the high costs of medicines and the numerous indigent patients who cannot afford to buy prescription drugs, allocated P1 billion to

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Traffic men, LTO enforce anti-drunk driving law

RAFFIC Group officials in Davao City on Wednesday announced its men would assist the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in enforcing the new anti-drunk driving law. Traffic Group spokesperson P/Supt. Ernesto Castillo said they have started implementing the Republic Act (RA) 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013 a few years ago. Their records showed that they had apprehended seven violators last 2016 wherein one pleaded guilty in court and six others are still

waiting for the court decision. According to Castillo, violators of RA 10586 would be facing fines ranging from P20,000 to P80,000, three months imprisonment, and the license would be suspended for six months. “The license would be perpetually revoked – meaning he or she cannot apply for a driver’s license here in the Philippines anymore – if the same driver would be caught for the second time,” Castillo said, adding that the violator would be fined from P100,000 to P500,000 depending on the

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DCPO: Crime down by 25% By TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

HE crime volume in Davao City has dipped considerably by 25.15% as of November 2016, the Davao City Police Office revealed. According to DCPO data, crime volume from January to November 2016 totaled 10,269 incidents, which is 3,451 less compared to the same period in 2015. ”We observed a decline of 42% in the city’s index crime,” said DCPO spokesperson Chief Insp. Catherine dela Rey on Wednesday. Dela Rey attributed the

increase in crime solution efficiency to the programs of the PNP such as the Lambat Sibat, Oplan Sita and other police operations. The police have recorded 2,340 index crimes from January to November 2016—to include murder, robbery, and theft—compared to 4,032 in 2015. According to data, murder cases fell from 219 to 162 while robbery cases slid down from 565 to 337, and theft was down to 937 from the 2,036 in 2016. “Regarding the monthly

crime rate, we improved slightly to 52.74% last 2016 from 71.80% in 2015 with an average of 19.06% decrease,” dela Rey said. Dela Rey attributed the increase in crime solution efficiency to the programs of the PNP such as the Lambat Sibat, Oplan Sita and other police operations. “This is also attributed to the reports received from text hotline, build-up intelligence monitoring, proactive security measures and police presence,” Dela Rey said. She added that the mobile,

foot, bike, and bicycle patrol greatly helped the crime solution efficiency. “It is also with the aid of our policemen who exerted their effort to reduce the petty and street crimes in the City,” she acknowledged, adding that it is because of Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio and DCPO Chief Michael John Dubria’s mandate to increase police visibility. Dela Rey also stressed they would still continue with their operations against criminal gangs, most wanted persons, illegal firearms and drugs to serve and protect the people.

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said he wished for a peaceful and progressive Philippines this new year as he sat down for one-on-one interviews for several media organizations this week. Six months after assuming the presidency, President Duterte discussed during the interviews wide range of issues such as his administration’s accomplishments in the past few months and the prospects of the

coming year. “I just want my country peaceful and developing. Wala na akong ibang ambisyon sa buhay ko,” the President said in an interview with CNN Philippines in Malacanan on Thursday when asked about his New Year wish. In the past six months, the President said there were nmany accomplishments under his watch. For instance, the ongoing campaign of illegal narcotics, which he said resulted in decline

in incidence of crimes like robbery and rape noting these are “visual proofs” of good effects of the administration’s war on drugs. He has also spoken about his health, his Cabinet, his foreign policy, peace talks and challenges that confront the country.

is awaiting for the proposal that prolong the duration of maternity leave from 60 to 100 days. Women, he said, need longer period to stay at home after birth to care for their newborn. The President also promised to approve a bill that puts an end to end of contract (endo) for Filipino workers. In a separate interview with ANC, the President mentioned the impasse in the Social Securi-

Rody elated over six-month accomplishments P Governtment priority legislations As to the legislations that he supports, the President said he

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Exec suspends classes in five NC schools in the wake of jail attack

IDAPAWAN City Mayor Joseph Evangelista has canceled classes in five public schools in the periphery of Barangay Amas following the 1:00 a.m. Wednesday siege by armed men of the North Cotabato Provincial Jail that led to the escape of over 158 detainees, including high profile inmates. Mayor Evangelista, in a statement, ordered the indefinite cancellation of classes at the Amas Central Elementary School, Amas National High School, Puas Inda Integrated School, Patadon Elementary School, and Malinan Elementary School. “We should ensure the safety of our pupils and teachers in the area while tensions and pursuit operations are underway. We will wait until they will declare these areas safe,” he said. Evangelista also requested Lt. Col Harold Argamoza of the 39th Infantry Battalion to augment the elements of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office in

securing the vicinity and conduct of strict highway inspection. “We requested the military to augment our policemen in conducting security patrols and checkpoints in some strategic points to avoid any diversionary tactics from the lawless group,” he added. Personnel from the Kidapawan City 911 Response Unit were on standby in the area to respond to any emergency. Heightened security alert was issued in the perimeter of the Cotabato Provincial Capitol Complex where the provincial jail is also situated to continue regular government operations and deter any atrocity. Supt. Peter John Bonggat, provincial jail warden, confirmed that based on their latest head count of the 1,511 inmates, 158 were able to escape the facility, among them the Tamayan brothers, both facing murder charges, and Salik brothers who are charged for illegal drugs trafficking. (PNA)

UPBEAT. OIC Consul General Mohd Jafri Bin Mohd Sharif of Malaysia says he is optimistic that peace process between the Philippine government and the rebel groups will prosper and hopeful that more countries will contribute

something to ensure that the peace negotiations will materialize. Sharif made the statement during Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

Davao sends food packs to typhoon-hit provinces I

Tagum City opts out from bid to ban fireworks nationwide

By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE city government of Davao has provided financial aid amounting to P11Million to the four provinces in the Bicol region that were heavily-damaged by Typhoon Nina. In addition, the city government under Mayor Sara Duterte sent 20,000 food packs that were to be distributed to residents in the typhoon-affected provinces of

Marinduque, Camarines Sur, Albay and Catanduanes. Each province received 5,000 food packs and financial assistance from the city government of Davao. Two C130 planes delivered the food packs to the affected provinces that started on Friday morning, as ordered by the mayor to immediately respond to those who were struck by Nina.

The city also delivered P11 million to the four provinces from the disaster Quick response funds of the city. This is not the first time that the city sent cash and food assistance to typhoon-affected provinces. It has been a practice of the city government to help those who were affected by the calamities. Earlier, Mayor Sara said

that the city will always be willing to help those who are in need since the city has been struck by different calamities also in the past years. Meanwhile, an additional 6,000 food packs are on standby right now waiting for the confirmation of the 4 LGUs if they still need additional food assistance for their constituents.

The fire incidents, which were among the 193 cases recorded by the Davao City Fire District in 2016, gutted down 21 houses. The CSSDO has already extended immediate relief con-

sisting of food and non-food packs to the victims. Maria Luz Faranal, CSSDO’s emergency and disaster focal person, said the last three fires also affected 69 individuals who were room renters and

boarders. Records from the fire department showed that most of the fire incidents were typically caused by unattended lit candles and plugged-in electrical appliances and devices. CIO

Davao City fire victims to receive help T

HE Davao City Social Services and Development Office is set to release the amount of P391,000 as financial assistance to the victims of three fire incidents in the city in the last few days of 2016.

F the ban of firecrackers and other forms of pyrotechnics will push through nationwide, Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon said he would request for an exemption in order to sustain a tradition of welcoming the new year with fireworks display. “The tradition of doing fireworks displays is Tagum City’s way of embracing the New Year with a colorful kick and starting the new calendar with a vibe full of optimism,” Mayor Rellon told reporters on Wednesday when asked of his impression on the New Year’s Day revelry in the city. The city greeted 2017 with a big bang on Sunday with a grander and more splendid pyro-musical exhibition that was witnessed by thousands of residents. The celebration was held outside the city’s iconic new city hall. A spectacular 15-minute pyro-musical exhibition sponsored by the local government made that early morning jovial and cheerful as people watched

Graft raps filed vs. Ipong, Cabral for P9M PDAF scam

WHAT IS TO BE DONE. Office of Civil Defense (OCD) 11 director Ret. Brigadier General Leoncio Cirunay Jr. (left) discusses the agency’s plan to conduct community training on disaster preparedness in barangays to lessen the effects if ever calamities will hit the region. Cirunay, together

with Davao City Police Office spokesperson Senior Inspector Catherine Dela Rey, graced yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

with amazement the early morning night sky painted with a myriad of colors. The fireworks burst above the 175-foot giant Holiday Tree, synchronized with an animated music to match the heart-pounding experience. The city government of Tagum spent half a million pesos for this year’s pyro-musical display, a tradition that Tagumenyos and people from nearby towns look forward to every year. “Every shout and cheer of the measured their happiness. Their presence during the occasion also showed their support to the city government,” Rellon said. Thus, if President Duterte will push for the declaration of a nationwide ban against firecrackers and fireworks display this year, Rellon said he will personally ask for an exemption. “I’ll personally write him if he could exempt us because we’ve been doing this for the joy of our people,” he humbly asserted. (PNA)

HE Office of the Ombudsman has filed a new set of charges against former North Cotabato Rep. Gregorio Ipong and former Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Esperanza Cabral for their presumed involvement in a P9Million Priority Development Assistance Fund scam in 2007. In a 32-page resolution, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales ordered the filing of two counts of violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the “Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act against Ipong and former Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Esperanza Cabral for malversation and

falsification of public funds. Also ordered charged before the Sandiganbayan are DSWD Undersecretary Mateo Montaño, Chief Accountant Leonila Hayahay and Roberto Solon of the Economic and Social Cooperation for Local Development Foundation, Inc. Ipong, currently the North Cotabato Vice-Governor, was found responsible for the anomalous utilization of his Php9.4-million PDAF issued thru a Special Release Allotment Order (SARO) in January 2007. The fund was supposed to target the poor and marginalized sectors of Ipong’s constituents in the second district of North Cotabato

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BOC helped protect RP from drug menace through its NAIA sub-office

HE Bureau of Customs based at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport intensified its efforts in the last two quarters of 2016 to help protect the country from the drug scourge, as well as in assisting other government agencies in carrying out the Duterte administration’s campaign against corruption and smuggling. As a result, the BOC enhanced its revenue collections, intercepted the some P242 million-worth of high-grade cocaine at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, along with other types of narcotics and illegal substances, and apprehended devices and paraphernalia used for money laundering and illegal gambling. Year-on-year collections of the BOC-NAIA went up by 28 percent from P1.36 billion in 2015 to P1.9 billion in 2016, according to a report by the Bureau to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III. Actual collections amounted to P8.3 billion in the third quarter and P8.4 billion in the fourth quarter, said this BOC unit in its report to Dominguez. For the entire year, the BOC-NAIA’s collections have already reached P33.7 billion

as of the third week of December 2016 which is 93.8 percent of the full-year target of P36.12 billion. Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon also issued a new order covering the NAIA Collection District III, which now requires accredited public bonded warehouses to provide the BOC the necessary tools and equipment, such a X-ray machines, CCTVs, and computers, to enhance its revenue collection and strengthen enforcement initiatives. Cash collections with monetized currencies seized by the BOC from different airline passengers since January 2016 have reached P33.7 billion. The BOC-NAIA also created an Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Lane at the NAIA International Passenger Terminals 1, 2 and 3 in line with the thrust of the present administration to further assist and to provide hassle-free clearance for arriving OFWs. Dominguez had lauded the BOC-NAIA for its successive arrests of suspected drug couriers with the help of airport and drug enforcement authorities at the NAIA. Last Nov. 14, the BOC-NAIA Interagency Drug Interdic-

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DOF crafts‘game-changing’ tax reform package in 2016

HE Department of Finance completed in less than 90 days into the Duterte administration last year the first package of its proposed comprehensive tax reform program envisioned to be the “game-changing” tool to realize the government’s primary agenda of sustaining high growth and making its benefits felt by all sectors in all regions. Tax reform had topped the economic agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte when he assumed office in July last year, with his Finance Secretary, Carlos Dominguez III, announcing that the new administration would work to fulfill the Chief Executive’s campaign pledge to make the tax system fairer, simpler and more efficient and, more importantly, less burdensome for low- and middle-income Filipinos. ‘In the medium-term, tax reform is expected to help reduce the poverty rate from 21.6 percent in 2015 to 14 percent by 2022,” Dominguez said. The DOF began the process of fulfilling this poll campaign pledge by submitting to the Congress last September 26, or just short of three months since President Duterte assumed office, the first package of the CTRP. The DOF also issued Administrative Order No. 1-2016 on the Rules and Regulations to Implement Republic Act No. 10708 or the Tax Incentives Management and Transparency Act.

This was issued by the DOF with the Department of Trade and Industry. It likewise conducted the 2nd International Tax Forum on October 27-28, with the theme “Fiscal Policy and Inclusive Growth.” Package One of the CTRP aims to lower personal income taxes from 32 percent to 25 percent over a two-year period, except for the “ultra-rich” to keep the rates progressive. It also adjusts the tax brackets to correct “income creeping” by adjusting the rates to inflation and proposes a shift to a modified gross system to make tax payments simpler, fairer and more efficient. The original DOF proposal, which is now being deliberated upon in the Ways and Means Committee of the House of Representatives, exempts 4.7 million taxpayers with a net taxable income of 250,000 and below from paying income taxes. To offset the revenue loss from the lowering of the PIT rates, the DOF has proposed as part of Package One a corresponding set of revenue compensating measures that aim to expand the value-added tax base and restructure the excise taxes on fuel and automobiles. The proposal also includes earmarking a quarter to a third of the revenues generated from the fuel excise tax adjustments to targeted, direct transfer programs for senior citizens and other vulnerable sectors.

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NEW PROJECT IN SIGHT. Accendo Commercial Corporation general manager Luigi Escano says the company will break ground early this year for its fourth high rise residential project, the Patio Suites Tower 1, which will be located beside Abreeza Place. Escano made the announcement during Wednesdays @ Habi at Kape at Abreeza Mall yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

10-point socioeconomic agenda of Rody backed by 2017 budget T

HE New Year brings renewed hope and vigor for Filipinos. With the 2017 National Budget in place, the government and its agencies are all set to take the country to its journey towards real change. The 2017 National Budget – the People’s Budget – was crafted parallel to the Duterte Administration’s 10-Point Socioeconomic Agenda. It concentrates on strong, sustained, and inclusive growth. Development will not be focused on already wealthy regions, cities, and few rich alone, but will also embrace lagging regions, poor towns, and the poor majority. The major constraints to growth are poor infrastructure, the high cost of doing business due to poor governance, and the uncompetitive and inefficient tax system. The Duterte administrations will address these constraints. But in order to make growth to be truly inclusive, it will aspire to create as many decent jobs as possible. Hence, the government will fully invest in the country’s most

significant asset – its people, especially the youth-- to ensure that they become an agile, competent, and healthy workforce in the future. The 2017 National Budget was crafted in order to make the Philippines an attractive economy for both domestic and foreign investors, and more important, to provide higher incomes, decent jobs, and better standards of living for Filipinos.

ports and navigationa facilities are allocated P6.8 billion; port systems are given P1.4 billion.

Infrastructure Total infrastructure spending will exceed P850 billion for 2017 or 5.4% of gross national product (GDP). The huge allocation will secure for us improved roads, bridges, transportation systems, school buildings, health facilities, and other infrastructure assets. The bulk of infrastructure financing will go to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) with allocations of P454.7 billion and P46.2 billion, respectively. The DPWH is set to spend

P216.9 billion for road network services, allowing for the construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of national roads to ease traffic congestion and improve commerce. An additional 3,102 kilometers of national roads and 26,786 kilometers of bridges will better integrate markets and link lagging regions to leading regions. The Mindanao Logistics Infrastructure Network (MLIN), with a P31.5 billion allocation for 2017, is a testament to this. Flood management services are provided P73 billion to construct and maintain 2,055 flood control structures and drainage systems. Project monitoring will be strengthened by geo-tagging major projects to eliminate “ghost projects” and ensure timely execution. Meanwhile, the DOTr will utilize its allocation to finance various transport initiatives. The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) projects are given P6.8 billion for the LRT lines 1 and 2 extension projects. In total, railway systems are allocated P16.3 billion; air-

nas (BSP) data show that as of September 2016, rural banks (RBs) and Coop bank’s total lending under the said law amounted to P22.46 billion, higher than the P21.73 billion. RBs and Coop banks’ compliance to the Agri part is 29.50 percent, way higher than the 15 percent requirement and the 20 percent same period in 2015. Agra lending by this group as of the third quarter last year is 17.03 percent, way higher than the 10 percent requirement but lower than year-ago’s 37.70 percent in

end-September 2015. Monetary officials have attributed the high compliance of RBs and Cooperative banks to the Agri-Agra Law to their proximity to the intended clients. Compliance by universal and commercial banks (U/ KBs) as of end-September 2016 under Agri lending is 12.83 percent, lower than year-ago’s 14.20 percent. Agra lending compliance by this group as of end-September 2016 is 0.64 percent, lower than the 0.79 percent in end-September 2015.

Total Agri-Agra Law lending by U/KBs as of end-Septemer 2016 amounted to P396.02 billion. Thrift bank’s total lending under the said law amounted to P17.28 billion, higher than the P11.66 billion same period in the previous year. Agri compliance of TBs as of end-September last year is 10.03 percent, lower than year-ago’s 10.24 percent while its Agra compliance at the end of the third quarter of 2016 is 1.97 percent, lower than year-ago’s 2.4 percent. (PNA)

Human Resources Investment in Human Resources in line with the administration’s goal of developing our most important asset – our people – education, health, and school welfare will be given top priority. Forty percent of government expenditures will finance social services, ranging from education, healthcare and housing to social protection, land distribution and employment. This means that more than P1.3 trillion will be spent for programs that will provide safety nets to Filipinos and equip them with the necessary tools to be productive members of society. For 2017, the Department of Education (DepEd) will receive the highest budgetary allocation among all agencies with P543.2 billion. This amount will fund the government’s objectives of universal basic education for

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RBs, coop banks still lead Agri-Agra compliance

URAL banks (RBs) and cooperative banks continue to surpass the required lending compliance to the agriculture sector under the Agri-Agra Law. Banks are required under Republic Act (RA) 10,000, otherwise known as An Act Providing for an Agriculture and Agrarian Reform Credit and Financing System Through Banking Institutions, to allocate 10 percent of their funds for agrarian reform credit (Agra) and 15 percent for other agricultural credit (Agri). Bangko Sentral ng Pilipi-

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ECONOMY 5

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MSU sign agreement Nutrition Council bares success TESDA, backing land reform in ARMM in program versus malnutrition T By FUNNY PEARL A. GAJUNERA

HE Davao City Nutrition Council sought to help end malnutrition in the city by strengthening the Community Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition implemented on 2013. The City is the first and the only city in the country that continues to implement CIMAM in a non-emergency status. City nutrition council head, Evangeline Ginite said that the program has been reaching its goal to reach out to all malnourished children in the city. She said that most of the other cities and even countries only implement CIMAM

during disaster or war. “Actually, we are the only city that implements CIMAM in a non-emergency status, this is during the time of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte that it was materialized since he wanted to end malnutrition,” she said. During the first year of the program, the office has identified nine severely malnourished children in the city, but after three months they have obtained 100 percent success rate and turned the kids healthy. Ginite said that From January to June of this year they have enrolled 176 malnourished children, 65 percent of

them were cured in just two to three months. “We want to end malnutrition, that is why we were doing our best to feed those malnourished kids. We want to give this kids a better future ahead of them,” she said. The city partnered with UNICEF to obtain Ready to Use Therapeutic Food that helps the children gained their lost nutrition. She said that through the city’s partnership with the UNICEF, they have saved P4 million out of the P6.5 million budget that was released by Duterte in 2014. “The budget was intended

to purchased the RUTF, but since the UNICEF give it to us for free, we have saved the money and was used in the other things that the program needs. For now, we have complete equipment like weighing machines in all our centers,” Ginite said. Last September, the Department of Health adopted the program and produces RUTF to cure those severely malnourished children in the entire country. Ginite said that New York has recognized the CIMAM program of the city, adding that only few countries adopted it as their regular program.

HE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Mindanao State University (MSU) have expressed their full support to the Comprehensive Reform and Development Agenda program of President Rodrigo Duterte for the development of the Autonomous Regions in Muslim Mindanao and other places in Regions 9, 10 and 12 affected by armed conflict. Aside from this, TESDA, MSU and ARMM have signed a memorandum of cooperation for the full implementation of the program in the region. TESDA Director General Guiling Mamondiong said the memorandum will facilitate the progress of CRDA which will help uplift the lives of the residents in the region. Habib Macaayong, MSU president, said the CRDA is a wonderful opportunity for the ARMM as the government

could pay attention to its concern and eventually resolve it. “This is a golden opportunity particularly for the people of Mindanao. We now have a sincere President of the country who comes from Mindanao. He knows very well the problems in Mindanao, especially the Bangsamoro, and how to solve it. His reform and development agenda is realistic and attainable. Thus, we must have to fully support President Duterte for the success of his government. In the end, everyone will benefit from this,” said Macaayong. Meanwhile, MSU will allot 3,000 scholarships for poor residents in the region. MSU will provide them with free tuition, dormitory and university facilities. “MSU, as an academic institution of higher learning, will cater vigorously to the educational needs of the Min-

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NIA to implement free irri service fee this year

WAITING. A man waits as a shoeshine lady cleans up his shoes outside Sangguniang Panlungsod along San Pedro Street in Davao City yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

HE newly-installed National Irrigation Administrator has expressed optimism that the government will soon be implementing a free irrigation service fee to farmers. NIA administrator Peter Lavina, during his in Cauayan City, Isabela last week said the Duterte administration is now studying the proposal of a possible free irrigation service fee for farmers using the waters from the irrigation canals that were constructed by the government and hoping that it will be approved and implemented within this year. Lavina assured that under

his leadership, the free irrigation service fee will already be enjoyed by farmers soon and would increase their desire to produce more palay to make the country rice self-sufficient. He said the Cagayan Valley region is second palay producer nationwide where its contribution to the rice self-sufficiency program of the government is greatly appreciated. The NIA official made a visit in Cauayan City particularly at the NIA regional office and met with officials of the farmers organization and irrigators association including the NIA -2 officials and employees. (PIA-2/Isabela)

companies urged to avail of DBM proposes PNP, AFP pay hikes PHChina-ASEAN Investment Fund

HE Department of Budget and Management, in line with the Duterte administration’s pledge to provide better compensation and benefits to the country’s uniformed personnel, has submitted a proposal to increase the compensation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). In 2016, the PNP and AFP received greater benefits due

to an increase in the allowances. Executive Order No. 3 signed on September 26, 2016 particularly increased the combat duty pay and combat incentive pay of soldiers and policemen. For 2017, the proposed increase will raise the regular pay of the AFP and PNP, as well as other MUP, via a higher base pay, with a Joint Resolution already submitted to the Office of the President.

The proposed base pay hike is on top of the second tranche of the Salary Standardization (Executive Order No. 201, s. 2016) that will increase the compensation of government employees, including military and uniformed personnel. This proposal will, however, require the concurrence of Congress. Once approved, a Police Officer I who received a total annual compensation

of P321,746 in 2015 and P355,290 in 2016 will receive P473,625 in 2017. Similarly, a Private who received a total annual compensation of P330,866 in 2015 and P342,936 in 2016 will receive P436,138 in 2017. In effect, the upsurge in compensation for military and uniformed personnel will arise from a combination of hikes in allowances and increases in base pay. (DBM)

scheduled renewal period on Jan. 20. He said such figure was based on the number of registered local businesses that steadily increased in the last several years. On Tuesday, the city government opened a one-stopshop at its Investment Building for the business permits renewal and registration. Lacap said the one-stopshop hosts all local government offices that are in-

volved in the processing and issuance of business permits. He said they also provided desks for other government offices that issue clearances required in the issuance of business permits, among them the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Social Security System. The official urged business owners and those who intend to register new ventures to avail of the services of the one-stop-shop.

“To avoid cramming and crowding, please come on time and if possible, make your transactions as early as this week,” he said. Lacap said they have streamlined the processing and issuance of business permits through various initiatives. He said they initially opened the application last month and about 1,000 MSMEs have responded.

GSC eyes P200M revenue for 2017 from biz permits

HE General Santos City government was looking forward to generate around P200 million in revenues in line with the annual renewal of business permits and registration of new businesses. Rodilon Lacap, assistant city treasurer, said Wednesday around 9,000 micro, small and medium enterprises in the city are expected to renew their business permits until the end of the

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HILIPPINE companies are encouraged to avail of equity investment fund that provides capital support to outstanding firms in both China and the ASEAN region to grow their businesses. Patrick Ip, Principal of China-ASEAN Capital Advisory Co. Ltd., said the China-ASEAN Investment Fund prioritizes public infrastructure, banking, agriculture and other sectors, such as consumption, logistics, health care and even those that benefit from the urbanization and the growth of the middle class. The target size of the fund’s phase one is USD1 billion to USD10 billion. It is one of the largest equity funds with Chinese background focusing on the ASEAN region. Ip said investment sizes range from USD24 million to USD150 million. ”I think the most important is to enjoy our equity support, and other support we can provide to you in terms of adding more value to (your)

company, help your income to grow. We tend to improve operations, we spend time on financial management, we spend time on strategic business and financial improvement,” he said in a recent interview held here. Ip noted that since the inception of the investment fund in 2001, his group has so far partnered with only one Philippine firm, Negros Navigation Co. Inc. ”China will assess as to how much and when and whether to invest in the company. The funding will come from China,” he said. Ip cited the need for the Philippines to invest more, especially in infrastructure at par with other ASEAN members. “If you want to expand further your consumption, you (need to) deliver more products to the end-customers, you need to ship, you need warehouse. The infrastructure will increase the consumption in this country further,” he added. (PNA)

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7 COMPETITIVE EDGE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 9 ISSUE 227 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2017

DOST info officers undergo training on social media H

AVING revolutionized the way people communicate, social media has indeed become a part of every person’s life. Information could easily spread like wildfire, making it readily accessible. Letting others know how you feel towards their posts is just a click away. Instant celebrities rose to fame by simply uploading photos or videos of themselves. Posting a simple status message to ask for help and surely, in a snap, help will be on its way. Considered as a real game-changer in every field, be it in business, sports, or politics, social media has undeniably become a phenomenon. To take advantage of this, businesses, celebrities, and even the government sector has created their respective

social media accounts to appeal to a wider reach of audience. With the hopes of bringing science and technology closer to more people, the Department of Science and Technology aims to reach those who are not covered by the traditional media, thenetizens. To address this, the DOST Region XI, with the DOST-HRDP as funding agency, conducted a three-day workshop entitled “Social Media Teams, Structures, and Protocols”. “Paanobagagamitinang social media para ma-attain ang specific objectives ngahensyaninyo?,” asked Dr. Anthony C. Sales, DOST XI Regional Director, in his welcome remarks. Social media, as a communication tool, could potentially

bridge the gap between the clients and the agency. In this sense, it creates a faster and concrete interaction between them contrary to the traditional media. “Yung organizational goals, system wide goals, tinatranslatesaatinkadaahensya into specific goals of the agency. That is what we want to attain for the next 6 years, from 2017 to 2022,” Dr. Sales added. Stating that such goals should also be evident in the DOST’s profiles/pages, Dr. Sales also mentioned that the entire DOST system should have a harmonized social media accounts. He also reiterated the importance of social media in establishing the image of DOST as a whole. During the workshop, the participants were able to enu-

merate their goals/ objectives, create contents for their social media pages, make a social media calendar, and identify their partners in the academe, private, and other sectors. The participants were also able to recognize the role of social media as a means of knowing more about their audience. After the three-day workshop, another similar training is said to be conducted next year by the Science and Technology Information Institute, the information and marketing arm of the agency. Although the DOST still continues to make its projects and services known through the traditional media, the agency is open to more publicity and information-dissemination through its social media platforms.

UP Alumni Association Davao elections on Jan. 7

HE University of the Philippines Alumni Association Davao Chapter (UPAA-Davao) will hold elections for Chapter directors on Saturday, January 7, 2017. This was announced by UPAA-Davao board chairperson Atty. Marie Glenn Cedeño-Sorila. Alumni from all UP campuses (from UP Baguio to UP Mindanao), and from all batches, are invited to be registered or have their information updated in the roster, to vote, and to meet fellow alumni on the said date. The venue is Ahfat 2 Restaurant in Victoria Plaza Compound, Davao City. The voting time is 9AM to 12 NOON. The UPAA-Davao will serve food

to visiting alumni. Food to be brought by alumni and friends will also be welcomed. Confirmations or inquiries may be sent to 09285030253 or 09175382074. A total of eight seats for director are vacant. Nominations are still accepted by the Committee on Elections through Facebook Private Message to Ana Siapno-Gualberto. The UPAA-Davao is currently led by Dr. Roberto “Bo” Puentespina as president and Atty. Charmaine Valentin as vice-president. Their projects are the improvement of the UP Mindanao Oblation Plaza and the Legacy Tiles for the Oblation Plaza and fellowships for alumni and friends.

Aboitiz inks P2.8-B loan acquisition of San Carlos solar farm with BDO

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS. Information Officers and media core members of different DOST regional offices and research and development institutes participate in the 3-day workshop facilitated by Ms. Julia Sta. Romana and Mr. Jae Sta. Romana (seated).

DILG: 535 PAMANA completed projects bring change to conflict-affected areas

TOTAL of 535 or 68% of the 787 projects under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) have been completed since the program started in 2012. DILG Secretary Ismael ‘Mike’ D. Sueno said the Department is continuously monitoring the 252 remaining projects which are on various stages of implementation. The PAMANA program provides subsidy and technical assistance for infrastructure projects such as roads, water, bridges, and public market to alleviate the plight of people living in conflict-affected communities and to strengthen peace efforts in these areas. “Armed conflict is ignited when people’s clamor for socioeconomic development is ignored and marginalized. There can’t be peace where there is no development. Over the years, this is being addressed and healed by

PAMANA,” said Sueno. Through PAMANA, the DILG addresses sub-regional development interventions covering economic structures, local roads, evacuation centers, water supply systems and community infrastructure subprojects. The Department also builds the capacities of DILG field offices and local government units (LGUs) on conflict-sensitive planning and investment programming. It also implements or formulates policies addressing issues on good governance relative to conflict-affected areas. The DILG further provides advisory and technical assistance to Regional Offices in project appraisal; and assists LGUs in the preparation of project proposals and detailed engineering design including program of work as well as operation and maintenance of completed projects. “Real development, real change is inclusive and does not leave behind areas affected or vulnerable to armed conflict,” said Sueno. (DILG)

BOITIZ Renewables Inc. signed a memorandum of understanding with BDO Unibank Inc. for its acquisition of the P2.8 billion loan of San Carlos Sun Power Inc., which owns and operates a 59-megawatt solar farm in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental. According to a disclosure from the local bourse, the ini-

tial omnibus loan and security agreement amounts to P3.7 billion and was signed on Dec. 10, 2015. SACASUN is the joint venture firm between ARI and Sun Edison Philippines Helios BV. ARI is the renewable-energy unit of Aboitiz Power Corp. (PNA)

sidering to strengthen the fund’s capacity to absorb the impact of the P2,000 pension hike. Dean Valdez emphasized that the present SSS management has a game plan to ensure that the pension fund can absorb the initial P1,0000 pension increase. “With the guidance of the SSC, we urge SSS management to work on increasing the present rate of return on investments (ROI) to 15 to 20 percent from the current six percent through innovative investments to bolster SSS income and give additional buffer for implementing the pension increase,” Dean Valdez said. SSS is looking at investing in infrastructure projects such as toll roads and railways under Public-Private Partnerships to provide SSS a stable and safe source of income that will be covered by government guarantees. These invest-

ments will also help spur economic development in the country. “SSS seeks to gain ownership of up to 25 percent in utility corporations, so that even in times of power and water rate hikes, our members who comprise the working class will still benefit from the revenues generated from such increases,” Dean Valdez said. SSS is also eyeing joint ventures with developers to maximize the gains from SSS-owned assets such as its five-hectare property at the corner of EDSA and East Avenue in Quezon City. “Given the property’s prime location, we can generate regular earnings from building a high-rise structure with residential and commercial units for sale and lease. We can also earn from charging fees for the use of parking space in the same building and simultaneously help ease heavy traffic in the area,” he said. (PR)

SSS to ensure capability to fund pension increase

HE Social Security System (SSS) welcomes the idea of raising the SSS contribution rate - a measure endorsed by the country’s economic managers – but stressed that its impact on contributing SSS members and employers should be minimized. Social Security Commission (SSC) Chairman Dean Amado D. Valdez said that the current SSS management has already identified several measures to mitigate the impact of the benefit increase, which it hopes to implement starting with the P1,000 initial acrossthe-board pension hike targeted for 2017. Earlier, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia and Budget Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno in a recent memorandum to President Rodrigo Duterte proposed increasing the current 11 percent SSS contribution

rate to 17 percent. While the agency welcomes the idea of raising the SSS contribution rate “it should be implemented in stages, raising it by only 1.5 percent at a given time. As for the maximum monthly salary credit (MSC), we support increasing it to P20,000 to better reflect the present wages of SSS members and enable them to save up more for their retirement,” Dean Valdez said. SSS members currently contribute 11 percent of a maximum MSC or income of only P16,000 per month. In comparison, public sector workers covered by the Government Service Insurance System contribute at a much higher 21 percent rate applied to their entire monthly income. The SSC Chair noted that increasing the 11 percent SSS contribution rate and raising the P16,000 maximum MSC are just part of the various measures that the institution is con-

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 9 ISSUE 227 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2017

EDITORIAL

How dare you say that Leni?

ICE President Leni Robredo was on a US vacation when typhoon Nina struck the country, her province most specifically, on Christmas. When she came back last January 2, she criticized government relief efforts for being slow. The Vice President pushed through with her US holiday before the storm hit the country. She had all the chance to forego her trip but decided not to alter her travel plans. So when the storm battered her province, there she was in America enjoying her Christmas break. She later told everyone that she did not have a grand time as she could not concentrate while her kababayans are losing their homes and properties. Latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said Typhoon Nina left three people dead and 21 missing in Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Region VIII. While the typhoon also caused more than ₱5 billion worth of damages to agriculture and infrastructure in Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Region V. Robredo said she wanted to get a flight home but could not get one. She also reasoned she had to travel with her 80-year old

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mom and kids, two of them no longer minors. As the country’s second highest official, the Vice President can easily request the airline company to give her a seat and bump off a passenger in the exigency of service. But no, she apparently wanted five seats and that was not possible under the circumstances. Her lame excuse is totally unacceptable. First, she should have not pushed through with her US trip. Second, she could have travelled back on her own and the rest of her family, who presumably under the circumstances, could take care of themselves can catch a later flight. She did neither. Worse, she minced no words criticizing the government. How could you, Leni? As if that was not enough, she defennded herself by saying she gave orders from the US for relief operations. That in her absence, she said she called up and instructed her people what to do. Oh, Leni. This may be a modern world where you can be in contact real time from the other side of the world. However, in times of calamity, you don’t email a hug.

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EDGEDAVAO

VANTAGE POINTS

Is the landing of the “Big Zero” a good omen for 2017?

HIS month’s “test flight” of the Japanese “Air Force One” was unexpected, yet not surprising. The large 747-400 zipped through the Davao sky as it made it turn into the glide slope that would lead it safely to land at the Davao international airport. Majestic, regal, yet straightforward in its plain while and gray with a big red circle representing its country’s flag, it is clear about its interests, much like the people it represents. What may look like a simple landing by a large handsome plane portends great things for Davao and Mindanao. For one, it represents the confidence in the capability of Mindanao’s premiere airport to receive heads of state and other dignitaries. We hope that the programmed improvements to the apron and terminal, and parallel taxiway and additional facilities will make the airport a hub able to take in the hordes that

VOL. 9 ISSUE 227 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2017

N his first minute after taking over as Secretary-General of the United Nations last January 1, Antonio Guterres issued an “Appeal for Peace.” He urged the citizens of this world to make it as their New Year’s resolution: “Let us resolve to put peace first.” He begged everyone to “strive to overcome our differences.” Ah, world peace. Such a nice dream but very hard to fulfill. “World peace must develop from inner peace,” the Dalai Lama XIV said. “Peace is not just mere absence of violence. Peace is, I think, the manifestation of human compassion.” Kelsang Gyatso seemed to agree. In Transform Your Life: A Blissful Journey, the Buddhist monk wrote: “Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible. We all wish for world peace, but world peace will never be achieved unless we first establish peace within our own minds. We can send so-called ‘peacekeeping forces’ into areas of conflict, but peace cannot be opposed from the outside with guns. Only by creating peace within our own mind and helping others to do the same can we hope to achieve peace in this world.” But peace, whether inner or outer, is very elusive. Peace, if it has to be attained, should be pursued with determination and truth. People who are in search for peace should be those who can be trusted and who truly believe that peace is possible. “But I’m aware that peace cannot just be wished -- it requires a great deal of hard work, courage and persistence,” said the British-born science fiction guru, Arthur C. Clarke (of 2001: A Space Odyssey distinc-

will descend MY TWO CENTS’ upon the city in 2019, when it hosts the Southeast Asian games. A l r e a d y, new airconditioners are seen in the check in hall. John Tria In the predeparture area, ecisouth@gmail.com customer lounges are being renovated to serve the needs of passengers. As the Davao airport gets busier, we hope that facilities upgrades will follow. I still recall flying into this terminal 13 years ago in January 2004, a few weeks after its inauguration. For now, the landing of Japanese Air Force One also shows Mindanao’s im-

portance as an investment hub. Rumors have it that Japanese investors are slowly flocking to this southern city to seek opportunities. Famous for the “herd mentality,” Japanese invest in groups, with one main manufacturer pulling in several other companies that supply components and services. Thus, one major company has the potential to multiply the benefit of employment and training when its subcontractors follow them into a new area. Cavite is one example. The government-run Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ) is home to hundreds of high value industries that employ some 50,000 workers. Around 80% of these companies are component manufacturers or subcontractors of other industries they followed in. The Japanese are looking for places to invest in, and sources of high quality food for their country. They already know how tasty our bananas and pine-

apples are, and look forward to importing our pork products. They know of Davao from the fruits they buy and the history of the thousands of Japanese who once dominated the populations of areas like Mintal and Calinan, and some areas in Davao Oriental. Time was when a a large number of plantations and a few City council seats were occupied by the Japanese, prompting some legislators in Manila to put some controls on ownership. The rest, of course is history. At present, along with the Chinese migrants and Filipinos from Luzon and the Visayas, the Japanese remain to be potent ingredients in the melting pot that is Davao’s culture and economy. This pot is the essence of what Davao is, and what it should be, the gateway to opportunity in the land of promise. The landing of the big zero is a sign of great things to come.

tion). THINK ON THESE! People who wish for peace are called dreamers. They are hoping that one of these days, their dream of ever last- Henrylito D. Tacio ing peace will henrytacio@gmail.com come into fruition. John Lennon, in one of his famous songs, wished: “Imagine all the people living life in peace. You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us, and the world will live as one.” But why is peace so elusive? It is because the opposite of it is war? World leaders find war more convincing to attain peace. But peace can actually be achieved if those who fight against each other lay down their arms. The Bible foresees: “They shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Check Isaiah 2:4 for that). Alfred Bernhard Nobel was the man who discovered dynamite. At the time of his death, he controlled factories for the manufacture of explosives in many parts of the world. However, his will provided that the major portion of his $9 million estate be set up as a fund to establish yearly prizes – called Nobel – for merit in physics, chemistry, medicine and physiology, literature, and

peace. Its Asian counterpart – the Ramon Magsaysay Award – has added the word “peace” in its international understanding category. My former boss, Harold R. Watson, received the prestigious award in 1985. The Dalai Lama and Mother Teresa themselves collected the same award before they were honored with the Nobel Peace Prize. “Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding,” pointed out Ralph Waldo Emerson, American lecturer, essayist, poet and philosopher. Hafsat Abiola, a Nigerian human rights, civil rights and democracy activist, shares this idea: “Peace comes from being able to contribute the best that we have, and all that we are, toward creating a world that supports everyone. But it is also securing the space for others to contribute the best that they have and all that they are.” American President John F. Kennedy reiterated, “But peace does not rest in the charters and covenants alone. It lies in the hearts and minds of all people. So, let us not rest all our hopes on parchment and on paper, let us strive to build peace, a desire for peace, a willingness to work for peace in the hearts and minds of all of our people. I believe that we can. I believe the problems of human destiny are not beyond the reach of human beings.” “Peace, in the sense of the absence of war, is of little value to someone who is dying of hunger or cold,” the Dalai Lama claims. “It will not remove the pain of torture inflicted on a prisoner of conscience. It does not comfort those who have lost

their loved ones in floods caused by senseless deforestation in a neighboring country. Peace can only last where human rights are respected, where people are fed, and where individuals and nations are free.” Will there be peace on earth soon? Martin Luther King, Jr. believed so. “One day we must come to see that peace is not merely a distant goal we seek, but that it is a means by which we arrive at that goal,” he said. “We must pursue peaceful ends through peaceful means.” Judy Chicago, an American feminist artist, art educator, and writer, also dreams that day will come soon. “Then all that has divided us will merge,” she wrote. “And then compassion will be wedded to power. And then softness will come to a world that is harsh and unkind. And then both men and women will be gentle. And then both women and men will be strong. And then no person will be subject to another’s will. And then all will be rich and free and varied. And then the greed of some will give way to the needs of many. And then all will share equally in the earth’s abundance. And then all will care for the sick and the weak and the old. And then all will nourish the young. And then all will cherish life’s creatures. And then all will live in harmony with each other and with the earth. And everywhere will be called Eden, once again.” In The Five People You Meet in Heaven, written by Mitch Albom, one particular statement that caught my attention was this: “You have peace,” the old woman said, “when you make it with yourself.”

Let there be peace!

10 NEWS

FULFILLED YEAR. Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) 11 investigation chief and spokesperson Fire Inspector Patricio Brananola gives a report on the agency’s accomplishments last year and its plans for 2017 during yesterday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel. Lean Daval Jr.

18.75%... FROM 1 ed almost 32,000 business renewals and 353 new business applications. “After January 20, 2016, the applications for business permits continued,” added Torentera. With the constant investment surge, for this year, the Business Bureau chief expects an increase of 18.75% or 38,000 combined renewals and applications. According to Torentera, under the new Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC no. 1, series of 2016) or the revised standards in processing business permits and licenses in all cities and municipalities, the business processing should not take more than two days. Former Davao City Investment Promotions Center Head and current City Planning and Development Office Head Ivan Cortez has previously said that the processing of permits will be shortened to two days from its usual three-day run as compliance to President Duterte’s imperative on upholding competitiveness and ease of doing business with the said improvement. As stated on the JMC, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DITC) shall be the lead agency in the automation of the processing of fees. Meanwhile, Torentera said that applicants for business permits must prepare for the following fees: signboard fee, sanitary permit fee, renewal fee (for renewal of business), plumbing fee, occupational fee, mayor’s permit fee, laboratory fee, health certification fee, garbage fee, electrical fee, zoning fee, tax clearance fee,

solid waste management certificate fee and sanitary fee. Torentera said there is no standard amount of fees for all business because the amount will vary on the capitalization as well as the area of business establishment. “Kung tan-awon nimo ang atong ordinace naa didto kung small cottage ka, medium or large ug naa na pud ang counterpart of fees (In the ordinance, it is already stated if your enterprise is categorized as small cottage, medium of large with the counterpart of fees.), said Torentera. The Business Bureau chief added that the fees will also vary on the nature or line of the business. “For example, if you are engaged in tourism, you will pay tourism fee. For meat, city vet fee,” Torentera explained. The Business Bureau chief identified the problems commonly encountered by the agency during the renewal period. “Usually, kulang sa documents such as SPA (special power of attorney), Secretary Certificate hindi updated (Usually, the applicants miss some documents such as SPA, and their Secretary Certificate are not updated,” said Torentera. She pointed out, the major issue encountered by the City Business Bureau personnel is the attitude of applicants who would wait until the last minute before processing their permit. The Business Bureau Chief urged the applicants to apply as early as possible to avoid the rush hour as well as the problems that go with it.

thru medical missions, health materials and various medicines worth Php400,000; and capacity building/livelihood capital assistance for 75 marginal families in extremely difficult circumstances pegged at PHP9 million, or Php120,000 per family. Ombudsman field probers found that Ipong instructed that the fund be downloaded to the DSWD, as implementing agency, thru the ECOSOC, as a

non-government organization (NGO)-partner. Verification made by the Ombudsman showed that “a majority of the supposed beneficiaries denied receipt of the purported assistance.” Certifications and affidavits from city, municipal and barangay officials were obtained by the Ombudsman to prove that the PDAF was used to fund Ipong’s “ghost projects.” (PNA)

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the President’s Social Fund to enable these patients to access badly-needed medicines. Pres. Duterte instructed us in the DSWD to formulate guidelines for the program, implement, and administer it immediately,” Taguiwalo said. The DSWD’s medicine assistance program funded under the Pres. P1 billion fund aims to provide assistance to indigent Filipinos so they can immediately secure much needed prescription medicines. The DSWD secretary further explained that beneficiaries of the program are Filipinos who seek assistance from a DSWD office to access prescription medicine. The priorities includes families/individuals who are indigent, vulnerable, disadvantaged or those in the informal sector and poor based on the DSWD Listahanan; government employees and contract of services workers; and, those who are facing crisis situations as determined by DSWD social workers. She also stressed that prescription medicines of drug dependents undergoing treatment/rehabilitation are not covered by the program. “A separate program is being created for them,” she said. The DSWD’s Crisis Intervention Unit will facilitate the

release of the medical assistance. The CIU is a special unit of the DSWD that serves as an action center that immediately responds to the needs of individuals and families in crisis situations. The CIU are located at the central office, field offices and satellite offices in the provinces. Taguiwalo also pointed out that the requirements of the programs are fairly simple. “DSWD has yet to receive the P1 billion from Malacanang, but we are willing to foot the bill in the meantime so Filipinos who need immediate prescription medicines can access them as soon as possible,” she said, adding that as soon as the fund is available, the DSWD will oversee and manage it and the program. She added that five percent of the fund will be used for project management. Taguiwalo also clarified that beneficiaries will not receive any cash, but referral letters from the DSWD which beneficiaries will take to DSWD partner drugstores and hospital pharmacies. She said that those who need medicine should bring and submit to the closest CIU the needed original or certified true copy documents, and photocopy documents certified by

violation committed under the Revised Penal Code. Castillo also reminded the motorists to be wary of the law aimed at protecting the both the driver, passenger, and public’s life and other property from drunken drivers amid findings that almost 80 percent of road accidents may be attributed to human error or drunk driving. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol not only carries a stiff jail term but would also break one’s pocket,” Castillo said, pointing out that the driver’s license of the drunken driver who figures

in a deadly road accident will also be automatically revoked. The police officials have also undergone seminars under the LTO have undergone on how to spot and apprehend a suspected drunk driver and that the officers have been taught the protocols and procedures in accosting suspected drivers and the proper way to conduct field sobriety tests. “We will be requesting more breath analyzer this year to test on motorists alleged to be driving under the influence of alcohol,” Castillo said. TIZIANA CELINE S. PIATOS

danaoans, finds itself in the Reforms and Development Agenda of President Duterte by sharing the utilization of the technical and professional skills of our university, as well as its facilities to effectively carry out the President’s laudable programs to benefit greater number of people,” added Macaayong. Macaayong and Mamondiong said they plan to organize the “First Bangsamoro Peace Summit” at the International Convention Center ng

MSU Campus, Marawi City on February 5. “President Duterte will be invited as Guest Speaker for that historic summit to be attended by all sectors of the society in the ARMM and Regions 9, 10 and 12. I honestly believe that our people, who most of them admire and look up to President Duterte, are excited and supportive to have that first peace summit held in our place, particularly in MSU Campus,” Macaayong said. (PNA)

On Tuesday, some business owners who availed of such service and submitted complete requirements were able to get their business permits in just an hour. Geraldine Zamora, chief of the city permits and licensing division, clarified that business owners may process their permits even

if they lack some of the required clearances. She specifically cited clearances issued by national government offices. But she said business owners will only be issued with temporary permits and they need to comply with the lacking requirements within 90 days. (PNA)

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a CIU social worker of the clinical abstract/medical certificate with full name, signature and license number of the attending physician. The documents and certifications must be issued not later than three months. Additional documents include the doctor’s prescription with date and the name of the patient, clarifying that the prescription should be signed by the attending physician with license number indicated); barangay certificate of indigence or Indigent Card issued by the medical social service of the hospital; and, any valid ID of the client. “If the prescription is costs P5,000 or less, confirmation by the doctor or his/her duly certified representative of the veracity of the prescription is sufficient for the DSWD to provide the assistance,” Taguiwalo said. However, a social case study report prepared by the LGU social worker/medical social worker, or a social case summary prepared by a registered social worker may be required by the CIU social worker to support assessment and recommendation of assistance. “A social case study report is needed as a supporting document for assistance more than P5,000,” she said, adding that a client can avail of the assistance only once within three

months. The secretary also explained that the DSWD can establish partnerships with service providers to ensure that clients are efficiently and effectively assisted immediately. The DSWD can forge contracts or enter memorandum of agreement with qualified service providers. As a safeguard, in no case will the implementation of the program be delegated and/or transferred to any kind of civil society organization regardless of whether it’s a non-governmental organization or a people’s organization. Taguiwalo said that initially, the DSWD will enter into a memorandum of agreement with the following regional hospitals: the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital in Manila; the Jose B. Lingad General Hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga in Region III ; Western Visayas Medical Center in Iloilo in Region VI; Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City in Region VII; and Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City and Davao Regional Hospital in Tagum City – both in Region XI. The hospitals were chosen in the regions where there are the highest poverty levels and to ensure the representation of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

tion Group (IADIG), apprehended Malaysian Nasir Uddin Bin Mohd Hasnan after he was found to be carrying 4.6 kilos of high-grade cocaine with an estimated street value of P23 million. In October 17 , 22-year old Genesis Lorena Pineda Salazar was found to be carrying 4.3 kilograms of cocaine worth P21.5 million. The Customs team assigned at the NAIA, working under the IADIG and in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), also arrested lastOct. 15 Brazilian Yasmin Silva, who was found to be carrying 6.8 kilos of cocaine with a street value of P34 million. Last Oct. 5, the IADIG nabbed two Chinese from Hong Kong and a Russian at

the airport for trying to smuggle in 27.9 kilos of cocaine with a street value of P139.5 million. The IADIG apprehended Chan Kawai and Pau Homanevan, both Chinese nationals from Hong Kong, and Kirdyushkin Yury, a Russian, who arrived separately on an Emirates flight from Hong Kong. On Oct. 2, a 22-year old student, Jon-Jon Villamin, arrived via an Emirates flight from Dubai and was found to be carrying 4.8 kilos of cocaine with a street value of P24 million following a joint BOCPDEA operation. In several operations, the BOC-NAIA also seized suspected gun parts and accessories, and other suspicious items in commercial quantities over the October to December period.

“The general rule in crafting the Duterte administration’s income tax reform plan is that the rich will have to pay more while poor and low-income Filipinos will pay less or none at all,” Dominguez said. “At the same time, society’s vulnerable sectors will be protected through highly targeted subsidies such as the conditional cash transfer program. We will ensure that the ordinary workers and the bottom 50 percent of households will be fully protected through social protection programs,” he added. World Bank Country Director for the Philippines Mara Warwick had described this tax reform package as a possible “game changer” that could improve transparency,

tax administration efficiency and the expansion of the tax base. The Action for Economic Reforms, a policy think tank backing the DOF-proposed tax reform plan, has also described it as a “game changer” that will not just raise revenues, but also generate funds to help address the backlog in physical and human capital investments. When the tax reform package was first presented to members of the House ways and means committee chaired by Quirino Rep. Dakila Carlo Cua, his senior vice chairperson, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, immediately voiced his support for the program, describing it as a “very good measure.”

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EDGEDAVAO

FOOD

The eat list:

2016

2016 HAS BEEN AN EXCITING WHIRLWIND OF A YEAR with Durianburg’s food scene exploding with ever more restaurants, food events, and even the arrival of much awaited fast food chains. Looking forward to 2017 I expect more Dabawenyos to have ever more options to wine, dine, and unwind as urbanites look for better food experiences both locally and abroad.

Seda’s Slow-cooked Angus short plate.

To celebrate the year that was, here is a list of some of the best eats I experienced in the past 12 months based on my own personal preference. Advanced apologies for friends who are on a diet as these dishes are guilty of keeping my diet perpetually on the back burner. Best coffee Starbucks and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf may be popular for the mallgoing crowd but real gold can be found in the many new third wave coffee places that dot the metro. Some pride themselves with locally sourced and roasted beans while some blend the best beans sourced from around the world and roast in-house to get the perfect blend they want. My personal favourite go-to coffee place is Coffee Grounds which serves some of the best espressobased concoctions in Durianburg. Their espresso is potent with notes of nuts, citrus, chocolate and a hint of spice. Frog Kaffee is a deserving runner-up with their smooth drip coffee also made with their own coffee bean blend that is also roasted in-house. Best ala carte entree 2016 was a year of tasting many creative dishes as well as new culinary adventures beyond Durianburg which lead me to my choice for the best ala carte entree. Cucina at The Marco Polo Hong Kong’s Slow Cooked Wagyu Beef

Cucina’s Slow Cooked Wagyu Beef Cheeks.

Cheeks is my top pick for 2016. Not only was the dish a delight for the eyes on the dining table but it was heaven to eat. The braising of the beef cheek was perfect, creating a tender and juicy dish that literally melts in the mouth. It also helped that I had a spectacular 180 degree view of Hong Kong Harbour while dining. If you find Hong Kong to be too far for good eats, then try to visit Damosa complex for my runnerup, Open Table’s Seared Tuna with Soy Ginger sauce. Although simple to prepare, the fish was cooked perfectly and the soy ginger sauce really brightened up the dish. The sides of brown rice and sitr-fried vegetables ensured that the dish was a healthy experience. Best buffet entree With the rise of many buffet restaurants in Durianburg, it was really hard to pick just one entree out of the many thousands of dishes served. In the end I had to choose Seda Abreeza’s Slow-cooked Angus beef short plate as the best buffet entree. Although there are

Chocolate bars by Kai.

Coffee Grounds’ espresso.

Salmon Pintxos. many other dishes that piqued my interest throughout the year, it was the Slow-cooked Angus beef short plate that I consistently gravitate to. Its meat is tender and juicy and packed with flavour. Honestly,

I would be happy to just eat the dish on its own for the entire duration of the buffet. Best food event With the boom in Davao’s love for food, events for foodies are also

taking root in Durianburg with malls such as SM Lanang Premier, SM City Davao, and Abreeza Mall holding seasonal food festivals featuring unique eats from local food artisans. My pick for the food event of 2016 is Crazy Cook’s Bar Pintxos popup event. Organised by certified food curator and caterer Carmina del Rosario, the Bar Pintxos event featured various dishes masterfully prepared by chef Miguel Vecin such as Gulas, Salmon Pintxos, Boquerones, Pulpo A La Gallega, and the Bar Pintxos’ famous home-made chorizo. Best savoury snack I have always been into savoury snacks, be it potato chips, chicharon, or even boiled and dried peanuts, but the best savoury snack for 2016 for me is Fat Boy’s Kitchen’s Philly Cheesesteak Empanada. With its light and flaky crust and decadent beef steak and cheese filling, each juicy bite bursts with flavour in the mouth.

Best sweet snack I love chocolate and I get more excited when that chocolate bar comes from Kai Artisan Chocolate. Playful and creative, Kai produces some of the most exciting chocolate bars in Durianburg. Some of her flavours include White Chocolate Cranberry, Piña Kasuy, and my personal request, sweet and savory Bacon. The Marco Polo Hong Kong’s egg tart is a honourable mention. I cannot help but have two to three of these delicious, flaky, and rich egg tarts every time I visited the breakfast buffet at the Hong Kong Hotel’s Cafe Marco or at the Executive Lounge. Here is to hoping that the Marco Polo Davao will bring the recipe here soon. So that is it for 2016, cheers to more food adventures and discoveries this 2017! Follow me on Instagram or on Twitter at @ kennethkingong for more foodie finds around and beyond Durianburg.

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Randomly delectable

FOOD FINDS

RESOLUTIONS COME IN TWOS: SWEET OR SAVOURY. At times, a mixture of both. Though generally associated with food; life, itself, is but a beautiful medley of flavours and textures that gives meaning to our very existence. As we step into the still blank pages of 2017, let’s not forget the many delectable food finds 2016 introduced to us. Some of which are commercialised and readily available in malls while others are online treasures scouted to curb an instant craving. Here’s a look at 2016’s end of the year delicious hoorah that might be your next favourite. Enjoy and Happy 2017,

everyone! Mary Grace Lemon Squares This is simply divine. When a good friend brought back a box from her recent trip, I was reminded of how delicious these babies were. And still is. Every bite crumbles with mere touch. Delicate, you’d want to gobble on them on the first in-

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stance. The taste? Bursting with lemon flavours that is not nakakaumay. These delicately delicious bad boys go well with a cup of fresh espresso or tea. The sweetness from the squares complements verily the kick of caffeine or aromatic herbs as you sip. Wishful thinking for 2017? A Mary Grace Kiosk in Davao! Suman at Malagkit from FCF Davao FCF (Filipino Comfort Food) at the Damosa Compound has always been a favourite. With their extensive menu of classic Pinoy dishes prepared and cooked to make you remember your childhood in a snap, FCF also has quite a selection of desserts to make you smile in an instant. Of which, you must try their minatamis na suman with caramel sauce and this one, suman at malagkit. Definitely not your typical suman, theirs is milled to create a smooth suman that reeks of bold and rustic flavours to the bite. The malagkit is sweet, yes, but goes well with the suman. Though contrasting in texture and flavours, both do not overpower the other but instead, complements the flavours as you take a bite. Reminder though, this dynamic pair goes well with a glass of water. Renaissance Wild

Honey A tablespoon of wild honey first thing in the morning goes a long way. True, honey is one of the most beautiful things in the world. It’s therapeutic, medicinal and good for the skin. However, with today’s many variants of honey available, it is best to go for wild pure ones. Renaissance Wild Honey is pure and locally produced. It’s rich and creamy and not so sweet. This is a definite pantry staple. Spinach Dip from Bigby’s Gooey and cheesy in every bite. The blend of ingredients gives this dip its bold and rustic taste. The chunky spinach slices and pieces of crunchy red bell pepper adds texture to the rich, creamy goodness of the dip. Best eaten while it’s hot.

Yvonne’s Suka We all have our condiment favourite. Others love the rich, dark taste of soy sauce while some opt to savour the more acidic flavour of vinegar. Yvonne’s Suka is made from fermented fresh local ingredients. This bottle of acidic goodness is spiced, yes, but can still be spiked according to your preference. Here’s a tip: add slices of pounded ginger, whole and sliced birds eye chillies and whole black peppercorns. Fresh Lumpia from Kuya J Bold, fresh and it is green. Yes, this palatably airy wrapped goodness is packed with veggies and textures. Made with malunggay, the crepelike wrapper is bland but as you take a bite with the veggies, crushed nuts

and sauce, that’s when the magic happens. Commercialised, yes, but the pairings of flavours is one to consider dearly. JEF Flavoured Banana Chips Banana Chips. Flavoured banana chips. Yes. Banana chips, on its own, are already a treat. With added flavour, savoury or sweet, it elevates the banana to a whole new level. Locally produced, JEF Flavoured Banana Chips comes in 2 packs (of different grams) and 4 flavours -- try the cheese, hot barbecue, caramel and my personal favourite, sour cream. Want to know my latest food finds? Follow me on Instagram @iamleebai and I’ll make you hungry in a snap. For missed features, you can read them on my blog theroyalchefeats.wordpress.com.

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Philippine Eagle rescued in Sarangani A

PHILIPPINE Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), the country’s national bird, has been found alive in the forest of Barangay Batian prompting the local government unit (LGU) of Maitum to mount a rescue operation to protect the bird and its habitat. LGU staff and personnel of the Davao City-based Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) brought the raptor to the PEC Tuesday night (January 3). “I am thankful with the rescue of the juvenile Philippine Eagle. This only proves that Maitum has still thick forest that we ought to preserve and protect,” said Mayor Alexander Bryan Reganit. “I will do my best to protect the endangered species of Maitum as our legacy to the future generations.” Gibson Badal, 26, a resident of Barangay Batian, found

the eagle Monday (January 2). According to Badal, he saw the bird at his area standing and when he got near to it, the bird did not move away. Badal said the bird, which is about a meter tall, appeared weak. The bird has blue gray eyes. Alver Caasi who happened to visit Batian on Monday was informed by residents that they were selling the bird but he advised them not to. “I told them they will face the full force of the law if they do that,” Caasi said. Caasi said he saw the bird at 9am and fed it with live chicken. The eagle consumed half of it and the other half was eaten the next day. Edgar Calderon, park maintenance foreman of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, said the eagle could be one year old with a nest probably within a

5-km radius from where it was found. “From the initial video and pictures sent to us by Carol Arguillas, which was sent to her by Beth Ramos, the bird is confirmed a Philippine Eagle,” said Dennis Joseph Salvador, executive director at Philippine Eagle Center. According to Philippine Eagle Foundation director for conservation Jayson Ibanez, he visited Batian in 1996 and he was able to confirm the presence of a pair of Philippine Eagles. Barangay Batian is within Mt. Busa complex, a priority conservation and protection biodiversity study area. It is one of the remaining forests in the province. Mt. Busa (Area: 114,144 hectares) was declared as a key biodiversity area (KBA 116) and an important bird

waters during heavy rains. In a separate interview, Davao del Norte PDRRMO Planning, Research and Early Warning Section Head, Eric Rosillo said that the towns of Kapalong and Talaingod heightened their information drive in communities along the riverbanks through “recoreda,” warning people of possible pre-emptive evacuation should the waters raise to a critical level. Davao del Norte has placed 24 water level sensors in areas where Liboganon and Saug rivers flow through particularly in the towns of Kapalong, New Corella, Asuncion, Dujali and in Tagum City. It has also installed water level sensors in areas where tributary rivers are causing local flood particularly in Carmen, Talaingod and Sto Tomas. Meanwhile, Compostela Valley PDRRMO Raul Villocino in a phone interview revealed that his office had kept ready its advice for all Municipal

Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMOs) to activate their respective incident command post (ICP) should there be heavy downpour in the province today. Compostela Valley PDRRMO has been monitoring since December 30, 2016 the adverse effect of intermittent rains brought about by the trough of the low pressure area (LPA). Contrary to earlier reports, Villocino told PIA that major roads in Compostela Valley remained passable despite the raining though there were incidence of scour or erosion in portions of highways connecting the towns of Nabunturan and Maragusan, “but the road remains passable”. He revealed that landslide reportedly occurred along the road connecting Maragusan (Compostela Valley) and Mati City (Davao Oriental), but based on accounts of Maragusan MDRRMO, the affected portion was outside

area (IBA PH0105) in 2001. It harbors critically endangered, threatened, vulnerable and rare bird species and connects several conservation priorities. The Environmental Conservation and Protection Cen-

ter of the provincial government has reported sightings of tarsier, wild deer, pigs, monkeys, bats, civets and endangered species of birds at the foot of Mt. Busa. However, Mt Busa, which straddles the towns of Mai-

tum, Kiamba and Maasim, is threatened by land conversion (to farmland), kaingin (slashand-burn), wildlife hunting, illegal logging and mining, according to the ECPC. (Beth N. Ramos/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

the boundary of Compostela Valley. On the other hand, Villocino revealed that 30 families of 112 individuals in Barangay Magsaysay in the municipality of Nabunturan were evacuated on January 1, and were made to take shelter at Magsaysay Elementary School. Villocino had yet to know this morning whether the families still stayed at the evacuation center. Pre-emptive evacuation was also conducted on December 02 in Barangay Banag-banag in the municipality of Montevista. Villocino said evacuated residents went to their NHA (National Housing Authority) houses built for them who were victims of Typhoon Pablo. Residents in flood-prone areas in New Bataan also left their places and returned to their NHA houses upon orders of PDDRMO released on December 30. (PIA 11/ Jeanevive Duron Abangan)

now‘drug-free’: PNP claims

DavNor, Comval disaster offices monitor effects of LPA 199 barangays in Region 12

HE Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management offices in the provinces of Compostela Valley and Davao del Norte both were on their feet the past few days due to intermittent rains that started December 30, 2016. There was no rescue operation made nor massive evacuation in both provinces though personnel of PRDRRMOs kept their eyes glued on their monitoring system and kept their ears tuned in to calls from MDRRMOs for assistance. In an interview this morning, Davao del Norte PDDRMO officer-in-charge Glenda Deli-deli revealed that water levels in areas closely monitored yesterday were two meters below the critical level but she said alert was raised in areas frequented with floods. She was referring to areas where major rivers—Saug and Liboganon usually brought forth so much volume of flood

the numberless of colors painted the night sky of the city when thousands of fireworks burst above the 175-foot Giant Holiday Tree, synchronized with an animated music to match the heart-pounding experience. (CIO Tagum)

mittee composed of police personnel, local officials and other stakeholders. He said the validations were stringent and conducted by the committee at the neighborhood levels. “These (declarations) did come from us or were made because we said so, but through initiatives of community stakeholders,” he said in an interview over television program Magandang Umaga South Central Mindanao. The police official said the clearing operations at the barangay level are ongoing in line with the implementation of the second phase of the campaign, which is Project Double Barrel Alpha. The initial phase of the campaign, which was launched in July last year in line with President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s “war against illegal drugs,” focused on the accounting and surfacing or surrender of “lower-value” drug personalities under operation plan or Oplan Tokhang.

nga mas taas pa siya sa Holiday Tree, klase-klase pod nga design akong nasaksihan,” said Ric Kevin Conde from Brgy. Visayan Village. The city government spent 500,000 pesos for this year’s pyro-musical display, a tradition that Tagumenyos and people from nearby towns look forward every year. Meanwhile, Mayor Allan Rellon said in an interview that the tradition of doing fireworks displays is Tagum City’s way of embracing the New Year with a colorful kick and starting the new calendar with a vibe full of optimism. “Every hiyaw sa mga audience, maski nag-ulan kay naa sila, kay mao ang nag-measure pod sa happiness sa

amoa dinhi sa City Government of Tagum,” Mayor Rellon expressed. When asked if he is ready to embrace the possibility of President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of a nationwide banned against firecrackers and fireworks display, Mayor Rellon responded by saying “ magsulat ko personally sa iyaha, kay basi ma-excempt, because we’ve been doing this for the joy of our people.” The pyro-musical exhibition is part of the 3-hour program slated by the local government at the Open Ground Arena. Highlights of the event include a fire dance presentation, sing and dance performances, and the much awaited countdown. (Roy Banias/ CIO Tagum)

F 199 BRGYS, 14

Tagum welcomes 2017 with a bang

W BIG BANG. Tagum City sustains its annual tradition of welcoming the New Year with a grand pyro-musical fireworks display, made even more beautiful this year with the Giant Holiday Tree as the foreground and sighted

T least 199 barangays in Region 12 are now considered as “drug-free” as a result of the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs. Chief Supt. Cedrick Train, Region 12 police director, said Tuesday the concerned barangays were all declared free from illegal drugs in the second half of 2016 following a series of campaigns under the Philippine National Police’s Project Double Barrel. He said the 199 “drug-free” barangays are about 16 percent of the 1,195 barangays within the region’s four provinces and five cities. Also known as Soccsksargen, Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and North Cotabato, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. Train said the “drug-free” declarations were made by the barangays based on recommendations from a validation com-

HAT is better to welcome the year 2017 than a fireworks display? A grander, more splendid pyro-musical exhibition! Thousands of revelers gathered outside Tagum City’s iconic New City Hall to welcome the arrival of the year 2017 in the most jovial style as they witnessed the spectacular 15-minute pyro-musical exhibition sponsored by the Local Government of Tagum. Myriad of colors painted the night sky of the city when thousands of fireworks burst above the 175-foot Giant Holiday Tree, synchronized with an animated music to match the heart-pounding experience. “Na-amaze ko pag-ayo sa fireworks display kay aside

12 NEWS

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SoCot’s community hospital gets PhilHealth accreditation

HILHEALTH card holders can now avail of benefits from the Upper Valley Community Hospital (UVCH) in Barangay Dajay, Surallah. Dr. Ana Marie Tuburan, chief of hospital, confirmed in an interview that the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has granted the provincial government-run UVCH its

certificate of accreditation effective December 23. “As an accredited hospital we can now receive patients who have PhilHealth cards,” Dr. Tuburan said. “This also means that we can already provide all the needs of the indigent patients who possess PhilHealth cards; they should not also worry of excess charges since all govern-

ment hospitals comply with the no-balance-billing policy.” However, she added, the facility cannot yet provide PhilHealth point-of-care services because the budget for this purpose has not yet been transferred from the Lake Sebu Municipal Hospital. “We remind watchers and patients to seek med-

ty System (SSS). “Itong sa SSS. There’s a debate going on now here. It’s Cabinet meeting, ayaw nila talaga itong ano because it will go bankrupt, itong SSS,” he said. He said the government has to guarantee that SSS will remain solvent at all times. He, meanwhile, said the issue will still be thoroughly studied again once he returns to work in January.

nan mo ngayon,” he told CNN Philippines. “So what is my purpose? My purpose is really to give order.” He also renewed his announcement about the availability of a Php1 billion fund intended for drug addicts undergoing rehab. There is another Php1 billion for poor people with prescriptions from doctors who cannot afford to buy medicines,” he added. The President also issued a warning about the connection between illegal drugs and terrorism especially after a raid in Mindanao showed radical islamist operating illegal narcotics laboratory. “Iyong nakuha naming kampo, there was this big laboratory. May laboratory talaga sa droga and it was a camp. That’s why I ordered a full-scale operation there because we cannot keep on losing territories there,” the President told GMA News TV in a separate interview.

Fighting corruption In another interview with TV 5 network, the President renewed his vow to fight corruption in government. He said he will not allow the members of his Cabinet to engage in it and even the immediate members of his family. “I made just about four fundamental promises. One is that there will be no corruption. And I will assure you, there will be no corruption,” he said during a one-on-one interview with TV5. “As a matter of fact, on the other (interview) kanina, I said pag may anak ako o asawa ko na na-involve sa corruption sa gobyerno, I will resign,” he said. He also promised to combat red tape in the bureaucracy like what he did in Davao City when he was city mayor. The President also want to put an end to abuses in key services like transport sector, he said in another interview with

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Tackling illegal drugs There are around four million drug addicts in the country by yearend, the President said and this gives too much burden on the government. But the aggressive campaign against illegal drugs has started to yield results, particularly with the drop in crime rate in the country. “Tingnan mo yung crime rate noon. Tingnan mo before I really inaugurated there. Tingnan mo yung crime rate at ting-

ical attention from their health center before going to the Upper Valley Community Hospital, except in emergency cases,” Dr. Tuburan said. This, she elaborated is in compliance with the health referral system of the government health facilities. UVCH is a 40-bed capacity infirmary, which means

that it offers admission, outpatient services, minor surgeries, emergency care and referral to higher level facilities. Its construction started in August 2012 but was officially inaugurated only on January 18, 2016. UVCH is envisioned to decongest the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital as it is intended to serve res-

idents from Surallah, Sto. Niño, Norala, Banga, Lake Sebu and Tboli municipalities and neighboring areas where about a quarter of the provincial hospital’s patients come from. It is being proposed and developed to eventually be converted into as a regional medical center for SOCCSKSARGEN Region. (DEDoguiles-PIA12)

Rappler. To discipline erring drivers, he said he will require drivers to put their IDs inside their vehicles for proper identification of their passengers. If there is an abuse or anomaly, the President advised the public to report to the police to apprehend violators.

added. A lot of foreign businesses are coming in and the President said that in two or three years, the country will be better. South Koreans, Japanese, and even Europeans are investing aside from the Chinese, he said. The President also discussed the status of peso. “The dollar goes very, very strong because they’re recovering and only because Trump is there. But when Trump becomes the president, he starts to do things, you can be sure that again, the peso will rise again,” he told Rappler.

could be a new highway there somewhere, elevated or underground,” he said in an interview with PTV 4. Regarding EDSA, he ssid the government might resort to draconian measures such as limiting the entry of so many vehicles and improving the mobility of the LRT and MRT. He hinted on regulating the issuance of licenses and permits in vehicle production to curb traffic congestion. But, he said he is putting his hope on China, which promised help in developing the country’s infrastructure when he visited Beijing last year. The President also mentioned a private sector initiative aimed at tackling the drug problem. The construction of a 10,000-person drug rehab facility in Nueva Ecija, built through funding from a Chinese philanthropist, would be a great help, he said. (PNA)

Economy The President also expressed his optimism about the economy in the coming year. His aggressive campaign against illegal drugs and crime are boosters to investors, he said, as these creates an ambience of order and security. Also adding to his confidence is the entry of China or Chinese investors into the country following his visit to Beijing this year, he told GMA News TV. “Limitado tayo sa foreign affair. Kailan pa ba tayo pinansin ng China? It was not until after my trip to China to talk to them,” he

Infrastructure development, traffic congestion problem The President admitted the severity of the traffic congestion problem especially in Metro Manila, and this could not be solved if the government lacks the fund to build infrastructure. “It could be a railway, it

13 AGRITRENDS

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Yes, farming with trees is possible! Text and Photos by HENRYLITO D. TACIO

“To be poor and be without trees is to be the most starved human being in the world. To be poor and have trees is to be completely rich in ways that money can never buy.” -- Clarissa Pinkola Estés, author

of The Faithful Gardener: A Wise Tale About That Which Can Never Die

F the Philippines will not do something drastic now, it would be the first country in Asia to completely lose its forest cover soon. Cebu is a case in point: It has a “zero-forest cover,” said environment officials. “Most of the country’s once rich forests are gone,” says the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) study entitled, “Sustainable Forest Management.” “We have lost most of our forest of old over the past 50 years and, along with them, many of the ecological services they provide,” deplores Peter Walpole, executive director of the Environmental Science for Social Change (ESSC). In the 1920s, forest still covered 18 million hectares of 60% of the country’s total land area of 30 million hectares. It went down to 50% (15 million hectares) in the 1950s. In 1963, FAO published data placed forest cover of the country at 40% (12 million hectares). By 1970s, the forest cover shrunk to 34% (10.2 million hectares). From 1977 to 1980, deforestation reached an all-time high -- over 300,000 hectares a year, according to an ESSC-published booklet. In 1987, the Swedish

Space Corporation put forest cover in the country at 23% (6.9 million hectares). “At the end of the 1980s, out of the 34 major islands that had been very densely forested at the beginning of the century, 24 islands had now less than 10% forest cover,” the ESSC publication said. In the 1990s, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources reported that the country had only 800,000 hectares (2.7%) primary forest cover. Residual forest was placed at 4.7 million hectares. “Where have all our forests gone?” asked Roy C. Alimoane, the director of the Davaobased Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC). “Why are we losing our trees at a very fast rate?” The ever-growing population can be partly blamed. “The most likely causes were the increase in population -- up from about 500,000 in 152 to around seven million in 1900,” the ESSC publication surmised. Today, the Philippines is home to more than 100 million Filipinos. “This was accompanied by the spread of commercial crops (abaca, tobacco and sugarcane) and by growth of pasture lands for cattle raising as

the Philippines became part of the world economy,” the publication continued. But logging -- both legal and illegal -- is seen as the primary culprit. “An important source of deforestation has been the dramatic expansion of destructive logging,” wrote Robert Repetto in The Forest for the Trees? Government Policies and the Misuse of Forest Resources. The logging boomed in the late 1960s. “Logging concession areas increased from 4.5 million hectares to 11.6 million hectares, covering more than one-third of the entire country,” the ESSC publication reported. “Timber companies owned by the traditional elite, the Philippine military, and politicians cornered the logging contracts.” According to Repetto, annual outputs averaging 10 million cubic meters were maintained until 1974, “when depletion, world recession, and competition from other log-exporting countries forced a reduction.” Declines continued over the next decade, and by 1984 the harvest had returned to the pre-boo level of 3.8 million cubic meters. “Logging is more than an ecological problem,” the book, Saving the Earth, published by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, surmised. “It is a social, political and economic dilemma as well. At the root of the malaise are stupendous profits and the ease with which they can be raked in.” Upland migration and agricultural expansion had also

contributed to the fast disappearance of the country’s forest cover. “Some 80,000 to 120,000 families cleared an estimated 2.3 million hectares of forest land,” Repetto wrote. “The spread of shifting cultivation largely reflects population growth and the economy’s failure to provide employment alternatives for the country’s rural poor.” The ESSC believes that had all these factors been carried out in a manner that contributed to the overall development of the country, “the majority of the people could have been benefited.” However, historical land classification indicates that only very few people -- less than 500 individuals or corporations -- had held access rights to most of the country’s forest resources. “This figure highlights the injustice,” the ESSC publication points out. The ESSC thinks the responsibility for the present sad state of the Philippine forest rests with past administrations. “There has been a near total failure on the part of the government to recognize the sociocultural and ecological values of the forests,” it says, adding that they failed “to recognize any value except shortterm economic gain.” The ESSC also fears that this “short-term economic gain” thinking may also be “repeated in the drive to adopt mining as the answer to our economic development.” In the Philippines, mining operations are oftentimes located in ancestral land, forest land, and even prime agricultural land.

But the destruction caused by deforestation are already written on the wall. “Deforestation has left upper watersheds unprotected, destabilizing river flows, with significant effects on fish population and agriculture,” Repetto wrote. “The implications for hydroelectric projects and irrigation facilities have already become apparent in Luzon, where anticipated lifetimes of important reservoirs have been cut in half by sedimentation.” According to Dr. Rodel D. Lasco, a member of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, deforestation is one of the leading causes of greenhouse gas emissions. “Ten billion to 12 billion tons of carbon dioxide are released per year due to deforestation, that is loss of forest, as well as through agriculture, such as livestock, soil and nutrient management,” he pointed out. Most of the deforestation happens in the uplands, where 60% of the country’s total land area is classified as such. With the population continues to boom, the forests that cover the uplands may soon be gone. But wait, the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) Foundation, Inc. in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur has discovered a farming system where trees and crops can be planted together. It’s called Sustainable Agroforest Land Technology or SALT 3. The model it has developed occupies a land area of two hectares. Farmers can plant one

hectare to different trees and another hectare to various agricultural crops,” explains Roy C. Alimoane, the center’s director. “The crops provide income for the farmer and his family while waiting for the trees to grow.” Actually, SALT 3 is another variant of the SALT systems, which the MBRLC is noted for. For encouraging international utilization of the one-hectare SALT 1 (Sloping Agricultural Land Technology) model, former director Harold R. Watson received the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for peace and international understanding in 1985. SALT 2 (Simple Agro-Livestock Technology) is the integration of goats into the SALT system. Designed for only half a hectare, 12 does are raised together in one house situated in the middle of the farm with one buck living in an adjacent shed. In SALT 3, one-hectare is developed for various agricultural crops. Following the SALT 1 system, different nitrogen-fixing trees and shrubs (like the local “ipil-ipil” and “kakawate” and introduced species such as Flemingia macrophylla, Desmodium rensonii, and Indigofera anil) are planted in double rows, following their natural contour. “The principle of SALT is the same as that used by the Ifugao tribes in Mountain Province,” Alimoane explains. “All we are doing is using various nitrogen fixing trees and shrubs instead of rocks.” When the rows of vege-

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DBM won’t recommend use of taxpayers’ Chili pepper effective cure money to fund SSS pension hike -- Diokno against cancer cells: study

EPARTMENT of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Benjamin Diokno said on Tuesday that he won’t recommend the use of taxpayers’ money to fund the proposed P2,000 pension hike of the Social Security System (SSS) pensioners. “Historically, it is not being done. We don’t burden the taxpayers to support a private fund,” Diokno said in a press Palace press briefing. “It is unfair for us to call on everybody to increase pension of a few. Our tax system is such that even the jobless, they pay taxes in the form of value added tax. Why should you burden them to give benefit to a private pension system,” he added.

Diokno said the job of looking for the source of P2,000 monthly pension increase should not be given to President Rodrigo Duterte. “To me, it’s unfair to give the problem to him. In fact, it’s unfair for Congress to have passed that law which, as you know, (former) President (Benigno) Aquino vetoed,” Diokno said. “It should not have reached the President’s desk. The Board of Trustees should have exercised leadership,” he added. The DBM official said the SSS Board of Trustees can find solution to fund the proposed pension hike such as increase the collection efficiency. “I understand some cor-

porations have been indebted to SSS. Maybe they could call on them. But you know, when you pass the buck and give it to the President, that to me, is unfair for the President,” he explained. He said another solution could be to adjust the contribution of the SSS members. “What we are proposing is a contribution adjustment, a higher pay but we are not recommending it right now,” Diokno said. “What we’re recommending is maybe to do it after tax reform because in the tax reform, you get more money in your pockets and therefore you are now in a position to contribute a small amount for the pension of those who are already receiving pension. So

that’s our solution,” he added. Diokno said even the late former President Ferdinand Marcos did not touch the SSS considering it is a private pension fund. “You contribute to that fund, and when you retire, you get benefits from that fund,” he said. Last Monday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Andanar said President Duterte is looking for a “win-win solution” without affecting the SSS’ current fund life. According to SSS chairman Amado Valdez, the SSS’s current fund life would be shortened from 2042 to 2031 if even half of the P2,000 will be given beginning January this year. (PNA)

Volume of trade totaled to 664.21 million amounting to P2.68 billion. Advancers led decliners at 89 to 79 while 42 stocks were unchanged. The peso was little changed against the greenback after finishing the year’s first trading day at 49.77 from 49.72 last December 29, last year’s final trading session. A trader said the US dollar regained its strength after investors took on a wait and see stance ahead of the release of the minutes of the Federal Reserve’s meeting last December and the jobs report later this week. Profit-taking in the local equities market hurt the peso a bit, the trader said. The local currency opened the year at 49.78, almost unmoved compared with the 49.80 in the previous session. (PNA)

Filipinos. It will also raise the quality of learning received by Filipinos, especially with the full implementation of the K-12 Program. With the increased demands on the basic education system, P55.1 billion is allotted for the creation and filling up of teaching and non-teaching positions. State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) will receive P58.7 billion to allow deserving but poor students access to tertiary education. This is on top of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) allocation of P18.7 billion that will grant financial assistance, incentives and scholarships to qualified Filipinos. Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will get P6.7 billion in order to develop workforce competencies and promote technical-vocational education. The government will invest heavily in basic health care. The DOH will be given P95.3 billion for wider access to safe and effective health service. Indigent patients will be prioritized as P4.0 billion is set aside for financial assistance to poor beneficiaries. P18.0 billion is also earmarked for the purchase and allocation of drugs, medicines and vaccines for distribution to government healthcare facilities, particularly provinces with high levels of poverty incidence. In addition, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) will receive P53.2 billion for social health insurance services, with the aim of 100 percent coverage to all Filipinos. The Health Facilities Enhancement Program under the Department of Health is set to spend P12.7 billion on infrastructure programs involving barangay health stations, rural health units, public hospitals, and drug rehabilitation and treatment facilities. On the other hand, the

Department of Education will spend P118.8 billion on basic education facilities such as public school buildings, technical vocational laboratories, and sanitation units. Social protection that empowers the poor and shields them from shocks is allocated P128.1 billion through the DSWD. The Conditional Cash Transfer Program is allotted P78.2 billion to support poverty reduction efforts while increasing human capital investments for beneficiaries. This year, a monthly rice allowance has been added on top of the cash grants. Next, P17.9 billion is allocated as social pension for indigent senior citizens, allowing them a monthly stipend of P500. KALAHI-CIDDS, an anti-poverty community-driven development program is given P10.2 billion. The Sustainable Livelihood Program is also given P9.1 billion to aid Filipinos in micro-enterprise development and employment facilitation. Finally, the Supplemental Feeding Program is given P4.4 billion to nourish eligible daycare children. The focus on human capital development will enable our young men and women to develop into an agile, productive, and competent workforce that will boost economic growth in the future.

PHP, PSEi welcome 2017 stable 10-point... FROM 4

R O F I T-TA K I N G reigned in the local equities market but the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) and the peso remained firm on the first trading day of 2017. PSEi rose 0.30 percent, or 20.67 points, to 6,861.31 points, which a trader attributed to the rally later in the session after a weak start. All shares also improved after it went up by 0.25 percent, or 10.49 points, to 4,166.56 points. Most of the sectors increased, led by the Mining and Oil with 0.83 percent. Industrial came in second with 0.67 percent followed by Holding Firms, 0.27 percent; Property, 0.17 percent; and Financials, 0.09 percent. Only the Services lost with a drop of 0.10 percent.

Chinese magazine names Pres. Duterte as‘Person of the Year’

AZHOU Zhoukan, a popular Chinese language magazine, has granted President Rodrigo Duterte “Person of the Year” award, according to Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella on Tuesday. Abella said the famous Chinese magazine picked President Duterte based on the new Filipino leader’s independent foreign policy that consists of his distancing away from the United States and forging closer ties with China. “The article also praises Duterte’s program of good governance and anti-corruption campaign as a reason for his popularity among the Filipinos,” Abella said. Yazhou Zhoukan is the world’s only Chinese language weekly international magazine with circulation in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia. Last October, President Duterte received a grand welcome from top Chinese leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier

Li Keqiang, when the Filipino leader visited Beijing. Duterte, who took office only in June last year, said it’s time to renew the Philippines’ relationship with China. President Duterte’s fourday trip to China has calmed down tensions brought by the decision of the international arbitral tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands in favor of the Philippines’ arbitration case against China over the disputed West Philippine Sea or South China Sea. The ruling concluded that China has no legal basis to claim historic rights using a nine-dash line map that covers most of the South China sea which also being claimed partly by Brunei, Vietnam, Taiwan, Indonesia and Malaysia. President Duterte has said he would not insist the arbitral ruling which China did not recognize. The President’s recent visit to China has resulted to USD24 billion worth of investments and financing agreements. (PNA)

The People’s Budget: ProPoor and Pro-Growth The 2017 National Budget is anchored on inclusivity. It will facilitate growth in the Philippines, already one of the fastest growing emerging economies in Asia, and unlock the potential of key industries throughout the archipelago. Combined with policies that lower the cost of doing business, such as the tax reform package, and peace and order efforts to ensure safer communities, the 2017 Budget will spur development that will concretely translate to superior quality of life for all Filipinos. (DBM)

ECENT research conducted by German scientists has revealed that the active component in chilies, capsaicin, can cause cancer cells to self-destruct. Capsaicin is the compound that gives chilies their special kick, but while it can easily make some people cry from its fiery taste, it could also be used to cure various types of cancer, including that of the breast, colon or pancreas. Scientists from Ruhr-University, in Bochum, Germany, carried out experiments to find out how human samples of breast cancer reacted when affected by the spicy molecule. It was determined that capsaicin can attach itself to the membrane of a diseased cell and switch on specialized receptors controlling what substances enter and exit the cell. By triggering these channels, capsaicin can send a cancer cell into overdrive,

prompting it to self-destruct. By causing cancer cells to die, tumor growth is halted. “In our experiments, a significant reduction in cell proliferation after capsaicin stimulation was observed,” said Dr. Lea Weber, a member of the scientific group that organized the experiment. “This finding was in accordance with the results of other scientists, who demonstrated a significant decrease in the cell growth rate of MCF-7 breast cancer cells upon capsaicin stimulation.” Unfortunately, it doesn’t mean that cancer can be beaten just by eating more spicy food. Capsaicin does not appear to work as a cancer-killing agent if eaten, inhaled or injected. But researchers say it still has a medicinal potential and can be effective as a pill combined with other drugs to target cancer cells. (PNA)

The second phase involves heightened operations against high-value targets and the clearing of barangays. Train said he directed all chiefs of police in the region to continue with the accounting of drug personalities as well. “It would be difficult to clear

our barangays from illegal drugs if we could not account all drug personalities,” he said. From July to December last year, he said police units in Region 12 arrested a total of 1,418 illegal drug users and pushers, while 84 suspects were killed in “legitimate operations.” (PNA)

tation are 1.5 to 2 meters tall, they are cut back to about 40 centimeters and the tops are piled in the 3-5 meter alleys where crops are growing. “The leaves of the shrubs make very good nitrogen-rich fertilizer and also add organic matter of the soil,” Alimoane points out. In the SALT scheme, you find a mix of permanent crops, cereals and vegetables. Every third strip of available land is normally devoted to permanent crops like cacao and coffee. A combination of various cereals (corn, upland rice, and sorghum) and vegetables (string beans, cucumber, squash, etc.) are planted on the remaining two strips of land. MBRLC recommends crop rotation. For instance, those strips planted with cereals earlier are planted with peanuts or winged beans in the next cropping. “Crop rotation helps to preserve the regenerative properties of the soil and avoid the problems of infertility typical of traditional agricultural practices,” Alimoane says. Multistory cropping may also be practiced (planting black pepper, corn, and lanzones together in one hedge). In waterlogged areas, gabi, kangkong and other water-loving crops are planted. “We all do these to make use of all the available spaces of the farm,” Alimoane says. “Some of the crops should be planted to feed the farmer’s family, while other crops are grown for sale, so family income is well spread out over the season,” says Ali-

moane. “Every week or every month, there’s always something to harvest. The system can, in fact, raise the family income threefold.” However, MBRLC encourages that only one hectare is planted to crops. This is where the farmer will concentrate more as years go by. However, the upper portion of the farm is allotted to various trees, which are – as much as possible – native to the area. Alimoane talked about “tree time zones” of 1-5, 6-10, 11-15 and 16-20 years, within which progressively more valuable products are harvested. Some very valuable trees could be left longer, and he dubs this “the grandchildren project.” As he explains it: “You plant trees not for yourself but for your grandchildren.” Among the tree species planted in the SALT 3 model farm are bamboo, Sesbania sesban, “ipil-ipil,” Acacia auriculiformis and A. mangium, Swietenia macrophylla, Pterocarpus indicus (more popularly known as narra), and Samanea saman (rattan is planted below it). Some of these are planted basically for fuelwood while others are for furniture purposes. SALT 3 is MBRLC’s contribution in saving the planet earth. It urges Filipinos to plant trees – even at the end of the world, so goes a saying. American President Theodore Roosevelt once reminded: “A person without children would face a hopeless future; a country without trees is almost as helpless.”

199 Brgys... FROM 11

AGRITRENDS... FROM 13

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Federer: The ultimae professional

ERTH, Australia --- When Roger Federer withdrew from the French Open in 2016 it ended a run of 65 consecutive Grand Slam appearances. The six months he later spent off tour was his longest break in almost two decades as a professional. That he has competed without any major injuries or absences until then points to the remarkable professionalism Federer has maintained throughout his long career. In his comeback at Mastercard Hopman Cup 2017 – where a fully healthy and motivated Federer has thrilled fans with the news he hopes to compete for several more years – the Swiss star has showcased the best of his commitment and hard work. Opening his first practice session to more than 6000 fans just hours after a long flight into Perth, the 17-time Grand Slam champion explained that the support he’d

received at other international events highlights what a causal observer can learn from watching professionals prepare. “Ever since I’ve thought, you know, there’s such an appetite for people to maybe see practice,” said Federer. “Because I think practice is always very interesting (for them) to see.” Other sessions with his team in Perth have been low key, although the buzz quickly grows whenever the Swiss steps on court. Fans soon gathered when they discovered Federer was practising on the outside court at Perth Arena a day before his Hopman Cup rubber with Germany’s Alexander Zverev. In between their excited efforts to grab a selfie or an autograph from the Swiss star, fans witnessed the dedication that’s required to compete at the top of the game as he hit with Western Australia’s Matt

Ebden in 30-plus degree heat. Belinda Bencic, his partner at Mastercard Hopman Cup, learned that simply being around the long-time professional provides many opportunities to learn in her first practice session with Federer in Perth. “Actually this was the first practice and the first balls, my arm was so heavy but I think I did OK,” she said. “Everything he says is really good advice so I try to listen and just also learn from how relaxed he is, how easy he makes things. “Sometimes I think it’s like exactly this. We think we need it so much and we have to want it so much that sometimes it’s better to relax a little bit.” Of course the languid Federer makes it look easy too. Few players – or even people – show such easy confidence as the prolific champion, but it’s a state he’s achieved through years of hard work.

game against Singapore last month, Parks reiterated Gordon’s role in his improved play. “It shows sa hardwork na pinapakita ko na nothing is forced and na-polish ‘yung game ko. Tyrone Gordon really did a good job and for me to be able to sign him for a year,” said Parks. In his first four games with Alab, Parks led all ABL players, including imports, in scoring with an average of 26.3 points per contest. Parks also leads the league in three-point shooting with a 53.8 percent

clip and is in the top five in blocks with 1.3 a game. A former NCAA Division I player for Dakota State University, Gordon played professional basketball in Europe before becoming a player development coach of the Texas Legends, an affiliate of the Dallas Mavericks. Gordon’s trip to the Philippines isn’t no longer new to him as he, according to the Gordon DTA Workout website, has traveled to Asia to train college and professional athletes.

Parks brings in US trainer T

HE work isn’t done for Ray Parks, Jr. Parks Jr.’s trainer in the United States Tyrone Gordon is set to arrive to Manila as the Alab Pilipinas cager and Asean Basketball League leading scorer continues to seek ways to improve his skill set. Alab Pilipinas team owner Charlie Dy said Gordon will arrive in February to supervise a 10-day training session with Parks, who has been nothing but impressive in his maiden ABL stint. Gordon is the man behind Gordon DTA Workouts, which has a long list of clients from the NBA D-League. Parks underwent intensive training with Gordon prior to his stint with the Texas Legends. In Gordon DTA Workout’s official website, Parks was quoted as saying: “Gordon DTA has changed and took my game to a whole new level. Just the understanding of the game and the new skill sets that were taught to me allowed me to add a new dimension to my game. I became a whole new player, a better one.” In an interview with reporters during Alab’s road

CZECH... FROM 16 to do a better warm up and go out there with a bit of sweat and warm it up a little it.” Kyrgios laughed off the injury fears when probed further about his knee, which he’d earlier explained occurred in a minor basketball mishap just before the Hopman Cup. “Don’t overthink it guys. Just relax,” said the Australian, who has won six consecutive singles rubbers in his two Hopman Cup appearances. Kyrgios’ win gave Australia a 1-0 lead in the tie, but Daria Gavrilova’s was upset in three sets by world No.166

Roger Federer practices at the Mastercard Hopman Cup in Perth Arena. Getty Images

Asi changes mind on trade request

WORK IN PROGRESS. Ray Parks Jr., now playing for Alab Pilipinas in the ABL, has brought in his American trainer.

Lucie Hradecka, the Czechs also the 3-4 4-2 4-2 winners in the FAST4 mixed doubles. Australia, who lost their opening tie 2-1 to Spain, needed to beat the Czech Republic to keep hopes of reaching Saturday’s final alive. Team USA’s Coco Vandeweghe and Jack Sock will instead have the chance to win a seventh Hopman Cup title for America. The winners of all six rubbers they’ve contested in Perth, the pair has an unassailable lead in Group B and will advance to the final.

ETERAN big man Asi Taulava isn’t going anywhere. According to multiple reports, the 43-year-old center has decided to stay with the NLEX Road Warriors after changing his mind on his trade demand. Taulava, who has modest averages of 3.2 points, 3.2 rebounds in 14.3 minutes a game this conference, reportedly has been unhappy with his limited role under the system of new coach Yeng Guiao. But after a meeting with NLEX officials on Monday, “The Ageless Rock” reconsidered his trade request. A member of last season’s Mythical Second Team, Taulava saw his playing time significantly cut as Guiao, known for spreading minutes to his players, opted to field younger big men such as Bradwyn Guinto and Raul Soyud to complement his quick style of play.

It also didn’t help that Taulava had a bruised heel and migraine early in the Road Warriors’ campaign. NLEX is currently at the bottom of the team standings with a 1-5 slate. NO TRADE. Ageless warrior Asi Taulava has changed plans.

Upsets mar Andrada Cup

LJOHN Talatayod and Lazaro ousted their respective seeded opponents on Tuesday to lead the quarter-finalists in the boys’ 18-under division of the the 28th Andrada Cup Junior Tennis Championships at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center. Talatayod eliminated fourth seed Jeremiah Macias III, 6-0, 6-2, while Lazaro rallied past sixth seed Aidyll Ignacio, 6-4, 3-6, 10-4. Other matches saw fifth seed Emmanuel Fuellas winning over PJ Quizon, 6-0, 6-2, and seventh pick Jake Martin beating Chester

Tiongson, 6-3, 6-0. In the boys’ 16-under division, fifth seed Jan Harold Trillanes rallied past Jerome Ignacio, 6-3, 2-6, 10-5, to arrange a quarterfinal duel with top seed Janus Ringia, who demolished Michael Tullo, 6-0, 6-0. Other winners were No. 3 Jose Antonio Tria over Jeremiah Macias IV, 6-0, 6-0; No. 6 Angelo Aparte over Daniel Estanislao, 6-0, 5-4 (ret.); No. 7 Athan Arejola over Jude Hidalgo, 6-2, 6-2; and No. 8 Jules Lazaro over Rameses Ian Valebia, 6-0, 6-0. Trillanes, also seeded fifth

in the boys’ 14-under category, prevailed over Shant Nuguit, 7-5, 7-5, to advance in the quarterfinals against top seed John David Velez, a 6-0, 6-1 winner over Joshua Diva. Meanwhile, girls’ 14-under top seed Macie Carlos stamped her class over Bettina Catoto, 6-0, 6-0, to advance in the semifinal against Justine Maneja, a 7-5, 6-0 winner over Kaye Ann Emana. Second seed Gaby Zoleta, niece of national players Bien and Bambi Zoleta, scored a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Julia Ignacio to forge a semifinal showdown with

Kryshana Brazal, a 6-0, 2-6, 10-7 winner over Mica Ella Emana. Kaye Ann Emana also booked a semis berth in the 12-under after hacking out a 6-0, 6-0 victory over Alecsa Czarina Ilano. She will meet Marielle Jarata, who won over Sofia Gomez, 6-0, 6-0. In the unisex 10-under category, top seed Tennielle Madis downed Kean Sebastian Enriquez, 4-0, 4-1; Marielle Jarata conquered Tomas Gabuat, 4-1, 4-0; and Sam Salazar defeated Kidlat Estogero, 4-2, 4-5 (5), 10-6 to reach the semifinals. (PNA)

16 EDGEDAVAO Sports WILD THING. Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios remained unbeaten in the 20117 Mastercard Hopman Cup. Hopman Cup photo

VOL. 9 ISSUE 227 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2017

CZECH IT OUT Kyrgios remains unbeaten but Assies lose tie to Czechs By NEILWIN JOSEPH L. BRAVO

njb@edgedavao.net

ERTH, Australia – Nick Kyrgios walked into the Perth Arena to the tune of “Born to be Wild” and played just that to remain unbeaten in the 2017 Mastercard Hopman Cup late Tuesday night. His unbeaten run in two appearances at Mastercard Hopman Cup still intact, Kyrgios quickly deflected concerns over a niggling knee injury after a 7-5 6-4 win over the Czech Republic’s Adam Pavlasek. His teammate Daria Gavrilova, however, dropped her match to Petra Kvitova replacement Lucie Hradecka in the women’s singles. The Assie duo also succumbed to the rallying Czechs in the mixed to drop to their second loss in as many games. The Aussies also lost to Spain earlier in this 29th edition of the mixed tennis event held in this sunny West Australain capital. The flamboyant Aussie star told everyone to “relax” about his knee complaint, saying it’s nothing serious and won’t hinder his Australian summer campaign.

Kyrgios hobbled at times during his win against the Czech. Rated No.13 in the word today, Kyrgios rushed through points in the first set to ensure he didn’t get stuck in any long rallies. He even unleashed a series of monster second serves gping over the 200-kph mark in many occasions in a bid to make the points quick. In one game, he served two double faults in a row attempting to go for a second-serve ace. Kyrgios moved much better in the second set as his strapped left knee warmed up, and after the match he allayed fears about the injury. “I was feeling it a little bit. But as the match went on and I got warmer (it was ok),” Kyrgios said. “That’s the key to the knee – I’ve just got to get warm before I run out. “I didn’t really have too much time to warm up before this match. I was in the physio getting it taped, and I ran out of time. “So next match I’m going

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